Time Zone Watch Display Differential for Intuitive Dual-Time Correction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dual time zone watches require the user to know the time difference between zones for intuitive reading, while universal watches complicate this process, and neither type allows easy display of a chosen time zone without knowing the difference.
Innovation Solution
A display mechanism with a finishing gear train, correction device, and differential system that synchronizes and desynchronizes hour hands for intuitive display of two time zones, allowing selection of a chosen time zone without knowing the difference, using a brake and kinematic links to prevent breakage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a GMT watch displays local time on a 12-hour scale and home time on a fixed 24-hour scale, then the time for two time zones can be displayed simultaneously and intuitively, but the user must know the time difference between the two zones to set it properly
Solution Approach 1:
The watch mechanism automatically calculates and displays the correct time for both time zones by itself, without requiring the user to know or input the time difference. The system serves itself by internally managing the time zone relationship through the differential mechanism and synchronized correction device.
Solution Approach 2:
The differential mechanism acts as an intermediary between the 12-hour and 24-hour time displays, automatically reconciling the two time zones. The correction device with brake mechanism serves as a mediator that allows independent adjustment of the second time zone while maintaining the automatic calculation capability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a universal watch uses a rotating 24-hour scale with city names, then it can display multiple time zones automatically, but reading the time in each zone becomes less intuitive
Solution Approach 1:
The time zone display is segmented into two distinct parts: a fixed 24-hour scale for unambiguous time reading and a separate city name indicator that rotates to show the current city. This segmentation allows each element to perform its function optimally - the fixed scale provides intuitive time reading while the rotating city indicator provides versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
Different parts of the display have different properties: the 24-hour scale is fixed and simple for intuitive reading, while the city name indicator is rotating and changeable for versatility. Each zone of the display interface has optimized characteristics for its specific function.
3Ease of operation
If the correction device actuates to correct the position of the second indicator member, then the time zone can be adjusted, but mechanical stress may cause breakage
Solution Approach 1:
The brake mechanism is designed to engage beforehand to prevent over-correction and excessive mechanical stress. The friction-based braking provides cushioning that absorbs shock and prevents sudden jerks that could cause breakage, while still allowing smooth adjustment of the second time zone indicator.
Solution Approach 2:
The brake acts as an intermediary between the correction device and the indicator mechanism, mediating the force transmission. It allows controlled correction while preventing excessive force from reaching the delicate gear train, thus protecting against breakage during adjustment.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the brake blocks the first input of the differential during correction, then the second indicator member can be corrected independently, but the kinematic link between the finishing gear and first input must be disengaged to avoid breakage
Solution Approach 1:
The correction mechanism is segmented into distinct phases: the brake independently blocks the first input path while the correction device operates on the second input. This segmentation allows independent correction of the second time zone without affecting the first time zone display, enabling versatile adjustment while managing complexity through clear functional separation.
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
Enables intuitive display of two time zones with synchronized minute hands and desynchronized hour hands, allowing selection of a chosen time zone without knowing the time difference, while preventing mechanical stress.
Implementation Method 1
a brake (102) capable of blocking the first input (631) of the differential (6)
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
The invention relates to a display mechanism (1) for a timepiece comprising: a finishing gear; - a correction device comprising a brake (102); - a differential (6) comprising: - a first input (632) kinematically connected to the finishing gear; - a second input (64) kinematically connected to the correction device; and - an output (61); - a first indicating member kinematically connected to the finishing gear and allowing the display of the time of a first time zone; - a second indicating member (614) kinematically connected to the output (61) of the differential (6) and allowing the display of the time of a second time zone; and - a time zone display disc (71) bearing indications designating the twenty-four distinct time zones and intended to be read through an aperture.The entire assembly is arranged so that, during normal operation of the display mechanism (1), the movements of the second indicator element (614) result from those of the first input (632) of the differential (6), and so that, when the correction device is actuated to correct the position of the second indicator element (614), it corrects both: - the position of the second indicator element (614) via the second input (64), the brake (102) of the correction device blocking the first input (632); and - the position of the time zone display disc (71). The invention also relates to a timepiece comprising such a display mechanism (1).