Stopwatch Vernier Scale for Fractional Second Precision
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional stop-watches lack precise and convenient reading of fractions of seconds due to their design, which only allows for rough estimation of tenths of seconds.
Innovation Solution
A vernier-type time indicator system where a rotating bezel with a second scale interacts with a fixed dial scale, allowing the user to manually adjust the bezel to accurately read tenths or hundredths of seconds without altering the existing hand and dial, using a toothed wheel and gears for precise alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a conventional rotating hand and scale arrangement is used, then the watch structure remains simple, but the reading precision of fractions of seconds deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The time indication function is segmented into two independent parts: a fixed dial scale for seconds and a rotating bezel with vernier scale for tenths of seconds. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function optimally while maintaining overall system simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The vernier scale on the rotating bezel acts as an intermediary mechanism that enables precise reading of fractional seconds without requiring modification of the existing hand and dial. The vernier scale mediates between the coarse second markings and the need for fine fractional precision.
2Measurement precision
If the existing hand and dial are modified to improve reading precision, then the reading accuracy improves, but the ease of reading the dial deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the precision measurement function into a distinct rotating bezel with vernier scale, the main dial remains unchanged and easy to read for whole seconds, while the bezel provides enhanced precision when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotating bezel is a dynamic component that can be manually adjusted to align the vernier scale markings with the hand position, enabling precise reading of tenths of seconds without permanently cluttering the dial design.
3Measurement precision
If a second scale is mounted on the rotating hand as in DE 1 673 822, then the tenth of seconds can be indicated, but the complexity of the hand structure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The vernier scale for measuring tenths of seconds is extracted from the hand structure and placed on a separate rotating bezel. This extraction simplifies the hand structure while maintaining the precision measurement capability through the vernier principle.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotating bezel serves as an intermediary device that carries the vernier scale, mediating between the simple hand/dial structure and the requirement for precise fractional second measurement without complicating the hand itself.
Data Source
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AI summary
It is disclosed a stop watch (1) including a time indicator comprising a hand (2), a first scale (31) and a second scale (41). A first part of a time indication is shown by the hand (2) on the first scale (31) and a second part of said time indication is shown by said second scale (41) in combination with said first scale (31). The first scale (31) is fixed and said second scale (41) is movably mounted around said first scale (31). The first part of said time indication corresponds to seconds of a duration counted by said stop watch (1), and the second part of said time indication corresponds to tenths of seconds of said duration.