1. This class is the generic class for instruments
or portions of instruments employed for the measurement of time
passage in units of hours, minutes, seconds, or
fractions thereof or the like.
2. Also this class is the residual class for systems
or devices or portions thereof, so constituted as to effect (i.e., control) the
operation of the time measuring instrument.
B. SUBCOMBINATIONS OF TIME PIECE SYSTEMS OR DEVICES
1. This class includes signal indicators (e.g., alarms, striking
mechanisms, displays, etc.)
specially designed for operation with or by time measuring instruments.
2. Similarly, other parts of time measuring
instruments, (e.g., time
bases, escapements, oscillators, etc.) relating to
the subject matter of other classes but designed to function as
components of timepiece systems or devices are classified in this
class.
SECTION II - LINES WITH OTHER CLASSES AND WITHIN THIS CLASS
COMBINATIONS OF OTHER APPARATUS WHICH INCLUDE APPARATUS OF
THIS CLASS
A. Subject matter where the time measuring system
or device is controlled by a disparate device is classified here
only if not elsewhere classifiable.
B. Noninteractive combinations of disparate devices
and time measuring systems or devices are classifiable here if the
time measuring art is more than nominally claimed, or not
elsewhere classifiable.
C. This class does not include the following subject
matter:
(1) Excepting the apparatus combinations
as provided for in the Class Definition, B, and
in Lines With Other Classes and Within This Class, paragraphs
A and B above, systems or devices or portions thereof whose operation
is affected (i.e., controlled) by
a time measuring mechanism.
(2) Systems or devices which perform computations involving
time or nontime parameters with an output time signal or indication (e.g., average
wait time, estimated time of arrival, etc.), such
subject matter can be found elsewhere. (See References
to Other Classes, below.)
(3) Systems or devices where the time indicating
means is a tracing, marking, or the like made
by a recording instrument is excluded, such subject matter
being proper elsewhere. (See References to Other
Classes, below.)
(4) Sundials and like instruments which
measure time by the position of a shadow are classified elsewhere. (See
References to Other Classes, below.)
Geometrical Instruments, for sundials and like instruments which measure
time by the position of a shadow. (Lines With
Other Classes and Within This Class, "Combinations of Other Apparatus")
Card, Picture, or Sign Exhibiting,
subclasses 107+ and 358 for printed or painted display calendars; and
subclass 335 for pen or pencil carried calendar indicator.
Communications: Directive Radio Wave
Systems and Devices (e.g., Radar, Radio
Navigation),
subclasses 61+ and 73+ for systems in which the time
interval between transmission and reception of a returned radio
wave is determined.
Computer Graphics Processing and Selective Visual
Display Systems,
subclasses 1.1 through 3.4for visual display systems with selective electrical
control.
Recorders, appropriate subclasses for time measuring apparatus
where the time-indicating means is a tracing, marking
or the like made by a recording instruments. (See
Lines With Other Classes and Within This Class, "Combinations
of Other Apparatus").
Electrical Pulse Counters, Pulse Dividers, or Shift
Registers: Circuits and Systems, for pulse counters and pulse counting systems, especially
subclass 20 for pulse counters used for measuring time combined
with measurement of another parameter.
Data Processing: Vehicles, Navigation, and Relative
Location,
subclass 465 for systems or devices which perform computations
involving time or nontime parameters with an output time signal
or indication (e.g., average
wait time, estimated time of arrival, etc.). (See
Lines With Other Classes and Within This Class, "Combinations
of Other Apparatus").
Data Processing: Financial, Business
Practice, Management, or Cost/Price Determination,
subclass 418 for systems or devices which perform computations
involving time or nontime parameters with an output time signal
or indication (e.g., average
wait time, estimated time of arrival, etc.). (See
Lines With Other Classes and Within This Class, "Combinations
of Other Apparatus").
Horology, for U. S. patents relating to
horology classified according to the European Patent Classification
System (EPC), the concept to horology
in the EPC is based on an industry type philosophy and therefore
encompasses significantly more subject matter than is provided in
Class 368, and includes, e.g., conventional
clocks and watches, electronic time-pieces, sun
dials, watchmakers, or watch repair tools, calibration, etc.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter wherein the timepiece is regulated (e.g.,
turned on or off) directly or indirectly by an apparatus or device
which performs an independant function unrelated to time.
This subclass is indented under subclass 1. Subject matter wherein the disparate device is an object
whose velocity (i.e., distance per unit time) across an interval
is determined by its time in transit (i.e., elapsed time).
Telephonic Communications,
subclasses 70+ for telephone time announcement and timing mechanisms
so intimately associated and claimed in combination with telephone
equipment as to be inseparable there from as independent devices.
This subclass is indented under subclass 1. Subject matter wherein the disparate device is any mechanism
or machine designed to convert energy into mechanical work external
to itself.
This subclass is indented under subclass 1. Subject matter wherein the disparate device is a transportation
mechanism or an element of a transportation mechanism.
(1)
Note. Documents classified here must contain significant
details of a timepiece mechanism.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter comprising a timepiece housed with or attached
to an additional device which has a function other than that of
keeping time and which does not serve to perfect the timepiece.
This subclass is indented under subclass 10. Subject matter wherein the disparate device is an instrument
which measures or senses the state of or a quality of its environment
(e.g., thermometer).
This subclass is indented under subclass 10. Subject matter wherein the disparate device is a signal
device which gives an audible or visual warning and is not an integral
part of the timepiece.
This subclass is indented under subclass 10. Subject matter wherein the disparate device is an instrument
used to manage or direct the course of a vehicle.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter incorporating means for indicating celestial
body data (e.g., tide occurrences, moon phases, etc.).
(1)
Note. Sundials and like instruments which measure time by
the position of a shadow are classified in Class 33.
This subclass is indented under subclass 15. Subject matter wherein the positions of the sun, earth,
and moon are indicated in relation to each other according to the
time of day, week, or month.
This subclass is indented under subclass 15. Subject matter wherein the position of both the sun and
earth is indicated in relation to each other according to the time
of day, week, or month.
This subclass is indented under subclass 15. Subject matter wherein the position of both the moon and
earth is indicated in relation to each other according to the time
of day, week, or month.
This subclass is indented under subclass 15. Subject matter comprising timepiece display means with the
specifically disclosed utility of enabling travel route projection.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter wherein a timepiece includes means to display
the absolute or relative time for more than one of the 24 divisions of
the globe which approximately coincide with meridians at successive
hours from the observatroy at Greenwich, England.
This subclass is indented under subclass 21. Subject matter wherein the display of time in various time
zones is available only upon manual activation of the display.
This subclass is indented under subclass 23. Subject matter including means whereby the globe is artificially
supplied with light (e.g., from
within the globe).
This subclass is indented under subclass 21. Subject matter wherein the time display means includes at
least one moving circular face (usually more than one), having
time minerals or the like thereon.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter including means for indicating days of the
week, weeks of the month, months of the year, years
or any other man-made divisions of time wherein the lowest
time period unit indicated is at least equal to the time of one
revolution of the earth on its axis.
Card, Picture, or Sign Exhibiting,
subclasses 107+ and 358 for printed or painted display calendars
or the like, per se; and subclass 335 for pen- or
pencil-carried calendar indicator.
This subclass is indented under subclass 28. Subject matter wherein the timepiece display means is made
from a material whose optical properties can be changed by an electrical
signal.
Liquid Crystal Cells, Elements and Systems, appropriate subclasses and especially
subclass 142 for optical systems and elements utilizing liquid crystal
materials.
This subclass is indented under subclass 28. Subject matter comprising means to impart energy to operate
the timepiece by some turning or coiling process as well as to position
the time indicators of the timepiece.
This subclass is indented under subclass 31. Subject matter including a two-piece mechanism
comprising two coaxially-mounted means, one of
which slidably engages the other for coupling or decoupling.
This subclass is indented under subclass 28. Subject matter comprising means to impart energy to operate
the timepiece through some turning or coiling process.
This subclass is indented under subclass 35. Subject matter wherein the setting means is selectively
coupled to the time indicator by a two-piece mechanism, comprised
of two coaxially-mounted means, one of which slidably engages
the other to enable the coupling.
This subclass is indented under subclass 28. Subject matter wherein at least one of the timepiece time
indicators is a movable, circular, band, or
flat plate.
This subclass is indented under subclass 37. Subject matter comprising a spring-controlled means
for abruptly advancing the ring or disk from one position to another.
This subclass is indented under subclass 28. Subject matter wherein at least one of the timepiece time
indicators is a striplike band which moves about two or more wheels, pulleys, or the
like.
WITH MEMORANDUM HOLDER OR ERASABLE WRITING SURFACE:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter wherein a timepiece is provided with a holder (e.g., hook, reel, compartment) for
an article having thereon some information for the timepiece user
or provided with an erasable writing surface upon which such information
may be written.
This subclass is indented under subclass 41. Subject matter wherein the holder or surface is movable, movement
thereof being under control of the time measuring instrument.
This subclass is indented under subclass 41. Subject matter wherein a pointer is movable under the direction
of a time-keeping mechanism and pointing to a particular
memorandum, or part thereof, which is pertinent
to a user, for a given time or time period.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter comprising clockwork imitation timepiece
means for simulating time keeping functions.
PLURAL TIMEPIECE SYSTEM OR SYSTEM DEVICE (E.G., PRIMARY
OR SECONDARY CLOCKS):
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter relating to the general organization and
mechanism or circuitry of plural timepieces whereby the displays
of any number of these timepieces in remote, different localities
are operated from a central station.
(1)
Note. The central station includes a primary timepiece
for operating the remote timepiece.
(2)
Note. Plug-in AC time base electric clocks
are classified in subclass 62 and subclasses indented thereunder.
This subclass is indented under subclass 46. Subject matter wherein a remote time-display means
is synchronized, if necessary, to agree with the
central station time-display at predetermined intervals, and
this synchronizing is accomplished by radio frequency-type
transmission and receiving means.
This subclass is indented under subclass 46. Subject matter wherein the main power source for the system
is replaced by an emergency power source in event of main power
source failure.
This subclass is indented under subclass 46. Subject matter including means for either winding the spring
motor or correcting the time indicators of the secondary timepiece.
(1)
Note. Nominal recitations of winding or setting
means are not classified in this or indented subclasses.
This subclass is indented under subclass 46. Subject matter wherein the central station timepiece drives
the remote timepieces through a physical (electrical or
otherwise) connection with the remote timepieces.
This subclass is indented under subclass 52. Subject matter wherein the synchronization of the remote
time-readout means is accomplished as a result of some
condition, such as ambient temperature change.
This subclass is indented under subclass 52. Subject matter wherein the synchronization or driving of
the remote time-readout means is accomplished by fluid-pressure
means.
This subclass is indented under subclass 52. Subject matter comprising transmission means which forms
a part of a communication system coupling the primary timepiece
to the secondary timepiece.
This subclass is indented under subclass 52. Subject matter wherein the synchronizing is accomplished
by a change in the electrical, mechanical, or
electromechanical frequency of the driving signal.
This subclass is indented under subclass 52. Subject matter wherein the synchronizing is accomplished
by a change in the amplitude of the driving signal.
This subclass is indented under subclass 52. Subject matter wherein the synchronizing is accomplished
by a change in the polarity of the driving signal.
This subclass is indented under subclass 46. Subject matter relating to the remote timepiece and its
mechanism or circuitry for receiving communication from the central
station timepiece.
This subclass is indented under subclass 59. Subject matter wherein synchronization of the remote time-readout
means is accomplished by mechanical or electromechanical means (e.g., respectively, spring
and lever, or solenoid).
This subclass is indented under subclass 60. Subject matter wherein an electrical switch is operated, by
a mechanism, to actuate the electromechanical means.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter relating to timepieces which repeat an observable
process periodically to indicate a measure of time of indefinite continuous
duration by regular division, and which contain (a) a
time-indicator, and (b) an energy
source, or (c) a time base, or (d) a
coupling means between a time base and the time-indicator.
(1)
Note. Electrical clocks using plug-in AC as
the time base are included in this and indented subclasses.
Recorders, appropriate subclasses for time measuring apparatus
where the time-indicating means is a tracing, marking, or
the like made by a recording instrument.
This subclass is indented under subclass 62. Subject matter wherein power source status is constantly
checked and displayed by means with in the timepiece.
This subclass is indented under subclass 62. Subject matter wherein the display is supplied with light
in addition to whatever light it receives from its environment or
whatever light it emits as a result of its operational state or composition.
Illumination,
subclasses 23.01 through 23.22,for illumination of scales or dials, per
se. Also see search class notes under subclasses 23.01-23.22
for other specific dial illumination.
Computer Graphics Processing and Selective Visual
Display Systems,
subclasses 20+ , 63, 77, and 690-697 for
selective intensity control of a visual display system.
This subclass is indented under subclass 62. Subject matter wherein a switch or the like is manually
operated to cause the timepiece to exhibit information.
(1)
Note. Subject matter of this subclass and its indent
does not include reset mechanisms.
This subclass is indented under subclass 69. Subject matter wherein by controlling the actuation means
time data is displayed in series by the timepiece.
(1)
Note. For example, with one button (Switch) control-one
push of the button the timepiece displays time of day information; a
second push of the button and the timepiece displays day/month
informataion, etc.
Computer Graphics Processing and Selective Visual
Display Systems,
subclasses 156+ for manually activated selective electrical control
for a visual display system.
This subclass is indented under subclass 62. Subject matter wherein the timepiece includes a plurality
of means for indicating the time concurrently (e.g., visual
and audible means).
This subclass is indented under subclass 71. Subject matter wherein one of the simultaneous time indicators
is a signal means which is actuated by a timepiece when the timepiece
reaches a randomly, preset time.
This subclass is indented under subclass 72. Subject matter including means for priming the alarm-signalling
means (e.g., alarm means coupled
to timepiece setting or winding mechanism).
Subject matter under subclas 71 wherein one of the simultaneous
time indicators is a signal means which is actuated by a timepiece
at regular, uniformly preset times, (e.g., on
the hour, half-hour, etc.).
This subclass is indented under subclass 62. Subject matter wherin a display of time information or indication
is powered by a mechanical or electromechanical device, for
example, a synchronous motor or solenoid.
This subclass is indented under subclass 76. Subject matter wherein the time-display includes
at least one disk or plate (usually more than one), having
time numerals or the like thereon, which is wheel-shaped
and rotates with respect to time-reference-indicating means, e.g., a
painted line on a transparent cover, a window, etc.
This subclass is indented under subclass 76. Subject matter wherein the time display is an indicia bearing
cylinder which rotates with respect to an indicator.
This subclass is indented under subclass 76. Subject matter wherein the time display consists of means
for projecting, reflecting, or transmitting electrically
produced visible radiation from or through time representative indicia.
Computer Graphics Processing and Selective Visual
Display Systems,
subclasses 1.1 through 3.4for visual display systems with selective electrical
control.
This subclass is indented under subclass 76. Subject matter wherein the time display consists of a fixed
indicia bearing plate and pointers, which rotate with respect
to the plate.
Signals and Indicators,
subclasses 284+ for devices having means to apply mechanical force
to indicators to cause them to turn about an axis so as to indicate
information.
This subclass is indented under subclass 80. Subject matter wherein the driving means for the hand and
dial display is a motor which is positioned in the hand or hands.
This subclass is indented under subclass 62. Subject matter wherein the timepiece-display means
is made of a material whose optical properties can be changed by
an electrical signal.
Computer Graphics Processing and Selective Visual
Display Systems,
subclasses 1.1 through 3.4for visual display systems with selective electrical
control.
This subclass is indented under subclass 82. Subject matter wherein a change in the optical properties
of solid display material is caused by an electrical current and
results in the emission of visible radiation.
Computer Graphics Processing and Selective Visual
Display Systems,
subclasses 39 , 44+, and 82+ for
solid body light-emitting display devices with selective
electrical control.
This subclass is indented under subclass 82. Subject matter wherein a change in the optical properties
of the display material is caused by an electrical voltage and results
in the reflection or transmission of visible radiation.
(1)
Note. A liquid crystal material is a mateial which
flows like a liquid and exhibits anisotropic optical properties
which are characteristic of crystals.
Liquid Crystal Cells, Elements and Systems, appropriate subclasses and especially
subclass 142 for optical systems and elements utilizing liquid crystal
materials.
This subclass is indented under subclass 62. Subject matter wherein pulse signals are changed or altered
by means internal to the timepiece (e.g., multistage
frequency dividers with electrical or manual switching).
This subclass is indented under subclass 86. Subject matter wherein a combination of interconnected circuit
elements are inseparably associated on or within a continuous substrate.
This subclass is indented under subclass 62. Subject matter wherein the timepiece incorporates a special
enclosure or upholding means for the timepiece contents within the
enclosure.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter wherein means is provided for indicating
the time of duration of a particular event or upon termination of
a predetermined time period.
Electrical Pulse Counters, Pulse Dividers, or
Shift Registers: Circuits and Systems, for pulse counters and pulse counting systems, especially
subclass 20 for pulse counters used for measuring time combined
with measurement of another parameter.
This subclass is indented under subclass 89. Subject matter associated with a vehicle or a vehicle parking
space for indicating the length of time the vehicle has been parked
or the length of time remaining of a parking period.
This subclass is indented under subclass 90. Subject matter wherein the time indicator is controlled
by the flow of a fluid or granular material due to gravity or by
the movement of a solid body due to gravity.
This subclass is indented under subclass 90. Subject matter including an indicator which indicates an
additional time interval which is representative of the time beyond
the expiration of a previous time period.
This subclass is indented under subclass 89. Subject matter wherein the time indicating part of the timepiece
is controlled by the flow of a fluid or granular material due to
gravity or by the movement of a solid body due to gravity.
This subclass is indented under subclass 93. Subject matter including attention-signalling means
to indicate the expiration of a predetermined time interval.
This subclass is indented under subclass 89. Subject matter comprising a plurality of time indicators
which operate by turns, i.e., when one
timepiece is turned on, the others are turned off.
This subclass is indented under subclass 89. Subject matter wherein the time interval timepiece is operated
mechanically with mechanical means for stopping its time indicator
at will or upon completion of an event of unknown duration.
This subclass is indented under subclass 101. Subject matter including means for stopping the timer by
placing a lever or brake against or in the path of one of the timer"s
moving parts.
This subclass is indented under subclass 101. Subject matter including means for returning the time indicator(s) to
zero, or an original start position.
Miscellaneous Active Electrical Nonlinear Devices, Circuits, and
Systems,
subclasses 1+ for miscellaneous phase or time discriminating
circuits, subclasses 141+ for miscellaneous synchronizing
circuits, subclasses 231+ for miscellaneous phase
shift circuits, subclasses 263+ for miscellaneous delay
circuits, and subclasses 291+ for miscellaneous
pulse or clock waveform generation.
Communications: Directive Radio Wave
Systems and Devices (e.g., Radar, Radio
Navigation),
subclasses 61+ and 73+ for systems in which the time
interval between transmission and reception of a returned radio
wave is determined. Those systems determine, for
example, the distance or range of an object from the transmission-reception
station.
Electrical Pulse Counters, Pulse Dividers, or
Shift Registers: Circuits and Systems, for pulse counters and pulse counting systems especially
subclass 20 for pulse counters used for measuring time combined
with measurement of another parameter.
This subclass is indented under subclass 107. Subject matter wherein mechanical means is provided for
stopping a timepiece indicator at will or upon the completion of
a particular event of intially unknown duration.
Static Information Storage and Retrieval, for electronic storage and retrieval of information, per
se;
subclasses 185.01+ for floating gate memory storage (e.g., flash
memory).
This subclass is indented under subclass 110. Subject matter including means for returning the timepiece
indicator to zero, or to an original start position.
This subclass is indented under subclass 107. Subject matter wherein electrical or electromechanical means
is provided for stopping a timepiece indicator upon completion of
an event of initially unknown duration.
This subclass is indented under subclass 113. Subject matter including means with a nonelectrical characteristic
alterable by the time signal or during the time interval, which
characteristic indicates by the degree of its alteration the length
of the time interval.
(1)
Note. An example of the subject matter of this subclass
is an electrolytic cell from which the duration of a time interval
is determined by measuring the quantity of the deposit of a metal
element from the electrolyte brought about a flow of current through
the electrolyte during the time interval to be determined.
Chemistry: Electrical Current Producing
Apparatus, Product, and Process,
subclasses 61+ for control means responsive to an electrolytic cell
sensor; and subclasses 90+ for means to measure
and test an electrolytic cell.
This subclass is indented under subclass 113. Subject matter having a cathode-ray tube visual display
either as the ultimate-indicating means or as an auxiliary
or intermediate-indicating means.
(1)
Note. The intermediate-indicating means
may consist of a cathode-ray tube display device whose
display is sensed or "read" by photocells.
Incremental Printing of Symbolic Information,
subclasses 226+ for radiation marking using cathode-ray
tube, subclasses 121+ for electrostatic marking
using electron beam with an air tight envelope.
This subclass is indented under subclass 115. Subject matter having means to increase the light intensity
of certain portions of the visual display with respect to another
portions of the visual display.
Electric Lamp and Discharge Devices: Systems,
subclasses 383+ for cathode-ray sweep circuitry in general
with ray intensity control means; and subclass 30 for cathode-ray
tube, ray modulation circuitry.
This subclass is indented under subclass 115. Subject matter wherein means is provided to displace to
selective extents in time the signal or a portion of the signal, or
signals, representative of the interval to be measured.
(1)
Note. An example of a portion of an interval signal
is the "stop" pulse of a "start-stop" pair of pulses.
This subclass is indented under subclass 113. Subject matter including means generating a periodic or
periodically varying electric signal whose period represents a unit
interval of time.
(1)
Note. This subclass includes, for example, systems
in which the oscillation of fixed frequency oscillators are counted during
the interval being measured.
This subclass is indented under subclass 118. Subject matter having two or more periodic or periodically
varying signal generating means with the periods of the signals
of at least two of the generating means representing unit intervals
of time.
(1)
Note. The unit intervals generated by the plural
generating means of this subclass need not be of equal duration. An example
of time measuring means including plural generators of signals having
different periods is the "vernier" type of time measuring means.
This subclass is indented under subclass 113. Subject matter wherein means are provided to displace in
time the signal or a portion of the signal representative of the
interval to be measured, for example, the "start"
portion of a "start-stop" pair of pulses.
Miscellaneous Active Electrical Nonlinear Devices, Circuits, and
Systems,
subclasses 141+ for miscellaneous synchronizing circuits, subclasses 231+ for
miscellaneous phase shift circuits, and subclasses 263+ for
miscellaneous delay circuits.
This subclass is indented under subclass 113. Subject matter having indicating means, usually
as the ultimate elapsed time indicator, responsive to a
voltage or electrical charge representative of said elapsed time.
(1)
Note. Examples of indicators of this subclass type
are: conventional volmeters, ammeters, and
ballistic galvanometers. These meters, in many
cases, are calibrated in horological units instead of the
electrical quantities to which they actually respond.
This subclass is indented under subclass 121. Subject matter wherein the voltage or electrical charge
indicator indicates a state of zero voltage or electrical charge, and
variable means is provided to establish said state, the
amount of variation of said variable means providing a measure of
the time interval.
This subclass is indented under subclass 121. Subject matter wherein the means to indicate the voltage
or electrical charge is a high-impedance meter including
a space discharge device.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter comprising that portion of a timing device
which measures beats and controls the speed of the device"s time
train.
This subclass is indented under subclass 125. Subject matter wherein the oscillating or reciprocating
means interacts with the escapement through a magnetic means carried
by the oscillating or reciprocating means.
This subclass is indented under subclass 125. Subject matter wherein the oscillating means is a wheel
or wheellike member for regulating the beats of a timepiece.
This subclass is indented under subclass 127. Subject matter wherein the oscillating motion of the balance
is used to impel an element to rotating or rectilinear movement.
This subclass is indented under subclass 127. Subject matter wherein the balance wheel-type mechanism
supports means for receiving short, impelling forces from
an escapement.
This subclass is indented under subclass 129. Subject matter wherein the balance wheel and the impulses
means are commonly mounted on the same rod or bar element.
This subclass is indented under subclass 130. Subject matter including pallet means which intermittently
lock and receive impulses from the escapement and transmit the impulses
to the balance shaft.
This subclass is indented under subclass 127. Subject matter wherein interaction between the escapement
and the balance wheel means is accomplished by means of at least
two levers, one or more attached to or carrying pallets
and another, in the form of a roller with a pin projecting
from its face, attached to the balance means staff.
This subclass is indented under subclass 132. Subject matter having the arbors of the balance wheel means, the
escapement wheel means and the escapement lever in a straight line.
This subclass is indented under subclass 125. Subject matter wherein the oscillating means is a body so
suspended from a fixed point so as to move to-and-fro
by the force of gravity and acquired momentum.
This subclass is indented under subclass 134. Subject matter wherein the oscillating motion of the pendulum
is used to impel an element to rotating or rectilinear movement.
This subclass is indented under subclass 137. Subject matter including means comprising a lever with lips
or projections which intermittently lock the escape wheel and transmit impulses
from the escape wheel to the pendulum.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter including mechanically-powered means
for providing impulses to the beat measuring time indicator control
portion of a timepiece.
This subclass is indented under subclass 139. Subject matter wherein the mechanical power supply is a
spring which is designated for use as the principal motive power
in a timepiece.
This subclass is indented under subclass 140. Subject matter including means to impart energy to the mainspring
as well as means to adjust the timepiece display to a desired condition.
This subclass is indented under subclass 145. Subject matter wherein the winding and setting means include
a manually manipulatable control element, usually cylindrically
shaped, which projects to the exterior of the timepiece.
This subclass is indented under subclass 140. Subject matter including means for imparting energy to the
mainspring through a coiling or turning process.
This subclass is indented under subclass 148. Subject matter wherein the automatic means further includes
a secondary spring for controlling the mainspring.
This subclass is indented under subclass 147. Subject matter including means on a housing to provide or
regulate the energy, e.g., a
rotatable rim or ringlike member.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter including electrically-powered means
for providing impulses or pulses to the beat measuring time indicator control
portion of a timepiece.
This subclass is indented under subclass 155. Subject matter wherein the time base includes an oscillating
circuit containing solid-state electrical elements.
This subclass is indented under subclass 156. Subject matter wherein the oscillating circuit controls
the actuation of a reciprocating or oscillating element.
Electricity: Motive Power Systems,
subclass 134 for motive power systems having reciprocating or
oscillating motors wherein the winding energization is controlled
by circuit making and breaking devices.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter including means designed to be moved to-and-for
or vibrated as part of the movement of a timepiece.
This subclass is indented under subclass 168. Subject matter wherein the oscillating means is a wheel
or wheellike means for regulating the beats of a timepiece.
This subclass is indented under subclass 170. Subject matter including means to make up for or offset
unwanted variations in the oscillation or reciprocation of the balance
wheel.
This subclass is indented under subclass 170. Subject matter wherein the balance wheel is regulated by
means which include a bar with teeth adapted to engage with the
teeth of a cog wheel.
This subclass is indented under subclass 175. Subject matter including pin-restraining means, which, in
conjunction with the hairspring, serve to regulate the
motion of the balance wheel.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter including means intergral to a timepiece
to control the timekeeping operation of the timepiece.
This subclass is indented under subclass 184. Subject matter including means to put timepiece means into
proper position, order, or condition for use, and/or
including means to adjust timepiece-indicating means in
accordance with a time standard or estimate.
This subclass is indented under subclass 187. Subject matter wherein the setting means stops a train of
pulse signals.
(1)
Note. For example, in setting a watch which
is running ahead of time, a button is pushed which blocks
pulses to the watch display to slow down or stop the watch, until
the correct time is reached.
This subclass is indented under subclass 85. Subject matter wherein the setting means is used to adjust
the timepiece for operation by some turning or coiling process.
This subclass is indented under subclass 190. Subject matter wherein the setting means includes a two-piece
mechanism comprising two coaxially-mounted means, one
of which slidably engages the other for coupling or decoupling.
This subclass is indented under subclass 193. Subject matter wherein the coupling lever is also attached
to a cut or indentation in a stem used for winding or setting.
This subclass is indented under subclass 190. Subject matter wherein the connection between the winding
or setting train and the means for putting either or both into operation
is made by a flat, pivoted, twin- coupling
means adapted to mesh with pinion means of either train.
This subclass is indented under subclass 196. Subject matter wherein the movable plate has two gears, one
at each end for coupling with the winding or setting train.
This subclass is indented under subclass 197. Subject matter wherein the movable plate is moved into engagement
with the winding or setting train by a cam or camlike device.
This subclass is indented under subclass 197. Subject matter wherein the movable plate is moved into engagement
with the winding or setting train by a bar or bar-like
device.
This subclass is indented under subclass 184. Subject matter comprising means to control the rate of regularly
recurring events in the operation of a timepiece.
This subclass is indented under subclass 200. Subject matter comprising means for delivering an output
which is an integral submultiple or proper fraction of the input
frequency.
This subclass is indented under subclass 184. Subject matter comprising means to counterbalance or offset
changes in conditions which affect the operation of a timepiece.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter including a source of energy means for furnishing
motive force to timekeeping means, or means which house
or hold the energy source within the timekeeping means enclosure.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter including means for imparting energy to a
timepiece through a coiling or turning process.
This subclass is indented under subclass 207. Subject matter including an oscillating or vibrating body
which receives kinetic energy via external motion.
This subclass is indented under subclass 206. Subject matter including means for showing the degree to
which the timepiece is wound or for indicating the need for winding
the timepiece.
This subclass is indented under subclass 206. Subject matter wherein the energy is imparted to means for
actuating an oscillating or vibrating bar with a crank attachment
to power the timepiece.
This subclass is indented under subclass 206. Subject matter including a rotatable ringlike member which
is a part of the periphery or outer surface of the timepiece.
This subclass is indented under subclass 220. Subject matter wherein the timepiece indicators driven by
the train to turn round an axis are flat, round shaped, platelike
objects.
This subclass is indented under subclass 220. Subject matter wherein the timepiece indicators driven by
the train are cylindrically shaped objects or cylinders with plane
objects pivotally attached thereto.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter comprising indicator means associated with
the indicator means used to convey or in conveying the time.
Computer Graphics Processing and Selective Visual
Display Systems,
subclasses 1.1 through 3.4for visual display systems with selective electrical
control.
Recorders, appropriate subclasses for time measuring apparatus
where the time-indicating means is a tracing, marking, or
the like made by a recording instrument.
This subclass is indented under subclass 223. Subject matter wherein a switch or the like is manually
operated to cause the display to perform according to design.
This subclass is indented under subclass 224. Subject matter wherein the activating means is operated
by manual movement or orientation of the display means.
This subclass is indented under subclass 223. Subject matter wherein the indicator means is, at
least in part, comprised of a fluorescent, phosphoresent
or radioactive substance.
Radiant Energy,
subclasses 462.1+ especially subclasses 463.1+, for
self-luminous dials, pointers, gauges
and bands; and subclasses 483.1+ for luminescent
devices not classified elsewhere.
Illumination,
subclasses 23.01 through 23.22for illumination of scales or dials, per
se. Also see search class notes under subclasses 23.01-23.22
for other specific dial illumination.
This subclass is indented under subclass 223. Subject matter comprising face means with time indicia located
thereupon or pointer means for use in conjunction with said face means.
This subclass is indented under subclass 228. Subject matter wherein at least part of the display is in
the form of a figure which has lifelike movement during the operation
of the display, for either timekeeping or entertainment/aesthetic
functions.
This subclass is indented under subclass 228. Subject matter wherein the face shows the hours up to twelve
during the first rotation of the hands, after which the
numerals are automatically changed to show hours from thirteen to
twenty-four.
This subclass is indented under subclass 232. Subject matter wherein the dial-display means includes
at least one face (usually more than one), having
time numerals or the like thereon, and is wheel-shaped, and
rotates with respect to time-reference means, e.g., a
painted line on a transparent cover, a window, etc.
This subclass is indented under subclass 232. Subject matter wherein the dial elements are cylindrically-shaped
and rotate with respect to a time reference indicator, (e.g., window, fixed mark, etc.), or
wherein planar elements are pivotally attached to cylindrically-shaped
elements which rotate allowing the planar elements to sequentially
indicate the time.
This subclass is indented under subclass 223. Subject matter wherein the display includes means for projecting, reflecting, or
transmitting, electrically produced visible radiation from
or through time representative indicia.
Computer Graphics Processing and Selective Visual
Display Systems,
subclasses 1.1 through 3.4for visual display systems with selective electrical
control.
Liquid Crystal Cells, Elements and Systems, appropriate subclasses and especially
subclass 142 for optical systems and elements utilizing liquid crystal
materials.
This subclass is indented under subclass 239. Subject matter wherein the indicating means is comprised
of solid material which emits visible radiation upon application
of an electrical current.
Computer Graphics Processing and Selective Visual
Display Systems,
subclasses 39 , 44+, and 82+ for solid body
light-emitting display devices with selective electrical control.
This subclass is indented under subclass 239. Subject matter wherein the indicating means is comprised
of liquid crystal material which reflects or transmits visible radiation
upon application of an electrical voltage.
Liquid Crystal Cells, Elements and Systems, appropriate subclasses and especially
subclass 142 for optical systems and elements utilizing liquid crystal
materials.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter including means for calling attention to
the system or device either periodically (e.g., hourly striking
clock) or when a nonperiodic preset time is indicated by the system
or device.
Signals and Indicators,
subclass 206 for chemically-activated time indicators; and subclasses
22+ for automatic and periodic actuation of signals other than
time.
This subclass is indented under subclass 243. Subject matter comprising signalling means, capable of being
set to be actuated by a timepiece for any predetermined time or
times.
This subclass is indented under subclass 244. Subject matter wherein means is provided to enable the setting
of several different predetermined time-of-day times for the actuation
of the alarm.
This subclass is indented under subclass 244. Subject matter wherein the alarm means is associated with
a timepiece which will operate for a time period longer than a day
with the alarm means actuated each day at the time for which it
has been set.
This subclass is indented under subclass 244. Subject matter including means to automatically actuate
the alarm means several time with short intervals between actuations.
This subclass is indented under subclass 250. Subject matter including means to electronically store information
relating to the actuation of the alarm means.
Static Information Storage and Retrieval, for electronic storage and retrieval of information, per
se;
subclasses 185.01+ for floating gate memory storage (e.g., flash memory).
This subclass is indented under subclass 250. Subject matter wherein the circuit to be connected to the
alarm is in the form of a circle with connection means for completing
the circuit located at any point of the circumference.
This subclass is indented under subclass 250. Subject matter wherein the circuit to be connected to the
alarm is established through connection means located on a time
indicator hand.
This subclass is indented under subclass 250. Subject matter wherein the alarm means is at least partly
comprised of material which when subjected to mechanical stress
produces a voltage, or when subjected to a voltage undergoes mechanical
stress.
This subclass is indented under subclass 250. Subject matter wherein the alarm circuit is closed by means
set in operation by a mechanical trigger or the like.
This subclass is indented under subclass 257. Subject matter wherein the let-off is operated by movement
of the winding arbor when an alarm train is activated.
This subclass is indented under subclass 262. Subject matter including means initiated by activation of
the shutoff mechanism for reactivating the alarm after a short time
interval.
This subclass is indented under subclass 262. Subject matter including means to release the shutoff mechanism
upon winding the time or alarm spring of the timepiece.
This subclass is indented under subclass 243. Subject matter wherein the signalling means is activated
through an eccentric wheel or the like motion conversion element.
This subclass is indented under subclass 243. Subject matter wherein the signalling means is a musical
instrument or device including "cuckoo-clocks" and the like.
This subclass is indented under subclass 243. Subject matter wherein the signalling means is a recording
playback device to reproduce prerecorded audio or visual material.
This subclass is indented under subclass 243. Subject matter including means to disengage the striking
means from other time indicators, such as hands, while setting those
indicators.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter which includes specific means for inclosing
or containing the works of a timepiece.
This subclass is indented under subclass 276. Subject matter including an additional device having a function
other than that of keeping or measuring time.
This subclass is indented under subclass 281. Subject matter including significant details of the structure
of the means for attaching the case to the wrist of the wearer.
This subclass is indented under subclass 286. Subject matter including protection means for winding or
setting knob and shaft which protrudes from the case.
This subclass is indented under subclass 276. Subject matter comprising characteristics of an internally
grooved ring or rim for holding a rigid, transparent cover over
the face of a timepiece or details of the rigid, transparent cover.
This subclass is indented under subclass 294. Subject matter including only the characteristics of the
internally grooved ring or rim for holding the crystal.
This subclass is indented under subclass 294. Subject matter including only the characteristics of the
rigid, transparent cover which fits into the bezel.
This subclass is indented under subclass 276. Subject matter comprising characteristics of rings in the
cases which are designed and designated to hold the movement of
a timepiece.
This subclass is indented under subclass 276. Subject matter relating to the post attached to the case
center, which receives the stem and bow and any atatchments (e.g.,
chain, clip, etc.) thereto.
This subclass is indented under subclass 301. Subject matter wherein affixed to the pendant is a ring
generally used to suspend the timepiece, for example, as by a chain
inserted through the ring and worn about the neck of the timepiece
user.
This subclass is indented under subclass 309. Subject matter comprising front or back means for screwing
the front or back to the central movement-holding ring.
This subclass is indented under subclass 309. Subject matter relating to the movable joint whereby the
front or back of the case is united to the center.
This subclass is indented under subclass 276. Subject matter comprising details of the means to hold up
or bear the weight of the case and its contents.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter including particular details of the winding
or setting knob and/or shaft which protrudes from the timepiece.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject matter comprising particular details of a pinion
frictionally placed on the center arbor by which time and dial trains
are connected and having a long boss or pipe to which the minute-hand
is attached.
This subclass is indented under subclass 325. Subject matter comprising means for cushioning, or otherwise
safeguarding parts of the timepiece associated with the balance
staff and bearing.
Note: The Patent
and Trademark Depository Library Program (PTDLP) administers a nationwide
network of public, state and academic libraries designated as Patent and
Trademark Depository Libraries authorized by 35 U.S.C. 13 to: Disseminate
Patent and Trademark Information Support Diverse Intellectual Property
Needs of the Public. PTDL Contact Information
Note: For information/comments on electronic information products, such
as purchasing USPTO data, or to discuss system requirements for magnetic
tape products, contact:
KEY: =online
business system =fees =forms=help =laws/regulations =definition
(glossary)
The Inventors
Assistance Center is available to help you on patent
matters.Send questions about USPTO programs and services
to theUSPTO
Contact Center (UCC). You can suggest USPTO webpages
or material you would like featured on this section by E-mail
to the webmaster@uspto.gov.
While we cannot promise to accommodate all requests, your suggestions
will be considered and may lead to other improvements on the
website.