Concentric Display Modules with Flexible Links for Timepieces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing display systems for timepieces, such as watches and clocks, often require complex structures and additional actuation mechanisms, which disrupt the operation and energy consumption of the basic watch movement, lacking a simple unitary structure for direct information display without associated hands or complementary animation.
Innovation Solution
A display system featuring movable elements around deformable blade-type links, using monocrystalline or polycrystalline silicon display modules produced by deep silicon etching, with an actuating device that kinematically links to the watch movement's going train, allowing simultaneous display of hours and minutes without modifying the basic movement, using concentric display modules and actuating wheels to form 3D patterns.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If complex structures with superimposed elements and additional actuation mechanisms are used, then display functionality is achieved, but device complexity and energy consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the display elements and actuators into a single integrated module where multiple display elements are arranged on a common support plate and actuated simultaneously by a single actuator mechanism. This combining approach achieves complex display functionality while reducing overall device complexity compared to separate actuation mechanisms for each display element.
Solution Approach 2:
The display module is designed with multi-functionality to display various time information (hours, minutes, seconds) and calendar data using the same structural framework and actuation mechanism. The universal design allows a single complex structure to perform multiple display functions without requiring additional specialized mechanisms for each function.
2Adaptability or versatility
If additional actuation mechanisms are added to the basic watch movement, then display animation is achieved, but energy consumption and operation disruption occur
Solution Approach 1:
The display module utilizes the existing kinetic energy and motion from the basic watch movement to drive the display animation. The actuator is designed to be passively driven by the natural oscillations and movements of the watch mechanism, allowing the display to animate itself without requiring additional energy-consuming motors or active actuation systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuation mechanism is merged with the existing watch movement components, sharing the same energy source and mechanical framework. This integration allows the display animation to be achieved using the energy already present in the watch movement, avoiding the need for separate energy-consuming actuation systems.
3Loss of information
If multiple superimposed elements are used for display, then information display capability is improved, but friction and energy loss increase
Solution Approach 1:
The display information is segmented into distinct display elements (hours, minutes, seconds, calendar) that are arranged spatially on the support plate. Each segment can be independently positioned or highlighted, allowing comprehensive information display while reducing the need for complex overlapping moving parts that would generate friction.
Solution Approach 2:
The display elements are designed with dynamic positioning capabilities where elements can move between different states (visible/hidden, active/inactive) as needed. This dynamic approach allows the system to display only the necessary information at any given time, reducing the number of elements that need to be simultaneously actuated and thereby reducing friction and energy loss.
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
This solution enables a simple, efficient, and aesthetically versatile display of time information with minimal energy loss, as the display system operates without interrupting the main watch movement, providing precise and animated time displays with reduced friction and energy consumption.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of flexible connections (4) between said display members (31, 32, 33) and said frame (2), said connections being deformable in use
Implementation Method 2
said actuating device (6) comprises a cam (61) arranged to cooperate with said actuator (5)
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
The present invention relates to a display system comprising: a. a first and a second display module (1, 1') arranged concentrically with respect to each other around a common geometric center (C) and each comprising at least two display members (31, 32, 33; 31', 32', 33') movable relative to a frame (2, 2') between a rest position and a display position under the action of at least one actuator (5, 5') to form a pattern (M, M'), and b. An actuation device (6) arranged to cooperate with the actuator (5, 5') of each display module (1, 1') and move said movable display elements (32, 33; 32', 33') from the rest position to the display position to simultaneously form said pattern (M, M') on each display module (1, 1'). The invention also relates to a timepiece comprising such a display system.