Electronic Watch Mode Switching via Single Crown Stem
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic watches with compass functions require complex programming and mode selection, making it difficult for users to easily switch between time, direction, and compass modes, leading to confusion and usability issues.
Innovation Solution
An electronic watch design that allows switching between time, direction, and compass modes using a single manual control member, such as an electronic crown stem, with distinct hand positions for each mode, enabling simple selection and adjustment of direction parameters, including a bezel with angular markers for precise direction setting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple manual control members are used for mode selection and parameter adjustment, then the functionality and precision are improved, but the device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
A single manual control member (crown stem) is designed to perform multiple functions: mode selection (time, direction, compass modes), parameter adjustment (direction parameters), and mode switching. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate control members for each function, reducing device complexity while maintaining full adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The control member operates dynamically with different positions (rest position, selection position, stable adjustment position) and actions (pressing, rotating) to achieve different functions. The system transitions between static and dynamic states based on user interaction, enabling a single component to handle multiple operational modes and adjustment tasks.
2Measurement precision
If multiple manual control members are used for mode selection and parameter adjustment, then the precision of parameter adjustment is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The crown stem implements a dynamic operational sequence with distinct phases: a brief press to enter selection mode, rotation for precise parameter adjustment, and release to confirm. This dynamic interaction provides fine control over direction parameters while maintaining intuitive operation through natural hand-wrist movements.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters (mode, direction angle) based on the control member's position and movement. Rotating the crown stem in different directions or for different durations adjusts specific parameters like magnetic azimuth or geographical azimuth, enabling precise control through simple physical manipulation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If complex programming manipulations are required, then the functionality is improved, but the ease of operation and user comprehension deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The watch system automatically manages mode transitions and parameter settings based on user actions. After a brief press of the crown stem, the system enters selection mode and waits for rotation input. If no rotation occurs within a timeout period, it automatically returns to time mode. This self-managing behavior eliminates the need for users to memorize complex programming sequences.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides immediate feedback through hand position changes and visual indicators on the dial to confirm current mode and selected parameters. This real-time feedback helps users understand the watch's state without needing to remember programming steps, making the interaction intuitive and self-explanatory.
4Device complexity
If mode differentiation is not visually clear, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ease of operation and user understanding deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses positional changes of hands and visual indicators on the dial to differentiate modes. In time mode, hands show standard time positions. In direction mode, hands indicate directional information with specific angular positions. In compass mode, hands display magnetic north references. These visual distinctions provide clear mode identification without adding complex display structures.
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
Facilitates easy and intuitive operation by clearly differentiating modes with superimposed or opposing hands, allowing users to easily consult preprogrammed geographical locations like Mecca or magnetic/ geographic North, while maintaining the watch's aesthetics.
Implementation Method 1
at least one sensor of the earth's magnetic field of an electronic compass integrated into the case of the watch
Data Source
Figure 1A~1C
Figure 2
AI summary
The watch (1) has a control member (4) manually activated in a selection position to select from a time mode to a direction mode and/or a compass mode. The member is activated in a setting position from a selected direction mode so as to set a direction parameter for a pre-programmed geographical place by one of two hands. The two hands are in the selected direction mode, in a superposed position or in opposition to indicate the direction of the place. The hands in the selected compass mode are positioned contrary to the direction mode to indicate the direction of North.