DE3112431A1 - Multi-functional digital timepiece - Google Patents

Description

AO

UDO Adolf Schindling AE - 1 - Graefstrasse 103

6000 Frankfurt / Main

G-S Kö-kl

1504

March 23, 1981

Multifunctional digital clock

The invention relates to a watch according to the preamble of claim 1.

At the present by the electronic microcircuits Given the given possibilities, a clock can perform a large number of time-dependent functions, For example, time display in hours, minutes and seconds, display of the date by day of the month, month and lüochentag, time information taking into account the respective a change in latitude or an area with time difference, alarm triggering to a previously set one Time, issue of an alarm after expiry of a previously entered time interval and time measurement. In all these cases, the time counts pulses or time signals, for example by means of a Quartz can be produced. The user has to select the desired function of the functions and then make the appropriate settings for these functions on the clock.

With such clocks sdII the number of the user available print media or others Actuating elements are kept as small as possible. Furthermore, the operation of the clock should be as simple as possible be, uias contradicts the above from the start, because it is easier to assign separate pressure switches to the various functions. Even take away the practical difficulties in operation with the number of functions to be implemented by a watch very quickly.

These difficulties are intended to be eliminated by the invention. It is therefore an object of the invention to provide a to create a multifunctional digital clock and to operate it regardless of the number of functions assigned to it has the greatest possible simplicity.

According to the invention, this object is achieved by the features the Henn sign of claim 1 solved.

In the clock according to the invention, the individual Functions of the clock are effective via a single input element or switched ineffective, whereby the user through the after actuation of the input element on the display device appearing symbols is guided and steered. The user therefore needs with such a watch In contrast to the known clocks an instruction manual, which means that the clock according to the invention at any time can be used to the full. The latter is not the case with the known clocks; comes with these watches the Operating instructions are lost, so extensive and complete use of the watch is only possible by technicians or technically gifted laypeople possible. Another special

the advantage of the clock according to the invention is that that due to the presence of only one Input element the stylistic variation possibilities are much larger and in particular the multifunctional digital clock in its external shape how a normal analog clock can be designed. üJird finally according to an advantageous embodiment the only input element in the form of a capacitive one or inductive sensor and not as a pressure switch, in this way, watches with a particularly interesting aesthetic design can be produced. this applies in the same way to another advantageous embodiment in which the input element as Hlopfsensor is formed.

By the specified in claims 2 "and 3 advantageous Configurations of the clock, the operability is further improved significantly.

So far, entry into the individual settings has been made bzui. leaving them as well as changing the way of working. Other aspects of the invention relate to the sequence of the individual adjustment paths. So it has been found useful that the control center reacts to the last actuation of the input element that was not carried out during certain setting phases while the assigned symbol lights up by switching to the next setting phase reacted. So if the input element is not actuated, the control center switches the one after the other various setting phases are effective or ineffective until the user presses the input element Keeps the desired setting phase activated by him.

As a variant and / or as a supplement to this, it can be more advantageous Way can also be proceeded according to the features of the characterizing part of claim 6. Through this

The usability of the clock is further improved. 5

For the same reason, it is recommended that the control center be used for the actual actuation process changes the symbol assigned to this setting,

'Ό The invention will be explained in more detail with reference to the drawing. The drawing shows a preferred embodiment of the Invention on which further features of the invention laid down in the claims are described. Show it

Figure 1 is a front view of the clock according to the invention, Figure 2 is a block diagram of the clock,

FIG. 3 shows the display device of the clock according to FIG. 1 with all display options,

Figure 3a

the display option seconds, minutes,

Hours of the clock,
25th

Figure 3b

the option to display the date of the clock,

Figure 3c
- ^ the display option of the clock alarm,

Figure 3d

the display option timer of the clock,

Figure 3e

the option to display the time measurement of the clock,

Figure 3f the display option of change in latitude

the clock,

Figure k shows a control sequence in a switching center responding to short and long pulses,

FIG. 5 shows a control sequence for a control center is able to differentiate between the added short and long pulses, 15th

Figure 6a

the sequence of the setting hours-minutes-seconds for a short-term pulse and long-term pulse processing control center, 20

Figure 6b

the sequence of the setting hours-minutes-seconds control center processing a pulse of any duration, 25

Figure 7 shows the process of setting the date,

Figure θ shows the sequence of the setting for alarm, Figure 9 shows the sequence of the setting for timers,

Figure 10a

a simple process of setting for timing,

Figure 1Db

the process of a more complicated setting for timing.

The wristwatch 1 shown in Figure 1 contains a numeric display 14 and an input element 12. Die Numerical display 14 comprises three groups, each with ziuei Digits and is advantageously used as a liquid crystal display educated. The individual digits

1D each consist of seven segments with the exception of one digit pair and its alphanumeric digits are made up of nine or sixteen segments, making the day of the week indicated by two letters can be. As indicated in FIG. 1, a second display 14a with three pairs of digits each can be provided in which the alphanumeric character SA for "Saturday" can be seen on the right.

Which can be seen from the block diagram of Figure 2, the wristwatch consists essentially of a time base 10 containing a quartz, a control center 11, the input element 12, a battery 13 and a display device 14, possibly with a second Display device 14a. The battery 13 is used to supply power the time base 10, the control center 11 and the Display devices 14 and 14a.

The display device 14 contains a first pair of digits with a tens digit EZC and a unit digit EEC, a second pair of digits with a tens digit ZZC and one digit ZEC and a third pair of digits DC, either in tens and ones or in Letters are designed to indicate the day of the week.

The display device also contains symbols for displaying the mode of operation displayed in each case. That Symbol to display the working mode hours-minutes-seconds consists of two light points FSI. For the alarm mode of operation there is a display FS2 in the form of a stylized bell present. To display the mode of operation Time measurement is a symbol FS3 in the form of a stylized runner and to indicate the working method Timer a symbol FS * t in the form of a stylized Dial present. The working method Date (day of the month, Month and day of the week) is the missing function symbol as well as the two in this embodiment Letters identifying the day of the week are recognizable. Of course a symbol for the date can also be provided will. If you look at each mode of operation individually, you can see the functions of the control center 11 must take over in order to provide the appropriate display for each mode of operation. These functions can both from a discrete circuit

2D as well as from a microchip.

The main problem lies with the interventions of the user: This must first be able to select one of the working methods as the output function, and then the one for each Make the required settings for the function in progress to be able to. In addition, these interventions should be largely without too complicated operation and very quickly while avoiding possible errors or incorrect entries are made. Despite great efforts in the optimal attachment of snaps in the case of the known wristwatches as well as in finding out the cheapest use of the reminder signs for their functioning, are the well-known wristwatches

problematic in their practical application, Especially when they have numerous functions should meet.

In the present invention, all commands can be made through a single input element. That The input element can be designed so that it can be actuated mechanically or in such a way that a contact creates a thermal resistance lowers, which triggers a signal. Another option is to use a optical input element in which a movement of the finger causes a change in a phototransistor is caused. Another possibility is to control it with an acoustic Make a signal, for example by triggering a buzzing sound by pressing a finger on the wristwatch to which the control center responds.

As can be seen from Figure 3, the display contains 2D device 14 a series of additional symbols. One of these symbols, namely the symbol IS1, is a question mark trained and shows expectations when excited. Other symbols show the digit display position so that the symbol AEZC the tens of the first group of digits, the symbol AEEZ the one of the first group of digits, the symbol AZZC the tens of the second group of digits, the symbol AZEC the one of second group of digits and the symbol ADC the third Group of digits. Finally, further additional symbols stand for the remaining additional phases, namely the symbol IS2 for start, the symbol IS3 for stop, the symbol ISIf for multiple time, the symbol IS5 for BACK, the Symbol IS6 for reading and the symbol IS7 for back

- / - ir

set to IMuIl (OD).

The embodied in a microchip switching center 11 normally operates in a self-contained main loop h of the two different embodiments in the figures and are shown. 5 This main control loop is exited on command in order to enter a setting path. Ultimately, however, priority interruptions in between can occur at any moment.

1D come to either one supplied by the time base enter new local time or give the user a To give operating display. In an advantageous manner is a brief interruption lasting about half a second provided so that certain parts of the display device can send out light commands.

The control center 11 thus remains constant over time and keep the user's input up to date.

These inputs are given to the control center 11 by the input element 12. Entering the commands The input element 12 can be used by pressing the input element briefly or for a longer period of time, or in that each time the input element is actuated, regardless of its duration, a command is entered he follows.

Figure h shows a functional sequence of a control center 11, which can differentiate between short-term and long-term pulses. As can be seen, it is a closed control loop, the beginning of which is designated as the starting point. (The starting up of the wristwatch is not intended to be of interest here, which is an introduction as well

an accelerated initial pass over the adjustment path at least the real time hours-minutes-seconds heard.)

The main point begins with the test ^ 10 for the case that the bell (alarm trigger) is in operation. if yes, a (short or long) actuation of element 411 can set the bell 412 and the alarm symbol or the timer indicator (illuminated symbol that appears during the Operation always lights up, as will be shown) must be switched off. Caused in one case as in the other a short operation of the element 413 a step-by-step change of the mode of operation. The ways of working are here won 5 to 0 inclusive numbered according to the working methods Hours-minutes-seconds, date, alarm trigger, timer, time measurement and hours-minutes-seconds with temporal shift by changing the latitude.

With this decrementation phase 414, which is repeated each time the control loop is run, the user can select the respective Determine the way of working.

Then the tests 445 to 440 inform the control center according to the current operating mode about the corresponding display processes 455 to 450, which can be implemented by common functions.

The control center runs through with normal functioning, i.e. without interruption by the user, always the fully marked main path and shows the current working method as well as the seconds at every interruption linked to the real time.

If the input element is pressed briefly, registered that the control center pulls a change with the aid of test 414 as an interruption and v / all the ongoing working method. If the user presses the input element for a long time, the control center leaves 11, on the other hand, the expectation symbol after the end of the test 415 IS1 or '?' light up (it actually lights up an adjacent "sign", which in turn is the actual symbol for

1D lights up). A second long print 417 in the subsequent 5 seconds 418 then leads to the Tests 425 to 42G across. Thereupon the control center steps in a setting. Before / before or after the Tests, phase 419 clears the '?' Character. And the control center 11 decides based on the test result the current operation between the adjustment paths 435 to 43D for the next adjustment path.

With a first long actuation 415, which is in the 2G five seconds after the '?' Symbol lights up no second long actuation 417 follows, step 418 (yes) switches to the starting point.

FIG. 5 illustrates the second case in which the actuations of the element are independent of the length of time be registered. In this case, the invention offers an interesting variant.

Phases 510 to 512 are run through as before, phases 410 to 412 for the event that the alarm device / bell is in operation.

The "first actuation" test then begins at 513 of the input element. Because this confirmation has taken place, the symbol '?' Lights up under 514 on. If the input element is operated too far (515, yes) within 3 seconds, the control center leaves the symbol '?' light up and occurs after tests 525 to 52D in that setting of the setting 535 to 530, the corresponds to the work in progress. ! Do this As before, the process returns you to the starting point.

If no second actuation is carried out (515, no), the control center 11 lets the operating mode change step by step and the symbol '? · (phase 516) light up, in order then, after the tests 545 to 540, to the display processes of the respective running work items (555 to 550) to pass.

In this variant, the control center 11 then changes over to the control loop shown in bold. the Actuation of the input element causes you to suggest a setting to the user. If he rejects this Adjustment path, the working mode is simply changed and restarted on the main page. If the User a too side actuation of the input ELEMENT within 3 seconds after the symbol illuminates '?' carries out, the control center then enters one of the setting paths described below.

The interest will now focus on the setting hours-minutes-seconds direction, which depends on whether the control center adds a short-term pulse and a display pulse

(FIG. 6A) cannot distinguish between ader (FIG. 6B).

In Figure 6A are shown in dashed lines Field 4GD notes the phases after the starting point, which are already framed in dashed lines in FIG. Through it, the user can opt for another Working method or for entering the setting decide. Thus one arrives at the phase (FIGS. 4 and 6A), which is the beginning of the actual Settings hours-minutes-seconds highlighted.

First, the control center in phase 60, Route section 601, under the first tens place the indicator AEZC light up (FIG. 3), and at least at least for five seconds (604). A short-term impulse

(602) Dird converted into an increase in hours at the Tens digit, and preferably by a unit / Hour per operation. A long-term pulse (605) is produced implemented in the deletion of the symbol AEZC (606) and the return to the starting point.

In the other case, the hours are increased on the Tens as soon as the short-term impulses are within successive at least 5 second intervals, m while the control center clears the AEZC indicator if there is no short-term impulse and points to the skips next phase 61. (Although the deletion of AEZC means the end of phase 60, it was under 611 in order not to complicate the scheme unnecessarily to design).

Phase 611 is just like the previous one this time at the first ones place (the ones place

for hours in this way of working); numerically, the corresponding sections form ten units. After a possible setting of the hour units, phase 62 begins for the tens of minutes. Here, too, everything still takes place in the same way, with the exception that every change in the minutes in the tens is expressed in the interruption of the real time (623). The seconds counting is therefore interrupted for this mode of operation and the numeric display for seconds is reset ^{to 1} DO ^1. It is therefore advantageous not to return to the starting point after a long-term pulse, at least if there is a change in the tens digit for minutes.

Changes in units digit for minutes are made through phase (63), which is generally how the phase (62) takes place.

3ε after whether the units or tens for minutes have been changed or not, the test 640, which precedes or follows the deletion of the symbol AZEC (units digit of the minutes), allows the recording of the real time or a direct return to the starting point.

When the real time is taken up again, he leaves A LJartesymbol light up in the circuit, which is either the expectation attitude symbol ΙΞ1 or '?' is equivalent to. The real time is only taken up again (644), after a short or long actuation pulse on the input element has occurred (643). The signs of the times

basis are then used in the interruption phases used to display seconds, minutes and hours.

An important aspect of the invention is shown in FIG. 6A highlighted, which consists in the fact that the circuit is initially in each phase of a setting lights up one of the additional symbols provided, which shows the user the ones suggested for this phase Setting indicates. The circuit then reacts depending on whether the input element is operated or not.

FIG. 6B shows a variant of the setting range hours-minutes-seconds for the case that between short-term and long-term pulses are not differentiated.

As a result, the direct exits after long-term impulses from the adjustment path as in 605, 606 or 615, 616 (Figure 6A) are no longer possible.

Apart from this, FIG. 6B could correspond to FIG. 6A.

However, it was preferred to have one entirely in Figure 6B to show other variants. According to FIG. 6A, lights up for each numerical setting phase, such as for the number 60, the numeric display icon, used by the control center is not changed as long as the input element is not actuated. The reverse is true in FIG. 6B Example illustrates. Here, the first actuation of the input element causes the previous

beaten setting process.

This is how the hour-minute-second setting process begins (535) in Figure 6B after the starting point and the sections 5DG, which are in the dashed frame of Figure 5 are shown, also with the phase 66, which relates to the first tens and in this mode of operation corresponds to the hours.

According to section 651, the indicator AEZC lights up at this point (FIG. 3). If on this within If the input element is actuated after 2 seconds, there is an immediate jump to the following position (indicator AEEC for the unit digits of the hours), i.e. on section 661 of phase 66, and so on on the Tens and the units for minutes. In this way, the user can find the desired one in eight seconds Determine the setting process.

When the user comes to section 652, If the input element is not actuated within 2 seconds, the control center will leave it under the tens The AEZC symbol flashes for hours in section 653. If the user presses the input item during the flashing of this new proposal actuated (654), so the tens for the hours are changed (655). As before, the change is preferably made Step by step in such a way that for each pulse delivered to the input element the increase by a unit is effected. The change can also be made in another way, such as by defined time intervals, taking into account how long the user presses the input element.

As soon as the input element has not been actuated for 5 seconds is, the control center jumps to the next phase 66, that is to the units for Hours. This phase begins with section 661. 5

The same process is repeated whenever the User refrains from pressing the input element within the 2 seconds during which each of the Numeric display symbols is displayed continuously.

As before, any change will be in the tens (675) or units digits (685) for minutes advantageously from an interruption in the passage of real time and resetting the second hand to IMuIl accompanied.

After deleting the last numeric symbol (AZEC) in section 691, you will either go straight to the starting point switched back or, if the minute display has changed, after resuming of real time through sections 692 to 694 corresponding to sections 642 to 644 of Figure 6A corresponding, returned to the starting point.

So far, when entering the effective control loop (such as with 653) the transition from the uninterrupted Description of how to light up to blink with the same symbol. Any other change can of course also be made of the symbol, such as an addition, emphasis or replacement.

The variant of Figure 6B can be used, provided that there is a short and long term acting on the element.

time pulses is differentiated. In this case it will skipping the setting process to phases 652, 662, 672 and 682 by means of a long-term pulse and the reverse setting process (654, 664, 674 and 684) by means of a short-term pulse or the other way around.

It should also be noted that the symbol changes (653, 663, 673, 683) are not necessary.

FIG. 7 shows the setting path of the date within the scope of the distinction made in FIG. 4 between Short-term / long-term pulses. The first four phases 7G to 73 refer to the first four digits of the Display device 14 calculated from the left, and bring the display symbols AEZC, AEEC, AZZC and AZEC into play. Phases 7D and 71 go exactly like that phases 60 and 61 in FIG. 6A, with the only one The difference is that the meaning of the digits changes (the how many or day of the month instead of the Hours). The other phases 72 and 73 take place like the former and give the month itself (digits from 1 to 12). Pay attention to the reset options to the starting point at 726 and 736.

The day of the week can finally be set by the last phase 74, for which purpose the display symbol of the third and last pair of digits ADC (Figure 3) is used. üYears these digits when working Hours-minutes-seconds denoted the seconds, they now stand for the day of the week, either through Digits from 0 to 6 or from 1 to 7, or preferably by two clearly identifiable

bare letters created by a special composition the digits D to 6 are formed. Such a coding can also be in several Languages (e.g. for Monday in French LU and in German MO).

The very last phase 76 runs like the previous phases, with the difference that the increase phase 743 concerns both alphanumeric digits at the same time and is used to display letters, as well as that the on A reset phase following a long operating impulse, which is hardly of any use here, is not provided.

At least for the display of the letters of the day of the week, phase 743 must be set according to operating mode 7, in order to be able to switch back from 0 to 6 and then to 0 for a new start, for example. In this case, the coding ensures a cyclical display of the days of the week without interruption; which looks like this in French: DI ₁ LU, MA, ME, JE, UE ,. SAT, TUE, etc ..

So it is desirable to have one of the respective numeric Phase adequate periodic or "working mode" counter at least better than relying on the user to see for themselves that the numbers 13 and 14 cannot stand for a month. For the hour this period is 12 or 24, and for minutes and seconds at 60. For the days of the week it must be set to 7, for the months to 12 and for specifying the date of the month it can be can be set to 31, with the display operations 454 or 554 noted in FIGS. 4 and 5 indicating the day automatically adjust to the current month. It

However, it can also be provided that the day of the month is corrected with the setting of the month in the course of the date setting path shown in FIG.
5

The variant in Figure 5 is easy to use in the date setting, provided the long reset pulses 705, 706; 715, 716; 726 and 735, 736 are prevented. The adjustment path for the date can also be changed in the same way uierden that the user can quickly pre-select the Phase or phases he can use effectively as can be seen in Figure 6B (small control loop for sections 651, 652, 661, 662, 671, 672, 681 and 682).

The further adjustment paths are described below with reference to FIG. 5, with no distinction being made between short-term and long-term pulses. These adjustment paths can be applied immediately to the figure h , and either to a short-term pulse or a long-term pulse, or to react to both at the same time instead of the pure and simple actuation pulse as used in FIG.

With the figure B, on which initially the one listed in FIG Block setting process selection 500 is shown, one arrives at the setting path alarm triggering 533. This setting path first has the phase 89, the lighting up 890 of the expectation symbol or the Symbols '?' includes before it is determined whether the user e'wants to enter a new alarm time in hours-minutes-seconds or, on the contrary, already wants to retain or delete the triggered alarm time.

3112A31

Test 891 checks whether the element is within van is pressed for 3 seconds, then the Symbol '?' turn off.

In one case (e.g. when the input element is activated) a four-digit Time can be specified, of which e.g. two digits can stand for hours and zujei for minutes. The setting of these digits can be done by any of the previously described procedures (Figures 6A and 6B, respectively). In the example illustrated in FIG. 8, digits are introduced same LJeise as in Figure 6A, the exit from the The control loop is not carried out by a long-term pulse, since the duration is not determined in this case can be. In the other case (i.e. input element not actuated) the answer "no" applies to the test 891 executes test 840 to determine whether alarm monitoring is taking place (this is indicated by a two-digit Memory number or a "character"). You will find that after hiring you the digits for an alarm time are referred back to test 840.

If the alarm is not yet valid (the monitoring her), i.e. if the user has set an Ideck hour but has not yet triggered the alarm the control center (11) lights up the START symbol (851) and thus also the START symbol IS2 (Figure 3).

Test 852 checks whether the input element is actuated within 3 seconds and then

turn off the START symbol. If there is no operation, SD causes the return to the starting point (one final pass through the setting Alarm without actuation of the input element in section 891 allows the alarm trigger if desired to be set again later).

However, the user should enter the input element within Press for 3 seconds to activate the alarm set what is communicated to an already mentioned bit by the memory memory. The user This is preferably informed by the fact that the bell of the symbol FS2 (FIG. 3) is now from Rays surround uiird (as shown in Figure 3).

While the alarm is being set, the alarm symbol lights up continuously, regardless of whether with or without rays.

But as soon as the rays light up (or on another Uleise it is indicated that the alarm has been triggered is set), the alarm symbol continues to flash after leaving the Alarm setting path.

The test BitO is used again to detect the case of the Check the alarm monitoring that has already been set. The control center then activates at 861 STOP sign, which in turn causes the symbol to light up STOP or IS3 causes (Figure 3). If the user does not intervene, it switches back to the starting point. üIf he presses the input element within 3 seconds actuated, the alarm trigger is switched off and is no longer monitored from now on; besides, that goes out Alarm symbol (but the selected alarm time remains

311 2A31

registered numerically). The STDP symbol goes out ωϊε the START symbol after 3 seconds. The waiting time in this case, however, can be set to more than 3 seconds if desired. 5

Figure 9 shows the setting of the mode of operation Timer, which is very similar to the alarm working mode and ujohl also has the same variants. üJie before can specify the user through a first phase 99 from he wants to make a new change to the timer. If so, he actuates the input element and can go through phases 90 to 93 (which correspond to phases 80-B3) define the time difference in hours and minutes.

Thereupon Dder if the element at 991 is not actuated Then test 94D determines whether a time count is occurring (Illumination of the "Timer" sign or message

. . to a witness bit through the memory memory). if if this is not the case, the control center at 951 lights up the start sign for 3 seconds or more. Pressing the input element starts the time counting and completes the symbol Timer (adding rays, or better yet, locomotion the pointer of the clock face, including the symbol FS4, Figure 3).

If the time count has already started, the control center lights up the STOP sign at 961 for 3 seconds.
30th

When the user presses the input element for just as long (962) so he can stop the time counting, whereupon the control center displays the timer symbol (963).

As with the alarm mode, it flashes with continuous Time counting the symbol timer - completed by mobile pointers - after exiting the Set the timer to continue.

With the alarm mode, an alarm clock or bell is used triggered as soon as the real time in hours and minutes has reached the set point in time. In the timer mode, this bell is triggered, as soon as the set in hours and minutes

1D time interval was obtained. The functions required in one case as in the other are known (counting and / or digit comparison). These functions are attached to each of the display phases 450 to 455 shown in FIG. K and the display phases 550 to 555 shown in FIG. The bell is switched off at the beginning of the selection / adjustment path phase (400 or 500): While the bell is in motion, it can be switched off by pressing the input element, whereby the flashing symbols alarm (FS2) or timer (FS4) stop flashing .

However, a maximum ringing duration can also be provided the automatic switch-off then possibly prevented by an intervention of the user can be.

In the following we should be interested in the adjustment path of the time measurement mode. Complete and therefore preferable is the figure 10B, but first a simpler variant is to be described with reference to figure 10A will. It is assumed that the actuation pulses occurring on the input element regardless of the Perceived duration.

Figure 1DA shows the existence of a single stopwatch with a single start and a single Stop.

After it was determined at 1GD1A and 1GD2A, Db a Time measurement expires or a time measurement has already been entered, the control center will follow up for negative answers to the actual section "single stopwatch".

First, it lets the BACK IS5 symbol (Figure 3) light up for 3 seconds. LJ becomes the input element If pressed within these 3 seconds, the control center only runs through the Start 1 * tO phase (that of the following phase start 120 described corresponds), in order to then return to the starting point.

If the input element ui while the The BACK symbol is not activated, the control center moves first the START 120 phase and then the STOP 130 phase (complete time measurement carried out immediately) .

In the "Start" phase 120, the symbol lights up at 1201A Start until the input element at 1202 A is actuated. After this action the timing begins, üjorauf the stopwatch symbol FS3 (Figure 3) a change or undergoes completion and e.g. the runner's legs begin to move. 30th

A special counter is set by the time measurement, the reading by an interruption Allowed at any second (or at your request to everyone

tenths or hundredths of a second).

In the "Stop" phase 130, the symbol lights up at 1301 STOP until the input element is actuated at 1302. The time measurement is then ended, whereupon the stopwatch symbol FS3 returned to its original state Takes shape (legs at rest). The measured time is saved and displayed.

Then the control center lights up the symbol for the reset to zero (IS7 or ¹ OO 'Figure 3). Because the user actuates the input element, the time is deleted and the starting position is resumed. If he does not press it, the time is saved and the starting position is also resumed.

In this second case, which a special symbol, not shown, can remind the user, if this is the case, he is able to make a final pass through the TIME MEASUREMENT setting. After this the test 1002A gave the answer YES, the stopped Read the time. To do this, the circuit leaves the READ (IS6, Figure 3) symbol at 1601 for 3 seconds light up for a long time, and after pressing the input element (1602) within this time, the measured Time given (1603). The circuit will then illuminate the reset to zero symbol (IS7) at 160 * t. If the input element (1605) is actuated during this lighting up, which also lasts for 3 seconds, the stored time is deleted (1606). If the input element is not actuated and the deletion process is omitted, so the saved time can be used for a new

Pass found again.

üJir come back to the case in which the user through phase 140 has only entered the start. In this FbII results in a new run through the Zeitmessungseinstellueg a positive answer to the Test 1001A. The control center then jumps directly to the STOP 13Q phase (STOP section; time measurement) over, and the rest proceeds in the manner described above.

In the example shown in Figure 10B, the is preferable, moreover, several processes can be measured starting from the same starting time have multiple stop times. In general, the sections appearing in FIG. 10A bear the same here Designation, only the letter B is added instead of the letter A and there is no new one Description.

Initially, the answer to tests 1001B and 1002B is negative, and the circuit at 1004 illuminates the symbol UF or Umulti-time measurement ISk (Figure 3) for 3 seconds. If the input element is not actuated within this time, the control center switches off the symbol and goes to the EIIMZELZEITMESSUIMG section, which has already been described with reference to Figure 10A. If the user actuates the input element, depending on the number of actuations (1005) or the duration of the actuation, which in turn determines the number of desired time measurements (1006), for DC (Fig. 3), for example, a number is displayed. The control center then displays the symbol UF (for reasons of simplification, this section is not shown in the figure.

set) to RETURN to the phase? to skip over, via sections 11GDB and 11D1B, and others correspond to the same sections of Figure 10A.

If the user wants to proceed in two times and enters the reset, the control center only goes back to the START phase (1401B, 1402B, 1403B). Otherwise, the control center carries out the START phase (1201B, 1202B, 1203B) and then the same number of STOP phases how times are measured (1301B, 1302B, 1303B, 1304 no, 1311 no, etc.). You will find that in this case the time measurement is not set by phase 13D3 B, but only intermediate times during of the measurement can be saved and displayed each time.

Only when all times have been stopped (1304 yes), if the control center (at 1305) stops timing, brings the runner's legs to rest (Symbol FS3, Figure 3) and lights up the symbol Read ISG. With each actuation of the input element

(1306) the control center shows the saved times

(1307) in order until none are left. It then proposes the deletion of the times (1308), which is triggered when the input element is actuated (1309) becomes (1310) .- Then a return is made to the starting point.

In the event that the user entered a deferral test 1001B gives a positive answer. For a single time measurement, the answer is to test 1007 no, and the circuit carries out the sequence STOP EIiMZELZEIT-MESSUIMG as in FIG. 10A by. If there are multiple times, the answer is

on test 1007 yes, and the circuit returns to Section 1301B returns to carry out a STOP phase and to store the chronometric Make times. As long as not all times entered have been stopped (1304 no), this has the effect the test 1311 a return to the starting point (because a BACK was hypothetically entered originally). After all times have been stopped, the control center suggests the reading and the Deletion before.

When the times - all stopped - have not been erased they can be read using test 1002B (answer yes) following the READ SINGLE TIME MEASUREMENT sequence are as in Figure 10A or more like in the sections 130S to 1310, so with as much Readings such as times are stored.

The user thus has the option between measurements one line of several times from one and the same starting time. He can also - for shorter times - run Start and Stop one after the other. He knows the times can also be determined separately after performing other functions on the watch in between permit. In such a case, the stop time or times are determined one after the other, each time is returned to the timing control path. It will be found that only a few Actuations of the input element are necessary, which can be done very quickly. And if desired, the reading can be the measured time or times take place at any time. The saved times must be made by the user deleted before each new time measurement, whereby the

it must be noted that there is also another operating method can be provided.

In the following, FIGS. 3A to 3F will be discussed in more detail, the illustration of the for each Function of newly added symbols enables a better understanding of the invention.

When working with IMr. 5 (Figure 3A) is the order Recognize hours, minutes and seconds as well as two points between hours and minutes. Once a An alarm, a minute display or a time measurement expires, the corresponding (completed) symbol flashes. The same applies to the multi-time measurement symbols (UF) and postponement (ZUR). Finally, in the adjustment path of the mode of operation no. 5 also appear one after the other the indicators under each of the digits hours and minutes and possibly the symbol '?', if the minutes have been set differently.

With mode no. K (Figure 3B), the date appears with the day of the month (here 1 **), the month (here 1 for January) and the day of the week (here LU for lundi = Monday). The blink symbols are the same as in Figure 3A.

However, when setting the operating mode IMr. k appear a fifth indicator under the specified day of the week, as the symbol '?' is not needed.

With mode of operation no. 3 (Figure 3C), the alarm 3G lights up symbol (alarm clock) continuously on (with or without rays, depending on whether the alarm trigger is set or not). The display shows the time in hours and minutes at which the alarm should be triggered.

When setting, the symbol '? ■ and the indicators under the hours and minutes appear one after the other, and then the symbols Start (STA) and STOP. In the end the minute hand, stopwatch, back and multi-time hand symbols may flash.

When working with IMr. 2 things are the same as with the IMr way of working. 3, with the exception that this time the timer symbol (dial) uninterrupted lights up and the alarm symbol (bell with rays) only flashes if a - set - alarm time is being monitored.

With mode no. 1, the stopwatch symbol (runner) lights up continuously. When a time is measured, the runner's legs move and the time covered is displayed in hours, minutes and seconds (or in the variant minutes, seconds and hundredths of a second). The (completed) alarm and timer symbols may flash, as well as the return (ZUR) and multi-time display (WF) symbols. During the adjustment path, the multi-timer (UF), back (ZUR), start (STA), STOP, reading (ABL) and reset to zero ( ¹ OO ¹ ) symbols can flash continuously.

In the way of working (Mr. 0 finally becomes a Change of latitude caused daylight saving time displayed while at the same time the corresponding symbol lights up (stylized airplane). The alarm, timer, stopwatch icons (all completed to indicate that the respective working method is in progress) as well as the

Multi-timer and the back icon may flash. The adjustment path of the mode of operation IMr. 0, the is not described, changes the hours and possibly the tens of the minutes (For some time zones, the time interval is half an hour). The changeover takes place in the Setting procedure for hours-minutes-seconds in any of its variants, but only those are lit here first three digit indicators.

The preceding description introduced a combination of functions in many ways, the detailed implementation of which has never been explained before, it being important to note that this implementation either by a discrete circuit or by a microprocessor and empty Memory storage or any other facility for Processing of such signals can be done.

Incidentally, the present invention is not limited to the implementation farms described are limited. So can e.g. in the case shown in Figure 1, in which the two displays 1't and 14A are provided are, the simultaneous display of two modes of operation take place, especially the permanent display Hours-minutes-seconds at 1 £ t, and the display any of the other functions at will at 14A. On the other hand, you can also attach a Light bulbs are provided to turn on the liquid crystal display at night to illuminate, either by operating the same input element as before or with Help another button.

- 4 M.

You will also find that the additional symbols marked with IS can practically all occur in alphanumeric form (the symbol '?' Can also be used in
written form, e.g. as MDGL for "possibility", even if this is not absolutely desirable). An interesting variant of the invention consists in using one or more alphanumeric character sets which can gradually display at least some of the additional symbols, and in addition either one each time or at the same time. Here too
the display language can be selected as desired by simply changing this position in the memory memory (coding). In this way it is possible to avoid changing the indicators themselves.

Claims (21)

UDD Adolf Schindling AG - 1 - Graefstrasse 103 6DDD Frankfurt / Main G-S Kfi-kl 1504 March 23, 1981 Claims My watch with a display device with a number of numeric and alphanumeric digits as well Function display symbols, operating elements for the user, a time base and a Control center, once based on van van der Signals originating from the time base provides an indication of the real time, on the other hand Input command any way of working under several predetermined working methods 1D takes, from the group that special the working modes display of the real time (hours, minutes, seconds; date of the month, day of the month and day of the week; time change when the Latitude), monitoring of a selected point in time (alarm triggering at a specific point in time the real time; Timer) and time measurement, finally also on command the for each of the specified working methods required Carries out setting processes which determine 2D of the numerical time values as well as precise times comprises, characterized in that the display device has a series of additional symbols (AEZC, AEEC; AZZC, AZEC; ADC; IS1) which are at least suitable to display expectations (ISO and to indicate a group of display points on individual veins that the Control center (11) normally carries out one of the modes of operation (450 to 455; 550 to 555) and the mode of operation is changed in stages on command (414; 516) that the control center (11) is able to change the setting on command (430 to 435; 530 to 535) to go through, each of which all, the respective working method associated setting phases in a sequence comprises that the control center (11) only has a setting path after a first actuation (415; 513) of a single input element (12) by the user, to which the control center (11) briefly shows the expectation symbol (ΙΞ1 or '?') In the sense a lighting up and after a second actuation (417, 515) of the input element (12), which must take place during the temporary lighting up, and that the control center (11) at each setting phase of each setting path initially lets one of the additional symbols light up (AEZC, AEEC, AZZC, AZEC; ADC; IS1; ΙΞ2; IS3; IS% to ΙΞ7), which gives the user the suggested adjustment path and for implementation or IMicht implementation the actual setting procedure only after at least one further actuation of the Input element (12) responds. 2. Clock according to claim 1, characterized in that the control center (11) is designed to differentiate between the short-term pulses and long-term pulses entered by the input element (12), that said first and second actuations of the input element (12) for the selection of the adjustment path Long-term pulses are, and that the control center (11) switches to the next mode of operation by a first brief actuation of the input element (12). 3. Clock according to claim 2, characterized in that the further actuation or actuations (602, 612 Figure 6A) of the input element (12) to which the control center (11) reacts in each setting phase, are short-term pulses, and that the control center (11 ) reacts in certain setting phases to a further long-term actuation (605, 615) of the input element (12) by omitting the currently effective setting path. 4. Clock according to claim 1, characterized in that the control center (11) in the absence of a second actuation (515, Figure 5) of the input element (12) during the brief flashing (514) of the expectation symbol (IS1 or ■? ') responds by switching to the next mode of operation (516). 5. Clock according to one of claims 1 to k, characterized in that the control center (11) in certain setting phases (60 to 63, Figure 6A) on the not taking place last actuation of the Gabeelements (12) during the temporal lighting up of the assigned symbol reacts by switching to the next setting phase. 6. Clock according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the control center (11) in certain setting phases (65 to 68, Figure 6B) to an actuation (652) of the input element (12) during the temporal lighting of the associated-1D th symbol (AEZC) reacts by switching to the next setting phase (66), when (non-actuation of the input element (12), however, by entering (653) into the actual setting process. 7. Clock according to claim 6, characterized in that the control center (11) upon entry (653) in the actual adjusting process changes the symbol associated with this adjustment path. Θ. Clock according to one of Claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the control center (11) for the setting (435, Figure 6A; 535, Figure 6B) of the operating mode display of the real time (hours, minutes, seconds) the setting phases for the hours (60, 61; 65, 66) and for the minutes (62, 63; 67, 68) and that it interrupts the actual time in seconds when the minutes (623, 633; 675, 685) are changed, and finally the expectation symbol (IS1 or '? ■) lets the real time continue only after the input element (643; 693) has been actuated (644; 694). 9. Clock according to one of claims 1 to 8, the display device of which has three groups with two digits each, characterized in that the additional symbols individually (AEZC, AEEC, AZZC, AZEC, Figure 3) display each digit in two of these groups and summarized (ADC ) the two digits of the third group, which indicate the date of the respective day of the week. 1G 10. Watch according to any of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the display device (14) comprises an additional symbol (ΙΞ2) with the meaning START and in that the switching center (11) for the setting of at least one of the operations of alarm (533) or timer (532) from the phase for the setting a number goes out (80 to 83, Figure 8; 90 to 93, Figure 9) and then goes to a phase START (85, 95) in which the symbol START lights up (851; 951) wherein the control center (11) only then begins to carry out the mode of operation (853; 953), if the input element (12) was only activated after the START symbol began to light up (852, 952). 11. Clock according to claim 10, characterized in that the control center (11) makes at least one of the modes of operation alarm and timer at the same time with the implementation of the mode of operation a change of the operating mode associated symbol (FS2; FS4), the changed symbol at least continues to light up in some cases after the adjustment path has been omitted. 12. Clock according to one of claims 10 and 11, characterized in that the display device (14) has an additional symbol (ΙΞ3) with the meaning STOP and that the control center (11) when setting the work iron alarm or timer after the START phase (85 ; 95) allows a STOP phase (86; 9S) to run, during which the STOP symbol (861; 961) lights up temporarily, the input element (12) being actuated while the STOP symbol lights up in order to carry out ■ the operating mode ( 863; 963). 13. Clock according to one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the display device has an additional symbol START (IS2) and an additional symbol STOP (ΙΞ3) and that the control center (11) in the adjustment path of the operation time measurement from the phase START (1201) goes out when the START symbol (1201) lights up, with a time measurement only taking place if the input element (12) is pressed after the START symbol has started to light up, and then into a STOP phase (130) when the STOP symbol lights up at the same time (1301) occurs, the time measurement being interrupted only when the input element (1302) is actuated after the STOP symbol has started to light up. 14. Clock according to claim 13, characterized in that the control center (11) before the 'START phase (120) can briefly light up the symbol BACK (1100) that it does not operate the input element (12) during this lighting up to the START phase (12D) and then to the phase STOP (130) passes and that when the input element (12) is actuated during the lighting up the BACK symbol only advances to the START phase (120) and the STOP phase (130) only in an advanced phase (1001) of the adjustment path of the time measurement operating mode occurs. 15. Clock according to one of claims 13 and 14, characterized in that the control center (11) is able to store at least one measured time interval that the display device (14) READ additional symbols (ΙΞ6) and DELETE (ΙΞ7) and that the control center (11) can briefly light up the READING symbol (1601) when the time interval is stored (1002) when running through the setting of the time measurement operating mode, whereby an actuation of the on 2D transfer element (1602) while the READING the symbol triggers a brief display (1603) of the stored time interval and then briefly the DELETE symbol (1604) lights up, with an actuation of the input element (1605) while the DELETE symbol is lit, a deletion (1606) of the stored time interval entails. 16. Watch according to any of claims 13 to 15, characterized in that the display device an additional symbol (IS4) with the significance UIELFACHZEIT that the switching center (11) on the adjustment path of the operation time measurement, a pre- -B- phase to briefly display the MUCH-FACHZEIT (1004) to light up, wherein when the input element (12) is actuated during the number of times when the MULTIPLE TIME symbol lights up the times to be measured (1006) is entered and then the control center (11) as many STDP phases can run, while during Wicht actuation of the input element (12) when the MULTIPLE TIME symbol lights up, the control center (11) only starts a single phase and a single STOP phase with: performing a single time measurement. 17. Watch according to any of claims 1 t * and 16, characterized in that certain additional symbols (ISi * or multiple time; ΙΞ5 or Back) at least partially by V / adopted remain excited the adjustment path. 18. Clock according to one of claims 13 _w to 17, characterized in that the control center (11) on the setting of the time measurement operating mode while stopping the time (1203) makes a change to the operating mode associated symbol (FS3), the changed Symbol remains excited at least partially after leaving the adjustment path. 19. Clock according to one of the preceding claims 1 to 18, characterized in that at least some of the additional symbols can be displayed with the help of one or more alphanumeric character sets, which the control center (11) iaahlueise via a Hodi device can light up, uodurch a language change can be made by simply changing the coding device. 5 20. Clock according to one of claims 1 to 19, characterized in that the input element (12) is designed as a capacitive sensor. 21. Clock according to one of claims 1 to 19, characterized in that the input element (12) is designed as a knock sensor.