Clocks with uniquely driven elements which are interpreted by the use of traditional clock interpretation methods

Apparatuses (250) for the display of time with distinctive aesthetic character that include rigid rotating members (220) which are driven by movements (251) and held in place by the force of gravity. The movement (251) rotates drive wheels (256, 257) so that the rigid rotating members (220) indicate the current time and the time is interpreted using traditional clock interpretation methods. The movement (251) may include a support bushing (260) to provide support for output shafts (252, 253) of the movement (251). A cover (262) may also provide support for output shafts (252, 253).

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to clocks, specifically to clocks with uniquely driven elements where the clocks are interpreted through traditional clock interpretation methods.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

For centuries man has designed and built clocks that served the dual purpose of indicating the current time and adding to the aesthetic decor of an area.

Traditionally, mechanical clocks, whether driven by weights, springs and/or electrical energy, have consisted of a clock face and a number of hands rotating about a central point on the clock face. The hour hand is typically shorter and completes one revolution every twelve hours. The minute hand is typically larger and completes one revolution every sixty minutes. To aid in the user's interpretation of the device, the clock face often features time demarcations. This configuration is ubiquitous and is popular in architectural clocks, wall clocks, desk clocks, and wrist watches.

Many clock designers, such as in U.S. Pat. No. 2,153,004, by C. H. H. Rodanet, issued Apr. 4, 1939, seek to achieve aesthetic distinction by altering the symbols used on the clock face and/or by designing uniquely shaped hands. That clock also attached the hands onto rotating disks to give the appearance that the hands were floating.

Other clock designers, such as in U.S. Pat. No. 5,999,496, by Y. Chaut, issued Dec. 7, 1999, seek to achieve aesthetic appeal through a unique configuration of elements that do not feature hands or traditional clock faces. While such clocks may be considered aesthetically striking, these clocks do not allow the use of traditional clock interpretation methods to determine the indicated time.

The present inventor previously patented a group of aesthetically appealing clocks which used traditional clock interpretation methods to determine the indicated time in U.S. Pat. No. 7,061,833, by Karl Allen Dierenbach, issued Jun. 13, 2006. However, there remains a need for, and it would be advantageous to have, additional clocks that are aesthetically unique and do not possess traditional faces or hands, but nonetheless are interpreted using traditional clock interpretation methods.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is directed toward clocks with unique designs which are easily read using traditional clock interpretation methods and structure associated with such designs.

“Traditional clock interpretation methods” refers to the traditional way the current time is interpreted by observing the positions of a minute hand and an hour hand on a typical clock. Thus, a clock with two non-identical indicators moving through a circular path about a common point, where one of the indicators is rotating at a rate of one revolution per hour and the other indicator is rotating at a rate of one revolution every twelve hours, may be interpreted by using traditional clock interpretation methods.

In a first aspect, a clock movement including a case, a battery compartment, a motor, a gear train, a mounting bushing, an inner output shaft, an outer output shaft, and a support bushing is described. The battery compartment may be configured to interconnect to a battery. The motor may be disposed within the case. The mounting bushing may be an elongated tubular member with a proximal end and a distal end, and the proximal end may be fixed to the case. The inner output shaft may be driven at a first angular rate by the motor. The outer output shaft may be driven at a second angular rate by the motor. The first angular rate may be different than the second angular rate. The inner shaft and the outer shaft may be coaxial. The inner shaft may be disposed within the outer shaft. The outer shaft and the mounting bushing may be coaxial. The outer shaft may be disposed within the mounting bushing. The support bushing may be fixed to the distal end of the mounting bushing. A bearing portion of the support bushing may be positioned distal to the mounting bushing. The bearing portion of the support bushing may include an annular bearing surface surrounding a bearing portion of the outer output shaft. The movement may be configured such that no portion of the clock movement is disposed between the annular bearing surface and the bearing portion of the outer output shaft.

In an arrangement, the support bushing may comprise a polymer. The polymer, for example, may be polyoxymethylene and/or polytetrafluoroethylene.

In an arrangement, the mounting bushing may comprise external threads and the support bushing may comprise corresponding internal threads. The support bushing may comprise a nut disposed within a polymer portion, and the corresponding internal threads may be on the nut. The nut may comprise a metal such as, for example, brass.

In an arrangement, the mounting bushing may comprise external threads and the support bushing may be pressed onto the external threads such that the support bushing is fixedly interconnected to the mounting bushing.

In an arrangement, the support bushing may be a unitary member.

In an arrangement, the clock movement may be configured such that a load applied perpendicular to the outer output shaft at a distal end of the outer output shaft causes the outer output shaft to be pressed against the annular bearing surface.

In an arrangement, the clock movement may be configured such that a load applied perpendicular to the inner output shaft at a distal end of the inner output shaft causes the outer output shaft to be pressed against the annular bearing surface.

In another aspect, a clock is disclosed that comprises a clock movement, first and second drive wheels, and first and second rigid members. The clock movement may be the clock movement described in the first aspect. The clock movement may include first and second output shafts driven at different angular rates, and the first and second output shafts may be coaxial.

The first drive wheel may be fixed to the first output shaft, and the second drive wheel may be fixed to the second output shaft. The first rigid member may be a ring and include a first inner annular surface (e.g., a circular surface defined by a through hole through the first rigid member). The first rigid member may be suspended by the first drive wheel. The first rigid member may include an hour demarcation to represent the hour. The first inner annular surface of the first rigid member with hour demarcation may be in contact with the first drive wheel such that when the first drive wheel is rotated, the first rigid member with hour demarcation is rotated at a different angular rate than the first drive wheel so that the first rigid member rotates through one complete revolution once every twelve hours allowing the hour to be interpreted using traditional clock interpretation means. In this regard, the first drive wheel may be positioned within an area defined by the first inner annular surface. The first rigid member may be held in contact with the first drive wheel by the force of gravity.

The second rigid member may be a ring and include a second inner annular surface. The second rigid member may be suspended by the second drive wheel. The second rigid member may comprise a minute demarcation to represent the minute of the hour. The second inner annular surface of the second rigid member with minute demarcation may be in contact with the second drive wheel so as to rotate the second rigid member with minute demarcation at a different angular rate than the second drive wheel so that the second rigid member rotates through one complete revolution once every hour allowing the minute of the hour to be interpreted using traditional clock interpretation means. In this regard, the second drive wheel may be positioned within an area defined by the second inner annular surface. The second rigid member may be held in contact with the second drive wheel by the force of gravity. The second rigid member may rotate about substantially the same rotational axis as the first rigid member.

The first drive wheel may comprise a first plurality of protrusions disposed about a perimeter of the first drive wheel. The first rigid member may comprise a first plurality of indentations disposed along the first inner annular surface. The first plurality of protrusions may be configured to mesh with the first plurality of indentations as the first drive wheel rotates.

The second drive wheel may comprise a second plurality of protrusions disposed about a perimeter of the second drive wheel. The second rigid member may comprise a second plurality of indentations disposed along the second inner annular surface. The second plurality of protrusions may be configured to mesh with the second plurality of indentations as the second drive wheel rotates.

In an arrangement, each protrusion of the first plurality of protrusions may be of a first radius, and each indentation of the first plurality of indentations may be of a second radius, and the second radius may be larger than the first radius.

In an arrangement of the current aspect, each protrusion of the first and second pluralities of protrusions may be of a first radius, and each indentation of the first and second pluralities of indentations may be of a second radius, and the second radius may be larger than the first radius.

In an arrangement, each protrusion and indentation may be configured such that any misalignment between a protrusion and corresponding indentation at a top dead center position that is greater than zero and less than a radius of the indentation may cause the protrusion to move relative to the indentation and toward alignment with the indentation due to the force of gravity.

In an arrangement, a diameter of the first inner annular surface may be the same as a diameter of the second inner annular surface.

In an arrangement, the locations of the indentations and protrusions may be reversed such that the protrusions are disposed on the inner annular surfaces and the indentations are disposed on the perimeters of the drive wheels.

In another aspect, a clock is disclosed that comprises a clock movement, first and second drive wheels, first and second rigid members, and first and second drive belts. The clock movement may comprise first and second output shafts driven at different angular rates. The first and second output shafts may be coaxial. The first drive wheel may be fixed to the first output shaft, and the second drive wheel may be fixed to the second output shaft. The first rigid member may comprise a first outer annular surface. The first rigid member may comprise an hour demarcation to represent the hour. The second rigid member may comprise a second outer annular surface. The second rigid member may comprise a minute demarcation to represent the minute of the hour.

The first drive belt may be partially disposed about a portion of a perimeter of the first drive wheel and partially disposed about a portion of the first outer annular surface. The first rigid member may be suspended from the first drive wheel by the first drive belt. The first drive belt may be kept in contact with the first drive wheel by the force of gravity. The first rigid member may be kept in contact with the first drive belt by the force of gravity. The first drive wheel may be in contact with the first belt in such a manner so as to move the first drive belt as the first drive wheel is rotated. The first belt may be in contact with the first rigid member in such a manner so as to rotate the first rigid member as the first drive wheel is rotated. The first rigid member may be rotated at a rate so that the first rigid member rotates through one complete revolution once every twelve hours allowing the hour to be interpreted using traditional clock interpretation means.

The second drive belt may be partially disposed about a portion of a perimeter of the second drive wheel and partially disposed about a portion of the second outer annular surface. The second rigid member may be suspended from the second drive wheel by the second drive belt. The second drive belt may be kept in contact with the second drive wheel by the force of gravity. The second rigid member may be kept in contact with the second drive belt by the force of gravity. The second drive wheel may be in contact with the second belt in such a manner so as to move the second drive belt as the second drive wheel is rotated. The second belt may be in contact with the second rigid member in such a manner so as to rotate the second rigid member as the second drive wheel is rotated. The second rigid member may be rotated at a rate so that the second rigid member rotates through one complete revolution once every hour allowing the minute of the hour to be interpreted using traditional clock interpretation means. The second rigid member may rotate about substantially the same rotational axis as the first rigid member.

In an arrangement, the first and second drive belts may be toothed belts, and the first and second rigid members and the first and second drive wheels may each comprise teeth corresponding to the toothed first and second drive belts.

In an arrangement, the first belt, the first rigid member, and the first drive wheel may be configured such that the first rigid member rotates at a different rate than the first drive wheel when the first drive wheel is rotated (e.g., the first rigid member may have a larger diameter than the first drive wheel). Similarly, the second belt, the second rigid member, and the second drive wheel may be configured such that the second rigid member rotates at a different rate than the second drive wheel when the second drive wheel is rotated. In an alternative arrangement, the first belt, the first rigid member, and the first drive wheel may be configured such that the first rigid member rotates at the same rate as the first drive wheel when the first drive wheel is rotated (e.g., the first rigid member may have the same diameter as the first drive wheel); and the second belt, the second rigid member, and the second drive wheel may be configured such that the second rigid member rotates at the same rate as the second drive wheel when the second drive wheel is rotated.

In an arrangement, the diameter of the first outer annular surface may be the same as the diameter of the second outer annular surface.

In an arrangement, the second rigid member may be an annular ring with an innermost radius and an outermost radius, and the innermost radius of the second rigid member may be at least ten percent as large as the outermost radius of the second rigid member. In another arrangement, the innermost radius of the second rigid member may be at least fifty percent as large as the outermost radius of the second rigid member.

In an arrangement, the first rigid member may be an annular ring with an innermost radius and an outermost radius, and the innermost radius of the first rigid member may be at least ten percent as large as the outermost radius of the first rigid member. In another arrangement, the innermost radius of the first rigid member may be at least fifty percent as large as the outermost radius of the first rigid member.

In an arrangement, the first rigid member may be a disk. Such a disk may have no holes through its center.

In an arrangement, the first and second rigid members may be disks, and the second rigid member may be transparent. Thus, the first rigid member may be visible through the second rigid member.

In another aspect, a clock is disclosed that comprises a clock movement, first and second drive wheels, first and second rigid rings, first through fourth pluralities of protrusions, and first through fourth pluralities of indentations.

The clock movement comprises first and second coaxial output shafts driven at different angular rates. The first and second output shafts are disposed along an axis of rotation. The first drive wheel is fixed to the first output shaft and the second drive wheel is fixed to the second output shaft.

The first rigid ring has a first inner annular surface which is suspended by the first drive wheel. The first rigid ring comprises an hour demarcation to represent the hour of the day. The first inner annular surface of the first rigid ring is in contact with the first drive wheel so as to rotate the first rigid ring at a different angular rate than the first drive wheel so that the first rigid ring rotates through one complete revolution once every twelve hours allowing the hour of the day to be interpreted using traditional clock interpretation means. The first rigid ring is held in contact with the first drive wheel by the force of gravity.

The second rigid ring has a second inner annular surface which is suspended by the second drive wheel. The second rigid ring comprises a minute demarcation to represent the minute of the hour. The second inner annular surface of the second rigid ring with minute demarcation is in contact with the second drive wheel so as to rotate the second rigid ring with minute demarcation at a different angular rate than the second drive wheel so that the second rigid ring rotates through one complete revolution once every hour allowing the minute of the hour to be interpreted using traditional clock interpretation means. The second rigid ring is held in contact with the second drive wheel by the force of gravity. The second rigid ring rotates about substantially the same rotational axis as the first rigid ring.

The first plurality of protrusions is disposed about a perimeter of the first drive wheel. Each protrusion of the first plurality of protrusions is disposed within a first plane that is perpendicular to the axis of rotation. The second plurality of protrusions is also disposed about the perimeter of the first drive wheel. Each protrusion of the second plurality of protrusions is disposed within a second plane that is perpendicular to the axis of rotation. The first plane is offset from the second plane. The first plurality of protrusions is circumferentially offset from the second plurality of protrusions such that as the first drive wheel rotates about the axis of rotation, individual protrusions from the first and second pluralities of protrusions alternately occupy a top dead center position.

The first plurality of indentations is disposed along the first inner annular surface within the first plane when the first rigid ring is suspended by the first drive wheel. The first plurality of indentations meshes with the first plurality of protrusions as the first drive wheel rotates.

The second plurality of indentations is disposed along the first inner annular surface within the second plane when the first rigid ring is suspended by the first drive wheel. The second plurality of indentations meshes with the second plurality of protrusions as the first drive wheel rotates.

The third plurality of protrusions is disposed about a perimeter of the second drive wheel. Each protrusion of the third plurality of protrusions is disposed within a third plane that is perpendicular to the axis of rotation. The fourth plurality of protrusions is also disposed about the perimeter of the second drive wheel. Each protrusion of the fourth plurality of protrusions is disposed within a fourth plane that is perpendicular to the axis of rotation. The third plane is offset from the fourth plane. The third plurality of protrusions is circumferentially offset from the fourth plurality of protrusions such that as the second drive wheel rotates about the axis of rotation, individual protrusions from the third and fourth pluralities of protrusions alternately occupy a top dead center position.

The third plurality of indentations is disposed along the second inner annular surface within the third plane when the second rigid ring is suspended by the second drive wheel. The third plurality of indentations meshes with the third plurality of protrusions as the second drive wheel rotates.

The fourth plurality of indentations is disposed along the second inner annular surface within the fourth plane when the second rigid ring is suspended by the second drive wheel. The fourth plurality of indentations meshes with the fourth plurality of protrusions as the second drive wheel rotates.

In an arrangement of the current aspect, each protrusion of the first plurality of protrusions may be of a first radius, and each indentation of the first plurality of indentations may be of a second radius, and the second radius may be larger than the first radius. In such an arrangement, the first radius may be between 0.015 and 0.040 inches, and the second radius may be between 0.025 and 0.050 inches.

In an embodiment, each protrusion of the first, second, third, and fourth pluralities of protrusions may be of a first radius, and each indentation of the first, second, third, and fourth pluralities of indentations may be of a second radius, and the second radius may be larger than the first radius.

In an arrangement, each protrusion and indentation may be configured such that any misalignment between a protrusion and indentation at a top dead center position that is greater than zero and less than a radius of the indentation will cause the protrusion to move toward alignment with the indentation due to the force of gravity.

In an arrangement, the diameter of the first inner annular surface may be the same as a diameter of the second inner annular surface.

In an arrangement, the positions of the indentations and protrusions may be reversed such that the indentations are on the drive wheels and the protrusions are on the rigid rings.

In another aspect, a clock is disclosed that comprises a clock movement, first and second drive wheels, a cover, a first rigid ring and a second rigid ring.

The clock movement comprises first and second coaxial output shafts driven at different angular rates. The first and second output shafts are disposed along an axis of rotation.

The first drive wheel is fixed to the first output shaft. The first drive wheel comprises first and second flanges disposed along a perimeter of the first drive wheel on opposing sides of the first drive wheel. The outer edges of the first and second flanges are a first distance apart from each other. The second drive wheel is fixed to the second output shaft. The second drive wheel comprises third and fourth flanges disposed along a perimeter of the second drive wheel on opposing sides of the second drive wheel. The outer edges of the third and fourth flanges are a second distance apart from each other.

The cover covers the clock movement, the first and second output shafts, and the first and second drive wheels. The cover comprises a first slot aligned with the first drive wheel and a second slot aligned with the second drive wheel. The width of the first slot is less than the first distance and the width of second slot is less than the second distance.

The first rigid ring comprises a first inner annular surface which is suspended by the first drive wheel. The first rigid ring includes an hour demarcation to represent the hour. The first inner annular surface is in contact with the first drive wheel so as to rotate the first rigid ring at a different angular rate than the first drive wheel so that the first rigid ring rotates through one complete revolution once every twelve hours allowing the hour of the day to be interpreted using traditional clock interpretation means. The first rigid ring is held in contact with the first drive wheel by the force of gravity. The thickness of the first rigid ring is less than the width of the first slot. A portion of the first rigid ring is disposed within the first slot, and a portion of the first rigid ring is disposed between the first and second flanges.

The second rigid ring comprises a second inner annular surface which is suspended by the second drive wheel. The second rigid ring includes a minute demarcation to represent the minute of the hour. The second inner annular surface is in contact with the second drive wheel so as to rotate the second rigid ring at a different angular rate than the second drive wheel so that the second rigid ring rotates through one complete revolution once every hour allowing the minute of the hour to be interpreted using traditional clock interpretation means. The second rigid ring is held in contact with the second drive wheel by the force of gravity. The thickness of the second rigid ring is less than the width of the second slot. A portion of the second rigid ring is disposed within the second slot, and a portion of the second rigid ring is disposed between the third and fourth flanges. The second rigid ring rotates about substantially the same rotational axis as the first rigid ring.

An embodiment of the current aspect may comprise the first through fourth pluralities of protrusions and the corresponding first through fourth pluralities of indentations discussed with respect to the previous aspect.

In another aspect, a method of assembling a clock is disclosed. The method comprises fixing an hour indicator drive wheel to an hour output shaft of a clock movement, then fixing a minute indicator drive wheel to a minute output shaft of the clock movement. The method also includes fixing the clock movement to a cover that comprises an hour ring clearance slot and a minute ring clearance slot. After the drive wheels are fixed and the cover is attached, the next step is positioning an hour indicator ring within the hour ring clearance slot such that the hour indicator ring rests on the hour indicator drive wheel and such that an hour indicator disposed on the hour indicator ring is properly positioned to indicate the current hour of the day using traditional clock interpretation methods. This is followed by positioning a minute indicator ring within the minute ring clearance slot such that the minute indicator ring rests on the minute indicator drive wheel and such that a minute indicator disposed on the minute indicator ring is properly positioned to indicate the current minute of the hour using traditional clock interpretation methods.

In an embodiment of the current aspect, the method may further include fixing the clock movement to a mounting plate prior to fixing the hour indicator drive wheel to the hour output shaft. In a variation, prior to fixing the hour indicator drive wheel to the hour output shaft and after the fixing the clock movement to the mounting plate, the method may include fixing a support bushing to a distal end of a mounting bushing of the clock movement. Such a support bushing when fixed may provide a support surface for the hour output shaft of the clock movement.

In an embodiment, the cover may comprise a first portion and a second portion, wherein fixing the clock movement to the cover further comprises attaching the mounting plate to the first portion, then attaching the second portion to the first portion.

In an embodiment, the method may include fixing the clock movement and the cover to a support structure.

In another aspect, another method of assembling a clock is disclosed. The method comprises fixing a support bushing to a distal end of a mounting bushing of a clock movement such that the support bushing as fixed provides a support surface for an hour output shaft of the movement, then fixing an hour indicator drive wheel to the hour output shaft of the clock movement, and then fixing a minute indicator drive wheel to a minute output shaft of the clock movement. Next, the method further includes positioning an hour indicator ring such that the hour indicator ring rests on the hour indicator drive wheel and such that an hour indicator disposed on the hour indicator ring is properly positioned to indicate the current hour of the day using traditional clock interpretation methods. Next, the method further includes positioning a minute indicator ring such that the minute indicator ring rests on the minute indicator drive wheel and such that a minute indicator disposed on the minute indicator ring is properly positioned to indicate the current minute of the hour using traditional clock interpretation methods.

In another aspect, a method of indicating the current time is disclosed. The method comprises driving an hour indicator drive wheel at a first rotational rate about a first axis, and driving, by the hour indicator drive wheel, an hour indicator ring at a second rotational rate about a second axis. The first rotational rate is greater than the second rotational rate, and the second rotational rate is one revolution every twelve hours. The first axis is offset from the second axis. The method further includes maintaining contact between an outer annular surface of the hour indicator drive wheel and an inner annular surface of the hour indicator ring by the force of gravity acting upon the hour indicator ring. The hour indicator drive wheel is disposed within a central through hole of the hour indicator ring. The method further includes indicating the current hour of the day using traditional clock interpretation methods by the position of an hour indicator affixed to the hour indicator ring. The method further includes maintaining synchronization between the hour indicator drive wheel and the hour indicator ring by sequentially engaging a plurality of protrusions disposed along the outer annular surface of the hour indicator drive wheel with a plurality of indentations disposed along the inner annular surface of the hour indicator ring.

The method further includes driving a minute indicator drive wheel at a third rotational rate about the first axis, and driving, by the minute indicator drive wheel, a minute indicator ring at a fourth rotational rate about the second axis. The third rotational rate is greater than the fourth rotational rate, and the fourth rotational rate is one revolution every hour. The method further includes maintaining contact between an outer annular surface of the minute indicator drive wheel and an inner annular surface of the minute indicator ring by the force of gravity acting upon the minute indicator ring. The minute indicator drive wheel is disposed within a central through hole of the minute indicator ring. The method further includes indicating the current minute of the hour using traditional clock interpretation methods by the position of a minute indicator affixed to the minute indicator ring. The method further includes maintaining synchronization between the minute indicator drive wheel and the minute indicator ring by sequentially engaging a plurality of protrusions disposed along the outer annular surface of the minute indicator drive wheel with a plurality of indentations disposed along the inner annular surface of the minute indicator ring.

In an arrangement of the current method, the step of maintaining synchronization between the hour indicator drive wheel and the hour indicator ring may comprise engaging a first plurality of protrusions disposed along the outer annular surface of the hour indicator drive wheel with a first plurality of indentations disposed along the inner annular surface of the hour indicator ring, and engaging a second plurality of protrusions disposed along the outer annular surface of the hour indicator drive wheel with a second plurality of indentations disposed along the inner annular surface of the hour indicator ring. The first plurality of protrusions may be disposed within a first plane and the second plurality of protrusions may be disposed within a second plane, and the first plane may be offset from the second plane. Moreover, during performance of the method, only one protrusion-indentation engagement combination occupies a top dead center position at any single point in time.

In another aspect, a clock is disclosed that comprises a clock movement, a support bushing, a first drive wheel, a second drive wheel, a cover, a first rigid ring, and a second rigid ring.

The clock movement comprises first and second output shafts driven at different angular rates. The first and second output shafts are coaxial. The first and second output shafts are disposed along an axis of rotation. The clock movement comprises a mounting bushing. The mounting bushing is an elongated tubular member. The mounting bushing comprises a proximal end and a distal end. The proximal end of the mounting bushing is fixed to a case of the clock movement. The second output shaft is at least partially disposed within the first output shaft.

The support bushing is fixed to the distal end of the mounting bushing. A bearing portion of the support bushing is positioned distal to the mounting bushing. The bearing portion of the support bushing includes an annular bearing surface surrounding a bearing portion of the first output shaft. No portion of the clock movement is disposed between the annular bearing surface and the bearing portion of the first output shaft.

The first drive wheel is fixed to the first output shaft. The second drive wheel is fixed to the second output shaft. The second drive wheel comprises a shaft portion disposed along the axis of rotation and distal to a distal end of the second output shaft.

The clock movement, the first and second output shafts, and the first and second drive wheels are disposed within the cover. The cover comprises a first slot aligned with the first drive wheel. The cover comprises a second slot aligned with the second drive wheel. The cover comprises a hole. The shaft portion of the second drive wheel is at least partially disposed within the hole. The hole comprises a bearing portion in contact with the shaft portion. The first and second drive wheels are disposed between the support bushing and the hole.

The first rigid ring comprises a first inner annular surface which is suspended by the first drive wheel. The first rigid ring comprises an hour demarcation to represent the hour. The first inner annular surface of the first rigid ring is in contact with the first drive wheel so as to rotate the first rigid ring at a different angular rate than the first drive wheel so that the first rigid ring rotates through one complete revolution once every twelve hours allowing the hour of the day to be interpreted using traditional clock interpretation means. The first rigid ring is held in contact with the first drive wheel by the force of gravity. A portion of the first rigid ring is disposed within the first slot.

The second rigid ring comprises a second inner annular surface which is suspended by the second drive wheel. The second rigid ring comprises a minute demarcation to represent the minute of the hour. The second inner annular surface of the second rigid ring is in contact with the second drive wheel so as to rotate the second rigid ring at a different angular rate than the second drive wheel so that the second rigid ring rotates through one complete revolution once every hour allowing the minute of the hour to be interpreted using traditional clock interpretation means. The second rigid ring is held in contact with the second drive wheel by the force of gravity. A thickness of the second rigid ring is less than the width of the second slot. A portion of the second rigid ring is disposed within the second slot. The second rigid ring rotates about substantially the same rotational axis as the first rigid ring.

In a variation of the current aspect, the support bushing may not be present. In such an arrangement, the combination of the hole and shaft portion may provide the only support to the first and second output shafts that is external to the clock movement.

In another aspect, a clock is disclosed that includes a clock movement, first and second drive wheels, a cover, a first rigid ring, and a second rigid.

The clock movement comprises a case, a battery compartment configured to interconnect to a battery, a motor disposed within the case, a gear train, a mounting bushing, an inner output shaft, an outer output shaft, and a support bushing. The mounting bushing is an elongated tubular member. The mounting bushing comprises a proximal end and a distal end. The proximal end of the mounting bushing is fixed to the case. The inner output shaft is driven at a first angular rate by the motor. The outer output shaft is driven at a second angular rate by the motor. The first angular rate is different than the second angular rate. The inner shaft and the outer shaft are coaxial. The inner shaft is at least partially disposed within the outer shaft. The outer shaft and the mounting bushing are coaxial along an axis of rotation. The outer shaft is at least partially disposed within the mounting bushing. The support bushing is fixed relative to the distal end of the mounting bushing. A bearing portion of the support bushing is positioned distal to the mounting bushing. The bearing portion of the support bushing includes an annular bearing surface surrounding a bearing portion of the outer output shaft. No portion of the clock movement is disposed between the annular bearing surface and the bearing portion of the outer output shaft.

The first drive wheel is fixed to the outer output shaft and the second drive wheel is fixed to the inner output shaft. The second drive wheel comprises a shaft portion disposed along the axis of rotation and distal to a distal end of the inner output shaft.

The clock movement and the first and second drive wheels are disposed within the cover. The cover comprises a first slot aligned with the first drive wheel. The cover comprises a second slot aligned with the second drive wheel. The cover comprises a hole. The shaft portion of the second drive wheel is at least partially disposed within the hole. The hole comprises a bearing portion in contact with the shaft portion. The first and second drive wheels are disposed between the support bushing and the hole.

The first rigid ring comprises a first inner annular surface which is suspended by the first drive wheel. The first rigid ring comprises an hour demarcation to represent the hour. The first inner annular surface of the first rigid ring is in contact with the first drive wheel so as to rotate the first rigid ring at a different angular rate than the first drive wheel so that the first rigid ring rotates through one complete revolution once every twelve hours allowing the hour of the day to be interpreted using traditional clock interpretation means. The first rigid ring is held in contact with the first drive wheel by the force of gravity. A portion of the first rigid ring is disposed within the first slot. The first rigid ring rotates about a rigid ring axis. The rigid ring axis is not coaxial with the axis of rotation.

The second rigid ring comprises a second inner annular surface which is suspended by the second drive wheel. The second rigid ring comprises a minute demarcation to represent the minute of the hour. The second inner annular surface of the second rigid ring is in contact with the second drive wheel so as to rotate the second rigid ring at a different angular rate than the second drive wheel so that the second rigid ring rotates through one complete revolution once every hour allowing the minute of the hour to be interpreted using traditional clock interpretation means. The second rigid ring is held in contact with the second drive wheel by the force of gravity. A thickness of the second rigid ring is less than the width of the second slot. A portion of the second rigid ring is disposed within the second slot. The second rigid ring rotates about substantially the rigid ring axis.

In another aspect, a clock is disclosed that includes a clock movement, first and second drive wheels, a cover, a first rigid ring, a second rigid, first through fourth pluralities of protrusions, and first through fourth pluralities of indentations.

The clock movement comprises a case, a battery compartment configured to interconnect to a battery, a motor disposed within the case, a gear train, a mounting bushing, an inner output shaft driven at a first angular rate by the motor, an outer output shaft driven at a second angular rate by the motor, and a support bushing. The mounting bushing is an elongated tubular member. The mounting bushing comprises a proximal end and a distal end. The proximal end of the mounting bushing is fixed to the case. The first angular rate is different than the second angular rate. The inner shaft and the outer shaft are coaxial. The inner shaft is at least partially disposed within the outer shaft. The outer shaft and the mounting bushing are coaxial along an axis of rotation. The outer shaft is at least partially disposed within the mounting bushing. The support bushing is fixed relative to the distal end of the mounting bushing. A bearing portion of the support bushing is positioned distal to the mounting bushing. The bearing portion of the support bushing includes an annular bearing surface surrounding a bearing portion of the outer output shaft. No portion of the clock movement is disposed between the annular bearing surface and the bearing portion of the outer output shaft. A load applied to the outer output shaft perpendicular to the axis of rotation at a distal end of the outer output shaft causes a reaction force on the outer output shaft from the annular bearing surface.

The first drive wheel is fixed to the outer output shaft and the second drive wheel is fixed to the inner output shaft. The second drive wheel comprises a shaft portion disposed along the axis of rotation and distal to a distal end of the inner output shaft.

The clock movement and the first and second drive wheels are disposed within the cover. The cover comprises a first slot aligned with the first drive wheel. The cover comprises a second slot aligned with the second drive wheel. The cover comprises a hole. The shaft portion of the second drive wheel is at least partially disposed within the hole. The hole comprises a bearing portion in contact with the shaft portion. The first and second drive wheels are disposed between the support bushing and the hole.

The first rigid ring comprises a first inner annular surface which is suspended by the first drive wheel. The first rigid ring comprises an hour demarcation to represent the hour. The first inner annular surface of the first rigid ring is in contact with the first drive wheel so as to rotate the first rigid ring at a different angular rate than the first drive wheel so that the first rigid ring rotates through one complete revolution once every twelve hours allowing the hour of the day to be interpreted using traditional clock interpretation means. The first rigid ring is held in contact with the first drive wheel by the force of gravity. A portion of the first rigid ring is disposed within the first slot. The first rigid ring rotates about a rigid ring axis. The rigid ring axis is not coaxial with the axis of rotation.

A second rigid ring comprises a second inner annular surface which is suspended by the second drive wheel. The second rigid ring comprises a minute demarcation to represent the minute of the hour. The second inner annular surface of the second rigid ring is in contact with the second drive wheel so as to rotate the second rigid ring at a different angular rate than the second drive wheel so that the second rigid ring rotates through one complete revolution once every hour allowing the minute of the hour to be interpreted using traditional clock interpretation means. The second rigid ring is held in contact with the second drive wheel by the force of gravity. A thickness of the second rigid ring is less than the width of the second slot. A portion of the second rigid ring is disposed within the second slot. The second rigid ring rotates about substantially the rigid ring axis.

The first drive wheel comprises the first plurality of protrusions and the first plurality of protrusions are disposed about a perimeter of the first drive wheel. Each protrusion of the first plurality of protrusions is disposed within a first plane. The first plane is perpendicular to the axis of rotation.

The first drive wheel comprises the second plurality of protrusions and the second plurality of protrusions are disposed about the perimeter of the first drive wheel. Each protrusion of the second plurality of protrusions is disposed within a second plane. The second plane is perpendicular to the axis of rotation. The first plane is parallel to and offset from the second plane. The first plurality of protrusions is circumferentially offset from the second plurality of protrusions such that as the first drive wheel rotates about the axis of rotation, individual protrusions from the first and second pluralities of protrusions alternately occupy a top dead center position.

The first rigid ring comprises the first plurality of indentations and the first plurality of indentations are disposed along the first inner annular surface. Each indentation of the first plurality of indentations is disposed within the first plane when the first rigid ring is suspended by the first drive wheel. The first plurality of indentations are configured to mesh with the first plurality of protrusions as the first drive wheel rotates.

The first rigid ring comprises the second plurality of indentations and the second plurality of indentations are disposed along the first inner annular surface. Each indentation of the second plurality of indentations is disposed within the second plane when the first rigid ring is suspended by the first drive wheel. The second plurality of indentations are configured to mesh with the second plurality of protrusions as the first drive wheel rotates.

The second drive wheel comprises the third plurality of protrusions and the third plurality of protrusions are disposed about a perimeter of the second drive wheel. Each protrusion of the third plurality of protrusions is disposed within a third plane. The third plane is perpendicular to the axis of rotation.

The second drive wheel comprises the fourth plurality of protrusions and the fourth plurality of protrusions are disposed about the perimeter of the second drive wheel. Each protrusion of the fourth plurality of protrusions is disposed within a fourth plane. The fourth plane is perpendicular to the axis of rotation. The third plane is parallel to and offset from the fourth plane. The third plurality of protrusions is circumferentially offset from the fourth plurality of protrusions such that as the second drive wheel rotates about the axis of rotation, individual protrusions from the third and fourth pluralities of protrusions alternately occupy a top dead center position.

The second rigid ring comprises the third plurality of indentations and the third plurality of indentations are disposed along the second inner annular surface. Each indentation of the third plurality of indentations is disposed within the third plane when the second rigid ring is suspended by the second drive wheel. The third plurality of indentations are configured to mesh with the third plurality of protrusions as the second drive wheel rotates.

The second rigid ring comprises the fourth plurality of indentations and the fourth plurality of indentations are disposed along the second inner annular surface. Each indentation of the fourth plurality of indentations is disposed within the fourth plane when the second rigid ring is suspended by the second drive wheel. The fourth plurality of indentations are configured to mesh with the fourth plurality of protrusions as the second drive wheel rotates.

In an arrangement, each individual protrusion of the first and second pluralities of protrusions may comprise a first draft angle in a plane that contains an entirety of the axis of rotation. The first draft angle of the first plurality of protrusions faces the second plurality of protrusions, and the first draft angle of the second plurality of protrusions faces the first plurality of protrusions. The first draft angle is disposed such that a portion of an indentation of the first and second pluralities of indentations in contact with the first draft angle will slide down to a bottom of the first draft angle and cause the first rigid ring to be in alignment with the first drive wheel.

Also, in such an arrangement, each individual protrusion of the third and fourth pluralities of protrusions may comprise a second draft angle in a plane that contains an entirety of the axis of rotation. The second draft angle of the third plurality of protrusions faces the fourth plurality of protrusions, and the second draft angle of the fourth plurality of protrusions faces the third plurality of protrusions. The second draft angle is disposed such that a portion of an indentation of the third and fourth pluralities of indentations in contact with the second draft angle will slide down to a bottom of the second draft angle and cause the second rigid ring to be in alignment with the second drive wheel.

In arrangements of the current aspect, the locations of the protrusions and indentations may be reversed such that the protrusions are disposed on the first and second rings and the indentations are disposed on the first and second drive wheels. Moreover, in an arrangement, the rigid rings and drive wheels may each include both indentations and protrusions; for example the first drive wheel may contain protrusions in the first plane and indentations in the second plane while the first rigid member may contain indentations in the first plane and protrusions in the second plane, thus limiting the first rigid member to only be installed on the first drive wheel in a particular orientation.

Additional aspects and advantages will become apparent to one skilled in the art upon consideration of the further description that follows. It should be understood that the detailed description and specific examples are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. Furthermore, any of the above aspects, arrangements, features, and embodiments may be combined with any other of the above aspects, arrangements, features, and embodiments where appropriate.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

In the following description, embodiments are set forth in the context of apparatuses and methods for clocks with unique time displays that are interpreted using traditional clock interpretation methods.

FIGS. 1 and 2illustrate an embodiment of a clock10with a unique time display. The motion of the clock10is driven by a movement30that drives a minute indicator drive wheel26and an hour indicator drive wheel28. The movement30can be mounted on a wall or a frame to allow a minute indicator ring24and an hour indicator ring22to hang freely from the minute indicator drive wheel26and the hour indicator drive wheel28, respectfully. A demarcation ring20may also be interconnected to the movement30. The demarcation ring20may be stationary relative to non-moving parts of the movement30.

As illustrated, the demarcation ring20has the numerals3,6,9, and12placed at their corresponding clock positions to aid the viewer in the determination of the indicated time. Alternately, all of the clock numerals1through12, roman numerals, or other graphic indication could be used on the demarcation ring20to aid the viewer in the determination of the indicated time. In another alternative, the demarcation ring20may have no indicators to aid the viewer in the determination of the indicated time. The demarcation ring20is not a driven member and does not move. The demarcation ring20may rest on the body of the movement30or on a member at least partially encasing the movement30.

The minute indicator ring24may be constructed of a clear material which allows for the hour indicator ring22to be viewed through the minute indicator ring24. The hour indicator ring22may be constructed of a clear material which allows for the demarcation ring20to be viewed through the minute indicator ring24and the hour indicator ring22. The minute indicator ring24may have a minute indicator14to denote the minute of the hour. The minute indicator14may, for example, be printed on, attached to, or machined into, the minute indicator ring24. For example, the minute indicator14may be a sticker affixed to the minute indicator ring24. Likewise, the hour indicator ring22has an hour indicator12to denote the hour. The hour indicator may be smaller than the minute indicator14. The hour indicator12may, for example, be printed on, attached to, or machined into the hour indicator ring22.

The minute indicator drive wheel26and an hour indicator drive wheel28may each have small flanges16that may keep the minute indicator ring24and the hour indicator ring22, respectively, properly aligned with respect to each other and the demarcation ring20. The movement30rotationally drives the minute indicator drive wheel26at a rate such that the minute indicator ring24is rotated 360 degrees every 60 minutes. The movement30rotationally drives the hour indicator drive wheel28at a rate such that the hour indicator ring22is rotated 360 degrees every 12 hours. The resulting effect is that the clock has a unique design that does not have traditional clock hands, yet the time is interpreted using traditional clock interpretation methods. The time may be set by manually positioning the time indicating rings so that the indicators12,14are oriented properly. Thus, there may be no need to have a time adjustment mechanism on the movement30.

An additional embodiment of a clock18is shown inFIGS. 3 and 4. This embodiment is similar to the embodiment ofFIG. 1but with the addition of a seconds indictor drive wheel42to a movement with support arm34and a seconds indicator ring38. The seconds indicator ring38may be constructed of a clear material which allows for the minute indicator ring24to be viewed through the seconds indicator ring38. The seconds indicator ring38may have a seconds indicator15to denote the second of the minute. The seconds indicator15may, for example, be printed on, attached to, or machined into the seconds indicator ring38.

The seconds indicator drive wheel42may have small flanges16that keep the seconds indicator ring38aligned with respect to the minute indicator ring24, the hour indicator ring22, and the demarcation ring20. The movement with support arm34rotationally drives the seconds indicator drive wheel42at a rate such that the seconds indicator ring38is rotated 360 degrees every minute. The movement with support arm34has a support arm35extending from the body of the movement and supporting the far end of the drive shafts for the drive wheels42,44and46. The resulting effect is that the clock18has a unique design that does not have the traditional clock hands, yet the time is interpreted using traditional clock interpretation methods.

An additional embodiment of a clock57is shown inFIGS. 5 and 6. In this embodiment, the clock57is driven by a movement56that drives an hour indicator drive wheel54and a minute indicator drive wheel52. The movement56can be mounted on a wall or a frame to allow an hour indicator ring50and a smaller minute indicator ring48to hang freely. The hour indicator ring50and the minute indicator ring48may be constructed of an opaque material. The hour indicator ring50may have an hour indicator51to denote the hour. The hour indicator51may, for example, be printed on, attached to, or machined into the hour indicator ring50. Likewise the minute indicator ring48may have a minute indicator49. The minute indicator49may extend beyond the outer diameter of the minute indicator ring48to assist in communicating to an observer that it indicates the minute of the hour. The minute indicator49may, for example, be printed on, attached to, or machined into the minute indicator ring48.

The hour indicator drive wheel54and the minute indicator drive wheel52may have small flanges16which keep the hour indicator ring50and the minute indicator ring48properly aligned with respect to each other. The movement56rotationally drives the hour indicator drive wheel54at a rate such that the hour indicator ring50is rotated 360 degrees every 12 hours. The movement56rotationally drives the minute indicator drive wheel52at a rate such that the minute indicator ring48is rotated 360 degrees every 60 minutes. The minute indicator ring48is sized so that the hour indicator51on the hour indicating ring50is not blocked from view. The resulting effect is that the clock57has a unique design that does not have the traditional clock hands, yet the time is interpreted using traditional clock interpretation methods.

An additional embodiment is shown inFIGS. 7 and 8. This embodiment may include demarcation ring20, minute indicator ring24, hour indicator ring22, minute indicator drive wheel26, and hour indicator drive wheel28. However, in this embodiment the minute indicator ring24and hour indicator ring22are driven respectively by the minute indicator drive wheel26and hour indicator drive wheel28on the outside surface of the indicator rings24and22. An outside drive movement70rotationally drives the minute indicator drive wheel26at a rate such that the minute indicator ring24is rotated 360 degrees every 60 minutes. The outside drive movement70rotationally drives the hour indicator drive wheel28at a rate such that the hour indicator ring22is rotated 360 degrees every 12 hours. The minute indicator ring24and hour indicator ring22are held against the drive wheels and idler wheels74by the force of gravity. The idler wheels74rotate freely about an axis through their centers. The demarcation ring20is stationary.

The demarcation ring20has the numerals3,6,9, and12placed at their corresponding clock positions to aid the viewer in the determination of the indicated time. Alternately, all of the clock numerals1through12, roman numerals, or other graphic indications could be used on the demarcation ring20to aid the viewer in the determination of the indicated time.

The minute indicator ring24and the hour indicator ring22are constructed of a clear material which allows for the demarcation ring20to be viewed through the minute indicator ring24and the hour indicator ring22. The minute indicator drive wheel26and an hour indicator drive wheel28may have small flanges which keep the minute indicator ring24and the hour indicator ring22properly aligned with respect to each other and the demarcation ring20. The outside drive movement70and idler wheels74are mounted to a support frame72which in turn can be placed on a horizontal surface, such as a desk for use as a desk clock, or attached to a wall for use as a wall clock. The resulting effect is that the clock has a unique design that does not have the traditional clock hands, yet the time is interpreted using traditional clock interpretation methods. The movement70may drive the minute indicator drive wheel26and an hour indicator drive wheel28in a counterclockwise direction such that the minute indicator ring24and the hour indicator ring22are driven in a clockwise direction.

FIG. 9is an exploded side view diagram of a clock movement90and a support bushing100. A “clock movement” or “movement” is a device that converts stored energy into consistent movement of members. In a typical application, indicators (e.g., hands) may be fixed to the consistently moving members and the position of such indicators may be used to indicate time (e.g., the time of day). A common type of movement is a battery powered movement with output shafts to which minute and hour hands are attached. Such a movement converts the energy stored in a battery into the rotation of an hour shaft that rotates once every twelve hours and into the rotation of a minute shaft that rotates once every hour.

The movement90may include a case91and a mounting bushing92fixed to the case91. The movement90may include an hour output shaft93and a minute output shaft94. The minute output shaft94may be disposed within, and be coaxial with, the hour output shaft93. Accordingly, the hour output shaft93may include a hollow tubular portion that surrounds a portion of the minute output shaft94. The movement90may also include a seconds output shaft (not shown), which may be disposed within, and coaxial with, the minute output shaft94.

As illustrated, the hour output shaft93may extend beyond a distal end95of the mounting bushing92and the minute output shaft94may extend beyond a distal end96of the hour output shaft93. The mounting bushing92is typically an elongated tubular member. The mounting bushing92is typically constructed from metal (e.g., brass) and is typically rigidly fixed to the case91at a proximal end of the mounting bushing92. The mounting bushing92is typically threaded such that the movement90may be attached to a clock dial by positioning the mounting bushing92through a hole in the clock face and then placing a nut on the threads of the mounting bushing92to capture the clock face between the nut and the case91. In this manner, the clock face may support the movement90or the movement90may support the clock face.

The case91may contain a compartment97(e.g., a battery compartment) for holding a power source, such as a replaceable battery (such as an AA or C sized battery). The compartment97may be configured such that positive and negative terminals of a battery placed therein are in contact with electrical conductors that in turn are interconnected to a motor98. The motor98may be disposed within the case91. The motor98may be operable to convert energy from the power source into movement of a gear train99that is interconnected to the hour output shaft93and the minute output shaft94(and a seconds output shaft if included). Thus, the motor98may drive the hour output shaft93and the minute output shaft94, with the hour output shaft93being driven at a first angular rate and the minute output shaft94being driven at a second, different angular rate. For example, in a typical clock, one shaft will be driven at a rate twelve times faster than the other shaft. In a twenty-four hour clock, one shaft may be driven at a rate twenty-four times faster than the other shaft.

The support bushing100may be configured to fixedly attach to the mounting bushing92to provide support for the hour output shaft93proximate to the distal end95of the mounting bushing92.

FIGS. 10A through 10Cillustrate an exemplary configuration of the support bushing100.FIG. 10Ais a front view of the support bushing100,FIG. 10Bis a side view of the support bushing100, andFIG. 10Bis a rear view of the support bushing100. The “front view” as used herein refers to the view seen by a user of a clock as the user interprets the time indicated by the clock.

The support bushing100includes a through hole101that is sized to fit over the hour output shaft93such that the inner surface of the through hole101may provide an annular bearing surface for the outer surface of the hour output shaft93. A portion of the support bushing100that includes the inner surface of the through hole101may be a bearing portion107of the support bushing100. When the support bushing100is installed on the mounting bushing92, the bearing portion107may be disposed distal to the distal end95of the mounting bushing92.

In an exemplary configuration, the through hole101may be sized such that it is less than 0.0005 inches greater in diameter than the outer surface of the hour output shaft93. Alternatively, through hole101diameters of up to 0.002 inches greater in diameter than the outer surface of the hour output shaft93may be used. Alternatively, through hole101diameters of up to 0.010 inches greater in diameter than the outer surface of the hour output shaft93may be used. The width of the inner surface of the through hole101may be sized to provide support to the hour output shaft93without detrimentally gouging the outer surface of the hour output shaft93. In another embodiment, the through hole101need not be round. Since the movement90will generally be placed in a predictable orientation, the through hole101need not be round as long as it provides a bearing surface just below (downward inFIG. 11) the hour output shaft93. Indeed, in such a support, a through hole is not required as only the bearing surface just below (downward inFIG. 11) the hour output shaft93is needed.

The support bushing100may comprise a low friction material such that friction between the inner surface of the through hole101and the hour output shaft93is acceptably low. For example, the support bushing100may comprise polyoxymethylene, polytetrafluoroethylene, or any other appropriate low friction material.

The support bushing100may also include a mounting bushing interface region102. For example, mounting bushing interface region102may comprise a threaded portion sized to mate with the threaded portion of the mounting bushing92. In one example, the support bushing100may be a unitary member (e.g., made from a single piece of polymer). In another example, the mounting bushing interface region102may comprise a metal (e.g., brass) nut sized to interface with the threaded portion of the mounting bushing92. Such a nut may be pressed into the support bushing100or otherwise fixed to the support bushing100such that the support bushing100may be interconnected to the mounting bushing92. Such a nut may be a lock nut. In this regard, the support bushing100may be a two-piece member with a first portion comprising a polymer that includes the bearing surface of the through hole101and a second portion comprising a metal nut that is interconnected to the first portion and includes the mounting bushing interface region102. In another example, the mounting bushing interface region102may be sized that it may be pressed onto the threaded portion of the mounting bushing92such that it becomes fixed to the mounting bushing92. In such an arrangement, the mounting bushing interface region102may not include any threads. An adhesive may be used to fix the support bushing100to the mounting bushing92.

Although illustrated as having an outer surface that is circular, the outer surface of the support bushing100may be hexagonal such that it may be tightened onto the mounting bushing92using a wrench or socket. Alternatively, the outer surface of the support bushing100may be any other appropriate shape (e.g., square).

FIG. 11illustrates a clock assembly110that includes the movement90with the support bushing100installed onto the mounting bushing92. An hour indicator drive wheel103is shown interconnected to the hour output shaft93. The hour indicator drive wheel103may, for example, be configured to press on to the hour output shaft93such that the hour indicator drive wheel103and the hour output shaft93move together at the same rotational rate. Any other appropriate method of interconnecting the hour indicator drive wheel103to the hour output shaft93may be used. A minute indicator drive wheel104is shown interconnected to the minute output shaft94. The minute indicator drive wheel104may, for example, be configured to screw on to a threaded portion of the minute output shaft94such that the minute indicator drive wheel104and the minute output shaft94move together at the same rotational rate. Any other appropriate method of interconnecting the minute indicator drive wheel104to the minute output shaft94may be used.

An hour indicator ring (not shown inFIG. 11) may be hung on the hour indicator drive wheel103such that the rotation of the hour indicator drive wheel103will cause the hour indicator ring to rotate at a predetermined rate, such as one complete revolution every 12 hours. A minute indicator ring (not shown inFIG. 11) may be hung on the minute indicator drive wheel104such that the rotation of the minute indicator drive wheel104will cause the minute indicator ring to rotate at a predetermined rate, such as one complete revolution every 60 minutes. This is similar to how the rings22and24of the clock10ofFIG. 1are driven.

When the movement90is in a typical operating position (e.g., hanging from a wall), the hour indicator ring and the hour indicator drive wheel103will impart a downward force (due to gravity) on the hour output shaft93where the hour indicator drive wheel103interfaces with the hour output shaft93. This force is illustrated by directional arrow105. Similarly, the minute indicator ring and the minute indicator drive wheel104will impart a downward force (due to gravity) on the minute output shaft94where the minute indicator drive wheel104interfaces with the minute output shaft94. This force is illustrated by directional arrow106.

Without the support bushing100in the clock assembly110, the forces illustrated by directional arrows105and106may cause the output shafts93and94to be out of alignment with the mounting bushing92. Such lack of alignment may cause binding between components of the clock assembly110which may lead to premature stoppage of moving parts such as the output shafts93,94, rendering the clock assembly110inoperable. Such stoppage may occur independently of the voltage of the battery or other power source used to power the clock assembly110. In other words, the clock assembly110may be inoperable even if fresh batteries are used. In another failure mode, such lack of alignment may cause increased internal friction such that the clock assembly110becomes inoperable when the battery or other power source used to power the clock assembly110drops below a certain output level. For example, a typical movement may incorporate an AA battery that typically has a voltage of about 1.6 volts when new. As the battery powers the movement, the battery's voltage may drop. A typical movement may continue to function as the battery's voltage drops, for example, to 1.3 volts or below. However, if there is increased friction due to a lack of alignment between output shafts93and94and the mounting bushing92, the movement may be able to function when the battery is new, but may become inoperable when the battery voltage drops below, for example, 1.4 volts. Such a failure would result in users needing to replace batteries at a much higher frequency as compared to movements capable of functioning when voltages drop to 1.3 volts or below.

Such friction may occur at one or more locations. For example, the forces illustrated by directional arrows105and106may cause the output shaft93to be in contact with the mounting bushing92near the distal end95(not visible inFIG. 11) of the mounting bushing92. This contact may, for example, be between an edge of the brass of the mounting bushing92and the plastic of the hour output shaft93. In another example, the forces illustrated by directional arrows105and106may cause meshing gears within the movement90to be pressed toward each other such that frictional forces between such gears are increased. In yet another example, the forces illustrated by directional arrows105and106may cause frictional forces between the output shafts93and94and internal bearings used position the output shafts93and94. One or more of these and other sources of increased friction may occur due to the forces illustrated by directional arrows105and106. These forces may result in complete or premature stoppage of the clock assembly110.

The support bushing100counteracts the forces illustrated by directional arrows105and106by supporting the output shafts93and94near the distal end95of the mounting bushing92. In this regard, loads applied perpendicular to the hour and/or minute output shafts93,94at their respective distal ends (as illustrated by directional arrows105and106) may cause the hour output shaft93to be pressed against the annular bearing surface provided by the inner surface of the through hole101.

The support bushing100may be made of a low friction material such as described above such that the friction between the support bushing100and the hour output shaft93is low enough to not detrimentally affect the performance of the clock assembly110. Through the support bushing100being fixedly interconnected to the mounting bushing92as described above, the forces illustrated by directional arrows105and106may be counteracted by the mounting bushing92. This is in contrast to the clock assembly110without the support bushing100where the forces illustrated by directional arrows105and106may cause misalignment and increased friction as described above.

Thus, the use of a support bushing100may allow existing clock movements to drive members that are significantly heavier and/or larger while maintaining satisfactory battery performance (e.g., remaining operational as battery voltage drops to acceptable levels). In this regard, a given clock movement may be capable of moving larger and/or longer hands when a support bushing100is utilized. Also, the support bushing100may, for example, allow a typical clock movement to satisfactorily drive members that are heavier than typical clock hands, such as the combination of indicator drive wheels26,28and indicator rings22,24ofFIG. 1.

FIG. 12illustrates an apparatus120for the display of time, andFIG. 13illustrates a partial cut away side view the apparatus120. The apparatus120includes two rigid rings: a minute indicator ring122and an hour indicator ring121. The hour indicator ring121is positioned behind the minute indicator ring122and visible through the minute indicator ring122inFIG. 12. The apparatus120further includes the movement90and support bushing100positioned within a cover123. The apparatus120also includes hour indicator drive wheel103and minute indicator drive wheel104. The minute indicator ring122and hour indicator ring121are held in place and in contact with the minute indicator drive wheel104and hour indicator drive wheel103, respectively, by the force of gravity. Thus, when the minute indicator drive wheel104and hour indicator drive wheel103are rotated (e.g., driven by the movement90), the minute indicator ring122and hour indicator ring121, respectively, are also driven.

The indicator rings121and122may be configured in a variety of ways to produce aesthetic variations. For example, the hour indicator ring121may be opaque (e.g., metal such as aluminum or an opaque polymer) and the minute indicator ring122may be transparent (e.g., clear or tinted polymer or clear or tinted glass). In another example, both the hour indicator ring121and the minute indicator ring122may be transparent. In another example, both the hour indicator ring121and the minute indicator ring122may be constructed of opaque materials with the minute indicator ring122being configured such that the hour indicator ring121is visible through the minute indicator ring122, such as through a series of cutouts or through holes in the minute indicator ring122. In another example, the apparatus120may include a demarcation ring, such as the demarcation ring20ofFIG. 1. Such a demarcation ring may be supported by the cover123.

The cover123may be configured to at least partially conceal the movement90, support bushing100, and indicator drive wheels103,104. The movement90may be interconnected to the cover123by fixing a portion of the cover123between the case90and a nut124positioned on the mounting bushing92. The cover123may comprise multiple separate pieces that are interconnected (e.g., by snaps or by screws) to each other. Thus an exemplary method of assembly may be to first fix the movement90to a first portion of the cover123using the nut124, then install the support bushing100and indicator drive wheels103,104, followed by interconnecting a second portion of the cover123, and finally, placing the indicator rings121,122on the indicator drive wheels103,104. In an alternative embodiment, the cover123may be attached to (e.g., by snapping onto) the case90without using the mounting bushing92. Such an alternative does not need the portion of the cover123adjacent to the front face of the case91and therefore could be constructed as a single unitary member. In such an alternative, a fully assembled movement90with support bushing100and indicator drive wheels103,104could be inserted into the cover123.

FIG. 14illustrates an interface142(the location of the interface142is indicated inFIG. 13) between the minute indicator ring122and the minute indicator drive wheel104of the apparatus120ofFIGS. 12 and 13. The perspective ofFIG. 14is the same asFIG. 12, i.e., from a point perpendicular to the plane of minute indicator ring122and minute indicator drive wheel104. To ensure that the minute indicator ring122and the minute indicator drive wheel104remain synchronized, which is useful in maintaining the timekeeping accuracy of the clock assembly110, the minute indicator ring122and the minute indicator drive wheel104may have complimentary timing features. The minute indicator drive wheel104may have a series (i.e., a plurality) of protrusions along the perimeter of the minute indicator drive wheel104. Protrusions140athrough140dare visible inFIG. 14. Similar protrusions may be uniformly located about the entire perimeter of the minute indicator drive wheel104.

The minute indicator ring122may have a series (i.e., a plurality) of complimentary indentations along the inner annular surface (i.e., the circular surface defined by the through hole through the center of the minute indicator ring122) of the minute indicator ring122. Indentations141athrough141dare visible inFIG. 14. Similar indentations may be uniformly located along the entirety of the inner annular surface of the minute indicator ring122. Together, the protrusions and indentations may mesh together as the minute indicator drive wheel104is driven and thus maintain synchronized movement between the minute indicator drive wheel104and the minute indicator ring122. The hour indicator drive wheel103and the hour indicator ring121may be similarly configured. InFIG. 14, protrusion140band indentation141bare both positioned at a top dead center position. In this regard, the synchronization features (protrusions and indentations) are on components where one component (e.g., minute indicator ring122) is entirely supported by the other component (e.g., minute indicator drive wheel104). This is in contrast to a typical synchronization system such as gears, where the meshing gears are supported by axles through their centers as opposed to one gear providing support for another gear.

FIG. 15Ais a close up view of protrusion140band indentation141bofFIG. 14at the top dead center position. Together, protrusion140band indentation141bare configured such that at top dead center, the uppermost portion142of protrusion140bis in contact with the uppermost portion143indentation141bwhile substantially no other portion of minute indicator ring122is in contact with minute indicator drive wheel104. Such contact may only be momentary as the minute indicator drive wheel104passes through top dead center. After the minute indicator drive wheel104passes through top dead center, the minute indicator ring122and the minute indicator drive wheel104may contact each other in the regions144,145that are between protrusions and indentations. As illustrated, the protrusions and indentations may be uniformly and intermittently located about the minute indicator drive wheel104and the minute indicator ring122. The frequency of such indentation/protrusion pairs may be greater or less than as illustrated.

Both the protrusions and indentations may be arched with the radii of the indentations being larger than the radii of the protrusions. For example, the radii of the indentations may be from 20 to 80 percent larger than the radii of the protrusions. For example, the radii of the indentations may be about 30 percent larger than the radii of the protrusions. In an exemplary embodiment, the radii of the protrusions may be between about 0.015 and 0.040 inches and the radii of the indentations may be between about 0.025 and 0.050 inches. In another exemplary embodiment, the radii of the protrusions may be about 0.025 inches and the radii of the indentations may be about 0.035 inches.

If the minute indicator ring122becomes misaligned relative to the minute indicator drive wheel104, an indentation may be off-center relative to the mating protrusion. Such an event is illustrated inFIG. 15B, which depicts misalignment between protrusion140band indentation141b. Such misalignment results in contact at point146between the protrusion140band indentation141balong sides of the protrusion140band indentation141bin such a way that the force of gravity will cause the minute indicator ring122to fall down onto the protrusion140buntil it settles into position as illustrated inFIG. 15A. In this manner, any misalignment between protrusion140band indentation141bmay be automatically corrected, and therefore synchronized movement of the minute indicator ring122relative to the minute indicator drive wheel104may be maintained. To assist in the self-alignment of the minute indicator ring122relative to the minute indicator drive wheel104, the contacting surfaces may be adequately smooth to allow such settling into the desired position ofFIG. 15A. Additionally, the minute indicator ring122and/or the minute indicator drive wheel104may include low friction material to allow such settling into the desired position ofFIG. 15A. For example, the minute indicator drive wheel104(or at least portions thereof) may be constructed from polyoxymethylene, polytetrafluoroethylene, or any other appropriate low friction material.

In a variation from the embodiment shown inFIG. 15A, the protrusion and indentation may be sized such that the protrusion is about as high as the indentation is deep. In such a variation, the regions144and145may just touch each other when an indentation at top dead center is aligned with a protrusion at top dead center. In another variation, the protrusion and indentation may be sized such that the protrusion is slightly shorter than the indentation is deep. In such a variation, the regions144and145may touch each other when an indentation at top dead center is aligned with a protrusion at top dead center, while in such a position, the top of the protrusion may not be in contact with the indentation. In each of these variations, the self-aligning aspect of the protrusion-indentation pairs as described with reference toFIG. 15Bis present.

FIGS. 15A and 15Billustrate a timing mechanism using particular protrusions and indentations. In another embodiment, the indicator rings may have the protrusions and the indicator drive wheels may have the indentations. In still another embodiment, the indicator rings and indicator drive wheels may each have protrusions and indentations arranged such that protrusions and indentations constantly interact with each other as the indicator drive wheels are rotated. Moreover, other timing mechanisms may be incorporated in addition to or in place of the discussed indentations and protrusions. For example, close control of the outside diameter of the indicator drive wheels and close control of the inner diameters of the indicator rings could eliminate the need for separate timing mechanisms. In another example, the number and spacing of timing features may be varied relative to the illustrations ofFIGS. 15A and 15B. For example, in an alternate arrangement, more or fewer pairs of timing features may be used.

As noted above, the various indicator drive wheels may include flanges (e.g., the flanges16ofFIG. 2) to help to keep the various indicator rings aligned with their respective drive wheels.FIG. 15Cillustrates a drive wheel150that includes protrusions151and castellated portions152a,152band153a,153b. By alternately positioning castellated portions similar to152athrough152band153athrough153balong the entire perimeter of the drive wheel150, an indicator ring positioned between the castellated portions152athrough152band153athrough153bmay be maintained in alignment with the drive wheel150. Moreover, such an arrangement may be unitary and moldable (e.g., injection moldable) using a simple mold without the need for relatively complicated slides.

Although the indicator rings illustrated above all include uniform outer diameters, it is contemplated that alternatively, outer diameters of indicator rings may be non-uniform. For example, the minute indicator49ofFIG. 5may extend beyond the outer diameter of the minute indicator ring48. In other examples, fanciful indicators disposed partially or completely beyond the outer diameter of the indicator rings may be used.

To achieve indicator ring movement such that the indicator rings may indicate a time that may be interpreted using traditional clock interpretation methods, the illustrated movements must have a rotational output greater than a typical movement that directly drives clock hands. For example, where the diameter of a drive wheel is one third of the inner diameter of the indicator ring which it is moving, the rotational speed of such a drive wheel must be three times faster than a normal movement. Thus, if such a drive wheel is being used to drive a minute indicator ring, the drive wheel must rotate at a rate of one full rotation every 20 minutes. Such a rotational speed will result in the minute indicator ring making one full rotation every 60 minutes and thus enable the position of the minute ring to indicate time in a manner that may be interpreted using traditional clock interpretation methods. Various ratios of drive wheel diameter to inner diameter of indicator ring may be utilized along with appropriately configured movements. For example, a ratio of inner diameter of indicator ring to drive wheel diameter of 4:1 may be used with a movement configured to run 4 times faster than a typical movement. Indeed, any appropriate ratio of inner diameter of indicator ring to drive wheel diameter may be used as long as an accompanying appropriately configured movement is used.

Various features may be added to the clocks described herein to increase their functionality (such as the ability to see indicators) and/or aesthetic appeal. For example, where the indicator rings are clear, the indictors disposed on the indicator rings may by one color on one side (e.g., the side visible through the ring where the ring is transparent) and another, different color on the other side. Thus, by selecting which face of the indicator is facing the user (e.g., facing away from a wall), the user may select what color indicator to use. For example, the indicator may be black on one side and white on the other side and the user may thus select a black (e.g., if the clock is to be mounted on a white or light colored wall) indicator or white (e.g., if the clock is to be mounted on a dark colored wall) indicator, thereby enhancing the visual appeal and/or readability of the clock. Similarly, where the indicator rings are opaque, such rings may include indicators of different colors on each side. Moreover, the background color (e.g., the portion of the indicator rings that are not indicators) of the indicator rings may be different on each side of the indicator ring.

In another example of an added feature, a user may be supplied with several different indicators in the form of stickers or other installable members such that a user may select their desired indicator style from a wide array of styles. Such indicators may be removable and replaceable such that a user may change the indicators when desired.

In another example of an added feature, the edges of the indicator rings may be illuminated and light may be directed into the indicators rings (where the indicator rings are transparent) to produce a pleasing aesthetic effect and/or enhance the readability of the clock.

FIGS. 16 and 17illustrate an apparatus160for the display of time that uses a movement161similar to that ofFIG. 11. The movement161includes a minute indicator drive wheel162and an hour indicator drive wheel positioned behind the minute indicator drive wheel162. The hour indicator drive wheel is not visible inFIGS. 16 and 17. The minute indicator drive wheel162may drive a minute drive belt163which may, in turn, rotate a minute indicator ring164that includes a minute indicator165. The minute drive belt163may be positioned about the outer diameter of the minute indicator ring164such that movement of the minute drive belt163causes the minute indicator ring164to rotate. Thus, as illustrated inFIG. 16, the minute drive belt163may be partially disposed about a portion of the perimeter of the minute indicator drive wheel162, and partially disposed about a portion of the perimeter of the minute indicator ring164.

Similarly, the hour indicator drive wheel may drive an hour drive belt (behind minute drive belt163and not visible inFIGS. 16 and 17) which may, in turn, rotate an hour indicator ring166that includes an hour indicator167. The hour drive belt may be positioned about the outer diameter of the hour indicator ring166such that movement of the hour drive belt causes the hour indicator ring166to rotate. Thus, the hour drive belt may be partially disposed about a portion of the perimeter of the hour indicator drive wheel, and partially disposed about a portion of the perimeter of the hour indicator ring166.

Accordingly, by using drive belts, the movement161may be used to rotate indicator rings164,166that are hanging by the drive belts below the movement161. Thus, the rings164,166are held in contact with (and therefore can be driven by) their respective belts by the force of gravity. Likewise, the belts are held in contact with (and therefore can be driven by) their respective drive wheels by the force of gravity.

In this regard, the movement161may drive the minute indicator ring164and hour indicator ring166such that the minute indicator ring164makes one full rotation every 60 minutes and the hour indicator ring166makes one full rotation every 12 hours. Thus, the minute indicator165and the hour indicator167may indicate the time in a manner that may be interpreted using traditional clock interpretation methods.

In a particular embodiment, the minute indicator ring164may have an innermost radius and an outermost radius and the innermost radius of the minute indicator ring164may be at least 10 percent as large as the outermost radius. In another embodiment, the innermost radius of the minute indicator ring164may be at least 50 percent as large as the outermost radius.

In a particular embodiment, the hour indicator ring166may have an innermost radius and an outermost radius and the innermost radius of the hour indicator ring166may be at least 10 percent as large as the outermost radius. In another embodiment, the innermost radius of the hour indicator ring166may be at least 50 percent as large as the outermost radius.

In a particular embodiment, the minute indicator ring164and hour indicator ring166may be configured substantially similar to each other except for the indicators165,167. In such an embodiment, the minute indicator ring164may be transparent such that the hour indicator ring166may be visible through the minute indicator ring164. In such an embodiment, the hour indicator ring166may be transparent or opaque. A third stationary ring may be included and positioned behind the minute indicator ring164and the hour indicator ring166. The stationary ring may be sized (e.g., with a larger outer diameter and/or smaller inner diameter) such that it is visible behind the minute indicator ring164and the hour indicator ring166. In embodiments where the hour indicator ring166is transparent, the third stationary ring (which may include indicators such as numbers 1 through 12) may be visible through the hour indicator ring166.

Similar to as described above with reference to driving rings hanging directly on the drive wheels, the diameters of the minute indicator drive wheel162, the hour indicator drive wheel, the outer diameters of the indicator rings164,166, and the output of the movement161may all be coordinated to produce movement that may be interpreted using traditional clock interpretation methods. Thus, various rations of drive wheel to indicator diameter may be used with appropriately configured movements. For example, the outer diameter of the minute indicator ring164may be four times that of the minute indicator drive wheel162and the accompanying movement161may be configured to run four times faster than a typical movement. In other embodiments, other ratios (e.g., 3 to 1 and 5 to 1) may be used.

FIG. 17is a detailed view of a portion170(the location of the portion170is indicated inFIG. 16) of the interface between the minute indicator drive wheel162and the minute drive belt163. The minute indicator drive wheel162may include a series of teeth171that interface with a corresponding series of teeth172on the minute drive belt163to keep the movement of the minute indicator drive wheel162and the minute drive belt163synchronized. A similar set of teeth may be disposed along the perimeter of the minute indicator ring164to keep the movement of the minute indicator ring164and the minute drive belt163synchronized. Thus, the output of the movement161may be synchronized with the movement of the minute indicator ring164. The hour drive belt, hour indicator drive wheel, and the hour indicator ring166may be similarly configured to maintain synchronized movement of the hour indicator ring166. The minute drive belt163may include flanges such that it remains centered relative to the minute indicator drive wheel162and minute indicator ring164. The hour drive belt may be similarly configured.

FIG. 18illustrates an apparatus180for the display of time that uses the movement161and drive belts of the apparatus160ofFIGS. 16 and 17. The apparatus180includes an opaque minute indicator ring181and an opaque hour indicator ring183. The outer diameter of minute indicator ring181is substantially the same as the outer diameter of the hour indicator ring183. The inner diameter of hour indicator ring183is smaller than the inner diameter of minute indicator ring181. Thus, a portion of the hour indicator ring183is visible within the through hole of the minute indicator ring181and an hour indicator184is disposed on such a portion. The minute indicator ring181may include a minute indicator182. In this regard, similar to the apparatus160ofFIGS. 16 and 17, the indicators182,184may indicate time in such a manner that the apparatus may be read using traditional clock interpretation methods.

In variations of the apparatuses ofFIGS. 16 through 18, any of the rings could be replaced with disks (e.g., members with no center through holes). For example, in apparatus160, the minute indicator ring164could be replaced with a transparent disk and the hour indicator ring166could be replaced with an opaque disk. Moreover, the inner openings of the rings164,166,181,183need not be circular. Indeed, the inner openings of the rings164,166,181,183may contain aesthetic features, such as simulated bicycle wheel spokes and hubs.

FIG. 19illustrates a minute indicator drive wheel200which is an alternate configuration of the minute indicator drive wheel104. The minute indicator drive wheel200includes a plurality of first side flanges201disposed along a first side202of the minute indicator drive wheel200and a plurality of second side flanges203disposed along a second side (opposed to first side202and not visible inFIG. 19) of the minute indicator drive wheel200.

FIG. 20illustrates a portion of the minute indicator drive wheel200. The portion of the minute indicator drive wheel200visible inFIG. 20is indicated by arrow E inFIG. 19. InFIG. 20, the plurality of first side flanges201disposed along the first side202of the minute indicator drive wheel200are not shown so that a plurality of first side protrusions204and a plurality of second side protrusions205can be clearly seen. The plurality of first side protrusions204may be uniformly located about the entire perimeter of the minute indicator drive wheel200. The plurality of first side protrusions204may be located in a common plane perpendicular to an axis of rotation218of the minute indicator drive wheel200. The plurality of first side protrusions204may be configured similarly to the protrusions140athrough140dofFIG. 14except that the plurality of first side protrusions204may only extend along a portion of the thickness of an outer annular surface206of the minute indicator drive wheel200. For example, as shown inFIG. 20, the plurality of first side protrusions204extend along the outer annular surface206from the first side202to about a mid-point of the thickness of the outer annular surface206half way between the first side202and the second side of the minute indicator drive wheel200.

The plurality of second side protrusions205may be configured similar to the plurality of first side protrusions204, except that the plurality of second side protrusions205may extend along the outer annular surface206from the second side of the minute indicator drive wheel200to about the mid-point of the outer annular surface206half way between the first side202and the second side of the minute indicator drive wheel200. The plurality of second side protrusions205may be located in a common plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation218of the minute indicator drive wheel200, and the plane in which the plurality of second side protrusions205is located may be offset from the plane in which the plurality of first side protrusions204is located. Moreover, the plurality of second side protrusions205may be circumferentially offset from the plurality of first side protrusions204(i.e., as the minute indicator drive wheel200is rotated about the axis of rotation218protrusions of the plurality of first side protrusions204and protrusions of the plurality of second side protrusions205alternate occupying the top dead center position). In this manner, the plurality of first side protrusions204and the plurality of second side protrusions205form alternating protrusions about the entirety of the circumference of the minute indicator drive wheel200.

FIG. 21illustrates minute indicator ring220. The minute indicator ring220may be a substantially rigid (i.e., not flaccid) member that is able to maintain its shape when supported by the minute indicator drive wheel200. The minute indicator ring220includes a central through hole219through the center of the minute indicator ring220. The minute indicator ring220includes an inner annular surface221configured to interface with the minute indicator drive wheel200.FIG. 22is a detail view of a portion F (indicated inFIG. 21) of the inner annular surface221of the minute indicator ring220. The inner annular surface221may include a plurality of first side indentations222and a plurality of second side indentations223configured similar to the indentations141athrough141dand configured to interface with the plurality of first side protrusions204and the plurality of second side protrusions205, respectively. Thus, the plurality of first side indentations222may only extend along a portion of the thickness of the inner annular surface221. For example, as shown inFIG. 22, the plurality of first side indentations222extend along the inner annular surface221from a first side of the minute indicator ring220to about a mid-point of the thickness of the inner annular surface221. The plurality of second side indentations223is similarly configured and circumferentially offset from the plurality of first side indentations222in a manner similar to the offset between protrusions204,205of the minute indicator drive wheel200.

As illustrated, the plurality of first side protrusions204includes sixty individual protrusions uniformly disposed along the perimeter of the minute indicator drive wheel200such that the protrusion are six degrees apart from each other. Similarly, the plurality of second side protrusions205includes sixty individual protrusions uniformly disposed along the perimeter of the minute indicator drive wheel200such that the protrusion are six degrees apart from each other. The plurality of first side protrusions204and the plurality of second side protrusions205are offset from each other such that there is a protrusion every three degrees along the perimeter of the minute indicator drive wheel200. Correspondingly, the plurality of first side indentations222of the minute indicator ring220includes 120 individual indentations uniformly disposed along the inner annular surface221such that the indentations are two degrees apart from each other. The plurality of second side indentations223of the minute indicator ring220includes 120 individual indentations uniformly disposed along the inner annular surface221such that the indentations are two degrees apart from each other. Thus as the minute indicator drive wheel200rotates at a first rate (e.g., three rotation every hour), the minute indicator ring220hanging on the minute indicator drive wheel200will rotate at a second rate (e.g., one rotation every hour) that is one third of the first rate.

The two sets of protrusions204,205and the two sets of indentations222,223work together to maintain synchronization in the same manner as described with respect to protrusions140athrough140dand indentations141athrough141d. Additionally, the two sets of protrusions204,205and the two sets of indentations222,223work together to maintain alignment between the minute indicator drive wheel200and the minute indicator ring220. This is achieved through the interaction between the inboard sides of the protrusions204,205, such as inboard side207(FIG. 20), and the inboard walls of the indentations, such as inboard wall208(FIG. 22). When the minute indicator ring220is interfaced with the minute indicator drive wheel200, a plurality of protrusions204,205and indentations222,223will be engaged with each other. Additionally, a plurality of inboard sides of the protrusions204,205will be proximate to a plurality of inboard walls of the indentations222,223. The interaction between the inboard sides of the protrusions204,205and the inboard walls of the indentations222,223will serve to keep the minute indicator ring220aligned with the minute indicator drive wheel200. For example, the inboard sides of the plurality of second side protrusions205(such as inboard side207) will interface with the inboard walls of the plurality of second side indentations223(the second side indentation223inboard walls are not visible inFIG. 22) to prevent the minute indicator ring220from moving relative to the minute indicator drive wheel200in the direction of the plurality of second side flanges203.

The inboard sides of the plurality of second side protrusions205(such as inboard side207) may have a draft angle to help prevent binding between the minute indicator ring220and the minute indicator drive wheel200. For example, from a base209of the inboard side207, the inboard side207may be angled such that the protrusion is wider (in the direction across the outer annular surface206) at its base209than at its top. The draft angle is disposed such that a portion of the inboard walls of the indentations222,223in contact with the draft angle will slide down to a bottom of the draft angle (e.g., base209) and thus cause the minute indicator ring220to be in alignment with the minute indicator drive wheel200. Alternatively, the inboard walls of the indentations may include a draft angle in place of or in addition to the draft angles of the plurality of second side protrusions205.

The two sets of indentations222,223combine to give the appearance of a smooth inner diameter of the minute indicator drive wheel200. This is since each indentation is bordered by an inboard wall and the tops of the inboard walls form a uniform appearance to the inner diameter of the minute indicator drive wheel200.

The plurality of first side flanges201and the plurality of second side flanges203(FIG. 19) assist a user in initial alignment between the minute indicator drive wheel200and the minute indicator ring220. In this regard, a user attempting to hang the minute indicator ring220on the minute indicator drive wheel200need only locate the minute indicator ring220between the plurality of first side flanges201and the plurality of second side flanges203. Once so positioned, the minute indicator ring220can be released and it will slide down inner sloped surfaces210of the plurality of first side flanges201and the plurality of second side flanges203until the plurality of protrusions204,205and indentations222,223are in contact with each other. Subsequent rotation of the minute indicator drive wheel200will lead to the plurality of protrusions204,205and indentations222,223engaging each other and alignment between the minute indicator drive wheel200and the minute indicator ring220.

The plurality of first side flanges201and the plurality of second side flanges203may also assist in realigning the minute indicator drive wheel200and the minute indicator ring220if the minute indicator drive wheel200and the minute indicator ring220somehow become misaligned relative to each other. Such misalignment may be the result of a bumping of the minute indicator ring220or if an air current displaced the minute indicator ring220.

As illustrated inFIG. 19, the plurality of first side flanges201and the plurality of second side flanges203may be castellated and alternating such that the minute indicator drive wheel200may be molded without the use of slides or other complicated mechanisms. Alternatively, continuous flanges may be used in place of the plurality of first side flanges201and the plurality of second side flanges203. Such flanges may be separate parts that are subsequently attached to the indicator drive wheel200or they may be integral with the indicator drive wheel200. Other appropriate configurations, and associated processes, of the flanges may be incorporated into the indicator drive wheel200.

In an exemplary configuration: the diameter of the outer annular surface206of the minute indicator drive wheel200may be 2.725 inches while the inner annular surface221of the minute indicator ring220may be 8.175 inches (a 3:1 ratio); the minute indicator ring220may be 0.062″ thick; and the distance between the bases of the plurality of first side flanges201and the plurality of second side flanges203may be about 0.072″. By having the distance between the bases of the plurality of first side flanges201and the plurality of second side flanges203larger than the thickness of the minute indicator ring220, binding between the minute indicator ring220and the minute indicator drive wheel200may be avoided. In the exemplary configuration, the distance between the tops of the plurality of first side flanges201and the plurality of second side flanges203may be 0.17″. The aforementioned dimension of the exemplary configuration may be varied to achieve specific aesthetic or functional goals. Other ratios of the diameters of the outer annular surface206of the minute indicator drive wheel200to the inner annular surface221of the minute indicator ring220may be used with corresponding changes to the movement used to drive such a configuration.

FIGS. 19 through 22show minute indicator drive wheel200and minute indicator ring220. In a particular clock, a corresponding hour indicator drive wheel and hour indicator ring may be similarly configured. Such an hour indicator drive wheel may only differ from minute indicator drive wheel200in that a mounting hole212of the minute indicator drive wheel200may be configured to fix to a minute output shaft while a mounting hole of the hour indicator drive wheel may be configured to fix to an hour output shaft. Such an hour indicator ring may only differ from minute indicator ring220in that the minute indicator ring220may include a minute indicator244, while the hour indicator ring may include an hour indicator.

FIG. 23is a side view of an assembled clock drive portion230that includes minute indicator drive wheel200and a similarly configured hour indicator drive wheel231. A clock movement that drives the minute indicator drive wheel200and the hour indicator drive wheel231is disposed within a cover232. The cover232comprises a top half cover233and a bottom half cover234. The top half cover233includes a minute ring clearance slot235and an hour ring clearance slot236. The edges of the ring clearance slots235,236may include chamfers243to further assist in placement of the minute indicator ring220and an hour indicator ring. The minute ring clearance slot235may be sized such that if the minute indicator ring220enters into the slot235, the minute indicator ring220will be positioned between the flanges201,203of the minute indicator drive wheel200disposed therein. Thus, a user need only position the minute indicator drive wheel200within the minute ring clearance slot235and the minute indicator ring220will align with the minute indicator drive wheel200. Once the minute indicator ring220is aligned with the minute indicator drive wheel200, the minute indicator ring220will not touch the sides of the minute ring clearance slot235unless the minute indicator ring220is disturbed (e.g., bumped, repositioned to change setting of clock).

The hour ring clearance slot236, hour indicator ring and hour indicator drive wheel may be configured similarly to the minute ring clearance slot235, minute indicator ring220, and the minute indicator drive wheel200, respectively.

FIGS. 19 through 23and related discussion illustrate a timing mechanism using particular protrusions and indentations. In a variation, illustrated in correspondingFIGS. 26 through 30, the indicator rings, such as a minute indicator ring320, may have protrusions322,323and the indicator drive wheels, such as a minute indicator drive wheel300, may have indentations304,305. In still another embodiment, the indicator rings and indicator drive wheels may each have protrusions and indentations arranged such that protrusions and indentations constantly interact with each other as the indicator drive wheels are rotated. Moreover, other timing mechanisms may be incorporated in addition to or in place of the discussed indentations and protrusions.

FIG. 24shows the cover232exploded, revealing a mounting plate237disposed within the cover232. The top half cover233and bottom half cover234may each have slot features238and may position the mounting plate237within the slot features238when the top half cover233is attached to the bottom half cover234. The mounting plate may also have snaps239that interface with corresponding holes240in the top half cover233such that the mounting plate237may be easily secured to the top half cover233. The bottom half cover234may then be secured to the top half cover233using any appropriate method, such as screws or snaps.

The bottom half cover234includes a circular region242positioned at the front of the clock drive portion230. The circular region242presents a smooth, unbroken surface to observers of the clock drive portion230. In an alternative construction, the bottom half cover234and the top half cover233may together form the front surface of the clock drive portion230. In such a case, a witness line between the bottom half cover234and the top half cover233on the front of the clock drive portion230may be visible.

The back of the clock drive portion230may be at least partially open to allow access to a battery driving the movement. By configuring the bottom half cover234, the top half cover233, and the mounting plate as shown inFIG. 24, each part may be capable of being molded using a mold without the use of slides or other complicated mechanisms. In a variation, top half cover233and the mounting plate237may be molded as a single unitary part. In such a variation, the snaps239and corresponding holes240would not be present.

Returning toFIG. 19, the minute indicator drive wheel200may include a plurality of lightening holes211. The addition of the lightening holes211may reduce the weight of the minute indicator drive wheel200without unacceptably reducing the structural integrity of the minute indicator drive wheel200. The minute indicator drive wheel200may include the mounting hole212through its center. The mounting hole212may be configured to press on to a minute output shaft of a movement. Alternatively, the mounting hole212may be a threaded hole configured to screw onto a correspondingly configured minute output shaft of a movement. Other appropriate configurations of the mounting hole212may be utilized. For example, the mounting hole212may include a pressed-in nut or other fastener to secure the minute indicator drive wheel200to a minute output shaft of a movement. An hour indicator drive wheel may be similarly configured for securement onto an hour shaft of a movement.

The minute indicator drive wheel200may include a boss213disposed about the mounting hole212on one side of the minute indicator drive wheel200. The output shafts of movements often have multiple sections with different diameters. Where the different diameters meet, a step is formed that is intended to provide a stop for a clock hand being pressed onto the output shaft. In a particular application, the minute indicator drive wheel200may be pressed onto a minute output shaft of a movement until the minute indicator drive wheel200comes in contact with a step of the minute output shaft. In this regard, pressing the minute indicator drive wheel200until it hits such a stop provides for consistent positioning of the minute indicator drive wheel200. Thus, alignment with other components, such as the minute ring clearance slot235ofFIG. 23may be achieved. The boss213may be positioned on only one side of the minute indicator drive wheel200so that when assembling the clock drive portion230, one of two possible positions may be selected depending on whether the side of the minute indicator drive wheel200with the boss is facing the movement or the side of the minute indicator drive wheel200without the boss213is facing the movement. In a particular example, an hour indicator drive wheel may be placed on an hour output shaft with the side of the hour indicator drive wheel without the boss facing the movement and the minute indicator drive wheel200may be placed on a minute output shaft with the side of the minute indicator drive wheel200with the boss facing the movement; thus resulting in extra separation of the hour indicator drive wheel and the minute indicator drive wheel200equal to the height of the boss that would not be present if no boss213were on the drive wheels or if the bosses of each drive wheel were facing the same direction.

A method of assembling the clock drive portion230ofFIG. 23will now be described. A first step may be to attach a movement (such as movement90) to the mounting plate237by inserting the mounting bushing of the movement through the mounting hole241of the mounting plate237and then installing a nut (such as nut124) onto the mounting bushing and tightening the nut to secure the movement and mounting plate237to each other. This first step may include placing one or more washers or spacers between the movement and the mounting plate237such that the output shafts of the movement are properly positioned relative to the mounting plate237. This first step may include placing one or more washers or spacers between the nut and the mounting plate237such that the nut is properly positioned relative to an hour output shaft of the movement.

A second step in the assembly process may be to push a support bushing (such as support bushing100) over the nut such that the support bushing is fixed to the nut and a portion of the support bushing is disposed to support a portion of the hour output shaft that is located distal to an end of the mounting bushing. A third step may be to install the hour indicator drive wheel231onto the hour output shaft. This may be achieved by pressing the hour indicator drive wheel231onto a first portion of the hour output shaft until the hour indicator drive wheel231comes into contact with a second portion of the hour output shaft that has a larger diameter than the first portion of the hour output shaft.

The next step may be to install the minute indicator drive wheel200onto a minute output shaft of the movement. This may be achieved by pressing the minute indicator drive wheel200onto a first portion of the minute output shaft until the minute indicator drive wheel200comes into contact with a second portion of the minute output shaft that has a larger diameter than the first portion of the minute output shaft The next step may be to attach the mounting plate237to either the top half cover233or the bottom half cover234. For example, as illustrated inFIG. 24, the mounting plate237may be operable to snap onto the top half cover233. Next, the other of the top half cover233or the bottom half cover234may be installed. For example, as illustrated inFIG. 24, the bottom half cover234may be attached to the mounting plate237/top half cover233to complete the assembly of the clock drive portion ofFIG. 23. This may be achieved by any appropriate means such as, but not limited to, snaps, screws, and/or clips.

To install a clock using the clock drive portion230, a user need only install a battery into the movement (unless a battery is already installed), place the clock drive portion in a desired location (such as hanging on a wall or attached to a support structure), position an hour indicator ring within the hour ring clearance slot236with the indicator of the hour indicator ring in the proper position to reflect the current hour of the day (using traditional clock interpretation methods), and position a minute indicator ring within the minute ring clearance slot235with the indicator of the minute indicator ring in the proper position to reflect the current minute of the hour (using traditional clock interpretation methods).

A method of indicating the current time using the clock drive portion230andFIGS. 19 through 23will now be described. The method may include driving the hour indicator drive wheel231at a first rotational rate about the axis of rotation218. With the hour indicator ring (similar to minute indicator ring220) hanging on the hour indicator drive wheel231, the method may include rotating the hour indicator drive wheel231which results in the hour indicator ring being driven at a second rotational rate about a second axis that is offset from the axis of rotation218. The hour indicator ring may be driven such that it completes one rotation every twelve hours and, as such, an indicator affixed to the hour indicator ring may be used to indicate the hour of the day using traditional clock interpretation methods. The contact between the hour indicator drive wheel231and the hour indicator ring may be maintained by the force of gravity acting on the hour indicator ring. The hour indicator drive wheel231may be disposed within a central through hole in the center of the hour indicator ring. The method may include maintaining synchronization between the hour indicator drive wheel231and the hour indicator ring by sequentially engaging a plurality of protrusions (similar to protrusions204,205of minute indicator drive wheel200) with a plurality of indentations (similar to indentations222,223of minute indicator ring220).

The method may further include driving the minute indicator drive wheel200at a third rotational rate about the axis of rotation218. With the minute indicator ring220hanging on the minute indicator drive wheel200, the method may further include rotating the minute indicator drive wheel200which results in the minute indicator ring220being driven at a fourth rotational rate about the second axis. The minute indicator ring220may be driven such that it completes one rotation every hour and, as such, the minute indicator244affixed to the minute indicator ring220may be used to indicate the minute of the hour using traditional clock interpretation methods. The contact between the minute indicator drive wheel200and the minute indicator ring220may be maintained by the force of gravity acting on the minute indicator ring200. The minute indicator drive wheel200may be disposed within the central through hole219in the center of the minute indicator ring220. The method may include maintaining synchronization between the minute indicator drive wheel200and the minute indicator ring220by sequentially engaging the plurality of protrusions204,205with the plurality of indentations222,223.

FIG. 25is a partially sectioned side view of an assembled clock drive portion250that includes a clock movement251(not sectioned), a minute indicator drive wheel257(sectioned), and a similarly configured hour indicator drive wheel256(sectioned). The clock movement251that drives the minute indicator drive wheel257and the hour indicator drive wheel256is disposed within a cover262(sectioned) that comprises a movement cover portion254(sectioned) and a front cover portion255(sectioned). The movement cover portion254and the front cover portion255may snap together to form the cover262. The front cover portion255includes a minute ring clearance slot263. The movement cover portion254includes a stationary ring clearance slot265. Together, the front cover portion255and the movement cover portion254form an hour ring clearance slot264, with the front cover portion255forming the front portion of the hour ring clearance slot264and the movement cover portion254forming the rear portion of the hour ring clearance slot264. Thus, the three ring clearance slots263,264,265may be formed by two parts: the front cover portion255and the movement cover portion254.

The edges of the ring clearance slots263,264,265may include chamfers to further assist in placement of rings. The minute ring clearance slot263may be sized such that if the minute indicator ring enters into the slot263, the minute indicator ring will be positioned between flanges of the minute indicator drive wheel257disposed therein. The hour ring clearance slot264, hour indicator ring and hour indicator drive wheel256may be configured similarly to the minute ring clearance slot263, minute indicator ring, and the minute indicator drive wheel257, respectively.

The movement251may include a body portion267. External to the body portion267, the movement251may further include a mounting bushing266, an hour output shaft252, and a minute output shaft253. The minute output shaft253may be disposed within, and be coaxial with, the hour output shaft252. As illustrated, the hour output shaft252may extend beyond a distal end of the mounting bushing266.

A support bushing260(sectioned) may be configured to fixedly attach to the mounting bushing266by attaching to a nut261(sectioned) that is in turn attached to the support bushing260. The support bushing260may provide support for the hour output shaft252proximate to the distal end of the mounting bushing266. This is similar to the support bushing100described above with reference toFIGS. 9 through 11.

The minute indicator drive wheel257may include a shaft portion259that extends distally beyond the end of the minute output shaft253and along the rotational axis of the minute output shaft253. The front cover portion255may include a corresponding hole258configured to accept the shaft portion259when the clock drive portion250is fully assembled as illustrated inFIG. 25. The hole258may provide a bearing surface for the shaft portion259such that when a downward (as oriented inFIG. 25) force is exerted on the minute indicator drive wheel257(such as by the insertion of a minute indicator ring into the minute ring clearance slot263), the downward force is at least partially borne by the internal surface of the hole258and thus by the front cover portion255. Accordingly, at least a portion of the downward force may not be transmitted to the minute output shaft253. In this regard, the combination of the hole258and shaft portion may prevent the minute output shaft253from being cantilevered; i.e., cantilevered with one end being supported within the body portion267of the movement251while the unsupported distal end is subjected to the downward force of the minute indicator ring.

The minute output shaft253may provide a bearing surface for the hour indicator drive wheel256. Thus, similar to minute indicator drive wheel257, the hour indicator drive wheel256may be supported externally to the body portion267: by the support bushing260and by the bearing surface provided by the minute output shaft253. Thus, when a downward (as oriented inFIG. 25) force is exerted on the hour indicator drive wheel256(such as by the insertion of an hour indicator ring into the hour ring clearance slot264), the combination of the support bushing260and minute output shaft253may prevent the hour output shaft252from being cantilevered; i.e., cantilevered with one end being supported within the body portion267of the movement251while the unsupported distal end is subjected to the downward force of the minute indicator ring.

In this regard, the above combination of the support bushing260and hole258provide points of support on both sides of the indicator drive wheels256,257and thus may reduce the amount of force transmitted to the internal workings of the movement251due to the weight of installed hour and minute indicator rings.

The interface between the hole258and shaft portion259may be lubricated and/or at least the hole258and/or shaft portion259may be comprise a lubricious material.

The front cover portion255may include a dust ring267that may extend from an inner surface268of the front cover portion255and around the area where the shaft portion259interfaces with the hole258. The dust ring267may be in the form of a circular wall surrounding the interface between the front cover portion255and the shaft portion259such that any dust falling into the interior of the front cover portion255may be inhibited from reaching the interface between the front cover portion255and the shaft portion259, thus potentially increasing the service life of the clock drive portion250.

The various parts described herein may be constructed using any appropriate means. For example, the parts that may be constructed from polymers and/or may be configured such that they may be constructed using a molding process such as injection molding.

The various indicator rings illustrated herein generally have an inner diameter (e.g., the diameter of the hole through the indicator ring) that is at least about 70% as large its outer diameter. In other examples, the ratio of inner diameter to outer diameter may be varied to produce differing aesthetic effects. For example, the ratio may be lower (e.g., from 70% to 50% or lower) or higher (e.g., from 70% to 90% or higher).

While various embodiments have been described in detail, it is apparent that further modifications and adaptations of the invention will occur to those skilled in the art. However, it is to be expressly understood that such modifications and adaptations are within the spirit and scope of the present invention.