Optical Communication Device for Wearable Timepiece
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connected watches face challenges in optical communication due to the need for openings in the dial, which can distort the design and are susceptible to external light environments, and mechanical time-setting methods can lead to inaccuracies.
Innovation Solution
A watch design incorporating an optical receiving device with a rotating occulting device, such as a circular segment flap or a rotating disk with strategically placed openings, allows for invisible and efficient optical communication without compromising the watch's aesthetics or accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If openings are made in the dial for optical signal passage, then optical communication can be received, but the design is distorted and external light interference increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a movable cover that can shift between covering and uncovering the photoelectric receiver. This dynamic element allows the dial to maintain its aesthetic integrity when the receiver is covered, while enabling optical communication when needed. The cover's movement creates a temporary opening without permanently altering the dial's design.
Solution Approach 2:
The movable cover acts as an intermediary element between the photoelectric receiver and the external environment. It mediates between the need for optical signal reception and the requirement to maintain dial aesthetics, providing a solution that satisfies both requirements at different times.
2Adaptability or versatility
If openings are made in the dial for optical signal passage, then optical communication can be received, but susceptibility to external lighting environment increases
Solution Approach 1:
The movable cover dynamically controls when the photoelectric receiver is exposed to light, allowing optical communication only when necessary. This reduces the receiver's exposure to external lighting conditions that could cause interference, while still enabling functional optical communication when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The cover provides preliminary protection by blocking external light from reaching the photoelectric receiver before any potential interference can occur. By maintaining coverage except during deliberate communication moments, the system preemptively prevents external light interference.
3Ease of operation
If mechanical means are used for time setting, then the watch can be set manually, but inaccuracies and discrepancies occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical time-setting with automated optical communication. Data and time information are transferred wirelessly through optical signals to the photoelectric receiver, eliminating the need for manual mechanical adjustment and the associated inaccuracies.
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
Enables seamless optical communication between the watch and other devices without altering the watch's design, ensuring accurate data transfer and compatibility with various communication protocols, including LiFi technology.
Implementation Method 1
an optical receiving device, said optical receiving device including at least one photoelectric receiver
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a timepiece (1) comprising a case (1a) in which an electronic module (10) providing at least one piece of information is arranged, said at least one piece of information being displayed by display means on a dial (14), characterized in that the electronic module further comprises a communication unit (15) including an optical receiving device (150), said optical receiving device including at least one photoelectric receiver (151) arranged opposite a first opening (152) made on the dial so that an optical signal can be captured by said optical receiver.