EP2531056B1 - Bracelet fastener with folding clasp - Google Patents

Bracelet fastener with folding clasp Download PDF

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Publication number
EP2531056B1
EP2531056B1 EP10798041.9A EP10798041A EP2531056B1 EP 2531056 B1 EP2531056 B1 EP 2531056B1 EP 10798041 A EP10798041 A EP 10798041A EP 2531056 B1 EP2531056 B1 EP 2531056B1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
slide
latch
cap
actuator
housing
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.)
Active
Application number
EP10798041.9A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
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EP2531056A1 (en
Inventor
Bernard Schenk
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.)
ARCOFIL SA
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ARCOFIL SA
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Publication date
Application filed by ARCOFIL SA filed Critical ARCOFIL SA
Publication of EP2531056A1 publication Critical patent/EP2531056A1/en
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Publication of EP2531056B1 publication Critical patent/EP2531056B1/en
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Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A44—HABERDASHERY; JEWELLERY
    • A44C—PERSONAL ADORNMENTS, e.g. JEWELLERY; COINS
    • A44C5/00—Bracelets; Wrist-watch straps; Fastenings for bracelets or wrist-watch straps
    • A44C5/18—Fasteners for straps, chains or the like
    • A44C5/22—Fasteners for straps, chains or the like for closed straps
    • A44C5/24—Fasteners for straps, chains or the like for closed straps with folding devices
    • A44C5/246—Fasteners for straps, chains or the like for closed straps with folding devices having size adjusting means
    • 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
    • Y10T24/00—Buckles, buttons, clasps, etc.
    • Y10T24/21—Strap tighteners
    • Y10T24/2143—Strap-attached folding lever
    • 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
    • Y10T24/00—Buckles, buttons, clasps, etc.
    • Y10T24/21—Strap tighteners
    • Y10T24/2143—Strap-attached folding lever
    • Y10T24/2155—Jewelry-watch straps

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to the field of bracelets, especially for watches. More particularly, it relates to a clasp with a folding clasp whose length can be modified by the user.
  • the clasps with folding clasp are well known, especially for their aesthetic appearance. However, they have the disadvantage of not being able to be easily adjusted to adapt the length of the wrist strap of the wearer.
  • the patent US 2,097,055 discloses a clasp having three articulated segments, linked to a central blade. One of the segments is able to slide in the central blade to take place in a series of grooves determining the length of the bracelet.
  • Each of its clasps have a clasp locking member and a separate length adjustment member of the bracelet.
  • the document US 2065581 proposes an interesting system, wherein the articulated segments forming the clasp are likely to take place in a housing formed by the clasp cap.
  • a second sliding element can also slide in the housing, on the opposite side to the first element.
  • the first sliding element consists of three deployable blades, which can take place in the housing when folded.
  • grooves are formed in the sliding element and are capable of cooperating with grooves formed in the cap or in the second sliding element.
  • a lever is pivotally mounted in the cap, and allows to actuate a cam acting on an elastic blade. The pressure that the latter exerts when it is deformed under the action of the cam, makes it possible to engage the grooves in each other to secure the position of the sliding elements.
  • the lever therefore only serves as a bracelet locking member and, since the clasp is unlocked, the bracelet will tend to open completely under the effect of the weight of the watch. Thus, in case of inadvertent unlocking, there is a risk that the clasp opens and the watch falls.
  • the ergonomics of such a system is not optimal because, for closing the clasp, it is necessary to maintain the sliding elements in the desired position and to simultaneously operate the lever, these operations must naturally be done with one hand.
  • the sliding elements are no longer indexed, the grooves are not engaged in each other and no longer facing each other. Seen, in addition, the large number of notches proposed, it is not automatic, when closing the clasp, to return to the previous setting position.
  • One of the aims of the present invention is to provide an improved version of a bracelet clasp facilitating the lengthening of the bracelet.
  • One of the objectives pursued by the device according to the invention is in particular to allow a fine adjustment of the length of the bracelet, in order to bring comfort to the user when, depending on the hours of the day, the temperature or his activity, his wrist swells or contracts, causing compression or play in his wristwatch.
  • a further object of the invention is to allow the wearer of the watch to easily adjust the length of the bracelet while the clasp remains locked.
  • a clasp folding clasp strap comprising a cap defining a housing and having a slide in which is engaged a slide.
  • the slider is intended to be connected to the strand of a bracelet by first hinge means.
  • This slide comprises at least first and second segments connected to each other by second articulation means, said segments being folded at least partially in the housing when the loop of the clasp is not deployed.
  • the slide is held folded in the housing by the cap in all positions, except in the second extreme position, in which the segments of the slide can be deployed and bring the ends of the clasp to a maximum distance.
  • the indexing means comprise an actuator, a holding device for blocking the different indexed positions.
  • the actuator is arranged to transmit a force allowing both to release the holding device so as to unlock the indexed position, and move the slider with reference to the slide.
  • the clasp according to the invention is of the type comprising a cap 10, visually separating the two strands 12, 14 of a bracelet, when the clasp is in the closed position.
  • the two strands 12, 14 are each disposed at one end of the clasp 14a, 14b, as is best seen on the figure 2 .
  • the cap 10 defines a housing inside which some of the elements of the loop, which will be described later, fold, when the clasp is in the closed position.
  • the section of the cap is rectangular.
  • the figure 2 presents a view in which the buckle of the bracelet is deployed.
  • the ends of the clasp 14a, 14b are at a maximum distance.
  • the whole formed by the bracelet and the buckle is therefore at its maximum length, so that it is easy for the wearer of the watch, to spend it on the wrist or to remove it.
  • the figure 2 provides details of the clasp elements folded into the housing on the figure 1 .
  • the first end 14a of the clasp 1 is connected to a first segment 16 of the clasp by first hinge means 18.
  • These hinge means are generally formed by a bar cooperating with openings made to the end of the bracelet and the clasp, to form a hinge.
  • the first segment 16 is itself linked to a second segment 17 by second articulation means 20, which are generally of the same type as the first ones.
  • first and second articulation means 18, 20 allow this articulated structure to bend Z, so as to occupy the housing of the clasp 1 as indicated on the figure 1 .
  • the articulated structure described above is movable in translation inside the housing of the clasp 1 when the segments are folded. It thus forms a slide mounted movably in the cap 10 arranged itself to form a slide.
  • the slide is kept folded in the housing by the cap in all positions, except in the second extreme position.
  • an advantageous technical effect of the clasp according to the invention is to combine the adjustment of the length of the bracelet and the locking / unlocking of the buckle. Indeed, since the cap prevents the slider from deploying, except in the second extreme position, the locking of the clasp and the adjustment of the length are made from the first extreme position to the position before the second extreme position . The unlocking and the deployment of the bracelet are only obtained in this second extreme position.
  • the slide moves between its two extreme positions, occupying a succession of indexed, fixed positions defined by indexing means of the slide in the cap. .
  • the figure 3 shows a partially exploded view of the indexing means according to the example. They comprise on the one hand an actuator 30 and a holding device for blocking the different indexed positions.
  • This holding device may comprise a notch 32 arranged integrally on the second segment 17 of the slide and an indexing finger 81.
  • This notching may take the form of a toothing formed on a wall of the actuator 30. The notching is regular preference and defines the succession of fixed positions of the slider, as well as the two extreme positions.
  • the indexing finger 81 is arranged in the cap 10 and visible on the figures 6 and 7 .
  • the indexing finger 81 is shaped so as to cooperate with the notching, to occupy a stable position cooperating with each of the notches and thus maintain the different indexed positions.
  • the actuator 30 is movably mounted through a slot 34 formed on a lateral face of the cap 10.
  • the length of the slot is adapted to the stroke of the slide defined by the two extreme positions.
  • the headdress and the slot 34 allow to obtain an elegant dressing of the device while giving it a certain discretion combined with easy handling.
  • the actuator 30 is integral with the notch 32.
  • the two elements are elastically connected to the slide.
  • the indexing finger 81 cooperates with the notch 32 so as to block the slide in the slide when the actuator 30 is at rest.
  • the wearer of the watch actuates the actuator, it causes the notch 32 to disengage the indexing finger so that the slide can be moved freely in the slide, by ad-hoc traction exerted on the clasp or the bracelet.
  • the skilled person could consider a reverse construction, having the actuator and the indexing finger elastically connected to the slide.
  • the notching is secured to the cap so that the indexing finger cooperates with the notching so as to block the slide in the slide when the actuator is at rest.
  • the actuator 16 is shown in the form of a pusher.
  • the skilled person may also use other types of actuator, including a lever or a more advanced pusher, with a specific return member.
  • a lever could be rotatably mounted on the cap 10. The rotation of the lever allows the passage of the indexing finger between a position in which it cooperates with the detent and a position in which it leaves it free.
  • the return to the "holding" position, that is to say in which the notching and the finger cooperate, is through the elastic connection between the actuator and the slide.
  • the actuator 16 makes it possible, at the same time, to release the holding device so as to unlock the indexed position, and to move the slide with reference to the slide. Indeed, it is by actuating the actuator, that is to say by means of a voluntary action, that the user moves the slide. Since the holding device must be kept in the "free" position so that the index finger is free with reference to the notch and unlock the indexed position, the user exerts a continuous action on the actuator, preventing the slide to move otherwise than by the action of the user. As soon as the user stops acting on the actuator, the holding device would almost instantaneously block the slide in one of the immediately adjacent indexed positions.
  • the figure 3 also has means for securing the handling so as to avoid inadvertent opening of the loop in the event of an impact, for example on the actuator.
  • the figure 3 has second indexing means comprising a second actuator 36 and a second holding device.
  • the latter comprises a second notch 38 arranged on the second segment 17 of the slider and a second indexing finger (not visible in the figure) disposed on the cap.
  • the latter is further provided with a second slot (not visible in the figure) made on one face of the cap 10 opposite the first slot.
  • the two actuators are of the push type. This arrangement allows the wearer of the watch to seize two-finger actuators, that is to say, in the example, between the thumb and the index, so as to act simultaneously on each actuator and to voluntarily slide the slide in its housing safely.
  • the figure 4 presents a preferred embodiment of the clasp. It is a clasp 40 with a so-called “butterfly” structure having a structural symmetry at the level of the clasp segments and doubling the stroke of the bracelet's adjustment while giving it a remarkable aesthetic effect.
  • clasp 40 with a folding clasp includes a cap 42 defining first and second housings and having a first and a second clasp. second slides in which are respectively engaged first and second slides 44, 46.
  • the second housing may also be in the extension of the first housing, thus forming a single housing.
  • the slides are intended to bind the cap 42 to the first and second strands 48, 50 of the bracelet by first hinge means 49, 51.
  • the slides each comprise a first 52, 54 and a second 56, 58 segments connected to each other by second articulation means 60, 62.
  • the segments 52, 54, 56, 58 are folded in their respective housing when the loop of the clasp is folded.
  • the clasp further comprises means for indexing each slider 44, 46 in the cap 42, such as those described above.
  • each slide 44, 46 is capable of occupying a succession of discrete fixed positions, with reference to the cap, between a first and a second extreme position.
  • each slider 51a, 51b is essentially located in each housing of the cap 52 so that the ends 54a, 54b of the clasp are at a minimum distance.
  • the figure 5b shows the locked clasp 50 in which each slide 51a, 51b is partially extracted from its slide 56a, 56b so that the ends 54a, 54b of the clasp are at a distance between the minimum and maximum distances.
  • the figure 5c has the clasp 50 unlocked.
  • Each slider 51a, 51b is in its second end position and is located essentially out of the housing so that each first segment and each of the hinge means 58a, 58b of the slider can be deployed. This is so in the figure 5d where the ends of the clasp 54a, 54b are at a maximum distance while the buckle of the bracelet is deployed.
  • the sliders are thus kept folded in the housing by the cap in all positions, except in their respective second extreme position.
  • the sliders are kinematically linked. They slide simultaneously, the same increment of distance, in opposite directions.
  • the skilled person can refer to the figure 6 to obtain a non-limiting example of such a mode of realization.
  • Each slide 72, 74 is provided with a rack 76, 78 disposed on the second segment.
  • the racks 76, 78 are arranged to mesh with a pinion 80 rotatably mounted in the cap 80 of the clasp.
  • the figure 7 shows a top view of a cutting plane of the clasp in which the arrangement of the racks with the pinion is explained.
  • the figures 6 and 7 also allow to illustrate the advantage to kinematically link the sliders 72, 74. Indeed, it is sufficient to provide a single slider indexing means, which will ensure this function for the two sliders, in order to adjust in length the two Strands of the bracelet simultaneously and lock / unlock the clasp. In the case where two separate indexing means are implemented, in order to improve the security of the device, these second distinct indexing means can be on the same slide (as illustrated) or on the second one.
  • a crown or a wheel may advantageously be arranged on the cap 82 so as to drive the pinion and to continuously adjust the length of the bracelet, to be compared with the adjustment according to discrete positions of the bracelet defined by the notching of the clasp .
  • the holding device is replaced by sufficient friction exerted at the actuator or other locking means of the crown or wheel accessible to those skilled in the art, to allow sufficient locking of the clasp.
  • the user must constrain this spring to engage the connection and cause the rotation of the pinion 80.
  • the stress can be exerted in tension or pressure.
  • the bottom of the cap 82 may further comprise a groove 84 arranged to guide the slides.
  • the second segment may be provided with a lug cooperating with the groove, these elements forming additional guiding means. This also makes it possible to keep the rack engaged with the pinion over the entire stroke of the slide.
  • the cap 82 can still be provided with an intermediate plate 11, visible on the Figures 2 and 3 , allowing the housing to be divided into two parts: a first lower part in which the second segment 77, 78 of each slider slides, and a second upper part in which the first segment of each slider slides.
  • the intermediate plate makes it possible, in particular, to maintain the lug of each second segment 77, 78 engaged in each groove 84 of the cap 82.
  • a clasp allowing, by a simple action on one or the other of the actuator, to easily change the length of the bracelet for a comfortable setting without the need to remove the watch or deploy the bracelet and lock / unlock the clasp to move the wristwatch or remove it.
  • Actuators allow simultaneously the once to release the holding device so as to unlock the indexed position, and move the slide with reference to the slide. The user must therefore perform a voluntary action on the actuator (s) to keep the holding device in a "free" position allowing the movement of the slide and, simultaneously, to perform a second voluntary action on the actuator (s) ) to move the slide.
  • Security is optimal. Note also that all combinations are possible for a butterfly type clasp, for which only a portion of the clasp would be slidably mounted with reference to the cap.

Description

Domaine techniqueTechnical area

La présente invention se rapporte au domaine des bracelets, notamment pour montres. Elle concerne, plus particulièrement, un fermoir de bracelet à boucle déployante dont la longueur peut être modifiée par l'utilisateur.The present invention relates to the field of bracelets, especially for watches. More particularly, it relates to a clasp with a folding clasp whose length can be modified by the user.

Etat de la techniqueState of the art

Les fermoirs à boucle déployante sont bien connus, notamment, pour leur aspect esthétique. Ils présentent toutefois l'inconvénient de ne pas pouvoir être réglés facilement pour adapter la longueur du bracelet au poignet du porteur.The clasps with folding clasp are well known, especially for their aesthetic appearance. However, they have the disadvantage of not being able to be easily adjusted to adapt the length of the wrist strap of the wearer.

De nombreuses solutions ont été proposées pour permettre à l'utilisateur de régler lui-même son fermoir, notamment sans l'aide d'outil.Many solutions have been proposed to allow the user to adjust his own clasp, especially without the help of tools.

Par exemple, le brevet US 2 097 055 décrit un fermoir comportant trois segments articulés, liés à une lame centrale. L'un des segments est capable de coulisser dans la lame centrale pour prendre place dans une série de rainures déterminant la longueur du bracelet.For example, the patent US 2,097,055 discloses a clasp having three articulated segments, linked to a central blade. One of the segments is able to slide in the central blade to take place in a series of grooves determining the length of the bracelet.

Un autre exemple est décrit dans la demande de brevet EP 1 378 185A1 . L'extrémité de l'un des brins du bracelet est attachée à un organe capable de coulisser dans une fente pratiquée dans le fermoir afin de permettre l'ajustement de la longueur du bracelet. Le coulissement de cet organe est autorisé par deux poussoirs dotés de crochets qui viennent mordre dans l'organe mobile.Another example is described in the patent application EP 1 378 185A1 . The end of one of the strands of the bracelet is attached to a member capable of sliding in a slot in the clasp to allow adjustment of the length of the bracelet. The sliding of this body is authorized by two pushers with hooks that bite into the movable member.

Chacun de ses fermoirs présentent un organe de verrouillage du fermoir et un organe distinct d'ajustement en longueur du bracelet.Each of its clasps have a clasp locking member and a separate length adjustment member of the bracelet.

Le document US 2065581 propose un système intéressant, dans lequel les segments articulés formant le fermoir sont susceptibles de prendre place dans un logement formé par la coiffe du fermoir. Dans l'un des modes de réalisation décrits, un deuxième élément coulissant peut également coulisser dans le logement, du côté opposé au premier élément.The document US 2065581 proposes an interesting system, wherein the articulated segments forming the clasp are likely to take place in a housing formed by the clasp cap. In one of the embodiments described, a second sliding element can also slide in the housing, on the opposite side to the first element.

Le premier élément coulissant consiste en trois lames déployables, pouvant prendre place dans le logement lorsqu'elles sont repliées. Pour indexer la position de l'élément coulissant, des rainures sont ménagées dans l'élément coulissant et sont susceptibles de coopérer avec des rainures ménagées dans la coiffe ou dans le deuxième élément coulissant. Pour verrouiller la position du ou des élément(s) coulissant(s), un levier est monté pivotant dans la coiffe, et permet d'actionner une came agissant sur une lame élastique. La pression que cette dernière exerce lorsqu'elle est déformée sous l'action de la came, permet d'engager les rainures les unes dans les autres pour sécuriser la position des éléments coulissants.The first sliding element consists of three deployable blades, which can take place in the housing when folded. To index the position of the sliding element, grooves are formed in the sliding element and are capable of cooperating with grooves formed in the cap or in the second sliding element. To lock the position of the sliding member (s), a lever is pivotally mounted in the cap, and allows to actuate a cam acting on an elastic blade. The pressure that the latter exerts when it is deformed under the action of the cam, makes it possible to engage the grooves in each other to secure the position of the sliding elements.

Le levier ne sert donc que d'organe de verrouillage de bracelet et, dès lors que le fermoir est déverrouillé, le bracelet aura tendance à s'ouvrir totalement sous l'effet du poids de la montre. Ainsi, en cas de déverrouillage intempestif, il y a un risque que le fermoir s'ouvre et que la montre tombe. En outre, on peut encore noter que l'ergonomie d'un tel système n'est pas optimale car, pour la fermeture du fermoir, il est nécessaire de maintenir les éléments coulissants dans la position souhaitée et d'actionner simultanément le levier, ces opérations devant naturellement se faire d'une seule main. Enfin, lorsqu'il est en position ouverte, les éléments coulissants ne sont plus indexés, les rainures n'étant pas engagées les unes dans les autres et n'étant plus les unes en regard des autres. Vu, en plus, le grand nombre de crans proposés, il n'est pas automatique, lorsque l'on referme le fermoir, de retrouver la position de réglage précédente.The lever therefore only serves as a bracelet locking member and, since the clasp is unlocked, the bracelet will tend to open completely under the effect of the weight of the watch. Thus, in case of inadvertent unlocking, there is a risk that the clasp opens and the watch falls. In addition, it can still be noted that the ergonomics of such a system is not optimal because, for closing the clasp, it is necessary to maintain the sliding elements in the desired position and to simultaneously operate the lever, these operations must naturally be done with one hand. Finally, when it is in the open position, the sliding elements are no longer indexed, the grooves are not engaged in each other and no longer facing each other. Seen, in addition, the large number of notches proposed, it is not automatic, when closing the clasp, to return to the previous setting position.

L'un des buts de la présente invention est de fournir une version améliorée d'un fermoir de bracelet facilitant la mise à longueur du bracelet. L'un des objectifs poursuivis par le dispositif selon l'invention, est notamment de permettre un ajustement fin de la longueur du bracelet, afin d'apporter du confort à l'utilisateur lorsque, en fonction des heures de la journée, de la température ou de son activité, son poignet gonfle ou se contracte, entraînant une compression ou un jeu au niveau de sa montre-bracelet.One of the aims of the present invention is to provide an improved version of a bracelet clasp facilitating the lengthening of the bracelet. One of the objectives pursued by the device according to the invention is in particular to allow a fine adjustment of the length of the bracelet, in order to bring comfort to the user when, depending on the hours of the day, the temperature or his activity, his wrist swells or contracts, causing compression or play in his wristwatch.

Un objectif supplémentaire de l'invention est de permettre au porteur de la montre d'ajuster aisément la longueur du bracelet alors que le fermoir reste verrouillé.A further object of the invention is to allow the wearer of the watch to easily adjust the length of the bracelet while the clasp remains locked.

Divulgation de l'inventionDisclosure of the invention

A cet effet, et conformément à la présente invention, il est proposé un fermoir de bracelet boucle déployante comportant une coiffe définissant un logement et présentant une coulisse dans laquelle est engagé un coulisseau. Le coulisseau est destiné à être relié au brin d'un bracelet par des premiers moyens d'articulation. Ce coulisseau comprend au moins, un premier et un deuxième segments liés l'un à l'autre par des seconds moyens d'articulation, lesdits segments étant repliés au moins partiellement dans le logement lorsque la boucle du fermoir n'est pas déployée.For this purpose, and in accordance with the present invention, there is provided a clasp folding clasp strap comprising a cap defining a housing and having a slide in which is engaged a slide. The slider is intended to be connected to the strand of a bracelet by first hinge means. This slide comprises at least first and second segments connected to each other by second articulation means, said segments being folded at least partially in the housing when the loop of the clasp is not deployed.

Le fermoir comprend, en outre, des moyens d'indexation du coulisseau dans la coiffe de sorte que le coulisseau, en référence à la coiffe, est susceptible d'occuper une succession discrète de positions indexées comprises entre :

  • une première position extrême où le coulisseau est situé dans le logement de sorte que les extrémités (14a, 14b) du fermoir sont à une distance minimale, et
  • une seconde position extrême où le coulisseau est essentiellement situé hors du logement.
The clasp further comprises indexing means of the slider in the cap so that the slider, with reference to the cap, is capable of occupying a discrete succession of indexed positions between:
  • a first extreme position where the slider is located in the housing so that the ends (14a, 14b) of the clasp are at a minimum distance, and
  • a second extreme position where the slide is essentially located outside the housing.

Le coulisseau est maintenu replié dans le logement par la coiffe dans toutes les positions, sauf dans la deuxième position extrême, dans laquelle les segments du coulisseau peuvent se déployer et amener les extrémités du fermoir à une distance maximale.The slide is held folded in the housing by the cap in all positions, except in the second extreme position, in which the segments of the slide can be deployed and bring the ends of the clasp to a maximum distance.

De manière avantageuse, les moyens d'indexation comprennent un actuateur, un dispositif de maintien pour bloquer les différentes positions indexées.Advantageously, the indexing means comprise an actuator, a holding device for blocking the different indexed positions.

Selon l'invention, l'actuateur est agencé pour transmettre une force permettant à la fois de libérer le dispositif de maintien de manière à débloquer la position indexée, et de déplacer le coulisseau en référence à la coulisse.According to the invention, the actuator is arranged to transmit a force allowing both to release the holding device so as to unlock the indexed position, and move the slider with reference to the slide.

Brève description des dessinsBrief description of the drawings

D'autres caractéristiques de la présente invention apparaîtront plus clairement à la lecture de la description qui va suivre, faite en référence aux dessins annexés, dans lesquels:

  • la figure 1 est une vue générale du fermoir en position reployée,
  • la figure 2 est une vue générale du fermoir en position déployée selon un premier mode de réalisation,
  • la figure 3 est une vue éclatée du fermoir selon le premier mode de réalisation,
  • la figure 4 est une vue générale du fermoir en position déployée selon un deuxième mode de réalisation,
  • les figures 5a, 5b, 5c et 5d représentent des plans de coupe longitudinaux selon le deuxième mode de réalisation,
  • la figure 6 est une vue éclatée du fermoir selon le deuxième mode de réalisation, et
  • la figure 7 est une vue de haut du deuxième mode de réalisation.
Other features of the present invention will emerge more clearly on reading the description which follows, made with reference to the appended drawings, in which:
  • the figure 1 is a general view of the clasp in the folded position,
  • the figure 2 is a general view of the clasp in the deployed position according to a first embodiment,
  • the figure 3 is an exploded view of the clasp according to the first embodiment,
  • the figure 4 is a general view of the clasp in deployed position according to a second embodiment,
  • the Figures 5a, 5b, 5c and 5d represent longitudinal sectional planes according to the second embodiment,
  • the figure 6 is an exploded view of the clasp according to the second embodiment, and
  • the figure 7 is a top view of the second embodiment.

Mode(s) de réalisation de l'inventionMode (s) of realization of the invention

Ainsi qu'illustré sur la figure 1, le fermoir selon l'invention est du type comportant une coiffe 10, séparant visuellement les deux brins 12, 14 d'un bracelet, lorsque le fermoir est en position fermée. Les deux brins 12, 14 sont disposés chacun à l'une des extrémités du fermoir 14a, 14b, comme on le voit mieux sur la figure 2. Dans un fermoir de ce type, la coiffe 10 définit un logement à l'intérieur duquel certains des éléments de la boucle, qui seront décrits ultérieurement, se replient, lorsque le fermoir est en position fermée. Typiquement, la section de la coiffe est rectangulaire.As illustrated on the figure 1 , the clasp according to the invention is of the type comprising a cap 10, visually separating the two strands 12, 14 of a bracelet, when the clasp is in the closed position. The two strands 12, 14 are each disposed at one end of the clasp 14a, 14b, as is best seen on the figure 2 . In a clasp of this type, the cap 10 defines a housing inside which some of the elements of the loop, which will be described later, fold, when the clasp is in the closed position. Typically, the section of the cap is rectangular.

La figure 2 présente une vue dans laquelle la boucle du bracelet est déployée. Ainsi, les extrémités du fermoir 14a, 14b sont à une distance maximale. L'ensemble formé par le bracelet et la boucle est donc à sa longueur maximale, de sorte qu'il est aisé, pour le porteur de la montre, de la passer au poignet ou de l'ôter.The figure 2 presents a view in which the buckle of the bracelet is deployed. Thus, the ends of the clasp 14a, 14b are at a maximum distance. The whole formed by the bracelet and the buckle is therefore at its maximum length, so that it is easy for the wearer of the watch, to spend it on the wrist or to remove it.

La figure 2 fournit le détail des éléments du fermoir repliés dans le logement sur la figure 1. Comme on peut le voir, la première extrémité 14a du fermoir 1 est liée à un premier segment 16 du fermoir par des premiers moyens d'articulation 18. Ces moyens d'articulation sont généralement réalisés par une barrette coopérant avec des ouvertures ménagées à l'extrémité du bracelet et du fermoir, pour former une charnière.The figure 2 provides details of the clasp elements folded into the housing on the figure 1 . As can be seen, the first end 14a of the clasp 1 is connected to a first segment 16 of the clasp by first hinge means 18. These hinge means are generally formed by a bar cooperating with openings made to the end of the bracelet and the clasp, to form a hinge.

Le premier segment 16 est lui-même lié à un second segment 17 par des seconds moyens d'articulation 20, qui sont généralement du même type que les premiers.The first segment 16 is itself linked to a second segment 17 by second articulation means 20, which are generally of the same type as the first ones.

Ces premiers et seconds moyens d'articulation 18, 20 permettent à cette structure articulée de se plier en Z, de manière à occuper le logement du fermoir 1 comme indiqué sur la figure 1.These first and second articulation means 18, 20 allow this articulated structure to bend Z, so as to occupy the housing of the clasp 1 as indicated on the figure 1 .

Particulièrement à l'invention, la structure articulée précédemment décrite est mobile en translation à l'intérieur du logement du fermoir 1 lorsque les segments sont pliés. Elle forme ainsi un coulisseau monté mobile dans la coiffe 10 agencée elle-même pour former une coulisse.Particularly to the invention, the articulated structure described above is movable in translation inside the housing of the clasp 1 when the segments are folded. It thus forms a slide mounted movably in the cap 10 arranged itself to form a slide.

Selon un aspect important de l'invention, le coulisseau est susceptible d'évoluer entre une première et une deuxième positions extrêmes en référence à la coiffe :

  • une première position extrême, illustrée par la figure 1, où le coulisseau est situé dans le logement de sorte que les extrémités 14a, 14b du fermoir sont à une distance minimale, et
  • une seconde position extrême, illustrée par la figure 2, où le coulisseau est essentiellement situé hors du logement, de sorte que les segments du coulisseau peuvent se déployer et amener les extrémités 14a, 14b du fermoir à une distance maximale.
According to an important aspect of the invention, the slider is capable of changing between a first and a second extreme position with reference to the cap:
  • a first extreme position, illustrated by the figure 1 where the slider is located in the housing so that the ends 14a, 14b of the clasp are at a minimum distance, and
  • a second extreme position, illustrated by the figure 2 , where the slider is essentially located outside the housing, so that the segments of the slider can be deployed and bring the ends 14a, 14b of the clasp to a maximum distance.

De manière avantageuse et comme on le comprendra mieux par la suite, notamment en référence à la figure 5, le coulisseau est maintenu replié dans le logement par la coiffe dans toutes les positions, sauf dans la deuxième position extrême.Advantageously and as will be better understood later, especially with reference to the figure 5 , the slide is kept folded in the housing by the cap in all positions, except in the second extreme position.

Ainsi, un effet technique avantageux du fermoir selon l'invention est de combiner l'ajustement de la longueur du bracelet et le verrrouillage/déverrouillage de la boucle. En effet, étant donné que la coiffe empêche le coulisseau de se déployer, sauf dans la deuxième position extrême, le verrouillage du fermoir et l'ajustement de la longueur sont réalisés de la première position extrême jusqu'à la position précédant la seconde position extrême. Le déverrouillage et le déploiement du bracelet sont seulement obtenus dans cette seconde position extrême.Thus, an advantageous technical effect of the clasp according to the invention is to combine the adjustment of the length of the bracelet and the locking / unlocking of the buckle. Indeed, since the cap prevents the slider from deploying, except in the second extreme position, the locking of the clasp and the adjustment of the length are made from the first extreme position to the position before the second extreme position . The unlocking and the deployment of the bracelet are only obtained in this second extreme position.

Pour, à la fois, maintenir la longueur du fermoir et garantir le verrouillage du fermoir, le coulisseau évolue entre ses deux positions extrêmes, en occupant une succession de positions indexées, fixes, définies par des moyens d'indexation du coulisseau dans la coiffe 10.In order both to maintain the length of the clasp and to guarantee the locking of the clasp, the slide moves between its two extreme positions, occupying a succession of indexed, fixed positions defined by indexing means of the slide in the cap. .

La figure 3 présente une vue partiellement éclatée des moyens d'indexation selon l'exemple. Ils comprennent d'une part un actuateur 30 et un dispositif de maintien permettant de bloquer les différentes positions indexées. Ce dispositif de maintien peut comprendre un crantage 32 disposés solidairement sur le deuxième segment 17 du coulisseau et un doigt d'indexation 81. Ce crantage peut prendre la forme d'une denture ménagée sur une paroi de l'actuateur 30. Le crantage est de préférence régulier et définit la succession des positions fixes du coulisseau, ainsi que les deux positions extrêmes. Le doigt d'indexation 81 est agencé dans la coiffe 10 et visible sur les figures 6 et 7. Le doigt d'indexation 81 est conformé de manière à coopérer avec le crantage, pour occuper une position stable en coopérant avec chacun des crans et ainsi maintenir les différentes positions indexées.The figure 3 shows a partially exploded view of the indexing means according to the example. They comprise on the one hand an actuator 30 and a holding device for blocking the different indexed positions. This holding device may comprise a notch 32 arranged integrally on the second segment 17 of the slide and an indexing finger 81. This notching may take the form of a toothing formed on a wall of the actuator 30. The notching is regular preference and defines the succession of fixed positions of the slider, as well as the two extreme positions. The indexing finger 81 is arranged in the cap 10 and visible on the figures 6 and 7 . The indexing finger 81 is shaped so as to cooperate with the notching, to occupy a stable position cooperating with each of the notches and thus maintain the different indexed positions.

L'actuateur 30 est monté mobile au travers d'une fente 34 pratiquée sur une face latérale de la coiffe 10. La longueur de la fente est adaptée à la course du coulisseau définie par les deux positions extrêmes. La coiffe et la fente 34 permettent d'obtenir un habillage élégant du dispositif tout en lui conférant une certaine discrétion alliée à une manipulation aisée.The actuator 30 is movably mounted through a slot 34 formed on a lateral face of the cap 10. The length of the slot is adapted to the stroke of the slide defined by the two extreme positions. The headdress and the slot 34 allow to obtain an elegant dressing of the device while giving it a certain discretion combined with easy handling.

Dans le mode de réalisation illustré au dessin, l'actuateur 30 est solidaire du crantage 32. Les deux éléments sont liés élastiquement au coulisseau. Le doigt d'indexation 81 coopère avec le crantage 32 de manière à bloquer le coulisseau dans la coulisse lorsque l'actuateur 30 est au repos. A l'inverse, lorsque le porteur de la montre actionne l'actuateur, celui-ci amène le crantage 32 à se désengager du doigt d'indexation de sorte que le coulisseau peut être déplacé librement dans la coulisse, par une traction ad-hoc exercée sur le fermoir ou le bracelet.In the embodiment illustrated in the drawing, the actuator 30 is integral with the notch 32. The two elements are elastically connected to the slide. The indexing finger 81 cooperates with the notch 32 so as to block the slide in the slide when the actuator 30 is at rest. Conversely, when the wearer of the watch actuates the actuator, it causes the notch 32 to disengage the indexing finger so that the slide can be moved freely in the slide, by ad-hoc traction exerted on the clasp or the bracelet.

En variante, l'homme du métier pourrait envisager une construction inverse, en ayant l'actuateur et le doigt d'indexation liés élastiquement au coulisseau. Le crantage serait solidaire de la coiffe de sorte que le doigt d'indexation coopère avec le crantage de manière à bloquer le coulisseau dans la coulisse lorsque l'actuateur est au repos.Alternatively, the skilled person could consider a reverse construction, having the actuator and the indexing finger elastically connected to the slide. The notching is secured to the cap so that the indexing finger cooperates with the notching so as to block the slide in the slide when the actuator is at rest.

On a représenté l'actuateur 16 en la forme d'un poussoir. L'homme du métier pourra également utiliser d'autres types d'actuateur, notamment un levier ou un poussoir plus évolué, avec un organe de rappel propre. Notamment, un levier pourrait être monté à rotation sur la coiffe 10. La rotation du levier permet le passage du doigt d'indexation entre une position dans laquelle il coopère avec le crantage et une position dans laquelle il le laisse libre. Le retour à la position "maintien", c'est-à-dire dans laquelle le crantage et le doigt coopèrent, se fait par le biais de la liaison élastique entre l'actuateur et le coulisseau.The actuator 16 is shown in the form of a pusher. The skilled person may also use other types of actuator, including a lever or a more advanced pusher, with a specific return member. In particular, a lever could be rotatably mounted on the cap 10. The rotation of the lever allows the passage of the indexing finger between a position in which it cooperates with the detent and a position in which it leaves it free. The return to the "holding" position, that is to say in which the notching and the finger cooperate, is through the elastic connection between the actuator and the slide.

Ainsi, on peut noter que, de manière avantageuse, l'actuateur 16 permet, à la fois, de libérer le dispositif de maintien de manière à débloquer la position indexée, et de déplacer le coulisseau en référence à la coulisse. En effet, c'est bien en actionnant l'actuateur, c'est-à-dire par le biais d'une action volontaire, que l'utilisateur déplace le coulisseau. Etant donné que le dispositif de maintien doit être conservé en position "libre" pour que le doigt d'indexation soit libre en référence au crantage et débloquer la position indexée, l'utilisateur exerce une action continue sur l'actuateur, empêchant le coulisseau de se déplacer autrement que par l'action de l'utilisateur. Dès lors que l'utilisateur cesserait son action sur l'actuateur, le dispositif de maintien bloquerait quasi instantanément le coulisseau dans l'une des positions indexées immédiatement voisines.Thus, it can be noted that, advantageously, the actuator 16 makes it possible, at the same time, to release the holding device so as to unlock the indexed position, and to move the slide with reference to the slide. Indeed, it is by actuating the actuator, that is to say by means of a voluntary action, that the user moves the slide. Since the holding device must be kept in the "free" position so that the index finger is free with reference to the notch and unlock the indexed position, the user exerts a continuous action on the actuator, preventing the slide to move otherwise than by the action of the user. As soon as the user stops acting on the actuator, the holding device would almost instantaneously block the slide in one of the immediately adjacent indexed positions.

La figure 3 présente également des moyens de sécurisation de la manipulation de manière à éviter l'ouverture intempestive de la boucle en cas de choc, par exemple, sur l'actuateur.The figure 3 also has means for securing the handling so as to avoid inadvertent opening of the loop in the event of an impact, for example on the actuator.

Cet objectif est atteint en doublant les moyens d'indexation sur le coulisseau. Ces moyens étant distincts, ils nécessitent donc une action distincte et simultanée sur chaque actuateur pour libérer le coulisseau. Ainsi, la figure 3 présente des seconds moyens d'indexation comprenant un second actuateur 36 et un second dispositif de maintien. Ce dernier comporte un second crantage 38 agencés sur le second segment 17 du coulisseau et un second doigt d'indexation (non visible sur la figure) disposé sur la coiffe. Cette dernière est encore munie d'une seconde fente (non visible sur la figure) pratiquée sur une face de la coiffe 10 opposée à la première fente. Dans l'exemple, les deux actuateurs sont du type poussoir. Cet agencement permet au porteur de la montre de se saisir des actuateurs à deux doigts, c'est-à-dire, dans l'exemple, entre le pouce et l'index, de manière à agir de façon simultanée sur chaque actuateur et à faire glisser volontairement le coulisseau dans son logement en toute sécurité.This objective is achieved by doubling the indexing means on the slider. These means being distinct, they therefore require a separate and simultaneous action on each actuator to release the slide. So, the figure 3 has second indexing means comprising a second actuator 36 and a second holding device. The latter comprises a second notch 38 arranged on the second segment 17 of the slider and a second indexing finger (not visible in the figure) disposed on the cap. The latter is further provided with a second slot (not visible in the figure) made on one face of the cap 10 opposite the first slot. In the example, the two actuators are of the push type. This arrangement allows the wearer of the watch to seize two-finger actuators, that is to say, in the example, between the thumb and the index, so as to act simultaneously on each actuator and to voluntarily slide the slide in its housing safely.

La figure 4 présente un mode de réalisation préféré du fermoir. Il s'agit d'un fermoir 40 à structure dite "papillon" présentant une symétrie structurelle au niveau des segments du fermoir et doublant par la même la course de l'ajustement du bracelet tout en lui conférant un remarquable effet esthétique.The figure 4 presents a preferred embodiment of the clasp. It is a clasp 40 with a so-called "butterfly" structure having a structural symmetry at the level of the clasp segments and doubling the stroke of the bracelet's adjustment while giving it a remarkable aesthetic effect.

Plus précisément, et conformément à la présente invention, le fermoir 40 de bracelet à boucle déployante, comporte une coiffe 42 définissant un premier et un second logements et présentant une première et une seconde coulisses dans lesquelles sont respectivement engagés un premier et un second coulisseaux 44, 46. Le second logement peut également être dans le prolongement du premier logement, formant ainsi un seul et même logement.More precisely, and in accordance with the present invention, clasp 40 with a folding clasp includes a cap 42 defining first and second housings and having a first and a second clasp. second slides in which are respectively engaged first and second slides 44, 46. The second housing may also be in the extension of the first housing, thus forming a single housing.

A l'instar de ce qui a été décrit précédemment, les coulisseaux sont destinés à lier la coiffe 42 au premier et au second brins 48, 50 du bracelet par des premiers moyens d'articulation 49, 51. Selon l'exemple, les coulisseaux comprennent chacun un premier 52, 54 et un deuxième 56, 58 segments liés l'un à l'autre par des seconds moyens d'articulation 60, 62.Like the previously described, the slides are intended to bind the cap 42 to the first and second strands 48, 50 of the bracelet by first hinge means 49, 51. According to the example, the slides each comprise a first 52, 54 and a second 56, 58 segments connected to each other by second articulation means 60, 62.

Les segments 52, 54, 56, 58 sont repliés dans leur logement respectif lorsque la boucle du fermoir est reployée.The segments 52, 54, 56, 58 are folded in their respective housing when the loop of the clasp is folded.

Le fermoir comprend, en outre, des moyens d'indexation de chaque coulisseau 44, 46 dans la coiffe 42, tels que ceux décrits ci-dessus. Ainsi, chaque coulisseau 44, 46 est susceptible d'occuper une succession de positions fixes discrètes, en référence à la coiffe, comprises entre une première et une deuxième positions extrêmes.The clasp further comprises means for indexing each slider 44, 46 in the cap 42, such as those described above. Thus, each slide 44, 46 is capable of occupying a succession of discrete fixed positions, with reference to the cap, between a first and a second extreme position.

Les figures 5a, 5b, 5c et 5d présentent, selon un plan de coupe longitudinal, une décomposition cinématique entre ces positions extrêmes. Ainsi, l'ajustement en longueur du bracelet verrouillé jusqu'au déploiement de la boucle lorsque le bracelet est déverrouillé est explicité sur les figures. On notera que les déplacements respectifs des coulisseaux peuvent être effectués indépendamment l'un de l'autre.The Figures 5a, 5b, 5c and 5d present, in a longitudinal section plane, a kinematic decomposition between these extreme positions. Thus, the length adjustment of the locked strap until deployment of the loop when the bracelet is unlocked is explained in the figures. Note that the respective displacements of the sliders can be performed independently of one another.

Sur la figure 5a, les deux coulisseaux 51a et 51 b sont dans leur première position extrême. Le fermoir 50 est verrouillé. Chaque coulisseau 51a, 51b est essentiellement situé dans chaque logement de la coiffe 52 de sorte que les extrémités 54a, 54b du fermoir sont à une distance minimale.On the figure 5a , the two slides 51a and 51b are in their first extreme position. Clasp 50 is locked. Each slider 51a, 51b is essentially located in each housing of the cap 52 so that the ends 54a, 54b of the clasp are at a minimum distance.

La figure 5b présente le fermoir 50 verrouillé dans lequel chaque coulisseau 51a, 51b est partiellement extrait de sa coulisse 56a, 56b de sorte que les extrémités 54a, 54b du fermoir sont à une distance comprise entre les distances minimales et maximales.The figure 5b shows the locked clasp 50 in which each slide 51a, 51b is partially extracted from its slide 56a, 56b so that the ends 54a, 54b of the clasp are at a distance between the minimum and maximum distances.

La figure 5c présente le fermoir 50 déverrouillé. Chaque coulisseau 51a, 51 b est dans sa deuxième position extrême et est situé essentiellement hors du logement de telle sorte que chaque premier segment et chacun des moyens d'articulation 58a, 58b du coulisseau peuvent être déployés. Il en est ainsi dans la figure 5d où les extrémités du fermoir 54a, 54b sont à une distance maximale alors que la boucle du bracelet est déployée.The figure 5c has the clasp 50 unlocked. Each slider 51a, 51b is in its second end position and is located essentially out of the housing so that each first segment and each of the hinge means 58a, 58b of the slider can be deployed. This is so in the figure 5d where the ends of the clasp 54a, 54b are at a maximum distance while the buckle of the bracelet is deployed.

Les coulisseaux sont donc maintenus repliés dans les logements par la coiffe dans toutes les positions, sauf dans leur deuxième position extrême respective.The sliders are thus kept folded in the housing by the cap in all positions, except in their respective second extreme position.

Dans un mode de réalisation avantageux, les coulisseaux sont liés cinématiquement. Ils coulissent simultanément, d'un même incrément de distance, selon des sens opposés. L'homme du métier pourra se référer à la figure 6 pour obtenir un exemple non limitatif d'un tel mode de la réalisation. Chaque coulisseau 72, 74 est muni d'une crémaillère 76, 78 disposée sur le second segment. Les crémaillères 76, 78 sont agencées pour engrener avec un pignon 80 monté à rotation dans la coiffe 80 du fermoir.In an advantageous embodiment, the sliders are kinematically linked. They slide simultaneously, the same increment of distance, in opposite directions. The skilled person can refer to the figure 6 to obtain a non-limiting example of such a mode of realization. Each slide 72, 74 is provided with a rack 76, 78 disposed on the second segment. The racks 76, 78 are arranged to mesh with a pinion 80 rotatably mounted in the cap 80 of the clasp.

La figure 7 présente une vue de dessus d'un plan de coupe du fermoir dans lequel l'agencement des crémaillères avec le pignon est explicité.The figure 7 shows a top view of a cutting plane of the clasp in which the arrangement of the racks with the pinion is explained.

Les figures 6 et 7 permettent également d'illustrer l'avantage à lier cinématiquement les coulisseaux 72, 74. En effet, il suffit de munir un seul coulisseau de moyens d'indexations, qui assureront cette fonction pour les deux coulisseaux, afin d'ajuster en longueur les deux brins du bracelet simultanément et de verrouiller/déverrouiller le fermoir. Dans le cas où on implémente deux moyens d'indexation distincts, afin d'améliorer la sécurité du dispositif, ces deuxièmes moyens d'indexation distincts peuvent être sur ce même coulisseau (ainsi qu'illustré) ou sur le deuxième.The figures 6 and 7 also allow to illustrate the advantage to kinematically link the sliders 72, 74. Indeed, it is sufficient to provide a single slider indexing means, which will ensure this function for the two sliders, in order to adjust in length the two Strands of the bracelet simultaneously and lock / unlock the clasp. In the case where two separate indexing means are implemented, in order to improve the security of the device, these second distinct indexing means can be on the same slide (as illustrated) or on the second one.

Par ailleurs, une couronne ou une molette peuvent avantageusement être agencées sur la coiffe 82 de manière à entraîner le pignon et à régler de façon continue la longueur du bracelet, à comparer avec le réglage selon des positions discrètes du bracelet définies par le crantage du fermoir. Dans ce cas, on n'a plus de crantage coopérant avec un doigt d'indexation. Le dispositif de maintien est remplacé par une friction suffisante exercée au niveau de l'actuateur ou d'autres moyens de blocage de la couronne ou de la molette accessibles à l'homme du métier, afin de permettre un verrouillage suffisant du fermoir. On peut aussi penser à maintenir le pignon par un ressort sautoir ou un autre système approprié, tout en prévoyant une liaison débrayable de la couronne et du pignon, par deux dentures en chant situées en regard l'une de l'autre et maintenues écartées par un ressort. L'utilisateur doit contraindre ce ressort pour embrayer la liaison et entraîner la rotation du pignon 80. Selon le choix de construction, la contrainte peut être exercée en traction ou en pression. On pourrait encore prévoir de bloquer le pignon par un cliquet, actionnable par l'utilisateur. Ce dernier devrait libérer le pignon en actionnant le cliquet et faire tourner la molette simultanément.Moreover, a crown or a wheel may advantageously be arranged on the cap 82 so as to drive the pinion and to continuously adjust the length of the bracelet, to be compared with the adjustment according to discrete positions of the bracelet defined by the notching of the clasp . In this case, there is no more notching cooperating with an indexing finger. The holding device is replaced by sufficient friction exerted at the actuator or other locking means of the crown or wheel accessible to those skilled in the art, to allow sufficient locking of the clasp. One can also think of maintaining the pinion by a jumper spring or other suitable system, while providing a disengageable connection of the crown and the pinion, by two sets of teeth lying next to each other and kept apart by a spring. The user must constrain this spring to engage the connection and cause the rotation of the pinion 80. Depending on the choice of construction, the stress can be exerted in tension or pressure. One could also provide to block the pinion by a ratchet, operable by the user. The latter should release the pinion by operating the ratchet and turn the wheel simultaneously.

Par ailleurs, le fond de la coiffe 82 peut en outre comporter une rainure 84 agencée pour guider les coulisseaux. A cet effet, le second segment peut être muni d'un ergot coopérant avec la rainure, ces éléments formant des moyens de guidage supplémentaires. Ceci permet en outre de maintenir la crémaillère engrenée avec le pignon sur toute la course du coulisseau.Furthermore, the bottom of the cap 82 may further comprise a groove 84 arranged to guide the slides. For this purpose, the second segment may be provided with a lug cooperating with the groove, these elements forming additional guiding means. This also makes it possible to keep the rack engaged with the pinion over the entire stroke of the slide.

La coiffe 82 peut encore être dotée d'une plaque intermédiaire 11, visible sur les figures 2 et 3, permettant de partager le logement en deux parties : une première partie inférieure dans laquelle coulisse le second segment 77, 78 de chaque coulisseau, et une seconde partie supérieure dans laquelle coulisse le premier segment de chaque coulisseau. La plaque intermédiaire permet, en particulier, de maintenir l'ergot de chaque second segment 77, 78 engagé dans chaque rainure 84 de la coiffe 82.The cap 82 can still be provided with an intermediate plate 11, visible on the Figures 2 and 3 , allowing the housing to be divided into two parts: a first lower part in which the second segment 77, 78 of each slider slides, and a second upper part in which the first segment of each slider slides. The intermediate plate makes it possible, in particular, to maintain the lug of each second segment 77, 78 engaged in each groove 84 of the cap 82.

Ainsi est proposé un fermoir permettant, par une simple action sur l'un ou l'autre des actuateur, de modifier aisément la longueur du bracelet pour une mise à l'aise sans nécessiter pour cela d'ôter la montre ou de déployer le bracelet et de verrouiller/déverrouiller le fermoir pour passer la montre au poignet ou l'ôter. Les actuateurs permettent simultanément à la fois de libérer le dispositif de maintien de manière à débloquer la position indexée, et de déplacer le coulisseau en référence à la coulisse. L'utilisateur doit donc exercer une action volontaire sur le ou les actuateur(s) pour conserver le dispositif de maintien dans une position "libre" permettant le déplacement du coulisseau et, simultanément, exercer une deuxième action volontaire sur le ou les actuateur(s) pour déplacer le coulisseau. La sécurité est donc optimale. On notera encore que toutes les combinaisons sont possibles, pour un fermoir de type papillon, pour lequel seulement une partie du fermoir serait montée coulissante en référence à la coiffe.Thus is proposed a clasp allowing, by a simple action on one or the other of the actuator, to easily change the length of the bracelet for a comfortable setting without the need to remove the watch or deploy the bracelet and lock / unlock the clasp to move the wristwatch or remove it. Actuators allow simultaneously the once to release the holding device so as to unlock the indexed position, and move the slide with reference to the slide. The user must therefore perform a voluntary action on the actuator (s) to keep the holding device in a "free" position allowing the movement of the slide and, simultaneously, to perform a second voluntary action on the actuator (s) ) to move the slide. Security is optimal. Note also that all combinations are possible for a butterfly type clasp, for which only a portion of the clasp would be slidably mounted with reference to the cap.

Claims (12)

  1. Bracelet latch (1) with an extensible buckle comprising a cap (10) defining a housing and having a slide-way in which a slide is engaged, the slide being designed to be connected to a strand of a bracelet by a first articulation means (18), the slide includes at least first (16) and second (17) segments connected to one another by a second articulation means (20), said segments (16, 17) being at least partially folded in the housing when the buckle of the latch is not extended,
    characterized in that said latch (1) also comprises a means for indexing the slide in the cap such that the slide, relative to the cap, can occupy a series of indexed positions comprised between:
    - a first extreme position in which the slide is situated in the housing such that the ends (14a, 14b) of the latch are at a minimum distance, and
    - a second extreme position where the slide is essentially situated outside the housing,
    said slide being kept folded in the housing by the cap in all positions, except the second extreme position, in which the segments of the slide can be extended and can bring the ends (14a, 14b) of the latch to a maximum distance,
    and in that the indexing means comprises an actuator (30) and a maintenance device to block the different indexed positions,
    characterized in that said actuator is arranged to transmit a force making it possible both to free the maintenance device so as to unblock the indexed position, and to move the slide relative to the slide-way.
  2. Latch (40) according to claim 1, characterized in that the cap (42) has a second slide-way arranged parallel to the first slide-way in which a second slide (46) is arranged designed to connect the cap (42) to a second strand of a bracelet by a first articulation means (51),
    characterized in that the second slide (46) comprises at least first (54) and second (58) segments connected to one another by a second articulation means (62), said segments (54, 58) being folded in said housing or in a second housing comprised by the cap, when the buckle of the latch (40) is not extended, and
    in that said latch (40) also comprises a means for indexing the second slide (46) in the cap (42) such that the second slide (46), relative to the cap, can occupy a series of indexed positions comprised between:
    - a first extreme position in which the second slide is completely situated in the housing such that the ends of the latch are at a minimum distance, and
    - a second extreme position where the second slide (46) is situated partially outside the housing,
    said second slide (46) being kept folded in the housing by the cap (42) in all positions, except the second extreme position, in which at least one of the segments (54, 58) and the articulation means (51, 62) of the second slide (46) can extend and bring the ends of the latch (40) to a maximum distance by extending the buckle of the bracelet
    and in that the indexing means of the second slide comprises an actuator (36) and a maintenance device to block the different indexed positions,
    characterized in that said actuator is arranged to transmit a force making it possible both to free the maintenance device of the second slide so as to unblock the indexed position, and to move the second slide- relative to the slide-way.
  3. Latch (40, 10) according to any one of claims 1 or 2, characterized in that the maintenance device comprises an indexing finger (81) and a notching (32, 38) capable of cooperating with the indexing finger, said indexed positions following one another discretely.
  4. Latch (40, 10) according to claim 3, characterized in that the actuator (30, 36) is secured to the notching (32, 38, 76, 78), said actuator (30, 36) and said notching (32, 38, 76, 78) being elastically connected to the slide (72), and in that the indexing finger (81) is secured to the cap (10, 82) such that said indexing finger (81) cooperates with said notching (32, 38, 76, 78) so as to block the slide (72) in the slide-way when the actuator (30, 36) is at rest.
  5. Latch according to claim 3, characterized in that the actuator is secured to the indexing finger, said actuator and said indexing finger being elastically connected to the slide, and in that the notching is secured to the cap such that said indexing finger cooperates with said notching so as to block the slide in the slide-way when the actuator is at rest.
  6. Latch according to any one of claims 4 or 5, characterized in that the actuator is a lever or a push button.
  7. Latch according to any one of claims 2 to 6, characterized in that each of the slides comprises an indexing means, arranged so that, to bring the slide into its second extreme position, it is necessary to actuate the first and second indexing means.
  8. Latch (70) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the slide-way comprises at least one groove (84) designed to cooperate with a lug positioned on the slide to form an additional guide means.
  9. Latch according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the cap comprises, in its housing, an intermediate plate arranged to be placed between the folded segments of the slide.
  10. Latch (70) according to any one of claims 2 to 9, characterized in that each slide (72, 74) also comprises a rack (76, 78) arranged to mesh with a pinion (80) rotatably mounted in the cap (82) such that the slides (72, 74) are kinematically connected and slide in opposite directions.
  11. Latch according to claim 10 and according to claim 2, characterized in that the actuator is a knurling roller or a crown capable of rotating said pinion (80) and in that the maintenance device comprises means for blocking the rotation of said crown or opinion.
  12. Latch according to claim 11, characterized in that the link between the actuator and the pinion is disengageable.
EP10798041.9A 2010-02-04 2010-12-14 Bracelet fastener with folding clasp Active EP2531056B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
CH1392010A CH702641B1 (en) 2010-02-04 2010-02-04 bracelet folding clasp.
PCT/EP2010/069662 WO2011095248A1 (en) 2010-02-04 2010-12-14 Bracelet latch having an extensible buckle

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP2531056A1 EP2531056A1 (en) 2012-12-12
EP2531056B1 true EP2531056B1 (en) 2013-10-30

Family

ID=42312716

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP10798041.9A Active EP2531056B1 (en) 2010-02-04 2010-12-14 Bracelet fastener with folding clasp

Country Status (6)

Country Link
US (1) US8910348B2 (en)
EP (1) EP2531056B1 (en)
CN (1) CN102740721B (en)
CH (1) CH702641B1 (en)
HK (1) HK1177117A1 (en)
WO (1) WO2011095248A1 (en)

Families Citing this family (12)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP2767184B1 (en) * 2013-02-13 2015-04-08 Omega SA Watch strap clasp
US9703322B2 (en) 2014-04-01 2017-07-11 Htc Corporation Wearable device
CN105182726B (en) 2014-06-17 2019-03-22 中兴通讯股份有限公司 A kind of automatic usual method of smartwatch and the smartwatch
FR3023389B1 (en) * 2014-07-04 2018-07-27 Affordances WATCH AND BRACELET
US9949537B2 (en) * 2015-03-06 2018-04-24 Apple Inc. Clasp mechanism for wrist-worn devices
US10722006B2 (en) 2016-12-05 2020-07-28 Rolex Sa Device for adjusting the length of a bracelet
EP3329796B1 (en) * 2016-12-05 2019-07-10 Rolex Sa Device for adjusting the comfort of the length of a bracelet
CN107647538A (en) * 2017-11-17 2018-02-02 深圳市蓝丝腾科技有限公司 A kind of wearable intelligent bracelet easy to wear
WO2019166671A1 (en) * 2018-03-02 2019-09-06 Dexel S.A. Band clasp comprising a device for adjusting band length
EP3795027A1 (en) * 2019-09-17 2021-03-24 The Swatch Group Research and Development Ltd Bracelet with adjustable link for watch or jewel
USD879653S1 (en) * 2019-10-18 2020-03-31 Shenzhen Bailinniao Technology Co., Ltd. Strap buckle
CH719354A2 (en) * 2022-01-12 2023-07-31 Pfyffer Von Altishofen Benjamin Closure with length adjustment device.

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US1817475A (en) * 1929-07-08 1931-08-04 Becker Emil Closure for bracelets and the like
US2069559A (en) * 1932-12-10 1937-02-02 Ritter Saul Clasp
US2065581A (en) * 1935-01-04 1936-12-29 Charles J Heileman Wrist watch band
US2097055A (en) 1937-07-14 1937-10-26 Jacoby Bender Extensible bracelet clasp
US2190878A (en) * 1938-02-09 1940-02-20 Lundman Theodore Wrist watch bracelet
US2159079A (en) * 1938-07-15 1939-05-23 Albert B Goulden Bracelet attachment
WO1996028064A1 (en) 1995-03-15 1996-09-19 Citizen Watch Co., Ltd. Device for fine adjustment of length of band-shaped accessory
FR2735335B1 (en) 1995-06-15 1997-08-01 Smh Management Services Ag FASTENER BUCKLE CLASP
FR2745694B1 (en) 1996-03-08 1998-04-30 Smh Management Services Ag EXTENSIBLE CLASP FOR BRACELET
EP1378185B1 (en) 2001-03-19 2011-08-24 Citizen Holdings Co., Ltd. Length adjustment device of band-shaped ornament
DE602005008451D1 (en) * 2005-11-23 2008-09-04 Werthanor Sa Device for adjusting the length of a bracelet, bracelet with such a device, and watch equipped with such a bracelet
ATE473650T1 (en) 2006-12-01 2010-07-15 Lvmh Swiss Mft Sa BRACELET CLASP WITH LENGTH ADJUSTMENT DEVICE

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
EP2531056A1 (en) 2012-12-12
WO2011095248A1 (en) 2011-08-11
CH702641B1 (en) 2015-02-13
CN102740721B (en) 2015-01-21
CN102740721A (en) 2012-10-17
US20120297592A1 (en) 2012-11-29
CH702641A1 (en) 2011-08-15
US8910348B2 (en) 2014-12-16
HK1177117A1 (en) 2013-08-16

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