EP1562087A1 - Balance for a watch mechanism - Google Patents

Balance for a watch mechanism Download PDF

Info

Publication number
EP1562087A1
EP1562087A1 EP05000326A EP05000326A EP1562087A1 EP 1562087 A1 EP1562087 A1 EP 1562087A1 EP 05000326 A EP05000326 A EP 05000326A EP 05000326 A EP05000326 A EP 05000326A EP 1562087 A1 EP1562087 A1 EP 1562087A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
serge
titanium
balance
arms
pendulum
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
EP05000326A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP1562087B1 (en
Inventor
Jean Remont
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.)
Montres Breguet SA
Original Assignee
Montres Breguet 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 Breguet SA filed Critical Montres Breguet SA
Priority to EP05000326A priority Critical patent/EP1562087B1/en
Publication of EP1562087A1 publication Critical patent/EP1562087A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP1562087B1 publication Critical patent/EP1562087B1/en
Active legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

Links

Images

Classifications

    • 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
    • G04B17/063—Balance construction

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a pendulum for a watch movement, having an axis, a serge and arms connecting the serge to the axis, and intended to be associated with a spiral spring to form conventionally the oscillator mechanical that determines the basic frequency of the movement of a piece watchmaking, in particular a watch.
  • a pendulum of this kind is illustrated for example in patent CH 494 992.
  • the wheel-shaped part comprising the serge (or rim) and the arms is made of a copper-based alloy, especially cupro-beryllium or nickel silver, or nickel.
  • a copper-based alloy especially cupro-beryllium or nickel silver, or nickel.
  • Such an alloy offers an advantageous combination of qualities which include, in particular, its non-magnetic nature, good chemical stability and sufficient mechanical characteristics.
  • the density of these alloys is greater than 8 kg / dm 3 .
  • Their coefficient of thermal expansion which is about 17 ⁇ 10 -6 / ° C for CuBe, about 15 ⁇ 10 -6 / ° C for nickel and about 21 ⁇ 10 -6 / ° C for the nickel silver is not particularly favorable.
  • the usual frequencies of the watch oscillators range from 2.5 Hz to 5 Hz, in steps of 0.5 Hz so that a duration of one second corresponds to an integer number of alternations of the oscillator. A movement is therefore designed for a given frequency and the sprung balance assembly must have this frequency.
  • the relevant parameter of the pendulum is the moment of inertia. As the arm of the pendulum is very small in the moment of inertia, it depends primarily on the dimensions (diameter and cross-section) and the density of the serge.
  • the designer of a watch movement may wish use a comparatively large diameter pendulum, for example for reasons of aesthetics.
  • Increase the diameter without changing the moment of inertia can be done either by reducing the section of the serge, or by using a material of lesser density.
  • the pendulum will have a smaller mass, which reduces the friction in the bearings, therefore the disturbances of the isochronism of the pendulum in function of the positions (vertical and horizontal) of the movement.
  • a serge of reduced section becomes too weak, especially if it must wear screws of setting. We can then consider the use of a lighter material.
  • Patent FR 1 275 357 provides for the production of a lightened watch pendulum, for combination of a serge made of a light metal such as aluminum with an element of elastic support in the form of a wheel, consisting of a circle and spokes, the circle having outer legs for attachment to the serge. This allows to realize the wheel made of a material with high mechanical properties, for example spring.
  • a similar solution, but without brackets, is provided in the patent FR 1 301 938.
  • the present invention aims at making it possible to produce a balance-balance oscillator having a larger diameter than usual for the same frequency, or having a higher frequency with the same dimensions as an oscillator usual, avoiding the aforementioned disadvantages.
  • the invention aims in particular at lighten the pendulum by keeping it with sufficient mechanical strength and good dimensional stability vis-à-vis temperature variations.
  • a rocker according to the invention is characterized in that the serge and the arms are made of titanium or a titanium-based alloy.
  • the serge and the arms are made in one piece, which is a great advantage over two French patents mentioned above, but it is not excluded to manufacture these parts separately, and then assemble them by welding or some other means.
  • titanium for this application particular has a set of technical advantages which make it possible to achieve a balance wheel both light and high quality: non-magnetic nature, weak density, high mechanical strength, low coefficient of thermal expansion, corrosion resistance.
  • non-magnetic nature weak density
  • high mechanical strength low coefficient of thermal expansion
  • corrosion resistance Compared with cupro-beryllium, titanium is almost two times lighter and expands thermally twice as much, while also offering good mechanical characteristics.
  • titanium Compared to aluminum, titanium is a little heavier, but has much better mechanical characteristics and thermal expansion three times less. The invention thus makes it possible to produce a wheel of a pendulum in a piece whose serge is relatively light despite relatively large dimensions, while the arms are thin and elastic while by being strong enough.
  • a similar diameter titanium beam may have a higher serge (in the direction parallel to the axis of rotation), which allows tapped holes in the serge for balancing screws in cases where it would not be possible in the serge in classic material.
  • the balance 1 represented in FIGS. 1 and 2 has a conventional axis 2 steel that supports a balance wheel including a serge 3 and for example three arms 4 made in one piece with the serge.
  • This piece is made of titanium or titanium-based alloy, for the reasons of lightness discussed above.
  • the arms 4 radiate from a pierced central portion 5 which is driven on a range 6 of the axis 2 abutting against a shoulder 7.
  • the axis 2 supports in in addition to a ferrule 8, intended for fixing a not shown spiral, and a double exhaust plate 9 for cooperating with an anchor.
  • serge 3 Due to the low density of titanium, serge 3, having in this case a Trapezoidal cross-section, is sufficiently high, thick and resistant to have tapped holes for adjusting screws if necessary. In in this case, balancing is not achieved by means of adjustment screws, but by milling hollow 11 in the outer face of the serge.
  • the pendulum 1 is made of titanium (density 4.5 kg / dm 3 ) in order to have a larger diameter than a conventional cupro-beryllium balance (density 8.25 kg / dm 3 ) having the same moment of inertia, keeping in addition the same cross-section of the serge, it can be calculated that the average diameter of the serge of the titanium balance will be enlarged by 22%.
  • the effect obtained from the point of view of aesthetics is significant, without causing loss of mechanical characteristics of the serge.

Landscapes

  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Electromechanical Clocks (AREA)
  • Gears, Cams (AREA)
  • Micromachines (AREA)
  • Polarising Elements (AREA)
  • Control Of Stepping Motors (AREA)
  • Springs (AREA)
  • Vehicle Body Suspensions (AREA)

Abstract

The balance (1) has an axle (2) made up of steel for supporting a balance wheel comprising arms (4) connected with a felloe (3). The arms and felloe are made up of a single piece with titanium or titanium-base alloy. The arms are radially projected from a drilled central part (5) that moves on a bearing of the axle by supporting against a shoulder.

Description

Arrière-plan de l'inventionBackground of the invention

La présente invention concerne un balancier pour mouvement d'horlogerie, comportant un axe, une serge et des bras reliant la serge à l'axe, et destiné à être associé à un ressort spiral pour constituer de manière classique l'oscillateur mécanique qui détermine la fréquence de base du mouvement d'une pièce d'horlogerie, en particulier d'une montre. Une construction connue d'un balancier de ce genre est illustrée par exemple dans le brevet CH 494 992.The present invention relates to a pendulum for a watch movement, having an axis, a serge and arms connecting the serge to the axis, and intended to be associated with a spiral spring to form conventionally the oscillator mechanical that determines the basic frequency of the movement of a piece watchmaking, in particular a watch. A known construction of a pendulum of this kind is illustrated for example in patent CH 494 992.

Actuellement, dans un balancier pour mouvement de montre, la pièce en forme de roue comprenant la serge (ou jante) et les bras est faite d'un alliage à base de cuivre, notamment en cupro-béryllium ou en maillechort, ou en nickel. Un tel alliage offre une combinaison avantageuse de qualités qui comprennent, en particulier, sa nature amagnétique, une bonne stabilité chimique et des caractéristiques mécaniques suffisantes. La densité de ces alliages est supérieure à 8 kg/dm3. Leur coefficient de dilatation thermique, qui est d'environ 17·10-6/°C pour le CuBe, d'environ 15·10-6/°C pour le nickel et d'environ 21·10-6/°C pour le maillechort, n'est pas particulièrement favorable. La fréquence d'oscillation f d'un oscillateur à balancier-spiral est donnée par : 1/f = 2π·(I/M)0,5 où I est le moment d'inertie du balancier autour de son axe de rotation et M est le couple élastique du spiral, exprimé en Nm/rad. Les fréquences usuelles des oscillateurs de montre s'échelonnent de 2,5 Hz à 5 Hz, par pas de 0,5 Hz afin qu'une durée d'une seconde corresponde à un nombre entier d'alternances de l'oscillateur. Un mouvement est donc conçu pour une fréquence donnée et l'ensemble balancier-spiral doit avoir cette fréquence-là. Dans la formule ci-dessus, on voit que le paramètre pertinent du balancier est le moment d'inertie. Comme la part des bras du balancier est très faible dans le moment d'inertie, celui-ci dépend avant tout des dimensions (diamètre et section transversale) et de la densité de la serge.Currently, in a pendulum for a watch movement, the wheel-shaped part comprising the serge (or rim) and the arms is made of a copper-based alloy, especially cupro-beryllium or nickel silver, or nickel. Such an alloy offers an advantageous combination of qualities which include, in particular, its non-magnetic nature, good chemical stability and sufficient mechanical characteristics. The density of these alloys is greater than 8 kg / dm 3 . Their coefficient of thermal expansion, which is about 17 · 10 -6 / ° C for CuBe, about 15 · 10 -6 / ° C for nickel and about 21 · 10 -6 / ° C for the nickel silver is not particularly favorable. The oscillation frequency f of a balance-spring oscillator is given by: 1 / f = 2π · (I / M) 0.5 where I is the moment of inertia of the balance around its axis of rotation and M is the elastic torque of the spiral, expressed in Nm / rad. The usual frequencies of the watch oscillators range from 2.5 Hz to 5 Hz, in steps of 0.5 Hz so that a duration of one second corresponds to an integer number of alternations of the oscillator. A movement is therefore designed for a given frequency and the sprung balance assembly must have this frequency. In the formula above, we see that the relevant parameter of the pendulum is the moment of inertia. As the arm of the pendulum is very small in the moment of inertia, it depends primarily on the dimensions (diameter and cross-section) and the density of the serge.

Dans certains cas, le concepteur d'un mouvement d'horlogerie peut souhaiter utiliser un balancier de relativement grand diamètre, par exemple pour des raisons d'esthétique. Augmenter le diamètre sans changer le moment d'inertie peut se faire soit en diminuant la section de la serge, soit en utilisant un matériau de moindre densité. Dans les deux cas, le balancier aura une moindre masse, ce qui réduit les frottements dans les paliers, donc les perturbations de l'isochronisme du balancier en fonction des positions (verticales et horizontales) du mouvement. Cependant, une serge de section réduite devient trop faible, surtout si elle doit porter des vis de réglage. On peut alors envisager l'utilisation d'un matériau plus léger.In some cases, the designer of a watch movement may wish use a comparatively large diameter pendulum, for example for reasons of aesthetics. Increase the diameter without changing the moment of inertia can be done either by reducing the section of the serge, or by using a material of lesser density. In both cases, the pendulum will have a smaller mass, which reduces the friction in the bearings, therefore the disturbances of the isochronism of the pendulum in function of the positions (vertical and horizontal) of the movement. However, a serge of reduced section becomes too weak, especially if it must wear screws of setting. We can then consider the use of a lighter material.

Le brevet FR 1 275 357 prévoit de réaliser un balancier de montre allégé, par combinaison d'une serge faite d'un métal léger tel que l'aluminium avec un élément de support élastique en forme de roue, constitué par un cercle et des rayons, le cercle ayant des pattes extérieures pour sa fixation à la serge. Ceci permet de réaliser la roue en un matériau à propriétés mécaniques élevées, par exemple un acier à ressort. Une solution similaire, mais sans pattes de fixation, est prévue dans le brevet FR 1 301 938.Patent FR 1 275 357 provides for the production of a lightened watch pendulum, for combination of a serge made of a light metal such as aluminum with an element of elastic support in the form of a wheel, consisting of a circle and spokes, the circle having outer legs for attachment to the serge. This allows to realize the wheel made of a material with high mechanical properties, for example spring. A similar solution, but without brackets, is provided in the patent FR 1 301 938.

Toutefois, une telle construction de balancier en deux pièces faites de matériaux différents n'offre pas les mêmes garanties de durabilité et de stabilité de forme qu'une construction en une seule pièce, notamment à cause des grandes différences de dilatation thermique entre l'acier, les alliages à base d'aluminium et les alliages à base de cuivre. Ces dilatations et les déformations qu'elles peuvent induire modifient notablement le moment d'inertie et donc la fréquence d'oscillation, surtout dans le cas d'une serge en aluminium. D'autre part, avec cette construction en deux pièces, il est difficile de bien centrer la serge par rapport à l'axe de rotation.However, such a two-piece pendulum construction made of different materials does not offer the same guarantees of durability and stability of as a one-piece construction, particularly because of the large differences in thermal expansion between steel, aluminum-based alloys and copper-based alloys. These dilations and the deformations that they can induce significantly modify the moment of inertia and therefore the frequency of oscillation, especially in the case of an aluminum serge. On the other hand, with this construction in two parts, it is difficult to center the serge with respect to the axis of rotation.

Résumé de l'inventionSummary of the invention

La présente invention vise à permettre de réaliser un oscillateur à balancier-spiral ayant un plus grand diamètre que d'habitude pour une même fréquence, ou ayant une fréquence plus élevée avec les mêmes dimensions qu'un oscillateur habituel, en évitant les inconvénients susmentionnés. L'invention vise notamment à alléger le balancier en lui conservant une résistance mécanique suffisante et une bonne stabilité dimensionnelle vis-à-vis des variations de température.The present invention aims at making it possible to produce a balance-balance oscillator having a larger diameter than usual for the same frequency, or having a higher frequency with the same dimensions as an oscillator usual, avoiding the aforementioned disadvantages. The invention aims in particular at lighten the pendulum by keeping it with sufficient mechanical strength and good dimensional stability vis-à-vis temperature variations.

A cet effet, un balancier selon l'invention est caractérisé en ce que la serge et les bras sont en titane ou en un alliage à base de titane. De préférence, la serge et les bras sont faits d'une seule pièce, ce qui est un grand avantage par rapport aux deux brevets français précités, mais il n'est pas exclu de fabriquer ces pièces séparément, puis les assembler par soudage ou un autre moyen.For this purpose, a rocker according to the invention is characterized in that the serge and the arms are made of titanium or a titanium-based alloy. Preferably, the serge and the arms are made in one piece, which is a great advantage over two French patents mentioned above, but it is not excluded to manufacture these parts separately, and then assemble them by welding or some other means.

Si le choix du titane parmi d'autres métaux légers, pour réaliser une roue de balancier de montre, n'avait jamais été envisagé jusqu'ici alors que l'aluminium l'a été depuis des décennies, c'est probablement à cause des difficultés d'usinage attendues. Dans le modèle d'utilité DE 1 987 070 publié en 1968, il avait été mentionné la possibilité d'utiliser un métal léger tel que l'aluminium ou le titane au lieu du cupro-béryllium pour réaliser une roue d'échappement de montre, qui est une roue plate et tournant assez lentement. Toutefois, aucune utilisation industrielle du titane dans une roue de ce genre n'a été faite à notre connaissance. D'autre part, les propriétés physiques exigées des matériaux d'une roue de balancier sont bien différentes ou plus élevées que pour une autre roue d'un mouvement d'horlogerie. Il s'avère de manière surprenante que la sélection du titane pour cette application particulière présente un ensemble d'avantages techniques qui permettent de réaliser une roue de balancier à la fois légère et de haute qualité : nature amagnétique, faible densité, résistance mécanique élevée, faible coefficient de dilatation thermique, résistance à la corrosion. Par rapport au cupro-béryllium, le titane est presque deux fois plus léger et se dilate thermiquement deux fois moins, tout en offrant d'aussi bonnes caractéristiques mécaniques. Par rapport à l'aluminium, le titane est un peu plus lourd, mais présente de bien meilleures caractéristiques mécaniques et une dilatation thermique trois fois moindre. L'invention permet donc de réaliser une roue de balancier en une pièce dont la serge est relativement légère malgré des dimensions relativement grandes, tandis que les bras sont minces et élastiques tout en étant suffisamment solides.If the choice of titanium among other light metals, to make a wheel of pendulum, had never been considered so far while aluminum was for decades, it's probably because of the machining difficulties expected. In the utility model DE 1 987 070 published in 1968, it had been mentioned the possibility of using a light metal such as aluminum or titanium instead cupro-beryllium to make a watch exhaust wheel, which is a wheel flat and turning quite slowly. However, no industrial use of titanium in a wheel of this kind has been made to our knowledge. On the other hand, physical properties required of a balance wheel's materials are well different or higher than for another wheel of a watch movement. he surprisingly, the selection of titanium for this application particular has a set of technical advantages which make it possible to achieve a balance wheel both light and high quality: non-magnetic nature, weak density, high mechanical strength, low coefficient of thermal expansion, corrosion resistance. Compared with cupro-beryllium, titanium is almost two times lighter and expands thermally twice as much, while also offering good mechanical characteristics. Compared to aluminum, titanium is a little heavier, but has much better mechanical characteristics and thermal expansion three times less. The invention thus makes it possible to produce a wheel of a pendulum in a piece whose serge is relatively light despite relatively large dimensions, while the arms are thin and elastic while by being strong enough.

D'autre part, en comparaison avec un balancier en matériau classique ayant une serge relativement mince, un balancier de même diamètre en titane peut avoir une serge plus haute (dans la direction parallèle à l'axe de rotation), ce qui permet de ménager dans la serge des trous taraudés pour des vis d'équilibrage dans des cas où ce ne serait pas possible dans la serge en matériau classique.On the other hand, in comparison with a rocker in classical material having a relatively thin serge, a similar diameter titanium beam may have a higher serge (in the direction parallel to the axis of rotation), which allows tapped holes in the serge for balancing screws in cases where it would not be possible in the serge in classic material.

Description sommaire des dessinsBrief description of the drawings

D'autres particularités de l'invention apparaítront dans la description suivante d'un mode de réalisation d'un balancier pour mouvement de montre ayant une roue de balancier en titane, présenté à titre d'exemple non limitatif de l'invention en référence aux dessins annexés, dans lesquels :

  • la figure 1 est une vue en perspective du balancier, et
  • la figure 2 est une vue en coupe suivant la ligne II-II de la figure 1.
Other features of the invention will become apparent in the following description of an embodiment of a watch movement balance wheel having a titanium balance wheel, presented by way of non-limiting example of the invention with reference to the attached drawings, in which:
  • FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the balance, and
  • Figure 2 is a sectional view along the line II-II of Figure 1.

Description détaillée d'un mode de réalisation de l'inventionDetailed description of an embodiment of the invention

Le balancier 1 représenté dans les figures 1 et 2 comporte un axe classique 2 en acier qui supporte une roue de balancier comprenant une serge 3 et par exemple trois bras 4 faits d'une seule pièce avec la serge. Cette pièce est en titane ou en alliage à base de titane, pour les motifs de légèreté exposés plus haut. Les bras 4 rayonnent à partir d'une partie centrale percée 5 qui est chassée sur une portée 6 de l'axe 2 en butant contre un épaulement 7. De manière classique, l'axe 2 supporte en outre une virole 8, destinée à la fixation d'un spiral non représenté, et un double plateau d'échappement 9 destiné à coopérer avec une ancre.The balance 1 represented in FIGS. 1 and 2 has a conventional axis 2 steel that supports a balance wheel including a serge 3 and for example three arms 4 made in one piece with the serge. This piece is made of titanium or titanium-based alloy, for the reasons of lightness discussed above. The arms 4 radiate from a pierced central portion 5 which is driven on a range 6 of the axis 2 abutting against a shoulder 7. In a conventional manner, the axis 2 supports in in addition to a ferrule 8, intended for fixing a not shown spiral, and a double exhaust plate 9 for cooperating with an anchor.

Les alliages suivants, par exemple, peuvent être utilisés :

  • Titane grade 2 : AFNOR T40 (Fe 0,25%, O 0,048%, C 0,06%, N 0,05%, H 0,013%,
       Ti pour le reste)
  • Titane grade 5 : AFNOR TA6V6E2 (Al 5,5%, V 5,5%, Fe 0,6%, N 0,04%, Sn 2%,
       Cu 0,6%, Ti pour le reste).
    • The following alloys, for example, can be used:
  • Titanium grade 2: AFNOR T40 (Fe 0.25%, O 0.048%, C 0.06%, N 0.05%, H 0.013%,
    Ti for the rest)
  • Titanium grade 5: AFNOR TA6V6E2 (Al 5.5%, V 5.5%, Fe 0.6%, N 0.04%, Sn 2%,
    Cu 0.6%, Ti for the rest).

    • Grâce à la faible densité du titane, la serge 3, ayant en l'occurrence une section transversale trapézoïdale, est suffisamment haute, épaisse et résistante pour comporter des trous taraudés destinés à recevoir des vis de réglage s'il le fallait. Dans le cas présent, l'équilibrage du balancier n'est pas réalisé au moyen de vis de réglage, mais par fraisage de creux 11 dans la face extérieure de la serge.Due to the low density of titanium, serge 3, having in this case a Trapezoidal cross-section, is sufficiently high, thick and resistant to have tapped holes for adjusting screws if necessary. In in this case, balancing is not achieved by means of adjustment screws, but by milling hollow 11 in the outer face of the serge.

    En partant de l'idée que le balancier 1 est réalisé en titane (densité 4,5 kg/dm3) afin d'avoir un plus grand diamètre qu'un balancier classique en cupro-béryllium (densité 8,25 kg/dm3) ayant le même moment d'inertie, en conservant en outre la même section transversale de la serge, on peut calculer que le diamètre moyen de la serge du balancier en titane sera agrandi de 22%. L'effet obtenu du point de vue de l'esthétique est donc significatif, sans entraíner de perte sur les caractéristiques mécaniques de la serge.Starting from the idea that the pendulum 1 is made of titanium (density 4.5 kg / dm 3 ) in order to have a larger diameter than a conventional cupro-beryllium balance (density 8.25 kg / dm 3 ) having the same moment of inertia, keeping in addition the same cross-section of the serge, it can be calculated that the average diameter of the serge of the titanium balance will be enlarged by 22%. The effect obtained from the point of view of aesthetics is significant, without causing loss of mechanical characteristics of the serge.

    Claims (3)

    Balancier (1) pour mouvement d'horlogerie, comportant un axe (2), une serge (3) et des bras (4) reliant la serge à l'axe, caractérisé en ce que la serge et les bras sont en titane ou en un alliage à base de titane.Pendulum (1) for a watch movement, comprising an axis (2), a serge (3) and arms (4) connecting the serge to the axis, characterized in that the serge and the arms are made of titanium or an alloy based on titanium. Balancier selon la revendication 1, caractérisé en ce que la serge (3) et les bras (4) sont faits d'une seule pièce.Pendulum according to claim 1, characterized in that the serge (3) and the arms (4) are made in one piece. Balancier selon la revendication 1, caractérisé en ce que l'axe (3) est en acier.Pendulum according to claim 1, characterized in that the axis (3) is made of steel.
    EP05000326A 2004-02-05 2005-01-10 Balance for a watch mechanism Active EP1562087B1 (en)

    Priority Applications (1)

    Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
    EP05000326A EP1562087B1 (en) 2004-02-05 2005-01-10 Balance for a watch mechanism

    Applications Claiming Priority (3)

    Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
    EP04002540 2004-02-05
    EP04002540 2004-02-05
    EP05000326A EP1562087B1 (en) 2004-02-05 2005-01-10 Balance for a watch mechanism

    Publications (2)

    Publication Number Publication Date
    EP1562087A1 true EP1562087A1 (en) 2005-08-10
    EP1562087B1 EP1562087B1 (en) 2008-05-21

    Family

    ID=34814236

    Family Applications (1)

    Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
    EP05000326A Active EP1562087B1 (en) 2004-02-05 2005-01-10 Balance for a watch mechanism

    Country Status (8)

    Country Link
    US (1) US20050174893A1 (en)
    EP (1) EP1562087B1 (en)
    JP (1) JP4537219B2 (en)
    CN (1) CN1652046B (en)
    AT (1) ATE396430T1 (en)
    DE (1) DE602005006858D1 (en)
    HK (1) HK1076159A1 (en)
    SG (1) SG113616A1 (en)

    Cited By (7)

    * Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
    Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
    EP2395402A1 (en) 2010-06-11 2011-12-14 Montres Breguet SA High frequency balance wheel for timepiece
    CH703574A2 (en) * 2011-03-22 2012-01-13 Lvmh Swiss Mft Sa Regulator member for use in mechanical chronograph to regulate movement of wrist watch for displaying current time, has roller and/or hub mounted on arbor of balance spring and provided with blind openings to reduce moment of inertia
    CH703576A2 (en) * 2011-03-22 2012-01-13 Lvmh Swiss Mft Sa Mechanical movement for use in mechanical chronograph, has launcher giving impulse to staff or hub mounted on staff, to start regulator unit when user starts chronograph, and regulator unit comprising hairspring mounted on staff
    EP2410387A1 (en) 2010-07-19 2012-01-25 Nivarox-FAR S.A. Balance wheel with inertia adjustment without insert
    EP2410386A1 (en) 2010-07-19 2012-01-25 Nivarox-FAR S.A. Balance wheel with inertia adjustment with insert
    CN103676600A (en) * 2012-09-04 2014-03-26 斯沃奇集团研究和开发有限公司 Resonator with matched balance spring and balance
    CN107505826A (en) * 2013-02-25 2017-12-22 精工电子有限公司 Temperature compensating type escapement and its manufacture method, clock machine core, mechanical clock

    Families Citing this family (15)

    * Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
    Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
    DE602006007101D1 (en) * 2006-03-24 2009-07-16 Nivarox Sa Balance for clockwork
    EP2104005A1 (en) * 2008-03-20 2009-09-23 Nivarox-FAR S.A. Composite balance and method of manufacturing thereof
    US8751346B2 (en) * 2011-05-13 2014-06-10 Edea, Llc. Interactive financial tool
    EP2631721A1 (en) * 2012-02-23 2013-08-28 Richemont International S.A. Diamond-covered titanium clock components
    EP2667265A1 (en) * 2012-05-22 2013-11-27 The Swatch Group Research and Development Ltd. Brazed bi-metal timepiece external component
    EP2728422A1 (en) * 2012-11-06 2014-05-07 The Swatch Group Research and Development Ltd. Soldered bi-metal clock-covering component
    CN105182722A (en) * 2015-07-13 2015-12-23 济南大学 Time-count movement balance wheel
    US10338259B2 (en) 2015-12-14 2019-07-02 Covidien Lp Surgical adapter assemblies and wireless detection of surgical loading units
    EP3252541A1 (en) 2016-06-01 2017-12-06 Rolex Sa Part for fastening a timepiece hairspring
    EP3252542B1 (en) * 2016-06-01 2022-05-18 Rolex Sa Part for fastening a timepiece hairspring
    CN106950812B (en) * 2017-05-11 2022-04-29 李国强 Tight speed and slow pin fine adjustment mechanism with clamping balance wheel and locking function
    EP3502786A1 (en) * 2017-12-22 2019-06-26 The Swatch Group Research and Development Ltd Balance for timepiece and method for manufacturing such a balance
    EP3647883A1 (en) * 2018-11-05 2020-05-06 CSEM Centre Suisse D'electronique Et De Microtechnique SA Timepiece balance
    EP3835879B1 (en) * 2019-12-09 2024-01-24 The Swatch Group Research and Development Ltd Timepiece resonator mechanism with inertial mass wheel with inertia and unbalance adjustment
    CN112327590B (en) * 2020-10-28 2021-08-20 深圳市格雅表业有限公司 Balance wheel mechanism and movement applying same

    Citations (4)

    * Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
    Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
    CH316831A (en) * 1953-09-22 1956-10-31 Gibbs Manufacturing And Resear Escapement for instruments with clockwork movement
    FR1275357A (en) * 1960-12-01 1961-11-03 Straumann Inst Ag Balance wheel for watches
    DE1987070U (en) * 1968-06-06 Gebruder Jun, hans GmbH, 7230 Schramberg Schaltradanordnung fur eine Unruh Uhr 4 10 67
    CH621669GA3 (en) * 1977-12-23 1981-02-27 Method of manufacturing a pivoted clockwork balance and clockwork balance obtained according to this method

    Family Cites Families (8)

    * Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
    Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
    US2004814A (en) * 1934-08-29 1935-06-11 Knobel Max Clock movement
    US2291455A (en) * 1939-08-10 1942-07-28 Waltham Watch Co Method of making balance wheels
    US2663139A (en) * 1949-10-31 1953-12-22 Gibbs Mfg And Res Corp Pallet lever construction
    US3034286A (en) * 1957-04-30 1962-05-15 Straumann Inst Ag Escapement
    FR1301938A (en) * 1961-07-11 1962-08-24 Lip Sa Balance wheel for a clockwork mechanism and its manufacturing process
    US3620005A (en) * 1967-10-04 1971-11-16 Messrs Gebruder Junghans Gmbh Ratchet wheel device for a balance wheel clock
    US4041693A (en) * 1972-09-01 1977-08-16 Les Fabriques D'assortiments Reunies Escapement for a timepiece
    EP1039352B1 (en) * 1999-03-26 2003-10-08 Rolex Sa Self-compensating spring for clockwork movement spring balance and method for treating the same

    Patent Citations (4)

    * Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
    Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
    DE1987070U (en) * 1968-06-06 Gebruder Jun, hans GmbH, 7230 Schramberg Schaltradanordnung fur eine Unruh Uhr 4 10 67
    CH316831A (en) * 1953-09-22 1956-10-31 Gibbs Manufacturing And Resear Escapement for instruments with clockwork movement
    FR1275357A (en) * 1960-12-01 1961-11-03 Straumann Inst Ag Balance wheel for watches
    CH621669GA3 (en) * 1977-12-23 1981-02-27 Method of manufacturing a pivoted clockwork balance and clockwork balance obtained according to this method

    Cited By (15)

    * Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
    Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
    EP2395402A1 (en) 2010-06-11 2011-12-14 Montres Breguet SA High frequency balance wheel for timepiece
    EP2677369A1 (en) 2010-06-11 2013-12-25 Montres Breguet SA High frequency balance wheel for timepiece
    US8414184B2 (en) 2010-07-19 2013-04-09 Nivarox-Far Balance with inertia adjustment with no inserts
    EP2410387A1 (en) 2010-07-19 2012-01-25 Nivarox-FAR S.A. Balance wheel with inertia adjustment without insert
    EP2410386A1 (en) 2010-07-19 2012-01-25 Nivarox-FAR S.A. Balance wheel with inertia adjustment with insert
    WO2012010410A1 (en) 2010-07-19 2012-01-26 Nivarox-Far S.A. Balance having inertia adjustment using an insert
    CH703576A3 (en) * 2011-03-22 2012-03-15 Lvmh Swiss Mft Sa Mechanical movement for chronograph watch.
    CH703574A3 (en) * 2011-03-22 2012-03-15 Lvmh Swiss Mft Sa Regulator organ for mechanical wristwatch and chronograph provided with such a regulating organ.
    WO2012127019A1 (en) * 2011-03-22 2012-09-27 Lvmh Swiss Manufactures Sa Mechanical movement for a chronograph watch
    CH703576A2 (en) * 2011-03-22 2012-01-13 Lvmh Swiss Mft Sa Mechanical movement for use in mechanical chronograph, has launcher giving impulse to staff or hub mounted on staff, to start regulator unit when user starts chronograph, and regulator unit comprising hairspring mounted on staff
    CH703574A2 (en) * 2011-03-22 2012-01-13 Lvmh Swiss Mft Sa Regulator member for use in mechanical chronograph to regulate movement of wrist watch for displaying current time, has roller and/or hub mounted on arbor of balance spring and provided with blind openings to reduce moment of inertia
    CN103676600A (en) * 2012-09-04 2014-03-26 斯沃奇集团研究和开发有限公司 Resonator with matched balance spring and balance
    CN103676600B (en) * 2012-09-04 2016-09-07 斯沃奇集团研究和开发有限公司 There is the hairspring of coupling and the resonator of escapement
    CN107505826A (en) * 2013-02-25 2017-12-22 精工电子有限公司 Temperature compensating type escapement and its manufacture method, clock machine core, mechanical clock
    CN107505826B (en) * 2013-02-25 2020-06-30 精工电子有限公司 Temperature compensation type balance wheel and manufacturing method thereof, clock movement and mechanical clock

    Also Published As

    Publication number Publication date
    DE602005006858D1 (en) 2008-07-03
    HK1076159A1 (en) 2006-01-06
    CN1652046B (en) 2010-05-26
    SG113616A1 (en) 2005-08-29
    CN1652046A (en) 2005-08-10
    JP2005221498A (en) 2005-08-18
    ATE396430T1 (en) 2008-06-15
    US20050174893A1 (en) 2005-08-11
    JP4537219B2 (en) 2010-09-01
    EP1562087B1 (en) 2008-05-21

    Similar Documents

    Publication Publication Date Title
    EP1562087B1 (en) Balance for a watch mechanism
    EP2410387B1 (en) balance wheel with inertia adjustment without insert
    EP1612627B1 (en) Bi-material autocompensating hairspring
    EP1837719B1 (en) Balance for a clock movement
    EP2596407B1 (en) Balance having inertia adjustment using an insert
    EP2677369B1 (en) High frequency balance wheel for timepiece
    EP1984794B1 (en) Anti-shock collet
    EP2476028B1 (en) Spiral spring
    EP3112953B1 (en) Timepiece component having a part with a decoupled welding surface
    CH700640B1 (en) Timepiece leaner and stronger.
    EP2003523B1 (en) Horological collet
    EP3252542B1 (en) Part for fastening a timepiece hairspring
    EP2631721A1 (en) Diamond-covered titanium clock components
    EP1445668A1 (en) Oscillating weight
    CH696916A5 (en) Wheel-shaped balancer for e.g. watch movement, has three arms connecting felloe at steel staff, where felloe and arms are made of single part in titanium or titanium alloy for highly exposed light patterns
    CH703463A2 (en) Inertia adjustable balance for use in hair spring of watch, has elastic arm comprising attachment unit cooperating with complementary attachment unit in attachment positions to form closed loop whose inertia is varied based on positions
    EP4179391A1 (en) Timepiece oscillator with flexible pivot
    CH703462A2 (en) Inertia adjustable bogie beam assembly producing method for watch, involves inserting insert into housing by restricting maintaining unit in insertion position and releasing unit to maintaining position after complete insertion of insert
    EP3252541A1 (en) Part for fastening a timepiece hairspring
    EP3642496A1 (en) Modular mechanical part
    EP3879354A1 (en) Oscillating winding mass provided with a decorative element for automatic movement of a timepiece
    CH703274A2 (en) High frequency inertia adjusted balance wheel for balance wheel-hairspring of high frequency oscillator of watch, has counterweight whose part is made of material that is more dense than material forming felloe
    CH717200A2 (en) Oscillating winding weight fitted with a decorative element for an automatic movement of a timepiece.
    CH708272B1 (en) spiral spring watch movement.
    WO2021121713A1 (en) Oscillating winding mass provided with a decorative element for an automatic timepiece movement

    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): AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU MC NL PL PT RO SE SI SK TR

    AX Request for extension of the european patent

    Extension state: AL BA HR LV MK YU

    17P Request for examination filed

    Effective date: 20060210

    AKX Designation fees paid

    Designated state(s): AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU MC NL PL PT RO SE SI SK TR

    GRAP Despatch of communication of intention to grant a patent

    Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR1

    GRAC Information related to communication of intention to grant a patent modified

    Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSCIGR1

    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): AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU MC NL PL PT RO SE SI SK TR

    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: 602005006858

    Country of ref document: DE

    Date of ref document: 20080703

    Kind code of ref document: P

    REG Reference to a national code

    Ref country code: IE

    Ref legal event code: FG4D

    Free format text: LANGUAGE OF EP DOCUMENT: FRENCH

    REG Reference to a national code

    Ref country code: CH

    Ref legal event code: NV

    Representative=s name: ICB INGENIEURS CONSEILS EN BREVETS SA

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

    Ref country code: SI

    Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

    Effective date: 20080521

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

    Ref country code: FI

    Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

    Effective date: 20080521

    Ref country code: ES

    Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

    Effective date: 20080901

    NLV1 Nl: lapsed or annulled due to failure to fulfill the requirements of art. 29p and 29m of the patents act
    PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

    Ref country code: NL

    Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

    Effective date: 20080521

    Ref country code: PL

    Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

    Effective date: 20080521

    Ref country code: AT

    Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

    Effective date: 20080521

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

    Ref country code: IS

    Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

    Effective date: 20080921

    REG Reference to a national code

    Ref country code: IE

    Ref legal event code: FD4D

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

    Ref country code: IE

    Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

    Effective date: 20080521

    Ref country code: DK

    Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

    Effective date: 20080521

    Ref country code: CZ

    Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

    Effective date: 20080521

    Ref country code: SE

    Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

    Effective date: 20080821

    Ref country code: LT

    Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

    Effective date: 20080521

    Ref country code: PT

    Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

    Effective date: 20081021

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

    Ref country code: RO

    Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

    Effective date: 20080521

    Ref country code: SK

    Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

    Effective date: 20080521

    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: 20090224

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

    Ref country code: BG

    Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

    Effective date: 20080821

    Ref country code: EE

    Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

    Effective date: 20080521

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

    Ref country code: IT

    Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

    Effective date: 20080521

    Ref country code: MC

    Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

    Effective date: 20090131

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

    Ref country code: BE

    Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

    Effective date: 20090131

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

    Ref country code: GR

    Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

    Effective date: 20080822

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

    Ref country code: LU

    Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

    Effective date: 20090110

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

    Ref country code: HU

    Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

    Effective date: 20081122

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

    Ref country code: TR

    Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

    Effective date: 20080521

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

    Ref country code: CY

    Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

    Effective date: 20080521

    REG Reference to a national code

    Ref country code: FR

    Ref legal event code: PLFP

    Year of fee payment: 12

    REG Reference to a national code

    Ref country code: FR

    Ref legal event code: PLFP

    Year of fee payment: 13

    REG Reference to a national code

    Ref country code: FR

    Ref legal event code: PLFP

    Year of fee payment: 14

    P01 Opt-out of the competence of the unified patent court (upc) registered

    Effective date: 20230611

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

    Ref country code: GB

    Payment date: 20231219

    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: 20231219

    Year of fee payment: 20

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

    Ref country code: DE

    Payment date: 20231219

    Year of fee payment: 20

    Ref country code: CH

    Payment date: 20240202

    Year of fee payment: 20