EP0914049B1 - Clasp with unfolding arms - Google Patents

Clasp with unfolding arms Download PDF

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Publication number
EP0914049B1
EP0914049B1 EP97915248A EP97915248A EP0914049B1 EP 0914049 B1 EP0914049 B1 EP 0914049B1 EP 97915248 A EP97915248 A EP 97915248A EP 97915248 A EP97915248 A EP 97915248A EP 0914049 B1 EP0914049 B1 EP 0914049B1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
core
locking means
arm
elastic tubular
tubular locking
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Expired - Lifetime
Application number
EP97915248A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP0914049A1 (en
Inventor
Jacques Hubert Gay
Luigi Ferrario
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Rolex SA
Original Assignee
Montres Rolex SA
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Montres Rolex SA filed Critical Montres Rolex SA
Publication of EP0914049A1 publication Critical patent/EP0914049A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP0914049B1 publication Critical patent/EP0914049B1/en
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Expired - Lifetime legal-status Critical Current

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Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A44—HABERDASHERY; JEWELLERY
    • A44C—PERSONAL ADORNMENTS, e.g. JEWELLERY; COINS
    • A44C5/00—Bracelets; Wrist-watch straps; Fastenings for bracelets or wrist-watch straps
    • A44C5/18—Fasteners for straps, chains or the like
    • A44C5/22—Fasteners for straps, chains or the like for closed straps
    • A44C5/24—Fasteners for straps, chains or the like for closed straps with folding devices
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
    • Y10T24/00—Buckles, buttons, clasps, etc.
    • Y10T24/21—Strap tighteners
    • Y10T24/2143—Strap-attached folding lever
    • Y10T24/2155—Jewelry-watch straps
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
    • Y10T24/00—Buckles, buttons, clasps, etc.
    • Y10T24/21—Strap tighteners
    • Y10T24/2166—Jewelry

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a folding clasp according to the claims. It relates more particularly to a folding clasp for wristwatch with at least one folding arm that can be locked on a elastic locking means arranged in a base blade.
  • Document EP-0'509'938 describes a folding clasp comprising two arms leaflets articulated at the ends of a central stretcher. Each arm has a concavity allowing locking by compressing said concavity on a rod or pin of the central stretcher.
  • the arms are monoblocks with limited elasticity and the concavities lose their flexibility under the effect of a repeated compression. To correct this loss of flexibility, you can modify the width a throat placed behind the concavity using a point of screwdriver or knife. This modification flexibility is insecure and may damage the folding arm.
  • a third drawback lies in the reliability and security of the closures. with known folding and snap-fastening clasp.
  • the locking forces are difficult to adjust, presenting a risk of inadvertent opening of the clasp flyer.
  • the problem of asymmetry of the catching force of a clasp with two folding arms closing on a common stud As an example is mentioned the problem of asymmetry of the catching force of a clasp with two folding arms closing on a common stud. During a first notching of one of the folding arms, said stud is slightly deformed, so that the other folding arm clings with a different latching force.
  • FR 2 705 873 has already proposed a clasp of the aforementioned type comprising a base and an arm, one of which end is hinged to this base and is housed between two parallel legs of the base in the closed position of the clasp.
  • This arm and this base thus have two pairs of side faces located opposite each other two to two in the closed position of the clasp. Each of these faces adjacent sides has a longitudinal recess together forming a cylindrical housing.
  • a coil spring is housed in one of the longitudinal recesses and is resiliently engaged in the other longitudinal recess when closing the clasp. The fact of exercising a lateral catching force can cause deformations tending to spread the branches of the base from each other. Furthermore, the coil spring being retained in one of the longitudinal grooves, it must follow the shape of this groove, so that it lacks freedom to deform when opening or closing the clasp.
  • the objective of the present invention is to provide a solution to these problems by creating a folding clasp, by example for a wristwatch, of a particularly compact construction and compatible with known and proven manufacturing techniques.
  • the visible elements of the folding clasp according to the invention are preferably metallic, they are for example made of stainless steel and / or gold.
  • the use of other basic materials is of course possible.
  • the folding clasp comprises at least one folding arm 1,2 articulated with respect to a base blade 3 and a locking means 4.
  • the base blade 3 consists of two side blades connected by two transverse pins 3.10 .
  • said transverse pins 3.10 also serve as a hinge for two folding arms 1,2.
  • 1.1.2.1 fasteners arranged by positive engagement with the folding arms 1.2 allow the attachment of a bracelet to the folding clasp, said 1.1.2.1 fasteners allow for example the attachment of a link bracelet.
  • end links which are part of a link bracelet and of the folding clasp. Such end links go beyond the scope of the present invention and are not shown in the figures.
  • the locking means 4 is firmly anchored in at least one opening 3.1, 3, 1 ' of the base blade 3. This locking means 4 allows locking of at least one folding arm 1.2 by folding this folding arm 1.2 on the locking means 4.
  • Each folding arm 1, 2 comprises at least one contact surface 1.4, 2, 4 which can be pressed in compression on the locking means 4 .
  • the locking means 4 comprises several elastic tubular elements and combinations of such elastic elements.
  • the locking means 4 comprises a coil spring 4.1 and at least one core 4.2 serving as support and connection to the base plate 3 for the coil spring 4.1 , which is arranged around at least one core 4.2 allowing compression of the turns 40 of the spring 4.1 in a first direction tending to bring them closer to the core 4.2 and to expand these turns 40 in a second transverse direction, by sliding on the core 4.2 .
  • a contact surface 1.4, 2.4 of at least one folding arm 1.2 is supported on the locking means 4 by exerting a force towards the core 4.2 along a plane containing the axis of this core 4.2 and the axis transverse articulation 3.10 of the arm 1.2 .
  • the contact surfaces 1.4, 4.2.4 of the folding arms with the coil spring 4.1 extend over the entire width of this spring.
  • Figures 3a, 3b, 9a and 9b show the compression of a distance e in the direction TT ' of the turns 40 of the coil spring 4.1 under the effect of a closing force F.
  • the turns 40 of the coil spring 4.1 are flexible, they become oval and they can expand transversely, allowing self-centering and compensation for any asymmetry of the folding arms 1,2 with respect to the locking means 4 .
  • This closure is accompanied by an extension of the turns 40 of the coil spring 4.1 on the core 4.2.
  • FIGS. 3a and 3b clearly show the extension of a distance c in direction LL ' of the locking means 4 under the effect of the closing force F.
  • the locking means 4 comprises an elastic tube 4.3 and at least one core 4.2.
  • the elastic tube 4.3 has a thin wall 400 which is elastically deformable. Under the effect of a closing force F, the wall 400 of the elastic tube 4.3 can deform and become oval. This deformation occurs mainly in the central part of the elastic tube 4.3, because the ends of said elastic tube 4.3 are connected to the base plate 3 by annular spacers 4.4 mounted on the core 4.2 .
  • the contact surface 1.4, 2.4 of the folding arms 1.2 which can bear in reversible deformation on said elastic tube 4.3 have a shape and a width adapted to this deformation of the central part of the elastic tube 4.3.
  • the elastic tube 4.3 is preferably metallic and its wall 400 is preferably 0.15 millimeter thick. With a smaller thickness, the maximum bending stress becomes too great (the deformation force is too high and locking becomes difficult), for a greater thickness, the elastic constant of the elastic tube 4.3 becomes too large (the wall 400 is deforms beyond the elastic limit and the locking is not good).
  • a thickness of 0.15 millimeters represents an ideal choice, allowing both a well defined closing force (which feels good, without being too strong or too weak ) while ensuring easy machining of the locking means 4.
  • the external diameter of the core 4.2 must be less than the internal diameter of the elastic tube 4.3.
  • spacers 4.4 may be provided to connect the ends of the elastic tube 4.3 to the core 4.2.
  • the closing force F can be modified by a multitude of various means. It is for example possible to combine a coil spring 4.1 with an elastic tube 4.3, as shown in Figures 5 to 7, 10 and 11 .
  • the coil spring 4.1 is arranged around one or two cores 4.2 and the elastic tube 4.3 is arranged around the coil spring 4.1. This has the advantages that the coil spring 4.1 is almost entirely concealed, thus meeting aesthetic requirements while allowing the folding clasp to be maintained, since the coils 400 can detract from the appearance of the folding clasp and cannot get dirty .
  • the folding clasp is opened by pressing at least a portion of one end 4.5 of at least one core 4.2 to compress the turns 40 of the coil spring 4.1 and / or to deform the wall 400 of the elastic tube 4.3 in the second direction LL ' to thereby free the contact surfaces 1.4, 4.2.4 of the folding arms 1.2 of the locking means 4.
  • the turns 40 compressed and the wall 400 deformed by means of said core 4.2 exert an opening force on the 1.4,2.4 contact surfaces of the folding arms 1,2 and allow the folding clasp to be opened.
  • the user can unlock the folding clasp simply by pushing the ends 4.5 of the cores 4.2 beyond the side walls of the base blade 3 preferably with two fingers.
  • a folding clasp according to the invention having a locking means 4 with for elastic elements either a coil spring 4.1, or an elastic tube 4.3 or a combination of a coil spring 4.1 with an elastic tube 4.3.
  • a locking means 4 for elastic elements either a coil spring 4.1, or an elastic tube 4.3 or a combination of a coil spring 4.1 with an elastic tube 4.3.
  • Another advantage of the present invention is to allow adjustment of the closing force F by replacing one or more locking elements 4.
  • the models "man” and “woman” differ only by the force or the elasticity of the spring.
  • the folding clasp allows a rapid change of the closing force F by replacing the locking means 4 by locking means 4 having different closing forces F. This can be done by choosing a more or less large diameter of the tubular locking means 4 or by choosing a coil spring 4.1 or an elastic tube 4.3 having a greater or lesser elasticity.
  • the folding clasp according to the invention may comprise a safety means 5 articulated with respect to a folding arm 1,2 and allowing a safety locking of the folding arm 1,2 by folding this safety means 5 over the locking means 4.
  • the security means 5 comprises at least one contact surface 5.4 which can bear in compression in a second direction LL ' on the locking means 4.
  • FIGS. 8 to 11 show that the security means 5 preferably has the form of 'a lid. This cover is removably attached to a terminal link (not shown) forming part of the bracelet.
  • a rod 5.6 serves as a hinge for this attachment.
  • At least one contact surface 5.4 of at least one safety means 5 is supported on the locking means 4 by pressing at least a portion of an end 4.5 of at least one core 4.2 and by compressing the turns 40 of a coil spring 4.1 oriented in the second direction LL ' of the locking means 4 .
  • Figures 8, 9a and 9b show an embodiment of a folding clasp with a locking means 4 having a coil spring 4.1 and two cores 4.2
  • Figures 10 and 11 show an embodiment of a folding clasp with a locking means 4 having a coil spring 4.1 , two cores 4.2 and an elastic tube 4.3 .
  • the core 4.2 is integral with an element 4.5 capable of occupying two axial positions, one in which this element 4.5 is entirely inside the base blade 3 ( fig. 7), the other, following its engagement with the hooking means 5.4 of the safety member 5 (fig. 10), position in which it is straddling the base blade 3 and the arms 1, 2 articulated on this base blade 3 .
  • This safety locking is done by folding the safety means 5 in the form of a cover towards the folding arms 1,2. At least a portion of an end 4.5 of at least one core 4.2 is pressed and the turns 40 of the coil spring 4.1 are compressed longitudinally by the contact surfaces 5.4 of the lateral arms of the safety cover 5 , in order to be able to close this cover by elastic hooking of the contact surfaces 5.4 of the lateral arms of the safety cover 5.
  • FIGS. 8, 9a and 9b show two steps for closing the safety. They show the compression of a distance d in the direction LL ' of the locking means 4 under the effect of the safety force F' . When the turns 40 touch, they are compressed more, adding the safety force F 'to the closing force F. This safety force F' remains, however, less than the opening force of the folding clasp, thus allowing locking of safety without unlocking the folding arms 1,2.
  • the folding clasp is made with a minimum number of elements, having great symmetry and stability, guaranteeing safe operation and easy maintenance.
  • the folding arm (s) 1,2 and the safety means 5 are each preferably machined from a single piece of metal.
  • FIGS. 2a, 2b show a preferred embodiment of the folding arm 1,2 and of a fastener 1.1,2.1 connected to the arms 1 by means of a pin 1.10,2.10. This allows easy machining and rapid variation in the appearance of the folding clasp.
  • the attachment 1.1,2.1 is used for the attachment of a bracelet, a change in the shape of the bracelet and of the links does not require replacement of the entire folding arms 1,2 , but only requires replacement of the attachments 1.1,2.1.
  • the locking means 4 is preferably metallic. It turned out to be wise to choose a coil spring 4.1 or an elastic tube 4.3 of a different material (for example Nivaflex, Phynox, etc.) while the folding arms 1,2 and the base blade 3 are in steel, which guarantees a good coefficient of friction.
  • a coil spring 4.1 or an elastic tube 4.3 of a different material for example Nivaflex, Phynox, etc.
  • the use of such a couple of different materials by its molecular structure and by a difference in hardness is ideal.
  • the clasp according to the invention with foldable arms 1,2 of stainless steel, a coil spring 4.1 and an elastic tube 4.3 of a different material gives great snap variations, because the elasticity of stainless steel n is not constant and its chemical composition is not that of a coil spring or an elastic tube.
  • Unlike known clasps, which do not use such a couple of different materials it is possible to obtain identical attachment forces on the two folding arms.
  • the use of other basic materials is of course possible and in no way outside the scope of

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  • Clamps And Clips (AREA)
  • Knives (AREA)
  • Buckles (AREA)

Description

L'invention concerne un fermoir dépliant selon les revendications. Elle concerne plus particulièrement un fermoir dépliant pour montre bracelet avec au moins un bras dépliant pouvant se verrouiller sur un moyen de verrouillage élastique agencé dans une lame de base.The invention relates to a folding clasp according to the claims. It relates more particularly to a folding clasp for wristwatch with at least one folding arm that can be locked on a elastic locking means arranged in a base blade.

Le document EP-0'509'938 décrit un fermoir dépliant comprenant deux bras dépliants articulés aux extrémités d'un brancard central. Chaque bras comporte une concavité permettant un verrouillage en comprimant ladite concavité sur une tige ou goupille du brancard central. Les bras sont des monoblocs à élasticité limitée et les concavités perdent leur souplesse sous l'effet d'une compression répétée. Pour corriger cette perte de souplesse, on peut modifier la largeur d'une gorge placée derrière la concavité à l'aide d'une pointe de tournevis ou de couteau. Cette modification de la souplesse est peu sûr et risque d'endommager le bras dépliant.Document EP-0'509'938 describes a folding clasp comprising two arms leaflets articulated at the ends of a central stretcher. Each arm has a concavity allowing locking by compressing said concavity on a rod or pin of the central stretcher. The arms are monoblocks with limited elasticity and the concavities lose their flexibility under the effect of a repeated compression. To correct this loss of flexibility, you can modify the width a throat placed behind the concavity using a point of screwdriver or knife. This modification flexibility is insecure and may damage the folding arm.

Le document EP-0'115'740 montre un autre fermoir dépliant ayant de grandes surfaces de frottement pour effectuer le crantage des bras dépliants. On mentionnera la force importante nécessaire soit pour fermer le bracelet, soit pour l'ouvrir. Document EP-0'115'740 shows another folding clasp having large areas of friction to perform the notching of the folding arms. We will mention the significant force required either to close the bracelet or to open it.

Ceci représente un autre inconvénient, car l'utilisateur peut s'abímer les ongles en activant l'onglet.This is another disadvantage, because the user can damage the nails by activating the tab.

Un troisième inconvénient réside dans la fiabilité et la sécurité des fermetures à fermoir dépliant et encliquetable connues. Les forces de verrouillage sont difficilement réglables, présentant un risque d'ouverture intempestive du fermoir dépliant. A titre d'exemple est mentionné le problème de la dissymétrie de la force d'accrochage d'un fermoir à deux bras dépliants se refermant sur un plot commun. Lors d'un premier crantage d'un des bras dépliants ledit plot est légèrement déformé, en sorte que l'autre bras dépliant s'accroche avec une force d'accrochage différente.A third drawback lies in the reliability and security of the closures. with known folding and snap-fastening clasp. The locking forces are difficult to adjust, presenting a risk of inadvertent opening of the clasp flyer. As an example is mentioned the problem of asymmetry of the catching force of a clasp with two folding arms closing on a common stud. During a first notching of one of the folding arms, said stud is slightly deformed, so that the other folding arm clings with a different latching force.

Un autre inconvénient est le manque de stabilité à long terme des fermoirs dépliants connus. Les fixations des différents éléments sont souvent soumises à des effet néfastes comme la corrosion, présentant un risque de cassure du fermoir dépliant.Another drawback is the lack of long-term stability of known folding clasps. The fixings of the different elements are often subjected to harmful effects such as corrosion, presenting a risk of the folding clasp breaking.

L'utilisation de matières identiques comme l'acier inox sur acier inox que l'on rencontre dans certains fermoirs, risque de provoquer le grippage des pièces du fermoir lorsque les pressions spécifiques deviennent importantes. The use of identical materials like stainless steel on stainless steel found in some clasps, may cause the clasp parts to seize when the pressures specific things become important.

On a déjà proposé dans le FR 2 705 873 un fermoir du type susmentionné comprenant une base et un bras dont une extrémité est articulée à cette base et vient se loger entre deux branches parallèles de la base en position de fermeture du fermoir. Ce bras et cette base ont ainsi deux paires de faces latérales situées en regard l'une de l'autre deux à deux en position de fermeture du fermoir. Chacune de ces faces latérales adjacentes comporte une creusure longitudinale formant ensemble un logement cylindrique. Un ressort à boudin est logé dans une des creusures longitudinale et est engagé de manière élastique dans l'autre creusure longitudinale lors de la fermeture du fermoir. Le fait d'exercer une force d'accrochage latérale peut engendrer des déformations tendant à écarter les branches de la base l'une de l'autre. Par ailleurs, le ressort à boudin étant retenu dans une des creusures longitudinales, il doit épouser la forme de cette creusure, de sorte qu'il manque de liberté pour se déformer lors de l'ouverture ou de la fermeture du fermoir. FR 2 705 873 has already proposed a clasp of the aforementioned type comprising a base and an arm, one of which end is hinged to this base and is housed between two parallel legs of the base in the closed position of the clasp. This arm and this base thus have two pairs of side faces located opposite each other two to two in the closed position of the clasp. Each of these faces adjacent sides has a longitudinal recess together forming a cylindrical housing. A coil spring is housed in one of the longitudinal recesses and is resiliently engaged in the other longitudinal recess when closing the clasp. The fact of exercising a lateral catching force can cause deformations tending to spread the branches of the base from each other. Furthermore, the coil spring being retained in one of the longitudinal grooves, it must follow the shape of this groove, so that it lacks freedom to deform when opening or closing the clasp.

C'est pourquoi l'objectif de la présente invention est d'apporter une solution à ces problèmes en créant un fermoir dépliant, par exemple pour une montre-bracelet, d'une construction particulièrement compacte et compatible avec les techniques de fabrication connues et éprouvées.This is why the objective of the present invention is to provide a solution to these problems by creating a folding clasp, by example for a wristwatch, of a particularly compact construction and compatible with known and proven manufacturing techniques.

Cet objectif est atteint par l'invention définie par les revendications.This object is achieved by the invention defined by the claims.

L'invention va être décrite ci-après à l'aide des figures illustrant schématiquement et à titre d'exemple, différent modes de réalisation du fermoir objet de l'invention.

  • les figures 1a et 1b sont des vues de côté et de dessus d'un détail d'un premier mode de réalisation préféré d'un fermoir dépliant selon l'invention,
  • les figures 2a et 2b sont des vues de côté et de dessus d'un détail d'un deuxième mode de réalisation du fermoir dépliant selon l'invention,
  • les figures 3a et 3b sont des vues de dessus, partiellement en coupe d'un détail du premier mode de réalisation du moyen de verrouillage d'un fermoir dépliant selon les figures 1a et 1b,
  • la figure 4 est une vue de dessus, partiellement en coupe d'un détail du deuxième mode de réalisation du moyen de verrouillage d'un fermoir dépliant selon les figures 2a et 2b,
  • la figure 5 est une vue en perspective éclatée d'un troisième mode de réalisation,
  • la figure 6 est une vue en perspective d'un détail d'un quatrième mode de réalisation du fermoir dépliant selon l'invention,
  • la figure 7 est une vue de dessus, partiellement en coupe d'un détail du quatrième mode de réalisation selon la figure 6,
  • la figure 8 est une vue de côté, partiellement en coupe d'un détail d'un cinquième mode de réalisation du moyen de verrouillage d'un fermoir
  • les figures 9a et 9b sont des vues de dessus, partiellement en coupe d'un détail d'un cinquième mode de réalisation selon la figure 8,
  • la figure 10 est une vue de dessus, partiellement en coupe d'un détail d'un sixième mode de réalisation du moyen de verrouillage d'un fermoir dépliant selon l'invention,
  • la figure 11 est une vue de côté, partiellement en coupe d'un détail selon la figure 10.
The invention will be described below using the figures illustrating schematically and by way of example, different embodiments of the clasp object of the invention.
  • FIGS. 1a and 1b are side and top views of a detail of a first preferred embodiment of a folding clasp according to the invention,
  • FIGS. 2a and 2b are side and top views of a detail of a second embodiment of the folding clasp according to the invention,
  • FIGS. 3a and 3b are top views, partially in section of a detail of the first embodiment of the locking means of a folding clasp according to FIGS. 1a and 1b,
  • FIG. 4 is a top view, partially in section, of a detail of the second embodiment of the locking means of a folding clasp according to FIGS. 2a and 2b,
  • FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of a third embodiment,
  • FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a detail of a fourth embodiment of the folding clasp according to the invention,
  • FIG. 7 is a top view, partially in section, of a detail of the fourth embodiment according to FIG. 6,
  • Figure 8 is a side view, partially in section of a detail of a fifth embodiment of the locking means of a clasp
  • FIGS. 9a and 9b are top views, partially in section of a detail of a fifth embodiment according to FIG. 8,
  • FIG. 10 is a top view, partially in section, of a detail of a sixth embodiment of the locking means of a folding clasp according to the invention,
  • FIG. 11 is a side view, partially in section of a detail according to FIG. 10.

Les éléments visibles du fermoir dépliant selon l'invention sont de préférence métalliques, ils sont par exemple réalisés en acier inox et/ou en or. L'emploi d'autres matériaux de base est bien sûr possible. Le fermoir dépliant comprend au moins un bras dépliant 1,2 articulé par rapport à une lame de base 3 et un moyen de verrouillage 4. Selon les réalisations préférées, montrées par les figures 1a à 11, la lame de base 3 se compose de deux lames latérales reliées par deux goupilles transversales 3.10. Toujours selon ces réalisations préférées, lesdites goupilles transversales 3.10 servent aussi de charnière pour deux bras dépliants 1,2. De préférence, des attaches 1.1,2.1 agencées par engagement positif aux bras dépliants 1,2 permettent la fixation d'un bracelet au fermoir dépliant, lesdites attaches 1.1,2.1 permettent par exemple la fixation d'un bracelet à maillons. Il est possible, de prévoir des maillons terminaux faisant conjointement partie d'un bracelet à maillon et du fermoir dépliant. De tels maillons terminaux dépassent le cadre de la présente invention et ne sont pas montrés par les figures.The visible elements of the folding clasp according to the invention are preferably metallic, they are for example made of stainless steel and / or gold. The use of other basic materials is of course possible. The folding clasp comprises at least one folding arm 1,2 articulated with respect to a base blade 3 and a locking means 4. According to the preferred embodiments, shown in FIGS. 1a to 11, the base blade 3 consists of two side blades connected by two transverse pins 3.10 . Still according to these preferred embodiments, said transverse pins 3.10 also serve as a hinge for two folding arms 1,2. Preferably, 1.1.2.1 fasteners arranged by positive engagement with the folding arms 1.2 allow the attachment of a bracelet to the folding clasp, said 1.1.2.1 fasteners allow for example the attachment of a link bracelet. It is possible to provide end links which are part of a link bracelet and of the folding clasp. Such end links go beyond the scope of the present invention and are not shown in the figures.

Le moyen de verrouillage 4 est solidement ancré dans au moins une ouverture 3.1,3.1' de la lame de base 3. Ce moyen de verrouillage 4 permet un verrouillage d'au moins un bras dépliant 1.2 en rabattant ce bras dépliant 1,2 sur le moyen de verrouillage 4. Chaque bras dépliant 1,2 comprend au moins une surface de contact 1.4,2.4 pouvant s'appuyer en compression sur le moyen de verrouillage 4. Six modes de réalisation préférés d'un fermoir dépliant selon l'invention sont montrés, dans lesquelles: The locking means 4 is firmly anchored in at least one opening 3.1, 3, 1 ' of the base blade 3. This locking means 4 allows locking of at least one folding arm 1.2 by folding this folding arm 1.2 on the locking means 4. Each folding arm 1, 2 comprises at least one contact surface 1.4, 2, 4 which can be pressed in compression on the locking means 4 . Six preferred embodiments of a folding clasp according to the invention are shown, in which:

Le moyen de verrouillage 4 comprend plusieurs éléments élastiques tubulaires et des combinaisons de tels éléments élastiques. Selon les figures 1a, 1b, 3a, 3b, 5 à 11, le moyen de verrouillage 4 comprend un ressort à boudin 4.1 et au moins un noyau 4.2 servant de support et de liaison à la lame de base 3 pour le ressort à boudin 4.1, qui est disposé autour d'au moins un noyau 4.2 permettant une compression des spires 40 du ressort 4.1 dans une première direction tendant à les rapprocher du noyau 4.2 et à dilater ces spires 40 dans un deuxième direction transversale, par glissement sur le noyau 4.2. Une surface de contact 1.4,2.4 d'au moins un bras dépliant 1,2 s'appuie sur le moyen de verrouillage 4 en exerçant une force en direction du noyau 4.2 selon un plan contenant l'axe de ce noyau 4.2 et l'axe d'articulation transversal 3.10 du bras 1.2. Les surfaces de contact 1.4,2.4 des bras dépliants avec le ressort à boudin 4.1 s'étendent sur toute la largeur du ce ressort. Les figures 3a, 3b, 9a et 9b montrent bien la compression d'une distance e dans la direction TT' des spires 40 du ressort à boudin 4.1 sous l'effet d'une force de fermeture F. Les spires 40 du ressort à boudin 4.1 sont flexibles, elles deviennent ovales et elles peuvent se dilater transversalement, permettant un auto-centrage et une compensation d'une éventuelle asymétrie des bras dépliants 1,2 par rapport au moyen de verrouillage 4. Cette fermeture est accompagnée d'une extension des spires 40 du ressort à boudin 4.1 sur le noyau 4.2. Les figures 3a et 3b montrent bien l'extension d'une distance c dans direction LL' du moyen de verrouillage 4 sous l'effet de la force de fermeture F.The locking means 4 comprises several elastic tubular elements and combinations of such elastic elements. According to Figures 1a, 1b, 3a, 3b, 5 to 11, the locking means 4 comprises a coil spring 4.1 and at least one core 4.2 serving as support and connection to the base plate 3 for the coil spring 4.1 , which is arranged around at least one core 4.2 allowing compression of the turns 40 of the spring 4.1 in a first direction tending to bring them closer to the core 4.2 and to expand these turns 40 in a second transverse direction, by sliding on the core 4.2 . A contact surface 1.4, 2.4 of at least one folding arm 1.2 is supported on the locking means 4 by exerting a force towards the core 4.2 along a plane containing the axis of this core 4.2 and the axis transverse articulation 3.10 of the arm 1.2 . The contact surfaces 1.4, 4.2.4 of the folding arms with the coil spring 4.1 extend over the entire width of this spring. Figures 3a, 3b, 9a and 9b show the compression of a distance e in the direction TT ' of the turns 40 of the coil spring 4.1 under the effect of a closing force F. The turns 40 of the coil spring 4.1 are flexible, they become oval and they can expand transversely, allowing self-centering and compensation for any asymmetry of the folding arms 1,2 with respect to the locking means 4 . This closure is accompanied by an extension of the turns 40 of the coil spring 4.1 on the core 4.2. FIGS. 3a and 3b clearly show the extension of a distance c in direction LL ' of the locking means 4 under the effect of the closing force F.

Selon les figures 2a, 2b, 4 à 11 le moyen de verrouillage 4 comprend un tube élastique 4.3 et au moins un noyau 4.2. Le tube élastique 4.3 présente une paroi mince 400 déformable de manière élastique. Sous l'effet d'une force de fermeture F, la paroi 400 du tube élastique 4.3 peut se déformer et devenir ovale. Cette déformation se produit surtout dans la partie centrale du tube élastique 4.3, car les extrémités dudit tube élastique 4.3 sont reliées á la lame de base 3 par des entretoises annulaires 4.4 montées sur le noyau 4.2. Les surface de contact 1.4,2.4 des bras dépliants 1,2 pouvant s'appuyer en déformation réversible sur ledit tube élastique 4.3 ont une forme et une largeur adaptée à cette déformation de la partie centrale du tube élastique 4.3. Comme la largeur de la surface d'interaction avec les bras dépliants 1,2 est réduite pratiquement de la moitié par rapport à la surface d'interaction du ressort à boudin 4.1 l'effet d'une éventuelle asymétrie dans, l'alignement des bras dépliants 1,2 par rapport au moyen de verrouillage est réduite. Le tube élastique 4.3 est de préférence métallique et sa paroi 400 est de préférence d'une épaisseur de 0,15 millimètre. Avec une épaisseur plus petite, la contrainte de flexion maximale devient trop importante (la force de déformation est trop élevée et le verrouillage devient difficile), pour une épaisseur plus grande, la constante élastique du tube élastique 4.3 devient trop importante (la paroi 400 se déforme au delà de la limite élastique et le verrouillage n'est pas bon). Ainsi, pour un tube élastique 4.3 métallique, par exemple en acier inox, une épaisseur de 0,15 millimètre représente un choix idéal, permettant à la fois une force de fermeture bien définie (qui se sent bien, sans être trop fort ni trop faible) tout en garantissant un usinage facile du moyen de verrouillage 4.According to Figures 2a, 2b, 4 to 11 the locking means 4 comprises an elastic tube 4.3 and at least one core 4.2. The elastic tube 4.3 has a thin wall 400 which is elastically deformable. Under the effect of a closing force F, the wall 400 of the elastic tube 4.3 can deform and become oval. This deformation occurs mainly in the central part of the elastic tube 4.3, because the ends of said elastic tube 4.3 are connected to the base plate 3 by annular spacers 4.4 mounted on the core 4.2 . The contact surface 1.4, 2.4 of the folding arms 1.2 which can bear in reversible deformation on said elastic tube 4.3 have a shape and a width adapted to this deformation of the central part of the elastic tube 4.3. As the width of the interaction surface with the folding arms 1,2 is reduced practically by half compared to the interaction surface of the coil spring 4.1 the effect of a possible asymmetry in the alignment of the arms leaflets 1.2 compared to the locking means is reduced. The elastic tube 4.3 is preferably metallic and its wall 400 is preferably 0.15 millimeter thick. With a smaller thickness, the maximum bending stress becomes too great (the deformation force is too high and locking becomes difficult), for a greater thickness, the elastic constant of the elastic tube 4.3 becomes too large (the wall 400 is deforms beyond the elastic limit and the locking is not good). Thus, for a 4.3 metal elastic tube, for example made of stainless steel, a thickness of 0.15 millimeters represents an ideal choice, allowing both a well defined closing force (which feels good, without being too strong or too weak ) while ensuring easy machining of the locking means 4.

Afin de permettre une déformation du tube élastique 4.3 dans sa partie centrale, le diamètre extérieure du noyau 4.2 doit être inférieur au diamètre intérieur du tube élastique 4.3. Pour réaliser une liaison des extrémités du tube élastique 4.3 au noyau 4.2, des entretoises 4.4 peuvent être prévues.In order to allow deformation of the elastic tube 4.3 in its central part, the external diameter of the core 4.2 must be less than the internal diameter of the elastic tube 4.3. To connect the ends of the elastic tube 4.3 to the core 4.2, spacers 4.4 may be provided.

La force de fermeture F peut être modifiée par une multitude de moyens divers. Il est par exemple possible de combiner un ressort à boudin 4.1 avec un tube élastique 4.3, comme c'est montré dans les figures 5 à 7, 10 et 11. De préférence, le ressort à boudin 4.1 est disposé autour d'un ou de deux noyaux 4.2 et le tube élastique 4.3 est disposé autour du ressort à boudin 4.1. Ceci a pour avantages que le ressort à boudin 4.1 est dissimulé en quasi totalité, répondant ainsi à des exigences esthétique tout en permettant un maintien du fermoir dépliant, car les spires 400 peuvent nuire à l'aspect du fermoir dépliant et ne peuvent pas se salir.The closing force F can be modified by a multitude of various means. It is for example possible to combine a coil spring 4.1 with an elastic tube 4.3, as shown in Figures 5 to 7, 10 and 11 . Preferably, the coil spring 4.1 is arranged around one or two cores 4.2 and the elastic tube 4.3 is arranged around the coil spring 4.1. This has the advantages that the coil spring 4.1 is almost entirely concealed, thus meeting aesthetic requirements while allowing the folding clasp to be maintained, since the coils 400 can detract from the appearance of the folding clasp and cannot get dirty .

L'ouverture du fermoir dépliant est réalisée en pressant au moins une portion d'une extrémité 4.5 d'au moins un noyau 4.2 pour comprimer les spires 40 du ressort à boudin 4.1 et/ou pour déformer la paroi 400 du tube élastique 4.3 dans la seconde direction LL' pour ainsi libérer les surfaces de contact 1.4,2.4 des bras dépliants 1,2 du moyen de verrouillage 4. Les spires 40 comprimées et la paroi 400 déformée par l'intermédiaire dudit noyau 4.2 exercent une force d'ouverture sur les surfaces de contact 1.4,2.4 des bras dépliants 1,2 et permettent d'ouvrir le fermoir dépliant. L'utilisateur peut déverrouiller le fermoir dépliant simplement en poussant les extrémités 4.5 des noyaux 4.2 dépassant les parois latérales de la lame de base 3 de préférence avec deux doigts.The folding clasp is opened by pressing at least a portion of one end 4.5 of at least one core 4.2 to compress the turns 40 of the coil spring 4.1 and / or to deform the wall 400 of the elastic tube 4.3 in the second direction LL ' to thereby free the contact surfaces 1.4, 4.2.4 of the folding arms 1.2 of the locking means 4. The turns 40 compressed and the wall 400 deformed by means of said core 4.2 exert an opening force on the 1.4,2.4 contact surfaces of the folding arms 1,2 and allow the folding clasp to be opened. The user can unlock the folding clasp simply by pushing the ends 4.5 of the cores 4.2 beyond the side walls of the base blade 3 preferably with two fingers.

Il est ainsi possible d'utiliser un fermoir dépliant selon l'invention ayant un moyen de verrouillage 4 avec pour éléments élastiques soit un ressort à boudin 4.1, soit un tube élastique 4.3 ou une combinaison d'un ressort à boudin 4.1 avec un tube élastique 4.3. Lorsqu'on bascule les deux bras dépliants 1,2 vers la lame de base 3, il est nécessaire de comprimer les spires 40 du ressort à boudin 4.1 et/ou la paroi 400 du tube élastique 4.3 transversalement à l'aide des surfaces de contact 1.4,2.4 ou extrémités concave des bras dépliants 1,2, afin de pouvoir accrocher les bras dépliants 1,2 et dilater les spires 40 du ressort à boudin 4.1 ou par déformation élastique de la paroi 400 du tube élastique 4.3 avec les extrémités concaves des bras dépliants 1,2. Les figures 3a, 3b et 9a, 9b montrent la compression d'une distance e du ressort à boudin 4.1 sous l'effet de la force de fermeture F. La figure 4 montre la déformation du tube élastique 4.3 sous l'effet de la force de fermeture F.It is thus possible to use a folding clasp according to the invention having a locking means 4 with for elastic elements either a coil spring 4.1, or an elastic tube 4.3 or a combination of a coil spring 4.1 with an elastic tube 4.3. When the two folding arms 1,2 are tilted towards the base blade 3, it is necessary to compress the turns 40 of the coil spring 4.1 and / or the wall 400 of the elastic tube 4.3 transversely using the contact surfaces 1.4,2.4 or concave ends of the folding arms 1,2, in order to be able to hang the folding arms 1,2 and expand the turns 40 of the coil spring 4.1 or by elastic deformation of the wall 400 of the elastic tube 4.3 with the concave ends of the folding arms 1,2. Figures 3a, 3b and 9a, 9b show the compression of a distance e of the coil spring 4.1 under the effect of the closing force F. Figure 4 shows the deformation of the elastic tube 4.3 under the effect of the closing force F.

L'avantage principal des éléments élastiques 4.1,4.3 de verrouillage 4 utilisés selon l'invention réside dans la manière dont ces éléments élastiques 4.1,4.3 réagissent à la force de fermeture F:

  • Les spires 40 du ressort à boudin 4.1 deviennent ovales et peuvent se dilater sur un ou deux noyaux 4.2 servant à la liaison avec la lame de base 3. Les spires 40 permettant ainsi un auto-centrage et une compensation d'une éventuelle asymétrie dans l'alignement des bras dépliants 1,2 par rapport au moyen de verrouillage 4. La fermeture des bras dépliants 1,2 est accompagnée d'une extension des spires 40 à l'extérieur du noyau 4.2. L'interaction entre les bras dépliants 1,2 et le ressort à spires 4.1 a lieu sur toute la longueur du ressort à boudin 4.1.
  • La paroi 400 du tube élastique 4.3 peut devenir ovale. Cette déformation a lieu surtout dans la partie centrale du tube élastique 4.3, car les extrémités du ce tube sont reliées à la lame de base 3 par les entretoises 4.4. Les surface de contact 1.4,2.4 des bras dépliants 1,2 s'appupant sur le tube élastique 4.3 sont de forme et de largeur adaptée à la déformation de la partie centrale du tube élastique 4.3. Vu que la largeur de la surface d'interaction est réduite par rapport au ressort à spires 4.1, l'effet d'une éventuelle asymétrie dans l'alignement des bras dépliants 1,2 par rapport au moyen de verrouillage 4 sont aussi réduits.
  • La combinaison d'un tube élastique 4.3 avec un ressort à boudin 4.1 disposé sur un ou deux noyaux 4.2 permet à la fois un auto-centrage et une compensation d'une éventuelle asymétrie dans l'alignement des bras dépliants 1,2 par rapport au moyen de verrouillage 4 et une déformation limitée à la partie centrale du tube élastique 4.3. Le ressort à boudin 4.1 est dissimulé en quasi totalité, répondant ainsi à des exigences esthétique tout en servant à la fermeture du fermoir dépliant.
The main advantage of four locking 4.1,4.3 elastic members used according to the invention lies in the manner in which these elastic members 4.1,4.3 react to the closing force F:
  • The turns 40 of the coil spring 4.1 become oval and can expand on one or two cores 4.2 used for the connection with the base plate 3. The turns 40 thus allowing self-centering and compensation for any asymmetry in the alignment of the folding arms 1,2 with respect to the locking means 4. The closing of the folding arms 1,2 is accompanied by an extension of the turns 40 outside the core 4.2. The interaction between the folding arms 1,2 and the coil spring 4.1 takes place over the entire length of the coil spring 4.1.
  • The wall 400 of the elastic tube 4.3 can become oval. This deformation takes place especially in the central part of the elastic tube 4.3, because the ends of this tube are connected to the base plate 3 by the spacers 4.4 . The contact surfaces 1.4, 2.4 of the folding arms 1.2 resting on the elastic tube 4.3 are of shape and width adapted to the deformation of the central part of the elastic tube 4.3. Since the width of the interaction surface is reduced compared to the coil spring 4.1, the effect of a possible asymmetry in the alignment of the folding arms 1,2 with respect to the locking means 4 are also reduced.
  • The combination of an elastic tube 4.3 with a coil spring 4.1 disposed on one or two cores 4.2 allows both self-centering and compensation for any asymmetry in the alignment of the folding arms 1,2 relative to the locking means 4 and a deformation limited to the central part of the elastic tube 4.3. The coil spring 4.1 is almost completely concealed, thus meeting aesthetic requirements while serving to close the folding clasp.

Un autre avantage de la présente invention est de permettre un réglage de la force de fermeture F par remplacement d'un ou plusieurs éléments de verrouillage 4. Les modèles "homme" et "femme" se différencient seulement par la force ou l'élasticité du ressort. Le fermoir dépliant permet un changement rapide de la force de fermeture F par remplacement du moyen de verrouillage 4 par des moyens de verrouillage 4 ayant des forces de fermeture F différentes. Ceci peut se faire on choisissant un diamètre plus ou moins grand du moyen de verrouillage tubulaire 4 ou en choisissant un ressort à boudin 4.1 ou un tube élastique 4.3 ayant une élasticité plus ou moins grande.Another advantage of the present invention is to allow adjustment of the closing force F by replacing one or more locking elements 4. The models "man" and "woman" differ only by the force or the elasticity of the spring. The folding clasp allows a rapid change of the closing force F by replacing the locking means 4 by locking means 4 having different closing forces F. This can be done by choosing a more or less large diameter of the tubular locking means 4 or by choosing a coil spring 4.1 or an elastic tube 4.3 having a greater or lesser elasticity.

Le fermoir dépliant selon l'invention peut comprendre un moyen de sécurité 5 articulé par rapport à un bras dépliant 1,2 et permettant un verrouillage de sécurité du bras dépliant 1,2 en rabattant ce moyen de sécurité 5 sur le moyen de verrouillage 4. Le moyen de sécurité 5 comprend au moins une surface de contact 5.4 pouvant s'appuyer en compression dans une deuxième direction LL' sur le moyen de verrouillage 4. Les figures 8 à 11 montrent que le moyen de sécurité 5 a de préférence la forme d'un couvercle. Ce couvercle est fixé de manière amovible à un maillon terminal (non représenté) faisant partie du bracelet. Une tige 5.6 sert de charnière à cette fixation.The folding clasp according to the invention may comprise a safety means 5 articulated with respect to a folding arm 1,2 and allowing a safety locking of the folding arm 1,2 by folding this safety means 5 over the locking means 4. The security means 5 comprises at least one contact surface 5.4 which can bear in compression in a second direction LL ' on the locking means 4. FIGS. 8 to 11 show that the security means 5 preferably has the form of 'a lid. This cover is removably attached to a terminal link (not shown) forming part of the bracelet. A rod 5.6 serves as a hinge for this attachment.

Selon les figures 8 à 11, au moins une surface de contact 5.4 d'au moins un moyen de sécurité 5 s'appuie sur le moyen de verrouillage 4 en pressant au moins une portion d'une extrémité 4.5 d'au moins un noyau 4.2 et en comprimant les spires 40 d'un ressort à boudin 4.1 orientées dans la deuxième direction LL' du moyen de verrouillage 4. Les figures 8, 9a et 9b montrent un mode de réalisation d'un fermoir dépliant avec un moyen de verrouillage 4 ayant un ressort à boudin 4.1 et deux noyaux 4.2, les figures 10 et 11 montrent un mode de réalisation d'un fermoir dépliant avec un moyen de verrouillage 4 ayant un ressort à boudin 4.1, deux noyaux 4.2 et un tube élastique 4.3.According to FIGS. 8 to 11, at least one contact surface 5.4 of at least one safety means 5 is supported on the locking means 4 by pressing at least a portion of an end 4.5 of at least one core 4.2 and by compressing the turns 40 of a coil spring 4.1 oriented in the second direction LL ' of the locking means 4 . Figures 8, 9a and 9b show an embodiment of a folding clasp with a locking means 4 having a coil spring 4.1 and two cores 4.2, Figures 10 and 11 show an embodiment of a folding clasp with a locking means 4 having a coil spring 4.1 , two cores 4.2 and an elastic tube 4.3 .

Comme illustré par les figures 5, 7 et 10, le noyau 4.2 est solidaire d'un élément 4.5 susceptible d'occuper deux positions axiales, l'une dans laquelle cet élément 4.5 est entièrement à l'intérieur de la lame de base 3 (fig.7), l'autre, consécutivement à sa mise en prise avec les moyens d'accrochage 5.4 de l'organe de sécurité 5 (fig. 10), position dans laquelle il se trouve à cheval entre la lame de base 3 et les bras 1, 2 articulés sur cette lame de base 3.As illustrated by FIGS. 5, 7 and 10 , the core 4.2 is integral with an element 4.5 capable of occupying two axial positions, one in which this element 4.5 is entirely inside the base blade 3 ( fig. 7), the other, following its engagement with the hooking means 5.4 of the safety member 5 (fig. 10), position in which it is straddling the base blade 3 and the arms 1, 2 articulated on this base blade 3 .

Ce verrouillage de sécurité se fait en rabattant le moyen de sécurité 5 en forme de couvercle vers les bras dépliants 1,2. Au moins une portion d'une extrémité 4.5 d'au moins un noyau 4.2 est pressée et les spires 40 du ressort à boudin 4.1 sont comprimées longitudinalement par les surfaces de contact 5.4 des bras latéraux du couvercle de sécurité 5, afin de pouvoir fermer ce couvercle par accrochage élastique des surfaces de contact 5.4 des bras latéraux du couvercle de sécurité 5. Les figures 8, 9a et 9b montrent deux étapes de fermeture de la sécurité. Elles montrent la compression d'une distance d dans la direction LL' du moyen de verrouillage 4 sous l'effet de la force de sécurité F'. Lorsque les spires 40 se touchent, elles sont comprimées davantage, ajoutant la force de sécurité F' à la force de fermeture F. Cette force de sécurité F' reste toutefois inférieure à la force d'ouverture du fermoir dépliant, permettant ainsi un verrouillage de sécurité sans déverrouillage des bras dépliants 1,2. This safety locking is done by folding the safety means 5 in the form of a cover towards the folding arms 1,2. At least a portion of an end 4.5 of at least one core 4.2 is pressed and the turns 40 of the coil spring 4.1 are compressed longitudinally by the contact surfaces 5.4 of the lateral arms of the safety cover 5 , in order to be able to close this cover by elastic hooking of the contact surfaces 5.4 of the lateral arms of the safety cover 5. FIGS. 8, 9a and 9b show two steps for closing the safety. They show the compression of a distance d in the direction LL ' of the locking means 4 under the effect of the safety force F' . When the turns 40 touch, they are compressed more, adding the safety force F 'to the closing force F. This safety force F' remains, however, less than the opening force of the folding clasp, thus allowing locking of safety without unlocking the folding arms 1,2.

Le fermoir dépliant est réalisé avec un nombre minimal d'éléments, disposant d'une grande symétrie et stabilité, garantissant un fonctionnement sûr et un maintien facile. Le ou les bras dépliants 1,2 et le moyen de sécurité 5 sont chacun usinés de préférence dans une seule pièce de métal. A titre d'exemple, les figures 2a ,2b montrent une réalisation préférée du bras dépliant 1,2 et d'une attache 1.1,2.1 reliés aux bras 1 à l'aide d'une goupille 1.10,2.10. Ceci permet un usinage facile et une variation rapide de l'aspect du fermoir dépliant. Comme l'attache 1.1,2.1 sert à la fixation d'un bracelet, un changement de la forme du bracelet et des maillons ne nécessite pas un remplacement des bras dépliants 1,2 entiers, mais nécessite seulement un remplacement des attaches 1.1,2.1. The folding clasp is made with a minimum number of elements, having great symmetry and stability, guaranteeing safe operation and easy maintenance. The folding arm (s) 1,2 and the safety means 5 are each preferably machined from a single piece of metal. By way of example, FIGS. 2a, 2b show a preferred embodiment of the folding arm 1,2 and of a fastener 1.1,2.1 connected to the arms 1 by means of a pin 1.10,2.10. This allows easy machining and rapid variation in the appearance of the folding clasp. As the attachment 1.1,2.1 is used for the attachment of a bracelet, a change in the shape of the bracelet and of the links does not require replacement of the entire folding arms 1,2 , but only requires replacement of the attachments 1.1,2.1.

Un avantage additionnel consiste dans l'absence de soudages. Vu la haute précision demandée pour un actionnement facile et répété du fermoir, et vu les difficultés techniques lors du traitement des matériaux choisis (diminution de dureté lors d'un soudage, déformation asymétrique lors d'un soudage), il s'est avéré avantageux d'éviter de fixer les attaches 1.1,2.1 sur les bras dépliants 1,2 par soudage. D'autres moyens de fixation pour d'autres matériaux de base sont envisageables, par exemple la thermofusion pour des matériaux synthétiques thermofusibles, etc.An additional advantage consists in the absence of welds. Given the high precision required for easy and repeated actuation of the clasp, and given the technical difficulties when processing the chosen materials (reduction in hardness during welding, asymmetric deformation during welding), it has proven to be advantageous avoid fixing the fasteners 1.1,2.1 on the folding arms 1,2 by welding. Other fixing means for other basic materials can be envisaged, for example thermofusion for synthetic hot-melt materials, etc.

Le moyen de verrouillage 4 est de préférence métallique. Il s'est avéré judicieux de choisir un ressort à boudin 4.1 ou un tube élastique 4.3 d'un matériau diffèrent (par exemple Nivaflex, Phynox, etc.) alors que les bras dépliants 1,2 et de la lame de base 3 sont en acier, ce qui garantit un bon coefficient de frottement. L'utilisation d'un tel couple de matières différentes par sa structure moléculaire et par une différence de dureté est idéale. Le fermoir selon l'invention avec des bras dépliants 1,2 en acier inox, un ressort à boudin 4.1 et un tube élastique 4.3 d'un matériau diffèrent donne de grandes variations d'encliquetage, car l'élasticité de l'acier inox n'est pas constante et sa composition chimique n'est pas celle d'un ressort à boudin ou d'un tube élastique. A la différence des fermoirs connus, lesquels n'utilisent pas un tel couple de matières différentes, il est possible d'obtenir des forces d'accrochage identiques sur les deux bras dépliants. L'emploi d'autres matériaux de base est bien sûr possible et aucunement hors du champ de la protection.The locking means 4 is preferably metallic. It turned out to be wise to choose a coil spring 4.1 or an elastic tube 4.3 of a different material (for example Nivaflex, Phynox, etc.) while the folding arms 1,2 and the base blade 3 are in steel, which guarantees a good coefficient of friction. The use of such a couple of different materials by its molecular structure and by a difference in hardness is ideal. The clasp according to the invention with foldable arms 1,2 of stainless steel, a coil spring 4.1 and an elastic tube 4.3 of a different material gives great snap variations, because the elasticity of stainless steel n is not constant and its chemical composition is not that of a coil spring or an elastic tube. Unlike known clasps, which do not use such a couple of different materials, it is possible to obtain identical attachment forces on the two folding arms. The use of other basic materials is of course possible and in no way outside the scope of protection.

Claims (9)

  1. Unfolding clasp comprising a base leaf (3) to which at least one arm (1, 2) is articulated about a transverse axle (3.10), elastic tubular locking means (4) secured to the said base leaf (3), and contact surfaces (1.4, 2.4) secured to the said arm (1, 2) and shaped to engage with the said elastic tubular locking means (4) when the said arm (1, 2) is folded down against the said base leaf (3), characterized in that the said elastic tubular locking means (4) are connected to the said base leaf (3) by at least one core (4.2), the axis of which is transverse to the said base leaf, and in that the said contact surfaces (1.4, 2.4) are formed at the transverse free end of the said arm (1, 2) so that when this arm is in the folded-down position, the said elastic tubular locking means (4) undergo deformation resulting from a force exerted by the said contact surfaces (1.4, 2.4) towards the said core in a plane containing the axis of the said core (4.2) and the transverse articulation axle (3.10) of the said arm (1, 2).
  2. Clasp according to Claim 1, characterized in that a safety catch member (5) is articulated with respect to the said unfolding arm (1, 2) and comprises catching means (5.4) designed to engage with the end of the said core (4.2) mounted to slide along its axis, the axial position of the said core being determined by the said elastic tubular locking means (4) which are able to lengthen following their engagement with the said contact surfaces (1.4, 2.4) of the said arm (1, 2).
  3. Clasp according to Claim 2, characterized in that the said elastic tubular locking means (4) are designed to be placed in compression when the said core (4.2) is in engagement with the said catching means (5.4) of the said safety catch member (5).
  4. Clasp according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the said elastic tubular locking means comprise a helical spring (4.1), so that compression of the said helical spring (4.1) causes it to lengthen along the transverse axis of the said core (4.2).
  5. Clasp according to one of Claims 2 to 4, characterized in that the said core (4.2) is made in two parts which can be moved in two opposite directions along their transverse axis when the said elastic tubular locking means (4) are engaged with the said contact surfaces (1.4, 2.4).
  6. Clasp according to one of Claims 2 to 5, characterized in that the said core (4.2) is secured to an element (4.5) able to occupy two positions, one in which it is fully inside the said base leaf (3), and the other corresponding to the axial movement of the said core (4.2) following its engagement with the said catching means (5.4) of the said safety catch member (5), in which position the said element (4.5) is between the said base leaf (3) and the said arm (1, 2) articulated to this base leaf.
  7. Clasp according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a tube (4.3) forming the said elastic tubular locking means (4) is connected to the said core (4.2) by two annular spacers (4.4) arranged at the two ends of the said tube (4.3).
  8. Clasp according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the said elastic tubular locking means (4) comprise a helical spring (4.1) arranged inside a tube (4.3).
  9. Clasp according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the said base leaf (3) comprises two longitudinal branches having coaxial transverse openings for accommodating the said core (4.2) and between which the said elastic tubular locking means (4) are arranged.
EP97915248A 1996-08-27 1997-04-15 Clasp with unfolding arms Expired - Lifetime EP0914049B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (4)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
CH02080/96A CH691160A5 (en) 1996-08-27 1996-08-27 Folding clasp.
CH208096 1996-08-27
CH2080/96 1996-08-27
PCT/CH1997/000148 WO1998008409A1 (en) 1996-08-27 1997-04-15 Clasp with unfolding arms

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP0914049A1 EP0914049A1 (en) 1999-05-12
EP0914049B1 true EP0914049B1 (en) 2002-08-14

Family

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Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP97915248A Expired - Lifetime EP0914049B1 (en) 1996-08-27 1997-04-15 Clasp with unfolding arms

Country Status (7)

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US (1) US6094782A (en)
EP (1) EP0914049B1 (en)
JP (1) JP3987954B2 (en)
AU (1) AU2285397A (en)
CH (1) CH691160A5 (en)
DE (1) DE69714740T2 (en)
WO (1) WO1998008409A1 (en)

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FR2821725A1 (en) * 2001-03-07 2002-09-13 Luigi Ferrario FOLDING CLASP FOR BRACELET
US6792652B2 (en) 2003-02-25 2004-09-21 Luigi Ferrario Unfolding clasp for bracelet
EP1925227B1 (en) * 2006-11-27 2009-01-21 Dexel S.A. Unfolding clasp for bracelets
IT1400461B1 (en) * 2010-06-08 2013-05-31 Opar S R L COMPOSITE CLOSURE FOR PERSONAL USE ACCESSORIES.
EP2502515B1 (en) * 2011-03-21 2013-09-04 The Swatch Group Management Services AG Bracelet clasp
US8789246B2 (en) * 2011-06-10 2014-07-29 Suunto Oy Asymmetric butterfly clasp
EP2601855A1 (en) * 2011-12-09 2013-06-12 Omega SA Watch strap clasp
EP2644050B1 (en) * 2012-03-27 2016-05-25 Rolex S.A. Opening clasp for bracelet
EP2870893B1 (en) * 2013-11-07 2016-06-08 The Swatch Group Management Services AG Bracelet clasp
US9486042B2 (en) * 2014-06-05 2016-11-08 Google Technology Holdings LLC Wristband with recessed clasp and method of assembling and operating same
US9980539B2 (en) * 2014-08-11 2018-05-29 Apple Inc. Segmented attachment device
US9949537B2 (en) * 2015-03-06 2018-04-24 Apple Inc. Clasp mechanism for wrist-worn devices
EP3329796B1 (en) * 2016-12-05 2019-07-10 Rolex Sa Device for adjusting the comfort of the length of a bracelet
US10722006B2 (en) 2016-12-05 2020-07-28 Rolex Sa Device for adjusting the length of a bracelet
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Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
JPH11514561A (en) 1999-12-14
AU2285397A (en) 1998-03-19
DE69714740D1 (en) 2002-09-19
WO1998008409A1 (en) 1998-03-05
JP3987954B2 (en) 2007-10-10
US6094782A (en) 2000-08-01
CH691160A5 (en) 2001-05-15
EP0914049A1 (en) 1999-05-12
DE69714740T2 (en) 2003-04-03

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