EP2781967B1 - Timepiece hairspring - Google Patents

Timepiece hairspring Download PDF

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Publication number
EP2781967B1
EP2781967B1 EP13160028.0A EP13160028A EP2781967B1 EP 2781967 B1 EP2781967 B1 EP 2781967B1 EP 13160028 A EP13160028 A EP 13160028A EP 2781967 B1 EP2781967 B1 EP 2781967B1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
assembly
sub
bar
bearing
balance
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Active
Application number
EP13160028.0A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP2781967A1 (en
Inventor
Marc Stranczl
Thierry Hessler
Jean-Luc Helfer
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Nivarox Far SA
Nivarox SA
Original Assignee
Nivarox Far SA
Nivarox SA
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Nivarox Far SA, Nivarox SA filed Critical Nivarox Far SA
Priority to EP13160028.0A priority Critical patent/EP2781967B1/en
Priority to CH00631/13A priority patent/CH707815B1/en
Priority to TW103105110A priority patent/TWI612400B/en
Priority to US14/217,981 priority patent/US8961003B2/en
Priority to KR1020140031465A priority patent/KR101546614B1/en
Priority to JP2014054687A priority patent/JP5782150B2/en
Priority to CN201610899757.8A priority patent/CN106842884B/en
Priority to CN201410103015.0A priority patent/CN104062883B/en
Publication of EP2781967A1 publication Critical patent/EP2781967A1/en
Priority to HK15102947.3A priority patent/HK1202652A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP2781967B1 publication Critical patent/EP2781967B1/en
Active legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

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Classifications

    • 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
    • G04B1/00—Driving mechanisms
    • G04B1/10—Driving mechanisms with mainspring
    • 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
    • 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
    • G04B13/00—Gearwork
    • 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
    • G04B15/00—Escapements
    • G04B15/14—Component parts or constructional details, e.g. construction of the lever or the escape wheel
    • 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
    • G04B17/32—Component parts or constructional details, e.g. collet, stud, virole or piton
    • G04B17/325—Component parts or constructional details, e.g. collet, stud, virole or piton for fastening the hairspring in a fixed position, e.g. using a block
    • 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
    • G04B18/04—Adjusting the beat of the pendulum, balance, or the like, e.g. putting into beat
    • G04B18/06—Adjusting the beat of the pendulum, balance, or the like, e.g. putting into beat by setting the collet or the stud of a hairspring
    • 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
    • G04B31/00—Bearings; Point suspensions or counter-point suspensions; Pivot bearings; Single parts therefor
    • G04B31/02—Shock-damping bearings

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a watch exhaust mechanism subassembly comprising at least one bridge, which bridge comprises at least one bearing or a bearing support for pivoting a pivot of a mobile, and at least one spiral spring whose outer end is fixed to a stud.
  • the invention also relates to a mechanical clockwork movement comprising at least one such subassembly.
  • the invention relates to the field of watch mechanisms, and more particularly exhaust mechanisms incorporating ready-to-use functional modules.
  • the modules do not always allow the reduction in the number of components, which can both lower the cost of production, and a simplification of the assembly range, allowing medium technical staff to assemble and adjust the most complex functions.
  • the document CH 447 042 in the name of TISSOT describes a device for fixing the outer end of a hairspring, comprising a rigid support having projecting lugs between which the hairspring is threaded along a sinuous path, and is held laterally by an overhanging part that includes a these tenons.
  • the document EP 2 151 722 A1 in the name of ROLEX describes a spiral with at least two coplanar blades wound with an offset able to neutralize the forces lateral members may be exerted on its central axis when one end of each blade is angularly offset about this axis, relative to its other end.
  • the blades are integral with each other by their respective two ends, inner and outer.
  • the document EP 2 437 126 A1 in the name of ROLEX describes a sprung balance, the outer end of a spiral blade is manufactured with a connecting member to the frame of a timepiece, the rigidity of this connecting member being greater than that of the spiral.
  • the connecting member and the frame comprise complementary bearing surfaces.
  • the invention proposes to provide subassemblies with reduced number of components, and assembly and adjustment of average complexity.
  • the mounting of a spiral spring is a delicate operation to automate.
  • the design of a spiral spring integrated with an easier handling subassembly allows a better automation of the assembly.
  • the present invention uses for this purpose new micro-component manufacturing technologies, MEMS, "LIGA”, lithography, and the like, to optimize the manufacture of such modules, presented here as subsets.
  • MEMS micro-component manufacturing technologies
  • LIGA lithography, and the like
  • the invention relates to a watch exhaust mechanism subassembly comprising at least one bridge, which bridge comprises at least one bearing or a bearing holder for pivoting a pivot of a mobile, and at least one spiral spring whose outer end is fixed to a stud, according to claim 1.
  • the invention also relates to a mechanical clockwork movement comprising at least one such subassembly.
  • the monolithic subassembly has the main advantage of guaranteeing the distances and forming a mechanism, particularly an oscillator in a preferred application, ready to use.
  • a subset according to the invention has a great industrial advantage: the mechanism, in particular an oscillator, as a subset forms a component ready to mount in a movement. None prohibits, moreover, to design an entire movement in the form of a subset according to the invention.
  • the invention relates to the field of watch mechanisms, and more particularly to movements incorporating ready-to-use functional modules.
  • the invention relates to a subset 1 of a watch exhaust mechanism, comprising at least one bridge 3 and at least one spiral spring 71 whose outer end is fixed to a pin 73.
  • At least one such spiral spring 71 and the stud 73 associated therewith form a one-piece assembly with the bridge 3.
  • the hairspring 71 is made in one piece with a pin 73 to which it is attached by its outer turn 77.
  • This pin 73 is itself integrally formed with the bridge 3, to which it is connected by second integral resilient return means 75 monobloc both with the pin 73 and the bridge 3.
  • the adjustment in position of this pin playing on the elasticity of the second elastic return means is maintained by locking means, not shown on the figure 3 but of which an example is found in figures 7 and 9 .
  • the adjustment of the active length of the outer turn of the hairspring 71 can be done in different ways.
  • the outer coil 77 of the spiral spring 71 is gripped by two pins 74A, 74B, integral with the bridge 3.
  • At least one of the pins 74 is fixed to the upper bridge 3 by second elastic return means 76 integral with the at least one pin 74A or 74B and the bridge 3, and which tend to bring it closer to the other pin 74B or 74A.
  • the figure 4 represents a variant of the execution of the figure 3 , where the hairspring 71 is also made in one piece with a pin 73, itself made integrally with the bridge 3, and where the outer end of the hairspring is pinched, at a distance from the pin 73, by pins 74A and 74B monobloc with bridge 3, constituting together the equivalent of a racket 74 for changing the active length of the hairspring 71.
  • At least one of these pins 74A and 74B is connected and fixed to the bridge 3 by elastic return means 76 also integrated in the bridge 3, which are integral with this at least one pin 74 and with the bridge 3, and which tend to bring it closer to the other pin 74.
  • FIG 5 illustrates an embodiment with a very slight clearance, in which, the radial adjustment, independent, the pins 74A and 74B makes it possible to adjust the isochronism of the movement in the different positions.
  • These elastic return means 76 are in particular constituted by one or more flexible elements, located either in the plane of the spiral 71, or in the plane of the bridge 3, or in any other plane.
  • the hairspring 71 and / or the pins 74A or 74B may be locally notched in order to allow the realization of a discrete type of adjustment notch notch.
  • At least one of its components is adjustable in position and is immobilizable in a pre-set position by locking means.
  • the subassembly 1 comprises an adjustable mechanism in position 80, which comprises a rigid structure 81.
  • This rigid structure 81 is preferably constituted by the bridge 3, and it carries, via at least one elastic blade 83 at least one component adjustable in position 82 (in particular constituted by a pin or holder of a pin 73)
  • This adjustable component 82 comprises indexing means 84, which are arranged to cooperate with complementary indexing means 91 that comprises an adjustment mechanism 90.
  • These complementary indexing means 91 are detachably mounted indexing means 84, and are lockable in the cooperation position by a locking mechanism 94 resiliently fixed to the structure 81.
  • This blocking mechanism 94 is itself even subject to the action of a locking mechanism 98 which allows it to occupy, or a disengaged position in which the adjustment mechanism 90 is free, or a position engaged in the the locking mechanism 94 obstructs the adjustment mechanism 90.
  • This locking mechanism 98 is also resiliently attached to the structure 81.
  • this adjustable mechanism in position 80 carries an adjustable component in position 82 which carries a bearing 44 or a bearing holder 13 for receiving the pivot of a rocker arm 41 intended to receive the inner end of the spiral spring 71, with the same architecture as before.
  • this adjustable component in position 82 comprises indexing means 84, which are arranged to cooperate with complementary indexing means 91, here constituted by a comb, or a toothed sector, which comprises an adjustment mechanism 90.
  • complementary indexing 91 are mounted disengageable indexing means 84. They are still lockable in the cooperation position by a locking mechanism 94.
  • This blocking mechanism 94 is resiliently fastened to the structure 81 by at least one flexible element 96, and is preferably itself subjected to the action of a locking mechanism which allows it to occupy, or a position disengaged in which the adjustment mechanism 90 is free, or an engaged position in which the blocking mechanism 94 obstructs the adjustment mechanism 90.
  • This locking mechanism comprises at least one flexible element 98 springing and elastically fixed to the structure 81, this at less a flexible element 98 here comprises a spout 99 which cooperates with a spout 97 of the blocker 94 to keep the blocker spread during adjustment in position, or with a complementary stop surface 95 of the blocker 94 in the safety of the blocker when the adjustment in position is performed.
  • the latter is shaped fork, so as to limit the stroke of an arm 93 that includes the comb 91.
  • the figure 8 illustrates a similar example where the comb 91 is held between two substantially aligned flexible blades 92 and 92A, and forms a bistable component, working in buckling substantially aligned, the assembly can occupy two stable positions: a first armed position A where the comb 91 cooperates with a finger 84 of a mobile peg 82, and a second disarmed position B where it is disengaged.
  • the figure 9 illustrates a similar mechanism with a comb 91 immobilizing an index 84 located at the end of a flexible blade 83, the comb 91 being pressed on this index 84 by a locking spring blade 96 belonging to the blocker 94, itself immobilized by a locking pin 99 mounted on at least one flexible blade 98, this finger 99 cooperating with a stop surface 97 of the blade 96.
  • this combined mechanism of adjustment, locking and locking illustrated here for a particular application of adjusting a stud in a race concentric to the axis of a spiral, is applicable to a wide variety of applications: positioning of a bearing, an abutment, a racket pin, or other.
  • the bridge 3 forms a single-piece component that can not be dismantled with at least one anti-shock bearing for receiving a pivot of a rocker arm 41 intended to receive the inner end of the spiral spring 71, or of a component of the escape mechanism .
  • the bridge 3 comprises, for the pivoting of a rocker arm 41 intended to receive the inner end of the spiral spring 71, a bearing 45 housed in a bearing holder 13 connected to the bridge 3 by resilient return means 14. similarly, such a bearing 45 can be arranged at the level of the plate 2.
  • the bearing 45 may be constituted by a conventional bearing or by a flexible guide.
  • the bearing 45 is a one-piece flexible guide with the bridge 3 or with the plate 2, as the case may be.
  • the rocker arm 41 has a one-piece end with a flexible guide and the bridge 3 (or respectively the plate 2), the rocker then has a stroke which is limited by the deflection of the flexible guide, which is then advantageously made in several stages to allow sufficient angular travel for the balance, which is then in one piece with the bridge 3 (or respectively the plate 2).
  • a flexible guide may be constituted by the spiral spring 71 itself.
  • the rocker 41 is hooked to both the bridge 3 and the plate 2, on each side by a flexible guide constituting a spiral spring 71, these two spiral springs 71 exerting couples, or in the same sense, or in opposite senses.
  • these resilient return means 14 are integral with the bridge 3 and the bearing carrier 13, and, alternatively, the bearing 45 is also part of this monobloc subassembly 1.
  • the bridge 3 comprises at least one bearing 44 or 45, or a bearing holder 13 for receiving the pivot of a balance 41 intended to receive the inner end of the spiral spring 71, and at least this bearing 44 or 45, or this bearing holder 13, is made integrally with the bridge 3, and comprises a revolution range 46 for the radial holding of a shaft 47 of the rocker arm 41, and a front bearing surface 49 for the axial limitation of the end of this shaft 47, the range of revolution 46 and the front span 47 being carried together by an elastic shock absorber 48 also monobloc with them.
  • the subset 1 is made of silicon.
  • the pivot points of the bearings 45 are defined, for example, by anisotropic etchings (KOH) in a silicon substrate.
  • KOH anisotropic etchings
  • a version with an assembly of the stones is also possible.
  • the big advantage is the very precise positioning of the pivot points (center distance, verticality).
  • Anti-shock can thus be partially or completely made in the plate: the spring of the shock can be achieved in common with the plate.
  • One of the two (or both) stones can be made in common with the plate. Pivoting is then done directly in the silicon.
  • the pivot points can be made directly in silicon with surface coatings of the DLC or other type. So there is no more stone, and the rotation points are positioned very precisely.
  • the subassembly 1 comprises breakable elements, intended to facilitate its assembly in an upper assembly, it is sufficient to then break these breakable elements to give one or more degrees of freedom to some of its constituents .
  • these breakable elements are located at the inner end of the hairspring, in connection with the bridge, and are broken only during assembly of the balance 41 and the attachment of the hairspring 71 to the shell of this balance.
  • the subset 1 comprises the entirety of an escape mechanism.
  • the intrinsic elastic return means that comprises the subset 1 comprise at least one bistable or multistable flexible element, as visible for example on the figure 8 , which shows a bistable element working in buckling, and having a comb 91 between two substantially aligned resilient blades 92 and 92A, the assembly being able to occupy two stable positions: a first armed position A where the comb 91 cooperates with a finger 84 of a mobile stud 82, and a second disarmed position B where it is disengaged.
  • the intrinsic elastic return means it comprises are prestressed in an oxidized state of silicon.
  • the bridge 3 is made of micro-machinable material, or silicon, or oxidized silicon, and intrinsic elastic return means that it comprises are prestressed in a state oxidized silicon.
  • Other materials according to MEMS or "LIGA" technologies can be implemented. Quartz, DLC, at least partially amorphous materials, metallic glasses, can, and not exclusively, be used for these applications.
  • a particular structuring of the bridge 3, and / or unbreakable integral components that it comprises, may make it possible to compensate for the effects of the expansion of these structural elements, or of the components of the mechanism of the subassembly 1. It is possible for example to make the bridge 3 in silicon, then to oxidize it, in order to work coherently.
  • the invention also relates to a mechanical clockwork movement 100 comprising at least one such subassembly 1.

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  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Manufacturing & Machinery (AREA)
  • Springs (AREA)
  • Micromachines (AREA)

Description

Domaine de l'inventionField of the invention

L'invention concerne un sous-ensemble de mécanisme d'échappement d'horlogerie comportant au moins un pont, lequel pont comporte au moins un palier ou un porte-palier pour le pivotement d'un pivot d'un mobile, et au moins un ressort-spiral dont l'extrémité externe est fixée à un piton.The invention relates to a watch exhaust mechanism subassembly comprising at least one bridge, which bridge comprises at least one bearing or a bearing support for pivoting a pivot of a mobile, and at least one spiral spring whose outer end is fixed to a stud.

L'invention concerne encore un mouvement d'horlogerie mécanique comportant au moins un tel sous-ensemble.The invention also relates to a mechanical clockwork movement comprising at least one such subassembly.

L'invention concerne le domaine des mécanismes d'horlogerie, et plus particulièrement des mécanismes d'échappement intégrant des modules fonctionnels prêts à l'emploi.The invention relates to the field of watch mechanisms, and more particularly exhaust mechanisms incorporating ready-to-use functional modules.

Arrière-plan de l'inventionBackground of the invention

L'utilisation d'ensembles modulaires permet la réalisation de familles de produits, utilisant une base commune, et chacun personnalisé par des options ou des fonctionnalités différentes, notamment des complications dans le cas d'un mouvement horloger mécanique.The use of modular assemblies allows the realization of product families, using a common base, and each customized by different options or functionalities, including complications in the case of a mechanical watch movement.

La conception de modules ou sous-ensembles de très haute précision permet de combiner une production de grande série avec des produits de qualité.The design of modules or sub-assemblies of very high precision makes it possible to combine mass production with quality products.

On connaît ainsi des sous-ensembles modulaires de mouvements horlogers, par les demandes de brevets EP11193173.9 et EP11193174.7 au nom de ETA SA. Les modules mécaniques décrits dans ces demandes sont pré-réglés et assemblés de façon irréversible pour garantir la pérennité de leurs réglages.Modular subsets of watch movements are thus known from patent applications. EP11193173.9 and EP11193174.7 in the name of ETA SA. The mechanical modules described in these applications are pre-set and assembled irreversibly to ensure the durability of their adjustments.

Toutefois, dans une réalisation classique, les modules ne permettent pas toujours la réduction du nombre de composants, qui puisse permettre à la fois un abaissement du coût de production, et une simplification de la gamme d'assemblage, permettant à du personnel de technicité moyenne d'assembler et régler les fonctions les plus complexes.However, in a conventional embodiment, the modules do not always allow the reduction in the number of components, which can both lower the cost of production, and a simplification of the assembly range, allowing medium technical staff to assemble and adjust the most complex functions.

Le document CH 447 042 au nom de TISSOT décrit un dispositif de fixation de l'extrémité extérieure d'un spiral, comportant un support rigide comportant des tenons saillants entre lesquels le spiral est enfilé selon un chemin sinueux, et est maintenu latéralement par une partie débordante que comporte un de ces tenons.The document CH 447 042 in the name of TISSOT describes a device for fixing the outer end of a hairspring, comprising a rigid support having projecting lugs between which the hairspring is threaded along a sinuous path, and is held laterally by an overhanging part that includes a these tenons.

Le document EP 2 151 722 A1 au nom de ROLEX décrit un spiral à au moins deux lames coplanaires enroulées avec un décalage apte à neutraliser les forces latérales susceptibles d'être exercées sur son axe central lorsqu'une des extrémités de chaque lame est décalée angulairement autour de cet axe, par rapport à son autre extrémité. Dans une variante, les lames sont solidaires l'une de l'autre par leurs deux extrémités respectives, intérieures et extérieures.The document EP 2 151 722 A1 in the name of ROLEX describes a spiral with at least two coplanar blades wound with an offset able to neutralize the forces lateral members may be exerted on its central axis when one end of each blade is angularly offset about this axis, relative to its other end. In a variant, the blades are integral with each other by their respective two ends, inner and outer.

Le document EP 2 437 126 A1 au nom de ROLEX décrit un balancier-spiral, dont l'extrémité externe d'une lame du spiral vient de fabrication avec un organe de liaison au bâti d'une pièce d'horlogerie, la rigidité de cet organe de liaison étant supérieure à celle du spiral. L'organe de liaison et le bâti comportent des surfaces d'appui complémentaires.The document EP 2 437 126 A1 in the name of ROLEX describes a sprung balance, the outer end of a spiral blade is manufactured with a connecting member to the frame of a timepiece, the rigidity of this connecting member being greater than that of the spiral. The connecting member and the frame comprise complementary bearing surfaces.

Résumé de l'inventionSummary of the invention

Aussi, l'invention se propose de fournir des sous-ensembles, à nombre de composants réduit, et d'assemblage et réglage de complexité moyenne.Also, the invention proposes to provide subassemblies with reduced number of components, and assembly and adjustment of average complexity.

En particulier, le montage d'un ressort-spiral est une opération délicate à automatiser. La conception d'un ressort-spiral intégré à un sous-ensemble de manipulation plus facile autorise une meilleure automatisation de l'assemblage.In particular, the mounting of a spiral spring is a delicate operation to automate. The design of a spiral spring integrated with an easier handling subassembly allows a better automation of the assembly.

La présente invention utilise à cet effet les nouvelles technologies de fabrication de micro-composants, MEMS, « LIGA », lithographie, et similaires, pour optimiser la fabrication de tels modules, présentés ici comme des sous-ensembles. Ces sous-ensembles peuvent, selon le cas être assemblés entre eux de façon irréversible comme dans les deux demandes ci-dessus, ou bien être positionnés et assemblés de façon classique.The present invention uses for this purpose new micro-component manufacturing technologies, MEMS, "LIGA", lithography, and the like, to optimize the manufacture of such modules, presented here as subsets. These subassemblies can, depending on the case, be assembled together irreversibly as in the two above applications, or they can be positioned and assembled in a conventional manner.

A cet effet, l'invention concerne un sous-ensemble de mécanisme d'échappement d'horlogerie comportant au moins un pont, lequel pont comporte au moins un palier ou un porte-palier pour le pivotement d'un pivot d'un mobile, et au moins un ressort-spiral dont l'extrémité externe est fixée à un piton, selon la revendication 1.For this purpose, the invention relates to a watch exhaust mechanism subassembly comprising at least one bridge, which bridge comprises at least one bearing or a bearing holder for pivoting a pivot of a mobile, and at least one spiral spring whose outer end is fixed to a stud, according to claim 1.

L'invention concerne encore un mouvement d'horlogerie mécanique comportant au moins un tel sous-ensemble.The invention also relates to a mechanical clockwork movement comprising at least one such subassembly.

Le fait de réaliser des composants monolithiques, et en particulier avec la platine ou les ponts, a l'avantage de diminuer le nombre de pièces, éviter les problèmes d'assemblage. L'invention bénéficie de la précision de réalisation de ces composants monolithiques (typiquement, les pièces sont par exemple réalisées en silicium et bénéficient donc d'une précision micrométrique).The fact of making monolithic components, and in particular with the plate or bridges, has the advantage of reducing the number of parts, avoid assembly problems. The invention benefits from the precision of realization of these monolithic components (typically, the parts are for example made of silicon and thus benefit from a micrometric precision).

Le sous-ensemble monolithique a le principal avantage de garantir les entraxes et de former un mécanisme, en particulier un oscillateur dans une application préférée, prêt à l'emploi.The monolithic subassembly has the main advantage of guaranteeing the distances and forming a mechanism, particularly an oscillator in a preferred application, ready to use.

L'invention intègre en particulier des guidages flexibles, dont les avantages sont :

  • une précision garantie ;
  • un niveau de frottements très réduit voire nul ;
  • l'absence d'hystérèse dans les mouvements, du fait de l'absence de frottements ou du moins de leur niveau extrêmement réduit ;
  • l'absence de lubrification ;
  • l'absence de jeu ;
  • l'absence d'usure.
The invention integrates in particular flexible guides, the advantages of which are:
  • guaranteed accuracy;
  • a level of friction very reduced or even zero;
  • the absence of hysteresis in the movements, because of the absence of friction or at least of their extremely reduced level;
  • lack of lubrication;
  • the lack of play;
  • the absence of wear.

Leur fabrication induit des limitations, notamment une course de déplacement limitée, des efforts de rappel faibles, et une charge limitée. Néanmoins ces limitations ne sont pas rédhibitoires pour nombre de fonctions horlogères, en particulier celles qui sont relatives à la régulation.Their manufacture induces limitations, including a limited displacement stroke, low return forces, and a limited load. However, these limitations are not prohibitive for many horological functions, particularly those relating to regulation.

Ces limitations sont très largement compensées par la haute précision des entraxes, le faible nombre de composants à réaliser et donc une complexité et une durée d'assemblage réduites. Un sous-ensemble selon l'invention présente un grand avantage industriel : le mécanisme, notamment un oscillateur, en sous-ensemble forme un composant prêt à monter dans un mouvement. Rien n'interdit, d'ailleurs, de concevoir un mouvement entier sous la forme d'un sous-ensemble selon l'invention.These limitations are largely offset by the high accuracy of the centers, the small number of components to achieve and therefore reduced complexity and assembly time. A subset according to the invention has a great industrial advantage: the mechanism, in particular an oscillator, as a subset forms a component ready to mount in a movement. Nothing prohibits, moreover, to design an entire movement in the form of a subset according to the invention.

Description sommaire des dessinsBrief description of the drawings

D'autres caractéristiques et avantages de l'invention apparaîtront à la lecture de la description détaillée qui va suivre, en référence aux dessins annexés, où :

  • la figure 1 représente, de façon schématisée et en vue de côté, un sous-ensemble selon l'invention, pour le cas particulier d'un mécanisme d'échappement, et comportant un ressort-spiral réalisé de façon monobloc avec un pont ;
  • la figure 2 représente, de façon similaire à la figure 1, une variante similaire ;
  • la figure 3 représente, de façon similaire à la figure 1, une variante où le spiral est réalisé monobloc avec un piton, lui-même réalisé de façon monobloc avec le pont auquel il est relié par des moyens de rappel élastique intégrés ;
  • la figure 4 représente, de façon similaire à la figure 1, une variante où le spiral est réalisé monobloc avec un piton, lui-même réalisé de façon monobloc avec le pont, et où l'extrémité externe du spiral est pincée par des goupilles monobloc avec le pont, et dont au moins une est reliée par des moyens de rappel élastique intégrés au pont ; la figure 5 représente, en vue en plan et en vue de côté, des goupilles classiques avec jeu, et la figure 6 représente, en vue en plan et en vue de côté, une telle paire de goupilles pinçant le spiral sous l'effet de moyens de rappel élastique intégrés ;
  • la figure 4A représente un pont comportant, pour le pivotement d'un balancier destiné à recevoir l'extrémité intérieure du ressort-spiral, un palier logé dans un porte-palier relié au pont par des moyens de rappel élastique ;
  • les figures 7, 8 et 9 représentent, en vue en plan, un sous-ensemble monolithique comportant des moyens de réglage en position d'un composant lui aussi intégré à cet ensemble, ces moyens de réglage étant immobilisables en position par des moyens de blocage ; la figure 7 illustre le réglage d'un piton d'accrochage d'un ressort-spiral par des moyens de réglage élastique comportant un peigne, le blocage en position de ce peigne dans une position réglée, et un mécanisme de verrouillage contrôlant ces moyens de blocage ; la figure 8 illustre un exemple similaire où le peigne est maintenu entre deux lames flexibles et forme un composant bistable ; la figure 9 illustre un mécanisme similaire avec un peigne immobilisant un index situé à l'extrémité d'une lame flexible, le peigne étant plaqué sur cet index par une lame-ressort de blocage elle-même immobilisée par un doigt de verrouillage ;
  • la figure 10 représente une section passant par l'axe d'un pivot avec un palier anti-chocs monobloc avec une platine ou un pont ;
  • la figure 11 représente, de façon schématique, un mouvement d'horlogerie comportant un sous-ensemble selon l'invention.
Other features and advantages of the invention will appear on reading the detailed description which follows, with reference to the appended drawings, in which:
  • the figure 1 shows schematically and in side view, a subset according to the invention, for the particular case of an exhaust mechanism, and comprising a spiral spring integrally formed with a bridge;
  • the figure 2 represents, similarly to the figure 1 a similar variant;
  • the figure 3 represents, similarly to the figure 1 a variant where the hairspring is made in one piece with a peg, itself made integrally with the bridge to which it is connected by integral elastic return means;
  • the figure 4 represents, similarly to the figure 1 , a variant where the hairspring is made in one piece with a pin, itself made in one piece with the bridge, and where the outer end of the hairspring is pinched by one-piece pins with the bridge, and at least one of which is connected by elastic return means integrated in the bridge; the figure 5 represents, in plan view and side view, conventional pins with play, and the figure 6 represents, in plan view and in side view, such a pair of pins pinching the spring under the effect of integrated elastic return means;
  • the Figure 4A represents a bridge comprising, for the pivoting of a rocker for receiving the inner end of the spiral spring, a bearing housed in a bearing carrier connected to the bridge by elastic return means;
  • the Figures 7, 8 and 9 represent, in plan view, a monolithic subassembly comprising adjustment means in position of a component also integrated in this assembly, these adjustment means being immobilizable in position by locking means; the figure 7 illustrates the setting of a hanging bolt of a spiral spring by elastic adjustment means comprising a comb, the locking in position of this comb in a set position, and a locking mechanism controlling these locking means; the figure 8 illustrates a similar example where the comb is held between two flexible blades and forms a bistable component; the figure 9 illustrates a similar mechanism with a comb immobilizing an index located at the end of a flexible blade, the comb being pressed on this index by a locking spring blade itself immobilized by a locking finger;
  • the figure 10 represents a section passing through the axis of a pivot with a shockproof one-piece bearing with a plate or a bridge;
  • the figure 11 schematically represents a watch movement comprising a subassembly according to the invention.

Description détaillée des modes de réalisation préférésDetailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments

L'invention concerne le domaine des mécanismes d'horlogerie, et plus particulièrement des mouvements intégrant des modules fonctionnels prêts à l'emploi.The invention relates to the field of watch mechanisms, and more particularly to movements incorporating ready-to-use functional modules.

L'invention concerne un sous-ensemble 1 de mécanisme d'échappement d'horlogerie, comportant au moins un pont 3 et au moins un ressort-spiral 71 dont l'extrémité externe est fixée à un piton 73.The invention relates to a subset 1 of a watch exhaust mechanism, comprising at least one bridge 3 and at least one spiral spring 71 whose outer end is fixed to a pin 73.

Selon l'invention, au moins un tel ressort-spiral 71 et le piton 73 qui lui est associé forment un ensemble monobloc avec le pont 3.According to the invention, at least one such spiral spring 71 and the stud 73 associated therewith form a one-piece assembly with the bridge 3.

Dans une variante avantageuse, tel que visible sur les figures 7 à 9, au moins un tel piton 73 est réglable en position et est immobilisable dans une position pré-réglée par des moyens de verrouillage.

  • La figure 1 illustre un cas où le piton est solidaire d'une plaque 72, dans le plan du spiral 71, parallèle au plan du pont 3 proprement dit et solidaire avec lui, le tout formant un composant monobloc 20.
  • La figure 2 illustre un cas où le piton 73 est saillant du pont 3, et où l'extrémité du piton 73 est dans le plan du spiral 71, parallèle au plan du pont 3, le tout formant un composant monobloc 20.
  • La figure 3 et la figure 4 illustrent des cas où le piton 73 s'étend à la fois sur deux niveaux : celui du spiral 71 et celui du pont 3, le tout formant un composant monobloc 20.
In an advantageous variant, as visible on the Figures 7 to 9 at least one such pin 73 is adjustable in position and is immobilizable in a pre-set position by locking means.
  • The figure 1 illustrates a case where the stud is secured to a plate 72, in the plane of the spiral 71, parallel to the plane of the deck 3 itself and integral with it, all forming a monobloc component 20.
  • The figure 2 illustrates a case where the pin 73 is protruding from the bridge 3, and where the end of the pin 73 is in the plane of the spiral 71, parallel to the plane of the bridge 3, all forming a monobloc component 20.
  • The figure 3 and the figure 4 illustrate cases where the bolt 73 extends over two levels at the same time: that of the spiral 71 and that of the bridge 3, the whole forming a monobloc component 20.

Tel que visible en particulier sur la figure 2 ou 3, le spiral 71 est réalisé monobloc avec un piton 73 auquel il est attaché par sa spire externe 77. Ce piton 73 est lui-même réalisé de façon monobloc avec le pont 3, auquel il est relié par des deuxièmes moyens de rappel élastique intégrés 75 monobloc à la fois avec le piton 73 et le pont 3. De préférence, le réglage en position de ce piton en jouant sur l'élasticité des deuxièmes moyens de rappel élastique, est maintenu par des moyens de blocage, non représentés sur la figure 3, mais dont on trouve un exemple aux figures 7 et 9.As visible especially in the figure 2 or 3 , the hairspring 71 is made in one piece with a pin 73 to which it is attached by its outer turn 77. This pin 73 is itself integrally formed with the bridge 3, to which it is connected by second integral resilient return means 75 monobloc both with the pin 73 and the bridge 3. Preferably, the adjustment in position of this pin playing on the elasticity of the second elastic return means, is maintained by locking means, not shown on the figure 3 but of which an example is found in figures 7 and 9 .

Le réglage de la longueur active de la spire externe du spiral 71 peut être effectué de différentes manières.The adjustment of the active length of the outer turn of the hairspring 71 can be done in different ways.

Dans une variante, la spire externe 77 du ressort-spiral 71 est pincée par deux goupilles 74A, 74B, monobloc avec le pont 3.In a variant, the outer coil 77 of the spiral spring 71 is gripped by two pins 74A, 74B, integral with the bridge 3.

Dans une autre variante, au moins une des goupilles 74 est fixée au pont supérieur 3 par des deuxièmes moyens de rappel élastique 76 monobloc avec la au moins une goupille 74A ou 74B et le pont 3, et qui tendent à la rapprocher de l'autre goupille 74B ou 74A.In another variant, at least one of the pins 74 is fixed to the upper bridge 3 by second elastic return means 76 integral with the at least one pin 74A or 74B and the bridge 3, and which tend to bring it closer to the other pin 74B or 74A.

La figure 4 représente ainsi une variante de l'exécution de la figure 3, où le spiral 71 est aussi réalisé monobloc avec un piton 73, lui-même réalisé de façon monobloc avec le pont 3, et où l'extrémité externe du spiral est pincée, à distance du piton 73, par des goupilles 74A et 74B monobloc avec le pont 3, constituant ensemble l'équivalent d'une raquette 74 pour modifier la longueur active du spiral 71.The figure 4 represents a variant of the execution of the figure 3 , where the hairspring 71 is also made in one piece with a pin 73, itself made integrally with the bridge 3, and where the outer end of the hairspring is pinched, at a distance from the pin 73, by pins 74A and 74B monobloc with bridge 3, constituting together the equivalent of a racket 74 for changing the active length of the hairspring 71.

Dans une réalisation sans jeu, tel que visible sur la figure 6, au moins une de ces goupilles 74A et 74B est reliée et fixée au pont 3 par des moyens de rappel élastique 76 aussi intégrés au pont 3, qui sont monobloc avec cette au moins une goupille 74 et avec le pont 3, et qui tendent à la rapprocher de l'autre goupille 74.In an achievement without play, as visible on the figure 6 at least one of these pins 74A and 74B is connected and fixed to the bridge 3 by elastic return means 76 also integrated in the bridge 3, which are integral with this at least one pin 74 and with the bridge 3, and which tend to bring it closer to the other pin 74.

Tandis que la figure 5 illustre une réalisation avec un très léger jeu, dans laquelle, le réglage radial, indépendant, des goupilles 74A et 74B permet d'ajuster l'isochronisme du mouvement dans les différentes positions.While the figure 5 illustrates an embodiment with a very slight clearance, in which, the radial adjustment, independent, the pins 74A and 74B makes it possible to adjust the isochronism of the movement in the different positions.

Ces moyens de rappel élastique 76 sont notamment constitués par un ou plusieurs éléments flexibles, situés, ou bien dans le plan du spiral 71, ou bien dans le plan du pont 3, ou encore dans tout autre plan. Dans une variante avantageuse, le spiral 71 ou/et les goupilles 74A ou 74B peuvent être localement crantés afin de permettre la réalisation d'un réglage de type discret, de cran en cran.These elastic return means 76 are in particular constituted by one or more flexible elements, located either in the plane of the spiral 71, or in the plane of the bridge 3, or in any other plane. In an advantageous variant, the hairspring 71 and / or the pins 74A or 74B may be locally notched in order to allow the realization of a discrete type of adjustment notch notch.

De façon à effectuer facilement un pré-réglage d'un tel sous-ensemble 1, au moins un de ses composants est réglable en position et est immobilisable dans une position pré-réglée par des moyens de verrouillage.In order to easily perform a pre-adjustment of such a subassembly 1, at least one of its components is adjustable in position and is immobilizable in a pre-set position by locking means.

Dans une variante particulière, illustrée par les figures 7 à 9, le sous-ensemble 1 comporte un mécanisme réglable en position 80, qui comporte une structure rigide 81. Cette structure rigide 81 est de préférence constituée par le pont 3, et elle porte, par l'intermédiaire d'au moins une lame élastique 83, au moins un composant réglable en position 82 (notamment constitué par un piton ou porteur d"un piton 73). Ce composant réglable 82 comporte des moyens d'indexage 84 , qui sont agencés pour coopérer avec des moyens d'indexage complémentaire 91 que comporte un mécanisme de réglage 90. Ces moyens d'indexage complémentaire 91 sont montés débrayables des moyens d'indexage 84, et sont blocables en position de coopération par un mécanisme bloqueur 94 fixé élastiquement à la structure 81. Ce mécanisme bloqueur 94 est lui-même soumis à l'action d'un mécanisme de verrouillage 98 qui l'autorise à occuper, ou bien une position débrayée dans laquelle le mécanisme de réglage 90 est libre, ou bien une position embrayée dans laquelle le mécanisme bloqueur 94 entrave le mécanisme de réglage 90. Ce mécanisme de verrouillage 98 est lui aussi fixé élastiquement à la structure 81.In a particular variant, illustrated by the Figures 7 to 9 the subassembly 1 comprises an adjustable mechanism in position 80, which comprises a rigid structure 81. This rigid structure 81 is preferably constituted by the bridge 3, and it carries, via at least one elastic blade 83 at least one component adjustable in position 82 (in particular constituted by a pin or holder of a pin 73) This adjustable component 82 comprises indexing means 84, which are arranged to cooperate with complementary indexing means 91 that comprises an adjustment mechanism 90. These complementary indexing means 91 are detachably mounted indexing means 84, and are lockable in the cooperation position by a locking mechanism 94 resiliently fixed to the structure 81. This blocking mechanism 94 is itself even subject to the action of a locking mechanism 98 which allows it to occupy, or a disengaged position in which the adjustment mechanism 90 is free, or a position engaged in the the locking mechanism 94 obstructs the adjustment mechanism 90. This locking mechanism 98 is also resiliently attached to the structure 81.

Dans une variante, ce mécanisme réglable en position 80 porte un composant réglable en position 82 qui est porteur d'un palier 44 ou d'un porte-palier 13 de réception du pivot d'un balancier 41 destiné à recevoir l'extrémité intérieure du ressort-spiral 71, avec la même architecture que précédemment.In a variant, this adjustable mechanism in position 80 carries an adjustable component in position 82 which carries a bearing 44 or a bearing holder 13 for receiving the pivot of a rocker arm 41 intended to receive the inner end of the spiral spring 71, with the same architecture as before.

Dans le cas de la figure 7, ce composant réglable en position 82 comporte des moyens d'indexage 84, qui sont agencés pour coopérer avec des moyens d'indexage complémentaire 91, ici constitués par un peigne, ou un secteur denté, que comporte un mécanisme de réglage 90. Ces moyens d'indexage complémentaire 91 sont montés débrayables des moyens d'indexage 84. Ils sont encore blocables en position de coopération par un mécanisme bloqueur 94.In the case of figure 7 this adjustable component in position 82 comprises indexing means 84, which are arranged to cooperate with complementary indexing means 91, here constituted by a comb, or a toothed sector, which comprises an adjustment mechanism 90. These means complementary indexing 91 are mounted disengageable indexing means 84. They are still lockable in the cooperation position by a locking mechanism 94.

Ce mécanisme bloqueur 94 est fixé élastiquement à la structure 81 par au moins un élément flexible 96, et est de préférence lui-même soumis à l'action d'un mécanisme de verrouillage qui l'autorise à occuper, ou bien une position débrayée dans laquelle le mécanisme de réglage 90 est libre, ou bien une position embrayée dans laquelle le mécanisme bloqueur 94 entrave le mécanisme de réglage 90. Ce mécanisme de verrouillage comporte au moins un élément flexible 98 faisant sautoir et fixé élastiquement à la structure 81, cet au moins un élément flexible 98 comporte ici un bec 99 qui coopère avec un bec 97 du bloqueur 94 pour maintenir le bloqueur écarté pendant le réglage en position, ou avec une surface d'arrêt complémentaire 95 du bloqueur 94 en sécurité du bloqueur quand le réglage en position est effectué. Ce dernier est en forme de fourche, de façon à limiter la course d'un bras 93 que comporte le peigne 91.This blocking mechanism 94 is resiliently fastened to the structure 81 by at least one flexible element 96, and is preferably itself subjected to the action of a locking mechanism which allows it to occupy, or a position disengaged in which the adjustment mechanism 90 is free, or an engaged position in which the blocking mechanism 94 obstructs the adjustment mechanism 90. This locking mechanism comprises at least one flexible element 98 springing and elastically fixed to the structure 81, this at less a flexible element 98 here comprises a spout 99 which cooperates with a spout 97 of the blocker 94 to keep the blocker spread during adjustment in position, or with a complementary stop surface 95 of the blocker 94 in the safety of the blocker when the adjustment in position is performed. The latter is shaped fork, so as to limit the stroke of an arm 93 that includes the comb 91.

La figure 8 illustre un exemple similaire où le peigne 91 est maintenu entre deux lames flexibles 92 et 92A sensiblement alignées, et forme un composant bistable, travaillant en flambage, sensiblement alignées, l'ensemble pouvant occuper deux positions stables : une première position armée A où le peigne 91 coopère avec un doigt 84 d'un piton mobile 82, et une deuxième position désarmée B où il en est débrayé.The figure 8 illustrates a similar example where the comb 91 is held between two substantially aligned flexible blades 92 and 92A, and forms a bistable component, working in buckling substantially aligned, the assembly can occupy two stable positions: a first armed position A where the comb 91 cooperates with a finger 84 of a mobile peg 82, and a second disarmed position B where it is disengaged.

La figure 9 illustre un mécanisme similaire avec un peigne 91 immobilisant un index 84 situé à l'extrémité d'une lame flexible 83, le peigne 91 étant plaqué sur cet index 84 par une lame-ressort de blocage 96 appartenant au bloqueur 94, elle-même immobilisée par un doigt de verrouillage 99 monté sur au moins une lame flexible 98, ce doigt 99 coopérant avec une surface d'arrêt 97 de la lame 96..The figure 9 illustrates a similar mechanism with a comb 91 immobilizing an index 84 located at the end of a flexible blade 83, the comb 91 being pressed on this index 84 by a locking spring blade 96 belonging to the blocker 94, itself immobilized by a locking pin 99 mounted on at least one flexible blade 98, this finger 99 cooperating with a stop surface 97 of the blade 96.

Comme on l'a vu plus haut, ce mécanisme combiné de réglage, blocage et verrouillage, illustré ici pour une application particulière de réglage d'un piton selon une course concentrique à l'axe d'un spiral, est applicable à une grande diversité d'applications : positionnement d'un palier, d'une butée, d'une goupille de raquette, ou autre.As has been seen above, this combined mechanism of adjustment, locking and locking, illustrated here for a particular application of adjusting a stud in a race concentric to the axis of a spiral, is applicable to a wide variety of applications: positioning of a bearing, an abutment, a racket pin, or other.

Dans une variante selon la figure 10, le pont 3 forme un composant monobloc indémontable avec au moins un palier antichocs pour la réception d'un pivot d'un balancier 41 destiné à recevoir l'extrémité intérieure du ressort-spiral 71, ou d'un composant du mécanisme d'échappement.In a variant according to figure 10 , the bridge 3 forms a single-piece component that can not be dismantled with at least one anti-shock bearing for receiving a pivot of a rocker arm 41 intended to receive the inner end of the spiral spring 71, or of a component of the escape mechanism .

En particulier, dans une variante avantageuse visible sur la figure 4A, le pont 3 comporte, pour le pivotement d'un balancier 41 destiné à recevoir l'extrémité intérieure du ressort-spiral 71, un palier 45 logé dans un porte-palier 13 relié au pont 3 par des moyens de rappel élastique 14. De façon similaire, un tel palier 45 peut être aménagé au niveau de la platine 2.In particular, in an advantageous variant visible on the Figure 4A the bridge 3 comprises, for the pivoting of a rocker arm 41 intended to receive the inner end of the spiral spring 71, a bearing 45 housed in a bearing holder 13 connected to the bridge 3 by resilient return means 14. similarly, such a bearing 45 can be arranged at the level of the plate 2.

Le palier 45 peut être constitué par un palier classique ou par un guidage flexible.The bearing 45 may be constituted by a conventional bearing or by a flexible guide.

Dans une version particulière, le palier 45 est un guidage flexible monobloc avec le pont 3 ou avec la platine 2, selon le cas.In a particular version, the bearing 45 is a one-piece flexible guide with the bridge 3 or with the plate 2, as the case may be.

Dans une autre version particulière, non illustrée, le balancier 41 comporte une extrémité monobloc avec un guidage flexible et le pont 3 (ou respectivement la platine 2), le balancier a alors une course qui est limitée par le débattement du guidage flexible, lequel est alors avantageusement réalisé en plusieurs étages afin d'autoriser une course angulaire suffisante pour le balancier, lequel est alors d'un seul tenant avec le pont 3 (ou respectivement la platine 2). Plus particulièrement, un tel guidage flexible peut être constitué par le ressort-spiral 71 lui-même.In another particular version, not illustrated, the rocker arm 41 has a one-piece end with a flexible guide and the bridge 3 (or respectively the plate 2), the rocker then has a stroke which is limited by the deflection of the flexible guide, which is then advantageously made in several stages to allow sufficient angular travel for the balance, which is then in one piece with the bridge 3 (or respectively the plate 2). More particularly, such a flexible guide may be constituted by the spiral spring 71 itself.

Dans une autre variante non illustrée, le balancier 41 est accroché à la fois au pont 3 et à la platine 2, de chaque côté par un guidage flexible constituant un ressort-spiral 71, ces deux ressorts-spiraux 71 exerçant des couples, ou bien de même sens, ou bien de sens contraires.In another variant not shown, the rocker 41 is hooked to both the bridge 3 and the plate 2, on each side by a flexible guide constituting a spiral spring 71, these two spiral springs 71 exerting couples, or in the same sense, or in opposite senses.

De préférence ces moyens de rappel élastique 14 sont monobloc avec le pont 3 et le porte-palier 13, et, dans une variante, le palier 45 fait aussi partie de ce sous-ensemble monobloc 1.Preferably these resilient return means 14 are integral with the bridge 3 and the bearing carrier 13, and, alternatively, the bearing 45 is also part of this monobloc subassembly 1.

Dans une réalisation particulière du sous-ensemble 1, le pont 3 comporte au moins un palier 44 ou 45, ou un porte-palier 13 pour la réception du pivot d'un balancier 41 destiné à recevoir l'extrémité intérieure du ressort-spiral 71, et au moins ce palier 44 ou 45, ou ce porte-palier 13, est réalisé de façon monobloc avec le pont 3, et comporte une portée de révolution 46 pour le maintien radial d'un arbre 47 du balancier 41, et une portée frontale 49 pour la limitation axiale de l'extrémité de cet arbre 47, la portée de révolution 46 et la portée frontale 47 étant portées ensemble par un amortisseur de choc élastique 48 également monobloc avec elles.In a particular embodiment of the subassembly 1, the bridge 3 comprises at least one bearing 44 or 45, or a bearing holder 13 for receiving the pivot of a balance 41 intended to receive the inner end of the spiral spring 71, and at least this bearing 44 or 45, or this bearing holder 13, is made integrally with the bridge 3, and comprises a revolution range 46 for the radial holding of a shaft 47 of the rocker arm 41, and a front bearing surface 49 for the axial limitation of the end of this shaft 47, the range of revolution 46 and the front span 47 being carried together by an elastic shock absorber 48 also monobloc with them.

Dans une réalisation avantageuse, le sous-ensemble 1 est réalisé en silicium. Les points de pivotement des paliers 45 sont définis, par exemple, par des gravures anisotropiques (KOH) dans un substrat silicium. Une version avec un assemblage des pierres est également possible. Le gros avantage est le positionnement très précis des points de pivotement (entraxe, verticalité).In an advantageous embodiment, the subset 1 is made of silicon. The pivot points of the bearings 45 are defined, for example, by anisotropic etchings (KOH) in a silicon substrate. A version with an assembly of the stones is also possible. The big advantage is the very precise positioning of the pivot points (center distance, verticality).

Les anti-chocs peuvent ainsi être partiellement ou totalement réalisés dans la platine : le ressort de l'antichoc peut être réalisé en commun avec la platine. Une des deux (ou les deux) pierres peut être réalisée en commun avec la platine. Le pivotement se fait alors directement dans le silicium. Les points de pivotement peuvent être réalisés directement dans le silicium avec des revêtements de surface du type DLC ou autre. Il n'y a donc plus de pierre, et les points de rotation sont positionnés très précisément.Anti-shock can thus be partially or completely made in the plate: the spring of the shock can be achieved in common with the plate. One of the two (or both) stones can be made in common with the plate. Pivoting is then done directly in the silicon. The pivot points can be made directly in silicon with surface coatings of the DLC or other type. So there is no more stone, and the rotation points are positioned very precisely.

Dans une réalisation particulière, le sous-ensemble 1 selon l'invention comporte des éléments sécables, destinés à faciliter son assemblage dans un ensemble supérieur, il suffit de briser ensuite ces éléments sécables pour donner un ou plusieurs degrés de liberté à certains de ses constituants. Notamment ces éléments sécables sont situés à l'extrémité intérieure du spiral, en liaison avec le pont, et ne sont brisées que lors du montage du balancier 41 et la fixation du spiral 71 à la virole de ce balancier.In a particular embodiment, the subassembly 1 according to the invention comprises breakable elements, intended to facilitate its assembly in an upper assembly, it is sufficient to then break these breakable elements to give one or more degrees of freedom to some of its constituents . In particular these breakable elements are located at the inner end of the hairspring, in connection with the bridge, and are broken only during assembly of the balance 41 and the attachment of the hairspring 71 to the shell of this balance.

Dans une variante particulière, non illustrée, le sous-ensemble 1 comporte la totalité d'un mécanisme d'échappement.In a particular variant, not illustrated, the subset 1 comprises the entirety of an escape mechanism.

Dans une exécution particulière, les moyens de rappel élastique intrinsèques que comporte le sous-ensemble 1 comportent au moins un élément flexible bistable ou multistable, tel que visible par exemple sur la figure 8, qui montre un élément bistable travaillant en flambage, et comportant un peigne 91 entre deux lames élastiques 92 et 92A sensiblement alignées, l'ensemble pouvant occuper deux positions stables : une première position armée A où le peigne 91 coopère avec un doigt 84 d'un piton mobile 82, et une deuxième position désarmée B où il en est débrayé.In a particular embodiment, the intrinsic elastic return means that comprises the subset 1 comprise at least one bistable or multistable flexible element, as visible for example on the figure 8 , which shows a bistable element working in buckling, and having a comb 91 between two substantially aligned resilient blades 92 and 92A, the assembly being able to occupy two stable positions: a first armed position A where the comb 91 cooperates with a finger 84 of a mobile stud 82, and a second disarmed position B where it is disengaged.

Dans une réalisation avantageuse du sous-ensemble 1 selon l'invention réalisé en silicium, les moyens de rappel élastique intrinsèques qu'il comporte sont précontraints dans un état oxydé du silicium.In an advantageous embodiment of the subassembly 1 according to the invention made of silicon, the intrinsic elastic return means it comprises are prestressed in an oxidized state of silicon.

Dans une réalisation avantageuse du sous-ensemble 1 selon l'invention, le pont 3 est réalisé en matériau micro-usinable, ou en silicium, ou en silicium oxydé, et les moyens de rappel élastique intrinsèques qu'il comporte sont précontraints dans un état oxydé du silicium. D'autres matériaux selon les technologies MEMS ou « LIGA » peuvent être mis en oeuvre. Le quartz, le DLC, des matériaux au moins partiellement amorphes, des verres métalliques, peuvent, et non limitativement, être utilisés pour ces applications.In an advantageous embodiment of the subassembly 1 according to the invention, the bridge 3 is made of micro-machinable material, or silicon, or oxidized silicon, and intrinsic elastic return means that it comprises are prestressed in a state oxidized silicon. Other materials according to MEMS or "LIGA" technologies can be implemented. Quartz, DLC, at least partially amorphous materials, metallic glasses, can, and not exclusively, be used for these applications.

Une structuration particulière du pont 3, ou/et des composants monobloc indémontables qu'il comporte, peut permettre de compenser les effets de la dilatation de ces éléments de structure, ou des composants du mécanisme du sous-ensemble 1. Il est par exemple possible de réaliser le pont 3 en silicium, puis de l'oxyder, afin de travailler en cohérence.A particular structuring of the bridge 3, and / or unbreakable integral components that it comprises, may make it possible to compensate for the effects of the expansion of these structural elements, or of the components of the mechanism of the subassembly 1. It is possible for example to make the bridge 3 in silicon, then to oxidize it, in order to work coherently.

L'invention concerne encore un mouvement d'horlogerie 100 mécanique comportant au moins un tel sous-ensemble 1.The invention also relates to a mechanical clockwork movement 100 comprising at least one such subassembly 1.

Claims (12)

  1. Timepiece escape mechanism sub-assembly (1) including at least one bar (3), said bar (3) comprises at least one bearing (44, 45) or a bearing carrier (13) for the pivoting of a pivot of a wheel, and at least one said balance spring (71) the outer end of which is secured to a stud (73), characterized in that at least one said balance spring (71) and said stud (73) associated therewith form a single-piece assembly with said bar (3).
  2. Sub-assembly (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that at least one said stud (73) is position adjustable and is arranged to be locked in a pre-adjusted position by a locking means.
  3. Sub-assembly (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said stud (73) is fixed to said bar (3) by an elastic return means (75) which is in a single piece with said stud (73) and said bar (3).
  4. Sub-assembly (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said balance spring (71) includes an outer coil (77) which is clamped by two pins (74) in a single piece with said bar (3).
  5. Sub-assembly (1) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that at least one of said pins (74) is secured to said bar (3) by an elastic return means (76) which is in a single piece with said at least one pin (74) and said bar (3), and which tends to move said pin closer to the other said pin (74).
  6. Sub-assembly (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said bar (3) forms an inseparable single-piece component with at least one shock absorber bearing for receiving a pivot of a balance (41) intended to receive the inner end of said balance spring (71), or of a component of said escape mechanism.
  7. Sub-assembly (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said bar (3) includes, for pivoting a balance (41) intended to receive the inner end of said balance spring (71), a pivot (44) housed in a bearing carrier (13) connected to said bar (3) by an elastic return means (14).
  8. Sub-assembly (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said sub-assembly (1) includes a position adjustable mechanism (80) including a rigid structure (81) carrying, via at least one elastic strip (83), a position adjustable component (82) carrying one said stud (73) and including an indexing means (84) arranged to cooperate with a complementary indexing means (91) comprised in an adjustment mechanism (90), said complementary indexing means (91) being disengageably mounted to the indexing means (84) and being lockable in a cooperating position by a clamping mechanism (94) resiliently secured to said structure (81), said clamping mechanism (94) being in turn subject to the action of a locking mechanism (98) which allows said clamping mechanism to occupy either a disengaged position wherein said adjustment mechanism (90) is free, or an engaged position wherein said clamping mechanism (94) hinders said adjustment mechanism (90), said locking mechanism (98) being also resiliently secured to said structure (81).
  9. Sub-assembly (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said sub-assembly (1) includes a position adjustable mechanism (80) including a rigid structure (81) carrying, via at least one elastic strip (83), a position adjustable component (82) carrying a bearing (44) or a bearing carrier (13) for receiving the pivot of a balance (41) intended to receive the inner end of said balance spring (71) and including an indexing means (84) arranged to cooperate with a complementary indexing means (91) comprised in an adjustment mechanism (90), said complementary indexing means (91) being disengageably mounted to the indexing means (84) and being lockable in a cooperating position by a clamping mechanism (94) resiliently secured to said structure (81), said clamping mechanism (94) being in turn subject to the action of a locking mechanism (98) which allows said clamping mechanism to occupy either a disengaged position wherein said adjustment mechanism (90) is free, or an engaged position wherein said clamping mechanism (94) hinders said adjustment mechanism (90), said locking mechanism (98) being also resiliently secured to said structure (81).
  10. Sub-assembly (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said bar (3) includes at least one bearing (44) or one bearing carrier (13) for receiving the pivot of a balance (41) intended to receive the inner end of said balance spring (71), and in that at least one said bearing (44) or bearing carrier (13) is made in a single piece with said bar (3) and includes a shoulder of revolution (46) for radially holding an arbour (47) of said balance (41), and a frontal shoulder (49) for axially limiting the end of said arbour (47), said shoulder of revolution (46) and said frontal shoulder (47) being carried together by a resilient shock absorber (48) which is also in a single piece therewith.
  11. Sub-assembly (1) according to one of claims 3, 5, 7, 8, 9, or 10, characterized in that said integrated elastic return means (75; 76; 14; 83; 48) comprised therein is intrinsic and pre-stressed in an oxidised silicon state.
  12. Mechanical timepiece movement (100) including at least one sub-assembly (1) according to any of the preceding claims.
EP13160028.0A 2013-03-19 2013-03-19 Timepiece hairspring Active EP2781967B1 (en)

Priority Applications (9)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP13160028.0A EP2781967B1 (en) 2013-03-19 2013-03-19 Timepiece hairspring
CH00631/13A CH707815B1 (en) 2013-03-19 2013-03-19 Subassembly of a clockwork escapement mechanism comprising a spiral spring.
TW103105110A TWI612400B (en) 2013-03-19 2014-02-17 Timepiece escape mechanism sub-assembly and mechanical timepiece movement comprising the same
KR1020140031465A KR101546614B1 (en) 2013-03-19 2014-03-18 Timepiece balance spring
US14/217,981 US8961003B2 (en) 2013-03-19 2014-03-18 Timepiece balance spring
JP2014054687A JP5782150B2 (en) 2013-03-19 2014-03-18 Clock balance spring
CN201610899757.8A CN106842884B (en) 2013-03-19 2014-03-19 Clock watch balance spring
CN201410103015.0A CN104062883B (en) 2013-03-19 2014-03-19 Timepiece Balance Spring
HK15102947.3A HK1202652A1 (en) 2013-03-19 2015-03-23 Timepiece balance spring

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP13160028.0A EP2781967B1 (en) 2013-03-19 2013-03-19 Timepiece hairspring

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP2781967A1 EP2781967A1 (en) 2014-09-24
EP2781967B1 true EP2781967B1 (en) 2018-07-04

Family

ID=47997065

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP13160028.0A Active EP2781967B1 (en) 2013-03-19 2013-03-19 Timepiece hairspring

Country Status (8)

Country Link
US (1) US8961003B2 (en)
EP (1) EP2781967B1 (en)
JP (1) JP5782150B2 (en)
KR (1) KR101546614B1 (en)
CN (2) CN104062883B (en)
CH (1) CH707815B1 (en)
HK (1) HK1202652A1 (en)
TW (1) TWI612400B (en)

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EP4187326A1 (en) * 2021-11-29 2023-05-31 Omega SA Hairspring for timepiece resonator mechanism provided with a means for adjusting stiffness

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EP2781967B1 (en) * 2013-03-19 2018-07-04 Nivarox-FAR S.A. Timepiece hairspring
EP2908187B1 (en) * 2014-02-17 2016-10-19 The Swatch Group Research and Development Ltd. Adjustment of a clock piece resonator by changing the active length of a hairspring
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US11029649B2 (en) * 2016-03-14 2021-06-08 LVHM Swiss Manufactures SA Device for timepiece, clockwork movement and timepiece comprising such a device
JP6826673B2 (en) * 2017-03-28 2021-02-03 ザ・スウォッチ・グループ・リサーチ・アンド・ディベロップメント・リミテッド Mechanical timekeeper with movement enhanced by adjustment device
JP6843191B2 (en) 2018-07-24 2021-03-17 ザ・スウォッチ・グループ・リサーチ・アンド・ディベロップメント・リミテッド Timekeeping oscillator with flexor bearings with long square strokes

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Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
KR101546614B1 (en) 2015-08-21
CN106842884A (en) 2017-06-13
JP2014182146A (en) 2014-09-29
EP2781967A1 (en) 2014-09-24
US8961003B2 (en) 2015-02-24
CN104062883A (en) 2014-09-24
KR20140114785A (en) 2014-09-29
TWI612400B (en) 2018-01-21
CN104062883B (en) 2017-04-12
CN106842884B (en) 2019-08-02
CH707815A2 (en) 2014-09-30
US20140286140A1 (en) 2014-09-25
HK1202652A1 (en) 2015-10-02
JP5782150B2 (en) 2015-09-24
CH707815B1 (en) 2017-05-31
TW201500866A (en) 2015-01-01

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