JP2004093557A - Time correction system, time correction indicator, timepiece with indicating needle and time correction method - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a time correction system etc. for eliminating a modification for providing a button etc. in an exterior, suppressing the size and cost of a timepiece, and easily correcting the time. <P>SOLUTION: A date correction system 1 is provided with the timepiece 10, having indicating needles 16 for indicating time and a correction indicator. The correction indicator is provided with a timing means for timing a reference time data, a time input means for inputting an indicated time data indicated by the indicating needles 16, a comparison means for comparing the reference time data timed by the timing means with the indicated time data and a communication means for outputting a correction indicating signal, based on the comparison means to the timepiece. The timepiece 10 is provided with an external signal detection circuit 43 for receiving the correction indicating signal, a drive control means 41 for controlling the drive of the indicating needles and a time correction control circuit 44 for adjusting an indication of the indicating needles 16 to the reference time data, based on the received correction indicating signal. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2004,JPO

Description

[0001]
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a time adjustment system, a time adjustment instruction device, a pointer-type clock, and a time adjustment method.
[0002]
[Background Art]
2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, there has been known a timepiece with a date display that displays the time by the position of a rotating hand and displays the date by a numeral or the like on the date indicator by a rotating date indicator. In the pointer-type timepiece with date display, a primary battery such as a silver battery is provided to drive the timepiece itself. For this reason, for example, when the battery runs out and needs to be replaced, the watch is brought to a watch store, the watch store opens the back cover of the watch, replaces the battery, and displays the time indicated by the hands and the date indicated by the date indicator. Had been adjusted.
[0003]
In addition, in a hand-operated timepiece with a date display, a so-called auto-calendar automatically corrects the display date of a date indicator because one month on a calendar is 30 days or 31 days, or a leap year exists. Some that have functions have also been developed. The primary battery is also used in such a watch, and when the battery runs out, the battery is replaced as described above, the time and date are adjusted, and the date and time are also set for setting the auto calendar function. I was adjusting.
Regardless of the presence or absence of the automatic calendar function, in such a timepiece, the time, date, and year / month are generally adjusted by operating a crown, buttons, and the like.
[0004]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
However, such an adjustment operation is troublesome because it must be performed using a relatively small member such as a crown or a button, and the adjustment operation is very complicated. For this reason, when a large number of watches requiring battery replacement are brought in, it takes a considerable amount of time for the date and time adjustment work accompanying the battery replacement, and the return to the user is delayed.
[0005]
In the timepiece with the auto calendar function, as described above, the date and time must be adjusted at the time of battery replacement, and the mechanism and method of adjustment using the crown and buttons are complicated. Therefore, in order to improve this problem, for example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 9-61555 discloses a liquid crystal display device and a switch dedicated to date correction provided inside the back cover of a watch, and these liquid crystal display devices and switches are used. A technique for correcting the display date of the date dial of a watch by inputting a correct date and time via an internal date correction circuit or the like is disclosed.
However, in this case, since a separate liquid crystal display device or switch is provided for date correction, the number of members such as a liquid crystal panel, a circuit, and a holding plate increases, which leads to a cost increase and a large size of the timepiece. there were.
In addition, even if the counter setting with date information is reset due to some action such as static electricity and the date is corrected for reasons other than battery replacement, the back cover must be opened and the date must be corrected. There was also a problem that was bad.
[0006]
Further, as disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. H11-190781, in order to provide the automatic calendar function, a drive device for driving the hour, minute, second hand and the date wheel is often provided separately. It is necessary to provide a switch for detecting that the minute and second hands are at midnight, which is disadvantageous in terms of the size of the clock, the number of parts, and the cost of assembling work.
[0007]
In Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. H10-62567, a setting section for setting an automatic calendar function is provided in the back cover of a timepiece, and a calendar and time serving as calendar information are written in the setting section with a pencil or the like to display the calendar information. A system for correcting the date and time is disclosed. However, in this case, a space for providing the setting unit is required, which hinders downsizing of the timepiece, and it is conceivable to make the setting unit smaller. However, in this case, it is difficult to set the timepiece. Is generated. Furthermore, since the setting method is not always simple, it is necessary to see a manual or the like, and on the contrary, the work may be complicated.
[0008]
On the other hand, a configuration in which a specific button is separately provided on the exterior part for date correction is also conceivable, but in this case, there is a problem of high cost due to an increase in the number of members, especially in a wristwatch etc. where design is prioritized. Has a problem in that its appearance is impaired.
[0009]
An object of the present invention is to provide a time adjustment system, a time adjustment instruction device, and a pointer that can easily adjust the time while suppressing an increase in the size and cost of a watch without making a change such as providing a button or the like on an exterior part. An object of the present invention is to provide a timepiece and a time correction method.
[0010]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
A time adjustment system according to the present invention is a time adjustment system including at least a pointer-type clock having a time display hand and a time adjustment instruction device having at least reference time data serving as a reference. A clock means for measuring the reference time data; a time input means for inputting designated time data indicated by the hands of the pointer-type clock; and outputting the reference time data and the designated time data to the hands-type clock. Communication means capable of receiving the respective data from the time adjustment instruction device, drive control means for controlling driving of the hands, and the received reference time data. Comparing means for comparing the pointer with the reference time data, and correcting means for adjusting the pointer's instruction to the reference time data based on the comparison result of the comparing means. Characterized in that it obtain.
[0011]
Here, a clock having a function of displaying a date with a date wheel, a clock having a so-called automatic calendar function, a clock having no date display function, or the like can be adopted as the hand-held timepiece. Note that the hands are an hour hand, a minute hand, a second hand, and the like, and the shape thereof includes a disk-like shape on which a scale is written, in addition to a normal needle-like shape.
[0012]
As the time correction instruction device, for example, a computer (PC) that measures reference time data, a device that receives a radio wave including standard time information, and corrects the time, that is, a device that has a function as a so-called radio clock, is used. it can. The reference time data can be obtained via a telephone line, by receiving a radio wave including the above-described standard time information, or by using a service in which time information is mounted on a radio wave of a mobile phone. Further, a quartz clock function can be provided in the time correction instruction device, and the time of this clock function can be used as reference time data.
Further, a method or service for adjusting the reference time of a time correction instruction device constituted by a computer or the like can be used by using NTP (Network Time Protocol) or the like via a communication line such as the Internet.
[0013]
Here, as a configuration for driving the hands, for example, a predetermined motor such as a stepping motor is rotated by electric power from a primary battery or the like, and this rotating force is transmitted by a gear train or the like to drive the hands at a constant speed. Things can be adopted.
Examples of communication means include those using electromagnetic induction, infrared communication, communication by electrical connection such as USB (Universal Serial Bus) and SCSI, optical communication, sound wave (ultrasonic wave) communication, and various other types. It can be realized using an interface.
[0014]
In the above-described invention, for example, the operator of the watch store can open the back cover of the pointer-type timepiece and replace the battery, and thereafter, can communicate between the communication means of the pointer-type timepiece and the communication means of the time correction instruction device. In a state, for example, a state where the communication wiring is connected, the designated time is input from the time input means of the time correction instructing device while looking at the hands on the dial.
Then, in the time correction instructing device, the input instructed time data and the reference time data measured by the timer are output from the communication means to the pointer-type timepiece.
Next, in the pointer-type timepiece, these data are received by the communication means, and the received reference time data and indicated time data are compared by the comparison means. Based on the comparison result, the instruction of the hands is made by the correction means. It is adjusted to the reference time data. As described above, the time of the pointer-type clock is corrected.
[0015]
According to the present invention, the operator sets the pointer-type clock and the time adjustment instruction device in a communicable state, and only inputs the indicated time of the pointer-type clock. The indicated time is automatically corrected. Therefore, the operator can easily correct the time without bothersome operation of the crown or the buttons, and can efficiently perform the operation even when there are many clocks for correction.
Also, for example, in a pointer-type timepiece, a motor coil of a pointer driving motor is used as a communication means, and a correction means and a comparison means are incorporated in an IC part of the timepiece, so that a new part can be newly added as compared with a general timepiece. Since there is no need to incorporate the watch, an increase in the number of parts can be suppressed, and the timepiece can be manufactured at low cost.
Furthermore, since only the communication means for data reception and the comparison means are provided, the size and cost of the timepiece can be prevented from being increased as compared with the case where a liquid crystal device or the like is provided, and it is necessary to make a major change in the external configuration of the timepiece. Absent.
[0016]
In the above time adjustment system, the hand-held timepiece includes a current time counter for counting a current time, and the correction means of the hand-held timepiece counts up in synchronization with the drive of the drive control means and the communication means. The hand position counter to which the indicated time data received at is input is compared with the reference time data counted by the current time counter and the indicated time data counted by the hand position counter, based on the comparison result. A matching circuit for inputting a correction instruction signal to the drive control means.
In this case, the current time counter is provided in the hand-held watch, and the hand position counter and the coincidence circuit are simply provided as a software configuration in the correction means of the hand-held watch. Does not hinder the miniaturization and weight reduction of.
[0017]
A time adjustment system according to the present invention is a time adjustment system including at least a pointer-type clock having a time display hand and a time adjustment instruction device having at least reference time data serving as a reference. A time measuring means for measuring the reference time data, a time input means for inputting designated time data indicated by the hands of the hands-type clock, the reference time data measured by the time measuring means and the time input means And a communication unit capable of outputting a correction instruction signal based on the comparison result to the pointer-type clock, wherein the pointer-type clock has the time correction instruction. Communication means capable of receiving a correction instruction signal from the device; drive control means for controlling driving of the hands; and instruction of the hands based on the received correction instruction signal Characterized in that it comprises a correction means to fit the quasi-time data.
[0018]
In the above-described invention, for example, the operator of the watch store can open the back cover of the pointer-type timepiece and replace the battery, and thereafter, can communicate between the communication means of the pointer-type timepiece and the communication means of the time correction instruction device. In a state, for example, a state where the communication wiring is connected, the designated time is input from the time input means of the time correction instructing device while looking at the hands on the dial.
Then, in the time correction instructing device, the input designated time data and the reference time data measured by the time measuring means are compared by the comparing means, and a correction instruction signal based on the comparison result is sent from the communication means to the hand-held timepiece. Is output.
Next, in the pointer-type timepiece, the correction instruction signal is received by the communication means, and based on the received correction instruction signal, the instruction of the hands is adjusted to the reference time data by the correction means. As described above, the time of the pointer-type clock is corrected.
[0019]
According to the present invention, the operator sets the pointer-type clock and the time adjustment instruction device in a communicable state, and only inputs the indicated time of the pointer-type clock. The indicated time is automatically corrected. Therefore, the operator can easily correct the time without bothersome operation of the crown or the buttons, and can efficiently perform the operation even when there are many clocks for correction.
[0020]
Further, since only the communication means for data reception is provided in the pointer-type timepiece, the size and cost of the timepiece can be prevented from being increased as compared with the case where a liquid crystal device or the like is provided, and the external configuration of the timepiece is greatly changed. No need.
[0021]
In this time adjustment system, the comparison means of the time adjustment instruction device stores the indicated time data input by the input means, and counts up the hand position counter which counts up the indicated time data as an initial value; It is preferable to include a matching circuit that compares the reference date and time data set with the value counted by the hand position counter and outputs a correction instruction signal based on the comparison result.
In this case, by providing the hand position counter and the coincidence circuit as a software configuration in the comparing means of the time adjustment instruction device, the configuration can be made relatively simple. As described above, since the hand position counter and the coincidence circuit are provided on the time adjustment instruction device side, the configuration on the clock side can be simplified.
[0022]
In the above, it is preferable that the pointer-type timepiece includes a motor having a motor coil and driving the pointer, and the motor coil also serves as the communication unit for receiving data from the outside. As the motor, a stepping motor or the like can be adopted. In this case, by using the motor coil of the motor used for driving the hands to receive data from the outside, it is not necessary to incorporate a receiving antenna member or the like into the watch again. The cost and size of the timepiece can be reduced.
[0023]
It is preferable that the pointer-type timepiece includes a secondary battery for power supply for driving the drive control means. A secondary battery is a battery that stores energy generated by a generator. For example, a solar charging type or an automatic winding type can be adopted. In addition, energy for driving a pointer-type timepiece can be stored in the secondary battery by various charging methods such as an external charging method such as guiding electric power from a time adjustment instruction device.
By providing such a secondary battery, the charging voltage drops, the pointer stops, and even if the battery is charged and the date and time are corrected, it is not necessary to open and close the back cover. Can be improved.
[0024]
In the above, it is preferable that the time adjustment instruction device is constituted by a computer, and the time input means is constituted by a keyboard.
In this case, the time correction instructing device is configured as a computer, and at this time, the keyboard is used as the time input means, so that the operator who makes the correction can easily read the data and improve the operability. Further, as compared with the case where a dedicated time adjustment instruction device is configured, the time adjustment instruction device can be easily configured only by incorporating a program into a computer.
[0025]
In the above, the designated time data input by the time input means is preferably at least the hour, minute, and day indicated by the hands, and in this case, a general hand with a date wheel is used. Can also respond.
[0026]
A pointer-type timepiece according to the present invention is a pointer-type timepiece which has at least a time display hand, and at which the indication of the hands is corrected by a time correction instructing device having at least reference time data serving as a reference. Communication means capable of receiving the indicated time data and the reference time data, which are the times indicated by the hands and are input to the time adjustment instruction device by the time input means, and output from the time adjustment instruction device; Drive control means for controlling the driving of the hands, comparison means for comparing the received reference time data with indicated time data, and correction means for adjusting the indication of the hands to the reference time data based on the result of comparison by the comparison means And characterized in that:
[0027]
According to the present invention, for example, by using the same correction instructing device as described above, the pointer-type clock and the time correction instructing device can be in a communicable state, and only by inputting the indicated time of the pointer-type clock, the automatic operation can be performed. Since the designated time is corrected, the time can be easily corrected without operating the crown or buttons, and the work can be performed efficiently. Also, for example, by using the motor coil of the motor for driving the hands as the communication means and incorporating the correction means and the comparison means in the IC part of the timepiece, there is no need to incorporate new parts as compared with a general timepiece. Thus, an increase in the number of parts can be suppressed, and the timepiece can be manufactured at low cost.
[0028]
The pointer-type timepiece according to the present invention is a pointer-type timepiece which has at least a time display hand, and at which the indication of the hands is corrected by a time correction instructing device having at least reference time data serving as a reference, Communication means capable of receiving a correction instruction signal output from the time adjustment instruction device based on a result of comparison between the time data and the instruction time data indicated by the hands of the timepiece, and drive control for controlling driving of the hands Means, and correction means for adjusting an instruction of the pointer to reference time data based on the received correction instruction signal.
[0029]
According to the present invention, for example, by using the same correction instructing device as described above, the operator can make the hand-operated clock and the time correction instructing device communicable, and only input the indicated time of the hand-operated clock. Since the designated time is automatically corrected, the time can be easily corrected without operating the crown or buttons, and the work can be performed efficiently even when there are many clocks for correction.
In addition, since only the communication means for data reception is provided in the pointer-type timepiece, the size and cost of the timepiece can be prevented from being increased as compared with the case where a liquid crystal device or the like is provided. Nor.
Also, for example, by using the motor coil of the motor for driving the hands as the communication means and incorporating the correction means in the IC part of the watch, it is not necessary to incorporate new parts compared to a general timepiece. It can be manufactured at low cost while suppressing an increase in points.
[0030]
A time adjustment instructing device according to the present invention has at least reference time data serving as a reference, and, based on the reference time data, a time adjustment capable of adjusting an instruction of a hand of a pointer-type timepiece having at least a time display hand. An indicating device, comprising: clock means for measuring the reference time data; time input means for inputting the indicated time data indicated by the hands of the hands-type clock; and the reference time data and instructions for the hands. Communication means capable of outputting time data.
[0031]
According to the present invention, for example, by using the same hand-held watch as described above, the hand-held watch and the time correction instructing device can be in a communicable state, and only by inputting the indicated time of the hand-held watch, the automatic Since the designated time is corrected, the time can be easily corrected without operating the crown or buttons, and the work can be performed efficiently. Further, since the correction instruction device is not provided with the comparing means, the configuration of the correction instruction device can be simplified.
[0032]
A time adjustment instructing device according to the present invention has at least reference time data serving as a reference, and, based on the reference time data, outputs a time adjustment signal for a pointer of a pointer-type timepiece having at least a time display hand. A pointing device, a clock means for clocking the reference time data, a time input means for inputting the specified time data indicated by the hands of the hands-type clock, and a reference time data clocked by the clock means; And comparing means for comparing the indicated time data input by the time input means, and communication means capable of outputting a correction instruction signal based on the comparison result to the pointer-type timepiece.
[0033]
According to the present invention, for example, by using the same hand-held timepiece as described above, the operator can make the handheld timepiece and the time correction instructing device communicable, and only input the indicated time of the handed timepiece. Since the designated time is automatically corrected, the time can be easily corrected without operating the crown or buttons, and the work can be performed efficiently even when there are many clocks for correction.
Further, since the comparing means is provided on the correction instructing device side and the comparing means is not provided on the hand of the hand type watch, the structure of the hand type watch can be simplified and the manufacturing cost of the watch can be reduced.
[0034]
A time adjustment method according to the present invention is a time adjustment method for adjusting an instruction of a pointer of a pointer-type timepiece having at least a pointer for time display using a time adjustment instruction device having at least reference time data serving as a reference. In the time correction instructing device, a time input procedure in which designated time data indicated by the hands of the pointer-type clock is input, and a communication procedure for outputting the reference time data and the designated time data to the hands-type clock, In the pointer-type timepiece, a reception procedure for receiving the output data, a comparison procedure for comparing the received reference time data, and the designated time data, and an instruction of the hands based on a comparison result in the comparison procedure. In accordance with the reference time data.
[0035]
According to the present invention, as described above, the pointer-type timepiece and the time correction instructing device are set in a communicable state, and the designated time is automatically corrected only by inputting the designated time of the pointer-type timepiece. The time can be easily corrected without operating the buttons or buttons, and the work can be performed efficiently. In addition, when the battery does not need to be replaced, the time can be corrected without opening the back cover, so that the working efficiency can be improved.
Further, in such a method, for example, in the case of a timepiece-type timepiece, a motor coil of a hand driving motor is used as a communication means for data reception, and a correction means and a comparison means are incorporated in an IC part of the timepiece. Since there is no need to incorporate new parts as compared with a typical timepiece, an increase in the number of parts can be suppressed and the timepiece can be manufactured at low cost.
[0036]
A time adjustment method according to the present invention is a time adjustment method for adjusting an instruction of a pointer of a pointer-type timepiece having at least a pointer for time display using a time adjustment instruction device having at least reference time data serving as a reference. In the time adjustment instruction device, a time input procedure in which the instruction time data indicated by the hands of the hands of the hands is input is compared with the input instruction time data and the reference time data measured by the timer. A comparing procedure, a communication procedure for outputting a correction instruction signal based on the comparison result to the pointer-type timepiece, a receiving procedure for receiving the output correction instruction signal in the pointer-type timepiece, A correction procedure for adjusting the instruction of the hands to reference time data based on the instruction signal.
[0037]
According to the present invention, as described above, the pointer-type timepiece and the time correction instructing device are set in a communicable state, and the designated time is automatically corrected only by inputting the designated time of the pointer-type timepiece. The time can be easily corrected without operating the buttons or buttons, and the work can be performed efficiently.
Also, for example, by using the motor coil of the motor for driving the hands as the communication means and incorporating the correction means in the IC part of the watch, it is not necessary to incorporate new parts compared to a general timepiece. Timepieces can be manufactured at low cost while suppressing an increase in points.
[0038]
BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
[First Embodiment]
Hereinafter, a first embodiment according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a date and time correction system that is a time correction system of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 1, a date and time correction system 1 includes a clock 10 as a pointer-type clock having a date display function, and a correction instruction device as a time correction instruction device for correcting the display time and date (date and time) of the clock 10. 20.
[0039]
FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a display portion of the timepiece 10.
The timepiece 10 is a wristwatch-type timepiece. A body case 11 made of resin or metal in an annular housing with front and back faces opened, a windshield 12 attached to a front opening 11A of the body case 11, and Although omitted, a back cover attached to the back side opening of the main body case 11 and a band 13 attached to the main body case 11 and attached to a user's wrist or the like are provided.
[0040]
Although not shown in FIG. 2, a movement serving as a main body of the timepiece and a winding stem having one end connected to the movement and the other end exposed from the side of the main body case 11 are included in the main body case 11. Is provided. A crown 14 for time correction is provided at the other end of the winding stem. The crown 14 is located on a side of the main body case 11.
[0041]
A dial 15 for displaying the date and time, a hand 16 rotating between the dial 15 and the windshield 12, and a ring-shaped date A car 17 is provided.
On the front side of the date indicator 17, numerals for date display from 1 to 31 are written. Further, a part of the dial 15 is formed with a date window 15A for displaying the number for date display to the outside.
[0042]
FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a configuration of the movement of the timepiece 10. FIG. 4 is a block diagram mainly showing the function of this movement.
As shown in FIG. 3, the movement 30 includes a primary battery 31 such as a silver battery, a control unit 32 that controls the entire driving by electric power from the primary battery 31, and a time display unit via a train wheel unit 33A. A stepping motor 33 serving as a motor for rotating the hands 16, a piezoelectric actuator 34 for rotating the date wheel 17 for date display via a train wheel section 34 </ b> A, and a piezoelectric actuator 34 receiving a drive control signal from the control section 32. And a date indicator driving unit 35 for driving.
[0043]
The stepping motor 33 includes a motor coil 331, a stator 332 made of permalloy or the like, and a rotor 333. The motor coil 331 receives the pulse signal A output from the control unit 32, and receives the received pulse signal A. , Through the stator 332 and the rotor 333 to convert the magnetism into a rotational motion, thereby controlling the rotation of the wheel train 34A. The motor coil 331 of the stepping motor 33 is also used as receiving means for receiving (detecting) data for date and time correction.
[0044]
The train wheel portion 33A is composed of a plurality of large and small gears, and these gears convert the rotational movement of the rotor 333 into rotation of a predetermined number of rotations and transmit the rotation.
The hands 16 are attached to the gears of the train wheel section 33A, rotate at a constant speed together with the respective gears, and indicate time based on the dial 15, and include a second hand 16A, a minute hand 16B, and an hour hand 16C. .
[0045]
The date wheel drive unit 35 receives the drive control signal B output from the control unit 32 and applies a predetermined voltage to the piezoelectric actuator 34.
The piezoelectric actuator 34 is deformed by receiving an applied voltage from the date indicator driving unit 35, and the wheel train unit 34A abutting on the curved end thereof rotates, whereby the rotation of the date indicator 17 is controlled.
[0046]
As shown in FIG. 4, the control unit 32 includes an oscillation circuit 40, a drive control unit 41, a counter 42, an external signal detection circuit 43 as a communication unit, and a time correction control circuit 44.
[0047]
The oscillation circuit 40 has a reference oscillation source made of a crystal oscillator and outputs a reference pulse.
The drive control means 41 controls the driving of the hands 16, receives a reference pulse output from the oscillation circuit 40, and generates a frequency dividing circuit 411 for generating pulses of various frequencies based on the reference pulse; A pulse generating circuit 412 for generating a motor driving pulse for driving the stepping motor 33 based on the pulse output from the frequency dividing circuit 411; Further, the frequency dividing circuit 411 outputs a pulse of a predetermined frequency to the pulse generating circuit 412 based on the signal input from the time correction control circuit 44. For example, the frequency dividing circuit 411 is switched to a pulse of 1 Hz or a pulse of 256 Hz, and outputs a pulse for normal hand movement and a pulse for fast-forward.
[0048]
The counter 42 includes a current time counter 421 that counts the current time based on the reference pulse input from the frequency dividing circuit 411, and a calendar counter 422 that counts the calendar based on the value of the current time counter 421.
[0049]
The current time counter 421 is a counter having a function of setting the date change timing by counting the current time. The current time counter 421 counts seconds of the time, a second counter 421A counts minutes, and a minute counter 421B counts hours. Hour counter 421C.
[0050]
The second counter 421A counts 1-Hz pulses output from the frequency dividing circuit 411, and is a counter that loops in 60 seconds.
The minute counter 421B counts by inputting a signal based on a loop of the second counter 421A, and is a counter that loops in 60 minutes.
The hour counter 421C inputs a signal based on a loop of the minute counter 421B and performs counting, and is a counter that loops in 24 hours.
[0051]
The calendar counter 422 is a counter that accurately corrects the date display including the end of the month by counting the date, and includes a day counter 422A that counts the days of the date, a month counter 422B that counts the month, and a year counter 422. And a year counter 422C for counting.
[0052]
The day counter 422A counts by inputting a signal based on a loop of the hour counter 421C, and is a counter that loops in 31 days.
The month counter 422B counts by inputting a signal based on a loop of the day counter 422A, and is a counter that loops in December.
The year counter 422C inputs a signal based on a loop of the month counter 422B and performs counting, and is a counter that loops every leap year, that is, every four years. In this case, the correction instruction device 20 calculates the year from the leap year, etc., and the clock 10 receives the calculation result and sets any one of 0 to 3 based on the calculation result. It can be configured. Note that the year counter 422C may be a counter that loops at 9999.
[0053]
The date indicator driving unit 35 drives the piezoelectric actuator 34 based on a signal output from the date counter 422A, and the date indicator 17 is driven by the piezoelectric actuator 34 via the wheel train 34A. The date indicator driving unit 35 includes a date indicator feed detection circuit 351 that detects whether the piezoelectric actuator 34 has fed the date for one day.
[0054]
The external signal detection circuit 43 receives data (instruction date / time data, reference time data, reference date data, which will be described later) output from an external device such as the correction instruction device 20 via the motor coil 331 of the stepping motor 33. Then, the received data is shaped into a waveform, converted into a digital signal, and output to the time correction control circuit 44.
[0055]
The time correction control circuit 44 stores a part of the data input from the external signal detection circuit 43, writes the remaining data into the current time counter 421 and the calendar counter 422, and stores the time and date indicated by the clock 10. Is to correct. The time correction control circuit 44 includes a hand position counter 441 and a coincidence circuit 442. Further, the time adjustment control circuit 44 has a function of stopping driving (hand movement) of the hands 16 and resetting a low frequency side of the frequency dividing circuit 411, for example, a frequency lower than 128 Hz when performing time adjustment.
[0056]
The hand position counter 441 receives instruction date / time data (day, hour, minute, second) from the external signal detection circuit 43 and sets the input instruction date / time data as an initial value in synchronization with the driving of the stepping motor 33. It counts up, and includes a second counter 441A for counting seconds in time, a minute counter 441B for counting minutes, an hour counter 441C for counting hours, and a day counter 441D for counting days.
[0057]
The second counter 441A is a counter that loops in 60 seconds.
The minute counter 441B inputs a signal based on the loop of the second counter 441A and performs counting, and is a counter that loops in 60 minutes.
The hour counter 441C counts by inputting a signal based on a loop of the minute counter 441B, and is a counter that loops in 24 hours.
The date counter 441D inputs and counts a signal based on detection by the date indicator feed detection circuit 351 of the date indicator driving unit 35, and is a counter that loops in 31 days.
[0058]
The coincidence circuit 442 compares the reference time data counted by the current time counter 42 with the indicated time data counted by the hand position counter 441, and outputs a correction instruction signal based on the comparison result. The frequency dividing circuit 411 switches the pulse output from the pulse generation circuit 412 to the one for the fast-forward frequency based on the input correction instruction signal, and the pulse generation circuit 412 Is output to the stepping motor 33. At this time, the stepping motor 33 fast-forwards the pointer 16 in response to the fast-forward pulse. The second counter 441A counts up based on a pulse output signal from the pulse generation circuit 412 or a pulse generation command signal from the frequency dividing circuit 411 that is a source of pulse generation.
[0059]
Further, the coincidence circuit 442 outputs a correction signal based on the comparison result to the date indicator driving unit 35, and the date indicator driving unit 35 receiving this signal outputs a fast-forward signal for driving the piezoelectric actuator 34 to output the date signal. Fast-forward car 17. At this time, the date feed detection circuit 351 detects the driving of the date wheel 17 and outputs the detection result to the day counter 441D, and the day counter 441D that has input the detection result counts up.
Such a matching circuit 442 repeats the above operation until the comparison result of both data finally matches.
Note that the drive control unit 41 and the date wheel drive unit 35 function as correction units. Further, the time correction control circuit 44 and the counter 42 function as comparing means.
[0060]
Returning to FIG. 1, the correction instruction device 20 includes a keyboard 21 as input means used for inputting characters and the like, a computer main body 22 including a CPU and a hard disk, and a display unit as a display unit for displaying the input characters and the like. It includes a monitor 23 and a cradle-like clock installation base 24 on which the clock 10 is installed. The computer main body 22 and the clock stand 24 are electrically connected.
[0061]
FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing functions of the correction instruction device 20.
As shown in FIGS. 1 and 5, the keyboard 21 functions as time input means (input unit) for inputting the indicated time data indicated by the hands 16 of the timepiece 10 and the date data indicated by the date indicator 17.
[0062]
FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a screen displayed on the monitor 23 when the designated time data and the designated date data are input from the keyboard 21. For example, as shown in FIG. 6, on the keyboard 21, 12:58:59 (12:58:59) is input as the instruction time data, and 4 days is input as the instruction date data.
[0063]
Returning to FIG. 5, the computer main body 22 includes a clock unit 221 as a clock unit for clocking reference date and time data indicating a reference date and time, a control unit 222 for controlling the entire computer, and reference date and time data of the clock unit 221. And an interface circuit (I / F circuit) 223 that converts the input designated time data and designated date data into a data signal P that can be output to the outside.
[0064]
The clock setting base 24 is configured by a magnetic field generating circuit or the like having a built-in coil, and functions as a cradle functioning as a communication unit that outputs the data signal P output from the I / F circuit 223 to the installed clock 10. It is a stand.
[0065]
FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a procedure for correcting the date and time of the clock at the clock shop. First, the operator of the watch store removes the back cover of the watch 10, takes out the primary battery 31 from the inside, and replaces the battery with a new battery (process S1). At the same time as the battery replacement, the current time counter 421 and the calendar counter 422 are reset (process S2), and the clock 10 starts the hand movement every second as usual (process S3).
[0066]
Next, the worker sets the clock 10 on the clock setting base 24 and activates the date and time correction program of the correction instruction device 20 (process S4). A signal for starting the date and time correction is transmitted to the clock 10 (process S5). On the other hand, in the timepiece 10, after the date and time correction start signal is received by the external signal detection circuit 43 (process S6), the hands move inside the frequency dividing circuit 411 to a frequency of 128 Hz or less for counting 1 Hz. The circuit 411 stops in a reset state. (Process S7).
[0067]
Next, the correction instruction device 20 displays "Enter the time and date indicated by the clock" on the monitor 23 (process S8). On the other hand, the operator inputs, from the keyboard 21, instruction time data indicating the display time of the clock 10 and instruction date data (display information) indicating the display date (time input procedure).
[0068]
Next, in the correction instruction device 20, the instruction time data and the instruction date data of the clock 10 input from the keyboard 21 are transmitted to the clock 10, and the reference date and time data (current year and month) counted by the timer 221 are transmitted. The date, hour, minute, second information) is transmitted to the clock 10 (process S9: communication procedure).
[0069]
In the clock 10, the external signal detection circuit 43 uses the external signal detection circuit 43 to output the indicated time data (hour, minute, second), the indicated date data (day), and the reference date and time data (current year, month, day, hour, minute, second information). Is received (process S10: receiving procedure). Thereafter, in the timepiece 10, the time correction control circuit 44 sets the reference time data (current hour, minute, second) of the reference date and time data to the current time counter 421, and sets the reference date data (current year, month, month). Is set in the calendar counter 422 (process S11).
[0070]
Next, in the timepiece 10, the frequency correction circuit 411 that counts 1 Hz (second) is started by the time correction control circuit 44, whereby the current time counter 421 starts counting (process S12).
[0071]
In the timepiece 10, the time adjustment control circuit 44 sets the indicated time data (hour, minute, second) and the indicated date data (day) received from the adjustment instruction device 20 in the hand position counter 441 (process S13).
[0072]
Next, in the timepiece 10, the value of the day counter 441D of the hand position counter 441 and the value of the day counter 422A of the calendar counter 422 are compared by the coincidence circuit 442, and based on a correction instruction signal based on the comparison result. The date indicator driving section 35 outputs a signal for driving the piezoelectric actuator 34 for fast-forward (date-feed actuator drive pulse) to fast-forward the date indicator 17 (process S14: comparing means, correcting means). Based on the feed result, the date feed detection circuit 351 detects the drive of the date wheel 17 and outputs the detection result to the day counter 441D to count up the day counter 441D. Such an operation is repeated until the comparison result between the two data matches (process S15).
[0073]
Further, the value of each counter 441A to 441C of the hand position counter 441 and the value of each counter 421A to 421C of the current time counter 421 are compared by the coincidence circuit 442, and based on the correction instruction signal based on the comparison result. , The frequency dividing circuit 411 switches the pulse output from the pulse generating circuit 412 to one having a frequency for fast-forwarding, and the pulse generating circuit 412 outputs the switched fast-forwarding pulse (motor fast-forward pulse) to the stepping motor 33. (Step S16: comparison means, correction means). At this time, the stepping motor 33 fast-forwards the hands 16 in response to the motor fast-forward pulse and counts up the second counter 441A of the time adjustment control circuit 44. Such an operation is repeated until the comparison result of the two data matches (process S17).
[0074]
Thus, the time and date of the timepiece 10 are corrected, and the timepiece 10 returns to the normal hand operation state (step S18). In the correction instruction device 20, "the correction to the current time has been completed" is displayed on the monitor 23 (process S19), and the time correction program ends (process S20). Finally, the worker releases the clock 10 from the communication state of the clock setting base 24, sets the next clock on the clock setting base 24, and subsequently corrects the time and date.
[0075]
According to the present embodiment, the following effects can be obtained.
(1) The operator sets the clock 10 and the correction instruction device 20 in a communicable state, and simply inputs the instruction time of the clock 10 to automatically correct the instruction time and date in the correction instruction device 20 and the clock 10. Is done. Therefore, the operator can easily correct the time and date without having to operate the crown or the buttons, and can efficiently perform the operation even when there are many clocks 10 for correction.
[0076]
(2) By receiving data from the outside using the motor coil 331 of the stepping motor 33 used for driving the hands 16, there is no need to incorporate a receiving member into the timepiece 10 again. Cost and size can be reduced.
[0077]
(3) In the pointer-type timepiece 10, since the motor coil 331 of the stepping motor 33 is used and the correction means and the comparison means are incorporated in the IC part of the timepiece 10, it is not necessary to incorporate new parts. The timepiece 10 can be manufactured at low cost.
[0078]
(4) In addition to the time pointed by the hands 16, the date pointed by the date indicator 17 can be automatically corrected, so that the correction can be made more efficiently than in the case of a watch having an automatic calendar function. be able to.
[0079]
(5) Since the correction instruction device 20 is constituted by a computer, the computer generally has a perpetual calendar, so that it can be easily used as a correction instruction device, and a connection circuit for connecting to the clock 10 using an existing interface is easy to assemble. It is advantageous in that it is possible to use a keyboard that is familiar with the input of time and the like, and that work related to correction and the like is displayed on a monitor to facilitate work.
[0080]
[Second embodiment]
Hereinafter, a second embodiment according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the same or equivalent components as those of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof will be omitted or simplified. The date and time correction system 2 according to the second embodiment is the same in appearance as the date and time correction system 1 of the first embodiment shown in FIG. 1, but the internal configuration of each component is different. The date and time correction system 2 includes a clock 50 as a pointer-type clock having a date display function, and a correction instruction device 60 as a time correction instruction device for correcting the display time and date (date and time) of the clock 50.
[0081]
FIG. 8 is a block diagram illustrating functions of the correction instruction device 60.
As shown in FIG. 8, the correction instruction device 60 includes a keyboard 21, a computer main body 61 including a CPU and a hard disk, a monitor 23 as a display unit for displaying input characters and the like, and a clock 50. And a cradle-like clock stand 24.
[0082]
The keyboard 21 functions as time input means (input unit) for inputting the indicated time data indicated by the hands 16 and the date data indicated by the date indicator 17.
The computer main body 61 includes a clock unit 221 as clock means for clocking reference date and time data indicating a reference date and time, a control unit 611 for controlling the entire computer, and an interface circuit (I / F circuit) 223.
[0083]
The control unit 611 includes a hand position counter 441 and a coincidence circuit 442. The needle position counter 441 and the coincidence circuit 442 do not exist in the computer main body 61 as hardware, but are controlled using software so as to count and use a memory or the like which is a part of the computer main body 61. It is constructed as a result. The matching circuit 442 does not indicate only hardware.
[0084]
The hand position counter 441 stores designated time data (hour, minute, second) and designated date data (day) displayed on the clock 50 input from the input unit (keyboard) 21, and stores the stored designated data. It counts up as an initial value, and includes a second counter 441A, a minute counter 441B, an hour counter 441C, and a day counter 441D. The day counter 441D counts up when a correction instruction signal is output from the hand position counter 441 to the I / F circuit 223.
[0085]
The coincidence circuit 442 compares the reference date and time data counted by the timer 221 with the value counted by the hand position counter 441, and outputs a correction instruction signal based on the comparison result to the I / F circuit 223. Is what you do. Thus, the control unit 611 functions as a comparison unit.
[0086]
The I / F circuit 223 receives the correction instruction signal output from the control unit 611, converts the signal into an externally output data signal Q, and outputs the data signal Q to the clock stand 24.
The clock installation base 24 is a cradle-like base that functions as a communication unit that outputs the data signal Q output from the I / F circuit 223 to the installed clock 50.
[0087]
FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing functions of the timepiece 50.
As shown in FIG. 9, the timepiece 50 includes a primary battery (not shown), a control unit 51 that controls the entire driving by electric power from the primary battery, and hands 16 ( 16A to 16C), a stepping motor 33 as a motor for rotating the date wheel 17, a piezoelectric actuator 34 for rotating the date wheel 17 for displaying the date via the train wheel section 34A, and a piezoelectric actuator for receiving a drive control signal from the control section 51. And a date indicator driving unit 35 for driving the driving unit 34.
[0088]
The control unit 51 includes an oscillation circuit 40, a drive control unit 41, a counter 42, an external signal detection circuit 43 as a communication unit, and a time adjustment control circuit 511 as a correction unit.
[0089]
The time correction control circuit 511 writes the indicated time data (hour, minute, second) of the data received by the external signal detection circuit 43 to the current time counter 421, and also outputs the corrected instruction signal to the frequency dividing circuit 411 and the pulse generation circuit 412. The pulse generation circuit 412 outputs a fast-forwarding pulse to the stepping motor 33 based on the correction signal instruction data, and the stepping motor 33 fast-forwards the pointer 16.
[0090]
In addition, the time correction control circuit 511 writes the date in the reference date and time data of the data received by the external signal detection circuit 43 to the calendar counter 422, and also outputs the correction instruction signal to the date wheel driving unit 35. And the date indicator 17 is fast-forwarded by the piezoelectric actuator 34 based on the correction instruction signal. At this time, the date feed detection circuit 351 detects the drive of the date wheel 17. Since the date indicator 17 is set to be fast-forwarded by the date indicator driving unit 35, when the value of the instruction date data is larger than the value of the reference date data, the date written to the calendar counter 422 is: This is set as the previous month of the indicated date and time data. With such a setting, it is not necessary for the operator to determine the input of the previous month, and the workability can be improved.
[0091]
FIGS. 10 and 11 are flowcharts showing the procedure of date and time correction.
First, the operator of the watch store removes the back cover of the watch 50, removes the primary battery from the inside, and replaces the battery with a new battery (process S101). At the same time as the battery replacement, the current time counter 421 and the calendar counter 422 are reset (process S102), and the clock 50 starts hand movement every second as usual (process S103).
[0092]
Next, the operator sets the clock 50 on the clock base 24 and activates the date and time correction program of the correction instruction device 20 (step S104). A date and time correction start signal is transmitted to the clock 50 (process S105). On the other hand, in the timepiece 50, after the signal for starting the date and time correction is received by the external signal detection circuit 43 (process S106), the hand movement stops, and the frequency dividing circuit 411 that counts 1 Hz is reset (process S107). .
[0093]
Next, the correction instruction device 60 displays "Enter the time and date indicated by the clock" on the monitor 23 (process S108). On the other hand, the operator inputs, from the keyboard 21, instruction time data (hour, minute, second) as the display time of the clock 50 and instruction date data (display information) as the display date (time input procedure).
[0094]
Next, in the correction instruction device 60, the instruction time data (hour, minute, second) and the instruction date data (day) of the clock 50 input from the keyboard 21 and the date and time of the reference date and time data counted by the clock unit 221. The data is transmitted to the clock 50 (process S109: communication procedure). At this time, the designated time data (hour, minute, second) and the designated date data (day) transmitted to the clock 50 are input to the hand position counter 441 (process S110).
[0095]
In the clock 50, the designated time data (hour, minute, second), designated date data (day), and reference year / month data (year / month) output from the correction instruction device 60 are received by the external signal detection circuit 43 (step S111). : Receiving procedure). Thereafter, in the clock 50, the designated time data (hour, minute, second) is set in the current time counter 421 by the time correction control circuit 511, and the designated date data (day) and the reference year / month data (year / month) are stored in the calendar counter 422. It is set (process S112).
[0096]
Next, in the clock 50, the time adjustment control circuit 511 starts the frequency dividing circuit 411 that counts 1 Hz (second), and synchronizes the second count-up timing with the adjustment instruction device 60. The current time counter 421 does not count up (step S113).
[0097]
In the correction instructing device 60, the matching circuit 442 compares the reference date and time data of the clock unit 221 with the indicated date and time data of the hand position counter 441, and outputs the comparison result via the I / F circuit 223 and the clock stand 24. A pulse for driving the piezoelectric actuator 34 (piezoelectric actuator driving pulse output command), which is a correction instruction signal based on the command, is transmitted to the external signal detection circuit 43 of the timepiece 50, and at the same time, the day counter 441D is counted up (process S114: comparison). Procedure, communication procedure). This operation is repeated until the value of the day counter 441D of the hand position counter 441 matches the date value of the reference date and time data measured by the timer 221 (step S115).
[0098]
In the timepiece 50, the piezoelectric actuator drive pulse output command is received by the motor coil 331 of the stepping motor 33 and the external signal detection circuit 43 (processing S116: receiving procedure). At this time, the received piezoelectric actuator drive pulse output command is output to the date indicator driving unit 35 by the time adjustment control circuit 511, and the date indicator 17 is sent by driving the piezoelectric actuator 34 by the date indicator driving unit 35. At the same time, the day counter 422A of the calendar counter 422 is sent for one day (process S117: correction procedure). These operations are performed each time a piezoelectric actuator drive pulse output command is received (step S118).
[0099]
Next, in the correction instructing device 60, the matching circuit 442 compares the reference time data of the clock unit 221 with the time data indicated by the hand position counter 441, and via the I / F circuit 223 and the clock base 24, A pulse (motor fast-forward pulse output command) for driving the stepping motor 33, which is a correction instruction signal based on the comparison result, is transmitted to the external signal detection circuit 43 of the timepiece 50 (process S119: comparison procedure, communication procedure). This operation is repeated until the values of the second counter 441A, the minute counter 441B, and the hour counter 441C of the hand position counter 441 coincide with the value of the reference time measured by the timer 221 (step S120).
[0100]
In the timepiece 50, the motor fast-forward pulse output command is received by the motor coil 331 of the stepping motor 33 and the external signal detection circuit 43 (processing S121: receiving procedure). At this time, the received motor fast-forward pulse output command is output to the pulse generation circuit 412 by the time correction control circuit 511, and the stepping motor 33 is driven by the pulse generation circuit 412 to fast-forward the hands 16; At the same time, the second counter 421A of the current time counter 421 is sent for one second (process S122: correction procedure). These operations are performed each time a motor fast-forward pulse output command is received (step S123).
[0101]
Next, when the transmission of the motor fast-forward pulse output command is completed, the correction instruction device 60 transmits a date and time correction processing end signal to the clock 50 (processing S124). At this time, the clock 50 receives the date and time correction end signal (step S125), and starts counting by the current time counter 421 based on the normal hand movement state, that is, the 1 Hz pulse output from the frequency dividing circuit 411. (Step S126). As described above, in the clock 50, the correction of the time and the calendar ends (step S127).
On the other hand, in the correction instructing device 60, after the date and time correction processing end signal is transmitted to the clock 50, the message "correction to the current time has been completed" is displayed on the monitor 23 (processing S128), and the time correction program ends. (Step S129). Finally, the worker releases the clock 10 from the communication state of the clock setting base 24, sets the next clock on the clock setting base 24, and subsequently corrects the time and date. The procedure performed by the clock 50 or the correction instruction device 60 is configured as a program to be executed by a computer.
[0102]
According to the present embodiment, the following effects are obtained in addition to the effects substantially similar to (1) to (5) of the first embodiment.
(6) Since the hand position counter 441 is provided on the correction instruction device 60 side, the timepiece 50 itself can be manufactured at low cost without hindering the size and weight of the timepiece 50.
[0103]
(7) In the pointer-type timepiece 50, the data is received by the motor coil 331 of the stepping motor 33, and the correction means is incorporated in the IC part of the timepiece 50, so that it is not necessary to incorporate new parts, and the increase in the number of parts is suppressed. Thus, the timepiece 50 can be manufactured at low cost.
[0104]
It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, but includes other configurations that can achieve the object of the present invention, and also includes the following modifications and the like.
In each of the above embodiments, the correction instruction device is configured by a computer. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the time correction instruction device 200 can be configured as shown in FIG. That is, in the time correction instructing device 200, the upper surface is an installation table 201 on which a clock 210 is installed, and the front surface is an operation button 202 for inputting the indicated time every two digits, and an operation button 202 for inputting the indicated time. And a display screen 203 for displaying the displayed values. A general telephone line 220 is connected to the time adjustment instruction device 200. The time adjustment instruction device 200 dials "117", obtains an accurate time by voice recognition, and obtains a clock built in the time adjustment instruction device. To correct. As described above, the time of the clock 210 is corrected by comparing the time data in the time correction instructing device 200 corrected via the telephone line with the input specified time data, and calculating the difference therebetween. Can be. In this case, the time can be corrected.
[0105]
The correction instruction device obtains the reference time using such a telephone line. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, it is possible to use a service in which time information is included in the radio wave of a mobile phone, The correction instruction device may be configured by providing a clock function. Alternatively, an Internet time information service such as that provided by the Communications Research Laboratory of Japan Standard Time information may be used.
Furthermore, although the reference time is obtained by connecting the telephone line, if the operator can directly correct the time of the correction instruction device, it is not necessary to connect the telephone line, and the calendar can be corrected.
[0106]
In each of the above embodiments, a hand-held timepiece having a date display function using a date wheel is employed.However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, there is no function for date display, and a hand-held timepiece that only displays time using hands. Can be adopted. It should be noted that a date display function not depending on a date wheel, for example, a timepiece having a pointer and a liquid crystal screen is also included in the scope of the present invention. A timepiece without a second hand is also included in the scope of the present invention. Further, as a hand such as an hour hand and a minute hand, a disk-shaped hand on which a scale is written can be adopted.
[0107]
In the above embodiments, the primary battery is used for power supply. However, for example, a secondary power source (secondary battery) such as a solar charging system, an automatic winding power generation system, or an external charging system such as guiding electric power from a correction instruction device is used. ) May be adopted. In this case, since there is no need to replace the battery 31, there is an advantage that it is not necessary to open the back cover and the working efficiency can be improved.
[0108]
Although electromagnetic induction is used for communication between the timepiece and the correction instruction device, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, other communication means such as optical communication and ultrasonic communication can also be used. In the former case, for example, if a configuration is adopted in which the power is secured by using a solar system, a solar cell can be used for this optical sensor, and there is no need to provide a new sensor in the timepiece, so that miniaturization and the like are not hindered. In the latter case, there is an advantage that the drive detection terminal of the date actuator driving piezoelectric actuator can be used as a sensor. In addition, a sound wave other than an ultrasonic wave may be used, and in this case, a timepiece with a buzzer can be configured.
In addition, the computer main body and the clock stand are electrically connected. For this connection, for example, an existing USB connection, SCSI connection, or the like can be adopted, and a wireless connection of infrared communication or another connection can be adopted.
[0109]
In each of the above embodiments, the data signal is transmitted in one direction from the correction instruction device to the clock. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a function of transmitting data from the clock to the correction instruction device may be provided. . In this case, the fact that the time correction of the clock has been completed can be transmitted to the correction instruction device side, and the value of the current time counter in the clock can be directly read, so that there is an advantage that the time can be corrected more reliably. .
[0110]
In the present invention, the means for inputting the time and date is not limited to the keyboard, but may be a camera that recognizes the hour and minute hands indicated by the clock and the date. For example, a camera for recognizing the hands of a clock may be provided on a clock installation stand, the clock may be imaged by the camera, the time or date indicated by the clock may be recognized by image recognition, and this may be used as designated time data for time correction control. By using such means, it is not necessary for the operator to input the designated time, so that the time can be adjusted more easily, the work efficiency is improved, and the usability as a time adjustment system is improved. .
[0111]
More specifically, for example, as shown in FIG. 13, a camera 70 using a CCD (charge-coupled device) is mounted on a camera support 71 so as to be able to move up and down. ) 72 is imaged, and the image data at the time of imaging is transmitted to a computer (not shown), processed by an image processing program, and the seconds, minutes, hours, and date indicated by the clock 80 are recognized. In this image recognition, in addition to the positions of the hands, the typesetting, and the scale, the direction of the dial can be determined from the positional relationship between the positions of the hands, the typesetting, and the scales based on the brightness of the time display unit. ) Can also be specified.
[0112]
Further, as shown in FIG. 14, a plurality of installation marks 73 corresponding to the outer shape of the watch may be provided on the watch installation table 72, or a plurality of groove-shaped steps 74 as shown in FIG. By doing so, even when timepieces of different sizes are installed, the direction of the dial is always the same, the center of the dial is at the same position, and the recognition accuracy of hands and dates is improved. In addition, as shown in FIG. 16, a pressing mechanism 75 capable of holding the band portion of the timepiece 80 with equal pressing force from both sides may be provided, and the operation of the button 76 allows the timepiece 80 to be easily attached and detached.・ It can be installed with the 6 o'clock direction always aligned, which also improves recognition accuracy.
[0113]
When such a camera is used, in order to read the time, it is necessary to know the orientation of the dial and the angles of the hands. In either case, it is necessary to know the center of the dial first. For this purpose, it is sufficient to find the intersection of three or two hands (when there is no second hand), which can be easily recognized from the image data.
Next, as for the 12 o'clock direction, this is performed by using the clock setting table 72 shown in FIGS. Alternatively, the center of the scale may be determined as the 12 o'clock position. That is, as shown in FIG. 17, even when the actual 12 o'clock position θ0 is shifted from the ideal 12 o'clock position on the timepiece setting table, the center of the nearest scale 83 is recognized by image processing. By doing so, the actual 12:00 position θ0 can be reliably specified.
Next, regarding the recognition of the type of the pointer, in FIG. 17, in the case of the three-hand type, the second hand 85 and the minute hand are arranged in order of the length L1 to L3 from the center C (intersection of the hands) of the dial 84 to the tip of the hands. 86 and the hour hand 87. As described above, the time can be specified by reading the angle θ1 from the 12:00 position θ0 to the second hand 85, the angle θ2 to the minute hand 86, and the angle θ3 to the hour hand 87.
[0114]
As for the date, the characters at 3 o'clock or 6 o'clock may be read. However, since the date may be displayed at another position, for example, as shown in FIG. 18, the date indicator 88 with the date printed is displayed at a position lower than the dial 84 (farther from the camera 70). By using this, the display position of the date part can be recognized based on the difference in the focal position when the image is taken with the focal position changed by the camera.
[0115]
Further, a watch having a specially designed display unit may not be recognized by the above recognition algorithm (image processing program). In this case, a recognition algorithm dedicated to the watch may be prepared. The recognition algorithm may be automatically switched by inputting the model name (so-called reference number).
In addition, if an invisible paint such as infrared paint is applied to the 12 o'clock position of the dial, a part of the hands, the display part of the date, etc. to mark it, the appearance design can be made even for a watch with a special display part. The position of each unit can be reliably recognized without damage and without switching the recognition algorithm.
[0116]
If the hour hand and the minute hand overlap, and it is difficult to recognize the short hour hand, it may be determined that the hour hand overlaps the minute hand by being able to recognize only the minute hand. The time can be specified without any trouble by judging that the angle θ3 ≒ θ2 shown in FIG. At this time, some errors may occur in the hour hand position recognition, but since the hour hand shows the same time in a large pointing range such as 5 degrees, there is no problem in the actual position recognition in terms of accuracy. Of course, if it is possible to recognize that they overlap each other, the position of the hour hand can be accurately obtained by calculation from the position of the overlapping minute hand.
[0117]
In each of the above embodiments, the date indicator is driven using the piezoelectric actuator. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and a motor such as a stepping motor may be used.
In the above embodiments, the hands indicating seconds, minutes, and hours are driven by the stepping motor, and the date indicator indicating the date is driven by the piezoelectric actuator. However, the present invention is not limited to this. It may be driven by a stepping motor.
Further, the second hand, the hour hand and the minute hand may be driven by different driving devices.
In the above embodiments, the piezoelectric actuator for driving the date wheel rotates only in one direction. However, it is needless to say that a piezoelectric actuator that rotates in both directions (the display can be changed so as to go back the date) may be used.
[0118]
Further, the signal for advancing the date wheel and the second hand one step at a time until the comparison result coincides is transmitted. However, the present invention is not limited to this. It may be configured to transmit one signal to be transmitted. In this case, it is necessary to provide a counter for managing the number of transmitted steps on the clock side.
[0119]
Further, the present invention can be realized, for example, by the following modes.
That is, a program for correcting an instruction of a pointer of a pointer-type timepiece having at least a pointer for time display by using a time correction instructing device having at least reference time data serving as a reference, wherein the pointer of the pointer-type clock has an instruction. A time input procedure for inputting designated time data to be input, a comparison procedure for comparing the input designated time data, and the reference time data measured by the time measuring means, and a correction instruction signal based on the comparison result based on the pointer. A communication procedure for outputting to the timepiece, a reception procedure for receiving the output correction instruction signal in the pointer-type timepiece, and adjusting the indication of the hands to reference time data based on the received correction instruction signal. A program that causes a computer to execute the correction procedure may be provided.
[0120]
A program for correcting an instruction of a pointer of a pointer-type timepiece having at least a pointer for time display using a time correction instructing device having reference time data serving as at least a reference, wherein the pointer of the pointer-type timepiece has an instruction. A time input procedure for inputting designated time data to be performed, a communication procedure for outputting the reference time data and the designated time data to the pointer-type clock, and a reception for receiving the output data in the pointer-type clock. A program for causing a computer to execute a procedure, a comparison procedure for comparing the received reference time data, and the designated time data, and a correction procedure for adjusting the pointer's instruction to the reference time data based on the comparison result in the comparison procedure. It can be.
[0121]
According to the above-described program, for example, by configuring the time adjustment instruction device by a computer, the user of the clock can download the data using a communication line or the like and perform the adjustment work. At this time, a configuration may be adopted in which data according to the model of the clock is downloaded.
[0122]
Further, for example, the time correction instructing device includes an input terminal as a client device to which the time indicated by the hands is input, and a server connected to the input terminal, and includes a comparing unit and a correcting unit. And other functions can be performed by the server. In this case, for example, the server can manage a correction history and the like corresponding to each clock.
In addition, the specific structure, shape, and the like at the time of carrying out the present invention may be other structures and the like as long as the object of the present invention can be achieved.
[0123]
【The invention's effect】
According to the present invention, the pointer-type clock and the time adjustment instruction device are set in a communicable state, and the instruction time is automatically adjusted in the time adjustment instruction device and the pointer-type clock only by inputting the instruction time of the pointer-type clock. Is done. Therefore, there is an effect that the operator can easily correct the time without bothersome operation of the crown and the buttons, and can perform the work efficiently even when there are many clocks for correction.
Further, since only the communication means for data reception is provided in the pointer-type timepiece, the size and cost of the timepiece can be prevented from being increased as compared with the case where a liquid crystal device or the like is provided, and the external configuration of the timepiece is greatly changed. No need.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a date and time correction system of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a view showing a display portion of the timepiece according to the first embodiment.
FIG. 3 is a view showing a configuration of a movement of the timepiece according to the first embodiment.
FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating functions of the movement according to the first embodiment.
FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating functions of the date and time adjustment device according to the first embodiment.
FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a display screen of a monitor in the date and time correction system according to the first embodiment.
FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating a date and time correction procedure of the clock according to the first embodiment.
FIG. 8 is a block diagram illustrating functions of a correction instruction device included in the date and time correction system according to the second embodiment.
FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing functions of a timepiece according to a second embodiment.
FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing a procedure of date and time correction in the date and time correction system according to the second embodiment.
FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a procedure of date and time correction in the date and time correction system according to the second embodiment.
FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a modification of the present invention.
FIG. 13 is a perspective view showing a modification of the present invention.
FIG. 14 is a perspective view showing a modification of the present invention.
FIG. 15 is a perspective view showing a modification of the present invention.
FIG. 16 is a perspective view showing a modification of the present invention.
FIG. 17 is a plan view showing a modification of the present invention.
FIG. 18 is a sectional view showing a modification of the present invention.
[Explanation of symbols]
1, 2,... Date / time correction system (time correction system), 10, 50: pointer-type clock, 16: hands, 20, 60: correction instruction device (time correction instruction device), 21: input unit (time input means), 24 ... Clock setting table (communication means), 33 ... stepping motor (motor), 35 ... date indicator drive unit (correction means), 41 ... drive control means, 42 ... counter (comparison means), 43 ... external signal detection circuit (communication) Means), 44 Time adjustment control circuit (comparison means), 221 Timekeeping unit (timekeeping means) 331 Motor coil (communication means), 511 Time adjustment control circuit (correction means), 611 Control unit (comparison means).

Claims (14)

A time correction system including at least a pointer-type clock having hands for time display and a time correction instruction device having reference time data serving as a reference,
The time correction instructing device includes: a time measuring means for measuring the reference time data; a time inputting means for inputting designated time data indicated by a pointer of the pointer-type clock; and the reference time data and an instruction for the pointer-type clock. Communication means capable of outputting time data,
The pointer-type timepiece compares the received reference time data and the indicated time data with a communication unit capable of receiving the respective data from the time adjustment instruction device, a drive control unit that controls driving of the hands. A time correction system comprising: comparison means; and correction means for adjusting an instruction of a hand to reference time data based on a comparison result by the comparison means. The time adjustment system according to claim 1,
The pointer-type clock includes a current time counter that counts the current time,
The correction means of the pointer-type timepiece counts up in synchronization with the drive of the drive control means and is counted by the hand position counter to which the indicated time data received by the communication means is input, and the current time counter. A time correction system comprising: a reference circuit for comparing reference time data with the indicated time data counted by the hand position counter; and a matching circuit for inputting a correction instruction signal based on the comparison result to the drive control means. . A time correction system including at least a pointer-type clock having hands for time display and a time correction instruction device having reference time data serving as a reference,
The time correction instructing device is a time measuring means for measuring the reference time data, a time input means for inputting the indicated time data indicated by the hands of the hands of the hands-type clock, and the reference time data being timed by the time measuring means. Comparing means for comparing the indicated time data input by the time input means, and communication means capable of outputting a correction instruction signal based on the comparison result to the hand-held timepiece,
The pointer-type timepiece includes a communication unit capable of receiving a correction instruction signal from the time correction instruction device, a drive control unit that controls driving of the hands, and a reference time based on the received correction instruction signal. A time correction system comprising: a correction unit that adjusts to data. The time adjustment system according to claim 3,
The comparing means of the time correction instructing device includes a hand position counter for storing the indicated time data input by the input means and counting up the indicated time data as an initial value, and a reference date and time data counted by the time measuring means. And a coincidence circuit for comparing a value counted by the hand position counter and outputting a correction instruction signal based on the comparison result. The time adjustment system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the hands have a motor coil and a motor that drives the hands.
The time correction system, wherein the motor coil also serves as the communication unit that receives data from outside. The time adjustment system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the pointer-type timepiece includes a power supply secondary battery for driving the drive control means. . 7. The time adjustment system according to claim 1, wherein the time adjustment instruction device is configured by a computer, and the time input unit is configured by a keyboard. . The time correction system according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the designated time data input by the time input means is at least hours, minutes, and days indicated by the hands. Correction system. A pointer-type timepiece having at least a time display hand, and a time correction instruction device having at least a reference time data serving as a reference, wherein the instruction of the hands is corrected,
A communication means capable of receiving the designated time data and the reference time data, which are the times indicated by the hands of the clock and are input to the time adjustment instruction device by time input means, and output from the time adjustment instruction device; Driving control means for controlling the driving of the hands, comparing means for comparing the received reference time data with the designated time data, and adjusting the indication of the hands to the reference time data based on the comparison result by the comparing means. A pointer-type timepiece comprising correction means. A pointer-type timepiece having at least a time display hand, and a time correction instruction device having at least a reference time data serving as a reference, wherein the instruction of the hands is corrected,
Communication means capable of receiving a correction instruction signal output from the time adjustment instruction device based on a result of comparison between the reference time data and the instruction time data indicated by the hands of the clock, and controls the driving of the hands. A pointer-type timepiece comprising: a drive control unit; and a correction unit that adjusts a pointer instruction to reference time data based on a received correction instruction signal. A time correction instruction device having at least reference time data serving as a reference, based on the reference time data, capable of correcting an instruction of a pointer of a pointer-type timepiece having at least a pointer for time display,
Clock means for measuring the reference time data, time input means for inputting the indicated time data indicated by the hands of the hands-type clock, and capable of outputting the reference time data and the indicated time data to the hands-type clock A time correction instruction device, comprising: a communication unit. A time correction instruction device that has at least reference time data serving as a reference, and outputs a correction signal of a pointer of a pointer-type timepiece having at least a time display pointer based on the reference time data,
Clock means for measuring the reference time data, time input means for inputting the indicated time data indicated by the hands of the hands of the hand-operated clock, and reference time data being timed by the clock means and input by the time input means A time adjustment instruction device comprising: comparison means for comparing the indicated instruction time data; and communication means capable of outputting a correction instruction signal based on the comparison result to the hand-held timepiece. A time correction method for correcting an instruction of a pointer of a pointer-type timepiece having at least a pointer for time display using a time correction instruction device having at least reference time reference data,
In the time correction instructing device, a time input procedure in which designated time data indicated by the hands of the hands-type clock is input, a communication procedure of outputting the reference time data and the designated time data to the hands-type clock,
In the pointer-type timepiece, a reception procedure for receiving the output data, a comparison procedure for comparing the received reference time data, and the designated time data, and an instruction of the hands based on a comparison result in the comparison procedure. And adjusting the time to the reference time data. A time correction method for correcting an instruction of a pointer of a pointer-type timepiece having at least a pointer for time display using a time correction instruction device having at least reference time reference data,
In the time correction instructing device, a time input procedure in which designated time data indicated by the hands of the hands-type clock is inputted is compared with the inputted designated time data and reference time data measured by a timer. A comparison procedure, a communication procedure for outputting a correction instruction signal based on the comparison result to the pointer-type timepiece,
In the pointer-type timepiece, a receiving step of receiving the output correction instruction signal, and a correction step of adjusting the instruction of the hands to reference time data based on the received correction instruction signal, a time characterized by comprising: How to fix.

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