Radio-Controlled Timepiece Antenna Core Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Radio-controlled timepieces face challenges in enhancing reception sensitivity due to the limitations of antenna cores made of brittle materials and the restricted space within the timepiece case, leading to reduced performance when using metal cases and larger radio-wave acquisition portions that cause eddy currents.
Innovation Solution
The integration of additional antenna cores that rise in the thickness direction, magnetically connected to the existing antenna core, allowing for a three-dimensionally expanding shape and improved reception sensitivity without compromising space efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If the antenna core is made of brittle material (amorphous material), then the antenna can be formed with precise shape, but it is difficult to bend the antenna core to improve reception sensitivity
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna core is divided into multiple segments (first antenna core segment, second antenna core segment, third antenna core segment) that can be independently positioned and connected. This segmentation allows each segment to be precisely manufactured without bending, while the overall structure achieves the desired three-dimensional configuration through assembly of the segments in different orientations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a two-dimensional planar antenna core configuration to a three-dimensional structure by stacking antenna core segments in the thickness direction. The first, second, and third segments are arranged at different heights, creating a vertical dimension that enables the antenna to extend toward the windshield glass without requiring bending of individual segments.
2Reliability
If larger radio-wave acquisition portions are provided to enhance reception sensitivity, then the antenna can receive signals better, but the space required in the timepiece case increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes the thickness direction (vertical dimension) to expand the antenna structure. Instead of increasing the planar area of radio-wave acquisition portions, the antenna core segments extend vertically toward the windshield glass, effectively using the third dimension to increase reception capability without occupying more horizontal space in the limited case volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The antenna core segments are nested in the vertical space within the timepiece case, with each segment positioned at a different height level. This nested arrangement allows the antenna structure to maximize its effective size for signal reception while efficiently utilizing the available vertical space without protruding beyond the case boundaries.
3Reliability
If radio-wave acquisition portions are disposed close to the metal case to improve reception, then signal reception is enhanced, but eddy currents are generated causing energy loss
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions the antenna core segments in the vertical dimension, with the first segment closest to the windshield glass and the third segment at a greater distance. This vertical stacking allows the antenna to achieve effective proximity to the signal source (through the glass) while maintaining appropriate spacing from the metal case, thereby reducing eddy current losses.
4Reliability
If the antenna core is bent to extend toward the windshield glass, then reception sensitivity is improved, but the brittle material causes breakage
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna core is divided into multiple rigid segments that maintain their structural integrity. Each segment is manufactured as a separate piece without requiring bending, preserving the strength of the brittle amorphous material. The segments are then connected through positioning structures that allow the overall antenna to achieve the desired configuration without subjecting individual segments to bending stresses.
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
This configuration enhances the reception sensitivity of radio-controlled timepieces by allowing the antenna to effectively receive standard signals even within metal-cased timepieces, improving performance without increasing the size of the antenna within the limited space.
Implementation Method 1
a coiled portion (11a) wound with a coil (19)
Implementation Method 2
an additional core (16) made of a magnetic material... one end face of which comes into contact with the extension portion (11c)
Data Source
AI summary
A radio-controlled timepiece in which its reception sensitivity is further enhanced. The radio-controlled timepiece includes: an antenna core 11 made of a magnetic material and formed as a single integrated body including a coiled portion (11a) wound with a coil 19 and extension portions 11b and 11c which are located respectively on the end-portion sides; additional cores 15 and 16 made of a magnetic material; magnetism-collection members 17 and 18 made of a magnetic material; a main plate 31 (timepiece substrate) made of a non-magnetic material; a guide member 33 made of a non-magnetic material; and a liquid-crystal-panel supporting frame 32 (magnetism-collection-member supporting members, pressing member) made of a non-magnetic material and having protrusions 32a and 32b (pressing members) formed thereon. When the main plate 31, the guide member 33, and the liquid-crystal-panel supporting frame 32 are assembled together, the protrusions 32a and 32b press the magnetism-collection members, respectively. Thus, the magnetism-collection members 17 and 18 come into contact respectively with the additional cores 15 and 16, and, at the same time, the additional cores 15 and 16 come into contact respectively with the extension portions 11b and 11c of the antenna core 11. Accordingly an antenna-core body with a large single body is formed, which enhances the reception performance.