Electronic Watch Mode Switching via Sliding Cover
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing timepieces face difficulties in providing an intuitive and reliable method for users to switch between operating modes, especially when tactile keys are small and closely spaced, leading to accidental activation of incorrect functions.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of two switching elements located on either side of the housing, which can be activated simultaneously or through a sliding motion, allowing users to easily transition between modes by mimicking natural gestures like pinching, thereby reducing the risk of accidental mode changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If two touch keys are placed close together on the display means, then the device size is reduced, but the ease of operation deteriorates and reliability worsens due to accidental pressing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a sliding cover as an intermediary mechanism between the user and the control keys. The cover physically blocks access to the keys when closed, preventing accidental pressing. Users must intentionally slide the cover open to access the keys, adding a deliberate action step that prevents unintended mode switching while maintaining a compact device design.
2Volume of moving object
If two touch keys are placed close together on the display means, then the device size is reduced, but the reliability deteriorates due to accidental activation of incorrect functions
Solution Approach 1:
The sliding cover serves as a protective intermediary that physically isolates the control keys from accidental contact. By requiring intentional opening of the cover before key access, the system prevents unintended mode switching and ensures reliable operation even when keys are positioned close together in a compact device.
3Reliability
If users must press two touch keys simultaneously to switch modes, then the risk of accidental mode switching is reduced, but the ease of operation deteriorates and users must remember specific key combinations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the mode switching function from the key pressing operation itself and separates it into a distinct physical action: sliding the cover. This extraction simplifies the user interaction model - users slide the cover to access or protect the keys, and mode switching occurs automatically or through simpler key presses, eliminating the need to remember complex key combinations while maintaining reliable mode switching.
4Volume of moving object
If the touch buttons are made small and close together, then the device size is reduced, but the ease of operation deteriorates as users risk accidentally pressing wrong buttons
Solution Approach 1:
The sliding cover acts as a protective intermediary that physically shields the small, closely-spaced buttons from accidental contact. By requiring intentional opening of the cover before button access, the design enables compact button layout while preventing the harmful effect of accidental pressing that would otherwise occur with small, close-together buttons.
Data Source
Figure 1~4
AI summary
The present invention relates to a portable object comprising a housing closed by a bottom and by means of display, an electronic module arranged in said housing providing at least one first item of information and one second item of information, and means of control for acting on said electronic module, said portable object being configured to operate according to a first mode of operation and according to a second mode of operation.