JPH04130098U - Pointer position detection mechanism - Google Patents

Abstract

(57) [Summary] [Purpose] The present invention improves a method for detecting the position of a wheel train that drives the hands, etc. of a hand display type electronic watch. [Structure] A load changing unit that drives a step motor by a motor drive circuit, rotates a display member such as a pointer via a wheel train, and meshes with a part of the tooth profile of a gear 500a constituting the wheel train to change the load. In the case of a deformation in which the load changing part increases the load, a deformed hole 500c is provided as an elastic part that elastically deforms approximately in the direction of the center of rotation when the gears mesh, in the peripheral part of the tooth profile forming the load increasing part, and A load detection circuit for detecting a change in meshing load of the wheel train and a pattern detection circuit for detecting a change pattern of the load change section are provided. [Effect] The position of the wheel train can be easily detected, and the position of the pointer is always matched with the operating position of the IC logic circuit, so there is no need for initial adjustment of the pointer.

Description

[Detailed explanation of the idea]

0001

[Industrial application field]

This invention detects the position of the display rotating member that drives the display of clock information in a pointer display type electronic watch. This is related to the output mechanism.

0002

[Conventional technology]

In recent years, watches have become multi-functional, not only displaying the time but also adding various functions. We are starting to see more and more meters. For example, chronograph function, timer function or Various functions such as alarm function, or measurement function such as pressure and temperature by attaching a sensor. Noh is considered.

0003 In such a function, it is necessary to detect the pointer position, for example, in the case of a chronograph, etc. Detects the zero position, which is the measurement starting point, and detects the point that matches the hour hand in the case of an alarm, etc. etc.

0004 An example of a conventional example of such a pointer position detection device is disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 62-291. Publication No. 591 is mentioned. [Prior art] of JP-A No. 62-291591 ] is one of the pointer position detection methods. There is a second electrode that is in constant contact with the gear, and the gear rotates. As a result, the pointer position is written into the circuit by the electrodes coming into contact with each other. There is a contact method called.

[0005] This method is similar to an alarm function that, when a certain time arrives, notifies you that the time has arrived. Although the function of detecting the zero position of the pointer is effective in some respects, it is not necessary to detect the zero position of the pointer once. As stated in [Problems to be solved by the present invention] of the above-mentioned publication, It has some drawbacks.

[0006] On the other hand, in the [Example] described in JP-A No. 62-291591, In order to eliminate the shortcomings of the contact point method, such as durability, cost increase factors, and accuracy deterioration, In order to There are devices that attempt to detect and store the position of the needle (zero position).

[0007] According to the embodiment of JP-A No. 62-291591, a motor that drives the pointer 1. A reduction gear train that drives the pointer by the motor 1, and a driving circuit for the motor 1. 2 generates motor drive pulses and rotation detection pulses, and also generates motor drive pulses and rotation detection pulses. - Consists of a rotation detection circuit 5, an arithmetic circuit 7, a needle position counter 8, etc. Applicable By pulling out the crown when adjusting the time of the electronic watch, the zero position load mechanism 4 The pin moves to the zero position (12 o'clock position), and at the same time the motor starts driving. A rotation detection pulse is generated by circuit 2, and the pointer reaches the pin that appears at the zero position. It runs on its own until it reaches the end. When the pointer reaches the pin and motor 1 stops rotating, the rotation detection circuit Non-rotation is detected by the counter 6, and a rotation detection pulse is generated by the counter 6. The number n of motor drive pulses from when the rotation is detected until non-rotation is detected is counted.

[0008] Furthermore, the arithmetic circuit 7 calculates (N-n) from the number of steps N for one rotation of the hand. The value of is preset in the needle position counter 8. Here, the zero position load mechanism 4 The pin at the zero position is retracted and the value of the needle position counter 8 is transferred to the motor drive circuit 2. Therefore, a pulse is output and the pointer moves by (N-n). Guidelines that have the aforementioned behavior This means that the position has been detected and synchronized with the internal circuit. After that, rotate the crown. By doing so, the motor drive circuit 2 rotates the motor 1 and the time is corrected. Then, by returning the crown, the time will continue to tick as usual.

[0009]

[Problem that the idea aims to solve]

However, according to the above-described embodiment, the crown is pulled out in conjunction with the crown pull-out operation. A clock system in which the position load mechanism works and a pin comes out, which controls the rotation of the pointer. However, the phase of the magnetic poles of the motor rotor and the pointer that make up the motor are , the installation accuracy of the pointer, the backlash of the tooth profile of the pointer gear train, and the zero position load machine. Motor rotation when the pointer is forcibly stopped due to the positional accuracy of the pin in the mechanism, etc. The rotation stop position of the trochanter and the rest position of the motor rotor in the normal measurement display state are not necessarily the same. They do not match, and in fact, the probability that they do not match is very high, so I will explain next. It is possible that the situation is like this.

0010 In other words, in the already well-known operating principle of a step motor, the motor rotor The rotor moves from the electromagnetically stable position to the potential point The pointer, which is rotating towards the point and is self-propelled, hits the pin. In this case, the pointer rebounds in the opposite direction due to the repulsion from the pin, and at this time, the pointer rebounds in the opposite rotation direction. When the repulsive force is transmitted to the motor rotor via the gear train, the motor rotor stops on the spot. There may be a phenomenon in which the rotor rotates in the opposite direction without stopping and returns to the above-mentioned rest position.

[0011] At this time, the counter that stores the number of rotation detection pulses incorrectly recognizes one pulse. The value of the needle position counter becomes the drive pulse by the motor drive circuit. Sometimes the pointer will stop one step short of the number of steps. As a result, the actual needle position and the needle position counter become out of synchronization. There is a risk of

0012 As is clear from the above explanation, the zero position negative Pointer position detection that mechanically regulates the rotation of the pointer by ejecting a pin through the movement of the loading mechanism. In mechanisms, depending on the phase and operating conditions of the motor rotor's magnetic poles and the pointer, the pointer does not always match. There is a risk that the position of the Zero position detection is only detected and stored when the crown is pulled out. , if the position of the hand shifts when you normally carry the watch, you must stop the time and correct it. Since there is no indicator, the operation of adjusting the guideline is troublesome.

[0013] Also, when trying to build the multi-function watch mentioned above, for example, there are multiple step modes. The zero position of the pointer can be detected by using the pointer and wheel train and equipped with the pointer position detection mechanism. If you try to perform the As the number of component parts increases, the number of components increases, resulting in lower costs. There is a risk that the watch movement will be expensive.

[0014] In addition, in the zero position detection mechanism, the pin that forcibly stops the pointer is placed at the 12 o'clock position. In order to release the needle, a protruding hole is made in the dial etc. that is located in the cross-sectional hollow part between the pointer and the movement. Since it is necessary to provide a If you pull out the crown as described above when the pin is at or near the There is a risk of pressing the needle and damaging it.

[0015] The purpose of this invention is to improve operability in reference position detection and to provide a reliable and inexpensive method. This invention provides a pointer position detection mechanism to realize a pointer display type electronic watch. .

[0016]

[Means to solve the problem]

In order to achieve the above object, the present invention has the following configuration. The step motor is driven by the motor drive circuit, and the display of the pointer etc. is driven through the wheel train. In an electronic watch that displays time, etc. by rotating a display member, the gear train is It forms a load changing part that meshes with a part of the tooth profile of the gear to change the load. The invention is characterized in that a load detection circuit is provided to detect a change in the meshing load. be a sign.

[0017] The step motor is driven by the motor drive circuit, and the display of the pointer etc. is driven through the wheel train. In an electronic watch that displays time, etc. by rotating a display member, the gear train is A load increasing part is formed in a part of the tooth profile of the gear to increase the load by meshing with it. The invention is characterized in that a load detection circuit is provided to detect an increase in the meshing load. be a sign.

[0018] The load increasing portion is characterized in that a convex portion is formed on the tooth bottom of the gear.

[0019] The step motor is driven by the motor drive circuit, and the display of the pointer etc. is driven through the wheel train. In an electronic watch that displays time, etc. by rotating a display member, the gear train is A load increasing part is formed in a part of the tooth profile of the gear to increase the load by meshing with it. A load detection circuit is provided for detecting an increase in the meshing load, and further, When the gears mesh, the area around the tooth profile that forms the load increasing area undergoes elastic deformation approximately in the direction of the center of rotation. It is characterized by being provided with an elastic part that forms a shape.

[0020] The step motor is driven by the motor drive circuit, and the display of the pointer etc. is driven through the wheel train. In an electronic watch that displays time, etc. by rotating a display member, the gear train is There are at least two load changing parts that mesh with a part of the tooth profile of the gear to change the load. A load detection circuit that detects a change in the meshing load as well as a change in the meshing load. and the at least two load change sections based on the output signal from the load detection circuit. A pattern detection circuit for detecting a pattern is provided.

[0021] The step motor is driven by the motor drive circuit, and the display of the pointer etc. is driven through the wheel train. In an electronic watch that displays time, etc. by rotating a display member, the gear train is At least two load increasing parts that mesh with a part of the tooth profile of the gear to increase the load are provided. a load detection circuit that detects an increase in the meshing load as well as the formation of a part; and the at least two load increasing sections based on the output signal from the load detection circuit. A pattern detection circuit for detecting a pattern is provided.

[0022]

[Effect]

The motor drive circuit drives the step motor and displays the time etc. via the wheel train. Rotate the display member to see how small the tooth profile of the gear, which is one of the components of the gear train, is. In at least one place, the front wheel and the gear are in mesh with each other approximately at the center of their axes and are opposed to each other. Tooth meshing is achieved by forming a load changing area that causes a change in the emitted force. Sometimes the load changes, this changed load is detected by the load detection circuit, and the Detects the pointer position.

[0023] Further, the convex portion, which is the load increasing portion where the load changing portion should increase the load, is located on the front stage vehicle. The periphery of the tooth profile that forms at least the convex part when meshing with the tooth profile is approximately toward the center of rotation. The gear is provided with an elastic part that elastically deforms in the direction, and the convex part of the gear meshes with the front wheel. When they fit together, first they are separated by the amount of play between the bearings, and then the elastic part moves approximately around the rotation of the gear. By deflecting in the direction of the center of rotation, the tooth profile of the front wheel rotates while maintaining pressure contact with the convex part. do.

[0024] In addition, the load that meshes with a part of the tooth profile of the gears that make up the gear train and changes the load. By forming several changing parts, this changed load is detected by a load detection circuit, and Analyze the intervals at which the load change parts appear at the several locations and detect based on the pattern recognition results. It makes a judgment and detects the pointer position.

[0025]

【Example】

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail based on the drawings. Figure 1 is a plan view of a clock movement according to an embodiment of the present invention, and Figure 2 is a clock block. 3 shows a sectional view of the main part of FIG. 1, and FIG. 4(a) shows a display rotating member. A first example of the overall engagement between a certain pointer wheel and a front wheel is shown, and FIG. 4(b) is similar to FIG. First implementation of the load change mechanism by meshing the load change part of the pointer wheel and the front wheel in (a) It is an enlarged view of a main part showing an example.

[0026] First, FIGS. 1 and 3 will be explained. 11 is the main plate which is the base of the clock movement and consists of a thin plate, and the pointer wheel train. Planar positioning of the bearing holes 11a, 11b, 11c and the inner bearing 40 that pivotally support the tenon of It has a boss hole 11d that engages with the boss 40a. Cross section of a clock movement On the other hand, the surface opposite to the base plate 11 has escape notches for the battery 14, coil 15, etc. A gear train bridge 12 is provided which forms the opening portions 12e and 12f. It has bearing holes 12a, 12b, 12c, 12d, etc. that pivotally support the other tenon of the needle wheel train. , along with other movement components, by gear train retaining screws 13a, 13b, and 13c. It is clamped and fixed to the recording plate 11.

[0027] 16 is an IC chip that constitutes the motor drive circuit, motor rotation detection circuit, etc. 16a, a circuit in which a crystal oscillator 16b serving as a reference oscillator is mounted on a circuit board 16c; road block. 17 is a motor drive parameter sent from the circuit block 16; It is a step motor that rotates one step per second by a coil 15, It is composed of a stator 18 and a motor rotor 19.

[0028] The motor rotor 19 has a pinion 19a that transmits rotational force to the pointer wheel train. The number 19a is already a well-known pointer wheel train, the fifth wheel 20 and the fourth wheel (fixed second hand) 21. , the third wheel 22, the center wheel (fixed minute hand) 23, the hour wheel 24, the hour wheel ( Fix the hour hand) Rotate 25.

[0029] The time adjustment of the hands is performed by a dial wheel 27 that engages with a winding stem 26, which is an external operating member. However, by pulling the neck of the winding stem 26, the already well-known mandarin duck 28 and cannula 29 The small railway car 30 that constitutes a pointer correction wheel train by the operation of an external operation switching mechanism such as The small iron wheel 3 is moved to the meshing position and further rotated by rotating the winding stem 26. 0. Center wheel 23 to which the minute hand and hour hand (not shown) are fixed via the hour wheel 24; hour wheel; 25 can be rotated.

[0030] It should be noted that the bolt 29, which operates in conjunction with the neck pulling operation of the winding stem 26, has a reel. A set spring 29a is integrated, and when the winding stem 26 is pulled, the reset spring 29a is a is pressed against a reset pattern (not shown) provided on the circuit block 16. Then, a reset signal is input to the IC chip 16a and the motor is driven. The dynamic pulse stops, and the fourth wheel & pinion 21 that fixes the second hand (not shown) is stopped at an arbitrary position. At the same time, the center wheel 23 and hour wheel 25 stop.

[0031] Figure 2 shows the engagement of the pointer wheel and the front wheel, which are the display rotating members of Figure 4(a), according to the present invention. 1 is a first embodiment of a block diagram of main parts of a timepiece system for a second embodiment; FIG. below , FIG. 2 will be explained.

[0032] 31 is a reference oscillator consisting of a crystal resonator 16b, an oscillation circuit, etc.; The output signal is frequency-divided by a frequency dividing circuit 32 into a signal of an appropriate frequency. Frequency dividing circuit 32 The output signal is input to the motor drive circuit 33 and outputs a motor drive pulse. The wheel train 34 and pointer 35 are driven via the motor 17.

[0033] The motor drive circuit 33 normally generates motor rotation detection pulses in addition to motor drive pulses. Generates an output pulse and changes the operating state of the motor rotor 19 due to the influence of the wheel train load. It is detected by the detection circuit 36, and the pointer position detection mechanism described later operates to temporarily reduce the wheel train load. When the motor rotor 19 becomes non-rotating due to the increased load, the output from the load detection circuit 36 Upon receiving the signal, a correction pulse larger than the normal motor drive pulse width is output to drive the motor. The operation of the rotor 19 is guaranteed.

[0034] Further, the load detection circuit 36 transmits the correction pulse output command signal to the motor drive circuit 3. At the same time, the load detection signal P36 is also output to the zero detection circuit 37. Ze b) The detection circuit 37 receives the load detection signal P36 from the load detection circuit 36 and moves to the zero position. At the same time, the zero position of the counter 38 and the zero position of the zero detection circuit 37 are recognized. In order to detect a match, a signal is sent to the counting match circuit 39, and if there is a match, a signal is sent to the counting match circuit 39. The motor drive circuit detects the amount of deviation from the zero detection circuit 37 and uses the counting matching circuit 39. A control signal of 33 output signals is output.

[0035] Note that the counter 38 is set to the circuit block when the winding stem 26 is reset in the above-mentioned state. Connect the switch pattern (not shown) arranged on the rack 16 to the positive terminal (not shown). ), the reset switch Sr is turned on and the reset mode signal Pr is output. Powered. The motor drive circuit 33 operates based on the input control of the reset mode signal Pr. A rapid traverse signal is output, and the pointer wheel train 34 enters the rapid traverse state via the step motor 17. Then, the signal of the rotation detection circuit 36 that detects non-rotation of the motor rotor 19 is When detected by the zero detection circuit 37, the zero detection circuit 37 outputs the reset mode signal P. When r is being input, a reset signal is issued to the counter 38, and this state The contents of the counter 38 are then reset. Furthermore, I decided to push in the winding stem 26. When the reset state is released, the counter 38 starts counting in sexagesimal system. .

[0036] The reset operation of the counter 38 is performed before the hand setting process such as when assembling a watch. After the reset operation, move the pointer to the zero position on the dial (for example, 0:00). By attaching the needle to the needle (minute), the pointer position detection described later can be easily realized.

[0037] Next, FIG. 4 will be explained. FIG. 4(a) shows a fifth wheel and pinion, which is a component of the fifth wheel and pinion 20 that constitutes the above-mentioned pointer wheel train. Overall meshing between the pinion pinion 20a and the fourth gear 21a, which is a component of the fourth wheel & pinion 21 Fig. 4(b) shows the state in which the tooth bottom provided on a part of the tooth profile of the fourth gear 21a is raised. Due to the meshing of the deformed part, that is, the convex part 21b with the tooth bottom exposed, and the fifth pinion 20a. FIG. 2 is an enlarged view of main parts showing a load change mechanism.

[0038] In FIGS. 1 and 3, the rotation of the motor rotor 19 is caused by the fourth wheel & pinion 21 fixing the second hand. Now it makes 1 revolution/minute in 60 steps, just like a regular 3-hand plain watch. The speed is decelerated via the fifth wheel & pinion 20, and reduced to 1/60 via the fourth wheel & pinion 21 and the third wheel & pinion 22. Speed up to the center wheel 23, then decelerate to 1/12 via the Hinoura wheel 24 to the hour wheel 25. The rotation is transmitted to the

[0039] FIG. 4 will be explained again. The fourth wheel & pinion 21 has a lower rotating torque than the other pointer wheels, the center wheel 23 and the hour wheel 25. The meshing state between the fourth gear 21a and the fifth pinion 20a, which is the front wheel, is small. The material of the fourth gear 21a is Engineering that has been widely used in recent years due to its spring constant, friction coefficient, formability, etc. Using plastic (hereinafter referred to as engineering plastic) material to obtain minute elastic force, The fourth wheel & pinion 21 is realized at low cost.

[0040] The outer periphery of the fourth gear 21a has circular arc teeth, which are commonly used in the pointer train of ordinary watches. A shape is formed. Some of the tooth bottoms in the tooth profile have a larger outer periphery than the other tooth bottoms. A deformed portion 21b with a raised tooth bottom protruding to the side is formed. Furthermore, the bottom of the tooth is The irregularly shaped hole 21 has substantially the same shape on both sides with respect to the virtual line connecting the deformed portion 21b and the center of rotation. c is provided, and a minute elastic force is generated around the deformed portion 21b where the tooth bottom is raised. A flange portion 21d is provided as shown in FIG.

[0041] In addition, the flange portion 21d is provided for ejecting the product from the engineering plastic injection molding machine. There are three flat paddings 21e as abutting spaces for the ejector pins. , 21f and 21g are provided, and the tooth profile shape when ejecting the product from the molding machine after the molding process, Efforts are made to improve mold releasability to prevent the flange shape from deforming.

[0042] The meshing between the fifth pinion 20a and the fourth gear 21a is a deformed portion in which the tooth bottom is raised. Other than 21b, the meshing condition is similar to the tooth profile of the commonly used pointer train. However, in the deformed part 21b where the tooth bottom is raised, the fifth pinion 20a shown in FIG. 4(b) is Extremely small amount of interference ΔA formed by the tooth tip diameter 20c and the deformed part 21b with the tooth bottom raised First, the amount of play in the tenon of each bearing 12b, 12c of the fifth wheel & pinion 20 and the fourth wheel & pinion 21 The center of rotation positions are separated from each other.

[0043] Next, the flange portion 21d of the fourth gear 21a is determined by the amount of interference ΔA. While slight elastic deformation occurs due to the amount of deflection excluding the amount of force, the direction of action of the force is four. Deflects approximately in the direction of the center of rotation of the number wheel 21.

[0044] Here, the fifth wheel & pinion 20 is approximately the tip of the tooth profile of the fifth pinion 20a, and is the tip of the tooth of the fourth gear 21a. Since the reaction force of the elastic force generated in the flange portion 21d is received, the wheel train rotational load increases, and the The motor rotor 19 that drives the car 20 does not rotate under normal motor drive pulses. Become.

[0045] Therefore, in FIG. 2, the motor speed output from the motor drive circuit 33 mentioned above is The load detection circuit 36 detects the rotation detection pulse, and a correction pulse is sent from the motor drive circuit 33. The motor rotor 19 rotates as a result of the output of the 0a rotates the fourth wheel & pinion 21 while maintaining pressure contact with the side surface of the deformed portion 21b with the tooth bottom raised. make it turn

[0046] Further, the load detection circuit 36 sends a load detection signal P36 to the zero detection circuit 37. is output, the counting coincidence circuit 39 detects zero position coincidence with the counter 38, If the zero position of the zero detection circuit 37 is shifted, if there is a delay, Temporarily outputs the motor drive pulse for the difference when the fast forward pulse is advancing. The motor drive circuit 33 is controlled to stop within at least 60 seconds. Correct the misalignment of the second hand.

[0047] Next, the load that should increase the meshing load on some of the tooth profiles of the gears that make up the gear train. An example of a pointer position detection mechanism in which enlarged portions are formed at two locations will be described. FIG. 10 shows a second embodiment of the overall engagement between the indicator wheel and the front wheel, which are display rotating members. Figure 11 shows the load change caused by the engagement between the load change part of the pointer wheel and the front wheel in Figure 10. FIG. 12 is an enlarged view of the main parts of the second embodiment of the display mechanism, and FIG. A second example of a clock block diagram for an example of engagement between a certain pointer wheel and a front wheel. 13 is a detailed circuit diagram of the pattern detection circuit in the clock block diagram of FIG. 12. It is.

[0048] First, FIG. 10 will be explained. FIG. 10 shows the fifth wheel, which is a component of the fifth wheel 20 that constitutes the above-mentioned pointer wheel train. The overall meshing condition between the gear 20a and the fourth gear 500a, which is a component of the fourth wheel & pinion 21. The fourth gear 500a has a first load increasing portion 50 at a predetermined interval. Two load increasing portions of the two load increasing portions 51 are formed. In addition, 500c is a figure It is similar to 21c in No. 4 and has an irregularly shaped hole.

[0049] FIG. 11 will be explained. FIG. 11 shows a modification in which a part of the tooth profile of the fourth gear 500a is raised to raise the tooth bottom. The load change mechanism due to the engagement between the second load increasing portion 51 and the fifth pinion 20a is shown. This is an enlarged view of the main parts of the Attach the pointer to the dial so that it reads 0 minutes). In addition, the first gear of the fourth gear 500a Although the load increasing portion 50 is not shown, the bottom of the tooth is raised upward like the second load increasing portion 51. It is a deformed shape.

[0050] FIG. 12 is a second embodiment of a block diagram of main parts of a timepiece system according to the present invention, The load should be increased by meshing with some of the tooth profiles of the gears that make up the gear train shown in Figure 10. This is a detection control system for a pointer position detection mechanism that forms two load increasing parts. . In the second embodiment of FIG. 12, the same elements as those in FIG. 2 are given the same symbols and explanations are omitted. Omitted. Below, FIG. 12 will be explained.

[0051] 60 is a pattern detection circuit, and the I input terminal receives the load from the load detection circuit 36. The detection signal P36 is input, and the reset signal from the reset switch Sr is input to the C input terminal. The set mode signal Pr is input, and the output signal of the reference oscillator 31 is input to the T input terminal. The number is entered. The zero position of the counter 38 and the pattern detection time are output from the Q output terminal. A zero position detection signal is sent to the counting coincidence circuit 39 in order to detect the coincidence of the zero position of the path 60. Send P66. Furthermore, when the reset mode signal Pr is input, When the pattern detection circuit 60 detects the zero position as a pattern, a zero signal is output from the Y output terminal. A low reset signal P67 is issued to the counter 38.

[0052] FIG. 13 shows a more detailed circuit diagram of the pattern detection circuit 60 in the block diagram of FIG. It is a road map. Hereinafter, FIG. 13 will be explained. The pattern detection circuit 60 includes a timer counter 68, an interval detection section 61, and an inverter. circuit (hereinafter referred to as INV) 62, AND circuit (hereinafter referred to as AND) 63, 64, 67, set Triset type flip-flop (hereinafter referred to as SR type FF) 65, toggle type flip-flop 66 (hereinafter referred to as T-type FF, rising clock operation).

[0053] The output signal of the reference oscillator 31 is input to the I input terminal of the timer counter 68. Detection reset signal P64 from AND64, which will be described later, is input to the R input terminal. and a predetermined distance from the first load increasing portion 50 of the fourth gear 500a in FIG. The interval between the two load increasing parts of the second load increasing part 51 placed is counted. interval The detection unit 61 receives the output signal group from the timer counter 68 as input, and detects the timer. The count value of the counter 68 is the predetermined value of the first load increasing section 50 and the second load increasing section 51. When the interval corresponds to the interval , an interval detection signal P61 is output. The interval detection signal P61 is input to the input terminal of INV62, and the inverted interval detection signal P 62 is output. One input terminal of AND63 receives a signal from the load detection circuit 36. Load detection signal P36 is input, and interval detection signal P61 is input to the other input terminal. input, and the interval between the first load increasing section 50 and the second load increasing section 51 is a predetermined interval. When the interval detection signal P61 is output in accordance with the value, the load detection signal P36 is It is output as a distance matching signal P63. One input terminal of AND64 receives the load detection signal P36 from the load detection circuit 36. is input, the inversion interval detection signal P62 is input to the other input terminal, and the tie The count value of the marker counter 68 is the difference between the first load increasing section 50 and the second load increasing section 51. When the load does not correspond to the predetermined interval and the reversal interval detection signal P62 is output. Detection signal P36 is output as detection reset signal P64. The interval match signal P63 is input to the S input terminal of the SR type FF65, and the R input terminal The detection reset signal P64 is input to The pattern detection signal P65 is output to the pin. A putter is connected to the T input terminal of the T-type FF66. The detection signal P65 is input to the R input terminal, and the detection reset signal P64 is input to the R input terminal. The zero position detection signal P66 is generated based on the rise of the pattern detection signal P65. Output. One input terminal of AND67 receives the signal from the reset switch Sr. Reset mode signal Pr is input, and zero position detection signal is input to the other input terminal. When P66 is input and the reset mode signal Pr is input, the zero position Detection signal P66 is output as zero reset signal P67.

[0054] Next, the operation will be explained. When the fourth gear 500a rotates and reaches the first load increasing section 50, a load detection signal is generated. P36 is output, and at this time, the count value of the timer counter 68 becomes the first load increase. The reversal interval detection signal does not correspond to the predetermined interval between the section 50 and the second load increasing section 51. Since the signal P62 is output, the detection reset signal P64 is output. the result The timer counter 68, SR type FF 65, and T type FF 66 are reset. The timer counter 68 counts based on the output signal of the reference oscillator 31, and The count value of the timer counter 68 is different from that of the first load increasing section 50 and the second load increasing section 51. corresponds to a predetermined interval, that is, when the interval detection signal P61 is output. When the fourth gear 500a rotates and just reaches the second load increasing portion 51, the negative Load detection signal P36 is output, and AND63 outputs interval match signal P63. The SR type FF65 is set and the pattern detection signal P65 is output, and the putter is detected. The zero position detection signal P66 is output based on the rise of the zero position detection signal P65. Ru.

[0055] As explained above, the pattern detection circuit 60 detects one of the tooth profiles of the gears constituting the gear train. A pointer position detector that forms two load increasing parts that mesh with each other and increase the load. It operates accurately as a circuit to detect the zero position of the pointer in the system. In addition, if the load is increased by meshing with some of the tooth profiles of the gears that make up the gear train, the load should be increased. The pointer position detection mechanism has two main parts, and the pointer position has multiple load changing parts. Although this is an example of the position detection mechanism, the load changing section may be located at three or four locations. Furthermore, the intervals between the respective load changing parts need not be constant and may be random. putter If you match the specifications of the zero position detection circuit that detects the It's only good.

[0056] Figure 5 shows the third implementation of the load change mechanism based on the engagement between the load change part of the pointer wheel and the front wheel. It is an enlarged view of the main part showing an example, and the tooth tip provided in a part of the tooth profile of the fourth gear 45a is extended. It shows the engaged state of the deformed portion 45b and the fifth pinion 20a.

[0057] Figure 6 shows the fourth implementation of the load change mechanism based on the engagement between the load change part of the pointer wheel and the front wheel. It is an enlarged view of the main part showing an example, and the tooth width provided in a part of the tooth profile of the fourth gear 46a is thickened. This figure shows the engaged state of the deformed portion 46b and the fifth pinion 20a.

[0058] Figure 7 shows the fifth implementation of the load change mechanism based on the engagement between the load change part of the pointer wheel and the front wheel. It is an enlarged view of the main part showing an example, and the tooth tip provided in a part of the tooth profile of the fourth gear 47a is shortened. The engaged state of the deformed portion 47b and the fifth pinion 20a is shown.

[0059] Figure 8 shows the sixth implementation of the load change mechanism based on the engagement between the load change part of the pointer wheel and the front wheel. It is an enlarged view of the main part showing an example, and the tooth width provided in a part of the tooth profile of the fourth gear 48a is narrowed. A state in which the deformed portion 48b and the fifth pinion 20a are engaged is shown.

[0060] Figure 9 shows the seventh implementation of the load change mechanism based on the engagement between the load change part of the pointer wheel and the front wheel. It is an enlarged view of the main part showing an example, and the tooth bottom provided in a part of the tooth profile of the fourth gear 49a is lowered. The meshing state of the deformed portion 49b and the fifth pinion 20a is shown.

[0061] The load change mechanism based on the engagement between the load change part of the pointer wheel and the front wheel shown in Figures 5 to 9 The embodiment is based on the first example of the overall engagement between the pointer wheel and the front wheel, which are the display rotating members mentioned above. This method is effective for both the example shown in FIG. 4(a) and the second example shown in FIG. be.

[0062]

[Effect of the idea]

As described above, according to the present invention, the step motor is driven by the motor drive circuit. An electronic clock that displays the time, etc. by rotating display members such as hands through a gear train. In the gear train, meshing with a part of the tooth profile of the gear forming the gear train increases the load. A load increasing portion is formed, and the load increasing portion has a convex portion formed on the bottom of the tooth of the gear. The periphery of the tooth profile forming the convex portion is elasticized approximately in the direction of the center of rotation when the gears mesh. An elastic part that deforms automatically is provided to detect an increase in the meshing load of these gear trains. By installing a load detection circuit, the wheel train components of conventional electronic watches have not been changed in any way. It is possible to reduce the cost of some wheel trains without having to do this, and it is possible to detect the position of the pointer. function, so it can always display accurate time under normal usage conditions. A low-cost watch movement can be realized.

[0063] In addition, the load must be increased by meshing with some of the tooth profiles of the gears that make up the gear train. Zero position detection can be performed more reliably by adopting a pointer position detection mechanism that has two main parts. We can prevent false detections.

[0064] Furthermore, we will implement this invention into a multi-hand, multi-function watch that meets the needs that have diversified in recent years. If the example is installed, the initial positioning operation of the logic circuit and pointer is not necessary. Easy to operate even for users unfamiliar with multi-functional equipment, low cost and reliable It becomes possible to realize an electronic clock with high performance.

[Brief explanation of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a plan view of a timepiece movement showing an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a timepiece for a first embodiment of the engagement of a pointer wheel and a front wheel, which are display rotating members shown in FIG. 4(a), according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 3 is a sectional view of the main part of FIG. 1 showing an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4(a) shows a first embodiment of the overall engagement between the pointer wheel and the front wheel, which are display rotating members according to the present invention;
(b) is an enlarged view of the main part of the load changing mechanism by the meshing of the load changing part of the pointer wheel and the front wheel of the first embodiment of (a) according to the present invention.

FIG. 5 is an enlarged view of a main part of a third embodiment of a load changing mechanism based on engagement between a load changing part of a pointer wheel and a front wheel according to the present invention;

FIG. 6 is an enlarged view of a main part of a fourth embodiment of a load changing mechanism based on engagement between a load changing part of a pointer wheel and a front wheel according to the present invention;

FIG. 7 is an enlarged view of a main part of a fifth embodiment of a load changing mechanism based on engagement between a load changing part of a pointer wheel and a front wheel according to the present invention;

FIG. 8 is an enlarged view of a main part of a sixth embodiment of a load changing mechanism based on engagement between a load changing part of a pointer wheel and a front wheel according to the present invention;

FIG. 9 is an enlarged view of a main part of a seventh embodiment of a load changing mechanism based on engagement between a load changing part of a pointer wheel and a front wheel according to the present invention;

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a second embodiment of the overall engagement between the pointer wheel and the front wheel, which are display rotating members according to the present invention.

11 is an enlarged view of a main part of a load changing mechanism based on the meshing of the load changing part of the pointer wheel and the front wheel of the second embodiment of FIG. 10 according to the present invention; FIG.

12 is a block diagram of a clock according to a second embodiment of the engagement between the pointer wheel and the front wheel, which are display rotating members of FIG. 10, according to the present invention; FIG.

FIG. 13 is a detailed circuit diagram of the pattern detection circuit in the clock block diagram of FIG. 12 according to the present invention;

[Explanation of symbols]

15 coil 17 Step motor 18 Stator 19 Motor rotor 20 Fifth wheel 20a Fifth kana 21 Fourth wheel 21a Fourth gear 21b Convex part 21c irregular shaped hole 21d Flange part 33 Motor drive circuit 36 Load detection circuit 37 Zero detection circuit 38 Counter 39 Count matching circuit 50 First load increasing section 51 Second load increasing section 60 Pattern detection circuit

Claims (6)

[Scope of utility model registration request] 1. An electronic timepiece in which a stepper motor is driven by a motor drive circuit and a display member such as a hand is rotated through a gear train to display time and the like, wherein one of the tooth profiles of the gears constituting the gear train 1. A pointer position detection mechanism, comprising: a load changing section for changing a meshing load; and a load detection circuit for detecting a change in the meshing load. 2. An electronic timepiece in which a stepper motor is driven by a motor drive circuit and a display member such as a hand is rotated through a gear train to display the time, etc., wherein one of the tooth profiles of the gears constituting the gear train is 1. A pointer position detection mechanism, characterized in that a load increasing portion for increasing a meshing load is formed in a portion thereof, and a load detection circuit is provided for detecting an increase in the meshing load. 3. The pointer position detection mechanism according to claim 2, wherein the load increasing portion has a convex portion formed on the tooth bottom of the gear. 4. An electronic timepiece in which a stepper motor is driven by a motor drive circuit and a display member such as a pointer is rotated through a gear train to display time and the like, wherein one of the tooth profiles of the gears constituting the gear train is A load increasing portion for increasing the meshing load is formed in the portion, and a load detection circuit is provided for detecting an increase in the meshing load, and further,
A pointer position detection mechanism characterized in that an elastic part that is elastically deformed substantially in the direction of the center of rotation when gears mesh is provided around the tooth profile forming the load increasing part. 5. An electronic timepiece in which a stepper motor is driven by a motor drive circuit and a display member such as a pointer is rotated through a gear train to display time and the like, wherein one of the tooth profiles of the gears constituting the gear train is provided. forming at least two load changing parts in which the meshing load is to be changed; a load detection circuit for detecting a change in the meshing load; and a load detection circuit for detecting a change in the meshing load based on an output signal from the load detection circuit. A pointer position detection mechanism comprising a pattern detection circuit for detecting a pattern of a changing part. 6. In an electronic timepiece in which a stepper motor is driven by a motor drive circuit and a display member such as a pointer is rotated through a gear train to display time and the like, one of the tooth profiles of the gears constituting the gear train is provided. a load detecting circuit for detecting an increase in the meshing load; and a load detecting circuit for detecting an increase in the meshing load; and a load detecting circuit for detecting an increase in the meshing load; A pointer position detection mechanism comprising a pattern detection circuit for detecting a pattern of an enlarged portion.