Timepiece Azimuth Detection via Pointer-Integrated Gyro Sensor

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing technologies for azimuth detection in wearable devices like timepieces require a large mechanism, which is impractical for reducing size.

Innovation Solution

A timepiece with a pointer, an angular velocity sensor integrated into the pointer, and an azimuth detection processing unit that performs azimuth detection based on the sensor's readings.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If a rotatable table with multiple gyro sensors is used for azimuth detection, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and size increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveazimuth detection accuracyVSAvoidmechanism complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the azimuth detection function with the existing timepiece pointer mechanism. The gyro sensor is integrated into the pointer assembly, and the pointer's natural rotation is utilized for detection purposes, merging two functions (time indication and azimuth detection) into a single integrated system.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The pointer structure serves multiple functions: it indicates time as a traditional timepiece pointer and simultaneously acts as a mounting platform for the gyro sensor to perform azimuth detection. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated detection mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Measurement precision

If a rotatable table with multiple gyro sensors is used for azimuth detection, then measurement precision is improved, but the timepiece size increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveazimuth detection accuracyVSAvoidtimepiece size

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the azimuth detection function with the existing timepiece pointer mechanism. The gyro sensor is integrated into the pointer assembly, and the pointer's natural rotation is utilized for detection purposes, merging two functions (time indication and azimuth detection) into a single integrated system.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The pointer structure serves multiple functions: it indicates time as a traditional timepiece pointer and simultaneously acts as a mounting platform for the gyro sensor to perform azimuth detection. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated detection mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 efficient azimuth detection with a compact mechanism, enhancing accuracy and reducing power consumption by utilizing the existing pointer operations.

Implementation Method 1

an angular velocity sensor that is provided in the pointer and detects an angular velocity

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectGyroscopic effect: Gyroscope

Data Source

PatentUS12210322B2Timepiece and azimuth detection method

Publication Date: 2025.01.28 SONY GROUP CORP

AI summary

A timepiece includes a pointer; an angular velocity sensor that is provided on the pointer and detects an angular velocity; and an azimuth detection processing unit that performs an azimuth detection process from a detection result of the angular velocity sensor.