EP1033633A1 - Device for the sealed fastening of a glass to a watch case - Google Patents

Device for the sealed fastening of a glass to a watch case Download PDF

Info

Publication number
EP1033633A1
EP1033633A1 EP99810182A EP99810182A EP1033633A1 EP 1033633 A1 EP1033633 A1 EP 1033633A1 EP 99810182 A EP99810182 A EP 99810182A EP 99810182 A EP99810182 A EP 99810182A EP 1033633 A1 EP1033633 A1 EP 1033633A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
annular
annular seal
seal
internal
external
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.)
Granted
Application number
EP99810182A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP1033633B1 (en
Inventor
Christian Dombre
William Passaquin
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.)
Rolex SA
Original Assignee
Montres Rolex SA
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Montres Rolex SA filed Critical Montres Rolex SA
Priority to DE69911908T priority Critical patent/DE69911908T2/en
Priority to EP99810182A priority patent/EP1033633B1/en
Priority to SG200000928A priority patent/SG83777A1/en
Priority to TW089103403A priority patent/TW475101B/en
Priority to US09/515,904 priority patent/US6206563B1/en
Priority to CNB001030264A priority patent/CN1147762C/en
Priority to KR1020000010323A priority patent/KR100571425B1/en
Priority to JP2000063347A priority patent/JP4128720B2/en
Publication of EP1033633A1 publication Critical patent/EP1033633A1/en
Priority to HK00106363A priority patent/HK1027172A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP1033633B1 publication Critical patent/EP1033633B1/en
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Expired - Lifetime legal-status Critical Current

Links

Images

Classifications

    • GPHYSICS
    • G04HOROLOGY
    • G04BMECHANICALLY-DRIVEN CLOCKS OR WATCHES; MECHANICAL PARTS OF CLOCKS OR WATCHES IN GENERAL; TIME PIECES USING THE POSITION OF THE SUN, MOON OR STARS
    • G04B37/00Cases
    • GPHYSICS
    • G04HOROLOGY
    • G04BMECHANICALLY-DRIVEN CLOCKS OR WATCHES; MECHANICAL PARTS OF CLOCKS OR WATCHES IN GENERAL; TIME PIECES USING THE POSITION OF THE SUN, MOON OR STARS
    • G04B39/00Watch crystals; Fastening or sealing of crystals; Clock glasses
    • G04B39/02Sealing crystals or glasses

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a device for waterproof attachment of a crystal to a watch case, comprising a generally cylindrical annular seal in compressible material having an annular projection internal to the upper end of this annular seal, a annular groove formed on the edge of the ice in which this annular projection is engaged, a surface lateral lateral, formed on the upper part of the middle to receive the lower part of the face internal of said annular seal, the base of which abuts against a scope and a bezel adjusted around said joint by compressing it radially.
  • waterproof fastening devices hard glass such as toughened glass or sapphire, in which the hard glass is fixed in a ring made of a soft material relative to the glass of watch as well as with respect to the metal of the box which it should be fixed.
  • This ring is usually in organic glass such as Plexiglas.
  • a fastening device of this kind is described in CH 519 193 in which the glass is housed in a ring in organic glass, the whole then being introduced by hunting in a housing of a middle-bezel, the deformations after hunting being absorbed by the ring in organic glass which also seals fixation.
  • a false bezel can be attached to the middle part to hide the glass fixing ring.
  • the fixing ring is housed in a annular groove formed in the edge of the glass in order to not to go beyond its perimeter and thus not to be visible.
  • Such a fixing device requires placing under stress of the annular seal surrounding the glass beforehand to the fixing of this set in an opening of the middle.
  • the removal of this set poses big problems since the prestressed joint is completely embedded in the middle and sapphire or tempered glass cannot be distorted.
  • the same surface of the bezel is used to tighten the joint around the ice and around the lateral surface of the middle.
  • the force required to remove the scope may vary in a ratio of 1 to 4.
  • the position of the telescope after hunting can slightly change from room to room, thereby having repercussions on the compression of the annular seal.
  • the bezel In the design of the assembly, in which the bezel only holds by friction around a piece in compressible material, in the assembled position, the bezel remains subjected to a force tending to make it go up.
  • injection points can only be located in a visible area or in a contact area and are therefore bothersome in both cases.
  • the object of the present invention is to remedy, by part, to the aforementioned drawbacks.
  • the subject of this invention is a device of waterproof fixing of a crystal on a watch case according to claim 1.
  • seal annular is no longer compressed radially uniformly over full height, but only two separate compression zones are formed, one at the level of the ice, the other at the adjustment surface, adjacent to the edge upper part of the middle. So when chasing the bezel, its base does not compress the upper part of the joint, avoiding the risk of forming a bead which is placed between the bezel and the middle.
  • the part of the annular seal located between the face lower part of the glass and the upper edge of the middle part is not or very little compressed radially, thus avoiding the risk of deformation in the free space separating the middle part.
  • the radial compressions induced in the two tightening zones are not necessarily the same, but can be adapted independently in each zone.
  • the injection points of the seal can take place, especially in the case of seals opaque, in the portion of its external face located between the bulge of the base of the joint and the part of the face inner of the bezel with the smallest diameter. After mounting, this portion is indeed hidden by the bezel and also constitutes a non-functional area of the joint, since it is not in contact with any surface of the glasses.
  • the present invention makes it possible to provide substantial improvements which are appreciable in particular during assembly operations as well as level of maintenance, since disassembly is found facilitated by less dispersion of the values of lens removal forces, without compromising efficiency tightness, on the contrary.
  • FIG. 1 to 4 we recognize a watch glass 1, a seal annular 2 of generally cylindrical shape, the upper part a middle part 3, as well as a bezel 4 driven around of the outer face of the annular seal 2.
  • This ice which is preferably made of a hard material such than tempered glass and more advantageously a sapphire crystal, is machined in a plate.
  • the watch glass slice 1 is delimited by two portions of different diameters, one of large diameter 1a, the other of smaller diameter 1b, adjacent to the underside of the glass 1.
  • a groove annular 1c separates these two portions 1a and 1b.
  • the annular seal 2 has a projection internal annular 2a adjacent to its upper edge. This projection 2a penetrates into annular groove 1c of ice 1, while the small diameter portion 1b penetrates slightly in the inner face of the annular seal 2. To facilitate understanding, on all the figures, the portions deformed of the annular seal 2 have been shown in mixed lines in their undistorted state.
  • this annular seal 2 is engaged around a lateral interlocking surface 3a formed at the upper end of the middle part 3 and situated substantially at the same level as the flange 3b.
  • the basis of this surface lateral socket 3a has an annular groove 3c.
  • a bulged heel 2b protrudes symmetrically from side and the other of the internal, respectively external, lateral faces, at the base of the annular seal 2.
  • the part of this heel bulging 2b protruding inside the annular seal 2 engages in the annular groove 3c on the lateral face socket 3a.
  • the internal lateral face of the bezel 4 has two cylindrical portions, one lower portion 4b more large diameter and a smaller upper portion 4a diameters.
  • the diameter of the lower portion 4b more large diameter of the inner side face of the telescope is greater than the diameter of the external lateral face of the seal annular 2, but less than the outer diameter of its heel bulging 2b, while the diameter of the upper portion 4a is less than the diameter of the external lateral face of the ring seal 2.
  • the modulus of elasticity is between 2100 and 3000 MPa, in the case of the present invention, it can be made of polyamide, PBT or POM in particular, the elastic modulus of which is between 1000 and 3000 MPa.
  • the variant illustrated in FIG. 5 does not differ from the embodiment described above only by the form of the annular seal 2 'and more precisely by the shape of the heel bulging 2'b. Unlike the bulged heel 2b, it does not protrudes only on the outer lateral face of the annular seal 2 ', leaving the internal lateral face of this joint annular 2 'cylindrical, from the base of the annular projection internal 2 ′ has engaged in the annular groove 1c of the window 1, all the way down.
  • This variant has the advantage of facilitating demolding of the annular seal 2 'during its injection, while retaining the system for anchoring this joint to the middle. This variant also makes it easier to assemble and disassembly of the annular seal 2 '.
  • the injection points of the seal 2 or 2 ' will be located opposite part 4b of the telescope 4 having the largest internal diameter and on the face outer of the annular seal 2 or 2 'located between the heel 2b or 2'b and the top of part 4b of the telescope 4. So these injection points are not visible and are not located in a contact area of the annular seal 2 or 2 '.

Abstract

The fixing consists of a profiled ring joint (2) made from hardened or sapphire glass. The upper part of the fixing has a projecting portion which is pressed into a groove (1c) in the edge of the watch glass (1) by an upper portion of the watch glass frame (4a) when the frame (4) is pressed downwards. Similarly the lower profile of the ring joint is pressed into a watch case groove (3c) by the lower profile of the watch glass frame (4b)

Description

La présente invention se rapporte à un dispositif de fixation étanche d'une glace sur une boíte de montre, comprenant un joint annulaire de forme générale cylindrique en un matériau compressible présentant une saillie annulaire interne à l'extrémité supérieure de ce joint annulaire, une gorge annulaire ménagée sur la tranche de la glace dans laquelle cette saillie annulaire est engagée, une surface latérale externe, ménagée sur la partie supérieure de la carrure pour recevoir la partie inférieure de la face interne dudit joint annulaire dont la base vient en butée contre une portée et une lunette ajustée autour dudit joint en le comprimant radialement.The present invention relates to a device for waterproof attachment of a crystal to a watch case, comprising a generally cylindrical annular seal in compressible material having an annular projection internal to the upper end of this annular seal, a annular groove formed on the edge of the ice in which this annular projection is engaged, a surface lateral lateral, formed on the upper part of the middle to receive the lower part of the face internal of said annular seal, the base of which abuts against a scope and a bezel adjusted around said joint by compressing it radially.

On connaít déjà des dispositifs de fixation étanche d'un verre en matière dure tel que du verre trempé ou du saphir, dans lesquels le verre en matière dure est fixé dans un anneau réalisé en un matériau tendre par rapport au verre de montre ainsi que par rapport au métal de la boíte à laquelle il doit être fixé. Cet anneau est généralement en verre organique tel que le Plexiglas.We already know waterproof fastening devices hard glass such as toughened glass or sapphire, in which the hard glass is fixed in a ring made of a soft material relative to the glass of watch as well as with respect to the metal of the box which it should be fixed. This ring is usually in organic glass such as Plexiglas.

Un dispositif de fixation de ce genre est décrit dans le CH 519 193 dans lequel la glace est logée dans un anneau en verre organique, le tout étant ensuite introduit par chassage dans un logement d'une carrure-lunette, les déformations consécutives au chassage étant absorbées par l'anneau en verre organique qui assure également l'étanchéité de la fixation. Une fausse lunette peut être fixée à la carrure-lunette pour masquer l'anneau de fixation de la glace. Dans une variante, l'anneau de fixation est logé dans une gorge annulaire ménagée dans la tranche de la glace afin de ne pas déborder de son pourtour et de n'être ainsi pas visible. A fastening device of this kind is described in CH 519 193 in which the glass is housed in a ring in organic glass, the whole then being introduced by hunting in a housing of a middle-bezel, the deformations after hunting being absorbed by the ring in organic glass which also seals fixation. A false bezel can be attached to the middle part to hide the glass fixing ring. Alternatively, the fixing ring is housed in a annular groove formed in the edge of the glass in order to not to go beyond its perimeter and thus not to be visible.

Un tel dispositif de fixation nécessite une mise sous contrainte du joint annulaire entourant la glace préalablement à la fixation de cet ensemble dans une ouverture de la carrure. L'enlèvement de cet ensemble pose de gros problèmes puisque le joint précontraint est tout entier noyé dans la carrure et que le verre de type saphir ou verre trempé ne peut pas être déformé.Such a fixing device requires placing under stress of the annular seal surrounding the glass beforehand to the fixing of this set in an opening of the middle. The removal of this set poses big problems since the prestressed joint is completely embedded in the middle and sapphire or tempered glass cannot be distorted.

On a proposé dans le CH 583 438 une solution qui ne présente pas les inconvénients susmentionnés, dans laquelle, le joint annulaire en verre relativement tendre qui entoure la glace est engagé autour d'une surface latérale ménagée sur l'extrémité supérieure de la carrure, autour du réhaut et est comprimé radialement contre cette surface latérale par la lunette chassée autour de ce joint. Dans une forme d'exécution préférée, non décrite dans ce brevet, la lunette s'étend sur toute la hauteur du joint annulaire, de sorte que la partie supérieure de ce joint est comprimée, entre la lunette et la glace de montre et que la partie inférieure de ce joint est comprimée entre cette lunette et la surface latérale de la carrure sur laquelle il est engagé.A solution has been proposed in CH 583 438 which does not not have the aforementioned drawbacks, in which, the relatively soft glass annular seal that surrounds the ice is engaged around a lateral surface provided on the upper end of the middle, around the flange and is compressed radially against this lateral surface by the bezel driven around this joint. In a form preferred embodiment, not described in this patent, the telescope extends over the entire height of the annular seal, so that the upper part of this joint is compressed, between the bezel and watch glass and that the lower part of this joint is compressed between this telescope and the surface side of the middle on which it is engaged.

Bien que ce mode de fixation a fait ses preuves depuis de nombreuses années, en particulier en ce qui concerne l'étanchéité, on s'est rendu compte que sa conception était susceptible d'être encore améliorée sur de nombreux points.Although this method of attachment has proven itself since many years, especially when it comes to waterproofing, we realized that its design was likely to be further improved on many points.

C'est ainsi que dans le système de fixation susmentionné, seule la force de frottement permet de garantir la fixation du joint annulaire sur la surface latérale de la carrure, de sorte que le joint doit avoir une rigidité suffisante, induisant des contraintes importantes sur les autres parties, notamment induisant un couple tendant à déformer le réhaut et la lunette.This is how in the above-mentioned fixing system, only the frictional force guarantees the fixing the annular seal on the lateral surface of the middle part, so that the joint must have sufficient rigidity, inducing significant constraints on others parts, in particular inducing a torque tending to deform the flange and bezel.

La même surface de la lunette sert à serrer le joint autour de la glace et autour de la surface latérale de la carrure. Compte tenu des multiples tolérances de fabrication des différents éléments entrant en jeu dans cette fixation, la force nécessaire pour l'enlèvement de la lunette peut varier dans un rapport de 1 à 4. Compte tenu des différences des forces de frottement résultant de ces variations de tolérances, la position de la lunette après chassage peut légèrement changer d'une pièce à l'autre, ayant de ce fait des répercussions sur la compression du joint annulaire.The same surface of the bezel is used to tighten the joint around the ice and around the lateral surface of the middle. Given the multiple manufacturing tolerances of the various elements involved in this fixation, the force required to remove the scope may vary in a ratio of 1 to 4. Given the differences friction forces resulting from these variations in tolerances, the position of the telescope after hunting can slightly change from room to room, thereby having repercussions on the compression of the annular seal.

Lors du chassage de la lunette, le joint subit des déformations au niveau de la glace qui sont plus importantes que celles imposées par l'étanchéité. En cas de fort serrage de ce joint, il existe un risque qu'il forme un bourrelet qui s'interpose entre la carrure et la lunette et empêche cette dernière de plaquer contre la carrure. Il est aussi possible, en cas de forte compression du joint annulaire, qu'il se déforme dans l'espace ménagé entre la glace et la carrure.When chasing the telescope, the seal undergoes larger ice deformations than those imposed by sealing. In case of tightening of this joint, there is a risk that it forms a bead which comes between the middle and the bezel and prevents the latter to press against the middle. It is also possible, in the event of strong compression of the annular seal, that it deforms in the space formed between the ice and the middle.

Par la conception de l'assemblage, dans lequel la lunette ne tient que par frottement autour d'une pièce en matière compressible, en position assemblée, la lunette reste soumise à une force tendant à la faire remonter.By the design of the assembly, in which the bezel only holds by friction around a piece in compressible material, in the assembled position, the bezel remains subjected to a force tending to make it go up.

Enfin, les points d'injection ne peuvent se situer que dans une zone visible ou dans une zone de contact et sont donc gênants dans les deux cas.Finally, the injection points can only be located in a visible area or in a contact area and are therefore bothersome in both cases.

Le but de la présente invention est de remédier, en partie, aux inconvénients susmentionnés.The object of the present invention is to remedy, by part, to the aforementioned drawbacks.

A cet effet, cette invention a pour objet un dispositif de fixation étanche d'une glace sur une boíte de montre selon la revendication 1.To this end, the subject of this invention is a device of waterproof fixing of a crystal on a watch case according to claim 1.

L'un des avantages essentiels de la présente invention vient du fait que la base du joint annulaire est retenue par ancrage sur la carrure et non plus par frottement. De ce fait, les valeurs extrêmes de la force nécessaire pour l'enlèvement de la lunette se situent dans une plage assez restreinte, malgré la disparité des valeurs de serrage inhérentes aux tolérances de fabrication des différents éléments.One of the essential advantages of the present invention comes from the fact that the base of the annular seal is retained by anchoring on the middle and no longer by friction. From this fact, the extreme values of the force required to the removal of the telescope is within a fairly restricted, despite the disparity in tightening values inherent in the manufacturing tolerances of the different elements.

Un autre avantage important vient du fait que le joint annulaire n'est plus comprimé radialement uniformément sur toute sa hauteur, mais que deux zones de compression distinctes sont formées, l'une au niveau de la glace, l'autre au niveau de la surface d'ajustement, adjacente au bord supérieur de la carrure. Ainsi, lors du chassage de la lunette, sa base ne comprime pas la partie supérieure du joint, évitant le risque de formation d'un bourrelet qui vient se placer entre la lunette et la carrure.Another important advantage is that the seal annular is no longer compressed radially uniformly over full height, but only two separate compression zones are formed, one at the level of the ice, the other at the adjustment surface, adjacent to the edge upper part of the middle. So when chasing the bezel, its base does not compress the upper part of the joint, avoiding the risk of forming a bead which is placed between the bezel and the middle.

La partie du joint annulaire située entre la face inférieure de la glace et le bord supérieur de la carrure n'est pas ou très peu comprimée radialement, évitant ainsi le risque de se déformer dans l'espace libre séparant la glace de la carrure. Les compressions radiales induites dans les deux zones de serrages ne sont pas nécessairement les mêmes, mais peuvent être adaptées aux besoins indépendamment dans chaque zone. La tenue des éléments assemblés n'étant pas due exclusivement aux forces de frottement, il est alors possible d'utiliser un joint en un matériau moins rigide, permettant ainsi de réduire les efforts exercés sur les autres éléments et en particulier sur le réhaut.The part of the annular seal located between the face lower part of the glass and the upper edge of the middle part is not or very little compressed radially, thus avoiding the risk of deformation in the free space separating the middle part. The radial compressions induced in the two tightening zones are not necessarily the same, but can be adapted independently in each zone. The keeping of the assembled elements not being not due exclusively to friction forces, then it is possible to use a joint made of a less rigid material, thus reducing the forces exerted on the other elements and in particular on the flange.

Contrairement au joint du dispositif de fixation de l'état de la technique, avec la présente invention, lorsque le joint est injecté, les points d'injection du joint peuvent prendre place, notamment dans le cas de joints opaques, dans la portion de sa face externe située entre le renflement de la base du joint et la partie de la face interne de la lunette ayant le plus petit diamètre. Après montage, cette portion est en effet cachée par la lunette et constitue également une zone non fonctionnelle du joint, puisqu'elle n'est en contact avec aucune surface de la lunette. Unlike the seal of the fixing device the state of the art, with the present invention, when the seal is injected, the injection points of the seal can take place, especially in the case of seals opaque, in the portion of its external face located between the bulge of the base of the joint and the part of the face inner of the bezel with the smallest diameter. After mounting, this portion is indeed hidden by the bezel and also constitutes a non-functional area of the joint, since it is not in contact with any surface of the glasses.

On peut constater qu'en gardant le même principe général de fixation étanche de la glace que celui connu de l'état de la technique, la présente invention permet d'apporter des améliorations substantielles qui sont appréciables notamment lors des opérations d'assemblage aussi bien qu'au niveau de l'entretien, puisque le démontage s'en trouve facilité par une moins grande dispersion des valeurs des forces d'enlèvement de la lunette, sans nuire à l'efficacité de l'étanchéité, au contraire.We can see that by keeping the same general principle waterproof fixing of the glass than that known from the state of the technique, the present invention makes it possible to provide substantial improvements which are appreciable in particular during assembly operations as well as level of maintenance, since disassembly is found facilitated by less dispersion of the values of lens removal forces, without compromising efficiency tightness, on the contrary.

L'invention sera mieux comprise à la lecture de la description qui va suivre, relative à une forme d'exécution et une variante du dispositif de fixation étanche d'une glace de montre, objet de cette invention, ainsi qu'à l'aide des dessins annexés dans lesquels:

  • Les figures 1 à 4 sont des vues partielles en coupe diamétrale illustrant quatre étapes de la fixation d'une glace de montre selon cette forme d'exécution,
  • La figure 5 est une vue en coupe diamétrale semblable à la figure 4, d'une variante.
  • The invention will be better understood on reading the description which follows, relating to an embodiment and a variant of the waterproof fixing device of a watch crystal, object of this invention, as well as using attached drawings in which:
  • FIGS. 1 to 4 are partial views in diametral section illustrating four stages of the fixing of a watch crystal according to this embodiment,
  • Figure 5 is a diametrical sectional view similar to Figure 4, of a variant.
  • Sur la forme d'exécution illustrée par les figures 1 à 4, on reconnaít une glace de montre 1, un joint d'étanchéité annulaire 2 de forme générale cylindrique, la partie supérieure d'une carrure 3, ainsi qu'une lunette 4 chassée autour de la face externe du joint d'étanchéité annulaire 2. Cette glace, qui est de préférence en un matériau dur tel que du verre trempé et plus avantageusement un verre saphir, est usinée dans une plaque. La tranche de la glace de montre 1 est délimitée par deux portions de diamètres différents, l'une de grand diamètre la, l'autre de plus petit diamètre 1b, adjacente à la face inférieure de la glace 1. Une gorge annulaire 1c sépare ces deux portions 1a et 1b.On the embodiment illustrated by Figures 1 to 4, we recognize a watch glass 1, a seal annular 2 of generally cylindrical shape, the upper part a middle part 3, as well as a bezel 4 driven around of the outer face of the annular seal 2. This ice, which is preferably made of a hard material such than tempered glass and more advantageously a sapphire crystal, is machined in a plate. The watch glass slice 1 is delimited by two portions of different diameters, one of large diameter 1a, the other of smaller diameter 1b, adjacent to the underside of the glass 1. A groove annular 1c separates these two portions 1a and 1b.

    Le joint d'étanchéité annulaire 2 présente une saillie annulaire interne 2a adjacente à son bord supérieur. Cette saillie 2a pénètre dans la gorge annulaire 1c de la glace 1, tandis que 1a portion de petit diamètre 1b pénètre légèrement dans la face interne du joint annulaire 2. Pour faciliter la compréhension, sur toutes les figures, les portions déformées du joint annulaire 2 ont été représentées en traits mixtes dans leur état non déformé.The annular seal 2 has a projection internal annular 2a adjacent to its upper edge. This projection 2a penetrates into annular groove 1c of ice 1, while the small diameter portion 1b penetrates slightly in the inner face of the annular seal 2. To facilitate understanding, on all the figures, the portions deformed of the annular seal 2 have been shown in mixed lines in their undistorted state.

    La partie inférieure de ce joint annulaire 2 est engagée autour d'une surface latérale d'emboítement 3a ménagée à l'extrémité supérieure de la carrure 3 et située sensiblement au même niveau que le réhaut 3b. La base de cette surface latérale d'emboítement 3a présente une gorge annulaire 3c.The lower part of this annular seal 2 is engaged around a lateral interlocking surface 3a formed at the upper end of the middle part 3 and situated substantially at the same level as the flange 3b. The basis of this surface lateral socket 3a has an annular groove 3c.

    Un talon renflé 2b fait saillie symétriquement de part et d'autre des faces latérales interne, respectivement externe, à la base du joint annulaire 2. La partie de ce talon renflé 2b faisant saillie à l'intérieur du joint annulaire 2 s'engage dans la gorge annulaire 3c de la face latérale d'emboítement 3a.A bulged heel 2b protrudes symmetrically from side and the other of the internal, respectively external, lateral faces, at the base of the annular seal 2. The part of this heel bulging 2b protruding inside the annular seal 2 engages in the annular groove 3c on the lateral face socket 3a.

    La face latérale interne de la lunette 4 comporte deux portions cylindriques, une portion inférieure 4b de plus grand diamètre et une portion supérieure 4a de plus petit diamètres. Le diamètre de la portion inférieure 4b de plus grand diamètre de la face latérale interne de la lunette est supérieur au diamètre de la face latérale externe du joint annulaire 2, mais inférieur au diamètre externe de son talon renflé 2b, tandis que le diamètre de la portion supérieure 4a est inférieur au diamètre de la face latérale externe du joint annulaire 2.The internal lateral face of the bezel 4 has two cylindrical portions, one lower portion 4b more large diameter and a smaller upper portion 4a diameters. The diameter of the lower portion 4b more large diameter of the inner side face of the telescope is greater than the diameter of the external lateral face of the seal annular 2, but less than the outer diameter of its heel bulging 2b, while the diameter of the upper portion 4a is less than the diameter of the external lateral face of the ring seal 2.

    De ce fait, lors du chassage de la lunette 4, la portion inférieure 4b de la lunette s'engage librement autour du joint annulaire, puisque le diamètre de cette portion inférieure est plus grand que celui du joint annulaire 2. Ce n'est que lorsque cette portion inférieure 4b arrive au niveau du talon renflé 2b qu'il comprime celui-ci dans la gorge annulaire 3c de la face latérale 3a de la carrure 3, fixant ainsi ce joint 2 à cette dernière.Therefore, when chasing the telescope 4, the portion lower 4b of the telescope freely engages around of the annular seal, since the diameter of this portion lower than that of the annular seal 2. This is only when this lower portion 4b arrives at the level of the bulged heel 2b that it compresses this one in the annular groove 3c of the lateral face 3a of the middle part 3, thus fixing this joint 2 to the latter.

    Simultanément à la compression du talon renflé 2b par la portion inférieure 4b de la lunette 4, sa portion supérieure 4a, de plus petit diamètre que le joint 2, comprime la partie supérieure de celui-ci, c'est-à-dire, essentiellement celle qui se situe au niveau de la glace 1, pressant la saillie annulaire interne 2a du joint 2 dans la gorge annulaire 1c de la glace 1 et faisant également légèrement pénétrer la partie de petit diamètre 1b de la glace 1 située sous la saillie annulaire interne 2a dans le joint 2.Simultaneously with the compression of the bulged heel 2b by the lower portion 4b of the bezel 4, its upper portion 4a, smaller in diameter than seal 2, compresses the top of it, that is, basically the one located at ice 1, pressing the internal annular projection 2a of the seal 2 in the groove annular 1c of ice 1 and also making slightly penetrate the small diameter part 1b of the glass 1 located under the internal annular projection 2a in the joint 2.

    On constate qu'avec ce dispositif, la fixation du joint 2 est assurée à ses deux extrémités par la pénétration d'une part de la saillie annulaire interne 2a dans la gorge annulaire 1c de la glace 1 et d'autre part, par pénétration d'une portion du talon renflé 2b de ce joint 2 dans la gorge annulaire 3c de la carrure. Dans les deux cas cet engagement du joint dans les gorges annulaires 1c, respectivement 3c est accompagné de la pression radiale centripète exercée sur le joint annulaire 2 par la lunette 4. Le maintien de ce joint sur la carrure n'est donc plus obtenu par simple frottement, mais par crochement. Ce mode de fixation permet de ce fait d'utiliser un matériau plus tendre que dans l'état de la technique susmentionné. Alors que jusqu'ici le joint est réalisé en polyamide 6.6 dont le module d'élasticité est compris entre 2100 et 3000 MPa, dans le cas de la présente invention, il peut être en polyamide, PBT ou POM notamment, dont le module d'élasticité est compris entre 1000 et 3000 MPa.It can be seen that with this device, the fixing of the joint 2 is ensured at its two ends by the penetration of a part of the internal annular projection 2a in the annular groove 1c of ice 1 and on the other hand, by penetration a portion of the bulged heel 2b of this joint 2 in the groove annular 3c of the middle. In both cases this commitment of the seal in the annular grooves 1c, respectively 3c is accompanied by the centripetal radial pressure exerted on the annular seal 2 by the telescope 4. Maintaining this joint on the middle is therefore no longer obtained by simple friction, but by hooking. This method of attachment allows therefore using a softer material than in the aforementioned state of the art. While so far the joint is made of polyamide 6.6, the modulus of elasticity is between 2100 and 3000 MPa, in the case of the present invention, it can be made of polyamide, PBT or POM in particular, the elastic modulus of which is between 1000 and 3000 MPa.

    La variante illustrée par la figure 5 ne diffère de la forme d'exécution décrite ci-dessus que par la forme du joint annulaire 2' et plus précisément par la forme du talon renflé 2'b. Contrairement au talon renflé 2b, celui-ci ne fait saillie que sur la face latérale externe du joint annulaire 2', laissant la face latérale interne de ce joint annulaire 2' cylindrique, depuis la base de la saillie annulaire interne 2'a engagée dans la gorge annulaire 1c de la glace 1, jusqu'en bas. Le crachement du joint annulaire 2' dans la gorge annulaire 3c de la carrure 3 résulte de la déformation de la base de ce joint annulaire 2' induite lorsque la partie inférieure de la lunette 4b s'engage sur la partie du talon renflé faisant saillie sur la face latérale externe du joint et lui communique une compression radiale centripète.The variant illustrated in FIG. 5 does not differ from the embodiment described above only by the form of the annular seal 2 'and more precisely by the shape of the heel bulging 2'b. Unlike the bulged heel 2b, it does not protrudes only on the outer lateral face of the annular seal 2 ', leaving the internal lateral face of this joint annular 2 'cylindrical, from the base of the annular projection internal 2 ′ has engaged in the annular groove 1c of the window 1, all the way down. The spitting of the annular seal 2 ' in the annular groove 3c of the middle part 3 results from the deformation of the base of this annular seal 2 'induced when the lower part of the telescope 4b engages on the swollen part of the heel protruding from the side external of the joint and communicates to it a radial compression centripetal.

    Cette variante présente l'avantage de faciliter le démoulage du joint annulaire 2' lors de son injection, tout en conservant le système de l'ancrage de ce joint sur la carrure. Cette variante permet aussi de faciliter le montage et le démontage du joint annulaire 2'.This variant has the advantage of facilitating demolding of the annular seal 2 'during its injection, while retaining the system for anchoring this joint to the middle. This variant also makes it easier to assemble and disassembly of the annular seal 2 '.

    Comme on peut le constater, les modifications apportées par rapport au dispositif de fixation de l'état de la technique n'entraínent pratiquement aucune complication ni en ce qui concerne les opérations d'usinage ou d'injection des différents éléments, ni en ce qui concerne les opérations de montage, de sorte que les avantages importants constatés sont obtenus sans induire d'inconvénient et sans nécessiter d'opération supplémentaire ni dans le programme de fabrication ni dans les opérations de montage.As can be seen, the changes made with respect to the fixing device of the state of the art cause practically no complications either which concerns the machining or injection operations of different elements, neither with regard to the operations of mounting, so the significant benefits found are obtained without causing inconvenience and without requiring of additional operation nor in the manufacturing program nor in the assembly operations.

    Avantageusement, les points d'injection du joint 2 ou 2' se situeront en face de la partie 4b de la lunette 4 présentant le plus grand diamètre interne et sur la face externe du joint annulaire 2 ou 2' située entre le talon 2b ou 2'b et le haut de la partie 4b de la lunette 4. Ainsi ces points d'injection ne sont pas visibles et ne se situent pas dans une zone de contact du joint annulaire 2 ou 2'.Advantageously, the injection points of the seal 2 or 2 'will be located opposite part 4b of the telescope 4 having the largest internal diameter and on the face outer of the annular seal 2 or 2 'located between the heel 2b or 2'b and the top of part 4b of the telescope 4. So these injection points are not visible and are not located in a contact area of the annular seal 2 or 2 '.

    Claims (4)

    Dispositif de fixation étanche d'une glace sur une boíte de montre, comprenant un joint annulaire (2, 2') de forme générale cylindrique en un matériau compressible présentant une saillie annulaire interne (2a, 2'a) à l'extrémité supérieure de ce joint annulaire (2, 2'), une gorge annulaire (1c) ménagée sur la tranche de la glace (1) dans laquelle cette saillie annulaire (2a, 2'a) est engagée, une surface latérale externe (3a), ménagée sur la partie supérieure de la carrure (3) pour recevoir la partie inférieure de la face interne dudit joint annulaire (2, 2') dont la base vient en butée contre une portée de la carrure (3) et une lunette (4) ajustée autour dudit joint (2, 2') en le comprimant radialement, caractérisé en ce que la base dudit joint annulaire (2, 2') présente un renflement annulaire (2b, 2'b) faisant saillie au moins de sa face latérale externe, que la surface latérale interne de la lunette (4) ajustée autour de ce joint (2, 2') comporte deux surfaces cylindriques concentriques (4a, 4b) de sections différentes, la surface cylindrique (4b) de plus grande section étant celle qui est adjacente à la base de la lunette (4), ces sections étant légèrement inférieures aux sections de la face latérale externe dudit joint annulaire (2, 2'), respectivement dudit renflement annulaire (2b, 2'b) à l'état non comprimé, la base de ladite surface latérale externe (3a) de la partie supérieure de la carrure (3) présentant une gorge annulaire (3c) pour recevoir une portion dudit joint annulaire (2, 2') déformée consécutivement à l'ajustement de la lunette (4), assurant le blocage axial de ce joint annulaire (2, 2').Device for tightly fitting a lens to a watch case, comprising an annular seal (2, 2 ') of generally cylindrical shape in a compressible material having an internal annular projection (2a, 2'a) at the end upper of this annular seal (2, 2 '), an annular groove (1c) formed on the edge of the ice (1) in which this annular projection (2a, 2'a) is engaged, a external lateral surface (3a), formed on the upper part the middle part (3) to receive the lower part of the internal face of said annular seal (2, 2 '), the base abuts against a bearing surface of the middle part (3) and a bezel (4) fitted around said seal (2, 2 ') by compressing radially, characterized in that the base of said annular seal (2, 2 ') has an annular bulge (2b, 2'b) projecting at least from its lateral face external, than the internal lateral surface of the telescope (4) fitted around this joint (2, 2 ') has two surfaces concentric cylindrical (4a, 4b) of different sections, the cylindrical surface (4b) of larger section being the one adjacent to the base of the telescope (4), these sections being slightly smaller than the sections of the external lateral face of said annular seal (2, 2 '), respectively said annular bulge (2b, 2'b) in the non-state compressed, the base of said external lateral surface (3a) of the upper part of the middle part (3) having a groove annular (3c) to receive a portion of said annular seal (2, 2 ') deformed following the adjustment of the bezel (4), ensuring the axial locking of this annular seal (2, 2 '). Dispositif selon la revendication 1, caractérisé en ce que ledit renflement annulaire (2b) fait saillie de part et d'autre des faces cylindriques interne, respectivement externe dudit joint annulaire (2).Device according to claim 1, characterized in what said annular bulge (2b) protrudes from and other internal cylindrical faces, respectively external of said annular seal (2). Dispositif selon l'une des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que les points d'injection dudit joint annulaire (2, 2') se situent sur sa face cylindrique externe, entre ledit renflement annulaire (2b, 2'b) et la partie où le diamètre interne de la lunette (4) devient plus petit.Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the injection points of said annular seal (2, 2 ') are located on its cylindrical face external, between said annular bulge (2b, 2'b) and the part where the internal diameter of the telescope (4) becomes more small. Dispositif selon l'une des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que ledit joint annulaire (2, 2') est en un matériau polymère dont le module d'élasticité est compris entre 1000 et 3000 Mpa.Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said annular seal (2, 2 ') is made of a polymer material with a modulus of elasticity between 1000 and 3000 Mpa.
    EP99810182A 1999-03-03 1999-03-03 Device for the sealed fastening of a glass to a watch case Expired - Lifetime EP1033633B1 (en)

    Priority Applications (9)

    Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
    DE69911908T DE69911908T2 (en) 1999-03-03 1999-03-03 Device for tightly attaching a watch glass to a watch case
    EP99810182A EP1033633B1 (en) 1999-03-03 1999-03-03 Device for the sealed fastening of a glass to a watch case
    SG200000928A SG83777A1 (en) 1999-03-03 2000-02-23 Device for the leakproof fastening of a watch glass to a watch case
    TW089103403A TW475101B (en) 1999-03-03 2000-02-25 Device for the leakproof fastening of a watch glass to a watch case
    US09/515,904 US6206563B1 (en) 1999-03-03 2000-02-29 Device for leakproof fastening of a watch glass to a watch case
    CNB001030264A CN1147762C (en) 1999-03-03 2000-02-29 Device for fixing watch glass with leakage-proof device
    KR1020000010323A KR100571425B1 (en) 1999-03-03 2000-03-02 Devices for waterproof fixing of the watch glass to the watch case
    JP2000063347A JP4128720B2 (en) 1999-03-03 2000-03-03 Waterproof mounting structure for watch glass watch case
    HK00106363A HK1027172A1 (en) 1999-03-03 2000-10-09 Device for the sealed fastening of a glass to a watch case

    Applications Claiming Priority (1)

    Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
    EP99810182A EP1033633B1 (en) 1999-03-03 1999-03-03 Device for the sealed fastening of a glass to a watch case

    Publications (2)

    Publication Number Publication Date
    EP1033633A1 true EP1033633A1 (en) 2000-09-06
    EP1033633B1 EP1033633B1 (en) 2003-10-08

    Family

    ID=8242705

    Family Applications (1)

    Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
    EP99810182A Expired - Lifetime EP1033633B1 (en) 1999-03-03 1999-03-03 Device for the sealed fastening of a glass to a watch case

    Country Status (9)

    Country Link
    US (1) US6206563B1 (en)
    EP (1) EP1033633B1 (en)
    JP (1) JP4128720B2 (en)
    KR (1) KR100571425B1 (en)
    CN (1) CN1147762C (en)
    DE (1) DE69911908T2 (en)
    HK (1) HK1027172A1 (en)
    SG (1) SG83777A1 (en)
    TW (1) TW475101B (en)

    Cited By (2)

    * Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
    Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
    EP2261757A1 (en) 2009-06-10 2010-12-15 ETA SA Manufacture Horlogère Suisse Method and device for attaching a glass to a bezel
    EP3896535A1 (en) 2020-04-03 2021-10-20 Rolex Sa Sealing system for a timepiece case

    Families Citing this family (11)

    * Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
    Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
    GB9715175D0 (en) * 1997-07-19 1997-09-24 Univ Birmingham Method of case hardening
    DE07405187T1 (en) * 2007-07-02 2008-12-04 Rolex Sa Waterproof watch case
    US8023261B2 (en) 2008-09-05 2011-09-20 Apple Inc. Electronic device assembly
    US8797721B2 (en) 2010-02-02 2014-08-05 Apple Inc. Portable electronic device housing with outer glass surfaces
    US9235240B2 (en) 2010-11-11 2016-01-12 Apple Inc. Insert molding around glass members for portable electronic devices
    JP5824969B2 (en) * 2011-08-29 2015-12-02 セイコーエプソン株式会社 Cover glass and watch
    CN102880039A (en) * 2012-09-03 2013-01-16 深圳市宝亚莱科技有限公司 Waterproof watch
    US9871898B2 (en) * 2013-05-08 2018-01-16 Apple Inc. Ceramic cover for electronic device housing
    USD721986S1 (en) * 2013-11-01 2015-02-03 Tudor Watch U.S.A., Llc Watch security clasp
    CN208557082U (en) 2014-08-27 2019-03-01 苹果公司 A kind of electronic equipment and lid for electronic equipment
    KR20210048922A (en) 2019-10-24 2021-05-04 삼성전자주식회사 Electronic device including light emitting structure

    Citations (6)

    * Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
    Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
    CH519193A (en) 1969-03-03 1971-10-29 Centrale S A Fab Waterproof watch case with hard crystal
    CH583438B5 (en) * 1973-09-21 1976-12-31 Rolex Montres
    DE2817770A1 (en) * 1977-04-26 1978-11-02 Citizen Watch Co Ltd ARRANGEMENT FOR HOLDING A PROTECTIVE GLASS
    JPS5754883A (en) * 1980-09-19 1982-04-01 Seiko Epson Corp Glass part structure for watch
    CH653844A5 (en) * 1984-03-07 1986-01-31 Watch case
    US4668101A (en) * 1985-11-22 1987-05-26 Timex Corporation Water resistant seal for watch case

    Family Cites Families (2)

    * Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
    Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
    US2854815A (en) * 1954-09-24 1958-10-07 Piquerez Ervin Double watch crystal with moisture absorbent and indicating packing
    GB2023889B (en) * 1978-04-27 1982-12-08 Citizen Watch Co Ltd Watch case structure

    Patent Citations (6)

    * Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
    Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
    CH519193A (en) 1969-03-03 1971-10-29 Centrale S A Fab Waterproof watch case with hard crystal
    CH583438B5 (en) * 1973-09-21 1976-12-31 Rolex Montres
    DE2817770A1 (en) * 1977-04-26 1978-11-02 Citizen Watch Co Ltd ARRANGEMENT FOR HOLDING A PROTECTIVE GLASS
    JPS5754883A (en) * 1980-09-19 1982-04-01 Seiko Epson Corp Glass part structure for watch
    CH653844A5 (en) * 1984-03-07 1986-01-31 Watch case
    US4668101A (en) * 1985-11-22 1987-05-26 Timex Corporation Water resistant seal for watch case

    Non-Patent Citations (1)

    * Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
    Title
    PATENT ABSTRACTS OF JAPAN vol. 006, no. 129 (P - 128) 15 July 1982 (1982-07-15) *

    Cited By (3)

    * Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
    Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
    EP2261757A1 (en) 2009-06-10 2010-12-15 ETA SA Manufacture Horlogère Suisse Method and device for attaching a glass to a bezel
    US8764283B2 (en) 2009-06-10 2014-07-01 Eta Sa Manufacture Horlogère Suisse Process and device for fastening a glass to a bezel
    EP3896535A1 (en) 2020-04-03 2021-10-20 Rolex Sa Sealing system for a timepiece case

    Also Published As

    Publication number Publication date
    JP2000266868A (en) 2000-09-29
    TW475101B (en) 2002-02-01
    CN1266209A (en) 2000-09-13
    HK1027172A1 (en) 2001-01-05
    KR100571425B1 (en) 2006-04-14
    CN1147762C (en) 2004-04-28
    JP4128720B2 (en) 2008-07-30
    KR20000062702A (en) 2000-10-25
    SG83777A1 (en) 2001-10-16
    DE69911908D1 (en) 2003-11-13
    DE69911908T2 (en) 2004-11-04
    EP1033633B1 (en) 2003-10-08
    US6206563B1 (en) 2001-03-27

    Similar Documents

    Publication Publication Date Title
    EP1033633B1 (en) Device for the sealed fastening of a glass to a watch case
    WO2006016066A1 (en) Implantation cartridge for a pipe connection designed to be fitted in a housing
    FR2558563A1 (en) BUILT-IN COUPLING FOR CONNECTING THE END OF A TUBE TO A FLEXIBLE PIPE OR THE LIKE
    FR2875593A1 (en) COMBINATION OF JOINT AND SEAL HOUSING, IN PARTICULAR FOR A HEAT EXCHANGER COLLECTOR
    EP1416341A2 (en) Connection device between a bezel and a watch case
    FR2669710A1 (en) COUPLING FOR HOSE, PROVIDED WITH A TUBULAR COUPLING PART.
    EP1916182A1 (en) Cycle steering play
    CH682860A5 (en) Transducers Static electricity meters.
    EP0770939A1 (en) Timepiece comprising a case with a clockwork movement therein
    EP1046967A1 (en) Method for mounting a casing-ring in a watch case and case-ring used in said method
    EP0072345A1 (en) Watch case
    EP3896535A1 (en) Sealing system for a timepiece case
    FR2758379A1 (en) Pneumatic coupling implant cartridge for pneumatic cylinder
    EP3237974B1 (en) Watertight watch case
    FR2494591A1 (en) SECURITY FIXING FOR SKI
    EP0882926B1 (en) Assembly comprising a corrugated hose and a quick connector
    EP1649472B1 (en) Electromagnetic valve, method for attaching a solenoid to said electromagnetic valve, and method for detaching the solenoid from this electromagnetic valve
    CH718724A2 (en) Watch box fitted with a crystal.
    EP1591845B1 (en) Device for snap-fitting of a back cover and/or of a bezel on the middle of a watch case
    EP1291739B1 (en) Watertight watch case and assembling method
    FR2594205A1 (en) End connector for a flexible pipe
    FR3138278A1 (en) Annular device for eyelet or curtain ring
    FR2695589A1 (en) Sealing joint moulding process for concrete pipes - includes step of placing seal and annular element on forming ring and bonding by depression
    FR2721666A1 (en) Nut for bicycle headset and cycles in general.
    FR2811690A1 (en) Variable-height inspection chamber cover has seal on guide frame interacting with surface of cylindrical projection on cover surround

    Legal Events

    Date Code Title Description
    PUAI Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase

    Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012

    AK Designated contracting states

    Kind code of ref document: A1

    Designated state(s): CH DE FR GB LI

    AX Request for extension of the european patent

    Free format text: AL;LT;LV;MK;RO;SI

    17P Request for examination filed

    Effective date: 20010124

    AKX Designation fees paid

    Free format text: CH DE FR GB LI

    GRAH Despatch of communication of intention to grant a patent

    Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOS IGRA

    RAP1 Party data changed (applicant data changed or rights of an application transferred)

    Owner name: ROLEX SA

    GRAS Grant fee paid

    Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR3

    GRAA (expected) grant

    Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009210

    AK Designated contracting states

    Kind code of ref document: B1

    Designated state(s): CH DE FR GB LI

    REG Reference to a national code

    Ref country code: GB

    Ref legal event code: FG4D

    Free format text: NOT ENGLISH

    REG Reference to a national code

    Ref country code: CH

    Ref legal event code: EP

    REF Corresponds to:

    Ref document number: 69911908

    Country of ref document: DE

    Date of ref document: 20031113

    Kind code of ref document: P

    REG Reference to a national code

    Ref country code: CH

    Ref legal event code: NV

    Representative=s name: MOINAS & SAVOYE SA

    GBT Gb: translation of ep patent filed (gb section 77(6)(a)/1977)

    Effective date: 20031204

    PLBE No opposition filed within time limit

    Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009261

    STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

    Free format text: STATUS: NO OPPOSITION FILED WITHIN TIME LIMIT

    26N No opposition filed

    Effective date: 20040709

    REG Reference to a national code

    Ref country code: FR

    Ref legal event code: PLFP

    Year of fee payment: 18

    REG Reference to a national code

    Ref country code: CH

    Ref legal event code: PFA

    Owner name: ROLEX SA, CH

    Free format text: FORMER OWNER: ROLEX SA, CH

    REG Reference to a national code

    Ref country code: FR

    Ref legal event code: PLFP

    Year of fee payment: 19

    REG Reference to a national code

    Ref country code: FR

    Ref legal event code: PLFP

    Year of fee payment: 20

    PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

    Ref country code: GB

    Payment date: 20180316

    Year of fee payment: 20

    Ref country code: DE

    Payment date: 20180309

    Year of fee payment: 20

    Ref country code: CH

    Payment date: 20180315

    Year of fee payment: 20

    PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

    Ref country code: FR

    Payment date: 20180330

    Year of fee payment: 20

    REG Reference to a national code

    Ref country code: DE

    Ref legal event code: R071

    Ref document number: 69911908

    Country of ref document: DE

    REG Reference to a national code

    Ref country code: CH

    Ref legal event code: PL

    REG Reference to a national code

    Ref country code: GB

    Ref legal event code: PE20

    Expiry date: 20190302

    PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

    Ref country code: GB

    Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF EXPIRATION OF PROTECTION

    Effective date: 20190302