EP2551732B1 - Balance with optimised pivotal movement - Google Patents

Balance with optimised pivotal movement Download PDF

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Publication number
EP2551732B1
EP2551732B1 EP12177552.2A EP12177552A EP2551732B1 EP 2551732 B1 EP2551732 B1 EP 2551732B1 EP 12177552 A EP12177552 A EP 12177552A EP 2551732 B1 EP2551732 B1 EP 2551732B1
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EP
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Prior art keywords
pivot
balance wheel
pivoting
balance
arrangement
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EP12177552.2A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP2551732A1 (en
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Raphaël Cettour-Baron
Denis Rudaz
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Rolex SA
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Rolex SA
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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
    • G04B17/00—Mechanisms for stabilising frequency
    • G04B17/04—Oscillators acting by spring tension
    • G04B17/06—Oscillators with hairsprings, e.g. balance
    • G04B17/063—Balance construction

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to an arrangement for pivoting a pendulum for a watch movement.
  • the balance wheel axis includes pivots at its ends which rotate in bearings.
  • Existing solutions seek to minimize the friction between a pivot and the bearing to limit energy losses during the rotation of the axis considered.
  • FIGS. 1 and 2 schematically represent the pivoting of a pendulum axis of a timepiece movement according to a standard solution of the prior art.
  • a pivot 2 arranged at the end of an axis 1, comprises a surface 3 rounded at its end.
  • This pivot 2 cooperates with a bearing comprising a flat stone called a counter-pivot 13 and a stone comprising an olive hole called olive stone 12.
  • the figure 1 represents a first configuration in which the clockwork movement is in a horizontal position (relative to the ground), often called a "flat" position, and in which the pendulum axis is in a vertical position so that the surface 3 of the pivot 2 comes to bear on the counter-pivot 13.
  • the surface of friction between the pivot 2 and the bearing is low and the resulting friction is low.
  • the figure 2 represents a second configuration in which the clockwork movement is in a vertical position, often called the "hanged" position, and in which the axis 1 of the pendulum is in a horizontal position.
  • the pivot 2 comes to bear on the edge 14 of the hole in the olive stone 12, and the resulting friction becomes greater than in the first configuration explained above.
  • the amplitude of oscillation of the balance-spring assembly is then reduced compared to the first configuration.
  • the object of the invention consists in seeking a solution for pivoting a clockwork movement pendulum which reduces the "hang-down", while optimizing the energy losses and the overall performance of the pendulum.
  • the invention is based on an arrangement for pivoting a balance for a clockwork movement, according to claim 1.
  • the invention is firstly based on the use of a balance wheel which is characterized by a small diameter and / or a high inertia, ie a heavy balance wheel, compared to all those usually used.
  • a balance wheel which is characterized by a small diameter and / or a high inertia, ie a heavy balance wheel, compared to all those usually used.
  • This characterization of a clockwork movement balance is quantified by the factor D 5 ⁇ f / l, which is expressed in units 10 -2 m 3 kg -1 s -1 , where D is the diameter of the balance in meters, f the frequency of the balance / balance spring (forming a balance-spring oscillator) in Hz, I its inertia in 10 -10 kg ⁇ m 2 .
  • the diameter D of the pendulum is more precisely that of the outer periphery of the pendulum serge. If this serge has protrusions, such as adjusting nuts for example, the diameter to be considered will be an equivalent external diameter, obtained by considering a virtual pendulum with the same inertia but without the protrusions on the rim and which generates the same aerodynamic friction.
  • the invention is based on a balance or an oscillator which meets the condition D 5 ⁇ f / l ⁇ 16 10 -2 m 3 kg -1 s -1 .
  • the balance can include a diameter between 7 and 10 mm and an inertia greater than or equal to 12 10 -10 kg ⁇ m 2 when it is intended to equip a timepiece movement with a diameter greater than 20 mm and operating at a oscillation frequency of the balance spring of 4 Hz.
  • Such a balance will be particularly suitable for a movement with a high regulating power and will allow good chronometric performance to be achieved.
  • the balance can include a diameter less than or equal to 7 mm, in particular for a balance of inertia less than 10 10 -10 kg ⁇ m 2 intended to equip a timepiece movement with a diameter of less than 20mm and operating at an oscillation frequency of the balance spring of 4 Hz, or even for an inertia balance of less than 10 10 -10 kg ⁇ m 2 intended to equip a clockwork movement operating at an oscillation frequency of the balance spring 10 Hz.
  • the figure 3 thus represents a first embodiment, in which the surface 3 at the end of the pivot 2 is flat and comes to bear on a flat counter-pivot 13 in a horizontal position.
  • the figure 4 shows a second embodiment, in which the surface 3 at the end of the pivot 2 is hollow, of concave shape, substantially hemispherical, and comes to bear at its periphery on a flat pivot 13 in a horizontal position.
  • the figure 5 shows a third embodiment, in which the surface 3 at the end of the pivot 2 is flat and comes to bear on a hemispherical bowl of the counter-pivot 13 in a horizontal position.
  • the figure 6 shows a fourth embodiment, in which the end of the pivot 2 is conical and comes to bear on a hole 15 of the counter-pivot 13 in a horizontal position.
  • the diameter of the hole 15 of the pivot 13 is less than the base diameter of the pivot cone, so that the latter comes to bear on the edges of the hole 15 of the pivot 13, defining a well-controlled linear contact area.
  • the figure 7 shows a fifth embodiment, in which the surface 3 at the end of the pivot 2 is rounded, substantially hemispherical, and comes to bear on a hole 15 of the counter-pivot 13 in a horizontal position.
  • the figure 8 shows a sixth embodiment, close to the previous one, in which the surface 3 at the end of the pivot 2 is rounded and bears on a blind hole 15 of the counter-pivot 13 in a horizontal position.
  • the figure 9 shows a seventh embodiment, which is a variant of the previous one, in which the surface 3 at the end of the pivot 2 is rounded and bears on a blind hole 15 of the counter-pivot 13 in a horizontal position, this counter-pivot 13 being formed of two distinct parts.
  • the diameter of the hole is chosen so that the pivot does not get stuck in the hole.
  • the axis cooperating with the counter-pivot may be of rounded, hemispherical or conical shape, this shape being able to be adapted to the shape of the hole of the counter-pivot.
  • the portion 4 of the axis 1 which cooperates with the olive stone 12, in particular when the wristwatch is in a vertical position can be of cylindrical or conical section.
  • a counter-pivot could for example be chosen with a hole whose cross section along a plane perpendicular to the bearing surface of the counter-pivot, either triangular or trapezoidal, and / or whose section along a plane parallel to the bearing surface of the counter-pivot is circular or polygonal.
  • other embodiments can simply be obtained by the simple combination of the embodiments described above.
  • the figures 10 and 11 represent the quality factors as a function of the amplitude obtained respectively with a pendulum and a standard pivoting arrangement, as described on the Figures 1 and 2 , and a balance combined with a pivoting device according to an embodiment of the invention.
  • Curve 20 of the figure 10 shows the quality factor as a function of the amplitude in the horizontal position of the clock movement and curve 21 the quality factor in the vertical position. It appears that the quality factor in the horizontal position remains relatively constant while the quality factor in the vertical position is significantly lower and decreases rapidly with amplitude.
  • Curve 22 of the figure 11 shows the quality factor as a function of the amplitude in the horizontal position and the curve 23 the quality factor in the vertical position, in the case of a timepiece movement according to an embodiment of the invention.
  • the hanger is greatly reduced, as illustrated by the bringing together of the two curves 22, 23, over the entire amplitude range.
  • the geometry of the pivot of the pendulum axis and / or of the bearing is therefore suitable for relative friction between the pivot and the bearing in the horizontal position of the clockwork movement close to that obtained between the pivot and the bearing in the vertical position, resulting in a difference in amplitude between the horizontal and vertical positions preferably less than or equal to 20 °, less than or equal to 15 °, or even less than or equal to 10 °.

Description

IntroductionIntroduction

La présente invention concerne un agencement pour le pivotement d'un balancier pour mouvement d'horlogerie.The present invention relates to an arrangement for pivoting a pendulum for a watch movement.

Enfin, elle concerne aussi un mouvement d'horlogerie ou une montre-bracelet en tant que tel équipé d'un tel ensemble.Finally, it also relates to a watch movement or a wristwatch as such equipped with such an assembly.

Etat de l'ArtState of the art

Dans un mouvement d'horlogerie mécanique, l'axe du balancier comprend à ses extrémités des pivots qui tournent dans des paliers. Les solutions existantes cherchent à minimiser le frottement entre un pivot et le palier pour limiter les pertes d'énergie lors de la rotation de l'axe considéré.In a mechanical watch movement, the balance wheel axis includes pivots at its ends which rotate in bearings. Existing solutions seek to minimize the friction between a pivot and the bearing to limit energy losses during the rotation of the axis considered.

Les figures 1 et 2 représentent schématiquement le pivotement d'un axe de balancier d'un mouvement d'horlogerie selon une solution standard de l'état de la technique. Un pivot 2, disposé à l'extrémité d'un axe 1, comprend une surface 3 arrondie à son extrémité. Ce pivot 2 coopère avec un palier comprenant une pierre plate appelée contre-pivot 13 et une pierre comprenant un trou olivé appelée pierre olivée 12.The Figures 1 and 2 schematically represent the pivoting of a pendulum axis of a timepiece movement according to a standard solution of the prior art. A pivot 2, arranged at the end of an axis 1, comprises a surface 3 rounded at its end. This pivot 2 cooperates with a bearing comprising a flat stone called a counter-pivot 13 and a stone comprising an olive hole called olive stone 12.

La figure 1 représente une première configuration dans laquelle le mouvement d'horlogerie se trouve en position horizontale (par rapport au sol), souvent appelée position « plat », et dans laquelle l'axe du balancier est dans une position verticale de sorte que la surface 3 du pivot 2 vient en appui sur le contre-pivot 13. Dans cette première configuration, la surface de frottement entre le pivot 2 et le palier est faible et le frottement résultant est bas.The figure 1 represents a first configuration in which the clockwork movement is in a horizontal position (relative to the ground), often called a "flat" position, and in which the pendulum axis is in a vertical position so that the surface 3 of the pivot 2 comes to bear on the counter-pivot 13. In this first configuration, the surface of friction between the pivot 2 and the bearing is low and the resulting friction is low.

La figure 2 représente une seconde configuration dans laquelle le mouvement d'horlogerie se trouve dans une position verticale, souvent appelée position « pendu », et dans laquelle l'axe 1 du balancier est dans une position horizontale. Dans cette configuration, le pivot 2 vient en appui sur le bord 14 du trou de la pierre olivée 12, et le frottement résultant devient plus important que dans la première configuration explicitée ci-dessus. L'amplitude d'oscillation de l'ensemble balancier-spiral est alors réduite par rapport à la première configuration.The figure 2 represents a second configuration in which the clockwork movement is in a vertical position, often called the "hanged" position, and in which the axis 1 of the pendulum is in a horizontal position. In this configuration, the pivot 2 comes to bear on the edge 14 of the hole in the olive stone 12, and the resulting friction becomes greater than in the first configuration explained above. The amplitude of oscillation of the balance-spring assembly is then reduced compared to the first configuration.

De nombreuses solutions de l'état de la technique cherchent à réduire la différence de comportement du pivotement décrit ci-dessus entre les positions « plat » et « pendu », cette différence étant souvent simplement dénommée « plat-pendu ». En effet, il est important de garantir un fonctionnement d'une montre-bracelet indépendant de son orientation, qui varie dans le temps de manière aléatoire et imprévisible avec les mouvements du bras du porteur de la montre-bracelet. Pour cela, des solutions existantes visent à rapprocher les frottements existants entre un pivot et un palier dans les deux orientations principales, horizontale et verticale, d'un mouvement d'horlogerie pour réduire le « plat-pendu ». A titre d'exemple, les documents CH239786 , US2654990 ou encore EP1986059 décrivent de telles solutions. On connaît aussi EP2141555 qui s'intéresse aux fréquences et inertie du balancier.Many solutions of the state of the art seek to reduce the difference in behavior of the pivoting described above between the "flat" and "hanged" positions, this difference often being simply called "flat-hanged". Indeed, it is important to guarantee the functioning of a wristwatch independent of its orientation, which varies over time in a random and unpredictable manner with the movements of the arm of the wearer of the wristwatch. For this, existing solutions aim to bring the existing friction between a pivot and a bearing in the two main orientations, horizontal and vertical, of a clockwork movement to reduce the "flat hanged". For example, the documents CH239786 , US2654990 or EP1986059 describe such solutions. We also know EP2141555 which is interested in the frequencies and inertia of the pendulum.

D'autre part, il est aussi admis, comme cela est par exemple expliqué dans la publication de 1969 de Pierre Chopard, intitulée « Influence de la géométrie du balancier sur les performances chronométriques de la montre », publiée dans les actes du Colloque International de Chronométrie , que les balanciers de grand diamètre et de faible masse présentent les meilleures performances pour une inertie donnée.On the other hand, it is also admitted, as for example explained in the publication of 1969 by Pierre Chopard, entitled "Influence of the geometry of the balance on the chronometric performance of the watch", published in the proceedings of the International Symposium on Chronometry , that pendulums of large diameter and low mass have the best performance for a given inertia.

Toutefois, toutes les solutions existantes restent insatisfaisantes et il existe un besoin d'amélioration du comportement du pivotement d'un balancier d'un mouvement d'horlogerie.However, all the existing solutions remain unsatisfactory and there is a need to improve the behavior of the pivoting of a pendulum of a timepiece movement.

Ainsi, l'objet de l'invention consiste à chercher une solution de pivotement d'un balancier de mouvement d'horlogerie qui réduit le « plat-pendu », tout en optimisant les pertes d'énergie et la performance globale du balancier.Thus, the object of the invention consists in seeking a solution for pivoting a clockwork movement pendulum which reduces the "hang-down", while optimizing the energy losses and the overall performance of the pendulum.

Brève description de l'inventionBrief description of the invention

A cet effet, l'invention repose sur un agencement pour le pivotement d'un balancier pour mouvement d'horlogerie, selon la revendication 1.To this end, the invention is based on an arrangement for pivoting a balance for a clockwork movement, according to claim 1.

L'invention est précisément définie par les revendications.The invention is precisely defined by the claims.

Brève description des figuresBrief description of the figures

Ces objets, caractéristiques et avantages de la présente invention seront exposés en détail dans la description suivante de modes de réalisation particuliers faits à titre non-limitatif en relation avec les figures jointes parmi lesquelles :

  • La figure 1 représente une vue en position horizontale ou « plat » d'un agencement de pivotement d'un balancier selon un état de la technique.
  • La figure 2 représente la vue en position verticale ou « pendu » de l'agencement de pivotement d'un balancier selon l'état de la technique.
  • Les figures 3 à 9 représentent schématiquement des agencements de pivotement d'un balancier utilisés selon différents modes de réalisation de la présente invention.
  • Les figures 10 et 11 illustrent les facteurs de qualité en fonction de l'amplitude obtenus respectivement avec un ensemble balancier-pivotement standard et un ensemble balancier-pivotement selon l'invention.
These objects, characteristics and advantages of the present invention will be explained in detail in the following description of particular embodiments made without implied limitation in relation to the attached figures among which:
  • The figure 1 shows a view in a horizontal or "flat" position of a pivoting arrangement of a pendulum according to a state of the art.
  • The figure 2 represents the view in vertical or "hanged" position of the pivoting arrangement of a pendulum according to the state of the art.
  • The figures 3 to 9 schematically represent pivoting arrangements of a pendulum used according to different embodiments of the present invention.
  • The figures 10 and 11 illustrate the quality factors as a function of the amplitude obtained respectively with a standard balance-pivot assembly and a balance-pivot assembly according to the invention.

Pour la suite de la description, nous utiliserons pour une raison de simplicité les mêmes références sur les différentes figures pour désigner des mêmes éléments, même si leurs formes et propriétés varient selon les modes de réalisation.For the rest of the description, for the sake of simplicity, we will use the same references in the different figures to designate the same elements, even if their shapes and properties vary according to the embodiments.

L'invention repose d'abord sur l'utilisation d'un balancier qui se caractérise par un petit diamètre et/ou une inertie importante, soit un balancier lourd, par rapport à tous ceux utilisés habituellement. Un tel choix va ainsi à l'encontre des idées préconçues qui considèrent qu'un balancier est plus performant s'il présente au contraire un grand diamètre et s'il est léger.The invention is firstly based on the use of a balance wheel which is characterized by a small diameter and / or a high inertia, ie a heavy balance wheel, compared to all those usually used. Such a choice thus goes against preconceived ideas which consider that a balance wheel is more efficient if it has on the contrary a large diameter and if it is light.

Cette caractérisation d'un balancier de mouvement d'horlogerie est quantifiée par le facteur D5·f/l, qui s'exprime en unité 10-2m3kg-1s-1,
où D est le diamètre du balancier en mètre, f la fréquence de l'ensemble balancier / spiral (formant un oscillateur balancier-spiral) en Hz, I son inertie en 10-10kg·m2.This characterization of a clockwork movement balance is quantified by the factor D 5 · f / l, which is expressed in units 10 -2 m 3 kg -1 s -1 ,
where D is the diameter of the balance in meters, f the frequency of the balance / balance spring (forming a balance-spring oscillator) in Hz, I its inertia in 10 -10 kg · m 2 .

En remarque, le diamètre D du balancier est plus précisément celui du pourtour externe de la serge du balancier. Si cette serge présente des protubérances, comme des écrous de réglage par exemple, le diamètre à considérer sera un diamètre externe équivalent, obtenu en considérant un balancier virtuel de même inertie mais sans les protubérances sur la serge et qui génère les mêmes frottements aérodynamiques.As a note, the diameter D of the pendulum is more precisely that of the outer periphery of the pendulum serge. If this serge has protrusions, such as adjusting nuts for example, the diameter to be considered will be an equivalent external diameter, obtained by considering a virtual pendulum with the same inertia but without the protrusions on the rim and which generates the same aerodynamic friction.

Il est admis dans l'état de la technique qu'un balancier doit répondre à la condition D5·f/l > 20 10-2m3kg-1s-1, voire même >30 10-2m3kg-1s-1. Par exemple, le livre « Construction horlogère » (PPUR, 2011 ) donne l'exemple d'un balancier avec I = 10·10-10 kg·m2, D = 9,5 mm et f = 4 Hz, soit D5·f/l = 31,0 10-2m3kg-1s-1.It is accepted in the state of the art that a balance wheel must meet the condition D 5 · f / l> 20 10 -2 m 3 kg -1 s -1 , or even> 30 10 -2 m 3 kg - 1 s -1 . For example, the book “Watchmaking construction” (PPUR, 2011 ) gives the example of a pendulum with I = 10 · 10 -10 kg · m 2 , D = 9.5 mm and f = 4 Hz, i.e. D 5 · f / l = 31.0 10 -2 m 3 kg -1 s -1 .

Au contraire, l'invention repose sur un balancier ou un oscillateur qui répond à la condition D5·f/l ≤ 16 10-2m3kg-1s-1.On the contrary, the invention is based on a balance or an oscillator which meets the condition D 5 · f / l ≤ 16 10 -2 m 3 kg -1 s -1 .

Il s'avère même que des solutions très avantageuses sont obtenues en choisissant D5·f/l ≤ 13, voire même D5·f/l ≤ 10 ou même D5·f/l ≤ 8, ces valeurs du facteur D5·f/l étant exprimées en 10-2m3kg-1s-1.It even turns out that very advantageous solutions are obtained by choosing D 5 · f / l ≤ 13, or even D 5 · f / l ≤ 10 or even D 5 · f / l ≤ 8, these values of the factor D 5 · F / l being expressed in 10 -2 m 3 kg -1 s -1 .

A titre d'exemple, le tableau suivant donne quelques valeurs possibles pour un balancier selon l'invention. Inertie [10-10kg·m2] Diamètre [mm] Fréquence [Hz] D5·f/l [10-2m3kg-1s-1] 40,7 9,89 3 7 12 8,6 4 15,7 14 8,6 4 13,4 16,2 7,78 4 7 12,1 7,36 4 7,1 7,1 6,53 4 6,7 1,7 4,3 10 8,6 7,3 5,62 10 7,7 By way of example, the following table gives some possible values for a pendulum according to the invention. Inertia [10 -10 kgm 2 ] Diameter [mm] Frequency [Hz] D 5 · f / l [10 -2 m 3 kg -1 s -1 ] 40.7 9.89 3 7 12 8.6 4 15.7 14 8.6 4 13.4 16.2 7.78 4 7 12.1 7.36 4 7.1 7.1 6.53 4 6.7 1.7 4.3 10 8.6 7.3 5.62 10 7.7

Plus généralement, le balancier peut comprendre un diamètre compris entre 7 et 10 mm et une inertie supérieure ou égale à 12 10-10 kg·m2 quand il est destiné à équiper un mouvement d'horlogerie de diamètre supérieur à 20mm et fonctionnant à une fréquence d'oscillation du balancier-spiral de 4 Hz. Un tel balancier sera particulièrement adapté pour un mouvement disposant d'une puissance réglante élevée et permettra d'atteindre de bonnes performances chronométriques.More generally, the balance can include a diameter between 7 and 10 mm and an inertia greater than or equal to 12 10 -10 kg · m 2 when it is intended to equip a timepiece movement with a diameter greater than 20 mm and operating at a oscillation frequency of the balance spring of 4 Hz. Such a balance will be particularly suitable for a movement with a high regulating power and will allow good chronometric performance to be achieved.

En variante, le balancier peut comprendre un diamètre inférieur ou égal à 7 mm, en particulier pour un balancier d'inertie inférieure à 10 10-10 kg·m2 destiné à équiper un mouvement d'horlogerie de diamètre inférieur à 20mm et fonctionnant à une fréquence d'oscillation du balancier-spiral de 4 Hz, ou encore pour un balancier d'inertie inférieure à 10 10-10 kg·m2 destiné à équiper un mouvement d'horlogerie fonctionnant à une fréquence d'oscillation du balancier-spiral de 10 Hz.As a variant, the balance can include a diameter less than or equal to 7 mm, in particular for a balance of inertia less than 10 10 -10 kg · m 2 intended to equip a timepiece movement with a diameter of less than 20mm and operating at an oscillation frequency of the balance spring of 4 Hz, or even for an inertia balance of less than 10 10 -10 kg · m 2 intended to equip a clockwork movement operating at an oscillation frequency of the balance spring 10 Hz.

Il a en effet été démontré que l'utilisation d'un tel balancier lourd et/ou de petit diamètre permet de manière inattendue de minimiser la dégradation de l'amplitude du balancier en position horizontale (plat) d'un mouvement d'horlogerie, notamment dans tous les agencements de pivotement qui utilisent une géométrie particulière du pivot et/ou du palier pour obtenir un frottement relatif en position horizontale qui se rapproche du frottement obtenu dans sa position verticale (pendu).It has indeed been demonstrated that the use of such a heavy and / or small diameter balance unexpectedly makes it possible to minimize the degradation of the amplitude of the balance in the horizontal (flat) position of a watch movement, in particular in all the pivoting arrangements which use a particular geometry of the pivot and / or of the bearing to obtain a relative friction in a horizontal position which approximates the friction obtained in its vertical position (hanged).

Ainsi, il ressort que la combinaison particulière d'un balancier lourd et/ou de petit diamètre, tel que défini ci-dessus, avec une géométrie particulière entre son pivot et un palier pour obtenir un frottement relatif en position horizontale qui se rapproche du frottement obtenu dans la position verticale (pendu), forme un agencement particulièrement avantageux puisqu'il permet d'obtenir un mouvement d'horlogerie au plat-pendu fortement réduit, sans toutefois trop dégrader l'amplitude du balancier du fait de cette géométrie particulière.Thus, it appears that the particular combination of a heavy pendulum and / or of small diameter, as defined above, with a particular geometry between its pivot and a bearing to obtain a relative friction in horizontal position which approaches friction obtained in the vertical position (hanged), forms a particularly advantageous arrangement since it makes it possible to obtain a greatly reduced flat-hung clockwork movement, without however, too much degrading the amplitude of the balance due to this particular geometry.

Les figures 3 à 9 illustrent ainsi des géométries particulières qui sont avantageusement combinées au balancier décrit ci-dessus, selon différents modes de réalisation de l'invention.The figures 3 to 9 thus illustrate particular geometries which are advantageously combined with the pendulum described above, according to different embodiments of the invention.

La figure 3 représente ainsi une première réalisation, dans laquelle la surface 3 à l'extrémité du pivot 2 est plate et vient en appui sur un contre-pivot 13 plat en position horizontale.The figure 3 thus represents a first embodiment, in which the surface 3 at the end of the pivot 2 is flat and comes to bear on a flat counter-pivot 13 in a horizontal position.

La figure 4 représente une seconde réalisation, dans laquelle la surface 3 à l'extrémité du pivot 2 est creuse, de forme concave, sensiblement hémisphérique, et vient en appui en sa périphérie sur un contre-pivot 13 plat en position horizontale.The figure 4 shows a second embodiment, in which the surface 3 at the end of the pivot 2 is hollow, of concave shape, substantially hemispherical, and comes to bear at its periphery on a flat pivot 13 in a horizontal position.

La figure 5 représente une troisième réalisation, dans laquelle la surface 3 à l'extrémité du pivot 2 est plate et vient en appui sur une cuvette hémisphérique du contre-pivot 13 en position horizontale.The figure 5 shows a third embodiment, in which the surface 3 at the end of the pivot 2 is flat and comes to bear on a hemispherical bowl of the counter-pivot 13 in a horizontal position.

La figure 6 représente une quatrième réalisation, dans laquelle l'extrémité du pivot 2 est conique et vient en appui sur un trou 15 du contre-pivot 13 en position horizontale. Le diamètre du trou 15 du contre-pivot 13 est inférieur au diamètre de base du cône du pivot, de sorte que ce dernier vient en appui sur les bords du trou 15 du contre-pivot 13, définissant une zone de contact linéique bien contrôlée. Avec cette réalisation, il est possible de définir précisément la zone de frottement et le facteur de qualité horizontal en jouant sur le diamètre du trou.The figure 6 shows a fourth embodiment, in which the end of the pivot 2 is conical and comes to bear on a hole 15 of the counter-pivot 13 in a horizontal position. The diameter of the hole 15 of the pivot 13 is less than the base diameter of the pivot cone, so that the latter comes to bear on the edges of the hole 15 of the pivot 13, defining a well-controlled linear contact area. With this embodiment, it is possible to precisely define the friction zone and the horizontal quality factor by adjusting the diameter of the hole.

La figure 7 représente une cinquième réalisation, dans laquelle la surface 3 à l'extrémité du pivot 2 est arrondie, sensiblement hémisphérique, et vient en appui sur un trou 15 du contre-pivot 13 en position horizontale.The figure 7 shows a fifth embodiment, in which the surface 3 at the end of the pivot 2 is rounded, substantially hemispherical, and comes to bear on a hole 15 of the counter-pivot 13 in a horizontal position.

La figure 8 représente une sixième réalisation, proche de la précédente, dans laquelle la surface 3 à l'extrémité du pivot 2 est arrondie et vient en appui sur un trou 15 borgne du contre-pivot 13 en position horizontale.The figure 8 shows a sixth embodiment, close to the previous one, in which the surface 3 at the end of the pivot 2 is rounded and bears on a blind hole 15 of the counter-pivot 13 in a horizontal position.

La figure 9 représente une septième réalisation, qui est une variante de la précédente, dans laquelle la surface 3 à l'extrémité du pivot 2 est arrondie et vient en appui sur un trou 15 borgne du contre-pivot 13 en position horizontale, ce contre-pivot 13 étant formé de deux parties distinctes.The figure 9 shows a seventh embodiment, which is a variant of the previous one, in which the surface 3 at the end of the pivot 2 is rounded and bears on a blind hole 15 of the counter-pivot 13 in a horizontal position, this counter-pivot 13 being formed of two distinct parts.

Dans toutes les solutions utilisant un contre-pivot 13 avec un trou 15, le diamètre du trou est choisi de sorte que le pivot ne se coince pas dans le trou. De plus, l'axe coopérant avec le contre-pivot peut être de forme arrondie, hémisphérique ou conique, cette forme pouvant être adaptée à la forme du trou du contre-pivot.In all solutions using a counter-pivot 13 with a hole 15, the diameter of the hole is chosen so that the pivot does not get stuck in the hole. In addition, the axis cooperating with the counter-pivot may be of rounded, hemispherical or conical shape, this shape being able to be adapted to the shape of the hole of the counter-pivot.

Dans toutes les solutions présentées, la portion 4 de l'axe 1 qui coopère avec la pierre olivée 12, notamment quand la montre-bracelet est dans une position verticale, peut être de section cylindrique ou conique.In all the solutions presented, the portion 4 of the axis 1 which cooperates with the olive stone 12, in particular when the wristwatch is in a vertical position, can be of cylindrical or conical section.

Naturellement, l'invention ne se limite pas aux géométries décrites et il pourrait être par exemple choisi un contre-pivot avec un trou dont la section selon un plan perpendiculaire à la surface d'appui du contre-pivot soit triangulaire ou trapézoïdale, et/ou dont la section selon un plan parallèle à la surface d'appui du contre-pivot soit circulaire ou polygonale. D'autre part, d'autres modes de réalisation peuvent simplement être obtenus par la simple combinaison des modes de réalisation décrits ci-dessus.Naturally, the invention is not limited to the geometries described and a counter-pivot could for example be chosen with a hole whose cross section along a plane perpendicular to the bearing surface of the counter-pivot, either triangular or trapezoidal, and / or whose section along a plane parallel to the bearing surface of the counter-pivot is circular or polygonal. On the other hand, other embodiments can simply be obtained by the simple combination of the embodiments described above.

Les figures 10 et 11 représentent les facteurs de qualité en fonction de l'amplitude obtenus respectivement avec un balancier et un agencement de pivotement standard, tel que décrit sur les figures 1 et 2, et un balancier combiné à un dispositif de pivotement selon un mode de réalisation de l'invention.The figures 10 and 11 represent the quality factors as a function of the amplitude obtained respectively with a pendulum and a standard pivoting arrangement, as described on the Figures 1 and 2 , and a balance combined with a pivoting device according to an embodiment of the invention.

La courbe 20 de la figure 10 montre le facteur de qualité en fonction de l'amplitude en position horizontale du mouvement d'horlogerie et la courbe 21 le facteur de qualité en position verticale. Il apparait que le facteur de qualité en position horizontale reste relativement constant alors que le facteur de qualité en position verticale est nettement inférieur et diminue rapidement avec l'amplitude.Curve 20 of the figure 10 shows the quality factor as a function of the amplitude in the horizontal position of the clock movement and curve 21 the quality factor in the vertical position. It appears that the quality factor in the horizontal position remains relatively constant while the quality factor in the vertical position is significantly lower and decreases rapidly with amplitude.

La courbe 22 de la figure 11 montre le facteur de qualité en fonction de l'amplitude en position horizontale et la courbe 23 le facteur de qualité en position verticale, dans le cas d'un mouvement d'horlogerie selon un mode de réalisation de l'invention. De manière surprenante, le plat-pendu est fortement réduit, comme l'illustre le rapprochement des deux courbes 22, 23, sur toute la plage d'amplitude. Cette diminution du plat-pendu est d'autant plus marquée que le paramètre D5·f/l qui caractérise le balancier est faible, en particulier pour la condition D5·f/l ≤ 20 10-2m3kg-1s-1, plus avantageusement pour D5·f/l ≤ 16, voire D5·f/l ≤ 13, voire même D5·f/l ≤ 10 ou même D5·f/l ≤ 8. Cela implique que l'utilisation d'un balancier lourd et de petit diamètre devient hautement avantageuse, à l'encontre des préjugés existants.Curve 22 of the figure 11 shows the quality factor as a function of the amplitude in the horizontal position and the curve 23 the quality factor in the vertical position, in the case of a timepiece movement according to an embodiment of the invention. Surprisingly, the hanger is greatly reduced, as illustrated by the bringing together of the two curves 22, 23, over the entire amplitude range. This decrease in the hanger is all the more marked when the parameter D 5 · f / l which characterizes the pendulum is low, in particular for the condition D 5 · f / l ≤ 20 10 -2 m 3 kg -1 s -1 , more advantageously for D 5 · f / l ≤ 16, even D 5 · f / l ≤ 13, even even D 5 · f / l ≤ 10 or even D 5 · f / l ≤ 8. This implies that l he use of a heavy pendulum and small diameter becomes highly advantageous, against existing prejudices.

Des mesures ont été réalisées sur mouvement, avec un balancier représenté par un paramètre D5·f/l = 16 et un pivotement modifié selon la figure 5, équipé d'un spiral standard permettant d'obtenir un organe réglant cadencé à 4 Hz. Le plat-pendu amplitude mesuré, soit la différence d'amplitude entre la position horizontale et la position verticale, était de 10.3±4.5° en moyenne sur dix mouvements avec un barillet chargé. En comparaison, le plat-pendu typique pour une solution standard de l'état de la technique (D5·f/l = 25, pivotement standard selon la figure 1, même spiral que pour les mesures ci-dessus) est typiquement de 40°. De façon avantageuse, la géométrie du pivot de l'axe du balancier et/ou du palier est donc apte à un frottement relatif entre le pivot et le palier en position horizontale du mouvement d'horlogerie proche de celui obtenu entre le pivot et le palier en position verticale, résultant en une différence d'amplitude entre les positions horizontale et verticale préférentiellement inférieure ou égale à 20°, inférieure ou égale à 15°, voire même inférieure ou égale à 10°. Ceci permet d'obtenir un écart de marche dans le cadre de l'invention nettement inférieur à celui obtenu avec la solution standard.Measurements were made on movement, with a balance represented by a parameter D 5 · f / l = 16 and a pivoting modified according to the figure 5 , equipped with a standard hairspring making it possible to obtain a regulating organ clocked at 4 Hz. The flat-hung amplitude measured, ie the difference in amplitude between the horizontal position and the vertical position, was 10.3 ± 4.5 ° on average over ten movements with a loaded barrel. In comparison, the typical flat hanger for a standard solution of the prior art (D 5 · f / l = 25, standard pivoting according to the figure 1 , same hairspring as for the above measurements) is typically 40 °. Advantageously, the geometry of the pivot of the pendulum axis and / or of the bearing is therefore suitable for relative friction between the pivot and the bearing in the horizontal position of the clockwork movement close to that obtained between the pivot and the bearing in the vertical position, resulting in a difference in amplitude between the horizontal and vertical positions preferably less than or equal to 20 °, less than or equal to 15 °, or even less than or equal to 10 °. This makes it possible to obtain a step deviation in the context of the invention much lower than that obtained with the standard solution.

Claims (12)

  1. An arrangement for the pivoting of a timepiece movement balance wheel, comprising a bearing for the pivoting of the balance wheel, comprising a balance wheel which obeys the following condition : D5·f/l ≤ 16·10-2m3kg-1s-1
    where D is the diameter of the balance wheel, f is the frequency and I is the moment of inertia, and comprising a balance staff pivot and/or bearing geometry suitable for ensuring that the relative friction between the pivot and the bearing when said timepiece movement is in the horizontal position is similar to that obtained between the pivot and the bearing when said timepiece movement is in a vertical position, characterized in that:
    - the surface (3) at the end of the pivot (2) of the balance staff (1) is flat and bears against a flat surface of a jewel endstone (13) in the horizontal position, or in that
    - the surface (3) at the end of the pivot (2) is concave and bears against a flat surface of the endstone (13) in the horizontal position, or in that
    - the surface (3) at the end of the pivot (2) of the balance staff (1) is flat and bears against a concave, notably hemispherical, cup of the endstone (13) in the horizontal position, or in that
    - the end of the pivot (2) bears against a hole (15) in the endstone (13) in the horizontal position.
  2. An arrangement for the pivoting of a timepiece movement balance wheel as claimed in the preceding claim, characterized in that the balance wheel factor D5·f/l, expressed in 10-2m3kg-1s-1, obeys the following relationship :
    D5·f/l ≤ 13, or D5·f/l ≤ 10, or D5·f/l ≤ 8.
  3. An arrangement for the pivoting of a timepiece movement balance wheel as claimed in one of previous claims, characterized in that the balance wheel diameter is comprised between 7 and 10 mm and the moment of inertia of the balance wheel is greater than or equal to 12·10-10kg·m2.
  4. An arrangement for the pivoting of a timepiece movement balance wheel as claimed in either of claims 1 and 2, characterized in that the balance wheel diameter is less than or equal to 7 mm.
  5. An arrangement for the pivoting of a timepiece movement balance wheel as claimed in either of the preceding claims, characterized in that the balance wheel is used for an oscillation to a frequency of about 4 Hz.
  6. An arrangement for the pivoting of a balance wheel as claimed in the preceding claim, characterized in that the end of the pivot (2) bears against a hole (15) in the endstone (13) in the horizontal position and in that the end of the pivot (2) is convex rounded, hemispherical or conical.
  7. An arrangement for the pivoting of a balance wheel as claimed in one of previous claims, characterized in that the end of the pivot (2) bears against a hole (15) in the endstone (13) in the horizontal position, which is a blind hole.
  8. An arrangement for the pivoting of a balance wheel as claimed in the preceding claim, characterized in that the endstone (13) is made as two distinct parts.
  9. An arrangement for the pivoting of a balance wheel as claimed in one of previous claims, characterized in that the end of the balance staff (1) is convex rounded, hemispherical or conical.
  10. An arrangement for the pivoting of a balance wheel as claimed in one of previous claims, characterized in that the portion (4) of the balance staff (1) that is in contact with an olived jewel (12) is of cylindrical or conical cross section.
  11. A timepiece movement, characterized in that it comprises an arrangement for the pivoting of a balance wheel as claimed in one of previous claims.
  12. A wrist watch, which comprises a timepiece movement as claimed in the preceding claim.
EP12177552.2A 2011-07-29 2012-07-24 Balance with optimised pivotal movement Active EP2551732B1 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
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Applications Claiming Priority (2)

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EP11405295 2011-07-29
EP12177552.2A EP2551732B1 (en) 2011-07-29 2012-07-24 Balance with optimised pivotal movement

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EP2551732A1 EP2551732A1 (en) 2013-01-30
EP2551732B1 true EP2551732B1 (en) 2020-05-06

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JP (1) JP6231264B2 (en)
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JP6075250B2 (en) * 2013-09-10 2017-02-08 トヨタ自動車株式会社 Temperature control structure and temperature control method for power storage device
EP3382472A1 (en) * 2017-03-30 2018-10-03 Rolex Sa Guide bearing of a timepiece balance pivot
US11392091B2 (en) * 2017-07-31 2022-07-19 Rolex Sa Watch pivot device
JP2020098191A (en) * 2018-10-12 2020-06-25 ロレックス・ソシエテ・アノニムＲｏｌｅｘ Ｓａ Speed governor device for small size watch movement
EP3671368B1 (en) * 2018-12-20 2022-11-23 The Swatch Group Research and Development Ltd Bearing, in particular shock absorber device, and rotating part of a clock movement
EP3839654A1 (en) * 2019-12-20 2021-06-23 Patek Philippe SA Genève Method for correcting the operation and/or position-sensitive amplitude for an oscillator for a balance wheel-hairspring type timepiece
EP3839653A1 (en) * 2019-12-20 2021-06-23 Patek Philippe SA Genève Method for correcting the operation and/or the amplitude of a balance wheel-hairspring type oscillator in vertical positions

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US9016933B2 (en) 2015-04-28
JP6231264B2 (en) 2017-11-15
EP2551732A1 (en) 2013-01-30
US20130028056A1 (en) 2013-01-31
CH705292B1 (en) 2016-12-15
CN102902193A (en) 2013-01-30
CN102902193B (en) 2015-11-25
JP2013033037A (en) 2013-02-14
CH705292A2 (en) 2013-01-31

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