EP2142965B1 - Pivoting device for an arbor inside a timepiece - Google Patents

Pivoting device for an arbor inside a timepiece Download PDF

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Publication number
EP2142965B1
EP2142965B1 EP08736544A EP08736544A EP2142965B1 EP 2142965 B1 EP2142965 B1 EP 2142965B1 EP 08736544 A EP08736544 A EP 08736544A EP 08736544 A EP08736544 A EP 08736544A EP 2142965 B1 EP2142965 B1 EP 2142965B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
pivoting
aperture
pivoting device
pivot
arbour
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Application number
EP08736544A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP2142965A2 (en
EP2142965B2 (en
Inventor
Thierry Conus
Jean-Luc Helfer
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ETA SA Manufacture Horlogere Suisse
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ETA SA Manufacture Horlogere Suisse
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Application filed by ETA SA Manufacture Horlogere Suisse filed Critical ETA SA Manufacture Horlogere Suisse
Priority to EP08736544.1A priority Critical patent/EP2142965B2/en
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    • 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
    • G04B31/00—Bearings; Point suspensions or counter-point suspensions; Pivot bearings; Single parts therefor
    • G04B31/004—Bearings; Point suspensions or counter-point suspensions; Pivot bearings; Single parts therefor characterised by the material used
    • G04B31/016—Plastic bearings
    • 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
    • G04B31/00—Bearings; Point suspensions or counter-point suspensions; Pivot bearings; Single parts therefor
    • G04B31/004—Bearings; Point suspensions or counter-point suspensions; Pivot bearings; Single parts therefor characterised by the material used
    • 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
    • G04B31/00—Bearings; Point suspensions or counter-point suspensions; Pivot bearings; Single parts therefor
    • G04B31/004—Bearings; Point suspensions or counter-point suspensions; Pivot bearings; Single parts therefor characterised by the material used
    • G04B31/008—Jewel bearings
    • 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
    • G04B31/00—Bearings; Point suspensions or counter-point suspensions; Pivot bearings; Single parts therefor
    • G04B31/004—Bearings; Point suspensions or counter-point suspensions; Pivot bearings; Single parts therefor characterised by the material used
    • G04B31/008—Jewel bearings
    • G04B31/0082—Jewel bearings with jewel hole and cap jewel
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
    • Y10T29/00—Metal working
    • Y10T29/49—Method of mechanical manufacture
    • Y10T29/49826—Assembling or joining

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to the pivoting devices of a shaft in a timepiece, which comprises two pivots each forming one end of the shaft and two bearings for receiving the two pivots, each of the two pivots comprising, close to the end, a substantially cylindrical portion and a convex rounded portion extending the substantially cylindrical portion and decreasing towards the end, each of the two bearings having a pivot structure resiliently held in place, the pivotal structure comprising a substantially cylindrical passage traversed by the substantially cylindrical portion of one of the pivots and a bearing surface against which the end of said pivot is provided to come to rest.
  • FIGs 13-51 and 13-52 on page 291 of the book "Theory of Watchmaking” shows a half of a rocking arm swing device corresponding to the above definition.
  • the pivot shown which forms one of the ends of a balance shaft, has an appointie shape and ends with a cylindrical portion slightly rounded tip.
  • the pivoting is provided by a hole stone and a counter-pivot which are held in a kitten so as to form a pivot structure.
  • the hole of the hole stone is a substantially cylindrical passage that surrounds the cylindrical portion of the pivot so as to radially retain the balance shaft.
  • the counter-pivot is a bearing surface against which the rounded tip of the pivot is provided to come to rest. The kitten is elastically fixed in place.
  • the exemplary pivoting device shown in FIG. figure 5 of the patent document CH 324'263 also corresponds to the definition above.
  • the pivot represented in the figure 5 ends with a cylindrical part with a slightly rounded tip.
  • the pivoting is ensured by a single stone pierced with a blind hole with cylindrical wall. This stone is mounted in a kitten and forms with it a pivoting structure.
  • the cylindrical portion of the pivot is engaged in the cylindrical wall hole, and the rounded end of the pivot can thus bear against the bearing surface formed by the flat bottom of the blind hole.
  • the pivot structure is resiliently fixed in place in a conical seat housing of a bearing body, itself, fixed to the plate.
  • An object of the present invention is therefore to provide a pivoting device of a balance shaft in which the amplitude difference between the different positions of the watch is reduced to a minimum. It achieves this goal by providing a device according to claim 1.
  • each pivot bears against the inclined inner wall of the trapezoidal profile portion (By the profile of an opening is meant the shape that the contour of this opening presents when the latter is seen in section along a plane which contains the axis of the opening or, which amounts to substantially the same, according to a plane which contains the axis of rotation of the balance).
  • the support of the pivot against the bearing surface is never frontal. Even when the balance shaft is oriented vertically, the support is not done by the tip of the pivot, but only by the sides of the rounded portion thereof. Under these conditions, it is possible to provide a pivoting device in which the torque of the friction force varies very little between the different possible orientations of the timepiece.
  • the diameter of the rounded portion whose flanks bear against the flared edge of an opening is preferably between about 0.05 and 0.10 mm.
  • the wall of the inverted trapezoidal or triangular profile portion preferably has an inclination relative to the axis of the balance between about 40 ° and 60 °.
  • the pivoting structure of each of the two bearings comprises an axial abutment element (15, 15 ') in which is arranged said opening (16, 16') of circular or polygonal section, and a radial guide member (21, 21 ') traversed by the substantially cylindrical passage.
  • This first embodiment is similar to the pivoting of the prior art combining stones with holes and against pivots.
  • the axial abutment element according to the invention differs from known counter-pivots, in particular in that it comprises an opening for receiving the rounded convex portion of a pivot.
  • each of the abutment elements in which the opening is formed is constituted by a monocrystal, the opening itself being produced by wet anisotropic etching of the single crystal.
  • the substantially cylindrical passage of the pivoting structure is constituted by a cylindrical wall portion of the opening of circular or polygonal section, the cylindrical wall portion being located between the profile portion. trapezoidal or triangular inverted and a mouth of the opening.
  • This second embodiment is called monoblock because the substantially cylindrical passage and the bearing surface are made in the same opening of the pivot structure.
  • This embodiment of the present invention somewhat recalls the pivoting device disclosed in the patent document CH 324'263 and already mentioned. However, it differs from this prior art in that the bottom of the opening is not flat but has an inclined wall.
  • the figure 3 schematically shows a balance shaft 11 with its pivoting device.
  • the ends of the shaft 11 form two pivots with rounded tip (referenced respectively 12 and 12 ').
  • the rocker shaft 11 is held radially by two radial guide members (21, 21 ') and axially by two axial abutment members 15, 15' against which the pivots 12, 12 'can rest.
  • the figure 1 shows a half of the same pivoting device oriented vertically.
  • the tip of the pivot 12 terminates in a rounded portion 13 forming substantially a half sphere.
  • the diameter of the sphere may advantageously be between 0.05 and 0.10 mm, for example about 0.07 mm.
  • the end 13 of the pivot 12 is provided to abut against the inner wall 17 of a trapezoidal profile opening (referenced 16 in the figure 1 ) is formed in an axial abutment element 15. It can be seen that the opening 16 has the shape of a cone substantially coaxial with the axis of the balance shaft 11.
  • the opening of the cone 16 is preferably between about 80 ° and 120 ° or, in other words, the inclination of the wall 17 relative to the axis of the balance 11 is preferably between 40 ° and 60 °.
  • the rounded portion 13 and the opening 16 are dimensioned so that the lateral surface of the rounded portion 13 is entirely supported by the inclined wall 17.
  • two arrows represent the direction perpendicular to the contact surface between the pivot 12 and the axial abutment element 15.
  • the two arrows N originate at a point of contact. It should be noted that the surfaces in contact are not uneven, which allows a "normal" support. In other words, at a point of support of the pivot 12 on the wall of the opening 16, the direction of the arrow N corresponds both to the direction normal to the surface of the pivot and in the normal direction to the inclined wall of the opening.
  • the pivot 12 does not bear against the bottom of the opening 16, but against its inclined inner wall.
  • the axis of the opening 16 being substantially parallel to the axis of the pivot 12
  • the contact of the pivot 12 with the interior of the opening 16 is by the flanks of the pivot, in an area of the surface of the latter whose inclination is the same as that of the walls of the cone; that is, about 50 ° in the present example.
  • it is approximately the same area of the pivot surface that provides contact when the balance shaft is horizontal and when this shaft is inclined.
  • the figures 1 and 3 show again that the pivots 12, 12 'comprise an elongate cylindrical portion 19, 19' which precedes the rounded end 13, 13 '.
  • the elongated cylindrical portion passes through the olive or cylindrical hole of a radial guide member 21, 21 '.
  • the function of the radial guide element corresponds to the function of a hole stone in a usual pivoting device.
  • the radial guide element 21, 21 ' prevents the rounded end 13, 13' of the pivot from being completely released from the opening 16, 16 '.
  • This elastic suspension of the pivot structure is, in a manner known per se, provided to prevent the cylindrical portion 19 from breaking in the event of impact.
  • the balance shaft 11 still has a tigeron (referenced 23 on the figure 1 ) considerably larger than the cylindrical portion 19. Because of its dimensions, the shank 23 is much stronger than the end of a pivot 12, 12 ', and is intended to abut against a not shown part of the to absorb most of the energy associated with a shock.
  • the figure 2 is a partial sectional view schematically showing a pivoting structure of a pivoting device according to a first embodiment of the present invention (the elements of the figure 2 also represented in figures 1 and 3 retain the same reference numbers). It can be seen in the figure that the two stones respectively constituting the axial abutment element 15 and the radial guide element 21 are both mounted in a kitten (shown schematically) with which they form the pivot structure 25.
  • the realization of the pivot structure 25 may present some difficulties. Indeed, it is easy to understand that it is important that the axis of the opening 16 and that of the substantially cylindrical passage of the radial guide member 21 are perfectly aligned. Indeed, as the diameter of the pivot is of the order of 0.1 mm /, an offset of less than one hundredth of a millimeter between the axes of the two openings is sufficient to significantly affect the quality of pivoting.
  • the axial abutment member 15 is housed in a cylindrical cavity 27.
  • the diameter of the cavity 27 is slightly greater than that of the axial abutment element. The latter therefore enjoys some lateral play.
  • the balance shaft is in a vertical position, as shown in figure 2 , the rounded portion 13 of the tip of the pivot bears against the inclined side of the opening 16 of the element 15. If, for one reason or another, the opening 16 is not quite in the axis of the balance, the support of the tip of the pivot on the inclined edge is only one side of the opening.
  • the thrust of the pivot on the edge of the opening is exerted asymmetrically, and the horizontal component of this thrust is sufficient to bring the axial abutment member 15 in the axis of the balance shaft . It will thus be understood that, the inclined wall of the opening 16 allows self-centering of the axial abutment element 15.
  • the axial abutment element may be rigidly fixed in the pivot structure.
  • the solution just described to the problems of alignment can be adapted to this case. Indeed, it is possible to precisely adjust the centering of the axial abutment element 15 at the assembly stage of the Pivot structure 25. To do this, a "false axis" is first inserted into the pivot structure 25 in the place provided for the balance shaft. The thrust of this "false axis" makes it possible to center the axial abutment element 15 according to a principle identical to that explained in the preceding paragraph.
  • the figure 4 is a partial sectional view schematically showing a pivoting structure of a pivoting device according to a second embodiment of the present invention.
  • the half device shown comprises a pivot 32 similar to the pivot 12 of the Figures 1, 2 and 3 . It has a tip having an elongated cylindrical portion 39 and ending with a rounded portion 33.
  • the tip of the pivot 32 is inserted into an opening 36 of a pivot structure 35. It can be seen in the figure that the profile of the opening 36 has a first cylindrical wall portion 37 followed by a trapezoidal profile portion 38.
  • a one-piece pivot structure 35 fulfills both the axial abutment member and the radial guide member functions for pivot 32. Compared with the embodiment of Figures 1, 2 and 3 , we can say that the embodiment of the figure 4 combines elements 15 and 21 in one and only one room.
  • the monoblock element 35 is suitable for being made by example in a metal or an alloy or, still, plastic. If it is desired to make the element 35 of a metal or an alloy, it is possible to proceed by photolithography and galvanic growth, and in particular by using the LIGA technique.
  • the openings 16, 16 'and 36 are not necessarily circular in section. Indeed, as we will see in the example which is represented in Figures 5 and 6 and which will now be described, the section of an opening may also be of polygonal section (by section of an opening, is meant the shape that has the contour of this opening when the latter is seen in section transversely to the axis opening or, which amounts to substantially the same, transversely to the axis of rotation of the balance).
  • the axial abutment elements represented on the Figures 1 to 3 can be made from a wafer of monocrystalline material such as silicon for example.
  • the known method of anisotropic etching in a liquid medium (or wet) is an advantageous way of digging polygonal openings of triangular or trapezoidal profile in monocrystalline wafers.
  • Engraving or, more precisely, etching of a monocrystal is said to be anisotropic if the etch rate is higher in some crystallographic directions than in others.
  • the anisotropy of chemical attack depends on many parameters. Firstly, it depends on the interaction between the chemical properties of the substance of which the single crystal is made and those of the attack reagent used. In addition, the etch rates in the various crystallographic directions depend, of course, on the symmetry of the crystal structure. By playing on the concentration of the reagent, the temperature, etc. it is therefore possible to make polygonal openings of relatively complex profile in a single crystal.
  • a known example of wet anisotropic etching relates to silicon. Indeed, it is possible to form openings in the form of inverted pyramids in a silicon wafer of ⁇ 100> orientation by wet etching.
  • the patent document US 2004/0195209 describes a method among others that can be implemented to make such openings in the form of inverted pyramids.
  • the figure 5 represents the axial abutment member 15 of a bearing for a pivoting device made from a monocrystalline silicon wafer 40 of ⁇ 100> orientation.
  • the wafer is shown covered by a mask 43.
  • This mask must be formed on the surface of the wafer before proceeding with the etching, so as to protect the silicon of the etching reagent.
  • the mask has an opening 45 formed at the location where the opening 46 is to be etched in the silicon.
  • the etching reagent digs a pyramid-shaped opening.
  • the inclined faces of the pyramid may be either ⁇ 110> or ⁇ 111> planes. Whether the faces of the pyramid are ⁇ 110> planes or ⁇ 111> planes, the formed pyramid is of square section. Indeed, the directions ⁇ 111> and ⁇ 110> both have a rotation symmetry of order 4.
  • the inverted pyramid constituting the opening 46 is slightly truncated ( figure 6 ).
  • the inclination of the planes ⁇ 110> is about 45 °, that of the planes ⁇ 111> about 55 °.
  • the edges of the trapezoidal portion of an opening has an inclination of between 40 ° and 60 °. Wet anisotropic etching is therefore particularly well suited to the present invention.
  • the present invention is not limited to a pivoting device for a balance shaft.
  • the pivoting device of the present invention may be used for any axis or shaft of the timepiece and, in particular, for the pivoting of the escapement or the anchor.
  • the pivoting device according to the present invention may be made from other materials than traditional materials or silicon. Indeed, the invention can be made from any material that the skilled person deems fit to use.
  • openings by wet anisotropic etching in monocrystals of galium arsenide or indium phosphide. It is useful to specify that these openings are distinguished from those described in the previous example in that they may have the form of inverted tetrahedrons (of triangular section) instead of inverted pyramids.
  • the section of the openings may be circular or polygonal, and if the section is polygonal, the number of sides of the polygon may be arbitrary.

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  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Pivots And Pivotal Connections (AREA)
  • Hinges (AREA)
  • Sliding-Contact Bearings (AREA)
  • Support Of The Bearing (AREA)
  • Transmitters (AREA)
  • Investigating Or Analyzing Materials By The Use Of Ultrasonic Waves (AREA)
  • Holders For Apparel And Elements Relating To Apparel (AREA)
  • Automotive Seat Belt Assembly (AREA)
  • Rotary Switch, Piano Key Switch, And Lever Switch (AREA)

Abstract

The device has bearings for receiving pivots, where each bearing includes a plastic pivoting structure (25), where the device is made of metal or alloy. Each pivot (12) has a convex rounded portion (13) forming an extension of a cylindrical portion and decreasing in size in a direction of a pivot end. The structure has an opening (16) e.g. circular opening, comprising a trapezoidal/inverted-triangle profile whose inclined inner wall forms a bearing surface. The portion (13) is supported against the wall such that a shaft is axially maintained between the walls of openings of the structures. An independent claim is also included for a method for assembling a shaft pivoting device.

Description

La présente invention concerne les dispositifs de pivotement d'un arbre dans une pièce d'horlogerie, qui comporte deux pivots formant chacun une extrémité de l'arbre et deux paliers pour recevoir les deux pivots, chacun des deux pivots comportant, proche de l'extrémité, une portion sensiblement cylindrique et une portion arrondie convexe prolongeant la portion sensiblement cylindrique et allant en diminuant en direction de l'extrémité, chacun des deux paliers comportant une structure de pivotement maintenue élastiquement en place, la structure de pivotement comprenant un passage sensiblement cylindrique traversé par la portion sensiblement cylindrique d'un des pivots et une surface d'appui contre laquelle l'extrémité du dit pivot est prévue pour venir s'appuyer.The present invention relates to the pivoting devices of a shaft in a timepiece, which comprises two pivots each forming one end of the shaft and two bearings for receiving the two pivots, each of the two pivots comprising, close to the end, a substantially cylindrical portion and a convex rounded portion extending the substantially cylindrical portion and decreasing towards the end, each of the two bearings having a pivot structure resiliently held in place, the pivotal structure comprising a substantially cylindrical passage traversed by the substantially cylindrical portion of one of the pivots and a bearing surface against which the end of said pivot is provided to come to rest.

Les figures 13-51 et 13-52 de la page 291 de l'ouvrage « Théorie d'horlogerie » montre une moitié d'un dispositif de pivotement anti-chocs pour arbre de balancier correspondant à la définition ci-dessus. Le pivot représenté, qui forme l'une des extrémités d'un arbre de balancier, a une forme appointie et se termine par une partie cylindrique à bout légèrement arrondi. Le pivotement est assuré par une pierre à trou et un contre-pivot qui sont maintenus dans un chaton de manière à former une structure de pivotement. Le trou de la pierre à trou constitue un passage sensiblement cylindrique qui entoure la portion cylindrique du pivot de manière à retenir radialement l'arbre de balancier. Le contre-pivot constitue une surface d'appui contre laquelle le bout arrondi du pivot est prévu pour venir s'appuyer. Le chaton est fixé élastiquement en place.Figures 13-51 and 13-52 on page 291 of the book "Theory of Watchmaking" shows a half of a rocking arm swing device corresponding to the above definition. The pivot shown, which forms one of the ends of a balance shaft, has an appointie shape and ends with a cylindrical portion slightly rounded tip. The pivoting is provided by a hole stone and a counter-pivot which are held in a kitten so as to form a pivot structure. The hole of the hole stone is a substantially cylindrical passage that surrounds the cylindrical portion of the pivot so as to radially retain the balance shaft. The counter-pivot is a bearing surface against which the rounded tip of the pivot is provided to come to rest. The kitten is elastically fixed in place.

Le dispositif de pivotement exemplaire représenté dans la figure 5 du document de brevet CH 324'263 correspond également à la définition ci-dessus. Le pivot représenté dans la figure 5 se termine par une partie cylindrique à bout légèrement arrondi. Le pivotement est assuré par une seule pierre percée d'un trou borgne à paroi cylindrique. Cette pierre est montée dans un chaton et forme avec ce dernier une structure de pivotement. La partie cylindrique du pivot est engagée dans le trou à paroi cylindrique, et le bout arrondi du pivot peut ainsi venir en appui contre la surface d'appui constituée par le fond plat du trou borgne. En outre, comme illustré par la figure 1, la structure de pivotement est fixée élastiquement en place dans un logement à siège conique d'un corps de palier, lui-même, fixé à la platine.The exemplary pivoting device shown in FIG. figure 5 of the patent document CH 324'263 also corresponds to the definition above. The pivot represented in the figure 5 ends with a cylindrical part with a slightly rounded tip. The pivoting is ensured by a single stone pierced with a blind hole with cylindrical wall. This stone is mounted in a kitten and forms with it a pivoting structure. The cylindrical portion of the pivot is engaged in the cylindrical wall hole, and the rounded end of the pivot can thus bear against the bearing surface formed by the flat bottom of the blind hole. In addition, as illustrated by figure 1 , the pivot structure is resiliently fixed in place in a conical seat housing of a bearing body, itself, fixed to the plate.

Les dispositifs de pivotement de l'art antérieur qui viennent d'être décrits présentent certains inconvénients. En particulier, la zone de contact de chaque pivot avec le palier correspondant change selon l'inclinaison de la pièce d'horlogerie. Lorsque la pièce d'horlogerie est en position horizontale, l'arbre de balancier étant donc orienté verticalement, seul le bout arrondi de l'un des pivots appuie contre la surface d'appui, tandis qu'en position verticale de la pièce d'horlogerie, c'est la circonférence de la partie cylindrique des pivots qui repose contre le flanc des passages sensiblement cylindriques. On comprendra que, dans ces conditions, le freinage dû au frottement est moins grand lorsque la pièce d'horlogerie est à plat que dans les autres positions. Ce phénomène influence l'amplitude des oscillations du balancier, et les variations d'amplitude peuvent à leur tour, entraîner des écarts de marche entre la position horizontale et la position verticale.The pivoting devices of the prior art which have just been described have certain drawbacks. In particular, the contact zone of each pivot with the corresponding bearing changes according to the inclination of the timepiece. When the timepiece is in a horizontal position, the balance shaft is thus oriented vertically, only the rounded end of one of the pivots bears against the bearing surface, while in the vertical position of the workpiece. watchmaking is the circumference of the cylindrical part of the pivots which rests against the side of the substantially cylindrical passages. It will be understood that, under these conditions, the braking due to the friction is smaller when the timepiece is flat than in the other positions. This phenomenon influences the amplitude of the pendulum oscillations, and the amplitude variations can in turn cause deviations between the horizontal position and the vertical position.

Un but de la présente invention est donc de fournir un dispositif de pivotement d'un arbre de balancier dans lequel l'écart d'amplitude entre les différentes positions de la montre est réduit au minimum. Elle atteint ce but en fournissant un dispositif conforme à la revendication 1.An object of the present invention is therefore to provide a pivoting device of a balance shaft in which the amplitude difference between the different positions of the watch is reduced to a minimum. It achieves this goal by providing a device according to claim 1.

Selon la présente invention, chaque pivot vient en appui contre la paroi intérieure inclinée de la portion de profil trapézoïdal (Par profil d'une ouverture, on entend la forme que présente le contour de cette ouverture lorsque cette dernière est vue en coupe selon un plan qui contient l'axe de l'ouverture ou, ce qui revient sensiblement au même, selon un plan qui contient l'axe de rotation du balancier). Ainsi l'extrémité d'un pivot ne peut pas pénétrer jusqu'au fond de l'ouverture. L'appui du pivot contre la surface d'appui n'est donc jamais frontal. Même lorsque l'arbre de balancier est orienté verticalement, l'appui ne se fait pas par la pointe du pivot, mais uniquement par les flancs de la portion arrondie de celui-ci. Dans ces conditions, il est possible de fournir un dispositif de pivotement dans lequel le couple de la force de frottement varie très peu entre les différentes orientations possibles de la pièce d'horlogerie.According to the present invention, each pivot bears against the inclined inner wall of the trapezoidal profile portion (By the profile of an opening is meant the shape that the contour of this opening presents when the latter is seen in section along a plane which contains the axis of the opening or, which amounts to substantially the same, according to a plane which contains the axis of rotation of the balance). Thus the end of a pivot can not penetrate to the bottom of the opening. The support of the pivot against the bearing surface is never frontal. Even when the balance shaft is oriented vertically, the support is not done by the tip of the pivot, but only by the sides of the rounded portion thereof. Under these conditions, it is possible to provide a pivoting device in which the torque of the friction force varies very little between the different possible orientations of the timepiece.

Le diamètre de la portion arrondie dont les flancs viennent en appui contre le bord évasé d'une ouverture, est compris, de préférence, entre environ 0,05 et 0,10mm.The diameter of the rounded portion whose flanks bear against the flared edge of an opening is preferably between about 0.05 and 0.10 mm.

La paroi de la portion de profil trapézoïdal ou triangulaire inversé présente, de préférence, une inclinaison par rapport à l'axe du balancier comprise entre environ 40° et 60°.The wall of the inverted trapezoidal or triangular profile portion preferably has an inclination relative to the axis of the balance between about 40 ° and 60 °.

Selon un premier mode de réalisation de la présente invention, la structure de pivotement de chacun des deux paliers comporte un élément de butée axiale (15, 15') dans lequel est aménagé ladite ouverture (16, 16') de section circulaire ou polygonale, et un élément de guidage radial (21, 21') traversé par le passage sensiblement cylindrique.According to a first embodiment of the present invention, the pivoting structure of each of the two bearings comprises an axial abutment element (15, 15 ') in which is arranged said opening (16, 16') of circular or polygonal section, and a radial guide member (21, 21 ') traversed by the substantially cylindrical passage.

Ce premier mode de réalisation est similaire aux pivotements de l'art antérieur associant pierres à trou et contre-pivots. Toutefois, l'élément de butée axiale selon l'invention se distingue des contre-pivots connus, notamment en ce qu'il comporte une ouverture pour recevoir la portion arrondie convexe d'un pivot.This first embodiment is similar to the pivoting of the prior art combining stones with holes and against pivots. However, the axial abutment element according to the invention differs from known counter-pivots, in particular in that it comprises an opening for receiving the rounded convex portion of a pivot.

Selon une variante avantageuse de ce premier mode de réalisation, chacun des éléments de butée dans lequel est formée l'ouverture est constitué par un monocristal, l'ouverture elle-même étant réalisée par gravure anisotrope humide du monocristal.According to an advantageous variant of this first embodiment, each of the abutment elements in which the opening is formed is constituted by a monocrystal, the opening itself being produced by wet anisotropic etching of the single crystal.

Selon un deuxième mode de réalisation de la présente invention, le passage sensiblement cylindrique de la structure de pivotement est constitué par une portion à paroi cylindrique de l'ouverture de section circulaire ou polygonale, la portion à paroi cylindrique étant située entre la portion de profil trapézoïdal ou triangulaire inversé et une embouchure de l'ouverture.According to a second embodiment of the present invention, the substantially cylindrical passage of the pivoting structure is constituted by a cylindrical wall portion of the opening of circular or polygonal section, the cylindrical wall portion being located between the profile portion. trapezoidal or triangular inverted and a mouth of the opening.

Ce deuxième mode de réalisation est qualifié de monobloc parce que le passage sensiblement cylindrique et la surface d'appui sont réalisés dans une même ouverture de la structure de pivotement. Ce mode de réalisation de la présente invention rappelle un peu le dispositif de pivotement décrit dans le document de brevet CH 324'263 et déjà mentionné. Toutefois, il se distingue de cet art antérieur par le fait notamment que le fond de l'ouverture n'est pas plat mais présente une paroi inclinée.This second embodiment is called monoblock because the substantially cylindrical passage and the bearing surface are made in the same opening of the pivot structure. This embodiment of the present invention somewhat recalls the pivoting device disclosed in the patent document CH 324'263 and already mentioned. However, it differs from this prior art in that the bottom of the opening is not flat but has an inclined wall.

D'autres caractéristiques et avantages de la présente invention apparaîtront à la lecture de la description qui va suivre, donnée uniquement à titre d'exemple non limitatif, et faite en référence aux dessins annexés dans lesquels :

  • la figure 1 est une vue schématique en coupe montrant un pivot inséré dans un élément de guidage radial et un élément de butée axiale conforme à la présente invention ;
  • la figure 2 est une vue partielle en coupe montrant schématiquement une structure de pivotement d'un dispositif de pivotement selon un premier mode de réalisation de la présente invention ;
  • la figure 3 est une vue schématique en coupe montrant les mêmes éléments que la figure 3, mais dans laquelle l'axe de l'arbre de balancier est incliné par rapport à la verticale ;
  • la figure 4 est une vue partielle en coupe montrant schématiquement une structure de pivotement d'un dispositif de pivotement selon un deuxième mode de réalisation de la présente invention ;
  • la figure 5 est une vue en perspective d'un élément d'appui axial selon l'invention, qui peut être obtenu à partir d'un wafer de silicium ;
  • la figure 6 est une vue en coupe du wafer de silicium à partir duquel l'élément d'appui axial de la figure 7 peut être obtenu.
Other features and advantages of the present invention will appear on reading the following description, given solely by way of non-limiting example, and with reference to the appended drawings in which:
  • the figure 1 is a schematic sectional view showing a pivot inserted into a radial guide member and an axial stop member according to the present invention;
  • the figure 2 is a partial sectional view schematically showing a pivoting structure of a pivoting device according to a first embodiment of the present invention;
  • the figure 3 is a schematic sectional view showing the same elements as the figure 3 but in which the axis of the balance shaft is inclined with respect to the vertical;
  • the figure 4 is a partial sectional view schematically showing a pivoting structure of a pivoting device according to a second embodiment of the present invention;
  • the figure 5 is a perspective view of an axial bearing element according to the invention, which can be obtained from a silicon wafer;
  • the figure 6 is a sectional view of the silicon wafer from which the axial bearing member of Figure 7 can be obtained.

La figure 3 montre schématiquement un arbre de balancier 11 avec son dispositif de pivotement. Les extrémités de l'arbre 11 forment deux pivots à pointe arrondie (référencés respectivement 12 et 12'). On voit encore que l'arbre de balancier 11 est maintenu radialement par deux éléments de guidage radial (21, 21') et axialement par deux éléments de butée axiale 15, 15' contre lesquels les pivots 12, 12' peuvent s'appuyer.The figure 3 schematically shows a balance shaft 11 with its pivoting device. The ends of the shaft 11 form two pivots with rounded tip (referenced respectively 12 and 12 '). It is also seen that the rocker shaft 11 is held radially by two radial guide members (21, 21 ') and axially by two axial abutment members 15, 15' against which the pivots 12, 12 'can rest.

La figure 1 montre une moitié du même dispositif de pivotement orienté verticalement. On voit sur les figures 1 et 3 que, dans l'exemple représenté, la pointe du pivot 12 se termine par une portion arrondie 13 formant sensiblement une demi sphère. Le diamètre de la sphère peut avantageusement être compris entre 0,05 et 0,10mm, par exemple environ 0,07mm. L'extrémité 13 du pivot 12 est prévue pour venir s'appuyer contre la paroi intérieure 17 d'une ouverture de profil trapézoïdal (référencée 16 dans la figure 1) formée dans un élément de butée axiale 15. On voit que l'ouverture 16 a la forme d'un cône sensiblement coaxial avec l'axe de l'arbre de balancier 11. L'ouverture du cône 16 est de préférence comprise entre environ 80° et 120° ou, en d'autres termes, l'inclinaison de la paroi 17 par rapport à l'axe du balancier 11 est de préférence comprise entre 40° et 60°. On voit encore sur les figures 1 et 3 que la portion arrondie 13 et l'ouverture 16 sont dimensionnées de manière à ce que la surface latérale de la portion arrondie 13 soit entièrement supportée par la paroi inclinée 17.The figure 1 shows a half of the same pivoting device oriented vertically. We see on figures 1 and 3 that, in the example shown, the tip of the pivot 12 terminates in a rounded portion 13 forming substantially a half sphere. The diameter of the sphere may advantageously be between 0.05 and 0.10 mm, for example about 0.07 mm. The end 13 of the pivot 12 is provided to abut against the inner wall 17 of a trapezoidal profile opening (referenced 16 in the figure 1 ) is formed in an axial abutment element 15. It can be seen that the opening 16 has the shape of a cone substantially coaxial with the axis of the balance shaft 11. The opening of the cone 16 is preferably between about 80 ° and 120 ° or, in other words, the inclination of the wall 17 relative to the axis of the balance 11 is preferably between 40 ° and 60 °. We still see on figures 1 and 3 that the rounded portion 13 and the opening 16 are dimensioned so that the lateral surface of the rounded portion 13 is entirely supported by the inclined wall 17.

Sur la figure 3, on a représenté par deux flèches (référencées N) la direction perpendiculaire à la surface de contact entre le pivot 12 et l'élément de butée axiale 15. Les deux flèches N ont leur origine à l'endroit d'un point de contact. On notera que les surfaces en contact ne sont pas accidentées, ce qui permet un appui « normal ». En d'autres termes, à l'endroit d'un point d'appui du pivot 12 sur la paroi de l'ouverture 16, la direction de la flèche N correspond tout à la fois à la direction normale à la surface du pivot et à la direction normale à la paroi inclinée de l'ouverture.On the figure 3 two arrows (referenced N) represent the direction perpendicular to the contact surface between the pivot 12 and the axial abutment element 15. The two arrows N originate at a point of contact. It should be noted that the surfaces in contact are not uneven, which allows a "normal" support. In other words, at a point of support of the pivot 12 on the wall of the opening 16, the direction of the arrow N corresponds both to the direction normal to the surface of the pivot and in the normal direction to the inclined wall of the opening.

Conformément à la présente invention, le pivot 12 ne vient pas en appui contre le fond de l'ouverture 16, mais contre sa paroi intérieure inclinée. En effet, l'axe de l'ouverture 16 étant sensiblement parallèle à l'axe du pivot 12, le contact du pivot 12 avec l'intérieur de l'ouverture 16 se fait par les flancs du pivot, dans une zone de la surface de ce dernier dont l'inclinaison est la même que celle des parois du cône ; c'est-à-dire environ 50° dans le présent exemple. De plus, en comparant les figures 1 et 3, on peut voir que c'est approximativement la même zone de la surface du pivot qui assure le contact lorsque l'arbre de balancier est horizontal et lorsque cet arbre est incliné.According to the present invention, the pivot 12 does not bear against the bottom of the opening 16, but against its inclined inner wall. Indeed, the axis of the opening 16 being substantially parallel to the axis of the pivot 12, the contact of the pivot 12 with the interior of the opening 16 is by the flanks of the pivot, in an area of the surface of the latter whose inclination is the same as that of the walls of the cone; that is, about 50 ° in the present example. Moreover, by comparing the figures 1 and 3 it can be seen that it is approximately the same area of the pivot surface that provides contact when the balance shaft is horizontal and when this shaft is inclined.

Les figures 1 et 3 montrent encore que les pivots 12, 12' comportent une partie cylindrique allongée 19, 19' qui précède l'extrémité arrondie 13, 13'. La partie cylindrique allongée passe dans le trou olivé ou cylindrique d'un élément de guidage radial 21, 21'. La fonction de l'élément de guidage radial correspond à la fonction d'une pierre à trou dans un dispositif de pivotement habituel. De plus, dans un dispositif de pivotement selon la présente invention, l'élément de guidage radial 21, 21' évite que l'extrémité arrondie 13, 13' du pivot ne se libère complètement de l'ouverture 16, 16'. En effet, en se référant plus particulièrement à la figure 3, on voit qu'il existe un certain jeu, tant radial qu'axial, entre l'arbre de balancier 11 et les éléments de butée axiale 15 et 15'. On précisera toutefois que, sur la figure, l'amplitude de ce jeu a été exagérée de manière à faciliter la compréhension. En raison du jeu axial, lorsque l'arbre de balancier 11 est vertical ou sensiblement incliné comme dans la figure 3, l'extrémité supérieure 12' n'est plus en contact avec l'élément de butée axiale 15'. Dans cette situation, la partie cylindrique allongée 19' vient s'appuyer contre la paroi intérieur du passage sensiblement cylindrique dans l'élément de guidage radial 21'. Sur la figure 3, on a représenté par une flèche (référencée N à nouveau) la direction perpendiculaire à la surface de contact entre le pivot 12' et l'élément de guidage radial 21'. La flèche N a son origine à l'endroit d'un point de contact. Finalement, dans le cas non représenté où l'arbre de balancier est sensiblement horizontal, on comprendra que les parties cylindriques 19, 19' viennent toutes les deux s'appuyer contre la paroi intérieure du passage sensiblement cylindrique de l'un des éléments de guidage radial 21, 21'. '. Ainsi, le contact d'un pivot avec l'élément de guidage radial se fait toujours par les flancs du pivot.The figures 1 and 3 show again that the pivots 12, 12 'comprise an elongate cylindrical portion 19, 19' which precedes the rounded end 13, 13 '. The elongated cylindrical portion passes through the olive or cylindrical hole of a radial guide member 21, 21 '. The function of the radial guide element corresponds to the function of a hole stone in a usual pivoting device. In addition, in a pivoting device according to the present invention, the radial guide element 21, 21 'prevents the rounded end 13, 13' of the pivot from being completely released from the opening 16, 16 '. Indeed, with particular reference to the figure 3 it can be seen that there is a certain clearance, both radial and axial, between the rocker shaft 11 and the axial abutment elements 15 and 15 '. We will specify however, that in the figure, the amplitude of this game has been exaggerated so as to facilitate understanding. Due to the axial play, when the balance shaft 11 is vertical or substantially inclined as in the figure 3 the upper end 12 'is no longer in contact with the axial abutment element 15'. In this situation, the elongated cylindrical portion 19 'abuts against the inner wall of the substantially cylindrical passage in the radial guide member 21'. On the figure 3 the direction perpendicular to the contact surface between the pivot 12 'and the radial guide element 21' is represented by an arrow (referenced N again). Arrow N originates at a point of contact. Finally, in the case not shown where the balance shaft is substantially horizontal, it will be understood that the cylindrical portions 19, 19 'both come to bear against the inner wall of the substantially cylindrical passage of one of the guide elements. radial 21, 21 '. . Thus, the contact of a pivot with the radial guide element is always by the flanks of the pivot.

L'élément de guidage radial et l'élément de butée axiale faisant partie, selon la présente invention, d'une structure de pivotement maintenue élastiquement en place, le jeu entre l'arbre de balancier 11 et les éléments de butée axiale 15 et 15' peut devenir transitoirement beaucoup plus important en cas de choc. Cette suspension élastique de la structure de pivotement est, de manière connue en soi, prévue pour éviter que la portion cylindrique 19 ne se casse en cas de choc. À cet effet, l'arbre de balancier 11 présente encore un tigeron (référencé 23 sur la figure 1) considérablement plus épais que la portion cylindrique 19. De par ses dimensions, le tigeron 23 est beaucoup plus solide que l'extrémité d'un pivot 12, 12', et il est prévu pour venir buter contre une partie non représentée du dispositif de manière à absorber la plus grande partie de l'énergie associée à un choc.The radial guide element and the axial stop element forming part, according to the present invention, of a pivot structure held elastically in place, the clearance between the rocker shaft 11 and the axial abutment elements 15 and 15. 'can become transitory much more important in case of shock. This elastic suspension of the pivot structure is, in a manner known per se, provided to prevent the cylindrical portion 19 from breaking in the event of impact. For this purpose, the balance shaft 11 still has a tigeron (referenced 23 on the figure 1 ) considerably larger than the cylindrical portion 19. Because of its dimensions, the shank 23 is much stronger than the end of a pivot 12, 12 ', and is intended to abut against a not shown part of the to absorb most of the energy associated with a shock.

La figure 2 est une vue partielle en coupe montrant schématiquement une structure de pivotement d'un dispositif de pivotement selon un premier mode de réalisation de la présente invention (les éléments de la figure 2 également représentés dans les figures 1 et 3 conservent les mêmes numéros de référence). On voit sur la figure que les deux pierres constituant respectivement l'élément de butée axiale 15 et l'élément de guidage radial 21 sont toutes deux montées dans un chaton (représenté schématiquement) avec lequel elles forment la structure de pivotement 25.The figure 2 is a partial sectional view schematically showing a pivoting structure of a pivoting device according to a first embodiment of the present invention (the elements of the figure 2 also represented in figures 1 and 3 retain the same reference numbers). It can be seen in the figure that the two stones respectively constituting the axial abutment element 15 and the radial guide element 21 are both mounted in a kitten (shown schematically) with which they form the pivot structure 25.

La réalisation de la structure de pivotement 25 peut présenter certaines difficultés. En effet, on comprendra sans peine qu'il est important que l'axe de l'ouverture 16 et celui du passage sensiblement cylindrique de l'élément de guidage radial 21 soient parfaitement alignés. En effet, comme le diamètre du pivot est de l'ordre de 0,1 mm/, un décalage de moins d'un centième de millimètre entre les axes des deux ouvertures est suffisant pour affecter sensiblement la qualité du pivotement.The realization of the pivot structure 25 may present some difficulties. Indeed, it is easy to understand that it is important that the axis of the opening 16 and that of the substantially cylindrical passage of the radial guide member 21 are perfectly aligned. Indeed, as the diameter of the pivot is of the order of 0.1 mm /, an offset of less than one hundredth of a millimeter between the axes of the two openings is sufficient to significantly affect the quality of pivoting.

On voit sur la figure 2 que l'élément de butée axiale 15 est logé dans une cavité cylindrique 27. Le diamètre de la cavité 27 est légèrement supérieur à celui de l'élément de butée axiale. Ce dernier bénéficie donc d'un certain jeu latéral. Lorsque l'arbre de balancier est en position verticale, comme représenté sur la figure 2, la portion arrondie 13 de la pointe du pivot appuie contre le flanc incliné de l'ouverture 16 de l'élément 15. Si, pour une raison ou une autre, l'ouverture 16 ne se trouve pas tout à fait dans l'axe du balancier, l'appui de la pointe du pivot sur le bord incliné ne se fait que d'un seul côté de l'ouverture. Dans ces conditions, la poussée du pivot sur le bord de l'ouverture s'exerce de manière asymétrique, et la composante horizontale de cette poussée est suffisante pour ramener l'élément de butée axiale 15 dans l'axe de l'arbre de balancier. On comprendra donc que, la paroi inclinée de l'ouverture 16 permet l'autocentrage de l'élément de butée axiale 15.We see on the figure 2 that the axial abutment member 15 is housed in a cylindrical cavity 27. The diameter of the cavity 27 is slightly greater than that of the axial abutment element. The latter therefore enjoys some lateral play. When the balance shaft is in a vertical position, as shown in figure 2 , the rounded portion 13 of the tip of the pivot bears against the inclined side of the opening 16 of the element 15. If, for one reason or another, the opening 16 is not quite in the axis of the balance, the support of the tip of the pivot on the inclined edge is only one side of the opening. Under these conditions, the thrust of the pivot on the edge of the opening is exerted asymmetrically, and the horizontal component of this thrust is sufficient to bring the axial abutment member 15 in the axis of the balance shaft . It will thus be understood that, the inclined wall of the opening 16 allows self-centering of the axial abutment element 15.

Selon les circonstances, il peut être préférable que l'élément de butée axiale soit fixé rigidement dans la structure de pivotement. La solution qui vient d'être décrite aux problèmes d'alignement peut être adaptée à ce cas de figure. En effet, il est possible d'ajuster précisément le centrage de l'élément de butée axiale 15 au stade de l'assemblage de la structure de pivotement 25. Pour ce faire, on insère d'abord un « faux axe » dans la structure de pivotement 25 à la place prévue pour l'arbre de balancier. La poussée de ce « faux axe » permet de centrer l'élément de butée axiale 15 selon un principe identique à celui exposé au paragraphe précédent. Une fois que l'ouverture 16 de l'élément de butée axiale 15 a été amenée parfaitement dans l'axe, on procède à une étape de solidarisation de cet élément avec le reste de la structure de pivotement 25 par collage, par soudage, ou par tout autre procédé connu de l'homme du métier. Ce n'est de préférence qu'une fois le « faux axe » retiré, et l'élément de butée axiale fixé, que l'on installe la structure de pivotement 25 dans la montre.Depending on the circumstances, it may be preferable for the axial abutment element to be rigidly fixed in the pivot structure. The solution just described to the problems of alignment can be adapted to this case. Indeed, it is possible to precisely adjust the centering of the axial abutment element 15 at the assembly stage of the Pivot structure 25. To do this, a "false axis" is first inserted into the pivot structure 25 in the place provided for the balance shaft. The thrust of this "false axis" makes it possible to center the axial abutment element 15 according to a principle identical to that explained in the preceding paragraph. Once the opening 16 of the axial abutment element 15 has been brought perfectly in line, a step is taken to join this element with the rest of the pivot structure 25 by gluing, by welding, or by any other method known to those skilled in the art. It is preferably only after the "false axis" has been withdrawn, and the fixed axial abutment element, that the pivot structure 25 is installed in the watch.

La figure 4 est une vue partielle en coupe montrant schématiquement une structure de pivotement d'un dispositif de pivotement selon un deuxième mode de réalisation de la présente invention. Le demi dispositif représenté comporte un pivot 32 semblable au pivot 12 des figures 1, 2 et 3. Il présente une pointe comportant une portion cylindrique allongée 39 et se terminant par une portion arrondie 33. La pointe du pivot 32 est insérée dans une ouverture 36 d'une structure de pivotement 35. On peut voir sur la figure que le profil de l'ouverture 36 présente une première portion à paroi cylindrique 37 suivie par une portion de profil trapézoïdal 38. La pointe arrondie 33 du pivot est dimensionnée de manière à ce que sa surface arrondie puisse venir en appui contre la paroi inclinée de la portion de profil trapézoïdal 38. On peut voir également que la portion cylindrique 39 du pivot 32 s'étend à l'intérieur de la portion à paroi cylindrique 37 de l'ouverture 36. En effet, la paroi intérieure de la portion 37 est prévue pour entourer la portion cylindrique 39 du pivot 32 de manière à retenir radialement l'arbre de balancier. On comprendra donc que, dans le mode de réalisation de l'invention représenté à la figure 4, une structure de pivotement 35 monobloc remplit à la fois les fonctions d'élément de butée axiale et d'élément de guidage radial pour le pivot 32. En comparaison avec le mode de réalisation des figures 1, 2 et 3, on peut donc dire que le mode de réalisation de la figure 4 réunit les éléments 15 et 21 dans une seule et unique pièce. L'élément monobloc 35 convient pour être réalisé par exemple en un métal ou un alliage ou, encore, en matière plastique. Si l'on désire réaliser l'élément 35 en un métal ou un alliage, il est possible de procéder par photolithographie et croissance galvanique, et notamment en ayant recours à la technique LIGA.The figure 4 is a partial sectional view schematically showing a pivoting structure of a pivoting device according to a second embodiment of the present invention. The half device shown comprises a pivot 32 similar to the pivot 12 of the Figures 1, 2 and 3 . It has a tip having an elongated cylindrical portion 39 and ending with a rounded portion 33. The tip of the pivot 32 is inserted into an opening 36 of a pivot structure 35. It can be seen in the figure that the profile of the opening 36 has a first cylindrical wall portion 37 followed by a trapezoidal profile portion 38. The rounded tip 33 of the pivot is dimensioned so that its rounded surface can bear against the inclined wall of the trapezoidal profile portion 38 It can also be seen that the cylindrical portion 39 of the pivot 32 extends inside the cylindrical wall portion 37 of the opening 36. Indeed, the inner wall of the portion 37 is provided to surround the cylindrical portion 39 of the pivot 32 so as to radially retain the balance shaft. It will therefore be understood that, in the embodiment of the invention shown in figure 4 a one-piece pivot structure 35 fulfills both the axial abutment member and the radial guide member functions for pivot 32. Compared with the embodiment of Figures 1, 2 and 3 , we can say that the embodiment of the figure 4 combines elements 15 and 21 in one and only one room. The monoblock element 35 is suitable for being made by example in a metal or an alloy or, still, plastic. If it is desired to make the element 35 of a metal or an alloy, it is possible to proceed by photolithography and galvanic growth, and in particular by using the LIGA technique.

Il est important de préciser d'autre part que les ouvertures 16, 16' et 36 ne sont pas nécessairement de section circulaire. En effet, comme on va le voir dans l'exemple qui est représenté aux figures 5 et 6 et qui va maintenant être décrit, la section d'une ouverture peut également être de section polygonale (par section d'une ouverture, on entend la forme que présente le contour de cette ouverture lorsque cette dernière est vue en coupe transversalement à l'axe de l'ouverture ou, ce qui revient sensiblement au même, transversalement à l'axe de rotation du balancier).It is important to specify on the other hand that the openings 16, 16 'and 36 are not necessarily circular in section. Indeed, as we will see in the example which is represented in Figures 5 and 6 and which will now be described, the section of an opening may also be of polygonal section (by section of an opening, is meant the shape that has the contour of this opening when the latter is seen in section transversely to the axis opening or, which amounts to substantially the same, transversely to the axis of rotation of the balance).

Selon une variante avantageuse de la présente invention, les éléments de butée 15 axiale représentés sur les figures 1 à 3 peuvent être réalisés à partir d'une galette (en anglais wafer) d'un matériau monocristallin comme du silicium par exemple. En effet, le procédé connu de la gravure anisotrope en milieu liquide (ou humide) constitue une manière avantageuse de creuser des ouvertures polygonales de profil triangulaire ou trapézoïdal dans des wafers monocristallins.According to an advantageous variant of the present invention, the axial abutment elements represented on the Figures 1 to 3 can be made from a wafer of monocrystalline material such as silicon for example. Indeed, the known method of anisotropic etching in a liquid medium (or wet) is an advantageous way of digging polygonal openings of triangular or trapezoidal profile in monocrystalline wafers.

La gravure ou, plus précisément, l'attaque chimique d'un monocristal est dite anisotrope si la vitesse d'attaque est plus élevée dans certaines directions cristallographiques que dans d'autres. L'anisotropie de l'attaque chimique dépend de nombreux paramètres. Tout d'abord, elle dépend de l'interaction entre les propriétés chimiques de la substance dont est fait le monocristal et celles du réactif d'attaque utilisé. De plus, les vitesses d'attaque dans les différentes directions cristallographiques dépendent bien entendu de la symétrie de la structure cristalline. En jouant sur la concentration du réactif, la température, etc. il est donc possible de réaliser des ouvertures polygonales de profil relativement complexe dans un monocristal.Engraving or, more precisely, etching of a monocrystal is said to be anisotropic if the etch rate is higher in some crystallographic directions than in others. The anisotropy of chemical attack depends on many parameters. Firstly, it depends on the interaction between the chemical properties of the substance of which the single crystal is made and those of the attack reagent used. In addition, the etch rates in the various crystallographic directions depend, of course, on the symmetry of the crystal structure. By playing on the concentration of the reagent, the temperature, etc. it is therefore possible to make polygonal openings of relatively complex profile in a single crystal.

Un exemple connu de gravure anisotrope humide concerne le silicium. En effet, il est possible de former des ouvertures en forme de pyramides inversées dans un wafer de silicium d'orientation <100> par gravure humide. Le document de brevet US 2004/0195209 décrit un procédé parmi d'autres pouvant être mis en oeuvre pour réaliser de telles ouvertures en forme de pyramides inversées.A known example of wet anisotropic etching relates to silicon. Indeed, it is possible to form openings in the form of inverted pyramids in a silicon wafer of <100> orientation by wet etching. The patent document US 2004/0195209 describes a method among others that can be implemented to make such openings in the form of inverted pyramids.

La figure 5 représente l'élément de butée axiale 15 d'un palier pour un dispositif de pivotement réalisé à partir d'un wafer de silicium monocristallin 40 d'orientation <100>. Sur la figure 6, le wafer est représenté recouvert par un masque 43. Ce masque doit être formé sur la surface du wafer avant de procéder à la gravure, de manière à protéger le silicium du réactif d'attaque. Le masque présente une ouverture 45 formée à l'emplacement où l'ouverture 46 doit être gravée dans le silicium. Lors de la gravure, le réactif d'attaque creuse une ouverture en forme de pyramide. Selon la nature exacte du réactif utilisé, les faces inclinées de la pyramide peuvent être soit des plans <110>, soit des plans <111>. Que les faces de la pyramide soit des plans <110> ou des plans <111>, la pyramide formée est de section carrée. En effet, les directions <111> et <110> présentent toutes les deux une symétrie de rotation d'ordre 4.The figure 5 represents the axial abutment member 15 of a bearing for a pivoting device made from a monocrystalline silicon wafer 40 of <100> orientation. On the figure 6 , the wafer is shown covered by a mask 43. This mask must be formed on the surface of the wafer before proceeding with the etching, so as to protect the silicon of the etching reagent. The mask has an opening 45 formed at the location where the opening 46 is to be etched in the silicon. During etching, the etching reagent digs a pyramid-shaped opening. Depending on the exact nature of the reagent used, the inclined faces of the pyramid may be either <110> or <111> planes. Whether the faces of the pyramid are <110> planes or <111> planes, the formed pyramid is of square section. Indeed, the directions <111> and <110> both have a rotation symmetry of order 4.

Dans le présent exemple, la pyramide inversée constituant l'ouverture 46 est légèrement tronquée (figure 6). Toutefois, on comprendra que ce n'est pas nécessairement le cas. D'autre part, l'inclinaison des plans <110> est d'environ 45°, celle des plans <111> d'environ 55°. Or, comme on l'a vu plus haut, selon une caractéristique avantageuse de la présente invention, les bords de la portion trapézoïdale d'une ouverture présente une inclinaison comprise entre 40° et 60°. La gravure anisotrope humide est donc particulièrement bien adaptée à la présente invention.In this example, the inverted pyramid constituting the opening 46 is slightly truncated ( figure 6 ). However, it will be understood that this is not necessarily the case. On the other hand, the inclination of the planes <110> is about 45 °, that of the planes <111> about 55 °. However, as we have seen above, according to an advantageous characteristic of the present invention, the edges of the trapezoidal portion of an opening has an inclination of between 40 ° and 60 °. Wet anisotropic etching is therefore particularly well suited to the present invention.

On comprendra que diverses modifications et/ou améliorations évidentes pour un homme du métier peuvent être apportées à l'un ou l'autre des modes de réalisation décrits sans sortir du cadre de la présente invention définie par les revendications annexées. En particulier, la présente invention ne se limite pas à un dispositif de pivotement pour un arbre de balancier. Au contraire, le dispositif de pivotement de la présente invention pourra être utilisé pour n'importe quel axe ou arbre de la pièce d'horlogerie et, notamment, pour le pivotement de l'échappement ou de l'ancre. D'autre part, le dispositif de pivotement selon la présente invention pourra être réalisé à partir d'autres matériaux que les matériaux traditionnels ou le silicium. En effet, l'invention pourra être réalisée à partir de tout matériau que l'homme du métier jugera bon d'employer.It will be understood that various modifications and / or improvements obvious to one skilled in the art can be made to one or other of the described embodiments without departing from the scope of this invention defined by the appended claims. In particular, the present invention is not limited to a pivoting device for a balance shaft. On the contrary, the pivoting device of the present invention may be used for any axis or shaft of the timepiece and, in particular, for the pivoting of the escapement or the anchor. On the other hand, the pivoting device according to the present invention may be made from other materials than traditional materials or silicon. Indeed, the invention can be made from any material that the skilled person deems fit to use.

En particulier, il est connu de réaliser des ouvertures par gravure anisotrope humide dans des monocristaux d'arséniure de galium ou phosphure d'indium. Il est utile de préciser que ces ouvertures se distinguent de celles décrites dans l'exemple précédent en ce qu'elles peuvent avoir la forme de tétraèdres inversés (de section triangulaire) au lieu de pyramides inversées. De manière générale, conformément aux revendications annexées, la section des ouvertures peut être circulaire ou polygonale, et si la section est polygonale, le nombre de côtés du polygone peut être quelconque.In particular, it is known to make openings by wet anisotropic etching in monocrystals of galium arsenide or indium phosphide. It is useful to specify that these openings are distinguished from those described in the previous example in that they may have the form of inverted tetrahedrons (of triangular section) instead of inverted pyramids. In general, according to the appended claims, the section of the openings may be circular or polygonal, and if the section is polygonal, the number of sides of the polygon may be arbitrary.

Claims (11)

  1. Pivoting device for an arbour (11) in a timepiece, including two pivots (12, 12'; 32) each forming one end of the arbour and two bearings for receiving the two pivots, each of the two pivots including, close to the end, an approximately cylindrical portion (19, 19'; 39) and a convex rounded portion (13. 13'; 33) that continues the approximately cylindrical portion and gradually tapers in the direction of the end, each of the two bearings including a pivoting structure (25; 35) held in place elastically, the pivoting structure (25, 35) including an approximately cylindrical passage traversed by said approximately cylindrical portion (19, 19'; 39) of one of the pivots and a bearing surface against which the end of said pivot will abut, characterized in that the pivoting structure of each of the two bearings includes an aperture (16, 16'; 36; 46) of circular or polygonal section, said aperture having a portion of inverted triangular or trapezoidal profile (16, 16'; 38; 46) whose inclined, inner wall forms said bearing surface, and in that said convex rounded portion (13, 13'; 33) of one of the pivots is for abutting against said inclined inner wall so that the arbour (11) is held axially between the inclined walls of the apertures of the two bearings.
  2. Pivoting device according to claim 1, characterized in that the radius of curvature of the convex rounded portion (13, 13'; 33) is comprised between approximately 0.025 and 0.5 mm.
  3. Pivoting device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the inner edge of the trapezoidal profile portion (16, 16'; 38; 46) has an inclination relative to the axis of the arbour (11) of between approximately 40° and 60°.
  4. Pivoting device according to any of claims 1, 2 or 3, characterized in that the pivoting structure of each of the two bearings includes an axial stop element (15, 15') in which said aperture (16, 16') of circular or polygonal section is arranged, and a radial guide element (21, 21) through which the approximately cylindrical passage passes.
  5. Pivoting device according to claim 4, characterized in that the axial stop element (15, 15') is mounted in the pivoting structure (25) with some lateral play relative to the axis of the arbour (11) to enable the aperture (16, 16') to be aligned with the approximately cylindrical passage of the radial guide element (21, 21').
  6. Pivoting device according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that the two axial stop elements (15, 15') are each formed by a single silicon crystal, and in that the aperture (16, 16'; 46) in each of the axial stop elements is made by wet anisotropic etching the single crystal.
  7. Pivoting device according to any of claims 1, 2 or 3, characterized in that the approximately cylindrical passage is formed by a cylindrical walled portion (37) of said aperture (36) of circular or polygonal section, said cylindrical walled portion being located between the portion (38) of inverted triangular or trapezoidal profile and a mouth of the aperture (36).
  8. Pivoting device according to claim 7, characterized in that the pivoting structure (35) is made of plastic.
  9. Pivoting device according to claim 7, characterized in that it is made of metal or an alloy.
  10. Device according to claim 6, characterized in that the aperture (16, 16'; 46) in each axial stop element (15, 15') is an aperture of square section.
  11. Method of assembling a pivoting device for an arbour in a timepiece including the steps of:
    - assembling an axial stop element (15, 15') and the radial guide element (21, 21') in a pivoting structure (25) so as to give some lateral play to the axial stop element;
    - inserting a false arbour in the approximately cylindrical passage of the pivoting structure;
    - pressing on the axial stop element with the end of the false arbour so as to align the aperture (16, 16') with the approximately cylindrical passage;
    - securing the axial stop element (15, 15') with the rest of the pivoting structure (25).
EP08736544.1A 2007-04-26 2008-04-24 Pivoting device for an arbor inside a timepiece Active EP2142965B2 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP08736544.1A EP2142965B2 (en) 2007-04-26 2008-04-24 Pivoting device for an arbor inside a timepiece

Applications Claiming Priority (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP07106986A EP1986059A1 (en) 2007-04-26 2007-04-26 Pivoting device for an arbor inside a timepiece
EP08736544.1A EP2142965B2 (en) 2007-04-26 2008-04-24 Pivoting device for an arbor inside a timepiece
PCT/EP2008/055009 WO2008132135A2 (en) 2007-04-26 2008-04-24 Device for pivoting a shaft in a time piece

Publications (3)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP2142965A2 EP2142965A2 (en) 2010-01-13
EP2142965B1 true EP2142965B1 (en) 2010-11-10
EP2142965B2 EP2142965B2 (en) 2014-02-26

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EP07106986A Withdrawn EP1986059A1 (en) 2007-04-26 2007-04-26 Pivoting device for an arbor inside a timepiece
EP08736544.1A Active EP2142965B2 (en) 2007-04-26 2008-04-24 Pivoting device for an arbor inside a timepiece

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Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP07106986A Withdrawn EP1986059A1 (en) 2007-04-26 2007-04-26 Pivoting device for an arbor inside a timepiece

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US (1) US8317391B2 (en)
EP (2) EP1986059A1 (en)
JP (1) JP5524827B2 (en)
CN (1) CN101669075B (en)
AT (1) ATE487965T1 (en)
DE (1) DE602008003429D1 (en)
HK (1) HK1142693A1 (en)
WO (1) WO2008132135A2 (en)

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Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
CN101669075B (en) 2012-02-29
US20110164478A1 (en) 2011-07-07
DE602008003429D1 (en) 2010-12-23
CN101669075A (en) 2010-03-10
WO2008132135A3 (en) 2009-01-22
EP2142965A2 (en) 2010-01-13
HK1142693A1 (en) 2010-12-10
EP2142965B2 (en) 2014-02-26
WO2008132135A2 (en) 2008-11-06
JP5524827B2 (en) 2014-06-18
US8317391B2 (en) 2012-11-27
EP1986059A1 (en) 2008-10-29
ATE487965T1 (en) 2010-11-15
JP2010539440A (en) 2010-12-16

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