CH713508B1 - Module for watch mechanism, movement and timepiece. - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a module for a watch mechanism capable of simultaneously displaying different types of information. The watch mechanism module (21) comprises a first output shaft (81) to which an hour or minute hand can be fixed, for example, and a second output shaft (82) to which an indicator hand can be fixed, the second output shaft (82) rotating around a second axis of rotation (P1) different from the first axis of rotation (O) of the first output shaft (81), A first motor drives the first output shaft (81), and a second motor drives the second output shaft (82).

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the invention

The present invention relates to a module for a watch mechanism, a watch movement, and a timepiece.

2. Description of prior art

[0002] As an analog electronic timepiece, electronic timepieces are known having a module for a timepiece mechanism comprising a plate forming a substrate for this module, provided with a stepper motor incorporated in the plate, a gear train also incorporated in the turntable, and which is rotated based on the actuation of the stepper motor, and a cog bridge for rotatably supporting at least a part of the train gear (see, for example, patent document 1 (JP-A-2000-81491). In the module for a watch mechanism described in the first patent document, a second hand is fixed to a second mobile (this is i.e. a pinion combined with a wheel), a minute hand is fixed to the center wheel set, and an hour hand is fixed to an hour wheel set.

[0003] In recent years, we have moreover been able to observe a demand for analog electronic timepieces capable of displaying information other than the time with characters or signs and hands, clearly displayed on a dial using hands. However, in the module for a watch mechanism disclosed in the first patent document described above, the second wheel set, the center wheel set, and the hour wheel set, to which the hands are fixed, are arranged coaxially and configured to rotate in mutual synchronization with a motor. Consequently, in the timepiece including such a module, it is difficult to display several types of information simultaneously.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0004] Consequently, the present invention provides a module for a watch mechanism, a movement, and a timepiece capable of simultaneously displaying several kinds of information.

[0005] Claim 1 defines a module for a timepiece mechanism according to the present invention.

[0006] It is desirable that the module for a watch mechanism be according to claim 2.

[0007] When this is the case, it is possible to respectively attach several needles to the output shafts arranged coaxially. Consequently, making the module for a watch mechanism according to claim 2 is suitable when specific information is indicated by a plurality of hands which rotate around the same axis of rotation, for example, when the hour and the minute are indicated. respectively by an hour hand and a minute hand.

[0008] The module for a watch mechanism seen in the axial direction of the first output shaft tends to grow as the distance between the first output shaft and the second output shaft increases. According to claim 3, the projecting section formed at the edge of the plate covers at least part of the wheel fixed to the second output shaft. Therefore, the outer shape of the plate is designed such that it extends along the shape of the wheel. Therefore, compared to a configuration in which the plate carrying the wheel has no protruding section, it is possible to reduce the surface of the plate seen from the axial direction of the first output shaft. Thus, it is possible to prevent any increase in size of the module of the timepiece mechanism.

[0009] According to claim 4, the first wheel fixed to the first output shaft and the second wheel fixed to the second output shaft are arranged such that they overlap each other. Consequently, making the module for a timepiece mechanism according to claim 4 is appropriate in a situation where the first output shaft and the second output shaft are arranged close to each other.

According to claim 5, the third output shaft is driven by a third motor different from the first motor which drives the first output shaft and from the second motor which drives the second output shaft. The third output shaft rotates around an axis of rotation different from those of the first output shaft and the second output shaft. Therefore, it is possible to make the third hand indicate information different from that indicated by the first hand fixed to the first output shaft and from that indicated by the second hand fixed to the second output shaft. Thus, it is possible to provide a module for a watch mechanism capable of simultaneously displaying several kinds of information.

A movement according to the present invention is defined by claim 6.

[0012] This movement comprises a module for a watch mechanism according to one of claims 1 to 5. Consequently, it is possible to produce a movement capable of simultaneously displaying different kinds of information.

A timepiece according to the present invention is according to claim 7.

[0014] This timepiece comprises a movement according to claim 6. Consequently, it is possible to simultaneously display a plurality of kinds of information using the first hand and the second hand.

[0015] When the timepiece is according to claim 8, it is possible to rotate the second hand by an amplitude which allows it not to come into contact with the first output shaft. Thus, compared to the case where an amplitude of rotation set at 360° is used for the second hand, it is possible to provide a timepiece capable of indicating, with a longer second hand, information different from that indicated by the first needle.

[0016] When the timepiece is according to claim 9, it is possible to cause the second hand to perform a full 360° rotation. Therefore, it is possible to rotate and move the second needle to any position only through smooth rotational drive by the second motor. In other words, when the second motor is a stepper motor, it is possible to rotate and move the second needle to any position based only on regular rotational pulse inputs applied to the second motor. Thus, compared to a configuration where the amplitude of rotation of the second hand is limited to an angle smaller than 360°, it is possible to control the second motor more easily.

[0017] A timepiece according to the present invention is defined by claim 10.

This timepiece comprises the movement according to claim 5. Consequently, it is possible to simultaneously display several types of information with the first hand, the second hand, and the third hand.

[0019] When the timepiece is according to claim 11, compared to the case where a hand is used whose amplitude of rotation is adjusted to 360°, it is possible to indicate, with the second longer hand and the longer third hand, information different from that indicated by the first hand in such a way that they can be visually easily recognizable. In addition, the sum of the central angles corresponding to the amplitude of rotation of the second hand and to that of the amplitude of rotation of the third hand is greater than 360°. Therefore, compared to the case where information different from that indicated by the first hand is indicated by using only one hand, the maximum rotation amplitude of which is at most equal to 360°, it is possible to indicate more kinds of information. Therefore, it is possible to provide a timepiece which can display more information which can be visually easily recognizable.

According to the present invention, it is thus possible to provide a module for a watch mechanism capable of simultaneously displaying several kinds of information.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

Figure 1 is a plan view of a timepiece according to a first embodiment. Figure 2 is a sectional view of the timepiece according to the first embodiment. FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a module for a timepiece mechanism according to the first embodiment seen from the rear. FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the module for a timepiece mechanism according to the first embodiment seen from the front. FIG. 5 is a plan view of an internal configuration of the module for a timepiece mechanism according to the first embodiment seen from the front. FIG. 6 is a sectional view of the module for a timepiece mechanism according to the first embodiment. FIG. 7 is a sectional view of the module for a timepiece mechanism according to the first embodiment. FIG. 8 is a sectional view of the module for a timepiece mechanism according to the first embodiment. Figure 9 is a bottom view of a movement according to the first embodiment seen from the rear. FIG. 10 a plan view of a timepiece according to a second embodiment. FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a module for a timepiece mechanism according to the second embodiment seen from the rear. FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the module for a timepiece mechanism according to the second embodiment seen from the front. FIG. 13 is a plan view of the module for a timepiece mechanism according to the second embodiment seen from the front. FIG. 14 is a sectional view of the module for a timepiece mechanism according to the second embodiment. Figure 15 is a bottom view of a movement according to the second embodiment seen from the rear. FIG. 16 is a plan view of a timepiece according to a third embodiment. FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a module for a timepiece mechanism according to the third embodiment seen from the rear. FIG. 18 is a perspective view of the module for a timepiece mechanism according to the third embodiment seen from the front. FIG. 19 is a plan view of an internal configuration of the module for a timepiece mechanism according to the third embodiment seen from the front. FIG. 20 is a sectional view of the module for a timepiece mechanism according to the third embodiment. Figure 21 is a bottom view of a movement according to the third embodiment seen from the rear. FIG. 22 is a plan view of a timepiece according to a fourth embodiment. FIG. 23 is a sectional view of the timepiece according to the fourth embodiment. FIG. 24 is a perspective view of a module for a timepiece mechanism according to the fourth embodiment seen from the rear. FIG. 25 is a perspective view of the module for a timepiece mechanism according to the fourth embodiment seen from the front. FIG. 26 is a plan view of an internal configuration of the module for a timepiece mechanism according to the fourth embodiment seen from the front. FIG. 27 is a sectional view of the module for a timepiece mechanism according to the fourth embodiment. Figure 28 is a bottom view of a movement according to the fourth embodiment seen from the rear. Figure 29 is a plan view of a timepiece according to a fifth embodiment. FIG. 30 is a sectional view of the timepiece according to the fifth embodiment. FIG. 31 is a perspective view of a module for a timepiece mechanism according to the fifth embodiment seen from the rear. FIG. 32 is a perspective view of the module for a timepiece mechanism according to the fifth embodiment seen from the front. FIG. 33 is a plan view of an internal configuration of the timepiece mechanism module according to the fifth embodiment seen from the front. FIG. 34 is a sectional view of the module for a timepiece mechanism according to the fifth embodiment. Figure 35 is a bottom view of a movement according to the fifth embodiment seen from the rear. Figure 36 is a plan view of a timepiece according to a sixth embodiment. FIG. 37 is a sectional view of the timepiece according to the sixth embodiment. FIG. 38 is a perspective view of a module for a timepiece mechanism according to the sixth embodiment seen from the rear. FIG. 39 is a perspective view of the module for a timepiece mechanism according to the sixth embodiment seen from the front. FIG. 40 is a plan view of an internal configuration of the timepiece mechanism module according to the sixth embodiment seen from the front. Figure 41 is a bottom view of a movement according to the sixth embodiment seen from the rear.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0022] Embodiments relating to the present invention are explained below with reference to the drawings. In the following embodiments, an electronic timepiece of analog quartz type arranged to be able to communicate with external devices such as a smartphone is given by way of example as a timepiece. It should be noted that, in the following explanation, the same reference numbers and signs are used to label components having identical or similar functions. Explanations relating to components already introduced and described beforehand will however sometimes not be repeated.

First embodiment

We will first describe a timepiece 1, a movement 10, and a module for a timepiece mechanism 21 according to a first embodiment.

timepiece

[0024] In general, reference is made to the "movement" to designate a machine body comprising a part for driving a timepiece. We refer to the "assembly" of the timepiece to designate the state of a complete product obtained by adding and fixing a dial and hands to the movement and by housing the movement in a timepiece case. . Reference is made to the "rear side" of the movement to designate the side on which the crystal closing the case of the timepiece is placed in relation to a plate forming a substrate for the timepiece, i.e. the dial side. Finally, we refer to the "front side" of the movement to designate the back side of the case of the timepiece with respect to the plate, that is to say the side opposite the dial.

Figure 1 is a plan view of the timepiece according to the first embodiment.

As shown in Figure 1, the entire timepiece 1 comprises, in a timepiece case 4 comprising a case back (not shown in the figure) and a crystal 3, the movement 10, a dial 11, an hour hand 12, a minute hand 13, and an indicator hand 14. The hour hand 12 and the minute hand 13 indicate the current time. The hour hand 12 and the minute hand 13 are each fixed to a first output shaft 81 (see FIG. 2) included in the module for timepiece mechanism 21 explained below. The hour hand 12 and the minute hand 13 rotate around an axis of rotation O (which is the central axis of the first output shafts 81). The indicator hand 14 indicates information different from the time information indicated by the hour hand 12 and the minute hand 13, such as a type of mode executed by the timepiece 1. The indicator hand 14 is fixed to a second output shaft 82 (see FIG. 2) included in the module for watch mechanism 21. The indicator hand 14 rotates around an axis of rotation P1 (which is the central axis of the second output shaft 82 ) different from the axis of rotation O. The axis of rotation P1 is arranged parallel to the axis of rotation O.

The distance between the axis of rotation P1 and the distal end of the indicator needle 14 is greater than the distance between the axis of rotation P1 and the first output shafts 81 (see Figure 2). Consequently, the amplitude of rotation of the indicator hand 14 is smaller than 360° and confined in the form of a fan avoiding the first output shafts 81.

The dial 11 has a disc shape. The dial 11 comprises a main display area 15 corresponding to the hour hand 12 and the minute hand 13, and a sub-display area 16 corresponding to the indicator hand 14. In the main display area 15, a scale pointed by the distal ends of hour hand 12 and minute hand 13 is arranged circumferentially along the outer circumference of dial 11. In sub-display area 16, a scale, characters, etc. pointed by the distal end of the indicator hand 14 are arranged in an arcuate shape centered around the axis of rotation P1 and corresponding to the amplitude of rotation of the indicator hand 14. According to this embodiment, the zone sub-display 16 is capable of displaying, in combination with the indicator hand 14, for example, an execution rate of an activity counter relative to a target value, and a type of execution mode of the timepiece 1. The dial 11, the hour hand 12, the minute hand 13, and the indicator hand 14 are arranged so that they are visually recognizable through the glass 3.

Buttons 17 are arranged respectively in a part located at 2 o'clock and a part located at 4 o'clock on the side surface of the case 4 of the timepiece. Buttons 17 are used to set the time indicated by the hour hand 12 and the minute hand 13, to change the execution mode of the timepiece 1, etc.

Movement

Figure 2 is a sectional view of the timepiece according to the first embodiment.

As shown in Figure 2, the movement 10 is arranged between the dial 11 and the bottom of the case (not shown in the figure). The movement 10 comprises the module for watch mechanism 21 to which the hour hand 12, the minute hand 13, and the indicator hand 14 are fixed, a circuit block 23 which is arranged on the front side of the module for watch mechanism 21 and controls the drive of the clock mechanism module 21, a relay board 24 which electrically connects the clock mechanism module 21 to the circuit block 23, and a module frame 25 which holds the clock mechanism module 21 and the circuit block 23 .

It should be noted that, in the following explanation, the direction in which the axis of rotation O extends, around which the hour hand 12 and the minute hand 13 rotate, will be considered as constituting an axial direction. Reference will be made to a radial direction to designate the direction orthogonal to the axial direction extending radially from the axis of rotation O.

Module of the watch mechanism

[0033] Figure 3 is a perspective view of the module for timepiece mechanism according to the first embodiment seen from the rear.

As shown in Figure 3, the module for watch mechanism 21 comprises the first output shafts 81 and the second output shaft 82 projecting out of an element (in this embodiment, a plate 51 and a support hour wheel 53 explained below) which forms the outer casing of the module for watch mechanism 21. Each first output shaft 81 and the second output shaft 82 are arranged in parallel and in distinct positions from one another. other. The first output shafts 81 rotate around the axis of rotation O, while the second output shaft 82 rotates around the axis of rotation P1.

[0035] Figure 4 is a perspective view of the module for timepiece mechanism according to the first embodiment seen from the front. FIG. 5 is a plan view of an internal configuration of the module for a timepiece mechanism according to the first embodiment seen from the front. It should be noted that, in FIGS. 4 & 5, the module for timepiece mechanism 21 is shown in a state where the relay card 24 is placed there.

As shown in Figures 4 and 5, the module for watch mechanism 21 comprises a first gear train 30A, a second gear train 30B, and a third gear train 30C, a stepping motor 40A (forming a "first motor") which drives the first gear train 30A, a stepper motor 40B (still forming a "first motor") which drives the second gear train 30B, a stepper motor 40C ( forming a „second motor“) which drives the third gear train 30C, a turntable 51 and a gear train bridge 52 which supports the gear trains 30A to 30C etc., an hour wheel support 53 ( see Figure 3) attached to the plate 51, and a center wheel bridge 54 disposed between the plate 51 and the gear train bridge 52.

As shown in Figure 4, the plate 51 forms a substrate for the module for watch mechanism 21. The plate 51 is formed, for example, of a resin material and is configured in tubular form, the direction of the thickness is constituted by the axial direction. The plate 51 has a hexagonal shape in a plane seen in the axial direction (see Figure 5).

The gear train bridge 52 is disposed at the front of the plate 51. The gear train bridge 52 is formed, for example, of a resin material and has a tubular shape whose direction of the thickness is constituted by the axial direction.

As shown in Figure 3, the hour wheel support 53 is attached to the rear of the plate 51. The hour wheel support 53 is formed, for example, of a metal material and has a flat shape, whose thickness direction is constituted by the axial direction.

As shown in Figure 5, the center wheel bridge 54 is fixed to the plate 51. The center wheel bridge 54 is formed, for example, of a metal material and has a flat shape, whose the direction of the thickness of which is the axial direction.

The stepper motors 40A to 40C are carried by the plate 51. The stepper motors 40A to 40C are respectively arranged side by side around the axis of rotation O at the front of the plate 51. The stepper motors 40A to 40C are arranged at an interval of approximately 90° in the order of stepper motor 40A, stepper motor 40B, and stepper motor 40C in a counterclockwise direction. 'a watch around the axis of rotation O seen from the front. In other words, the stepping motor 40A and the stepping motor 40C are arranged to be diametrically opposed with respect to the axis of rotation O. The stepping motor 40B is arranged on the side opposite to the axis of rotation P1 with respect to the axis of rotation O. It should be noted that the stepping motors 40A to 40C respectively have an identical configuration; therefore, in the following explanation regarding the configuration of the stepper motors 40A to 40C, only the stepper motor 40A is given by way of example.

The stepping motor 40A comprises a coil block 41 including a magnetic core 42 and a winding wire 43 wound around the magnetic core 42, a stator 44 disposed in contact with the ends of the magnetic core 42 of the coil block 41, and a rotor 45 disposed in a rotor hole 44a of the stator 44.

The coil block 41 includes the magnetic core 42 and the winding wire 43, as well as a connection plate 46 for the coil fixed to one end of the magnetic core 42.

The magnetic core 42 extends in a direction orthogonal to the axial direction and the radial direction. The magnetic core 42 is fixed to the plate 51 by screws 56 at both ends of the magnetic core 42.

The connection plate 46 for the coil is a printed circuit. Coil connection plate 46 is disposed forward of one end of magnetic core 42 and secured together with magnetic core 42 by screws 56. Coil connection plate 46 extends from a section secured to one end of the magnetic core 42 towards the center of the plate 51 seen in the axial direction.

A pair of wires 47 is formed on the surface of the connection plate 46 of the coil. The wires 47 extend in the direction of extension of the connection plate 46 of the coil. At one end of the wires 47 on the side of the magnetic core 42, there are formed welding terminals 47a, to which ends of the winding wire 43 are respectively welded. At the other ends of wires 47 are formed receiving terminals 47b (see Figure 2), which receive an electrical signal to drive stepper motor 40A.

The stator 44 is disposed further inside in the radial direction of the magnetic core 42. The stator 44 is fixed to the magnetic core 42 using a pair of screws 56.

The rotor 45 is kept mobile in rotation between the plate 51 and the gear train bridge 52 (see Figure 4).

Figures 6 to 8 are sectional views of the module for watch mechanism in the first embodiment.

As shown in Figure 6, the first gear train 30A transmits a driving force from the stepping motor 40A to one of the first output shafts 81. The first gear train 30A comprises a first intermediate mobile hours 31, a second intermediate hour wheel 32, and an hour wheel 33. The first intermediate hour wheel 31 comprises a first intermediate hour wheel 31a and a first intermediate hour pinion 31b. The first intermediate wheel of the hours 31 is kept mobile in rotation between the plate 51 and the gear train bridge 52. The first intermediate wheel of the hours 31a is in gear engagement with a pinion 45a of the rotor 45 of the stepper motor. not 40A. The second intermediate hour wheel set 32 comprises a second intermediate hour wheel 32a and a second intermediate hour pinion 32b. The second intermediate hour wheel set 32 is rotatably mounted between the plate 51 and the gear train bridge 52. The second intermediate hour wheel 32a is in gear engagement with the first intermediate hour pinion 31b of the first wheel set intermediate of 31 hours.

The mobile hours 33 is inserted on the outside of the central tube 62 at the rear of the plate 51 so as to be rotatable relative thereto. The central tube 62 is carried by the plate 51. The central tube 62 extends coaxially with respect to the axis of rotation O and projects towards the rear of the plate 51. In other words, the hour wheel set 33 is arranged coaxially with the axis of rotation O. The hour wheel set 33 comprises an hour wheel 33a (a first wheel) which meshes with the second intermediate hour pinion 32b of the second intermediate hour wheel set 32. The hour wheel set 33 is carried by the hour wheel support 53. The hour wheel set 33 is held in compression towards the plate 51 by means of a first dial washer 63 placed between the hour wheel support 53 and the hour wheel 33a. The rear end of the hour wheel set 33 protrudes rearward from the hour wheel support 53. In other words, the hour wheel set 33 constitutes one of the first output shafts 81. The hour hand 12 is fixed at the rear end of the 33 hour mobile (see Figure 2).

As shown in Figure 7, the second gear train 30B transmits a driving force from the stepping motor 40B to the other first output shaft 81. The second gear train 30B comprises a first intermediate mobile of center 34, a second intermediate center wheel set 35, and a center wheel set 36. The first intermediate center wheel set 34 comprises a first center intermediate wheel 34a and a first center intermediate pinion 34b. The first center intermediate wheel 34 is rotatably mounted between the plate 51 and the gear train bridge 52. The first center intermediate wheel 34a is in gear engagement with the pinion 45a of the rotor 45 of the stepping motor. not 40B. The second intermediate center wheel 35 comprises a second intermediate center wheel 35a and a second intermediate center pinion 35b. The second center intermediate wheel set 35 is rotatably mounted between the plate 51 and the gear train bridge 52. The second intermediate center wheel 35a is in gear engagement with the first center intermediate pinion 34b of the first wheel set. center intermediate 34.

[0053] The center wheel 36 is inserted through the central tube 62 from the front in the axial direction so as to be rotatably mounted with respect thereto. In other words, the center wheel set 36 is arranged coaxially with respect to the axis of rotation O. The front end of the center wheel set 36 is supported by the center wheel bridge 54. The center wheel set 36 comprises a center 36a (the first wheel) which meshes with the second center pinion 35b of the second intermediate center wheel set 35. The center wheel set 36 is held in compression against the plate 51 by means of a second dial washer 64 arranged between the center wheel bridge 54 and the center wheel 36a, and is in contact with an opening end at the front of the central tube 62. The rear end of the center mobile 36 protrudes rearward from the hour wheel support 53. In other words, the center wheel set 36 constitutes one of the first output shafts 81. The minute hand 13 is fixed to the rear end of the center wheel set 36 (see FIG. 2).

As shown in Figure 8, the third gear train 30C transmits driving force from the stepper motor 40C to the second output shaft 82. The third gear train 30C includes a sixth mobile 37, a fifth mobile 38, and an indicator mobile 39. The sixth mobile 37 comprises a sixth wheel 37a and a sixth pinion 37b. The sixth mobile 37 is mounted so as to be able to rotate between the plate 51 and the gear train bridge 52. The sixth wheel 37a is meshed with the pinion 45a of the rotor 45 of the stepping motor 40C. The fifth mobile 38 comprises a fifth wheel 38a and a fifth pinion 38b. The fifth mobile 38 is rotatably mounted between the plate 51 and the gear train bridge 52. The fifth wheel 38a is in gear engagement with the sixth pinion 37b of the sixth mobile 37.

The mobile indicator 39 is arranged coaxially with respect to the axis of rotation P1. The indicator wheel set 39 comprises a wheel shaft 39a and an indicator wheel 39b (a second wheel) fixed to the wheel shaft 39a. The wheel shaft 39a is rotatably mounted on the plate 51. The front end of the wheel shaft 39a is carried axially by a first plug 52a provided in the gear train bridge 52. The rear end of the wheel shaft 39a projects towards the rear of the plate 51. In other words, the wheel shaft 39a constitutes the second output shaft 82. The indicator hand 14 is fixed to the rear end of the wheel shaft 39a (see figure 2). The indicator wheel 39b is meshed with the fifth pinion 38b of the fifth wheel set 38. The indicator wheel 39b is arranged so that it covers the hour wheel 33a of the hour wheel set 33 and the center wheel 36a of the center mobile 36 when it is seen in the axial direction (see FIG. 5). The mobile indicator 39 is held in compression towards the plate 51 via a third dial washer 65 arranged between the gear train bridge 52 and the indicator wheel 39b.

The gear train bridge 52 is explained in detail below. As shown in Fig. 6 and Fig. 7, a concave section 58 is formed in the gear train bridge 52. The concave section 58 is formed in a major plane opposite the platen 51 in the gear train bridge. gear 52. The concave section 58 is formed at a location covering the center wheel 36 when the latter is viewed from the axial direction. In other words, the concave section 58 is formed around the axis of rotation O. A space is formed between the lower surface of the concave section 58 and the center wheel bridge 54. A second plug 59 is provided at the center of the concave section 58. The second plug 59 is arranged coaxially with the axis of rotation O. The front end of the second plug 59 is carried by the gear train bridge 52. The rear end of the second plug 59 is separated slightly from the front end of the center wheel set 36 in the axial direction and arranged opposite to it in the axial direction.

Circuit block

As shown in Figure 2, the circuit block 23 is obtained by mounting an integrated circuit, a quartz unit, etc. not shown in the figure on a card main body 71, which is a printed circuit. The card main body 71 has a circular shape when viewed from the axial direction. Transmitter terminals 75 of three systems (in Fig. 2, only one system is shown) formed by printed circuits are arranged on a surface opposite to the module for clock mechanism 21 in the card main body 71. The transmitter terminals 75 of the systems are electrically connected to the receiver terminals 47b of the stepper motors 40A to 40C (see Figure 5) via the relay board 24. The transmitter terminals 75 transmit electrical signals (control pulses) driving the stepper motors 40A at 40C to the receiver terminals 47b.

Relay card

As shown in Fig. 4, three relay boards 24 are disposed between the timepiece mechanism module 21 and the board main body 71 (see Fig. 2) of the circuit block 23. Specifically, the relay boards 24 are respectively arranged on the connecting plates 46 for the coils of the stepping motors 40A to 40C.

A pair of relay wires 28 is formed in each of the relay boards 24. The pair of relay wires 28 passes from the rear surface of each of the relay boards 24 through a through hole, piercing the relay board 24 through in the axial direction, and spans the front surface of the relay board 24. As shown in Fig. 2, the pair of relay wires 28 are respectively in contact with the terminals receivers 47b of the stepping motors 40A to 40C on the rear surface of the relay board 24 and are respectively in contact with the transmitter terminals 75 of the board main body 71 on the front surface of the relay board 24. Thus, the relay board 24 electrically connects the receiver terminals 47b of the connection plates 46 of the coils and the transmitter terminals 75 of the main board body 71.

Module frame

Figure 9 is a bottom view of the movement according to the first embodiment seen from the rear.

As shown in Fig. 9, the module frame 25 is formed, for example, of a resin material and has a disc shape having substantially the same diameter as the circuit block 23 (see Fig. 2). A module arrangement hole 25a is formed in the module frame 25. The module arrangement hole 25a passes through the center of the module frame 25 right through in the axial direction. The module arrangement hole 25a has a shape corresponding to the timepiece mechanism module 21 when viewed from the axial direction. The watch mechanism module 21 is disposed in the module arrangement hole 25a. As shown in Fig. 2, the timepiece mechanism module 21 is fixed to the module frame 25 in a state in which it is fixed to the circuit block 23 by a plurality of screws 60.

[0062] In this way, the module for a watch mechanism 21 according to this embodiment comprises the first output shafts 81 (the hour wheel set 33 and the center wheel set 36) to which the hour hand 12 and the hour hand minutes 13 are fixed and the second output shaft 82 (the wheel shaft 39a) to which the indicator hand 14 is fixed, the second output shaft 82 rotating around the axis of rotation P1 different from the axis of rotation O, which is the central axis of the first output shafts 81. In addition, the timepiece mechanism module 21 comprises the stepping motor 40A and the stepping motor 40B which drive the first output shafts 81, and the motor stepper 40C which drives the second output shaft 82.

The movement 10 according to this embodiment includes the module for the watch mechanism 21.

In this configuration, the second output shaft 82 is driven by the stepper motor 40C different from the stepper motor 40A which drives a first output shaft 81. The second output shaft 82 rotates around an axis of rotation different from that of the first output shafts 81. Consequently, it is possible to arrange for the indicator hand 14 to indicate information different from the time information indicated by the hour hand 12 and the hand of the minutes 13 attached to the first output shafts 81. Consequently, it is possible to provide a module for a timepiece mechanism 21 and a movement 10 capable of simultaneously displaying a plurality of kinds of information.

The module for watch mechanism 21 comprises a first output shaft 81 and the second output shaft 82 which rotates around an axis of rotation different from that of this first output shaft 81. Consequently, compared to a configuration wherein a pair of output shafts is provided by using two modules, it is possible to reduce the space occupied by the module of the timepiece mechanism. Consequently, it is possible to reduce the size of the timepiece equipped with the module for timepiece mechanism 21.

The hour wheel 33a and the center wheel 36a each fixed to a first output shaft 81 and the indicator wheel 39b fixed to the second output shaft 82 are arranged in such a way that they overlap each other when they are views from the axial direction. Therefore, it is possible to place each first output shaft 81 and the second output shaft 82 close to each other.

The timepiece 1 according to this embodiment comprises the movement 10, the hour hand 12 and the minute hand 13, and the indicator hand 14. Consequently, it is possible to produce a part watchmaking capable of simultaneously displaying a plurality of kinds of information.

[0068] The distance between the axis of rotation P1 and the distal end of the indicator hand 14 is determined such that it is longer than the distance between the axis of rotation P1 and the first output shafts 81. The amplitude of rotation of indicator hand 14 extends over a fan-shaped sector. Therefore, it is possible to rotate the indicator hand 14 along an angular sector in which the indicator hand 14 is not caused to come into contact with the first output shafts 81. Thus, compared to the case where an indicator hand is used, the amplitude of rotation of which is defined as being equal to 360°, it is possible to provide a timepiece 1 capable of indicating, with a longer indicator hand 14, information different from the time information indicated by the 12 hour hand and the 13 minute hand.

The concave section 58 is formed in the gear train bridge 52 in a position opposite to that of the center mobile 36 in the axial direction. Consequently, it is possible to remove the second plug 59 and the indicator mobile 39 and to arrange a second mobile, which meshes with the fifth mobile 38, between the lower surface of the concave section 58 and the center wheel bridge 54 ( see a fifth embodiment explained below). Part of the shaft of the second mobile is inserted inside the center mobile 36. Thus, it is possible to arrange a third hand which rotates coaxially with the hour hand 12 and the minute hand 13. Consequently, it is possible to produce a module for a timepiece mechanism 21 which can easily change from a configuration in which an output shaft is provided in a single place to a configuration in which output shafts are arranged in two places. different.

Second embodiment

The following describes a timepiece 101, a movement 110, and a module for a timepiece mechanism 121 according to a second embodiment. The timepiece 101 according to the second embodiment differs from the timepiece 1 of the first embodiment in that the amplitude of rotation of an indicator hand 114 is set at 360° (see FIGS. 1 and 10). The clock mechanism module 121 of the second embodiment differs from the clock mechanism module 21 of the first embodiment in that a projecting section 151b is formed in the plate 151 (see Figs. 4 and 12).

timepiece

[0071] Figure 10 is a plan view of the timepiece according to the second embodiment.

As shown in Figure 10, the entire timepiece 101 comprises the movement 110, a dial 111, the hour hand 12, the minute hand 13, and the indicator hand 114. The indicator hand 114 indicates information different from the time information indicated by the hour hand 12 and the minute hand 13 such as a type of execution mode for the timepiece 101. The hand indicator 114 is fixed to a second output shaft 182 (see FIG. 11) included in the module for timepiece mechanism 121. The indicator hand 114 rotates around an axis of rotation P2 (which is the central axis of the second shaft output 182) different from the axis of rotation O. The axis of rotation P2 is arranged in a direction parallel to the axis of rotation O.

[0073] The distance between the axis of rotation P2 and the distal end of the indicator needle 114 is defined as being shorter than the distance between the axis of rotation P2 and the first output shafts 81 (see FIG. 11). Consequently, the indicator hand 114 can rotate 360° around the axis of rotation P2. In other words, the amplitude of rotation of the indicator hand 114 takes on a circular shape centered on the axis of rotation P2.

The dial 111 comprises a main display area 15 and a sub-display area 116 corresponding to the indicator hand 114. In the sub-display area 116, a scale, characters, etc. pointed by the distal end of the indicator needle 114 are arranged in a circumferential shape centered on the axis of rotation P2 to correspond to the amount of rotation of the indicator needle 114. In this embodiment, as the area sub-display area 16 of the first embodiment, the sub-display area 116 is capable of displaying, in combination with the indicator hand 114, for example, an execution rate of an activity counter per relative to a target value, and a type of execution mode for timepiece 1.

Movement

The movement 110 is arranged between the dial 111 and a case back (not shown in the figure). The movement 110 comprises the module for watch mechanism 121 to which the hour hand 12, the minute hand 13, and the indicator hand 114 are fixed, the circuit block 23 (see FIG. 2) which is arranged at the front of the clock mechanism module 121 and controls the drive of the clock mechanism module 121, the relay board 24 (see Figure 2) which electrically connects the clock mechanism module 121 to the circuit block 23, and a module frame 125 (see figure 15) which carries the module for clockwork mechanism 121 and the circuit block 23.

Module of the watch mechanism

[0076] Figure 11 is a perspective view of the module for timepiece mechanism according to the second embodiment seen from the rear.

As shown in Figure 11, the module for watch mechanism 121 comprises the first output shafts 81 and the second output shaft 182 projecting from an element (according to this embodiment, the plate 151 and the wheel support hours 53 explained below) which forms the external envelope of the module for timepiece mechanism 121. Each first output shaft 81 and the second output shaft 182 are arranged parallel to each other and in positions distinct from each other. The second output shaft 182 rotates around the axis of rotation P2.

[0078] Figure 12 is a perspective view of the module for a timepiece mechanism according to the second embodiment seen from the front. FIG. 13 is a plan view of an internal configuration of the module for a timepiece mechanism according to the second embodiment seen from the front. It should be noted that, in FIGS. 12 and 13, the module for clockwork mechanism 121 is represented, where the relay card 24 is disposed therein.

As shown in Figures 12 and 13, the module for watch mechanism 121 comprises the first gear train 30A, the second gear train 30B, and a third gear train 130C, the stepping motor 40A which drives the first gear train 30A, the stepper motor 40B which drives the second gear train 30B, the stepper motor 40C which drives the third gear train 130C, the stage 151 and a gear bridge 152 which support the gear trains 30A, 30B, and 130C etc., the hour wheel support 53 (see Fig. 11) attached to the plate 151, and the center wheel bridge 54 disposed between the turntable 151 and gear train bridge 152.

[0080] The plate 151 forms a substrate for the timepiece mechanism module 121. The projecting section 151b protruding outwardly in the radial direction is formed at an edge of the plate 151. In other words, the stage 151 includes a main section 151a taking a hexagonal shape when viewed from the axial direction, and the projecting section 151b projecting outwardly in the radial direction from the end edge of the main section 151a s extends linearly in the axial direction. The main section 151a has a shape substantially identical to that of the plate 51 of the first embodiment. The protruding section 151b, taken in the axial direction, has a semi-circular shape centered on the axis of rotation P2.

The gear train bridge 152 is arranged at the front of the plate 151.

[0082] Figure 14 is a sectional view of the module for a timepiece mechanism according to the second embodiment.

As shown in Fig. 14, third gear train 130C transmits driving force from stepper motor 40C to second output shaft 182. Third gear train 130C includes sixth wheel set 37, a fifth wheel set 138, and an indicator mobile 139. The fifth mobile 138 comprises a fifth wheel 138a. Fifth mobile 138 is rotatably mounted between plate 151 and gear train bridge 152. Fifth wheel 138a is meshed with sixth pinion 37b of sixth mobile 37.

The mobile indicator 139 is arranged coaxially with respect to the axis of rotation P2. The indicator wheel set 139 includes a wheel shaft 139a and an indicator wheel 139b (a wheel) attached to the wheel shaft 139a. The wheel shaft 139a is rotatably mounted on the plate 151. The front end of the wheel shaft 139a is supported axially by the first plug 52a provided in the gear train bridge 152. The rear end of the wheel shaft 139a projects rearward from the plate 151. In other words, the wheel shaft 139a constitutes the second output shaft 182. The indicator hand 114 (see FIG. 10) is fixed to the rear end of the wheel shaft 139a. The indicator wheel 139b is arranged such that a part of the indicator wheel 139b covers the projecting section 151b when viewed in the axial direction (see Fig. 13). The indicator wheel 139b is meshed with the fifth wheel 138a of the fifth wheel set 138. The indicator wheel set 139 is held in compression towards the rear in the axial direction by a third dial washer 165 placed between the gear bridge of gear 152 and indicator wheel 139b.

Module frame

Figure 15 is a bottom view of the movement according to the second embodiment seen from the rear.

As shown in Fig. 15, the module frame 125 is formed, for example, of a resin material and has a disc shape having substantially the same diameter as the circuit block 23 (see Fig. 2). A module arrangement hole 125a is formed in the module frame 125. The module arrangement hole 125a passes right through the module frame 125 at its center in the axial direction. The module layout hole 125a has a shape corresponding to the module for timepiece mechanism 121 when the latter is seen in the axial direction. The clock mechanism module 121 is disposed in the module arrangement hole 125a. The clock mechanism module 121 is fixed to the module frame 125 in a state in which the clock mechanism module 121 is fixed to the circuit block 23.

[0087] In this way, the module for a watch mechanism 121 according to this embodiment comprises the first output shafts 81 (the hour wheel set 33 and the center wheel set 36) to which the hour hand 12 and the hour hand minutes 13 are fixed and the second output shaft 182 (the wheel shaft 139a) to which the indicator hand 114 is fixed, the second output shaft 182 rotating around the axis of rotation P2. Further, the timepiece mechanism module 121 includes the stepping motor 40A and the stepping motor 40B, which drive the first output shafts 81, and the stepping motor 40C which drives the second output shaft 182. The movement 110 according to this embodiment comprises the module for watch mechanism 121. Consequently, according to this embodiment, it is possible to perform the same actions and obtain the same effects as those of the module for watch mechanism 21 and of the movement 10 according to the first embodiment.

The module for watch mechanism 121 seen in the axial direction tends to grow as the distance between the first output shafts 81 and the second output shaft 182 increases. According to this embodiment, the projecting section 151b formed at the edge of the plate 151 covers at least part of the indicator wheel 139b. Therefore, the outer shape of the platen 151 is configured to extend along the shape of the indicator wheel 139b. Thus, compared with a configuration in which a platen having no built-in projecting section 151b carries the indicator wheel 139b, it is possible to reduce the area of the platen 151 taken in the axial direction. Therefore, it is possible to avoid any increase in size for the module for timepiece mechanism 121.

The distance between the axis of rotation P2 and the distal end of the indicator hand 114 is defined as being shorter than the distance between the axis of rotation P2 and the first output shafts 81. The amplitude of rotation of indicator hand 114 is configured to assume a circular shape. Therefore, it is possible to rotate the indicator hand 114 through 360°, and it is possible to rotate and move the indicator hand 114 to any position by performing only smooth rotation driving through of the 40C stepper motor. In other words, it is possible to rotate and move the indicator hand 114 to any position only in accordance with a regular rotation pulse input from the stepper motor 40C. Therefore, compared to a configuration where the rotational amount of an indicator hand is confined to an angle smaller than 360°, it is possible to more easily control the stepping motor 40C.

Third embodiment

In the following, a timepiece 201, a movement 210, and a module for a timepiece mechanism 221 will be explained according to a third embodiment. The module for watch mechanism 21 of the first embodiment drives the hour wheel 33 and the center wheel 36 using the stepping motor 40A and the stepping motor 40B. Here, the module for watch mechanism 221 according to the third embodiment differs from the module for watch mechanism 21 of the first embodiment in that the module for watch mechanism 221 drives the hour wheel 33 and the center wheel 36 only by through the stepping motor 40B.

timepiece

[0091] Figure 16 is a plan view of the timepiece according to the third embodiment.

As shown in Figure 16, the entire timepiece 201 comprises the movement 210, the dial 11, the hour hand 12, the minute hand 13, and the indicator hand 14.

The movement 210 is arranged between the dial 11 and a case back (not shown in the figure). The movement 210 comprises the module for watch mechanism 221 to which the hour hand 12, the minute hand 13, and the indicator hand 14 are fixed, the circuit block 23 (see FIG. 2) which is arranged at the front of the timepiece module 221 and controls the drive of the timepiece module 221, the relay board 24 (see Figure 2) which electronically connects the timepiece module 221 to the circuit block 23, and a module frame 225 (see figure 21) which carries the module for clockwork mechanism 221 and the circuit block 23.

Module of the watch mechanism

[0094] Figure 17 is a perspective view of the module for a timepiece mechanism according to the third embodiment seen from the rear.

As shown in Figure 17, the module for watch mechanism 221 comprises the first output shafts 81 and the second output shaft 82 projecting from an element (according to this embodiment, a plate 251 and a wheel support hours 253 explained below) which forms the external envelope of the module for watch mechanism 221.

[0096] Figure 18 is a perspective view of the module for a timepiece mechanism according to the third embodiment seen from the front. FIG. 19 is a plan view of an internal configuration of the module for a timepiece mechanism according to the third embodiment seen from the front. It should be noted that, in FIGS. 18 and 19, a state of the device is illustrated in which the relay card 24 is arranged in the module for timepiece mechanism 221.

As shown in Figures 18 and 19, the module for watch mechanism 221 comprises a first gear train 230A and the third gear train 30C, the stepping motor 40B which drives the first gear train 230A , the stepper motor 40C which drives the third gear train 30C, the turntable 251 and a gear train bridge 252 which support the gear train 230A and 30C etc., the hour wheel support 253 ( see Figure 17) attached to platen 251, and center wheel bridge 54 disposed between platen 251 and gear train bridge 252.

[0098] The plate 251 forms a substrate for the module for the watch mechanism 221. The plate 251 is configured in such a way that a part of the section which supports the stepper motor 40A is suppressed with respect to the plate 51 of the first embodiment.

The gear train bridge 252 is arranged at the front of the plate 251.

The hour wheel support 253 is attached to the back of the plate 251.

[0101] Figure 20 is a sectional view of the module for a timepiece mechanism according to the third embodiment.

As shown in Figure 20, the first gear train 230A transmits a driving force from the stepper motor 40B to the first output shafts 81. The first gear train 230A includes the first center intermediate mobile 34, the second intermediate mobile of center 35, a mobile of center 236, a mobile of minutes 61, and the mobile of hours 33.

[0103] The second mobile 236 is inserted through the central tube 62 from the front in the axial direction so as to be rotatable. In other words, the center wheel set 236 is arranged coaxially with respect to the axis of rotation O. The front end of the center wheel set 236 is carried by the center wheel bridge 54. The center wheel set 236 comprises the center 36a and a center pinion 236b. The center wheel set 236 is held in compression against the plate 251 by the second dial washer 64 placed between the center wheel bridge 54 and the center wheel 36a and is in contact with the front opening end of the central tube 62. The rear end of the center wheel set 236 protrudes rearward from the hour wheel support 253. In other words, the center wheel set 236 constitutes one of the first output shafts 81. The minute hand 13 ( see Figure 16) is attached to the rear distal end of center spindle 236.

[0104] The minutes wheel set 61 includes a minutes wheel 61a and a minutes pinion 61b. The minutes wheel set 61 is rotatably mounted between the plate 251 and the gear train bridge 252. The minutes wheel 61a is meshed with the center pinion 236b of the center wheel set 236. The minutes 61b is meshed with the hour wheel 33a of the hour wheel set 33.

Module frame

[0105] Figure 21 is a bottom view of the movement according to the third embodiment seen from the rear.

As shown in Fig. 21, the module frame 225 is formed, for example, of a resin material and has a disc shape having substantially the same diameter as the circuit block 23 (see Fig. 2). A module arrangement hole 225a is formed in the module frame 225. The module arrangement hole 225a passes through the module frame 225 through its center in the axial direction. The module arrangement hole 225a has a shape corresponding to the timepiece mechanism module 221 when the latter is seen from the axial direction. The watch mechanism module 221 is disposed in the module arrangement hole 225a. The clock mechanism module 221 is fixed to the module frame 225 in a state where it is fixed to the circuit block 23.

[0107] In this way, the module for a watch mechanism 221 according to this embodiment comprises the first output shafts 81 (the hour wheel set 33 and the center wheel set 236) to which the hour hand 12 and the hour hand minutes 13 are fixed and the second output shaft 82 (the wheel shaft 39a) to which the indicator hand 114 is fixed, the second output shaft 82 rotating around the axis of rotation P1. Furthermore, the module for watch mechanism 221 comprises the stepper motor 40B which drives the first output shafts 81 and the stepper motor 40C which drives the second output shaft 82. The movement 210 according to this embodiment comprises the module for watch mechanism 221. Consequently, according to this embodiment, it is possible to perform the same actions and benefit from the same effects as those of the module for watch mechanism 21 and the movement 10 of the first embodiment.

According to this embodiment, the hour wheel set 33 and the center wheel set 236, which are arranged coaxially, are driven by a stepping motor 40B. Consequently, compared to a configuration in which the hour wheel and the center wheel are driven by two stepping motors, it is possible to reduce the number of components constituting the module for watch mechanism 221, and thus to reduce the size of the module for watch mechanism 221.

Fourth Embodiment

In the following, a timepiece 301, a movement 310, and a module for a timepiece mechanism 321 according to a fourth embodiment will be explained in detail. The module for timepiece mechanism 21 of the first embodiment comprises three output shafts (the first two output shafts 81 and the second output shaft 82). Here, the timepiece mechanism module 321 in the fourth embodiment differs from the timepiece mechanism module 21 according to the first embodiment in that the timepiece mechanism module 321 comprises four output shafts (the first two output shafts 81, a second output shaft 382, and a third output shaft 383).

timepiece

[0110] Figure 22 is a plan view of the timepiece according to the fourth embodiment.

As shown in Figure 22, the entire timepiece 301 comprises the movement 310, a dial 311, the hour hand 12, the minute hand 13, an indicator hand 314A (forming a „second“ hand), and an indicator hand 314B (forming a „third“ hand). The indicator hand 314A and the indicator hand 314B respectively indicate information different from the time information indicated by the hour hand 12 and the minute hand 13 such as for example a type of execution mode for the timepiece. 301. The indicator hand 314A is fixed to the second output shaft 382 (see FIG. 23) included in the module for timepiece mechanism 321. The indicator hand 314A rotates around an axis of rotation P3 (which is the axis of the second output shaft 382) different from the axis of rotation O. The indicator hand 314B is fixed to the third output shaft 383 (see FIG. 23) included in the module for watch mechanism 321. The indicator hand 314B rotates around an axis of rotation P4 (which is the central axis of the third output shaft 383) different from the axis of rotation O and from the axis of rotation P3. The indicator hand 314B is arranged in the same position as the indicator hand 314A in the axial direction. The axis of rotation P3 and the axis of rotation P4 are respectively arranged parallel to the axis of rotation O.

[0112] The distance between the axis of rotation P3 and the distal end of the indicator hand 314A is longer than the distance between the axis of rotation P3 and each first output shaft 81 (see FIG. 23). Therefore, the amplitude of rotation of the indicator hand 314A is smaller than 360°, and is defined as a fan-shaped angular sector which avoids the first output shafts 81. In this embodiment, the rotational amount of indicator hand 314A is set at approximately 100°. The distance between the axis of rotation P4 and the distal end of the indicator hand 314B is longer than the distance between the axis of rotation P4 and each first output shaft 81 (see Fig. 23). Therefore, the amplitude of rotation of the indicator hand 314B is less than 360° and extends along a fan-shaped sector which avoids the first output shafts 81. According to this embodiment, the amount of rotation of indicator hand 314B is set at approximately 290°. The sum of the amount of rotation of the indicator hand 314A and that of the indicator hand 314B is greater than 360°.

The dial 311 comprises the main display area 15, a first sub-display area 316A corresponding to the indicator hand 314A, and a second sub-display area 316B corresponding to the indicator hand 314B. In the first sub-display area 316A, characters or the like pointed by the distal end of the indicator hand 314A are arranged side by side in an arcuate shape centered on the rotation axis P3 corresponding to the rotation amount indicator hand 314A. In this embodiment, the first sub-display zone 316A is capable of displaying, for example, a type of mode executed by the timepiece 301 as well as a date and a time depending on a combination with indicator hand 314A. In the second sub-display area 316B, a scale pointed by the distal end of the indicator hand 314B is arranged in an arcuate shape centered on the axis of rotation P4, and corresponds to the amount of rotation of the hand. indicator 314B. In this embodiment, the second sub-display area 316B is capable of displaying, for example, an execution rate of an activity counter against a target value, the remaining time of a timer, and a date in combination with indicator hand 314B.

Movement

[0114] Figure 23 is a sectional view of the timepiece according to the fourth embodiment.

As shown in Figure 23, the movement 310 is arranged between the dial 311 and a case back (not shown in the figure). The movement 310 comprises the module for a watch mechanism 321 to which the hour hand 12, the minute hand 13, the indicator hand 314A, and the indicator hand 314B are attached, the circuit block 23 which is arranged at the front of the clock mechanism module 321 and controls the drive of the clock mechanism module 321, the relay board 24 which electrically connects the clock mechanism module 321 to the circuit block 23, and a module frame 325 which carries the clock mechanism module watchmaker 321 and circuit block 23.

Module of the watch mechanism

[0116] FIG. 24 is a perspective view of the module for a timepiece mechanism according to the fourth embodiment seen from the rear.

As shown in Figure 24, the module for watch mechanism 321 comprises the first output shafts 81, the second output shaft 382, and the third output shaft 383 projecting from an element (in this embodiment, the plate 51 and the hour wheel support 53 explained below) which forms the external envelope of the module for the watch mechanism 321. Each first output shaft 81, the second output shaft 382, and the third output shaft 383 are arranged parallel to each other, but in different positions from each other. Each first output shaft 81 rotates around the axis of rotation O. The second output shaft 382 rotates around the axis of rotation P3. The third output shaft 383 rotates around the third axis of rotation P4.

[0118] FIG. 25 is a perspective view of the module for a timepiece mechanism according to the fourth embodiment seen from the front. FIG. 26 is a plan view of an internal configuration of the module for a timepiece mechanism according to the fourth embodiment seen from the front. It should be noted that, in FIGS. 25 and 26, the module for timepiece mechanism 321 is represented in a state where the relay card 24 is disposed therein.

As shown in Figure 26, the module for watch mechanism 321 comprises a first gear train 330A, a second gear train 330B, and a third gear train 330C, the stepping motor 40A which drives the first gear train 330A, the stepper motor 40B (forming a "second" motor) which drives the second gear train 330B, the stepper motor 40C (forming a "third" motor) which drives the third gear train 330C, plate 51 and gear train bridge 52 (see Figure 25) which carry gear trains 330A through 330C and the like, hour wheel support 53 (see Figure 24) fixed to the plate 51, and the center wheel bridge 54 disposed between the plate 51 and the gear train bridge 52.

[0120] FIG. 27 is a sectional view of the module for a timepiece mechanism according to the fourth embodiment.

As shown in Figure 27, the first gear train 330A transmits driving force from the stepper motor 40A to the second output shaft 382. The first gear train 330A includes an intermediate indicator wheel set 331 and a first indicator wheel set 332. The intermediate indicator wheel set 331 comprises an intermediate indicator wheel 331a and an intermediate indicator pinion 331b. The intermediate indicator mobile 331 is rotatably mounted between the plate 51 and the gear train bridge 52. The intermediate indicator wheel 331a is meshed with the pinion 45a of the rotor 45 of the stepping motor 40A.

The first mobile indicator 332 is arranged coaxially with respect to the axis of rotation P3. The first indicator mobile 332 comprises a wheel shaft 332a and an indicator wheel 332b fixed to the wheel shaft 332a. The wheel shaft 332a is rotatably mounted with respect to the plate 51. The front end of the wheel shaft 332a is axially supported by a third plug 52c provided in the gear train bridge 52. The rear end of the wheel shaft 332a projects towards the rear of the plate 51. In other words, the wheel shaft 332a constitutes the second output shaft 382. The indicator hand 314A is fixed to the rear end of the wheel shaft 332a (see Figure 23). The indicator wheel 332b is meshed with the intermediate indicator pinion 331b of the intermediate indicator wheel set 331. The first indicator wheel set 332 is held in compression against the plate 51 by a fourth dial washer 66 disposed between the axle gear bridge gear 52 and indicator wheel 332b.

As shown in Fig. 26, the second gear train 330B is configured the same as the first gear train 230A of the third embodiment.

As shown in Figs. 23 and 26, third gear train 330C transmits driving force from stepper motor 40C to third output shaft 383. Third gear train 330C is configured the same as the third gear train 30C of the first embodiment. The mobile indicator 39 of the third gear train 330C is arranged coaxially with respect to the axis of rotation P4. In other words, the wheel shaft 39a of the mobile indicator 39 constitutes the third output shaft 383. The indicator needle 314B is fixed to the rear end of the wheel shaft 39a of the mobile indicator 39.

As shown in Figure 26, the indicator wheel 39b of the mobile indicator 39 is arranged such that it covers the hour wheel 33a (see Figure 27) of the hour mobile 33 and the center wheel 36a of the center mobile 236 when viewed from the axial direction. The indicator wheel 39b is arranged such that, when viewed from the axial direction, part of the indicator wheel 39b covers the inside of an area R surrounded by segments which connect the axes of rotation of all the wheels with the exception of the mobile indicator 39 among the wheels forming the second gear train 330B and the wheels forming the third gear train 330C.

Module frame

[0126] Figure 28 is a bottom view of the movement according to the fourth embodiment seen from the rear.

As shown in Fig. 28, the module frame 325 is formed, for example, of a resin material and has a disc shape having substantially the same diameter as the circuit block 23 (see Fig. 23). A module arrangement hole 325a is formed in the module frame 325. The module arrangement hole 325a passes through the module frame 325 through its center in the axial direction. The module arrangement hole 325a has a shape corresponding to the timepiece mechanism module 321 when viewed from the axial direction. The clock mechanism module 321 is disposed in the module arrangement hole 325a. As shown in Fig. 23, the clock mechanism module 321 is fixed to the module frame 325 in a state where it is fixed to the circuit block 23 by a plurality of screws 60.

[0128] In this way, the module for a watch mechanism 321 according to this embodiment comprises the first output shafts 81 (the hour wheel set 33 and the center wheel set 236) to which the hour hand 12 and the hour hand minutes 13 are fixed, the second output shaft 382 (the wheel shaft 332a) to which the indicator hand 314A is fixed, the second output shaft 382 rotating around the axis of rotation P3, and the third output shaft 383 (the wheel shaft 39a) to which the indicator hand 314B is fixed, the third output shaft 383 rotating around the third axis of rotation P4. Further, the timepiece mechanism module 321 includes the stepper motor 40B which drives the first output shafts 81, the stepper motor 40A which drives the second output shaft 382, and the stepper motor 40C which drives the third output shaft 383. In this embodiment, the movement 310 comprises the module for a timepiece mechanism 321. Therefore, according to this embodiment, it is possible to make the indicator hand 314B indicate information different from those indicated by the hour hand 12 and the minute hand 13 fixed to the first output shafts 81 and information indicated by the indicator hand 314A fixed to the second output shaft 382. Consequently, it is possible to so that the module for watch mechanism 321 is capable of simultaneously displaying several kinds of information.

The module for a watch mechanism 321 comprises the first output shafts 81, the second output shaft 382 which rotates around an axis of rotation different from the axis of rotation of the first output shafts 81, and the third shaft output shaft 383 which rotates around an axis of rotation different from the axes of rotation of the first output shafts 81 and the second output shaft 382. Therefore, compared to a configuration in which three output shafts arranged using three modules of mechanism, it is possible to reduce the space occupied by the mechanism module. Consequently, it is possible to reduce the size of a timepiece which would be equipped with the module for timepiece mechanism 321.

According to this embodiment, the hour wheel set 33 and the center wheel set 236, which are arranged coaxially with respect to each other, are driven by a stepper motor 40B. Consequently, compared to a configuration in which the hour wheel and the center wheel are driven by two stepper motors, it is possible to reduce the number of components constituting the module for watch mechanism 321 and thus to reduce the size of the module. module for watch mechanism 321.

[0131] The hour wheel 33a and the center wheel 36a attached to the first output shafts 81 and the indicator wheel 39b attached to the third output shaft 383 are arranged such that they overlap each other when viewed from the axial direction. Consequently, it is possible to arrange each first output shaft 81 and the third output shaft 383 close to each other. Consequently, it is possible to reduce the external shape of the module for watch mechanism 321 seen in the axial direction.

[0132] The distance between the axis of rotation P3 and the distal end of the indicator hand 314A is defined as being longer than the distance between the axis of rotation P3 and the first output shafts 81. The amplitude of rotation of indicator hand 314A extends over a fan-shaped sector. Therefore, it is possible to rotate the indicator hand 314A through an angular amplitude where the indicator hand 314A is not caused to come into contact with the first output shafts 81. The same applies to the indicator hand 314B. Thus, compared to the case where an indicator hand is used with an amplitude of rotation fixed at 360°, it is possible to indicate, with a longer indicator hand 314A and a longer indicator hand 314B, information different from the time information indicated. by the 12 hour hand and the 13 minute hand.

[0133] Further, the sum of the central angle of the rotation amount of the indicator hand 314A and the central angle of the rotation amount of the indicator hand 314B is greater than 360°. Therefore, compared to the case where information different from the information indicated by the hour hand 12 and the minute hand 13 is indicated by using a single hand, the amount of rotation thereof being 360° or less. , it is possible to indicate a greater number of kinds of information. Therefore, it is possible to provide a timepiece 301 which can display more kinds of information, which can be visually easily recognizable.

[0134] It should be noted that, according to this embodiment, the indicator hand 314A and the indicator hand 314B are arranged in the same position in the axial direction. The first sub-display area 316A and the second sub-display area 316B are not arranged to overlap each other when viewed from the axial direction. However, indicator needle 314A and indicator needle 314B may be arranged in different positions along the axial direction. The first sub-display area and the second sub-display area may be arranged such that they overlap each other when viewed from the axial direction.

Fifth Embodiment

In the following, a timepiece 401, a movement 410, and a module for a timepiece mechanism 421 according to a fifth embodiment will be explained in detail. Timepiece 401 of the fifth embodiment differs from timepiece 1 of the first embodiment in that timepiece 401 includes a seconds hand 18.

timepiece

[0136] Figure 29 is a plan view of the timepiece according to the fifth embodiment.

As shown in Figure 29, the entire timepiece 401 comprises the movement 410, a dial 411, the hour hand 12, the minute hand 13, a second hand 18, and a 314A indicator hand. In this embodiment, the amount of rotation of indicator hand 314A is fixed at approximately 150°. Dial 411 includes a main display area 15 and a first sub-display area 316A.

Movement

[0138] Figure 30 is a sectional view of the timepiece according to the fifth embodiment.

As shown in Figure 30, the movement 410 is arranged between the dial 411 and a case back (not shown in the figure). The movement 410 comprises the module for watch mechanism 421 to which the hour hand 12, the minute hand 13, the second hand 18, and the indicator hand 314A are fixed, the circuit block 23 which is arranged at the front of the timepiece module 421 and controls the drive of the timepiece module 421, the relay board 24 which electrically connects the timepiece module 421 to the circuit block 23, and a module frame 425 which carries the module for clockwork mechanism 421 and circuit block 23.

Mechanism module

[0140] FIG. 31 is a perspective view of the module for a timepiece mechanism according to the fifth embodiment seen from the rear.

As shown in FIG. 31, the module for the watch mechanism 421 comprises first output shafts 481, and the second output shaft 382 projecting from an element (according to this embodiment, the plate 51 and the hour wheel 53 explained below) which forms the external envelope of the module for watch mechanism 421. Each first output shaft 481 and the second output shaft 382 are arranged parallel to each other and in separate positions from each other. The first output shafts 481 rotate around the axis of rotation O.

[0142] FIG. 32 is a perspective view of the module for a timepiece mechanism according to the fifth embodiment seen from the front. FIG. 33 is a plan view of an internal configuration of the timepiece mechanism module according to the fifth embodiment seen from the front. It should be noted that, in FIGS. 32 and 33, the module for timepiece mechanism 421 is shown in a state where the relay card 24 is disposed therein.

As shown in Figure 33, the module for watch mechanism 421 comprises a first gear train 330A, a second gear train 430B, and a third gear train 430C, the stepping motor 40A which drives the first gear train 330A, the stepper motor 40B which drives the second gear train 430B, the stepper motor 40C which drives the third gear train 430C, the platen 51 and the gear train bridge gear 52 (see Fig. 32) which support the gear trains 330A, 430B and 430C and the like, the hour wheel support 53 (see Fig. 31) fixed to the plate 51, and the center wheel bridge 54 disposed between the plate 51 and the gear train bridge 52.

The second gear train 430B transmits driving force from the stepper motor 40B to two of the first output shafts 481 (see Fig. 30). The second gear train 430B is configured the same as the first gear train 230A of the third embodiment. The hour wheel set 33 and the center wheel set 236 constitute first output shafts 481 (see FIG. 30).

[0145] FIG. 34 is a sectional view of the module for a timepiece mechanism according to the fifth embodiment.

As shown in Fig. 34, the third gear train 430C transmits motive power from the stepper motor 40C to one of the first output shafts 481. The third gear train 430C includes a sixth mobile 437 , a fifth mobile 438, and a second mobile 439. The sixth mobile 437 comprises a sixth wheel 437a and a sixth pinion 437b. The sixth mobile 437 is mounted so as to be able to rotate between the plate 51 and the gear train bridge 52. The sixth wheel 437a is in gear engagement with the pinion 45a of the rotor 45 of the stepper motor 40C. The fifth mobile 438 includes a fifth wheel 438a and a fifth pinion 438b. Fifth mobile 438 is rotatably mounted between plate 51 and gear train bridge 52. Fifth wheel 438a is meshed with sixth pinion 437b of sixth mobile 437.

The second mobile 439 is arranged coaxially with respect to the axis of rotation O. The second mobile 439 comprises a wheel shaft 439a and a second wheel 439b fixed to the wheel shaft 439a. Wheel shaft 439a is inserted through center wheel set 236 and rotatably carried by second wheel set 236. The front end of wheel shaft 439a is axially supported by a fourth plug 52d provided in the axle bridge. gear train 52. The rear end of the wheel shaft 439a protrudes rearward from the plate 51. In other words, the wheel shaft 439a constitutes one of the first output shafts 481. The needle of the seconds 18 is attached to the rear end of the wheel shaft 439a (see Figure 30). The second wheel 439b is in gear engagement with the fifth pinion 438b of the fifth mobile 438. The second mobile 439 is held in compression against the plate 51 by a fifth dial washer 67 disposed between the gear train bridge 52 and the second wheel 439b.

Module frame

[0148] Figure 35 is a bottom view of the movement according to the fifth embodiment seen from the rear.

As shown in Fig. 35, the module frame 425 is formed, for example, of a resin material and has a disc shape having substantially the same diameter as the circuit block 23 (see Fig. 30). A module arrangement hole 425a is formed in the module frame 425. The module arrangement hole 425a passes through the module frame 425 through its center in the axial direction. The module arrangement hole 425a has a shape corresponding to the timepiece mechanism module 421 when viewed from the axial direction. The watch mechanism module 421 is disposed in the module arrangement hole 425a. As shown in Fig. 30, the clock mechanism module 421 is fixed to the module frame 425 in a state where it is fixed to the circuit block 23 by a plurality of screws 60.

[0150] In this way, the module for a watch mechanism 421 in this embodiment comprises the first output shafts 481 (the hour wheel set 33, the center wheel set 236, and the wheel shaft 439a) to which the hand hour 12, minute hand 13, and second hand 18 are attached and second output shaft 382 (wheel shaft 332a) to which indicator hand 314A is attached, second output shaft 382 rotating around the axis of rotation P3. Further, the timepiece mechanism module 421 includes the stepping motor 40B and the stepping motor 40C which drive the first output shafts 481, and the stepping motor 40A which drives the second output shaft 382. The movement 410 according to this embodiment comprises the module for watch mechanism 421. Consequently, according to this embodiment, it is possible to perform the same actions and obtain the same effects as those of the module for watch mechanism 21 and of the movement 10 of the first embodiment.

According to this embodiment, the hour wheel set 33 and the center wheel set 236, which are arranged coaxially, are driven by a stepping motor 40B. Consequently, compared to a configuration in which the hour wheel and the center wheel are driven by two stepping motors, it is possible to reduce the number of components constituting the module for watch mechanism 221. It is thus possible to reduce the size of the module for watch mechanism 421.

Sixth Embodiment

In what follows, we will describe a timepiece 501, a movement 510, and a module for a timepiece mechanism 521 according to a sixth embodiment. The sixth embodiment differs from the fifth embodiment in that the timepiece 501 does not include a seconds hand 18, and the timepiece mechanism module 521 does not include a stepper motor 40C and third train of 430C gear.

timepiece

[0153] Figure 36 is a plan view of the timepiece according to the sixth embodiment.

As shown in Figure 36, the entire timepiece 501 comprises the movement 510, the dial 411, the hour hand 12, the minute hand 13, and an indicator hand 314A.

Movement

[0155] Figure 37 is a sectional view of the timepiece according to the sixth embodiment.

As shown in Figure 37, the movement 510 is arranged between the dial 411 and a case back (not shown in the figure). The movement 510 comprises the module for the watch mechanism 521 to which the hour hand 12, the minute hand 13, and the indicator hand 314A are fixed, the circuit block 23 which is arranged at the front of the module for the watch mechanism 521 and controls the drive of the clock mechanism module 521, the relay board 24 which electrically connects the clock mechanism module 521 and the circuit block 23, and a module frame 525 which carries the clock mechanism module 521 and the block route 23.

Mechanism module

[0157] FIG. 38 is a perspective view of the module for a timepiece mechanism according to the sixth embodiment seen from the rear.

[0158] As shown in Figure 38, the module for watch mechanism 521 comprises the first output shafts 81 and the second output shaft 382 projecting from an element (according to this embodiment, a plate 551 and a wheel support hours 553 explained below) which forms the external envelope of the module for watch mechanism 521.

[0159] FIG. 39 is a perspective view of the module for a timepiece mechanism according to the sixth embodiment seen from the front. FIG. 40 is a plan view of an internal configuration of the timepiece mechanism module according to the sixth embodiment seen from the front. It should be noted that, in Figs. 39 and 40, there is illustrated a state in which the relay board 24 is disposed in the module for clock mechanism 521.

As represented in FIG. 40, the module for a watch mechanism 521 comprises a first gear train 330A and a second gear train 330B, the stepping motor 40A which drives the first gear train 330A, the stepper motor 40B which drives the second gear train 330B, a platen 551 and a gear train bridge 552 (see Fig. 39) which support the gear trains 330A and 330B, an hour wheel support 553 (see Figure 38) attached to platen 551, and center wheel bridge 54 disposed between platen 551 and gear train bridge 552.

[0161] Stage 551 forms a substrate for timepiece mechanism module 521. Stage 551 is configured such that part of a section that supports stepper motor 40C is removed from stage 51 of the fifth mode. of achievement.

[0162] As shown in Figure 39, the gear train bridge 552 is arranged at the front of the plate 551.

As shown in Figure 38, the hour wheel support 553 is fixed to the rear of the plate 551.

Module frame

[0164] Figure 41 is a bottom view of the movement according to the sixth embodiment seen from the rear.

As shown in Fig. 41, module frame 525 is formed, for example, of a resin material and in the form of a disk having substantially the same diameter as circuit block 23 (see Fig. 37). A module arrangement hole 525a is formed in the module frame 525. The module arrangement hole 525a passes through the module frame 525 through its center in the axial direction. The module arrangement hole 525a has a shape corresponding to that of the timepiece mechanism module 521 when the latter is seen from the axial direction. The clock mechanism module 521 is disposed in the module arrangement hole 525a. As shown in Fig. 37, the timepiece mechanism module 521 is fixed to the module frame 525 in a state where it is fixed to the circuit block 23 by several screws 60.

[0166] In this way, the module for a watch mechanism 521 according to this embodiment comprises the first output shafts 81 (the hour wheel set 33 and the center wheel set 236) to which the hour hand 12 and the hour hand minutes 13 are fixed and the second output shaft 382 (the wheel shaft 332a) to which the indicator hand 314A is fixed, the second output shaft 382 rotating around the axis of rotation P3. Furthermore, the module for clockwork mechanism 521 comprises the stepper motor 40B which drives the first output shafts 81 and the stepper motor 40A which drives the second output shaft 382. The movement 510 according to this embodiment comprises the module for timepiece mechanism 521. Therefore, according to this embodiment, it is possible to perform the same actions and obtain the same effects as those of the module for timepiece mechanism 21 and the movement 10 of the first embodiment.

In this embodiment, the hour wheel set 33 and the center wheel set 236, which are arranged coaxially, are driven by a stepping motor 40B. Consequently, compared to a configuration in which the hour wheel and the center wheel are driven by two stepping motors, it is possible to reduce the number of components configuring the module for timepiece mechanism 521. Thus, it is possible to reduce the size of the module for watch mechanism 521.

It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments explained above with reference to the drawings.

For example, in the embodiments described, examples are detailed in which the present invention is applied to a timepiece of the analog quartz type. However, the present invention can also be applied to a mixed-type quartz timepiece, that is to say performing both an analog display and a digital display.

In the embodiments described, an example is given where the module for a timepiece mechanism comprises two or three stepper motors. However, the present invention is not limited to this: the module for a watch mechanism could include four or more stepper motors.

In the embodiments described, the second output shaft which rotates around the axis of rotation different from the axis of rotation O is arranged at a given location. However, the present invention is not limited thereto either. The second output shafts can potentially be arranged in several different places.

[0172] Moreover, it is possible to replace the components of the embodiments explained above by well-known components according to the needs insofar as they do not depart from the spirit of the present invention. The embodiments explained above can also be combined as needed.

Claims (11)

1. Module for watch mechanism (21,121,221,321,421,521) comprising: a first output shaft (81, 481) for attaching a first needle (12,13,18) thereto; a second output shaft (82, 182, 382) for fixing thereto a second needle (14, 114, 314A), the second output shaft (82, 182, 382) having a central axis of rotation (P1, P2, P3 ) different from a central axis of rotation (O) of the first output shaft (81, 481); a first motor which drives the first output shaft (81, 481); and a second motor which drives the second output shaft (82, 182, 382). 2. Module for a timepiece mechanism (21, 121, 221, 321, 421, 521) according to claim 1, in which the first output shaft is one of several output shafts (81, 481) arranged coaxially. 3. Module for a timepiece mechanism (121) according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising: a gear train which transmits driving force from the second motor to the second output shaft (182); and a plate (151) which carries the gear train, the gear train including a wheel attached to the second output shaft (182), the platen (151) having a projecting section (151b), which projects outward in a radial direction with respect to the first output shaft (81) and which is formed at an edge of the platen ( 151), and the projecting section (151b) being arranged to cover at least part of the wheel when the latter is seen in the axial direction of the first output shaft (81). 4. Module for watch mechanism (21,121,221,321,421,521) according to one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising: a first wheel attached to the first output shaft (81,481); and a second wheel fixed to the second output shaft (82,182,382), the second wheel being arranged to cover the first wheel when the latter is seen in the axial direction of the first output shaft (81,481). 5. Module for watch mechanism (321) according to one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising: a third output shaft (383) for attaching a third needle (3148) thereto, the third output shaft (383) having a central axis of rotation (P4) different from the central axis of rotation (O) of the first output (81) and the central axis of rotation (P3) of the second output shaft (382); and a third motor which drives the third output shaft (383). 6. Movement (10,110 210,310,410,510) comprising a module for watch mechanism (21,121,221,321,421,521) according to one of claims 1 to 5. 7. Timepiece (1) comprising: a movement (10,110,210,310,410,510) according to claim 6; the first needle (12,13,18), and the second needle (14,114,314A). 8. Timepiece (1) according to claim 7, in which the distance between the center axis of rotation of the second output shaft (82.382) and the distal end of the second needle (14.314A) is adjusted to be greater than the distance between the center axis of rotation of the second output shaft output (82.382) and the first output shaft (81.481), and the amplitude of rotation of the second hand (14.314A) extends over a fan-shaped sector. 9. Timepiece (1) according to claim 7, in which the distance between the central axis of rotation of the second output shaft (182) and the distal end of the second needle (114) is adjusted to be smaller than that between the central axis of rotation of the second output shaft ( 182) and the first output shaft (81.481), and the second needle (114) is able to rotate 360°. 10. Timepiece (1) comprising: a movement (310) including the timepiece mechanism module (321) according to claim 5; the first needle (12,13); the second needle (314A); and the third needle (314B). 11. Timepiece (1) according to claim 10, in which the distance between the central axis of rotation of the second output shaft (382) and the distal end of the second needle (314A) is adjusted to be greater than the distance between the central axis of rotation of the second output shaft (382) and the first output shaft (81), the distance between the central axis of rotation of the third output shaft (383) and the distal end of the third needle (314B) is adjusted to be greater than the distance between the central axis of rotation of the third output shaft (383) and the first output shaft (81), the rotational amount of the second hand (314A) and the rotational amount of the third hand (314B) extend over fan-shaped sectors, and the sum of the central angles corresponding respectively to the rotation amplitude of the second hand (314A) and to the rotation amplitude of the third hand (314B) is greater than 360°.