EP2102717B1 - Mechanical oscillator for timepiece - Google Patents

Mechanical oscillator for timepiece Download PDF

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Publication number
EP2102717B1
EP2102717B1 EP07857010.8A EP07857010A EP2102717B1 EP 2102717 B1 EP2102717 B1 EP 2102717B1 EP 07857010 A EP07857010 A EP 07857010A EP 2102717 B1 EP2102717 B1 EP 2102717B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
mechanical oscillator
balance
oscillator according
counterweights
axis
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EP07857010.8A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP2102717A2 (en
Inventor
Franck Orny
Stephen Forsey
Johnny Girardin
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Complitime SA
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Complitime SA
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Priority claimed from CH02119/06A external-priority patent/CH701155B1/en
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Priority to EP07857010.8A priority Critical patent/EP2102717B1/en
Publication of EP2102717A2 publication Critical patent/EP2102717A2/en
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    • G—PHYSICS
    • G04—HOROLOGY
    • G04B—MECHANICALLY-DRIVEN CLOCKS OR WATCHES; MECHANICAL PARTS OF CLOCKS OR WATCHES IN GENERAL; TIME PIECES USING THE POSITION OF THE SUN, MOON OR STARS
    • G04B17/00—Mechanisms for stabilising frequency
    • G04B17/04—Oscillators acting by spring tension
    • G04B17/06—Oscillators with hairsprings, e.g. balance
    • G04B17/066—Manufacture of the spiral spring
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G04—HOROLOGY
    • G04B—MECHANICALLY-DRIVEN CLOCKS OR WATCHES; MECHANICAL PARTS OF CLOCKS OR WATCHES IN GENERAL; TIME PIECES USING THE POSITION OF THE SUN, MOON OR STARS
    • G04B17/00—Mechanisms for stabilising frequency
    • G04B17/04—Oscillators acting by spring tension
    • G04B17/06—Oscillators with hairsprings, e.g. balance
    • G04B17/063—Balance construction
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G04—HOROLOGY
    • G04B—MECHANICALLY-DRIVEN CLOCKS OR WATCHES; MECHANICAL PARTS OF CLOCKS OR WATCHES IN GENERAL; TIME PIECES USING THE POSITION OF THE SUN, MOON OR STARS
    • G04B18/00—Mechanisms for setting frequency
    • G04B18/006—Mechanisms for setting frequency by adjusting the devices fixed on the balance

Definitions

  • the materials used for producing the balance and the hairspring in the most frequently used mechanical oscillators are chosen so that the variation of the moment of inertia of the balance and the variation of the return torque of the respective hairspring compensate each other.
  • a cupro-beryllium alloy balance associated with a spiral made of specially designed alloys such as invar and élinvar, which is an alloy of iron-nickel having a coefficient very weak dilatation.
  • This type of balance spring is however always sensitive to magnetic fields.
  • the search for new alloys that can be used for producing the spiral is still relevant, as shown for example by the development of silinvar (TM) .
  • the self-compensating result of these alloys is mainly the result of two contrary influences, notably that of the temperature and that of the magnetostriction on the modulus of elasticity of the metal.
  • GB2416408 discloses a mechanical oscillator according to the preamble of claim 1.
  • the present invention aims to at least significantly reduce the self-compensating effect of the spiral.
  • the present invention proposes a spiral balance which is in wide temperature ranges insensitive to variations in temperature. temperature to avoid dilation and variation of the moment of inertia of the pendulum.
  • the object of the present invention is to propose a spiral balance having an improved stability of its frequency, both with regard to its sensitivity to variations in temperature and amplitude, as well as to magnetic fields.
  • the spring 12 is made from the same material as the balance 10. More specifically, the spring 12 and the plate 16 of the balance 10 are made of the same material. This embodiment of the balance 10 and / or its plate 16, and the spring 12 from the same material avoids the compensating effect of the spiral 12 relative to the balance 10, which thus has an almost constant inertia. As a result, the self-compensation between the balance 10 and the balance spring 12 is almost negligible.
  • the material chosen to produce the rocker 10, and / or its board 16, and the spiral 12, is preferably non-magnetic and has the advantage of having a coefficient of thermal expansion preferably 5 ⁇ 10 -6 / C °, and even more preferably 2 ⁇ 10 -6 / ° C maximum.
  • the density of the material is preferably in a range of 2.0 to 5.0 g / cm 3 , preferably 2.5 to 4.5 g / cm 3 , and still more preferably 3 to 4.0 g / cm 3 .
  • the shaft 14 of the balance 10 has an axis of symmetry, designated as the axis AA, which is also its pivot axis.
  • the shaft 14 is conventionally made of hardened steel and comprises a plate 14a, cylindrical portions 14b, 14c and 14d disposed on either side of the plate 14a and intended to receive respectively the shell 20, the plate 16 and the plateau 22. Its ends form pivots 14e and 14f intended to be engaged in bearings constituted in the frame of the timepiece, not shown in the drawing.
  • the rocker 10 and / or the spiral 12 are coated with nanoparticles of a material which is preferably non-magnetic and has the advantage of having a coefficient of thermal expansion of 5 ⁇ 10 -6 / ° C, and even more preferably 2 ⁇ 10 -6 / ° C maximum.
  • the density of said material is preferably in a range of 2.0 to 5.0 g / cm 3 , preferably 2.5 to 4.5 g / cm 3 , and still more preferably 3 to 4.0 g / cm 3 .
  • the balance 10 and the balance spring 12 have a nano-diamond coating.
  • This coating is also advantageously applicable to a sprung balance known to those skilled in the art, such as, for example, a sprung balance comprising a balance made of cupro-beryllium alloy associated with a spiral made of alloys specially studied as per example the invar.
  • the weights 18 are each formed of a nail 18a of cylindrical shape having an axis of symmetry, designated in the Fig. 2 as the BB axis, a heavy material whose density is greater than 15 g / cm 3 , for example gold or platinum, provided with a head 18b and a body 18c, and a ring 18d made of the same material.
  • the body 18c of each of the weights 18 is engaged in a hole 16d, the head 18b bearing against the board 16.
  • the ring 18d associated with it is fixed on the other side of the board 16, by driving, gluing or welding.
  • the weights 18 have a symmetrical structure with respect to the axis BB of each of the nails 18a. In this way, during changes in temperature, the nails expand or contract radially relative to the axis BB, without their center of gravity moves. Consequently, as a first approximation, this expansion does not modify the inertia of the pendulum.
  • the weights 19 have a center of gravity offset from the axis of the hole 16d in which they are engaged. In this way, by turning them, it is possible to modify the moment of inertia and thus correct the frequency of the oscillator. To allow this rotation, the weights 19 comprise a cylindrical portion 19a provided with axially oriented slots 19b, allowing a frictional attachment.
  • a low coefficient of thermal expansion and an optimized mass-radius ratio are obtained. More particularly, like the mechanical oscillator of Fig. 1 and 2 comprising the balance 10 and the spiral 12 is made from a very stable material relative to the temperature, its frequency is very stable and varies very little depending on the temperature. This frequency stability is enhanced by the fact that the flyweights 18 have a fixed center of gravity with respect to the axis of the balance 10. This makes it possible to achieve a high degree of isochronism of the mechanical oscillator according to a preferred embodiment of the invention. embodiment of the present invention, as illustrated in the Fig. 3 .
  • the Fig. 3 illustrates a diagram showing exemplary day-to-day variations of two different mechanical oscillators by way of example. These diurnal cycle variations are represented in seconds ([s]) on an axis 41, depending on the different temperatures at which the corresponding mechanical oscillators were tested. These temperatures are represented in degrees Celsius ([° C]] on an axis 31.
  • the material used to make the weights 18 preferably has a specific mass greater than 10. It may be in particular gold or platinum, while the balance 10 and the spiral 12 are made of diamond. In this way, the ratio between the moment of inertia and the specific mass is particularly favorable.

Description

La présente invention concerne un oscillateur mécanique pour une pièce d'horlogerie, et plus particulièrement un oscillateur mécanique pour une montre bracelet qui présente un haut degré d'isochronisme.The present invention relates to a mechanical oscillator for a timepiece, and more particularly to a mechanical oscillator for a wristwatch which has a high degree of isochronism.

Différents oscillateurs mécaniques ont déjà été proposés pour des montres bracelet. De manière générale, de tels oscillateurs sont conçus sous forme d'un balancier-spiral qui engendre des oscillations définissant la fréquence propre de l'oscillateur. Cette fréquence propre divise le temps en unités rigoureusement identiques afin d'ordonner à l'échappement d'une montre bracelet de régulariser la vitesse de son rouage. Ainsi la précision d'une montre bracelet dépend de la stabilité de fréquence de son balancier-spiral.Various mechanical oscillators have already been proposed for wristwatches. In general, such oscillators are designed in the form of a balance spring which generates oscillations defining the natural frequency of the oscillator. This natural frequency divides the time into strictly identical units in order to order the escapement of a wristwatch to regulate the speed of its cog. Thus the precision of a wristwatch depends on the frequency stability of its sprung balance.

Plusieurs paramètres tels que les variations de température, les champs magnétiques et les variations d'amplitude des oscillations du balancier affectent la stabilité de fréquence d'un balancier-spiral. Les variations de température sont susceptibles de provoquer des dilatations thermiques du balancier et du spiral qui engendrent essentiellement une variation du moment d'inertie du balancier ainsi qu'une variation du couple de rappel du spiral. Les champs magnétiques agissent essentiellement sur le spiral et sont susceptibles de perturber voir annuler son action sur le balancier. Les variations d'amplitude des oscillations du balancier sont liées au poids et à l'inertie du balancier et sont susceptibles d'engendrer un défaut d'isochronisme du balancier-spiral. Ainsi, tous ces paramètres sont susceptibles de modifier la fréquence propre du balancier-spiral.Several parameters such as temperature variations, magnetic fields and amplitude variations of pendulum oscillations affect the frequency stability of a balance spring. The temperature variations are likely to cause thermal expansion of the balance and spiral which essentially cause a variation in the moment of inertia of the balance and a variation of the return torque of the balance spring. Magnetic fields act essentially on the hairspring and are likely to disturb or cancel its action on the balance. The amplitude variations of the oscillations of the balance are related to the weight and the inertia of the balance and are likely to cause a lack of isochronism of the sprung balance. Thus, all these parameters are capable of modifying the natural frequency of the sprung balance.

Pour compenser les variations de température, les matériaux utilisés pour la réalisation du balancier et du spiral dans les oscillateurs mécaniques les plus fréquemment utilisés, sont choisis de manière à ce que la variation du moment d'inertie du balancier et la variation du couple de rappel du spiral respectives se compensent. Parmi les solutions proposées, on relèvera notamment l'usage d'un balancier en alliage de cupro-béryllium associé à un spiral réalisé en alliages spécialement étudiés comme par exemple l'invar et élinvar, qui est un alliage de fer-nickel ayant un coefficient de dilatation très faible. Ce type de balancier-spiral est cependant toujours sensible aux champs magnétiques. Ainsi, la recherche de nouveaux alliages utilisables pour la réalisation du spiral est toujours d'actualité, comme le montre par exemple le développement du silinvar(™). Le résultat auto compensateur de ces alliages est surtout le résultat de deux influences contraires, notamment celle de la température et celle de la magnétostriction sur le module d'élasticité du métal.In order to compensate for variations in temperature, the materials used for producing the balance and the hairspring in the most frequently used mechanical oscillators are chosen so that the variation of the moment of inertia of the balance and the variation of the return torque of the respective hairspring compensate each other. Among the proposed solutions, we note in particular the use of a cupro-beryllium alloy balance associated with a spiral made of specially designed alloys such as invar and élinvar, which is an alloy of iron-nickel having a coefficient very weak dilatation. This type of balance spring is however always sensitive to magnetic fields. Thus, the search for new alloys that can be used for producing the spiral is still relevant, as shown for example by the development of silinvar (™) . The self-compensating result of these alloys is mainly the result of two contrary influences, notably that of the temperature and that of the magnetostriction on the modulus of elasticity of the metal.

Pour compenser les effets des champs magnétiques autrement que par l'emploi des nouveaux alliages spécialement conçus à ce propos, il a aussi été proposé de réaliser le spiral en un matériau amagnétique, comme le quartz par exemple, tout en réalisant le balancier en cupro-béryllium comme décrit ci-dessus. Ce type de balancier-spiral est cependant sensible aux variations de température.To compensate for the effects of magnetic fields other than by the use of new alloys specially designed for this purpose, it has also been proposed to produce the spiral in a non-magnetic material, such as quartz for example, while producing the balance in cupro- beryllium as described above. This type of sprung balance is however sensitive to temperature variations.

Pour compenser les variations d'amplitude des oscillations du balancier afin de minimiser son défaut d'isochronisme, certains facteurs doivent être pris en considération incluant l'asymétrie de l'expansion et de la contraction du spiral, les changements de l'élasticité du spiral en réponse aux changements de températures, les champs magnétiques, les points d'attachement du spiral, les forces centrifuges et la gravité, l'équilibrage du balancier, les frottements et les géométries. La minimisation du défaut d'isochronisme est cruciale pour l'optimisation de la précision des montres mécaniques. Ceci consiste dans la réalisation d'un balancier-spiral ayant un haut degré d'isochronisme permettant à celui-ci de générer des oscillations égales et indépendantes de leur amplitude. Ainsi, on emploie fréquemment un balancier aussi léger que possible, avec une inertie aussi grande que possible.To compensate for the amplitude variations of the pendulum oscillations in order to minimize its isochronism defect, certain factors must be taken into consideration including the asymmetry of the expansion and contraction of the hairspring, the changes in the elasticity of the hairspring in response to changes in temperature, magnetic fields, attachment points of the hairspring, centrifugal forces and gravity, balance of the balance, friction and geometries. Minimizing the isochronism defect is crucial for optimizing the accuracy of mechanical watches. This consists in producing a spiral balance having a high degree of isochronism allowing it to generate equal oscillations independent of their amplitude. Thus, a beam as light as possible is frequently used, with as much inertia as possible.

Un exemple d'un balancier-spiral conçu pour remédier aux problèmes décrits ci-dessus est illustré dans le document WO 2004/008529 A1 . Ce balancier-spiral est muni d'un balancier composé d'une céramique amagnétique pour laquelle le coefficient de dilatation thermique est positif et inférieur à +1*10-6 K-1. Le spiral est fabriqué à partir d'un composite de fibres de carbone continues de texture torsadée ou parallèle par rapport aux sens axial de la fibre. Ces fibres sont enrobées dans une matrice polymère thermodurcissable, thermoplastique ou céramique. Le coefficient de dilatation thermique de ce composite est négatif et supérieur à -1*10-6 K-1. Plus particulièrement, les matériaux utilisés pour la réalisation du balancier et du spiral sont sélectionnés de manière à ce que les valeurs de leurs coefficients de dilatation thermique soient similaires, très petites et de signes opposés. Ainsi, ce balancier-spiral permet d'obtenir une précision élevée et un fonctionnement plus stable de l'oscillateur grâce à un effet auto compensateur du spiral.An example of a sprung balance designed to overcome the problems described above is illustrated in the document WO 2004/008529 A1 . This balance spring is equipped with a pendulum composed of a nonmagnetic ceramic for which the coefficient of thermal expansion is positive and less than + 1 * 10 -6 K -1 . The hairspring is made from a composite of continuous carbon fibers of twisted or parallel texture with respect to the axial directions of the fiber. These fibers are embedded in a thermosetting polymer matrix, thermoplastic or ceramic. The coefficient of thermal expansion of this composite is negative and greater than -1 * 10 -6 K -1 . More particularly, the materials used for producing the balance and the hairspring are selected so that the values of their coefficients of thermal expansion are similar, very small and of opposite signs. Thus, this sprung balance makes it possible to obtain a high precision and a more stable operation of the oscillator thanks to a self-compensating effect of the spiral.

GB2416408 décrit un oscillateur mécanique selon le préambule de la revendication 1. GB2416408 discloses a mechanical oscillator according to the preamble of claim 1.

La présente invention a pour but d'au moins réduire considérablement l'effet auto compensateur du spiral. Ainsi, la présente invention propose un balancier-spiral qui est dans de larges plages de températures insensible aux variations de température pour éviter la dilatation et la variation du moment d'inertie du balancier. Plus généralement, la présente invention a pour but de proposer un balancier-spiral présentant une stabilité de sa fréquence améliorée, tant en ce qui concerne sa sensibilité aux variations de température que d'amplitude, ainsi qu'aux champs magnétiques.The present invention aims to at least significantly reduce the self-compensating effect of the spiral. Thus, the present invention proposes a spiral balance which is in wide temperature ranges insensitive to variations in temperature. temperature to avoid dilation and variation of the moment of inertia of the pendulum. More generally, the object of the present invention is to propose a spiral balance having an improved stability of its frequency, both with regard to its sensitivity to variations in temperature and amplitude, as well as to magnetic fields.

Ce but est atteint par un oscillateur mécanique comportant un balancier et un spiral présentant les caractéristiques des revendications indépendantes. Des variations d'exécution préférentielles font le sujet des revendications dépendantes.This object is achieved by a mechanical oscillator comprising a balance and a spiral having the characteristics of the independent claims. Preferential variations of execution are the subject of the dependent claims.

La réalisation du balancier et du spiral à partir du même matériau permet d'éviter l'effet compensateur du spiral par rapport au balancier, qui a ainsi une inertie presque constante. De ce fait, l'auto compensation entre le balancier et le spiral devient négligeable.The production of the balance and the hairspring from the same material makes it possible to avoid the compensating effect of the hairspring relative to the balance, which thus has an almost constant inertia. As a result, self-compensation between the balance and the balance spring becomes negligible.

Les détails de réalisation ainsi que les avantages du balancier-spiral selon l'invention ressortiront de la description détaillée suivante d'une forme d'exécution, donnée à titre d'exemple et illustrée par les dessins annexés qui montrent schématiquement:

Fig. 1
une vue agrandie du dessus d'un oscillateur mécanique selon l'invention,
Fig. 2
une vue agrandie de l'oscillateur mécanique de Fig. 1 en coupe, et
Fig. 3
un schéma représentant des variations de marche diurnes de deux différents oscillateurs mécaniques.
The details of realization as well as the advantages of the sprung balance according to the invention will emerge from the following detailed description of an embodiment, given by way of example and illustrated by the appended drawings which show schematically:
Fig. 1
an enlarged view of the top of a mechanical oscillator according to the invention,
Fig. 2
an enlarged view of the mechanical oscillator of Fig. 1 in section, and
Fig. 3
a diagram showing diurnal step variations of two different mechanical oscillators.

Dans la description détaillée suivante des dessins annexés, les éléments identiques sont désignés par des références d'identification identiques. De manière générale, ces éléments et leurs fonctionnalités sont décrits une seule fois pour raisons de brièveté afin d'éviter des répétitions.In the following detailed description of the accompanying drawings, identical elements are designated by identical identification references. In general, these elements and their functionalities are described once for reasons of brevity in order to avoid repetitions.

Les Fig. 1 et 2 illustrent à titre d'exemple un oscillateur mécanique de type balancier-spiral comportant un balancier 10 et un spiral 12. Le balancier 10 comprend un arbre 14, une planche 16 montée rigidement sur l'arbre 14 et des masselottes 18, d'un premier type, et 19 d'un deuxième type, une virole 20 et un plateau 22. Le spiral 12 est réalisé en un matériau qui peut, ou non, être le même que celui utilisé pour réaliser la planche 16 du balancier 10.The Fig. 1 and 2 illustrate by way of example a mechanical oscillator of the spring-balance type comprising a balance 10 and a balance spring 12. The balance 10 comprises a shaft 14, a board 16 mounted rigidly on the shaft 14 and flyweights 18, of a first type, and 19 of a second type, a ferrule 20 and a plate 22. The spiral 12 is made of a material that may or may not be the same as that used to make the plate 16 of the balance 10.

Selon la présente invention, le spiral 12 est réalisé à partir du même matériau que le balancier 10. Plus spécifiquement, le spiral 12 et la planche 16 du balancier 10 sont réalisés dans le même matériau. Cette réalisation du balancier 10, et/ou de sa planche 16, et du spiral 12 à partir du même matériau permet d'éviter l'effet compensateur du spiral 12 par rapport au balancier 10, qui a ainsi une inertie presque constante. De ce fait, l'auto compensation entre le balancier 10 et le spiral 12 est quasiment négligeable.According to the present invention, the spring 12 is made from the same material as the balance 10. More specifically, the spring 12 and the plate 16 of the balance 10 are made of the same material. This embodiment of the balance 10 and / or its plate 16, and the spring 12 from the same material avoids the compensating effect of the spiral 12 relative to the balance 10, which thus has an almost constant inertia. As a result, the self-compensation between the balance 10 and the balance spring 12 is almost negligible.

Le matériau choisi pour réaliser le balancier 10, et/ou sa planche 16, ainsi que le spiral 12, est de préférence amagnétique et présente l'avantage d'avoir un coefficient de dilatation thermique préférablement de 5·10-6 /C°, et encore plus préférablement de 2·10-6 /°C au maximum. La masse volumique du matériau est de préférence comprise dans une plage de 2.0 à 5.0 g/cm3, préférablement de 2.5 à 4.5 g/cm3, et encore plus préférablement de 3 à 4.0 g/cm3.The material chosen to produce the rocker 10, and / or its board 16, and the spiral 12, is preferably non-magnetic and has the advantage of having a coefficient of thermal expansion preferably 5 · 10 -6 / C °, and even more preferably 2 · 10 -6 / ° C maximum. The density of the material is preferably in a range of 2.0 to 5.0 g / cm 3 , preferably 2.5 to 4.5 g / cm 3 , and still more preferably 3 to 4.0 g / cm 3 .

Selon un mode d'exécution préféré de la présente invention, ce matériau est du diamant ou du diamant de synthèse et, plus généralement un matériau à base de diamant. Néanmoins, d'autres matériaux peuvent être utilisés, comme décrit plus en détail ci-dessous, tels que, par exemple, le quartz, le silicium, le carbone, le titane ou la céramique.According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, this material is diamond or synthetic diamond and, more generally, a diamond-based material. Nevertheless, other materials may be used, as described in more detail below, such as, for example, quartz, silicon, carbon, titanium or ceramic.

Comme le montre la Fig. 2, l'arbre 14 du balancier 10 présente un axe de symétrie, désigné comme l'axe AA, qui est également son axe de pivotement. L'arbre 14 est classiquement réalisé en acier trempé et comporte une assiette 14a, des portions cylindriques 14b, 14c et 14d disposées de part et d'autre de l'assiette 14a et destinées à recevoir respectivement la virole 20, la planche 16 et le plateau 22. Ses extrémités forment des pivots 14e et 14f destinés à être engagés dans des paliers constitués dans le bâti de la pièce d'horlogerie, non représentés sur le dessin.As shown in Fig. 2 , the shaft 14 of the balance 10 has an axis of symmetry, designated as the axis AA, which is also its pivot axis. The shaft 14 is conventionally made of hardened steel and comprises a plate 14a, cylindrical portions 14b, 14c and 14d disposed on either side of the plate 14a and intended to receive respectively the shell 20, the plate 16 and the plateau 22. Its ends form pivots 14e and 14f intended to be engaged in bearings constituted in the frame of the timepiece, not shown in the drawing.

La planche 16 comporte un trou central 16a et huit ouvertures orientées radialement et définissant huit bras 16b. Les extrémités extérieures des bras 16b sont reliées entre elles pour former une serge 16c. Cette dernière est percée, dans le prolongement des bras 16b, de trous 16d orientés parallèlement à l'axe AA et dans lesquels les masselottes 18 et 19 sont fixées. La base de la serge 16c peut être réalisée dans un autre matériau que la planche 16. Dans ce cas, lorsque la planche 16 est par exemple réalisée en diamant, un revêtement diamant peut être appliqué à la serge 16c afin d'obtenir les mêmes caractéristiques physiques pour la serge 16c que pour la planche 16.The board 16 has a central hole 16a and eight radially oriented openings defining eight arms 16b. The outer ends of the arms 16b are interconnected to form a serge 16c. The latter is pierced, in the extension of the arms 16b, holes 16d oriented parallel to the axis AA and in which the weights 18 and 19 are fixed. The base of the serge 16c may be made of a material other than the board 16. In this case, when the board 16 is for example made of diamond, a diamond coating may be applied to the serge 16c in order to obtain the same physical characteristics for serge 16c as for board 16.

Selon la présente invention, le balancier 10 et/ou le spiral 12 sont revêtus de nano-particules d'un matériau qui est de préférence amagnétique et présente l'avantage d'avoir un coefficient de dilatation thermique de 5·10-6 /°C, et encore plus préférablement de 2·10-6 /°C au maximum. La masse volumique du dit matériau est de préférence comprise dans une plage de 2.0 à 5.0 g/cm3, préférablement de 2.5 à 4.5 g/cm3, et encore plus préférablement de 3 à 4.0 g/cm3. Préférablement, le balancier 10 et le spiral 12 ont un revêtement en nano-diamant. Ce revêtement est aussi avantageusement applicable à un balancier-spiral connu de l'homme du métier, tel que, par exemple, un balancier-spiral comportant un balancier réalisé en alliage de cupro-béryllium associé à un spiral réalisé en alliages spécialement étudiés comme par exemple l'invar.According to the present invention, the rocker 10 and / or the spiral 12 are coated with nanoparticles of a material which is preferably non-magnetic and has the advantage of having a coefficient of thermal expansion of 5 · 10 -6 / ° C, and even more preferably 2 · 10 -6 / ° C maximum. The density of said material is preferably in a range of 2.0 to 5.0 g / cm 3 , preferably 2.5 to 4.5 g / cm 3 , and still more preferably 3 to 4.0 g / cm 3 . Preferably, the balance 10 and the balance spring 12 have a nano-diamond coating. This coating is also advantageously applicable to a sprung balance known to those skilled in the art, such as, for example, a sprung balance comprising a balance made of cupro-beryllium alloy associated with a spiral made of alloys specially studied as per example the invar.

Comme on peut le voir plus particulièrement sur la Fig. 2, la planche 16 est en appui contre l'assiette 14a et positionnée par la portion cylindrique 14c. Elle est fixée à l'arbre 14 par des points de colle 24 disposés dans des logements pratiqués dans la périphérie du trou 16a. La virole 20 est chassée sur l'arbre 14 dans sa portion cylindrique 14d, en appui contre la planche 16. Elle porte, monté par collage, le spiral 12.As can be seen more particularly on the Fig. 2 , the board 16 is in abutment against the plate 14a and positioned by the cylindrical portion 14c. It is fixed to the shaft 14 by glue points 24 arranged in housings formed in the periphery of the hole 16a. The shell 20 is driven onto the shaft 14 in its cylindrical portion 14d, bearing against the board 16. It carries, mounted by gluing, the spring 12.

La planche 16 est formée d'une plaque d'un matériau à faible densité et à faible coefficient de dilation thermique, comme par exemple du diamant, du corindon, du quartz ou du silicium, et dont l'épaisseur est de l'ordre de quelques dixièmes de millimètres. Plus particulièrement, cette épaisseur est comprise dans une plage de 0,05 mm à 0,3 mm, et elle a typiquement une valeur de 0,2 mm. Comme mentionné ci-dessus, le spiral 12 est réalisé dans un matériau qui est le même que celui utilisé pour réaliser le balancier 10 et/ou sa planche 16. Ainsi, le matériau utilisé pour réaliser le spiral 12 peut également être sélectionné parmi les matériaux énumérés à titre d'exemple ci-dessus, c'est-à-dire le diamant, le quartz, le silicium ou le corindon. L'élasticité et la longueur de ces matériaux varient très peu en fonction de la température.The board 16 is formed of a plate of a low density material with a low coefficient of thermal expansion, such as for example diamond, corundum, quartz or silicon, and whose thickness is of the order of a few tenths of millimeters. More particularly, this thickness is in the range of 0.05 mm to 0.3 mm, and is typically 0.2 mm. As mentioned above, the hairspring 12 is made of a material that is the same as that used to make the balance 10 and / or its board 16. Thus, the material used to make the hairspring 12 can also be selected from the materials enumerated above, that is, diamond, quartz, silicon or corundum. The elasticity and length of these materials vary very little with temperature.

Les masselottes 18 sont formées chacune d'un clou 18a de forme cylindrique ayant un axe de symétrie, désigné dans la Fig. 2 comme l'axe BB, en matériau lourd dont la densité est supérieure à 15 g/cm3, par exemple de l'or ou du platine, muni d'une tête 18b et d'un corps 18c, et d'une bague 18d réalisée dans le même matériau. Le corps 18c de chacune des masselottes 18 est engagé dans un trou 16d, la tête 18b étant en appui contre la planche 16. La bague 18d qui lui est associée est fixée de l'autre côté de la planche 16, par chassage, collage ou soudage.The weights 18 are each formed of a nail 18a of cylindrical shape having an axis of symmetry, designated in the Fig. 2 as the BB axis, a heavy material whose density is greater than 15 g / cm 3 , for example gold or platinum, provided with a head 18b and a body 18c, and a ring 18d made of the same material. The body 18c of each of the weights 18 is engaged in a hole 16d, the head 18b bearing against the board 16. The ring 18d associated with it is fixed on the other side of the board 16, by driving, gluing or welding.

Les masselottes 18 présentent une structure symétrique par rapport à l'axe BB de chacun des clous 18a. De la sorte, lors de changements de température, les clous se dilatent ou se contractent radialement par rapport à l'axe BB, sans que leur centre de gravité ne bouge. En conséquence, en première approximation, cette dilatation ne modifie pas l'inertie du balancier.The weights 18 have a symmetrical structure with respect to the axis BB of each of the nails 18a. In this way, during changes in temperature, the nails expand or contract radially relative to the axis BB, without their center of gravity moves. Consequently, as a first approximation, this expansion does not modify the inertia of the pendulum.

Les masselottes 19 présentent un centre de gravité décalé par rapport à l'axe du trou 16d dans lequel elles sont engagées. De la sorte, en les tournant, il est possible de modifier le moment d'inertie et ainsi corriger la fréquence de l'oscillateur. Afin de permettre cette rotation, les masselottes 19 comportent une portion cylindrique 19a munie de fentes à orientation axiale 19b, permettant une fixation à friction.The weights 19 have a center of gravity offset from the axis of the hole 16d in which they are engaged. In this way, by turning them, it is possible to modify the moment of inertia and thus correct the frequency of the oscillator. To allow this rotation, the weights 19 comprise a cylindrical portion 19a provided with axially oriented slots 19b, allowing a frictional attachment.

Comme mentionné ci-dessus, le matériau utilisé pour réaliser le balancier 10 et le spiral 12 de l'oscillateur mécanique selon la présente invention est susceptible d'être peu sensible à la température. De plus, ce matériau est susceptible d'être conforme aux marges établies par les critères chronométriques de l'horlogerie Suisse énumérés dans la Table 1 illustrée ci-dessous. Table 1 : Critères chronométriques de l'horlogerie Suisse: Critères éliminatoires Exigences minimales (s/d) Catégories 1 (Ø>20mm) 2(Ø≤20mm) Mmoy Marche diurne moyenne -4 +6 -5 +8 Vmoy Variation moyenne des marches 2 3.4 Vmax Plus grande variation des marches 5 7 D Différence entre horizontal et vertical -6 +8 -8 +10 P Plus grande différence des marches 10 15 C Variation thermique ±0.6 ±0.7 R Reprise de marche ±5 ±6 As mentioned above, the material used to make the balance 10 and the spiral 12 of the mechanical oscillator according to the present invention is likely to be insensitive to temperature. In addition, this material is likely to be consistent with the margins established by the Swiss chronological chronometric criteria listed in Table 1 illustrated below. Table 1: Chronometric criteria of Swiss watchmaking: Eliminating Criteria Minimum requirements (s / d) Categories 1 (Ø> 20mm) 2 (Ø≤20mm) Mmean Average day walk -4 +6 -5 +8 Vave Average variation of the steps 2 3.4 Vmax Largest variation of steps 5 7 D Difference between horizontal and vertical -6 +8 -8 +10 P Biggest difference of steps 10 15 VS Thermal variation ± 0.6 ± 0.7 R Resumption of the market ± 5 ± 6

Des exemples non limitatifs de matériaux satisfaisants les critères indiqués dans la Table 1, qui sont ainsi utilisables dans le contexte de la présente invention, sont le diamant, le titane, la céramique et le quartz, comme déjà décrit plus en détail ci-dessus. Ces matériaux ont des propriétés physiques suivantes:

  • Masse volumique:
    • Diamant: 3.515 g/cm3
    • Titane Grade 5: 4.42 g/cm3
    • Céramique Al2O3: 3.9 g/cm3
    • Quartz: 2.6 g/cm3
  • Coefficient de dilatation thermique:
    • Diamant: 1·10-6 /C°
    • Titane Grade 5 : 9·10-6 /C°
    • Céramique Al2O3: 8·10-6 /C°
    • Quartz: 0.5·10-6 /C°
Nonlimiting examples of materials satisfying the criteria indicated in Table 1, which are thus usable in the context of the present invention, are diamond, titanium, ceramic and quartz, as already described in more detail above. These materials have the following physical properties:
  • Volumic mass:
    • Diamond: 3.515 g / cm 3
    • Grade 5 Titanium: 4.42 g / cm 3
    • Ceramic Al 2 O 3 : 3.9 g / cm 3
    • Quartz: 2.6 g / cm 3
  • Coefficient of thermal expansion:
    • Diamond: 1 · 10 -6 / C °
    • Grade 5 Titanium: 9 · 10 -6 / C °
    • Ceramic Al 2 O 3 : 8 · 10 -6 / C °
    • Quartz: 0.5 · 10 -6 / C °

Grâce à cette sélection particulière du matériau amagnétique utilisé pour la réalisation du balancier 10, et/ou de sa planche 16, ainsi que du spiral 12, un faible coefficient de dilatation thermique et un rapport masse - rayon optimisé sont obtenus. Plus particulièrement, comme l'oscillateur mécanique des Fig. 1 et 2 comportant le balancier 10 et le spiral 12 est réalisé à partir d'un matériau très stable par rapport à la température, sa fréquence est très stable et varie très peu en fonction de la température. Cette stabilité de fréquence est renforcée grâce au fait que les masselottes 18 ont un centre de gravité fixe par rapport à l'axe du balancier 10. Ceci permet d'atteindre un haut degré d'isochronisme de l'oscillateur mécanique selon un mode préféré d'exécution de la présente invention, comme illustré dans la Fig. 3.Thanks to this particular selection of the nonmagnetic material used for producing the balance 10, and / or its board 16, as well as the spiral 12, a low coefficient of thermal expansion and an optimized mass-radius ratio are obtained. More particularly, like the mechanical oscillator of Fig. 1 and 2 comprising the balance 10 and the spiral 12 is made from a very stable material relative to the temperature, its frequency is very stable and varies very little depending on the temperature. This frequency stability is enhanced by the fact that the flyweights 18 have a fixed center of gravity with respect to the axis of the balance 10. This makes it possible to achieve a high degree of isochronism of the mechanical oscillator according to a preferred embodiment of the invention. embodiment of the present invention, as illustrated in the Fig. 3 .

La Fig. 3 illustre un schéma représentant des variations de marche diurnes exemplaires de deux différents oscillateurs mécaniques à titre d'exemple. Ces variations de marche diurnes sont représentées en secondes ([s]) sur un axe 41, dépendamment des différentes températures auxquelles les oscillateurs mécaniques correspondants ont été testés. Ces températures sont représentées en degrés Celsius ([°C]] sur un axe 31.The Fig. 3 illustrates a diagram showing exemplary day-to-day variations of two different mechanical oscillators by way of example. These diurnal cycle variations are represented in seconds ([s]) on an axis 41, depending on the different temperatures at which the corresponding mechanical oscillators were tested. These temperatures are represented in degrees Celsius ([° C]] on an axis 31.

Une première courbe 30 illustre une variation de marche diurne d'une pièce d'horlogerie comportant un oscillateur mécanique standard. Comme le montre la Fig. 3, cette variation de marche diurne est comprise entre un avancement de 6 secondes, comme l'indique le point 32, et un retardement de 4 secondes, comme l'indique le point 34, lorsque la pièce d'horlogerie est testée dans une plage de températures situées entre +8 et +38 °C.A first curve 30 illustrates a diurnal step variation of a timepiece comprising a standard mechanical oscillator. As shown in Fig. 3 , this day-time variation is between a 6-second advance, as indicated by point 32, and a delay of 4 seconds, as indicated by point 34, when the timepiece is tested in a range of temperatures between +8 and +38 ° C.

Une seconde courbe 40 illustre une variation de marche diurne de cette pièce d'horlogerie lorsqu'elle est réalisée avec un oscillateur mécanique selon un mode d'exécution préféré de la présente invention. Comme le montre la Fig. 3, dans ce cas la variation de marche diurne est comprise entre un avancement nul, comme l'indique le point 42, et un retardement d'approximativement 1,3 secondes, comme l'indique le point 44, lors du test de la pièce d'horlogerie dans la plage de températures comprises entre +8 et +38 °C.A second curve 40 illustrates a diurnal step variation of this timepiece when it is made with a mechanical oscillator according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. As shown in Fig. 3 in this case, the variation in daytime running is between a zero advance, as indicated in point 42, and a delay of approximately 1.3 seconds, as indicated in point 44, when testing the workpiece. in the temperature range of +8 to +38 ° C.

On relèvera néanmoins que cette stabilité de fréquence relative à la température de l'oscillateur mécanique selon l'invention s'ajoute à d'autres avantages obtenus par le choix du matériau utilisé. Par exemple, les matériaux constitutifs du balancier 10 et du spiral 12 étant amagnétiques, un champ magnétique ne pourra pas interagir avec ceux-ci. Seulement dans la configuration décrite ci-dessus, qui emploie l'arbre 14 réalisé en acier trempé, un champ magnétique pourra interagir avec cet arbre 14, mais l'influence de cette interaction est pratiquement nulle.It will be noted, however, that this frequency stability relative to the temperature of the mechanical oscillator according to the invention is added to other advantages obtained by the choice of the material used. For example, the materials constituting the balance 10 and spiral 12 being non-magnetic, a magnetic field can not interact with them. Only in the configuration described above, which uses the shaft 14 made of hardened steel, a magnetic field can interact with the shaft 14, but the influence of this interaction is virtually zero.

Enfin, dès lors que la masse spécifique du matériau constitutif de la planche 16 est faible, alors que celle du matériau constitutif des masselottes 18, 19 est élevée, la masse totale du balancier 10 est faible pour un moment d'inertie donné. Il en résulte que le défaut d'isochronisme peut être réduit davantage.Finally, since the specific mass of the constituent material of the board 16 is small, while the material constituting the weights 18, 19 is high, the total mass of the balance 10 is low for a given moment of inertia. As a result, the isochronism defect can be further reduced.

Des masselottes 18, 19 en or ou en platine permettent de réaliser le balancier 10 avec un rapport moment d'inertie/masse particulièrement favorable. Il est aussi possible d'utiliser des matériaux moins coûteux, par exemple du laiton ou de l'invar. Dans ce dernier cas, la dilatation des masselottes 18, 19 pourrait encore être réduite.Weights 18, 19 gold or platinum can realize the balance 10 with a moment of inertia / mass ratio particularly favorable. It is also possible to use less expensive materials, for example brass or invar. In the latter case, the expansion of the weights 18, 19 could be further reduced.

De manière générale, les balanciers pour pièces d'horlogerie doivent être équilibrés. Cela peut se faire en enlevant ou en ajoutant de la matière. Cette opération s'effectue de manière particulièrement avantageuse en travaillant sur les masselottes 18, qui présentent une structure symétrique par rapport à leur axe BB. En plus, au moins une partie desdites masselottes 18 a de préférence une forme cylindrique d'axe BB dans leur portion engagée dans la planche 16. Afin d'éviter que la symétrie de celles-ci ne soit affectée, il est possible d'enlever de la matière soit mécaniquement, soit par un tir au laser, en veillant à ce que cela se fasse de manière régulière sur toute la surface ou symétriquement par rapport à l'axe BB. Il est également possible d'ajouter de la matière par projection sur l'une ou l'autre des masselottes 18, toujours en veillant à garder la symétrie en référence à l'axe BB. Ainsi, la présente invention revendique également un procédé d'équilibrage par enlèvement ou adjonction de matière du/au balancier 10, caractérisé par le fait que de la matière est enlevée d'au moins une desdites masselottes 18 de manière symétrique en référence à l'axe du cylindre ou par le fait que l'équilibrage est réalisé par adjonction de la matière à au moins l'une des masselottes 18 de manière symétrique en référence à l'axe de son cylindre.In general, pendulums for timepieces must be balanced. This can be done by removing or adding material. This operation is particularly advantageous by working on the weights 18, which have a symmetrical structure with respect to their axis BB. In addition, at least a portion of said weights 18 preferably has a cylindrical shape of BB axis in their portion engaged in the board 16. In order to prevent the symmetry thereof is affected, it is possible to remove either mechanically or by laser firing, ensuring that this is done evenly over the entire surface or symmetrically with respect to the BB axis. It is also possible to add material by spraying on one or the other of the weights 18, always being careful to keep the symmetry with reference to the axis BB. Thus, the present invention also claims a method of balancing by removal or addition of material from / to the balance 10, characterized in that material is removed from at least one of said weights 18 so symmetrical with reference to the axis of the cylinder or in that the equilibration is achieved by adding the material to at least one of the weights 18 symmetrically with reference to the axis of its cylinder.

Enfin, le matériau utilisé pour réaliser les masselottes 18 présente préférablement une masse spécifique supérieure à 10. Il peut s'agir notamment de l'or ou du platine, tandis que le balancier 10 et le spiral 12 sont réalisés en diamant. De la sorte, le rapport entre le moment d'inertie et la masse spécifique est particulièrement favorable.Finally, the material used to make the weights 18 preferably has a specific mass greater than 10. It may be in particular gold or platinum, while the balance 10 and the spiral 12 are made of diamond. In this way, the ratio between the moment of inertia and the specific mass is particularly favorable.

On relèvera aussi que, selon le matériau constitutif de la planche 16, il est également possible d'y ajouter ou d'en supprimer de la matière et plus particulièrement sur la serge 16c.It will also be noted that, depending on the material of the board 16, it is also possible to add or remove material and more particularly on the 16c serge.

Bien qu'un mode particulier d'exécution soit décrit ci-dessus, des variations multiples peuvent être apportées à l'oscillateur mécanique selon l'invention telle que définie dans les revendications sans altérer sa fonctionnalité.Although a particular embodiment is described above, multiple variations can be made to the mechanical oscillator according to the invention as defined in the claims without altering its functionality.

Claims (19)

  1. Mechanical oscillator for a timepiece comprising a balance (10) and a hairspring (12), in which the balance (10) and the hairspring (12) are produced from a same first material, which is of a diamond, quartz or ceramic type, characterized in that said balance (10) comprises a plate (16) with a thickness comprised in a range from 0.05 mm to 0.3 mm, and in that the balance (10) and/or the hairspring (12) are coated in nanoparticles of a material having a coefficient of thermal expansion of 5*10-6/°C at most.
  2. Mechanical oscillator according to claim 1, in which said coating is of a material having a coefficient of thermal expansion of 2*10-6/°C at most
  3. Mechanical oscillator according to anyone of preceding claims, in which said coating is of a non-magnetic material.
  4. Mechanical oscillator according to anyone of preceding claims, in which said coating is of a material having an apparent density comprised in a range from 2.0 to 5.0 g/cm3.
  5. Mechanical oscillator according to anyone of preceding claims, in which said coating is of nanodiamond.
  6. Mechanical oscillator according to anyone of preceding claims, in which said balance (10) comprises an arbor (14) holding said plate (16) and counterweights (18, 19) mounted on said plate (16), and in which said arbor (14) and said counterweights (18, 19) are produced from at least one second material.
  7. Mechanical oscillator according to claim 6, in which said arbor (14) is produced from hardened steel and at least one part of the counterweights (18) is produced from heavy material, the density of which is greater than 15 g/cm3.
  8. Mechanical oscillator according to one of the previous claims, in which the first material has a low coefficient of thermal expansion of a maximum of 2*10-6/°C.
  9. Mechanical oscillator according to one of the previous claims, in which the first material is non-magnetic.
  10. Mechanical oscillator according to one of the previous claims, in which the apparent density of the first material is comprised in a range from 2.0 to 5.0 g/cm3.
  11. Mechanical oscillator according to one of the previous claims, in which the first material is diamond-based.
  12. Mechanical oscillator according to one of the previous claims, in which the timepiece is a wristwatch.
  13. Mechanical oscillator according to claim 1, in which the balance (10) comprises:
    - an arbor (14) holding said plate (16) and intended to ensure that the balance swivels about a swivel axis,
    - counterweights (18, 19) mounted on said plate (16), distributed symmetrically in relation to said swivel axis,
    said balance (10) and said hairspring (12) being produced from a same first material being chosen from diamond and quartz.
  14. Mechanical oscillator according to claim 13, in which at least one part of said counterweights (18) has a cylindrical shape in relation to an axis of symmetry in the part of it that is fitted into said plate (16), said counterweights (18) having a symmetrical structure in relation to the axis of symmetry.
  15. Mechanical oscillator according to one of claims 13 to 14, in which said counterweights (18) are produced from a third material having a specific gravity greater than 10.
  16. Mechanical oscillator according to claim 15, in which the third material is heavy material with a density greater than 15 g/cm3.
  17. Mechanical oscillator according to one of claims 13 to 16, in which the first material is diamond.
  18. Method of balancing by removing material from a balance (10) for a mechanical oscillator, comprising the following steps of:
    - providing with a mechanical oscillator according to claim 14,
    - removing material from at least one of said symmetrical counterweights (18) symmetrically in relation to its axis of symmetry.
  19. Method of balancing by adding material to a balance (10) for a mechanical oscillator, comprising the following steps of;
    - providing with a mechanical oscillator according to claim 14,
    - adding material to at least one of said symmetrical counterweights (18) symmetrically in relation to its axis of symmetry.
EP07857010.8A 2006-12-21 2007-12-20 Mechanical oscillator for timepiece Active EP2102717B1 (en)

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EP06026620 2006-12-21
CH02119/06A CH701155B1 (en) 2006-12-27 2006-12-27 Balance spiral type mechanical oscillator for e.g. wrist watch, has balance and spiral, which are made of non-magnetic material such as diamond, where material possesses very low thermal expansion coefficient
PCT/EP2007/011287 WO2008080570A2 (en) 2006-12-21 2007-12-20 Mechanical oscillator for timepiece
EP07857010.8A EP2102717B1 (en) 2006-12-21 2007-12-20 Mechanical oscillator for timepiece

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EP1521141B1 (en) * 2003-10-01 2007-05-30 Asulab S.A. Timepiece with a mechanical movement coupled to an electronic regulator mechanism
GB2416408B (en) * 2003-10-20 2006-06-07 Gideon Levingston Balance wheel, balance spring and other components and assemblies for a mechanical oscillator system and method of manufacture
GB0324439D0 (en) * 2003-10-20 2003-11-19 Levingston Gideon R Minimal thermal variation and temperature compensating non-magnetic balance wheels and methods of production of these and their associated balance springs
DE602004019183D1 (en) * 2004-04-06 2009-03-12 Nivarox Sa Spiral roll without deformation of the fixing radius of the spiral spring and manufacturing process such spiral roll

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
US20100054090A1 (en) 2010-03-04
EP2102717A2 (en) 2009-09-23
JP2010513886A (en) 2010-04-30
WO2008080570A2 (en) 2008-07-10
US8240910B2 (en) 2012-08-14
WO2008080570A3 (en) 2009-02-26

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