Solar Timepiece Dial Ring with Protruding Metal Index Markers
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Solution Overview
Problem
In solar-powered timepieces, the design of a dial ring with metal markers to achieve a luxurious appearance is limited by the confined area where characters can be placed, restricting design improvements and visibility due to the need for a large exposed solar cell area.
Innovation Solution
A timepiece design featuring a plastic annular dial ring with metal index markers affixed to protruding parts, allowing for a luxurious appearance while maximizing visible area and simplifying production by using separate index markers and adhesive fastening, which does not obstruct the solar cell area.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If metal characters are affixed as markers on the dial to achieve a luxurious appearance, then the aesthetic quality is improved, but the area available for solar cells is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The timepiece dial is segmented into distinct functional zones: the annular member contains the solar cell and is separated from the dial body, while metal index markers are affixed to protrusions on the annular member. This segmentation allows the solar cell to occupy the central area without interfering with the luxurious metal markers positioned on the peripheral annular structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The design transitions from a two-dimensional planar dial to a three-dimensional structure with the annular member extending radially outward with protrusions. This dimensional change creates vertical and radial separation between the solar cell area and the marker positions, allowing both luxurious appearance and maximum solar exposure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the dial ring is molded into a complicated shape of protrusions and recesses, then the design flexibility is improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The complicated shape is segmented into the annular member (with protrusions and recesses) as a separate molded component from the main dial body. This allows the complex geometry to be contained within a dedicated plastic-molded annular piece, simplifying the overall manufacturing process while maintaining design flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The timepiece combines different materials for different functions: the annular member is molded from plastic (allowing complex shapes), while the index markers are made of metal (providing luxurious appearance). This composite approach allows each material to be optimized for its specific requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic timepiece has a dial; a dial ring disposed around the outside circumference of the dial; and an index marker affixed to the dial ring. The dial ring has a protruding part that protrudes to the inside in the radial direction of the dial ring; and the index marker is disposed to the protruding part. The annular member is made of plastic, and the index marker is made of metal.