Segmented Moon Phase Display Elements for Compact Visual Representation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing moon phase displays have large, cumbersome movable elements that obstruct a compact and attractive large-area representation of the moon phase.
Innovation Solution
A moon phase display featuring multiple rotatably supported display elements with strip-shaped side faces, where each element has a first and second rotational position, allowing for a gradual representation of the moon phase from full to new moon, with a drive and controller system to manage the rotation of each element independently.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If a circular disc with two moon representations is used to display moon phases, then the moon phase can be displayed through rotation, but the display element occupies large area and cannot provide compact design
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the traditional single circular disc into multiple individual display elements arranged in a circular pattern. Each element represents a specific moon phase and can be independently rotated into position. This segmentation allows the display to achieve large visual area while keeping each individual movable component small and compact.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single-plane rotational display to a multi-element circular arrangement where elements can be rotated individually within the same plane. This dimensional reorganization allows multiple small elements to collectively provide the display area of a large single element while maintaining compact individual component sizes.
2Device complexity
If multiple display elements are used to represent moon phases, then compact design is achieved, but the system requires independent rotation control for each element
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a single controller that serves multiple functions: it tracks the current moon phase, determines which display element should be active, and controls its rotation. This universal controller manages all display elements through a standardized interface, reducing the need for separate control systems for each element and simplifying the overall automation architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
Each display element is designed to be self-contained with its own rotation mechanism, allowing it to be independently positioned without requiring complex inter-element coordination. The elements serve themselves by rotating into position based on controller signals, eliminating the need for a centralized mechanical transmission system.
Data Source
AI summary
A moon phase display includes a frame and a plurality of display elements supported by the frame and rotatable relative to the frame. The plurality of display elements further includes a first side face on which an illuminated moon portion is depicted and a second side face. A first rotational position in which the first side face is arranged along a display plane wherein the first side faces together arranged on along the display plane represent a full moon. A second rotational position in which the second side face is arranged along the display plane. A drive rotates each of the plurality of display elements independently. A controller actuates the drive so that each one of the plurality of display elements is rotated into the second rotational position until all of the plurality of display elements are located in the second rotational position.