JP5343171B2 - Radio correction clock - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To reduce a heavy load regarding the movement of a pointer. <P>SOLUTION: A timepiece displays a reception inhibition mode in a reception inhibition mode and displays the amount of battery charge in a reception permission mode. In the amount of charge display, a first prescribed position 901d is indicated to display the amount of battery charge is full, a second prescribed position 901a is indicated to display the amount of battery charge is empty, and a third prescribed position 707 is indicated to display the timepiece is in the reception inhibition mode. The first prescribed position 901d, the second prescribed position 901a and the third prescribed position 707 are arranged in this order so that a distance between the second prescribed position 901a and the third prescribed position 707 is shorter than a distance between the first prescribed position 901d and the third prescribed position 707. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2013,JPO&amp;INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a radio-controlled timepiece that receives a standard radio wave and corrects the time based on the received standard radio wave, and in particular, performs a timely reception at a predetermined time, and performs forced reception by an operator's operation and operator's operation. The present invention relates to a radio-controlled watch that performs automatic reception without depending on it.

  In recent years, radio-controlled timepieces that receive standard radio waves and correct the time based on the received standard radio waves have already gained citizenship and have gained widespread use because they do not require time accuracy and time adjustment operations. Yes. In particular, since a multi-function sports watch has been equipped with a radio wave correction function, there are many requests that a diving watch, a so-called diver watch, also be equipped with a radio wave correction function.

  In addition, there is a strong demand for adopting it as a clock for drivers (pilots) of public transportation such as railways and airplanes because of the accuracy of time and the necessity of no correction operation.

  By the way, radio-controlled timepieces usually include an automatic reception function that automatically executes without receiving an operation instruction from the operator, including a scheduled reception function that receives a standard radio wave at a predetermined time every day, and an operation instruction from the operator. Forcibly receiving a standard radio wave based on the

  The magnetic field generated by driving the stepping motor becomes noise of the received radio wave to prevent the battery voltage drop due to the simultaneous operation of large current consumption, reception and pointer driving, and the standard radio wave. In order to prevent the reception of the radio wave from being disturbed, it is common to stop the hand movement of the pointer display device during the reception of the standard radio wave (for example, see Patent Document 1 below). Similarly, in order to prevent a reception failure from occurring due to the influence of noise caused by the operation of the liquid crystal display, there is one that turns off the display of the liquid crystal display (LCD) (for example, see Patent Document 2 below). ).

  In addition, as a conventional technique, there is a time recorder, not a diver watch, that shows some reaction during a forced reception operation in a reception prohibited time zone (see, for example, Patent Document 3 below).

  Further, as a conventional technique, there is one that prohibits function selection by a function selection switch during water depth measurement (see, for example, Patent Document 4 below). Further, as a conventional technique, there is a radio time clock built in a camera having a correction prohibit mode for prohibiting the correction of the display time in order to prevent the time from being corrected at a time different from the local time overseas. (For example, see Patent Document 5 below.)

  In addition, some radio-controlled timepieces automatically start receiving standard radio waves when the power supply voltage, power generation amount, etc. are restored after the power supply voltage, power generation amount, etc. have fallen and the timekeeping function has stopped (see below). (See Patent Document 6).

Japanese Utility Model Publication No. 5-81786 JP 2001-27681 A JP 2005-346488 A JP 62-71890 A JP 2003-294876 A WO 97/21153 pamphlet

  However, the diver watch is obliged to continue the timekeeping function and the time display function during diving (dive) according to the ISO standard. For this reason, the hand movement of the pointer display device cannot be stopped during diving. Therefore, when the above-mentioned scheduled reception is started during diving or the operator erroneously performs a forced reception operation, the hand movement of the pointer display device is stopped and the time display function cannot be continued. There are cases. In this case, there is a problem that not only the ISO standard cannot be complied with, but also a great sense of anxiety is given to the operator during diving.

  In order to avoid this problem, it is necessary to continue to move the pointer while receiving, but if you do so, the standard radio wave reception success rate will be reduced due to the voltage drop and noise caused by the pointer drive, and in normal use There was a problem in that the time accuracy was lowered. For this reason, a diver watch equipped with a radio wave correction function could not be realized.

  Similarly, when using it for a driver of public transportation, it is necessary to always display the time during driving, so the time cannot be displayed while receiving the standard radio wave. There was a problem that there was a risk of hindering safe operation because the time could not be confirmed.

  An object of the present invention is to provide a radio-controlled timepiece capable of reliably confirming the time by always moving the hand when the time display is necessary in order to solve the above-described problems caused by the prior art.

  In order to solve the above-described problems and achieve the object, a radio-controlled timepiece according to the present invention is timed by timekeeping means, receiving means for receiving standard radio waves including time information, and timekeeping means. A time adjustment unit that corrects a measured time based on the standard radio wave, and a mode control unit that controls switching between a reception permission mode that permits reception of the standard radio wave and a reception prohibition mode that prohibits reception of the standard radio wave; The mode control means outputs a reception permission signal to the reception means in the reception permission mode and outputs a reception inhibition signal in the reception inhibition mode, and the reception means prohibits the reception. When a signal is input, the standard radio wave reception process is not executed until the reception permission signal is input.

  The radio-controlled timepiece according to the present invention is the radio-controlled timepiece according to the present invention, wherein when the mode control unit shifts from the reception prohibition mode to the reception permission mode, the reception unit receives the standard radio wave. An automatic reception signal to be started is output, and when the automatic reception signal is input, the reception unit starts reception of the standard radio wave.

  In the radio-controlled timepiece according to the present invention as set forth in the invention described above, the mode control means includes storage means for storing information relating to the first predetermined time, and measures the duration of the reception inhibition mode, thereby When shifting from the mode to the reception permission mode, if the duration is equal to or longer than the first predetermined time, the automatic reception signal is output to the receiving means, and the duration is set to the first predetermined time. If it is less than the time, the automatic reception signal is not output.

The radio-controlled timepiece according to the present invention further comprises an external operation input member operable by an operator in the above-described invention, and the setting or change of the first predetermined time stored in the storage means is performed by the external operation input member. It is characterized by performing the above operation.

  The radio-controlled timepiece according to the present invention is characterized in that, in the above-mentioned invention, an external operation input member operable by an operator is provided, and output control of the automatic reception signal is performed by operation of the external operation input member.

  In the radio-controlled timepiece according to the present invention as set forth in the invention described above, the mode control means includes storage means for storing information relating to a second predetermined time, measures the duration of the reception inhibition mode, and Is switched from the reception prohibition mode to the reception permission mode when the second predetermined time is reached.

  Further, the radio-controlled timepiece according to the present invention includes the external operation input member operable by the operator in the above invention, and the setting or changing of the second predetermined time stored in the storage means is the external operation input member. It is characterized by performing the above operation.

  The radio-controlled timepiece according to the present invention includes the external operation input member operable by the operator in the above invention, and performs switching control from the reception prohibition mode to the reception permission mode by operating the external operation input member. It is characterized by that.

  In the radio-controlled timepiece according to the present invention as set forth in the invention described above, the mode control means includes storage means for storing information relating to a first predetermined time and a second predetermined time, and the first predetermined time is reached. In this case, the mode is switched to the reception prohibition mode, and is switched to the reception permission mode when the second predetermined time is reached.

  The radio-controlled timepiece according to the present invention is the radio-controlled timepiece according to the present invention, wherein the reception prohibition mode includes a plurality of modes having different conditions for reception prohibition control, and the mode control means stores the plurality of reception prohibition modes. And a storage means for outputting the reception permission signal or the reception inhibition signal to the reception means based on the conditions of any one of the plurality of reception inhibition modes, and the standard An automatic reception signal for starting radio wave reception processing is output.

  The radio-controlled timepiece according to the present invention is the radio-controlled timepiece according to the present invention, wherein the standard radio wave reception process is started for the receiving means when the various conditions shift from the reception-prohibited mode to the reception-permitted mode. Whether or not the automatic reception signal is output, and when shifting from the reception prohibition mode to the reception permission mode, if the duration of the reception prohibition mode is equal to or longer than a first predetermined time, The reception signal is output, and when the duration is less than the first predetermined time, the automatic reception signal is not output when the duration is less than the first predetermined time. Whether or not to switch from the reception prohibition mode to the reception permission mode when the predetermined time is reached, the second predetermined time, and the reception prohibition mode when the first predetermined time is reached. Whether or not to switch to the reception permission mode when the first predetermined time and the second predetermined time are reached, and the second predetermined time. The mode control means controls the output of the reception permission signal or the reception inhibition signal to the reception means based on the conditions of any one of the plurality of reception inhibition modes. Controlling the output of the automatic reception signal, and when the reception prohibition signal is input, the reception means does not execute the reception process of the standard radio wave until the reception permission signal is input, and the automatic reception When a signal is input, reception of the standard radio wave is started.

The radio-controlled timepiece according to the present invention is characterized in that, in the above-mentioned invention, an external operation input member operable by an operator is provided, and the change control of the reception inhibition mode is performed by operating the external operation input member.

  Further, the radio-controlled timepiece according to the present invention is characterized in that, in the above-mentioned invention, the radio-controlled timepiece includes display means for displaying the time counted by the timekeeping means, and the display means displays the reception prohibit mode. To do.

  In the radio-controlled timepiece according to the present invention, in the above invention, the display unit includes a calendar display unit that displays a calendar including at least one of a day and a day of the week. It is characterized by displaying a certain thing.

  In the radio-controlled timepiece according to the present invention, in the above invention, the display means includes a charge amount display means for displaying a charge amount of a battery, and the charge amount display means displays that the reception prohibit mode is set. It is characterized by doing.

  The radio-controlled timepiece according to the present invention is the radio-controlled timepiece according to the present invention, wherein the display means includes reception area display means for displaying a received area or a receiving station, and the reception area display means is in the reception inhibition mode. Is displayed.

  Further, the radio-controlled timepiece according to the present invention is based on a time measuring means for measuring time, a receiving means for receiving a radio wave including time information, and a time measured by the time measuring means based on the radio wave including the time information. And a time control unit that controls switching between a reception permission mode that permits reception of radio waves including the time information and a reception prohibition mode that prohibits reception of radio waves including the time information. The mode control means outputs a reception permission signal in the reception permission mode to the reception means, and outputs a reception inhibition signal in the reception inhibition mode. The reception means receives the reception inhibition signal. In the radio-controlled timepiece that does not execute the reception process of the radio wave including the time information until the reception permission signal is input, the time measuring means And a second display means different from the first display means, wherein the second display means is in the reception inhibition mode. A reception prohibition mode display means for displaying the reception prohibition mode, and in the reception permission mode, a charge amount display means for displaying a battery charge amount, wherein the charge amount display means indicates a first predetermined position. To indicate that the battery charge is full, to indicate a second predetermined position, to indicate that the battery charge is empty, and to indicate a third predetermined position Thus, the reception prohibit mode is displayed and arranged in the order of the first predetermined position, the second predetermined position, and the third predetermined position, and the second predetermined position is arranged in the circulation direction. The distance between the third position and location, characterized in that less than the distance between said third predetermined position and said first predetermined position.

In the radio-controlled timepiece according to the present invention, the first predetermined position, the second predetermined position, and the third predetermined position are arranged in order counterclockwise in the above invention. It is characterized by.
In the radio-controlled timepiece according to the present invention as set forth in the invention described above, the reception inhibition mode display means also serves as a display indicating that the reception inhibition mode is used during diving.
The radio-controlled timepiece according to the present invention is characterized in that, in the above invention, the second display means uses a pointer member.
The radio-controlled timepiece according to the present invention is characterized in that, in the above-mentioned invention, the reception prohibit mode is displayed in the left half area of the display means.

  According to the present invention, when the time display is necessary, the reception of the standard radio wave is surely prohibited, and when the time display is necessary, the hand is always operated to obtain the radio-controlled timepiece capable of ensuring the time confirmation. There is an effect that is.

It is explanatory drawing which shows the hardware constitutions of the radio wave correction timepiece concerning embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the functional structure of the radio-controlled timepiece concerning embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of a structure of a reception prohibition mode data table. It is a flowchart (the 1) which shows the content of operation | movement of the radio-controlled timepiece concerning embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart (the 2) which shows the content of operation | movement of the radio-controlled timepiece concerning embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart (the 3) which shows the content of operation | movement of the radio-controlled timepiece concerning embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the external appearance of the radio wave correction timepiece concerning embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows another example of the external appearance of the radio-controlled timepiece concerning embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows another example of the external appearance of the radio-controlled timepiece concerning embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows another example of the external appearance of the radio-controlled timepiece concerning embodiment of this invention.

  Embodiments of a radio-controlled timepiece according to the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

(Configuration of radio-controlled watch)
FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing a hardware configuration of a radio-controlled timepiece according to an embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 1, the radio-controlled watch body includes a microcomputer IC 100, a RAM 101, a ROM 102, a motor driving circuit 103, a motor 104 (104a, 104b, 104c), a train wheel 105 (105a, 105b, 105c), Reference signal generating unit 106, counter unit 107, antenna 108, tuning circuit 109, receiving circuit 110, switch unit 111, switch control circuit 112, solar cell 113, secondary battery 114, and charge control circuit 115.

  The microcomputer IC 100 controls the whole radio-controlled timepiece main body, and individually controls various components and circuits. The RAM 101 stores various data such as time data including time information or calendar information. The ROM 102 stores various control programs.

The motor drive circuit 103 drives three independent motors 104 (104a, 104b, 104c), and independently drives the hands and date plate via the train wheel 105 (105a, 105b, 105c). The number of motors 104 is not limited to three, and may be four or more depending on the function of the radio-controlled timepiece. Conversely, two motors 104 may be provided. That is, it is only necessary to have a time display motor and at least one motor that can be driven separately.

  Of the three motors 104, the first motor 104a drives a minute hand 701, an hour hand 702 and a second hand 703 shown in FIG. The second motor 104b drives a mode hand 704 (or a mode hand 804 shown in FIG. 8 to be described later) constituting the day display and the reception inhibition mode display shown in FIG. The third motor 104c drives a date plate (not shown) constituting the date display 705 shown in FIG. What is driven by which motor is not limited to this.

  The reference signal generation unit 106 is composed of, for example, an oscillation circuit, and generates a signal having a predetermined frequency that serves as a reference for time measurement processing. The counter unit 107 outputs a signal having a predetermined frequency generated from the reference signal generation unit 106 to the microcomputer IC 100.

  The tuning circuit 109 tunes with the antenna 108 and tunes the antenna 108 to a frequency such as 60 kHz (US), 77.5 kHz (Germany), 40 kHz, 60 kHz (Japan), for example, by switching the capacitance of the capacitor. The receiving circuit 110 detects a standard radio wave from the signal received by the antenna 108 and outputs it to the microcomputer IC 100.

  The switch unit 111 inputs an operation instruction from the operator. Specifically, the crown 711, the operation buttons 712, and 713 shown in FIG. The switch control circuit 112 transmits an input related to an operation instruction from the operator to the microcomputer IC 100 based on a signal from the switch unit 111.

  The charge control circuit 115 converts the light received by the solar cell 113 into electric power and stores it in the secondary battery 114. The charge control circuit 115 also has a voltage detection function for detecting the voltage (value) of the secondary battery 114, a power generation detection function for detecting whether the solar cell 113 is in a power generation state or a non-power generation state, and the like. And the signal regarding a detection result is output with respect to microcomputer IC100 by these functions.

  Further, the radio-controlled timepiece may include a liquid crystal driving circuit, an LED, an LED driving circuit, an alarm, and an alarm driving circuit (not shown). The liquid crystal driving circuit drives the liquid crystal screen to display various information. The LED driving circuit drives the LED to illuminate the liquid crystal screen as a backlight or outputs warning light. Instead of the LED, an EL (Electroluminescence), a lamp, or the like may be used. The alarm driving circuit drives an unillustrated piezoelectric element mounted on the alarm and outputs an alarm (buzzer). At that time, the alarm drive circuit changes the type of sound, the height, the volume, etc., depending on the type of notification.

  FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing a functional configuration of the radio-controlled timepiece according to the embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 2, the radio-controlled timepiece is configured to include a mode control unit 200, a display unit 201, a time measuring unit 202, a time correcting unit 203, a receiving unit 204, and an external operation input member 205.

  The mode control unit 200 includes a mode switching unit 210, a reception permission signal output unit 211, a reception prohibition signal output unit 212, an automatic reception signal output unit 213, a reception prohibition mode duration measurement timer 214, a reception prohibition mode data table 215, and the like. Consists of each component.

  The timer unit 202 measures the current time (specifically, the time required for local time such as UTC, Japan time, etc.), and outputs the measured current time to the display unit 201. Specifically, the time measuring unit 202 can realize its function by, for example, the reference signal generating unit 106 and the counter unit 107 shown in FIG.

  The display unit 201 displays the current time based on the time measured by the time measuring unit 202 (hereinafter referred to as “timed time”). Specifically, for example, the display function is realized by the motor drive circuit 103, the motor 104, the wheel train 105, and the hands (see reference numerals 701 to 704 shown in FIG. 7) shown in FIG. With this display function, for example, in FIG. 8, the time is “10: 9: 35 am” by the hands 701 to 703, and “SUN (Sunday)” by the mode hand 704 and the day display 706. It can be seen that the date display 705 indicates “27 days”.

  The display unit 201 has a display function (for example, digital display) related to time display or a display function related to various notifications (for example, calendar display) by the above-described liquid crystal drive circuit, LED drive circuit, LED, alarm drive circuit, alarm, and the like. It may be realized.

  The display unit 201 includes a charge amount display means (for example, a charge amount indicator 901 shown in FIG. 9 described later) that displays the charge amount of the battery, and displays the reception prohibit mode by the charge amount display means. It may be. The display unit 201 also includes reception area display means (for example, a reception station display 1001 shown in FIG. 10 described later) for displaying the received area or reception station, and the reception area display means displays that the reception prohibited mode is set. You may make it do.

  The receiving unit 204 receives a standard radio wave including time information. Specifically, the receiving unit 204 realizes its function by, for example, the receiving circuit 110 shown in FIG. That is, the receiving unit 204 includes, for example, an amplifying unit, a filter unit, a detecting unit, an AD converting unit, a gain control unit, and the like. Since each of these components can be realized by a known technique, the description thereof is omitted.

  The time correction unit 203 corrects the time measured by the time measuring unit 202 based on the standard radio wave. Therefore, when the receiving unit 204 fails to receive the standard radio wave, the timekeeping time is not corrected. Specifically, the time correction unit 203 implements its function by the microcomputer IC 100 shown in FIG. 1 executing programs stored in the RAM 101 and the ROM 102, for example.

  The mode switching unit 210 controls switching between a reception permission mode for permitting reception of standard radio waves and a reception prohibition mode for prohibiting reception of standard radio waves. Specifically, the mode switching unit 210 realizes its function by, for example, the microcomputer IC 100 illustrated in FIG. 1 executing a program stored in the RAM 101 and the ROM 102.

  The reception permission signal output unit 211 outputs a reception permission signal to the reception unit 204 in the reception permission mode in accordance with the mode switching control in the mode switching unit 210. The reception prohibition signal output unit 212 outputs a reception prohibition signal to the reception unit 204 in the reception prohibition mode in accordance with the mode switching control in the mode switching unit 210. Specifically, the reception permission signal output unit 211 and the reception prohibition signal output unit 212 realize their functions by the microcomputer IC 100 illustrated in FIG. 1 executing programs stored in the RAM 101 and the ROM 102, for example.

  The reception prohibition mode duration measurement timer 214 measures the duration from when the reception permission mode is switched to the reception prohibition mode. Specifically, the reception prohibition mode duration measurement timer 213 is a program stored in the RAM 101 or ROM 102 using, for example, a signal having a predetermined frequency output from the counter unit 107 by the microcomputer IC 100 shown in FIG. The function is realized by executing.

  The reception prohibition mode data table 215 stores a plurality of reception prohibition modes having different conditions for the reception prohibition control. The reception inhibition mode data table 215, specifically, for example, the function is realized by the RAM 101, the ROM 102, etc. shown in FIG. The contents of the reception inhibition mode data table 215 will be described later (see FIG. 3).

  The automatic reception signal output unit 213 outputs an automatic reception signal for starting reception processing of a standard radio wave to the reception unit 204 when the mode switching unit 210 shifts from the reception prohibition mode to the reception permission mode. Then, when the automatic reception signal is input from the automatic reception signal output unit 213, the reception unit 204 starts receiving the standard radio wave. Specifically, the automatic reception signal output unit 213 realizes its function by, for example, the microcomputer IC 100 shown in FIG. 1 executing programs stored in the RAM 101 and the ROM 102.

  Further, the mode control unit 200 stores information related to a predetermined time (automatic reception execution time) in the reception inhibition mode data table 215. Then, the mode control unit 200 measures the duration of the reception prohibition mode by the reception prohibition mode duration measurement timer 214 and controls the mode switching unit 210 to continue when shifting from the reception prohibition mode to the reception permission mode. When the time is equal to or longer than the predetermined time (automatic reception execution time), the reception permission signal output unit 211 outputs an automatic reception signal to the reception unit 204, and when the duration is less than the predetermined time, the automatic reception signal Is not output to the receiving unit 204.

  In this way, when the time from the previous time adjustment is shorter than the predetermined time and the current time error is assumed to be small, the automatic reception process is not executed, thereby reducing power consumption and automatically It is possible to eliminate problems caused by displaying the current time during the reception process.

  In addition, when an input signal from the external operation input member 205 is input to the mode switching unit 210, the output control of the automatic reception signal in the mode control unit 200 can be performed by operating the external operation input member 205.

  Further, the mode control unit 200 may have an auto return function. That is, the mode control unit 200 stores information related to a predetermined time (the longest reception prohibition mode) in the reception prohibition mode data table 215. Then, the mode control unit 200 measures the duration of the reception inhibition mode by the reception inhibition mode duration measurement timer 214, and when the duration reaches the predetermined time (the reception inhibition mode longest time), the reception of the standard radio wave is performed. It is possible to switch from the prohibit mode to the reception permit mode.

  In this way, after the standard radio wave reception prohibition mode is set, if the operator forgets to cancel the reception prohibition mode, the standard radio wave reception process is not executed and the current time error becomes large. As a result, there has been a problem that the features of the radio-controlled clock cannot be exhibited. The auto return function can solve the problem.

  In addition, when an input signal from the external operation input member 205 is input to the mode switching unit 210, the mode switching unit 210 can perform switching control from the reception prohibition mode to the reception permission mode by operating the external operation input member 205. it can.

  Further, the mode control unit 200 stores information related to a predetermined time (prohibition start time and prohibition end time) in the reception prohibition mode data table 215. Then, when the prohibition start time is reached, it is possible to switch to the reception prohibition mode, and when the prohibition end time is reached, it is possible to switch to the reception permission mode. As a result, the reception process can be reliably prohibited in a time zone in which the time is not displayed due to reception of the standard radio wave, which hinders the operator, for example, the driving time of a driver such as a train or a bus.

(Configuration of reception prohibition mode data table)
Next, the configuration of the reception inhibition mode data table will be described. FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the configuration of the reception inhibition mode data table. In FIG. 3, each reception prohibition mode (mode 1, mode 2, mode 3, mode 4,...) Is “automatic reception”, “automatic reception execution time”, “auto return”, “reception prohibition mode”, respectively. Data for each item of “longest time”, “forced reception”, “prohibition start time”, and “prohibition end time” are registered.

  “Yes” or “No” is registered in the “automatic reception” item. In the case of “present”, the automatic reception process of the standard radio wave (and the time correction process based on the standard radio wave received by the automatic reception process) is executed when the mode is changed from the reception prohibition mode to the reception permission mode. In the case of “None”, automatic reception is not performed when shifting from the reception prohibition mode to the reception permission mode. Therefore, after shifting from the reception prohibition mode to the reception permission mode, the standard radio wave is automatically received at the next scheduled reception time. In this way, it is assumed that the standard radio wave is not received due to the reception prohibition mode, and an error from the correct time is assumed. However, by selecting automatic reception ("Yes"), the error Can be corrected automatically.

  A specific time is registered in the “automatic reception execution time” item. When shifting from the reception prohibition mode to the reception permission mode, if the above "automatic reception" item is "present", the duration of the reception prohibition mode and the time registered in the "automatic reception execution time" item are In comparison, the automatic reception process is executed only when the duration of the reception inhibition mode is longer. The setting or changing of the “automatic reception execution time” stored in the reception inhibition mode data table 215 can be performed by operating an external operation input member.

  Register “Yes” or “No” in the “Auto Return” item. In the case of “present”, the reception inhibition mode is canceled without any operation by the operator after the time registered in the “maximum reception inhibition mode maximum time” has elapsed.

  In the “forced reception” item, “permitted” or “prohibited” is registered. In the case of “permitted”, even in the reception inhibition mode, if a forced reception request signal is input from the operator's external operation input member 205, standard radio wave reception processing is executed. On the other hand, in the case of “prohibited”, even if a forced reception request signal is input during the reception prohibited mode, the signal is ignored and the standard radio wave reception process is not executed.

  Specific times are registered in the items “prohibition start time” and “prohibition end time”. The registration may be time only (specifically “PM 10:00” or the like) or may include a date (specifically “February 27 AM 8:00” or the like). Normally, registration is performed with a set of “prohibition start time” and “prohibition end time”, but only one of them may be registered. If "prohibition start time" and "prohibition end time" are registered as a set, when the prohibition start time is reached, the mode is changed from reception permission mode to reception prohibition mode, and reception is performed when the prohibition end time is reached. Transition from prohibit mode to receive permission mode.

If the time is registered only in the "prohibition start time" item and the time is not registered in the "prohibition end time" item, the reception permission mode is set if the reception permission mode is reached when the prohibition start time is reached. Shifts to reception prohibit mode.

  If the time is registered only in the “prohibition end time” item and the time is not registered in the “prohibition start time” item, if the reception prohibit mode is reached when the prohibition end time is reached, the reception prohibit mode To the reception permission mode.

  Mode 1 shown in FIG. 3 is an example of a diving mode, for example. That is, in mode 1, there is no automatic reception, auto return, prohibition start time, prohibition end time, and forced reception is also prohibited. As described above, in mode 1, once the operator selects the reception prohibition mode, the reception prohibition mode is maintained unless there is an instruction to cancel the reception permission mode again from the operator. Ensure prohibition. Thereby, it is possible to prevent the current time from being displayed during diving and to ensure safety during diving.

  Mode 2 is an example of a normal reception inhibition mode by an external operation, for example. That is, in mode 2, the automatic reception is “present”, the automatic reception execution time is “2 days”, and the automatic return that shifts to the reception permission mode after “24 hours” has elapsed after shifting to the reception prohibition mode is “ In addition, since the forced reception in the reception inhibition mode is “permitted”, the standard radio wave reception process is executed by the operator's will.

  The reason for setting the automatic reception execution time to “2 days” is that, for example, an ordinary electronic clock is often adjusted to an accuracy of 15 seconds / month, and an error of less than 1 second occurs within 2 days. This is because the need for automatic reception is low. If it is 2 days or more, there is a possibility that an error of 1 second or more has occurred, and the need for automatic reception arises. However, the automatic reception execution time is not limited to “2 days”.

  Mode 3 is an example of a late night worker mode. In other words, mode 3 is characterized in that the prohibition start time and prohibition end time are registered in accordance with the working time. Furthermore, automatic reception is “present” and automatic reception execution time is “two days”. The forced reception is also “permitted”, but the auto return is “none”. As a result, it is possible to prohibit the scheduled reception that is normally performed at midnight and avoid the situation where the time is not displayed during business.

  Mode 4 is an example of a driver mode such as a train or a bus. That is, in mode 4, the prohibition start time and prohibition end time are matched with the operation end time from the operation start time. And any reception during that time is prohibited. As a result, the current time can always be displayed during driving, and it is possible to reliably prevent the driving operation from being hindered without displaying the current time by executing the reception process.

  Further, although not shown, examples of conditions for shifting to another reception inhibition mode include water sensing, depth, altitude, illuminance, and temperature. The water detection shifts to the reception inhibition mode when water is detected. Further, when it is measured that the depth has reached a predetermined depth in water, the mode is shifted to the reception inhibition mode. Both are useful for ensuring safety during diving because radio waves can be received near the sea surface.

  The altitude shifts to the reception inhibition mode when it is measured that the predetermined altitude has been reached. In some cases, time display is used for pulse measurement that is in a healthy state by climbing or the like, and at this time, it is possible to avoid stopping the movement of the time display hand by receiving the standard radio wave.

When the illuminance is a predetermined brightness, the mode is shifted to the reception prohibition mode. As a result, when the surroundings are bright even at night, that is, when it can be assumed that the user is not sleeping and active, the time display is always made by shifting to the reception prohibition mode and avoiding the situation where the reception stops. Can be provided.

  Further, when the temperature falls below a predetermined temperature, the mode shifts to the reception prohibit mode. At low temperatures, the voltage drops and reception becomes unstable, so reception is prohibited. As a result, unstable operation can be avoided and each function of the watch can be effectively protected.

  As described above, the reception inhibition mode can include a plurality of modes having different conditions for the reception inhibition control. The mode control unit 200 stores a plurality of reception prohibition modes in the reception prohibition mode data table 215, and receives data from the reception unit 204 based on the conditions of any one of the plurality of reception prohibition modes. A reception permission signal or a reception prohibition signal output unit 212 can be output from the permission signal output unit 211, and an automatic reception signal for starting reception processing of a standard radio wave can be output from the automatic reception signal output unit 213. .

(Operation details of the radio-controlled watch)
Next, an example of the operation content of the radio-controlled timepiece will be described. 4 to 6 are flowcharts showing the contents of the operation of the radio-controlled timepiece according to the embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 4, the receiving unit 204 determines whether or not an automatic reception signal is input from the mode control unit 200 (automatic reception signal output unit 213) (step S401).

  Here, when the automatic reception signal is input (step S401: Yes), the process proceeds to step S403. On the other hand, if the automatic reception signal has not been input (step S401: No), it is next determined whether or not a forced reception instruction has been issued from the external operation input member 205 (step S402). If there is an instruction for forced reception (step S402: Yes), the process proceeds to step S403. On the other hand, when there is no instruction for forced reception (step S402: No), the process returns to step S401.

  Next. The receiving unit 204 determines the signal input from the mode control unit 200 (step S403). That is, it is determined whether a reception permission signal is input from the reception permission signal output unit 211 or a reception prohibition signal is output from the reception prohibition signal output unit 212.

  If the input signal is a reception permission signal (step S403: reception permission signal), a standard radio wave reception process is executed (step S404). Further, the time correction unit 203 executes time correction processing based on the received standard radio wave (step S405), ends a series of processing, and returns to step S401.

  On the other hand, in step S403, if the input signal is a reception prohibition signal (step S403: reception prohibition signal), the standard radio wave cannot be received. Return to S401.

The flowcharts of FIGS. 5 and 6 show the processing procedure of the mode control unit 200. In FIG. 5, first, the mode control unit 200 outputs a reception permission signal from the reception permission signal output unit 211 to the reception unit 204 (step S501). Normally, this state is maintained, and it is then determined whether or not the prohibition start time registered in the reception prohibition mode data table 215 shown in FIG. 3 has come (step S502). At the same time, it is also determined whether or not the prohibition start time is set (registered in the reception prohibition mode data table 215). That is, when the prohibition start time is not set, it is determined that the prohibition start time has not been reached. Here, when the prohibition start time comes (step S502: Yes), the process proceeds to step S504.

  On the other hand, if the prohibition start time is not reached (or the prohibition start time is not set) in step S502 (step S502: No), whether or not a prohibition mode setting instruction has been issued from the external operation input member 205 is determined next. Is determined (step S503). If there is an instruction to set the prohibit mode (step S503: Yes), the process proceeds to step S504. On the other hand, when there is no instruction to set the prohibit mode (step S503: No), the process proceeds to step S501.

  Next, when the prohibition start time is reached (step S502: Yes), or when a prohibition mode setting instruction is issued (step S503: Yes), the measurement timer is started (step S504) and the reception prohibition signal output unit 212 is started. The reception prohibition signal is output to the receiving unit 204 from step S505.

  Thereafter, it is determined whether or not a prohibit mode cancel instruction has been issued from the external operation input member 205 (step S506). If there is an instruction to cancel the prohibit mode (step S506: Yes), the process proceeds to step S601 in FIG. 6 (automatic reception signal output processing). On the other hand, if there is no prohibition mode cancellation instruction (step S506: No), it is next determined whether or not a forced reception instruction has been issued from the external operation input member 205 (step S507). If there is no instruction for forced reception (step S507: No), the process proceeds to step S509.

  On the other hand, if there is an instruction for forced reception in step S507 (step S507: Yes), it is determined whether or not forced reception is permitted with reference to the reception inhibition mode data table 215 shown in FIG. Step S508). If forced reception is permitted (step S508: Yes), the process proceeds to step S601 in FIG. On the other hand, if it is not permitted (prohibited) (step S508: No), it is determined that the forced reception instruction is invalid, the instruction is ignored, and the process proceeds to step S509.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the prohibition end time registered in the reception prohibition mode data table 215 shown in FIG. 3 has come (step S509). It is also determined whether a prohibition end time is set (registered in the reception prohibition mode data table 215) or not. That is, if the prohibition end time is not set, this step is always “No”. Here, when the prohibition end time is reached (step S509: Yes), the process proceeds to step S601 in FIG. On the other hand, when it is not the prohibition end time (step S509: No), the process proceeds to step S510.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the longest reception inhibition mode time registered in the reception inhibition mode data table 215 shown in FIG. 3 has passed (step S510). Here, when the longest reception prohibition mode has not yet elapsed (step S510: No), the process returns to step S505. Thereafter, steps S505 to S510 are repeated. On the other hand, when the longest reception inhibition mode has elapsed (step S510: Yes), the process proceeds to step S601 in FIG.

  In the flowchart of FIG. 6, when shifting from the reception prohibition mode to the reception permission mode (step S506: Yes, step S508: Yes, step S509: Yes, step S510: Yes shown in FIG. 5), the reception prohibition mode data table Referring to 215, it is determined whether or not automatic reception is set (step S601). If there is no automatic reception setting (“No”) (step S601: No), nothing is done and the process returns to step S501 in FIG. 5 and then shifts to the reception permission mode.

  If there is a setting for automatic reception ("Yes") in step S601 (step S601: Yes), it is next determined whether there is a setting for automatic reception execution time (step S602). If the automatic reception execution time is not set (step S602: No), the process proceeds to step S604, and the automatic reception signal is output from the automatic reception signal output unit 213 to the reception unit 204 (step S604). The process returns to step S501 shown in FIG. Then, the reception unit 204 executes automatic reception processing.

  If the automatic reception execution time is set in step S602 (step S602: Yes), it is next determined whether or not the set time has elapsed (step S603). Here, if the set time has not yet elapsed (step S603: No), the process returns to step S501 in FIG. 5 without doing anything, and then shifts to the reception permission mode. Thus, even if automatic reception is set, useless reception processing (such as when only a short time has elapsed since the previous reception processing) is not executed. On the other hand, when the set time has elapsed (step S603: Yes), the process proceeds to step S604, and the automatic reception signal is output from the automatic reception signal output unit 213 to the reception unit 204 (step S604). The process returns to step S501 shown in FIG.

(Appearance of the radio-controlled watch)
7-10 is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the external appearance of the radio-controlled timepiece concerning embodiment of this invention. 7 to 10, the radio-controlled timepiece is composed of a main body 700 and a band (not shown) that is not shown for mounting the main body 700 on, for example, an arm (only a part is displayed and the entire display is omitted). This is a wristwatch-type radio-controlled watch (diver watch). A crown 711 and a plurality of operation buttons 712 and 713 are provided on the outer periphery of the main body 700.

  The display portion of the main body 700 includes a normal hand indicating the normal time (minute hand 701, hour hand 702, second hand 703) and mode hand 704 (reference numeral 804 in FIG. 8, reference numeral 904 in FIG. 9). 1004), a day display 705, a day display 706, a reception inhibition mode (dive) display 707, a previous reception success display 708, a reception in progress display 709, and a previous reception failure display 710.

  In the normal pointer, the second hand 703 rotates in a second cycle, that is, makes one rotation (one round) in 60 seconds. The minute hand 701 rotates in a minute cycle, that is, makes one rotation (one round) in 60 minutes. The hour hand 702 rotates at a time period, that is, makes one rotation (one turn) in 12 hours. The normal time is displayed by these hands (second hand 703, minute hand 701, hour hand 702).

  The second hand 703 indicates a previous reception success display 708, a reception in progress display 709, and a previous reception failure display 710, respectively, when shifting to the standard radio wave reception mode. The previous successful reception display 708 shows a high reception goodness ("H") arranged at the 6-second position, a medium reception goodness ("M") arranged at the 9-second position, and a low reception goodness arranged at the 12-second position ("M"). When the second hand 703 indicates "L"), the previous successful reception status is notified. Similarly, the second hand 703 points to the previous reception failure display (“NO”) 710 disposed at the 55-second position, thereby notifying that the previous reception of the standard radio wave has failed.

  Thereafter, when the reception of the standard radio wave is started, the second hand 703 shifts to a receiving indication (“RX”) 709 arranged at the 0-second position, and stops at that position until the reception of the standard radio wave is completed. Move to normal seconds display. Therefore, if reception fails, the display is not shifted to the receiving display 709, but the normal display is performed.

The date display 705 is displayed at a predetermined position indicated on the date plate by rotating a date plate provided on the lower side of the display plate in a window portion provided at a predetermined position of the display plate (for example, a 15-second position). A number (date) is displayed through the window. 7 to 10, the number “27” is displayed to notify that today is 27th. The window portion of the date display 705 may be another position such as a 20 second position. However, it is desirable that the right half of the display unit, that is, between the 1 second position and the 29 second position.

  The mode hands 704 and 804 indicate the day of the week in a state where one of the day indications 706 is indicated. The day display 706 is displayed inside the day display 705 in FIG. 7, and is displayed on the same circle of the day display 705 in FIG. Accordingly, the lengths of the mode hands 704 and 804 are different.

  The reception prohibit mode (dive) display 707 is arranged near the 45-second position. When the mode is shifted to the reception inhibition mode, the mode hands 704 and 804 stop indicating the day display 706 and rotate in the forward rotation direction (or reverse rotation direction) to indicate the reception inhibition mode (dive) display 707. As a result, the reception prohibit mode is notified. However, the day of the week cannot be displayed during that time.

  The reception prohibition mode (dive) display 707 is not limited to the vicinity of the 45-second position. However, it is desirable that the left half of the display unit, that is, between the 31-second position and the 59-second position. By disposing it at a position distant from the date display 705 and the day display 706, the mode hands 704 and 804 can be noticed to point to the reception inhibition mode (dive) display 707 and can be notified more reliably. For reasons such as this.

  As described above, the display unit 201 can display the time measured by the time measuring unit 202 and can display the reception prohibition mode by the display unit 201. In addition, the display unit 201 includes a calendar display unit (for example, mode hands 704 and 804) that displays a calendar including at least one of a day and a day of the week. The calendar display unit displays the reception-inhibited mode. Can do.

  The following can be considered as advantages of displaying the reception inhibition mode by the calendar display means. That is, it is best to use dedicated display means for display of the reception inhibition mode, but the timepiece becomes large due to an increase in the number of hands, driving wheel trains and motors. Therefore, it is preferable that the display unit 201 also displays the reception prohibit mode. However, when displaying the time, it is extremely difficult to display the prohibit mode while displaying the current time using the minute and second hands. Therefore, by using the calendar display means also for the display of the reception inhibition mode, it is possible to display the reception inhibition mode without stopping the time display.

  In FIGS. 7 and 8, the mode hands 704 and 804 are provided coaxially with the other pointers. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the mode hands 704 and 804 are rotated around an axis different from the other hands. It may be configured.

  In FIG. 9, a main body 700 of the radio-controlled timepiece is provided with a charge amount display (indicator) 901. The charge amount indicator 901 can display the charge amount (remaining amount) of the secondary battery 114 depending on the position indicated by the mode hand 904. Specifically, when the mode hand 904 indicates the position of the “level 0” 901a of the charge amount indicator 901, it is understood that the charge amount is empty and charging is necessary.

Similarly, when the mode hand 904 indicates the position of the “level 1” 901b of the charge amount indicator 901, it is understood that the charge amount is insufficient. Further, when the mode hand 904 indicates the position of the “level 2” 901c of the charge amount indicator 901, it is understood that the charge amount is sufficient. If the mode hand 904 indicates the position of the “level 3” 901d of the charge amount indicator 901, it can be seen that the charge amount is full. In a normal state, the mode hand 904 rotates clockwise when charged, and counterclockwise when power is consumed, thereby displaying the amount of charge.

  In the radio-controlled timepiece in FIG. 9, the reception prohibit mode is displayed using the mode hand 904 for displaying the charge amount. Specifically, when the mode is shifted to the reception prohibition mode, the mode hand 904 rotates clockwise or counterclockwise to indicate the position of the reception prohibition mode (dive) display 707 provided at the 45 second position. . As a result, it can be seen that the mode has shifted to the reception inhibition mode.

  During that time, since the mode hand 904 points to the reception prohibition mode (dive) display 707, the charge amount cannot be displayed by the mode hand 904, but the time display is continued by moving the second hand 703 for 1 second even if the charging is insufficient, for example. Therefore, the operator does not feel uncomfortable.

  Further, when shifting to the reception prohibition mode by the operation of the operator, the operator normally confirms that the mode hand 904 rotates from the charge amount display 901 to the reception prohibition mode (dive) display 707 and shifts. At that time, the operator can inevitably confirm whether or not the charge amount is sufficient by the charge amount display 901. As a result, it is possible to prevent diving in a state of insufficient charging and stopping the function during diving.

  Further, in order to avoid the danger of diving due to the above function stop, when the charge amount is equal to or less than a predetermined amount, the shift to the reception inhibition mode (dive mode) by the operation of the operator may be prohibited. By doing so, even if the operator performs an operation to shift to the reception prohibition mode (dive mode), the mode hand 904 does not rotate from the charge amount display 901 to the reception prohibition mode (dive) display 707, and the charge amount Since it remains in the display 901, the operator can easily recognize that the transition cannot be made due to insufficient charging.

  In addition, it is possible to clearly indicate a state where reception is prohibited due to a decrease in the charge amount. In this way, by displaying the reception prohibition mode when charging is insufficient, it is possible to clearly show the operator that the function during diving cannot be used in that state.

  In FIG. 9, the mode hand 904 is provided coaxially with other pointers, but is not limited thereto, and may be configured to rotate around an axis different from the other pointers. Good.

  In FIG. 10, the radio-controlled timepiece main body 700 is provided with a reception station display 1001 and a reception inhibition mode (OFF) display 1002. The receiving station display 1001 includes “EUR” indicating that a standard radio wave has been received in Europe (mainly Germany and the UK), “JPN” indicating that a standard radio wave has been received in Japan, and that a standard radio wave in China has been received. “CHN” indicating “A” and “USA” indicating that a standard radio wave in the United States has been received are displayed. The mode hand 1004 can easily notify the operator of which receiving station is receiving the standard radio wave by pointing to any display on the receiving station display 1001.

  In the radio-controlled timepiece in FIG. 10, the reception prohibit mode is displayed using the mode hand 1004 that performs the above-mentioned reception station display. Specifically, when the mode is shifted to the reception prohibition mode, the mode hand 1004 rotates clockwise or counterclockwise, and the reception prohibition mode (OFF) provided at a position symmetrical to the reception station display 1001 is provided. The position of the display 1001 is shown. As a result, it can be seen that the mode has shifted to the reception inhibition mode.

  During that time, since the mode hand 1004 indicates the reception prohibition mode (OFF) display 1001, the receiving station display by the mode hand 1004 is not possible, but since the mode has shifted to the reception prohibition mode, where is the receiving station at that time? There is little need to let the operator know if there is. Therefore, the operator does not feel uncomfortable.

  Further, by displaying the reception prohibition mode (OFF) using the mode hand 1004 for displaying the receiving station, the country displayed on the receiving station display 1001 in an area where the standard radio wave is not transmitted (for example, the southern hemisphere). It is possible to confirm that it is not in (region), and it is possible to prevent current consumption due to unnecessary radio wave reception by setting the reception prohibit mode.

  In FIG. 10, the mode hand 1004 is configured to rotate around an axis different from that of the other hands, but is not limited thereto, and may be provided coaxially with the other hands. Good.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, the time measuring unit 202 that measures time, the receiving unit 204 that receives a standard radio wave including time information, and the time measured by the time measuring unit 202 are based on the standard radio wave. And a mode control unit 200 that controls switching between a reception permission mode for permitting reception of standard radio waves and a reception prohibition mode for prohibiting reception of standard radio waves. The reception unit 204 outputs a reception permission signal in the reception permission mode and outputs a reception inhibition signal in the reception inhibition mode. When the reception inhibition signal is input, the reception unit 204 outputs a reception permission signal. Since the standard radio wave reception process is not executed until reception, the standard radio wave reception is definitely prohibited when the time display is required by switching the mode. Both, when the time display is not required, it is possible to reliably perform the reception process and time adjustment process of the standard radio wave.

  Although the wristwatch has been described in the above embodiment, the radio-controlled timepiece includes all types of timepieces such as a wristwatch, a pocket watch, a wall clock, and a table clock. In addition, portable information terminal devices such as cameras, digital cameras, digital video cameras, game machines, mobile phones, PDAs (Personal Digital Assistants), notebook personal computers, etc., which have a pointer-type display function, and home Electronic devices including electrical appliances and automobiles may be used.

  As described above, the present invention is useful for a radio-controlled timepiece, and is particularly suitable for a radio-controlled timepiece used for a diver watch having a diving function.

100 Microcomputer IC
101 RAM
102 ROM
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 103 Motor drive circuit 104 (104a-104c) Motor 106 Reference signal generation part 107 Counter part 110 Reception circuit 111 Switch part 200 Mode control part 201 Display part 202 Time measuring part 203 Time correction part 204 Reception part 205 External operation input member 210 Mode switching Numeral 211 Receiving permission signal output section 212 Reception prohibition signal output section 213 Automatic reception signal output section 214 Reception prohibition mode duration measuring timer 215 Reception prohibition mode data table 700 Radio wave correction clock (main body)
701 Minute hand 702 Hour hand 703 Second hand 704, 804, 904, 1004 Mode hand 705 Day display 706 Day display 707 Reception inhibition mode (dive) display 708 Previous reception successful display 709 Reception in progress 710 Previous reception failure display 711 Crown 712, 713 Operation Button 901 (901a, 901b, 901c, 901d) Charge amount display (indicator) 1001 Reception station display 1002 Reception prohibition mode (OFF) display

Claims (5)

A time measuring means for measuring time;
Receiving means for receiving radio waves including time information;
Time correcting means for correcting the time measured by the time measuring means based on the radio wave including the time information;
Mode control means for controlling switching between a reception permission mode for permitting reception of radio waves including the time information and a reception prohibit mode for prohibiting reception of radio waves including the time information;
With
The mode control means outputs a reception permission signal in the reception permission mode to the reception means, and outputs a reception inhibition signal in the reception inhibition mode,
When the reception prohibition signal is input, the reception means is a radio-controlled timepiece that does not perform reception processing of the radio wave including the time information until the reception permission signal is input.
First display means comprising a normal pointer indicating a normal time measured by the time measuring means;
Second display means different from the first display means;
With
The second display means includes
In the reception inhibition mode, including a reception inhibition mode display means for displaying the reception inhibition mode,
In the reception permission mode, including a charge amount display means for displaying a battery charge amount,
The charge amount display means indicates that the battery charge amount is full by indicating a first predetermined position, and indicates that the battery charge amount is empty by indicating a second predetermined position. And display the reception prohibit mode by indicating the third predetermined position,
The first predetermined position, the second predetermined position, and the third predetermined position are arranged in this order, and
A radio wave characterized in that a distance between the second predetermined position and the third predetermined position is shorter than a distance between the first predetermined position and the third predetermined position in a circumferential direction. Correction clock.   2. The radio-controlled timepiece according to claim 1, wherein the first predetermined position, the second predetermined position, and the third predetermined position are sequentially arranged in a counterclockwise direction.   The radio wave correction timepiece according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the reception inhibition mode display means also serves as a display indicating that the reception inhibition mode is used during diving.   The radio-controlled timepiece according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the second display means uses a pointer member.   The radio wave correction timepiece according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the reception inhibition mode display means exists in a left half area of a display area of the timepiece.

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