EP1213628A1 - Method for adjusting the oscillation frequence of a sprung balance for a mechanical timepiece - Google Patents

Method for adjusting the oscillation frequence of a sprung balance for a mechanical timepiece Download PDF

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Publication number
EP1213628A1
EP1213628A1 EP00204369A EP00204369A EP1213628A1 EP 1213628 A1 EP1213628 A1 EP 1213628A1 EP 00204369 A EP00204369 A EP 00204369A EP 00204369 A EP00204369 A EP 00204369A EP 1213628 A1 EP1213628 A1 EP 1213628A1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
hairspring
oscillation
frequency
machining
balance
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Application number
EP00204369A
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German (de)
French (fr)
Inventor
Florian Serex
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.)
ETA Manufacture Horlogere Suisse SA
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ETA Manufacture Horlogere Suisse SA
Ebauchesfabrik ETA AG
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Application filed by ETA Manufacture Horlogere Suisse SA, Ebauchesfabrik ETA AG filed Critical ETA Manufacture Horlogere Suisse SA
Priority to EP00204369A priority Critical patent/EP1213628A1/en
Publication of EP1213628A1 publication Critical patent/EP1213628A1/en
Withdrawn legal-status Critical Current

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    • G—PHYSICS
    • G04—HOROLOGY
    • G04D—APPARATUS OR TOOLS SPECIALLY DESIGNED FOR MAKING OR MAINTAINING CLOCKS OR WATCHES
    • G04D7/00—Measuring, counting, calibrating, testing or regulating apparatus
    • G04D7/10—Measuring, counting, calibrating, testing or regulating apparatus for hairsprings of balances
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G04—HOROLOGY
    • G04B—MECHANICALLY-DRIVEN CLOCKS OR WATCHES; MECHANICAL PARTS OF CLOCKS OR WATCHES IN GENERAL; TIME PIECES USING THE POSITION OF THE SUN, MOON OR STARS
    • G04B17/00—Mechanisms for stabilising frequency
    • G04B17/04—Oscillators acting by spring tension
    • G04B17/06—Oscillators with hairsprings, e.g. balance
    • G04B17/066—Manufacture of the spiral spring

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a frequency adjustment method of a balance spring fitted to a mechanical timepiece.
  • the regulator assembly of a watch movement will be briefly described below in using Figures 1 and 2 attached.
  • this regulator assembly includes a balance spring 1 associated with a balance 2.
  • the balance spring is connected to axis 4 of the balance by means of a ferrule 6.
  • the outer end 8 of the hairspring is fixed to a stud 10 secured to the balance bridge 12 (rooster).
  • the balance-spring oscillation is maintained by the escape wheel 14 engaged with the train of the movement.
  • the object of the present invention is to overcome the drawbacks mentioned above by proposing a method for adjusting the frequency of a balance spring efficient, inexpensive and simplifying the construction of the assembly regulator.
  • the invention relates to a method for adjusting the frequency of oscillation of a balance-spring according to the steps mentioned in claim 1, in which we use laser machining of the balance spring to reduce the torque elasticity of the latter until reaching a reference elastic torque substantially corresponding to the reference frequency for the oscillation of the sprung balance.
  • knowledge of the elastic reference torque is not necessary since the adjustment can be done in one or more successive steps by measuring the frequency of the assembled balance spring.
  • the hairspring ready for mounting for a given length between the points of attachment to the ferrule 6 and to the pin 10 has an elastic torque greater than the reference elastic torque above.
  • laser machining has the effect of reducing the elastic torque of the spiral, as will be explained below in more detail.
  • the adjustment of the oscillation frequency of the balance spring can be carried out during a preliminary stage, preceding the mounting of this balance spring in a watch movement.
  • a presetting can be carried out according to the invention in this preliminary step and a fine adjustment, also to using a laser beam, is carried out once the balance spring is mounted in the watch movement to allow precise adjustment of the oscillation frequency of this balance spring in real operating conditions and thus ensure a exact movement of the watch movement.
  • the regulator assembly preferably no longer comprises pins racket.
  • the problems of gait variation according to the position of the movement, due to the passage of the outer spiral spiral between the pins, are eliminated.
  • the present invention is particularly suitable for factory or watch workshop adjustment and may prove to be complex for implementation by an after-sales service workshop carrying out the traditional checks and necessary repairs following possible damage caused to the timepiece.
  • the balance spring 1, 2 is assembled and the outer end 22 of the balance spring is attached to a stud 10 of a watch movement (not shown).
  • the assembled balance spring can be mounted in a device specifically used to the process of the invention. In the latter case, the stud 10 belongs to the device specific or is replaced by an equivalent fixing means.
  • the hairspring is produced with an elastic torque greater than one reference elastic torque corresponding to a reference frequency for the oscillation of the balance-spring.
  • the frequency is measured of balance-spring oscillation, this frequency then being greater than the frequency reference.
  • a laser device 30 providing a laser beam 32 for machining or processing the hairspring 1.
  • the adjustment of the frequency of the regulator assembly is adjusted neither using racket pins, nor using screws or small masses arranged on the balance 2.
  • the present invention does not exclude the possibility of providing means for variation of the balance inertia to allow fine adjustments after adjustment initial in the factory by means of the method according to the invention. According to this process, laser machining of hairspring 1 so as to reduce its elastic torque until that it is substantially equal to the above-mentioned reference elastic torque.
  • the oscillation frequency is finely adjusted to using the laser device 30 as a function of one or more frequency measurements oscillation.
  • the program for controlling the laser device 30 and its movement relative to the balance spring can include a single step of machining or processing based on an initial frequency measurement, using an algorithm based on an analytical or empirical model, or a combination both.
  • numerous control variants of the laser device within the framework of the implementation of the method according to the invention are possible.
  • the laser beam 32 to modify at least superficially the structure of hairspring 1 in at least one of its parts, in particular on a section of its external turn 24.
  • This machining has firstly, the function of varying the elastic modulus E of the balance spring by lowering it up to a value for which the elastic torque of this hairspring corresponds to the value reference. Indeed, the oscillation frequency being proportional to the root square of the elastic torque M of the hairspring, and this torque being proportional to the modulus elasticity E, a reduction in this modulus therefore makes it possible to decrease the frequency oscillation of the regulator assembly.
  • laser machining can also be carried out on several spiral turns, along sections of varying sizes defined in particular according to the access to these turns by the laser beam.
  • a second embodiment of the method shown schematically in Figure 4, it is planned to partially decrease the height H of the ribbon 36 forming this hairspring.
  • This decrease in height is expected only along of sections L1, L2 of the ribbon 36, which defines open cutouts 40 along the upper or lower edge of this ribbon. These cuts can vary in length and in number.
  • the elastic torque of hairspring 1 being proportional to the height of the ribbon 36, an at least partial reduction in this height makes it possible to reduce this torque and therefore the frequency of oscillation of the balance spring.
  • laser machining is therefore used primarily to remove material and provision is made to focus the beam 32 on the region of machining of the ribbon 36.
  • the laser is arranged so that the beam 32 is substantially perpendicular to the general plane of the hairspring allowing machining either the upper surface, that is, the lower surface of the hairspring.
  • This last variant makes it possible to act over a larger area for the laser beam, but has the disadvantage that the laser beam can also reach the turn preceding that which is being machined.
  • This second mode of implementation of the method easily makes it possible to machine several spiral turns, in particular in the preferred variant.
  • the thickness of the ribbon 36 forming the hairspring 1 is planned to at least partially reduce the thickness of the ribbon 36 forming the hairspring 1.
  • This reduction in thickness in the zones 44 is carried out using of a laser beam.
  • This laser machining is preferably carried out on the turn 24 of the balance spring, but it is also possible to machine other turns by orienting this laser beam obliquely relative to the plane of the balance spring.
  • the zones 44 pass through from top to bottom. Their width can be variable, as can the number of machined zones provided. It is also possible to provide a succession of machining of lines operated by paths along a vertical axis of the laser beam. The decrease in frequency comes from the fact that the elastic torque of the balance spring varies according to the cube thickness (e 3 ) of the ribbon forming the balance spring.
  • Figures 6 and 7 show two machining variants on the face lateral 46 of the hairspring 1.
  • the area 48 is oblong. This zone 48 forms a recess in the tape 36 without reaching the upper and lower surfaces of this one. Thus, the appearance of the hairspring seen from above is not affected.
  • the areas 50 form a succession of circular recesses.
  • laser machining may create through openings.

Abstract

A spiral watch spring (2,1) is made with a greater than nominal stiffness and trimmed in height and thickness before and after fitting in the watch by a laser beam (32) to achieve the nominal stiffness.

Description

La présente invention concerne un procédé de réglage de la fréquence d'oscillation d'un balancier-spiral équipant une pièce d'horlogerie mécanique. L'ensemble régulateur d'un mouvement horloger sera décrit brièvement ci-après à l'aide des figures 1 et 2 annexées. De manière classique, cet ensemble régulateur comprend un spiral 1 associé à un balancier 2. Le spiral est relié à l'axe 4 du balancier au moyen d'une virole 6. L'extrémité extérieure 8 du spiral est fixée à un piton 10 solidaire du pont de balancier 12 (coq). L'oscillation du balancier-spiral est entretenue par la roue d'échappement 14 en prise avec le rouage du mouvement.The present invention relates to a frequency adjustment method of a balance spring fitted to a mechanical timepiece. The regulator assembly of a watch movement will be briefly described below in using Figures 1 and 2 attached. Conventionally, this regulator assembly includes a balance spring 1 associated with a balance 2. The balance spring is connected to axis 4 of the balance by means of a ferrule 6. The outer end 8 of the hairspring is fixed to a stud 10 secured to the balance bridge 12 (rooster). The balance-spring oscillation is maintained by the escape wheel 14 engaged with the train of the movement.

Pour régler la fréquence d'oscillation du balancier-spiral, il est prévu de manière classique deux goupilles 16 et 17 fixées à une raquette 18 susceptible d'être déplacée en rotation par exemple au moyen d'une vis excentrique 20. Ainsi, en variant la position des goupilles, on varie la longueur active du spiral. Le couple élastique du spiral étant inversement proportionnel à la longueur active du spiral, la fréquence d'oscillation du balancier-spiral est sensiblement inversement proportionnelle à la racine carrée de cette longueur active. Ainsi, pour régler la fréquence de marche du mouvement horloger, il est prévu en général dans l'art antérieur un système de réglage comprenant une raquette et des goupilles entre lesquelles passe la partie terminale 22 de la spire extérieure 24 de ce spiral 1.To adjust the oscillation frequency of the balance spring, it is planned to conventionally two pins 16 and 17 fixed to a racket 18 capable of being moved in rotation for example by means of an eccentric screw 20. Thus, by varying the position of the pins, the active length of the balance spring is varied. The elastic torque of the hairspring being inversely proportional to the active length of the hairspring, the frequency of the balance spring is substantially inversely proportional to the square root of this active length. Thus, to adjust the operating frequency of the watch movement, there is generally provided in the prior art a system of adjustment comprising a racket and pins between which the part passes terminal 22 of the outer coil 24 of this hairspring 1.

On notera qu'il existe d'autres systèmes de réglage agissant notamment sur le moment d'inertie du balancier 2. Tous ces moyens nécessitent l'agencement d'un certain nombre de composants destinés au réglage de la fréquence d'oscillation du balancier-spiral.It will be noted that there are other adjustment systems which act in particular on the moment of inertia of the balance wheel 2. All these means require the arrangement of a number of components for adjusting the oscillation frequency of the sprung balance.

De plus, dans le cas représenté aux figures 1 et 2, l'ajustement des deux goupilles 16 et 17 est relativement délicat. On constate souvent que selon la position du mouvement dans l'espace, l'action des goupilles est plus ou moins efficace de sorte que la longueur active du spiral varie selon cette position. Ceci est bien sûr néfaste pour la marche de la pièce d'horlogerie et donc pour l'exactitude de l'heure ou intervalle de temps affiché par celle-ci.In addition, in the case shown in Figures 1 and 2, the adjustment of the two pins 16 and 17 is relatively delicate. We often see that depending on the position movement in space, the action of the pins is more or less effective so that the active length of the balance spring varies according to this position. This is of course harmful for the running of the timepiece and therefore for the accuracy of the time or time interval displayed by it.

Le but de la présente invention consiste à pallier les inconvénients susmentionnés en proposant un procédé de réglage de la fréquence d'un balancier-spiral efficace, peu onéreux et permettant de simplifier la construction de l'ensemble régulateur.The object of the present invention is to overcome the drawbacks mentioned above by proposing a method for adjusting the frequency of a balance spring efficient, inexpensive and simplifying the construction of the assembly regulator.

A cet effet, l'invention a pour objet un procédé de réglage de la fréquence d'oscillation d'un balancier-spiral selon les étapes mentionnées à la revendication 1, au cours desquelles on utilise un usinage au laser du spiral pour diminuer le couple élastique de ce dernier jusqu'à atteindre un couple élastique de référence correspondant sensiblement à la fréquence de référence pour l'oscillation du balancier-spiral. On notera ici que la connaissance du couple élastique de référence n'est pas nécessaire étant donné que le réglage peut être fait en une ou plusieurs étapes successives en mesurant la fréquence du balancier-spiral assemblé. Par contre, dans le cadre de la présente invention, il est nécessaire que le spiral prêt au montage, pour une longueur donnée entre les points de fixation à la virole 6 et au piton 10, présente un couple élastique supérieur au couple élastique de référence susmentionné. En effet, l'usinage laser a pour effet de diminuer le couple élastique du spiral, comme cela sera exposé ci-après de manière plus détaillée.To this end, the invention relates to a method for adjusting the frequency of oscillation of a balance-spring according to the steps mentioned in claim 1, in which we use laser machining of the balance spring to reduce the torque elasticity of the latter until reaching a reference elastic torque substantially corresponding to the reference frequency for the oscillation of the sprung balance. It will be noted here that knowledge of the elastic reference torque is not necessary since the adjustment can be done in one or more successive steps by measuring the frequency of the assembled balance spring. Through against, in the context of the present invention, it is necessary that the hairspring ready for mounting, for a given length between the points of attachment to the ferrule 6 and to the pin 10, has an elastic torque greater than the reference elastic torque above. Indeed, laser machining has the effect of reducing the elastic torque of the spiral, as will be explained below in more detail.

On notera que le réglage de la fréquence d'oscillation du balancier-spiral peut être effectuée lors d'une étape préliminaire, précédent le montage de ce balancier-spiral dans un mouvement horloger. Dans une variante, un pré-réglage peut être effectué selon l'invention dans cette étape préliminaire et un réglage fin, également à l'aide d'un faisceau laser, est effectué une fois le balancier-spiral monté dans le mouvement horloger pour permettre de régler précisément la fréquence d'oscillation de ce balancier-spiral en situation réelle de fonctionnement et ainsi assurer une marche exacte du mouvement horloger.Note that the adjustment of the oscillation frequency of the balance spring can be carried out during a preliminary stage, preceding the mounting of this balance spring in a watch movement. In a variant, a presetting can be carried out according to the invention in this preliminary step and a fine adjustment, also to using a laser beam, is carried out once the balance spring is mounted in the watch movement to allow precise adjustment of the oscillation frequency of this balance spring in real operating conditions and thus ensure a exact movement of the watch movement.

Grâce aux caractéristiques de la présente invention, aucun élément spécifique au réglage de la fréquence d'oscillation du balancier-spiral n'est nécessaire. En particulier, l'ensemble régulateur ne comporte de préférence plus de goupilles de raquette. Ainsi, les problèmes de variation de marche selon la position du mouvement, due au passage de la spire extérieure du spiral entre les goupilles, sont éliminés. On notera toutefois qu'il est possible, dans un mode de réalisation particulier, d'équiper le balancier de moyens de réglage fin de son moment d'inertie de manière à permettre un réglage ultérieur après une certaine période de fonctionnement du mouvement horloger. En effet, la présente invention est particulièrement adaptée à un réglage en usine ou atelier d'horlogerie et peut s'avérer complexe pour une mise en oeuvre par un atelier de service après-vente effectuant les contrôles traditionnels et les réparations nécessaires suite à des dommages éventuels causés à la pièce d'horlogerie.Thanks to the features of the present invention, no specific element to adjust the oscillation frequency of the balance spring is not necessary. In in particular, the regulator assembly preferably no longer comprises pins racket. Thus, the problems of gait variation according to the position of the movement, due to the passage of the outer spiral spiral between the pins, are eliminated. Note however that it is possible, in one embodiment particular, to equip the balance wheel with means for fine adjustment of its moment of inertia so as to allow further adjustment after a certain period of operation of the watch movement. Indeed, the present invention is particularly suitable for factory or watch workshop adjustment and may prove to be complex for implementation by an after-sales service workshop carrying out the traditional checks and necessary repairs following possible damage caused to the timepiece.

La présente invention sera décrite plus en détail à l'aide des figures annexées, données à titre d'exemples nullement limitatifs, et dans lesquelles :

  • les figures 1 et 2, déjà décrites, représentent un ensemble régulateur de l'art antérieur équipé d'une raquette avec ses deux goupilles;
  • la figure 3 est une vue simplifiée de dessus d'un balancier-spiral selon l'invention fixé à un piton;
  • la figure 4 montre schématiquement un mode d'usinage laser du spiral dans le cadre du procédé selon l'invention, et
  • les figures 5 à 7 représentent schématiquement trois variantes d'un autre mode de mise en oeuvre du procédé selon l'invention.
The present invention will be described in more detail with the aid of the appended figures, given by way of non-limiting examples, and in which:
  • Figures 1 and 2, already described, show a regulator assembly of the prior art equipped with a racket with its two pins;
  • Figure 3 is a simplified top view of a balance spring according to the invention attached to a stud;
  • FIG. 4 schematically shows a laser machining mode of the hairspring within the framework of the method according to the invention, and
  • Figures 5 to 7 schematically represent three variants of another embodiment of the method according to the invention.

A l'aide de la figure 3, on décrira de manière générale le procédé selon l'invention. Le balancier-spiral 1, 2 est assemblé et l'extrémité externe 22 du spiral est fixée à un piton 10 d'un mouvement horloger (non représenté). On notera que le balancier-spiral assemblé peut être monté dans un dispositif servant spécifiquement au procédé de l'invention. Dans ce dernier cas, le piton 10 appartient au dispositif spécifique ou est remplacé par un moyen de fixation équivalent.With the help of FIG. 3, the process according to general will be described the invention. The balance spring 1, 2 is assembled and the outer end 22 of the balance spring is attached to a stud 10 of a watch movement (not shown). Note that the assembled balance spring can be mounted in a device specifically used to the process of the invention. In the latter case, the stud 10 belongs to the device specific or is replaced by an equivalent fixing means.

Selon l'invention, le spiral est fabriqué avec un couple élastique supérieur à un couple élastique de référence correspondant à une fréquence de référence pour l'oscillation du balancier-spiral.According to the invention, the hairspring is produced with an elastic torque greater than one reference elastic torque corresponding to a reference frequency for the oscillation of the balance-spring.

A l'aide de moyens connus de l'homme du métier, on mesure la fréquence d'oscillation du balancier-spiral, cette fréquence étant alors supérieure à la fréquence de référence. Pour régler cette fréquence d'oscillation et l'ajuster au moins sensiblement à la fréquence de référence, il est prévu selon l'invention d'utiliser un dispositif laser 30 fournissant un faisceau laser 32 pour l'usinage ou le traitement du spiral 1. Ainsi, dans le cadre de la présente invention, le réglage de la fréquence d'oscillation de l'ensemble régulateur est réglée ni à l'aide de goupilles de raquette, ni à l'aide de vis ou petites masses agencées sur le balancier 2. Toutefois, comme déjà mentionné, la présente invention n'écarte pas la possibilité de prévoir des moyens de variation de l'inertie du balancier pour permettre des réglages fins après un réglage initial en usine au moyen du procédé selon l'invention. Selon ce procédé, on effectue un usinage laser du spiral 1 de manière à diminuer son couple élastique jusqu'à ce qu'il soit sensiblement égal au couple élastique de référence susmentionné.Using means known to those skilled in the art, the frequency is measured of balance-spring oscillation, this frequency then being greater than the frequency reference. To set this oscillation frequency and adjust it at least substantially at the reference frequency, it is provided according to the invention to use a laser device 30 providing a laser beam 32 for machining or processing the hairspring 1. Thus, in the context of the present invention, the adjustment of the frequency of the regulator assembly is adjusted neither using racket pins, nor using screws or small masses arranged on the balance 2. However, as already mentioned, the present invention does not exclude the possibility of providing means for variation of the balance inertia to allow fine adjustments after adjustment initial in the factory by means of the method according to the invention. According to this process, laser machining of hairspring 1 so as to reduce its elastic torque until that it is substantially equal to the above-mentioned reference elastic torque.

Dans le cadre du procédé selon l'invention, il est possible de prévoir au moins deux étapes de réglage à l'aide du faisceau laser, à savoir une première étape hors de la pièce d'horlogerie permettant de régler grossièrement la fréquence d'oscillation tout en s'assurant de rester supérieure à la fréquence de référence. Ensuite, dans une seconde étape intervenant après le montage du balancier-spiral dans la pièce d'horlogerie à laquelle il est destiné, on ajuste finement la fréquence d'oscillation à l'aide du dispositif laser 30 en fonction d'une ou plusieurs mesures de la fréquence d'oscillation. In the context of the method according to the invention, it is possible to provide at least two adjustment steps using the laser beam, i.e. a first step outside of the timepiece allowing rough adjustment of the oscillation frequency while ensuring that it remains above the reference frequency. Then in a second step occurring after mounting the balance spring in the room of the timepiece for which it is intended, the oscillation frequency is finely adjusted to using the laser device 30 as a function of one or more frequency measurements oscillation.

Le programme de commande du dispositif laser 30 et de son mouvement relatif avec le balancier-spiral peut comporter une seule étape d'usinage ou de traitement en fonction d'une mesure initiale de la fréquence, en utilisant un algorithme établi sur la base d'un modèle analytique ou empirique, ou encore d'une combinaison des deux. Dans une variante plus sophistiquée, il est possible de prévoir une boucle de rétroaction, le traitement où l'usinage laser étant effectué par une succession d'étapes entre lesquelles une mesure de ladite fréquence d'oscillation est effectuée. Dans ce cas, on peut approcher rapidement la valeur de référence en peu d'étapes, par exemple une ou deux, et finir le réglage fin par d'autres étapes ultérieures dans lesquelles l'usinage laser n'a qu'un faible impact sur le couple élastique du spiral. Ainsi, de nombreuses variantes de commande du dispositif laser dans le cadre de la mise en oeuvre du procédé selon l'invention sont possibles.The program for controlling the laser device 30 and its movement relative to the balance spring can include a single step of machining or processing based on an initial frequency measurement, using an algorithm based on an analytical or empirical model, or a combination both. In a more sophisticated variant, it is possible to provide a loop of feedback, the processing where the laser machining being carried out by a succession steps between which a measurement of said oscillation frequency is carried out. In this case, we can quickly approach the reference value in a few steps, for example one or two, and finish fine tuning with other later steps in which laser machining has only a small impact on the elastic torque of the hairspring. Thus, numerous control variants of the laser device within the framework of the implementation of the method according to the invention are possible.

Dans un premier mode de réalisation, il est prévu à l'aide du faisceau laser 32 de modifier au moins superficiellement la structure du spiral 1 dans au moins une de ses parties, notamment sur un tronçon de sa spire externe 24. Cet usinage a premièrement pour fonction de varier le module d'élasticité E du spiral en l'abaissant jusqu'à une valeur pour laquelle le couple élastique de ce spiral correspond à la valeur de référence. En effet, la fréquence d'oscillation étant proportionnelle à la racine carrée du couple élastique M du spiral, et ce couple étant proportionnel au module d'élasticité E, une diminution de ce module permet donc de diminuer la fréquence d'oscillation de l'ensemble régulateur. On notera que l'usinage laser peut également être effectué sur plusieurs spires du spiral, le long de tronçons de grandeurs variables définies notamment en fonction de l'accès à ces spires par le faisceau laser.In a first embodiment, it is provided using the laser beam 32 to modify at least superficially the structure of hairspring 1 in at least one of its parts, in particular on a section of its external turn 24. This machining has firstly, the function of varying the elastic modulus E of the balance spring by lowering it up to a value for which the elastic torque of this hairspring corresponds to the value reference. Indeed, the oscillation frequency being proportional to the root square of the elastic torque M of the hairspring, and this torque being proportional to the modulus elasticity E, a reduction in this modulus therefore makes it possible to decrease the frequency oscillation of the regulator assembly. Note that laser machining can also be carried out on several spiral turns, along sections of varying sizes defined in particular according to the access to these turns by the laser beam.

Selon un deuxième mode de mise en oeuvre du procédé, représenté schématiquement à la figure 4, il est prévu de diminuer partiellement la hauteur H du ruban 36 formant ce spiral. Cette diminution d'hauteur est prévue seulement le long de tronçons L1, L2 du ruban 36, ce qui définit des découpures ouvertes 40 le long du bord supérieur ou inférieur de ce ruban. Ces découpures peuvent varier en longueur et en nombre. Le couple élastique du spiral 1 étant proportionnel à la hauteur du ruban 36, une diminution au moins partielle de cette hauteur permet de réduire ce couple et donc la fréquence d'oscillation du balancier-spiral.According to a second embodiment of the method, shown schematically in Figure 4, it is planned to partially decrease the height H of the ribbon 36 forming this hairspring. This decrease in height is expected only along of sections L1, L2 of the ribbon 36, which defines open cutouts 40 along the upper or lower edge of this ribbon. These cuts can vary in length and in number. The elastic torque of hairspring 1 being proportional to the height of the ribbon 36, an at least partial reduction in this height makes it possible to reduce this torque and therefore the frequency of oscillation of the balance spring.

On notera ici que l'usinage laser sert donc premièrement à enlever de la matière et il est prévu de focaliser le faisceau 32 sur la région d'usinage du ruban 36. Selon une variante préférée, le laser est agencé de manière que le faisceau 32 est sensiblement perpendiculaire au plan général du spiral permettant un usinage soit de la surface supérieure, soit de la surface inférieure du spiral. Toutefois, dans une autre variante, il est prévu d'incliner le dispositif 30 de sorte que le faisceau laser 32 est orienté obliquement relativement au ruban 36. Cette dernière variante permet d'agir sur une plus grande surface pour le faisceau laser, mais présente l'inconvénient que le faisceau laser peut aussi atteindre la spire précédent celle qui est usinée. Ce deuxième mode de mise en oeuvre du procédé permet aisément d'usiner plusieurs spires du spiral, en particulier dans la variante préférée.It should be noted here that laser machining is therefore used primarily to remove material and provision is made to focus the beam 32 on the region of machining of the ribbon 36. According to a preferred variant, the laser is arranged so that the beam 32 is substantially perpendicular to the general plane of the hairspring allowing machining either the upper surface, that is, the lower surface of the hairspring. However, in another variant, provision is made to tilt the device 30 so that the laser beam 32 is oriented obliquely relative to the ribbon 36. This last variant makes it possible to act over a larger area for the laser beam, but has the disadvantage that the laser beam can also reach the turn preceding that which is being machined. This second mode of implementation of the method easily makes it possible to machine several spiral turns, in particular in the preferred variant.

Selon un troisième mode de mise en oeuvre du procédé représenté à la figure 5, il est prévu de diminuer au moins partiellement l'épaisseur du ruban 36 formant le spiral 1. Cette diminution d'épaisseur dans les zones 44 est effectuée à l'aide d'un faisceau laser. Cet usinage laser est effectué de préférence sur la spire 24 du spiral, mais il est également possible d'usiner d'autres spires en orientant ce faisceau laser obliquement relativement au plan du spiral. A la figure 5, les zones 44 sont traversantes de haut en bas. Leur largeur peut être variable, tout comme le nombre de zones usinées prévu. Il est également possible de prévoir une succession d'usinage de lignes opérées par des trajets selon un axe verticale du faisceau laser. La diminution de fréquence provient du fait que le couple élastique du spiral varie selon l'épaisseur au cube (e3) du ruban formant le spiral.According to a third embodiment of the method shown in FIG. 5, it is planned to at least partially reduce the thickness of the ribbon 36 forming the hairspring 1. This reduction in thickness in the zones 44 is carried out using of a laser beam. This laser machining is preferably carried out on the turn 24 of the balance spring, but it is also possible to machine other turns by orienting this laser beam obliquely relative to the plane of the balance spring. In FIG. 5, the zones 44 pass through from top to bottom. Their width can be variable, as can the number of machined zones provided. It is also possible to provide a succession of machining of lines operated by paths along a vertical axis of the laser beam. The decrease in frequency comes from the fact that the elastic torque of the balance spring varies according to the cube thickness (e 3 ) of the ribbon forming the balance spring.

Aux figures 6 et 7 sont représentées deux variantes d'usinage sur la face latérale 46 du spiral 1. A la figure 6, la zone 48 est oblongue. Cette zone 48 forme un évidement dans le ruban 36 sans atteindre les surfaces supérieure et inférieure de celui-ci. Ainsi, l'aspect du spiral vu de dessus n'est pas affecté. A la figure 7, les zones 50 forment une succession d'évidements circulaires.Figures 6 and 7 show two machining variants on the face lateral 46 of the hairspring 1. In FIG. 6, the area 48 is oblong. This zone 48 forms a recess in the tape 36 without reaching the upper and lower surfaces of this one. Thus, the appearance of the hairspring seen from above is not affected. In Figure 7, the areas 50 form a succession of circular recesses.

On notera finalement que dans les réalisations représentées aux figures 6 et 7, il est possible que l'usinage au laser crée des ouvertures traversantes.Finally, note that in the embodiments shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, laser machining may create through openings.

Claims (7)

Procédé de réglage de la fréquence d'oscillation d'un ensemble régulateur destiné à ou équipant une pièce d'horlogerie mécanique dans lequel : on fabrique un spiral avec un couple élastique supérieur à un couple élastique de référence correspondant à une fréquence de référence pour l'oscillation dudit ensemble régulateur; on assemble un balancier audit spiral pour former ledit ensemble régulateur, et on effectue un usinage dudit spiral au moyen d'un faisceau laser (32) de manière à diminuer son couple élastique jusqu'à ce que ladite fréquence d'oscillation soit sensiblement égale à ladite fréquence de référence. Method for adjusting the frequency of oscillation of a regulator assembly intended for or equipping a mechanical timepiece in which: a balance spring is produced with an elastic torque greater than a reference elastic torque corresponding to a reference frequency for the oscillation of said regulator assembly; a balance is assembled to said hairspring to form said regulator assembly, and machining said hairspring by means of a laser beam (32) so as to reduce its elastic torque until said oscillation frequency is substantially equal to said reference frequency. Procédé de réglage selon la revendication 1, caractérisé en ce que ledit ensemble régulateur est monté dans ladite pièce d'horlogerie et qu'au moins une étape terminale dudit usinage laser du spiral est effectué après ce montage, de manière à ajuster au mieux le couple élastique dudit spiral pour obtenir ladite fréquence de référence pour l'oscillation dudit ensemble régulateur lors de la marche de ladite pièce d'horlogerie.Adjustment method according to claim 1, characterized in that said regulator assembly is mounted in said timepiece and that at least one final step of said laser machining of the hairspring is carried out after this assembly, so as to best adjust the torque elastic of said hairspring to obtain said reference frequency for the oscillation of said regulator assembly during the running of said timepiece. Procédé selon la revendication 1 ou 2, caractérisé en ce que ledit faisceau laser est prévu sensiblement perpendiculaire au plan général du spiral, ce faisceau laser étant focalisé sur des parties de la surface supérieure ou inférieure de ce spiral.A method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that said laser beam is provided substantially perpendicular to the general plane of the hairspring, this laser beam being focused on parts of the upper or lower surface of this hairspring. Procédé selon la revendication 1 ou 2, caractérisé en ce que ledit faisceau laser est orienté de manière à permettre l'usinage d'une surface latérale dudit spiral.Method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that said laser beam is oriented so as to allow machining of a lateral surface of said hairspring. Procédé selon la revendication 3 ou 4, caractérisé en ce que l'usinage laser opère un enlèvement de matière diminuant partiellement la hauteur du ruban formant le spiral.Method according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that the laser machining operates a material removal partially reducing the height of the ribbon forming the hairspring. Procédé selon la revendication 4, caractérisé en ce que l'usinage laser opère un enlèvement de matière diminuant au moins partiellement l'épaisseur du ruban formant le spiral.Method according to claim 4, characterized in that the laser machining operates a material removal at least partially reducing the thickness of the ribbon forming the hairspring. Procédé selon la revendication 1, caractérisé en ce que l'usinage laser diminue le module d'élasticité dudit spiral.Method according to claim 1, characterized in that the laser machining decreases the modulus of elasticity of said hairspring.
EP00204369A 2000-12-07 2000-12-07 Method for adjusting the oscillation frequence of a sprung balance for a mechanical timepiece Withdrawn EP1213628A1 (en)

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WO2012007460A1 (en) * 2010-07-16 2012-01-19 Eta Sa Manufacture Horlogère Suisse Method for adjusting the oscillation frequency, the inertia or the balance of a mobile component in a movement or in a balance and spring assembly of a timepiece
CN102528282A (en) * 2010-12-08 2012-07-04 上海康比利仪表有限公司 Laser hairspring welding instrument
EP3181939A1 (en) * 2015-12-18 2017-06-21 CSEM Centre Suisse d'Electronique et de Microtechnique SA - Recherche et Développement Method for manufacturing a hairspring with predetermined stiffness by adding material
EP3181938A1 (en) * 2015-12-18 2017-06-21 CSEM Centre Suisse d'Electronique et de Microtechnique SA - Recherche et Développement Method for manufacturing a hairspring with a predetermined stiffness by removing material
EP3181940A1 (en) * 2015-12-18 2017-06-21 CSEM Centre Suisse d'Electronique et de Microtechnique SA - Recherche et Développement Method for manufacturing a hairspring with a predetermined stiffness by localised removal of material
EP3416001B1 (en) * 2017-06-13 2022-04-13 Patek Philippe SA Genève Method for manufacturing an oscillator with flexible pivot

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CH1283368A4 (en) * 1968-08-27 1972-10-31 Fabriques De Spiraux Reunis So Method for obtaining an oscillating balance-spring of desired frequency

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US3673376A (en) * 1968-08-26 1972-06-27 Jean Claude Kullmann Method for attaching the inner end of a balance spring to its collet
CH1283368A4 (en) * 1968-08-27 1972-10-31 Fabriques De Spiraux Reunis So Method for obtaining an oscillating balance-spring of desired frequency

Cited By (26)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2012007460A1 (en) * 2010-07-16 2012-01-19 Eta Sa Manufacture Horlogère Suisse Method for adjusting the oscillation frequency, the inertia or the balance of a mobile component in a movement or in a balance and spring assembly of a timepiece
CN103003760A (en) * 2010-07-16 2013-03-27 Eta瑞士钟表制造股份有限公司 Method for adjusting the oscillation frequency, the inertia or the balance of a mobile component in a movement or in a balance and spring assembly of a timepiece
JP2013542402A (en) * 2010-07-16 2013-11-21 ウーテーアー・エス・アー・マニファクチュール・オロロジェール・スイス Method for oscillating frequency adjustment and / or inertia adjustment and / or balance correction of a movable component of a watch movement or a spring-temp assembly of a watch
CN103003760B (en) * 2010-07-16 2015-04-15 Eta瑞士钟表制造股份有限公司 Method for adjusting the oscillation frequency, the inertia or the balance of a mobile component in a movement or in a balance and spring assembly of a timepiece
RU2556322C2 (en) * 2010-07-16 2015-07-10 Эта Са Мануфактюр Орложэр Сюис Adjustment of oscillation frequency and/or adjustment of moment of inertia and/or balancing of moving components of chronometer or chronometer balance-spiral assy
US9436162B2 (en) 2010-07-16 2016-09-06 Eta Sa Manufacture Horlogere Suisse Method for adjusting the oscillation frequency and/or adjusting the inertia and/or balancing of a movable timepiece movement component or of a timepiece spring balance assembly
CN102528282A (en) * 2010-12-08 2012-07-04 上海康比利仪表有限公司 Laser hairspring welding instrument
CN102528282B (en) * 2010-12-08 2014-04-09 上海康比利仪表有限公司 Laser hairspring welding instrument
CN106896700A (en) * 2015-12-18 2017-06-27 瑞士电子显微技术研究与开发中心股份有限公司 The method that the hairspring of predetermined stiffness is manufactured by local removal material
EP3181938B1 (en) 2015-12-18 2019-02-20 CSEM Centre Suisse d'Electronique et de Microtechnique SA - Recherche et Développement Method for manufacturing a hairspring with a predetermined stiffness by removing material
EP3181940A1 (en) * 2015-12-18 2017-06-21 CSEM Centre Suisse d'Electronique et de Microtechnique SA - Recherche et Développement Method for manufacturing a hairspring with a predetermined stiffness by localised removal of material
US20170176941A1 (en) * 2015-12-18 2017-06-22 Csem Centre Suisse D'electronique Et De Microtechnique Sa - Recherche Et Developpement Method for fabrication of a balance spring of a predetermined stiffness by local removal of material
EP3181939A1 (en) * 2015-12-18 2017-06-21 CSEM Centre Suisse d'Electronique et de Microtechnique SA - Recherche et Développement Method for manufacturing a hairspring with predetermined stiffness by adding material
CN106896708A (en) * 2015-12-18 2017-06-27 瑞士电子显微技术研究与开发中心股份有限公司 For the method for the hairspring by removing material manufacture predetermined stiffness
CN106997170A (en) * 2015-12-18 2017-08-01 瑞士电子显微技术研究与开发中心股份有限公司 Method for the hairspring by increasing material manufacture predetermined thickness
EP3181940B1 (en) 2015-12-18 2019-02-06 CSEM Centre Suisse d'Electronique et de Microtechnique SA - Recherche et Développement Method for manufacturing a hairspring with a predetermined stiffness by localised removal of material
EP3181939B1 (en) 2015-12-18 2019-02-20 CSEM Centre Suisse d'Electronique et de Microtechnique SA - Recherche et Développement Method for manufacturing a hairspring with predetermined stiffness by adding material
EP3181938A1 (en) * 2015-12-18 2017-06-21 CSEM Centre Suisse d'Electronique et de Microtechnique SA - Recherche et Développement Method for manufacturing a hairspring with a predetermined stiffness by removing material
US10324417B2 (en) 2015-12-18 2019-06-18 CSEM Centre Suisse d'Electronique et de Microtechnique SA-Recherche et Développement Method for fabrication of a balance spring of a predetermined stiffness by removal of material
US10324418B2 (en) 2015-12-18 2019-06-18 CSEM Centre Suisse d'Electronique et de Microtechnique SA-Recherche et Développement Method for fabrication of a balance spring of predetermined thickness through the addition of material
US10338528B2 (en) 2015-12-18 2019-07-02 Csem Centre Suisse D'electronique Et De Microtechnique Sa—Recherche Et Developpement Method for fabrication of a balance spring of a predetermined stiffness by local removal of material
CN106997170B (en) * 2015-12-18 2019-10-15 瑞士电子显微技术研究与开发中心股份有限公司 Method for manufacturing the balance spring of predetermined thickness by increasing material
CN106896700B (en) * 2015-12-18 2019-10-15 瑞士电子显微技术研究与开发中心股份有限公司 The method for removing material by part to manufacture the balance spring of predetermined stiffness
CN106896708B (en) * 2015-12-18 2019-10-15 瑞士电子显微技术研究与开发中心股份有限公司 Method for manufacturing the balance spring of predetermined stiffness by removal material
CN110376871A (en) * 2015-12-18 2019-10-25 瑞士电子显微技术研究与开发中心股份有限公司 Method for manufacturing the balance spring of predetermined stiffness by removal material
EP3416001B1 (en) * 2017-06-13 2022-04-13 Patek Philippe SA Genève Method for manufacturing an oscillator with flexible pivot

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