High-fidelity lunar phase mechanism for clocks and watches
AssigneeGenuine Ideas, LLC
InventorGreg Blonder
Life of this patent
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Abstract
A display device produces a view-independent virtual image of a three-dimensional object includes a three-dimensional model comprising at least two visually distinct regions. The device also includes a fused imaging fiber optic plate (FIFOP) formed from a bundle of optically aligned fibers. The FIFOP has a (i) a viewing surface formed by the polished output ends of the fibers; and (ii) a shaped cavity formed on the opposite side of the FIFOP. The cavity is defined by the input ends of the fibers and is dimensioned to receive the three-dimensional model in close proximity. The FIFOP is configured to transmit a virtual image of the three-dimensional model to the viewing surface such that the image appears substantially fixed and angle-independent to an observer.
Claims20
A device for producing a view-independent virtual image of a three-dimensional object, comprising:
- a three-dimensional model comprising at least two visually distinct regions;
- a fused imaging fiber optic plate (FIFOP) comprising a bundle of optically aligned fibers, the FIFOP having:
- (i) a viewing surface formed by the polished output ends of the fibers;
- and
- (ii) a shaped cavity formed on the opposite side of the FIFOP, the cavity defined by input ends of the fibers and configured to receive the three-dimensional model in close proximity;
- wherein the FIFOP is configured to transmit a virtual image of the three-dimensional model to the viewing surface such that the image appears angle-independent to an observer.
A method of displaying a high-fidelity lunar phase in a timekeeping device, comprising:
- providing a three-dimensional moon model, the model comprising visually contrasting regions configured to represent the illuminated and darkened portions of the lunar of the moon;
- positioning an optical relay component that converts a 3D image into a 2D virtual image over at least a portion of the moon model, the optical relay component having a viewing surface and a cavity, wherein the three-dimensional model is disposed within or proximate to the cavity;
- altering the orientation of the three-dimensional moon model to simulate the progression of lunar phases over time;
- providing a virtual image of the moon model on the viewing surface of the optical relay component;
- and
- integrating the virtual image surface of the optical relay component into a visible portion of a watch or clock housing.
A high-fidelity lunar phase display device comprising:
- one surface of FIFOP placed atop a rotating lunar sphere, the lunar phase viewed on the opposing surface of the FIFOP, such that the FIFOP contains a cavity larger than the rotating lunar sphere, and the sphere rotates within the cavity.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.