Universal Watch Time Zone Display Merging Zones
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing universal watches are complex and bulky due to their mechanisms for displaying multiple time zones, making it difficult to clearly read the time in different zones, especially when changes occur.
Innovation Solution
A universal watch design that groups opposite time zones in the same display zone, using a secondary display with geographical landmarks and superimposed day/night indicators, driven by a movement that synchronizes with the main time display, allowing each screen to occupy different positions based on torque and friction mechanisms, reducing the complexity and size.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a classic solution with a 24-hour hour circle and rotating ring is used to display multiple time zones, then the display of universal time is achieved, but the device complexity and thickness increase substantially
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines opposite time zones (e.g., 12h and 0h, 1h and 23h) into the same display zone on the dial. Each zone displays two time references simultaneously, reducing the number of separate display elements needed and simplifying the overall mechanism while maintaining the ability to show multiple time zones.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a vertical dimension by superimposing day/night indicators above each time reference on the dial. This allows additional information (day/night status) to be displayed without adding horizontal complexity or requiring separate rotating rings, effectively using the vertical space above existing elements.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a rotating ring mechanism with 24-hour display is used, then universal time display is achieved, but the thickness of the movement increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges opposite time zones into shared display zones, eliminating the need for a separate rotating ring mechanism that would require substantial thickness. The time zone indication is integrated directly into the dial structure, reducing the vertical space required for the mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the day/night indication function from a separate mechanical mechanism and integrates it as a visual overlay on the existing time display. This removes the need for additional thick rotating components while maintaining the universal time display capability.
3Loss of information
If multiple separate display mechanisms are used for different time zones, then comprehensive time information is provided, but the mechanism becomes complex and bulky
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple time references and their corresponding day/night indicators into shared dial zones. Each zone displays two time references (opposite time zones) with their respective day/night status, consolidating what would otherwise require separate display mechanisms into a single integrated dial.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates multi-functional display zones that simultaneously show multiple time references and their day/night status. Each zone on the dial serves multiple purposes: displaying local time, indicating day/night period, and providing reference for opposite time zones, thereby reducing the need for dedicated separate mechanisms.
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 design provides clear and easy reading of universal time across multiple zones with reduced mechanism size and complexity, ensuring accurate and instantaneous visualization of day/night conditions for 24 reference zones.
Implementation Method 1
first drive means imparting to it a torque or a driving effort greater than, respectively, a torque or a resisting effort that he imprint first friction means
Implementation Method 2
first friction means linked to said support structure
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
A universal watch (1) comprising: - a drive movement (10) for a main display means (2) cooperating with a secondary display means (3), - adjustment means (4) for said main display means (2) for setting the time at a specific location, - a secondary display means (5) movable relative to said secondary display means (3), and comprising geographical markers (6) for different time zones. This movement (10) drives, synchronously with the main display means (2): - said secondary display means (5), - a structure (7) carrying a plurality of primary displays (8), each superimposed on a geographical marker (6) and, depending on the time of day, changing position under the action of a driving torque from the drive means (9) which is greater than the resisting torque imparted to it by friction means (11) connected to said structure (7).