Abstract:
A timepiece apparatus is described that includes a display area that is able to present different colors, a timing mechanism that is able to track the passage of time, a display mechanism that is able to change the color of the display area, wherein the color corresponds to a time period, and an interface for associating the color displayed with the time period, wherein the association is customizable by a user.

Description:
CLAIM OF PRIORITY 
       [0001]    This application claims priority to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 60/949,403, filed on Jul. 12, 2007, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference. 
     
    
     TECHNICAL FIELD 
       [0002]    This invention relates to timepieces and time telling devices. 
       BACKGROUND 
       [0003]    Children and other individuals may have difficulty telling time using typical clock features such as clock hands or digital displays. 
       SUMMARY 
       [0004]    The time telling devices described utilize color as a method of showing the current time. One or more colors may be used to correspond to various times of the day or activities. For example two colors may be used to show daytime and nighttime. As another example, multiple colors may be used for separate meal times, nap time, bedtime, etc. In one implementation, a timepiece apparatus is described that includes a display area that is able to present different colors, a timing mechanism that is able to track the passage of time, a display mechanism that is able to change the color of the display area, wherein the color corresponds to a time period, and an interface for associating the color displayed with the time period, wherein the association is customizable by a user. 
         [0005]    The interface for associating the color displayed with the time period may utilize elapsed time measurement for changing the color displayed, or may utilize actual clock time measurement for changing the color displayed. The display area may be able to present one or more images, or the display area may include a device for projecting the color displayed against another surface external to the device. The display area may be able to present one or more numbers. 
         [0006]    Variously, the timepiece apparatus may include other features. The timepiece apparatus may include a microphone. The timepiece apparatus may include a night light. The timepiece apparatus may include a digital display. The timepiece apparatus may include one or more speakers and a device for playing audio. The device for playing audio may include a media player, such as an mp3 player, CD player, or cassette player. 
         [0007]    The device for playing audio may include an interface able to connect to or communicate with an external audio device, such as an mp3 player or other device. The device for playing audio may be connected with the timing mechanism, such that audio may only be played at certain times which correspond with specified color displays. The timepiece apparatus may also include hands or other mark (e.g., arrow, colored bar, blinking dot, etc.) for tracking the passage of time. Typically, the hands or mark may be displayed on the timepiece apparatus, but these may also be physical in some implementations. 
         [0008]    The timepiece apparatus may include a reading light, wherein the reading light is connected with the timing mechanism, such that the reading light may only be operated at certain times which correspond with specified color displays. The timepiece apparatus may be built into an object. For example, it may be built into a doll, animal, car, or other toy. 
         [0009]    The timepiece apparatus may include a remote control, wherein the remote control may be used to access programming features of the timepiece apparatus. The timepiece apparatus may include a secured access panel for obtaining access to the settings for the device. The timepiece apparatus may include an interface for communicating, such that the device settings may be obtained from an external device or source. 
         [0010]    In one implementation, a system for telling or teaching time is described that includes means for measuring the passage of time, means for setting a time period, means for displaying a color, wherein the color displayed corresponds to the time period, and means for associating the displayed color with the time period. The means for displaying a color may include an area for projecting the color displayed on the device. 
         [0011]    In one implementation, a container apparatus is described that includes one or more compartments able to hold small objects, a display area that is able to present different colors, a timing mechanism that is able to track the passage of time, a display mechanism that is able to change the color of the display area, wherein the color corresponds to a time period, and an interface for associating the color displayed with the time period, wherein the association is customizable by a user. 
         [0012]    The container apparatus may include additional features. The container apparatus may include an audio alert system, may include a visual alert system, and/or may include a remote notification system. The one or more compartments of the container apparatus may form part or all of the display area. 
         [0013]    The details of one or more embodiments of the invention are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features, objects, and advantages of the invention will be apparent from the description and drawings, and from the claims. 
     
    
     
       DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS 
         [0014]      FIG. 1A  shows an exemplary timepiece that represents time using color and images rather than numbers. 
           [0015]      FIG. 1B  shows an example clock that uses color to indicate the current time. 
           [0016]      FIG. 1C  shows an example clock that can use resized images in various positions on the clock face. 
           [0017]      FIG. 2  shows an example clock that displays the time digitally in addition to using images. 
           [0018]      FIG. 3  shows an example configuration of the clock in which it is stacked with other components. 
           [0019]      FIG. 4  shows an example back side of the clock. 
           [0020]      FIG. 5  shows example controls that can be used for programming the table-top clock. 
           [0021]      FIG. 6  shows an example watch configuration for housing the timepiece. 
           [0022]      FIG. 7  shows an example globe configuration for housing the timepiece. 
           [0023]      FIG. 8  shows an example projector configuration for housing the timepiece. 
           [0024]      FIG. 9  shows an example CD player and light configuration for housing the timepiece. 
           [0025]      FIG. 10  shows an example timepiece that includes an outer hours region. 
           [0026]      FIG. 11  shows an example timepiece that includes an hour hand and a minute hand. 
           [0027]      FIG. 12  shows an example of a digital clock implementation of the timepiece. 
           [0028]      FIG. 13  shows an example of the timepiece built into an object. 
           [0029]      FIG. 14  shows an example orb clock implementation of the timepiece that uses color to indicate the current time. 
           [0030]      FIG. 15  shows an example of the timepiece built into a pill box. 
           [0031]      FIG. 16  shows an example of the timepiece built into an independent desk light. 
           [0032]      FIG. 17  shows an example of the timepiece built into an independent music player. 
       
    
    
       [0033]    Like reference symbols in the various drawings indicate like elements. 
       DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0034]    A toddler may use a timepiece (e.g., a bedside clock, wall clock, projection clock, wristwatch, etc.) to tell time. Such a timepiece may provide time-related information presented at a level that the child can understand. In some implementations, the timepiece may provide simple functionality suitable for a younger toddler. In other implementations, additional components operable with the timepiece may be purchased and integrated over time as the child matures. Such an approach may allow the timepiece to manufactured with minimal production costs. In fact, the timepiece may be manufactured to be optionally integratable through the use of standard-sized ports, jacks and other interfaces. In other implementations, the timepiece may already include more complex functionality. In some implementations, the timepiece may “grow” with the child as additional functionality may be used as the child matures, such as by providing simple information initially, then adding more complex information (e.g., numbers, etc.) as the child gets older and is able to comprehend more detailed information. For example, a timepiece may initially represent time using color only. As the toddler or child ages, the timepiece may include images in a display, so that time is represented using color and images. Later, the timepiece may include numbers in addition to the color and images in a display. In some implementations, the timepiece may discontinue the use of images in order to represent time using just color and numbers. The above may be examples of implementations that describe possible progressions of a timepiece that “grows” with the child, but other progressions are possible. 
         [0035]    In some implementations, the timepiece may include features that allow the toddler&#39;s parent, guardian or older sibling to control how the timepiece provides time-related information to the toddler. For example, as a child ages, the child&#39;s parent may increase the complexity of time-related information that the child sees. The timepieces described below are example implementations of toddler timepieces that may occur, for example, as states or phases of one or more programmable timepieces, such as those that may be programmable by the child&#39;s parent. For example, one such phase or state can correspond to a toddler clock that is currently representing time using color only. In some implementations, the timepieces described below can include features that may be controllable by the toddler. 
         [0036]      FIG. 1A  shows an exemplary timepiece  100  that represents time using color and images rather than numbers. The timepiece  100  can be used, for example, to assist children in determining the difference between waking time and sleeping time. The timepiece  100  can further be used to indicate to the child appropriate times for particular activities, such as quiet play time. 
         [0037]    In one implementation, the timepiece (or clock)  100  can be included in the configuration shown in  FIG. 1A , which depicts an alarm clock. As shown, the clock  100  includes a round clock face  102 , but any shape (e.g., square, rectangle, triangle, octagon, semi-circle, etc.) can be used for the clock&#39;s face. 
         [0038]    The clock face  102  includes graphical images  104 - 112 . Each of the images  104 - 112  can represent one or more particular times and/or activities in a child&#39;s day. A particular image may be displayed (or otherwise fully visible) only during the time for which the image represents. For example, the sun image  104  may serve to indicate to a child when the time is “waking hours” (e.g., not sleeping hours). Specifically, the sun image  104  may be programmed (e.g., by a parent or guardian) to be displayed at a pre-determined time each morning and to turn off at a certain time (e.g., the child&#39;s bedtime). Similarly, the clock  100  may include images for nighttime, such as star images  106   a  and  106   b , which can indicate to a child when the current time is “sleeping” time. In some implementations, when a particular images is not “displayed” (e.g., using bright lights, LEDs, etc.), its faint outline may still be visible. In other implementations, the image may be displayed together with the light and thus not visible when not displayed. 
         [0039]    In some implementations, the sun image  104  and the star images  106   a  and  106   b  may be co-programmed to operate alternatively. For example, the clock  100  may have a programmable time setting for switching between “waking hours” and “sleeping hours.” Specifically, at the programmed time, the sun image  104  can turn on when the star images  106   a  and  106   b  turn off. In some implementations, the clock  100  may allow different times to be set, for example, for non-school nights (e.g., weekends or holidays). In some implementations, the clock  100  may recognize Daylight Saving Time, and may automatically adjust the time (e.g., by an hour in the spring and fall). 
         [0040]    Making an image visible (e.g., at pre-determined times) can be facilitated by various controls or mechanisms. In one implementation, one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs) can be positioned behind a particular image. For example, an LED positioned behind the sun image  104  may turn on in the morning to make the sun image  104  fully visible, and may turn off again at night to obscure it. When a particular image is off, the clock  100  may show an outline or shadow of the image so that it is still recognizable by the child. Doing so can serve as a visual reminder to the child who may know that the “time” associated with the image occurs, for example, only when the light is on. 
         [0041]    Liquid crystal displays can be used to display images. Such displays can be static images that turn on and off, or the liquid crystal displays can provide animation or other more substantial displays. In another example of making an image visible, images  104 - 112  may have a mechanical cover or some other obscuring device that is lifted or otherwise removed at prescribed times to display particular images. In some implementations, the clock  100  may have a combination of controls and mechanisms for displaying and hiding images. 
         [0042]    The clock  100  may include other images that are recognizable to a child and are symbolic of a child&#39;s activities, such as train image  108  and book image  110 . Such images  108  and  110  may be displayed, for example, during a child&#39;s quiet playtime. In particular, the times at which images  108  and  110  are displayed may be pre-programmed by the child&#39;s parent or guardian using controls on the clock  100 . In some implementations, various playtime images may exist, each designating a different type of activity in which the child is allowed to undertake. For example, while the book image  110  may indicate to a child that it is time for quiet reading, another image, such as an image of playground equipment, may indicate that the child can play outside and be noisy if desired. In some implementations, other images may indicate the time that a child is to perform certain chores, such as feeding the family pet. In such case, an image may serve as a reminder (e.g., acting as a simple alarm clock). The clock  100  may further include buttons that the child can press to indicate that the chore is complete. Pressing such a button may turn off the display of the chore-related image. In the case in which the child may choose from several activities, multiple images may be displayed, such as a simultaneous display of images corresponding to quiet and other activities from which the child may choose. 
         [0043]    In some implementations, gender based images may be selectable for programming into the clock face  102 . For example, while the train image  108  may be a suitable image for boys (and some girls) who like trains, a doll or other girl-oriented image may be displayable for girls. In some implementations, programmability of the clock  100  may include a switch or control for specifying, for example, the gender of the child for whom the clock  100  is intended. In certain implementations, the switch may have a neutral setting such that the parent or guardian may select from a complete collection of images. 
         [0044]    In some implementations, additional images, such as the mealtime image  112 , may indicate the time for a family meal or snack. For example, the mealtime image  112  may be displayed around dinnertime each night. In order to help the child to differentiate dinnertime from breakfast or lunchtime, another image may be displayed simultaneously with the mealtime image  112 . For example, the sun image  104  may be used to indicate that the meal is breakfast, or the stars  106   a  and  106   b  may be used to indicate that the meal is dinner. 
         [0045]    Different colors may be used for different images  104 - 112 . For example, yellow may be used for the sun image  104 , and blue may be used for the star images  106   a  and  106   b . Colors may also be used to differentiate between different types of meals, such as yellow for breakfast, red for lunch, and blue for dinner. 
         [0046]    In some implementations, a time change represented by the clock may include more than simply turning an image on or off. For example, an audible chime or other sound may accompany an image that is newly displayed, and the image itself may flash or blink for a few seconds. In this way, the child may be alerted to a change in time without having to monitor the clock  100 . 
         [0047]    When a child gets older and is thought to be ready to tell time using more traditional (e.g., non-image) displays, the parent can program the clock  100  to further display the time in other ways. Programming the clock  100  may be accomplished using programming controls accessible, for example, through the back of the clock  100 . One example of a reprogrammed clock  100  will now be described. 
         [0048]      FIG. 1B  shows an example clock  100  that uses color to indicate the current time. Specifically, images (such as images  104 - 112  depicted in  FIG. 1A ) can be omitted completely in such a color-only configuration of the clock  100 . In particular, region  114  (shown shaded) may light up with a color that represents the current time. For example, the region  114  may be entirely yellow at day break or at the beginning of “waking” time such as the pre-determined time programmed by the child&#39;s parent. Other times, such as sleeping time, may be coded in other colors (e.g., blue). Such colors may be visible during the day and/or made visible in the dark by means of lights, etc. 
         [0049]      FIG. 1C  shows an example clock  100  that can use resized images in various positions on the clock face. For example, the sun image  104  is depicted as a significantly larger image than that depicted in  FIG. 1A . In some implementations, the clock  100  may automatically enlarge a newly-displayed image, such as enlarging the sun image  104  at the beginning of waking time. In other implementations, images can be relocated automatically, such as changing image positions to place some images in more prominent locations on the clock face. In other implementations, the clock  100  may automatically resize a displayed image to fit the clock face. 
         [0050]      FIG. 2  shows an example timepiece (or clock)  100  that displays the time digitally in addition to using images  104 - 112 . As depicted, the clock  100  is a wall clock, but a digital time display  202  can be present in other implementations of the clock  100 . The digital time display  202  may be located in an area of the clock face  102  in which no images  104 - 112  exist so that each can be viewed simultaneously. In other implementations, the digital time display  202  may replace images that are deemed no longer necessary, such as if the child has outgrown their utility. In some implementations, as images and the times they represent are mastered by the child, the clock  100  may be programmed to no longer display them. 
         [0051]      FIG. 3  shows an example configuration of the clock  100  in which it is stacked with other components. In some implementations, the clock face  102  can be mounted in a cabinet  302  that houses other components that can be operated easily by a child. For instance, the components may include a music player or other entertainment system. In some implementations, the music player may be enabled (e.g., able to be turned on and controlled by the child) at pre-determined times programmed into the clock  100 . For example, the child may be able to use the music player&#39;s controls  304  only when an indicator light  306  is on (e.g., at times programmed by the parent). In other implementations, the music player may turn on at a pre-set time, such as when the music serves as an alarm when the clock  100  is used as an alarm clock. In other implementations, the timepiece  100  can be included with, or serve as, a wall clock. In other implementations, the timepiece  100  may be mounted on a crib or toddler bed using a strap or other attaching method. 
         [0052]    Controls  304  may include buttons and/or other controls that are generally available as audio/visual functions, such as play, record, rewind, stop, fast-forward, erase, skip, pause, volume-up, volume-down, mute, scan, seek, zoom, pan, etc. Other controls may allow the child to view screens or other visual displays, such as a DVD player. 
         [0053]    The cabinet  302  may also include speakers  308   a  and  308   b  that are integrated with the music player. Other entertainment features (not shown) may be included, such as one or more speakers, and one or more openings or ports for digital video discs (DVDs), compact discs (CDs), MP3 access, or other multimedia formats. In some implementations, these entertainment features (such as an audio player) may be built into the timepiece, while in other implementations they maybe add-on modules, or attach to the timepiece via a port or other connection. In some implementations, such features may be available for use by the child at any time. In other implementations, the features may be available only at pre-programmed times. In further implementations, the child&#39;s parent can optionally control the availability of such features, such as with a switch or remote control. 
         [0054]    In some implementations, the cabinet  302  may house various lights, such as a nightlight  310  and/or a reading light  312 . The nightlight  310  may be integrated into the programmability of the clock  100 . For example, the nightlight  310  may switch on automatically at a pre-programmed time (e.g., at the same time that the star images  106   a  and  106   b  are displayed). Similarly, the reading light  312  control may be programmed (e.g., via the clock  100 ) to be operable at a pre-determined time, such as for an hour around bedtime. Switches  314  may allow the child to operate the nightlight  310  and the reading light  312 . 
         [0055]    In other implementations, the volume controls of the clock  100  may be integrated with the programmability of the clock  100 . For example, during quiet times or sleeping hours, the volume may automatically be muted or reduced. For example, depending on the time of day, the maximum volume settable by the child may be reduced. These times may or may not correspond to the times that the nightlight  310  and reading light  312  are operable. For example, depending on the time of day, the nightlight  310  and the reading light  312  may be unavailable to the child, or their maximum light output may be limited. In some implementations, programmable settings for lights and volume controls may be integrated with a light sensor, for example, capable of determining dusk and dawn. For example, the clock  100  may be programmable to enable a nightlight at dusk, have a reading light available to the child for an hour after dusk, and have a maximum volume control that is reduced soon after dusk. 
         [0056]    The clock  100  may also include an analog time display  316 . For example, such a display  316  may be used instead of (or in combination with) the digital time display  202  (refer to  FIG. 2 ). For example, an adult may program the clock  100  to display both the digital time display  202  and the analog time display  316  when the child is ready to advance past the image-based displays. In different implementations of an analog display  316 , numbers representing hours 1-12 may (or may not) be present at the hour locations of the clock face. 
         [0057]    Some implementations of the clock  100  may include one or more remote controls. For example, a child&#39;s remote control may allow the child to control selected features of the clock  100 , such as music controls and reading lights. A parent&#39;s remote control may provide access to the same clock  100  features, as well as access to programming features (e.g., setting waking time, quiet play time, etc.). Moreover, a parent&#39;s remote control may allow the parent to program the availability of features on the child&#39;s remote control (e.g., the child&#39;s ability to change music volume). 
         [0058]    In addition to playing music, the clock  100  may be able to play pre-recorded messages. For example, a child&#39;s mother may record a soothing morning announcement such as “Good morning, Sweetie.” that plays each morning at a time pre-programmed by the child&#39;s mother. Similar messages can be recorded for play at the beginning of a time period (e.g., “Time for quiet time, Sweetie”) or when it&#39;s time for a meal (e.g., “Almost time for dinner, Sweetie.”), to name a few examples. Other messages can be recorded for play at the end of a time period, such as “Quiet time is over; you can come down when you&#39;re ready.” Yet other messages may be recorded that play at random waking times, such as “Hope you&#39;re having fun now.” In some implementations, a queued-up or real-time message may be sent on demand by a parent, such as by the parent using one or more controls on a remote control (e.g., from another room in the home). 
         [0059]      FIG. 4  shows an example back side of the clock  100 . As depicted, the clock  100  is in a table-top configuration, mounted on a base  402 . The back of the clock  100  includes a cover  404  that can be used to hide the adult-programmable controls of the clock  100 . For example, the cover  404  can prevent the child from changing the settings on the clock  100 , such as waking time, sleep time, etc. The cover may be detachable, for example, by removing a screw  406 . Other configurations of fasteners may be used such that removal of a screw  406  is not necessary in order to access the controls. 
         [0060]      FIG. 5  shows example controls that can be used for programming the table-top clock  100 . Such programming features may provide the ability to introduce complexity as the child gets older. For example, while a younger child may initially rely entirely on color or rely on images, lights and colors to tell time, an older child may be able to understand (and benefit from) the added complexity of a timepiece that displays a digital and/or analog clock. 
         [0061]    The same or different controls can be used to program other configurations of the clock  100 , such as those depicted in  FIGS. 1-4 . Specifically, such controls can be used to set the times associated with the features of the clock  100 . For example, the controls can be used to set the start and end times for images  104 - 112  depicted in  FIG. 1A . In another example, the controls can be used to manage the availability of the digital time display  202  in  FIG. 2  and the analog time display  316  of  FIG. 3 . In a further example, the controls can be used to enable and disable features of the stacked configuration of the clock  100  depicted in  FIG. 3 , such as the music player&#39;s controls  304  and the reading light  312 . 
         [0062]    The controls can include a feature name display  502 . The feature name display  502  can identify the control currently being set. For example, when an adult is programming the start time for “waking time,” the feature name  502  may display “Wake.” Simultaneously, a time display  504  may display the current setting of the start time for the corresponding feature name  502 . For example, as depicted in  FIG. 5 , “7:30” may be the currently-programmed start time for the “waking” time. In particular, the 7:30 start time may correspond to the “waking” time represented by the sun image  104  in  FIG. 1A . 
         [0063]    In some implementations, other time-related displays (e.g., durations) not depicted in  FIG. 5  may exist. A time duration may be used in combination with a start time provided in the time display  504 . A time duration may be measured by elapsed time rather than specific clock times. For example, while setting the start time for the reading light  312  depicted in  FIG. 3 , a time duration of an hour may also be specified. 
         [0064]    Controls for programming the clock  100  may also include buttons  506  and  508 . For example, buttons  506  may allow the person who is programming the clock  100  to advance forward and backward though options, such as to advance to another setting for a feature of the clock  100 . Buttons  508  may allow the programmer to scroll through values in displays  502  and  504 , such as to increase or decrease the time setting on a particular feature (e.g., the “Wake” time of 7:30). 
         [0065]    Other controls not shows in  FIG. 5  may be used to program the colors of various images displayable on the clock  100 . For example, while a parent is changing the start time for quiet play time, the parent may also change the color, and/or associated image (e.g., train image  108  or book image  110 ). 
         [0066]    Other controls not shown may allow a child&#39;s parent or guardian to record messages that can play at designated times. For example, a child&#39;s mother may record a message that plays each morning when the “waking” time begins. Other controls may control the volume of the message. 
         [0067]    When the protective cover  404  of the clock  100  is removed, components that help to hold the cover  404  in place may be exposed. These can include, for example, a screw hole  510  (e.g., for accepting screw  406  in  FIG. 4 ) and a tab opening  512  (e.g., for accepting the tab end of the cover  404  if one is used). 
         [0068]    Various others ways may exist and be used by a parent or guardian to provide programming information to the clock  100 . In some implementations, the clock  100  may have one or more Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports for receiving downloaded programming instructions. In other implementations, the clock  100  may use other types of interfaces, such as a wireless interface or an infra-red interface. In some implementations, a parent may be able to program the clock  100  using a computer, cell phone, or personal digital assistant (PDA). Other programming methods may use voice activation or biometric access of some kind. 
         [0069]      FIG. 6  shows an example watch configuration  602  for housing the timepiece  100 . For example, the watch  602  may include some or all of the clock  100  features described above. The watch  602  may further be wearable by a child, such as by connecting strap end  604  into clasp end  606  (e.g., as in an ordinary strap-type watch band). In some implementations, other fastening methods (e.g., hook-and-loop fasteners, elastic, etc.) may also be used. In other implementations, the timepiece  100  may be housed in a pocket watch or by other means, such as in a piece of jewelry (e.g., a pendant, charm, etc.). The watch  602  may include one or more buttons  608  that the child may use, for example, to control features on the watch  602 . 
         [0070]      FIG. 7  shows an example globe configuration  702  for housing the timepiece  100 . The globe  702  can be, for example, a sphere made or glass, plastic or other transparent, semi-transparent, or translucent material. The globe  702  can contain a timepiece  100  having some or all of the features described above. Abase  704  can support the globe  702  and may provide access (e.g., via the base&#39;s underside) to programming controls that can be used to program the timepiece  100 . One or more buttons  706  may be included on the globe  702 . The buttons  706  may, for example, allow the child to control features of the globe  702 , such as a light to make the globe  702  or base  704  glow in the dark. While the globe  702  depicted in  FIG. 7  is a sphere, other shapes can be used to house the timepiece  100 . The color and/or images described earlier may be displayed on the inner surface of the globe for viewing by a child or other individual. 
         [0071]      FIG. 8  shows an example projector configuration  802  for housing the timepiece  100 . The projector  802  may, for example, project a likeness of the timepiece  100  on a wall or ceiling. The projector may also simply project a color corresponding to the program controls. The projection may be projected using various methods such as lights, lasers or holograms whether the displayed projection is color, such likeness or other. As shown, beams  804  depict the upward direction (e.g., toward a ceiling or upper surface) of the projection  802 , but beams  804  can also emanate in a sideways direction. In some implementations, beam direction of the projector  802  may be adjustable, such as by the child&#39;s parent. In other implementations, the projector  802  may be programmable so that the beam direction moves over time, such as to mimic the sunrise and sunset cycle of a typical day. The projector  802  can be housed in a base  806 . In some implementations, the base  806  may be operable to glow in the dark. In other implementations, the base may operate to display colors and/or images corresponding to the projections. As one illustrative example, the projection may be an image of a plate and silverware with an orange color, and the base may glow orange at the same time. 
         [0072]      FIG. 9  shows an example CD player and light configuration  902  for housing the timepiece  100 . For example, a CD player  904  and a light  906  can occupy the spaces that alarm bells on an alarm clock may normally occupy. Specifically, referring to  FIG. 1A , the CD player  904  and the light  906  can replace the bells at the top of the alarm clock  100 . 
         [0073]      FIG. 10  shows an example timepiece  100  that includes an outer hours region  1002 . As depicted, the hours region  1002  includes the hour numbers one to twelve. The outer hours region  1002  may be used in combination with other elements on the timepiece  100 , such as images  104 - 112 . In particular, changes to the hour numbers may coincide with changes to images  104 - 112 , such as resulting from programming the timepiece  100 . 
         [0074]    In some implementations, clock face  1004  may change colors over time, while the hour numbers remain a constant color (e.g., red, black, etc.). For example, the clock face  1004  may glow blue at night and yellow during the day. In another example, the clock face  1004  may display a special progression of colors for particular events, such as slowly changing from yellow to blue to represent a sunset. 
         [0075]    In other implementations, clock face  1004  may remain the same color, while the hour numbers in the hours region  1002  change. To indicate the slow passage of an hour, the color change of the hour numbers may be gradual. For example, an hour numeral changing colors (e.g., from yellow to red) may undergo the change over several minutes, displaying intermediate color blends (e.g., orange). In some implementations, hour numerals may blink momentarily, and/or an audible sound may occur, such as when the time changes to a new hour. 
         [0076]    In some implementations, a colored marker  1006  may be displayed within the hours region  1002 . The marker  1006  may be a line, box or other shape that rotates through the hours region  1002 , passing by an hour number each hour. The location of the marker  1006  can indicate the relative time. For example, as depicted, the marker  1006  is between the hours of one and two, indicating an approximate time of 1:30. The child may interpret the depicted location of marker  1006  as indicating a time that is between 1:00 and 2:00. 
         [0077]    In some implementations, hours can be represented in other ways, such as by using Roman numerals I through XII in place of the hour numbers in the hours region  1002 . In other implementations, hours numbers can use military time (e.g., hours 1 to 24). 
         [0078]      FIG. 11  shows an example timepiece  100  that includes an hour hand  1102  and a minute hand  1104 . Hands  1102  and  1104  may be any color or shape, such as to allow a toddler to differentiate between their meaning (e.g., hours and minutes). For example, as depicted, the arrowhead of hour hand  1104  is depicted as larger than the arrowhead of minute hand  1102 . 
         [0079]    In some implementations, the display of hands  1102  and  1104  may be programmable. For instance, a toddler&#39;s parent may program the timepiece  100  to display the hands  1102  and  1104  when the toddler is thought to be able to understand the meaning of the hands  1102  and  1104 . When the hands  1102  and  1104  are not displayed, the child may rely on images  104 - 112  to tell time. 
         [0080]    In some implementations, the hands  1102  and  1104  may be displayed while the images  104 - 112  are hidden. For example, the child&#39;s parent may use programming controls to hide the images  104 - 112 , such as when the child is initially learning to tell time using analog displays. In other implementations, the hands  1102  and  1104  may be displayed together with a color in display area, while the images are hidden or not displayed. 
         [0081]      FIG. 12  shows an example of a digital clock implementation of the timepiece  100 . The time on the digital clock can be represented using digits  1202   a - 1202   d . Specifically, digits  1202   a  and  1202   b  can represent the hour portion of the current time, and digits  1202   c  and  1202   d  can represent the minute portion. Any of the digits  1202   a - 1202   d  can be actual digits, or they can be colored cells or other shapes, images, lights, etc. that represent particular times of the day. Covers  1204   a  and  1204   b  can be used to hide portions of the digits  1202   a - 1202   d . For example, a parent may slide cover  1204   b  down over the top of digits  1202   c  and  1202   d  for a toddler who may not be ready to comprehend minutes. In one implementation, covers  1204   a  and  1204   b  can slide along channels  1206  that are operable to permit free up-and-down movement of the covers  1204   a  and  1204   b . In some implementations, covers  1204   a  and  1204   b  may include an enabling button (not shown) that prevents a child from operating the covers  1204   a  and  1204   b  while permitting adults to enable and slide the covers. 
         [0082]      FIG. 13  shows an example of the timepiece  100  built into an object. As depicted, the timepiece  100  is embedded in the body of a dog, but any shape or object can be used. The clock area  1302  can include elements of timepieces  100  described above, such as images, colors, digital displays, etc. In some implementations, adult programming controls and/or child-operable controls may be included in a collar  1304 . Such controls may be in the form of buttons or other controls on the collar  1304 . The timepiece may be built into a variety of objects, such as toys, dolls, cars, toy animals, etc. 
         [0083]      FIG. 14  shows an example orb clock  1402  implementation of the timepiece  100  that uses color to indicate the current time. The orb clock  1402  can be similar to the clock of  FIG. 1   b , and can change color to indicate different times of the day. For example, daytime or “waking” hours can be represented when the clock appears or glows yellow. The orb clock  1402  can be mounted on a base  1404 . The underside of the base  1404  can include an access panel or other area that houses programming controls for the orb clock  1402 . For example, by accessing the controls, an adult may program the particular times that the orb clock changes color to indicate time. 
         [0084]      FIG. 15  shows an example of the timepiece  100  built into a pill box  1502 . In other implementations, the timepiece  100  may be embedded in or otherwise integrated with other types of containers, such as containers containing solids, liquids and/or gasses, etc. As depicted, the time-keeping portion of the timepiece  100  is embedded within the pill box  1502 . As such, the time-keeping portion partially controls the functionality of the pill box  1502 . Specifically, the time-keeping portion can control the availability (e.g., ability to be opened) of compartments  1504  for dispensing pills, such as medications for seniors. In some implementations, individual compartments  1504  may not be opened (e.g., by the pill-taking patient) until the time-keeping portion of the pill box  1502  determines that it is time to “take medicine now.” 
         [0085]    The pill box  1502  includes several pill compartments  1504 , a color circle  1506 , a button  1508 , and a controls cover  1510 . Using programming controls (e.g., as described above with respect to  FIG. 5 ) accessible via controls cover  1510 , the pill box  1502  may be programmed to dispense medications (e.g., pills) at certain times. For example, in one scenario, the pill box  1502  may be filled with pills by a patient and programmed to dispense the pills at pre-determined times. When the time-keeping portion within the pill box  1502  determines that it is time for dispensing medication (e.g., pills), the color circle  1506  may change color (or otherwise provide a visual cue), and an alarm may sound. In some implementations, the alarm may continue to sound until the button  1508  is pressed, at which time the color circle  1506  may revert to its “do not take medicine now” color. In other implementations, the specific compartment of the pillbox may light up with the same color as the color circle, or the compartment may light up instead of a color circle. 
         [0086]    In another scenario, the pill box  1502  may be automatically filled and programmed at a pharmacy. For example, the pill box  1502  may be filled with a supply (e.g., a month&#39;s supply) of medications for a patient, such as a senior citizen. The pill box may have as few as one of the compartments  1504  for dispensing pills. As such, internal mechanisms within the pill box  1502  may exist that are operable to automatically fill a single one of the compartments  1504  from a larger supply if pills contained within the pill box  1502 . When the senior citizen takes the pill box  1502  home, automatic dispensing of the medication can commence. For example, if the pills taken twice daily, the pill box  1502  may sound an alarm in the morning and evening (e.g., at times convenient for the patient and programmed at the pharmacist). When the senior removes the pill(s) from the pill box  1502  (e.g., via a single one of the compartments  1504 ) at a pre-programmed time, the pill box  1502  can automatically prepare for the next dispensing time. In particular, the pill box  1502  may move the next dosage of pill(s) into the single one of the compartments  1504 . 
         [0087]    In some implementations, the pill box  1502 , and as such the timepiece  100 , may automatically send a warning to a remote location if a dosage is not taken as planned. For example, if the patient fails to remove the pill(s) at a predetermined time, the timepiece  100  may send an alert to the pharmacy and/or a family member or guardian. The alert can include one or more of a phone call, page, text message, email, etc. In this way, the timepiece  100  can help in monitoring a patient, such as a senior citizen living alone, who may be at risk for skipping medications. 
         [0088]    The compartments  1504  may correspond to daily medications. The lids of the compartments  1504  can be labeled with initials “S” through “S” that correspond to the days Sunday through Saturday. In some implementations, the pill box  1502  may have twice as many or more compartments, such as for twice daily or more frequent medications. 
         [0089]    The color circle  1506  may include lights, light-emitting diodes (LEDs) or some other mechanisms that can provide a visual change of color. The change of color may also be accompanied by flashing or other visual effects. The compartments  1504  may include lights, light-emitting diodes (LEDs) or some other mechanisms that can provide a visual change of color. The change of color may also be accompanied by flashing or other visual effects 
         [0090]      FIG. 16  shows an example of the timepiece  100  built into an independent desk light  1600 . As depicted, the time-keeping portion of the timepiece  100  is embedded within the desk light  1600 . As such, the time-keeping portion partially controls the functionality of the desk light  1600 . Specifically, the time-keeping portion can control the availability (e.g., ability to be operated) of the desk light  1600 , such as when it can be turned on by a child. For example, the child&#39;s parent may use programming controls (e.g., as described above with respect to  FIG. 5 ) to enable the desk light at certain times. The programming controls may be available via the base of the desk light  1600 , for example. 
         [0091]    The independent desk light  1600  includes a color circle  1602  and a button  1604 . The color circle  1602  changes color according to time. The button  1604  is an on/dim/off button that enables the light to be turned on when the appropriate color is shown in the circle. For example, the color circle  1602  may be green (or some other color) when the desk light  1600  is enabled (e.g., controllable by the child). While the desk light  1600  is enabled, the child can operate the button  1604  to turn on the light, dim the light, or turn off the light. To indicate that the desk light  1600  is disabled, the color circle  1602  may be red (or some color other than the enabled color). 
         [0092]    In the implementation depicted, the light emits from a light element  1606  at the end of a bendable arm  1608  attached at a base  1610 . In other implementations, the light may be separate from the base  1610 , such as mounted on the wall above the child&#39;s bed. 
         [0093]      FIG. 17  shows an example of the timepiece  100  built into an independent music player. For example, the music player may have the same or different capabilities as the music player shown in  FIG. 3 . As depicted in  FIG. 17 , the time-keeping portion of the timepiece  100  is embedded within the music player. As such, the time-keeping portion partially controls the functionality of the music player, such as when it can be operated by a child. For example, the child&#39;s parent may use programming controls (e.g., as described above with respect to  FIG. 5 ) to enable the desk light at certain times. In particular, a color region  1702  may show a specific color (e.g., green) when the music player is enabled. 
         [0094]    In some implementations, the timepiece  100  can be used by individuals who are not children but may have learning disabilities that prevent them from recognizing conventional clocks (e.g., analog, digital, etc.). 
         [0095]    In some implementations, additional time-related information can be provided by the timepiece  100 . For example, images and/or displays related to days, weeks, months and years can be incorporated into various configurations of the clock  100 . Specifically, a calendar display can provide information about the name of the day of the week and the date (e.g., month, day and year). Such information may be, for example, part of a calendar display. Initially, the information may be presented in a simplified way for younger children, and become more complex as the child progresses in the understanding of time. For example, a parent may program the clock  100  to display day and month information once a child is old enough to understand. 
         [0096]    In some implementations, one or more images can be added to the face of the clock  100  that provide a symbolic countdown of days remaining until an upcoming event. For example, three small images of clocks may be displayed on the face of the clock to signify three days until a special birthday party or until a parent is expected back in town after a business trip. Such a display can be updated automatically each day, such as during the night, to remove one of the remaining symbols. 
         [0097]    In some implementations, some programming controls may be available to the child. In this way, the child may be able to program future events or activities, or to set up reminders. Some of this type of programming by the child may rely on help from a parent or guardian, such as to select the precise time of the event or activity. 
         [0098]    In some implementations, the timepiece  100  can be included in (or be implemented as) a decorating piece, such as a wall-mounted, tabletop or other decorative color wheel that changes color. Such a timepiece  100  may be programmed (e.g., using programming controls such as those described with respect to  FIG. 5 ) to automatically change colors at pre-determined times. The timepiece  100  may also include an analog or digital clock. 
         [0099]    A number of embodiments of the invention have been described. Accordingly, other embodiments are within the scope of the following claims.