HK1183117B - Timepiece with display devices - Google Patents

Description

Timepiece with display device

Technical Field

The invention concerns a timepiece comprising a case in which a control system is provided, which comprises a time base and is arranged to perform several functions. The timepiece also comprises at least two analog display elements and a digital display device independently controlled by said control system. The timepiece further comprises control means acting on said control system.

Background

Timepieces comprising several display devices are known in the prior art. Such a plurality of displays includes a pointer and at least one liquid crystal screen disposed, for example, below the dial. The liquid crystal screen is in this case visible through an aperture made in the dial. This allows such a timepiece to display time information with the hands and other information with the liquid crystal screen. A known variant is a timepiece comprising two liquid crystal screens, in order to display several pieces of information.

However, these timepieces have the disadvantage that the information is very complex and difficult to read. In fact, one or more liquid crystal screens in these timepieces display a lot of information at the same time, so that the user cannot intuitively tell from the screen which function is being used. This accordingly causes a trouble to the user in operating the timepiece and in selecting a desired function from the various functions provided, and also in reading various information displayed.

A timepiece comprising hands and a liquid crystal screen and provided with a touch-sensitive bezel is also known in the prior art. The timepiece is arranged to perform several functions. In the normal operating mode, the hands are used to indicate time information by means of marks on the dial. In a second mode of operation, the user can select a clock function. To this end, the user selects a function by acting on the touch-sensitive bezel with one finger. Indicia regarding the various available functions are provided on the dial, bezel or outer ring. Pressing or touching a form cover on the desired function mark to select the function. This causes the pointer to move to point to the mark relating to the selected function. The liquid crystal screen then displays the results associated with the selected function.

However, a disadvantage of this timepiece or clock is that it does not allow several different pieces of information to be displayed simultaneously. In practice, it is not possible to display, for example, temperature information at the same time as pressure information. It is not possible to display different temperature data such as mean values, instantaneous values or other data at the same time. The additional fact is that no hierarchical information, i.e. functions and menus attached to the displayed information bar, can be displayed.

Moreover, the clock has the additional disadvantage of having only a limited number of functions. In fact, the list of various functions is listed on the clock dial, dial edge or bezel. The surface area of these elements is limited and therefore the number of functions is correspondingly limited to this available surface area on the elements.

Disclosure of Invention

The aim of the present invention is to overcome the above drawbacks by providing a timepiece with a display that allows the user to perceive several pieces of information simultaneously and in a clear and intuitive manner.

The invention therefore concerns a timepiece as defined above, characterized in that said timepiece is arranged, in a first normal operating mode, to provide the user with an indication of time through at least two analog display elements driven by a control system provided with a time base, and in a second specific operating mode, to allow the user to select at least one function through the control means, to display on the digital display at least one value or parameter associated with the at least one function selected by the control means, and to move the at least one analog display with respect to the value or parameter associated with the selected function.

Advantageous embodiments of the clock constitute the subject matter of the dependent claims 2 to 16.

In a first advantageous embodiment, the timepiece is arranged, in a second particular operating mode, to allow the user to select at least one function by means of the control device, to display on the digital display means an indication of the function of the timepiece and at least one value or parameter associated with the at least one function selected by the control device, and to move one of the analogue display means relative to the indication of the selected function and the other analogue display element relative to the value or parameter associated with the selected function.

In a second advantageous embodiment, the digital display means comprise a plurality of digital display sectors arranged on the dial of said timepiece or under a perforated or semi-transparent dial, each display sector being arranged, in the second operating mode, to display an indication of a function of said timepiece or a value or parameter associated with the selected function.

In a third advantageous embodiment, the digital display means comprise at least 12 digital display sectors similar to hour marks arranged on the perimeter of the dial.

In another advantageous embodiment, the digital display device further comprises at least one digital display sector arranged within a circumference, which circumference is constituted by at least 12 digital display sectors arranged at the periphery of the dial.

In another advantageous embodiment, the timepiece comprises three hands, and in a second operating mode of the timepiece a first analogue display element is provided for pointing in the direction of the indication of the selected function, a second analogue display element is used for pointing in the direction of a first value or a first parameter associated with the selected function, and a third analogue display element is used for pointing in the direction of a second value or a second parameter associated with the selected function.

In a further advantageous embodiment, a third analogue display element is provided incorporated in the first or second analogue display element.

In another advantageous embodiment, the functions are grouped together in different menus and the timepiece comprises three analogue display elements such that in a second operating mode of the timepiece, a first analogue display element points in the direction of indication of one selected menu, a second analogue display element points in the direction of indication of the selected function, and a third analogue display element is used to point in the direction of the value or parameter associated with the selected function.

In another advantageous embodiment, each digital display sector is arranged for displaying information in a first colour on a background of a second colour, which may be the same colour as the timepiece dial.

In another advantageous embodiment the shape, number, size, first and second color or position of the digital display sector is changed according to the menu or function selected.

In another advantageous embodiment, the analog display element is a pointer.

In another advantageous embodiment the analog display element is a circular disc.

In another advantageous embodiment, the digital display device takes the form of a monolithic substrate on which a number of digital display sectors are formed.

In another advantageous embodiment, the digital display sector is constituted by a perforated dial.

In another advantageous embodiment, the digital display device takes the form of several substrates, each substrate constituting a digital display sector.

In a further advantageous embodiment, the timepiece is arranged, in the second particular operating mode, for continuing to provide the user with the time indication via the at least two analogue display elements.

One advantage of the present invention is that a user can quickly and intuitively see several pieces of information in a hierarchical manner. In fact, the combination of an analog display and a digital display means that the flexibility of a digital display can be used with a simple information display originating from a pointer or puck. In fact, a timepiece with an analog display, such as for example a pointer, has the drawback of not being able to display a large number of different pieces of information, since this would require too many pointers and would therefore make the timepiece unreadable. In contrast, the digital display allows a lot of information to be displayed in sequence, since the digital display screen is very flexible and therefore different scales can be used depending on the desired function.

Another advantage is that various information can be ranked to make all functions of the portable object easy to access, read, and find. Indeed, by ranking the various functions within different menus, the user may more easily find the desired function.

Another advantage of the timepiece of the invention is that its attractiveness is improved. In practice, the liquid crystal screen may be made to display information in a first selected color on a background of a second color, which may be, for example, the same color as the timepiece dial. For example, if the timepiece dial is black, one or more liquid crystal screens are arranged so that the information is a bright content visible on a dark background. This also hides the existence of possibly many liquid crystal panels as much as possible.

The invention also relates to a method of operating a timepiece as described above, characterized in that it comprises the following steps:

a) the control device is actuated to change from a first normal operating mode, in which the two hands are driven by a control system provided with a time base to provide an indication of the time, to a second specific operating mode.

b) In a second operating mode, an indication relating to the functions that the timepiece can perform is automatically displayed by means of a digital display device.

c) The desired function is selected by activating the control means, wherein the first display element is automatically moved in the direction of the indication of the desired function.

d) Automatically displaying, by a digital display device, at least one value or parameter associated with the selected function, wherein the second analog display element is automatically moved in the direction of the displayed value or parameter.

One advantage of this method is that the user can obtain a timepiece with a simple appearance, and that it can display several pieces of information in a fast and easy-to-read manner. In fact, the two operating modes mean that on the one hand the timepiece is able to indicate time at the usual time, like a conventional timepiece, and on the other hand it is also possible to use the various functions in the second operating mode. This avoids overloading the dial and reducing the readability of the information.

Advantageous embodiments of the method constitute the subject matter of the dependent claims 18 to 23.

In a first embodiment of the invention, the digital display means comprise a plurality of digital display sectors distributed around the periphery of the timepiece dial, characterized in that in the second operating mode, each digital display sector displays an indication of a function or a value or parameter associated with the selected function.

In a second embodiment of the invention, between step c) and step d), the method comprises the step of eliminating the content in all digital display sectors except the sector indicating the selected function, and in step d), a range of values is indicated by some of the digital display sectors previously eliminated or extinguished, and the second pointer is moved in the direction of the value associated with the selected function.

In another embodiment of the invention, the timepiece functions are grouped together in different menus and the method comprises the following steps:

a) the two analogue display elements are driven by a control system provided with a time base to provide an indication of the time by the action of the control means to change from a first normal mode of operation in which the two analogue display elements are driven to a second specific mode of operation.

b) In a second operating mode, an indication relating to the functions that the timepiece can perform is automatically displayed by means of a digital display device.

c) The desired menu is selected by actuating the control means, wherein the first analogue display element is simultaneously moved in the direction of the selected menu.

d) -automatically displaying, by means of a digital display device, indications relating to the functions that the timepiece can perform grouped together in the menu.

e) The desired function is selected by activating the control means, wherein the second analogue display element is automatically moved in the direction of the indication of the desired function.

f) Automatically displaying, by a digital display device, at least one value or parameter associated with the selected function, wherein the third analog display element is automatically moved in the direction of the displayed value or parameter.

In another embodiment of the invention, between step c) and step d), the method comprises the step of eliminating the content in all digital display sectors except the sector indicating the selected menu, and in step d) the functions grouped in the selected menu are displayed by some digital display sectors previously eliminated or extinguished, and the second analogue display element is moved in the direction of the selected function, and between step e) and step f), the method comprises the step of eliminating the content in all digital display sectors except the sector indicating the selected menu and the selected function, and in step f) the range of values is displayed by some digital display sectors previously eliminated or extinguished, and the third analogue display element is moved in the direction of the value associated with the selected function.

In another embodiment of the invention, the analog display element is a pointer.

In another embodiment of the invention, the analog display element is a disk.

Drawings

Objects, advantages and features of the timepiece according to the invention will appear more clearly in the following detailed description of an embodiment of the invention, given purely by way of non-limiting example and illustrated in the accompanying drawings, in which:

figure 1 schematically shows elements of a timepiece according to the invention.

Fig. 2 schematically shows a timepiece control system according to the invention.

Fig. 3 is a simplified top view of a timepiece according to the invention.

Figures 4a,4b and 4c show a first embodiment of the timepiece according to the invention.

Figures 5a and 5b show a first variant of the first embodiment of the timepiece according to the invention.

Figures 6a and 6b show a first alternative of the first embodiment of the timepiece according to the invention.

Figures 7a,7b and 7c show a second alternative of the first embodiment of the timepiece according to the invention.

Figures 8 and 9 show a second embodiment of the timepiece according to the invention and a first alternative of this second embodiment, respectively.

10a,10b and 10c show a second alternative of the second embodiment of the timepiece according to the invention.

Fig. 11a to 11d show a first variant of a second alternative of the second embodiment of the timepiece according to the invention.

Figures 12a to 12d show a second variant of this second alternative of the second embodiment of the timepiece according to the invention.

Fig. 13 shows a third variant of the second alternative of the second embodiment of the timepiece according to the invention.

Fig. 14 shows a third embodiment of the timepiece according to the invention.

Detailed Description

Fig. 1 is a schematic view of a timepiece according to the invention. The timepiece 1 comprises a case 2 in which a control system 3 is provided. The control system 3 controls the analog display device 5 and the digital display device 4. The control system 3 can be controlled by a control device 6, usually arranged outside the watch case 2. It is obvious that the invention can be implemented in a timepiece used as a GPS or measuring instrument.

The control system 3 shown in fig. 2 comprises a processor or CPU 31 which controls the functions of the timepiece 1. The processor 31 is associated with a time base or oscillator circuit 32 to provide a time indication such as time and date. The processor 31 is also associated with a storage device such as a RAM or ROM memory. The time indication provided by the time base 32 is transmitted to the analog display means 5 or the digital display means 4 by the analog display control means 34 or the digital display control means 33, respectively. These control means 33,34 are arranged to convert the information delivered by the processor 31 and to deliver said information to the analogue/digital display means.

However, time information, i.e. time or date, is not the only information that can be displayed. In practice, the control system 3 may comprise several sensors, for example three sensors 35,36,37 arranged in the timepiece and responsible for carrying out the measurement of at least one physical parameter. For example, it is conceivable that one sensor is provided for measuring temperature, one for measuring pressure and one for measuring the earth's magnetic field. These sensors 35,36,37 are managed by the processor 31.

These sensors 35,36,37 should be controlled by the user via the control device 6. The control device 6 comprises, as shown in fig. 1 and 2, for example three buttons 61,62 and 63. The control means 6 act on the processor 31 to enable a user to act on the control system 3 to set up the timepiece 1 or activate its functions. It is also contemplated that the three buttons 61,62 and 63 may be replaced or completed by a touch-sensitive interface. Such a touch interface may take the form of, for example, a capacitive or resistive puck disposed opposite the digital display device to enable a user to press or touch the capacitive or resistive puck disposed opposite the digital display device to select the device. It is further also conceivable to use the control means 6 comprising a rotating outer ring as selection means for selecting various information, such as menus or functions.

When one of the sensors 35,36 and 37 is activated, it completes the required measurement and transmits the measurement result to the processor 31. Which decodes and then processes the information to deliver it to the analog display device 5 or the digital display device 4. It is therefore obvious that the analog display means 5 or the digital display means 4 are automatically modified.

In order to be able to manage all functions and to achieve a clear and intuitive display, the analog display device 5 and the digital display device 4 are arranged to cooperate with each other. The dial 7 of the timepiece 1 is therefore provided, for example, as shown in fig. 3. The analog display device 5 in the present invention comprises an analog display element in the form of a pointer but may also be in the form of a disc. In the following description, the analog display element is a pointer. Preferably, three hands 51,52 and 53 are provided for displaying hours, minutes and seconds respectively. These hands 51,52 and 53 are driven by motors controlled by the analog display control device 34. This enables the hands 51,52 and 53 to be independent of each other. However, it is also possible to drive the three hands 51,52 and 53 with only one motor. The coupling system is used to drive the hands independently of each other.

The digital display means 4 take the form of at least one digital indicator 41 or digital display sector. In the present embodiment, dial 7 has 12 digital indicators 41, for example of the liquid crystal type, arranged on the periphery of said dial 7 to indicate the hour circle. These liquid crystal indicators 41 are controlled by the digital display control device 33 so that each indicator 41 can be independently controlled. Of course, the number and technique of the indicators 41 are not limited to the present embodiment. Moreover, it is also possible to envisage machining the indicators 41 individually, i.e. each indicator 41 being made of its own substrate. The indicator 41 may also be made from the same substrate but with a separate addressing for each area where information is to be displayed. The substrate may have a surface area equal to the dial 7 of the timepiece 1 carrying the substrate.

Furthermore, these indicators or digital display sectors 41 may be arranged such that their presence is as inconspicuous as possible for the user. To achieve this, they are arranged to display information in a first colour on a background of a second colour. The concealment is achieved because the second background color coincides with the color of the timepiece dial. The first color contrasts with the second color. For example, if the dial is black, then the second color is black, and the first color is a bright color such as yellow, beige, or white. This in turn means that the presence of the indicator or digital display sector 41 is imperceptible or difficult to perceive.

In a first normal operating mode, the control system 3 acts on the timepiece to make it operate like a normal timepiece as shown in fig. 4 a. The timepiece thus indicates the time to the user. To achieve this, each digital indicator 41 displays a number between 1 and 12 to mimic the hour circle in the dial 7 of the timepiece 1. The pointers 51,52 and 53 point to the pointer 41 based on time data provided by the processor 31. One improvement to this display includes providing a 12 hour to 24 hour display characterized in that the indicator 41 displays time from 1 o 'clock to 12 o' clock in a first portion of the day and then displays time from noon to midnight in a second portion of the day. Such a 12 o 'clock to 24 o' clock display is characterized in that the indicator 41 displays a circle from 1 o 'clock to 12 o' clock when the time is included in the period from 1 o 'clock to 12 o' clock. The indicator 41 then displays the hour circle from 13 to 24 when the time is contained in the period from 13 to 24.

In a second particular operating mode, timepiece 1 is arranged to enable a user to use the integrated functions. In a first step, the user acts on the control means 6 to activate the second operating mode. In particular, the control means 6 may be arranged such that the button 62 is used for setting the time and the buttons 61 and 63 are arranged for activating the second operating mode and selecting/activating various functions.

In a first embodiment, this activation causes a change in the display by the control means 6 performing a first step. This change is to extinguish all indicators 41. This change is visible in fig. 4b, where in a second step the liquid crystal indicator 41, whose positions correspond to, for example, the 5 o ' clock, 6 o ' clock and 7 o ' clock time indications, automatically displays the various available functions between [ fonc3], [ fonc2] and [ fonc1 ]. The user then selects the desired function by acting on the control means 6. In the example of fig. 4b, when the user selects a function, the hour hand 51 is automatically moved to point to the selected function, in this case it points to the function [ fonc3 ].

In a third step, shown in fig. 4c, the further indicator 41, i.e. the liquid crystal indicator 41 whose position corresponds to, for example, an 8 o 'clock to 4 o' clock time indication, automatically displays a continuous range of values of [ val 1] to [ val 9 ]. The range of values [ val 1] is determined by the function used. For example, in the case of the temperature function and the measured temperature is 23.5 ℃, the liquid crystal panel may display a range between 21 ℃ displayed by the indicator 41 indicating the numerical value [ val 1] and 29 ℃ displayed by the indicator 41 indicating the numerical value [ val 9 ]. The minute hand 52 then automatically moves to point at the measurement value. In this case, the pointer 52 points between the value [ val 3] and the value [ val 4 ]. This enables the user to immediately see the function and measurement value he has selected. It is conceivable that the indicator 41 displaying the function [ fonc ] has a background of a certain color and the indicator 41 displaying the numerical value [ val ] has a color different from the background of the indicator 41 displaying the function [ fonc ]. This therefore increases the distinction between the indicators 41. This structure can be used in all variants described or conceivable to the person skilled in the art and can be extended for the distinction between the actual values [ val ].

Since the second hand 53 is not used, it is conceivable to automatically move the hand so as to be incorporated with the minute hand 52 and not to cause inconvenience in reading information.

The advantage of displaying the measurement values with a range of values [ val ] instead of a single indicator 41 is that reading is simplified when there is a series of measurement values. In fact, for a series of measurements associated with a value [ val ] that has only a small change, a relatively wide range of values [ val ] means that only the position at which the pointer 53 points to the measurement is modified. The display is thus more intuitive and the user can see the change immediately. In the example of temperature measurement, for a measured value of 23.5 ℃ and a range of values between 21 ℃ and 29 ℃, the information displayed by the indicator 41 may not change if the second measured value indicates a value of 24 ℃ and the third measured value indicates 24.5 ℃.

In a first variant of this first embodiment, shown in fig. 5a, the indicator 41 is provided in the same configuration as previously described. The principle remains the same and the second step consists of allowing the user to select the function [ fonc ], the hour hand 51 automatically moving to point to the selected function [ fonc ], which in the present case is to point to e.g. function [ fonc3 ].

However, between the second and third steps, the indicator 41 displaying the unselected function [ fonc ], i.e. the indicator 41 displaying the functions [ fonc1] and [ fonc2] in the example shown in fig. 5b, is automatically erased or extinguished. This means that there may be a greater number of indicators 41 for displaying the range of values [ val ] associated with the function [ fonc ]. This range accordingly includes a greater number of indicators 41 and thus the value [ val ] provides a wider or more precise range as desired.

This means that in the third step, the indicator 41, which was previously erased or extinguished, automatically displays the range of the value [ val 1] to the value [ val 11 ]. The minute hand 52 moves the pointing measurement value [ val ] without any action of the user. In this case, the pointer 52 points between the value [ val 6] and the value [ val 7 ]. The indicator 41 may be made to have a different background color depending on the function [ fonc ] associated therewith. This means that each indicator 41 can easily be associated to a function [ fonc ], wherein each indicator 41 displays a function [ fonc ] with a specific background color. Each category of information may also be typically displayed on a defined background color representing the category.

In a first alternative of the first embodiment, in which two hands are used as the hour hand 51 and the minute hand 52, two pieces of numerical information may be displayed. To this end, dial 7 further comprises a central indicator 41a as shown in fig. 6 a. The central indicator 41a is used to display the selected function and has two advantages. In fact, once the function [ fonc ] has been selected, it can be better discerned first, since it is displayed on the central indicator 41a as shown in fig. 6 b. Secondly, this arrangement allows all the indicators 41 to be used to display the value [ val ]. The two hands hour and minute hands 51,52 are then moved and used to display different information such as desired values and measured values. Seconds hand 53 may then merge with minute hand 52.

In a second alternative, shown in fig. 7a, at least two pieces of numerical information for two different functions [ fonc ] may be displayed. To this end, the dial 7 has two central indicators 41a and 41b for displaying a first function [ fonc _1] and a second function [ fonc _2 ]. In practice, the function [ fonc ] is first displayed on the indicator 41. The user selects the first function [ fonc ] which is then displayed on the indicator 41a as shown in figure 7 b. He then selects a second function [ fonc ] which is then displayed on the indicator 41b as shown in figure 7 c. The indicators 41 are then divided into two groups, each group constituting a value range [ val ], each value range being associated with a function [ fonc ], respectively a value [ val 1] to a value [ val 6] for the function [ fonc _3] and a value [ val a ] to a value [ val F ] for the function [ fonc _1 ]. The hour hand 51 and minute hand 52 are both associated to a range of values [ val ] to display the calculation and/or measurement results associated with the function [ fonc ]. Pointer 51 is associated to function [ fonc1] and pointer 52 is associated to function [ fonc3 ]. It is therefore conceivable that the indicators 41 associated with each function [ fonc ] can be distinguished from each other. One solution includes distinguishing between them by using different background colors. Seconds hand 53 may then move to merge with minute hand 52 as shown in fig. 7 c.

In the second embodiment, three pointers 51,52 and 53 are used.

First, the second hand 53 is used to point to another value [ val ] associated with the selected function [ fonc ] as shown in fig. 8. For example, the second hand 53 may be used to point to a previous measurement [ val ] or a threshold or expected value. The range scale displayed by the indicator 41 is then modified to accommodate the new value [ val ] associated with the selected function [ fonc ] without any action by the user. In a variant, the indicator 41 showing the unused function [ fonc ] is eliminated. This means that a larger range of values [ val ] can be obtained and thus a wider or more precise range as required.

In the first alternative shown in fig. 9, three pieces of numerical information [ val ] may be displayed in the same manner as in the first alternative of the first embodiment. To this end, dial 7 further comprises a central indicator 41 a. The center indicator 41a is used to display the selected function [ fonc ]. The indicator 41 is used to display the value [ val ], and the three pointers 51,52 and 53 are used to display various information such as desired value, measured value and average value, respectively [ val 3], [ val 5] and the value [ val ] included between [ val 8] and [ val 9 ].

In a second alternative of this second embodiment, this third seconds hand 53 can display a further piece of information. In fact, the various functions [ fonc ] integrated in the timepiece are distributed among different menus [ menu ]. "Menu" represents a set of different functions [ fonc ] grouped according to at least one common standard. For example, the functions may be grouped together according to the sensors 35,36,37 used.

The second step shown in fig. 10a comprises selecting the desired menu. For this reason, the liquid crystal indicator 41 whose positions correspond to, for example, 7 o 'clock, 8 o' clock, 9 o 'clock, and 10 o' clock time indications automatically displays different menus [ menu ]. The hour hand 51 is automatically moved to point to the menu [ menu ] selected by the user via the control means 6, here menu [ menu 1 ].

In a third step, shown in fig. 10b, a further indicator 41, i.e. a liquid crystal indicator 41 whose position corresponds to an indication of the 11 o 'clock to 6 o' clock time, is used to display the function [ fonc ] associated with the selected menu [ menu ]. The user then selects the function [ fonc ] he wants and minute hand 52 then moves to point at that function [ fonc ].

In the fourth position, shown in fig. 10c, second hand 53 is used to display the value [ val ] measured when the selected function [ fonc ] is activated. For this purpose, the pointer 53 is automatically moved along a scale of numerical values that can be engraved on the dial 7 or on the outer ring. In the situation shown in fig. 10c, the user has selected the function [ fonc 6] from the menu [ menu 1 ].

According to a first variant of the second alternative, the second step shown in fig. 11a is identical to the second step in the second alternative, i.e. the user selects the menu [ menu ] he wants and the hour hand 51 points automatically to this menu [ menu ].

In a third step, shown in fig. 11b, the indicator 41 not used for displaying the menu [ menu ] is used for displaying the function [ fonc ] associated with the selected menu [ menu ]. The user selects the function [ fonc ] he wants and minute hand 52 then moves to point at that function [ fonc ].

Between the third and fourth steps, all the indicators 41 except the indicator 41 indicating the selected menu [ menu ] and the indicator 41 indicating the selected function [ fonc ] are automatically eliminated or extinguished as shown in fig. 11 c. Then, the pointer 41 indicating the selected function [ fonc ] is automatically removed, and the content thereof is then transferred to the next pointer 41 indicating the pointer of the selected menu [ menu ]. The minute hand 52 automatically moves to point at the indicator 41. The indicator 41 indicating the selected menu [ menu ] and indicating the selected function [ fonc ] are thus adjacent to each other.

In a fourth step, shown in fig. 11d, the previously dismissed indicator 41 is used to display a range of values [ val ] associated with the selected function. The movement of seconds hand 53 is then controlled by control system 3 according to the sensor associated with function [ fonc ] to indicate to the user the value [ val ] measured at the time of activation of the selected function.

According to a second variant of the second alternative, the second step shown in fig. 12a is identical to the second step in the first variant, i.e. the user selects the menu [ menu ] he wants and the hour hand 53 points automatically to this menu [ menu ].

Between the second and third steps, all the indicators 41 except the indicator 41 indicating the selected menu [ menu ] are automatically eliminated or extinguished as shown in fig. 12 b.

In a third step, shown in fig. 12c, the previously dismissed or extinguished indicator 41 is used to display the function [ fonc ] associated with the selected menu [ menu ]. Therefore, 11 functions [ fonc ] can be selected. The user then selects the function [ fonc ] he wants and minute hand 52 then moves to point at that function [ fonc ]. The intermediate step between the second and third steps allows more functions to be displayed [ fonc ].

Between the third and fourth steps, all indicators 41 except the indicator 41 indicating the selected menu [ menu ] and the indicator 41 indicating the selected function [ fonc ] are eliminated or extinguished by the control system 3. Then, the pointer 41 indicating the function [ fonc ] is eliminated, and the content thereof is transferred to the next pointer 41 indicating the pointer of the selected menu [ menu ]. The minute hand 52 then automatically moves to point at the indicator 41. The indicator 41 indicating the selected menu [ menu ] and indicating the selected function [ fonc ] are thus adjacent to each other.

In a fourth step, shown in fig. 12d, the previously eliminated indicator 41 is used to display the range of values [ val ] associated with the selected function. The second hand 53 automatically moves to indicate to the user the value [ val ] measured at the time of starting the selected function [ fonc ].

This second variant means that only valid information is displayed and thus better readability is provided.

In the third variation shown in fig. 13, at least two pieces of data information may be displayed. To this end, the principle of the first alternative of the first embodiment is used and the dial 7 further comprises at least one central indicator 41 a. The central indicator 41a is used to show the menu once it is selected. The pointer 41 is then used to select the desired function [ fonc ], and the pointer 51 automatically points to the pointer 41. All other indicators 41 are then used to display the value [ val ]. The other two hands 52,53 are used to display different information, such as for example expected values and measured values. It is also envisaged that the dial 7 comprises two central indicators 41a and 41b for displaying a selected menu [ menu ] and a selected function [ fonc ]. The three hands 51,52 and 53 are thus used to display different pieces of information.

In a fourth variation, at least one piece of numerical information associated with a function may be displayed simultaneously with the display of the time. To this end, the dial 7 comprises two central indicators 41a and 41b for displaying the selected menu [ menu ] and the selected function [ fonc ]. The indicator 41 is then used to display a range of values [ val ] associated with the function [ fonc ]. The seconds hand 53 is then used to automatically point to the value obtained according to the performance of this function [ fonc ]. The two hands 51,52 are then used to display the hour and minute respectively.

According to a third embodiment, visible in fig. 14, the clock 1 comprises a fourth hand 54. The hand 54 may be used as an indicator of a stopwatch area in the normal operating mode as shown in fig. 14. In this mode of operation of the stop watch, the second hand may serve several purposes.

First, the pointer 54 may be used to indicate a value [ val ] associated with the function. With reference to the first embodiment, the user can indicate the function used with the pointer 51 and use the three pointers 52,53 and 54 to indicate the numerical values associated with the function.

Referring to the second variant of the second embodiment, in which functions are allocated in menus, the user can thus indicate the selected menu [ menu ] and the selected function [ func ] with two pointers 51,52 and the value associated with the selected function [ func ] with two pointers 53, 54. The pointer 54 may indicate a value [ val ] that expresses a maximum value, a minimum value, an average value, an expected value, or other value. It is envisaged that the two hands 53,54 could display a decimal value. One of the pointers points to integer values accordingly, and the other pointer points to a decimal value.

Second, the pointer 54 may be used to indicate a sub-menu [ s-menu ] or a function [ fonc ]. "submenu" means that the same set of functions [ fonc ] is assigned to smaller sets, each with its own criteria. The functionality of the clock may be categorized in the menu [ menu ] and sub-menu [ s-menu ] to allow more complex systems to be ranked. Three pointers 51,52 and 53 are required for indicating the menu [ menu ], the sub-menu [ s-menu ] and the function [ fonc ], and a pointer 54 is also required for indicating the value [ val ] associated with the function. In such a configuration, a principle involving the gradual elimination or extinguishing of the unused indicator 41 may be used and allows new information to be displayed while improving readability.

Therefore, a clock is set to display various menus [ menu ] first. Selection of the menu [ menu ] by the user causes display of a sub-menu [ s-menu ] associated with the selected menu [ menu ]. Once the sub-menu s-menu has been selected, the indicator 41 of the displayed information bar is removed for neither the selected menu s-menu nor the selected sub-menu s-menu. The display is modified so that this information relating to the selected menu [ menu ] and sub-menu [ s-menu ] is displayed on one of the adjacent indicators 41. The function [ fonc ] associated with the selected sub-menu [ s-menu ] is automatically displayed on the remaining indicators 41. The user selects the desired function [ fonc ] to cause a change in the display. This automatic modification includes the elimination of the unused indicator 41, i.e. the indicator 41 showing the unselected function [ fonc ]. The display of the selected function [ fonc ] is shifted to the next indicator 41 displaying the selected menu [ menu ] or displaying the indicator of the selected submenu [ s-menu ]. This modification of the display leaves the indicator 41 free to display a range of values [ val ]. The last available pointer 54 can indicate to the user the value associated with the selected function.

It is therefore apparent that this fourth pointer 54 is able to display additional information and thereby increase the number of functions available. Similarly, the fourth pointer 54 allows two functions [ fonc ], each having a numerical value, to be displayed. For example, timepiece 1 may display the instantaneous temperature in one color and the average temperature in another color to enable a clear reading of the information.

In an alternative to this third embodiment, the clock may be arranged to display at least two pieces of numerical information [ val ] for two different functions [ fonc ]. To this end, the dial 7 comprises two indicators 41 for displaying a first function [ fonc1] and a second function [ fonc2 ]. The further indicators 41 are then divided into two groups, each group constituting a range of values [ val ] each associated with a function [ fonc ]. Each pointer 51,52 points to one pointer 41 of the display function [ fonc ]. The pointers 53 and 54 also each then automatically point to a value in the range of values [ val ] to display the result associated with the function [ fonc ]. In general, it is envisaged that the hour and minute indications remain displayed in the second mode of operation. Hour hand 51 and minute hand 52 are thus used to indicate hours and minutes. The user may then select a function and the second hand 53 is automatically moved along with it to indicate the measurement value [ val ]. The value [ val ] is included in the range of the value [ val ] displayed by the indicator 41. In the simplest case, the indicator 41 displaying the hour circle in the first operating mode is removed during activation of the second operating mode to display various functions [ fonc ]. Once the function has been selected, the indicator 41 then displays a range of values [ val ]. In another case, the digital display device 4 comprises two sets of indicators 41: the first group is used to display the hour circle and the second group is used to display the range of values [ val ].

It should be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and/or improvements and/or combinations of the different embodiments of the invention listed above may be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

It should also be apparent that the clock may include more than 12 indicators 41. The timepiece may thus comprise, for example, 16 indicators 41, 12 of which constitute the hour circle and the other 4 of which are distributed on a circumference within the hour circle. Preferably, the radius of the circumference is equal to the radius of the hour hand 51. It should be apparent that the various indicators 41 may be disposed within different circumferences. The circumference of each indicator has a radius equal to the radius of one of the hands. Of course, it is obvious that the indicator 41 may be arranged in a different way than in the hour circle. The indicator 41 may be provided in the form of a circle eccentric with respect to the center of the dial. It is also possible to provide the indicator 41 in the form of a circle that is eccentric with respect to the center of the dial and to provide the hands 51,52 and 53 not in the center of the dial but elsewhere. Preferably, hands 51,52 and 53 are arranged in the center of the circumference formed by indicator 41, the radius of the circumference of indicator 41 being equal to the length of one of hands 52 and 53.

It is also apparent that the time indication is stored in the memory during the change from the normal operation mode to the specific operation mode. When the specific working mode is not executed any more and the working mode is changed to normal again, the time indication is displayed again. The time indication is preferably updated automatically by the processor 31.

The background color of the indicators may also vary between different indicators and various information may be represented by indicia and/or color. Furthermore, activating the control means 6 to change from the first mode of operation to the second mode of operation may allow the language of the information on the indicator 41 to be changed. It is therefore envisaged that information displayed in arabic, chinese, japanese or roman characters or any other possible language can be seen.

Claims (23)

1. Timepiece (1) comprising a case (2) in which a control system (3) is provided, which control system comprises a time base (32) and is arranged so as to be able to perform several functions, said timepiece (1) further comprising at least two analogue display elements (51,52) and a digital display device (4) independently controlled by said control system, said timepiece further comprising control means (6) acting on said control system,

characterised in that the timepiece is arranged, in a first normal operating mode, to provide a user with an indication of time through at least two analogue display elements (51,52) driven by a control system (3) provided with a time base, and in a second specific operating mode, the timepiece (1) is arranged to enable the user to select at least one function ([ fonc ]) through the control means, to display on the digital display means (4) at least one value or parameter ([ val ]) associated with the at least one function selected by the control means, and to move the at least one analogue display element against the value or parameter associated with the selected function.

2. Timepiece according to claim 1, characterised in that the timepiece (1) is arranged, in a second specific operating mode, to allow the user to select at least one function by means of the control means, to display on the digital display means (4) an indication of the timepiece function and at least one value or parameter associated with the at least one function selected by the control means, and to move one analogue display means opposite the indication of the selected function and the other analogue display elements opposite the value or parameter associated with the selected function.

3. Timepiece according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the digital display means comprise a plurality of digital display sectors provided on the dial of the timepiece or beneath a perforated or semi-transparent dial, each display sector being provided, in the second specific operating mode, for displaying an indication of a function of the timepiece or a value or parameter associated with the selected function.

4. A timepiece as claimed in claim 3, characterized in that said digital display means comprise at least 12 digital display sectors similar to hour marks arranged on the periphery of the dial.

5. The timepiece of claim 4, wherein said digital display means further includes at least one digital display sector disposed within a circle, said circle being formed by at least 12 digital display sectors disposed on the periphery of the dial.

6. Timepiece according to claim 1, characterized in that it comprises three hands (51,52,53) and in a second particular operating mode of the timepiece a first analogue display element (51) is provided for pointing in the direction of the indication of the selected function, a second analogue display element (52) is provided for pointing in the direction of a first value or a first parameter associated with the selected function, and a third analogue display element (53) is provided for pointing in the direction of a second value or a second parameter associated with the selected function.

7. Timepiece according to claim 6, characterised in that the third analogue display element (53) is arranged to be incorporated with the first analogue display element (51) or the second analogue display element (52).

8. Timepiece according to claim 1, characterized in that the functions are grouped together in different menus and in that the timepiece comprises three analog display elements (51,52,53) such that, in a second particular operating mode of the timepiece, a first analog display element (51) points in the direction of the indication of the selected menu, a second analog display element (52) points in the direction of the indication of the selected function, and a third analog display element (53) is used to point in the direction of the value or parameter associated with the selected function.

9. A timepiece as claimed in claim 3, characterized in that each digital display sector (41) is arranged for displaying information in a first colour on a background of a second colour, the second colour being the same as the colour of the timepiece dial.

10. The timepiece of claim 9, wherein the shape, number, size, first and second colors or positions of the number display sectors are changed according to a selected menu or function.

11. The timepiece of claim 1, wherein said analog display element is a pointer.

12. The timepiece of claim 1, wherein said analog display element is a disk.

13. The timepiece of claim 1, wherein said digital display means is in the form of a monolithic substrate having a plurality of digital display sectors formed thereon.

14. The timepiece of claim 13, wherein said digital display sector is formed by a perforated dial.

15. The timepiece of claim 1, wherein said digital display means is in the form of a plurality of substrates, each substrate defining a digital display sector.

16. Timepiece according to claim 1, characterised in that it is arranged, in a second particular operating mode, to continue to provide the user with an indication of time through at least two analogue display elements (51, 52).

17. A method of operation for a timepiece (1) comprising a case (2) in which a control system (3) is provided, said control system comprising a time base (32) and being arranged so as to be able to perform several functions ([ fonc ]), said timepiece further comprising at least two analog display elements (51,52) and digital display means independently controlled by said control system, said timepiece further comprising control means (6) acting on said control system, characterized in that said method comprises the steps of:

a) changing from a first normal operating mode, in which the two hands are driven by a control system provided with a time base to provide an indication of the time, to a second specific operating mode by action of the control means;

b) automatically displaying, in a second specific operating mode, indications ([ val ]) related to the functions that the timepiece can perform, by means of a digital display device;

c) selecting a desired function by activating the control means, wherein the first display element (51) is automatically moved in the direction of the indication of the desired function; and

d) automatically displaying at least one value or parameter associated with the selected function via a digital display device, wherein the second analogue display element (52) is automatically moved in the direction of the displayed value or parameter.

18. A method as claimed in claim 17, characterised in that said digital display means (41) comprise a plurality of digital display sectors distributed around the perimeter of the timepiece dial and in that, in the second specific operating mode, each digital display sector displays an indication of a function or a value or parameter associated with the selected function.

19. A method as claimed in claim 17, characterised in that between steps c) and d) the method includes the step of eliminating content in all digital display sectors except the sector indicating the selected function, and in step d) a range of values is indicated by some of the digital display sectors previously eliminated or extinguished, and the second pointer (52) is moved in the direction of the value associated with the selected function.

20. Method according to claim 17, characterized in that the functions of the timepiece (1) are grouped together in different menus and in that the method comprises the following steps:

a) changing from a first normal operating mode, in which the two analogue display elements (51,52) are driven by a control system (3) provided with a time base (32) to provide a time indication, to a second specific operating mode by action of the control means (6);

b) automatically displaying, in a second specific operating mode, by means of digital display means, indications relating to the functions that the timepiece can perform;

c) selecting a desired menu by actuating the control means, wherein the first analogue display element (51) is simultaneously moved in the direction of the selected menu;

d) automatically displaying, by a digital display device, indications relating to functions of the timepiece that can be performed grouped together in the menu;

e) selecting a desired function by actuating the control means, wherein the second analogue display element (52) is automatically moved in the direction of the indication of the desired function; and

f) -automatically displaying at least one value or parameter associated with said selected function by means of a digital display device, wherein the third analogue display element (53) is automatically moved in the direction of the displayed value or parameter.

21. The method of claim 20, wherein between step c) and step d), the method includes the steps of eliminating content in all digital display sectors except the sector indicating the selected menu, and in step d), displaying the function grouped in the selected menu by some number display sectors which are previously eliminated or extinguished, and the second analogue display element (52) is moved towards the direction of the selected function, and between step e) and step f), the method includes the steps of eliminating content in all digital display sectors except the sector indicating the selected menu and the selected function, and in step f), the range of values is displayed by some of the number display sectors previously erased or extinguished, and the third analogue display element (53) is moved in the direction of the value associated with the selected function.

22. The method of claim 17, wherein the analog display element is a pointer.

23. The method of claim 17, wherein the analog display element is a disk.