Quiet Interval Timer With Deflected Sound Element Alarm
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing timekeeping devices are disruptive and impractical in environments where minimal distraction is desired, such as meditation, yoga, and therapy, due to ticking sounds and alarms.
Innovation Solution
A timer with a sound generator, comprising a rotating disc and a drive mechanism, uses a sound-generating element held in position by a detent surface, which is deflected to produce a sound at a defined interval without ticking noise, suitable for blind or visually impaired users.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a mechanical clockwork or alarm device is used for interval time measurement, then time measurement function is achieved, but ticking noise and disruptive alarm sounds are generated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the ticking mechanism and disruptive alarm components from traditional timekeeping devices. Instead of using mechanical clocks or electronic alarms that produce disturbing sounds, the invention uses a quiet rotary dial mechanism combined with a gentle acoustic signal (ping pong ball dropping into a cup) to indicate time intervals, thereby removing the harmful noise factors while preserving the time measurement function
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs simple, inexpensive components such as a ping pong ball and a cup to generate the alarm signal. These are transient, low-cost elements that produce a single gentle sound when the ball drops, replacing complex and expensive alarm mechanisms while achieving the desired non-disruptive alert function
2Reliability
If traditional alarm devices are used, then time interval indication is achieved, but the alarm sound is disruptive and unpleasant
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts what could be a harmful disruptive alarm into a beneficial gentle acoustic signal. By using a ping pong ball dropping into a cup, the invention transforms the alarm function into a soft, pleasant sound that is easily distinguishable but not disturbing, thereby converting a potential harm (disruptive sound) into a benefit (gentle, pleasant indication)
3Loss of information
If visual displays are used on timers, then time information is clearly shown, but the device becomes less accessible to blind or visually impaired users
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the time measurement function into tactile and acoustic components rather than relying on visual displays. The rotary dial provides tactile feedback for setting time intervals, and the acoustic signal (ball dropping sound) provides clear indication of time elapsed, thereby segmenting the information delivery channels to accommodate users with visual impairments while maintaining clear time information communication
4Measurement precision
If electronic timers are used, then precise time measurement is achieved, but the device produces electromagnetic radiation and technical distractions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces electronic and digital components with a simple mechanical rotary dial system for time measurement. The mechanical rotation of the dial, combined with a quiet drive mechanism, achieves precise interval timing without generating electromagnetic radiation or technical distractions, thereby substituting mechanical simplicity for electronic complexity
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
Provides a non-disruptive, intuitive, and pleasant alarm tone for interval time measurement, suitable for various environments and user groups, including visually impaired individuals.
Implementation Method 1
the deflecting mechanism exerts a force – be it a mechanical force, a magnetic force, or something similar – on at least one sound-generating element at a specific point in time
Implementation Method 2
the deflecting mechanism exerts a force – be it a mechanical force, a magnetic force, or something similar – on at least one sound-generating element at a specific point in time
Implementation Method 3
the sound-stimulating element is thus deflected from its position in the resting surface by the deflection device after a defined period of time and moved towards the sound generator, preferably by gravity
Data Source
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AI summary
Timer comprising a sound generator, at least one sound-stimulating element, a drive and a disk moved by it, wherein the moving disk has at least one detent surface for temporarily holding the at least one sound-stimulating element in position, wherein the timer has at least one deflection element relative to which the disk moves, such that the deflection element exerts a force on the at least one sound-stimulating element at a certain time, which sets the sound-stimulating element in motion towards the sound generator and finally causes it to sound.