Timepiece Non-Rectilinear Representation Synchronization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing timepieces lack an original and effective method to graphically represent non-rectilinear objects in a two-dimensional manner, with current animations often relying on simple linear movements or interconnected elements that fail to convey the intended complexity of such objects.
Innovation Solution
A timepiece featuring a non-rectilinear representation formed by at least two movable elements kinematically connected to a drive mechanism, where the elements move synchronously between two extreme positions, changing size by a similarity factor k, creating the illusion of a dynamic object like a heart through a cam-driven rocker system with ball bearings and springs for precise synchronization and reduced friction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If simple linear movements or interconnected elements are used for animation, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ability to represent non-rectilinear objects effectively is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The representation is divided into multiple independent movable elements (at least two) that can move separately yet synchronously. Each element is independently kinematically connected to the drive mechanism, allowing complex non-rectilinear shapes to be formed through coordinated movement of segmented components rather than a single interconnected structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The movable elements change their effective size by a similarity factor k between two extreme positions, creating a dynamic scaling effect. This dimensional transformation allows the representation to convey depth and complexity of non-rectilinear objects through size variation rather than relying solely on complex interconnections.
2Ease of manufacture
If multiple movable elements are used to form non-rectilinear representations, then the representation effectiveness is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
A single drive mechanism serves multiple movable elements simultaneously, providing universal functionality. The drive mechanism is designed to kinematically connect to and control all movable elements through synchronized movement, allowing one mechanism to perform the function of what would otherwise require multiple separate drive systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The movable elements move periodically between two extreme positions in synchronism, creating a rhythmic animation pattern. This periodic motion allows complex non-rectilinear representations to be achieved through repeated cyclic movements rather than complex continuous trajectories, simplifying the drive mechanism requirements.
3Ease of manufacture
If synchronized movement between extreme positions is implemented, then the visual illusion of size change is improved, but the precision requirements for the drive mechanism worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The movable elements create a visual copy or representation of the non-rectilinear object at different scales (size factor k). By synchronizing the movement of multiple elements to maintain geometric similarity between extreme positions, the system produces an accurate visual illusion of size change without requiring absolute precision in each individual element's position.
Solution Approach 2:
The system achieves size transformation by changing the effective position parameters of movable elements between two extreme positions rather than requiring continuous precise positioning. The similarity factor k defines the parameter change magnitude, allowing tolerance in intermediate positions while maintaining the visual illusion at the extreme positions where the representation is most critical.
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
The solution provides an original and engaging animation of non-rectilinear objects, such as a heart, by ensuring synchronized and friction-reduced movement of elements, enhancing the visual representation and creating a convincing illusion of size change, applicable to various timekeeping mechanisms and ornamental objects.
Implementation Method 1
The drive mechanism is arranged so that the movable elements each move and in synchronism with respect to each other, between a first and a second extreme position
Implementation Method 2
creating the illusion of a dynamic object like a heart through a cam-driven rocker system
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a timepiece comprising a representation of a non-rectilinear object, said representation particularly consisting of a movable element kinematically connected to a drive mechanism (16). According to the invention, the representation also consists of at least one second movable element, the drive mechanism (16) being arranged such that said movable elements (14a, 14b) each move, simultaneously and in synchronization, between a first and a second end position, and vice versa, said movable elements forming said representation at a first size and at a second size greater than the first, respectively, when said movable elements are in the first and second end positions thereof.