EP0943257B1 - Bracelet with articulated links - Google Patents

Bracelet with articulated links Download PDF

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Publication number
EP0943257B1
EP0943257B1 EP98810244A EP98810244A EP0943257B1 EP 0943257 B1 EP0943257 B1 EP 0943257B1 EP 98810244 A EP98810244 A EP 98810244A EP 98810244 A EP98810244 A EP 98810244A EP 0943257 B1 EP0943257 B1 EP 0943257B1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
links
lateral
link
bracelet
central
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
EP98810244A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
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EP0943257A1 (en
Inventor
Christian Dombre
Daniel Moille
William Passaquin
Yvan Serikoff
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
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 Rolex SA filed Critical Rolex SA
Priority to ES98810244T priority Critical patent/ES2187913T3/en
Priority to EP98810244A priority patent/EP0943257B1/en
Priority to DE69810259T priority patent/DE69810259T2/en
Priority to US09/260,639 priority patent/US6026637A/en
Priority to TW088103400A priority patent/TW469121B/en
Priority to JP05797499A priority patent/JP4213284B2/en
Priority to KR1019990009333A priority patent/KR19990078059A/en
Priority to SG9901402A priority patent/SG84525A1/en
Priority to CNB991040678A priority patent/CN1157135C/en
Publication of EP0943257A1 publication Critical patent/EP0943257A1/en
Priority to HK99104391A priority patent/HK1019298A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP0943257B1 publication Critical patent/EP0943257B1/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
    • 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
    • A44C5/02—Link constructions
    • A44C5/10—Link constructions not extensible
    • A44C5/107—Link constructions not extensible with links made of more than two elements including connecting elements

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a bracelet with articulated links, comprising at least three longitudinal rows side-by-side links, the links of which are offset longitudinally from one row to another, the links of the two lateral rows being located opposite the from each other, each pair of side links forming, with a link in the center row, a modular assembly, these assemblies comprising members for articulation between them around transverse axes crossing the parts respective adjacent modular sets which interpenetrate mutually
  • Bracelets made up of a plurality of articulated links to each other around axes transverse to the bracelet have been known for a very long time, especially for bracelets of watches.
  • the joints between these links are made by pins driven into the side links, to allow them to pivot by compared to the central links.
  • the links that are located nearby from one end of the bracelet are assembled by screws instead of driven pins, to allow removal the excess links. These screws are visible from the outside and they most often appear on the side of the bracelet, which detracts from its appearance.
  • EP-0 118 774 and CH-664 475 relate to two bracelets with articulated links fully assembled by fixing screws screwed laterally to hold together the links and the pivoting members between these links.
  • Such bracelets solve part of the problem since they allow to completely disassemble the bracelet and replace any link. However, the screws are visible all along the strap, at the detriment to its appearance.
  • EP-0089 421, WO 93/0871 and WO 94/12069 relate removable articulated bracelets, assembled by articulation elements freely engaged on ankles pivot, these articulation elements being locked by organs screwed on the side of the bracelet facing the carrier arm, so that the screws are not not visible when the bracelet is worn.
  • This is there probably an improvement in terms of aesthetics, which could not however meet the most criteria demanding which are those of high-end articles. Indeed, in a shop window or during the purchase, the customer first sees the bracelet not worn, so he can notice the screws of fixation whatever the face of the bracelet on which they appear. Seeing screws immediately confers to such a bracelet the character of an object whose functional side has taken precedence over aesthetic side, this which is obviously not rewarding for an article high in range of this type, whose flawless appearance is the guarantee of his good bill.
  • Patent CH-558,153 relates to an articulated bracelet comprising links integral with a hinge rod transverse which projects at one end of the link and which does not extend over its entire width.
  • This rod is introduced in a housing opening on the underside of the adjacent link and held in place by a spring lock.
  • the screws are replaced by a spring.
  • such a spring could hardly be in the same metal as the bracelet.
  • this fixing member must have an opening for allow disassembly and therefore retains a functional character and not decorative or simply an aspect whose aesthetics integrates with the rest of the bracelet.
  • Such a bracelet is completely removable. If he can at first glance appear to be formed of several rows of offset links, these three rows are actually made up by a single link. Therefore, the combinations of colors by rows of links of different materials are not possible with this solution.
  • EP 0 310 536 A is proposed a bracelet comprising two rows of lateral links, each integral of a half axis which ends in a head adjacent to a throat.
  • Two intermediate links are arranged between these side links and a central link.
  • the links intermediaries have two parallel passages with axes transverse, one of which is intended to receive a half-axis leaving the head and the adjacent throat protruding.
  • the central fixing link has a longitudinal recess whose section is of complementary shape to that of the two heads of the two half-axes. Obviously longitudinal opens at one end and has two side slits whose width corresponds to the diameter of the adjacent grooves at the heads of the semi-axes.
  • the object of the present invention is to remedy, less in part, to the disadvantages of the above-mentioned solutions.
  • the subject of this invention is a bracelet with articulated links of the type defined above, corresponding to claim 1.
  • the lateral interlocking of the links of the different rows allows to make a link bracelet formed of sets fully removable modules, the links nested in the same module being perfectly secured the each other.
  • the sockets being formed on faces internal side links are invisible.
  • the locking means which, being associated to the organs for articulating the modular assemblies and being connected to the interlocking means, can also be located at the inside of the bracelet and therefore be hidden, since they are connected to the interlocking means which are themselves inside the bracelet. They are therefore hidden once two adjacent modular elements are articulated, one with the other. Therefore, the locking means are concealed as the links are assembled at the following each other.
  • the lengthening or shortening of the bracelet is easily achievable at any place on the planet by a dealer and without leaving visible traces. Indeed, all the links are removable without the means allowing their assembly do not appear from the outside of the bracelet.
  • the interlocking surfaces are machined surfaces, so that the sockets can be obtained with a very high precision.
  • Each link can be brought to a desired finish state, either its final state or a state intermediate, offering great manufacturing flexibility.
  • Figure 1 shows a bracelet segment 1, as well as three links, a central link 2 and two side links 3 and 4.
  • Each side link 3, 4 has a rod pivot 5, respectively 6 and a nesting surface 7, respectively 8.
  • This nesting surface 7, 8 is formed, in this example, by a profiled hollow body, formed by cutting a tubular element, which is expelled or brazed in a housing, not visible, formed on the face internal lateral of each link 3, 4.
  • the profiled bodies forming the interlocking surfaces 7, 8 each pass through an intermediate element 9, respectively 10.
  • the fixing between the profiled bodies and the elements intermediates 9, 10 is produced by hunting or brazing.
  • Each intermediate element 9, 10 is offset longitudinally with respect to link 3, respectively 4, in the longitudinal direction of the bracelet 1.
  • the part of this element intermediate 9, 10 which is offset from the links respective 3, 4, is crossed by an opening 11, respectively 12, whose axis is transverse to the bracelet 1.
  • the central link 2 has a nesting surface 13 constituted by a passage transverse to the axis of the bracelet 1 and whose cross section is of complementary shape to the surfaces of interlocking 7 and 8 of the side links 3 and 4.
  • This central link 2 also has a transverse passage 14 fitted with a thread. This transverse passage 14 is aligned axially on the openings 11 and 12 passing through the intermediate elements 9 and 10.
  • Two screws 15 and 16 are intended to pass through the respective openings 11 and 12 for screwing into the passage 14.
  • the openings 11 and 12 are shaped to present each a bearing intended to retain the head of the screws 15, 16 and thereby tighten the intermediate elements 9, 10, respectively against the central link 2, the nesting surfaces 7 and 8 then being nested in the nesting surface 13 passing through the central link 2.
  • the heads of the screws 15, 16 each have a housing cylindrical 15a, 16a of which only 16a is visible, coaxial with the axis of the respective screw. These cylindrical housings serve to receive the respective pivot pins 5, 6 of the two side links 3, 4, once fitted in the central link 2. These lateral links 3, 4 are then locked in this nesting position by the screws 15 and 16. As soon as these links 2, 3, 4 are locked together they form a modular element 17 which behaves as a single piece, articulated around the axis coaxial pivot pins 5, 6, pivotally mounted in the cylindrical housings 15a, 16a.
  • each assembly a modular assembly 17, formed of a central link 2 and of two side links 3, 4 being locked by the screws 15, 16 which also serve as pivoting members between modular elements 17.
  • each modular assembly 17 is locked by screws 15, 16. It would suffice, in fact, that only the last set modular 17 of the bracelet or the strand, when the bracelet is formed, of several strands, either locked by one or two screws so that all successive modular sets are locked.
  • each pair of side links 3, 4 of a modular assembly 17 encloses the intermediate elements 9, 10 secured to the links 3, 4 of the assembly modular 17 previous and prevents them from dislodging as soon as these intermediate elements 9, 10 are caught between the link central 2 and side links 3, 4 of a modular assembly 17 next. Therefore, if only the last set modular 17 is locked by one or two screws 15, 16, (only one screw can be screwed into a thread in the intermediate element 9, 10 opposite, instead of the thread in the central link 2), all assemblies modular 17 located between the first and the last modular assembly 17 are locked. We could also, for example, only put screws 15, 16 with one set modular in two or three.
  • the various links it is generally advantageous to carry out the various links, or at least some of them using several parts assembled by hunting or by brazing.
  • the side links 3 and 4 can advantageously be produced using four pieces assembled.
  • the central link 2 is in one piece.
  • the central link 2 can then be a simple profile that is cut to the desired width.
  • the central link 2 is of rectangular profile seen in plan and form, after assembly of the element modular 17, with the two intermediate elements 9, 10 arranged on each side, a composite central link also rectangular.
  • the central link 2 proper is preferably raised in relation to the elements intermediate 9, 10, giving an original decorative appearance.
  • This central link 2 could have a profile other than the one illustrated, the adjacent faces of the two elements intermediaries 9, 10 then conforming to the profile of this link central 2 and preferably forming with it a composite link rectangular, whatever the shape of the link 2.
  • a seal 39 is arranged around the pins pivot 5, 6.
  • This joint is shaped to present a diametral rib 39a intended to engage in the slot of each of the screws 15 and 16 to make it integral of these screws.
  • This joint protects surfaces pivoting of the infiltration of foreign, abrasive elements or corrosive, likely to affect proper functioning pivoting members. It would also be possible consider placing a gasket at the base of the heads of the screws 36, 37 of the second embodiment.
  • the second embodiment illustrated by the figures 4 and 5 is based on the same principle as the first form of execution, but differs significantly in its realization.
  • a rod 25 crosses a transverse passage formed at one end of the central link 22. This rod 25 extends to the outside of the opposite side faces of this link. Of them annular grooves 25a, 25b, of which only the second of the two is visible, are formed between the two respective ends of this rod and the respective opposite side faces of the central link 22, thus releasing two heads 25c, 25d at both ends of the rod 25.
  • the opposite side faces of the central link 22 include each a recess, of which only one, 26, is visible. These recesses 26 form slides, each of which is intended to receive and guide one of the intermediate elements 27, 28 fixed to the internal lateral face of the link respective lateral 23, 24. These intermediate elements 27, 28 are offset longitudinally with respect to the links side 23, 24. As in the previous embodiment, the part of each intermediate element 27, 28 which extends beyond the respective lateral links 23, 24 is crossed through an opening 29, respectively 30.
  • a second passage 35 provided with an internal thread, crosses the central link 22, near its end transverse opposite to that crossed by the rod 25.
  • the housings 31, 33 each have an opening 31a, 33a giving access to these respective housings.
  • These openings 31a, 33a each have a circular part whose diameter is slightly greater than that of the heads 25c, 25d to allow their introduction into the housing respective 31, 33.
  • These openings 31a, 33a are followed of a narrower part, the width of which is slightly greater than the diameter of the annular grooves 25a, 25b of the rod 25.
  • the narrower parts of these openings 31a, 33a form flanges 31b, 33b, intended to retain the heads 25c, 25d in the respective housings 31, 33.
  • the second housings 32 and 34 are of cylindrical section circular.
  • the housings 31, 33 are designed and dimensioned for allow the central link 22 to move longitudinally with respect to the lateral links 23, 24, of a distance corresponding to that which separates the ends of the intermediate elements 27, 28, of the adjacent ends respective clearances 26 of central links 22, in which they are slidably engaged. Through therefore, to lock the three links 22, 23, 24 assembled, just slide the central link 22, from the position illustrated in FIG. 4, to that illustrated by figure 5.
  • This displacement makes it possible to align the openings 29, 30 on the axis of passage 35 located at one end of the central link 22. Simultaneously, this displacement engages the annular grooves 25a in the narrowed parts of the openings 31a, 33a, thus preventing the heads 25c, 25d of the rod 25 to emerge from the housing 31, 33. The whole is then locked in this position, by screwing two screws 36, 37 at the two ends of the threaded passage 35, through the openings 29, 30, thus preventing any longitudinal movement of the central link 22.
  • the heads of these two screws 36, 37 consist of cylinders which project laterally from the central link 22 and are intended for engage in the housings 32, 34 of the side links opposite 23, 24, during the assembly of the links 22, 23, 24 to form one of the modular assemblies 38 of the bracelet 21.
  • This bracelet can be lengthened by adding sets modular 38 successive such as the one just described, until the desired length is obtained.
  • This second embodiment has more specifically, although not exclusively, has been studied with a view to bracelets small dimensions, especially watch straps of ladies. So instead of pivoting modular sets by penetrating the pegs pivot 5, 6 of Figure 1 in the cylindrical housings 15a, 16a of the heads of the screws 15 and 16, we penetrate the cylindrical heads of the screws 36, 37 in the housings 32, 34, which allows for smaller screws diameter than in the first embodiment.
  • the passage 35 could be unthreaded and receive a simple rod crossing it and projecting laterally from both sides of the link 22 to be housed in the housings 32, 34 side links 23, 24, in place of the two screws 36, 37.
  • This rod would lock the links assemblies of modular assembly 38, as do the screws 36, 37. Only the last modular assembly must be locked by one or two screws, since a simple sliding rod through passage 35 and openings 29, 30 would not then no longer held laterally by the lateral links 23, 24 of the following modular assembly.
  • Certain functional parts of the bracelet according to the invention could be made of different materials from the other parties. This is particularly the case for members used for pivoting the modular assemblies 17 or 38 between them. This is how we could achieve these parts or coat their surfaces with ceramic material for example. One of these pivoting surfaces could also be coated with a self-lubricating material. Of such measures could lead to further reduction of games needed between these surfaces and to improve accuracy of assembly and articulation between the different bracelet elements.

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  • Professional, Industrial, Or Sporting Protective Garments (AREA)
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Description

La présente invention se rapporte à un bracelet à maillons articulés, comprenant au moins trois rangées longitudinales de maillons côte à côte, dont les maillons sont décalés longitudinalement d'une rangée à l'autre, les maillons des deux rangées latérales étant situés vis-à-vis les uns des autres, chaque paire de maillons latéraux formant, avec un maillon de la rangée centrale, un ensemble modulaire, ces ensembles comprenant des organes pour s'articuler entre eux autour d'axes transversaux traversant les parties respectives des ensembles modulaires adjacents qui s'interpénétrent mutuellementThe present invention relates to a bracelet with articulated links, comprising at least three longitudinal rows side-by-side links, the links of which are offset longitudinally from one row to another, the links of the two lateral rows being located opposite the from each other, each pair of side links forming, with a link in the center row, a modular assembly, these assemblies comprising members for articulation between them around transverse axes crossing the parts respective adjacent modular sets which interpenetrate mutually

Les bracelets formés d'une pluralité de maillons articulés l'un à l'autre autour d'axes transversaux au bracelet sont connus depuis très longtemps, notamment pour les bracelets de montres. Généralement, les articulations entre ces maillons sont réalisées par des goupilles chassées dans les maillons latéraux, pour permettre à ceux-ci de pivoter par rapport aux maillons centraux.Bracelets made up of a plurality of articulated links to each other around axes transverse to the bracelet have been known for a very long time, especially for bracelets of watches. Generally, the joints between these links are made by pins driven into the side links, to allow them to pivot by compared to the central links.

Afin de rendre possible la mise de ces bracelets à la bonne longueur, c'est-à-dire celle qui permet son adaptation au poignet du porteur, les maillons qui se situent à proximité d'une extrémité du bracelet sont assemblés par des vis au lieu de goupilles chassées, afin de permettre d'enlever les maillons excédentaires. Ces vis sont visibles de l'extérieur et elles apparaissent le plus souvent sur le côté du bracelet, ce qui nuit à son aspect.In order to make it possible to put these bracelets on the good length, that is to say that which allows its adaptation on the wearer's wrist, the links that are located nearby from one end of the bracelet are assembled by screws instead of driven pins, to allow removal the excess links. These screws are visible from the outside and they most often appear on the side of the bracelet, which detracts from its appearance.

Un autre inconvénient de ces bracelets réside dans la difficulté qu'il y a en cas de réparation. Si un maillon doit être remplacé parce qu'il a été abímé, il n'est pas possible de séparer facilement les maillons tenus par les goupilles chassées et ce travail ne peut être fait qu'avec un outillage adapté ainsi qu'un savoir-faire, ce qui n'est pas à la portée du réparateur, de sorte que le bracelet doit être retourné au fabricant, entraínant des délais qui peuvent être longs, suivant le pays dans lequel on se trouve.Another disadvantage of these bracelets is the difficulty there is in case of repair. If a link must be replaced because it has been damaged, it is not possible to easily separate the links held by the pins driven out and this work can only be done with suitable tools and know-how, which is not out of reach of the repairer, so the bracelet should be returned to the manufacturer, resulting in delays which can be long, depending on the country in which we are find.

Il a déjà été proposé de former de tels bracelets à partir d'éléments entièrement démontables. C'est ainsi que le EP-0 118 774 et le CH-664 475, se rapportent à deux bracelets à maillons articulés entièrement assemblés par des vis de fixation vissées latéralement pour maintenir ensemble les maillons et les organes de pivotement entre ces maillons. De tels bracelets résolvent une partie du problème puisqu'ils permettent de démonter complètement le bracelet et de remplacer n'importe quel maillon. Par contre, les vis de fixation sont visibles tout le long du bracelet, au détriment de son aspect.It has already been proposed to form such bracelets with from fully removable elements. Therefore EP-0 118 774 and CH-664 475 relate to two bracelets with articulated links fully assembled by fixing screws screwed laterally to hold together the links and the pivoting members between these links. Such bracelets solve part of the problem since they allow to completely disassemble the bracelet and replace any link. However, the screws are visible all along the strap, at the detriment to its appearance.

Le EP-0089 421, WO 93/0871 et le WO 94/12069 se rapportent à des bracelets articulés démontables, assemblés par des éléments d'articulation engagés librement sur des chevilles de pivotement, ces éléments d'articulation étant verrouillés par des organes vissés sur le côté du bracelet tourné vers le bras du porteur, de sorte que les vis ne sont pas visibles lorsque le bracelet est porté. Il s'agit là sans doute d'une amélioration sur le plan de l'esthétique, qui ne saurait cependant répondre aux critères les plus exigeants qui sont ceux d'articles haut de gamme. En effet, dans une vitrine ou lors de l'achat, le client voit d'abord le bracelet non porté, de sorte qu'il peut remarquer les vis de fixation quelle que soit la face du bracelet sur laquelle elles apparaissent. Le fait de voir des vis confère immédiatement à un tel bracelet le caractère d'un objet dont le côté fonctionnel à pris le pas sur le côté esthétique, ce qui n'est évidemment pas valorisant pour un article haut de gamme de ce type, dont l'aspect irréprochable est le gage de sa bonne facture. EP-0089 421, WO 93/0871 and WO 94/12069 relate removable articulated bracelets, assembled by articulation elements freely engaged on ankles pivot, these articulation elements being locked by organs screwed on the side of the bracelet facing the carrier arm, so that the screws are not not visible when the bracelet is worn. This is there probably an improvement in terms of aesthetics, which could not however meet the most criteria demanding which are those of high-end articles. Indeed, in a shop window or during the purchase, the customer first sees the bracelet not worn, so he can notice the screws of fixation whatever the face of the bracelet on which they appear. Seeing screws immediately confers to such a bracelet the character of an object whose functional side has taken precedence over aesthetic side, this which is obviously not rewarding for an article high in range of this type, whose flawless appearance is the guarantee of his good bill.

Le brevet CH-558 153 est relatif à un bracelet articulé comprenant des maillons solidaires d'une tige d'articulation transversale qui fait saillie à une extrémité du maillon et qui ne s'étend pas sur toute sa largeur. Cette tige est introduite dans un logement s'ouvrant sur la face inférieure du maillon adjacent et maintenue en place par un élément de verrouillage à ressort. Dans ce cas, les vis sont remplacées par un ressort. Dans le cas d'un bracelet en or, un tel ressort pourrait difficilement être dans le même métal que le bracelet. Par ailleurs, même si il ne s'agit pas d'une vis, cet organe de fixation doit présenter une ouverture pour permettre le démontage et conserve donc un caractère fonctionnel et non décoratif ou simplement un aspect dont l'esthétique s'intègre au reste du bracelet.Patent CH-558,153 relates to an articulated bracelet comprising links integral with a hinge rod transverse which projects at one end of the link and which does not extend over its entire width. This rod is introduced in a housing opening on the underside of the adjacent link and held in place by a spring lock. In this case, the screws are replaced by a spring. In the case of a gold bracelet, such a spring could hardly be in the same metal as the bracelet. Also, even if it’s not a screw, this fixing member must have an opening for allow disassembly and therefore retains a functional character and not decorative or simply an aspect whose aesthetics integrates with the rest of the bracelet.

Un autre type de solution a été proposé pour résoudre ce problème. Il s'agit de bracelets articulés dans lesquels le mécanisme d'articulation est logé dans des maillons formés par des sortes de manchons recouvrant chacun des segments formant le bracelet. De telles solutions ont été décrites dans le CH-653 871 ainsi que dans le EP-0 549 979. Avec ce type de bracelet, le maillon visible s'étend nécessairement sur toute la largeur du bracelet. Cette solution ne s'applique donc pas à des bracelets formés de rangées côte à côte de maillons décalés permettant d'obtenir des effets décoratifs particuliers, notamment avec des maillons de plusieurs matériaux de couleurs différentes et/ou avec des finitions de surfaces différentes.Another type of solution has been proposed to solve this problem. These are articulated bracelets in which the articulation mechanism is housed in formed links by sorts of sleeves covering each of the segments forming the bracelet. Such solutions have been described in CH-653 871 as well as in EP-0 549 979. With this type of bracelet, the visible link necessarily extends across the width of the bracelet. This solution therefore does not apply to bracelets formed of rows side by side with offset links to obtain special decorative effects, especially with links of several materials of different colors and / or with different surface finishes.

Une autre solution a été proposée dans le CH-688 430, qui consiste à former des maillons comprenant trois parties de largeurs différentes, décalées longitudinalement les une par rapport aux autres. Une partie centrale étroite est suivie par une partie de largeur intermédiaire s'étendant de part et d'autre de l'axe médian du bracelet et enfin par une partie dont la largeur correspond à celle du bracelet. Chaque partie centrale et chaque partie de largeur intermédiaire est percée transversalement au bracelet. Chaque partie large du maillon comporte un dégagement de largeur correspondant à la largeur intermédiaire, et chaque partie intermédiaire comporte un dégagement de largeur correspondant à la partie centrale la plus étroite. De ce fait, deux maillons adjacents peuvent s'imbriquer l'un dans l'autre et être retenus ensemble par une barrette glissée dans les ouvertures transversales coaxiales des parties intermédiaires et de la partie centrale du maillon adjacent. Cette barrette passe librement à travers ces ouvertures, mais est retenue axialement dès que l'on place le maillon suivant. En effet, la barrette vient buter contre les bords du dégagement de largeur correspondante de ce maillon suivant et est donc bloquée axialement.Another solution has been proposed in CH-688 430, which consists of forming links comprising three parts of different widths, offset longitudinally one compared to others. A narrow central part is followed by a part of intermediate width extending from on either side of the median axis of the bracelet and finally by a part whose width corresponds to that of the bracelet. Each central part and each intermediate width part is pierced transversely to the bracelet. Each part wide of the link has a corresponding width clearance at the intermediate width, and each intermediate part has a corresponding width clearance at the narrowest central part. Therefore, two links can overlap and be held together by a bar slid into the openings transverse coaxial of the intermediate parts and of the central part of the adjacent link. This bar passes freely through these openings, but is retained axially as soon as the next link is placed. Indeed, the bar abuts against the edges of the release of corresponding width of this next link and is therefore axially blocked.

Un tel bracelet est entièrement démontable. Si il peut sembler, à première vue, être formé de plusieurs rangées de maillons décalés, ces trois rangées sont en réalité constituées par un seul maillon. Par conséquent, les combinaisons de couleurs par des rangées de maillons de matériaux différents ne sont pas possibles avec cette solution.Such a bracelet is completely removable. If he can at first glance appear to be formed of several rows of offset links, these three rows are actually made up by a single link. Therefore, the combinations of colors by rows of links of different materials are not possible with this solution.

On enfin proposé dans le EP 0 310 536 A un bracelet comportant deux rangées de maillons latéraux, chacun solidaire d'un demi axe qui se termine par une tête adjacente à une gorge. Deux maillons intermédiaires sont disposés entre ces maillons latéraux et un maillon central. Les maillons intermédiaires présentent deux passages parallèles à axes transversaux, dont l'un est destiné à recevoir un demi-axe en laissant dépasser la tête et la gorge adjacente. Le maillon central de fixation présente un évidemment longitudinal dont la section est de forme complémentaire de celle des deux têtes des deux demi-axes. L'évidemment longitudinal s'ouvre à une extrémité et présente deux fentes latérales dont la largeur correspond au diamètre des gorges adjacentes aux têtes des demi-axes.Finally, in EP 0 310 536 A is proposed a bracelet comprising two rows of lateral links, each integral of a half axis which ends in a head adjacent to a throat. Two intermediate links are arranged between these side links and a central link. The links intermediaries have two parallel passages with axes transverse, one of which is intended to receive a half-axis leaving the head and the adjacent throat protruding. The central fixing link has a longitudinal recess whose section is of complementary shape to that of the two heads of the two half-axes. Obviously longitudinal opens at one end and has two side slits whose width corresponds to the diameter of the adjacent grooves at the heads of the semi-axes.

Pour monter le bracelet, on engage les deux demi-axes dans les passages respectifs de deux maillons intermédiaires, puis on introduit les deux têtes des demi-axes dans l'évidemmen longitudinal à partir de son extrémité ouverte. On fait coulisser longitudinalement chaque paire de maillons latéraux et intermédiaires jusqu'à ce que les autres passages des maillons intermédiaires coïncident avec le passage du maillon central. On introduit alors une tige de pivotement à travers les deux passages, de sorte que tous les maillons composant le bracelet sont articulés autour de deux axes. De plus, ce bracelet doit nécessairement comporter cinq rangées de maillons qui sont tous articulés les uns par rapport aux autres, puisque ce sont les maillons intermédiaires qui permettent de verrouiller les têtes dans le logement longitudinal du maillon central.To mount the bracelet, engage the two half-axes in the respective passages of two intermediate links, then we introduce the two heads of the semi-axes in the longitudinal recess from its open end. We slide longitudinally each pair of links lateral and intermediate until the other passages intermediate links coincide with the passage of the central link. We then introduce a pivot rod through the two passages, so that all the links making up the bracelet are articulated around two axes. In addition, this bracelet must necessarily include five rows of links which are all hinged together compared to the others, since these are the intermediate links that lock the heads in the longitudinal housing of the central link.

Le but de la présente invention est de remédier, au moins en partie, aux inconvénients des solutions susmentionnées.The object of the present invention is to remedy, less in part, to the disadvantages of the above-mentioned solutions.

A cet effet, cette invention a pour objet un bracelet à maillons articulés du type précédemment défini, correspondant à la revendication 1.To this end, the subject of this invention is a bracelet with articulated links of the type defined above, corresponding to claim 1.

L'emboítement latéral des maillons des différentes rangées permet de réaliser un bracelet à maillons formé d'ensembles modulaires entièrement démontables, les maillons emboítés d'un même module étant parfaitement solidaires les uns des autres. Les emboítements étant ménagés sur des faces latérales internes des maillons sont invisibles. Il en est de même pour les moyens de verrouillage qui, étant associés aux organes pour articuler les ensembles modulaires et étant reliés aux moyens d'emboítement, peuvent aussi être situés à l'intérieur du bracelet et donc être dissimulés, puisqu'ils sont reliés aux moyens d'emboítement qui sont eux-mêmes à l'intérieur du bracelet. Ils sont donc cachés une fois que deux éléments modulaires adjacents sont articulés l'un avec l'autre. Par conséquent, les moyens de verrouillage sont dissimulés au fur et à mesure du montage des maillons à la suite les uns des autres.The lateral interlocking of the links of the different rows allows to make a link bracelet formed of sets fully removable modules, the links nested in the same module being perfectly secured the each other. The sockets being formed on faces internal side links are invisible. It is likewise for the locking means which, being associated to the organs for articulating the modular assemblies and being connected to the interlocking means, can also be located at the inside of the bracelet and therefore be hidden, since they are connected to the interlocking means which are themselves inside the bracelet. They are therefore hidden once two adjacent modular elements are articulated, one with the other. Therefore, the locking means are concealed as the links are assembled at the following each other.

De ce fait, l'allongement ou le raccourcissement du bracelet est réalisable sans difficulté, à n'importe quel endroit de la planète par un revendeur et sans laisser de traces visibles. En effet, tous les maillons sont démontables sans que les moyens permettant leur assemblage n'apparaissent de l'extérieur du bracelet.Therefore, the lengthening or shortening of the bracelet is easily achievable at any place on the planet by a dealer and without leaving visible traces. Indeed, all the links are removable without the means allowing their assembly do not appear from the outside of the bracelet.

Les surfaces d'emboítement sont des surfaces usinées, de sorte que les emboítement peuvent être obtenus avec une très grande précision. Chaque maillon peut être amené à un état de finition désiré, soit son état final, soit un état intermédiaire, offrant une grande souplesse de fabrication. En cas de détérioration, il est possible de démonter le bracelet jusqu'au maillon abímé pour le réparer ou le remplacer. Il n'est donc plus nécessaire de retourner le bracelet en usine pour effectuer cette opération comme c'est le cas des bracelets non démontables. Le service après vente est donc simplifié et amélioré puisque la réparation peut se faire chez le revendeur.The interlocking surfaces are machined surfaces, so that the sockets can be obtained with a very high precision. Each link can be brought to a desired finish state, either its final state or a state intermediate, offering great manufacturing flexibility. In case of damage, it is possible to disassemble the bracelet to the damaged link to repair or replace it. It is therefore no longer necessary to return the bracelet in the factory to perform this operation as is the case non-removable bracelets. After sales service is therefore simplified and improved since the repair can be do at the dealer.

D'autres particularités et avantages apparaítront à la lecture de la description qui va suivre dans laquelle deux formes d'exécutions et différentes variantes de la présente invention seront décrites et illustrées, schématiquement et à titre d'exemple, à l'aide du dessin annexé.

  • La figure 1 est une vue partielle en perspective d'un segment de bracelet, dont trois maillons formant un élément modulaire, selon la première forme d'exécution, sont illustrés en position déboítée;
  • la figure 2 est une vue semblable à la figure 1 d'une variante de cette première forme d'exécution;
  • la figure 3 est une vue semblable à la figure 1 illustrant une autre variante de cette première forme d'exécution;
  • la figure 4 est une vue semblable à la figure 1 d'une seconde forme d'exécution avec parties coupées, illustrant les éléments en position emboítée;
  • la figure 5 est une vue semblable à la figure précédente, illustrant les éléments en position de verrouillage.
    • Other features and advantages will appear on reading the description which follows in which two forms of execution and different variants of the present invention will be described and illustrated, schematically and by way of example, using the attached drawing. .
  • Figure 1 is a partial perspective view of a bracelet segment, three links forming a modular element, according to the first embodiment, are illustrated in the disengaged position;
  • Figure 2 is a view similar to Figure 1 of a variant of this first embodiment;
  • Figure 3 is a view similar to Figure 1 illustrating another variant of this first embodiment;
  • Figure 4 is a view similar to Figure 1 of a second embodiment with cut parts, illustrating the elements in the fitted position;
  • Figure 5 is a view similar to the previous figure, illustrating the elements in the locked position.

    • La figure 1 montre un segment de bracelet 1, ainsi que trois maillons, un maillon central 2 et deux maillons latéraux 3 et 4. Chaque maillon latéral 3, 4 comporte une tige de pivotement 5, respectivement 6 et une surface d'emboítement 7, respectivement 8. Cette surface d'emboítement 7, 8 est formée, dans cet exemple, par un corps creux profilé, formé par découpage d'un élément tubulaire, qui est chassé ou brasé dans un logement, non visible, ménagé sur la face latérale interne de chaque maillon 3, 4.Figure 1 shows a bracelet segment 1, as well as three links, a central link 2 and two side links 3 and 4. Each side link 3, 4 has a rod pivot 5, respectively 6 and a nesting surface 7, respectively 8. This nesting surface 7, 8 is formed, in this example, by a profiled hollow body, formed by cutting a tubular element, which is expelled or brazed in a housing, not visible, formed on the face internal lateral of each link 3, 4.

    Les corps profilés formant les surfaces d'emboítement 7, 8 traversent chacun un élément intermédiaire 9, respectivement 10. La fixation entre les corps profilés et les éléments intermédiaires 9, 10 est réalisée par chassage ou brasage. Chaque élément intermédiaire 9, 10 est décalé longitudinalement par rapport au maillon 3, respectivement 4, dans le sens longitudinal du bracelet 1. La partie de cet élément intermédiaire 9, 10 qui est décalée par rapport aux maillons respectifs 3, 4, est traversée par une ouverture 11, respectivement 12, dont l'axe est transversal par rapport au bracelet 1.The profiled bodies forming the interlocking surfaces 7, 8 each pass through an intermediate element 9, respectively 10. The fixing between the profiled bodies and the elements intermediates 9, 10 is produced by hunting or brazing. Each intermediate element 9, 10 is offset longitudinally with respect to link 3, respectively 4, in the longitudinal direction of the bracelet 1. The part of this element intermediate 9, 10 which is offset from the links respective 3, 4, is crossed by an opening 11, respectively 12, whose axis is transverse to the bracelet 1.

    Le maillon central 2 comporte une surface d'emboítement 13 constituée par un passage transversal à l'axe du bracelet 1 et dont la section est de forme complémentaire aux surfaces d'emboítement 7 et 8 des maillons latéraux 3 et 4. Ce maillon central 2 comporte encore un passage transversal 14 muni d'un filetage. Ce passage transversal 14 est aligné axialement sur les ouvertures 11 et 12 traversant les éléments intermédiaires 9 et 10.The central link 2 has a nesting surface 13 constituted by a passage transverse to the axis of the bracelet 1 and whose cross section is of complementary shape to the surfaces of interlocking 7 and 8 of the side links 3 and 4. This central link 2 also has a transverse passage 14 fitted with a thread. This transverse passage 14 is aligned axially on the openings 11 and 12 passing through the intermediate elements 9 and 10.

    Deux vis 15 et 16 sont destinées à traverser les ouvertures respectives 11 et 12 pour se visser dans le passage 14. Les ouvertures 11 et 12 sont conformées pour présenter chacune une portée destinée à retenir la tête des vis respectives 15, 16 et à serrer ainsi les éléments intermédiaires 9, 10, respectifs contre le maillon central 2, les surfaces d'emboítement 7 et 8 étant alors emboítées dans la surface d'emboítement 13 traversant le maillon central 2.Two screws 15 and 16 are intended to pass through the respective openings 11 and 12 for screwing into the passage 14. The openings 11 and 12 are shaped to present each a bearing intended to retain the head of the screws 15, 16 and thereby tighten the intermediate elements 9, 10, respectively against the central link 2, the nesting surfaces 7 and 8 then being nested in the nesting surface 13 passing through the central link 2.

    Les têtes des vis 15, 16 présentent chacune un logement cylindrique 15a, 16a dont seul 16a est visible, coaxial à l'axe de la vis respective. Ces logements cylindriques servent à recevoir les chevilles de pivotement respectives 5, 6 des deux maillons latéraux 3, 4, une fois emboítés dans le maillon central 2. Ces maillons latéraux 3, 4 sont alors verrouillés dans cette position d'emboítement par les vis 15 et 16. Dés que ces maillons 2, 3, 4 sont verrouillés ensemble, ils forment un élément modulaire 17 qui se comporte comme une seule et même pièce, articulée autour de l'axe des chevilles de pivotement coaxiales 5, 6, montées pivotantes dans les logements cylindrique 15a, 16a.The heads of the screws 15, 16 each have a housing cylindrical 15a, 16a of which only 16a is visible, coaxial with the axis of the respective screw. These cylindrical housings serve to receive the respective pivot pins 5, 6 of the two side links 3, 4, once fitted in the central link 2. These lateral links 3, 4 are then locked in this nesting position by the screws 15 and 16. As soon as these links 2, 3, 4 are locked together they form a modular element 17 which behaves as a single piece, articulated around the axis coaxial pivot pins 5, 6, pivotally mounted in the cylindrical housings 15a, 16a.

    Tout les maillons du bracelet sont montés les uns après les autres comme on vient de le décrire, chaque assemblage d'un ensemble modulaire 17, formé d'un maillon central 2 et de deux maillons latéraux 3, 4 étant verrouillé par les vis 15, 16 qui servent également d'organes de pivotement entre les éléments modulaires 17.All the links of the bracelet are fitted one after the other the others as we have just described, each assembly a modular assembly 17, formed of a central link 2 and of two side links 3, 4 being locked by the screws 15, 16 which also serve as pivoting members between modular elements 17.

    Il est à remarquer qu'il n'est pas indispensable que chaque ensemble modulaire 17 soit verrouillé par des vis 15, 16. Il suffirait, en effet, que seul le dernier ensemble modulaire 17 du bracelet ou du brin, lorsque le bracelet est formé, de plusieurs brins, soit verrouillé par une ou deux vis pour que tout les ensembles modulaires successifs soient verrouillés.It should be noted that it is not essential that each modular assembly 17 is locked by screws 15, 16. It would suffice, in fact, that only the last set modular 17 of the bracelet or the strand, when the bracelet is formed, of several strands, either locked by one or two screws so that all successive modular sets are locked.

    En effet, chaque paire de maillons latéraux 3, 4 d'un ensemble modulaire 17 vient enserrer les éléments intermédiaires 9, 10 solidaires des maillons 3, 4 de l'ensemble modulaire 17 précédent et les empêche de se déboíter dès que ces éléments intermédiaires 9, 10 sont pris entre le maillon central 2 et les maillons latéraux 3, 4 d'un ensemble modulaire 17 suivant. Par conséquent, si seul le dernier ensemble modulaire 17 est verrouillé par une ou deux vis 15, 16, (une seule vis pouvant se visser dans un filetage ménagé dans l'élément intermédiaire 9, 10 opposé, au lieu du filetage ménagé dans le maillon central 2), tous les ensembles modulaires 17 situés entre le premier et le dernier ensemble modulaire 17 sont verrouillés. On pourrait aussi, par exemple, ne mettre les vis 15, 16 qu'avec un ensemble modulaire sur deux ou sur trois.Indeed, each pair of side links 3, 4 of a modular assembly 17 encloses the intermediate elements 9, 10 secured to the links 3, 4 of the assembly modular 17 previous and prevents them from dislodging as soon as these intermediate elements 9, 10 are caught between the link central 2 and side links 3, 4 of a modular assembly 17 next. Therefore, if only the last set modular 17 is locked by one or two screws 15, 16, (only one screw can be screwed into a thread in the intermediate element 9, 10 opposite, instead of the thread in the central link 2), all assemblies modular 17 located between the first and the last modular assembly 17 are locked. We could also, for example, only put screws 15, 16 with one set modular in two or three.

    Pour les mêmes raisons, on peut constater que les vis 15 et 16 ne peuvent pas se dévisser, étant donné qu'elles en sont empêchées par les deux maillons latéraux 3, 4 de l'ensemble modulaire suivant contre lesquelles elles viennent buter dès qu'elles se dévissent. Ce mode d'assemblage, entièrement démontable, est de ce fait également complètement dissimulé, seule la ou les dernières vis apparaissant sur la face latérale du ou des maillons latéraux 3, 4 d'extrémité.For the same reasons, we can see that the screws 15 and 16 cannot be unscrewed, since they are prevented by the two side links 3, 4 of the next modular assembly against which they come stop as soon as they unscrew. This method of assembly, completely removable, is therefore also completely concealed, only the last screw (s) appearing on the lateral face of the end link (s) 3, 4.

    Il est bien évident que pour des questions de fabrication, il est en général avantageux de réaliser les différents maillons, ou au moins certains d'entre eux à l'aide de plusieurs pièces assemblées par chassage ou par brasage. Comme on l'a mentionné précédemment, les maillons latéraux 3 et 4 peuvent avantageusement être réalisés à l'aide de quatre pièces assemblées. Dans cet exemple, le maillon central 2 est d'une seule pièce.It’s obvious that for manufacturing reasons, it is generally advantageous to carry out the various links, or at least some of them using several parts assembled by hunting or by brazing. As mentioned earlier, the side links 3 and 4 can advantageously be produced using four pieces assembled. In this example, the central link 2 is in one piece.

    Dans la variante illustrée par la figure 2, on a montré un maillon central 2, dans lequel le filetage, ménagé dans le passage transversal 14, est porté par une pièce cylindrique indépendante 18, constituant un écrou flottant, disposé dans ce passage transversal 14.In the variant illustrated in FIG. 2, we have shown a central link 2, in which the thread, formed in the transverse passage 14, is carried by a cylindrical piece independent 18, constituting a floating nut, arranged in this transverse passage 14.

    Il s'agit là d'une variante destinée à faciliter la fabrication, le maillon central 2 pouvant être alors un simple profilé que l'on découpe à la largeur désirée.This is a variant intended to facilitate the manufacturing, the central link 2 can then be a simple profile that is cut to the desired width.

    Comme on peut le remarquer, dans la forme d'exécution et la variante qui viennent d'être décrites en relation avec les figures 1 et 2, le maillon central 2 est de profil rectangulaire vu en plan et forme, après assemblage de l'élément modulaire 17, avec les deux éléments intermédiaires 9, 10 disposés de chaque côté, un maillon central composite également rectangulaire. Le maillon central 2 proprement dit est, de préférence, en relief par rapport aux éléments intermédiaire 9, 10, conférant un aspect décoratif original. Ce maillon central 2 pourrait avoir un autre profil que celui illustré, les faces adjacentes des deux éléments intermédiaires 9, 10 épousant alors le profil de ce maillon central 2 et formant de préférence avec lui un maillon composite rectangulaire, quelle que soit la forme du maillon 2.As can be seen, in the form of execution and the variant which have just been described in relation to Figures 1 and 2, the central link 2 is of rectangular profile seen in plan and form, after assembly of the element modular 17, with the two intermediate elements 9, 10 arranged on each side, a composite central link also rectangular. The central link 2 proper is preferably raised in relation to the elements intermediate 9, 10, giving an original decorative appearance. This central link 2 could have a profile other than the one illustrated, the adjacent faces of the two elements intermediaries 9, 10 then conforming to the profile of this link central 2 and preferably forming with it a composite link rectangular, whatever the shape of the link 2.

    Bien évidemment, ces formes ne sont pas limitatives, mais sont simplement là pour montrer les possibilités esthétiques que permet cette forme d'exécution. On peut aussi constater que, avantageusement, tous les maillons centraux, formés chacun d'un maillon central 2 et de deux éléments intermédiaires 9 et 10, ont la même largeur sur toute la longueur du bracelet 1. Lorsqu'il s'agit d'un bracelet de montre en particulier, la largeur de chacun des brins du bracelet diminue progressivement de la fixation au boítier en allant vers la fermoir. Dans ce cas, cette diminution de largeur peut, de préférence, être réalisée en réduisant la largeur des maillons latéraux 3 et 4.Obviously, these forms are not limiting, but are just there to show the aesthetic possibilities that this form of execution allows. Can also find that, advantageously, all the central links, each formed by a central link 2 and two elements intermediaries 9 and 10, have the same width over the entire bracelet length 1. When it is a bracelet shows in particular the width of each of the strands of the bracelet gradually decreases from attachment to the case going towards the clasp. In this case, this decrease in width can preferably be achieved by reducing the width of side links 3 and 4.

    Selon une autre variante encore, illustrée par la figure 3 en tant que variante de la première forme d'exécution, un joint d'étanchéité 39 est disposé autour des chevilles de pivotement 5, 6. Ce joint est conformé pour présenter une nervure diamétrale 39a destinée à s'engager dans la fente de chacune des vis 15 et 16 pour le rendre solidaire de ces vis. Ce joint permet de protéger les surfaces de pivotement de l'infiltration d'éléments étrangers, abrasifs ou corrosifs, susceptibles de nuire au bon fonctionnement des organes de pivotement. Il serait également possible d'envisager de placer un joint d'étanchéité à la base des têtes des vis 36, 37 de la seconde forme d'exécution.According to yet another variant, illustrated by the FIG. 3 as a variant of the first embodiment, a seal 39 is arranged around the pins pivot 5, 6. This joint is shaped to present a diametral rib 39a intended to engage in the slot of each of the screws 15 and 16 to make it integral of these screws. This joint protects surfaces pivoting of the infiltration of foreign, abrasive elements or corrosive, likely to affect proper functioning pivoting members. It would also be possible consider placing a gasket at the base of the heads of the screws 36, 37 of the second embodiment.

    La seconde forme d'exécution illustrée par les figures 4 et 5 est basée sur le même principe que la première forme d'exécution, mais diffère sensiblement dans sa réalisation.The second embodiment illustrated by the figures 4 and 5 is based on the same principle as the first form of execution, but differs significantly in its realization.

    On retrouve dans cette seconde forme d'exécution un bracelet 21, dont seul un segment est représenté, formé d'une rangée de maillons centraux 22 et de deux rangées de maillons latéraux 23, 24. Le dernier maillon central 22 et les deux derniers maillons latéraux 23, 24 sont représentés à l'état démonté.We find in this second embodiment a bracelet 21, of which only one segment is represented, formed a row of central links 22 and two rows of side links 23, 24. The last central link 22 and the last two lateral links 23, 24 are shown in the disassembled state.

    Une tige 25 traverse un passage transversal ménagé à une extrémité du maillon central 22. Cette tige 25 s'étend à l'extérieur des faces latérales opposées de ce maillon. Deux gorges annulaires 25a, 25b, dont seule la seconde des deux est visible, sont ménagées entre les deux extrémités respectives de cette tige et les faces latérales opposées respectives du maillon central 22, dégageant ainsi deux têtes 25c, 25d aux deux extrémités de la tige 25.A rod 25 crosses a transverse passage formed at one end of the central link 22. This rod 25 extends to the outside of the opposite side faces of this link. Of them annular grooves 25a, 25b, of which only the second of the two is visible, are formed between the two respective ends of this rod and the respective opposite side faces of the central link 22, thus releasing two heads 25c, 25d at both ends of the rod 25.

    Les faces latérales opposées du maillon central 22 comportent chacune un évidement, dont seul l'un, 26, est visible. Ces évidements 26 forment des coulisseaux dont chacun est destiné à recevoir et à guider un des éléments intermédiaires 27, 28 fixé à la face latérale interne du maillon latéral respectif 23, 24. Ces éléments intermédiaires 27, 28 sont décalés longitudinalement par rapport aux maillons latéraux 23, 24. Comme dans la forme d'exécution précédente, la partie de chaque élément intermédiaire 27, 28 qui s'étend au-delà des maillons latéraux respectifs 23, 24 est traversée par une ouverture 29, respectivement 30.The opposite side faces of the central link 22 include each a recess, of which only one, 26, is visible. These recesses 26 form slides, each of which is intended to receive and guide one of the intermediate elements 27, 28 fixed to the internal lateral face of the link respective lateral 23, 24. These intermediate elements 27, 28 are offset longitudinally with respect to the links side 23, 24. As in the previous embodiment, the part of each intermediate element 27, 28 which extends beyond the respective lateral links 23, 24 is crossed through an opening 29, respectively 30.

    Un second passage 35, muni d'un filetage intérieur, traverse le maillon central 22, à proximité de son extrémité transversale opposée à celle traversée par la tige 25.A second passage 35, provided with an internal thread, crosses the central link 22, near its end transverse opposite to that crossed by the rod 25.

    Les faces latérales internes des maillons latéraux 23, 24, comportent chacune deux logements 31, 32, respectivement 33, 34. Les logements 31, 33 comportent chacun une ouverture 31a, 33a donnant accès à ces logements respectifs. Ces ouvertures 31a, 33a présentent chacune une partie circulaire dont le diamètre est légèrement supérieur à celui des têtes 25c, 25d pour permettre leur introduction dans les logements respectifs 31, 33. Ces ouvertures 31a, 33a sont suivies d'une partie plus étroite, dont la largeur est légèrement supérieure au diamètre des gorges annulaires 25a, 25b de la tige 25. Les parties plus étroites de ces ouvertures 31a, 33a forment des rebords 31b, 33b, destinés à retenir les têtes 25c, 25d dans les logements respectifs 31, 33. Les seconds logements 32 et 34, sont de section cylindrique circulaire.The internal lateral faces of the lateral links 23, 24, each have two housings 31, 32, respectively 33, 34. The housings 31, 33 each have an opening 31a, 33a giving access to these respective housings. These openings 31a, 33a each have a circular part whose diameter is slightly greater than that of the heads 25c, 25d to allow their introduction into the housing respective 31, 33. These openings 31a, 33a are followed of a narrower part, the width of which is slightly greater than the diameter of the annular grooves 25a, 25b of the rod 25. The narrower parts of these openings 31a, 33a form flanges 31b, 33b, intended to retain the heads 25c, 25d in the respective housings 31, 33. The second housings 32 and 34, are of cylindrical section circular.

    Lorsque les têtes 25c, 25d de ces tiges sont introduites dans les logements 31 et 33 à travers la partie circulaire des ouvertures 31a et 33a, les éléments intermédiaires 27, 28 s'engagent dans les coulisseaux formés par les dégagements 26 du maillon central 22. Toutefois, comme on peut le constater sur la figure 4, ces éléments intermédiaires 27, 28 se trouvent à distance de l'extrémité de ces dégagements 26, de sorte que les ouvertures 29, 30 sont désaxées par rapport à l'ouverture 35.When the heads 25c, 25d of these rods are introduced in housings 31 and 33 through the circular part openings 31a and 33a, the intermediate elements 27, 28 engage in the slides formed by the clearances 26 of the central link 22. However, as can be see in Figure 4, these intermediate elements 27, 28 are at a distance from the end of these clearances 26, so that the openings 29, 30 are offset relative to the opening 35.

    Les logements 31, 33 sont conçus et dimensionnés pour permettre au maillon central 22 de se déplacer longitudinalement par rapport aux maillons latéraux 23, 24, d'une distance correspondant à celle qui sépare les extrémités des éléments intermédiaires 27, 28, des extrémités adjacentes respectives des dégagements 26 des maillons centraux 22, dans lesquels ils sont engagés de manière coulissante. Par conséquent, pour verrouiller les trois maillons 22, 23, 24 assemblés, il suffit de faire coulisser le maillon central 22, de la position illustrée par la figure 4, à celle illustrée par la figure 5.The housings 31, 33 are designed and dimensioned for allow the central link 22 to move longitudinally with respect to the lateral links 23, 24, of a distance corresponding to that which separates the ends of the intermediate elements 27, 28, of the adjacent ends respective clearances 26 of central links 22, in which they are slidably engaged. Through therefore, to lock the three links 22, 23, 24 assembled, just slide the central link 22, from the position illustrated in FIG. 4, to that illustrated by figure 5.

    Ce déplacement permet d'aligner les ouvertures 29, 30 sur l'axe du passage 35 situé à l'une des extrémités du maillon central 22. Simultanément, ce déplacement engage les gorges annulaires 25a dans les parties rétrécies des ouvertures 31a, 33a, empêchant ainsi aux têtes 25c, 25d de la tige 25 de ressortir des logements 31, 33. Le tout est ensuite verrouillé dans cette position, en vissant deux vis 36, 37 aux deux extrémités du passage fileté 35, à travers les ouvertures 29, 30, empêchant ainsi tout déplacement longitudinal du maillon central 22. Les têtes de ces deux vis 36, 37 sont constituées par des cylindres qui font saillie latéralement du maillon central 22 et sont destinées à s'engager dans les logements 32, 34 des maillons latéraux opposés 23, 24, lors de l'assemblage des maillons 22, 23, 24 pour former un des ensembles modulaires 38 du bracelet 21. Ce bracelet peut être allongé par l'adjonction d'ensembles modulaires 38 successifs tel que celui qui vient d'être décrit, jusqu'à l'obtention de la longueur désirée.This displacement makes it possible to align the openings 29, 30 on the axis of passage 35 located at one end of the central link 22. Simultaneously, this displacement engages the annular grooves 25a in the narrowed parts of the openings 31a, 33a, thus preventing the heads 25c, 25d of the rod 25 to emerge from the housing 31, 33. The whole is then locked in this position, by screwing two screws 36, 37 at the two ends of the threaded passage 35, through the openings 29, 30, thus preventing any longitudinal movement of the central link 22. The heads of these two screws 36, 37 consist of cylinders which project laterally from the central link 22 and are intended for engage in the housings 32, 34 of the side links opposite 23, 24, during the assembly of the links 22, 23, 24 to form one of the modular assemblies 38 of the bracelet 21. This bracelet can be lengthened by adding sets modular 38 successive such as the one just described, until the desired length is obtained.

    Cette seconde forme d'exécution a plus spécialement, bien que non exclusivement, été étudiée en vue de bracelets de petites dimensions, notamment des bracelets pour montres de dames. C'est ainsi qu'au lieu de réaliser le pivotement des ensembles modulaires en faisant pénétrer les chevilles de pivotement 5, 6 de la figure 1 dans les logements cylindriques 15a, 16a des têtes des vis 15 et 16, on fait pénétrer les têtes cylindriques des vis 36, 37 dans les logements 32, 34, ce qui permet d'avoir des vis de plus petit diamètre que dans la première forme d'exécution.This second embodiment has more specifically, although not exclusively, has been studied with a view to bracelets small dimensions, especially watch straps of ladies. So instead of pivoting modular sets by penetrating the pegs pivot 5, 6 of Figure 1 in the cylindrical housings 15a, 16a of the heads of the screws 15 and 16, we penetrate the cylindrical heads of the screws 36, 37 in the housings 32, 34, which allows for smaller screws diameter than in the first embodiment.

    Bien entendu, dans la seconde forme d'exécution, le passage 35 pourrait être non fileté et recevoir une simple tige le traversant et faisant saillie latéralement des deux côtés du maillon 22 pour se loger dans les logements 32, 34 des maillons latéraux 23, 24, à la place des deux vis 36, 37. Cette tige permettrait de verrouiller les maillons assemblés de l'ensemble modulaire 38, comme le font les vis 36, 37. Seul le dernier ensemble modulaire doit être verrouillé par une ou deux vis, puisqu'une simple tige glissée à travers le passage 35 et les ouvertures 29, 30 ne serait alors plus tenue latéralement par les maillons latéraux 23, 24 de l'ensemble modulaire suivant.Of course, in the second embodiment, the passage 35 could be unthreaded and receive a simple rod crossing it and projecting laterally from both sides of the link 22 to be housed in the housings 32, 34 side links 23, 24, in place of the two screws 36, 37. This rod would lock the links assemblies of modular assembly 38, as do the screws 36, 37. Only the last modular assembly must be locked by one or two screws, since a simple sliding rod through passage 35 and openings 29, 30 would not then no longer held laterally by the lateral links 23, 24 of the following modular assembly.

    Certaines parties fonctionnelles du bracelet selon l'invention pourraient être réalisées en des matériaux différents des autres parties. C'est notamment le cas des organes servant au pivotement des ensembles modulaires 17 ou 38 entre eux. C'est ainsi que l'on pourrait réaliser ces parties ou revêtir leurs surfaces d'un matériau céramique par exemple. L'une de ces surfaces de pivotement pourrait également être revêtue d'un matériau autolubrifiant. De telle mesures pourraient conduire à réduire encore les jeux nécessaires entre ces surfaces et à améliorer la précision de l'assemblage et de l'articulation entre les différents éléments du bracelet.Certain functional parts of the bracelet according to the invention could be made of different materials from the other parties. This is particularly the case for members used for pivoting the modular assemblies 17 or 38 between them. This is how we could achieve these parts or coat their surfaces with ceramic material for example. One of these pivoting surfaces could also be coated with a self-lubricating material. Of such measures could lead to further reduction of games needed between these surfaces and to improve accuracy of assembly and articulation between the different bracelet elements.

    Claims (8)

    1. Bracelet with pivoting links, comprising at least three longitudinal rows of links (2, 3, 4; 22, 23, 24) side by side, the links of the two lateral rows being aligned transversely in pairs and being staggered longitudinally with respect to those of the central row and members (5, 6, 15a, 16a; 32, 34, 36, 37) allowing pivoting about transverse axes, associated with locking members (15, 16; 36, 37) and passing through the respective portions of the said links (2, 3, 4; 22, 23, 24) side by side, which bracelet is characterized in that the two opposite lateral faces of the said central link (2; 22) on the one hand, and the internal lateral faces of the said lateral links (3, 4; 23, 24) on the other, are integral with means (7, 8, 13; 25-28, 31, 33) for the lateral engagement of these links (2, 3, 4; 22, 23, 24) into each other in a defined position so that each pair of lateral links forms, with one link of the central row (2; 22), a rigid modular assembly (17; 38), and in that parts (9, 10; 27, 28) connect the said locking members (15, 16; 36, 37) to the said engagement means (7, 8, 13; 25-28, 31, 33) to keep the links (2, 3, 4; 22, 23, 24) of each modular assembly (17; 38) engaged in each other.
    2. Bracelet according to Claim 1, characterized in that the said members (15, 16; 36, 37) for locking the three links (2, 3, 4; 22, 23, 24) engaged in each other comprise three respective openings (11, 12, 14; 29, 30, 35), one (14; 35) formed at the transverse end of the central link (2; 22) projecting longitudinally from the two lateral links (3, 4; 23, 24), and the other two (11, 12; 29, 30) through the respective ends of two intermediate parts (9, 10; 27, 28) forming longitudinal extensions of the lateral links, the transverse dimension when the extensions of these intermediate parts (9, 10; 27, 28) are in the engaged position corresponding to the space separating two lateral links (3, 4; 23, 24) of the adjacent modular assembly (17; 38), the locking members (15, 16; 36, 37) being designed to join together axially the said openings (11, 12, 14; 29, 30, 35), and the pivot members (5, 6, 15a, 16a; 32, 34, 36, 37) integral both with these locking members (15, 16; 36, 37) and with the internal lateral face of the said lateral links (3, 4; 23, 24) having cylindrical surfaces that are complementary to and co-axial with the said pivot axis so as to fit into each other.
    3. Bracelet according to Claim 2, characterized in that the said opening (14; 35) formed in the central link (2; 22) contains a screw thread, while the outsides of the two openings (11, 12, 29, 30) formed through the intermediate parts (9, 10; 27, 28) that extend the two lateral links (3, 4; 23, 24) longitudinally are shaped to take the respective heads of two screws (15, 16; 36, 37), each of which is in engagement with the said thread on each side of the said central link (2; 22), these two screws (15, 16; 36, 37) forming the said means of locking the three links (2, 3, 4; 22, 23, 24) of the modular part (17; 38).
    4. Bracelet according to Claim 3, characterized in that a cylindrical housing (15a, 16a) is formed in the head of each locking screw (15, 16) to take a rod (5, 6) integral with the internal face of a lateral link (3, 4) .
    5. Bracelet according to Claim 3, characterized in that the head of the locking screw (36, 37) has a cylindrical part projecting from the said central link (22), while the lateral link (23, 24) comprises a complementary cylindrical housing (32, 34), so as to engage on this cylindrical part.
    6. Bracelet according to one of Claims 2 to 5, characterized in that the said intermediate parts (27, 28) forming extensions each integral with one of the two lateral links (23, 24) and enclosing the central link (22) form sliding feet engaged in two slots (26) in each lateral face of the central link (22), capable of defining two longitudinal relative limit positions between this central link (22) and each of the lateral links (23, 24) and in that a rod (25) ending in a head (25c, 25d) at each end projects from one of the adjacent lateral faces of each of the pairs of adjacent lateral faces between the central link (22) and the two lateral links (23, 24), while the other of each of these pairs of adjacent faces has an opening (31a, 33a) to allow the said head (25c, 25d) to move to one of the two longitudinal relative limit positions between the central link (22) and the adjacent lateral link (23, 24) and give access to a housing (31, 33) designed to allow this head (25c, 25d) to be displaced along a length corresponding to the amplitude of relative displacement between the said sliding foot (27, 28) and the said slot (26), a lip (31b, 33b) being formed around part of the opening of this housing (31, 33) on the lateral face of the link (23, 24) in order axially to retain the said head (25c, 25d) in the other of the relative limit positions between the central link (22) and the adjacent lateral link (23, 24), this position corresponding to that in which the said three openings (29, 30, 32) are axially aligned.
    7. Bracelet according to one of Claims 2 to 6, characterized in that the said intermediate part (9, 10) is formed by a link integral with each lateral link (3, 4).
    8. Bracelet according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that sealing means (39) are provided to protect the pivot surfaces (5, 6, 15a, 16a) between the said modular assemblies (17, 38).
    EP98810244A 1998-03-20 1998-03-20 Bracelet with articulated links Expired - Lifetime EP0943257B1 (en)

    Priority Applications (10)

    Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
    ES98810244T ES2187913T3 (en) 1998-03-20 1998-03-20 BRACELETS WITH ARTICULATED LINKS.
    EP98810244A EP0943257B1 (en) 1998-03-20 1998-03-20 Bracelet with articulated links
    DE69810259T DE69810259T2 (en) 1998-03-20 1998-03-20 Multi-link bracelet
    US09/260,639 US6026637A (en) 1998-03-20 1999-03-02 Wristlet with articulated links
    JP05797499A JP4213284B2 (en) 1998-03-20 1999-03-05 Bracelet
    TW088103400A TW469121B (en) 1998-03-20 1999-03-05 Wristlet with articulated links
    KR1019990009333A KR19990078059A (en) 1998-03-20 1999-03-19 Wristlet with articulated links
    SG9901402A SG84525A1 (en) 1998-03-20 1999-03-19 Wristlet with articulated links
    CNB991040678A CN1157135C (en) 1998-03-20 1999-03-19 Wristlet with articulated links
    HK99104391A HK1019298A1 (en) 1998-03-20 1999-10-07 Bracelet with articulated links

    Applications Claiming Priority (1)

    Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
    EP98810244A EP0943257B1 (en) 1998-03-20 1998-03-20 Bracelet with articulated links

    Publications (2)

    Publication Number Publication Date
    EP0943257A1 EP0943257A1 (en) 1999-09-22
    EP0943257B1 true EP0943257B1 (en) 2002-12-18

    Family

    ID=8236004

    Family Applications (1)

    Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
    EP98810244A Expired - Lifetime EP0943257B1 (en) 1998-03-20 1998-03-20 Bracelet with articulated links

    Country Status (10)

    Country Link
    US (1) US6026637A (en)
    EP (1) EP0943257B1 (en)
    JP (1) JP4213284B2 (en)
    KR (1) KR19990078059A (en)
    CN (1) CN1157135C (en)
    DE (1) DE69810259T2 (en)
    ES (1) ES2187913T3 (en)
    HK (1) HK1019298A1 (en)
    SG (1) SG84525A1 (en)
    TW (1) TW469121B (en)

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    DE69613595T2 (en) * 1996-08-29 2002-04-25 Tag Heuer Sa Watch strap with articulated links
    AU761511B2 (en) * 1999-04-29 2003-06-05 Tag Heuer Sa Watch band with removable links
    TW533105B (en) * 1999-10-20 2003-05-21 Injex Corp Method of producing watchband parts
    DE60008495T2 (en) * 2000-03-17 2004-12-16 Patek Philippe S.A. Bracelet with light links
    EP1186252A1 (en) * 2000-09-09 2002-03-13 Conseils et Manufactures VLG SA Bracelet with links
    DE60225028T2 (en) * 2002-12-11 2009-02-12 Rolex Sa Link bracelet with joint
    US7303330B2 (en) * 2003-02-24 2007-12-04 Hartcase Corporation Watch wristband with links
    EP2057914B1 (en) * 2007-11-06 2016-07-06 Rolex Sa Bracelet with articulated links
    EP2484244B1 (en) * 2011-02-02 2013-08-28 Omega SA Adjustable link
    EP2633775B1 (en) * 2012-02-29 2015-07-01 Montres Rado S.A. Hinged bracelet
    JP6249649B2 (en) * 2013-07-01 2017-12-20 シチズン時計株式会社 Band connection structure
    CN104763727A (en) * 2014-01-06 2015-07-08 董志刚 Screw anti-loosening and locating structure and watch strap
    EP2915445B1 (en) * 2014-03-04 2016-12-14 Rolex Sa Device and method for assembling a pivot of at least two parts, corresponding set of two assembled parts
    CN106617532A (en) * 2016-11-25 2017-05-10 欧阳波 Connecting structure
    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
    EP3593667B1 (en) * 2018-07-10 2021-05-26 Cartier International AG Link for bracelet
    US11284682B2 (en) * 2019-11-05 2022-03-29 Leatherman Tool Group, Inc. Tool having interconnected links that form at least a portion of a wearable accessory
    TWD210697S (en) * 2020-03-17 2021-03-21 瑞士商帝舵鐘錶公司 Watch case
    US20220312741A1 (en) * 2021-03-30 2022-10-06 Morgan Hathaway Pet collar

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    CH269271A (en) * 1950-04-05 1950-06-30 Goy Jacques Bracelet.
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    CH655836A5 (en) * 1984-04-26 1986-05-30 Bielna Fabrique De Boites Sa Bracelet, particularly for a watch
    CH664267A5 (en) * 1985-03-27 1988-02-29 Micronex Mme D Giacomini Wrist-watch strap with links slotted for inserts - has resilient fingers which define slots for clipping into grooves around rods paired within outer links
    DE3732920A1 (en) * 1987-09-30 1989-04-13 Jaeger Lecoultre Sa LINKED BRACELET
    CH686861A5 (en) * 1991-10-30 1996-07-31 Valcambi Sa Together it folding composed by more elements connected therebetween.
    CH689105A5 (en) * 1992-01-21 1998-10-15 Complications Sa Bracelet, including watchband.
    CH687498A5 (en) * 1992-12-02 1996-12-31 Valcambi Sa Together articulated composed of adjacent elements that can rotate relative to one another.

    Also Published As

    Publication number Publication date
    ES2187913T3 (en) 2003-06-16
    HK1019298A1 (en) 2000-02-03
    CN1229619A (en) 1999-09-29
    CN1157135C (en) 2004-07-14
    DE69810259D1 (en) 2003-01-30
    DE69810259T2 (en) 2003-09-04
    JP4213284B2 (en) 2009-01-21
    SG84525A1 (en) 2001-11-20
    US6026637A (en) 2000-02-22
    KR19990078059A (en) 1999-10-25
    JP2000060611A (en) 2000-02-29
    TW469121B (en) 2001-12-21
    EP0943257A1 (en) 1999-09-22

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