Stopwatch User Interface with Rotational Timescale Customization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic devices with stopwatch and timer functionalities often display timing data in a basic manner, lack user customization options for timing data display, and provide unintuitive methods for inputting timing values.
Innovation Solution
A method for representing lap times in a user interface, involving displaying a first representation of a lap time, moving it along an axis based on elapsed time, detecting a lap input to cease movement, and displaying a second representation of a subsequent lap time, while allowing for user customization of timescales through rotational input mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If basic timing data display is used, then device complexity is reduced, but user customization capability and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The timing data is segmented into discrete units (e.g., hours, minutes, seconds, milliseconds) that can be independently manipulated. Each time unit is represented by separate display elements and control inputs, allowing users to customize individual components without affecting the entire timing system. This segmentation enables granular customization while maintaining manageable system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a rotational dimension to the interface through rotatable input mechanisms (knobs, dials, or touch-based rotation). This adds a new dimension of interaction beyond simple button presses, enabling intuitive adjustment of timing parameters through rotational motion. The rotational interface provides natural tactile feedback and precise control without requiring complex menus or multiple buttons.
2Measurement precision
If traditional timing input methods are used, then ease of operation is maintained, but measurement precision and input accuracy deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides immediate visual feedback on the display as users rotate the input mechanism, showing real-time updates to the timing values being set. This feedback loop allows users to see exactly what values are being input, enabling precise adjustment without guesswork. The feedback mechanism maintains ease of operation by keeping the interaction simple (rotation) while dramatically improving input accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical timing input methods (physical buttons, switches, or manual dialing) with electronic rotational input mechanisms detected through sensors. This substitution enables more precise detection of rotational position and increment adjustments, achieving higher measurement precision while maintaining or improving ease of operation through smoother, more intuitive control.
3Adaptability or versatility
If fixed timescale display is used, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability and user customization deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The display system is designed to be dynamic rather than static, automatically adjusting the timescale and representation of timing data based on user input and elapsed time. The interface can switch between different time units (seconds, minutes, hours) and display formats without requiring manual configuration of each parameter. This dynamic adaptability provides customization flexibility while the system manages the complexity through automated logic.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables users to change key parameters of the timing display, such as the timescale unit, precision level, and data representation format. These parameter changes are made through the rotational input mechanism, which adjusts display parameters without requiring users to navigate complex settings menus. The system responds to parameter changes by automatically reconfiguring the display to match the selected preferences.
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic device may display a first lap time representation, and may move the first lap time representation in accordance with a first amount of elapsed time. While moving the first lap time representation, the electronic device may detect a lap input. In response to the lap input, the electronic device may cease movement of the first lap time representation, display a second lap time representation, and move the second lap time representation in accordance with a second amount of elapsed time. A relative positioning of the first lap time representation and the second lap time representation may correspond to a difference between a first lap time and a second lap time. In some embodiments, the electronic device may update the timescales of lap time representation(s) in accordance with a rotational input. In some embodiments, the electronic device may update a timer duration setting in accordance with a rotational input.