Electronic clock, method for controlling an electronic clock, and program

Abstract

The normal time display and a specific timing result are displayed on a single display unit. [Solution] The clock 100 comprises a display unit 2 having multiple hands 3, a CPU 5 which is a control unit that controls the operation of the hands 3, and a temperature detection unit 8 which is a first detection unit that can detect a first parameter for determining whether or not the clock is in a specific environment where timekeeping is required. When the first parameter detected by the temperature detection unit 8 reaches a predetermined first threshold, the CPU 5 switches the display state of the display unit 2 from a first state, which is a "normal display mode" for measuring the current time, to a second state, which is a "special display mode" in which some of the multiple hands 3 move in a different way than in the first state for measuring the current time, and the other hands 3 move in the same way as in the first state for measuring the current time.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an electronic clock, a control method of an electronic clock, and a program.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, an electronic clock that indicates the water depth and the diving time using a pointer such as an hour hand instead of a rotating bezel is known, which detects the start of diving based on the pressure measured by a pressure sensor (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, in the electronic clock described in Patent Document 1, when the start of diving is detected, only a predetermined time during measurement, such as the diving time, is displayed, and the normal time display is not performed. Therefore, when it is desired to check the current time, it is necessary to separately check a clock that displays the current time. However, having a plurality of devices is inconvenient, and there has been a demand to easily check a predetermined time during measurement and the current time, etc. with a single device. Such a demand similarly applies to a sauna meter or the like that is referred to when entering a sauna.

[0005] The present invention is for solving such problems, and provides an electronic clock, a control method of an electronic clock, and a program that can display the normal time display and a specific timekeeping result within one display unit.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] To solve the aforementioned problems, the electronic clock according to the present invention comprises a display unit having a plurality of hands, a control unit that controls the operation of the hands, and a first detection unit that can detect a first parameter for determining whether or not a specific environment is present. The control unit is characterized in that, when the first parameter detected by the first detection unit reaches a predetermined first threshold, it switches the display state of the display unit from a first state for measuring the current time to a second state in which some of the plurality of hands move in a way different from the first state for measuring the current time, and the other hands move in the same way as the first state for measuring the current time. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the present invention, a normal time display and a specific timing result can be displayed within a single display unit. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] This is a plan view of the main part of the clock according to the embodiment. [Figure 2] This is a block diagram showing the control configuration of the main parts of the clock according to this embodiment. [Figure 3] This is a plan view of the main part of the clock, showing the state after switching from the state shown in Figure 1 to "special display mode" and the state in which the second pointer has returned to zero. [Figure 4] This is a plan view of the main part of the clock, showing an example of the display state in "special display mode" 11 minutes after the state shown in Figure 3. [Figure 5] This is a plan view of the main part of the clock showing the display state in "special display mode" when the timer operation for 2 minutes starts from the state shown in Figure 4. [Figure 6] This is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the clock according to the embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] An embodiment of the electronic clock, control method for the electronic clock, and program according to the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 6. In the following embodiment, the electronic clock will be simply referred to as "clock 100". In this embodiment, clock 100 is assumed to be a wristwatch worn on the wrist by a band (not shown). As will be described later, the clock 100 shown in this embodiment includes a "normal display mode" and a "special display mode" as display states that can be displayed on the display unit 2. In this embodiment, the "normal display mode" is a first state in which the current time is measured, and the current time is displayed by all of the multiple pointers 3 provided by the display unit 2. The "special display mode" is a second state in which some of the multiple pointers 3 provided by the display unit 2 move in a way different from the first state in which the current time is measured, and the other pointers 3 move in the same way as the first state in which the current time is measured. The clock 100 of this embodiment is equipped with a display unit 2 with three pointers 3: two first pointers 31 (hour hand 31a and minute hand 31b as shown in Figure 2) and one second pointer 32. The pointer 3 that moves differently in "special display mode" than in normal time display is the second pointer 32, which functions as a second hand in "normal display mode". In this embodiment, "special display mode" is a sauna mode in which the first pointers 31, namely the hour hand 31a and minute hand 31b, display the current time as usual, while the second pointer 32 rotates in a cycle of 12 minutes, allowing the clock 100 to function as a 12-minute counter. The embodiments described below are subject to various technically preferred limitations for carrying out the present invention, but the scope of the present invention is not limited to the following embodiments and illustrated examples.

[0010] As shown in Figure 1, in this embodiment, the clock 100 (electronic clock) includes a main body case 1. If the clock 100 is a wristwatch type, although not shown in the illustration, the main body case 1 is provided with attachment parts for attaching a band, and the clock 100 can be worn on the wrist or the like by the band. The main body case 1 is made of, for example, various resins or metal materials such as stainless steel (SUS), and has a hollow interior. In addition, at least a reset button 7 is provided on the outside of the main body case 1 as an operation part for user input operations (see Figures 1 and 2). In this embodiment, the reset button 7 is a push button, and in the example shown in Figure 1, it is located at approximately the 2 o'clock position on an analog clock. Note that the arrangement and shape of the reset button 7 are not limited to the illustrated example. Also, for example, the clock 100 may have various operation buttons and a crown in addition to the reset button 7 as an operation part.

[0011] The reset button 7 is an operation unit for switching the display state of the display unit 2 by user operation. When the reset button 7 is operated, the display state of the display unit 2 is switched from the first state, "normal display mode," to the second state, "special display mode." In other words, in this embodiment, when the reset button 7 is operated while the display is in "normal display mode," the second pointer 32, which also functions as the second hand, moves to a predetermined reference position, and the hands move in "special display mode" from that predetermined reference position. Here, the "predetermined reference position" is the 12 o'clock position on the clock (also called the "reset position"). The switching of the display state will be described in detail later. When "special display mode" starts, the elapsed time from the start is measured by the elapsed time measurement unit 9 (see Figure 2), and the measurement result is stored in the measurement information storage area 512. In this context, "elapsed time from the start" refers to the elapsed time from the reset state (see Figure 3) when the second indicator 32 (also called the second hand in Figure 2, etc.) is positioned at the 12 o'clock position ("reset position"), which is the "predetermined reference position".

[0012] In this embodiment, even after the "special display mode" has started, if the reset button 7 is operated, the position of the second pointer 32 is reset, and the movement of the hands in the "special display mode" starts again from the "predetermined reference position". Thus, the reset button 7 also has the function of resetting and starting the "special display mode". When the "special display mode" is reset and started, the measurement results stored in the measurement information storage area 512 are also reset, and the elapsed time measurement unit 9 starts measuring the elapsed time again from the time of the reset and start. The reset button 7 may be operated at any time, or for example, it may only be operable when the temperature detected by the temperature detection unit 8, described later, reaches the "first threshold".

[0013] In this embodiment, the clock 100 is equipped with a temperature detection unit 8. The temperature detection unit 8 is a first detection unit capable of detecting a "first parameter" for determining whether the clock 100 is in a "specific environment," and in this embodiment, the "first parameter" is temperature (ambient temperature). In this embodiment, the "specific environment" is assumed to be a high-temperature environment such as being in a sauna. That is, in this embodiment, the temperature detection unit 8 acquires the temperature (ambient temperature) as the "first parameter" for determining whether the user wearing the clock 100 is in an environment such as being in a sauna. The temperature detection unit 8 is located, for example, in a part close to the side wall inside the main body case 1. The arrangement of the temperature detection unit 8 is not particularly limited, but in the example shown in Figure 1, the temperature detection unit 8 is located at approximately the 3 o'clock position on an analog clock, as shown by the dashed line. The location where the temperature detection unit 8 is provided is not limited to the illustrated example, but it is preferable that the temperature detection unit 8 be provided in a part that is less affected by the user's body temperature and is as easily exposed to the outside air as possible, so that the ambient temperature of the area in which the clock 100 is placed can be detected as accurately as possible. For example, the area where the temperature detection unit 8 is located may be configured to allow the temperature detection unit 8 to be more easily exposed to the outside air by providing an opening or the like in a part of the side of the main case 1. The temperature detected by the temperature detection unit 8 is output to the CPU 5, which is the control unit. In "specific environments," such as a sauna, there is a high need to measure the time spent in that environment in order to avoid becoming ill from staying in it for too long. The "specific environment" referred to in this embodiment is assumed to be a "specific environment" where time measurement is required, such as a sauna.

[0014] Modules (not shown) are arranged in the internal storage space of the main case 1. These modules include, for example, circuit boards and various electronic components (not shown), and are functional units that operate the clock 100. The CPU 5, described later, is also incorporated into the module. The specific configuration of the module is not particularly limited. Furthermore, although the embodiment shows a clock with a circular main case 1 in plan view, the shape and configuration of the main case 1 are not particularly limited as long as it has an internal storage space. For example, the main case 1 may be elliptical or rectangular in plan view.

[0015] The clock 100 has a display unit 2 with multiple hands 3 on the viewing side (front side) of the main case 1. In this embodiment, hour markers 21, which serve as indicators for displaying the time, are provided on the display unit 2 along the circumferential direction. Specifically, the display unit 2 has large hour markers 21a, which are 12 numbers arranged clockwise in order from the 12 o'clock position in an analog clock, and small hour markers 21b, which are scales that divide the space between each number (large hour markers 21a) into five parts. The shape, size, and form of the hour markers 21 (large hour markers 21a and small hour markers 21b) are not limited to the illustrated example. For example, the large hour markers 21a are not limited to numbers, but may be bar-shaped or dot-shaped indicators. Furthermore, hour markers 21 may be provided at a finer pitch than in the illustrated example, or hour markers 21 may be provided only at reference positions for viewing the time, such as the 12 o'clock, 6 o'clock, 3 o'clock, and 9 o'clock positions. Moreover, only large hour markers 21a, which are numbers or the like, may be provided.

[0016] Approximately in the center of the display unit 2, a pointer shaft 33 protrudes from a module inside the main body case 1, and a pointer 3 is mounted on the pointer shaft 33 so as to be rotatable about the pointer shaft 33. As shown in Figure 1 and other figures, the clock 100 of this embodiment is a three-hand system, with a first pointer 31 consisting of an hour hand 31a and a minute hand 31b, and a second pointer 32. As shown in Figure 2, the clock 100 is provided with a first stepping motor 41 corresponding to the first pointer 31, which consists of an hour hand 31a and a minute hand 31b. A second stepping motor 42 is provided corresponding to the second pointer 32. Each stepping motor 41, 42 has a rotor (not shown) that rotates in synchronization with pulses (pulse signals). That is, when pulses are supplied to the stepping motors 41, 42, the rotor rotates in the forward or reverse direction by a predetermined angle depending on the number of pulses supplied. This allows for precise control of the rotor's rotation angle and rotation speed.

[0017] Gears (not shown) that constitute the gear train mechanism 45 are connected to the rotor's pivot shaft, and as the rotor rotates, these gears rotate appropriately. As a result, the first pointer 31 (hour hand 31a, minute hand 31b) and the second pointer 32, which are mounted on the pointer shaft 33, rotate by a predetermined amount. In this embodiment, the gear group of the gear train mechanism 45 interposed between the hour hand 31a and the first stepping motor 41, and the gear group of the gear train mechanism 45 interposed between the hour hand 31a and the minute hand 31b are connected to the rotor's pivot shaft of the first stepping motor 41, so that one stepping motor can operate the two pointers 3 (hour hand 31a and minute hand 31b). However, the configuration for operating the pointers 3 is not limited to this, and for example, stepping motors may be provided corresponding to the hour hand 31a and minute hand 31b as the first pointer 31 and the second pointer 32, so that the three pointers 3 can be operated by three stepping motors.

[0018] As described above, the clock 100 includes, as display states (display modes) by the display unit 2, a "normal display mode" which is the first state and a "special display mode" which is the second state. In the "normal display mode", the first pointer 31 functions as the hour hand 31a and the minute hand 31b respectively, and the second pointer 32 functions as a second hand that rotates once every 60 seconds with a predetermined period. In contrast, in the "special display mode", the operations of the hour hand 31a and the minute hand 31b, which are the first pointer 31, do not change, but the second pointer 32 functions as a pointer of a sauna timer (12-minute timer) that rotates once every 12 minutes with a predetermined period. That is, the CPU 5 described later outputs pulses to the first stepping motor 41 so that the hour hand 31a of the first pointer 31 rotates once every 12 hours and the minute hand 31b rotates once every 60 minutes, and controls the operations of the hour hand 31a and the minute hand 31b in both the "normal display mode" and the "special display mode". Also, regarding the second pointer 32, when in the "normal display mode", the CPU 5 outputs pulses to the second stepping motor 42 so that it rotates once every 60 seconds, and controls the second pointer 32 to function as a second hand. In contrast, when in the "special display mode", the CPU 5 switches the output timing of the pulses output to the second stepping motor 42 so that the second pointer 32 rotates once every 12 minutes, and controls the second pointer 32 to function as a pointer of a sauna timer (12-minute timer). Specifically, in the "special display mode", the second pointer 32 advances one scale of the small hour numeral 21b every 12 seconds and advances one scale of the large hour numeral 21a every 60 seconds for the needle movement.

[0019] As shown in Figure 2, the clock 100 includes a CPU 5, a memory unit 51, and RAM (Random Access Memory) 52. The clock 100 also includes an oscillator circuit 53, a frequency divider circuit 54, and a timing circuit 55. The oscillator circuit 53 oscillates and outputs a predetermined frequency signal. The frequency divider circuit 54 divides the frequency signal input from the oscillator circuit 53 to generate and output various frequency signals used by the clock 100. The timing circuit 55 counts the 1-second periodic signal output from the frequency divider circuit 54 and adds it to the time data every second to maintain the current time. Note that these components, including the CPU 5, memory unit 51, RAM 52, oscillator circuit 53, frequency divider circuit 54, and timing circuit 55, may be mounted on a circuit board (not shown) and constitute an LSI (Large Scale Integration). The clock 100 also includes a power supply unit 6 that supplies power to each part of the clock 100 via the CPU 5.

[0020] The CPU 5 performs various calculations in the clock 100 and comprehensively controls the operation of the entire clock. In this embodiment, the CPU (Central Processing Unit) 5 functions as a control unit that controls the operation of the first pointer 31 (hour hand 31a and minute hand 31b) and the second pointer 32 by controlling the pulses supplied to each stepping motor 41 and 42. In particular, in this embodiment, when the temperature detected by the temperature detection unit 8 determines that the temperature has reached the temperature threshold (the "first threshold" described later) at which it is determined that one has entered a sauna, the CPU 5 switches the display state of the display unit 2 from the first state, "normal display mode," to the second state, "special display mode." The CPU 5 also switches the display state of the display unit 2 from "normal display mode" to "special display mode" when the reset button 7 is operated. In other words, the first pointer 31, which functioned as the hour hand 31a and minute hand 31b in "normal display mode," continues to operate as the hour hand 31a and minute hand 31b. Furthermore, the second pointer 32, which functions as the second hand in "normal display mode," is reset to the 12 o'clock position when the display switches to "special display mode." The pulse timing supplied to the second stepping motor 42 is then switched so that it moves in accordance with the 12-minute counter (sauna counter), completing one rotation in 12 minutes from the reset state. When the display state switches to "special display mode," the elapsed time from the time of the switch is measured by the elapsed time measurement unit 9 (see Figure 2), and the measurement result is stored in the measurement information storage area 512. If the reset button 7 is operated while in "special display mode," the CPU 5 resets the second pointer 32 to the 12 o'clock position and restarts its operation as a 12-minute counter from the reset state.

[0021] The storage unit 51 is a non-volatile memory configured by, for example, a ROM (Read Only Memory) or the like, and stores various programs such as an operation program related to various functions such as a control program of the clock 100 executed by the CPU 5 and a switching process of the display state. Further, the storage unit 51 is provided with a measurement information storage area 512 for storing the measurement information measured by the elapsed time measurement unit 9 described later. The elapsed time measured by the elapsed time measurement unit 9 is stored in the measurement information storage area 512. That is, when the temperature detected by the temperature detection unit 8 reaches the "first threshold value" and when the reset button 7 is operated, the display mode of the display unit 2 is switched from the "normal display mode" to the "special display mode", the elapsed time since the switch to the "special display mode" is measured and stored. When the reset button 7 is operated and the elapsed time is reset, the elapsed time stored in the measurement information storage area 512 is also reset.

[0022] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the memory unit 51 is provided with a threshold memory area 513, where the "first threshold" and "second threshold" of the first parameter, temperature, are stored. The "first threshold" and "second threshold" are set in advance, but can be changed by the user afterward. When the temperature is detected by the temperature detection unit 8 and the detection result is sent to the CPU 5, the CPU 5 appropriately refers to the threshold memory area 513 and determines whether the temperature, which is the "first parameter" detected by the temperature detection unit 8 (the first detection unit), has reached the predetermined "first threshold". When the temperature reaches the "first threshold", the display state of the display unit 2 is switched from "normal display mode" to "special display mode". In this embodiment, "a specific environment" refers to the situation in which a user wearing the watch 100 is in a sauna, as described above, and the "first threshold" that determines that the user is in such a situation is, for example, a temperature of 60°C. It is generally considered preferable to stay in a sauna for about 12 minutes at a time, as staying in the sauna for too long may actually harm one's health. In the clock 100 of this embodiment, when switched to "special display mode," the current time continues to be displayed by the first hands 31, which consist of the hour hand 31a and the minute hand 31b, while the second hand 32 also functions as a sauna counter that completes one rotation in 12 minutes. This allows the user to easily see the elapsed time since entering the sauna, thus avoiding dangers such as the user staying in the sauna for too long and becoming ill.

[0023] Furthermore, after switching to "special display mode," if the temperature detected by the temperature detection unit 8 ("first parameter") falls below a predetermined "second threshold," the CPU 5 moves at least one of the multiple pointers 3 (the second pointer 32 in this embodiment) to a predetermined position and moves it counterclockwise for a certain period of time from that predetermined position. The "predetermined position" is the position corresponding to the time set as the timer time. For example, if the time set as the timer is 2 minutes, the CPU 5 moves the second pointer 32 to the 2-minute position on the 12-minute counter, as shown in Figure 5, and moves it counterclockwise by two hour markers (major hour markers 21a) toward the 12 o'clock direction, as indicated by the arrow. As a result, when the second pointer 32 returns to the 12 o'clock position, it is clear that the timer time (2 minutes in the example shown in Figure 5) has expired. Even when the hands are moving counterclockwise, the second pointer 32 moves at the speed of the "special display mode" (12 seconds per division of the sub-hour numerals 21b). Then, when a certain period of time has elapsed (2 minutes in the above example), the CPU 5 switches the pointer 3 (second pointer 32), which had been moving counterclockwise, to the movement of the "normal display mode". That is, the second pointer 32 is made to move as the second hand, moving at a rate of 1 second per division of the sub-hour numerals 21b. The "second threshold" is the value at which the system determines that the user has left the sauna, for example, a temperature of 50°C. The "first threshold" and "second threshold" are not particularly limited and may be temperatures other than those exemplified here. The "first threshold" and "second threshold" may also be set or changed arbitrarily by the user. In addition, various data may be stored in the memory unit 51 as appropriate. Furthermore, RAM52 is a volatile memory that provides CPU5 with a working memory space and stores deployed programs and temporary data.

[0024] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the clock 100 is equipped with a notification unit 10. The notification unit 10 is a sound output unit that provides notification, for example, an alarm or voice. However, the notification unit 10 is not limited to providing notification by sound. For example, it may provide notification by vibration, or by lighting or flashing a lamp. It is not essential that the clock 100 is equipped with a notification unit 10. If the notification unit 10 is equipped, for example, when a predetermined time (12 minutes in this embodiment) has elapsed in the "special display mode", the notification unit 10 notifies the user that the predetermined time has elapsed. In this embodiment, in the "special display mode", the hands continue to move in the "special display mode" (the hour hand 31a and minute hand 31b display the current time, while the second pointer 32 acts as the pointer of the 12-minute counter and completes one rotation in 12 minutes) until the temperature detected by the temperature detection unit 8 falls below the "second threshold". For example, in the embodiment where the "special display mode" is sauna mode, the user may not notice that a predetermined time, such as 12 minutes, has elapsed because they are talking to someone or dozing off. In this case, notification allows the user to notice that the predetermined time has elapsed, thus avoiding dangers such as the user staying in the sauna for too long and becoming ill. Also, when the temperature detected by the temperature detection unit 8 falls below the "second threshold," if a timer is set, the second pointer 32 moves counterclockwise for the amount of time set by the timer. In this case, the second pointer 32 returns to the 12 o'clock position, and the notification unit 10 may notify the user when the timer time (2 minutes in the example shown in Figure 5) has expired.

[0025] Next, the operation of the clock 100 (electronic clock) according to this embodiment and the control method of the clock 100 will be explained with reference to Figure 6, etc. In Figure 6, the second pointer 32 is conveniently labeled as the "second hand". In the embodiment, the clock 100 normally displays the current time on the display unit 2 using three pointers 3: the first pointer 31 which is the hour hand 31a, the minute hand 31b, and the second pointer 32 which functions as the second hand ("normal display mode", step S1). The temperature of the clock 100 (ambient temperature) is detected at any time by the temperature detection unit 8 (step S2), and the detection result from the temperature detection unit 8 is output to the control unit CPU 5. The CPU 5 determines at any time whether the temperature detected by the temperature detection unit 8 has reached a "first threshold" (e.g., 60°C) (step S3). As long as the temperature has not reached the "first threshold" (step S3; NO), the CPU 5 returns to step S2 and repeats the process.

[0026] For example, if the current time is 10:08:37 as shown in Figure 1, and the user enters the sauna, causing the temperature detected by the temperature detection unit 8 to reach a "first threshold" such as 60°C (step S3; YES), the CPU 5 determines that the clock 100 is in a "specific environment (in this embodiment, the state of being in a sauna)" where timekeeping is necessary, and starts the second state, the "special display mode". Specifically, the second pointer 32, which was functioning as the second hand, is first reset to the 12 o'clock position as shown in Figure 3 (step S4). From then on, the current time is displayed using the two pointers 3, the hour hand 31a and the minute hand 31b, and the movement of the second pointer 32, which was functioning as the second hand, is controlled by switching the pulse supplied to the second stepping motor so that it functions as the pointer of the sauna counter (12-minute counter) that indicates the elapsed time of the 12-minute counter (step S5). Specifically, in "special display mode," the second pointer 32 moves one division of the sub-hour marker 21b every 12 seconds, and one division of the major hour marker 21a every 60 seconds, completing one rotation in 12 minutes. When "special display mode" is started, the elapsed time from the start is measured by the elapsed time measurement unit 9, and the measurement result is stored in the measurement information storage area 512.

[0027] The CPU 5 also continuously determines whether the reset button 7 has been operated by the user (step S6). If the reset button 7 is operated (step S6; YES), the CPU 5 resets the elapsed time stored in the measurement information storage area 512 and resets the second pointer 32 to the 12 o'clock position, as shown in Figure 3, and restarts the movement of the hands as a sauna timer (12-minute timer) that completes one rotation in 12 minutes from that position (step S7). In this case as well, the elapsed time from the restart is measured by the elapsed time measurement unit 9, and the measurement result is stored in the measurement information storage area 512.

[0028] If the temperature reaches a "first threshold," such as 60°C, and the "special display mode" starts, and the reset button 7 is not operated (step S6; NO), or if the "special display mode" restarts after the reset button 7 is operated, the CPU 5 continuously determines whether the temperature detected by the temperature detection unit 8 has fallen below the "second threshold" (for example, 50°C) (step S8). Until the temperature falls below the "second threshold" (step S8; NO), the CPU 5 returns to step S5 and repeats the process. On the other hand, once the temperature falls below the "second threshold" (step S8; YES), the CPU 5 determines that the user wearing the watch 100 has left a "specific environment (in this embodiment, being in a sauna)" where timekeeping is necessary. In this case, the CPU 5 may activate the notification unit 10 to notify the user that it has been determined that the user has left the specific environment (inside the sauna). The CPU 5 then further determines whether a timer has been set in the watch 100 (step S9). Setting the timer is optional, and if the user has not specifically set a timer (step S9; NO), the CPU 5 returns the display state of the display unit 2 to the first state, "normal display mode," in which the current time is displayed by the three hands 3: the hour hand 31a, the minute hand 31b, and the second hand 32 which functions as the second hand (step S10). That is, for example, if approximately 12 minutes and 18 seconds have elapsed since the state shown in Figure 1, the CPU 5 displays 10:20:55 using the three hands 3: the hour hand 31a, the minute hand 31b, and the second hand 32 which functions as the second hand, as shown in Figure 4.

[0029] On the other hand, if a timer has been set by the user (step S9; YES), the CPU 5 moves the second pointer 32 to the position corresponding to the time set as the timer (the "timer position" in Figure 6), and moves the second pointer 32 counterclockwise from that timer position towards the 12 o'clock position indicated by the arrow in Figure 5 to the reset position (12 o'clock position) (step S11). For example, Figure 5 shows an example where a 2-minute timer has been set. In this case, the second pointer 32 moves counterclockwise as indicated by the arrow for 2 minutes from the large hour marker "2" 21a to the reset position (12 o'clock position). The CPU 5 determines whether the second pointer 32 has moved to the reset position (12 o'clock position) or not (step S12), and repeats the determination until it has moved. On the other hand, if the second pointer 32 moves to the zero position (12 o'clock position) (step S12; YES), the CPU 5 returns the display state of the display unit 2 to the "normal display mode" which displays the current time using the three pointers 3: the hour hand 31a, the minute hand 31b, and the second pointer 32 which functions as the second hand (step S10).

[0030] Furthermore, when the timer time (for example, 2 minutes) has elapsed and the second pointer 32 has moved to the zero position (12 o'clock position), the CPU 5 may activate the notification unit 10 to notify the user that the timer time has elapsed. Also, for example, if the timer is set on the clock 100 and the second pointer 32 is moving counterclockwise toward the zero position (12 o'clock position), if the user presses the reset button 7, the second pointer 32 may immediately move to the zero position (12 o'clock position) and start moving clockwise from that zero position. In this case as well, the second pointer 32 moves one division of the sub-hour marker 21b in 12 seconds. This allows the clock 100 to be used as a simple timer when a user wants to measure any time, such as when they want to know how long they have been in a cold bath or when it is safe to enter the sauna again. In a sauna, for example, staying in for too long or entering multiple times without sufficient time in between can actually make you unwell. Therefore, it is also effective for users to set a timer to allow for a cool-down period after leaving the sauna, which is sufficient to allow them to re-enter the sauna without any problems.

[0031] Furthermore, after returning to "normal display mode," if the temperature detection unit 8 detects a temperature that reaches the "first threshold" again, the CPU 5 switches the display state of the display unit 2 back to "special display mode." For example, when using a sauna, one set consists of spending about 12 minutes in the high-temperature environment of the sauna room and then cooling down for a few minutes by taking a cold bath or shower. Some users may repeat this sauna and cool-down set two or three times. In such cases, it is troublesome for the user to manually set when they entered the sauna and when they transitioned to the cool-down phase to manage the time. For example, if the user forgets to set the timer when entering the sauna, they may not know how long they were in the sauna, or they may stay in the high-temperature environment for too long without realizing it, potentially causing them to become ill. In this embodiment, when the user enters the sauna or transitions to the cool-down phase, the clock 100 automatically switches to "special display mode" by detecting a change in temperature, and measures the elapsed time, etc., using one of the indicators 3 (in this embodiment, the second indicator 32) and displays it to the user. Furthermore, even when the elapsed time is displayed by the second indicator 32, the current time is still displayed by the first indicator 31. Therefore, even if there is no clock in the sauna room, there is no need to go outside to find out the current time, and one clock 100 can display both the current time and the elapsed time as a 12-minute timer that can be used as a sauna timer on the display unit 2.

[0032] As described above, the clock 100 in this embodiment comprises a display unit 2 having a plurality of hands 3 (in this embodiment, the first hand 31 being the hour hand 31a, the minute hand 31b, and the second hand 32), a CPU 5 which is a control unit that controls the operation of the first hand 31 being the hour hand 31a, the minute hand 31b, and the second hand 32, and a temperature detection unit 8 which is a first detection unit that can detect a "first parameter" for determining whether or not it is in a "specific environment", and in this embodiment, the "first parameter" is temperature, which is detected by the temperature detection unit 8. When the "first parameter" reaches a predetermined "first threshold," the CPU 5, which is the control unit, switches the display state of the display unit 2 from the "normal display mode," which is the first state for measuring the current time, to the "special display mode," which is the second state, in which some of the multiple pointers 3 (in this embodiment, the second pointer 32) move in a way different from the first state for measuring the current time, and the other pointers 3 (in this embodiment, the first pointer 31) move in the same way as the first state for measuring the current time. As a result, when it is determined that a "specific environment" is present, the display can be automatically changed to the "special display mode," in which some of the pointers 3 (the second pointer 32) display a time different from the normal time. In this embodiment, even in the "special display mode," all pointers except some of the multiple pointers 3 (the second pointer 32) display the normal time (display of the current time), so it is possible to display and confirm the timing result and the current time within the display unit 2 of a single clock 100.

[0033] Furthermore, in the embodiment, the "some hands" that move differently from the state in which the current time is measured when under "specific conditions" are the second hand, and the "other hands" that move in the same way as when the current time is measured are the hour hand 31a and the minute hand 31b. Since the current time can be indicated by the hour hand 31a and the minute hand 31b alone, the current time and the measurement result under "specific conditions" can be presented to the user without any sense of incongruity, even under "specific conditions".

[0034] Furthermore, when the display state of the display unit 2 switches to "special display mode," the CPU 5, which is the control unit of the embodiment, moves some of the pointers 3 (the second pointer 32 in the embodiment) to a predetermined reference position (the 12 o'clock position, the zero position in the embodiment) and makes them rotate from that predetermined reference position at a different period than during normal display. By making the pointers move in "special display mode" from the predetermined reference position (zero position) in this way, the user can easily understand the elapsed time since being placed in a "special environment where timekeeping is required (in the embodiment, a sauna room)" just by looking at the display. Also, in the embodiment, only the second pointer 32, which functions as a second hand in the first state, "normal display mode," is controlled to move as a pointer of a 12-minute counter that completes one rotation in 12 minutes in the second state, "special display mode," and the first pointers, the hour hand 31a and minute hand 31b, continue to display the normal time even when switching to "special display mode." Therefore, the current time and the time that has been measured can be confirmed within the display unit 2 of a single clock 100.

[0035] Furthermore, in the second state, the "special display mode," the CPU 5 of the embodiment moves at least one of the multiple pointers 3 (the second pointer 32 in the embodiment) to a predetermined position (the position set as a timer in the embodiment) when the temperature, which is the "first parameter" detected by the first detection unit (temperature detection unit 8 in the embodiment), is less than a predetermined "second threshold," and moves the pointer counterclockwise for a certain period of time from that predetermined position. The case in which the temperature, which is the "first parameter," is less than the predetermined "second threshold" is assumed to be when a user wearing the watch 100 leaves the sauna room. In a sauna, it is common to repeat periods of being in the high-temperature environment of the sauna room and periods of cooling down with a cold bath or shower, etc., and after leaving the sauna room, it is sometimes necessary to cool down for a predetermined period before entering the sauna again. If it is possible to automatically determine when to leave the sauna room based on changes in temperature (ambient temperature) as in the embodiment and count the cool-down period with a timer, it is convenient as the user does not need to manage the time themselves. Furthermore, after a certain period of time has elapsed, the CPU 5 may switch the hand pointer 3, which has been moving counterclockwise, to the first state, "normal display mode." In this case, the clock 100 can be easily returned to a three-hand time display of hours, minutes, and seconds without any special operation or settings.

[0036] Furthermore, in this embodiment, a reset button 7 is provided as an operation unit for switching the display state of the display unit 2. When the reset button 7 is operated, the CPU 5, which is the control unit, switches the display state of the display unit 2 to the second state, "special display mode". This allows the display to be immediately switched to "special display mode" by the user, even if, for example, the temperature detection unit 8 does not immediately detect that the "first threshold" has been reached when the user enters the sauna, and the display state does not switch.

[0037] Furthermore, in this embodiment, when the reset button 7, which serves as the control unit, is operated, the CPU 5 moves at least one pointer 3 (the second pointer 32 in this embodiment) to a predetermined reference position (the zero position in this embodiment), and then causes the hands to move in "special display mode" from that predetermined reference position (the zero position). This makes it easy for the user to understand, simply by looking at the display, how many minutes have passed since being placed in a "special environment where timing is required (in this embodiment, a sauna)." Also, even after entering a sauna or the like and switching to "special display mode," the user can restart the 12-minute timer operation at their discretion.

[0038] Although embodiments of the present invention have been described above, it goes without saying that the present invention is not limited to these embodiments and can be modified in various ways without departing from its essence. For example, the clock 100 may be equipped with a plurality of temperature detection units 8 as the first detection unit. In this case, the temperature detection units are arranged in locations different from the temperature detection unit 8 shown in Figure 1, etc. When multiple temperature detection units are provided, it is preferable to place each temperature detection unit as far apart as possible. For example, one may be placed on the side of the main body case 1 as illustrated in Figure 1, etc. (the side on the 3 o'clock side of the clock in the example shown in Figure 1), one on the opposite side of the main body case 1 (the side on the 9 o'clock side of the clock in the example shown in Figure 1), or near the center of the main body case 1, on the dial side, etc., and one on the back cover side of the clock 100, etc.

[0039] In this way, if multiple temperature detection units are provided, the CPU 5 may acquire the measurement results from each temperature detection unit and derive the difference in temperature detected by each temperature detection unit, thereby enabling more accurate detection of temperature (ambient temperature) changes. For example, if the difference between the temperature detection unit on the back cover, which is relatively less affected by changes in outside air, and the temperature detection unit provided on the outside of the main case 1, which is more susceptible to changes in outside air (for example, the temperature detection unit 8 in the embodiment), is greater than a predetermined value, it can be determined that the outside temperature has fluctuated significantly. In this case, for example, the "first parameter" may be the temperature difference between the multiple temperature detection units, and a threshold for the temperature difference may be predetermined as the "first threshold." When the temperature difference reaches this "first threshold," the CPU 5 may determine that the user wearing the watch has entered a sauna or similar room.

[0040] Furthermore, it is expected that the temperature (ambient temperature) will change rapidly when entering a sauna or similar room. For this reason, the "first parameter" may be set as the rate of change of temperature in the temperature detection unit 8, and a threshold for the rate of change of temperature may be predetermined as the "first threshold." When the temperature detected by the temperature detection unit 8 rises rapidly and its rate of change reaches the "first threshold," the CPU 5 may determine that the user wearing the watch has entered a sauna or similar room. In this way, if the temperature difference or rate of change of temperature is set as the "first threshold," the display state can be switched quickly and appropriately, even if, for example, the ambient temperature is high and it is difficult to immediately determine whether or not the user has entered a sauna based solely on the temperature. If the "first threshold" is set as the temperature difference or rate of change of temperature, the "second threshold" for determining whether or not the user has left the sauna may also be set based on the temperature difference or rate of change of temperature.

[0041] Furthermore, in addition to the temperature detection unit 8 as the first detection unit, the clock 100 may also be further equipped with a second detection unit capable of detecting heart rate. The configuration of the second detection unit for detecting heart rate is not particularly limited, but for example, it may be equipped with a sensor that detects blood flow or a sensor that detects sound or vibration caused by the heartbeat. When a second detection unit for detecting heart rate is provided, a heart rate threshold is predetermined, and when the heart rate detected by the second detection unit reaches the heart rate threshold, the CPU 5, which is the control unit, moves at least one of the multiple hands 3 (for example, the second hand 32) to a predetermined position (for example, the position that points to the hour marker 21 at the 2 o'clock position among the major hour markers 21a), and moves the hand counterclockwise for a certain period of time from that predetermined position. In other words, if the user's heart rate exceeds the threshold and becomes faster, it can be determined that the user should leave the sauna and cool down to regulate their heart rate. For this reason, in this case, a predetermined cool-down time may be set and the second hand 32 or the like may function as a timer to measure that time. By setting the timer in this way, taking the user's heart rate into consideration, it is possible to avoid dangers such as the user suffering a seizure without realizing it.

[0042] Furthermore, as described above, if the watch 100 is equipped with a second detection unit capable of detecting heart rate, it is preferable that the CPU 5, acting as a control unit, activates the notification unit 10, acting as a notification means, to issue a warning to the user via an alarm or the like when the heart rate detected by the second detection unit reaches a heart rate threshold. However, if the heart rate falls below the predetermined heart rate threshold after the heart rate detected by the second detection unit reaches a predetermined heart rate threshold and the notification unit 10 has performed a notification operation, the CPU 5 may control the notification unit 10 to stop the notification operation. This allows the user to be alerted to the danger, even if their heart rate becomes too high without them realizing it, such as when they enter a sauna, and they can take appropriate action, such as taking a break. This makes it possible to prevent unexpected accidents from occurring.

[0043] Furthermore, in addition to the temperature detection unit 8, which serves as the first detection unit, the clock 100 may also include a third detection unit capable of detecting user movements. The configuration of the third detection unit is not particularly limited, but it may consist of, for example, a vibration sensor or an acceleration sensor that detects the movement of a person's body. In this way, if the clock 100 is equipped with a third detection unit capable of detecting user movements, and no movement is detected by the third detection unit for a certain period of time, there is a possibility that the user has fallen asleep in the sauna or other room. For this reason, if no user movement is detected for a certain period of time, the CPU 5 may be controlled to activate the notification unit 10 to perform a notification operation to warn the user. This allows the user to be warned not to stay in the sauna room for too long if they fall asleep in an environment such as a sauna, and to take appropriate action such as leaving the sauna room to cool down. This makes it possible to prevent unexpected accidents in advance. Even if the notification unit 10 performs a notification operation, if the third detection unit detects user movement after the notification operation, the CPU 5 will stop the notification operation. Furthermore, if the clock 100 is linked to a smartphone or the like, if the situation does not change after the notification unit 10 has performed a notification action, it may be configured to send an emergency message to an external party via the smartphone or the like.

[0044] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the first detection unit is a temperature detection unit 8, and the "first parameter" detected by this first detection unit is temperature, and when the detected temperature reaches a predetermined "first threshold" (for example, 60°C), the display state of the display unit 2 is switched from "normal display mode" to "special display mode". However, the "first parameter" detected by the first detection unit is not limited to temperature and can be any parameter used to determine whether or not the user is in a "specific environment" where timing is required. For example, the "first parameter" may be pressure such as water pressure, and the first detection unit may be a sensor that detects pressure. In this case, the "specific environment" where timing is required is, for example, a diving environment. When the pressure detected by the pressure sensor reaches a predetermined threshold, it is determined that the user wearing the watch 100 has started diving, and the elapsed time from the time it was determined that the user was in a diving environment is measured as the diving time. In this case as well, in the second state, the "special display mode," the current time is displayed by some of the hands 3 (for example, the first hands 31, namely the hour hand 31a and the minute hand 31b), while the dive time measurement result is displayed by one of the hands 3 (for example, the second hand 32, which normally functions as the second hand). This allows the user to easily check both the current time and the elapsed time since the start of the dive on a single watch. Furthermore, the "first parameter" may be something other than temperature and pressure.

[0045] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, an example was given in which the second state, "special display mode," is a sauna mode in which the second pointer 32 rotates with a predetermined period of 12 minutes, and the clock 100 can also function as a sauna meter. However, the "special display mode," which is the second state in the clock, is not limited to this. The "special display mode" can be any mode that rotates some of the pointers 3 (for example, the second pointer 32) with a predetermined period of 12 minutes or so, and displays a time different from the current time displayed in the first state, "normal display mode." The clock may also have uses other than as a sauna meter. If the clock has uses other than as a sauna meter, the predetermined period in which some of the pointers 3 (for example, the second pointer 32) rotate in the "special display mode" is not limited to 12 minutes, but may be, for example, 10 minutes.

[0046] In this embodiment, the second pointer 32 functions as a second hand in the first state, "normal display mode," while in the second state, "special display mode," it functions as a pointer for a 12-minute counter that completes one rotation in 12 minutes, unlike the normal operation. However, among the multiple pointers 3, the pointer 3 that performs a function (role) different from the normal operation in "special display mode" only needs to be a portion of the multiple pointers, and is not limited to the example of this embodiment. For example, the first pointer 31, which is the hour hand 31a or the minute hand 31b, may perform a function (role) different from the normal operation in "special display mode."

[0047] Furthermore, if the timer starts after the display state switches to the second state, "special display mode," and the threshold falls below the "second threshold," the notification unit 10 may provide notifications as appropriate during the timer's operation. For example, if a user who uses the sauna in a cycle of leaving the sauna, taking a shower for 2 minutes, and then entering the sauna for a second set sets sets the timer for 5 minutes as a cool-down (rest) time, the notification unit 10 may provide a notification once 2 minutes have elapsed. The user may arbitrarily set when and what kind of notification is given. If multiple notifications are to be given within the timer period, the alarm sound may be changed at each timing to distinguish which timing the notification is for, making it easier for the user to understand.

[0048] Although several embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the scope of the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, but includes the scope of the invention as described in the claims and its equivalents. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0049] 2...Display unit, 3...Pointer, 5...CPU (control unit), 8...Temperature detection unit (first detection unit), 31...First pointer (other points), 32...Second pointer (some points), 100...Clock (electronic clock)

Claims

1. A display unit having multiple indicators, A control unit that controls the operation of the pointer, A first detection unit capable of detecting a first parameter for determining whether or not a specific environment is present, Equipped with, When the first parameter detected by the first detection unit reaches a predetermined first threshold, the control unit switches the display state of the display unit from a first state for measuring the current time to a second state in which some of the plurality of pointers move in a manner different from the state for measuring the current time, and the other pointers move in a manner similar to the state for measuring the current time. Electronic clock.

2. Some of the aforementioned hands are second hands, and the other hands are hour and minute hands. The electronic clock according to claim 1.

3. The first parameter mentioned above is temperature. The electronic clock according to claim 1.

4. When the display state of the display unit switches to the second state, the control unit moves the portion of the pointer to a predetermined reference position and causes it to rotate from that predetermined reference position at a different period than in the first state. The electronic clock according to claim 1.

5. In the second state, if the first parameter detected by the first detection unit is less than a predetermined second threshold, the control unit moves at least one of the multiple pointers to a predetermined position and moves it counterclockwise for a certain period of time from that predetermined position. The electronic clock according to claim 1.

6. When the specified time has elapsed, the control unit switches the pointer, which was moving counterclockwise, to move in the first state. The electronic clock according to claim 5.

7. The system further includes an operation unit for switching the display state of the aforementioned display unit, The control unit switches the display state of the display unit to the second state when the operation unit is operated. The electronic clock according to claim 1.

8. When the operating unit is operated, the control unit moves at least one pointer to a predetermined reference position and causes the needle to move in the second state from that predetermined reference position. The electronic clock according to claim 7.

9. It further includes a second detection unit capable of detecting heart rate, When the heart rate detected by the second detection unit reaches a predetermined heart rate threshold, the control unit moves at least one of the multiple indicators to a predetermined position and causes it to move counterclockwise for a certain period of time from that predetermined position. The electronic clock according to claim 1.

10. Further means of notification, The control unit, when the heart rate detected by the second detection unit reaches a predetermined heart rate threshold, activates the notification means to perform a notification operation to warn the user, and stops the notification operation when the heart rate falls below the predetermined heart rate threshold after the notification operation. The electronic clock according to claim 9.

11. A third detection unit capable of detecting user actions, Further means of notification, The control unit, when no operation is detected by the third detection unit for a certain period of time, activates the notification means to perform a notification operation to warn the user, and stops the notification operation when operation is detected by the third detection unit after the notification operation. The electronic clock according to claim 1.

12. A control method for an electronic clock having a display unit with multiple pointers, The electronic clock includes a first detection unit capable of detecting a first parameter for determining whether or not it is in a specific environment where timekeeping is required, When the first parameter detected by the first detection unit reaches a predetermined first threshold, the display state of the display unit is switched from a first state for measuring the current time to a second state in which some of the multiple pointers move in a way different from the state for measuring the current time, and the other pointers move in a way similar to the state for measuring the current time. A method for controlling an electronic clock.

13. An electronic clock computer having a display unit with multiple pointers and a first detection unit capable of detecting a first parameter for determining whether or not the environment is one in which timekeeping is required, When the first parameter detected by the first detection unit reaches a predetermined first threshold, the display state of the display unit is switched from a first state for measuring the current time to a second state in which some of the multiple pointers move in a way different from the state for measuring the current time, and the other pointers move in the same way as the state for measuring the current time. program.

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