EP0935431B1 - Rigid band in particular for watch - Google Patents

Rigid band in particular for watch Download PDF

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Publication number
EP0935431B1
EP0935431B1 EP97912287A EP97912287A EP0935431B1 EP 0935431 B1 EP0935431 B1 EP 0935431B1 EP 97912287 A EP97912287 A EP 97912287A EP 97912287 A EP97912287 A EP 97912287A EP 0935431 B1 EP0935431 B1 EP 0935431B1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
links
link
groove
band
connecting element
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Expired - Lifetime
Application number
EP97912287A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP0935431A1 (en
Inventor
Claude Grossiord
Sonia Ausgburger
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Chanel SARL
Original Assignee
G&F Chatelain SA
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Publication date
Application filed by G&F Chatelain SA filed Critical G&F Chatelain SA
Publication of EP0935431A1 publication Critical patent/EP0935431A1/en
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Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
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Classifications

    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A44HABERDASHERY; JEWELLERY
    • A44CPERSONAL ADORNMENTS, e.g. JEWELLERY; COINS
    • A44C5/00Bracelets; Wrist-watch straps; Fastenings for bracelets or wrist-watch straps
    • A44C5/02Link constructions
    • A44C5/10Link constructions not extensible
    • A44C5/107Link constructions not extensible with links made of more than two elements including connecting elements

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to watch straps metallic, and more particularly those formed a plurality of rigid links hinged together others.
  • Metal bracelets of the aforementioned type are usually made up of two sets of elements essential, namely links and elements of link which maintain these links between them.
  • the links, as well as their connecting elements, usually have a complex cross section and are generally obtained from profiled elements specially formed by spinning.
  • the object of the present invention is to remedy these various drawbacks by offering a wristwatch from rigid type in which the links that constitute it don't come into contact with each other, when the bracelet is in the use position, that is to say when it is on the wrist of a user, which avoids problems previously mentioned.
  • the present invention further aim to offer a rigid type watch strap which we can check the overall shape of the two half-bracelets which constitute it when it is in non-use position.
  • each part of the connecting element taking place in said groove has a transverse light capable of receiving a stop element integral with the link, the length of the light and the width of said stop being such that they allow you to adjust the angle of rotation possible of the connecting element with respect to each of links.
  • the center of curvature of the groove made in each of the links is arranged on an axis perpendicular to the base surface of the link and is distant, in position of maximum retraction of the bracelet, transverse sides of this link of a value equal to half the spacing that one wish to have between the adjacent links in position maximum retraction of the bracelet.
  • each of the links consists of at least two parts joined together, namely a lower part and a upper part, the facing surfaces of these two parts being machined in such a way that when are assembled, they form the above groove.
  • the link consists of two solidary elements namely a basic element and a superior element.
  • the stop element consists of a cylindrical pin which takes place in a recess provided on the element of base of the link.
  • Figure 1 is a schematic sectional view along the longitudinal axis of the bracelet with two links and a connecting element according to the previous state of the before putting the bracelet on the wrist of a user (position of non-use).
  • Figure 1a is a schematic sectional view along the longitudinal axis of the bracelet with two links and the connecting element shown in Figure 1, a times the bracelet placed on the wrist of a user (position of use).
  • Figure 2 is: a schematic sectional view along the longitudinal axis of the bracelet of a variant of production of two links and a connecting element according to the prior art.
  • Figure 3 is a sectional view along the axis longitudinal of the bracelet of three links of a watch bracelet according to the invention and connecting elements which maintain them, the two links on the left being in the non-use position and the two links right being in position of use.
  • Figure 4 is a perspective view of the two right links and their next connecting element the invention shown in Figure 3.
  • Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of a connecting element according to the invention.
  • Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of a mode of implementation of a link according to the invention.
  • Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of a variant of implementing a bracelet link according to the invention.
  • Figure 8 is a perspective view of a variant of implementing two links of a following bracelet the invention.
  • Figure 9 is a perspective view of a variant for implementing a bracelet according to the invention.
  • FIG. 9a is a cross-sectional view of the links shown in Figure 9.
  • Figure 10 is a partial sectional view, along the longitudinal axis of the bracelet, of another variant of implementation of the invention.
  • Figures 1 and 1a show two parts of two adjacent links 1 ′ of a metal bracelet, which are joined by a following connecting element 7 ' the prior art.
  • each of the transverse sides 6 'of the links 1 ′ is hollowed out, over its entire width, by a cavity 4 ', substantially circular cavity which opens out on the outside, and the connecting element 7 'which extends over the entire width of the links 1 'consists of a transverse element which takes up again, with a necessary clearance upon movement, the shape of each of these cavities 4 'and which takes place in them.
  • the expected game between cavities 4 'and the connecting element 7' allows, as shown in Figure 1a, a relative rotation of two links that are adjacent to each other, so that the bracelet can be put on the user's wrist.
  • FIGS. 3 to 6 show a mode of placing using a bracelet according to the invention.
  • each link 1 of the bracelet consists of three elements, namely a basic element 2, an element upper 3 and stops 5. Connecting elements 7 keep links 1 together.
  • the base element 2 and the upper element 3 are machined so as to provide between them, when they are assembled, a groove 9 whose cross section is in the form of an arc of a circle, and which extends over the entire length a of each link 1.
  • the base element 2 comprises, in two zones close to its ends, a hole 8 and the upper element 3 comprises, opposite, a hole corresponding thread 8 ', so that two screws 10 can maintain the two elements 2 and 3 forming the link 1.
  • Each connecting element 7 consists of a angular portion of cylindrical tube, which gives it thus a form of tile, the thickness of which is such that it can take place, sliding, in the groove 9 provided between the base element 2 and the element upper 3.
  • the lower wall of the groove 9 is pierced with four cylindrical blind holes 14 whose axis xx 'is inclined by an angle ⁇ of about 45 ° relative to the base surface 11 of the base element 2, in each which takes place a cylindrical stud 5 forming abutment office.
  • the connecting elements 7 include lights 13 elongated in their transverse direction, so as to receive the nipples 5 and allow rotation of the connecting element 7 with respect to the link 1.
  • the opening angle ⁇ of the light 13 and the diameter d of the studs 5 will be determined to adjust, during construction, the possible angle ⁇ of relative rotation of the link 1 relative to the connecting element 7, as shown in Figure 5.
  • each end of the lumen 13 thus forms a stop which limits the rotation of the connecting element in the groove 9.
  • the outer end 13a light 13 forms an external stop which limits the extension of the bracelet
  • the end 13b thereof forms an internal stop which limits the retraction of the bracelet.
  • the bracelet is in maximum extension when the pins 5 are in contact with the external stops 13a of the respective lights 13, and is in maximum retraction when the pins 5 are in contact with the internal stops 13b of the lights 13.
  • the center O of the groove 9 made in each of the links 1 will be arranged on an axis of symmetry uu ', perpendicular to the base surface 11 of these links, which will be located at equal distance (e / 2) of the transverse opposite sides 6 of the adjacent links 1, when these are in the maximum retraction position, that is to say when the pins 5 are in contact with the internal ends 13b of the slots 13 .
  • each connecting element 7 slides in each of the grooves 9 of the links 1, the movement carried out by the different elements present is a sliding movement, not a movement of rotation around an axis, as is the case in devices of the prior art.
  • the links 1 may also consist of a single part element, which can be obtained in particular by a spinning process.
  • the stops 5 ′ may be made up of nipples 16, extending a threaded part 18 which is screwed into the link 1 from its base.
  • the stop means can also be made other than by nipples. So on Figures 9 and 9a, the four lower corners of the upper element 3 form a stop 20 which takes place in a lumen 13 'of the connecting element 7.
  • the top element 3 of link 1 can be made in several parts 3a secured to the base element, in particular by screwing means, as described above and shown in Figures 3 and 6, these parts 3a can consist of metals of nature and / or color different.
  • Such an implementation mode thus lends itself particularly good at many variations aesthetic.
  • the present invention thus makes it possible to dissociate the aesthetic elements from the elements functional, which gives the designer a great freedom in his designs.
  • the present invention due to the simplicity of the forms of the elements which it implements, lends itself particularly good at making a bracelet by stamping techniques.
  • the links will be thus formed into two elements namely, an element of base and a top element, and will be joined by a connecting element.
  • the stops can be formed on the basic element, especially during stamping, by creation of a punch in the material and folding of the hallmarked part.

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  • Buckles (AREA)
  • Adornments (AREA)
  • Electric Clocks (AREA)

Description

La présente invention concerne les bracelets-montres métalliques, et plus particulièrement ceux constitués d'une pluralité de maillons rigides articulés les uns sur les autres.The present invention relates to watch straps metallic, and more particularly those formed a plurality of rigid links hinged together others.

Les bracelets métalliques du type précité sont habituellement formés de deux séries d'éléments essentiels, à savoir des maillons et des éléments de liaison qui assurent le maintien de ces maillons entre eux. Les maillons, ainsi que leurs éléments de liaison, possèdent habituellement une section droite complexe et sont généralement obtenus à partir d'éléments profilés formés notamment par filage.Metal bracelets of the aforementioned type are usually made up of two sets of elements essential, namely links and elements of link which maintain these links between them. The links, as well as their connecting elements, usually have a complex cross section and are generally obtained from profiled elements specially formed by spinning.

Bien que dans les bracelets métalliques de l'état antérieur de la technique les modes de liaison utilisés pour assurer le maintien des maillons soient d'une grande diversité, ils possèdent dans leur ensemble une partie mâle qui vient s'articuler dans une partie femelle de forme complémentaire creusée dans le maillon. Une telle disposition permet une rotation des maillons du bracelet les uns par rapport aux autres d'une part dans un sens dit normal, c'est-à-dire dans le sens qui permet son positionnement autour du poignet de l'utilisateur, et d'autre part en sens opposé. Dans ces dispositifs, aussi bien lorsque, au repos, on plie le bracelet dans le sens normal que dans le sens opposé, on arrive à une position de blocage de celui-ci qui se produit lorsque les maillons adjacents viennent en contact respectif les uns avec les autres.Although in the metal bracelets of the state prior art the link modes used to maintain the links are of great diversity they have a whole part male which comes to articulate in a female part of complementary shape carved into the link. Such a arrangement allows rotation of the bracelet links relative to each other on the one hand in a sense says normal, that is to say in the sense that allows its positioning around the user's wrist, and on the other hand in the opposite direction. In these devices, too well when, at rest, we fold the bracelet in the direction normal that in the opposite direction, we arrive at a position blocking of it which occurs when the adjacent links come into respective contact with each other with the others.

Il s'avère que, dans ces positions, si l'utilisateur exerce un effort soutenu sur le bracelet, il crée, en raison du bras de levier constitué par les maillons, un couple tel que les maillons, ou les éléments de liaison qui les maintiennent, les plus faibles sont amenés très facilement à la rupture.It turns out that, in these positions, if the user exerts a sustained effort on the bracelet, it creates, because of the lever arm formed by the links, a torque such as links, or connecting elements who keep them, the weakest are brought very easily at break.

De plus, la forme globale prise par le bracelet, dans chacune de ces deux positions, est quasiment impossible à contrôler, en raison de ce que, les tolérances d'usinage qui existent sur les différents maillons ont pour effet de produire, en raison de la superposition de ces tolérances, des formes de bracelet qui varient non seulement d'un exemplaire à un autre, mais également d'un demi-bracelet à un autre. Bien qu'un tel inconvénient n'ait sur le plan pratique aucune conséquence sur le bon comportement mécanique des bracelets, il a néanmoins pour effet d'être particulièrement inesthétique.In addition, the overall shape taken by the bracelet, in each of these two positions is almost impossible to check, due to that, the machining tolerances that exist on the different links have the effect to produce, due to the superposition of these tolerances, bracelet shapes that vary not only from one copy to another, but also from one half bracelet to another. Although such a drawback has no practical effect on the good mechanical behavior of the bracelets, it nevertheless has effect of being particularly unsightly.

Par ailleurs, lors de la mise en place du bracelet sur le poignet de l'utilisateur, les maillons passant d'une position dans laquelle ils sont écartés les uns des autres à une position dans laquelle ils viennent en contact, ont tendance à emprisonner entre eux, au cours de ce mouvement, des poils du bras de l'utilisateur, ce qui est de nature à causer une gêne notable à celui-ci.Furthermore, when putting on the bracelet on the user's wrist, the links passing from a position in which they are separated from each other others to a position in which they come in contact, tend to trap them, during from this movement, hair from the user's arm, which is likely to cause significant discomfort to it.

On connaít par le brevet CH-A-657026, un bracelet constitué de maillons métalliques qui sont réunis entre eux par un élément de liaison, ces éléments de liaison étant susceptibles de coulisser dans des rainures de maillons suivant l'axe transversal de celui-ci.We know from patent CH-A-657026, a bracelet made up of metal links which are joined between them by a connecting element, these connecting elements being capable of sliding in grooves of links along the transverse axis thereof.

La présente invention a pour but de remédier à ces divers inconvénients en proposant un bracelet-montre de type rigide dans lequel les maillons qui le constituent ne viennent pas en contact les uns avec les autres, lorsque le bracelet se trouve en position d'utilisation, c'est-à-dire lorsqu'il se trouve sur le poignet d'un utilisateur, ce qui permet d'éviter les problèmes précédemment mentionnés. La présente invention a de plus pour but de proposer un bracelet-montre de type rigide dont on peut contrôler la forme globale des deux demi-bracelets qui le constituent lorsqu'il se trouve en position de non utilisation.The object of the present invention is to remedy these various drawbacks by offering a wristwatch from rigid type in which the links that constitute it don't come into contact with each other, when the bracelet is in the use position, that is to say when it is on the wrist of a user, which avoids problems previously mentioned. The present invention further aim to offer a rigid type watch strap which we can check the overall shape of the two half-bracelets which constitute it when it is in non-use position.

La présente invention a ainsi pour objet un bracelet rigide, notamment pour montre, du type constitué d'une pluralité de maillons adjacents reliés entre eux par des éléments de liaison caractérisé en ce que :

  • deux maillons adjacents sont réunis par au moins un élément de liaison, de forme cylindrique et de section droite en forme d'arc de cercle qui s'étend transversalement sur au moins une partie de la largeur des maillons,
  • chaque maillon est creusé, à partir de ses faces latérales, d'une rainure de forme complémentaire de celle de l'élément de liaison, dont la concavité est orientée vers l'intérieur du bracelet, de façon qu'un élément de liaison puisse prendre place dans les rainures correspondantes de deux maillons adjacents, et se déplacer par coulissement dans celles-ci dans le sens longitudinal du bracelet,
  • les maillons et/ou les éléments de liaison comportent au moins des moyens de butée interne aptes à contrôler et limiter ce déplacement.
The present invention thus relates to a rigid bracelet, in particular for a watch, of the type consisting of a plurality of adjacent links connected to each other by connecting elements characterized in that:
  • two adjacent links are joined by at least one connecting element, of cylindrical shape and of cross section in the form of an arc of a circle which extends transversely over at least part of the width of the links,
  • each link is hollowed out, from its lateral faces, with a groove of shape complementary to that of the connecting element, the concavity of which is oriented towards the inside of the bracelet, so that a connecting element can take place in the corresponding grooves of two adjacent links, and move by sliding therein in the longitudinal direction of the bracelet,
  • the links and / or the connecting elements comprise at least internal stop means capable of controlling and limiting this movement.

Dans un mode de mise en oeuvre de l'invention, chaque partie de l'élément de liaison prenant place dans ladite rainure comporte une lumière transversale apte à recevoir un élément de butée solidaire du maillon, la longueur de la lumière et la largeur de ladite butée étant telles qu'elles permettent de régler l'angle de rotation possible de l'élément de liaison par rapport à chacun des maillons.In one embodiment of the invention, each part of the connecting element taking place in said groove has a transverse light capable of receiving a stop element integral with the link, the length of the light and the width of said stop being such that they allow you to adjust the angle of rotation possible of the connecting element with respect to each of links.

A la différence des bracelets-montres de l'état antérieur de la technique il n'y a pas, dans les bracelets suivant l'invention, de mouvement de pivotement relatif des maillons autour d'un axe d'articulation, mais un mouvement de coulissement de chaque maillon sur les éléments de liaisons qui lui sont adjacents. L'inclinaison relative des maillons les uns par rapport aux autres, qui est nécessaire à la mise en place du bracelet sur le poignet de l'utilisateur, est obtenue par la forme semi-circulaire de chaque élément de liaison et de la rainure dans laquelle il est disposé. Dans ces conditions, l'immobilisation en rotation des maillons les uns par rapport aux autres s'effectue, non pas par le contact des maillons les uns avec les autres, mais par la mise en oeuvre d'une butée qui interrompt le mouvement de coulissement des éléments de liaison dans les rainures des maillons. Une telle butée est avantageusement disposée de façon telle qu'elle se trouve perpendiculaire à la rainure, ce qui permet d'obtenir un contact franc, entre cette butée et l'élément qu'elle est destinée à immobiliser.Unlike state watch straps prior to the technique there is no, in the bracelets according to the invention, of pivoting movement relative links around an axis of articulation, but a sliding movement of each link on the connecting elements which are adjacent to it. The relative inclination of the links with respect to each other to others, which is necessary for the establishment of the bracelet on the user's wrist, is obtained by the semi-circular shape of each connecting element and of the groove in which it is arranged. In these conditions, the immobilization in rotation of the links relative to each other is effected, not by the contact of the links with each other, but by the implementation of a stop which interrupts the movement of sliding of the connecting elements in the grooves links. Such a stop is advantageously arranged so that it is perpendicular to the groove, which allows a frank contact to be obtained, between this stop and the element that it is intended to immobilize.

Préférentiellement le centre de courbure de la rainure réalisée dans chacun des maillons est disposé sur un axe perpendiculaire à la surface de base du maillon et est distant, en position de rétraction maximale du bracelet, des côtés transversaux de ce maillon d'une valeur égale à la moitié de l'écartement que l'on souhaite avoir entre les maillons adjacents en position de rétraction maximale du bracelet.Preferably the center of curvature of the groove made in each of the links is arranged on an axis perpendicular to the base surface of the link and is distant, in position of maximum retraction of the bracelet, transverse sides of this link of a value equal to half the spacing that one wish to have between the adjacent links in position maximum retraction of the bracelet.

Dans un autre mode de mise en oeuvre de l'invention, chacun des maillons est constitué d'au moins deux parties solidarisables, à savoir une partie inférieure et une partie supérieure, les surfaces en vis-à-vis de ces deux parties étant usinées de façon telle que, lorsqu'elles sont assemblées, elles forment entre elles la susdite rainure.In another embodiment of the invention, each of the links consists of at least two parts joined together, namely a lower part and a upper part, the facing surfaces of these two parts being machined in such a way that when are assembled, they form the above groove.

Dans certaines applications de l'invention le maillon est constitué de deux éléments solidarisables à savoir un élément de base et un élément supérieur.In certain applications of the invention, the link consists of two solidary elements namely a basic element and a superior element.

Dans une variante de ce mode de mise en oeuvre, l'élément de butée est constitué d'un pion cylindrique qui prend place dans un évidement prévu sur l'élément de base du maillon. In a variant of this embodiment, the stop element consists of a cylindrical pin which takes place in a recess provided on the element of base of the link.

On décrira ci-après, à titre d'exemples non limitatifs, diverses formes d'exécution de la présente invention, en référence au dessin annexé sur lequel :We will describe below, by way of examples not limiting, various embodiments of this invention, with reference to the attached drawing in which:

La figure 1 est une vue schématique en coupe suivant l'axe longitudinal du bracelet de deux maillons et d'un élément de liaison suivant l'état antérieur de la technique, avant la mise en place du bracelet sur le poignet d'un utilisateur (position de non utilisation).Figure 1 is a schematic sectional view along the longitudinal axis of the bracelet with two links and a connecting element according to the previous state of the before putting the bracelet on the wrist of a user (position of non-use).

La figure 1a est une vue schématique en coupe suivant l'axe longitudinal du bracelet de deux maillons et de l'élément de liaison représentés sur la figure 1, une fois le bracelet mis en position sur le poignet d'un utilisateur (position d'utilisation).Figure 1a is a schematic sectional view along the longitudinal axis of the bracelet with two links and the connecting element shown in Figure 1, a times the bracelet placed on the wrist of a user (position of use).

La figure 2 est: une vue schématique en coupe suivant l'axe longitudinal du bracelet d'une variante de réalisation de deux maillons et d'un élément de liaison suivant l'état antérieur de la technique.Figure 2 is: a schematic sectional view along the longitudinal axis of the bracelet of a variant of production of two links and a connecting element according to the prior art.

La figure 3 est une vue en coupe suivant l'axe longitudinal du bracelet de trois maillons d'un bracelet-montre suivant l'invention et des éléments de liaison qui assurent leur maintien, les deux maillons de gauche étant en position de non utilisation et les deux maillons de droite étant en position d'utilisation.Figure 3 is a sectional view along the axis longitudinal of the bracelet of three links of a watch bracelet according to the invention and connecting elements which maintain them, the two links on the left being in the non-use position and the two links right being in position of use.

La figure 4 est une vue en perspective des deux maillons de droite et de leur élément de liaison suivant l'invention représentés sur la figure 3.Figure 4 is a perspective view of the two right links and their next connecting element the invention shown in Figure 3.

La figure 5 est une vue en coupe transversale d'un élément de liaison suivant l'invention. Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of a connecting element according to the invention.

La figure 6 est une vue en coupe transversale d'un mode de mise en oeuvre d'un maillon suivant l'invention.Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of a mode of implementation of a link according to the invention.

La figure 7 est une vue en coupe transversale d'une variante de mise en oeuvre d'un maillon de bracelet suivant l'invention.Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of a variant of implementing a bracelet link according to the invention.

La figure 8 est une vue en perspective d'une variante de mise en oeuvre de deux maillons d'un bracelet suivant l'invention.Figure 8 is a perspective view of a variant of implementing two links of a following bracelet the invention.

La figure 9 est une vue en perspective d'une variante de mise en oeuvre d'un bracelet suivant l'invention.Figure 9 is a perspective view of a variant for implementing a bracelet according to the invention.

La figure 9a est une vue en coupe transversale des maillons représentés sur la figure 9.FIG. 9a is a cross-sectional view of the links shown in Figure 9.

La figure 10 est une vue en coupe partielle, suivant l'axe longitudinal du bracelet, d'une autre variante de mise en oeuvre de l'invention.Figure 10 is a partial sectional view, along the longitudinal axis of the bracelet, of another variant of implementation of the invention.

On a représenté sur les figures 1 et 1a deux parties de deux maillons adjacents 1' d'un bracelet métallique, qui sont réunis par un élément de liaison 7' suivant l'état antérieur de la technique.Figures 1 and 1a show two parts of two adjacent links 1 ′ of a metal bracelet, which are joined by a following connecting element 7 ' the prior art.

Pour ce faire, chacun des côtés transversaux 6' des maillons 1' est creusé, sur toute sa largeur, d'une cavité 4', cavité sensiblement circulaire qui débouche sur l'extérieur, et l'élément de liaison 7' qui s'étend sur toute la largeur des maillons 1' est constitué d'un élément transversal qui reprend, avec un jeu nécessaire au mouvement, la forme de chacune de ces cavités 4' et qui prend place dans celles-ci. Le jeu prévu entre les cavités 4' et l'élément de liaison 7' permet, comme représenté sur la figure 1a, une rotation relative des deux maillons adjacents l'un par rapport à l'autre, de façon à permettre la mise en place du bracelet sur le poignet de l'utilisateur.To do this, each of the transverse sides 6 'of the links 1 ′ is hollowed out, over its entire width, by a cavity 4 ', substantially circular cavity which opens out on the outside, and the connecting element 7 'which extends over the entire width of the links 1 'consists of a transverse element which takes up again, with a necessary clearance upon movement, the shape of each of these cavities 4 'and which takes place in them. The expected game between cavities 4 'and the connecting element 7' allows, as shown in Figure 1a, a relative rotation of two links that are adjacent to each other, so that the bracelet can be put on the user's wrist.

Ainsi que représenté sur la figure la, lorsque l'on exerce sur chacun des maillons 1' une force F, dirigée notamment vers l'intérieur du bracelet, c'est-à-dire du côté de celui-ci qui se trouve du côté du poignet de l'utilisateur, le bras de levier existant entre les points d'application de cette force F et la surface de contact S des deux maillons adjacents 1' crée un couple qui, si la force F devient trop importante a pour effet de provoquer soit l'éclatement des maillons 1' soit la rupture de l'élément de liaison 7'.As shown in Figure la, when we exerts on each of the links 1 a force F, directed especially towards the inside of the bracelet, i.e. side of it which is on the wrist side of the user, the lever arm existing between the points of application of this force F and the surface of contact S of the two adjacent links 1 'creates a couple which, if the force F becomes too large, has the effect to cause either the bursting of the links 1 'or the rupture of the connecting element 7 '.

On a représenté sur la figure 2 une variante de mise en oeuvre d'un bracelet suivant l'état antérieur de la technique, dans laquelle les deux maillons adjacents 1' ont des faces transversales en vis-à-vis de formes complémentaires, à savoir une partie femelle ou cavité 4' sur l'un des maillons et une partie mâle 4", de forme complémentaire, sur l'autre maillon adjacent 1'. En position d'utilisation, toute force F exercée sur chacun de ces maillons 1' crée, comme précédemment, un couple provoquant si la force F est suffisante, la rupture des maillons.There is shown in Figure 2 an alternative layout using a bracelet according to the previous state of the technique, in which the two adjacent links 1 ' have transverse faces opposite shapes complementary, namely a female part or 4 'cavity on one of the links and a 4 "male part, shaped complementary, on the other adjacent link 1 '. In position of use, any force F exerted on each of these links 1 'creates, as before, a couple causing if the force F is sufficient, the rupture of the links.

On a représenté sur les figures 3 à 6 un mode de mise en oeuvre d'un bracelet suivant l'invention. Sur ces figures chaque maillon 1 du bracelet est constitué de trois éléments, à savoir un élément de base 2, un élément supérieur 3 et des butées 5. Des éléments de liaison 7 assurent le maintien entre eux des maillons 1.FIGS. 3 to 6 show a mode of placing using a bracelet according to the invention. On these figures each link 1 of the bracelet consists of three elements, namely a basic element 2, an element upper 3 and stops 5. Connecting elements 7 keep links 1 together.

Comme représenté sur les figures, l'élément de base 2 et l'élément supérieur 3 sont usinés de façon à prévoir entre eux, lorsqu'ils sont assemblés, une rainure 9 dont la section droite est en forme d'arc de cercle, et qui s'étend sur toute la longueur a de chaque maillon 1. L'élément de base 2 comporte, en deux zones voisines de ses extrémités, un trou 8 et l'élément supérieur 3 comporte, en vis-à-vis, un trou fileté correspondant 8', de façon que deux vis 10 puissent assurer le maintien des deux éléments 2 et 3 formant le maillon 1.As shown in the figures, the base element 2 and the upper element 3 are machined so as to provide between them, when they are assembled, a groove 9 whose cross section is in the form of an arc of a circle, and which extends over the entire length a of each link 1. The base element 2 comprises, in two zones close to its ends, a hole 8 and the upper element 3 comprises, opposite, a hole corresponding thread 8 ', so that two screws 10 can maintain the two elements 2 and 3 forming the link 1.

Chaque élément de liaison 7 est constitué d'une portion angulaire de tube cylindrique, qui lui donne ainsi une forme de tuile, dont l'épaisseur est telle qu'il puisse prendre place, à coulissement, dans la rainure 9 prévue entre l'élément de base 2 et l'élément supérieur 3. La paroi inférieure de la rainure 9 est percée de quatre trous borgnes cylindriques 14 dont l'axe xx' est incliné d'un angle α d'environ 45° par rapport à la surface de base 11 de l'élément de base 2, dans chacun desquels prend place un téton cylindrique 5 formant office de butée. Les éléments de liaison 7 comportent des lumières 13 allongées dans leur sens transversal, de façon à recevoir les tétons 5 et permettre une rotation contrôlée de l'élément de liaison 7 par rapport au maillon 1. Each connecting element 7 consists of a angular portion of cylindrical tube, which gives it thus a form of tile, the thickness of which is such that it can take place, sliding, in the groove 9 provided between the base element 2 and the element upper 3. The lower wall of the groove 9 is pierced with four cylindrical blind holes 14 whose axis xx 'is inclined by an angle α of about 45 ° relative to the base surface 11 of the base element 2, in each which takes place a cylindrical stud 5 forming abutment office. The connecting elements 7 include lights 13 elongated in their transverse direction, so as to receive the nipples 5 and allow rotation of the connecting element 7 with respect to the link 1.

A cet effet on déterminera l'angle d'ouverture β de la lumière 13 et le diamètre d des tétons 5 pour ajuster, de construction, l'angle possible γ de rotation relatif du maillon 1 par rapport à l'élément de liaison 7, ainsi que représenté sur la figure 5. On constate que chaque extrémité de la lumière 13 forme ainsi une butée qui limite la rotation de l'élément de liaison dans la rainure 9. Ainsi, comme représenté sur la figure 5, l'extrémité externe 13a de la lumière 13 forme une butée externe qui limite l'extension du bracelet, et l'extrémité 13b de celle-ci forme une butée interne qui limite la rétraction du bracelet. Dans un tel dispositif, le bracelet est en extension maximale lorsque les tétons 5 sont en contact avec les butées externes 13a des lumières respectives 13, et est en rétraction maximale lorsque les tétons 5 sont en contact avec les butées internes 13b des lumières 13. Dans ces conditions, on comprend que, quelque soit le mouvement ultérieur donné à deux maillons adjacents 1, ceux-ci ne pourront venir au cours du mouvement, en contact l'un avec l'autre. Il est ainsi possible de réaliser un bracelet-montre dont les maillons adjacents ne viennent pas en contact entre eux en position de rétraction maximale. Pour ce faire il suffit, ainsi que représenté sur la figure 3 (dans le cas des deux maillons les plus à gauche sur cette figure) de définir l'angle au centre de la section droite de l'élément de liaison 7 de façon que, en position de rétraction maximale, il existe un jeu e entre les maillons 1 adjacents. De plus, contrairement aux dispositifs de l'état antérieur de la technique, la présente invention permet de réaliser un bracelet-montre dont les surfaces de base 11 de chacun des maillons 1 se situent dans un même plan. Pour ce faire, ainsi que représenté sur la figure 10 le centre O de la rainure 9 réalisée dans chacun des maillons 1 sera disposé sur un axe de symétrie uu', perpendiculaire à la surface de base 11 de ces maillons, qui sera situé à égale distance (e/2) des côtés transversaux en regard 6 des maillons adjacents 1, lorsque ceux-ci sont en position de rétraction maximale, c'est-à-dire lorsque les tétons 5 sont en contact avec les extrémités internes 13b des lumières 13.To this end, the opening angle β of the light 13 and the diameter d of the studs 5 will be determined to adjust, during construction, the possible angle γ of relative rotation of the link 1 relative to the connecting element 7, as shown in Figure 5. We see that each end of the lumen 13 thus forms a stop which limits the rotation of the connecting element in the groove 9. Thus, as shown in Figure 5, the outer end 13a light 13 forms an external stop which limits the extension of the bracelet, and the end 13b thereof forms an internal stop which limits the retraction of the bracelet. In such a device, the bracelet is in maximum extension when the pins 5 are in contact with the external stops 13a of the respective lights 13, and is in maximum retraction when the pins 5 are in contact with the internal stops 13b of the lights 13. In these conditions, it is understood that, whatever the subsequent movement given to two adjacent links 1, these cannot come during the movement, in contact with one another. It is thus possible to produce a watch bracelet whose adjacent links do not come into contact with each other in the maximum retraction position. To do this, it suffices, as shown in FIG. 3 (in the case of the two leftmost links in this figure) to define the angle at the center of the cross section of the connecting element 7 so that, in the maximum retraction position, there is a clearance e between the adjacent links 1. In addition, unlike the devices of the prior art, the present invention makes it possible to produce a watch bracelet whose base surfaces 11 of each of the links 1 lie in the same plane. To do this, as shown in Figure 10 the center O of the groove 9 made in each of the links 1 will be arranged on an axis of symmetry uu ', perpendicular to the base surface 11 of these links, which will be located at equal distance (e / 2) of the transverse opposite sides 6 of the adjacent links 1, when these are in the maximum retraction position, that is to say when the pins 5 are in contact with the internal ends 13b of the slots 13 .

Lorsque, au cours de la mise en place du bracelet sur le poignet de l'utilisateur, chaque élément de liaison 7 coulisse dans chacune des rainures 9 des maillons 1, le mouvement réalisé par les différents éléments en présence est un mouvement de coulissement, et non un mouvement de rotation autour d'un axe, comme c'est le cas dans les dispositifs de l'état antérieur de la technique.When, during the fitting of the bracelet on the user's wrist, each connecting element 7 slides in each of the grooves 9 of the links 1, the movement carried out by the different elements present is a sliding movement, not a movement of rotation around an axis, as is the case in devices of the prior art.

On notera également que ce mouvement de coulissement est limité par les tétons 5 qui font office de butée, de façon franche, dans la mesure où ils sont perpendiculaires à la direction du mouvement effectué. Un tel dispositif permet ainsi de régler l'amplitude de rotation relative de deux maillons 1 adjacents de façon particulièrement précise et ceci, de fabrication. On notera également que, contrairement aux dispositifs de l'état antérieur de la technique, un effort exercé sur le bracelet se traduit par un effort exercé par les éléments de liaison 7 sur les tétons 5 de façon franche, sans création de couple, ce qui procure aux bracelets suivant l'invention une bien meilleure résistance mécanique.It will also be noted that this sliding movement is limited by the pins 5 which act as a stop, frankly, as far as they are perpendicular to the direction of movement. A such a device thus makes it possible to adjust the amplitude of relative rotation of two links 1 so adjacent particularly precise and this, manufacturing. We also note that, unlike the prior art, an effort exerted on the bracelet results in an effort exerted by the elements connection 7 on the pins 5 frankly, without couple creation, which gives the following bracelets the invention much better mechanical strength.

Bien entendu, ainsi que représenté sur la figure 7, les maillons 1 pourront également être constitués d'un élément en une seule partie, qui pourra être obtenue notamment par un procédé de filage. Dans une telle variante de mise en oeuvre, les butées 5' pourront être constituées de tétons 16, prolongeant une partie filetée 18 qui est vissée dans le maillon 1 à partir de sa base.Of course, as shown in FIG. 7, the links 1 may also consist of a single part element, which can be obtained in particular by a spinning process. In such variant of implementation, the stops 5 ′ may be made up of nipples 16, extending a threaded part 18 which is screwed into the link 1 from its base.

Bien entendu, les moyens de butée peuvent également être réalisés autrement que par des tétons. Ainsi, sur les figures 9 et 9a, les quatre coins inférieurs de l'élément supérieur 3 forment une butée 20 qui prend place dans une lumière 13' de l'élément de liaison 7.Of course, the stop means can also be made other than by nipples. So on Figures 9 and 9a, the four lower corners of the upper element 3 form a stop 20 which takes place in a lumen 13 'of the connecting element 7.

Comme représenté sur la figure 8, l'élément supérieur 3 du maillon 1 pourra être réalisé en plusieurs parties 3a solidarisées de l'élément de base, notamment par des moyens de vissage, ainsi que décrit précédemment et représenté sur les figures 3 et 6, ces parties 3a pouvant être constituées de métaux de nature et/ou de couleur différente. Un tel mode de mise en oeuvre se prête ainsi particulièrement bien à de nombreuses variantes esthétiques. La présente invention permet ainsi de dissocier les éléments d'ordre esthétique des éléments d'ordre fonctionnel, ce qui donne au "designer" une grande liberté dans ses conceptions.As shown in Figure 8, the top element 3 of link 1 can be made in several parts 3a secured to the base element, in particular by screwing means, as described above and shown in Figures 3 and 6, these parts 3a can consist of metals of nature and / or color different. Such an implementation mode thus lends itself particularly good at many variations aesthetic. The present invention thus makes it possible to dissociate the aesthetic elements from the elements functional, which gives the designer a great freedom in his designs.

La présente invention, en raison de la simplicité des formes des éléments qu'elle met en oeuvre, se prête particulièrement bien à la fabrication d'un bracelet par des techniques de type emboutissage.The present invention, due to the simplicity of the forms of the elements which it implements, lends itself particularly good at making a bracelet by stamping techniques.

Dans ce type de mise en oeuvre les maillons seront ainsi formés en deux éléments à savoir, un élément de base et un élément supérieur, et seront réunis par un élément de liaison. Les butées pourront être formées sur l'élément de base, notamment en cours d'emboutissage, par création d'un poinçonnement dans la matière et pliage de la partie poinçonnée.In this type of implementation, the links will be thus formed into two elements namely, an element of base and a top element, and will be joined by a connecting element. The stops can be formed on the basic element, especially during stamping, by creation of a punch in the material and folding of the hallmarked part.

Claims (9)

  1. Rigid band, in particular for a watch, of the type constituted by a plurality of adjacent links (1) joined together by connecting elements (7), characterized in that:
    two adjacent links (1) are connected by at least one connecting elements (7), of cylindrical shape and of arcuate cross-section, which extends over at least a part of the width of the links (1),
    each link (1) is hollowed out, from its lateral faces, with a groove (9) of shape complementary of that of the connecting element (7), of which the concavity is oriented towards the inside of the band, so that one part of a connecting element (7) can come into position in a groove (9) of a link (1) and another part of this connecting element (7) can come into position (9) in a groove of an adjacent link (1), and move by sliding in the grooves (9) of these two links (1) along the longitudinal axis of the band,
    the links (1) and/or the connecting elements (7) comprise stop means (5, 5') adapted to control and limit such displacement.
  2. Band according to Claim 1, characterized in that the stop means (5, 5') are formed on the bottom of said groove (9).
  3. Band according to one of the preceding Claims, characterized in that each part of the connecting element (7) coming into position in a groove (9) comprises a transverse slot (13) adapted to receive a stop (5, 5') fast with the link (1), the length of the slot (13) and the width (d) of said stop (5) being such that they make it possible to adjust the possible angle of rotation (γ) of the connecting element (7) with respect to each of the links (1).
  4. Band according to one of the preceding Claims, characterized in that the centre of curvature (O) of the groove (9) made in each of the links (1) lies on an axis (uu') perpendicular to the base surface (11) of the link (1) and is distant, in position of maximum retraction of the band, from the transverse sides (6) of this link (1) by a value equal to half the distance (e) which it is desired to have between the adjacent links (1) in position of maximum retraction of the band.
  5. Band according to one of the preceding Claims, characterized in that each of the links (1) is constituted by at least two connectable elements, namely a base element (2) and an upper element (3) so that, when they are assembled, they together form said groove (9).
  6. Band according to Claim 5, characterized in that the stop means (5) are constituted by a cylindrical stud which is positioned in a recess (14) provided on the base element (2) of the link (1).
  7. Band according to one of the preceding Claims, characterized in that at least one of the elements constituting the link is obtained by a process of the stamping type.
  8. Band according to Claim 7, characterized in that the stop means (5, 5') are formed by punching when the stamping process is carried out.
  9. Band according to one of the preceding Claims, characterized in that the connecting element (7) is in the shape of a tile.
EP97912287A 1996-10-30 1997-10-30 Rigid band in particular for watch Expired - Lifetime EP0935431B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR9613271 1996-10-30
FR9613271A FR2754983B1 (en) 1996-10-30 1996-10-30 RIGID STRAP, ESPECIALLY FOR A WATCH
PCT/FR1997/001947 WO1998018360A1 (en) 1996-10-30 1997-10-30 Rigid band in particular for watch

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP0935431A1 EP0935431A1 (en) 1999-08-18
EP0935431B1 true EP0935431B1 (en) 2001-09-12

Family

ID=9497189

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP97912287A Expired - Lifetime EP0935431B1 (en) 1996-10-30 1997-10-30 Rigid band in particular for watch

Country Status (5)

Country Link
EP (1) EP0935431B1 (en)
JP (1) JP2001502586A (en)
DE (1) DE69706696T2 (en)
FR (1) FR2754983B1 (en)
WO (1) WO1998018360A1 (en)

Families Citing this family (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
ATE367105T1 (en) * 2004-04-27 2007-08-15 Milus Internat Sa JEWELRY ELEMENT AND A CHAIN MADE FROM SEVERAL SUCH JEWELRY ELEMENTS

Family Cites Families (8)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CH437881A (en) * 1966-04-18 1967-06-15 Gschwend Jean Pierre Metal bracelet
EP0006664B1 (en) * 1978-06-27 1982-06-16 Métaux Précieux S.A. Bracelet made of rigid links directly jointed with each other
CH657026A5 (en) * 1984-01-19 1986-08-15 G Et F Chatelain S A Bracelet
IT1173536B (en) * 1984-03-30 1987-06-24 Remigio Tuppini METHOD FOR THE AUTOMATIC MANUFACTURE OF SURFACE WORKED PROFILE KNITWEAR FOR BRACELETS AND / OR STRAPS AND BRACELETS COMPOSED BY KNITWEAR SO MADE
CH661184A5 (en) * 1984-12-19 1987-07-15 Finger H Fa Bracelet, particularly a watch bracelet, and method for manufacturing this bracelet
CH669315A5 (en) * 1987-02-04 1989-03-15 Albert Mottet Watch bracelet made from links - with each link having grooves and joined together by elements with ribs and curved leaf springs
IE60244B1 (en) * 1987-03-12 1994-06-15 Woods William Joseph "Badges and a method for their manufacture"
AU7798391A (en) * 1990-05-21 1991-12-10 Victor Chirazi Strap with hinged links

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
FR2754983A1 (en) 1998-04-30
JP2001502586A (en) 2001-02-27
EP0935431A1 (en) 1999-08-18
DE69706696T2 (en) 2002-07-11
WO1998018360A1 (en) 1998-05-07
FR2754983B1 (en) 1998-12-24
DE69706696D1 (en) 2001-10-18

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