Electronic device and timepiece

Abstract

An electronic device is provided with a date wheel (6) including a character portion (64) and a region other than the character portion, with a through-hole passing through the region other than the character portion, and a solar cell disposed on the lower side of the date wheel.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an electronic device and a clock. Background Technology

[0002] Previously, it was known that there were electronic devices such as clocks that had solar panels that generated electricity by receiving sunlight. Such clocks and other electronic devices could charge their secondary batteries by using the power generated by the solar panels, thus eliminating the need for battery replacements.

[0003] To reliably receive sunlight, the solar panel is preferably positioned on the visible side of the clock in a way that minimizes light obstruction by other components. Furthermore, to generate more power, the solar panel may be installed entirely on the visible side of the clock.

[0004] However, solar panels cannot be designed as elaborately on their surface as a watch dial. Therefore, placing the solar panels at the top, if directly visible from the outside, would compromise the aesthetic design.

[0005] Furthermore, as watch enthusiasts, there is a desire to observe the internal structure of a timepiece. This is especially true for analog watches that display time using hands, which often feature a gear train mechanism. This mechanism consists of gears and other components that cause the hands to rotate within the watch. If such a gear train mechanism could be considered part of the watch's exterior, its design would be excellent. However, since the gear train mechanism and other key structural elements, including various gears, are located in the center and surrounding area of ​​the watch, a space must be ensured in the center of the watch where the visible side is not obstructed in order to view these structural elements from the outside.

[0006] Regarding this point, for example, Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2002-350567 proposed arranging a solar panel in a ring around the outer periphery of a clock, and using transparent acrylic sheets or other light-transmitting components to form the dial, date wheel, and other components arranged on the visible side of the solar panel. Summary of the Invention

[0007] An electronic device according to one aspect of the present invention comprises:

[0008] Date wheel 6, comprising a text section 64 and an area other than the text section, having a through hole penetrating the area other than the text section; and

[0009] A solar cell is disposed on the underside of the date wheel.

[0010] Other features of the invention will become apparent from the following description of exemplary embodiments (with reference to the accompanying drawings). Attached Figure Description

[0011] Figure 1This is the front view of the clock in this embodiment.

[0012] Figure 2 This is an exploded perspective view showing the main structural parts of the clock in this embodiment.

[0013] Figure 3 This is an exploded perspective view showing the main structural parts of the clock in this embodiment, and the solar cell is a ring-shaped solar panel 8.

[0014] Figure 4 This is a top view of a portion of the date wheel in this embodiment, magnified.

[0015] Figure 5 This is a top view of a portion of a modified version of the date wheel in this embodiment, magnified.

[0016] Figure 6 This is a top view of the solar panel in this embodiment.

[0017] Figure 7 This is a top view of the module and solar panel of this embodiment as seen from the visible side.

[0018] Figure 8 It means in Figure 7 The diagram shows a top view of the module and the date wheel presser positioned above the solar panel.

[0019] Figure 9(a) is a cross-sectional perspective view showing a portion of the internal structure of the clock in this embodiment, and Figure 9(b) is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of Figure 9(a).

[0020] Figure 10 This is a top view showing a modified example of a solar panel.

[0021] Figure 11 It is Figure 10 The enlarged top view of the portion enclosed by the XI frame.

[0022] Figure 12 This is a magnified top view of a portion of a variation of the date wheel.

[0023] Figure 13 It means to Figure 12 The date wheel shown Figure 10 A top view showing the overlapping state of the solar panels.

[0024] Figure 14 This is a top view showing a modified example of a solar panel.

[0025] Figure 15 It means to Figure 12 The date wheel shown Figure 14A top view showing the overlapping state of the solar panels.

[0026] Figure 16 This is a top view showing a variation of the date wheel.

[0027] Figure 17 This is a top view showing a variation of the date wheel. Detailed Implementation

[0028] The following is for reference Figure 1 Figure 9 illustrates one embodiment of a clock as an electronic device according to the present invention.

[0029] Furthermore, various technically preferred limitations have been added to the following embodiments for the purpose of implementing the invention, but the scope of the invention is not limited to the following embodiments and the illustrated examples.

[0030] Even the transparent acrylic sheets disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2002-350567 will absorb some light. Therefore, if such components are used to cover solar panels, the light absorption efficiency will be reduced accordingly, and it may be impossible to generate sufficient electricity.

[0031] According to the present invention, an electronic device and watch can be provided that, while ensuring the power generation of the solar panel, improves design freedom and has an excellent high-end appearance.

[0032] Figure 1 This is a front view of the clock in this embodiment. Figure 2 yes Figure 1 An exploded perspective view of the main parts of the clock shown. Additionally, in Figure 1 The illustrations of the hour and minute hands are omitted from the text.

[0033] Furthermore, in the following implementation, the direction from 9 o'clock to 3 o'clock on the clock is designated as the X direction, the direction from 12 o'clock to 6 o'clock is designated as the Y direction, and the visible direction from the visible side to the non-visible side is designated as the Z direction. Additionally, the visible side will be referred to as the "upper side" and the non-visible side as the "lower side" below. The X direction, Y direction, and visible direction Z refer to... Figure 1 direction shown.

[0034] like Figure 1 As shown, the clock 100 in this embodiment has a housing (hereinafter referred to as "clock housing 1" in this embodiment). The clock housing 1 is formed of, for example, metals such as stainless steel and titanium, ceramics, various synthetic resins, etc. In addition, the material for forming the clock housing 1 is not limited to the material illustrated herein.

[0035] In this embodiment, the clock case 1 is formed as a hollow short column shape, on the surface side of the clock 100 (the visible side of the clock, and on the...) Figure 1 as well as Figure 2 Viewed from the Z-direction, one side of the clock is fitted with a windproof component 2 made of transparent glass or the like. Furthermore, the back of the clock 100 is sealed by a back cover (not shown).

[0036] In the watch case 1 Figure 1 The upper and lower ends (both ends in the Y direction), that is, the ends at the 12 o'clock direction and the 6 o'clock direction in the analog clock, are provided with a watch strap mounting part 12 for mounting a watch strap (not shown).

[0037] In addition, the clock 100 is provided with an operating part (faucet, button, etc.) not shown, and a notch 13 is formed on the side of the clock case 1 and other parts corresponding to the mounting position of the operating part.

[0038] Additionally, a ring-shaped parting member 3 is provided on the lower side (non-visible side, back side) of the windproof member 2, running along the opening 11 of the watch case 1. Hour numerals 4 are arranged at regular intervals on the inner circumference of the parting member 3. The hour numerals 4 are indicated by hands (hour hand, minute hand, etc., not shown) and serve as a standard for telling time; they are made of metals such as stainless steel or titanium. Furthermore, the materials used to form the hour numerals 4, their placement, etc., are not limited to the materials and positions illustrated here.

[0039] The clock case 1 houses modules 5, etc. Module 5 includes: a base plate 51; a motor, an antenna (not shown), a wheel mechanism 52, a base plate 57 (see Figure 9(a)), etc., which are appropriately distributed and mounted on the front and back of the base plate 51 (the non-visible side and the visible side of the clock). Figure 2 In the diagram, a thick arrow indicates the visible direction (Z) from the visible side to the non-visible side. Various circuits, terminals, etc. (not shown) are mounted on the substrate 57.

[0040] The clock 100 in this embodiment includes an hour marker 4, a hand (hour hand, minute hand, etc., not shown) that indicates the hour marker 4, and a module 5 including a motor and a gear train mechanism 52 that actuates the hand, and constitutes a time display unit. The time display unit in the clock 100 is analog, and displays the time by appropriately indicating the hour marker 4 through the hand that actuates via the gear train mechanism 52.

[0041] A date wheel 6, which rotates via a wheel train mechanism 52, is positioned above module 5 (on the visible side of the clock). A date wheel presser 7 is located above the date wheel 6.

[0042] Furthermore, in this embodiment, a solar cell is disposed on the non-visible side relative to the date wheel 6 (i.e., below the date wheel 6) and between the module 5 and the date wheel 6. In this embodiment, the solar cell is a ring-shaped solar panel 8.

[0043] Furthermore, the clock 100 in this embodiment, for example, has a structure without a dial. By not having a dial, the number of correspondingly overlapping plate-like components is reduced, thereby reducing the number of parts and making the clock 100 thinner. In addition, since power generation loss caused by light absorption by the dial material itself can be eliminated, sufficient power generation can be obtained with a correspondingly small area (the area of ​​the effective power generation area described later).

[0044] Figure 3 This is an exploded perspective view showing the details of module 5, date wheel 6, date wheel pressing part 7, and solar panel 8.

[0045] like Figure 3 As shown, the date wheel 6 has: a frame portion 61, which has gears (described later) forming the wheel train mechanism 52 along its circumferential direction. Figure 1 The gear 521 meshes with the teeth 62; and the lettering 64 is provided on the frame 61 via the bridge 63.

[0046] The date wheel 6 is made of metals such as stainless steel or titanium and has a through hole that extends through the area except for the text section 64. Specifically, the area except for the text section 64 maintains the shape of the date wheel 6, while retaining the parts required to support the text section 64 (frame section 61, bridge section 63), and is thinned in a way that extends through both sides of the date wheel 6.

[0047] In this way, by thinning the metal material to form the date wheel 6, for example, compared with a date wheel with text on a transparent part by printing, a date wheel 6 with a sense of weight and three-dimensionality can be obtained, which can make the appearance of the watch have a high-end feel.

[0048] Furthermore, there is no particular limitation on the method of forming the date wheel 6 by extracting the portion other than the frame portion 61, bridge portion 63, and text portion 64 from the metal material (i.e., forming a through hole).

[0049] As for the processing methods for the thinned portion, various methods such as microfabrication techniques used in MEMS (Micro Electro Mechanical Systems), etching, and laser processing can be employed. Alternatively, methods such as punching holes in a metal plate or casting can also be used to form the date wheel 6.

[0050] The date wheel 6 of this embodiment includes a first frame portion 61a as a frame portion 61 and a second frame portion 61b disposed inside the first frame portion 61a.

[0051] In this embodiment, the tooth 62 is provided along the inner circumferential surface of the second frame portion 61b and meshes with the gear of the gear train mechanism 52 on the inner side (closer to the rotation center) than the second frame portion 61b.

[0052] The text section 64 is the part that visually represents the numbers "1" to "31" of the date wheel 6, indicating the date of one month. A bridge section 63 (first bridge section 63a) is provided between each text section 64, which is connected between the first frame section 61a and the second frame section 61b to divide the dates.

[0053] Figure 4 This is an enlarged view of a portion of the date wheel 6 in this embodiment (the text portion 64 representing "16" and its surrounding area).

[0054] like Figure 4 As shown, in this embodiment, the text portion 64 intersects with the bridge portion 63 (first bridge portion 63a) and is connected to the bridge portion 63 (second bridge portion 63b) provided along the circumference of the frame portion 61, and is held in the frame portion 61 (between the first frame portion 61a and the second frame portion 61b) via the first bridge portion 63a and the second bridge portion 63b.

[0055] Furthermore, the structure of date wheel 6 is not limited to Figure 4 The structure shown is as follows.

[0056] For example, such as Figure 5 As shown, the text portion 64 can also be cantilevered to the first frame portion 61a or the second frame portion 61b via the bridge portion 63. In this case, the frame portion 61 only needs to have one on either the outer or inner side of the text portion 64, for example, in Figure 5 In the case shown, the frame portion 61 is composed only of the second frame portion 61b located inside the text portion 64, or the first frame portion 61a may not be present in a position outside the text portion 64.

[0057] Conversely, if the text section 64 is cantilevered and positioned further outward than the text section 64, the second frame section 61b may not be present. In this case, the toothed section 62 is provided along the outer circumferential surface of the first frame section 61a and interacts with the gear of the gear train mechanism 52 on the outer side of the date wheel 6. Figure 1 , Figure 3 , Figure 7 as well as Figure 8 The gear 521 shown is engaged.

[0058] Furthermore, it is not necessary to set a first bridge section 63a to divide each character section 64. For example, as Figure 5 As shown, if the text section 64 is directly connected to the frame section 61 via a bridge section 63 (second bridge section 63b) extending radially from the date wheel 6, the first bridge section 63a may not be provided.

[0059] As described later, in this embodiment, a solar panel 8 is disposed on the lower side of the date wheel 6 (the lower side relative to the non-visible side of the date wheel 6, in the visible direction Z). Since the date wheel 6 is made of a metallic material, if light does not pass through, the frame portion 61, bridge portion 63, and text portion 64 overlap with the solar panel 8, resulting in reduced power generation efficiency. Therefore, it is preferable to increase the thinning portion of the date wheel 6 as much as possible within the range that ensures strength (impact resistance), and to retain as little portion as possible (make it thinner) as the frame portion 61 and bridge portion 63. In addition, the text portion 64 is thinned to a degree that does not sacrifice visibility.

[0060] Figure 6 This is a top view showing an example of the structure of the solar panel in this embodiment.

[0061] The solar panel 8 is a solar cell that generates electricity by receiving light. The electricity generated by the light from the solar panel 8 is stored in a secondary battery (not shown).

[0062] like Figure 6 As shown, the solar panel 8 is configured as a ring-shaped panel (main body) divided into multiple individual units 81. There is no particular limitation on the number of individual units 81 into which the solar panel 8 is divided. In this embodiment, the solar panel 8 is divided into five individual units 81, from unit 81a to unit 81e.

[0063] The voltage generated by the solar panel 8 is used to charge a secondary battery (not shown) to power various parts of the clock 100. However, the electromotive force of a single cell (solar cell) is low. Therefore, in this embodiment, in order to stably charge the secondary battery, the solar panel 8 is divided into multiple cells 81, and multiple cells 81 are connected in series to form a solar panel that can obtain a higher voltage.

[0064] Furthermore, the more individual cells 81 connected in series, the higher the voltage of the solar panel 8 as a whole. Therefore, the number of individual cells 81 constituting the solar panel 8 is preferably set appropriately according to the required voltage level, such as the voltage of the secondary battery that stores the electricity generated by the solar panel 8.

[0065] The solar panel 8 has dividing lines 82 that divide the individual cells 81 (81a to 81e). In this embodiment, the dividing lines 82 are arranged radially along the annular solar panel 8 such that each individual cell 81 is roughly fan-shaped.

[0066] The portion of the dividing line 82 is not used for power generation. Therefore, it is preferable that the components covering the visible side of the solar panel 8 overlap with the dividing line 82 as much as possible. This reduces the area covering the visible side in the effective area used for power generation (hereinafter referred to as the "effective power generation area"), thereby minimizing power generation losses.

[0067] In this embodiment, when the date wheel 6 is stationary, at least one of the bridge portions 63 (the first bridge portion 63a along the radial direction of the date wheel 6) of the date wheel 6 overlaps with at least one of the dividing lines 82 of the solar panel 8. More preferably, when the date wheel 6 is stationary, each dividing line 82 of the solar panel 8 must overlap with any one of the bridge portions 63 of the date wheel 6.

[0068] Furthermore, the dividing line 82 is formed to match the shape of the bridge portion 63 (e.g., the first bridge portion 63a). Thus, when the dividing line 82 and the bridge portion 63 are positioned in corresponding locations, the dividing line is obscured by the bridge portion 63, resulting in an excellent appearance. At the same time, the bridge portion 63 does not cover the effective area used in power generation, thereby suppressing power generation losses.

[0069] Furthermore, the solar panel 8 has a unit connection portion 83 that connects individual units 81 to each other. The unit connection portion 83 is arranged across adjacent units 81. As described above, in this embodiment, the solar panel 8 is constructed by dividing the panel into multiple units 81 and connecting the units 81 in series in the unit connection portion 83.

[0070] In addition, when multiple individual cells 81 are connected in series to form a solar panel 8, if there is a difference in the output current value between the individual cells 81, the output current value of the solar panel 8 will be matched with the individual cell 81 with the smaller output current value and become smaller.

[0071] Therefore, in order to improve power generation efficiency, it is preferable that the effective power generation area of ​​each individual unit 81 is as equal as possible.

[0072] Therefore, in this embodiment, the width of the dividing line is made consistent, and the five individual units 81 (81a to 81e) are divided in such a way that their areas are approximately equal.

[0073] Furthermore, when metal components that affect power generation (such as large metal hour markers, decorative metal parts not shown, etc.) are arranged to overlap with the surface of the solar panel 8, the light transmittance of a portion of the effective power generation area of ​​the individual unit 81 decreases. In this case, the power generation of the individual unit 81 decreases, and the overall power generation efficiency of the solar panel 8 deteriorates.

[0074] Therefore, in such a case, it is preferable to adjust the area of ​​the cell 81 with lower light transmittance in a portion of the effective power generation area to be larger than that of other cells 81, so that the area of ​​the substantially effective power generation area is approximately equal in each cell 81.

[0075] Furthermore, the portion of the unit connection 83, like the portion of the dividing line 82, is an area not used for power generation. Therefore, it is preferable that the components covering the visible side of the solar panel 8 overlap with the unit connection 83 as much as possible.

[0076] Specifically, for example, the individual connecting portion 83 is configured to overlap with the text portion 64 of the date wheel 6 when the date wheel 6 is in a stationary state. Alternatively, the individual connecting portion 83 may be positioned below the hour digit 4. More preferably, when the date wheel 6 is in a stationary state, each individual connecting portion 83 of the solar panel 8 will necessarily overlap with any one of the text portions 64 of the date wheel 6.

[0077] In addition, it is preferable that the shape of the single-unit connecting part 83 is as close as possible to the shape of the overlapping parts (text part 64, time character 4).

[0078] Therefore, the area covered by the visible side in the effective power generation area can be reduced to a smaller extent, and power generation loss can be minimized.

[0079] Furthermore, the inner and outer edges of the outer perimeter of the annular solar panel 8 are areas not used for power generation (non-sunlight-receiving areas). For example... Figure 1 As shown, in this embodiment, when viewed from the visible side, the frame portion 6 (first frame portion 61a, second frame portion 61b) of the date wheel 6 coincides with this non-light-receiving area.

[0080] Therefore, the entire area where the metal material in the date wheel 6 is thinned can be designated as the light-receiving area of ​​the solar panel 8. Furthermore, the appearance of the date wheel 6 becomes more uniform, resulting in a better overall look. Moreover, the edges of the individual solar panel units 81 do not interfere with the edges of the thinned portion of the date wheel 6, allowing the date wheel 6 to operate smoothly. Additionally, collisions between the edges of the individual solar panel units 81 and the bridge portion 63 of the date wheel 6 can be avoided, and damage to the bridge portion 63 can be prevented.

[0081] In addition, the solar panel 8 has a date background area 86 with a color that is highly recognizable relative to the date wheel 6 in the portion corresponding to the date display position of the date wheel 6.

[0082] For example in Figure 1 and Figure 3 In the solar panel 8, the portion corresponding to the date (in...) Figure 1 In the example, the portion containing the text representing "1" becomes a date background area 86 in a different color from the overall shading (shown as white in the example).

[0083] The date background area 86 is set, for example, by directly coloring the surface of the solar panel 8. The coloring method can be any method such as printing, various vapor deposition, etc.

[0084] Alternatively, the corresponding part of the solar panel 8 can be cut out, and a panel component, film, etc. of a different color from the solar panel 8 can be embedded, or it can be set by pasting from the back side. Other methods can also be used to make the date background area 86 a highly recognizable color relative to the date wheel 6.

[0085] Additionally, the date background area 86, for example, is positioned at the 3 o'clock position on a clock. Figure 6 It is located within the effective power generation area of ​​the single unit 81a.

[0086] For example, when the date background region 86 is formed by embedding plate components, membranes, etc., power generation cannot be performed in this region. Therefore, the area of ​​the date background region 86 can also be considered, and the area of ​​the single unit 81a can be formed to be slightly larger than the areas of the other single units 81.

[0087] Furthermore, if the date background area 86 is not used for power generation, a single connecting part 83 or the like can be installed at the location where the date background area 86 is located. By concentrating the areas not used for power generation in the same location as much as possible, the effective power generation area can be ensured as much as possible.

[0088] Furthermore, the solar panel 8 has a contact portion 84 that is electrically connected to the substrate 57 (see Figure 9(a)). The portion corresponding to the contact portion 84 may not sometimes be an effective power generation area. Therefore, it is preferable that the contact portion 84 is arranged on the inner or outer side of the annular main body in a manner that does not affect the area of ​​the effective power generation area of ​​the solar panel 8.

[0089] In this embodiment, three contact portions 84 are provided on the inner side of the annular main body, such as... Figure 3 As shown, one of the contact portions 84 contacts the substrate 57 disposed on the non-visible side of the module 5 via a contact spring 87.

[0090] Alternatively, the contact portion 84 can also be provided on the outer side of the annular main body. In this case, since the contact portion 84 is located below the parting member 3, it is preferable that it is not visible from the outside. However, in the assembled state, the contact spring 87 applies upward force to the solar panel 8. Therefore, in order to prevent the solar panel 8 and even the date wheel 6 disposed thereon from being pushed upward, a pressing member or the like that to prevent upward pushing needs to be provided above the contact portion 84 (i.e., near the contact point where the contact spring 87 contacts from the back side). The pressing member can be provided, for example, on the parting member 3.

[0091] In contrast, as in this embodiment, when the contact portion 84 is provided on the inner side of the annular main body, as described above, the date wheel 6 is pressed from above by the date wheel pressing member, so no additional component is provided, and the upward push of the contact spring 87 can be prevented.

[0092] In addition, in this embodiment, the contact portion 84 also serves as a rotation prevention portion to prevent the solar panel 8 from rotating circumferentially.

[0093] When the solar panel 8 is formed solely from a ring-shaped body without any protrusions or indentations on its circumference, it may sometimes rotate circumferentially due to the rotation of the date wheel 6, vibrations applied to the clock 100, or other influences. To prevent this rotation, it is necessary to use methods such as creating holes and threading to secure the panel, sacrificing a portion of the effective power generation area.

[0094] In this respect, as in this embodiment, when there is a contact portion 84 disposed on the inner or outer side of the annular main body, this portion can be used to prevent the solar panel 8 from rotating in the circumferential direction.

[0095] Specifically, such as Figure 3 , Figure 7 As shown, the module 5 (e.g., the visible side surface of the base plate 51) is configured such that a recess 55 with a shape corresponding to the contact portion 84 is formed at a position corresponding to the contact portion 84. In the assembled state, the contact portion 84 is inserted into the recess 55. As a result, the circumferential rotation of the solar panel 8 is restricted, and circumferential positioning is possible.

[0096] In addition, in order to more reliably limit rotation while preventing the upward push of the contact spring 87 from fixing the solar panel 8, it is preferable that the solar panel 8 is threadedly fixed near the contact spring 87.

[0097] In this embodiment, all three contact portions 84, including the contact portion 84 that abuts against the contact spring 87, are formed with threaded holes 85, allowing the screw 72 (refer to...) to... Figure 3 , Figure 7 The date wheel 6 and solar panel 8 are secured relative to module 5 by inserting the date wheel presser 7 through the threaded hole 85. Figure 3 The dotted line in the middle indicates the position where screw 72 is inserted.

[0098] A date wheel presser 7 is positioned above the date wheel 6.

[0099] On the date wheel pressing part 7, a notch 71 is formed on the part corresponding to the gears, etc., which are assembled on the module 5 and are visible from the outside (see reference). Figure 3 , Figure 8 Furthermore, the shape of the notch 71 is not limited to the example shown in the figure. The position and extent of the notch are appropriately set in accordance with the position of the exposed parts.

[0100] As previously described, the date wheel presser 7 is fastened relative to the module 5 together with the date wheel 6 and the solar panel 8 by screws 72.

[0101] Figure 9(a) is a perspective view showing the main overlapping part of the date wheel presser, date wheel, and solar panel. Figure 9(b) is an enlarged perspective view showing the overlapping part of the date wheel presser, date wheel, and solar panel.

[0102] As shown in Figures 9(a) and 9(b), a step portion 73 is formed on the circumferential surface of the date wheel pressing member 7. The height of the step portion 73 is approximately equal to the height of the frame portion 81 of the date wheel 6 (in this embodiment, the second frame portion 81b). By arranging the periphery of the frame portion 81 below the step portion 73, the date wheel 6, which includes the frame portion 81, is positioned vertically to prevent it from floating.

[0103] Furthermore, the raised portion 74 of the stepped portion 73 is arranged along the inner peripheral side of the frame portion 81, serving as an abutment portion and a radial positioning portion to restrict the radial movement of the date wheel 6 containing the frame portion 81. Thus, by pressing the date wheel 6 from above on the radially inner side, it is possible to prevent the tip of the teeth of the date wheel 6 from lifting due to the upward push of the contact spring 87, etc. Therefore, it is possible to maintain the meshing of the teeth 62 of the date wheel 6 with the gears of the gear train mechanism 52 with high precision.

[0104] As shown in FIG9(b), by bringing the date wheel 6 into the step portion 73 of the date wheel pressing member 7, the non-visible side surfaces of the date wheel pressing member 7 and the date wheel 6 become approximately the same surface. By placing this non-visible side surface on the visible side of the solar panel 8, the levitation of the solar panel 8 is restricted.

[0105] Furthermore, by configuring the date wheel pressing component 7, various parts on module 5 are also pressed down, restricting their movement. As a result, various structural parts assembled on module 5, such as the hour wheel, are also positioned.

[0106] Next, the function of this embodiment will be explained.

[0107] In this embodiment, a wheel train mechanism 51 and the like are assembled on the front and back sides of the base plate 51 of module 5, and a ring-shaped solar panel 8 is arranged on it (on the visible side of the clock).

[0108] At this time, a contact spring 87 is disposed between the contact portion 84 of the solar panel 8 and the module, and the solar panel 8 is electrically connected to the substrate 57 of the module 5 via the contact spring 87.

[0109] Furthermore, by configuring the contact portion 84 of the solar panel 8 to be embedded in the recess 55 formed in the base plate 51, the circumferential rotation of the solar panel 8 is restricted and it is positioned.

[0110] Then, the date wheel 6 is arranged to overlap the solar panel 8, and the date wheel 6 is pressed from above by the date wheel pressing member 7. The date wheel pressing member 7, the date wheel 6 and the solar panel 8 are fastened together relative to the module 5 by screws 72.

[0111] The module 5, which integrates the date wheel presser 7, the date wheel 6, and the solar panel 8, is housed together with the hands and other structural parts of the clock in the clock case 1, and the clock is completed by installing the back cover.

[0112] Therefore, the central part of the clock 100 is not covered by the solar panel 8, thus allowing the mechanical structure of the gear train 52 to be exposed.

[0113] In addition, since a date wheel 6, which is thinned out except for the date, is arranged above the solar panel 8, the area where light is blocked is small, and sufficient power generation can be ensured even without setting a solar panel that covers the entire surface of the clock.

[0114] Furthermore, since the date wheel 6 is a three-dimensional object made of thinned metal, it has a more prominent presence compared to a flat object that displays the date through printing or other means. Therefore, the background color of the solar panel 8, surface irregularities, dividing lines 82, and unit connection parts 83 become less noticeable when the date wheel is arranged, resulting in a timepiece with an excellent appearance.

[0115] As described above, according to this embodiment, the clock 100 has: a date wheel 6, which has: a frame portion 61 having teeth 62 that mesh with a gear for rotation drive, and a text portion 64 disposed on the frame portion 61 via a bridge portion 63; and an annular solar panel 8, which serves as a solar cell and is disposed on a non-visible side relative to the date wheel 6.

[0116] Thus, by making the solar panel ring-shaped, a structure can be formed in which the central part of the clock 100 is not covered by the solar panel 8, and the mechanical structure such as the gear train 52 can be exposed.

[0117] Furthermore, the date wheel 6 is configured as a three-dimensional structure with a frame portion 61, a bridge portion 63, and a text portion 64. Therefore, when the date wheel 6 is superimposed on the solar panel 8, the background color, surface texture, dividing lines 82, and unit connecting portions 83 of the solar panel 8 are less noticeable due to the arrangement of the date wheel.

[0118] This allows for the creation of timepieces with a substantial and impressive appearance.

[0119] Furthermore, since the date wheel 6 is composed of minimal parts such as the frame 61, the bridge 63, and the text 64, even if it is positioned above the solar panel 8, the area where light is blocked is minimal, and sufficient power generation can be ensured even without a solar panel covering the entire surface of the clock.

[0120] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the gear that meshes with the toothed portion 62 of the frame portion 61 is the gear 521 constituting the gear train mechanism 52 (see reference). Figure 1 wait).

[0121] Thus, the date wheel 6 rotates as driven by the gears 521 that constitute the gear train mechanism 52.

[0122] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the solar panel 8 is divided into multiple individual units 81, and the dividing line 82 that divides the individual units 81 is configured to overlap with the bridge portion 63 of the date wheel 6 when the date wheel 6 is in a stationary state.

[0123] Since the date wheel 6 does not rotate except when the date is updated, it remains stationary when the watch 100 is in normal use.

[0124] Therefore, by overlapping the dividing line 82 with the bridge 63 of the date wheel 6 in a static state, the bridge 63 can hide the dividing line 82 and make it inconspicuous, thus achieving a timepiece with an excellent appearance.

[0125] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the dividing line 82 is formed to have a shape consistent with that of the bridge portion 63.

[0126] Therefore, the dividing line 82 can be more reliably obscured by the bridge 63 of the date wheel 6, and is not conspicuous.

[0127] In addition, according to this embodiment, the solar panel 8 has a contact portion 84 that is electrically connected to the substrate 57 on the inner or outer side of the annular main body.

[0128] Therefore, it is possible to make contact with the substrate 57 without sacrificing the effective power generation area of ​​the annular main body.

[0129] In addition, according to this embodiment, the contact portion 84 also serves as a rotation prevention portion to prevent the solar panel 8 from rotating circumferentially.

[0130] As in this embodiment, when the portion extending to the inner or outer side of the annular main body is provided as the contact portion 84, by embedding this portion into the recess 55 of the module 5, the circumferential rotation can be easily restricted and positioned.

[0131] In addition, according to this embodiment, the solar panel 8 has a date background area 86 with a color that is highly recognizable relative to the date wheel 6 in the portion corresponding to the date display position of the date wheel 6.

[0132] Therefore, by setting the date background area 86, it is possible to clearly and simply display to the user which date has been selected.

[0133] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the date wheel 6 includes a first frame portion 61a as a frame portion 61 and a second frame portion 61b disposed inside the first frame portion 61a, and the text portion 64 is held between the first frame portion 61a and the second frame portion 61b via a bridge portion 63.

[0134] This allows for the creation of date wheel 6 with excellent impact resistance.

[0135] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the date wheel 6 is formed by thinning the portion other than the frame portion 61, the bridge portion 63, and the text portion 64.

[0136] Therefore, even if the date wheel 6 is placed above the solar panel 8, the area where light is blocked is small, and sufficient power generation can be ensured even without setting a solar panel that covers the entire surface of the clock.

[0137] Furthermore, by thinning the material, a date wheel 6 with a three-dimensional feel can be obtained. Therefore, compared to the case where the text is formed by printing on a plate-shaped component, a date wheel 6 with a sense of presence, weight, and excellent design can be obtained.

[0138] Furthermore, while the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to the relevant embodiments, and various modifications can be made without departing from its spirit, which is self-evident.

[0139] For example, in the above embodiment, the solar panel 8 is illustrated as having a unit connection portion 83 that connects the individual units 81 to each other, and the unit connection portion 83 is arranged along the dividing line 82 on the outer periphery of the solar panel 8, but the arrangement and shape of the unit connection portion 83 are not limited thereto.

[0140] For example, such as Figure 10 as well as Figure 11As shown, the individual connection portion 83 of the solar panel 8a can also be configured near the center of the dividing line 82.

[0141] In this case, for example, Figure 12 As shown, a text section 64 is arranged near the center of the bridge section 63, which is erected between the first frame section 61a and the second frame section 61b.

[0142] Therefore, as Figure 13 As shown, when the date wheel 6b is in a stationary state, the text portion 64 of the date wheel 6 can be configured to overlap with the single-unit connecting portion 83, and the single-unit connecting portion 83 can be hidden by the text portion 64 so that it is not conspicuous.

[0143] Furthermore, in this situation, when the date wheel 6b is stationary, the bridge 63 supporting the text section 64 overlaps with the dividing line 82 of the solar panel 8a. As a result, the dividing line 82 becomes inconspicuous, resulting in a pleasing appearance.

[0144] In addition, such as Figure 13 As shown, a dividing line 82 and a single-unit connecting portion 83 are arranged within the date background area 86. The date background area 86 is painted together with the dividing line 82 and the single-unit connecting portion 83 using the same color as the date background area 86 (e.g., white). Thus, even if the position of the dividing line 82 and the single-unit connecting portion 83 is slightly deviated from the position of the bridge portion 63 and the text portion 64 of the date wheel 6b, the dividing line 82 and the single-unit connecting portion 83 can be made inconspicuous.

[0145] And, as Figure 14 As shown, the individual connecting portion 83 of the solar panel 8b can be arranged along the outer periphery of the solar panel 8b, and its radial width can be made smaller.

[0146] In this case, for example, Figure 15 As shown, most of the unit connection portion 83 is covered by the first frame portion 61a located on the outside of the date wheel 6c, thus making it inconspicuous.

[0147] Furthermore, if the parting member 3 is configured to extend to the position covering the unit connection portion 83, the unit connection portion 83 can be hidden more reliably.

[0148] In addition, such as Figure 15 As shown, the dividing line 82 and the single-unit connecting part 83 can also be set within the date background area 86, and the date background area 86 can be painted together with the dividing line 82 and the single-unit connecting part 83 in the same color as the date background area 86 (e.g., white), so that the dividing line 82 and the single-unit connecting part 83 become inconspicuous.

[0149] Furthermore, the specific configuration of the text section 64 in the date wheel 6 is not limited to the example shown in the implementation. For example, as Figure 16 As shown in the date wheel 6c, the text section 64 representing the dates from "1" to "31" can also be arranged counterclockwise.

[0150] In addition, such as Figure 17 As shown in the date wheel 6d, the text section 64 representing the dates "1" to "31" can also be arranged every other day.

[0151] Furthermore, although not illustrated, one-digit dates (i.e., "1" to "9") can be appropriately mixed with two-digit dates (i.e., "11" to "31"). In this case, the dates can also be appropriately rearranged by combining the smaller portion (e.g., "1" or "7") and the larger portion (e.g., "28" or "29") of the text section 64.

[0152] The smaller and larger portions of the text section 64 differ in the area that can effectively receive light when overlapping with the solar panel 8 (referred to as the "effective light-receiving area"). Therefore, for example, the date wheel in this embodiment and... Figure 16 As shown in the example, when "31" is placed next to "1", the deviation of the effective light-receiving area becomes larger. In contrast, when the text sections 64 representing the dates "1" to "31" are arranged one day apart, or when text sections with larger effective light-receiving areas are mixed with smaller text sections, the deviation of the effective light-receiving area becomes smaller.

[0153] Therefore, the effective power generation area of ​​each individual 81 remains constant, and the power generation efficiency is improved.

[0154] In addition, as a method to suppress deviations in the effective light-receiving area, design adjustments can be made, such as thickening the metal lines forming the text for characters with a larger effective light-receiving area and thinning the metal lines forming the text for characters with a larger effective light-receiving area.

[0155] In addition, the thickness of the metal forming the text can be increased for text with a large effective light-receiving area, and the thickness of the metal forming the text can be reduced for text with a large effective light-receiving area, by adjusting the degree of thinning.

[0156] Furthermore, the shape of the solar panel 8 and the individual units 81 constituting it are not limited to the generally annular shape shown in the above embodiment.

[0157] For example, if the clock 100 is rectangular, the solar panel 8 can also be a rectangular frame, etc.

[0158] Furthermore, in this embodiment, an example is shown where the solar panel 8 is composed of 5 individual units 81a to 81e, but the number of individual units 81 constituting the solar panel 8 is not particularly limited. For example, it can be composed of 6 or more individual units as in the proportional embodiment, or it can be composed of 3 or fewer individual units as in the proportional embodiment.

[0159] Furthermore, the method of division is not limited. For example, in this embodiment, a case is illustrated where the individual unit 81 is divided by radial dividing lines 82 along the radial direction of the annular solar panel 8, but the dividing lines that divide the solar panel 8 into multiple individual units 81 are not limited to this.

[0160] For example, concentric dividing lines can be used to divide the device into multiple ring-shaped units.

[0161] For example, in clock 100 Figure 1 In the case of a watch like the one shown, when a user wears the watch 100, a portion of the watch 100 may be covered by the sleeves or other coverings of the user's clothing. In this case, if the individual units 81 are divided by radially spaced dividing lines 82, some of the individual units 81 may be completely hidden in the shadow of the sleeves or other coverings.

[0162] In this regard, by using concentric dividing lines to divide the space, it is possible to prevent individual units from being completely hidden by sleeves or other means, thus preventing the solar panel's power generation from becoming zero (i.e., the event of completely losing its power generation function).

[0163] In addition, in this embodiment, the case where the date background area 86 is set on the solar panel 8 is illustrated, but it is not necessary to set the date background area 86 on the solar panel 8.

[0164] For users, it is sufficient to clearly display the date display position of the date wheel 6 (indicating which day it is now). For example, boxes indicating the date display position can also be set on the windproof component 2, the split component 3, etc.

[0165] In addition, this embodiment illustrates a structure without a dial, but for example, a ring-shaped dial may be provided between the solar panel 8 and the date wheel 6.

[0166] In this case, a dial with good light transmittance is obtained in a way that minimizes the reduction of the power generation efficiency of the solar panel 8, such as a dial obtained by printing on transparent components like glass. With a dial, the dividing lines 82 and the individual unit connection parts 83 of the solar panel 8 can be more reliably concealed, making them less conspicuous. Furthermore, direct contact between the date wheel 6 and the solar panel 8 can be prevented, allowing the date wheel 6 to rotate more smoothly.

[0167] In addition, if a watch face is available, a frame indicating the date display position can be set on the watch face.

[0168] In addition, in this embodiment, the solar panel 8, which serves as a solar cell, is shown to be formed in a ring shape, but the shape of the solar cell is not limited to this and may be any shape other than a ring.

[0169] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the frame portion 61 of the date wheel 6 is shown to be annular, but the shape of the frame portion 61 and the date wheel 6 having this frame portion is not limited to annular, and may be other shapes. In addition, the frame portion 61 may not only be disposed around the entire circumference of the electronic device such as the clock 100 when viewed from above, but may also be disposed only around a portion of it.

[0170] Furthermore, in this embodiment, a clock 100 is exemplified as the electronic device, but the electronic device is not limited to clocks.

[0171] The electronic device may have the following components: a date wheel 6, which includes a text area and an area other than the text area, and has a through hole that penetrates the area other than the text area; and a solar cell (solar panel 8) disposed on the lower side of the date wheel 6; or it may be a calendar device that does not display the time, such as displaying the date, day of the week, etc.

[0172] Although the invention has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments, it should be understood that the invention is not limited to the disclosed exemplary embodiments. The scope of the following claims should be given the broadest interpretation to cover all such modifications and equivalent structures and functions.

[0173] This application claims the benefit of Japanese Patent Application No. 2021-152858, filed on September 21, 2021, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

Claims

1. An electronic device, characterized in that, have: Date wheel, comprising a text area and an area other than the text area, having a through hole penetrating the area other than the text area; and A solar cell is disposed on the underside of the date wheel. The date wheel has a frame portion, and the text portion is disposed on the frame portion via a bridge portion. The date wheel is formed by thinning the area other than the frame portion, the bridge portion, and the text portion. The solar cell is divided into multiple individual units. The dividing line between the individual units is configured to overlap with the bridge portion of the date wheel when the date wheel is in a stationary state.

2. The electronic device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The frame portion is ring-shaped.

3. The electronic device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The frame portion has teeth that mesh with a rotary-driven gear.

4. The electronic device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The gears are those that constitute a gear train mechanism.

5. The electronic device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The dividing line is formed to match the shape of the bridge section.

6. The electronic device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The date wheel includes a first frame portion as the frame portion and a second frame portion disposed inside the first frame portion, and the text portion is held between the first frame portion and the second frame portion via the bridge portion.

7. The electronic device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The solar cell has a ring-shaped main body. The annular main body has a contact portion that is electrically connected to the substrate on the inner or outer side.

8. The electronic device according to claim 7, characterized in that, The contact portion also serves as a rotation prevention portion to prevent the solar cell from rotating circumferentially.

9. The electronic device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The solar cell has a cell connection portion that connects the individual cells to each other. The single-unit connecting part is configured to overlap with the text portion of the date wheel when the date wheel is in a stationary state.

10. The electronic device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The solar cell has a date background area with a color that is highly recognizable relative to the date wheel in the portion corresponding to the date display position of the date wheel.

11. A clock, characterized in that, have: A date wheel, comprising a text section and an area other than the text section, having a through hole penetrating the area other than the text section; A solar cell, which is disposed on the underside of the date wheel; and Time display section, The solar cell has a cell-to-cell connection portion that connects the individual cells to each other. The single-unit connecting part is configured such that it overlaps with the hour character of the time display part when the date wheel is in a stationary state.

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