Abstract: The invention concerns a timepiece movement that includes first and second energy sources, wherein the first energy source is coupled to an oscillating weight by a first kinematic chain for automatically winding the movement, and the second energy source is coupled both to an activating device, and to a vibrating element by a second kinematic chain, to form a vibrating alarm mechanism that can be activated at a predetermined time. In addition, for the timepiece movement, the vibrating element of the vibrating alarm mechanism is the oscillating weight.

Abstract: Alarm clocks, such as alarm clock radios, comprising a video screen wherein at a preset time, the display screen displays a video and broadcasts audio. If a user does not input a required input within a certain time after the alarm mode has started, the video and audio change to a video and audio which are less tranquil. One alarm mode is initiated with waves lapping on a tranquil seashore during a sunny morning. After a while, the video and audio transition to a violent storm with dark clouds, rain, lightening, thunder and large waves crashing onto the shore. Other themes include a couple walking in a park, a couple dancing, and a busy city scene. A “silence alarm” feature requires a user to input correct information based on the display in response to a visual query, in order to stop or change the alarm mode.

Abstract: A timepiece equipped with an alarm mechanism having a striking device and a minute repeater mechanism provided with a striking device. The two striking devices share at least one gong and one hammer. A power source can be locked when the mechanism is at rest and unlocked when the mechanism is in operation. An adjustment system can be used to program the alarm time. A trigger system includes a control member which controls the unlocking of the power source and a cam which is kinematically connected to the movement and performs one revolution every 24 hours. A first striking mechanism is equipped with at least one hammer arranged to strike at least one gong, and a supplemental striking mechanism is equipped with at least one hammer arranged to strike at least one non-resonant object, wherein the power source drives one or the other of these striking mechanisms.

Abstract: The invention concerns a timepiece movement that includes first and second energy sources, wherein the first energy source is coupled to an oscillating weight by a first kinematic chain for automatically winding said movement, and the second energy source is coupled both to an activating device, and to a vibrating element by a second kinematic chain, to form a vibrating alarm mechanism that can be activated at a predetermined time. The timepiece movement is wherein the vibrating element of the vibrating alarm mechanism is the oscillating weight.

Abstract: The alarm watch includes a mechanical movement, which drives a time display mechanism including at least a first hour hand (17) and a first minute hand (13) mounted above a first dial. The alarm watch also includes an alarm mechanism able to release an alarm at a predetermined alarm time, manually determined every twenty-four hours, and a mechanism for displaying the predetermined alarm time. The alarm time display mechanism includes at least a second hour hand (33) provided for displaying the alarm time in twelve hours, and an indicator (52) with two positions provided for specifying whether the alarm time is situated between midnight and midday (AM) or situated between midday and midnight (PM).

Abstract: The invention concerns a watch with a striking work including a bottom plate and a gong including two ends, the gong being secured via a first end to the bottom plate. According to the invention, the second end of the gong is also secured to said bottom plate.

Abstract: A graphical indicator, menu and method for modifying and displaying more than two states for the indicator is provided. An alarm indicator algorithm modifies and displays the indicator according to user-selectable options that enables a user to determine at first glance the nature of the next alarm and in particular when an alarm is not set to go off on a particular day to avoid accessing the alarm menu every time this knowledge is desired or whenever the user is uncertain of the settings. Various visual cues such as colour, graphical and textual elements can be used and the algorithm can associate these cues with appropriate alarm states. When the number of settings for the multi-state alarm is relatively large, a desktop web-based application program interface (API) may be used to facilitate setting and updating the alarm functions.

Abstract: The gong for the striking work or alarm of a watch is configured to produce a sound within the audible frequency range when it is struck by at least one hammer. This gong is made of a material, wherein the square root of the ratio between the elasticity module of the material divided by the volumic mass of the selected material is less than 3300 m/s, so as to allow the gong to produce a rich sound, comprising a large number of partials, within the audible frequency range. The selected material may be, for example, gold.

Abstract: An alarm system is designed to remind individuals, specifically individuals suffering from memory related diseases, of scheduled events and appointments. The device utilizes a digital scheduling device, such as a personal digital assistant (PDA), to input messages to be communicated at a scheduled time. The message is communicated via a set of speakers either directly or indirectly connected to the digital scheduling device.

Abstract: The invention concerns an alarm control mechanism, which is of reduced size widthways and can trigger the striking mechanism with precision. The mechanism includes a group of coaxial wheels (1) including: an hour cam (3), which makes one revolution in 24 hours; a trigger wheel (4) provided with a pinion (6) and an external circular toothing (5), which cooperates with a striking mechanism trigger (30); a programming wheel (7) carrying a cam follower lever (8) and angularly positioned by means (25) for setting the alarm time; a retaining disc, which is called a surprise-piece (11) and is provided with a return spring (12); and a minute cam (14) that makes one revolution per hour. The lever (8) includes a pin (40), which can press against the cams (3, 14) and the surprise-piece (11), and a rack engaged on the pinion (6), such that a radial movement of the lever (8) pivots the trigger wheel (4) in relation to the programming wheel (7).

Abstract: An animated toy alarm clock resembles a stuffed puppy, kitten, or other lovable creature. When the alarm is armed, the creature rotates or bows its limbs so that its body assumes a sleeping position. It may emit audible purring or other soothing noises for the relaxation of its owner. When the alarm goes off at the preset alarm time, the creature rotates or stretches its limbs so that its body rises into an awake position. It may emit barking, meowing, or other excited noises to awaken its owner to the world. The alarm clock may be conveniently disguised as a pet tag hung around an animal collar.

Abstract: A portable medication compliance device having a body and compartments formed in the body. A microprocessor is disposed in the body and is coupled to each of the compartments. The microprocessor is programmable to determine relative time intervals for dispensing medication from each of the compartments, and to record the opening of each of the compartments in a memory. Programming buttons are positioned proximate the body and are coupled to the microprocessor. The programming buttons enable a user to program the microprocessor. The device may also be programmed via a remote computer through communication means such as a Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) is positioned on the body and is coupled to the microprocessor. The LCD displays data including the relative time intervals for dispensing medication determined by the microprocessor.

Abstract: Methods, systems, and computer program products for time-based setting and removal of alarm inhibits are disclosed. In one method, a command is provided that allows a user to specify a time period with which an alarm generated within a telecommunications signaling platform will be inhibited. Once the command is received, alarms associated with the specified device are suppressed. When the time period expires, the alarm inhibit is automatically removed and alarms associated with the specified device can be generated.

Abstract: A notification device with a time signal receiver is provided that has a receiver for receiving an electromagnetic time signal and processor for processing the time signal and is assigned a signal output device to generate a warning signal, and to a method for programming a notification device comprising a time signal receiver. In the notification device the time signal receiver and/or the signal output device can be set up to generate a warning signal when there is at least one piece of additional information transmitted with the time signal.

Abstract: The present invention is directed towards a sensor including, inter alia, a body having first and second spaced-apart apertures, the first aperture having a shape producing an audible noise upon a fluid passing therethrough; a piston positioned within the body; and a chamber having an additional fluid disposed therein, with a volume of the additional fluid placing the piston between first and second positions, the first position impeding the first volume of fluid and the second position allowing the first volume of fluid to pass through the first aperture.

Abstract: A motivational alarm having a timekeeping device; alarm programming means to produce an alarm signal at a programmed alarm time, the alarm programming means being operatively connected to the timekeeping device; a digital storage device operatively connected to the timekeeping device; a plurality of recorded messages recorded on the digital storage device; and playback means for converting at least a portion of the plurality of recorded messages into an audible signal upon receipt of the alarm signal. The recorded messages preferably have a topic related to exercise, spirituality, religion, religious text, esteem-building, health and wellness, encouragement for women, invigoration for long-term caretakers, wealth-building, or tragedy/loss recovery.

Abstract: The invention is a device which prevents unwanted manipulation of controls (inputs) by locking (disabling) said controls until the person passes a memory test consisting of a randomly/pseudo-randomly generated pattern. The invention may be a part of another device, or be designed separately and remotely enable/disable the concerned controls.

Abstract: The invention proposes a timepiece including a motion work (12) which drives analogue display means (14) and a strike train (16) which drives a striking mechanism (18), wherein the motion work (12) is driven in rotation by a barrel (20) including a spring, a toothing which meshes with the motion work (12), and a winding ratchet (38) coaxial to the barrel (20), the winding ratchet (38) being secured in rotation to the drive arbour (26) of the barrel (20), and wherein a winding member (44) is provided to mesh with the winding ratchet (38) in order to wind the barrel spring (24), characterized in that the winding ratchet (38) drives the strike train (16) in rotation via an intermediate wheel set (45) whose axis (A2) is shifted relative to the axis (A1) of the barrel (20), and in that the intermediate wheel set (45) includes a click device (47) for uncoupling the winding ratchet (38) relative to the strike train (16) during the winding phase of the spring (24).

Abstract: Disclosed are a method and an apparatus for controlling an alarm function of a mobile device with an inertial sensor. In one example of the method, after an initial threshold value is established, an alarm occurrence is generated at a predefined hour. If the alarm occurrence is the first, an alarm control unit detects a first movement of the mobile device due to the alarm occurrence through the inertial sensor, and adjusts the initial threshold value according to the first movement. If the alarm occurrence is not the first, the alarm control unit detects a second movement of the mobile device through the inertial sensor, compares the second movement with the adjusted threshold value, and stops the alarm occurrence if the second movement is greater than the adjusted threshold value.

Abstract: The invention proposes a timepiece (10) including a striking mechanism (20), and including a control device (28) for activating an element (22) releasing the striking mechanism (20), via a control surface (64) carried by a piston (32), characterized in that a resilient transmission element (68) is arranged between the piston (32) and the release element (22) and in that the travel of the piston (32) includes an active travel, from the rest position of the piston (32) to an intermediate position corresponding to the stop position of the release element (22), during which the travel of the piston (32) is connected to the travel of the release element (22) via the resilient transmission element (68), and a passive travel during which the piston (32) slides against the resilient transmission element (68).

Abstract: The specification shows a personal sensory reduction system for limiting light and sound to a wearer's eyes and ears. A method for reducing the light and sound to eyes and ears is also shown and described.

Abstract: The invention is an eye shield sleeping device that has a strap, a pair of eye shields, a pair of ear covers, a timer, one or more speakers, a microphone, and a voice recognition system. The timer creates an awakening sound when the time on the timer expires. The sound is produced by the speaker mounted inside the ear cover. The user can control the device using commands issued to the voice recognition system. The device can be connected to a media and communication appliance, such as a cell phone, a computer, and a digital player, which can play through the speakers. The voice recognition system can also be used to control a connected appliance. The principal function of the device is to create a restful environment for the user for a controlled period of time. Anticipated applications include naps while traveling and in sleep rooms at work.

Abstract: A multi mode alert timer having a timer display, switches for start stop and reset functions and audible, visible, and tactile alert signal selection and a housing where a user may select a timer alert signal including the individual alert signals or any combination thereof.

Abstract: A portable medication compliance device (10) having a body (12) and compartments (22) formed in the body. A microprocessor (120) is disposed in the body (12) and is coupled to each of the compartments (22). The microprocessor (120) is programmable to determine relative time intervals for dispensing medication from each of the compartments, to notify the user when a dose of medication is to be taken from each of the compartments, and to record the opening of each of the compartments in a memory. Programming buttons (24) are positioned proximate the body and are coupled to the microprocessor (120). The programming buttons (24) enable a user to program the microprocessor. The device may also be programmed via a remote computer through communication means (47A). A display means (16) such as a Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) is positioned on the body and is coupled to the microprocessor (120).

Abstract: A cap is attachable to a receptacle for co-acting therewithin enclosing medication and timing a predetermined interval for taking the medication defined by one timing schedule of a set of selectable timing schedules. An electronic timing circuit in the cap is constructed and arranged to provide an alarm signal designating a time for taking the medication at the expiration of a predetermined time interval defined by the timing schedule. A battery furnishes power to the electronic timing circuit. A switch is connected between the battery and the electronic timing circuit having an initial ship position preventing the flow of electrical energy from the battery to the electronic timing circuit and an on position allowing delivery of electrical power from the battery to the electronic timing circuit. The switch is constructed and arranged to be initially in the ship position and switch to the on position when the cap is first attached to the receptacle to close the receptacle.

Abstract: A thermal alarm clock including an alarm clock controller that activates a heating device to wake a slumbering person. The thermal alarm clock incorporates traditional alarm, clock, and radio functions as well. The heating device is located adjacent a sleeping person and can be activated with, or instead of, an audible alarm. A slumbering person will be gently awakened by the heat of the device instead of the jarring sound from an audible alarm clock. The thermal alarm clock is also effective at waking a single person from a plurality of sleepers and is effective for users with special needs, such as the hearing impaired or blind. In one embodiment, the thermal alarm clock incorporates sensors and circuitry to monitor a user's presence.

Abstract: The mechanism (9) for triggering a striking work, is disposed between a timer (11), which is used to countdown and to display a pre-determined time interval on a dial, and a strike train (14) in order to make said striking work heard when the timer has counted down completely. The mechanism essentially comprises a lever (1) which is fitted with a leaf spring (3) and a locking stone (2).

Abstract: A system for waking a person includes an input that receives an alarm time information and an aroma selection from a person, an alarm that generates an audible signal when activated, an aroma station that generates an olfactory signal when activated, an activator that receives a snooze input from the person, and a controller coupled to the activator and the aroma station, where the controller activates the audible signal in response to the alarm time information, and activates the aroma station in response to the snooze input and according to the aroma selection.

Abstract: A combination noise blocking headset and alarm clock, having a pair of padded earpieces for blocking out ambient noise so that a commuter can sleep or read on a subway or train without distractions, and having an alarm clock unit within one of the earpieces for waking up or alerting the user at a predetermined time.

Abstract: A programmable alarm clock system, method of operation and program product therefor with sleep analysis to identify and wake a person during non-REM sleep patterns, resulting in less subsequent drowsiness and better day-to-day functioning. The programmable alarm clock system includes at least one brain activity sensor attachable to a head of a sleeper. Brain activity signals from the sensor(s) are sent to a receiver at a local computer. The user, before retiring inputs a wake up time and attaches the sensor(s). The local computer sends brain activity signals to a remotely connected sleep analyzing server which analyzes the brain activity and identifies REM sleep periods and non-REM sleep periods. The labeled brain activity periods are returned to the local computer which waits for the wake up time. Then, the local computer sets an alarm time by adjusting the wake up time to coincide with a non-REM sleep period, if necessary and if possible.

Abstract: An apparatus and method are provided for automatically playing a recorded message, from a uniquely formatted encrypted CD, correlated to a specific date and a time of day as an option on a CD clock radio or the like. Disclosed are means for distinguishing the unique CD format and thereafter following a prescribed process for decrypting and playing. Otherwise all device functions and options operate in their conventional modes.

Abstract: A method for disabling temporarily preset alarm in a mobile communication terminal for one day, or periodically, or on a designated date, as a user wishes, is disclosed. The method comprises determining whether the temporal disabling button has been pushed by a user while the mobile communication terminal is in receive wait mode, and temporarily disabling the alarm upon pushing the temporal disabling button by the user. The method further comprises determining whether the temporal disabling menu button has been pushed by a user while the mobile communication terminal is in receive wait mode, displaying the temporal disabling menu items upon pushing of the temporal disabling menu button by the user, and temporarily disabling the alarm of the date designated by the corresponding menu item based on the temporal disabling menu item selected by the user.

Abstract: An electronic circuit comprising a first counter clocked by a clock signal provided to have a first period and provided by an oscillator external to the circuit, and comprising a second counter clocked with a second period by an oscillator internal to the circuit, the second counter being reset each time the content of the first counter is a multiple of a first predetermined value, and a means for activating an alert signal when the second counter reaches a second predetermined value such that the product of the second predetermined value by the second period is greater than the product of the first predetermined value by the first period.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a device (or an apparatus) and a method for providing information about body fluids. The device is for measuring a body fluid discharged from a body of a user by putting a first disposable absorbent article having a predetermined absorbent capacity to a fluid discharging portion of the user. The device comprises means for inputting an amount of the body fluid which is absorbed by the first absorbent article through observation; and means for calculating the total amount of the body fluid which was discharged by the user based on the input and the predetermined absorbent capacity of the first absorbent article.

Abstract: A timer is provided which is actuated by an incense stick burning to a given point at which point a pivotally movable hammer is released. When the hammer is released, it moves from its first retracted position to a second position in response to gravitational forces wherein it strikes a bowl to make a pleasant alarm sound. The timer is particularly useful and appropriate when used in conjunction with meditation or a similar exercise.

Abstract: A medication timing device including a base carrying a circuit with a timing device, a switch for activating the timing device, a signal device activated by the timing device, and a battery coupled to the timing device and the signal device, and a top coupled to the base and covering the circuit. The top is moveable between a normal expanded position and a compressed position in which the switch is tripped. A fastening element fastens the base to a medication container.

Abstract: A communication device such as pager (100) includes a real-time clock circuit (118). The real-time clock circuit keeps track of both the pager's home time zone information (402) and the pager's current time zone information (404). While the pager user is operating within his home area, the pager's home time zone information (402) and the current or local time zone information (404) will be the same. If the user however travels away from his home system's time zone, the real-time clock circuit adjusts the current time zone information (404) to reflect the time zone the user is currently operating in. The user can set alarms which reference either the home time zone information (402) or the current time zone information (404). This allows for more user flexibility on how the alarm conditions are to operate.

Abstract: A timing device for use in athletic workouts which measures the passage of short intervals of time such as the recovery periods between successive sets of exercise is disclosed. The present timing device is contained in a housing which may be worn on an elastic band about a user's thumb and actuated by a single finger on the same hand. In one embodiment the timing device includes a sliding interval selector switch that enables the user to select preset time intervals of fifteen, thirty, forty-five, and sixty seconds. The interval selector switch actuates a count-down timer which transmits a signal to a miniature speaker to produce an audible alarm, or in the alternative, to a vibratory device advantageous to visually or hearing impaired users. In an alternative embodiment the timing device includes a microprocessor having memory and computing functions which permit desired time intervals to be programmed by the user.

Abstract: A wearable mobile computing device/appliance (a wrist watch) with a high resolution display that is capable of wirelessly accessing information from a network and a variety of other devices. The mobile computing device/appliance includes a user interface that is used to efficiently interact with alarms and notifications on the watch.

Abstract: A portable case for storing an orthodontic retainer. The case includes a movable cover that provides access to the interior of the case. A switch mounted within the case actuates a timer circuit when the retainer is disposed within the case and the cover of the case is closed. After the retainer is placed within the container and the cover is closed, the timer begins counting. When a preset period of time has elapsed, the timer actuates an audible signal generator. Upon actuation, the audible signal generator generates a pulsed audible signal such as a beep. The audible signal is preferably generated periodically, with progressively shorter intervals between audible signal pulses. The audible pulses serve to remind the owner to replace the retainer in his or her mouth after eating. Further, in the event that the case is misplaced, the audible signal can be used to locate the retainer case.

Abstract: A device such as a watch, pager or combination pager/watch that can iteratively display status information messages for set predetermined periods of time at a predetermined location on the display. In normal operation, the device is displaying a variety of standard information. Upon the detection of a status condition, the device will alternately display the standard information and status information messages corresponding to the status condition to more effectively alert the user to the existence of the status condition.

Abstract: According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, an electronic apparatus and a method of its use are provided to keep track of events and elapsed time, during the life of a child, from a time prior to the child's birth. The apparatus has the functionality that helps satisfy the needs of parents who wish to commemorate events in the life of their child. Once the current time of day and/or date and the expected delivery date of the child have been programmed, the apparatus counts down the remaining period of time until birth in terms of months, weeks, and days. Upon reaching zero (delivery), the apparatus can be configured to perform certain celebratory acts, such as flash the display and play a tune. The apparatus then automatically switches to counting upwards and at any given moment thereafter will display the newborn's instantaneous age.

Abstract: A method and apparatus that is attachable to a receptacle for timing a predetermined interval according to a timing schedule of a set of timing schedules. The apparatus has an electronic timing circuit that provides an alarm signal at the expiration of the predetermined time interval. The timing circuit includes a set of inputs and a set of outputs that are both connected to processing circuitry. The processing circuitry defines the set of selectable timing schedules. The inputs correspond to the timing schedules, and the outputs issue the alarm signals. The apparatus also includes a sensing mechanism for selectively engaging an input based on the position of the mechanism. Each timing schedule is selectable by the device through the inputs that are engaged and disengaged.

Abstract: The combination of a personal electronic clock related device with a limited automatic multiple recall alarm suspension control means comprising an involuntary alarm suspension control circuit including an extended audio control means and a governing means. The personal electronic clock related device having internal audio alarm control means and internal sound emission means for allowing the emission of an audible alarm call sound to be broadcast at a set time. The extended audio control means is coupled with the internal audio alarm control means, and further coupled with the internal sound emission means interrupting the emission of the audible alarm call sound from being broadcast. The governing means is jointly coupled with the internal audio alarm control means and simultaneously activated when the audible alarm call sound is to be broadcast. The governing means including primary and secondary output control means cooperatively allowing an involuntary control signal to be discharged.

Abstract: An information display apparatus is provided which has a first display means that displays a first information and a second display means that displays either the first information or second information that differs from the first information, an annunciating means which externally annunciates this condition based on a prescribed signal, when the second display means is displaying the second information, if the second information coincides with the first information being displayed by the first display means, and a switching means to enable selection of at least one of selection, changing, or repeated selection of one of the first information and the second information displayed to be displayed by the second display means.

Abstract: An alert system for alerting a supervisor when an employee has worked beyond a predetermined time limit. The alert system comprises a time collection device that is interfaced with at least one alarm device. The time collection device is selectably operable to detect the input time when the employee clocks in and to generate an alert message when the employee works beyond the predetermined time limit. The predetermined time limit is set to a predetermined amount of time before a potential labor control violation, such as a violation of child labor laws or a violation of wage and hour laws, is about to occur. The time collection device comprises an input device interfaced with a controller which has the predetermined time limit stored in memory. The time collection device also includes a timer that is interfaced with the controller. The timer records the time that the employee clocks in and monitors the elapsed time after the input time.

Abstract: A snooze alarm clock having a housing including a depressible snooze actuator in the housing and movable between an off position and an on position. The clock has a lid hingedly connected to the housing and containing a clock display. The lid has a portion which contacts the snooze actuator in the off position when the lid is in a substantially closed position relative to the housing and which rests lightly on the snooze actuator. The portion of the lid which contacts the snooze actuator depresses the snooze actuator into the on position when the lid is pressed into a fully closed position against the housing.

Abstract: An electronic equipment using a battery as an energizing power source includes a display unit, a signal generator for generating operation clocks while the electronic equipment is being actuated, a counter for measuring the number of the clocks, a calculator for calculating an operating time of the battery based upon the result of the counting operation by the counter, an estimating unit for estimating a consumption state of the battery based upon the result of the calculation by the calculator, and an informing unit for making the display unit display beforehand the expiration of the lifetime of the battery based upon the result of the estimation by the estimating unit.

Abstract: An electronic alarm wristwatch including a wristwatch case with a time display and an alarm buzzer therein wherein the display overlaps at least a portion of the alarm buzzer is provided. The alarm buzzer is positioned in a sound member in registration with buzzer openings in the watchcase for directing the buzzer sound to the time display side of the wristwatch. By overlapping the time display and buzzer, the size of the time display area may be increased without increasing the overall size of the wristwatch.

Abstract: A runners watch which includes a lightweight case dimensioned to be worn on the wrist of the wearer. A display face is formed on the case. Clock circuitry is disposed within the case for operating the display face in order to display the time of the day, the date and elapsed time to the wearer. A sensor in the case detects the stride of the wearer when the wearer is running or jogging. Circuitry within the case is responsive to the sensor for computing the distance traveled by the wearer. Circuitry within the case is also responsive to the sensor for computing the rate of travel by the wearer. Switches are provided on the case for being operated to display the computed distance and the computed rate of travel.