CH711559A1

CH711559A1 - Regulating device for a timepiece, a watch sub-assembly and a clockwork movement.

Info

Publication number: CH711559A1
Application number: CH01379/15A
Authority: CH
Inventors: Belot Michel
Original assignee: Audemars Piguet (Renaud Et Papi) Sa
Priority date: 2015-09-23
Filing date: 2015-09-23
Publication date: 2017-03-31
Also published as: CH711559B1

Abstract

A first oscillator (7) and a second oscillator (9) respectively comprise a first rocker (6) and a second rocker (25), each of which is associated with a return spring (15) , 26). The first balance (6) comprises at least one striker (22) for applying pulses (I) for maintaining the oscillations of the second balance (25) directly to this second balance (25) or via a mechanism Of transmission.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0001] The present invention relates to the field of horology. More precisely, it relates to a setting device for a timepiece, a clock sub-assembly and a clockwork movement.

STATE OF THE ART [0002] In a timepiece movement, a driving member supplies the driving energy, which a finishing train transmits to the wheel an escapement interacting with a regulating device comprising a mechanical oscillator. The speeds of the gears in the finishing train are all proportional to a speed of rotation which is the speed of rotation of the exhaust wheel and which is imposed by the oscillations of the mechanical oscillator. A mechanical oscillator conventionally used in timepieces results from the association of a balance and a spiral spring.

The function of the regulating device is to provide the rate at which the angular pitches of the escapement wheel succeed one another. This rate should be as stable as possible. In the watchmaking domain, it is known that a mechanical oscillator performs its function as a regulating device all the better since its frequency of operation is high. There are several known reasons for this. First, the higher the frequency of operation of a mechanical oscillator, the higher the quality factor of this mechanical oscillator. Secondly, increasing the oscillation frequency of an oscillator pendulum reduces the detrimental effects of a balancing defect of this pendulum on the diurnal march. Thirdly,

[0004] Cependant, il est bien connu qu’un échappement présente un mauvais rendement lorsqu’il fonctionne à une fréquence élevée. Or, un mauvais rendement de l’échappement se traduit par une réserve de marche amputée. Les fréquences couramment utilisées aujourd’hui en horlogerie comme fréquence du dispositif réglant à balancier et spiral d’un mouvement d’horlogerie sont 2,5 Hz, 3 Hz et 4 Hz, soit des nombres d’alternances à l’heure de 18000, 21600 et 28800. Les rendements de l’échappement obtenus avec ces fréquences varient entre environ 20% et environ 45%, selon les inerties des balanciers, alors que l’on peut estimer qu’un échappement associé à un dispositif réglant fonctionnant à 50 Hz aurait un rendement inférieur à 10%.

Swiss patent CH 442 153 A proposes a solution in which the mechanical oscillator is a tuning fork associated with an oscillating exhaust at a frequency less than this tuning fork. This solution, imagined long ago, seems to have been finally abandoned and it is reasonable to doubt that it is possible to make it work as expected.

[0006] It has also been tried to use a high-frequency oscillator to stabilize a low-frequency oscillator which interacts with the escapement. For example, documents CH 594 201 B5 and CH 615 314 A each propose various magnetic couplings between the oscillators. The solutions incorporating these magnetic couplings seem to be definitively abandoned today.

In the European patent EP 2008 160 B1 a high frequency oscillator consisting of a tuning fork and a low-frequency oscillator of the balance and balance type are coupled to one another by a rigid connection. The high-frequency oscillator has a low inertia so that one can wonder to what extent it is able to effectively influence the operation of the low-frequency oscillator.

In patent application EP 2 141 555 A1, yet another solution is proposed and uses two oscillators with balance and balance, which a spiral spring connects to one another. Due to the coupling by this spiral spring, the assembly forms a complex mechanical system in which, in reality, the movements of the balancers no longer obey an oscillator equation, these movements being in reality governed by a system of two Coupled differential equations. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION [0009] The object of the invention is, at least, to propose a new regulating device whose operation is very stable.

[0010] Selon l’invention, ce but est atteint grâce à un dispositif réglant pour pièce d’horlogerie, dans lequel un premier oscillateur comporte un premier balancier monté pivotant, ainsi qu’au moins un premier ressort de rappel de ce premier balancier vers un point mort du premier oscillateur, et dans lequel un deuxième oscillateur comporte un deuxième balancier monté pivotant, ainsi qu’au moins un deuxième ressort de rappel de ce deuxième balancier vers un point mort du deuxième oscillateur. Le premier balancier comprend au moins un percuteur pour appliquer des impulsions d’entretien des oscillations du deuxième balancier, directement à ce deuxième balancier ou par l’intermédiaire d’un mécanisme de transmission.

The first oscillator has the function of receiving energy from an exhaust and then transmitting this energy via an ephemeral contact such as an impact to the second oscillator which has a high regulating power. In a way, the first oscillator is a transmission oscillator, while the second oscillator is a regulating oscillator, it being specified that the explanations given here consider the case where the second oscillator is not itself a transmission oscillator followed by d One or more oscillators.

Between two percussions coming from the first oscillator, the second oscillator oscillates freely, that is to say without disturbance on the part of the first oscillator or of an escapement. As a result, it can have a very stable frequency constituting a reference frequency for counting time.

Furthermore, during its operation, the second oscillator may have a very high energy, which may in particular be higher than if this second oscillator interacts directly with an escapement. Indeed, the oscillations of the second oscillator may have an amplitude greater than 360 °. In addition, the second oscillator may have a high operating frequency, the value of which is not limited because of a direct interaction of this second oscillator with an escapement.

[0014] Or, plus un oscillateur possède une énergie élevée lors de son fonctionnement, plus il est stable en présence de perturbations extérieures telles que des chocs.

[0015] Pendant le fonctionnement du dispositif réglant, l’énergie non transmise du premier au deuxième oscillateur lors d’une impulsion reste emmagasinée dans le premier oscillateur de manière à pouvoir être transférée lors d’une impulsion ultérieure entre les oscillateurs, ce qui est avantageux.

[0016] Le dispositif réglant défini ci-dessus peut incorporer une ou plusieurs autres caractéristiques avantageuses, isolément ou en combinaison, en particulier parmi celles définies ci-après.

[0017] Avantageusement, le deuxième oscillateur a une fréquence de fonctionnement plus élevée que le premier oscillateur.

When this is the case, the second oscillator has a very regular and very stable operation due to its high operating frequency, for the reasons explained above. The first oscillator has a lower operating frequency, which is also that at which the escapement interacts with it. Thus, this exhaust can operate at a frequency where its output is good. The energy transfer carried out by the firing pin applying maintenance pulses during a direct ephemeral contact with the second pendulum can also have a good efficiency. It follows that the adjustable device can provide a very stable and accurate rate without this translating into poor performance.

In addition, the second oscillator may have a high operating frequency while the exhaust operates at a lower frequency where its lubrication does not pose any particular problem.

[0020] Being both oscillators with a balance, the first and second oscillators may have operating frequencies which have the same order of magnitude. By this, it is easier to obtain that these first and second oscillators interact according to the intended operation.

Advantageously, the ratio of the operating frequency of the second oscillator to the operating frequency of the first oscillator is substantially equal to an odd integer. When this is the case, the maintenance pulses are frequent and disturbances of the oscillations are avoided.

[0022] Avantageusement, le deuxième balancier est à même d’exécuter des oscillations ayant une amplitude supérieure à 360°. Lorsque tel est le cas, le deuxième oscillateur peut posséder une énergie notablement élevée lors de son fonctionnement.

[0023] Avantageusement, au moins l’une de deux parties que sont le percuteur sur le premier balancier et une partie réceptrice prévue sur le deuxième balancier pour recevoir au moins une partie des impulsions d’entretien est formée par un organe élastiquement déformable. Lorsque tel est le cas, les oscillations des premier et deuxième oscillateurs peuvent n’être que très faiblement perturbées lors des impulsions, car le phénomène de rebond entre le percuteur et la partie réceptrice est atténué sinon supprimé.

[0024] Advantageously, the first return spring and the second return spring are spirals. When this is the case, the first and second oscillators may have similar structures and their operating frequencies may have the same order of magnitude.

Advantageously, the adjusting device is configured so that each maintenance pulse is applied substantially when the second oscillator is in neutral. When this is the case, the maintenance pulse received by the second oscillator does not result in a delay or delay in the advance of this second oscillator.

Advantageously, the adjusting device is configured so that each maintenance pulse is applied substantially when the first oscillator is in neutral.

Advantageously, the regulating device is configured so that the first oscillator applies a single maintenance pulse to the second balance at each oscillation of the first oscillator, the maintenance pulses being all applied in the same direction.

Advantageously, the regulating device is configured so that the first oscillator applies a maintenance pulse to the second balance at each half-cycle of the first oscillator, any pair of two consecutive maintenance pulses comprising an applied maintenance pulse In a first direction and a maintenance pulse applied in a second direction opposite to the first direction.

Advantageously, the second rocker arm has two facing impact surfaces, namely a first impact surface for receiving a maintenance pulse from the firing pin during any alternation of the first oscillator in a first And a second impact surface for receiving a maintenance pulse from the firing pin during any alternation of the first oscillator in a second direction opposite to the first direction.

Advantageously, the firing pin is one of two facing strikers which comprises the first rocker arm, these two strikers being a first firing pin for applying a maintenance impulse to the second rocker arm during any alternation of the first oscillator in A first direction and a second striker for applying a maintenance pulse to the second rocker during any alternation of the first oscillator in a second direction opposite to the first direction. The second rocker has at least one impact surface for Receiving a maintenance pulse from the firing pin. advantageously, The firing pin and the impact surface respectively have a first circular trajectory and a second circular trajectory which meet at a junction point where these first and second trajectories have substantially the same tangential direction. When this is the case, the efficiency of the energy transfer between the two oscillators can be particularly high.

Another subject of the invention is a clock sub-assembly comprising an exhaust and a regulating device as defined above, the escapement interacting with the first oscillator.

The subject of the invention is also a watch movement comprising a driving member, a gear train driven by the driving member, as well as a clock sub-assembly as defined above, The escapement of the exhaust being driven by the cogwheel.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Other advantages and features will become more clearly apparent from the following description of a particular embodiment of the invention given by way of non-limiting example and represented in the accompanying drawings, in which: FIG. 1 is a partial plan view of a clockwork movement according to a first embodiment of the invention, FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a mechanism belonging to the clockwork movement of FIG. 1 and in which are associated a finishing train, an exhaust and a regulating device according to the first embodiment of the invention, FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view showing the same exhaust and the same regulating device as FIG. 2, without the finishing train, FIGS. 4 to 8 are plan views, Of two balancers belonging to the regulating device according to the first embodiment of the invention and show successive positions which these two pendulums occupy during the operation of the regulating device, FIG. 9 is a simplified plan view of two pendulums belonging to a regulating device according to a second embodiment of the invention, and shows a step of a cycle repeated by this regulating device during its operation, FIG. 10 is a simplified plan view showing the same pendulums as in FIG. 9 and which shows another step of the cycle repeated by the regulating device of this FIG. 9 during its operation, FIG. 11 is a partial, simplified plan view, Two pendulums belonging to a regulating device according to a third embodiment of the invention, FIG. 12 is a partial and simplified plan view showing one of the two rockers of FIG. But not the other, and which also contains geometrical indications, FIG. 13 is a schematic plan view partially depicting two pendulums belonging to a regulating device according to a fourth embodiment of the invention, FIG. 14 is a schematic plan view partially depicting two rockers belonging to a device according to a fifth embodiment of the invention, FIG. 15 is a schematic plan view partially depicting a device according to a sixth embodiment of the invention, FIG. 16 is a block diagram showing the architecture of the subset of FIG. 3, that is to say the subassembly consisting of an exhaust and a regulating device according to the first embodiment of the invention, FIG. 17 is a block diagram showing the architecture of a subassembly according to a seventh embodiment of the invention, FIG. 18 is a block diagram showing the architecture of a subassembly according to an eighth embodiment of the invention, and FIG. 19 is a block diagram showing the architecture of a subassembly according to a ninth embodiment of the invention. 17 is a block diagram showing the architecture of a subassembly according to a seventh embodiment of the invention, FIG. 18 is a block diagram showing the architecture of a subassembly according to an eighth embodiment of the invention, and FIG. 19 is a block diagram showing the architecture of a subassembly according to a ninth embodiment of the invention. 17 is a block diagram showing the architecture of a subassembly according to a seventh embodiment of the invention, FIG. 18 is a block diagram showing the architecture of a subassembly according to an eighth embodiment of the invention, and FIG. 19 is a block diagram showing the architecture of a subassembly according to a ninth embodiment of the invention.

Description d’un mode préférentiel de l’invention [0035] Sur la fig. 1, un mouvement d’horlogerie selon un premier mode de réalisation de l’invention comporte un rouage de finissage 1 entraîné par un organe moteur non visible. Ce rouage de finissage 1 entraîne à son tour un mobile d’échappement, dont la roue d’échappement 2 est associée à une ancre 3 au sein d’un échappement 4.

[0036] Ainsi qu’on peut bien le voir à la fig. 2, l’ancre 3 interagit avec une cheville de plateau 5 rigidement associée à un balancier 6. Ce balancier 6 fait partie d’un premier oscillateur mécanique 7, qui fait lui-même partie d’un dispositif réglant 8 comprenant également un deuxième oscillateur mécanique 9. L’échappement 4 est un échappement à ancre suisse connu en soi.

As used herein and in the appended claims, a balance is a flywheel mounted so as to be pivotable on an axis of oscillation.

[0038] As can be seen in FIG. 1, each wheel of the finishing train 1 is retained axially between a support plate 10 and a bridge 11. The same is true of the wheel comprising the escape wheel 2. Similarly, the first and second oscillators 7 and 9 Are each held between the support plate 10 and a bridge 12 generally called a rod.

[0039] In FIG. 3, the first oscillator 7 comprises a spring constituted by a balance spring 15, one end 16 of which is fixed to a ferrule 17. Masked in FIG. 3, the other end of the balance spring 15 is retained by clamping by an immobilization device 18, which is supported by a base 19 fixed to one of the bridges 12. A shaft 20, one end of which pivots in the base 19, The rocker arm 6, the ferrule 17 and a large plate 21, which is provided with the plate peg 5. The shaft 20, the balance 6, the ferrule 17 and the large plate 21 are integral with one another and are provided for Oscillating together about a first axis of oscillation Χ -, - Χ /. The balance 6 comprises a striker 22 that forms a finger axially projecting from the serge of this balance 6.

The second oscillator 9 comprises a balance 25 and a spring constituted by a balance spring 26, one end of which is provided with a ferrule 28. The other end 29 of the balance spring 26 is retained by clamping by an immobilization device 30 , Carried by a base 31 fixed to one of the bridges 12. A shaft 32, one end of which pivots in the base 31, carries the balance 25 and the ferrule 28. The shaft 32, the balance 25 and the ferrule 28 Are integral with one another and are designed to oscillate together about a second oscillation axis X2-X2 'which is parallel to the first oscillation axis Χ1-Χ-Γ in the example shown. The oscillation axes X-ι-Χ-Γ and X2-X2 'may also not be parallel to one another. For example, they may be perpendicular to each other.

The balance 25 comprises a disc 33 drilled symmetrically, as well as two pins 34 and 35 fixed to this disc 33 in two places symmetrical to each other with respect to the oscillation axis X2-X2 '. The pin 34 is intended to be impacted by the firing pin 22 and forms a maintenance pulse receiving part. A part of its lateral surface forms an impact surface 36 intended to receive the impacts of the firing pin 22. The pin 35 forms a counterweight to the pin 34, so that the balance 25 is balanced.

The first oscillator 7 oscillates at an operating frequency f 1, which is its own frequency of oscillation. The second oscillator 9 oscillates at an operating frequency h, which is its own frequency of oscillation and which is higher than the frequency fi of the first oscillator 7.

The ratio f 2 / f · ·, that is to say the ratio of the operating frequency f 2 of the second oscillator 9 to the operating frequency f 1 of the first oscillator 7 is preferably equal to an integer odd. For example, the operating frequency f 1 of the first oscillator 7 and the operating frequency f 2 of the second oscillator 9 may be 2 Hz and 50 Hz respectively, in which case the ratio f 2 / f 2 is equal to the odd integer 25. Many other ratios f2 / f-1 can be chosen.

When the ratio f2 / f- is equal to an even integer number, the firing pin 22 and / or the pin 34 must have the function of a pawl so as to be able to cross in opposite directions without bouncing the ratchet, One over the other. When the ratio f2 / f-1 is equal to a non-integer number, the firing pin 22 and the pin 34 meet less frequently.

The second oscillator 9 oscillates at a higher frequency than the first oscillator 7. Due to its high operating frequency f 2, this second oscillator 9 has a very stable operation. In particular, the operating frequency f2 at which the second oscillator 9 oscillates is little subject to variations, for the reasons which have been indicated above in the introductory part. The second oscillator 9 gives the reference cadence, on which all the speeds present in the timepiece movement are based. In particular, the second oscillator 9 regulates the operating frequency fi of the first oscillator 7, which maintains the oscillations of this second oscillator 9. To do this, A transfer of energy between the first and second oscillators 7 and 9 occurs by shocks and takes place whenever the striker 22 strikes the pin 34 in accordance with a periodic operation described hereinafter with reference to FIGS. 4 to 8. Shock energy transfer has excellent performance.

Preferably, the operating frequency fi of the first oscillator 7 is chosen to be sufficiently low that at this operating frequency fi the exhaust 4 has a good efficiency and the anchor 3 is properly lubricated. This operating frequency fi can in particular be one of the frequencies generally used as the frequency of the watch movement in the field of watches, in particular one of the frequencies of 2.5 Hz, 3 Hz and 4 Hz, whereby A finishing train 1 of known design as to the number of teeth of the wheels and sprockets can be used. Many other operating frequencies can be chosen.

[0047] Dans l’exemple représenté aux fig. 4 à 8, le rapport f2 / fi est choisi égal à 3. Ce rapport f2 / f-, égal à 3 peut être obtenu, par exemple, lorsque la fréquence de fonctionnement f-, du premier oscillateur 7 est choisie égale à 4 Hz et que la fréquence de fonctionnement f2 du deuxième oscillateur 9 est choisie égale à 12 Hz. Dans un souci de clarté, seuls les balanciers 6 et 25 du dispositif réglant 8 sont représentés sur les fig. 4 à 8, qui illustrent des étapes d’un cycle répété par ce dispositif réglant 8 en régime établi et l’obtention du transfert d’énergie par chocs mentionné précédemment.

The description of the operation of the regulating device 8 starts from the state illustrated in FIG. 4. In FIGS. 5 to 8, the arrow D1 schematizes the displacement of the balance 6 from the position that this balance 6 occupies in FIG. 4. In FIGS. 5 to 8, the arrow D2 schematizes the displacement of the balance 25 from the position that this balance 25 occupies in FIG. 4.

In this FIG. 4, the balance 6 rotates in the direction S ·, while the balance 25 rotates in the direction S2. The firing pin 22 and the pin 34 both run towards a point P for joining their respective trajectories. By virtue of a slight phase shift of the second oscillator 9 with respect to the first oscillator 7, the pin 34 then has a little advance to reach this junction point P on the firing pin 22 which has a higher speed than this pin 34. The speed difference at the point P between the firing pin 22 and the pin 34 is obtained by means of an adjustment in which the ratio of frequencies f2 / f -1 and the ratio of the radius of the trajectory of the firing pin 22 to the radius of the trajectory of The pin 34.

[0050] In FIG. 5, because of its greater speed, the striker 22 has caught up with the pin 34. Still in FIG. 5, the striker 22 strikes the pin 34 at its impact surface 36. Between the striker 22 and the pin 34, there is then an impact, in which the balance 6 applies, by direct ephemeral contact, a maintenance pulse I to the rocker 25. In other words, the first oscillator 7 transmits a certain amount of energy to the second oscillator 9 during the shock. The regular repetition of such shocks maintains the oscillating movement of the rocker 25.

Preferably, the second oscillator 9 is substantially at its dead center during the shock occurring in FIG. 5. In this way, the maintenance pulse I received by the second oscillator 9 does not result in a delay or advancement at this second oscillator 9, or rather slowly. Preferably, the first oscillator 7 is Also substantially at its dead center during the shock occurring in FIG. 5.

[0052] In FIG. 6, the movements of the rockers 6 and 25 have continued with respect to the state illustrated in FIG. 5. The balance 6 always rotates in the direction S-1. The balance 25 has finished its travel in the direction S2 and changes direction.

[0053] The situation illustrated in FIG. 7 takes place after that illustrated in FIG. 6. In FIG. 7, the balance 6 changes direction for the first time since the state of FIG. 4, while the balance 25 changes direction for the second time since this state.

[0054] The situation illustrated in FIG. 8 takes place after that illustrated in FIG. 7. In FIG. 8, the rocker 6 rotating in the direction S2 has substantially undergone an alternation from the state of FIG. 5. Also in FIG. 8. The rocker 25 rotating in the direction S- has carried out substantially three vibrations since the state of FIG. 5. Again in FIG. 8, the striker 22 passes the junction point P before the pin 34 without striking or otherwise touching this pin 34. The next impact between the firing pin 22 and the pin 34 will take place at the next cycle when the adjusting device 8 returns to The state shown in FIG. 5.

After the adjusting device 8 returns to the state illustrated in FIG. 4, the cycle which has just been described repeats substantially identically. Only one impact occurs between the striker 22 and the pin 34 at each oscillation of the first oscillator 7.

At each of its alternations, the first oscillator 7 receives a pulse from the anchor 3.

In FIGS. 7 and 8, the amplitude of the oscillations of the second oscillator 9 is less than 360 °. However, the maximum amplitude of the oscillations of the second oscillator 9 may be greater than 360 °.

For the sake of clarity, only the rockers 106 and 125 of a regulating device 108 according to a second embodiment of the invention are shown in FIG. 9. In what follows, this regulating device 108 only describes what distinguishes it from the regulating device 8. Furthermore, any reference hereinafter designating a part of the regulating device 108 identical or equivalent to a referenced part of the regulating device 8 is constructed by increasing by a hundred the reference marking this part on the regulating device 8.

The balance wheel 125 comprises two pins 134, each of which defines one of two confronting impact surfaces 136. These two pins are angularly offset from each other about the axis of oscillation X2-X2 '. The balance 125 comprises two pins 135, each of which forms a counterweight to one of the pins 134 so that the balance 125 is balanced.

In the steady state, striker 122 applies two maintenance pulses I to the second oscillator 109 at each oscillation of the first oscillator 107. Either of these two maintenance pulses I take place respectively at d A first alternation of the first oscillator 107 and during a second half-cycle that the first oscillator 107 executes consecutively to this first half-wave. During the first alternation of the first oscillator 107, the maintenance pulse I is applied via an impact between the firing pin 122 and one of the pins 134, illustrated in FIG. 9. During the second half-cycle of the first oscillator 107, the maintenance pulse I is applied via an impact between the firing pin 122 and the other pin 134, illustrated in FIG. 10. In FIGS. 9 and 10,

[0061] La situation illustrée à la fig. 9 est identique de la situation illustrée à la fig. 4 et expliquée précédemment. En régime établi, les mouvements qui se produisent au sein de dispositif réglant 108 entre la situation de la fig. 9 et la situation de la fig. 10 sont sensiblement identiques aux mouvements qui se produisent au sein du dispositif réglant 8 entre la situation de la fig. 5 et la situation de la fig. 8.

[0062] In FIG. 10, an impact occurs between the firing pin 122 and a pin 134, which distinguishes the situation illustrated in FIG. 10 of the situation illustrated in FIG. 8. During this impact, the balance 106 applies a maintenance pulse I to the balance 125. The next maintenance pulse I will be applied to the balance 125 during the next cycle, when the regulating device 108 returns to the state Illustrated in FIG. 9.

For the sake of clarity, only a part of the balance 206 and the balance 225 of a regulating device 208 according to a third embodiment of the invention are shown in FIG. 11. In what follows, this regulating device 208 only describes what distinguishes it from the regulating device 8. Furthermore, any reference hereinafter designating a part of the regulating device 208 identical or equivalent to a referenced part of the regulating device 8 is constructed by increasing the reference of this part on the regulating device by two hundred.

[0064] In FIG. 11, the balance 206 has two strikers 222 instead of one. Arranged opposite, these two strikers 222 belong to the same fork, of which they each constitute a branch. In the steady state, one of the strikers 222 strikes the pin 234 in the direction St every second half of the first oscillator 207. Still in steady state, the other striker 222 strikes the same pin 234 in the direction S2 during the other half-waves Of the first oscillator 207. Whenever one or the other striker 222 strikes the pin 234 in steady state, an impact occurs by which the balance 206 applies one of the maintenance pulses I which sustain the movement Of the second oscillator 209. The regulating device 208 therefore has comparable operation, in steady state, with that of the regulating device 108,

In FIG. 12, the circular trajectory Ti of the strikers 222 about the axis of oscillation X1-X1 'is partially represented. Still in this FIG. 12, the balance 225 has been suppressed for the sake of clarity and replaced by the circular trajectory T2 of the pin 234 about the axis of oscillation X2-X'2. The circular trajectories T 1 and T 2 meet at the junction point P where these first and second trajectories have the same tangential direction. This also applies to the paths of the firing pin 22 and the pin 34 as well as the trajectories of the firing pin 122 and the pins 134.

For the sake of clarity, only a part of the balance 306 and a part of the balance 325 of a regulating device 308 according to a fourth embodiment of the invention are shown schematically in FIG. 13. In what follows, this regulating device 308 only describes what distinguishes it from the regulating device 8. Furthermore, any reference hereinafter designating a part of the regulating device 308 identical or equivalent to a referenced part of the regulating device 8 is constructed by increasing by three hundred the reference marking this part on the regulating device 8.

The receiving part provided on the second balance 325 for receiving the impacts of the firing pin 322 is a protruding finger 334 which is elastically deformable and non-rigid. During the impact between the striker 332 and the finger 334, the elasticity of this finger 334 reduces the phenomenon of rebound and results in less perturbation of the oscillations. In order to achieve the same effect, striker 322 may be resiliently flexible in place of or in addition to finger 334.

For the sake of clarity, only a part of the balance 406 and a part of the balance 425 of a regulating device 408 according to a fifth embodiment of the invention are shown schematically in FIG. 14. In what follows, this regulating device 408 only describes what distinguishes it from the regulating device 8. Furthermore, any reference designating

Claims

Hereinafter, a part of the regulating device 408 identical or equivalent to a referenced part of the regulating device 8 is constructed by increasing by four hundred the reference number identifying this part on the regulating device 8. A succession of several strikers 422 equips the balance 406. Each firing pin 422 is capable of applying a maintenance pulse to the projecting finger 434 of the balance wheel 425. In the event of a temporary disruption, the maintenance pulses are applied nevertheless, but by a firing pin 422 different from that of the pusher Applying in the absence of disruption. For the sake of clarity, the balance 506 and the balance 525 of a regulating device 508 according to a sixth embodiment of the invention are shown partially and schematically in FIG. 15. In what follows, This regulating device 508 only describes what distinguishes it from the regulating device 8. Furthermore, any reference hereinafter designating a part of the regulating device 508 identical or equivalent to a referenced part of the regulating device 8 is constructed by increasing by five The reference 522 applies the maintenance pulses via a transmission mechanism 540 which comprises a deflection lever 541 pivoting on a pivot axis X3 -X'3. A finger 534 of the balance 525 receives the maintenance pulses I transmitted by this return lever 541. FIG. 16 shows the architecture of the subset of FIG. 3. It can be seen that the counting C of the oscillations is effected by the escapement 4 and takes place at the level of the first oscillator 7. The interactions between the exhaust 4 and the first oscillator 7 thus comprise this count C, in addition to the energy transfer T from the exhaust 4 to the first oscillator 7. 17 shows the architecture of a subassembly according to a seventh embodiment of the invention. This subassembly comprises a regulating device 608 which comprises a first oscillator 607 which may have the structure of the oscillator 7 and a second oscillator 609 which may have the structure of the oscillator 9. The energy transfer T is performed by d A distribution member 604 to the second oscillator 609, via the maintenance pulses I, as in the first embodiment. The count C of the oscillations is made a level of the second oscillator 609, for which a driving anchor or other suitable device can be used. When this is the case, the accuracy of the measurement is greater, since the smallest time division that can be measured is less than that which can be measured using the subset of FIG. 16. FIG. 18 shows the architecture of a subassembly according to an eighth embodiment of the invention. This subassembly comprises an exhaust 704 interacting with a first oscillator 707 constituting a regulating device 708, which also comprises a pair of second oscillators 709 in parallel. Shock energy transfer takes place between the first oscillator 707 on the one hand and the second oscillators 709 on the other hand. The first oscillator 707 maintains the oscillations of each of the second oscillators 709 from the energy it receives from the exhaust 704. According to a ninth embodiment of the invention, a regulating device according to the invention can comprise more than two oscillators in series. For example, a third oscillator having a higher operating frequency than the second oscillator may be provided following the second oscillator of any of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth embodiments. The transfer of energy from the second oscillator to the third oscillator is a shock transfer similar to the transfer of energy between the first oscillator and the second oscillator. The architecture of a subassembly according to the ninth embodiment of the invention is shown in FIG. 19, where the exhaust, the regulating device, the first oscillator, The second oscillator and the third oscillator are respectively referenced 804, 808, 807, 809 and 850. The invention is not limited to the embodiments described above. In particular, the Swiss anchor escapement 4 may be replaced by an exhaust of another type such as a trigger escapement without departing from the scope of the invention. In addition, the firing pin or at least one of the firing pins may not be constituted by a finger. For example, the firing pin or at least one of the firing pins may be constituted by a pin. Similarly, the impact surface or at least one of the impact surfaces may not be at a pin. For example, the impact surface or at least one of the impact surfaces may be at a protruding finger. [0078] Furthermore, Any of the oscillators may comprise a plurality of springs returning the balance to its neutral point. In addition, the or each spring of any of the oscillators may not be a hairspring. For example, it may be a substantially rectilinear and elastically flexible plate made of silicon, in particular in the case where all or part of the oscillator incorporating it is also made of silicon. claims

1. A timepiece regulating device comprising at least: a first oscillator having a first pivotally mounted rocker (6,106,206,306,406,506), a first oscillator (7,107,207,607,707,807) , And at least one first spring (15) for returning this first rocker to a dead point of the first oscillator, and a second oscillator (9; 109; 209; 609; 709; 809) comprising a second pivotally mounted rocker (25; 125; 225; 325; 425; 525) and at least one second return spring (26) for returning this second balance to a dead point of the second oscillator, characterized in that the first balance (22; 122; 222; 322; 422; 522) for applying pulses (I) for maintaining oscillations of the second pendulum (25; 125; 225; 326; ; 425; 525),Directly to said second balance (25; 125; 225; 325; 425; 525) or via a transmission mechanism (540).

2. Dispositif réglant selon la revendication 1, caractérisé en ce que le deuxième oscillateur (9; 109; 209; 609; 709; 809) a une fréquence de fonctionnement plus élevée que le premier oscillateur (7; 107; 207; 607; 707; 807).

3. Dispositif réglant selon la revendication 2, caractérisé en ce que le rapport de la fréquence de fonctionnement (fi) du deuxième oscillateur (9; 109; 209; 609; 709; 809) sur la fréquence de fonctionnement (fi) du premier oscillateur (7; 107; 207; 607; 707; 807) est sensiblement égal à un nombre entier impair.

4. Dispositif réglant selon l’une des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que le deuxième balancier (25; 125; 225; 325; 425; 525) est à même d’exécuter des oscillations ayant une amplitude supérieure à 360°.

5. The regulating device as claimed in claim 1, wherein at least one of two parts which are the striker on the first balance and a receiving part provided on the second balance (325) for receiving at least one Part of the maintenance pulses (I) is formed by an elastically deformable member (334).

6. Adjusting device according to claim 1, characterized in that the first return spring (15) and the second return spring (26) are spirals.

7. Adjusting device according to claim 1, characterized in that it is configured so that each maintenance pulse (I) is applied substantially when the second oscillator (9; 109; 209; 609; 709; 809) Is at a standstill.

8. Dispositif réglant selon l’une des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce qu’il est configuré pour que chaque impulsion d’entretien (I) soit appliquée sensiblement lorsque le premier oscillateur (7; 107; 207; 607; 707; 807) est au point mort.

9. Dispositif réglant selon l’une des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce qu’il est configuré pour que le premier oscillateur (7) applique une seule impulsion d’entretien (I) à destination du deuxième balancier (25) à chaque oscillation du premier oscillateur (7), les impulsions d’entretien (I) étant toutes appliquées dans le même sens (S-i).

10. Adjusting device according to claim 1, characterized in that it is configured so that the first oscillator (107; 207; 607; 707; 807) applies a maintenance pulse (I) to the oscillator Each pair of consecutive maintenance pulses (I) including a maintenance pulse (125; 225; 325; 425; 525) each time the first oscillator (107; 207; 607; 707; I) applied in a first direction (S-1) and a maintenance pulse (I) applied in a second direction (S2) opposite to the first direction (S1).

11. Dispositif réglant selon l’une des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que le deuxième balancier (25; 125; 225; 325; 425; 525) comporte au moins une surface d’impact (36; 136) pour recevoir une impulsion d’entretien (I) de la part du percuteur (22; 122; 222; 322; 422; 522), le percuteur (22; 122; 222; 322; 422; 522) et la surface d’impact (36; 136) ayant respectivement une première trajectoire circulaire (T-ι) et une deuxième trajectoire circulaire (T2) qui se rejoignent au niveau d’un point de jonction (P) où ces première et deuxième trajectoires ont sensiblement la même direction tangentielle.

12. A timepiece comprising an escapement (4; 604; 704; 804), characterized in that it comprises a regulating device (8; 108; 208; 308; 408; 508; 608; 708; 808 ) According to one of the preceding claims, the escapement (4; 604; 704; 804) interacting with the first oscillator (7; 107; 207; 607; 707; 807).

13. Mouvement d’horlogerie, comprenant un organe moteur, un rouage (1) entraîné par l’organe moteur, caractérisé en ce qu’il comprend un sous-ensemble d’horlogerie selon la revendication 11, une roue d’échappement (2) de l’échappement (4; 604; 704; 804) étant entraînée par le rouage (1).

13. A watchmaking movement comprising a driving member, a gear train (1) driven by the driving member, characterized in that it comprises a clock subassembly according to claim 11, an escapement wheel ) Of the exhaust (4; 604; 704; 804) being driven by the gear train (1). claims

1. A timepiece regulating device comprising at least: a first oscillator having a first pivotally mounted rocker (6,106,206,306,406,506), a first oscillator (7,107,207,607,707,807) , And at least one first spring (15) for returning this first rocker to a dead point of the first oscillator, and a second oscillator (9; 109; 209; 609; 709; 809) comprising a second pivotally mounted rocker (25; 125; 225; 325; 425; 525) and at least one second return spring (26) for returning this second balance to a dead point of the second oscillator, characterized in that the first balance (22; 122; 222; 322; 422; 522) for impact-imparting pulses (I) for maintaining the oscillations of the second balance (25; 125; 226; ; 325; 425; 525),Directly to said second balance (25; 125; 225; 325; 425; 525) or via a transmission mechanism (540).

3. Dispositif réglant selon la revendication 2, caractérisé en ce que le rapport de la fréquence de fonctionnement fa) du deuxième oscillateur (9; 109; 209; 609; 709; 809) sur la fréquence de fonctionnement (f·,) du premier oscillateur (7; 107; 207; 607; 707; 807) est sensiblement égal à un nombre entier impair.

8. Adjusting device according to claim 1, characterized in that it is configured so that each maintenance pulse (I) is applied substantially when the first oscillator (7; 107; 207; 607; 707; 807) Is at a standstill.

9. Adjusting device according to claim 1, characterized in that it is configured so that the first oscillator (7) applies a single maintenance pulse (I) to the second balance (25) at each oscillation of the oscillator The first oscillator (7), the maintenance pulses (I) being all applied in the same direction (Si).

10. Adjusting device according to claim 1, characterized in that it is configured so that the first oscillator (107; 207; 607; 707; 807) applies a maintenance pulse (I) to the oscillator Each pair of consecutive maintenance pulses (I) including a maintenance pulse (125; 225; 325; 425; 525) each time the first oscillator (107; 207; 607; 707; I) applied in a first direction (S 1) and a maintenance pulse (I) applied in a second direction (S 2) opposite to the first direction (S 1).

11. Adjusting device according to claim 1, characterized in that the second balance (25; 125; 225; 325; 425; 525) comprises at least one impact surface (36; 136) for receiving a pulse d (22; 122; 222; 322; 422; 522) and the impact surface (36; 136) of the striker (22; 122; 222; 322; 422; Having a first circular trajectory and a second circular trajectory meeting at a junction point where said first and second trajectories have substantially the same tangential direction.

12. Sous-ensemble d’horlogerie, comprenant un échappement (4; 604; 704; 804), caractérisé en ce qu’il comprend un dispositif réglant (8; 108; 208; 308; 408; 508; 608; 708; 808) selon l’une des revendications précédentes, l’échappement (4; 604; 704; 804) interagissant avec le premier oscillateur (7; 107; 207; 607; 707; 807).