EP1960846B1 - Clockwork movement - Google Patents

Clockwork movement Download PDF

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Publication number
EP1960846B1
EP1960846B1 EP06819640A EP06819640A EP1960846B1 EP 1960846 B1 EP1960846 B1 EP 1960846B1 EP 06819640 A EP06819640 A EP 06819640A EP 06819640 A EP06819640 A EP 06819640A EP 1960846 B1 EP1960846 B1 EP 1960846B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
movement
column wheel
control
parts
control member
Prior art date
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Application number
EP06819640A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP1960846A2 (en
Inventor
Laurent Perret
François Trifoni
Stephen Forsey
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Complitime SA
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Complitime SA
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Publication date
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Priority to EP06819640A priority Critical patent/EP1960846B1/en
Publication of EP1960846A2 publication Critical patent/EP1960846A2/en
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Publication of EP1960846B1 publication Critical patent/EP1960846B1/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
    • G04B13/00—Gearwork
    • G04B13/02—Wheels; Pinions; Spindles; Pivots
    • G04B13/028—Wheels; Pinions; Spindles; Pivots wheels in which the teeth are conic, contrate, etc; also column wheels construction
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G04—HOROLOGY
    • G04F—TIME-INTERVAL MEASURING
    • G04F7/00—Apparatus for measuring unknown time intervals by non-electric means
    • G04F7/04—Apparatus for measuring unknown time intervals by non-electric means using a mechanical oscillator
    • G04F7/08—Watches or clocks with stop devices, e.g. chronograph
    • G04F7/0804—Watches or clocks with stop devices, e.g. chronograph with reset mechanisms
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G04—HOROLOGY
    • G04F—TIME-INTERVAL MEASURING
    • G04F7/00—Apparatus for measuring unknown time intervals by non-electric means
    • G04F7/04—Apparatus for measuring unknown time intervals by non-electric means using a mechanical oscillator
    • G04F7/08—Watches or clocks with stop devices, e.g. chronograph
    • G04F7/0842—Watches or clocks with stop devices, e.g. chronograph with start-stop control mechanisms
    • G04F7/0847—Watches or clocks with stop devices, e.g. chronograph with start-stop control mechanisms with column wheel

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a watch movement comprising a frame defining a reference plane, a control lever movable on the frame and intended to be moved, in response to an action of a user, to act on a movement control member.
  • the latter is rotatably mounted on the frame about an axis X perpendicular to the reference plane for controlling a first and a second mechanism providing at least one function of the movement.
  • the control member comprises first, second and third parts respectively arranged at first, second and third levels, in the direction of the axis X, to cooperate with the control lever and to control the mechanisms, these three parts being secured in rotation.
  • a preferred embodiment of the invention relates to such a movement in which the movement control member is a column wheel, the function of the movement controlled by the column wheel can be a chronograph function, as an indication.
  • This column wheel comprises drive means implemented in the form of a ratchet, and control means implemented in the form of a ring in which are cut columns.
  • the column wheel is engaged, by its central hole, on a hollow pin integral with the plate in which is screwed a screw in range.
  • the column wheel is free to rotate relative to the post while the head of the scope screw ensures its axial retention.
  • the column wheel when it controls the movement of certain moving parts of the movement, the column wheel must turn on itself, generally overcoming the force of one or more springs acting on these movable elements.
  • its angular positioning is typically provided by a jumper, significant stiffness, which it must also overcome the force before being able to turn on itself a step.
  • the column wheel comprises an X-axis shaft carrying the first, second and third parts, the shaft being pivotally mounted in at least two bearings of the built at a distance from each other.
  • the main object of the present invention is to improve the accuracy of operation, the reliability as well as the resistance in time and use of the movements of the prior art, while offering the manufacturer of the movement great flexibility in the arrangement different mechanisms necessary for the functioning of the movement.
  • the subject of the present invention is a watch movement of the type mentioned above, characterized in that the second and third parts are arranged on either side of at least one element of the frame.
  • the various mechanisms controlled from the rotary control member can be distributed in the movement by the manufacturer according to his own needs, in order to optimize the bulk of the movement, without affecting the quality of the latter. .
  • bearing will have to be interpreted in a functional sense, that is to say as capable of being implemented in any form adapted to present bearing surfaces. respectively substantially cylindrical and flat, capable of ensuring the radial and / or axial guidance of a rotating member.
  • the two bearings are arranged on either side of the assembly formed by the first, second and third parts, which further improves the stability of the shaft relative to the frame of the movement. More specifically, this preferred implementation makes it possible to eliminate the cantilever situation in which the first and second parts are located in certain configurations of the prior art.
  • the first and second parts respectively providing functions of drive means and control means, are preferably integral with the rotating shaft.
  • the shaft of the rotary control member has a square on which is engaged a sleeve carrying the third portion for controlling the second mechanism of movement.
  • FIG. 1a represents a perspective view of a control member whose structure of the pivoting means is similar to known structures of the prior art
  • the figure 1b represents a cross-sectional view of the control member of the figure 1a when it is set up on a frame element of a watch movement;
  • FIG. 2 represents a partial sectional view of a control member of the same type as that of the Figures 1a and 1b according to a first embodiment of the present invention
  • the figure 3 represents a view from above of a detail of the control member of the figure 2 presenting the function of additional control means in a chronograph-type watch movement;
  • the figure 4 represents a partial sectional view, similar to that of the figure 2 , a control member according to a second embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIGS. 1a and 1b represent a particular control member, namely a column wheel 1 having a structure of known type in the prior art, respectively in an elevational view and in a sectional view.
  • This column wheel is in two parts, a ratchet 2 and a disc 3 carrying columns 4, made integral with each other by a conventional method of riveting or driving, for example.
  • column wheels formed in one piece, that is to say in the form of a toothed wheel provided with columns perpendicular to this wheel.
  • the ratchet 2 is made here in the form of a ring comprising a central hole 5, cylindrical, and having a barrel 6 on one of its faces.
  • the ratchet also comprises a cylindrical recess 7 coaxial with the hole 5 formed in the other face of the ring and of greater diameter than the hole.
  • the disk 3 carrying the columns also has a central hole 8 through which it is engaged on the barrel 6 of the ratchet 2.
  • the column wheel 1 is mounted on a post 10, cylindrical and hollow, itself driven or riveted into a frame member of a watch movement. We have shown on the figure 1b the positioning of the post 10 on a chronograph bridge 11 mounted integral with the plate 12 of the movement.
  • the pin 10 has a radial abutment 16 to ensure its axial positioning relative to the chronograph bridge 11 and, also defining a bearing surface for the barrel 6 of the column wheel when it is in place.
  • a screw 17 with a wide head is screwed into the tenon until its head 18 is disposed in abutment against the free end of the latter.
  • the head 18 of the screw 17 is then engaged inside the recess 7 of the ratchet 2 and ensures the axial retention thereof on the post so that the column wheel is free to turn on itself.
  • a control hook 20 is shown between two teeth of ratchet 2.
  • the control hook is carried by a movable control lever (not shown) whose displacements are caused by the actuation of an external control member, generally a push-button, of a watch case in which the movement is mounted.
  • an external control member generally a push-button
  • each pressure exerted on this external control member causes the rotation of the column wheel by half a step.
  • the angular positioning of the column wheel is typically guaranteed by the use of a jumper (not shown).
  • any other adapted control member may be used alternately, without departing from the scope of the present invention.
  • the columns 4 are rotated simultaneously with the rotational movements of the ratchet 2 and act on the end 21 of a rocker, such as for example a clutch rocker, held in contact with the column wheel by the action of a spring (not shown).
  • a rocker such as for example a clutch rocker
  • the end 21 of the rocker is alternately between two columns 4 and on a particular column, which has the effect to make it oscillate around its axis of rotation to act on a mechanism of the movement.
  • the movements of a conventional clutch rocker allow successive clutches and disengages of a chronograph driving wheel with a chronograph mobile.
  • the chronograph movement comprises at least one reset hammer also arranged to present a portion disposed in abutment against the column wheel under the effect of a hammer spring.
  • the angular positioning of the column wheel relative to the plate is provided by a column wheel jumper exerting a simultaneous pressing force on two successive teeth of the ratchet.
  • the combined action of the springs and the control hook can adversely affect the accuracy of positioning and rotational movements of the column wheel, particularly in use. More specifically, the fact that a small portion, only, of the post 10 is integral with the frame while its largest portion, arranged cantilever, must ensure the positioning of the column wheel impairs the stability of the whole mechanism in time.
  • the object of the present invention is to overcome these problems by proposing, in particular, a control member whose positioning is more precise and whose rotational movements are better balanced, because it is carried by a shaft mounted on two pivots arranged at a distance. from each other in the building of the movement.
  • the figure 2 is a partial sectional view, similar to the sectional view of the view 1b, of a column wheel according to a first embodiment of the present invention.
  • the column wheel is located on the bridge side of the movement stage. Since the column wheel according to the present invention comprises a shaft extending on either side of the plate, the end of the shaft located on the dial side of the plate can be provided with additional control means. .
  • the column wheel 40 has three parts fulfilling respective functions in connection with other moving elements of the movement.
  • the first part namely the ratchet 35, allows the drive of the rotating wheel in response to an action of a user.
  • the second part of control namely the columns 4, retransmit the rotational movement of the wheel to columns 40 to a movement mechanism associated with a particular function, such as a chronograph mechanism.
  • the column wheel 40 has a third control portion for retransmitting the rotational movement of the column wheel to an additional mechanism.
  • the shaft 41 of the column wheel 40 has a square 42 on its main portion.
  • the third part comprises an elongate and hollow sleeve 43 whose central hole 44 is shaped to ensure the rotational retention of the sleeve with the square of the column wheel.
  • the sleeve carries a star 45 (more visible on the figure 4 ), preferably made in one piece with the sleeve and arranged on the side of the end of the shaft 41.
  • the latter further comprises a central region 46 and two end portions 47 and 48 rotatably mounted in bearings integral with the frame, shown here in the form of stones of conventional type.
  • a first bearing 49 is housed in the column wheel bridge 34 while a second bearing 50 is housed in the chronograph bridge 11 and a third bearing 51 is housed in an additional bridge 52, integral with the plate 12 of its dial side.
  • the column wheel 40 as such, is disposed between the first and second bearings 49, 50, while the sleeve 43 is disposed between the second and third bearings 50, 51.
  • first bearing 49 cooperates with the first end portion 47 to maintain both radial and axial shaft 41 and, consequently, the column wheel 40.
  • the second bearing 50 acts on the wheel to columns 40 to maintain it in the axial direction, in particular to limit the amplitude of its movements in this direction.
  • the third bearing 51 cooperates with the second end portion 48 to ensure radial retention of the shaft 41, this function being accentuated by the relatively large distance separating the third bearing 51 from the first bearing 49.
  • the sleeve 43 is positioned in the axial direction, on the one hand, by the central region 46 of the shaft 41 defining a first stop for the sleeve and, on the other hand, by the third bearing 51 against which it rests in the represented configuration.
  • the shaft 41 is formed in one piece with the ratchet 35 of the column wheel, while the disc 3 carrying the columns 4 is driven or riveted to the ratchet 35, similarly to that which has been described in relation to the figures 1 a and 1 b.
  • the figure 3 illustrates an example of such a mechanism, in a preferred embodiment of the movement according to the present invention.
  • This figure shows a simplified elevational view of certain constituent elements of an hour meter mechanism, located on the dial side, in a movement having a chronograph function.
  • the star 45 is represented with eight branches 53, that is to say as many as columns 4 represented in transparency (dashed) on the figure 3 , the position of the branches being indexed on that of the columns.
  • a return 54 typically driven from the barrel, drives the wheel 56 of an hour meter carrying a pointer indicating hours timed (not visible).
  • the hour counter carries a conventional reset core 57 intended to be rotated by a hammer 58 for resetting the hour counter, in response to an action by the user on an external reset member. zero.
  • the reset hammer 58 is shown in its rest position, in continuous line, while it is away from the core 57, and in its lowered position in phantom lines, in which it bears against the heart 57, the last being thus in its position ensuring the maintenance of zero the indicator hand of the hours timed.
  • a blocker 59 pivotally mounted on the plate by means of a tenon 60, makes it possible to maintain the position of the hour counter when the hammer 58 is in its rest position and that the measurement of a time is not In progress. Conventional friction is provided to allow immobilization of the wheel 56 of the hours counter relative to the references, during stops of the chronograph function or during resetting operations.
  • the hammer 58 carries a pin 61 arranged to cooperate with the blocker during resetting operations.
  • the pin 61 exerts pressure on the blocker, in known manner, to rotate it so as to release the wheel 56 from the hour counter and to allow the reset.
  • the blocker is shown in phantom on the figure 3 when the hammer 58 is lowered against the heart 57.
  • the blocker 59 has a spout 62 located in the region of the star 45 to cooperate with its branches 53, during the rotational movements of the column wheel 40.
  • the mechanism of the hour counter is shown in its stop position on the figure 3 , the blocker 59 being in abutment against the wheel 56.
  • the column wheel 40 is rotated by a half-step, the columns 4 acting on the flip-flop 21 to activate a chronograph mechanism.
  • the star 45 rotates a half-step and the nozzle 62 of the blocker is pushed by a branch 53, to be removed from the wheel 56 of the hour counter. The latter can then be trained to indicate the measured hours.
  • the column wheel 40 makes a new rotation of a half-step and the spout 62 is then facing a gap between two branches 53. Therefore , the blocker 59 is pushed towards the wheel 56 of the hours counter by a conventional spring (not shown) to stop rotation.
  • the measurement of the time can be restarted by a new action of the user on the external control member, and then stopped in the same way, an indefinite number of times.
  • a reset can be performed, as previously discussed.
  • the column wheel bridge 34 is provided with a cylindrical shank 63, engaged in a hole 64 of the bridge 52, without play, so that it is held at both ends.
  • the diameter of the rod 63 is slightly greater at these two ends 63a and 63b.
  • the column wheel 40 is pierced at its center and along its entire length, with a cylindrical hole 65 serving as a housing for the rod 63.
  • the column wheel 40 is thus positioned radially by the ends 63a and 63b of the rod 63.
  • the axial positioning is ensured, on the side of the bridge 34 by a shoulder 63c that includes the rod 63, and on the other side by the bridge 52.
  • the column wheel 40 can rotate freely on the rod 63, with axial clearances and perfectly controlled side.
  • the rod 63 and the bridge 52 form, together, two bearings ensuring the pivoting of the column wheel 40.
  • the maintenance of the column wheel 40 is, here, provided by a plurality of bearings, the radial holding being in particular guaranteed by two bearings spaced from each other, activation of the mechanisms in response to a user action is performed with high reliability.
  • the above description corresponds to preferred embodiments described in a non-limiting manner, in particular with regard to the shapes shown and described for the ratchet or the columns.
  • the ratchet is constituted by an insert on the shaft of the column wheel, means being implemented to make these two elements integral with each other in rotation.
  • the sleeve one can imagine any other form adapted to control a mechanism.
  • the intermediate bearing 50 and / or the columns 4 it is possible to omit the intermediate bearing 50 and / or the columns 4, the corresponding control member having in this case only the star 45 to control a single movement mechanism, without departing from the scope of the present invention.
  • the plate has a lateral opening to allow insertion of the control member in its location.
  • the function of the movement may be other than the chronograph function.
  • the present invention can be implemented in a watch movement comprising an alarm function.
  • the column wheel can be used as described in the aforementioned application while the third part of the column wheel according to the present invention, located on the dial side of the plate, is used to control a mechanism of indication of the operating status of the alarm clock via a system of flip-flops, for example.

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  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Measurement Of Unknown Time Intervals (AREA)

Description

Domaine techniqueTechnical area

La présente invention concerne un mouvement horloger comportant un bâti définissant un plan de référence, un levier de commande mobile sur le bâti et destiné à être déplacé, en réponse à une action d'un utilisateur, pour agir sur un organe de commande du mouvement. Ce dernier est monté à rotation sur le bâti autour d'un axe X perpendiculaire au plan de référence pour commander un premier et un second mécanismes assurant au moins une fonction du mouvement. Dans ce but, l'organe de commande comprend des première, deuxième et troisième parties respectivement agencées à des premier, deuxième et troisième niveaux, suivant la direction de l'axe X, pour coopérer avec le levier de commande et pour commander les mécanismes, ces trois parties étant solidaires en rotation.The present invention relates to a watch movement comprising a frame defining a reference plane, a control lever movable on the frame and intended to be moved, in response to an action of a user, to act on a movement control member. The latter is rotatably mounted on the frame about an axis X perpendicular to the reference plane for controlling a first and a second mechanism providing at least one function of the movement. For this purpose, the control member comprises first, second and third parts respectively arranged at first, second and third levels, in the direction of the axis X, to cooperate with the control lever and to control the mechanisms, these three parts being secured in rotation.

Un mode de réalisation préféré de l'invention concerne un tel mouvement dans lequel l'organe de commande du mouvement est une roue à colonnes, la fonction du mouvement commandée par la roue à colonnes pouvant être une fonction chronographe, à titre indicatif.A preferred embodiment of the invention relates to such a movement in which the movement control member is a column wheel, the function of the movement controlled by the column wheel can be a chronograph function, as an indication.

Etat de la techniqueState of the art

De nombreux mouvements horlogers à fonction chronographe dont l'organe de commande est une came sont connus de l'état de la technique. De même, on connaît de nombreux mouvements à fonction chronographe dans lesquels l'organe de commande est une roue à colonnes.Many watch movements chronograph function whose control member is a cam are known from the state of the art. Similarly, there are many chronograph function movements in which the control member is a column wheel.

Par ailleurs, l'utilisation d'un organe de commande de ce type pour activer ou désactiver d'autres fonctions qu'un chronographe est également connue de l'art antérieur. A titre d'exemple, la demande de brevet EP 1 394 637 , au nom de Frédéric Piguet SA, décrit un mouvement horloger muni d'un mécanisme de réveil dans lequel l'état de fonctionnement du réveil est commandé par une roue à colonnes conventionnelle.Moreover, the use of a control member of this type to activate or deactivate other functions that a chronograph is also known from the prior art. For example, the patent application EP 1 394 637 , in the name of Frédéric Piguet SA, describes a watch movement equipped with an alarm mechanism in which the operating state of the alarm clock is controlled by a conventional column wheel.

La construction et le montage de la roue à colonnes décrite dans ce document sont conventionnels et correspondent également à ceux mis en oeuvre pour les systèmes à cames. Cette roue à colonnes comporte des moyens d'entraînement mis en oeuvre sous la forme d'un rochet, ainsi que des moyens de commande mis en oeuvre sous la forme d'une bague dans laquelle sont taillées des colonnes. La roue à colonnes est engagée, par son trou central, sur un tenon creux solidaire de la platine dans lequel est vissée une vis à portée. Ainsi, la roue à colonnes est libre de tourner par rapport au tenon tandis que la tête de la vis à portée assure son maintien axial.The construction and assembly of the column wheel described in this document are conventional and also correspond to those works for cam systems. This column wheel comprises drive means implemented in the form of a ratchet, and control means implemented in the form of a ring in which are cut columns. The column wheel is engaged, by its central hole, on a hollow pin integral with the plate in which is screwed a screw in range. Thus, the column wheel is free to rotate relative to the post while the head of the scope screw ensures its axial retention.

Les avantages principaux d'une roue à colonnes résident dans son aptitude à commander simultanément, et avec précision, les mouvements de plusieurs éléments mobiles du mouvement, tout en faisant preuve d'une grande simplicité structurelle.The main advantages of a column wheel lie in its ability to simultaneously control, and accurately, the movements of several moving parts of the movement, while showing a great structural simplicity.

Toutefois, lorsqu'elle commande le déplacement de certains éléments mobiles du mouvement, la roue à colonnes doit tourner sur elle-même en surmontant généralement la force d'un ou de plusieurs ressorts agissant sur ces éléments mobiles. En outre, son positionnement angulaire est typiquement assuré par un sautoir, de raideur importante, dont elle doit également surmonter la force avant de pouvoir tourner sur elle-même d'un pas.However, when it controls the movement of certain moving parts of the movement, the column wheel must turn on itself, generally overcoming the force of one or more springs acting on these movable elements. In addition, its angular positioning is typically provided by a jumper, significant stiffness, which it must also overcome the force before being able to turn on itself a step.

Toutes ces contraintes peuvent nuire, dans le temps, à la précision du positionnement de la roue à colonnes et de ses mouvements de rotation, en particulier, dès lors qu'elles ne sont pas réparties de manière équilibrée autour de l'axe de rotation de la roue. En outre, la mise en oeuvre des moyens de montage de la roue à colonnes est relativement complexe et nécessite une extrême rigueur, notamment pour le positionnement du trou dans la platine pour loger le tenon, le dimensionnement du tenon et celui du trou central de la roue à colonnes.All these constraints can adversely affect, over time, the accuracy of the positioning of the column wheel and its rotational movements, in particular, since they are not distributed in a balanced manner around the axis of rotation of the column wheel. wheel. In addition, the implementation of the mounting means of the column wheel is relatively complex and requires extreme rigor, in particular for the positioning of the hole in the plate to accommodate the post, the dimensioning of the post and the central hole of the post. column wheel.

Des solutions ont été proposées, qui répondent à la définition mentionnée plus haut et, dans lesquelles la roue à colonnes comporte un arbre d'axe X portant les première, deuxième et troisième parties, l'arbre étant monté pivotant dans au moins deux paliers du bâti placés à distance l'un de l'autre.Solutions have been proposed which meet the above-mentioned definition and in which the column wheel comprises an X-axis shaft carrying the first, second and third parts, the shaft being pivotally mounted in at least two bearings of the built at a distance from each other.

Le brevet US 2,325,539 , délivré le 27 juillet 1943 au nom de la Société Industrielle de Sonceboz SA, décrit un mouvement de chronographe comportant un organe de commande comprenant un arbre monté sur un bâti du mouvement et portant trois cames de commande solidaires en rotation. Chacune des cames est agencée pour commander un mécanisme particulier associé à la fonction chronographe. Toutefois, la structure présentée est relativement encombrante et présente peu de flexibilité dans la manière de disposer les constituants du mouvement.The patent US 2,325,539 , issued July 27, 1943 in the name of the Industrial Company of Sonceboz SA, describes a chronograph movement comprising a control member comprising a shaft mounted on a frame of the movement and carrying three control cams integral in rotation. Each of the cams is arranged to control a particular mechanism associated with the chronograph function. However, the structure presented is relatively bulky and has little flexibility in the manner of disposing the constituents of the movement.

Le brevet CH 6505 , délivré le 12 avril 1893 au nom de P. Perret et P. Jeannot, décrit un mouvement de chronographe comportant un organe de commande présentant trois parties réparties sur trois niveaux différents et monté à rotation sur le bâti du mouvement par un unique palier. Ce mécanisme est moins encombrant que le précédent mais n'offre guère plus de souplesse dans la disposition des différents mécanismes commandés par l'organe rotatif.The patent CH 6505 , issued April 12, 1893 in the name of P. Perret and P. Jeannot, describes a chronograph movement comprising a control member having three parts spread over three different levels and rotatably mounted on the frame of the movement by a single bearing. This mechanism is less bulky than the previous one but offers little more flexibility in the arrangement of the various mechanisms controlled by the rotary member.

Divulgation de l'inventionDisclosure of the invention

La présente invention a pour buts principaux d'améliorer la précision de fonctionnement, la fiabilité ainsi que la tenue dans le temps et à l'usage des mouvements de l'art antérieur, tout en offrant au constructeur du mouvement une grande souplesse dans la disposition des différents mécanismes nécessaires au fonctionnement du mouvement.The main object of the present invention is to improve the accuracy of operation, the reliability as well as the resistance in time and use of the movements of the prior art, while offering the manufacturer of the movement great flexibility in the arrangement different mechanisms necessary for the functioning of the movement.

A cet effet, la présente invention a pour objet un mouvement horloger du type mentionné plus haut, caractérisé par le fait que les deuxième et troisième parties sont agencées de part et d'autre d'au moins un élément du bâti.For this purpose, the subject of the present invention is a watch movement of the type mentioned above, characterized in that the second and third parts are arranged on either side of at least one element of the frame.

Grâce à cette caractéristique, les différents mécanismes commandés à partir de l'organe de commande rotatif peuvent être répartis dans le mouvement par le constructeur selon ses propres besoins, afin d'optimiser l'encombrement du mouvement, sans nuire à la qualité de ce dernier.Thanks to this characteristic, the various mechanisms controlled from the rotary control member can be distributed in the movement by the manufacturer according to his own needs, in order to optimize the bulk of the movement, without affecting the quality of the latter. .

Dans la suite du présent texte, le terme "palier" devra être interprété dans un sens fonctionnel, c'est-à-dire comme susceptible d'être mis en oeuvre sous toute forme adaptée pour présenter des surfaces d'appui respectivement sensiblement cylindrique et plane, aptes à assurer le guidage radial et/ou axial d'un élément mobile en rotation.In the remainder of this text, the term "bearing" will have to be interpreted in a functional sense, that is to say as capable of being implemented in any form adapted to present bearing surfaces. respectively substantially cylindrical and flat, capable of ensuring the radial and / or axial guidance of a rotating member.

Grâce au fait que l'arbre sur lequel pivote l'organe de commande est monté sur deux paliers, les contraintes subies par celui-ci peuvent être mieux réparties et sa précision de rotation devient meilleure. Ces caractéristiques contribuent notablement à la réduction de l'usure de l'organe de commande au cours du temps.Thanks to the fact that the shaft on which the control member pivots is mounted on two bearings, the stresses to which it is subjected can be better distributed and its rotation accuracy becomes better. These features contribute significantly to the reduction of the wear of the control member over time.

De manière préférée, les deux paliers sont disposés de part et d'autre de l'ensemble formé par les première, deuxième et troisième parties, ce qui permet d'améliorer davantage la stabilité de l'arbre par rapport au bâti du mouvement. Plus précisément, cette mise en oeuvre préférée permet de supprimer la situation de porte-à-faux dans laquelle se trouvent les première et deuxième parties dans certaines configurations de l'art antérieur. En outre, les première et deuxième parties, assurant respectivement des fonctions de moyens d'entraînement et de moyens de commande, sont préférablement solidaires de l'arbre en rotation.Preferably, the two bearings are arranged on either side of the assembly formed by the first, second and third parts, which further improves the stability of the shaft relative to the frame of the movement. More specifically, this preferred implementation makes it possible to eliminate the cantilever situation in which the first and second parts are located in certain configurations of the prior art. In addition, the first and second parts, respectively providing functions of drive means and control means, are preferably integral with the rotating shaft.

Dans un mode de réalisation particulier, on prévoit que l'arbre de l'organe de commande rotatif présente un carré sur lequel est engagé un manchon portant la troisième partie destinée à commander le second mécanisme du mouvement.In a particular embodiment, it is provided that the shaft of the rotary control member has a square on which is engaged a sleeve carrying the third portion for controlling the second mechanism of movement.

Brève description des dessinsBrief description of the drawings

D'autres caractéristiques et avantages de l'invention apparaîtront plus clairement à la lecture de la description détaillée qui suit, faite en référence aux dessins annexés présentés à titre d'exemples non limitatifs et dans lesquels:Other features and advantages of the invention will emerge more clearly on reading the detailed description which follows, made with reference to the appended drawings presented by way of non-limiting examples and in which:

- la figure 1a représente une vue en perspective d'un organe de commande dont la structure des moyens de pivotement est similaire aux structures connues de l'art antérieur;- the figure 1a represents a perspective view of a control member whose structure of the pivoting means is similar to known structures of the prior art;

- la figure 1b représente une vue en coupe transversale de l'organe de commande de la figure 1a lorsqu'il est mis en place sur un élément de bâti d'un mouvement horloger;- the figure 1b represents a cross-sectional view of the control member of the figure 1a when it is set up on a frame element of a watch movement;

- la figure 2 représente une vue en coupe partielle d'un organe de commande du même type que celui des figures 1a et 1 b, selon un premier mode de réalisation de la présente invention;- the figure 2 represents a partial sectional view of a control member of the same type as that of the Figures 1a and 1b according to a first embodiment of the present invention;

- la figure 3 représente une vue de dessus d'un détail de l'organe de commande de la figure 2 présentant la fonction de moyens de commande supplémentaires dans un mouvement horloger de type chronographe; et- the figure 3 represents a view from above of a detail of the control member of the figure 2 presenting the function of additional control means in a chronograph-type watch movement; and

- la figure 4 représente une vue en coupe partielle, similaire à celle de la figure 2, d'un organe de commande selon un deuxième mode de réalisation de la présente invention.- the figure 4 represents a partial sectional view, similar to that of the figure 2 , a control member according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

Mode(s) de réalisation de l'inventionMode (s) of realization of the invention

Les figures 1a et 1b représentent un organe de commande particulier, à savoir une roue à colonnes 1 présentant une structure de type connu dans l'art antérieur, respectivement dans une vue en élévation et dans une vue en coupe.The Figures 1a and 1b represent a particular control member, namely a column wheel 1 having a structure of known type in the prior art, respectively in an elevational view and in a sectional view.

Cette roue à colonnes se présente en deux parties, un rochet 2 et un disque 3 portant des colonnes 4, rendues solidaires l'une de l'autre par un procédé conventionnel de rivetage ou de chassage, par exemple. On trouve également des roues à colonnes formées d'une seule pièce, c'est-à-dire sous la forme d'une roue dentée munie de colonnes perpendiculaires à cette roue.This column wheel is in two parts, a ratchet 2 and a disc 3 carrying columns 4, made integral with each other by a conventional method of riveting or driving, for example. There are also column wheels formed in one piece, that is to say in the form of a toothed wheel provided with columns perpendicular to this wheel.

Le rochet 2 est réalisé ici sous la forme d'une bague comprenant un trou central 5, cylindrique, et comportant un canon 6 sur l'une de ses faces. Le rochet comprend également un évidement cylindrique 7 coaxial au trou 5, ménagé dans l'autre face de la bague et de diamètre supérieur à celui du trou. Le disque 3 portant les colonnes présente également un trou central 8 par lequel il est engagé sur le canon 6 du rochet 2.The ratchet 2 is made here in the form of a ring comprising a central hole 5, cylindrical, and having a barrel 6 on one of its faces. The ratchet also comprises a cylindrical recess 7 coaxial with the hole 5 formed in the other face of the ring and of greater diameter than the hole. The disk 3 carrying the columns also has a central hole 8 through which it is engaged on the barrel 6 of the ratchet 2.

La roue à colonnes 1 est montée sur un tenon 10, cylindrique et creux, lui-même chassé ou riveté dans un élément de bâti d'un mouvement horloger. On a représenté sur la figure 1b le positionnement du tenon 10 sur un pont de chronographe 11 monté solidaire de la platine 12 du mouvement.The column wheel 1 is mounted on a post 10, cylindrical and hollow, itself driven or riveted into a frame member of a watch movement. We have shown on the figure 1b the positioning of the post 10 on a chronograph bridge 11 mounted integral with the plate 12 of the movement.

On distingue également sur cette figure une partie de barillet 13 logé dans une noyure 15 de la platine.There is also in this figure a barrel portion 13 housed in a recess 15 of the plate.

Le tenon 10 présente une butée 16 radiale pour assurer son positionnement axial par rapport au pont de chronographe 11 et, définissant également une surface d'appui pour le canon 6 de la roue à colonnes lorsqu'elle est mise en place.The pin 10 has a radial abutment 16 to ensure its axial positioning relative to the chronograph bridge 11 and, also defining a bearing surface for the barrel 6 of the column wheel when it is in place.

Une vis 17 à tête large est vissée dans le tenon jusqu'à ce que sa tête 18 soit disposée en butée contre l'extrémité libre de ce dernier. La tête 18 de la vis 17 est alors engagée à l'intérieur de l'évidement 7 du rochet 2 et assure le maintien axial de celui-ci sur le tenon de sorte que la roue à colonnes est libre de tourner sur elle-même.A screw 17 with a wide head is screwed into the tenon until its head 18 is disposed in abutment against the free end of the latter. The head 18 of the screw 17 is then engaged inside the recess 7 of the ratchet 2 and ensures the axial retention thereof on the post so that the column wheel is free to turn on itself.

L'extrémité d'un crochet de commande 20 est représentée entre deux dents du rochet 2. De manière conventionnelle, le crochet de commande est porté par un levier de commande mobile (non représenté) dont les déplacements sont provoqués par l'actionnement d'un organe de commande extérieur, généralement un bouton-poussoir, d'une boîte de montre dans laquelle est monté le mouvement. Ainsi, chaque pression exercée sur cet organe de commande extérieur entraîne la rotation de la roue à colonnes d'un demi-pas. Le positionnement angulaire de la roue à colonnes est typiquement garanti par l'utilisation d'un sautoir (non représenté). Bien entendu, tout autre organe de commande adapté pourra être utilisé de manière alternative, sans sortir du cadre de la présente invention.The end of a control hook 20 is shown between two teeth of ratchet 2. Conventionally, the control hook is carried by a movable control lever (not shown) whose displacements are caused by the actuation of an external control member, generally a push-button, of a watch case in which the movement is mounted. Thus, each pressure exerted on this external control member causes the rotation of the column wheel by half a step. The angular positioning of the column wheel is typically guaranteed by the use of a jumper (not shown). Of course, any other adapted control member may be used alternately, without departing from the scope of the present invention.

Les colonnes 4 sont entraînées en rotation simultanément aux mouvements de rotation du rochet 2 et agissent sur l'extrémité 21 d'une bascule, comme par exemple une bascule d'embrayage, maintenue au contact de la roue à colonnes par l'action d'un ressort (non représenté). Lorsque la roue à colonnes tourne sur elle-même, en réponse à des actions répétées sur l'organe de commande extérieur, l'extrémité 21 de la bascule se trouve alternativement entre deux colonnes 4 et sur une colonne particulière, ce qui a pour effet de la faire osciller autour de son axe de pivotement pour agir sur un mécanisme du mouvement. A titre indicatif, les déplacements d'une bascule d'embrayage conventionnelle permettent des embrayages et débrayages successifs d'une roue entraîneuse de chronographe avec un mobile de chronographe.The columns 4 are rotated simultaneously with the rotational movements of the ratchet 2 and act on the end 21 of a rocker, such as for example a clutch rocker, held in contact with the column wheel by the action of a spring (not shown). When the column wheel turns on itself, in response to repeated actions on the external control member, the end 21 of the rocker is alternately between two columns 4 and on a particular column, which has the effect to make it oscillate around its axis of rotation to act on a mechanism of the movement. As an indication, the movements of a conventional clutch rocker allow successive clutches and disengages of a chronograph driving wheel with a chronograph mobile.

De manière courante, le mouvement de chronographe comporte au moins un marteau de remise à zéro également agencé pour présenter une partie disposée en appui contre la roue à colonnes sous l'effet d'un ressort de marteau. De même, comme cela a déjà été mentionné plus haut, le positionnement angulaire de la roue à colonnes par rapport à la platine est assuré par un sautoir de roue à colonnes exerçant une force de pression simultanée sur deux dents successives du rochet.Currently, the chronograph movement comprises at least one reset hammer also arranged to present a portion disposed in abutment against the column wheel under the effect of a hammer spring. Similarly, as already mentioned above, the angular positioning of the column wheel relative to the plate is provided by a column wheel jumper exerting a simultaneous pressing force on two successive teeth of the ratchet.

L'action combinée des ressorts et du crochet de commande peut nuire à la précision du positionnement et des mouvements de rotation de la roue à colonnes, en particulier à l'usage. Plus précisément, le fait qu'une faible portion, seulement, du tenon 10 est solidaire du bâti tandis que sa portion la plus importante, disposée en porte-à-faux, doit assurer le positionnement de la roue à colonnes nuit à la stabilité de l'ensemble du mécanisme dans le temps.The combined action of the springs and the control hook can adversely affect the accuracy of positioning and rotational movements of the column wheel, particularly in use. More specifically, the fact that a small portion, only, of the post 10 is integral with the frame while its largest portion, arranged cantilever, must ensure the positioning of the column wheel impairs the stability of the whole mechanism in time.

La présente invention a pour but de pallier ces problèmes en proposant notamment un organe de commande dont le positionnement est plus précis et dont les mouvements de rotation sont mieux équilibrés, du fait qu'il est porté par un arbre monté sur deux pivots agencés à distance l'un de l'autre dans le bâti du mouvement.The object of the present invention is to overcome these problems by proposing, in particular, a control member whose positioning is more precise and whose rotational movements are better balanced, because it is carried by a shaft mounted on two pivots arranged at a distance. from each other in the building of the movement.

La figure 2 représente une vue en coupe partielle, similaire à la vue en coupe de la vue 1 b, d'une roue à colonnes selon un premier mode de réalisation de la présente invention.The figure 2 is a partial sectional view, similar to the sectional view of the view 1b, of a column wheel according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

De manière générale, la roue à colonnes est située du côté ponts de la platine du mouvement. Dans la mesure où la roue à colonnes selon la présente invention comprend un arbre s'étendant de part et d'autre de la platine, l'extrémité de l'arbre située du côté cadran de la platine peut être pourvue de moyens de commandes supplémentaires.In general, the column wheel is located on the bridge side of the movement stage. Since the column wheel according to the present invention comprises a shaft extending on either side of the plate, the end of the shaft located on the dial side of the plate can be provided with additional control means. .

A cet effet, la roue à colonnes 40 présente trois parties remplissant des fonctions respectives en rapport avec d'autres éléments mobiles du mouvement. La première partie, à savoir le rochet 35, permet l'entraînement de la roue en rotation en réponse à une action d'un utilisateur. La deuxième partie, de commande, à savoir les colonnes 4, permettent de retransmettre le mouvement de rotation de la roue à colonnes 40 à un mécanisme du mouvement associé à une fonction particulière, comme par exemple un mécanisme de chronographe. La roue à colonnes 40 présente une troisième partie, de commande, permettant de retransmettre le mouvement de rotation de la roue à colonnes à un mécanisme supplémentaire.For this purpose, the column wheel 40 has three parts fulfilling respective functions in connection with other moving elements of the movement. The first part, namely the ratchet 35, allows the drive of the rotating wheel in response to an action of a user. The second part of control, namely the columns 4, retransmit the rotational movement of the wheel to columns 40 to a movement mechanism associated with a particular function, such as a chronograph mechanism. The column wheel 40 has a third control portion for retransmitting the rotational movement of the column wheel to an additional mechanism.

Pour porter la troisième partie, l'arbre 41 de la roue à colonnes 40 présente un carré 42 sur sa portion principale. La troisième partie comprend un manchon 43 allongé et creux dont le trou central 44 est de forme adaptée pour assurer le maintien en rotation du manchon avec le carré de la roue à colonnes. Le manchon porte une étoile 45 (plus visible sur la figure 4), préférablement réalisée d'une pièce avec le manchon et disposée du côté de l'extrémité de l'arbre 41.To carry the third part, the shaft 41 of the column wheel 40 has a square 42 on its main portion. The third part comprises an elongate and hollow sleeve 43 whose central hole 44 is shaped to ensure the rotational retention of the sleeve with the square of the column wheel. The sleeve carries a star 45 (more visible on the figure 4 ), preferably made in one piece with the sleeve and arranged on the side of the end of the shaft 41.

Ce dernier comporte en outre une région centrale 46 et deux portions d'extrémité 47 et 48 montées à rotation dans des paliers solidaires du bâti, représentés ici sous la forme de pierres de type conventionnel.The latter further comprises a central region 46 and two end portions 47 and 48 rotatably mounted in bearings integral with the frame, shown here in the form of stones of conventional type.

Un premier palier 49 est logé dans le pont de roue à colonnes 34 tandis qu'un deuxième palier 50 est logé dans le pont de chronographe 11 et, un troisième palier 51 est logé dans un pont supplémentaire 52, solidaire de la platine 12 de son côté cadran.A first bearing 49 is housed in the column wheel bridge 34 while a second bearing 50 is housed in the chronograph bridge 11 and a third bearing 51 is housed in an additional bridge 52, integral with the plate 12 of its dial side.

La roue à colonnes 40, en tant que telle, est disposée entre les premier et deuxième paliers 49, 50, tandis que le manchon 43 est disposé entre les deuxième et troisième paliers 50, 51.The column wheel 40, as such, is disposed between the first and second bearings 49, 50, while the sleeve 43 is disposed between the second and third bearings 50, 51.

Grâce à cette structure, en particulier du fait de la distance séparant les deux paliers 49, 51 l'un de l'autre, le positionnement de l'arbre et donc le positionnement de la roue à colonnes présentent une grande précision. En outre, la stabilité de la roue à colonnes est garantie, de même que sa tenue dans le temps.Thanks to this structure, particularly because of the distance separating the two bearings 49, 51 from one another, the positioning of the shaft and therefore the positioning of the column wheel have a high accuracy. In addition, the stability of the column wheel is guaranteed, as well as its stability over time.

Dans le mode de réalisation représenté, il est important de noter que les avantages susmentionnés sont optimisés par une disposition des deux paliers de part et d'autre de l'ensemble formé par le rochet et les colonnes. Une telle disposition, sans être limitative, permet en effet de garantir une meilleure absorption des contraintes appliquées à la fois sur le rochet et sur les colonnes par la suppression de la configuration en porte-à-faux de ces derniers éléments, tel qu'exposé plus haut.In the embodiment shown, it is important to note that the aforementioned advantages are optimized by an arrangement of the two bearings on either side of the assembly formed by the ratchet and the columns. Such an arrangement, without being limiting, makes it possible to guarantee better absorption of the stresses applied to both the ratchet and on the columns by deleting the cantilevered configuration of these elements, as explained above.

Il apparaît de la figure 2 que le premier palier 49 coopère avec la première portion d'extrémité 47 pour assurer un maintien à la fois radial et axial de l'arbre 41 et, en conséquence, de la roue à colonnes 40. Le deuxième palier 50 agit sur la roue à colonnes 40 pour en assurer le maintien dans la direction axiale, notamment pour limiter l'amplitude de ses déplacements dans cette direction. Le troisième palier 51 coopère avec la seconde portion d'extrémité 48 pour assurer un maintien radial de l'arbre 41, cette fonction étant accentuée par la distance relativement importante séparant le troisième palier 51 du premier palier 49.It appears from the figure 2 that the first bearing 49 cooperates with the first end portion 47 to maintain both radial and axial shaft 41 and, consequently, the column wheel 40. The second bearing 50 acts on the wheel to columns 40 to maintain it in the axial direction, in particular to limit the amplitude of its movements in this direction. The third bearing 51 cooperates with the second end portion 48 to ensure radial retention of the shaft 41, this function being accentuated by the relatively large distance separating the third bearing 51 from the first bearing 49.

On peut également remarquer que le manchon 43 est positionné dans la direction axiale, d'une part, par la région centrale 46 de l'arbre 41 définissant une première butée pour la manchon et, d'autre part, par le troisième palier 51 contre lequel il repose dans la configuration représentée.It may also be noted that the sleeve 43 is positioned in the axial direction, on the one hand, by the central region 46 of the shaft 41 defining a first stop for the sleeve and, on the other hand, by the third bearing 51 against which it rests in the represented configuration.

De manière préférée, mais non limitative, l'arbre 41 est formé d'une pièce avec le rochet 35 de la roue à colonnes, tandis que le disque 3 portant les colonnes 4 est chassé ou riveté au rochet 35, de façon similaire à ce qui a été décrit en relation avec les figures 1 a et 1 b.Preferably, but not limited to, the shaft 41 is formed in one piece with the ratchet 35 of the column wheel, while the disc 3 carrying the columns 4 is driven or riveted to the ratchet 35, similarly to that which has been described in relation to the figures 1 a and 1 b.

Il ressort, de la description qui précède, que le manchon 43 et, avec lui, l'étoile 45 sont entraînés en rotation simultanément à l'arbre 41 et, avec lui, la roue à colonnes 40. Ces mouvements de rotation, commandés par des actions de l'utilisateur, peuvent avantageusement être mis à profit pour commander un mécanisme supplémentaire du mouvement.It emerges from the above description that the sleeve 43 and with it the star 45 are rotated simultaneously with the shaft 41 and, with it, the column wheel 40. These rotational movements, controlled by actions of the user, can advantageously be used to control an additional mechanism of movement.

La figure 3 illustre un exemple d'un tel mécanisme, dans un mode de réalisation préféré du mouvement selon la présente invention.The figure 3 illustrates an example of such a mechanism, in a preferred embodiment of the movement according to the present invention.

Cette figure représente une vue en élévation simplifiée de certains éléments constitutifs d'un mécanisme de compteur d'heures, situé côté cadran, dans un mouvement présentant une fonction de chronographe.This figure shows a simplified elevational view of certain constituent elements of an hour meter mechanism, located on the dial side, in a movement having a chronograph function.

L'étoile 45 est représentée avec huit branches 53, c'est-à-dire autant que de colonnes 4 représentées en transparence (pointillés) sur la figure 3, la position des branches étant indexée sur celle des colonnes.The star 45 is represented with eight branches 53, that is to say as many as columns 4 represented in transparency (dashed) on the figure 3 , the position of the branches being indexed on that of the columns.

Un renvoi 54, typiquement entraîné à partir du barillet, entraîne la roue 56 d'un compteur d'heures portant une aiguille d'indication des heures chronométrées (non visible). Le compteur d'heures porte un coeur 57 de remise à zéro conventionnel destiné à être entraîné en rotation par un marteau 58 de remise à zéro du compteur d'heures, en réponse à une action de l'utilisateur sur un organe extérieur de remise à zéro.A return 54, typically driven from the barrel, drives the wheel 56 of an hour meter carrying a pointer indicating hours timed (not visible). The hour counter carries a conventional reset core 57 intended to be rotated by a hammer 58 for resetting the hour counter, in response to an action by the user on an external reset member. zero.

Le marteau 58 de remise à zéro est représenté dans sa position de repos, en trait continu, alors qu'il est éloigné du coeur 57, et dans sa position abaissée en traits mixtes, dans laquelle il est en appui contre le coeur 57, ce dernier étant ainsi dans sa position assurant le maintien à zéro de l'aiguille indicatrice des heures chronométrées.The reset hammer 58 is shown in its rest position, in continuous line, while it is away from the core 57, and in its lowered position in phantom lines, in which it bears against the heart 57, the last being thus in its position ensuring the maintenance of zero the indicator hand of the hours timed.

Un bloqueur 59, monté pivotant sur la platine par le biais d'un tenon 60, permet de maintenir la position du compteur d'heures lorsque le marteau 58 est dans sa position de repos et que la mesure d'un temps n'est pas en cours. Une friction conventionnelle est prévue pour permettre l'immobilisation de la roue 56 du compteur d'heures par rapport aux renvois, lors des arrêts de la fonction chronographe ou lors des opérations de remise à zéro.A blocker 59, pivotally mounted on the plate by means of a tenon 60, makes it possible to maintain the position of the hour counter when the hammer 58 is in its rest position and that the measurement of a time is not In progress. Conventional friction is provided to allow immobilization of the wheel 56 of the hours counter relative to the references, during stops of the chronograph function or during resetting operations.

Le marteau 58 porte une goupille 61 agencée pour coopérer avec le bloqueur lors des opérations de remise à zéro. Lorsque le marteau est actionné et qu'il se déplace en direction du coeur 57, la goupille 61 exerce une pression sur le bloqueur, de manière connue, pour le faire pivoter de manière à libérer la roue 56 du compteur d'heures et permettre la remise à zéro. Le bloqueur est représenté en traits mixtes sur la figure 3 lorsque le marteau 58 est abaissé contre le coeur 57.The hammer 58 carries a pin 61 arranged to cooperate with the blocker during resetting operations. When the hammer is actuated and moves towards the heart 57, the pin 61 exerts pressure on the blocker, in known manner, to rotate it so as to release the wheel 56 from the hour counter and to allow the reset. The blocker is shown in phantom on the figure 3 when the hammer 58 is lowered against the heart 57.

Par ailleurs, le bloqueur 59 comporte un bec 62 situé dans la région de l'étoile 45 pour coopérer avec ses branches 53, lors des mouvements de rotation de la roue à colonnes 40.Moreover, the blocker 59 has a spout 62 located in the region of the star 45 to cooperate with its branches 53, during the rotational movements of the column wheel 40.

Le mécanisme du compteur d'heures est représenté dans sa position d'arrêt sur la figure 3, le bloqueur 59 étant en appui contre la roue 56. Lorsque l'utilisateur actionne un organe de commande extérieur pour enclencher le démarrage de la fonction chronographe, la roue à colonnes 40 est entraînée en rotation d'un demi-pas, les colonnes 4 agissant sur la bascule 21 pour activer un mécanisme de chronographe. Dans le même temps, l'étoile 45 effectue une rotation d'un demi-pas et le bec 62 du bloqueur est repoussé par une branche 53, pour être écarté de la roue 56 du compteur d'heures. Cette dernière peut alors être entraînée pour indiquer les heures mesurées. Lorsque l'utilisateur actionne une nouvelle fois l'organe de commande extérieur, la roue à colonnes 40 effectue une nouvelle rotation d'un demi-pas et le bec 62 se trouve alors en regard d'un vide entre deux branches 53. Par conséquent, le bloqueur 59 est repoussé en direction de la roue 56 du compteur d'heures par un ressort conventionnel (non représenté) pour en arrêter la rotation.The mechanism of the hour counter is shown in its stop position on the figure 3 , the blocker 59 being in abutment against the wheel 56. When the user actuates an external control member to trigger the start of the chronograph function, the column wheel 40 is rotated by a half-step, the columns 4 acting on the flip-flop 21 to activate a chronograph mechanism. At the same time, the star 45 rotates a half-step and the nozzle 62 of the blocker is pushed by a branch 53, to be removed from the wheel 56 of the hour counter. The latter can then be trained to indicate the measured hours. When the user again actuates the external control member, the column wheel 40 makes a new rotation of a half-step and the spout 62 is then facing a gap between two branches 53. Therefore , the blocker 59 is pushed towards the wheel 56 of the hours counter by a conventional spring (not shown) to stop rotation.

A ce stade, la mesure du temps peut être relancée par une nouvelle action de l'utilisateur sur l'organe de commande extérieur, puis arrêtée de la même façon, un nombre de fois indéfini. Lorsque la fonction chronographe est interrompue, une remise à zéro peut être effectuée, comme exposé précédemment.At this point, the measurement of the time can be restarted by a new action of the user on the external control member, and then stopped in the same way, an indefinite number of times. When the chronograph function is interrupted, a reset can be performed, as previously discussed.

Dans l'organe de commande représenté à la figure 4, le pont de roue à colonne 34 est muni d'une tige cylindrique chassée 63, engagée dans un trou 64 du pont 52, sans jeu, de manière à ce qu'elle soit maintenue à ses deux extrémités. Le diamètre de la tige 63 est légèrement supérieur à ces deux extrémités 63a et 63b. La roue à colonnes 40 est percée en son centre et sur toute sa longueur, d'un trou cylindrique 65 servant de logement à la tige 63. La roue à colonnes 40 est ainsi positionnée radialement par les extrémités 63a et 63b de la tige 63. Le positionnement axial est assuré, du coté du pont 34 par un épaulement 63c que comporte la tige 63, et de l'autre côté par le pont 52. La roue à colonnes 40 peut donc tourner librement sur la tige 63, avec des jeux axiaux et latéraux parfaitement maîtrisés. Ainsi, la tige 63 et le pont 52 forment, ensemble, deux paliers assurant le pivotement de la roue à colonnes 40.In the control member shown in figure 4 , the column wheel bridge 34 is provided with a cylindrical shank 63, engaged in a hole 64 of the bridge 52, without play, so that it is held at both ends. The diameter of the rod 63 is slightly greater at these two ends 63a and 63b. The column wheel 40 is pierced at its center and along its entire length, with a cylindrical hole 65 serving as a housing for the rod 63. The column wheel 40 is thus positioned radially by the ends 63a and 63b of the rod 63. The axial positioning is ensured, on the side of the bridge 34 by a shoulder 63c that includes the rod 63, and on the other side by the bridge 52. The column wheel 40 can rotate freely on the rod 63, with axial clearances and perfectly controlled side. Thus, the rod 63 and the bridge 52 form, together, two bearings ensuring the pivoting of the column wheel 40.

Il apparaît clairement que la structure du mouvement selon la présente invention présente une simplicité accrue par rapport aux mouvements de ce type connus de l'art antérieur. En particulier, les mouvements de chronographe de l'état de la technique dans lesquels est prévu un compteur d'heures, dont le mécanisme est agencé du côté cadran de la platine, nécessitent de prévoir un nombre d'éléments plus important pour assurer la commande de ce mécanisme.It is clear that the structure of the movement according to the present invention has an increased simplicity compared to the movements of this type known from the prior art. In particular, chronograph movements of the state of the art in which is provided an hour counter, whose mechanism is arranged on the dial side of the platinum, require to provide a number of elements more important to ensure the control of this mechanism.

En outre, comme cela a déjà été mentionné, du fait que le maintien de la roue à colonnes 40 est, ici, assuré par une pluralité de paliers, le maintien radial étant notamment garanti par deux paliers distants l'un de l'autre, l'activation des mécanismes en réponse à une action de l'utilisateur est effectuée avec une grande fiabilité.In addition, as already mentioned, because the maintenance of the column wheel 40 is, here, provided by a plurality of bearings, the radial holding being in particular guaranteed by two bearings spaced from each other, activation of the mechanisms in response to a user action is performed with high reliability.

La description qui précède correspond à des modes de réalisation préférés décrits à titre non limitatif, en particulier en ce qui concerne les formes représentées et décrites pour le rochet ou les colonnes. On peut notamment prévoir que le rochet est constitué par une pièce rapportée sur l'arbre de la roue à colonnes, des moyens étant mis en oeuvre pour rendre ces deux éléments solidaires l'un de l'autre en rotation. En ce qui concerne le manchon, on peut imaginer toute autre forme adaptée pour commander un mécanisme. De manière alternative au mode de réalisation représenté sur la figure 2, on peut omettre le palier intermédiaire 50 et/ou les colonnes 4, l'organe de commande correspondant ne comportant dans ce cas que l'étoile 45 pour commander un unique mécanisme du mouvement, sans sortir du cadre de la présente invention.The above description corresponds to preferred embodiments described in a non-limiting manner, in particular with regard to the shapes shown and described for the ratchet or the columns. In particular it can be provided that the ratchet is constituted by an insert on the shaft of the column wheel, means being implemented to make these two elements integral with each other in rotation. Regarding the sleeve, one can imagine any other form adapted to control a mechanism. As an alternative to the embodiment shown on the figure 2 it is possible to omit the intermediate bearing 50 and / or the columns 4, the corresponding control member having in this case only the star 45 to control a single movement mechanism, without departing from the scope of the present invention.

On peut prévoir, comme alternative à la construction avec manchon, que la platine comporte une ouverture latérale pour permettre l'insertion de l'organe de commande dans son emplacement.It can be provided, as an alternative to the sleeve construction, that the plate has a lateral opening to allow insertion of the control member in its location.

Il est bien entendu également possible d'appliquer les principes décrits à un organe de commande du type came, également appelé navette.It is of course also possible to apply the principles described to a control member of the cam type, also called shuttle.

Par ailleurs, la fonction du mouvement peut être autre que la fonction chronographe. En référence à la demande EP 1 394 637 précitée au titre d'art antérieur, on peut mettre en oeuvre la présente invention dans un mouvement horloger comportant une fonction réveil. Dans ce cas, la roue à colonnes peut être utilisée comme décrit dans la demande susmentionnée alors que la troisième partie de la roue à colonnes selon la présente invention, située du côté cadran de la platine, est mise à profit pour commander un mécanisme d'indication de l'état de fonctionnement du réveil, via un système de bascules, par exemple.In addition, the function of the movement may be other than the chronograph function. In reference to the request EP 1 394 637 As mentioned above, the present invention can be implemented in a watch movement comprising an alarm function. In this case, the column wheel can be used as described in the aforementioned application while the third part of the column wheel according to the present invention, located on the dial side of the plate, is used to control a mechanism of indication of the operating status of the alarm clock via a system of flip-flops, for example.

Claims (7)

  1. A timepiece movement comprising
    a frame (11, 12) defining a reference plane,
    a control lever (20) mobile on said frame and designed to be moved, in response to a user's action,
    a control member (40), designed to control first and second mechanisms (21, 59) providing at least one movement function, rotatably mounted on said frame around an axis X which is perpendicular to the reference plane and comprising first, second and third parts (35, 4, 45, 53) arranged at first, second and third levels, respectively, in the direction of said axis X, to cooperate with said control lever and to control said first and second mechanisms, said parts being integral in rotation, said control member comprising an arbor (41) having an axis X bearing said parts and mounted pivotably in at least two bearings (49, 51) of said frame arranged apart from each other,
    characterized in that said second and third parts are arranged on either side of at least one element of said frame (11, 12).
  2. The movement according to claim 1, characterized in that said arbor (41) has a square (42) on which a sleeve (43) bearing said third part is engaged.
  3. The movement according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that said bearings (49, 51) are arranged on either side of the assembly formed by said first, second and third parts (4, 35, 45, 53).
  4. The movement according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said first and second parts are mounted on said arbor (41) and are integral in rotation with this arbor.
  5. The movement according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said control member is a column wheel (40), said first part comprising a ratchet (35) and said second part comprising a plurality of columns (4).
  6. The movement according to claim 5, when the movement is of the chronograph type, characterized in that said first mechanism comprises control mechanisms (21) for second and minute counters arranged on a first side of a plate (12), said second mechanism comprising control mechanisms (59) for an hour counter arranged on a second side of said plate.
  7. The movement according to claim 6, characterized in that said second mechanism (59) comprises a star (45) whereof the number of arms (53) is equal to the number of columns (4) of said column wheel (40).
EP06819640A 2005-11-24 2006-11-21 Clockwork movement Active EP1960846B1 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP06819640A EP1960846B1 (en) 2005-11-24 2006-11-21 Clockwork movement

Applications Claiming Priority (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP05111266A EP1791041A1 (en) 2005-11-24 2005-11-24 Timepiece movement
PCT/EP2006/068692 WO2007060150A2 (en) 2005-11-24 2006-11-21 Clockwork movement
EP06819640A EP1960846B1 (en) 2005-11-24 2006-11-21 Clockwork movement

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP1960846A2 EP1960846A2 (en) 2008-08-27
EP1960846B1 true EP1960846B1 (en) 2012-10-17

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EP05111266A Withdrawn EP1791041A1 (en) 2005-11-24 2005-11-24 Timepiece movement
EP06819640A Active EP1960846B1 (en) 2005-11-24 2006-11-21 Clockwork movement

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Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP05111266A Withdrawn EP1791041A1 (en) 2005-11-24 2005-11-24 Timepiece movement

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US (1) US7946754B2 (en)
EP (2) EP1791041A1 (en)
JP (1) JP5025656B2 (en)
WO (1) WO2007060150A2 (en)

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP3913443A1 (en) 2020-05-22 2021-11-24 Patek Philippe SA Genève Control device for clock mechanisms

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CH710205B1 (en) 2014-10-03 2018-09-28 Breitling Ag Two-stage column wheel chronograph mechanism.
EP3185090B1 (en) * 2015-12-23 2019-10-23 Rolex Sa Device for counting and displaying a fraction of a time unit

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DE89768C (en) *
US383749A (en) * 1888-05-29 Split seconds stop watch
CH6505A (en) * 1893-04-12 1893-11-30 Paul Perret Central seconds mechanism, independent and chronograph for watches
US2325539A (en) * 1939-08-22 1943-07-27 Firm Soc Ind De Soneeboz Sa Timepiece with chronograph
DE2556314C2 (en) * 1975-12-13 1978-01-26 Pforzheimer Uhren Rohwerke Rudolf Wehner 7530 Pforzheim Calendar correction device for small watches
JPS5920181U (en) * 1982-07-28 1984-02-07 愛知時計電機株式会社 Mainspring winding and detent device
JP3568907B2 (en) * 2001-03-14 2004-09-22 セイコーインスツルメンツ株式会社 Chronograph watch with stop lever
JP2002107470A (en) * 2001-08-17 2002-04-10 Seiko Instruments Inc Chronograph clock having interlocking lever device
DE60210955T2 (en) 2002-08-27 2007-05-24 Frederic Piguet S.A. Watch, especially wristwatch, with a wake-up mechanism
JP4462606B2 (en) * 2004-01-27 2010-05-12 セイコーインスツル株式会社 Clock with display correction mechanism
DE102004017345B3 (en) * 2004-04-06 2005-09-01 Lange Uhren Gmbh Stopwatch with mechanism for starting and stopping second hand and minute hand for timing events has heart-shaped cam on minute wheel for synchronization of minute indicator with minute hand
JP4498807B2 (en) * 2004-04-09 2010-07-07 シチズンホールディングス株式会社 Electronic clock with chronograph function

Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP3913443A1 (en) 2020-05-22 2021-11-24 Patek Philippe SA Genève Control device for clock mechanisms

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
US7946754B2 (en) 2011-05-24
JP5025656B2 (en) 2012-09-12
US20080298178A1 (en) 2008-12-04
WO2007060150A3 (en) 2007-09-07
EP1791041A1 (en) 2007-05-30
WO2007060150A2 (en) 2007-05-31
JP2009517643A (en) 2009-04-30
EP1960846A2 (en) 2008-08-27

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