Multifunction Watch Bezel Switch World Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current multifunction watches have limited input and display capabilities due to space constraints and user dexterity limitations, leading to complex and time-consuming menu navigation for configuring diverse functions.
Innovation Solution
A multifunction watch with multiple 'worlds' each supporting distinct modes of operation, where navigation between worlds is controlled by a bezel that engages and activates switches, allowing for independent configuration and operation of each world with shared common functions across some or all worlds.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If crude menuing systems are implemented to expand watch functionality, then the number of functions increases, but menu navigation becomes increasingly time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the watch interface into separate 'worlds' (e.g., TIME world, SPORT world, COMPASS world), each with its own dedicated menu system. This segmentation allows users to access specific functions directly without navigating through complex hierarchical menus, reducing navigation time while maintaining diverse functionality across different worlds.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a world selector mechanism as an intermediary between the user and the menu system. By selecting a world first, the system filters and presents only relevant functions and parameters for that context, eliminating the need to navigate through unrelated menu options and reducing overall navigation time.
2Adaptability or versatility
If crude menuing systems are implemented to expand watch functionality, then the number of functions increases, but menu navigation becomes overly complex and non-intuitive
Solution Approach 1:
By organizing functions into distinct worlds with separate menu systems, the patent reduces the complexity within each world while maintaining overall functional diversity. Each world's menu is simplified to show only relevant options, making navigation more intuitive despite the expanded total functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
Each world is designed with locally optimized menu structures tailored to its specific function set. For example, the TIME world has simple time-setting menus, while the SPORT world has sport-specific parameters. This local optimization makes each menu intuitive for its purpose without requiring users to understand the entire system's complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple functions are integrated into a single menu system, then functionality is expanded, but input and display capabilities become limited due to space constraints
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the display into world-specific interfaces, where each world presents only its relevant functions and parameters. This segmentation allows the limited display area to be fully utilized for each specific function set without clutter, while the overall watch maintains diverse functionality through multiple worlds.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a dimensional organization layer by introducing 'worlds' as a top-level categorization dimension. Instead of expanding horizontally with more functions on the same menu level, the system organizes functions vertically across different world dimensions, allowing comprehensive functionality within constrained display space.
Data Source
AI summary
A multifunction watch provides plural worlds, each world supporting one or more modes of operation within the world. Separate configurations can be maintained for each world and separate navigation menus can be provided for each world. Modes of operation may be configurable. Duplicate worlds and duplicate modes within worlds are provided. In certain embodiments a desired world can be selected by manipulating a bezel. In some embodiments the bezel rotates to engage and activate one of a plurality of switches, thereby selecting a corresponding world. Each world operates independently of other worlds and some functions can be shared between worlds and between modes within worlds. An example is described in which a multimode watch provides four worlds including TIME, RIDE, COMPASS and SPEED.