JP2005052173A

JP2005052173A - Clasp, belt-shaped body, watch, and accessory

Info

Publication number: JP2005052173A
Application number: JP2003205397A
Authority: JP
Inventors: Akio Yamamoto; 昭男山本
Original assignee: Seiko Epson Corp
Current assignee: Seiko Epson Corp
Priority date: 2003-08-01
Filing date: 2003-08-01
Publication date: 2005-03-03
Anticipated expiration: 2023-08-01
Also published as: JP4407182B2

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a clasp which can be engaged by a small force and which can promote a reduction in thickness, a belt-shaped body, a watch, and an accessory. SOLUTION: A coiled spring 61 is interposed between slide members 4 facing each other in the width direction of a band 100. A part to be engaged, which is integrally formed in the coiled spring 61 in such a manner as to continue from an end, is arranged along the longitudinal direction of the band 100. When an engaging part 32 of a lid member 3 is pushed into a base member 2, the part to be engaged is bent inward so as to be engaged with the engaging part. Since the part to be engaged is linearly formed, a small force enables engagement. Additionally, since the engaging part 32 is formed in an almost L-shape and engaged with the linear part to be engaged, the engaging part does not need to be constituted in such a manner as to be superposed in a thickness direction, and the reduction of the thickness of the clasp can be promoted. COPYRIGHT: (C)2005,JPO&NCIPI

Description

【０００１】
【発明の属する技術分野】
本発明は、中留具、帯状体、時計、および装身具に関する。
【０００２】
【背景技術】
例えば時計のバンドなどに使用される中留具としては、一方のバンドの端部に設けられた取付部を他方のバンドの端部に設けられた二つ折りの中留具で連結するものが知られている（例えば特許文献１）。この中留具は、中留本体と、中留本体に対して回動可能に支持された表板とを備えており、表板には中留本体に向かって突出する係止部が形成され、中留本体には、幅方向に対向するプッシュボタンが設けられている。プッシュボタンには、それぞれ幅方向内側に互いに反対向きの鈎状部が形成されており、この鉤状部がバンドの厚み方向に重なることにより、幅方向中央に楕円形の係合部が形成されている。また、対向するプッシュボタンの間にはばねが幅方向に沿って配置されている。
このような構造の中留具では、他方のバンド端部の取付部を中留本体と表板との間に介装し、表板の係止部を中留本体に押し込むと、係止部が楕円形の係合部に挿通される。プッシュボタンの係合部は、ばねの付勢力によって係止部を挟み、これにより取付部が中留本体と表板との間で保持され、両方のバンドの端部が互いに連結される。
【０００３】
【特許文献１】
特開平７−３１３２２２号公報（第２−３頁、第２図、第３図）
【０００４】
【発明が解決しようとする課題】
しかしながら、このような中留具では、係止部を係合部に押し込む際には、プッシュボタン全体を付勢するばねの付勢力に抗して係合部を押し開かなくてはならず、表板を中留本体に係合させる際に必要な力が大きくなってしまう。また、このような大きな力に対抗して係止部を係合部に押し込むので、長期間にわたる使用によって係止部先端が摩耗してしまうなどの問題がある。
さらに、対向するプッシュボタンの鉤状部がバンドの厚み方向に重なっているため、厚み方向のスペースを確保しなければならず、中留具の薄型化を促進することができない。
【０００５】
本発明の目的は、小さい力で係合でき、薄型化を促進できる中留具、帯状体、時計および装身具を提供することにある。
【０００６】
【課題を解決するための手段】
本発明の中留具は、帯状体の端部同士を連結する中留具であって、一方の端部に設けられるベース部材と、基端側がベース部材に対して回動自在に取り付けられる蓋部材と、他方の端部に設けられるとともに、ベース部材および蓋部材の間に介装される連結部材と、ベース部材に設けられるとともに、帯状体の幅方向にスライド可能なスライド部材と、帯状体の長手方向にほぼ沿って配置されるとともに、スライド部材に隣接して配置される線状の被係合部とを備え、蓋部材のベース部材に対向する面には、ベース部材に向かって突出しかつ先端側が帯状体の幅方向に折曲される略Ｌ字形に形成されるとともに、被係合部に係合可能な係合部が形成されていることを特徴とする。
【０００７】
この発明によれば、帯状体の一方の端部側に設けられたベース部材と蓋部材との間に、帯状体の他方の端部側に設けられた連結部材を介装して、蓋部材でベース部材を覆うように当該蓋部材を回動させると、連結部材がベース部材および蓋部材の間に介装される。蓋部材には係合部が形成されており、また、ベース部材には係合部が係合する被係合部が設けられているので、係合部が被係合部に係合することで、蓋部材がベース部材に固定される。これにより、ベース部材と蓋部材との間に連結部材が保持され、帯状体の端部同士が連結される。係合部および被係合部の係合を外す場合には、スライド部材を帯状体の幅方向にスライドさせると被係合部がともに幅方向に移動し、係合部と被係合部との係合が外れる。
【０００８】
被係合部が線状に形成されているので、係合部を被係合部に係合する際には被係合部自体が撓んで係合部を乗り越える。したがって従来の構成の中留具に較べて係合に必要な力が小さくなる。これにより、係合部や被係合部の摩耗が低減され、中留具の耐久性が向上する。
また、被係合部が帯状体の長手方向にほぼ沿って配置され、この被係合部に略Ｌ字形の係合部が係合するように構成されているので、従来のように厚み方向に重ねて係合部を形成する必要がない。つまり、中留具の係合部分において必要な厚み方向の寸法は、線状の被係合部および係合部の厚み方向の寸法のみとなり、中留具の薄型化が容易に促進される。また、これにより従来のような厚み方向に互い違いに配置された鈎状部をスライド部材に形成する必要もなく、スライド部材の構造が簡単となり、中留具が安価に製造可能となる。
【０００９】
ここで、帯状体の端部同士を連結するとは、一本の帯状体の両端を連結する場合や、複数の帯状体のうち、一つの帯状体の一端と他の帯状体の一端とを連結する場合などを含む。また、帯状体とは、帯状の部材が一体で形成されているものはもちろん、複数の部材が接合、連結などされて全体として一つの帯状体が形成されているものも含む。
さらに、被係合部が帯状体の長手方向にほぼ沿って配置されているとは、被係合部の長手方向が当該方向にほぼ平行であることを意味し、例えば帯状体の長手方向に対して±３０°以内のものをいい、より好ましくは、±１５°以内、さらに好ましくは±１０°以内のものをいう。
【００１０】
本発明では、スライド部材は、帯状体の幅方向に沿って対向して一対設けられ、これらのスライド部材間には、当該スライド部材を帯状体の幅方向外側に付勢する弾性部材が配置され、被係合部は、弾性部材に一体的に形成されていることが望ましい。
この発明によれば、一対のスライド部材の間に弾性部材が配置され、スライド部材を帯状体の幅方向外側に付勢しているので、スライド部材を帯状体の幅方向内側にスライドさせた後スライド部材を離すと、スライド部材が弾性部材の弾性力により外側に戻る。したがって、スライド部材の操作が簡単になる。また、スライド部材が帯状体の幅方向に沿って対向して一対設けられているので、指で帯状体の両側から一対のスライド部材を挟持すれば安定して操作することが可能となり、操作性が良好となる。さらに、被係合部が弾性部材に一体的に形成されているので、部品点数が減少し、中留具の組立が簡単となる。
【００１１】
本発明では、スライド部材は、帯状体の幅方向に沿って対向して一対設けられ、これらのスライド部材の幅方向内側にはそれぞれ被係合部が配置され、係合部は被係合部に対応して帯状体の幅方向に沿って対向して一対設けられ、かつ係合部先端が帯状体の幅方向内側に向かって折曲されていることが望ましい。
この発明によれば、スライド部材が帯状体の幅方向に沿って対向して一対設けられているので、指で帯状体の両側から一対のスライド部材を挟持すれば安定して操作することが可能となり、操作性が良好となる。また、一対の係合部が帯状体の幅方向内側に向かって折曲されているので、係合部が被係合部に対して幅方向外側から係合する。したがって、例えば中留具が取り付けられた帯状体の使用中に、蓋部材が帯状体の幅方向に多少ずれた場合でも、少なくともどちらか片方の係合部が被係合部に係合するので、蓋部材がベース部材に確実に係合される。また、一方のスライド部材をスライドさせても他方の係合部および被係合部の係合が外れないので、中留具の誤動作が防止される。
【００１２】
本発明では、被係合部は、断面円形に形成されていることが望ましい。
この発明によれば、被係合部が断面円形に形成されているので、係合部が被係合部に係合する場合、係合部が被係合部の円弧部分に案内されて容易かつ確実に係合される。また、係合部が被係合部に係合されやすいので、係合に要する力がより一層低減する。さらに、被係合部の断面形状が単純な円形なので、被係合部を安価かつ簡単に入手可能となる。
【００１３】
本発明では、係合部先端のベース部材に対向する面には、係合部先端に向かって蓋部材側に傾斜する傾斜部が形成されていることが望ましい。
この発明によれば、係合部先端に傾斜部が形成されているので、被係合部がこの傾斜部に案内されて係合部に係合されやすくなる。また、これにより、被係合部および係合部の係合に要する力がより一層低減する。
【００１４】
本発明では、スライド部材の被係合部に対向する面には凹部が形成されることにより、被係合部とスライド部材との間には、係合部が挿通される挿通空間が形成されていることが望ましい。
この発明によれば、スライド部材に凹部が形成されることにより係合部用の挿通空間が形成されているので、被係合部を直線状に形成しても挿通空間を確保することが可能となり、被係合部の形状が簡単になる。また、スライド部材に形成された凹部に係合部が配置されるので、係合部が配置されるスペースがスライド部材内側に確保され、当該スペースをさらに幅方向に設ける必要がないので、中留具の幅の狭小化が促進される。
【００１５】
本発明では、スライド部材は、帯状体の幅方向に沿って対向して一対設けられ、一対のスライド部材間の近接距離を規制するスライド規制手段が設けられていることが望ましい。
この発明によれば、スライド規制手段が設けられているので、一対のスライド部材が互いに近接する時の近接距離が規制され、スライド部材が予め設定された距離のみスライドする。これにより、スライド部材が被係合部と係合部との係合を外すのに必要な移動量のみを移動するように設定可能となるので、スライド部材の操作性が良好となり、係合部の係合を外す際の操作が確実となる。また特に、例えばスライド部材間に弾性部材が設けられている場合では、弾性部材を必要以上に変形させることがないので有用である。
【００１６】
本発明では、スライド部材の少なくともベース部材との摺動面には、凸部が形成されていることが望ましい。
この発明によれば、スライド部材の少なくともベース部材との摺動面には凸部が形成されているので、スライド部材がベース部材に対してスライドする際には、この凸部において摺動する。したがって、摺動面におけるスライド部材のベース部材に対する接触面積が減少し、摩擦力が低減する。よって、スライド部材の摩耗が低減され、耐久性が向上する。
【００１７】
本発明の帯状体は、前述の中留具を備えたことを特徴とする。
この発明によれば、帯状体が前述の中留具を備えているので、前述のような効果を奏し、小さい力で中留具を係合でき、中留具の薄型化が促進される。これにより、帯状体を薄型に構成した場合でも、デザイン上のバランスが良好となるので、帯状体の適用範囲が広がる。
【００１８】
本発明の時計は、時計ケースに取り付けられたバンドと、このバンドに取り付けられる前述の中留具とを備えたことを特徴とする。
この発明によれば、時計のバンドに前述の中留具が設けられているので、前述のような効果を奏し、バンドを小さい力で連結でき、中留具の薄型化が促進される。これにより、幅の狭いバンドや薄型のバンドを使用した場合でも、デザイン上のバランスが良好となる。よって、適用できる時計のデザインが多様化する。
【００１９】
本発明の装身具は、帯状体と、この帯状体に取り付けられる前述の中留具とを備えたことを特徴とする。
この発明によれば、装身具に前述の中留具が設けられているので、前述のような効果を奏し、帯状体を小さい力で連結でき、中留具の薄型化が促進される。これにより、薄型の装身具に適用された場合でも、デザイン上のバランスが良好となるので、例えばブレスレットやネックレスのような多種多様な装身具に適用可能となる。
【００２０】
【発明の実施の形態】
以下、本発明の一実施形態を図面に基づいて説明する。
図１には、本発明の一実施形態にかかる時計２００が示されている。この図１において、時計２００の時計ケース２００Ａ両側には、バンド（帯状体）１００が取り付けられている。バンド１００は、複数の金属製の駒部材１０１が連結されて帯状に形成されているものである。
図２および図３には、バンド１００の連結部分に取り付けられる中留具１の斜視図が示されている。これらの図２および図３において、中留具１はバンド１００の第一端部（一方の端部）１００Ａと、第二端部（他方の端部）１００Ｂとを連結するものであり、第一端部１００Ａには、中留１Ａが、第二端部１００Ｂには中留１Ａと連結する取付部１Ｂが設けられている。
中留１Ａは、一端が第一端部１００Ａに取り付けられるベース部材２と、このベース部材２の他端に回動可能に設けられる蓋部材３と、ベース部材２に取り付けられ、バンド１００の幅方向にスライド可能なスライド部材４と、スライド部材４をベース部材２に保持する保持部材５とを備えている。
【００２１】
ベース部材２は、略矩形状の板状部材で構成され、バンド１００の幅方向（長手方向に直交する方向）両端には、バンド１００の長手方向に沿って第一端部１００Ａに連結する連結部２１が一体的に形成されている。連結部２１は、ベース部材２の厚み方向表側（ベース部材２において保持部材５が設けられている側、つまり図２の上側）に突出するように形成され、第一端部１００Ａ側の端部がベース部材２よりも長手方向に突出している。この突出部分には、貫通孔２１１が形成されており、これらの貫通孔２１１に連結ピン２１２が挿通されることでベース部材２の一端が第一端部１００Ａに連結されている。また、連結部２１には、バンド１００の長手方向に沿って長孔２１３が形成されている。
ベース部材２の他端には、蓋部材３を支持する支持部２２が設けられており、この支持部２２には、バンド１００の幅方向に沿って貫通する貫通孔２２１が形成されている。
【００２２】
蓋部材３は、ベース部材２をほぼ覆う面積の略矩形状に形成されており、その基端側には、貫通孔３１１を有する二つの突出部３１が形成されている。これらの突出部３１にはバンド１００の幅方向に沿って貫通孔３１１が形成されており、突出部３１が支持部２２の両側に配置されたとき、貫通孔２２１および貫通孔３１１は一直線上に配置される。これらの貫通孔２２１および貫通孔３１１に連結ピン３１２が挿通されることで、ベース部材２および蓋部材３が連結され、蓋部材３がベース部材２に対して連結ピン３１２周りに約１８０°回動可能に支持されている。支持部２２と一方の突出部３１との間には、ねじりばね３１３が介装されており、このねじりばね３１３は、蓋部材３を回動させてベース部材２に対して近接させた時に蓋部材３を離間させる方向に付勢力を発生するように構成されている。
【００２３】
蓋部材３をベース部材２に対して回動させた時にベース部材２に対向する面には、蓋部材３をベース部材２に係止するための係合部３２が形成されている。係合部３２は、ベース部材２に対向する面の略中央に、バンド１００の幅方向に沿って二つ（一対）設けられ、当該面上からそれぞれ略直角に突出するように形成されている。これらの係合部３２の先端は、バンド１００の幅方向内側に向かって折曲された、略Ｌ字形に形成されている。また、係合部３２先端のベース部材２に対向する面には、バンド１００の幅方向内側に向かって、蓋部材３側に傾斜する傾斜部３２１が形成されている。
【００２４】
図４には、スライド部材４および保持部材５の斜視図が示されている。この図４において、スライド部材４および保持部材５は、図２とは反対側（ベース部材２側）から見た場合の図となっている。
スライド部材４は、バンド１００の幅方向に沿って対向して一対設けられた板状部材であり、バンド１００の長手方向に沿った方向の略中央に突出部分を有する略Ｔ字形に形成されている。これらの突出部分は、保持部材５からも突出しており、中留具１の外部から操作可能な操作部４１となっている。これらの操作部４１は、ベース部材２の長孔２１３に挿通され、先端側が外部に露出している。
スライド部材４において、操作部４１が設けられた側とは反対側の端部、つまりバンド１００の幅方向内側で、かつバンド１００の長手方向略中央には、バンド１００の幅方向外側に凹んだ凹部４２が形成されている。また、スライド部材４のバンド１００の幅方向内側でかつ長手方向両端には、略矩形状に切り欠かれることにより段差部４４が形成されている。
【００２５】
図５には、スライド部材４が示されており、図５（Ａ）はスライド部材４の平面図、図５（Ｂ）はスライド部材４の側面図である。これらの図５（Ａ）および図５（Ｂ）に示されるように、スライド部材４の両面には、略半球状の凸部４３が形成されている。これらの凸部４３は、バンド１００の長手方向に沿って両面にそれぞれ二箇所、互いに所定間隔を有して配置されている。また、スライド部材４の両面の凸部４３は、平面的に互いに重ならないように配置されている。
これらの凸部４３により、スライド部材４はベース部材２および保持部材５に対して凸部４３で点接触しながらスライドするので、これらの部材との接触面積が低減されている。
【００２６】
図６には、保持部材５の斜視図が示されている。この図６において、保持部材５は、ブロック状に形成され、ベース部材２に対向する面には、スライド部材４を収納する凹部５１が形成されている。この凹部５１にスライド部材４が収納されることにより、スライド部材４はバンド１００の幅方向にスライド可能にガイドされている。
凹部５１において、バンド１００の幅方向略中央には、長手方向内側に凸となる凸部（スライド規制手段）５２が形成されている。これらの凸部５２には、スライド部材４の段差部４４が当接可能に配置されている。スライド部材４をバンド１００の幅方向にスライドさせると、段差部４４が凸部５２に当接されるため、対向するスライド部材４同士が凸部５２の寸法以上に近接するのが防止されている。
また、保持部材５の略中央には、蓋部材３の一対の係合部３２が挿通される長孔５３が形成されている。
【００２７】
一対のスライド部材４の間には、スライド部材４をバンド１００の幅方向外側に付勢する付勢手段６が設けられている。
図７には、付勢手段６の斜視図が示されている。この図７において、付勢手段６は平行に配置された二本のコイルばね（弾性部材）６１と、これらのコイルばね６１間に形成され、蓋部材３の係合部３２が係合する直線状の被係合部６２とを備えている。コイルばね６１は、図４に示されるように、スライド部材４の凹部４２の両側に、バンド１００の幅方向に沿って配置されており、端部がスライド部材４の端面に当接されている。
【００２８】
被係合部６２は、二つのコイルばね６１と同一の線状部材から一体的に構成されており、コイルばね６１の端部から連続してバンド１００の長手方向に沿って形成されている。つまり、二つのコイルばね６１および対向する被係合部６２は、一方の線状部材から一体的に形成されている。また、一方の被係合部６２の端部はコイルばね６１に連続するように円弧状に形成されている。被係合部６２は、コイルばね６１によってスライド部材４側に付勢されて当接されており、被係合部６２と凹部４２で囲まれた空間は、係合部３２が挿通される挿通空間６３となっている。
ここで、コイルばね６１の線径や、巻数、コイル径などは、スライド部材４に適切な付勢力が発生するように適宜設定されている。またこの時、コイルばね６１の線径は、被係合部６２に係合部３２が係合する際に、係合部３２の被係合部６２への押し込み力が適切となる条件をも勘案して設定される。
なお、蓋部材３の係合部３２は、互いの先端部分間の距離Ｌ（図８（Ａ）参照）が被係合部６２の直径Ｄ（図８（Ａ）参照）の２倍よりも大きく設定されている。つまり、一対の被係合部６２が対向する係合部３２の間を通ることが可能となっている。また、一対の被係合部６２の距離Ｍ（図８（Ａ）参照）は、係合部３２先端部分間の距離Ｌよりも大きければよい。
【００２９】
このような保持部材５は、スライド部材４の操作部４１をベース部材２の長孔２１３に挿通させ、一対のスライド部材４の間に付勢手段６を配置してから、ベース部材２にねじ止めされて固定されている。この時、保持部材５は、バンド１００の長手方向に沿った寸法がベース部材２の寸法よりも短いので、保持部材５をベース部材２に取り付けた状態では、保持部材５と支持部２２との間にはベース部材２が露出する間隙２３が形成される。
【００３０】
取付部１Ｂは、前述の図３に示されるように、第二端部１００Ｂに接続されるアーム部材７１と、中留１Ａと連結する連結部材７２とを備えている。アーム部材７１は、第二端部１００Ｂの幅方向両側に二つ平行に設けられ、これらのアーム部材７１の基端側は、連結ピン７１１によって第二端部１００Ｂに連結されている。アーム部材７１の先端側には、対向するアーム部材７１をバンド１００の幅方向に連結するように、連結部材７２が架け渡されている。これにより、連結部材７２、アーム部材７１、および第二端部１００Ｂに囲まれた領域には、空間７３が形成される。
【００３１】
図８には、蓋部材３の係合部３２をベース部材２に取り付けられた被係合部６２に係合させる場合の図が示されており、図８（Ａ）は被係合部６２に係合部３２が当接される途中の状態、図８（Ｂ）は被係合部６２が係合部３２を乗り越えようとする状態、図８（Ｃ）は被係合部６２が係合部３２に係合された状態を示す。
中留具１を用いてバンド１００の第一端部１００Ａおよび第二端部１００Ｂを連結する場合には、蓋部材３を空間７３に挿通して、連結部材７２を間隙２３に配置する。蓋部材３を連結ピン３１２周りに回動させてベース部材２に近接させると、ねじりばね３１３によって蓋部材３をベース部材２から離間させる方向に付勢力が発生する。この付勢力に抗して蓋部材３を回動させてベース部材２をほぼ覆うと、係合部３２が保持部材５の長孔５３を貫通して挿通空間６３に挿通され、図８（Ａ）に示されるように、係合部３２先端が被係合部６２に当接される。
【００３２】
さらに蓋部材３を回動させて係合部３２を被係合部６２に対して押し込むと、被係合部６２が傾斜部３２１に案内されながら自らの弾性によってバンド１００の幅方向内側に撓み、図８（Ｂ）に示されるように係合部３２の傾斜部３２１を乗り越えようとする。その後、被係合部６２は弾性力によって再びバンド１００の幅方向外側に広がり、図８（Ｃ）に示されるように係合部３２に係合される。
これにより蓋部材３およびベース部材２が互いに係合され固定される。連結部材７２は、蓋部材３およびベース部材２に挟持されるので、バンド１００の第一端部１００Ａおよび第二端部１００Ｂが連結される。
【００３３】
中留具１の連結を外す場合には、一対の操作部４１を指などで両側から挟持し、バンド１００の幅方向内側に押す。すると、スライド部材４がコイルばね６１の付勢力に抗して内側にスライドする。被係合部６２はコイルばね６１の付勢力によってスライド部材４に押し付けられながらスライド部材４とともにバンド１００の幅方向内側に移動する。一対の被係合部６２の距離が係合部３２の先端間の距離Ｌ以下になると、係合部３２および被係合部６２の係合が外れる。
なお、この時スライド部材４は段差部４４が凸部５２に当接されることにより、所定距離以上のスライド部材４のスライドが規制されている。
係合部３２および被係合部６２の係合が外れると、蓋部材３は、ねじりばね３１３によってベース部材２から離間する方向に付勢されているので、この付勢力によって蓋部材３が回動してベース部材２から離間する。空間７３に蓋部材３を通して抜き、連結部材７２をベース部材２から外せば、第一端部１００Ａと第二端部１００Ｂとの連結が外れる。
【００３４】
このような実施形態によれば、以下のような効果が得られる。
（１）被係合部６２が線状部材で構成されているので、係合部３２が被係合部６２に係合する際には、被係合部６２がバンド１００の幅方向内側に撓む。被係合部６２が線状部材で構成されているので撓みやすく、したがって係合部３２を軽い力で被係合部６２に係合させることができる。これにより係合部３２および被係合部６２の摩耗を低減でき、中留具１の耐久性を向上させることができる。
また、被係合部６２が撓むことにより係合部３２に係合されるので、スライド部材４を付勢するコイルばね６１の弾性力、つまりスライド部材４のスライドに必要な力を、係合部３２の被係合部６２への係合力とは別途設定することができ、様々な条件の中留具１に柔軟に対応できる。
【００３５】
（２）被係合部６２がバンド１００の長手方向に沿って配置され、係合部３２が蓋部材３から略直角に突出した略Ｌ字形に形成されているので、従来のように鈎状部を厚み方向に重ねて係合部を形成する必要がなく、スライド部材４の構造を簡略化でき、中留具１の構造を簡単にできるとともに、薄型化を促進できる。
（３）被係合部６２がコイルばね６１に一体的に形成されているので、中留具１を組み立てる際に、スライド部材４の間に付勢手段６を介装すれば、同時に被係合部６２を位置決めでき、中留具１の組立作業を簡単にできる。また、これにより、スライド部材４には係合部を形成する必要がないため、スライド部材４の構造を簡略化できる。
【００３６】
（４）係合部３２に傾斜部３２１が形成されているので、被係合部６２が傾斜部３２１に案内されて簡単に係合部３２を乗り越えることができ、被係合部６２への係合に必要な力をより一層軽減できる。また、被係合部６２が傾斜部３２１に案内されて係合部３２内側に移動するので、より確実に係合部３２を係合できる。
（５）被係合部６２が断面円形の線状部材なので、係合部３２の傾斜部３２１に対して点接触する。したがって、被係合部６２を傾斜部３２１上で移動し易くでき、これによっても被係合部６２への係合に必要な力を軽減できる。また、被係合部６２が断面円形の線材で構成されるので、材料を簡単かつ安価に入手できる。
【００３７】
（６）スライド部材４および被係合部６２がバンド１００の幅方向に沿って一対設けられ、係合部３２も対応して一対設けられているので、一方のスライド部材４を誤って押した場合でも、他方のスライド部材４が押されなければ係合部３２の係合が外れない。したがって、蓋部材３が誤って外れてバンド１００の連結が外れてしまうなどの誤動作を確実に防止でき、中留具１の信頼性を向上させることができる。
【００３８】
（７）スライド部材４両面に凸部４３が形成されているので、ベース部材２および保持部材５に点接触する。したがって、ベース部材２および保持部材５との接触面積を最小限に抑制でき、スライド部材４の摩耗を防止でき、中留具１の耐久性を向上させることができる。
（８）スライド部材４に凹部４２を形成することで係合部３２の挿通空間６３を形成できる。これにより、被係合部６２を直線状に形成することができ、被係合部６２の形状を単純化できる。よって、被係合部６２を含んだ付勢手段６を簡単かつ安価に製造できる。
【００３９】
（９）保持部材５の凹部５１に凸部５２が形成されているので、一対のスライド部材４間の距離が凸部５２の幅方向の寸法以上に近接するのを防止できる。したがって、スライド部材４間に介装された付勢手段６を必要以上に圧縮するのを防止でき、付勢手段６の耐久性を向上させることができる。また、スライド部材４が必要以上にベース部材２の内側に入り込むのを防止でき、中留具１の操作性を向上させることができる。
（１０）保持部材５の凹部５１にスライド部材４が収納されているので、ベース部材２を略板状に形成することができ、ベース部材２の形状を簡単にすることができる。また、スライド部材４および付勢手段６がベース部材２と保持部材５との間に介装されて覆われているので、中留具１の外観を向上させることができる。さらに、凹部５１にスライド部材４および付勢手段６を予め位置決めして収納した後にベース部材２に取り付ければよいから、中留具１の組立作業を簡単にできる。
【００４０】
なお、本発明は前述の実施形態に限定されるものではなく、本発明の目的を達成できる範囲での変形、改良等は本発明に含まれるものである。
被係合部および弾性部材は、平行に配置された二つの弾性部材と、これらの弾性部材を連結するように形成された被係合部を同一の線状部材で連続して形成するものに限らず、例えば図９に示されるように、コイルばね６１の一端が直線状に延伸することで被係合部６２が形成されていてもよい。この場合には、同形状のコイルばね６１および被係合部６２を点対称に配置すればよい。このような構成の被係合部および弾性部材では、コイルばね６１の端部を延ばして被係合部６２を形成すればよいので、簡単に製造できる。
またこの時、例えば図１０に示されるように、第一実施形態と同様に被係合部６２の端部を円弧状に形成してもよい。
【００４１】
被係合部は、直線状に形成されるものに限らず、例えば図１１に示されるように、略中央が帯状体の幅方向内側に折曲あるいは湾曲しているものでもよい。このような形状であれば、蓋部材の係合部を幅の狭いものにすることができ、中留具の幅の狭小化を促進できる。
さらに、被係合部は、前述のように弾性部材に一体に形成されるものに限らず、例えば線状部材が弾性部材とは別体で設けられ、弾性部材の付勢力でスライド部材に押し付けられる構造であってもよい。この場合でも、係合部が被係合部に良好に係合するので、本発明の目的を達成できる。あるいは、被係合部はスライド部材に一体に形成されていてもよい。この場合には、スライド部材端部から線状の被係合部を略コ字形に突出させて形成したり、スライド部材端部に厚み方向に貫通する孔を形成して、スライド部材端部と孔との間の距離を小さくすることでスライド部材端部に線状の被係合部を形成したりすればよい。要するに、被係合部は帯状体の長手方向に沿って配置される線状部材であれば形状や構成は任意である。
被係合部は断面形状が円形のものに限定されず、矩形状や多角形状など任意の形状を採用できる。
【００４２】
スライド部材は、例えば図１２に示されるようにバンド１００の幅方向内側端部から内側に向かって突出する突起６４が形成されていてもよい。これらの突起６４は、凹部４２の両側に設けられ、ベース部材２に対向する面とは反対側の面に被係合部６２が載置されている。このような構造のスライド部材４によれば、係合部が被係合部６２に係合する際に、被係合部６２がベース部材２側に撓むのを防止できるので、係合部がより確実に被係合部６２に係合できる。
また、スライド部材の凸部は、例えば図１３（Ａ）および（Ｂ）に示されるように、板状部材をプレス加工するなどして形成してもよい。この場合には、図１３に示されるように凸部４３と反対側の面には凸部４３に対応する凹部４５が形成される。したがって、凸部４３は平面的に（図１３（Ａ）に示される平面視において）互いに重ならないように配置される必要がある。
【００４３】
また、凸部は、スライド部材の両面に形成されているものに限らず、例えばベース部材に対向する面のみに形成されていてもよく、要するに、少なくともベース部材との摺動面に形成されていればよい。
凸部の形状は、半球状のものに限らず、例えば円錐形、角錐形、円柱形など摺動面との接触面積を低減できる任意の形状を採用できる。なお、スライド部材の凸部は必ずしも設けられていなくても本発明の目的を達成できる。
スライド部材は、帯状体の幅方向に一対設けられているものに限らず、例えば一つあるいは三つ以上（複数）設けられているものであってもよい。
【００４４】
弾性部材は、コイルばねに限らず、板ばねなど任意の形式のものが採用できる。また、スライド部材において帯状体の幅方向の位置を規制する係合手段などを設ければ、スライド部材を係合部が係合する位置と、係合部の係合を外す位置の二位置に係止できるので、必ずしも弾性部材は設けられていなくてもよい。
スライド規制手段は、保持部材５に形成された凸部５２に限らず、例えばスライド部材においてベース部材外側に配置される部分に厚み方向に突出する突起を設け、この突起がベース部材端部に当接されることでスライド部材がそれ以上内側にスライドしないように構成してもよく、このようにスライド規制手段は任意の構造を採用できる。
また、例えば弾性部材がスライド部材間に介装されていない場合には、弾性部材の圧縮を防止する必要がないので、スライド規制手段を省略することができ、このような場合でも本目的を達成できるから、スライド規制手段は必ずしも設けられていなくてもよい。
【００４５】
本発明の中留具は、係合に要する力を軽減でき、薄型化を促進できるので、時計のバンドに限らず、任意の帯状体に適用できる。また、本発明の中留具が取り付けられた帯状体は、時計に限らず例えばブレスレットやネックレスのような任意の装身具に適用できる。例えば薄型の帯状体や装身具に適用してもデザイン上のバランスを良好にできる。
【００４６】
本発明を実施するための最良の構成、方法などは、以上の記載で開示されているが、本発明は、これに限定されるものではない。すなわち、本発明は、主に特定の実施形態に関して特に図示され、かつ、説明されているが、本発明の技術的思想および目的の範囲から逸脱することなく、以上述べた実施形態に対し、形状、材質、数量、その他の詳細な構成において、当業者が様々な変形を加えることができるものである。
したがって、上記に開示した形状、材質などを限定した記載は、本発明の理解を容易にするために例示的に記載したものであり、本発明を限定するものではないから、それらの形状、材質などの限定の一部もしくは全部の限定を外した部材の名称での記載は、本発明に含まれるものである。
【００４７】
【発明の効果】
このような本発明によれば、蓋部材の係合部が線状に形成された被係合部に係合するので、係合に要する力を軽減できるという効果がある。また、被係合部を略Ｌ字形の係合部で係合させるので、従来とは異なり、一対の係合部を厚み方向に重ねる必要がなく、中留具の薄型化を促進できるという効果がある。
【図面の簡単な説明】
【図１】本発明の第一実施形態にかかる時計を示す図。
【図２】第一実施形態にかかる中留具の一部を示す分解斜視図。
【図３】中留具の他の一部を示す斜視図。
【図４】スライド部材および保持部材を示す斜視図。
【図５】スライド部材を示す図。
【図６】保持部材を示す斜視図。
【図７】弾性部材および被係合部を示す斜視図。
【図８】係合部および被係合部の係合を示す図。
【図９】付勢手段の変形例を示す図。
【図１０】付勢手段の別の変形例を示す図。
【図１１】付勢手段のさらに別の変形例を示す図。
【図１２】スライド部材の変形例を示す図。
【図１３】スライド部材の別の変形例を示す図。
【符号の説明】
１…中留具、１Ａ…中留、１Ｂ…取付部、２…ベース部材、３…蓋部材、４…スライド部材、５…保持部材、６…付勢手段、３２…係合部、４２…凹部、４３…凸部、４４…段差部、５２…凸部（スライド規制手段）、６１…コイルばね（弾性部材）、６２…被係合部、６３…挿通空間、７２…連結部材、１００…バンド（帯状体）、１００Ａ…第一端部（一方の端部）、１００Ｂ…第二端部（他方の端部）、２００…時計、３２１…傾斜部。[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a clasp, a band, a timepiece, and a jewelry.
[0002]
[Background]
For example, as a clasp used for a watch band, etc., one in which a mounting portion provided at the end of one band is connected by a half-folded clasp provided at the end of the other band is known. (For example, Patent Document 1). The middle fastener includes a middle member main body and a front plate that is rotatably supported with respect to the middle member, and a locking portion that protrudes toward the middle member is formed on the front plate. The middle terminal body is provided with a push button facing in the width direction. Each push button has a hook-shaped portion opposite to each other on the inner side in the width direction, and the hook-shaped portion overlaps in the thickness direction of the band, thereby forming an elliptical engagement portion at the center in the width direction. ing. A spring is disposed along the width direction between the push buttons facing each other.
In the middle fastener of such a structure, when the attachment portion of the other band end is interposed between the middle fastener main body and the front plate, and the front plate locking portion is pushed into the middle fastener main body, Is inserted through the oval engagement portion. The engaging part of the push button sandwiches the engaging part by the urging force of the spring, whereby the attaching part is held between the middle terminal body and the front plate, and the ends of both bands are connected to each other.
[0003]
[Patent Document 1]
Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 7-313222 (page 2-3, FIG. 2, FIG. 3)
[0004]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
However, in such a clasp, when the locking portion is pushed into the engaging portion, the engaging portion must be pushed open against the biasing force of the spring that biases the entire push button, The force required when engaging the front plate with the main body is increased. In addition, since the engaging portion is pushed into the engaging portion against such a large force, there is a problem that the distal end of the engaging portion is worn by long-term use.
Furthermore, since the hook-shaped portions of the opposing push buttons overlap in the thickness direction of the band, a space in the thickness direction must be secured, and the thinning of the intermediate fastener cannot be promoted.
[0005]
An object of the present invention is to provide a clasp, a belt-like body, a timepiece, and a jewelry that can be engaged with a small force and can promote thinning.
[0006]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
The intermediate clip of the present invention is an intermediate clip that connects the ends of the belt-shaped body, and includes a base member provided at one end and a lid on which the base end is rotatably attached to the base member. A member, a connecting member provided between the base member and the lid member, a slide member provided on the base member and slidable in the width direction of the strip, and the strip And a linear engaged portion disposed adjacent to the slide member, and the surface of the lid member facing the base member protrudes toward the base member. And while being formed in the substantially L shape by which the front end side is bent in the width direction of a strip | belt-shaped body, the engaging part which can be engaged with an to-be-engaged part is formed.
[0007]
According to this invention, the connecting member provided on the other end side of the band-like body is interposed between the base member provided on the one end side of the band-like body and the lid member, and the lid member When the lid member is rotated so as to cover the base member, the connecting member is interposed between the base member and the lid member. The lid member is formed with an engaging portion, and the base member is provided with an engaged portion that engages with the engaging portion, so that the engaging portion engages with the engaged portion. Thus, the lid member is fixed to the base member. Thereby, a connection member is hold | maintained between a base member and a cover member, and the edge parts of a strip | belt-shaped body are connected. When disengaging the engaging portion and the engaged portion, when the sliding member is slid in the width direction of the belt-like body, both the engaged portions move in the width direction, and the engaging portion and the engaged portion Is disengaged.
[0008]
Since the engaged part is formed in a linear shape, when the engaging part is engaged with the engaged part, the engaged part itself bends and gets over the engaging part. Therefore, the force required for engagement is smaller than that of the conventional middle fastener. Thereby, wear of an engaging part and a to-be-engaged part is reduced, and durability of a clasp is improved.
Further, since the engaged portion is arranged substantially along the longitudinal direction of the belt-like body, and is configured so that the substantially L-shaped engaging portion is engaged with the engaged portion, the thickness direction as in the past is provided. There is no need to form an engaging portion on top of each other. That is, the dimension in the thickness direction necessary for the engaging portion of the clasp is only the dimension in the thickness direction of the linear engaged portion and the engaging portion, and the thinning of the clasp is easily promoted. In addition, this eliminates the need to form the hook-shaped portions alternately arranged in the thickness direction as in the conventional case on the slide member, thereby simplifying the structure of the slide member and making it possible to manufacture the intermediate fastener at low cost.
[0009]
Here, connecting the end portions of the band-like body means connecting one end of one band-like body and one end of the other band-like body when connecting both ends of one band-like body. Including the case of The band-shaped body includes not only one in which the band-shaped members are integrally formed but also one in which a plurality of members are joined and connected to form a single band-shaped body as a whole.
Further, the fact that the engaged portion is disposed substantially along the longitudinal direction of the strip-shaped body means that the longitudinal direction of the engaged portion is substantially parallel to the direction, for example, in the longitudinal direction of the strip-shaped body. On the other hand, it is within ± 30 °, more preferably within ± 15 °, and even more preferably within ± 10 °.
[0010]
In the present invention, a pair of slide members are provided facing each other along the width direction of the belt-like body, and an elastic member that urges the slide member to the outside in the width direction of the belt-like body is disposed between the slide members. The engaged portion is desirably formed integrally with the elastic member.
According to this invention, the elastic member is disposed between the pair of slide members, and the slide member is urged to the outside in the width direction of the belt-like body. Therefore, after the slide member is slid inward in the width direction of the belt-like body When the slide member is released, the slide member returns to the outside by the elastic force of the elastic member. Therefore, the operation of the slide member is simplified. In addition, since a pair of slide members are provided facing each other along the width direction of the belt-like body, it becomes possible to operate stably if a pair of slide members are sandwiched from both sides of the belt-like body with fingers. Becomes better. Further, since the engaged portion is formed integrally with the elastic member, the number of parts is reduced, and the assembly of the intermediate fastener is simplified.
[0011]
In the present invention, a pair of slide members are provided so as to face each other along the width direction of the belt-like body. Engaged portions are respectively arranged on the inner sides in the width direction of these slide members, and the engaging portions are engaged portions. It is desirable that a pair is provided facing each other along the width direction of the band-like body, and the front end of the engaging portion is bent toward the inner side in the width direction of the band-like body.
According to the present invention, since a pair of slide members are provided facing each other along the width direction of the band-like body, it is possible to stably operate if the pair of slide members are sandwiched from both sides of the band-like body with fingers. Thus, operability is improved. Moreover, since a pair of engaging part is bent toward the width direction inner side of a strip | belt-shaped body, an engaging part engages with a to-be-engaged part from the width direction outer side. Therefore, for example, even when the lid member is slightly displaced in the width direction of the belt-like body during use of the belt-like body to which the clasp is attached, at least one of the engaging portions is engaged with the engaged portion. The lid member is securely engaged with the base member. In addition, even if one slide member is slid, the other engaging portion and the engaged portion are not disengaged, so that the malfunction of the clasp is prevented.
[0012]
In the present invention, the engaged portion is preferably formed in a circular cross section.
According to this invention, since the engaged portion is formed in a circular cross section, when the engaging portion engages with the engaged portion, the engaging portion is easily guided by the arc portion of the engaged portion. And it is securely engaged. Further, since the engaging portion is easily engaged with the engaged portion, the force required for the engagement is further reduced. Furthermore, since the cross-sectional shape of the engaged portion is a simple circle, the engaged portion can be easily obtained at low cost.
[0013]
In the present invention, it is desirable that an inclined portion that is inclined toward the lid member side toward the engagement portion distal end is formed on the surface of the engagement portion distal end facing the base member.
According to this invention, since the inclined portion is formed at the front end of the engaging portion, the engaged portion is guided by the inclined portion and easily engaged with the engaging portion. This further reduces the force required to engage the engaged portion and the engaging portion.
[0014]
In the present invention, a recess is formed on the surface of the slide member that faces the engaged portion, so that an insertion space through which the engaging portion is inserted is formed between the engaged portion and the slide member. It is desirable that
According to the present invention, the insertion space for the engaging portion is formed by forming the recess in the slide member, so that the insertion space can be secured even if the engaged portion is formed in a straight line. Thus, the shape of the engaged portion is simplified. In addition, since the engaging portion is disposed in the recess formed in the slide member, a space for the engagement portion is ensured inside the slide member, and it is not necessary to further provide the space in the width direction. Narrowing of the width of the tool is promoted.
[0015]
In the present invention, it is desirable that a pair of slide members are provided facing each other along the width direction of the belt-like body, and a slide regulating means for regulating the proximity distance between the pair of slide members is preferably provided.
According to the present invention, since the slide restricting means is provided, the proximity distance when the pair of slide members come close to each other is restricted, and the slide member slides only by a preset distance. Accordingly, since the slide member can be set so as to move only the movement amount necessary for disengaging the engaged portion and the engaging portion, the operability of the slide member is improved, and the engaging portion The operation when releasing the engagement is ensured. In particular, for example, when an elastic member is provided between the slide members, it is useful because the elastic member is not deformed more than necessary.
[0016]
In the present invention, it is desirable that a convex portion be formed on at least a sliding surface of the slide member with the base member.
According to this invention, since the convex portion is formed on the sliding surface of at least the base member of the slide member, when the slide member slides with respect to the base member, it slides on the convex portion. Therefore, the contact area of the sliding member with the base member on the sliding surface is reduced, and the frictional force is reduced. Therefore, wear of the slide member is reduced, and durability is improved.
[0017]
The belt-like body of the present invention is characterized by including the above-described middle fastener.
According to the present invention, since the belt-like body includes the above-described middle fastener, the above-described effects can be obtained, the middle fastener can be engaged with a small force, and the thinning of the middle fastener is promoted. Thereby, even when the belt-like body is configured to be thin, the balance in design is good, and the application range of the belt-like body is widened.
[0018]
The timepiece of the present invention is characterized by comprising a band attached to a watch case and the above-described middle fastener attached to the band.
According to the present invention, since the above-described middle fastener is provided on the watch band, the effects as described above can be obtained, the band can be connected with a small force, and the thinning of the middle fastener is promoted. Thereby, even when a narrow band or a thin band is used, the balance in design is good. Therefore, the design of applicable watches is diversified.
[0019]
The accessory of the present invention is characterized by including a belt-like body and the above-described middle fastener attached to the belt-like body.
According to the present invention, since the above-described middle fastener is provided in the accessory, the effects as described above can be achieved, the strips can be connected with a small force, and the thinning of the middle fastener is promoted. Thereby, even when applied to a thin jewelry, the balance in design is good, so that it can be applied to various accessories such as a bracelet and a necklace.
[0020]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
FIG. 1 shows a timepiece 200 according to an embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 1, bands (band-like bodies) 100 are attached to both sides of the watch case 200 A of the watch 200. The band 100 is formed by connecting a plurality of metal piece members 101 into a band shape.
2 and 3 are perspective views of the middle fastener 1 attached to the connecting portion of the band 100. FIG. 2 and 3, the clasp 1 connects the first end portion (one end portion) 100A of the band 100 and the second end portion (the other end portion) 100B. An end portion 100A is provided with a middle retainer 1A, and a second end portion 100B is provided with an attachment portion 1B connected to the middle portion 1A.
The intermediate retainer 1 A has a base member 2 having one end attached to the first end portion 100 A, a lid member 3 rotatably provided at the other end of the base member 2, and the base member 2. A slide member 4 that is slidable in the direction and a holding member 5 that holds the slide member 4 on the base member 2 are provided.
[0021]
The base member 2 is configured by a substantially rectangular plate-like member, and is connected to both ends of the band 100 in the width direction (a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction) to the first end portion 100A along the longitudinal direction of the band 100. The part 21 is integrally formed. The connecting portion 21 is formed so as to protrude to the front side in the thickness direction of the base member 2 (the side where the holding member 5 is provided in the base member 2, that is, the upper side in FIG. 2), and the end portion on the first end portion 100 A side. Protrudes in the longitudinal direction from the base member 2. Through holes 211 are formed in the protruding portions, and one end of the base member 2 is connected to the first end portion 100 A by inserting a connecting pin 212 into the through holes 211. Further, a long hole 213 is formed in the connecting portion 21 along the longitudinal direction of the band 100.
A support portion 22 that supports the lid member 3 is provided at the other end of the base member 2, and a through hole 221 that penetrates along the width direction of the band 100 is formed in the support portion 22.
[0022]
The lid member 3 is formed in a substantially rectangular shape having an area substantially covering the base member 2, and two projecting portions 31 having a through hole 311 are formed on the base end side thereof. These protrusions 31 are formed with through holes 311 along the width direction of the band 100. When the protrusions 31 are arranged on both sides of the support part 22, the through holes 221 and the through holes 311 are in a straight line. Be placed. The base pin 2 and the lid member 3 are connected by inserting the connecting pin 312 into the through hole 221 and the through hole 311, and the lid member 3 is rotated about 180 ° around the connecting pin 312 with respect to the base member 2. It is supported movably. A torsion spring 313 is interposed between the support portion 22 and the one protruding portion 31, and this torsion spring 313 is a lid when the lid member 3 is rotated and brought close to the base member 2. An urging force is generated in the direction in which the member 3 is separated.
[0023]
An engaging portion 32 for locking the lid member 3 to the base member 2 is formed on the surface facing the base member 2 when the lid member 3 is rotated with respect to the base member 2. Two (a pair) of the engaging portions 32 are provided along the width direction of the band 100 at substantially the center of the surface facing the base member 2, and are formed so as to protrude substantially perpendicularly from the surface. . The front ends of these engaging portions 32 are formed in a substantially L shape that is bent toward the inner side in the width direction of the band 100. In addition, an inclined portion 321 that is inclined toward the lid member 3 toward the inner side in the width direction of the band 100 is formed on the surface of the engaging portion 32 that faces the base member 2.
[0024]
FIG. 4 shows a perspective view of the slide member 4 and the holding member 5. In FIG. 4, the slide member 4 and the holding member 5 are viewed from the opposite side (base member 2 side) to FIG. 2.
The slide member 4 is a pair of plate-like members provided facing each other along the width direction of the band 100, and is formed in a substantially T-shape having a protruding portion at a substantially center in the direction along the longitudinal direction of the band 100. Yes. These protruding portions also protrude from the holding member 5, and serve as an operation portion 41 that can be operated from the outside of the intermediate fastener 1. These operation portions 41 are inserted into the long holes 213 of the base member 2 and the tip side is exposed to the outside.
In the slide member 4, the end opposite to the side on which the operation unit 41 is provided, that is, the inner side in the width direction of the band 100, and the center in the longitudinal direction of the band 100 is recessed outward in the width direction of the band 100. A recess 42 is formed. Further, a stepped portion 44 is formed by being cut out in a substantially rectangular shape at the inner side in the width direction of the band 100 of the slide member 4 and at both ends in the longitudinal direction.
[0025]
FIG. 5 shows the slide member 4. FIG. 5A is a plan view of the slide member 4 and FIG. 5B is a side view of the slide member 4. As shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B, substantially hemispherical convex portions 43 are formed on both surfaces of the slide member 4. These convex portions 43 are arranged at two positions on the both surfaces along the longitudinal direction of the band 100 with a predetermined distance from each other. Further, the convex portions 43 on both surfaces of the slide member 4 are arranged so as not to overlap each other in plan view.
By these convex portions 43, the slide member 4 slides while making point contact with the base member 2 and the holding member 5 at the convex portions 43, so that the contact area with these members is reduced.
[0026]
FIG. 6 shows a perspective view of the holding member 5. In FIG. 6, the holding member 5 is formed in a block shape, and a concave portion 51 for accommodating the slide member 4 is formed on the surface facing the base member 2. By accommodating the slide member 4 in the recess 51, the slide member 4 is guided to be slidable in the width direction of the band 100.
In the concave portion 51, a convex portion (sliding restricting means) 52 that is convex inward in the longitudinal direction is formed at substantially the center in the width direction of the band 100. A stepped portion 44 of the slide member 4 is disposed on these convex portions 52 so as to be in contact with each other. When the slide member 4 is slid in the width direction of the band 100, the stepped portion 44 is brought into contact with the convex portion 52, so that the opposing slide members 4 are prevented from approaching more than the size of the convex portion 52. .
In addition, a long hole 53 through which the pair of engaging portions 32 of the lid member 3 is inserted is formed in the approximate center of the holding member 5.
[0027]
Between the pair of slide members 4, a biasing means 6 that biases the slide member 4 to the outside in the width direction of the band 100 is provided.
FIG. 7 shows a perspective view of the urging means 6. In FIG. 7, the urging means 6 is formed between two coil springs (elastic members) 61 arranged in parallel and these coil springs 61, and a straight line with which the engaging portion 32 of the lid member 3 is engaged. And an engaged portion 62 having a shape. As shown in FIG. 4, the coil spring 61 is disposed on both sides of the concave portion 42 of the slide member 4 along the width direction of the band 100, and the end is in contact with the end surface of the slide member 4. .
[0028]
The engaged portion 62 is integrally formed from the same linear member as the two coil springs 61, and is formed along the longitudinal direction of the band 100 continuously from the end portion of the coil spring 61. That is, the two coil springs 61 and the engaged portions 62 facing each other are integrally formed from one linear member. The end of one engaged portion 62 is formed in an arc shape so as to be continuous with the coil spring 61. The engaged portion 62 is urged and brought into contact with the slide member 4 side by the coil spring 61, and the space surrounded by the engaged portion 62 and the recess 42 is inserted through the engaging portion 32. A space 63 is formed.
Here, the wire diameter, the number of turns, the coil diameter, and the like of the coil spring 61 are appropriately set so that an appropriate biasing force is generated in the slide member 4. At this time, the wire diameter of the coil spring 61 is such that when the engaging portion 32 is engaged with the engaged portion 62, the pushing force of the engaging portion 32 to the engaged portion 62 is appropriate. Set with consideration.
In addition, as for the engaging part 32 of the lid member 3, the distance L (refer FIG. 8 (A)) between the front-end | tip parts is more than twice the diameter D (refer FIG. 8 (A)) of the to-be-engaged part 62. It is set large. That is, the pair of engaged portions 62 can pass between the engaging portions 32 facing each other. Further, the distance M between the pair of engaged portions 62 (see FIG. 8A) only needs to be larger than the distance L between the distal end portions of the engaging portions 32.
[0029]
In such a holding member 5, the operating portion 41 of the slide member 4 is inserted into the elongated hole 213 of the base member 2, the biasing means 6 is disposed between the pair of slide members 4, and then the screw is attached to the base member 2. Stopped and fixed. At this time, since the dimension of the holding member 5 along the longitudinal direction of the band 100 is shorter than the dimension of the base member 2, when the holding member 5 is attached to the base member 2, A gap 23 in which the base member 2 is exposed is formed therebetween.
[0030]
As shown in FIG. 3 described above, the attachment portion 1B includes an arm member 71 connected to the second end portion 100B and a connecting member 72 connected to the middle terminal 1A. Two arm members 71 are provided in parallel on both sides in the width direction of the second end portion 100 B, and the base end sides of these arm members 71 are connected to the second end portion 100 B by connecting pins 711. A connecting member 72 is bridged across the distal end side of the arm member 71 so as to connect the opposing arm member 71 in the width direction of the band 100. Thereby, a space 73 is formed in a region surrounded by the connecting member 72, the arm member 71, and the second end portion 100B.
[0031]
FIG. 8 illustrates a case where the engaging portion 32 of the lid member 3 is engaged with the engaged portion 62 attached to the base member 2, and FIG. 8B is a state where the engaging portion 32 is in contact with the engaging portion 32, FIG. 8B is a state where the engaged portion 62 is about to get over the engaging portion 32, and FIG. The state engaged with the joint part 32 is shown.
When connecting the first end portion 100 A and the second end portion 100 B of the band 100 using the middle fastener 1, the lid member 3 is inserted into the space 73 and the connecting member 72 is disposed in the gap 23. When the lid member 3 is rotated around the connecting pin 312 and brought close to the base member 2, an urging force is generated in the direction in which the lid member 3 is separated from the base member 2 by the torsion spring 313. When the lid member 3 is rotated against the urging force to substantially cover the base member 2, the engaging portion 32 passes through the long hole 53 of the holding member 5 and is inserted into the insertion space 63, and FIG. ), The front end of the engaging portion 32 is brought into contact with the engaged portion 62.
[0032]
When the lid member 3 is further rotated and the engaging portion 32 is pushed into the engaged portion 62, the engaged portion 62 is deflected inward in the width direction of the band 100 by its own elasticity while being guided by the inclined portion 321. As shown in FIG. 8 (B), it tries to get over the inclined portion 321 of the engaging portion 32. Thereafter, the engaged portion 62 spreads outward in the width direction of the band 100 again by the elastic force, and is engaged with the engaging portion 32 as shown in FIG.
Thereby, the lid member 3 and the base member 2 are engaged with each other and fixed. Since the connecting member 72 is sandwiched between the lid member 3 and the base member 2, the first end portion 100A and the second end portion 100B of the band 100 are connected.
[0033]
When disconnecting the intermediate fastener 1, the pair of operation parts 41 are sandwiched from both sides with fingers or the like and pushed inward in the width direction of the band 100. Then, the slide member 4 slides inward against the urging force of the coil spring 61. The engaged portion 62 moves inward in the width direction of the band 100 together with the slide member 4 while being pressed against the slide member 4 by the biasing force of the coil spring 61. When the distance between the pair of engaged portions 62 is equal to or less than the distance L between the distal ends of the engaging portions 32, the engaging portions 32 and the engaged portions 62 are disengaged.
At this time, the slide member 4 is restricted from sliding on the slide member 4 over a predetermined distance by the stepped portion 44 coming into contact with the convex portion 52.
When the engagement portion 32 and the engaged portion 62 are disengaged, the lid member 3 is urged in a direction away from the base member 2 by the torsion spring 313, so that the lid member 3 is rotated by this urging force. It moves away from the base member 2. If the lid member 3 is pulled out into the space 73 and the connecting member 72 is removed from the base member 2, the connection between the first end portion 100A and the second end portion 100B is released.
[0034]
According to such an embodiment, the following effects can be obtained.
(1) Since the engaged portion 62 is composed of a linear member, when the engaging portion 32 is engaged with the engaged portion 62, the engaged portion 62 is located on the inner side in the width direction of the band 100. Bend. Since the engaged portion 62 is composed of a linear member, it is easy to bend. Therefore, the engaging portion 32 can be engaged with the engaged portion 62 with a light force. Thereby, wear of the engaging portion 32 and the engaged portion 62 can be reduced, and the durability of the clasp 1 can be improved.
In addition, since the engaged portion 62 is bent and engaged with the engaging portion 32, the elastic force of the coil spring 61 that urges the slide member 4, that is, the force necessary to slide the slide member 4 is applied. The engaging force of the joint portion 32 to the engaged portion 62 can be set separately, and can flexibly cope with the middle fastener 1 under various conditions.
[0035]
(2) Since the engaged portion 62 is disposed along the longitudinal direction of the band 100 and the engaging portion 32 is formed in a substantially L shape projecting from the lid member 3 at a substantially right angle, it is like a bowl as in the prior art. It is not necessary to form the engaging portion by overlapping the portions in the thickness direction, the structure of the slide member 4 can be simplified, the structure of the intermediate fastener 1 can be simplified, and the thinning can be promoted.
(3) Since the engaged portion 62 is integrally formed with the coil spring 61, when the biasing means 6 is interposed between the slide members 4 when assembling the intermediate fastener 1, The joint portion 62 can be positioned, and the assembly work of the middle fastener 1 can be simplified. Moreover, since it is not necessary to form an engaging part in the slide member 4 by this, the structure of the slide member 4 can be simplified.
[0036]
(4) Since the inclined portion 321 is formed in the engaging portion 32, the engaged portion 62 can be guided by the inclined portion 321 and can easily get over the engaging portion 32. The force required for engagement can be further reduced. Further, since the engaged portion 62 is guided by the inclined portion 321 and moves to the inside of the engaging portion 32, the engaging portion 32 can be engaged more reliably.
(5) Since the engaged portion 62 is a linear member having a circular cross section, it makes point contact with the inclined portion 321 of the engaging portion 32. Therefore, the engaged portion 62 can be easily moved on the inclined portion 321, and this also reduces the force required for engagement with the engaged portion 62. Further, since the engaged portion 62 is made of a wire having a circular cross section, the material can be obtained easily and inexpensively.
[0037]
(6) Since a pair of the slide member 4 and the engaged portion 62 are provided along the width direction of the band 100 and a pair of the engaging portions 32 are also provided correspondingly, one of the slide members 4 is pushed by mistake. Even in this case, the engagement portion 32 cannot be disengaged unless the other slide member 4 is pushed. Therefore, it is possible to reliably prevent malfunctions such as the lid member 3 being accidentally removed and the band 100 being disconnected, and the reliability of the intermediate fastener 1 can be improved.
[0038]
(7) Since the convex portions 43 are formed on both surfaces of the slide member 4, point contact is made with the base member 2 and the holding member 5. Therefore, the contact area between the base member 2 and the holding member 5 can be minimized, the wear of the slide member 4 can be prevented, and the durability of the intermediate fastener 1 can be improved.
(8) By forming the concave portion 42 in the slide member 4, the insertion space 63 of the engaging portion 32 can be formed. Thereby, the engaged part 62 can be formed linearly, and the shape of the engaged part 62 can be simplified. Therefore, the biasing means 6 including the engaged portion 62 can be manufactured easily and inexpensively.
[0039]
(9) Since the convex portion 52 is formed in the concave portion 51 of the holding member 5, it is possible to prevent the distance between the pair of slide members 4 from approaching the dimension in the width direction of the convex portion 52. Therefore, the urging means 6 interposed between the slide members 4 can be prevented from being compressed more than necessary, and the durability of the urging means 6 can be improved. Further, the slide member 4 can be prevented from entering the inside of the base member 2 more than necessary, and the operability of the middle clip 1 can be improved.
(10) Since the slide member 4 is accommodated in the recess 51 of the holding member 5, the base member 2 can be formed in a substantially plate shape, and the shape of the base member 2 can be simplified. Moreover, since the slide member 4 and the biasing means 6 are interposed and covered between the base member 2 and the holding member 5, the appearance of the middle fastener 1 can be improved. Furthermore, since the slide member 4 and the urging means 6 are positioned and stored in the recess 51 in advance and then attached to the base member 2, the assembling work of the intermediate fastener 1 can be simplified.
[0040]
It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and modifications, improvements, and the like within the scope that can achieve the object of the present invention are included in the present invention.
The engaged portion and the elastic member are formed by continuously forming two elastic members arranged in parallel and the engaged portion formed so as to connect these elastic members with the same linear member. For example, as shown in FIG. 9, the engaged portion 62 may be formed by linearly extending one end of the coil spring 61. In this case, the coil spring 61 and the engaged portion 62 having the same shape may be arranged point-symmetrically. The engaged portion and the elastic member having such a configuration can be easily manufactured because the end portion of the coil spring 61 may be extended to form the engaged portion 62.
At this time, for example, as shown in FIG. 10, the end of the engaged portion 62 may be formed in an arc shape as in the first embodiment.
[0041]
The engaged portion is not limited to being formed in a straight line shape, and may be one in which the approximate center is bent or curved inward in the width direction of the belt-like body, for example, as shown in FIG. If it is such a shape, the engaging part of a cover member can be made into a narrow thing, and narrowing of the width | variety of a middle fastener can be accelerated | stimulated.
Further, the engaged portion is not limited to the one formed integrally with the elastic member as described above. For example, the linear member is provided separately from the elastic member, and is pressed against the slide member by the urging force of the elastic member. It may be a structure. Even in this case, the engaging portion can be satisfactorily engaged with the engaged portion, so that the object of the present invention can be achieved. Alternatively, the engaged portion may be formed integrally with the slide member. In this case, a linear engaged portion is formed to protrude from the end of the slide member into a substantially U shape, or a hole penetrating in the thickness direction is formed at the end of the slide member, What is necessary is just to form a linear to-be-engaged part in a slide member edge part by making the distance between holes small. In short, as long as the engaged portion is a linear member arranged along the longitudinal direction of the belt-like body, the shape and configuration are arbitrary.
The engaged portion is not limited to a circular cross-sectional shape, and an arbitrary shape such as a rectangular shape or a polygonal shape can be adopted.
[0042]
For example, as shown in FIG. 12, the slide member may be formed with a protrusion 64 that protrudes inward from the inner end in the width direction of the band 100. These protrusions 64 are provided on both sides of the recess 42, and the engaged portion 62 is placed on the surface opposite to the surface facing the base member 2. According to the slide member 4 having such a structure, it is possible to prevent the engaged portion 62 from being bent toward the base member 2 side when the engaging portion engages with the engaged portion 62. Can be engaged with the engaged portion 62 more reliably.
Moreover, you may form the convex part of a slide member by pressing a plate-shaped member etc., for example, as FIG. 13 (A) and (B) show. In this case, as shown in FIG. 13, a concave portion 45 corresponding to the convex portion 43 is formed on the surface opposite to the convex portion 43. Therefore, the convex portions 43 need to be arranged so as not to overlap each other in plan (in the plan view shown in FIG. 13A).
[0043]
Further, the convex portions are not limited to those formed on both surfaces of the slide member, and may be formed only on the surface facing the base member, for example, at least on the sliding surface with the base member. Just do it.
The shape of the convex portion is not limited to a hemispherical shape, and any shape that can reduce the contact area with the sliding surface, such as a conical shape, a pyramid shape, or a cylindrical shape, can be employed. Note that the object of the present invention can be achieved even if the convex portion of the slide member is not necessarily provided.
The slide member is not limited to a pair provided in the width direction of the belt-like body, and may be provided, for example, one or three or more (plural).
[0044]
The elastic member is not limited to a coil spring, but can be of any type such as a leaf spring. Further, if an engagement means for restricting the position in the width direction of the belt-like body is provided in the slide member, the slide member is divided into two positions: a position where the engagement portion engages and a position where the engagement portion is disengaged. Since it can be locked, the elastic member is not necessarily provided.
The slide restricting means is not limited to the convex portion 52 formed on the holding member 5, and for example, a protrusion that protrudes in the thickness direction is provided on a portion of the slide member that is disposed outside the base member, and this protrusion contacts the end of the base member. It may be configured so that the slide member does not slide further inward by being in contact, and thus the slide restricting means can adopt any structure.
Further, for example, when the elastic member is not interposed between the slide members, it is not necessary to prevent the elastic member from being compressed, so that the slide restricting means can be omitted, and even in such a case, the object is achieved. Therefore, the slide restricting means may not necessarily be provided.
[0045]
Since the middle fastener of the present invention can reduce the force required for engagement and promote thinning, it can be applied not only to a watch band but also to any belt-like body. Moreover, the strip | belt shaped object to which the middle fastener of this invention was attached is applicable not only to a timepiece but to arbitrary accessories, such as a bracelet and a necklace. For example, even if it is applied to a thin strip or accessory, the balance in design can be improved.
[0046]
The best configuration, method and the like for carrying out the present invention have been disclosed in the above description, but the present invention is not limited to this. That is, the invention has been illustrated and described primarily with respect to particular embodiments, but may be configured for the above-described embodiments without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention. Various modifications can be made by those skilled in the art in terms of materials, quantity, and other detailed configurations.
Therefore, the description limited to the shape, material, etc. disclosed above is an example for easy understanding of the present invention, and does not limit the present invention. The description by the name of the member which remove | excluded the limitation of one part or all of such restrictions is included in this invention.
[0047]
【The invention's effect】
According to the present invention as described above, since the engaging portion of the lid member engages with the engaged portion formed in a linear shape, there is an effect that the force required for the engagement can be reduced. Further, since the engaged portion is engaged by the substantially L-shaped engaging portion, unlike the conventional case, there is no need to overlap the pair of engaging portions in the thickness direction, and the effect of facilitating the thinning of the intermediate fastener. There is.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a view showing a timepiece according to a first embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view showing a part of the middle fastener according to the first embodiment.
FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing another part of the middle fastener.
FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing a slide member and a holding member.
FIG. 5 is a view showing a slide member.
FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing a holding member.
FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing an elastic member and an engaged portion.
FIG. 8 is a diagram showing engagement between an engaging portion and an engaged portion.
FIG. 9 is a view showing a modification of the urging means.
FIG. 10 is a view showing another modification of the urging means.
FIG. 11 is a view showing still another modification of the urging means.
FIG. 12 is a view showing a modified example of the slide member.
FIG. 13 is a view showing another modification of the slide member.
[Explanation of symbols]
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Middle fastener, 1A ... Middle fastener, 1B ... Mounting part, 2 ... Base member, 3 ... Cover member, 4 ... Slide member, 5 ... Holding member, 6 ... Energizing means, 32 ... Engagement part, 42 ... Recessed portion, 43 ... convex portion, 44 ... stepped portion, 52 ... convex portion (sliding restricting means), 61 ... coil spring (elastic member), 62 ... engaged portion, 63 ... insertion space, 72 ... connecting member, 100 ... Band (band-like body), 100A ... first end (one end), 100B ... second end (the other end), 200 ... watch, 321 ... inclined portion.

Claims

帯状体の端部同士を連結する中留具であって、前記一方の端部に設けられるベース部材と、基端側が前記ベース部材に対して回動自在に取り付けられる蓋部材と、前記他方の端部に設けられるとともに、前記ベース部材および前記蓋部材の間に介装される連結部材と、前記ベース部材に設けられるとともに、前記帯状体の幅方向にスライド可能なスライド部材と、前記帯状体の長手方向にほぼ沿って配置されるとともに、前記スライド部材に隣接して配置される線状の被係合部とを備え、
前記蓋部材の前記ベース部材に対向する面には、前記ベース部材に向かって突出しかつ先端側が前記帯状体の幅方向に折曲される略Ｌ字形に形成されるとともに、前記被係合部に係合可能な係合部が形成されていることを特徴とする中留具。An intermediate fastener for connecting the end portions of the belt-shaped body, a base member provided at the one end portion, a lid member whose base end side is rotatably attached to the base member, and the other end A connecting member provided between the base member and the lid member; a slide member provided on the base member and slidable in a width direction of the belt-like body; and the belt-like body And a linear engaged portion disposed adjacent to the slide member, and disposed substantially along the longitudinal direction of
The surface of the lid member that faces the base member is formed in a substantially L shape that protrudes toward the base member and the front end side is bent in the width direction of the band-shaped body, and is formed on the engaged portion. An intermediate fastener having an engaging portion formed therein.

請求項１に記載の中留具において、前記スライド部材は、前記帯状体の幅方向に沿って対向して一対設けられ、これらのスライド部材間には、当該スライド部材を前記帯状体の幅方向外側に付勢する弾性部材が配置され、前記被係合部は、前記弾性部材に一体的に形成されていることを特徴とする中留具。2. The intermediate fastener according to claim 1, wherein a pair of the slide members are provided to face each other along a width direction of the belt-like body, and the slide member is disposed between the slide members in the width direction of the belt-like body. An elastic member for urging outward is disposed, and the engaged portion is formed integrally with the elastic member.

請求項１または請求項２に記載の中留具において、前記スライド部材は、前記帯状体の幅方向に沿って対向して一対設けられ、これらのスライド部材の前記幅方向内側にはそれぞれ前記被係合部が配置され、前記係合部は前記被係合部に対応して前記帯状体の幅方向に沿って対向して一対設けられ、かつ前記係合部先端が前記帯状体の幅方向内側に向かって折曲されていることを特徴とする中留具。The intermediate fastener according to claim 1 or 2, wherein a pair of the slide members are provided so as to face each other in the width direction of the belt-like body, and the cover members are respectively provided on the inner sides in the width direction of the slide members. An engaging portion is disposed, and a pair of the engaging portions are provided in the width direction of the strip corresponding to the engaged portion, and the front end of the engaging portion is in the width direction of the strip. A clasp that is bent inward.

請求項１から請求項３のいずれかに記載の中留具において、前記被係合部は、断面円形に形成されていることを特徴とする中留具。The intermediate fastener according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the engaged portion is formed in a circular cross section.

請求項１から請求項４のいずれかに記載の中留具において、前記係合部先端の前記ベース部材に対向する面には、前記係合部先端に向かって前記蓋部材側に傾斜する傾斜部が形成されていることを特徴とする中留具。5. The intermediate fastener according to claim 1, wherein a surface of the engagement portion distal end facing the base member is inclined toward the lid member side toward the engagement portion distal end. An intermediate fastener having a portion formed therein.

請求項１から請求項５のいずれかに記載の中留具において、前記スライド部材の前記被係合部に対向する面には凹部が形成されることにより、前記被係合部と前記スライド部材との間には、前記係合部が挿通される挿通空間が形成されていることを特徴とする中留具。6. The intermediate fastener according to claim 1, wherein a concave portion is formed on a surface of the slide member facing the engaged portion, so that the engaged portion and the slide member are formed. An intermediate space in which an insertion space through which the engaging portion is inserted is formed.

請求項１から請求項６のいずれかに記載の中留具において、前記スライド部材は、前記帯状体の幅方向に沿って対向して一対設けられ、前記一対のスライド部材間の近接距離を規制するスライド規制手段が設けられていることを特徴とする中留具。The intermediate fastener according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein a pair of the slide members are provided to face each other along a width direction of the belt-like body, and a proximity distance between the pair of slide members is regulated. An intermediate fastener having a slide restricting means.

請求項１から請求項７のいずれかに記載の中留具において、前記スライド部材の少なくとも前記ベース部材との摺動面には、凸部が形成されていることを特徴とする中留具。The intermediate fastener according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein a convex portion is formed on at least a sliding surface of the slide member with the base member.

請求項１から請求項８のいずれかに記載の中留具を備えたことを特徴とする帯状体。A belt-like body comprising the intermediate fastener according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

時計ケースに取り付けられたバンドと、このバンドに取り付けられる請求項１から請求項８のいずれかに記載の中留具とを備えたことを特徴とする時計。A timepiece comprising: a band attached to a timepiece case; and an intermediate fastener according to any one of claims 1 to 8 attached to the band.

帯状体と、この帯状体に取り付けられる請求項１から請求項８のいずれかに記載の中留具とを備えたことを特徴とする装身具。An accessory comprising a belt-like body and a middle fastener attached to the belt-like body according to any one of claims 1 to 8.