EP1171806B1 - Clockwork comprising a microgenerator and a testing method for clockworks - Google Patents

Clockwork comprising a microgenerator and a testing method for clockworks Download PDF

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Publication number
EP1171806B1
EP1171806B1 EP00910481.1A EP00910481A EP1171806B1 EP 1171806 B1 EP1171806 B1 EP 1171806B1 EP 00910481 A EP00910481 A EP 00910481A EP 1171806 B1 EP1171806 B1 EP 1171806B1
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EP
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Prior art keywords
clockwork movement
movement according
wheels
pinions
generator
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EP00910481.1A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP1171806A1 (en
Inventor
Konrad Schafroth
Eric Maerki
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Richemont International SA
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Richemont International SA
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    • G—PHYSICS
    • G04—HOROLOGY
    • G04C—ELECTROMECHANICAL CLOCKS OR WATCHES
    • G04C3/00—Electromechanical clocks or watches independent of other time-pieces and in which the movement is maintained by electric means
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G04—HOROLOGY
    • G04C—ELECTROMECHANICAL CLOCKS OR WATCHES
    • G04C3/00—Electromechanical clocks or watches independent of other time-pieces and in which the movement is maintained by electric means
    • G04C3/008—Mounting, assembling of components

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a movement, in particular a movement with a microgenerator.
  • the present invention also relates to a test method for such movements.
  • Abrasion has also been observed in areas where the teeth never touch, for example at the tips of the teeth.
  • a lot of abrasion in the oil can be found on the storage stones. The faster that Wheel rotates, the more the oil is destroyed at the bearings of the wheel in question.
  • An object of the invention is to build a movement with a microgenerator in which these problems do not occur.
  • Another goal is to build a movement with a microgenerator that is at least as durable as a conventional mechanical movement.
  • Another goal is to build a cheap and reliable movement, which is controlled by a generator and in which these wear problems do not occur.
  • the present invention also relates to a method for testing the movements according to the invention.
  • the generator 10 the pinion 50 and the wheel 51 are electrically isolated from the other parts of the movement, they can be electrically charged by static electricity and / or stray fields of the rotor which induce a voltage in the wheel 50-51. Once the voltage reaches a certain level, sparking can occur, as described later, which can cause faster wear of the gear train and rapid destruction of lubrication.
  • the insulated wheels and the rotor can be charged in particular by frictional electricity.
  • the rotor 10 charges, whether by air friction, by charge separation as described above or by inducing voltage in the wheel 50-51 by the magnetic stray fields of the rotor 10.
  • the transmission is grounded via the axles. This prevents the rotor and gearbox from being able to charge electrically.
  • the gearbox can be earthed, for example, in the bearings or by sliding contacts on the axles.
  • charge separations are prevented.
  • the generation of charge separations can be prevented by using materials having approximately the same electrochemical potential and / or the same dielectric constant. If the materials in contact with each other have approximately the same surface finish, there is little tendency for electrons to be entrained in the separation of the materials. Thus, for example, materials or surfaces having good tribological properties and a hardness greater than 200HV can be used. In an embodiment according to claim 6, a material is used on which no oxide layer is formed.
  • an oil which is resistant to ozone is used is. This allows lubrication to be kept intact when ozone is regularly produced by radio shock within the movement.
  • bearing blocks are used, which protect the oil as well as possible against the oxidation. This is achieved by keeping the jewels as close together as possible so that the oil is held in the bearing by the capillary action, and on the other hand so that the oil is not exposed to oxygen and any ozone that may be present.
  • FIG. 1 shows a side section of a mounted in a clockwork microgenerator according to the invention, wherein only necessary for understanding the invention parts of the movement are shown.
  • the movement contains a mechanical energy storage in the form of a spring, not shown.
  • the spring is wound by an elevator device, not shown, or preferably by a brought into vibration by the movements of the Uhrmonarms mass.
  • the spring drives, via a conventional transmission, not shown, the various hands and indicators of the watch, in particular the second hand mounted on the seconds axis 70.
  • the second wheel 71 mounted on the second axle 70 drives a first intermediate pinion 60 (Inter 1), which in turn drives a second intermediate pinion 50 (Inter 2) via the first intermediate gear 61.
  • the first Intermediate pinion 60 and its axis consists for example of steel or other suitable metal; the second intermediate pinion 50 and its axis, however, made of a non-magnetizable material, preferably a copper-beryllium alloy, so that not because of the force of the magnets on the idler a positional torque is exerted on the generator.
  • the second pinion 50 in turn drives via the second intermediate 51 and the pinion 15 to the axis 10 of the rotor of the generator.
  • the axle 10 is held rotating between two synthetic shock absorbing bearings 31 and 41.
  • the first shock-absorbing bearing 31 is connected to the board 30 of the factory, while the second shock-absorbing bearing 41 is connected to a bridge 40.
  • the rotor consists of an upper disc 11 and a lower disc 13, which are fixedly connected to the axis 10.
  • the lower surface of the upper disc 11 in this example includes six individual magnets 12 arranged at regular intervals near the periphery of the disc.
  • the upper surface of the lower disc 13 is equally equipped with six individual magnets 14, which are arranged symmetrically to the six magnets of the upper disc.
  • the stator includes three induction coils 20, 21 and 22 mounted between the discs 11 and 13.
  • the generator is mounted between the clockwork board 30 and a bridge 40, which allows to conceal the entire generator including coils.
  • FIG. 2 shows a top view of the module 80 equipped with a microgenerator.
  • the three coils 20, 21, 22 of the stator of the microgenerator are mounted on the module 80 and connected in series between the points 800 and 803 of the electronic module 80.
  • An IC 81 is mounted on the module 80. The purpose of this IC is to monitor the rotational speed of the microgenerator and to control that velocity by the value of a variable load resistor is changed by the IC, with which the microgenerator can be charged.
  • an oxide layer on the wheel 51 and pinion 50 may form copper-beryllium, which electrically isolates these wheels from the other wheels 61, 71 and from the board 30.
  • This problem is especially in movements with a micro-generator, because the forces between the wheels and thus the surface pressure in engagement are very small, so that no good electrical contact between the wheels comes about.
  • the forces in a mechanical timepiece are approximately of the same order of magnitude, in this case the restlessness which regulates the speed is electrically connected to the circuit board by means of the coil spring, so that it can not recharge.
  • At least a portion of the wheels 51, 61, 71 and pinion 50, 60, 70 are grounded.
  • wheels or materials are used for the wheels, which have very good electrical contact properties, so that no strong surface pressure is necessary to make a good electrical contact.
  • the formation of charge separation is prevented by using materials in the transmission which have approximately the same electrochemical potential and / or the same dielectric constant.
  • materials in contact with each other are approximately the same surface finish The tendency is not so great that electrons become entrained in the separation of the materials.
  • a material or at least a surface for the wheels and pinions 50, 51, 60, 61, 70 and / or 71 is used, which simultaneously prevents the charge separation and also allows electronic contact with low surface pressure between wheels.
  • a material which has good electrical properties, on which no oxide layer is formed and which also has good tribological properties.
  • wheels and pinions made of a cheaper material, such as plastic, CuBe, aluminum, brass, or steel (for wheels and pinions that are not affected by the magnetic field of the rotor), may be coated with a carefully selected material become.
  • the layer thickness is preferably less than 1 micron, the hardness greater than 200HV, the coating material may not be magnetic and must adhere well to the base material.
  • a combination of materials must be used in which the base material of the gears does not diffuse into the coating.
  • the coating may for example consist of gold, a gold alloy or electrically conductive oxides. But it can also wheels and pinions are completely made of gold, of silver, of an electrically conductive material, of Ceramicor, of an electrically conductive plastic or a similarly good conductive material can be used.
  • the teeth of the wheels and pinions must not be epilated because the epilam acts like an insulator.
  • the gear can also be earthed through the axles.
  • rubies which are good electrical insulators, are used for axle mounting in the watch industry.
  • a bearing material 41 is used, which has good tribological properties, but also electrically is conductive.
  • the gear can also be grounded through the bearings.
  • lubrication is used in the bearings, for example in the form of an electrically conductive grease or oil, so that the gear can be grounded via the bearing points.
  • the oil used is also resistant to ozone according to the invention, so that the lubrication remains intact longer, even if radio shocks occur. It is also possible to use a dry lubricant, or a mixture of oil and a dry lubricant.
  • bearing stones or rubies are used which protect the oil as well as possible against the oxidation by oxygen or ozone. This is achieved by the bearing blocks are closed as possible, so on the one hand the oil is held by the capillary action in the camp and on the other hand so that the oil is not exposed to the oxygen and the possibly existing ozone.
  • bearing stones for the bearings, which are designed so that the oil is completely protected as possible against oxidation.
  • bearing elements can be used inter alia for the generator, for the Inter 2 and the Inter 1.
  • Duofix, Duobil and Duokif bearing stones from KIF Parechoc AG which have capstone plates that hold the oil in an almost closed space.
  • Such bearings also have the advantage that the capillary action makes the oil better in the bearing compared to the normally used bearing stones and less likely to run in the cylinder.
  • oils which do not have a very high surface tension such as e.g. perfluorinated oils such as the Fomblin Z 25.
  • the present invention also relates to a test method with which it can be checked whether wheels are grounded in a clockwork. With this test method different materials and coatings can be tested.
  • the functioning clockwork being tested is bombarded with electrons in a scanning electron microscope SEM. Parts that are not electrically grounded will be charged. Now, if certain parts, such as the rotor and pinions / wheels 50/51, are electrically isolated from the board or other components, these parts will recharge until the voltage at any point in the gear train becomes so great that a discharge takes place by a spark. At this point, then a small damage. In this way it can now be determined whether the wheels are grounded. If the movement in the SEM runs properly for a certain time and no damage to the wheels can be detected after this test, this means that the wheels are electrically connected.
  • an electrical charge is applied to the rotor without contact.
  • a high voltage source is connected to the movement by the one pole is connected to the board 30, and the other pole as close to the rotor 10, 11, 13 is positioned.
  • the resistance between the rotor and the board is measured.
  • the spring must be wound so that the gears are engaged and the surface pressure in engagement corresponds approximately to the surface pressure, which is necessary for normal operation.
  • the rotor must not be heavily loaded mechanically, otherwise the anti-shock elements are deflected and the rotor axis is electrically connected to the board. It is best to measure with a thin wire that contacts the rotor. The rotor must be brought to a standstill by the contact with the wire.
  • the present invention also relates to watches that have been tested with these test methods.

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  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Connection Of Motors, Electrical Generators, Mechanical Devices, And The Like (AREA)
  • Electromechanical Clocks (AREA)
  • Gears, Cams (AREA)

Description

Die vorliegende Erfindung betrifft ein Uhrwerk, insbesondere ein Uhrwerk mit einem Mikrogenerator. Die vorliegende Erfindung betrifft auch ein Testverfahren für solche Uhrwerke.The present invention relates to a movement, in particular a movement with a microgenerator. The present invention also relates to a test method for such movements.

Uhrwerke mit einem Mikrogenerator wurden insbesondere in den Patentschriften CH597636 (Ebauches SA) und EP0851322 (Ronda SA) beschrieben. In einem solchen Uhrwerk wird die von mechanischen Uhrwerken bekannte Unruhe durch einen Generator 10-22 (Fig. 2) und eine elektronische Regelschaltung 81 mit einem Quarzoszillator 85 ersetzt. Der Generator wird von der nicht dargestellten Feder über einen Teil des Räderwerks 50, 60, 70 (Fig. 1) der Zeitanzeige angetrieben. Der Generator speist ^die Elektronik, die dann ihrerseits die Drehzahl des Generators und somit den Gang des Uhrwerks regelt. Solche Uhrwerke kombinieren folglich die Vorteile einer mechanischen Uhr mit der Genauigkeit einer Quarzuhr.Movements with a microgenerator have been described in particular in the patents CH597636 (Ebauches SA) and EP0851322 (Ronda SA). In such a movement, the agitation known from mechanical movements is controlled by a generator 10-22 (FIG. Fig. 2 ) and an electronic control circuit 81 with a quartz oscillator 85 replaced. The generator is driven by the spring, not shown, over part of the gear train 50, 60, 70 (FIG. Fig. 1 ) of the time display. The generator feeds the electronics, which in turn regulate the speed of the generator and thus the movement of the movement. Such movements thus combine the advantages of a mechanical watch with the accuracy of a quartz watch.

Die Kräfte, Momente und Drehzahlen, die in einem solchen Uhrwerk wirken, sind ungefähr in der gleichen Grössenordnung wie bei einer mechanischen Uhr. Deswegen ist zu erwarten, dass die Abnutzung ungefähr im gleichen Masse sein würde.The forces, moments and speeds that act in such a movement are about the same order of magnitude as a mechanical clock. Therefore, it is expected that the wear would be approximately equal.

Die vorliegende Erfindung basiert auf der Feststellung, dass dies überraschenderweise nicht der Fall ist. In solchen Uhren treten nach kurzer Zeit starke Abnutzungserscheinungen auf:

  • Es wurde beispielsweise festgestellt, dass das sich Öl in den Lagersteinen innert kurzer Zeit zersetzt. Ausserdem wurden an den Zahnspitzen starke Abnutzungserscheinungen beobachtet.
The present invention is based on the finding that, surprisingly, this is not the case. In such watches occur after a short time severe signs of wear:
  • It has been found, for example, that the oil in the jewels decomposes within a short time. In addition, severe wear and tear was observed at the tips of the teeth.

Abnutzungserscheinungen wurden auch an Stellen beobachtet, wo sich die Zähne nie berühren, zum Beispiel eben an den Zahnspitzen. Zudem ist viel Abrieb im Öl auf den Lagersteinen zu finden. Je schneller das Rad dreht, umso stärker wird das Öl an den Lagerstellen des betreffenden Rades zerstört.Abrasion has also been observed in areas where the teeth never touch, for example at the tips of the teeth. In addition, a lot of abrasion in the oil can be found on the storage stones. The faster that Wheel rotates, the more the oil is destroyed at the bearings of the wheel in question.

Ein Ziel der Erfindung ist es, ein Uhrwerk mit einem Mikrogenerator zu bauen, bei welchem diese Probleme nicht auftreten.An object of the invention is to build a movement with a microgenerator in which these problems do not occur.

Ein anderes Ziel ist es, ein Uhrwerk mit einem Mikrogenerator zu bauen, das mindestens genauso dauerhaft wie ein konventionelles mechanisches Uhrwerk ist.Another goal is to build a movement with a microgenerator that is at least as durable as a conventional mechanical movement.

Ein anderes Ziel ist es, ein billiges und zudem zuverlässiges Uhrwerk zu bauen, das mit einem Generator geregelt wird und bei welchem diese Abnutzungsprobleme nicht vorkommen.Another goal is to build a cheap and reliable movement, which is controlled by a generator and in which these wear problems do not occur.

Gemäss der Erfindung werden diese Ziele durch ein Uhrwerk gemäss Anspruch 1, 2, 6, 7 und 28 wobei bevorzugte Varianten in den abhängigen Ansprüchen angegeben sind.According to the invention, these objects are achieved by a movement according to claims 1, 2, 6, 7 and 28 wherein preferred variants are given in the dependent claims.

Diese Ziele wurden insbesondere dadurch erreicht, dass das Phänomen, das die schnelle Abnutzung verursacht, verstanden wurde.In particular, these goals have been achieved by understanding the phenomenon that causes rapid wear.

Insbesondere wurde das oben angegebene Problem dadurch gelöst, dass ein völlig unerwarteter Effekt in solchen Uhrwerken erkannt wurde, und dass Lösungen, um diesen Effekt zu verhindern, erfunden worden sind.In particular, the above-mentioned problem has been solved by recognizing a totally unexpected effect in such timepieces, and by devising solutions to prevent this effect.

Die vorliegende Erfindung betrifft auch ein Verfahren, um die Uhrwerke gemäss der Erfindung zu testen.The present invention also relates to a method for testing the movements according to the invention.

Der grundlegende Unterschied zwischen einem mechanischen Uhrwerk und einem Generatoruhrwerk liegt in der elektrischen Erdung der Bauteile. In einer konventionellen mechanischen Uhr ist die Unruhe über die Spiralfeder direkt elektrisch geerdet. In einem Uhrwerk mit einem Mikrogenerator sollte eigentlich der Rotor 10 des Generators über das Räderwerk 50, 51, 60, 61, 70, 71 auch elektrisch geerdet sein. Messungen haben aber gezeigt, dass dem überraschenderweise nicht so ist: der Rotor ist von der Platine des Uhrwerks isoliert.The basic difference between a mechanical movement and a generator clockwork lies in the electrical grounding of the components. In a conventional mechanical watch, the restlessness of the coil spring is directly electrically grounded. In a clockwork with a microgenerator actually the rotor 10 of the generator via the gear train 50, 51, 60, 61, 70, 71 should also be electrically grounded. However, measurements have shown that this is surprisingly not the case: the rotor is isolated from the circuit board of the movement.

Die im Rahmen der Erfindung gefundene Erklärung für diese erstaunliche Tatsache ist Folgende: Da das Antriebsmoment am Generator sehr klein ist und die Magnete 12 des Rotors Streufelder haben, darf die Achse 50 des Zahnrades 51, das den Rotor antreibt, nicht magnetisch sein. Ansonsten erhält der Rotor ein Positionsmoment, das wesentlich grösser ist als das Antriebsmoment, das am Generator zur Verfügung steht, was den Stillstand des Generators verursacht. Um dies zu verhindern wurde nun die betreffende Achse aus Kupfer-Berylium (CuBe) hergestellt. Diese Lösung wurde schon in der oben erwähnten Anmeldung EP0851322 beschrieben. Kupfer-Berylium hat aber die Tendenz, Oxydschichten zu bilden. Wenn diese Oxydschicht dick genug ist und die Flächenpressungen im Getriebe klein sind, können der Rotor 10 sowie das Rad 51 und das Ritzel 50 (Inter 2), das den Rotor antreibt, vom Rest des Uhrwerks elektrisch isoliert sein.The explanation for this astonishing fact found in the invention is as follows: Since the drive torque at the generator is very small and the magnets 12 of the rotor have stray fields, the axis 50 of the gear 51 which drives the rotor must not be magnetic. Otherwise, the rotor receives a position torque that is much larger than the drive torque available at the generator, which causes the generator to stop. In order to prevent this, the relevant axis has now been produced from copper berylium (CuBe). This solution was already in the above-mentioned application EP0851322 described. However, copper berylium tends to form oxide layers. If this oxide layer is thick enough and the surface pressures in the transmission are small, the rotor 10 and the wheel 51 and pinion 50 (Inter 2) driving the rotor may be electrically isolated from the rest of the movement.

Wenn nun der Generator 10, das Ritzel 50 und das Rad 51 von den anderen Teilen des Uhrwerks elektrisch isoliert sind, können sie sich durch Reibungselektrizität und/oder durch Streufelder des Rotors, die im Rad 50-51 eine Spannung induzieren, elektrisch aufladen. Sobald die Spannung einen bestimmten Wert erreicht, können Funkenschläge entstehen, wie später beschrieben, was eine schnellere Abnutzung des Räderwerks und eine rasche Zerstörung der Schmierung verursachen kann.Now, if the generator 10, the pinion 50 and the wheel 51 are electrically isolated from the other parts of the movement, they can be electrically charged by static electricity and / or stray fields of the rotor which induce a voltage in the wheel 50-51. Once the voltage reaches a certain level, sparking can occur, as described later, which can cause faster wear of the gear train and rapid destruction of lubrication.

Die isolierten Räder und der Rotor können sich insbesondere durch Reibungselektrizität aufladen. Wenn zwei Flächen in Berührung sind und sich danach trennen, werden aus der einen Oberfläche Elektronen mitgerissen. Dies hat zur Folge, dass der eine Körper negativ, der andere positiv geladen ist. Wenn die Körper nicht elektrisch voneinander isoliert sind, werden die Ladungen beim nächsten Kontakt einfach wieder ausgetauscht.The insulated wheels and the rotor can be charged in particular by frictional electricity. When two surfaces are in contact and then separate, electrons are entrained from the one surface. As a result, one body is negative and the other positively charged. If the bodies are not electrically isolated from each other, the charges are easily exchanged at the next contact.

Falls nun aber die Körper voneinander isoliert sind, zum Beispiel durch eine Oxydschicht, können diese Ladungen nicht ausgetauscht werden, so dass die Körper aufgeladen werden.But if the bodies are isolated from each other, for example by an oxide layer, these charges can not be exchanged, so that the bodies are charged.

Ladungen mit der gleichen Polarisation stossen sich gegenseitig ab. Dies führt dazu, dass sich die Ladungen so weit wie möglich voneinander entfernen. Da die Ladungstrennung auf dem kleinen Ritzel stattfindet, haben die Ladungen die Möglichkeit, sich auf das grosse Zahnrad zu verteilen, womit das Ritzel keine Ladung mehr aufweist und somit bei der nächsten Trennung wieder geladen werden kann. Mit Hilfe dieses Prinzips funktioniert der bekannte Van den Graaf Generator. Auf diese Weise entsteht eine Ladungspumpe, die Ladungen auf den Rotor 10 aufbringt. Wenn davon ausgegangen wird, dass dabei im Eingriff zwischen Rotor 10 und Rad 51 ca. 7'000'000 und zwischen dem Ritzel 50 und dem Rad 61 ca. 1'000'000 Zahneingriffe pro Tag stattfinden, ist ersichtlich, dass sich auf diese Art und Weise erhebliche Spannungen aufbauen lassen.Charges with the same polarization repel each other. This causes the charges to move as far apart as possible. Since the charge separation takes place on the small pinion, the charges have the opportunity to spread on the large gear, so that the pinion has no charge and thus can be reloaded at the next separation. With the help of this principle, the well-known Van the Graaf generator works. In this way, a charge pump is formed, which applies charges to the rotor 10. If it is assumed that about 7'000'000 and between the pinion 50 and the wheel 61 about 1'000'000 tooth interventions per day take place in engagement between the rotor 10 and wheel 51, it can be seen that this Way to build up considerable tensions.

Sobald die auf diese Weise entstandene Spannung grösser als die Durchschlagsspannung der Isolationsschicht ist, entsteht ein Ladungsaustausch. Je nach Spannung kann dabei ein Funkenschlag entstehen.As soon as the voltage generated in this way is greater than the breakdown voltage of the insulating layer, a charge exchange occurs. Depending on the voltage, a spark may occur.

Wenn nun der Rotor 10 elektrisch vom Rest des Uhrwerks isoliert ist, was durch Messungen des elektrischen Widerstandes zwischen Platine 30 und Rotor 10 bewiesen werden konnte, lädt er sich auf, sei es durch Luftreibung, durch Ladungstrennung wie weiter oben beschrieben oder durch Induzierung von Spannung im Rad 50-51 durch die magnetischen Streufelder des Rotors 10.Now, if the rotor 10 is electrically isolated from the rest of the movement, which could be proved by measurements of the electrical resistance between board 30 and rotor 10, it charges, whether by air friction, by charge separation as described above or by inducing voltage in the wheel 50-51 by the magnetic stray fields of the rotor 10.

Wenn die durch Reibungselektrizität und/oder durch Streufelder des Rotors aufgebaute Spannung so gross wird, dass die elektrische Isolierung nicht mehr ausreicht, kommt es zu Entladungen. Dies können Funkenentladungen im Zahneingriff sein, es können aber auch andere Entladungen vorkommen, zum Beispiel direkt zwischen dem Rotor 10 und der Platine 30. Diese Entladungen verursachen folgenden Schäden im Uhrwerk:

  • ▪ Das Rad 61 (Inter 1) hat an den Zahnspitzen einen grossen "Abrieb", die Zahnspitzen sind stark zerstört, obschon diese Zahnspitzen nie mit Zähnen des anderen Zahnrades in Berührung kommen.
  • ▪ Auf dem Ritzel 50 (Inter 2) entsteht eine relativ dicke Oxydschicht. Auch hier sind teilweise die Zahnspitzen zerstört. Zudem sind Abriebsspuren an den Zahnflanken sichtbar.
  • ▪ Das Öl von Inter 1 (60-61), Inter 2 (50-51) und Generator 10 wird zerstört, einerseits durch Bildung von Ozon, andererseits durch die hohe elektrische Spannung und den Funkenschlag.
  • ▪ In den Lagern 41 hat es Abriebsspuren, das Öl ist voll von kleinen Partikeln.
  • ▪ Die Verzahnung der Zahnräder ist mit Abriebspartikeln verschmutzt.
  • ▪ Die Zapfen werden durch die Partikel im Öl stark abgenutzt.
  • ▪ Durch die verschiedenen chemischen Substanzen im Öl werden die Zapfen chemisch angegriffen.
  • ▪ Die Elektronik 81 wird eventuell durch die Entladungen gestört.
If the voltage built up by friction electricity and / or by stray fields of the rotor becomes so large that the electrical insulation is no longer sufficient, discharges occur. This can be spark discharges in tooth engagement, but it can also occur other discharges, for example, directly between the rotor 10 and the board 30. These discharges cause the following damage in the movement:
  • ▪ The wheel 61 (Inter 1) has a large "abrasion" at the tips of the teeth, the tips of the teeth are badly damaged, even though these tips of the teeth never come into contact with teeth of the other gear.
  • ▪ The pinion 50 (Inter 2) creates a relatively thick oxide layer. Again, the tooth tips are partially destroyed. In addition, traces of abrasion on the tooth flanks are visible.
  • ▪ The oil of Inter 1 (60-61), Inter 2 (50-51) and Generator 10 is destroyed, on the one hand by the formation of ozone, on the other hand by the high electrical voltage and the sparking.
  • ▪ In bearings 41 it has signs of abrasion, the oil is full of small particles.
  • ▪ The toothing of the gears is contaminated with abrasion particles.
  • ▪ The cones are heavily worn by the particles in the oil.
  • ▪ The cones are chemically attacked by the various chemical substances in the oil.
  • ▪ The electronics 81 may be disturbed by the discharges.

Diese Probleme treten erst nach einiger Zeit auf, dann aber bleibt das Uhrwerk nach kurzer Zeit stehen. Wenn einmal Funkenschlag entsteht, wächst die Oxydschicht und somit die Neigung, die Räder mittels Reibungselektrizität aufzuladen und die Zerstörungen erfolgen mit immer grösserer Intensität. Nach kurzer Zeit ist die Reibung durch das zerstörte Öl und den Schmutz in den Lagersteinen so gross, dass die am Generator zur Verfügung stehende Antriebsleistung kleiner als die benötigte Antriebsleistung ist, so dass die Regelung nicht mehr funktioniert.These problems occur after some time, but then the movement stops after a short time. When a spark occurs, the oxide layer grows and thus the tendency to charge the wheels by means of static electricity and the destruction takes place with increasing intensity. After a short time, the friction caused by the destroyed oil and the dirt in the jewels is so great that the drive power available at the generator is smaller than the required drive power, so that the control no longer works.

Erfindungsgemäss wurden Versuche unter einem RasterElektronenMikroskop (REM) gemacht, um zu prüfen, ob sich die Räder im Räderwerk aufladen können. Dabei wird ein Elektronenstrahl auf den Rotor 10 fokussiert. Wenn nun der Rotor aufgeladen werden kann, bedeutet dies, dass er über das Getriebe 50, 51, 60, 61, 70, 71 von der Platine 30 elektrisch nicht geerdet, d.h. gegenüber der Platine isoliert ist.According to the invention, experiments were carried out under a scanning electron microscope (SEM) to check whether the wheels can load in the wheel train. In this case, an electron beam is focused on the rotor 10. Now, if the rotor can be recharged, it means that it is not electrically grounded via board 50, 51, 60, 61, 70, 71 from board 30, i. isolated from the board.

Im REM konnten Funkenschläge beobachtet werden, was beweist, dass der Rotor 10 elektrisch isoliert ist. Die Beschädigungen, die am Räderwerk sichtbar sind, haben eine grosse Ähnlichkeit mit den Schäden, die in den Uhren nach einem Tragtest von mehreren Monaten auftreten.In the REM sparking could be observed, proving that the rotor 10 is electrically isolated. The damages that are visible on the wheels are very similar to the damages that occur in the watches after a test of several months.

Um die Probleme der Uhrwerke mit einem Mikrogenerator gemäss dem Stand der Technik zu lösen, wird in einer ersten Ausführungsform der Erfindung nach Anspruch 2 das Getriebe über die Achsen geerdet. Damit wird verhindert, dass sich der Rotor und das Getriebe elektrisch aufladen können. Das Getriebe kann zum Beispiel in den Lagerstellen oder mittels Schleifkontakten auf den Achsen geerdet werden.In order to solve the problems of the movements with a microgenerator according to the prior art, in a first embodiment of the invention according to claim 2, the transmission is grounded via the axles. This prevents the rotor and gearbox from being able to charge electrically. The gearbox can be earthed, for example, in the bearings or by sliding contacts on the axles.

In einer zweiten Ausführungsform der Erfindung, die auch mit der ersten Ausführungsform kombiniert werden kann, werden Ladungstrennungen verhindert. In einem Ausführungsbeispiel nach Anspruch 1 kann die Entstehung von Ladungstrennungen verhindert werden, indem Materialien verwendet werden, die ungefähr das gleiche elektrochemische Potential und/oder die gleiche dielektrische Konstante haben. Wenn die Materialien, die miteinander in Kontakt sind, ungefähr die gleiche Oberflächenbeschaffenheit haben, ist die Tendenz nicht sehr gross, dass bei der Trennung der Materialien Elektronen mitgerissen werden. Es können daher beispielsweise Materialien oder Oberflächen verwendet werden, die gute tribologische Eigenschaften und eine Härte grösser als 200HV haben. In einem Ausführungsbeispiel nach Anspruch 6, wird ein Material verwendet, auf welchem sich keine Oxydschicht bildet.In a second embodiment of the invention, which can also be combined with the first embodiment, charge separations are prevented. In an embodiment according to claim 1, the generation of charge separations can be prevented by using materials having approximately the same electrochemical potential and / or the same dielectric constant. If the materials in contact with each other have approximately the same surface finish, there is little tendency for electrons to be entrained in the separation of the materials. Thus, for example, materials or surfaces having good tribological properties and a hardness greater than 200HV can be used. In an embodiment according to claim 6, a material is used on which no oxide layer is formed.

In einer dritten Ausführungsform der Erfindung nach Anspruch 28, die auch mit der ersten und/oder mit der zweiten Ausführungsform kombiniert werden kann, wird ein Öl verwendet, das gegen Ozon resistent ist. Dies erlaubt, die Schmierung auch intakt zu halten, wenn innerhalb des Uhrwerks regelmässig Ozon durch Funkschläge produziert wird.In a third embodiment of the invention according to claim 28, which can also be combined with the first and / or with the second embodiment, an oil which is resistant to ozone is used is. This allows lubrication to be kept intact when ozone is regularly produced by radio shock within the movement.

In einer vierten Ausführungsform der Erfindung nach Anspruch 7, die auch mit der ersten und/oder mit der zweiten und/oder mit der dritten Ausführungsform kombiniert werden kann, werden Lagersteine verwendet, die das Öl möglichst gut gegen die Oxidation schützen. Dies wird erreicht indem die Lagersteine möglichst geschlossen sind, damit einerseits das Öl durch die Kapillarwirkung im Lager gehalten wird, und andererseits damit das Öl nicht so dem Sauerstoff und dem eventuell vorhandenen Ozon ausgesetzt ist.In a fourth embodiment of the invention according to claim 7, which can also be combined with the first and / or with the second and / or with the third embodiment, bearing blocks are used, which protect the oil as well as possible against the oxidation. This is achieved by keeping the jewels as close together as possible so that the oil is held in the bearing by the capillary action, and on the other hand so that the oil is not exposed to oxygen and any ozone that may be present.

Ausführungsbeispiele der Erfindung werden nachstehend anhand von Zeichnungen näher erläutert. Es zeigt:

  • Figur 1 einen Querschnitt durch einen Teil des Getriebes und des Mikrogenerators eines Uhrwerks.
  • Figur 2 eine Draufsicht auf ein mit einem Mikrogenerator und der zugehörigen Elektronik ausgerüstetes Modul.
Embodiments of the invention are explained below with reference to drawings. It shows:
  • FIG. 1 a cross section through a part of the transmission and the micro generator of a clockwork.
  • FIG. 2 a plan view of a equipped with a micro-generator and the associated electronics module.

Figur 1 zeigt einen seitlichen Schnitt eines in einem Uhrwerk montierten Mikrogenerators gemäss der Erfindung, wobei nur die zum Verständnis der Erfindung notwendigen Teile des Uhrwerks dargestellt sind. Das Uhrwerk enthält einen mechanischen Energiespeicher in Form einer nicht dargestellten Feder. Die Feder wird durch eine nicht dargestellte Aufzugsvorrichtung oder vorzugsweise durch eine durch die Bewegungen des Uhrträgerarms in Schwingung gebrachte Masse aufgezogen. Die Feder treibt über ein nicht dargestelltes konventionelles Getriebe die verschiedenen Zeiger und Anzeigen der Uhr an, insbesondere den Sekundenzeiger, der auf der Sekundenachse 70 montiert ist. FIG. 1 shows a side section of a mounted in a clockwork microgenerator according to the invention, wherein only necessary for understanding the invention parts of the movement are shown. The movement contains a mechanical energy storage in the form of a spring, not shown. The spring is wound by an elevator device, not shown, or preferably by a brought into vibration by the movements of the Uhrträgerarms mass. The spring drives, via a conventional transmission, not shown, the various hands and indicators of the watch, in particular the second hand mounted on the seconds axis 70.

Das auf der Sekundenachse 70 montierte Sekundenrad 71 treibt ein erstes Zwischenritzel 60 (Inter 1) an, welches seinerseits über das erste Zwischenrad 61 ein zweites Zwischenritzel 50 (Inter 2) antreibt. Das erste Zwischenritzel 60 sowie seine Achse besteht beispielsweise aus Stahl oder einem anderen geeigneten Metall; das zweite Zwischenritzel 50 und seine Achse dagegen aus einem nicht magnetisierbaren Material, vorzugsweise einer Kupfer-Beryllium-Legierung, damit nicht wegen der Kraft der Magnete auf das Zwischenrad ein Positionsmoment auf den Generator ausgeübt wird.The second wheel 71 mounted on the second axle 70 drives a first intermediate pinion 60 (Inter 1), which in turn drives a second intermediate pinion 50 (Inter 2) via the first intermediate gear 61. The first Intermediate pinion 60 and its axis consists for example of steel or other suitable metal; the second intermediate pinion 50 and its axis, however, made of a non-magnetizable material, preferably a copper-beryllium alloy, so that not because of the force of the magnets on the idler a positional torque is exerted on the generator.

Das zweite Ritzel 50 treibt seinerseits über das zweite Zwischenrad 51 und das Ritzel 15 die Achse 10 des Rotors des Generators an. Die Achse 10 ist zwischen zwei synthetischen stossdämpfenden Lagern 31 und 41 rotierend gehalten. Das erste stossdämpfende Lager 31 ist mit der Platine 30 des Werks verbunden, während das zweite stossdämpfende Lager 41 mit einer Brücke 40 verbunden ist.The second pinion 50 in turn drives via the second intermediate 51 and the pinion 15 to the axis 10 of the rotor of the generator. The axle 10 is held rotating between two synthetic shock absorbing bearings 31 and 41. The first shock-absorbing bearing 31 is connected to the board 30 of the factory, while the second shock-absorbing bearing 41 is connected to a bridge 40.

Der Rotor besteht aus einer oberen Scheibe 11 und einer unteren Scheibe 13, welche mit der Achse 10 fest verbunden sind. Die untere Fläche der oberen Scheibe 11 enthält in diesem Beispiel sechs einzelne Magnete 12, die in regelmässigen Abständen nahe der Peripherie der Scheibe angeordnet sind. Die obere Fläche der unteren Scheibe 13 ist in gleicher Weise mit sechs einzelnen Magneten 14 ausgestattet, welche symmetrisch zu den sechs Magneten der oberen Scheibe angeordnet sind.The rotor consists of an upper disc 11 and a lower disc 13, which are fixedly connected to the axis 10. The lower surface of the upper disc 11 in this example includes six individual magnets 12 arranged at regular intervals near the periphery of the disc. The upper surface of the lower disc 13 is equally equipped with six individual magnets 14, which are arranged symmetrically to the six magnets of the upper disc.

Der Stator enthält drei Induktionsspulen 20, 21 und 22, die zwischen den Scheiben 11 und 13 montiert sind. Der Generator ist zwischen der Platine 30 des Uhrwerks und einer Brücke 40 montiert, was erlaubt, den gesamten Generator inklusive Spulen zu verbergen.The stator includes three induction coils 20, 21 and 22 mounted between the discs 11 and 13. The generator is mounted between the clockwork board 30 and a bridge 40, which allows to conceal the entire generator including coils.

Die Figur 2 zeigt eine Draufsicht des Moduls 80 ausgestattet mit einem Mikrogenerator. Die drei Spulen 20, 21, 22 des Stators des Mikrogenerators sind auf dem Modul 80 montiert und seriell zwischen den Punkten 800 und 803 des elektronischen Moduls 80 verbunden. Ein IC 81 ist auf dem Modul 80 montiert. Der Zweck dieses ICs besteht darin, die Drehgeschwindigkeit des Mikrogenerators zu überwachen und diese Geschwindigkeit zu regeln, indem der Wert eines variablen Belastungswiderstandes vom IC verändert wird, mit welchem der Mikrogenerator belastet werden kann.The FIG. 2 shows a top view of the module 80 equipped with a microgenerator. The three coils 20, 21, 22 of the stator of the microgenerator are mounted on the module 80 and connected in series between the points 800 and 803 of the electronic module 80. An IC 81 is mounted on the module 80. The purpose of this IC is to monitor the rotational speed of the microgenerator and to control that velocity by the value of a variable load resistor is changed by the IC, with which the microgenerator can be charged.

Wie oben erklärt, kann sich eine Oxydschicht auf dem Rad 51 und dem Ritzel 50 aus Kupfer-Beryllium bilden, die diese Räder elektrisch von den anderen Rädern 61, 71 und von der Platine 30 isoliert. Dieses Problem besteht vor allem bei Uhrwerken mit einem Mikrogenerator, weil die Kräfte zwischen den Rädern und somit auch die Flächenpressung im Eingriff sehr klein sind, so dass kein guter elektrischer Kontakt zwischen den Rädern zustande kommt. Obwohl die Kräfte in einer mechanischen Uhr in etwa in der gleichen Grössenordnung sind, ist in diesem Fall die Unruhe, welche die Drehzahl regelt, mittels der Spiralfeder elektrisch mit der Platine verbunden, so dass sie sich nicht aufladen kann.As explained above, an oxide layer on the wheel 51 and pinion 50 may form copper-beryllium, which electrically isolates these wheels from the other wheels 61, 71 and from the board 30. This problem is especially in movements with a micro-generator, because the forces between the wheels and thus the surface pressure in engagement are very small, so that no good electrical contact between the wheels comes about. Although the forces in a mechanical timepiece are approximately of the same order of magnitude, in this case the restlessness which regulates the speed is electrically connected to the circuit board by means of the coil spring, so that it can not recharge.

Durch den oben erklärten Mechanismus werden Ladungen in den Rädern und Ritzeln und im Rotor 10 akkumuliert, welche Funkenschläge verursachen können. Durch diese Funkenschläge werden dann die Zahnräder schnell abgenutzt und das Öl im Uhrwerk wird durch das durch die Funkenentladungen erzeugte Ozon zerstört. Ausserdem kann die Schaltung 81 durch die Funkenschläge gestört werden, so dass das Uhrwerk nicht mehr korrekt geregelt wird.By the mechanism explained above, charges are accumulated in the wheels and pinions and in the rotor 10, which may cause sparking. These sparks then wear the gears quickly and the oil in the movement is destroyed by the ozone generated by the spark discharges. In addition, the circuit 81 can be disturbed by the sparking, so that the movement is no longer regulated correctly.

Um diese Probleme zu verhindern werden gemäss einer ersten Ausführungsform der Erfindung mindestens ein Teil der Räder 51, 61, 71 und Ritzel 50, 60, 70 geerdet. Vorzugsweise werden für die Räder Materialien oder Beschichtungen verwendet, die sehr gute elektrische Kontakteigenschaften haben, so dass keine starke Flächenpressung notwendig ist, um einen guten elektrischen Kontakt herzustellen.To prevent these problems, according to a first embodiment of the invention at least a portion of the wheels 51, 61, 71 and pinion 50, 60, 70 are grounded. Preferably, wheels or materials are used for the wheels, which have very good electrical contact properties, so that no strong surface pressure is necessary to make a good electrical contact.

Gemäss einer zweiten Ausführungsform der Erfindung wird die Entstehung von Ladungstrennung verhindert, indem im Getriebe Materialien verwendet werden, die ungefähr das gleiche elektrochemische Potential und/oder die gleiche Dielelektrische Konstante haben. Wenn die Materialien die miteinander in Kontakt sind ungefähr die gleiche Oberflächenbeschaffenheit haben, ist die Tendenz nicht so gross, dass bei der Trennung der Materialien Elektronen mitgerissen werden.According to a second embodiment of the invention, the formation of charge separation is prevented by using materials in the transmission which have approximately the same electrochemical potential and / or the same dielectric constant. When the materials in contact with each other are approximately the same surface finish The tendency is not so great that electrons become entrained in the separation of the materials.

Vorzugsweise wird also ein Material oder zumindest eine Oberfläche für die Räder und Ritzel 50, 51, 60, 61, 70 und/oder 71 verwendet, das gleichzeitig die Ladungstrennung verhindert und auch einen elektronischen Kontakt bei schwacher Flächenpressung zwischen Rädern erlaubt.Preferably, therefore, a material or at least a surface for the wheels and pinions 50, 51, 60, 61, 70 and / or 71 is used, which simultaneously prevents the charge separation and also allows electronic contact with low surface pressure between wheels.

Vorzugsweise wird ein Material verwendet, das gute elektrische Eigenschaften hat, auf welchem sich keine Oxydschicht bildet und das zudem gute tribologische Eigenschaften hat. Es können zum Beispiel Räder und Ritzel aus einem billigeren Material verwendet werden, beispielsweise aus Plastik, CuBe, Aluminium, Messing oder Stahl (für Räder und Ritzel, die vom magnetischen Feld des Rotors nicht beeinflusst werden), die dann mit einem sorgfältig ausgewählten Material beschichtet werden. Die Schichtdicke ist vorzugsweise kleiner als 1µm, die Härte grösser als 200HV, das Beschichtungmaterial darf nicht magnetisch sein und muss gut auf dem Grundmaterial haften. Ausserdem muss eine Kombination von Materialien verwendet werden, bei welcher das Grundmaterial der Zahnräder nicht in die Beschichtung diffundiert. Die Beschichtung kann beispielsweise aus Gold, einer Goldlegierung oder aus elektrisch leitenden Oxyden bestehen. Es können aber auch Räder und Ritzel vollständig aus Gold, aus Silber, aus einem elektrisch leitendem Material, aus Ceramicor, aus einem elektrisch leitenden Plastik oder einem ähnlich gut leitenden Material verwendet werden.Preferably, a material is used which has good electrical properties, on which no oxide layer is formed and which also has good tribological properties. For example, wheels and pinions made of a cheaper material, such as plastic, CuBe, aluminum, brass, or steel (for wheels and pinions that are not affected by the magnetic field of the rotor), may be coated with a carefully selected material become. The layer thickness is preferably less than 1 micron, the hardness greater than 200HV, the coating material may not be magnetic and must adhere well to the base material. In addition, a combination of materials must be used in which the base material of the gears does not diffuse into the coating. The coating may for example consist of gold, a gold alloy or electrically conductive oxides. But it can also wheels and pinions are completely made of gold, of silver, of an electrically conductive material, of Ceramicor, of an electrically conductive plastic or a similarly good conductive material can be used.

Damit der elektrische Kontakt gut ist darf die Verzahnung der Räder und Ritzel nicht epilamisiert sein, da das Epilam wie ein Isolator wirkt.In order for the electrical contact to be good, the teeth of the wheels and pinions must not be epilated because the epilam acts like an insulator.

Gemäss der Erfindung kann das Getriebe auch durch die Achsen geerdet werden. Normalerweise werden Rubine, die gute elektrische Isolatoren sind, für die Lagerung von Achsen in der Uhrenindustrie verwendet. In einer Variante der Erfindung wird aber ein Lagerwerkstoff 41 verwendet, der gute tribologische Eigenschaften hat, aber elektrisch auch noch leitend ist. So kann das Getriebe auch über die Lagerstellen geerdet werden.According to the invention, the gear can also be earthed through the axles. Normally, rubies, which are good electrical insulators, are used for axle mounting in the watch industry. In a variant of the invention, however, a bearing material 41 is used, which has good tribological properties, but also electrically is conductive. Thus, the gear can also be grounded through the bearings.

In einer bevorzugten Variante der Erfindung wird in den Lagern eine Schmierung verwendet, beispielsweise in Form von einem elektrisch leitenden Fett oder Öl, damit sich das Getriebe über die Lagerstellen erden lässt.In a preferred variant of the invention, lubrication is used in the bearings, for example in the form of an electrically conductive grease or oil, so that the gear can be grounded via the bearing points.

Das verwendete Öl ist ausserdem gemäss der Erfindung auch noch gegenüber Ozon resistent, so dass die Schmierung länger intakt bleibt, auch wenn Funkschläge vorkommen. Es kann auch ein Trockenschmiermittel verwendet werden, oder eine Mischung aus Öl und einem Trockenschmiermittel.The oil used is also resistant to ozone according to the invention, so that the lubrication remains intact longer, even if radio shocks occur. It is also possible to use a dry lubricant, or a mixture of oil and a dry lubricant.

In einer bevorzugten Variante der Erfindung werden Lagersteine oder Rubine verwendet, die das Öl möglichst gut gegen die Oxidation durch Sauerstoff oder Ozon schützen. Dies wird erreicht indem die Lagersteine möglichst geschlossen sind, damit einerseits das Öl durch die Kapillarwirkung im Lager gehalten wird und andererseits damit das Öl nicht so dem Sauerstoff und dem eventuell vorhandenen Ozon ausgesetzt ist.In a preferred variant of the invention, bearing stones or rubies are used which protect the oil as well as possible against the oxidation by oxygen or ozone. This is achieved by the bearing blocks are closed as possible, so on the one hand the oil is held by the capillary action in the camp and on the other hand so that the oil is not exposed to the oxygen and the possibly existing ozone.

Falls ein normales Uhrenöl verwendet werden soll gibt es noch die Möglichkeit, spezielle Lagersteine für die Lager zu verwenden, die so gestaltet sind, dass das Öl möglichst rundum gegen Oxydation geschützt ist. Solche Lagerelement können unter anderem für den Generator, für das Inter 2 und das Inter 1 verwendet werden. Es wurden beispielsweise Versuche gemacht mit Duofix, Duobil und Duokif Lagersteinen der Firma KIF Parechoc AG, die Decksteinplätchen aufweisen, die das Öl in einem fast geschlossenen Raum halten. Solche Lager haben auch den Vorteil, dass das Öl durch die Kapillarwirkung im Vergleich zu den normalerweise verwendeten Lagersteinen besser im Lager bleibt und weniger die Tendenz hat breitzulaufen.If a normal watch oil is to be used, there is still the possibility to use special bearing stones for the bearings, which are designed so that the oil is completely protected as possible against oxidation. Such bearing elements can be used inter alia for the generator, for the Inter 2 and the Inter 1. For example, attempts have been made with Duofix, Duobil and Duokif bearing stones from KIF Parechoc AG, which have capstone plates that hold the oil in an almost closed space. Such bearings also have the advantage that the capillary action makes the oil better in the bearing compared to the normally used bearing stones and less likely to run in the cylinder.

Dadurch können auch Öle verwendet werden, die nicht eine sehr grosse Oberflächenspannung haben, wie z.B. perfluorierte Öle wie das Fomblin Z 25.As a result, it is also possible to use oils which do not have a very high surface tension, such as e.g. perfluorinated oils such as the Fomblin Z 25.

Die vorliegende Erfindung betrifft auch ein Testverfahren, mit welchem geprüft werden kann, ob Räder in einem Uhrwerk geerdet sind. Mit diesem Testverfahren können dann verschiedene Materialien und Beschichtungen getestet werden. Das funktionierende Uhrwerk, das getestet wird, wird in einem RasterElektronenMikroskop REM mit Elektronen beschossen. Teile, die nicht elektrisch geerdet sind, werden dabei aufgeladen. Wenn nun bestimmte Teile, zum Beispiel der Rotor und die Ritzel/Räder 50/51 von der Platine oder anderen Komponenten elektrisch isoliert sind, werden sich diese Teile aufladen, bis dass die Spannung an irgend einer Stelle im Räderwerk so gross wird, dass eine Entladung durch einen Funkenschlag stattfindet. An dieser Stelle entsteht dann ein kleiner Schaden. Auf diese Art und Weise kann nun festgestellt werden, ob die Räder geerdet sind. Wenn das Uhrwerk im REM einwandfrei während einer bestimmten Zeit läuft und keine Beschädigungen an den Rädern nach diesem Test festgestellt werden können bedeutet dies, dass die Räder elektrisch miteinander verbunden sind.The present invention also relates to a test method with which it can be checked whether wheels are grounded in a clockwork. With this test method different materials and coatings can be tested. The functioning clockwork being tested is bombarded with electrons in a scanning electron microscope SEM. Parts that are not electrically grounded will be charged. Now, if certain parts, such as the rotor and pinions / wheels 50/51, are electrically isolated from the board or other components, these parts will recharge until the voltage at any point in the gear train becomes so great that a discharge takes place by a spark. At this point, then a small damage. In this way it can now be determined whether the wheels are grounded. If the movement in the SEM runs properly for a certain time and no damage to the wheels can be detected after this test, this means that the wheels are electrically connected.

In einer anderen Ausführungsform des Testverfahrens wird eine elektrische Ladung berührungsfrei auf den Rotor aufgebracht. Dabei wird eine Hochspannungsquelle an das Uhrwerk angeschlossen, indem der eine Pol an die Platine 30 angeschlossen wird, und der andere Pol so möglichst nahe an den Rotor 10, 11, 13 positioniert wird. Wenn nun ein Funkenschlag auf den Rotor stattfindet, wird der Rotor elektrisch aufgeladen. Wenn der Rotor und das Räderwerk elektrisch geerdet sind, verteilen sich die Ladungen im Uhrwerk und es gibt keinen Grund für einen Funkenschlag zwischen den Zahnrädern, die miteinander im Eingriff sind. Somit sollten an den Zahnrädern auch keine Beschädigungen sichtbar sein. Falls aber die Zahnräder elektrisch nicht gut miteinander verbunden sind, kann ein Funkenschlag im Zahneingriff stattfinden. In diesem Fall werden die Zähne beschädigt.In another embodiment of the test method, an electrical charge is applied to the rotor without contact. In this case, a high voltage source is connected to the movement by the one pole is connected to the board 30, and the other pole as close to the rotor 10, 11, 13 is positioned. Now, if a spark occurs on the rotor, the rotor is electrically charged. When the rotor and gear train are electrically grounded, the charges are distributed in the movement and there is no reason for a spark between the gears meshing with each other. Thus, no damage should be visible on the gears. But if the gears are not well connected electrically, a spark may occur in tooth engagement. In this case, the teeth are damaged.

In einer anderen Ausführungsform des Verfahrens wird der Widerstand zwischen Rotor und Platine gemessen. Dabei muss die Feder aufgezogen sein, damit die Zahnräder im Eingriff sind und die Flächenpressung im Eingriff in etwa der Flächenpressung entspricht, die für den Normalbetrieb notwendig ist. Der Rotor darf aber mechanisch nicht stark belastet werden, da sonst die Antischockelemente ausgelenkt werden und die Rotorachse elektrisch mit der Platine verbunden wird. Am besten wird die Messung mit einem dünnen Draht durchgeführt, mit dem der Rotor kontaktiert wird. Dabei muss der Rotor durch die Berührung mit dem Draht zum Stillstand gebracht werden.In another embodiment of the method, the resistance between the rotor and the board is measured. In this case, the spring must be wound so that the gears are engaged and the surface pressure in engagement corresponds approximately to the surface pressure, which is necessary for normal operation. The rotor must not be heavily loaded mechanically, otherwise the anti-shock elements are deflected and the rotor axis is electrically connected to the board. It is best to measure with a thin wire that contacts the rotor. The rotor must be brought to a standstill by the contact with the wire.

Die vorliegende Erfindung betrifft auch Uhren, die mit diesen Testverfahren getestet worden sind.The present invention also relates to watches that have been tested with these test methods.

Claims (32)

  1. Clockwork movement, in which the rotor of a generator (10, 11, 13) is driven by a spring through a plurality of wheels (51, 61, 71) and pinions (50, 60, 70), wherein the running of the generator is regulated by an electronic control circuit (81), characterized in that for said wheels and pinions, materials are used that have approximately the same electrochemical potential and/or the same dielectric constant.
  2. Clockwork movement, in which the rotor of a generator (10, 11, 13) is driven by a spring through a plurality of wheels (51, 61, 71) and pinions (50, 60, 70), wherein the running of the generator is regulated by an electronic control circuit (81), characterized in that at least one of said wheels (51, 61, 71) and pinions (50, 60, 70) are earthed through the staffs.
  3. Clockwork movement according to the preceding claim, characterized in that said staffs are earthed through the bearings (41).
  4. Clockwork movement according to the preceding claim, characterized in that said bearings (41) use electrically conducting oil.
  5. Clockwork movement according to claim 2, characterized in that said staffs are earthed by means of brushing contacts.
  6. Clockwork movement, in which the rotor of a generator (10, 11, 13) is driven by a spring through a plurality of wheels (51, 61, 71) and pinions (50, 60, 70), wherein the running of the generator is regulated by an electronic control circuit (81), characterized in that the wheels (51, 61, 71) and pinions (50, 60, 70) have a material that has good electrical properties, on which no oxide layer forms.
  7. Clockwork movement, in which the rotor of a generator (10, 11, 13) is driven by a spring through a plurality of wheels (51, 61, 71) and pinions (50, 60, 70), wherein the running of the generator is regulated by an electronic control circuit (81), characterized in that, independently of the bearing of the generator, for said wheels and pinions it comprises bearings that protect the oil against oxidation.
  8. Clockwork movement according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the bearing stones are as far as possible closed, so that the oil is held in the bearing through capillary effect and the oil is thus not exposed to oxygen and any ozone that might potentially be present.
  9. Clockwork movement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said wheels (51, 61, 71) and pinions (50, 60, 70) are electrically earthed.
  10. Clockwork movement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at last some of said wheels (51, 61, 71) and pinions (50, 60 70) are made of a non magnetic material.
  11. Clockwork movement according to the preceding claim, characterized in that at least the wheel (51) and/or the pinion (50) that meshes in said rotor (10, 11, 13) is made of a non magnetic material.
  12. Clockwork movement according to one of the claims 10 or 11, characterized in that said non magnetic material comprises copper beryllium (CuBe).
  13. Clockwork movement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one of said wheels (51) and/or pinions (50) is constituted of an electrically highly conductive material.
  14. Clockwork movement according to the preceding claim, characterized in that said material is an electrically conductive oxide.
  15. Clockwork movement according to claim 14, characterized in that said material is gold.
  16. Clockwork movement according to claim 14, characterized in that said material is electrically conductive plastic.
  17. Clockwork movement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one of said wheels (51) and/or pinions (50) is provided with a coating.
  18. Clockwork movement according to the preceding claim, characterized in that said coating is electrically conductive.
  19. Clockwork movement according to one of claims 17 or 18, characterized in that said coating is non magnetic.
  20. Clockwork movement according to one of claims 17 to 19, characterized in that said coating is not oxidizable.
  21. Clockwork movement according to one of claims 17 to 20, characterized in that said coating has a hardness greater than 200HV.
  22. Clockwork movement according to one of claims 17 to 21, characterized in that the thickness of said coating is less than 1 micron.
  23. Clockwork movement according to one of claims 17 to 22, characterized in that said coating consists of gold or a gold alloy.
  24. Clockwork movement according to one of claims 17 to 23, characterized in that said coating consists of an electrically conductive oxide.
  25. Clockwork movement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one tooth engagement is not coated with epilame.
  26. Clockwork movement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one of the wheels or pinions is not coated with epilame.
  27. Clockwork movement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that in the clockwork movement, a dry lubricant is used.
  28. Clockwork movement, in which the rotor of a generator (10, 11, 13) is driven by a spring through a plurality of wheels (51, 61, 71) and pinions (50, 60, 70), wherein the running of the generator is regulated by an electronic control circuit (81), characterized in that in the clockwork movement, an oil is used that is ozone-resistant.
  29. Method for testing a clockwork movement, characterized in that a clockwork movement according to one of the claims 1 to 6 is tested as to whether the rotor (10, 11, 13) and wheels (51, 61, 71) and pinions (50, 60, 70) of a clockwork movement according to one of the claims 1 to 6 are earthed.
  30. Method according to claim 29, characterized in that the clockwork movement is bombarded with electrons in a scanning electron microscope.
  31. Method according to claim 29, characterized in that a high voltage source is connected to the clockwork movement, wherein the one pole is connected to the plate (30) and the other pole is positioned as close as possible to the rotor (10, 11 13).
  32. Method according to claim 29, characterized in that the resistance between the rotor (10, 11, 13) and the plate (30) is measured.
EP00910481.1A 1999-04-21 2000-03-27 Clockwork comprising a microgenerator and a testing method for clockworks Expired - Lifetime EP1171806B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
CH73099 1999-04-21
CH73099 1999-04-21
PCT/CH2000/000179 WO2000063749A1 (en) 1999-04-21 2000-03-27 Clockwork comprising a microgenerator and a testing method for clockworks

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP1171806A1 EP1171806A1 (en) 2002-01-16
EP1171806B1 true EP1171806B1 (en) 2016-08-10

Family

ID=4193858

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP00910481.1A Expired - Lifetime EP1171806B1 (en) 1999-04-21 2000-03-27 Clockwork comprising a microgenerator and a testing method for clockworks

Country Status (8)

Country Link
US (1) US6714487B2 (en)
EP (1) EP1171806B1 (en)
JP (1) JP4194765B2 (en)
KR (1) KR100434247B1 (en)
CN (1) CN1134716C (en)
AU (1) AU3269900A (en)
HK (1) HK1044598A1 (en)
WO (1) WO2000063749A1 (en)

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KR20070096834A (en) * 2006-03-24 2007-10-02 에타 쏘시에떼 아노님 마누팍투레 홀로게레 스위세 Micro-mechanical part made of insulating material and method of manufacturing the same
EP1837722B1 (en) * 2006-03-24 2016-02-24 ETA SA Manufacture Horlogère Suisse Micro-mechanical component in an insulating material and method of manufacture thereof
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Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
KR20020005692A (en) 2002-01-17
CN1347521A (en) 2002-05-01
AU3269900A (en) 2000-11-02
HK1044598A1 (en) 2002-10-25
KR100434247B1 (en) 2004-06-04
JP2002542495A (en) 2002-12-10
CN1134716C (en) 2004-01-14
JP4194765B2 (en) 2008-12-10
US6714487B2 (en) 2004-03-30
US20020060954A1 (en) 2002-05-23
WO2000063749A1 (en) 2000-10-26
EP1171806A1 (en) 2002-01-16

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