WO2001007971A2

WO2001007971A2 - Setting functions for a multimode electronic timepiece

Info

Publication number: WO2001007971A2
Application number: PCT/US2000/018490
Authority: WO
Inventors: Louis M. Galie; Friedrich Mose; Michel G. Plancon; Herbert Schwartz; Gerhard Stotz; Daniel Simoneau; Ronald S. Lizzi; Richard D. Ciervo
Original assignee: Timex Corporation
Priority date: 1999-07-22
Filing date: 2000-07-06
Publication date: 2001-02-01
Also published as: WO2001007971B1; AU6206200A; WO2001007971A3

Abstract

Setting functions are provided for a multimode electronic device, such as timepiece (10), having a rotating switching mechanism (34) and an integrated circuit operable in at least an active mode state, a mode setting state and an information setting state. The setting functions include, when in the mode setting state, selecting a next active mode from a plurality of modes. The next mode is selected by rotating the switching mechanism in a first direction until the next active mode is exhibited on a display. When in the information setting state the setting functions include selecting next information of the active mode, and selecting a next value of the next information. The next value is selected by rotating the switching mechanism in a second direction until the next value is exhibited on the display. Preferably, the switching mechanism is rotated by rotating a ring mounted to the timepiece.

Description

SETTING FUNCTIONS FOR A MULTIMODE ELECTRONIC TIMEPIECE

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS: This patent application is related to commonly assigned, copending U.S. Patent Applications Serial No.: 09/264,523, filed on March 8, 1999, entitled "Combined Crown and Pusher Electro Mechanism, " by Michel G. Plancon and Serial No.: 09/327,769, filed on June 7, 1999, entitled "Crown Switching Mechanism, " by Gerhard Stotz. The disclosures of these commonly assigned, copending U.S. Patent Applications are incorporated by reference herein in their entireties.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION;

This invention relates generally to electronic devices such as digital timepieces and combined analog and digital timepieces, and more particularly, to an improved methodology and construction to provide setting functions which also utilize an improved switching mechanism for digital and combined analog and digital timepieces .

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION; Typically, analog timepieces include a watch case, a movement disposed in the watch case having a stepping motor which drives gear trains to operate time indicating hands, a dial, a device for illuminating the dial, a rotatable stem slidably disposed in the movement, a crown actuator disposed on the stem externally to the watch case for manually rotating and sliding the stem, and a setting pinion disposed on the stem and adapted to engage the gear train when the stem is pulled from a normal "run" position to a "set" position. The crown actuator, the stem and the setting pinion may comprise what is referred to as a "crown setting mechanism." To achieve a setting function, the crown setting mechanism is placed in a "set" position and is manually operated so that the setting pinion on the stem engages teeth of a setting gear. When the crown actuator is rotated the setting gear meshes with the gear train in order to rotate the time indicating hands. An example of such an arrangement is seen in U.S. Patent No.: 5,083,300 issued January 21, 1992 to Schwartz and assigned to the assignee of the present invention.

As is also known in the art, the crown setting mechanism may cooperate with the device for illuminating the dial such that when the stem is pushed from the normal "run" position to a "switching" position, the dial is illuminated. A commonly assigned, U.S. Patent No.: 5,644,553 issued July 1, 1997 to Cuinet describes an example of such a combined crown and pusher. The disclosures of commonly assigned, U.S. Patent Nos . : 5,083,300 and 5,644,553 are incorporated by reference herein in their entireties.

On the other hand, typical digital timepieces include a display, a lamp for illuminating the display, manually actuatable switches (referred to hereinafter as pushers), and an integrated circuit. As is well known, the digital timepiece may have multiple operating modes such as, for example, a time-of-day (TOD) mode, a chronograph (CHRONO) mode, an alarm setting (ALARM) mode, and an elapsed timer (TIMER) mode. Generally, one of the pushers is activated to change from one operating mode to another. Another one or more of the pushers may be activated during the setting functions to change information being displayed during a currently activated operating mode.

For example, during a setting function of an ALARM mode, a first pusher is activated to select a numeric position on the display. A second pusher is activated to sequence the numeric position through a predetermined series of numbers (e.g., 0-9) which appear on the display. To select a number within the series to represent a current value of the numeric position on the display, the second pusher is released. The first pusher is activated again to deselect the currently selected numeric position and to select a next numeric position on the display. In this way a particular time- of-day can be specified at which time an audible alarm is activated. Examples of such multimode, multifunctioning electronic timepieces include commonly assigned, U.S. Patent Nos.: 4,783,773 issued November 8, 1988 to Houlihan et al . , 4,780,864 issued October 25, 1988 to Houlihan and 4,283,784 issued August 11, 1981 to Horan. Exemplary setting functions for the multimode, multifunctioning electronic timepieces are described in commonly assigned, U.S. Patent No.: 5,555,226, issued September 10, 1996 to Lizzi. The disclosure of these commonly assigned, U.S. Patent Nos.: 4,783,773, 4,780,864, 4,283,784 and 5,555,226 are incorporated by reference herein in their entireties.

As the number of available operating modes and information to be displayed and set increases, there is likewise a needed increase in the number of pushers or sequencing thereof to activate the modes and/or to set the information displayed therein. Further, the increasing number of modes and pushers results in numerous procedural steps to set the information displayed within the modes of the timepiece. As can be appreciated, the numerous procedural steps increase the complexity of use of the timepiece, are inconvenient, and may be cumbersome for an operator working to reset the timepiece.

The inventors of the present invention have realized that the setting functions performed with the crown setting mechanism of the analog timepiece are more intuitive for users than the setting functions performed using the plurality of pushers of conventional digital timepieces .

Prior art devices have used crown setting mechanism within digital devices. For example, the above referenced commonly assigned, copending U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 09/327,769, by Gerhard Stotz describes a number of prior art digital electronic watches having rotatable switching mechanisms for generating electrical signals to set the watch. However, none of these prior art devices are seen to permit a mode selection, when the switching mechanism is rotated in a first direction, and a selection and setting of information within an active mode when the switching mechanism is rotated in a second direction. Therefore, and in contrast to the prior art, the present invention provides setting functions for use in electronic devices which utilize a variety of switching mechanisms to simplify the setting procedures thereof. The present invention also eliminates the use of pushers during setting functions of electronic timepieces by utilizing the disclosed switching mechanisms, such as ones operable for generating a first set of signals when the switching mechanism is in a predetermined number of axial setting positions and a second set of signals when the switching mechanism is in a predetermined number of rotational setting positions. In this way, the manual control of setting functions is improved.

OBJECTS AND ADVANTAGES OF THE INVENTION;

Therefore, it is a first object and advantage of this invention to provide improved setting procedures for multimode electronic devices and, particularly, for digital and combination analog and digital timepieces that overcome the foregoing and other problems .

It is another object and advantage of this invention to provide setting functions for a multimode electronic device having a switching mechanism for generating a first set of signals when the switching mechanism is in a predetermined number of axial setting positions and a second set of signals when the switching mechanism is in a predetermined number of rotational setting positions during selective setting functions for the electronic device.

It is still another object and advantage of this invention to provide setting functions for a multimode electronic device having an axial switching mechanism for generating a set of axial setting signals and a rotational switching mechanism for generating a set of rotational setting signals during selective setting functions for the electronic device.

Further objects and advantages of this invention will become more apparent from a consideration of the drawings and ensuing description. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The foregoing and other problems are overcome and the objects and advantages are realized by methods and apparatus in accordance with embodiments of this invention, wherein improved setting functions for a multimode electronic device are disclosed.

Generally speaking, the present invention describes setting functions for a multimode electronic device, such as timepiece, of the type having a switching mechanism and an integrated circuit operable in at least an active mode state, a mode setting state and an information setting state. Preferably, the switching mechanism is positionable in at least two axial positions. The setting functions include, when the switching mechanism is in a first of the at least two axial positions, selecting a next active mode from a plurality of first modes by rotating the switching mechanism in at least one of a first and a second direction until the next active mode is exhibited. Next, the setting functions include positioning the switching mechanism in a second of the at least two axial positions, and exhibiting a next value of information in the next active mode by rotating the switching mechanism in at least one of a first and second direction. The method further includes setting, or selecting, the information in the next active mode by positioning the switching mechanism from the second to the first of the at least two axial positions.

In one embodiment, the setting functions for setting a multimode electronic timepiece of the type having a switching mechanism positionable in at least two axial positions, signal generating means for generating rotational signals and an integrated circuit operable in at least an active mode state, a mode setting state and an information setting state, include: when the switching mechanism is in a first of at least two axial positions, selecting a next active mode from a plurality of first modes by generating rotational signals until the next active mode is exhibited; positioning the switching mechanism in a second of the at least two axial positions; and exhibiting a next value of information in the next active mode by generating at least one rotational signal while the switching mechanism is in the second axial position.

In another embodiment, steps for setting a multimode electronic device of the type having means for generating axial signals, means for generating rotational signals and an integrated circuit operable in at least an active mode state, a mode setting state and an information setting state, include: generating a first axial signal, and in response thereto, selecting a next active mode from a plurality of first modes by generating rotational signals until the next active mode is exhibited; and generating a second axial signal, and in response thereto exhibiting a next value of information in the next active mode by generating at least one rotational signal. In still another embodiment, the present invention describes setting functions for a multimode electronic device, such as timepiece, of the type having a rotating switching mechanism and an integrated circuit operable in at least an active mode, a mode setting mode and an information setting mode. The setting functions include, when in the mode setting mode, selecting a next active mode from a plurality of modes. The next mode is selected by rotating the switching mechanism in a first direction until the next active mode is exhibited on, for example, a display of the device. When in the information setting mode the setting functions include selecting next information of the active mode, and selecting a next value of the next information. The next value of the next information is selected by rotating the switching mechanism in a second direction opposite the first direction until the next value of the next information is exhibited on the display. Preferably, the rotation of the switching mechanism is accomplished by rotating a top ring rotatably mounted to the timepiece. As the top ring is rotated the switching mechanism is similarly rotated.

In yet another embodiment, the setting functions further include, when in the information setting mode, discontinuing the rotation of the switching mechanism in the second direction to set the next value of the next information, and then determining whether there is additional information to be set within the active mode. If the active mode includes additional information, the information setting mode includes selecting the additional information, and rotating the switching mechanism in the second direction to select a next value of the additional information. The information setting mode may also include selectively rotating and discontinuing the rotation of the switching mechanism in the second direction until all information is respectively selected and set in the active mode.

In another aspect of the present invention, the timepiece is a combined analog and digital multimode electronic timepiece. The combined timepiece includes a first switching mechanism for performing analog setting functions and a second switching mechanism for performing digital setting functions.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The above set forth and other features of the invention are made more apparent in the ensuing Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments when read in conjunction with the attached Drawings, wherein:

Fig. 1 is a simplified plan view of a conventional multimode, multifunctioning digital electronic timepiece;

Fig. 2A is a block diagram of an integrated circuit and other components of a multimode, digital electronic timepiece constructed in accordance with the present invention;

Fig. 2B is a simplified plan view of the multimode, digital electronic timepiece of Fig. 2A;

Fig. 3 is a perspective view of a switching mechanism constructed in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 4 is an enlarged, plan view of a portion of the switching mechanism of Fig. 3 which illustrates an incremental generation of electrical pulses;

Fig. 5 is a partial, elevational view in cross section of an electronic timepiece constructed in accordance with the present invention, wherein is illustrated the switching mechanism of Fig. 3 in mechanical engagement with a rotatable top ring during predetermined setting functions; Fig. 6 is a perspective view of a switching mechanism constructed in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 7 is a partial, elevational view in cross section of an electronic timepiece constructed in accordance with the present invention, wherein is illustrated the switching mechanism of Fig. 6 in mechanical engagement with a rotatable top ring during predetermined setting functions;

Fig. 8A is a partial, elevational view in cross section of an electronic timepiece constructed in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;

Figs. 8B-8E are top, plan views of electronic timepieces constructed in accordance with other embodiments of the present invention;

Fig. 9 illustrates a flow diagram of setting functions for an electronic device operating in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 10A illustrates an electronic timepiece configured and operating in accordance with the flow diagram of Fig. 9; Fig. 10B illustrates exemplary operating modes and corresponding setting functions of the electronic timepiece of Fig. 10A;

Fig. 11 illustrates a flow diagram of a rapid advancement setting routine in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 12 illustrates a flow diagram of setting functions for an electronic device operating in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; Figs. 13A and 13B illustrate a flow diagram of setting functions for an electronic device operating in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 13C illustrates a flow diagram of alternate setting functions for the electronic device executing the method of Figs. 13A and 13B;

Fig. 14 illustrates a flow diagram of setting functions for an electronic device operating in accordance with still another embodiment of the present invention;

Figs. 15A and 15B illustrate a flow diagram of setting functions for an electronic device operating in accordance with yet another embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 16 illustrates a combined analog and digital electronic timepiece configured and operating in accordance with the present invention; Figs. 17A-17C illustrate flow diagrams of setting functions for the combined analog and digital electronic timepiece of Fig. 16;

Fig. 18 illustrates a flow diagram of setting functions for an electronic device operating in accordance with yet another embodiment of the present invention; and

Figs. 19A and 19B illustrate flow diagrams of setting functions for an electronic device operating in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. Identically labeled elements appearing in different ones of the above described figures refer to the same elements but may not be referenced in the description for all figures.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

As shown in Fig. 1, a conventional multimode, electronic timepiece 10 includes a case 12 and a strap 14 for securing the timepiece 10 to the wrist of a wearer. Timepiece 10 also contains watch circuitry (not shown) and an electro-optic display 16. The watch circuitry performs timekeeping functions of the timepiece 10. The electro-optic display 16, typically a liquid crystal display (LCD) , exhibits numbers, letters and symbols when activated by various timekeeping functions. The timekeeping functions of the electronic timepiece 10 are well known in the art, as is described in the commonly assigned, U.S. Patent Nos.: 4,783,773, issued November 8, 1988 to Houlihan et al . ; 4,780,864, issued October 25, 1988 to Houlihan; and 4,283,784 issued August 11, 1981 to Horan, and therefore, are not described in further details herein. The disclosure of commonly assigned, U.S. Patent Nos.: 4,783,773, 4,780,864 and 4,283,784 are incorporated by reference herein in their entireties.

As shown in Fig. 1, the timepiece 10 includes manually activated pushers, for example, pushers P1-P4. The pushers P1-P4 may be selectively activated to cycle the timepiece 10 through multiple operating modes and setting states thereof such as, for example, a time-of- day (TOD) mode, a chronograph (CHRONO) mode, an alarm setting (ALARM) mode, an elapsed timer (TIMER) mode, and even an alternate time zone (T2) mode. In this regard, reference is made to commonly assigned, U.S. Patent No.: 5,555,226, issued September 10, 1996, to Ronald S. Lizzi. The '226 patent describes operating modes and a SET subroutine for changing information exhibited on, for example, the display 16 of the multimode electronic timepiece 10. The disclosure of this commonly assigned, U.S. Patent No.: 5,555,226 is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. Figs. 2A and 2B illustrate components of watch circuitry 20 of a multimode, multifunctioning electronic timepiece 22 configured in accordance with the present invention. The watch circuitry 20 is disposed within a cavity of a watch casing 23 and is operable for performing the timekeeping functions of the timepiece

22. In Fig. 2A, the watch circuitry 20 includes a programmable microcomputer 24 in the form of an integrated circuit chip, preferably bonded to a printed circuit board (not shown) . The microcomputer 24 includes a microprocessor (μP) 24a programmed to perform instructions suitable for achieving the timekeeping functions of the electronic timepiece 22, and a memory device (MEM) 24b. The MEM 24b may store, for example, data values and/or variables used by the μP 24a in one or more operating modes of the timepiece. In particular, the MEM 24b may store electronic timepiece setting methodologies as software routines retrieved and executed by μP 24a in accordance with the present invention. The timepiece setting methodologies are discussed in greater detail below.

As can be appreciated, the watch circuitry 20 also includes a timekeeping circuit 26 which generates a time indicating signal 28 representing a time-of-day. The microcomputer 24 receives the time indicating signal 28 and, in at least one operating mode, processes the signal to provide an output signal via a display bus 30 to a display such as, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) 32. The LCD 32 exhibits the time of day, other time measuring quantities, or other numbers, letters or symbols as instructed by the microcomputer 24. As is generally known, the display bus 30 represents several parallel leads to activate various segments of the LCD 32.

During setting states of at least one operating mode of the timepiece 22 information exhibited on the display 32 may be set or reset. In accordance with the present invention, a switching mechanism 34 is operable to generate input signals 36A and 36B to the microcomputer 24 during predetermined setting states. In particular, a first set of input signals 36A are generated as the switching mechanism 34 is operated within a predetermined number of axial setting positions, and a second set of input signals 36B are generated when the switching mechanism 34 is operable within a predetermined number of rotational setting positions. The input signals 36A and 36B are passed to the μP 24a for processing to, for example, increase or decrease a value exhibited on the display 32 through a predetermined sequence of values. The input signals 36A and 36B may also be processed to set or reset a value or values within the timekeeping circuit 26. In this regard, a control signal 38 may be directed to the timekeeping circuit 26 from the microcomputer 24 (i.e. the μP 24a) to set one or more values within the timekeeping circuit 26. In accordance with the present invention and as more particularly disclosed below, the switching mechanism 34 and the input signals 36A and 36B may supplement or, preferably, replace the signals generated from the actuation of pushers (e.g., the pushers P1-P4 of Fig. 1) during conventional setting functions.

In one aspect of the present invention the switching mechanism 34 may be represented by a crown switching mechanism. In one embodiment, shown in Fig. 3, the crown switching mechanism is a crown switching mechanism 34' having a setting stem 40 and a switching device 42. The setting stem 40 is preferably mounted through a bore of a watch case and cooperates with a spring plate 44 and a detent spring 45 such that the setting stem 40 may be disposed in a plurality of axial setting positions. The axial setting positions may include, but are not limited to, for example, a normal "run" position, a "first pulled" or "time setting" position and a "second pulled" or "alternate setting" position. The first set of input signals 36A indicate a currently selected one of the axial setting positions of the setting stem 40. In this regard, and as shown in Fig. 3, a function lever 47 engages the setting stem 40 and in cooperation therewith indicates the currently selected one of the axial setting positions. However, it should be appreciated that the first set of input signals 36A may be generated by, for example, other mechanical features such as buttons or pushers.

The setting stem 40 includes a first portion having integrally formed teeth 40a which cooperate with the switching device 42 to generate intermittent first and second electrical signals. The intermittent first and second electrical signals form the second set of input signals 36B which indicate a rotation of the setting stem 40 within a current one of a plurality of rotational setting positions. For example, within the plurality of rotational setting positions, the setting stem 40 may be manipulated in a clockwise or a counterclockwise rotational direction.

The switching device 42 preferably includes a spring switch arm 46, a first electrical contact 48, and a second electrical contact 50. The spring switch arm 46 is preferably aligned with an axis of rotation of the setting stem 40 (shown in Figs. 3 and 4 as an A axis) and has an end thereof positioned between the first electrical contact 48 and the second electrical contact 50.

In accordance with the present invention and as shown in Fig. 4, as the setting stem 40 is rotated the teeth 40a of the setting stem 40 deflect the spring switch arm 46 to engage one of the first electrical contact 48 or the second electrical contact 50. As a result of this engagement, an electrical connection is formed between either the spring switch arm 46 and the first electrical contact 48 or the spring switch arm 46 and the second electrical contact 50. The electrical connections generate respective intermittent first and second electrical pulses which represent the second set of input signals 36B to the microcomputer 24 (Fig. 2A) . For example, in Fig. 4, as the setting stem 40 is continuously rotated in a first, clockwise direction, the teeth 40a engage and deflect the spring switch arm 46 from a neutral position along the A axis (shown in Fig. 4 as dashed lines) to a position in which the spring switch arm 46 engages the first electrical contact 48, producing intermittent first electrical pulses. The intermittent first electrical pulses are passed from the crown switching mechanism 34' to the microcomputer 24 as the second set of input signals 36B. Likewise as the setting stem 40 is continuously rotated in a counterclockwise direction, the teeth 40a engage and deflect the spring switch arm 46 from the neutral position to a position in which the spring switch arm 46 engages the second electrical contact 50, producing intermittent second electrical pulses. As should be appreciated, the intermittent second electrical pulses are also passed from the crown setting mechanism 34' to the microcomputer 24 as the second set of input signals 36B. The above referenced, commonly assigned, copending U.S. Patent Application, Serial No.: 09/327,769, entitled "Crown Switching Mechanism, " describes in detail the above embodiment of the switching mechanism 34' . In Fig. 5, the watch circuitry 20 (Fig. 2A) and the switching mechanism 34' (Fig. 3) are incorporated within a multimode, multifunctioning electronic device such as a timepiece 52 constructed in accordance with one aspect of the present invention. In particular, Fig. 5 illustrates the switching mechanism 34 ' in mechanical engagement with a rotatable ring, for example, a rotatable top ring 54 during predetermined setting states. The top ring 54 is rotatably mounted on a case 56 of the timepiece 52. Preferably, the rotatable top ring 54 is an assembly of a ring carrier 58 and a ring bezel 60 held thereon by a spring-like cooperation of the ring carrier 58 and circumferential grooves 56a and 60a on an outer diameter of the case 56 and an inner diameter of the ring bezel 60, respectively. In this regard, reference is made to commonly-assigned, U.S. Patent No.: 5,742,565, issued April 21, 1998, to Jean Louis Cuinet et al . The '565 patent describes in detail the configuration of such top ring assemblies which cooperate with crown setting devices of analog timepieces. In particular, the '565 patent describes a cooperation between gear teeth of the ring carrier 58 and the crown setting device. The disclosure of the commonly assigned, U.S. Patent No.: 5,742,565 is incorporated herein in its entirety.

Fig. 5.further illustrates a knob or crown actuator 62 affixed to an end of the setting stem 40 extending outside the case 56. The crown actuator 62 is affixed to the setting stem 40 in a known manner by, for example, press fit or screws. As described in the '565 patent, an outer diameter of the crown actuator 62 preferably includes teeth 62a which mesh for rotation with teeth 58a of the ring carrier 58. As should be appreciated, and in accordance with the present invention, the rotation of the top ring 54 results in the rotation of the setting stem 40, and thus, the engagement of the teeth 40a of the setting stem with the spring switch arm 46, thereby providing the aforementioned pulses upon the contact by the switch arm 46 and either the first electrical contact 48 or the second electrical contact 50. That is, when the top ring 54 rotates in the clockwise direction, the setting stem 40 also rotates in the clockwise direction thereby generating the intermittent first electrical signals as input (e.g., the second set of input signals 36B) for predetermined setting states and functions thereof, performed by the microcomputer 24. Similarly, when the top ring 54 rotates in the counterclockwise direction, the setting stem 40 also rotates in the counterclockwise direction thereby generating intermittent second electrical signals as input for the predetermined setting functions performed by the microcomputer 24. The predetermined setting functions are described in detail below.

In another embodiment of the first aspect of the present invention, shown in Figs. 6 and 7, the switching mechanism 34 is represented by a crown switching mechanism 34 ' ' . The crown switching mechanism 34 ' ' preferably includes a setting stem 70 and a switching device shown generally at 72. The setting stem 70 is mounted through a bore of a watch case and may be disposed in a plurality of axial setting positions such as those described above. As should be appreciated, the setting stem 70 cooperates with the spring plate 44, the detent spring 45 and the function level 47 to provide the first set of input signals 36A indicating the selected one of the setting positions. A crown actuator 74 is attached to an end of the setting stem 70 (Fig. 7) and may be manually manipulated to move the setting stem 70 within the plurality of axial setting positions and a plurality of rotational setting positions.

As shown in Figs. 6 and 7, a click-wheel assembly, indicated generally at 76, is mounted onto the setting stem 70. The click-wheel assembly 76 preferably includes a clockwise click-wheel 78 and a counterclockwise click-wheel 80. The click-wheels 78 and 80 and the setting stem 70 are coaxial in their rotation. The click-wheels 78 and 80 include a plurality of teeth 82 and 84, respectively, located on an outer diameter of each click-wheel 78 and 80. A first and a second holding plate 86 and 88 cooperate with the click-wheel assembly 76 to generate electrical signals in response to a clockwise and a counterclockwise rotation of the setting stem 70. That is, the first and the second holding plates 86 and 88 each have a respective elongated arm 86a and 88a which, when deflected by teeth 82 and 84, provide first and second intermittent electrical signals which are passed to the watch circuitry 20 (Fig. 2A) as inputs (i.e., the second set of input signals 36B) for a predetermined one of the setting functions.

Commonly assigned, copending U.S. Patent Application, Serial No.: 09/264,523, entitled "Combined Crown and Pusher Electro Mechanism", by Michel G. Plancon, describes in detail the above embodiment of the switching mechanism 34 ' ' . The disclosure of this commonly assigned, copending U.S. Patent Application is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. In particular, the disclosure of the 09/264,523 patent application describes a cooperation between the click- wheels 78 and 80, the teeth 82 and 84, and the elongated arms 86a and 88a of the first and the second holding plates 86 and 88. That is, when the setting stem 70 is rotated in the clockwise direction, intermittent first electrical signals are generated, and when the setting stem 70 is rotated in the counterclockwise direction, intermittent second electrical signals are generated. As noted above, the intermittent first and second electrical signals represent the second set of input signals 36B.

In Fig. 7, the watch circuitry 20 and the switching mechanism 34'' are incorporated within a multimode, multifunctioning electronic device such as timepiece 90 constructed in accordance with another aspect of the present invention. In particular, Fig. 7 illustrates the switching mechanism 34 ' ' in mechanical engagement with the rotatable top ring 54 (discussed above in relation to Fig. 5) which itself is rotatably mounted on a case 92 of the timepiece 90. As discussed above, the rotatable top ring 54 is an assembly of the ring carrier 58 and the ring bezel 60 whose general construction and features are described in commonly-assigned, U.S. Patent No.: 5,742,565, issued April 21, 1998, to Jean Louis Cuinet et al .

An outer diameter of the crown actuator 74 includes teeth 74a that mesh with the teeth 58a of the ring carrier 58. As should also now be appreciated, and in accordance with the present invention, the continuous rotation of the top ring 54 results in the rotation of the setting stem 70. As the setting stem 70 is rotated the teeth 82 and 84 of the click-wheel assembly 76 engage either the elongated arm 86a of the first holding plate 86 or the elongated arm 88a of the second holding plate 88 to produce the intermittent first or the intermittent second electrical signals as input (e.g., input signals 36B) to predetermined setting states and functions thereof.

Referring again to Fig. 2A, in a second aspect of the present invention the switching mechanism 34 includes an axial switching mechanism 34a and a rotational switching mechanism 34b. In one embodiment, shown in Fig. 8A, the axial switching mechanism 34a includes a setting stem 41 having a crown actuator (not shown) affixed thereto. As with the setting stems 40 and 70, the setting stem 41 is operable within a plurality of axial setting positions. The axial movement of the setting stem 41 within the plurality of axial setting positions is detected and, in response thereto, the first set of input signals 36A are generated. That is, as with previous embodiments, a currently selected one of the axial setting positions of the setting stem 41 is detected by, for example, detecting the position of a function lever (similar to function lever 47 of Fig. 3) . However, unlike the above-described embodiments, the second set of input signals. 36B are not generated by a rotation of the setting stem 41. Rather, the second set of input signals 36B are independently generated by the rotational switching mechanism 34b. Since the rotational switching mechanism 34b generates the input signals 36B, the setting stem 41 need not be rotatably operable .

In Fig. 8A, the rotational switching mechanism 34b includes a rotatable ring, for example, a top ring 55 rotatably mounted on a case 93 of a multimode, electronic device such as a timepiece 91. Preferably, the top ring 55 is an assembly having a ring carrier 57 and a ring bezel 59 similar to those described above with reference to the '565 patent to Jean Louis Cuinet et al . and illustrated in Figs. 5 and 7. In one embodiment the top ring 55 includes, for example, at least one tooth or portion 57a that protrudes from a lower surface of the ring carrier 57. In accordance with this aspect of the present invention, the at least one portion 57a cooperates with, for example, a switch arm 61 to generate the second set of input signals 36B as the ring 55 is rotated. That is, as the top ring 55 is rotated the at least one portion 57a engages the switch arm 61 to deflect the switch arm 61 to engage one of a first or a second electrical contact in a manner similar to the arrangement described and illustrated in Fig. 4. As can be appreciated, the switch arm 61 and one of the first and the second electrical contacts form an electrical connection such that one of the intermittent first and the intermittent second electrical signals is generated. As noted above, the intermittent first and the intermittent second electrical signals are passed from the rotational switching mechanism 34b to the microprocessor 24a as the second set of input signals 36B. Importantly, there need not be any engagement between the ring 55 and the setting stem 41. It follows, therefore, that rotation of the ring 55 need not, in this embodiment, result in a rotation of the setting stem 41.

In other embodiments, shown in Figs. 8B and 8C, the rotational switching mechanism 34b of timepieces 91' and 91'' include touch sensitive areas wherein clockwise and counterclockwise signals are generated and passed to the microcomputer 24 as the second set of input signals 36B. For example, the rotatable ring 55 of Fig. 8A may be replaced by a touch sensitive ring 95 located about a surface of the timepiece 91' (Fig. 8B) . Alternatively, the rotatable ring 55 may be replaced by a touch sensitive pad 97 located on a surface of timepiece 94'' (Fig. 8C) .

As should be appreciated, the touch sensitive areas 95 and 97 illustrated in Figs. 8B and 8C, may be constructed as digitized areas generally referred to as "touch pads" similar to those utilized in laptop and notebook type personal computers. For example, the touch sensitive areas 95 and 97 may be configured as pressure, capacitive, or resistive sensitive membranes where either the pressure of an operator's finger (or a pointing device) on a membrane switch array, or a change in capacitance or resistance resulting from contact by an operator's finger (or a pointing device) with one or more layers provides signals. The signals may be detected and monitored to, for example, determine a position of the contact (e.g., as coordinates in an x and y axis or as a differential voltage across resistor segments) and/or to calculate a velocity of a continuous movement around and across the touch sensitive areas 95 and 97 (e.g., a detected position versus time calculation) . Alternatively, the contact and movement about the touch sensitive areas 95 and 97 may be optically sensed to determine the coordinate position and the velocity of the contact about the touch sensitive areas 95 and 97. In this respect, reference is made to U.S. Patent Nos.: 5,008,497, issued April 16, 1991, entitled "Touch Controller," by Asher, 5,305,017, issued April 19, 1994, entitled "Methods and Apparatus For Data Input," by Gerpheide, 5,424,756, issued June 13, 1995 entitled "Track Pad Cursor Positioning Device and Method," by Ho et al . , and 5,856,822, issued January 5, 1999 entitled "Touch-Pad Digital Computer Pointing Device," by Du et al . that describes such technology to be within the skill of the artisan.

In accordance with the present invention, and with reference to Fig. 8B, as contact is made about the touch sensitive ring 95 the current position is determined and compared to a previous position to calculate a relative displacement (i.e. current position vs. previous position is interpreted as a displacement in (e.g. in the x and y axis) ) over a predetermined time period. Based on the relative displacement, the direction of movement around the ring 95 (i.e. in a clockwise or a counterclockwise direction) is determined. Accordingly, clockwise and counterclockwise signals representing the first and the second intermittent electrical signals may be sent from the rotational switching mechanism 34b (i.e., the touch sensitive ring 95) to the microcomputer 24 as the second set of input signals 36B.

Optionally, the velocity of movement around the ring 95 may be determined (relative displacement vs. time) . If the determined velocity exceeds a predetermined threshold, the timepiece 91' may perform, for example, a rapid advancement routine wherein values exhibited by the timepiece 91' during setting functions are updated (increases or decreases) by a predefined set of increments in excess of updating increments used without the rapid advancement protocol . The rapid advancement functionality and methodologies are discussed in detail below. Additionally, the ring 95 may include portions 95a and 95b wherein continuous, stationary contact in excess of a predefined time period (e.g., 2-3 seconds) may be interpreted as continuous movement in the clockwise or the counterclockwise directions, respectively. Therefore, instead of requiring continuously contact around the circumference of the ring 95, contact can be maintained over one of the portions 95a and 95b and be interpreted as continuous movement in one of the clockwise or the counterclockwise directions. In another embodiment, the portions 95a and 95b may represent a plurality of portions each corresponding to a predefined value such as, for example, numeric values from 0-9. As such, a numeric value may be directly entered during functions of the setting states by maintaining contact over a corresponding portion of the ring 95 for a predefined time period. As should be appreciated, the portions 95a and 95b may also represent time indicating symbols such as, for example, an "A.M." and a "P.M." symbol which represent setting a time value within the first and the last twelve hours of a day, respectively. In this respect, after depressing "A.M.", setting functions may update a time value between the 12 midnight to 12 noon hours. In Fig. 8C, the timepiece 91'' includes the above- described crown switching mechanism 34 for generating the first set of axial input signals 36A and the touch sensitive pad 97 for generating the second set of rotational input signals 36B. As shown in Fig. 8C contact across the pad 97 from left to right generates a signal hereinafter also denoted as a "rotational signal" such as the aforementioned clockwise (CW) rotational signal (i.e. similar to the intermittent first electrical signal as the operation thereof is similar thereto) . Alternatively, movement across the pad 97 from right to left corresponds to a counterclockwise (CCW) rotational signal (i.e. similar to the intermittent second electrical signal for the same reason as above) . As should be appreciated, the direction of contact and a determined rotational direction may vary and depend on a desired implementation. For example, the CW rotational signal may also be generated by an upward movement (i.e., a movement toward the center of the timepiece 91''), and the CCW rotational signal may be generated by a downward movement .

It should also be appreciated that the touch pad 97 may include areas wherein continuous, stationary contact is interpreted as continuous movement across the touch pad 97 in the last determined direction of rotation. For example, continuous contact for more than a predetermined period within outer or border areas 97a and 97b of the pad 97 is interpreted as continuous movement in the CW and the CCW directions, respectively. As such, continuous, stationary contact within the areas 97a and 97b generate continuous input signals 36B. Reference is briefly made to Figs. 19A and 19B wherein are illustrated methods by which contact about the touch sensitive areas 95 and 97 is detected and signals are generated during predetermined setting functions. For example, in Fig. 19A, contact about the touch sensitive areas 95 and 97 is detected (Block 2002) and a position is determined and stored (Block 2004) in, for example, a memory device such as MEM 24b. As described above, the contact is monitored (Block 2006) and if the position is changed, i.e. movement about the touch sensitive areas 95 and 97 is detected, a direction of the movement and/or a relative displacement of the movement is determined (Block 2008) . The direction and relative displacement permit, during predetermined setting states, the updating of an operating mode of the timepiece and/or a value of information exhibited during a current mode of the timepiece (Block 2010) . In Fig. 19B, the relative displacement (determined at Block 2008) is further used to calculate a velocity or speed at which movement is made about the touch sensitive areas 95 and 97. That is, the velocity (relative displacement vs. time) permits the determination of a rate at which the operating modes and/or value of information is updated (Block 2030) . For example, a determined rate above a predefined threshold permits the updating of the value of information by a specified number of units more than is typically used. In this way, larger ranges of, for example, time can be set faster than would otherwise be permitted. In yet another embodiment, illustrated in Fig. 8D, the rotational switching mechanism 34b is comprised of a slide switch 96 mounted within a slot or groove 98 on a surface of a timepiece 94. The slide switch 96 is axially moveable within the groove 98 such that when moved from a neutral position (centrally located within the groove 98 as shown in Fig.8D) to a position on a right-hand side of the groove 98 a CW signal (i.e. similar to the intermittent first electrical signal) is generated as the second set of input signals 36B, and when moved from the neutral position to a position on a left-hand side of the groove 98 a CCW signal (i.e. similar to the intermittent second electrical signal) is generated as the second set of input signals 36B. As should be appreciated, in one embodiment, when the slide switch 96 is held at either the right or the left-hand side of the groove 98 continuous intermittent input signals 36B (CW or CCW signals, respectively) are generated.

In an alternate embodiment, illustrated in Fig. 8E, the timepiece 94 is represented by a timepiece 94' and the switching mechanism 34b is comprised of a roller ball or wheel 99. The wheel 99 is rotatably mounted within the timepiece 94' such that when rotated in an upward or right-hand direction CW signals (i.e. similar to the intermittent first electrical signals) are generated, and when rotated in a downward or left-hand direction CCW signals (i.e. similar to the intermittent second electrical signals) are generated as the second set of input signals 36B.

The above described components in cooperation with the novel methodology performed by the microprocessor 24a, provide for improved setting and resetting of the electronic devices such as the electronic timepiece 22 of Fig. 2B. As was described above, the switching mechanism 34 (first aspect of the invention) , or mechanisms 34a and 34b (second aspect of the invention) , may be manually manipulated within a plurality of axial and rotational setting positions to generate input signals for setting an electronic device. A number of exemplary setting positions and corresponding methods for setting the electronic device, i.e., the timepiece 22, in accordance with the present invention, are illustrated below.

Fig. 9 illustrates setting states and functions performed by the microprocessor 24a for an electronic device configured and operating in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention. The electronic device setting methodology of Fig. 9 is performed by a multimode electronic device which utilizes a switching mechanism configured, in accordance with the present invention, to include the axial switching mechanism 34a operable within four axial setting positions and the rotational switching mechanism 34b operable within a clockwise and a counterclockwise rotational setting position. For illustration, the device that employs the methodology of Fig. 9 is represented by a timepiece 2 of Fig. 10A. In accordance with the setting states and functions thereof illustrated in Fig. 9, the axial switching mechanism 34a of the timepiece 2 is operable within a "pushed" , a "normal run", a "1^st pulled" and a "2^nd pulled" axial setting positions. In the "1^st pulled" and the "2^nd pulled" positions, the rotational switching mechanism 34b (i.e. a rotatable ring) is operable in a clockwise and a counterclockwise rotational setting position. As shown in Fig. 9, the setting functions for the timepiece 2 begin at Block 900. The flow of control immediate passes from Block 900 to Block 902 where the watch circuitry 20 (and particularly, the microprocessor 24a) of the timepiece 2 determines the current axial position of the switching mechanism 34a. When the switching mechanism 34a is in the "pushed" position, control passes from Block 902 to Block 904. At Block 904 a first set of operating functions is performed.

For example, control passes to Block 906 where a device illuminates a display 3 of the timepiece 2. Control passes from Block 906 to Block 908 where the functions invoked by the displacement within the "pushed" position are ended. It should be appreciated, however, that if the axial switching mechanism 34a remains depressed

(i.e., is still in the "pushed" position), control again passes from Block 902 (after the axial location of the switching mechanism 34a is again evaluated) to Block 904 and the display 3 remains illuminated.

If, at Block 902, the axial switching mechanism 34a is not "pushed" or depressed, and the switching mechanism 34a remains in its "normal run" position, control passes from Block 902 to Block 910. At Block 910 the microprocessor 24a invokes a mode setting state.

As an initial step in the mode setting state, the microprocessor 24a, utilizing other components of the watch circuitry 20, determines if the rotational switching mechanism 34b is being rotationally manipulated (Block 912) . For example, a rotation of the rotational switching mechanism 34b can be determined by monitoring the receipt of the second set of input signals 36B because, if rotated, the rotational switching mechanism 34b passes the second set of input signals 36B to the microprocessor 24a.

If the rotation of the rotational switching mechanism 34b is detected, control passes from Block 912 to Block 914 along a "YES" path where the direction of the rotation of the rotational switching mechanism 34b is evaluated. If the switching mechanism 34b is not being rotated, control passes from Block 912 to Block 918 along a "NO" path where evaluation for this execution ends.

If the switching mechanism 34b is being rotated in the clockwise direction, control passes along a "YES" path from Block 914 to Block 916. As was discussed above, the clockwise rotation of the switching mechanism 34b produces the intermittent first electrical signals while a rotation of the switching mechanism 34b in the clockwise direction produces the intermittent second rotational direction. Therefore, if the microprocessor 24a receives the intermittent first electrical signals (e.g., as input signals 36B) control passes to Block 916. In response to receipt of the intermittent first electrical signals, the microprocessor 24a advances the timepiece 2 to a next operating mode of a predefined series of operating modes. For example, the predefined series of operating modes may include a time-of-day mode (TOD or TIME) , an alarm mode (ALARM) , a chronograph mode (CHRONO) , a timer mode (TIMER) and/or an alternate time zone mode (T2) . The next operating mode is exhibited on the display 3. Once the next operating mode is exhibited, control passes from Block 916 to Block 918 where this execution of the mode setting state and the functions invoked by the rotation of the switching mechanism 34b in the "normal run" position are ended. It should be appreciated, however, that if the rotation of the switching mechanism 34b continues, control again passes from Block 902 to Block 910 after a next evaluation of the axial position of the switching mechanism 34a. Referring again to Block 914, if rotation in the counterclockwise direction is detected (receipt of the second intermittent electrical signals) then control passes from. Block 914 to Block 920 along a "NO" path. At Block 920 and in response to receipt of the intermittent second electrical signals, the microprocessor 24a sets the timepiece 2 to a previous operating mode within the predefined series of operating modes. The previous operating mode is exhibited on the display 3. Once the previous operating mode is exhibited, control passes from Block 920 to Block 918 where this execution of the mode setting state ends. As above, if the rotation of the switching mechanism 34b continues, control again passes from Block 902 to Block 910 after a next evaluation of the axial position of the switching mechanism 34a.

In accordance with conventional setting functions, the exhibiting of the next and the previous operating modes may be implemented by "blinking" a value (or other mode representing symbol) that represents the selected operating mode on the display 3. As a continuous rotation in the clockwise or counterclockwise directions is performed, the current value of the selected operating mode may appear to "blink" and either incrementally increase (clockwise rotation) or incrementally decrease (counterclockwise rotation) through the predefined series of operating modes.

When the axial switching mechanism 34a is pulled into a "1^st pulled" setting position, control passes from Block 902 to Block 930. At Block 930 the microprocessor 24a invokes a first information setting state and functions thereof for setting information within a currently active operating mode of the timepiece 2. If the axial switching mechanism 34a is instead pulled into the "2^nd pulled" axial setting position, control passes from Block 902 to Block 950 where the microprocessor 24a invokes a second information setting state and functions thereof for setting information within the currently active operating mode of the timepiece 2.

Referring briefly to Fig. 10B, setting^" functions for exemplary operating modes of the timepiece 2 are illustrated. For example, if the current operating mode is the "Time" mode then, in the 1^st pulled position the first information setting state (SET1 column of 10B) includes setting functions for updating the time of day. It follows that, when in the 2^nd pulled position, the second information setting state (SET2 column of Fig. 10B) includes setting functions for updating the format for exhibiting the time of day, i.e. a 12 hours format vs. a 24 hour format. It should be appreciated that the timepiece 2 may perform other functions invoked by depressing, for example, buttons 4 and 5 of the timepiece 2. However, actions performed during these other functions are not pertinent to the scope of the present invention and, therefore, are not discussed in further detail herein.

Referring again to Fig. 9, the setting functions performed within the 1^st and the 2^nd pulled positions

(i.e. the first and the second information setting states) are now described. As noted above, when the axial switching mechanism 34a is in the 1^st pulled position control passes from Block 902 to Block 930 where the first information setting state and functions for setting information within a currently active operating mode of the timepiece 2 are performed. From

Block 930 control immediately passes to Block 932 where the microprocessor 24a exhibits a current value of information within the currently active operating mode on the display 3. For example, when the current operating mode is the "Time" mode, the current value for the time of day is exhibited. Control then passes from Block 932 to Block 934. At Block 934 the microprocessor 24a evaluates the rotational switching mechanism 34b to determine if it is being rotated in either the clockwise or the counterclockwise directions. As can be appreciated, the actions performed by the setting methodology at Blocks 912-920 (mode setting state) are similar to the actions at Blocks 934-944 (first information setting state) . That is, in the mode setting state, a clockwise rotation of the rotational switching mechanism 34b incremented modes of the timepiece 2 through a predetermined series of modes (Block 916) . In the first information setting state the clockwise rotation of the rotational switching mechanism 34b increments a value of exhibited information to a next value within a predetermined series of values (Block 938) . Similarly, a counterclockwise rotation of the rotational switching mechanism 34b decrements a value of exhibited information to a previous value within the predetermined series of values (Block 940) . As the microprocessor 24a updates values of exhibited information in a similar way as it updates modes (by detecting the intermittent first and second electrical signals to determine a direction of rotation) a detailed description of Blocks 934-944 is repetitive. Instead, an example setting function is provided to describe the actions performed within Blocks 934-944.

If the current operating mode is the "Time" mode (Fig. 10B) , in the first information setting state (SET1) a clockwise rotation of the rotational switching mechanism 34b (i.e. the top ring) updates the exhibited time value to a next time value, while a counterclockwise rotation of the top ring updates the exhibited time value to a previous time value.

Preferably, the time value includes an hour and a minute value which, as one object, is set through manually

(e.g. rotational) movement of the top ring. This approach of updating a value as an object shall be denoted as an "object oriented" programming approach wherein, for example, an entity such as "time" is defined as including what had conventionally be deemed individual data elements of hours and minutes. By utilizing the object-oriented programming approach within the present invention, the inventors have realized an improved and more "user-friendly" approach to setting a timepiece.

Therefore, a continuous clockwise rotation of the top ring (i.e. the rotational switching mechanism 34b) increments the time of day (each of the hours and minutes, thereof) from, for example, 12:00 to 12:01 to

12:02,..., 12:59, 1:00, 1:01, etc.

As should also now be appreciated, the actions performed by the setting methodology at Blocks 950-962 (second information setting state) are similar to the actions at Blocks 930-944 (first information setting state) . Therefore, the specific actions are not described. However, it is noted that, in the example illustrated above, the second information setting state for the "Time" mode would, in response to a clockwise rotation of the top ring, advance the time format through a predetermined series of values (at Block 958) and in response to a counterclockwise rotation of the top ring, decrement the time format through the predetermined series of values (Block 960) . That is, the second information setting state, like the first information setting state, permits the incrementing of values through a predetermined series of values in response to the clockwise rotation of the rotational switching mechanism 34b (Block 958) and a decrementing of values through the predetermined series of values in response to a counterclockwise rotation of the rotational switching mechanism (Block 960) .

Reference is now made to Fig. 11 wherein is illustrated a rapid advancement routine. During setting functions (e.g. setting functions of Fig. 9), the rapid advancement routine permits the rapid incrementing or decrementing of values. That is, as described above, values are incremented by a predetermined amount in a stepwise fashion, for example, the time of day is incremented 1 minute at a time from 12:00 to 12:01. When a continuous rotation of the rotational switching mechanism 34b is detected, i.e. n intermittent first or second electrical signals over a predetermined time period (e.g. 3 signals/pulses in 20 ms) , the rapid advancement routine is invoked to modify (i.e. increase) the amount in which the value is incremented or decremented. For example, in Fig. 11, the initial rotation of the rotational switching mechanism 34b is detected by the receipt of a first pulse within the predetermined time period (Block 1002) and in response thereto, the exhibited value is incremented or decremented by 1 unit (Block 1004) , or in this example, 1 minute. However, as varying degrees of the continuous rotation of the switching mechanism 34b are detected, the rapid advancement routine increases the number of units by which the exhibited value is updated (incremented or decremented) . That is, the rotation generates a number of signals or pulses that are received over a predefined time period. The rapid advancement routine increases the number of units by which the exhibited value is updated (incremented or decremented) in response to the number of signals so received.

In Fig. 11, for example, the number of pulses in the predetermined time period are measured and if 1 pulse is detected (Block 1002) , the units by which the exhibited value is updated is set to 1 unit (Block 1004) . If 2 pulses are detected in the predetermined time period (Block 1006) , the units by which the exhibited value is updated is set to 2 units (Block 1008) . If 3 pulses are detected in the predetermined time period (Block 1010) , the units by which the exhibited value is updated is set to 6 units (Block 1012) , and if 4 pulses are detected in the predetermined time period (Block 1014), the units by which the exhibited value is updated is set to 12 units (Block 1016) As is shown in Fig. 11, this measurement, decision, and updating method may gradually increase the units by which the exhibited value is updated. In particular, after a predetermined level or threshold

(e.g. 3 or more pulses received (Block 1010)) the exhibited value is updated by a predefined block of units that is greater than the number of pulses received

(e.g. at Block 1012 by 6 units, at Block 1016 by 12 units and at Block 1018 by 15 units) . It follows, therefore, that the rapid advancement routine increases the speed at which large increments of, for example, time can be set, in relation to the number of pulses generated (e.g. velocity at which the switching mechanism is rotated) . It should be appreciated therefore that with the other embodiments disclosed herein, such rapid advancement is achievable. For example, using the touch pad embodiment, continuous contact will incrementally advance the information faster and faster making the setting functions more "user friendly."

Figs. 12-15 and 17-18 disclose further embodiments with additional functions. It should be understood however, that these features, such as implementing delay periods, functionality for illumination, and night operation, for example, are all contemplated to be incorporated into the proceeding embodiments and should be considered incorporated therein. For example, the embodiments heretofore disclosed allow for the modes to be selected while the switching mechanism is in the "normal run" or first axial setting position ("1^st pulled" position) and the information to be changed or revised is achieved when the switching mechanism is in the second of the two axial setting positions ("2^nd pulled" position) . It should, however, be clear that the below disclosed constructions, wherein the first axial position is no more than the "normal run" position, is adaptable in the foregoing embodiments, such that a "1^st pulled" position generates the axial signal required to select the modes while a "2^nd pulled" position generates the axial signal required to revise the information. It thereafter would follow that moving the switching mechanism back to either the "1^st pulled" or the "normal run" position will advance the information setting function. Fig. 12 illustrates setting functions performed by the microprocessor 24a for an electronic device configured and operating in accordance with the first aspect of the present invention. That is, the electronic device is represented by the timepiece 52 of Fig. 5 which includes the switching mechanism 34' that is operable in three axial setting positions and two rotational setting positions. In accordance with the setting functions illustrated in Fig. 12, the axial setting positions of the switching mechanism 34' include a "normal run" , a "pulled" and a "pushed" axial setting positions. The "pulled" position includes clockwise and counterclockwise rotational setting positions.

As shown in Fig. 12, the setting functions for the timepiece 52 begin at Block 100. The flow of control immediate passes from Block 100 to Block 102 where the watch circuitry 20 (and particularly, the microprocessor 24a) of the timepiece 52 determines the current axial position of the switching mechanism 34' (i.e. the setting stem 40) . When the switching mechanism 34' is in the "pushed" position, control passes from Block 102 to Block 104. At Block 104 a first set of operating functions are performed. For example, control passes to Block 106 where a device illuminates the display 32. Control passes to Block 108 where the position of the switching mechanism 34' is evaluated. If the switching mechanism 34' remains depressed (i.e., is still in the "pushed" position) , control passes along a "NO" path back to Block 106 and the display 32 remains illuminated. If the switching mechanism 34' is released, control passes from Block 108 along a "YES" path to Block 110 where the functions invoked by the displacement within the "pushed" position are ended. If, at Block 102, the switching mechanism 34' is not "pushed" or depressed, and the switching mechanism 34' remains in its "normal run" position, the microprocessor 24a does not perform setting functions. Instead, when in the "normal run" position, control passes from Block 102 to Block 112 and, in accordance with the present embodiment of the invention, the microprocessor 24a operates in an active state (Block 114) , wherein, for example, a time-of-day mode includes passing the time indicating signal 28 (Fig. 2A) to the display 32 so that the display 32 exhibits the current time-of-day. The functions performed in the active state end at Block 116.

When the switching mechanism 34' is manipulated into a "pulled" setting position, control passes from Block 102 to Block 118. At Block 118, the microprocessor 24a invokes setting functions. As an initial step in the setting functions, the microprocessor 24a, utilizing other components of the watch circuitry 20, determines if the switching mechanism 34' is being rotationally manipulated. For example, once the setting stem 40 is pulled into the "pulled" position and the top ring 54 is rotated, the cooperation of the teeth 58a of the ring carrier 58 and the teeth 62a of the crown actuator 62 result in the rotation of the setting stem 40. In the setting procedure, control passes to Block 120 where the direction of the rotation of the setting stem 40 is evaluated. If the setting stem 40 is being rotated in the clockwise direction, control passes along a "YES" path from Block 120 to Block 122. As was discussed above with reference to Fig. 5, the clockwise rotation of the setting stem 40 results in the engagement of the teeth 40a of the setting stem 40 and the spring switch arm 46 thereby producing the intermittent first electrical signals. The microprocessor 24a receives the intermittent first electrical signals (e.g., as input signals 36) at Block 122 and, in response thereto, invokes a mode setting state wherein the microprocessor 24a advances the timepiece 52 through a predefined series of operating modes. For example, the predefined series of operating modes may include the time-of-day mode (TOD) , an alarm mode (ALARM) , a chronograph mode

(CHRONO) , a timer mode (TIMER) and/or an alternate time zone mode (T2) . The advancement, or incremental cycling through a next one of the various operating modes within the predefined series of operating modes continues until the rotation of the top ring 54 and the setting stem 40 is complete. At Block 124 the microprocessor 24a monitors the intermittent first electrical signal to determine if the rotation of the top ring 54 and, hence, the setting stem 40 is continuing. If the rotation is continuing, control passes, along the "NO" path, back to Block 122. If the rotation is complete, control passes along a "YES" path from Block 124 to Block 126. At Block 126, an operating mode from the predefined series of operating modes, which is active when the rotation is completed, is selected.

It should be appreciated that it is within the scope of the present invention to permit a delay, or pause, in the rotation of the setting stem 40 before selecting an operating mode. Therefore, in one embodiment, a completion of the rotation immediately results in a selection of a mode, and, in another embodiment, the completion of rotation would start a predetermined time period, or delay period, before the expiration thereof rotation may begin again without selecting the currently active mode, and after which the currently active mode is selected. It is contemplated that this "pause in rotation" functionality may be implemented within each of the following setting methodologies whenever an evaluation of the rotation of the setting stem or the top ring is described.

Alternatively and in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention, the top ring 54 may be depressed to, for example, close a switch to indicate that a currently active operating mode has been selected. Once selected, either by completing rotation or by depressing the top ring 54, the selected operating mode is exhibited on the display 32. Once exhibited, the functions performed during the mode setting state are complete and control passes to Block 128.

Referring again to Block 120, if the setting stem 40 is not being rotated in the clockwise direction, control passes along a "NO" path from Block 120 to Block 130. At Block 130, the microprocessor 24a evaluates the rotation of the setting stem 40 to determine if it is being rotated in a counterclockwise direction. If the switching mechanism 34' is not being rotated counterclockwise, control passes along a "NO" path from Block 130 to an encircled A connector and on to Block 128, where the setting functions are completed.

If, however, the setting stem 40 is being rotated in the counterclockwise direction, control passes along a "YES" path from Block 130 to Block 132. At Block 132, an information setting state is entered where setting functions are performed for the currently active operating mode of the timepiece 52. As should be appreciated from the discussions above, the counterclockwise rotation of the setting stem 40 results in the engagement of the teeth 40a of the setting stem 40 and the spring switch arm 46 thereby producing the intermittent second electrical signals. The microprocessor 24a receives the second electrical signals (e.g., as input signals 36) at Block 132 and, in response thereto, advances selected information exhibited during the currently active operating mode through a predefined series of values. In accordance with conventional setting functions, this advancement may be implemented by "blinking" the selected information on the display 32 and as the second signals are received, incrementally increasing the value of the "blinking" information through a predefined series of values. For example, if the "blinking" information is a digit, the digit is incremented from 0-9 as the setting stem 40 is rotated.

As noted above, it should be appreciated that it is within the scope of the present invention for the information setting state and functions thereof of each embodiment described herein to include an object- oriented approach to setting information. That is, while information setting features described herein may speak of setting individual elements, or digits for example, of the time of day, it should be realized that the information such as the time of day, start time of an audible alarm, days of the year, etc., may be defined as an object wherein each element of the object (hours, minutes, and second of the time, for example) are set in one setting operation, as discussed above. Therefore, it should be appreciated that the methodologies illustrated in Figs. 12-15 and 17-18 may be further simplified in view of the foregoing disclosure to treat the information, such as time or date, as an object such that each element of the object need not be addressed individually but rather as an object taken together. For example, in the date setting function, the next exhibited date, during the setting function, after December 31, 1999 (12.31.1999) would be January 1, 2000 (01.01.2000) .

The advancement, or incremental cycling through the predefined series of values continues until the rotation of the top ring 54 and the setting stem 40 stops. At Block 134 the microprocessor 24a monitors the intermittent second electrical signals to determine if the rotation of the top ring 54 and, hence, the setting stem 40 is continuing. If the rotation is continuing, control passes along the "NO" path back to Block 132 where the incremental cycling continues. If the rotation does stop, control passes along a "YES" path from Block 134 to Block 136. At Block 136, a value from the predefined series of values, which is active when the rotation is completed, is selected and the "blinking" information is set to the selected value. At Block 138, the microprocessor 24a evaluates the currently active operating mode to determine if additional information within the operating mode is available for setting. If additional information is available, control passes along a "YES" path from Block 138 to Block 140 where next information within the currently active operating mode is selected for setting. From Block 140 control passes to Block 132 where the steps of the information setting state for setting information within the currently active operating mode

(Block 132 through Block 138) are again performed. If, however, at Block 138, no more information within the currently active operating mode is available setting, control passes from Block 138 along a "NO" path to Block 128 where the information setting state and functions thereof are completed. Figs. 13A and 13B illustrate a setting function performed by the microprocessor 24a for an electronic device configured and operated in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. Like the timepie'ce 52 discussed with reference to Fig. 12, the electronic device performing the methodology outlined in Figs. 13A and 13B is configured such that its switching mechanism is operable within three axial setting positions and two rotational setting positions (i.e. in accordance with the first aspect of the present invention) . For illustration, the device executing the methodology outlined in Figs. 13A and 13B is represented by the timepiece 90 of Fig. 7. In accordance with the setting functions illustrated in Figs. 13A and 13B, the switching mechanism 34'' of the timepiece 90 is operable within a "normal run" , a "pulled" and a "pushed" axial setting position. The "pulled" position includes a clockwise and a counterclockwise rotational setting position. For brevity, where setting functions of the timepiece 90 are similar to the setting functions performed by the timepiece 52 of Fig. 5, the same reference numerals are used and the descriptions of these functions are not repeated herein.

As shown in Fig. 13A, the setting functions for the timepiece 90 begin at Block 200. The flow of control immediately passes from Block 200 to Block 202 where the watch circuitry 20 (and particularly, the microprocessor 24a) of the timepiece 90 determines -the current axial position of the switching mechanism 34'' (i.e. the setting stem 70) . When the switching mechanism 34'' is in the "pushed" position, control passes from Block 202 to Block 104 where, as discussed above, a device illuminates the display 32 (Blocks 106 and 110) until the switching mechanism 34'' is released.

If the switching mechanism 34'' is not "pushed" or "pulled", the switching mechanism 34'' remains in its "normal run" position. In the "normal run" position the microprocessor 24a invokes the active state wherein are performed default functions (Block 114 to Block 116) such as, for example, exhibiting the current time-of- day.

When the switching mechanism 34'' is pulled, control passes from Block 202 to Block 218. At Block 218, the microprocessor 24a invokes setting functions of the timepiece 90. As an initial step in the setting functions, the microprocessor 24a begins a timer. The timer measures a period of time from about the instant the switching mechanism 34'' is disposed into the "pulled" position to a predetermined point in time. Thus, at Block 218 the timer is started and at Block 220, the current value of the timer, i.e. the elapsed time, is evaluated. The timer is stopped when the switching mechanism 34'' is rotated (either at Block 222 of Fig. 13A or Block 243 of Fig. 13B) . In essence, the time period measured by the timer represents a delay in rotating the switching mechanism 34'' after the mechanism 34'' was slidably disposed into the "pulled" axial setting position. At Block 220, the current value of the delay period is compared to a first, predefined time period of, for example, about 4 seconds. The first, predefined time period defines a threshold before which rotating the switching mechanism 34'' invokes, for example, the operating mode setting state, and after which rotating the switching mechanism 34'' invokes the information setting state within a currently active operating mode. If the measured delay period is less than the first, predefined time period, the predefined time period has not expired and control passes along a "NO" path from Block 220 to Block 222. At Block 222 the microprocessor 24a enters the mode setting state and evaluates the switching mechanism 34'' to determine if it is being rotated. If the switching mechanism 34'' is not being rotated, control passes along a "NO" path from Block 222 back to Block 220 where the delay period is again evaluated. If, however, the switching mechanism 34'' is being rotated (in any direction), control passes along a "YES" path from Block 222 to Block 224. At Block 224 the microprocessor 24a evaluates the switching mechanism 34'' to determine its direction of rotation.

As discussed above with reference to Fig. 7, the teeth 58a of the ring carrier 58 and the teeth 74a of the crown actuator 74 cooperate such that the rotation of the top ring 54 rotates the setting stem 70. In turn, the rotation of the setting stem 70, in a clockwise direction, produces the intermittent first electrical signals from the cooperation of the clockwise click-wheel 78, the teeth 82 and the elongated arm 86a of the first holding plate 86. Similarly, the rotation of the setting stem 70, in a counterclockwise direction, generates the intermittent second electrical signals from the cooperation of the counterclockwise click-wheel 80, the teeth 84 and the elongated arm 88a of the second holding plate 88. The microprocessor 24a can determine the direction of rotation of the setting mechanism 34'' from the receipt of either the first or the second electrical signals. That is, if the first electrical signals are received, the setting mechanism 34'' is being rotated in the clockwise direction and control passes from Block 224 to Block 226. In response to the receipt of the first electrical signals, the microprocessor 24a advances the timepiece 90 through a predefined series of operating modes, for example, the above described predefined series of the TOD mode, the ALARM mode, the CHRONO mode, the TIMER mode and/or the T2 mode. The advancement, or incremental cycling through the various operating modes continues until the rotation of the top ring 54 and the setting stem 70 stops. At Block 228 the microprocessor 24a monitors the first electrical signals to determine if the rotation of the top ring 54 and, hence, the setting stem 70 is continuing. If the rotation is continuing, control passes along the "NO" path from Block 228 back to Block 226. If the rotation is complete, control passes along a "YES" path from Block 228 to Block 230. At Block 230 an operating mode from the predefined series of operating modes, which is active when the rotation is completed, is selected. The selected operating mode is exhibited on the display 32. Once exhibited, this execution of the operating mode setting state and function thereof are complete and control passes to Block 232.

Referring again to Block 224, if the setting stem 70 is not being rotated in the clockwise direction, control passes along a "NO" path from Block 224 to Block 234. At Block 234 the microprocessor 24a is receiving the intermittent second electrical signals as the setting stem 70 is being rotated in the counterclockwise direction. In response to the receipt of the intermittent second electrical signals, the microprocessor 24a decrements the timepiece 90 through the aforementioned predefined series of operating modes. The stepwise decrementation through the various operating modes continues until the rotation of the top ring 54 and the setting stem 70 stops. At Block 236 the microprocessor 24a monitors the second electrical signal to determine if the rotation of the top ring 54 and, hence, the setting stem 70 is continuing. If the rotation is continuing, control passes along the "NO" path back to Block 234. If the rotation is complete, control passes along a "YES" path from Block 236 to Block 238. At Block 238, an operating mode from the predefined series of operating modes, which is active when the rotation is completed, is selected. The selected operating mode is exhibited on the display 32. Once exhibited, this setting operation is complete and control passes from Block 238 to Block 232 where the mode setting state ends.

Referring again to Block 220, if the measured delay period is greater than the first, predefined time period, the predefined time period has expired and control passes along a "YES" path from Block 220 to an encircled B connector and on to Block 240 of Fig. 13B. Fig. 13B illustrates the flow of an information setting state for setting information within a currently active operating mode. For example, a desired operating mode previously selected according to the methodology illustrated in Fig. 13A. The information setting state begins at Block 240. Control immediately passes from Block 240 to Block 242 where the microprocessor 24a selects initial information within the currently active operating mode to be set. The initial, or default, information may be, for example, the hours digits of the TOD operating mode. Once the default information is selected, control passes from Block 242 to Block 243. At Block 243 the microprocessor 24a evaluates the switching mechanism 34'' to determine if it is being rotated in either the clockwise or the counterclockwise directions. The microprocessor 24a remains at this step until the switching mechanism 34'' is rotated, that is, if no rotation is detected, control passes along a "NO" path back to Block 243.

Once rotation of the switching mechanism 34'' is detected (e.g., by detecting the first or the second electrical signals) , control passes from Block 243 along a "YES" path to Block 244. At Block 244 the microprocessor 24a evaluates the switching mechanism 34'' to determine its direction of rotation. If the microprocessor 24a determines that the setting stem 70 is being rotated in the clockwise direction (the intermittent first electrical signal is detected) , control passes along a "YES" path from Block 244 to Block 246. At Block 246, the selected information is set . The microprocessor 24a receives the first electrical signal at Block 246 and, in response thereto, advances the selected information exhibited during the currently active operating mode through a predefined series of values. As discussed above, the advancement in the value of the selected information may be implemented by "blinking." As the first electrical signals are received, the value of the "blinking" information incrementally increases through the predefined series of values.

The incremental cycling through the values continues until the rotation of the top ring 54 and the setting stem 70 stops. At Block 248 the microprocessor 24a monitors the intermittent first electrical signal to determine if the rotation of the top ring 54 and the setting stem 70 is continuing. If the rotation is continuing, control passes along the "NO" path back to Block 246. If the rotation is complete, control passes along a "YES" path from Block 248 to Block 250. At Block 250 a value from the predefined series of values, which is active when the rotation is completed, is selected and the "blinking" information is set to the selected value. At Block 252 the microprocessor 24a evaluates the currently active operating mode to determine if additional information within the operating mode is available for setting. If no more information within the currently active operating mode is available setting, control passes from Block 252 along a "NO" path to an encircled C connector and on to Block 232 of Fig. 13A where the information setting state and functions thereof for the currently active mode are completed. If additional information is available for setting, control passes along a "YES" path from Block 252 to Block 254 where next information within the currently active operating mode is selected for setting. From Block 254 control passes to Block 243 where the switching mechanism 34'' is again evaluated and the steps for setting information within the currently active operating mode (Block 246 through Block 254) may be performed again (if the switching mechanism 34'' is rotated in the clockwise direction) . Referring again to Block 244, if the switching mechanism 34'' is not rotating in the clockwise direction, control passes along a "NO" path from Block 244 to Block 258. At Block 258 next information within the currently active operating mode is selected for setting. From Block 258 control passes back to Block 243 where the switching mechanism 34' ' is evaluated and the steps for setting information within the currently active operating mode may be performed again (Block 244 to Block 258) .

In Fig. 13C an alternate information setting state for the currently active operating mode of the electronic device, i.e. timepiece 90 is illustrated. The alternate information setting state may be substituted for the information setting state illustrated in Fig. 13B. For example, instead of following the encircled B from Block 220 of Fig. 13A to Block 240 of Fig. 13B, to invoke the alternate information setting state, the encircled B would lead to an encircled B' and Block 260 of Fig. 13C. For brevity, steps within the alternate information setting state which are substantially similar to the information setting functions of Fig. 13B are represented by the same reference numerals and the descriptions of these functions are not repeated herein.

As shown in Fig. 13C, the alternate information setting state for the active operating mode begins at Block 260. At Block 260 a second timer is started to measure a period of time from about the moment the microprocessor 24a begins executing the alternate information setting state to a currently evaluated point in time. Once the second timer -is started control passes from Block 260 to Block 242 where the default information to be initially set is selected. As with the information setting state of Fig. 13B, the microprocessor 24a executing the alternate information setting state may exhibit the selected information for setting by "blinking" the selected information on the display 32. From Block 242 control passes to Block 262 where the microprocessor 24a evaluates the switching mechanism 34'' to determine if the mechanism 34'' is being rotated. If the switching mechanism 34'' is not rotated, in either the clockwise or the counterclockwise directions, control passes along a "NO" path from Block 262 to Block 264. At Block 264 the current value of the second timer is compared to a second, predefined time period of, for example, about 4 seconds. The second, predefined time period defines a threshold before which control passes along a "NO" path back to Block 262 where the microprocessor 24a continues to wait for the rotation of the switching mechanism 34'' (i.e. execution loops between Blocks 262 and 264 waiting for the rotation of the switching mechanism 34'') and after which control passes along a "YES" path to Block 266 where next information is selected for setting. Once the next information is selected, the second timer is reset and control passes from Block 266 to Block 262. In effect, by not rotating the switching mechanism 34'' and waiting for the second, predefined time period to expire, the microprocessor 24a passes from first information available for setting to next information available for setting within the currently active operating mode. On the display 32 this may be visible as the microprocessor 24a directs the currently blinking information to stop blinking and selects the next information which begins blinking. Referring again to Block 262, when the microprocessor 24a determines the switching mechanism 34'' is being rotated (in any direction), control passes along a "YES" path from Block 262 to Block 244. As noted above (referring to the discussion of Fig. 13B) , at Block 244 the microprocessor 24a evaluates the switching mechanism 34'' to determine its direction of rotation. If the switching mechanism 34'' is being rotated in the clockwise direction, the selected information is advanced through a series of predefined values where, once rotation ends, the currently active value is assigned to the selected information (Block 246 to Block 250) . These steps are the same as in the information setting state of Fig. 13B including the looping back for further evaluation if additional information within the active operating mode is available for setting by the alternate process (Block 252 to Block 254). In Fig. 13C, however, control passes from Block 254 to Block 262 where the rotation of the switching mechanism 34'' is again evaluated according to the alternate information setting state.

Referring again to Block 244, if the setting stem 70 is not being rotated in the clockwise direction, control passes along a "NO" path from Block 244 to Block 268. At Block 268 the microprocessor 24a is receiving the intermittent second electrical signals as the setting stem 70 is being rotated in the counterclockwise direction. In response to the receipt of the second electrical signals, the microprocessor 24a decrements the information selected for setting (i.e. the blinking information) through the predefined series of values. For example, if the blinking information is a pair of digits representing the minutes in the TOD mode, the predefined series of values would begin, for example, at 59 and be continuously decremented by one from 59 to 58, to 57, ... to 0 and from 0 to 59, to 58 .... The stepwise decrementation through the various values continues until the rotation of the top ring 54 and the setting stem 70 is complete. At Block 270 the microprocessor 24a monitors the intermittent second electrical signal to determine if the rotation of the top ring 54 and the setting stem 70 is continuing. If the rotation is continuing, control passes, along the "NO" path, back to Block 268. If the rotation is complete, control passes along a "YES" path from Block 270 to Block 272. At Block 272, a value from the predefined series of values, which is active when the rotation is completed, is selected and the "blinking" information is set to the selected value. The selected value is also exhibited on the display 32. Control then passes from Block 272 to Block 274. At Block 274, the microprocessor 24a evaluates the active operating mode to determine if additional information within the operating mode is available for setting. If additional information is available, control passes along a "YES" path from Block 274 to Block 276 where next information within the currently active operating mode is selected for setting. From Block 276 control passes to Block 262 where the steps of the alternate information setting state are again performed. If, however, at Block 274 no more information within the active operating mode is available setting, control passes from Block 274 along a "NO" path to the encircled C and back to the encircled C of Fig. 13A where, at Block 232, the setting state and functions thereof are completed. Fig. 14 illustrates setting functions performed by the microprocessor 24a for an electronic device configured and operating in accordance with another embodiment of the first aspect of the invention. The electronic device executing the method illustrated in Fig. 14 is configured such that a switching mechanism 34 is operable within two axial setting positions. That is, the switching mechanism 34 of the device is operable within a "normal run" and a "pushed" axial setting positions. Both the "normal run" and the "pushed" positions include a rotational setting position, in other words, setting operations are performed in response to either the clockwise or counterclockwise rotation of the switching mechanism 34. As shown in Fig. 14, the setting functions for the device, for example, a multimode electronic timepiece begin at Block 300. The flow of control immediately passes from Block 300 to Block 302 where the watch circuitry 20 (and particularly, the microprocessor 24a) of the timepiece determines the current axial position of the switching mechanism 34. When the switching mechanism 34 is in the "pushed" position, control passes from Block 302 to Block 304. At Block 304 an information setting state is invoked and functions thereof are performed. For example, control passes to Block 306 where the microprocessor 24a evaluates the switching mechanism 34 to determine if it is being rotated. If the switching mechanism 34 is not being rotated, control passes along a "NO" path back to Block 306 where the microprocessor 24a, in effect, waits for the switching mechanism 34 to be rotated. When the switching mechanism 34 ^■ is rotated (in any direction) , control passes along a "YES" path from Block 306 to Block 308. At Block 308 the microprocessor 24a advances selected information of a currently active operating mode through a series of predefined values. Initially, the selected information is a default piece of information exhibited during the currently active operating mode. As was discussed above, the selected information may appear "blinking" on the display 32 during the setting function.

The incremental, or stepwise, advancement of the selected information through the predefined series of values continues until the rotation of the switching mechanism 34 is complete. At Block 310 the microprocessor 24a monitors the rotation of the switching mechanism 34 and if the rotation is continuing, control passes along the "NO" path back to Block 308. If the rotation is complete, control passes along a "YES" path from Block 310 to Block 312. At Block 312, a value is selected from the predefined series of values that is active when the rotation is completed. The selected information is set, or assigned, and the selected value is exhibited on the display 32. Once exhibited, control passes from Block 312 to Block 314 where the microprocessor 24a evaluates the currently active operating mode to determine if more information within the active operating mode is available for setting. If more information is available for setting, control passes from Block 314 along a "YES" path to Block 316. At Block 316 next information within the currently active operating mode is selected for setting. The setting functions are repeated for this next selected information by passing control back to Block 306 and re-executing the setting functions of the information setting state (Blocks 306 to 314) . Referring again to Block 314, if no additional information within the active operating mode is available for setting control passes along a "NO" path from Block 314 to Block 318. At Block 318 the setting functions for the currently active operating mode are complete and end.

If, at Block 302, the switching mechanism 34 is not "pushed" or depressed and instead remains in its "normal run" position, control passes from Block 302 to Block 320. At Block 320 a second set of setting operations are invoked. The second set of setting operations begin as control passes from Block 320 to Block 322 where the microprocessor 24a evaluates the switching mechanism 34 to determine if it is being rotated (in any direction) . If the switching mechanism 34 is not being rotated, control passes along a "NO" path from Block 322 to Block 324. At Block 324, the microprocessor 24a invokes an active mode. For example, the active mode may include passing the time indicating signal 28 (Fig. 2A) to the display 32 so that the display 32 exhibits the current time-of-day. From Block 324 control passes back to Block 322. Thus, the microprocessor 24a remains in an active mode state (at Block 324) until the switching mechanism 34 is rotated or, as discussed above, until the switching mechanism 34 is moved into the "pushed" position.

If, at Block 322, the microprocessor 24a determines that the switching mechanism 34 is rotated control passes along a "YES" path from Block 322 to Block 326. At Block 326 a timer is started and the display 32 is illuminated. The timer measures a period of time during which the display 32 will be continuously illuminated, and after which an operating mode setting state and functions thereof are performed. The current value of the timer is evaluated at Block 328. For example, the current value is compared to a third, predefined time period of about 2 seconds. If the current value is less than the third, predefined time period control passes along a "NO" path from Block 328 back to Block 326 where the illumination of the display 32 continues. If, however, the current value of the timer is greater than or equal to the third, predefined time period control passes along a "YES" path to Block 330. It is also contemplated that the first detected rotation of the top ring 54 causes the illumination of the display 32, while it is only after a further rotation that the modes will be sequentially displayed as disclosed below. Further, it is contemplated that the present invention could employ a type of night time mode of operation as disclosed in commonly assigned U.S. Patent No. : 4,912,688, issued March 27, 1990 to Syfert wherein, in accordance with the present invention, upon a duration or sequence of rotation of the top ring 54, the illumination remains on for the duration of the setting operation. It is also therefore clear that various alternatives wherein this type of night time mode of operation is actuatable is within the scope of the invention.

At Block 330 the microprocessor 24a invokes the mode setting state and, in response to the receipt of the first electrical signals or the second electrical signals (generated as discussed above) , advances the timepiece through the aforementioned predefined series of operating modes. The advancement, or incremental cycling through the various operating modes continues during rotation of the switching mechanism 34. At Block 332 the microprocessor 24a monitors the rotation of the switching mechanism 34 by, for example, monitoring the first and the second electrical signals. If the microprocessor 24a is continuing to receive the first and the second electrical signals, then the rotation of the switching mechanism 34 is continuing. If the rotation is continuing, control passes along the "NO" path from Block 332 back to Block 330. If the rotation is complete, control passes along a "YES" path from Block 332 to Block 334. At Block 334, an operating mode from the predefined series of operating modes, which is active when the rotation is completed, is selected. The selected operating mode is exhibited on the display 32. Once exhibited, this execution of the operating mode setting state and functions thereof are complete and control passes to Block 318 where execution ends.

Figs. 15A and 15B illustrate setting functions performed by the microprocessor 24a for an electronic device configured and operating in accordance with yet another embodiment of the first aspect of the present invention. The electronic device executing the method illustrated in Figs. 15A and 15B is configured such that its switching mechanism 34 is operable within four axial setting positions. That is, in accordance with the present invention, the switching mechanism 34 is operable within a "pushed", a "normal run", a "1st pulled" and a "2nd pulled" axial setting positions. The "1st pulled" and the "2nd pulled" positions each include a clockwise and a counterclockwise rotational setting position. For brevity, where setting functions of the device, i.e, a multimode, electronic timepiece are substantially similar to the setting functions performed by the timepiece 52 and illustrated in Fig. 12, the same reference numerals are used and the descriptions of these functions are not repeated herein.

As shown in Fig. 15A, the setting functions for the timepiece begin at Block 400. The flow of control immediately passes from Block 400 to Block 402 where the watch circuitry 20 (and particularly, the microprocessor 24a) of the timepiece determines the current axial position of the switching mechanism 34. When the switching mechanism 34 is in the "pushed" position, control passes from Block 402 to Block 104 where, as discussed above, a device illuminates the display 32 (Blocks 106 and 110) until the switching mechanism 34 is released.

If the switching mechanism 34 is not pushed or pulled, the switching mechanism 34 remains in its "normal run" position. In the "normal run" position the microprocessor 24a performs default functions within the active mode state (Block 114 and Block 116) such as, for example, exhibiting the current time-of-day. When the switching mechanism 34 is pulled into the "1^st pulled" position, control passes from Block 402 to Block 404. At Block 404, the microprocessor 24a invokes setting functions for a primary set of operating modes of the timepiece. From Block 404 control passes to Block 406. At Block 406 the microprocessor 24a evaluates the switching mechanism 34 to determine if it is being rotated in a clockwise direction. As was discussed above, the rotational direction of the switching mechanism 34 may be determined by detecting either the intermittent first or second electrical signals .

If the switching mechanism 34 is being rotated in the clockwise direction, control passes along a "YES" path from Block 406 to Block 408. At Block 408 the microprocessor 24a invokes the mode setting state and advances the timepiece through a predefined series of primary operating modes, such as those disclosed above. It should be appreciated that, during the active mode state, the timepiece operates in various operating modes. Accordingly, operating modes identified as primary and secondary may vary from implementation to implementation. For example, in one implementation primary operating modes include time-of-day (TOD) mode, a day-date mode, an alarm mode, and an alternate time zone (T2) mode, while secondary modes include a chrono mode and a timer mode. In an alternate implementation, the primary operating modes include the TOD mode, the day-date mode, the chrono mode, the alarm mode, the timer mode, and the T2 mode, while the secondary modes include modes for storing and retrieving information such as, for example, phone numbers, appointments, and prices . Referring again to Fig. 15A, the advancement, or incremental cycling through the various operating modes continues until the rotation of the switching mechanism 34 is complete. At Block 410 the microprocessor 24a monitors the rotation of the switching mechanism 34 to determine if the mechanism 34 is still being rotated. If the rotation is continuing, control passes along a "NO" path from Block 410 back to Block 408. If the rotation is complete, control passes along a "YES" path from Block 410 to Block 412. At Block 412, an operating mode is selected from the predefined series of primary operating modes, which is active when the rotation is completed. The selected operating mode then becomes the active mode within the active mode state of the timepiece. Once exhibited, this execution of the primary operating mode setting state and functions thereof are complete and control passes to Block 414.

Referring again to Block 406, if the switching mechanism 34 is not being rotated in the clockwise direction, control passes along a "NO" path from Block 406 to Block 416. At Block 416 the microprocessor 24a evaluates the switching mechanism to determine if it is being rotated in the counterclockwise direction. If the microprocessor 24a is not rotating in the counterclockwise direction, control passes along a "NO" path from Block 416 to Block 406. While in the "1^st pulled" position, the microprocessor 24a loops from Blocks 406 to 416 along the "NO" path until the switching mechanism 34 is rotated.

If, at Block 416, the microprocessor 24a determines that the switching mechanism 34 is rotating in the counterclockwise direction, control passes along a "YES" path from Block 416 to Block 418. At Block 418 an information setting state for setting information within a currently active primary operating mode is invoked. Control immediately passes from Block 418 to Block 420 where the microprocessor 24a selects initial information within the currently active primary operating mode to be set. The initial, or default, information may be, for example, the hours digits of the TOD operating mode (or in an object-oriented implementation time of day as an object is selected) . Once the default information is selected control passes from Block 420 to Block 422. At Block 422 the microprocessor 24a receives the intermittent second electrical signals and, in response thereto, advances the selected information exhibited during the active primary operating mode through a predefined series of values using known techniques such as "blinking."

The advancement, or incremental cycling through the predefined series of values continues until the rotation of the switching mechanism 34 is complete. At Block 424 the microprocessor 24a monitors, for example, the existence of the second electrical signals to determine if the rotation of the switching mechanism 34 is continuing. If the rotation is continuing, control passes along the "NO" path back to Block 422 where the incremental cycling continues. If the rotation is complete, control passes along a "YES" path from Block 424 to Block 426. At Block 426, a value from the predefined series of values, which is active when the rotation was completed, is selected and the "blinking" information on the display 32 is set to the selected value. Once the selected value is set or assigned, control passes from Block 426 to Block 428.

At Block 428, the microprocessor 24a evaluates the currently active primary operating mode to determine if additional information within the operating mode is available for setting. If no more information within the currently active primary operating mode is available for setting, control passes from Block 428 along a "NO" path to Block 414 where the information setting state and functions thereof for setting information within the currently active primary operating mode is completed. However, if additional information is available for setting, control passes along a "YES" path from Block 428 to Block 430 where next information within the currently active operating mode is selected for setting. From Block 430 control passes back to Block 422 where the switching mechanism 34 is again evaluated and the steps for setting information within the currently active primary operating mode (Block 422 through Block 428) may be performed again (if the switching mechanism 34 is rotated in the counterclockwise direction) . Referring again to Block 402, when the switching mechanism 34 is pulled into the "2^nd pulled" setting position, control passes from Block 402 to Block 432. At Block 432 the microprocessor 24a invokes setting functions for a secondary set of operating modes of the timepiece. Control passes from Block 432 to an encircled F connector which connects Figs. 15A and 15B. As should be apparent, the setting functions for the secondary set of operating modes are similar to the setting functions performed by the microprocessor 24a when setting the primary operating functions (Blocks 406 through 430) . Thus, the setting functions for the secondary set of operating modes illustrated in Fig. 15B are labeled with corresponding reference numerals as the functions for setting the primary operating functions of Fig. 15A, and need not be repeated herein.

Fig. 16 illustrates a combined analog and digital electronic timepiece 500 configured in accordance with the present invention. The timepiece 500 includes analog components such as, for example, a dial 502 having time indicating indicia 504 or numerals and an internal quartz analog movement which includes a stepping motor, gear train and timekeeping circuitry. The movement drives time indicating hands 506a, 506b and 506c which indicate an hour, minute and second of a time-of-day, respectively. In accordance with the present invention, the timepiece 500 also includes digital components operable for exhibiting the time-of- day and other modes such as the TIMER mode or the CHRONO mode, on a display 508.

Setting functions for the timepiece 500 are generally carried out by manually operating switching mechanisms 510 and 512 which protrude from a side of the timepiece 500. Preferably, setting functions for the analog components are accomplished by operating the switching mechanism 510 located at a "3 o'clock" position on the side of the timepiece 500. Digital components, on the other hand, are set by operating the switching mechanism 512 located at a "4 o'clock" position. As should be appreciated, it is within the scope of the present invention for the location of the switching mechanisms 510 and 512 to vary. That is, the location of the switching mechanisms 510 and 512 are a matter of convenience and/or design choice. It is also contemplated, as the aforementioned embodiments highlight, that only one switching mechanism be implemented, as one skilled in the art would appreciate that the flexibility in having a plurality of axial positions would permit a plurality of ways in which the hands or an alarm could be independently set in digital mode without affecting the analog mode. That is, the present invention, if desirable, can eliminate the need for a second switching mechanism.

In this embodiment the switching mechanisms 510 and 512 are axially slidable and rotatable with a plurality of axial and rotational setting positions, respectively. Preferably, the switching mechanisms 510 and 512 are of an equivalent construction as either the switching mechanism of Fig. 5 (switching mechanism 34') or of Fig. 7 (switching mechanism 34''). The timepiece 500 also includes the top ring 54 which may be rotationally operable to rotate the switching mechanisms 510 and 512 in both the clockwise and the counterclockwise directions in a manner as set forth in the above- referenced commonly-assigned, U.S. Patent No.: 5,742,565. The setting functions of the combined analog and digital timepiece 500 are discussed in detail below with reference to Figs. 17A through 17C.

Figs. 17A-17C illustrate setting functions performed by the microprocessor 24a for the combined analog and digital electronic timepiece 500 of Fig. 16. As noted above, and in accordance with the present invention, analog setting functions may be performed by manually operating the switching mechanism 510, while digital setting functions may be performed utilizing the switching mechanism 512. Fig. 17A illustrates a preferred embodiment of the analog setting functions performed with the' setting mechanism 510, wherein the switching mechanism 510 is operable in three axial setting positions. Figs. 17B and 17C illustrate a preferred embodiment of the digital setting functions in which the switching mechanism 512 is operable within four axial setting positions.

In Fig. 17A, the switching mechanism 510 is operable within a "pushed", a "normal run" and a "pulled" axial setting positions. The "pulled" position includes a clockwise and a counterclockwise rotational setting position. As shown in Fig. 17A, the analog setting functions for the timepiece 500 begin at Block 550. The flow of control immediately passes from Block 550 to Block 552 where the microprocessor 24a of the timepiece 500 determines the current axial position of the switching mechanism 510. As can be appreciated by comparing Fig. 17A to Fig. 12, the functional steps performed in the "pushed" position (Blocks 554 to 560) of Fig. 17A operate in a similar manner as those in Fig. 12 (Blocks 104 to 110) . Additionally, the steps performed in the "normal run" position (Blocks 562 to 566) of Fig. 17A operate in a similar manner as those of Fig. 12 (Blocks 112 to 116) . Therefore, reference is made to the description of Blocks 104 to 116 of Fig. 12 for the operations performed at Blocks 554 to 566 of Fig. 17A.

When the switching mechanism 510 is manipulated into the "pulled" setting position, control passes from Block 552 to Block 568. At Block 568, the microprocessor 24a invokes analog time setting functions. Control immediately passes from Block 568 to Block 570. At Block 570 the microprocessor 24a evaluates the switching mechanism 510 to determine if it is being rotated. If the switching mechanism 510 is not being rotated, control passes along a "NO" path and, in essence, waits at Block 570 until the switching mechanism 510 is rotated. When the switching mechanism 510 is rotated (in any direction) , control passes along a "YES" path from Block 570 to Block 572. At Block 572 the microprocessor 24a evaluates the switching mechanism 510 to determine its direction of rotation.

As discussed above with reference to Figs. 5 and 7, the first and the second electrical signals are generated and passed to the microprocessor 24a when the switching mechanisms 34' and 34'' are rotated. Receipt of the first and the second electrical signals indicate that the switching mechanisms 34' and 34'' are being rotated in the clockwise and -the counterclockwise directions, respectively. In this embodiment, the microprocessor 24a will also receive the first and the second electrical signals from the clockwise and the counterclockwise rotation of the switching mechanism 510. At Block 572, if the microprocessor 24a receives the first electrical signals, control passes along a "YES" path from Block 572 to Block 574. At Block 574, and in response to the receipt of the first electrical signals, the microprocessor 24a advances the time-of-day by predetermined increments. That is, in accordance with conventional practice, the microprocessor 24a advances at least one of the indicating hands 506a-506c in relation to the clockwise rotation of the switching mechanism 510. The advancement of the hands continues until the rotation of the switching mechanism 510, or more appropriately, the rotation of the top ring 54 is complete. At Block 576 the microprocessor 24a monitors the first electrical signals to determine if the rotation of the top ring 54 and the switching mechanism 510 is continuing. If the rotation is continuing, control passes along the "NO" path from Block 576 back to Block 574. If the rotation is complete, control passes along a "YES" path from Block 576 to Block 578 where the analog time setting functions are complete. Referring again to Block 572, if the switching mechanism 510 (i.e. the top ring 54) is not being rotated in the clockwise direction, control passes along a "NO" path from Block 572 to Block 580. At Block 580 the microprocessor 24a monitors the second electrical signals. If the second electrical signals are being received, the switching mechanism 510 is being rotated in the counterclockwise direction. If the second electrical signals are not being received, control passes along a "NO" path from Block 580 back to Block 570 where the analog time setting functions may be performed again. If, however, the microprocessor 24a is receiving the second electrical signals, control passes from Block 580 along a "YES" path to Block 582.

At Block 582, and in response to the receipt of the second electrical signals, the microprocessor 24a decrements the time-of-day. That is, the microprocessor 24a decrements at least one of the indicating hands 506a-506c in relation to the counterclockwise rotation of the switching mechanism 510. For example, the time indicating hands 506a-506c are rotated to indicate an earlier time-of-day. The decrementation of the hands continues until the rotation of the switching mechanism 510, or more appropriately, the rotation of the top ring 54 is complete. At Block 584 the microprocessor 24a monitors the second electrical signals to determine if the rotation of the top ring 54 and the switching mechanism 510 is continuing. If the rotation is continuing, control passes along the "NO" path from Block 584 back to Block 582. If the rotation is complete, control passes along a "YES" path from Block 584 to Block 578 where the analog time setting functions are complete. Figs. 17B and 17C illustrate digital setting functions for the combined analog and digital timepiece 500 of Fig. 16. As shown in Fig. 17B, the switching mechanism 512, which is operable for digital setting functions, may be disposed in four axial setting positions. That is, the switching mechanism 512 may be slidably disposed in a "pushed", a "normal run", a "1^st pulled" and a "2^nd pulled" axial setting position. In accordance with the present invention, the "1^st pulled" and the "2^nd pulled" axial setting positions include clockwise and counterclockwise setting positions.

In Fig. 17B the digital setting functions begin at Block 600. The flow of control immediately passes from Block 600 to Block 602 where the microprocessor 24a of the timepiece 500 determines the current axial position of the switching mechanism 512. When the switching mechanism 512 is in the "pushed" position, control passes from Block 602 to Block 604. At Block 604 the microprocessor 24a determines the current operating mode of the timepiece 500.

In accordance with the present invention, the timepiece 500 is a multimode, multifunctioning timepiece. Therefore, the timepiece 500 is operable within a plurality of operating modes such as, for example, the above described TOD mode, ALARM mode, CHRONO mode, TIMER mode and/or T2 mode. Depending upon the determined current operating mode, the microprocessor's response to displacement into the "pushed" position varies.

As is shown in Fig. 17B, control passes from Block 604 to a series of evaluations (Blocks 606-614) where the microprocessor 24a, in response to determining the currently active operating mode, invokes operating mode dependent operations. For example, at Block 606 the microprocessor 24a compares the currently active operating mode to the CHRONO mode. If the currently active operating mode of the timepiece 500 is the CHRONO mode, control passes along a "YES" path from Block 606 to Block 618. At Block 618 the microprocessor 24a performs CHRONO mode specific functions (i.e., chronograph or stopwatch functions) of, for example, "start" , "stop" or "reset" operations used to measure an elapsed time period. From Block 618 control passes to Block 616 where this execution of the "pushed" position setting functions end. If, at Block 606, the currently active operating mode of the timepiece 500 is not the CHRONO mode, control passes along a "NO" path from Block 606 to Block 608.

At Block 608 the currently active operating mode is compared to the "TIMER" operating mode. During the TIMER mode, a countdown timer is operating. If, at Block 608, the microprocessor 24a determines that the timepiece 500 is operating in the TIMER mode, control passes from Block 608 to Block 620. At Block 620 the microprocessor 24a performs TIMER mode specific functions (i.e., countdown timer functions) of, for example, "start" or "stop" operations used to countdown a preset time period. From Block 620 control passes to Block 616 where this execution of the "pushed" position setting functions end. If, at Block 608, the currently active operating mode of the timepiece 500 is not the TIMER mode, control passes along a "NO" path from Block 608 to Block 610.

At Block 610 the currently active operating mode is compared to the "ALARM" operating mode. If, at Block 610, the microprocessor 24a determines that the timepiece 500 is operating in the ALARM mode, control passes from Block 610 to Block 622. At Block 622 the microprocessor 24a performs ALARM mode specific functions of, for example, turning an audible alarm, which is set at a predetermined time-of-day, "on" or "off" . From Block 622 control passes to Block 616 where this execution of the "pushed" position setting functions end. If, at Block 610, the currently active operating mode of the timepiece 500 is not the ALARM mode, control passes along a "NO" path from Block 610 to Block 612.

If, at Block 612, the microprocessor 24a determines that the timepiece 500 is operating in the TIME-OF-DAY (TOD) mode, control passes from Block 612 to Block 624. At Block 624 the microprocessor 24a exhibits an alternate time zone, i.e., the microprocessor 24a temporarily enters the T2 mode where the time-of-day for an alternate, or second, time zone is exhibited on the display 508. From Block 624 control passes to Block 616 where this execution of the "pushed" position setting function ends and the TOD mode is reactivated. If, at Block 612, the currently active operating mode of the timepiece 500 is not the TOD mode, control passes along a "NO" path from Block 612 to Block 614.

If, at Block 614, the microprocessor 24a determines that the timepiece 500 is operating in the second time zone mode (i.e. the T2 mode), control passes from Block 614 to Block 626. At Block 626 the microprocessor 24a exhibits the time-of-day in the first time zone, i.e., the microprocessor 24a temporarily enters the TOD mode where the time-of-day for a first, or a home, time zone is exhibited on the display 508. From Block 626 control passes to Block 616 where this execution of the "pushed" position setting function ends and the T2 mode is reactivated. If, at Block 614, the currently active operating mode of the timepiece 500 is not the T2 mode, control passes along a "NO" path from Block 614 to Block 616 where execution ends. If, at Block 602, the switching mechanism 512 is not pushed or pulled, the switching mechanism 512 remains in the "normal run" position and control passes from Block 602 to Block 630. In the "normal run" position the microprocessor 24a performs default functions within an active mode state. For example, control may pass from Block 630 to Block 632 where the microprocessor 24a exhibits the current time-of-day on the display 508. The default functions end at Block 634.

When the switching mechanism 512 is pulled into a "1^st pulled" setting position, control passes from Block 602 to Block 640. At Block 640, the microprocessor 24a invokes an operating mode setting state and functions thereof for the timepiece 500. If the switching

■ mechanism 512 is instead pulled into the "2^nd pulled" axial setting position, control passes from Block 602 to

Block 660 and then to an encircled G connector which passes control on to Block 662 of Fig. 17C. Fig. 17C illustrates a flow of an information setting state for setting information within a currently active operating mode. As can be appreciated by comparing Fig. 17B to Fig. 13A, the functional steps performed in the mode setting state (Blocks 642 to 658) of Fig. 17B operate in a similar manner as those in the mode setting state of Fig. 13A (Blocks 222 to 238) absent, of course, the evaluation of the timer at Block 220. Additionally, the steps performed in the information setting state (Blocks 662 to 682) of Fig. 17B operate in a similar manner as those of Fig. 13B (Blocks 240 to 258) . Therefore, reference is made to the description of Blocks 222 to 238 of Fig. 13A for the operations performed at Blocks 642 to 658 of Fig. 17B, and to Blocks 240 to 258 of Fig. 13B for the operations performed at Blocks 662 to 682 of Fig. 17C.

Fig. 18 illustrates a general information setting state and functions thereof for setting information within an active operating mode of a multi-mode, electronic device. In particular, Fig. 18 illustrates a number of setting functional steps which may be added to the previously described information setting states (Figs. 12-15B and 17A-17C) to improve and/or to enhance their operation.

As can be appreciated by comparing Fig. 18 to Fig. 13C, many steps of the general information setting state (Fig. 18) are similar to steps of the alternate information setting state (Fig. 13C) . Therefore, in the following description of the operation of the general information setting state reference is made to the description of similar functions within the alternate information setting state of Fig. 13C. The general information setting state begins at Block 700 and control immediately passes to Block 702 where default information to be set is selected. Control passes from Block 702 to Block 704 where control remains, by means of a "NO" path, until it is determined (at Block 704) that the setting mechanism 34 is being rotated (in any direction) . Once rotation is detected, control passes along a "YES" path from Block 704 to Block 706 where the direction of rotation is evaluated. As is apparent, Blocks 706-716 operate in a similar manner as Blocks 244-254 of Fig. 13C wherein selected information is advanced through a plurality of predetermined values. Blocks 722-730 operate in a similar manner as Blocks 268-276 of Fig. 13C wherein selected information is decremented through the plurality of predetermined values. Importantly, the general information setting state permits rotation of the switching mechanism to be re-initiated after completion. As discussed generally above, completion of rotation triggers the setting of selected information to a currently active value (functional steps 710 and 712, and 724 and 726, respectively). The general information setting state introduces a predetermined time period during which rotation may be re- initiated (Blocks 718 and 732) to further advance or decrement the selected information through the predetermined values prior to setting.

For example, at Blocks 708 and 710 a next value of selected information is advanced through the plurality of predetermined values as the switching mechanism is rotated in the clockwise direction. When the rotation of the switching mechanism is stopped, control passes from Block 710 to Block 718. At Block 718 a predetermined time period of about, for example, 4 seconds is started. If rotation of the switching mechanism is not re-initiated prior to the expiration of the predetermined time period, control passes from Block 718 to Block 712 where the currently active value of the next value of the selected information is set, as described above. However, if at Block 718 rotation of the switching mechanism is re-initiated within the predetermined time period, control passes from Block 718 to Block 720. At Block 720, the direction of rotation of the switching mechanism (after re-initiation) is evaluated. If rotation is re-initiated in the clockwise direction, control passes from Block 720 along a "YES" path back to Block 708 where the advancing functionality continues. This permits the selecting of a different current value for the selected information when the rotation of the switching mechanism is again completed.

Alternatively, if the re-initiated rotation is in the counterclockwise direction, control passes along a "NO" path from Block 720 to Block 722. As discussed above, Block 722 is within the information setting steps where a next value of selected information is decremented through the plurality of predetermined values as the switching mechanism is rotated in the counterclockwise direction (Blocks 722 and 724) . As is apparent in Fig. 18, Blocks 732 and 734 within the decrementing substeps operate in a similar manner as Blocks 718 and 720 within the incrementing substeps. Therefore, the general information setting state, and specifically Blocks 718-720 and 732-734, permit selective rotation of the switching mechanism between the clockwise and the counterclockwise directions to respectively advance and decrement the next value of the selected information. The general information setting state ends at Block 736.

Although described in the context of preferred embodiments, it should be realized that a number of modifications to these teachings may occur to one skilled in the art. By example, and as discussed above, the teachings of this invention are not intended to be limited to any specific number of axial and/or rotational setting positions. That is, it should be understood that additional axial positions may be included to achieve additional setting functions. Additionally, the use of the "pushed" position to illuminate the display is only by way of example, as any axial position can be used therefor. Likewise, the operation of the multimode, electronic device, in particular, the multimode electronic timepiece in each axial position is by example and not limitation. Moreover, "timers" such as that disclosed in Figs. 9A, 9C and 10 can be used in any of the foregoing embodiments to facilitate the setting of each successive position on the display. That is, a window of, for example, two seconds, for which during there is no rotation of the top ring can be used to facilitate setting functions of the successive positions.

While the invention has been particularly shown and described with respect to preferred embodiments thereof, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that changes in form and details may be made therein without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention.

For example, the present invention has been disclosed above with particular reference to timepieces. However, one skilled in the art shall now appreciate that the present invention is equally applicable, and as claimed herein, to devices other than timepieces, such as, but not limited to, clocks, thermometers, such as wall mounted thermometers and security devices, such as wall mounted or handheld devices for the home or office. Therefore, reference to a timepiece should equally be understood to refer to at least any of the aforementioned other devices. That .is, the present invention methodology is applicable in any electronic device in which a switching mechanism, such as those disclosed herein, permits selective mode activation and information selection and setting as set forth above. As there is no prior art heretofore known to the present inventors that permits selective mode activation and information selection and setting in that mode, the inventors believe a novel methodology of setting modes and information within those selected modes by selective rotation of switching mechanisms in a variety of devices is provided.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A method for setting a multimode electronic device of the type having a rotating switching mechanism positionable in at least two axial positions and an integrated circuit operable in at least an active mode state, a mode setting state and an information setting state, the method comprising the steps of: when the switching mechanism is in a first of the at least two axial positions, selecting a next active mode from a plurality of first modes by rotating the switching mechanism in at least one of a first and a second direction until the next active mode is exhibited; positioning the switching mechanism in a second of the at least two axial positions; and exhibiting a next value of information in the next active mode by rotating the switching mechanism in at ' least one of a first and second direction.

2. The method as claimed in claim 1, including the step of setting the information in the next active mode by positioning the switching mechanism from the second to the first of the at least two axial positions.

3. A method for setting a multimode electronic timepiece of the type having a switching mechanism positionable in at least two axial positions, signal generating means for generating rotational signals and an integrated circuit operable in at least an active mode state, a mode setting state and an information setting state, the method comprising the steps of: when the switching mechanism is in a first of the at least two axial positions, selecting a next active mode from a plurality of first modes by generating rotational signals until the next active mode is exhibited; positioning the switching mechanism in a second of the at least two axial positions; and exhibiting a next value of information in the next active mode by generating at least one rotational signal while the switching mechanism is in the second axial position.

4. The method as claimed in claim 3, including the step of setting the information in the next active mode by positioning the switching mechanism from the second to the first of the at least two axial positions.

5. A method for setting a multimode electronic device of the type having means for generating axial signals, means for generating rotational signals and an integrated circuit operable in at least an active mode state, a mode setting state and an information setting state, the method comprising the steps of: generating a first axial signal, and in response thereto, selecting a next active mode from a plurality of first modes by generating rotational signals until the next active mode is exhibited; generating a second axial signal, and in response thereto exhibiting a next value of information in the next active mode by generating at least one rotational signal .

6. The method as claimed in claim 5, including the step of setting the information in the next active mode in response to the generation of a further axial signal .

7. The method as claimed in claim 6, wherein the generation of the further axial signal places the device in at least the active mode.

8. A method for setting a multimode electronic timepiece of the type having a rotating switching mechanism and an integrated circuit operable in at least an active mode state, a mode setting state and an information setting state, the method comprising the steps of : when in the mode setting state, selecting a next active mode from a plurality of modes by rotating the switching mechanism in a first direction until the next active mode is exhibited; and when in the information setting state: selecting next information of the active mode; and selecting a next value of the next information by rotating the switching mechanism in a second direction opposite the first direction until the next value of the next information is exhibited.

9. The method as claimed in claim 8, wherein when in the information setting state the method further includes the steps of: discontinuing rotation of the switching mechanism in the second direction to set the next value of the next information; determining whether there is additional information to be set in the active mode; selecting the additional information; and rotating the switching mechanism in the second direction to select a next value of the additional information.

10. The method as claimed in claim 9, including the steps : selectively rotating and discontinuing the rotation of the switching mechanism in the second direction until all information is respectively selected and set in the active mode.

11. A method for setting a multimode electronic timepiece of the type having a rotating switching mechanism positionable in at least two axial positions and an integrated circuit operable in at least an active mode state, a mode setting state and an information setting state, the method comprising the steps of: when in a first of the at least two axial positions, selecting a next active mode from a plurality of first modes by rotating the switching mechanism in a first direction until the next active mode is exhibited; selecting next information of the active mode; and selecting a next value of the next information by rotating the switching mechanism in a second direction opposite the first direction; positioning the switching mechanism in a second of the at least two axial positions; and selecting a next active mode from a plurality of second modes by rotating the switching mechanism in the first direction until the next active mode is exhibited; selecting next information of the- active mode; and selecting a next value of the next information by rotating the switching mechanism in the second direction.

12. The method as claimed in claim 11, wherein the plurality of first modes includes a time-of-day mode and the plurality of second modes includes at least an alarm mode, wherein, when the switching mechanism is in the first axial position, the method including the steps of: discontinuing rotation of the switching mechanism in the second direction to set the next value of the next information in the active mode; determining whether there is additional information to be set in the active mode; selecting the additional information; and rotating the switching mechanism in the second direction to select a next value of the additional information.

13. The method as claimed in claim 11, including the steps of: selectively rotating and discontinuing the rotation of the switching mechanism in the second direction until all information is respectively selected and set in the active mode.

14. A method for setting a multimode electronic timepiece of the type having a rotating switching mechanism and an integrated circuit operable in at least an active mode state, a mode setting state and an information setting state, the method comprising the steps of : when in the mode setting state, selecting a next active mode during a predetermined time period by rotating the switching mechanism in one of a first direction to forward sequence through a plurality of modes and a second direction to reverse sequence through the plurality of modes; determining whether the predetermined time period has expired; and if not, permitting continued rotation of the switching mechanism in one of the first and second directions to respectively one of forward sequence and reverse sequence through the plurality of modes.

15. The method as claimed in claim 14, wherein after the predetermined time period has expired, the method comprising the steps of: when in the information setting state: selecting next information of the active mode; and selecting a next value of the next information by rotating the switching mechanism in the first direction; setting the next value of the next information by discontinuing rotation of the switching mechanism in the first direction; and selecting additional information to be set by rotating the switching mechanism in the second direction.

16. The method as claimed in claim 14, wherein after the predetermined time period has expired, the method comprising the steps of : when in the information setting state: selecting next information of the active mode; and selecting a next value of the next information by rotating the switching mechanism in the first direction; setting the next value of the next information by discontinuing rotation of the switching mechanism in the first direction; selecting a different next value of the next information by restarting rotation of the switching mechanism in the first direction; and setting the different next value of the next information and selecting additional information of the active mode by rotating the switching mechanism in the second direction.

17. The method as claimed in claim 14, wherein after the predetermined time period has expired, the method includes the steps of: when in the information setting state: selecting next information of the active mode; and selecting a next value of the next information, during a second predetermined time period, by rotating the switching mechanism in one of a first direction to forward sequence the next value through exhibitable values and a second direction to reverse sequence the next value through the exhibitable values; and setting the next value of the next information by discontinuing rotation of the switching mechanism in one of the first and the second directions.

18. The method as claimed in claim 17, wherein the method further includes the steps of: determining whether the second predetermined time period has expired, and if not; prior to the step of setting, permitting continued rotation of the switching mechanism in the first and second directions to one of forward sequence and reverse sequence the next value through the exhibitable values .

19. The method as claimed in claim 17, including the steps of : determining whether there is additional information to be set in the active mode; selecting the additional information; restarting the second predetermined time period; and rotating the switching mechanism in one of the first and the second directions during the second predetermined time period to select a next value of the additional information.

20. The method as claimed in claim 19, including the steps : selectively rotating and discontinuing the rotation of the switching mechanism in the first or second directions until all information is respectively set and selected in the active mode.

21. The method as claimed in claim 14, including the step of illuminating a display for a predetermined period by rotating the switching mechanism in one of the first and the second directions.

22. The method as claimed in claim 11, wherein the timepiece includes a rotatable ring operatively coupled to the switching mechanism, the method comprising the steps of : rotating the ring in one of a first ring rotating direction or a second ring rotating direction thereby causing the rotation of the switching mechanism in its respective first and second directions.

23. The method as claimed in claim 14, wherein the timepiece includes a rotatable ring operatively coupled to the switching mechanism, the method comprising the steps of : rotating the ring in one of a first ring rotating direction or a second ring rotating direction thereby causing the rotation of the switching mechanism in its respective first and second directions.

24. The method as claimed in claim 14, wherein the switching mechanism is positionable in at least a second axial position, and when the switching mechanism is in the at least second axial position, the method comprising the steps of: performing mode specific operations when the switching mechanism is displaced from a first axial position to the at least second axial position.

25. A method for setting a multimode electronic timepiece of the type having a rotating switching mechanism and an integrated circuit operable in at least an active mode state, a mode setting state and an information setting state, the method comprising the steps of : when in the mode setting state, selecting a next active mode during a predetermined time period by rotating the switching mechanism in a first direction to forward sequence through a plurality of modes and a second direction to reverse sequence through the plurality of modes; determining whether the predetermined time period has expired; and if so, when in the information setting state: selecting next information of the active mode; and selecting a next value of the next information by rotating the switching mechanism in the first direction to forward sequence the next value through a plurality of values and the second direction to reverse sequence the next value through the plurality of values; setting the next value of the next information by discontinuing rotation of the switching mechanism in the first and the second directions; determining whether there is additional information to be set in the active mode; selecting the additional information; and selectively rotating the switching mechanism in the first and the second directions to select a next value of the additional information.

26. A method for setting a multimode electronic device of the type having a rotating switching mechanism and an integrated circuit operable in at least an active mode state, a mode setting state and an information setting state, the method comprising the steps of: when in the mode setting state, selecting a next active mode from a plurality of modes by rotating the switching mechanism in a first direction until the next active mode is exhibited; and when in the information setting state: selecting next information of the active mode; and selecting a next value of the next information by rotating the switching mechanism in a second direction opposite the first direction until the next value of the next information is exhibited.

27. A method for setting a multimode electronic device of the type having a rotating switching mechanism positionable in at least two axial positions and an integrated circuit operable in at least an active mode state, a mode setting state and an information setting state, the method comprising the steps of: when in a first of the at least two axial positions, selecting a next active mode from a plurality of first modes by rotating the switching mechanism in a first direction until the next active mode is exhibited; selecting next information of the active mode; and selecting a next value of the next information by rotating the switching mechanism in a second direction opposite the first direction; positioning the switching mechanism in a second of the at least two axial positions; and selecting a next active mode from a plurality of second modes by rotating the switching mechanism in the first direction until the next active mode is exhibited; selecting next information of the active mode; and selecting a next value of the next information by rotating the switching mechanism in the second direction.

28. A method for setting a multimode electronic device of the type having a rotating switching mechanism and an integrated circuit operable in at least an active mode state, a mode setting state and an information setting state, the method comprising the steps of: when in the mode setting state, selecting a next active mode during a predetermined time period by rotating the switching mechanism in one of a first direction to forward sequence through a plurality of modes and a second direction to reverse sequence through the plurality of modes; determining whether the predetermined time period has expired; and if not, permitting continued rotation of the switching mechanism in one of the first and second direction to respectively one of forward sequence and reverse sequence through the plurality of modes.

29. The method as claimed in claim 28, wherein after the predetermined time period has expired, the method comprising the steps of: when in the information setting state, selecting next information of the active mode; and selecting a next value of the next information by rotating the switching mechanism in the first direction; setting the next value of the next information by discontinuing rotation of the switching mechanism in the first direction; and selecting additional information to be set by rotating the switching mechanism in the second direction.

30. A method for setting a multimode electronic device of the type having a rotating switching mechanism and an integrated circuit operable in at least an active mode state, a mode setting state and an information setting state, the method comprising the steps of: when in the mode setting state, selecting a next active mode during a predetermined time period by rotating the switching mechanism in a first direction to forward sequence through a plurality of modes and a second direction to reverse sequence through the plurality of modes; when in the information setting state: selecting next information of the active mode; and selecting a next value of the next information by rotating the switching mechanism in the first direction to forward sequence the next value through a plurality of values and the second direction to reverse sequence the next value through the plurality of values; setting the next value of the next information by discontinuing rotation of the switching mechanism in the first and the second directions; determining whether there is additional information to be set in the active mode; selecting the additional information; and selectively rotating the switching mechanism in the first and the second directions to select a next value of the additional information.