Three-Dimensional Connector for Watch Display Module
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing analogue display modules for smartwatches are large, complex, and expensive, with challenges in size reduction and thickness tolerance control due to the integration of electronic components and motors.
Innovation Solution
An analogue display module using a three-dimensional connector that integrates functional elements like soldering areas, guiding pillars, and test points, allowing direct assembly of coils and motors without additional PCBs, reducing manufacturing costs and size, and enabling bi-directional motor control with Lavet-type motors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If traditional stacked assembly arrangement with separate PCB and battery is used, then assembly is simple, but thickness is large and space is wasted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the battery, PCB, and analogue movement into a single integrated module where all components are positioned in the same spatial plane. The battery and PCB are mounted side-by-side rather than stacked, and the motor is integrated directly with the movement mechanism, reducing overall thickness while maintaining functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a vertical stacked arrangement to a horizontal planar arrangement. By positioning the battery and PCB in the same spatial plane and using a single micro-control unit to drive both the analogue movement and LCD display, the design optimizes space utilization in the lateral dimensions rather than consuming thickness
2Ease of manufacture
If multiple separate components (PCB, battery, motor) are used, then functionality is complete, but manufacturing cost is high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functional components into integrated assemblies. The motor is directly coupled with the movement mechanism, the battery and PCB form a unified power and control unit, and a single micro-control unit manages both analogue and digital functions, reducing the total component count and simplifying manufacturing
Solution Approach 2:
The single micro-control unit performs multiple functions by driving both the core analogue movement and the colour-changing LCD display. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for separate control circuits, reducing component count and manufacturing complexity while maintaining complete functionality
3Volume of moving object
If independent modules with integrated motors are used, then space is reduced, but thickness tolerance control becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the motor directly with the movement mechanism in a unified module, the patent eliminates the need for separate mounting interfaces and alignment procedures. This integration ensures that thickness variations in individual components do not accumulate, as the motor and movement form a single assembled unit with controlled overall dimensions
4Area of stationary object
If additional PCBs are used for motor control, then control precision is improved, but device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates motor control functionality directly into the main PCB and micro-control unit, eliminating the need for separate motor control PCBs. The micro-control unit generates precise control signals for the stepper motor while being mounted on the same PCB that hosts other control circuitry, maintaining control precision without increasing device footprint
Solution Approach 2:
The main PCB serves multiple functions by hosting both the micro-control unit and motor control circuitry. This multi-functional PCB design consolidates what would traditionally require separate boards, maintaining precise motor control capabilities while reducing the overall device size and component count
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution reduces manufacturing costs, size, and improves thickness tolerance control, enabling efficient bi-directional motor operation with reduced power consumption and increased frequency up to 320Hz, while allowing the hands to function as antennas for wireless communication.
Implementation Method 1
drives at least one hand (1) in an independent and bi-directional way through a correspondent micro motor, namely a Lavet-type stepping motor
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4
AI summary
Analogue display module for watches couplable in the mechanism of a watch to drive the hands (1) in an independent and bi-directional way through a correspondent micro motor. The module comprises a main plate (3) on which at least an actuator element (4) and a gear assembly (5) are attached. The actuator element (4) comprises one micro motor, coils (8) connected with the motor and a three-dimensional connector (9). This connector (9) comprises soldering areas (12) for the attachment of the coils (8) by soldering, guiding pillars (13) for the attachment of a coil core, a stator and the main-plate (3), a contact zone (14) for electrical connection of the coils (8) with a command circuit, test points (15) for control of the motor performance; and a centring stud and fixation point (16) to screw the motor with the command circuit, also ensuring a correct electrical contact between both elements.