EP2585876A1 - Escapement system for timepiece - Google Patents

Escapement system for timepiece

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Publication number
EP2585876A1
EP2585876A1 EP11726830.0A EP11726830A EP2585876A1 EP 2585876 A1 EP2585876 A1 EP 2585876A1 EP 11726830 A EP11726830 A EP 11726830A EP 2585876 A1 EP2585876 A1 EP 2585876A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
exhaust system
anchor
amorphous
alloy
escape wheel
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Granted
Application number
EP11726830.0A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP2585876B1 (en
Inventor
Christian Charbon
Yves Winkler
Marco Verardo
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.)
Swatch Group Research and Development SA
Original Assignee
Swatch Group Research and Development SA
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
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Publication date
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Application filed by Swatch Group Research and Development SA filed Critical Swatch Group Research and Development SA
Priority to EP11726830.0A priority Critical patent/EP2585876B1/en
Publication of EP2585876A1 publication Critical patent/EP2585876A1/en
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Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G04—HOROLOGY
    • G04B—MECHANICALLY-DRIVEN CLOCKS OR WATCHES; MECHANICAL PARTS OF CLOCKS OR WATCHES IN GENERAL; TIME PIECES USING THE POSITION OF THE SUN, MOON OR STARS
    • G04B15/00—Escapements
    • 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
    • G04B15/00—Escapements
    • G04B15/14—Component parts or constructional details, e.g. construction of the lever or the escape wheel

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to an exhaust system.
  • This exhaust system comprises an anchor provided with a fork intended to cooperate with a pin mounted on a plate, and a rod comprising arms intended to receive pallets in order to cooperate with at least one escape wheel.
  • the technical field of the invention is the technical field of fine mechanics. and more particularly watchmaking
  • the timepieces include a power source such as the barrel providing energy to the room and in particular to the gear wheels. These wheels cooperate with the exhaust system via the escape wheel.
  • the rotation of the latter is regulated by the anchor of the exhaust system whose pulses are provided by the balance spring.
  • the exhaust system includes an anchor pivotally mounted on an axle.
  • This anchor comprises a rod provided with a fork, at a first end, intended to cooperate with a pin mounted on a plate, and provided with arms, at a second end, intended to receive pallets in order to cooperate with the wheel. exhaust.
  • the anchor pivots on its axis so that the paddles of the arms come into contact with the teeth of the escape wheel in order to regulate the rotation of the wheels.
  • the efficiency of the exhaust is relatively low.
  • the operation of the exhaust system comprises friction, shock and energy dissipation in the constituent materials of the wheel and the anchor in particular.
  • a material used is for example 15P or 20AP steel. These materials are crystalline materials.
  • a disadvantage of the crystalline metal components is their low mechanical strength when high stresses are applied.
  • each material is characterized by its Young's modulus E also called modulus of elasticity (generally expressed in GPa), characterizing its resistance to deformation.
  • Each material is also characterized by its elastic limit ⁇ ⁇ (generally expressed in GPa) which represents the stress beyond which the material deforms plastically.
  • the efficiency of an escapement is related to the energy restitution factor during shocks, these shocks being the shocks between the pallets of the anchor of the escape wheel and the shocks between the ankle of the plate and the fork entrance.
  • the kinetic energy accumulated during the displacement of the anchor or the escape wheel is dependent on the moment of inertia which is a function of the mass and the radius of inertia, and therefore dimensions.
  • the maximum energy that can be stored elastically is calculated as the ratio between the square of the elastic limit ⁇ ⁇ on the one hand and the Young's modulus E on the other hand, the low elastic limit of the crystalline metals leads to a low level of energy storage capacity.
  • the steels 15P or 20AP are dense and therefore the anchors and Exhaust wheels have strong masses. The moment of inertia is then high and the kinetic energy accumulated during the movements of the anchor and the escape wheel is important.
  • watchmaking traditionally uses hardened sulfur-lead carbon steels that offer good machinability and very good mechanical properties, but which are magnetic.
  • Non-magnetic alternatives are rare and generally more difficult to machine and offer poorer mechanical properties.
  • an escape wheel is different from a conventional gear wheel because it does not work according to the same principle. Indeed, such an escape wheel is driven by the mainspring and its rotation is controlled by the exhaust system which, via the balance spring, the anchor and the pallets, releases and stops successively rotation of said wheel. So, after the release and impulse phase, the tooth of the escape wheel abuts violently against the resting plane of the pallet of the anchor. These violent shocks repeated at each pulse imply a very different stress on the escape wheel in comparison with a gear wheel.
  • Such an escape wheel must therefore be made of a material having a high elastic limit in order to avoid any plastic deformation during these repeated impacts.
  • the wheel during the impulse phase, when the tooth of the escape wheel is on the impulse plane of the anchor, the wheel must transmit a maximum of energy to the anchor so that the latter can give it back to the pendulum. It is therefore important that the material used for the escape wheel has as high a factor of energy restitution as possible in order to minimize the losses and thus to increase the efficiency of the system.
  • the invention aims to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art by proposing to provide an exhaust system with higher efficiency and simpler to achieve.
  • the invention relates to the exhaust system cited above which is characterized in that at least a portion of the exhaust system is made of an at least partially amorphous metal alloy.
  • a first advantage of the present invention is to allow the exhaust system to have a better energy restitution factor than current exhausts.
  • an amorphous metal is characterized by the fact that, during its manufacture, the atoms composing these amorphous materials do not arrange according to a particular structure as is the case for crystalline materials Thus, even if the Young's modules E of a crystalline metal and an amorphous metal are substantially identical, their elastic limits ⁇ ⁇ are different.
  • An amorphous metal is then differentiated by an elastic limit ⁇ ⁇ ⁇ higher than that a e c of the crystalline metal by a factor of two to three.
  • the elastic limit ⁇ ⁇ is increased making it possible to increase the ratio ⁇ ⁇ / ⁇ so that the stress limit beyond which the material does not return to its initial shape increases, and especially so that the maximum energy that can be stored and restored elastically increases.
  • Another advantage of the present invention is to allow great ease in shaping allowing the development of complicated shapes with greater precision.
  • the amorphous metals have the particular characteristic of softening while remaining amorphous for a certain time in a given temperature range [Tg - Tx] specific to each alloy (with Tx: crystallization temperature and Tg: glass transition temperature ). It is thus possible to shape them under a relatively low pressure stress and a low temperature then allowing the use of a simplified process compared to machining and stamping.
  • the anchor is made of an at least partially amorphous metal alloy.
  • only part of the anchor, such as the fork, is made of an at least partially amorphous alloy.
  • the pallets of the anchor are made of an at least partially amorphous metal alloy.
  • the pallets of the anchor and the anchor form a single piece.
  • the escape wheel is made of an at least partially amorphous metal alloy.
  • the plate is made of an at least partially amorphous metal alloy.
  • At least a portion of the exhaust system comprises recesses to reduce the moment of inertia of this part.
  • the recesses are through.
  • At least a portion of the exhaust system comprises thinned zones in order to reduce the moment of inertia of this part.
  • said anchor, said escape wheel and said plate are made of an at least partially amorphous metal alloy.
  • the material is totally amorphous. In another advantageous embodiment, the material is completely metallic
  • said metal alloy is non-magnetic.
  • FIG. 1 and 2 show schematically a timepiece exhaust system according to the invention
  • FIGs 1 and 2 an exhaust system 1 with its resonator 3, ie the balance spring.
  • the resonator 3 cooperates with the exhaust system 1 by means of a plate 5 mounted on the balance shaft.
  • the exhaust system 1 comprises a Swiss anchor 7 formed by a main face (visible in Figure 1) in projection.
  • the Swiss anchor 7 is mainly formed by a rod 9 connecting the fork 1 1 and arms 13.
  • the fork 1 1 has two horns 15 vis-à-vis under which is mounted a dart 17 to cooperate respectively with a pin fixed on said plate 5 of the balance shaft and the lower part of said plate 5.
  • the rod 9 receives, between the two arms 13, a rod 19 for rotating the anchor between a bridge and the plate of the movement.
  • a pallet 21 intended to come into contact with the escape wheel 23 via its teeth 25.
  • the pallets may, for example, be formed in synthetic ruby.
  • the present invention may also be used for the type coaxial escapement as in watchmaking.
  • At least a part of the exhaust system 1, that is to say the plate 5 or the anchor 7 or the escape wheel 23 is made of a metal alloy at least partially amorphous.
  • This metal alloy may contain a precious metal element such as gold, platinum, palladium, rhenium, ruthenium, rhodium, silver, iridium or osmium. It will be understood by at least partially amorphous metal alloy that the material is able to solidify at least partially in the amorphous phase.
  • all parts of the exhaust system 1 are made of an at least partially amorphous metal alloy. Nevertheless, these parts can be made of different amorphous materials. Likewise, the metal alloy or the metal may be totally amorphous.
  • this at least partially amorphous metal alloy is non-magnetic so that said exhaust system 1 is insensitive to external magnetic disturbances.
  • amorphous metal alloys comes from the fact that, during their manufacture, the atoms composing these amorphous materials do not arrange in a particular structure as is the case for crystalline materials. Thus, even if the Young E moduli of a crystalline metal and an amorphous metal are substantially identical, their limits elastic ⁇ ⁇ are different. An amorphous metal is then differentiated by an elastic limit ⁇ ⁇ ⁇ higher than that e e c of the crystalline metal by a factor substantially equal to two. A higher elastic limit therefore means that a piece of amorphous metal alloy or amorphous metal deforms plastically under a higher stress than the same piece of crystalline metal.
  • the losses of an exhaust system 1 are related to the friction between the pallets 21 of the anchor 7 and the teeth 25 of the escape wheel 23 during the training phase and between the plate pin 5 and the entry of the fork and the shocks between the teeth 25 of the escape wheel 23 and the pallets 21 of the anchor 7 during the fall phase.
  • the losses due to shocks between the teeth 25 of the escape wheel 23 and the pallets 21 of the anchor 7 during the fall phase are a function of the kinetic energy.
  • This kinetic energy, accumulated during the operation of the exhaust system 1, is dependent on the moment of inertia.
  • This moment of inertia is a function of the mass and the radius of inertia.
  • the maximum specific resistance is of the order of 200-250 MPa * cm 3 / g.
  • the specific resistance of the amorphous alloys is of the order of 300-400 MPa * cm 3 / g.
  • Another solution is to reduce the mass of the part by removing material, preferably in the areas contributing most to the moment of inertia, that is to say in the parts furthest from the axis of rotation of the room. It is possible, for example, to make recesses 29, crossing or not, and / or to locally reduce the thickness 27 of the part.
  • an amorphous alloy having a mechanical strength greater than the crystalline alloy will be chosen. Given the advantageous specific resistance of the amorphous alloys, the density of the amorphous alloy may be chosen to be equal to or slightly less than that of the crystalline alloy and consequently the moment of inertia of the system 1 will be decreased.
  • a third possibility is to reduce the dimensions of the elements of the exhaust system 1 such as the anchor 7 or the wheel 23 or the plate 5.
  • an amorphous alloy of higher mechanical strength than the crystalline alloy used for the current dimensions this reduction in dimensions and mass does not lead to a decrease in the mechanical strength of the exhaust system 1.
  • the specific resistance of the amorphous alloys being greater in comparison with the crystalline alloys, the density of the amorphous alloy chosen may be equal to or less than that of the crystalline alloy used for the standard part, and consequently the time of inertia as well as the congestion of the system 1 can be reduced.
  • it will be chosen to reduce the mass of the parts of the exhaust system 1 which are metal or amorphous metal alloy. This makes it possible to keep the same size as an exhaust system 1 made of crystalline material and thus to keep standard dimensions while having a better resistance to stresses.
  • the amorphous metal allows great ease in shaping allowing the development of complicated shapes with greater precision. This is due to the specific characteristics of the amorphous metal that can soften while remaining amorphous during a time in a temperature range [Tg - Tx] gave specific to CHAQ ⁇ ue ALLIAG ae (Vpr-ar example for ALLIAG has e Zr 4 1.24 13.75 Ti Cu 12.5 Ni 10 Be 2_2.5 '
  • the use of such a material also makes it possible to reproduce fine geometries very precisely because the viscosity of the alloy decreases sharply as a function of the temperature in the temperature range [Tg-Tx] and the alloy thus allies the details of the negative.
  • the shaping is done around 300 ° C for a viscosity up to 10 3 Pa.s for a stress of 1 MPa, instead of a viscosity of 10 12 Pa. s at temperature Tg.
  • the use of dies has the advantage of creating highly accurate three-dimensional parts, which can not be cut or stamped.
  • One method used is the hot forming of an amorphous preform.
  • This preform is obtained by melting the metal elements intended to constitute the amorphous alloy in a furnace. Once these elements are melted, they are cast as a semi-finished product, then cooled rapidly to maintain the at least partially amorphous state. Once the preform realized, the hot forming is carried out in order to obtain a final piece.
  • This hot forming is performed by pressing in a temperature range between its glass transition temperature Tg and its crystallization temperature Tx for a predetermined time to maintain a totally or partially amorphous structure. This is done in order to maintain the characteristic elastic properties of the amorphous metals.
  • the pressing time should not exceed 120 seconds.
  • hot forming makes it possible to maintain the at least partially initial amorphous state of the preform.
  • the elements of the exhaust system can be made by casting or injection. This process involves casting the alloy obtained by melting the metal elements in a mold having the shape of the final piece. Once the mold is filled, it is rapidly cooled to a temperature below T g in order to avoid the crystallization of the alloy and thus obtain a system 1 of amorphous or partially amorphous metal.
  • pallets 21 of the anchor 7 are made of metal or amorphous alloy. These pallets 21 can form one and the same piece with said anchor or be overmolded after manufacture of the anchor 7. It then becomes possible that the pallets 21 and the anchor 7 are made of metal or amorphous alloy but different from each other. one of the other.

Abstract

The invention relates to an escapement system (1). This system comprises a pallet (7) equipped with a fork intended to collaborate with a pin mounted on a plate (5), and with a rod comprising arms intended to accept pallet stones (21) so as to collaborate with at least one escapement wheel (23). Part of the escapement system is made of an at least partially amorphous metal alloy.

Description

SYSTEME D'ECHAPPEMENT POUR PIECE D'HORLOGERIE  EXHAUST SYSTEM FOR WATCHPIECE PIECE
La présente invention concerne un système d'échappement. Ce système d'échappement comporte une ancre munie d'une fourchette destinée à coopérer avec une cheville montée sur un plateau, et une baguette comportant des bras destinés à recevoir des palettes afin de coopérer avec au moins une roue d'échappement The present invention relates to an exhaust system. This exhaust system comprises an anchor provided with a fork intended to cooperate with a pin mounted on a plate, and a rod comprising arms intended to receive pallets in order to cooperate with at least one escape wheel.
Le domaine technique de l'invention est le domaine technique de la mécanique fine. et plus particulièrement de l'horlogerie  The technical field of the invention is the technical field of fine mechanics. and more particularly watchmaking
ARRIERE PLAN TECHNOLOGIQUE BACKGROUND TECHNOLOGY
Les pièces d'horlogerie comprennent une source d'énergie comme le barillet fournissant de l'énergie à la pièce et notamment aux rouages de transmission. Ces rouages coopèrent avec le système d'échappement via la roue d'échappement. La rotation de cette dernière est régulée par l'ancre du système d'échappement dont les impulsions sont fournies par le balancier spiral. Le système d'échappement comporte une ancre montée en pivotement sur un axe. Cette ancre comprend une baguette munie d'une fourchette, à une première extrémité, destinée à coopérer avec une cheville montée sur un plateau, et munie de bras, à une seconde extrémité, destinés à recevoir des palettes afin de coopérer avec la roue d'échappement. Lors de son fonctionnement, l'ancre pivote sur son axe de sorte que les palettes des bras entrent en contact avec les dents de la roue d'échappement afin de réguler la rotation des rouages.  The timepieces include a power source such as the barrel providing energy to the room and in particular to the gear wheels. These wheels cooperate with the exhaust system via the escape wheel. The rotation of the latter is regulated by the anchor of the exhaust system whose pulses are provided by the balance spring. The exhaust system includes an anchor pivotally mounted on an axle. This anchor comprises a rod provided with a fork, at a first end, intended to cooperate with a pin mounted on a plate, and provided with arms, at a second end, intended to receive pallets in order to cooperate with the wheel. exhaust. During operation, the anchor pivots on its axis so that the paddles of the arms come into contact with the teeth of the escape wheel in order to regulate the rotation of the wheels.
Or, actuellement, le rendement de l'échappement est relativement faible. En effet, le fonctionnement du système d'échappement comporte des frottements, subit des chocs et de la dissipation d'énergie dans les matériaux constitutifs de la roue et de l'ancre notamment. Un matériau utilisé est par exemple l'acier 15P ou 20AP. Ces matériaux sont des matériaux cristallins. Or, un inconvénient des composants en métal cristallin est leur faible tenue mécanique lorsque des contraintes élevées sont appliquées. En effet, chaque matériau se caractérise par son module d'Young E également appelé module d'élasticité (exprimé généralement en GPa), caractérisant sa résistance à la déformation. Chaque matériau est aussi caractérisé par sa limite élastique σθ (exprimée généralement en GPa) qui représente la contrainte au-delà de laquelle le matériau se déforme plastiquement. Il est alors possible, pour des dimensions données, de comparer les matériaux en établissant pour chacun le rapport de leur limite élastique sur leur module d'Young σθ/Ε, ledit rapport étant représentatif de la déformation élastique de chaque matériau. Ainsi, plus ce rapport est élevé, plus la limite de déformation élastique du matériau est élevée. Typiquement, pour un alliage du type Cu-Be, le module d'Young E est égal à 130 GPa et la limite d'élasticité σθ est égale à 1 GPa, ce qui donne un rapport σθ/Ε de l'ordre de 0,007 c'est-à-dire faible. Les pièces en métal ou alliage cristallin possèdent, par conséquent, une capacité limitée de déformation élastique. However, at present, the efficiency of the exhaust is relatively low. Indeed, the operation of the exhaust system comprises friction, shock and energy dissipation in the constituent materials of the wheel and the anchor in particular. A material used is for example 15P or 20AP steel. These materials are crystalline materials. However, a disadvantage of the crystalline metal components is their low mechanical strength when high stresses are applied. Indeed, each material is characterized by its Young's modulus E also called modulus of elasticity (generally expressed in GPa), characterizing its resistance to deformation. Each material is also characterized by its elastic limit σ θ (generally expressed in GPa) which represents the stress beyond which the material deforms plastically. It is then possible, for given dimensions, to compare the materials by establishing for each the ratio of their elastic limit on their Young's modulus σ θ / Ε, said ratio being representative of the elastic deformation of each material. Thus, the higher this ratio, the higher the limit of elastic deformation of the material. Typically, for an alloy of the Cu-Be type, the Young's modulus E is equal to 130 GPa and the elastic limit σ θ is equal to 1 GPa, which gives a ratio σ θ / Ε of the order of 0.007 i.e. low. Parts made of metal or crystalline alloy have, therefore, a limited capacity for elastic deformation.
En outre, le rendement d'un échappement est lié au facteur de restitution de l'énergie lors des chocs, ces chocs étant les chocs entre les palettes de l'ancre de la roue d'échappement et les chocs entre la cheville du plateau et l'entrée de fourchette.  In addition, the efficiency of an escapement is related to the energy restitution factor during shocks, these shocks being the shocks between the pallets of the anchor of the escape wheel and the shocks between the ankle of the plate and the fork entrance.
Or, l'énergie cinétique accumulée lors du déplacement de l'ancre ou de la roue d'échappement est dépendante du moment d'inertie qui est fonction de la masse et du rayon d'inertie, donc des dimensions.  However, the kinetic energy accumulated during the displacement of the anchor or the escape wheel is dependent on the moment of inertia which is a function of the mass and the radius of inertia, and therefore dimensions.
Dès lors que l'énergie maximale pouvant être stockée élastiquement se calcule comme étant le rapport entre le carré de la limite élastique σθ d'une part et le module d'Young E d'autre part, la faible limite élastique des métaux cristallins entraîne un faible niveau de capacité de stockage d'énergie. Or, les aciers 15P ou 20AP sont denses et donc les ancres et roues d'échappements ont de fortes masses. Le moment d'inertie est alors élevé et l'énergie cinétique accumulée lors des déplacements de l'ancre et de la roue d'échappement est donc important. Since the maximum energy that can be stored elastically is calculated as the ratio between the square of the elastic limit σ θ on the one hand and the Young's modulus E on the other hand, the low elastic limit of the crystalline metals leads to a low level of energy storage capacity. However, the steels 15P or 20AP are dense and therefore the anchors and Exhaust wheels have strong masses. The moment of inertia is then high and the kinetic energy accumulated during the movements of the anchor and the escape wheel is important.
Toutefois, comme les métaux cristallins ne peuvent pas stocker une grande énergie, il se produit des pertes d'énergie lors des chocs levées/dents de la roue d'échappement et lors des chocs entre la cheville du plateau et l'entrée de fourchette.  However, since the crystalline metals can not store a large amount of energy, energy losses occur during raised shocks / teeth of the escape wheel and during shocks between the plate pin and the fork entry.
En conséquence, une part non négligeable d'énergie délivrée par le barillet est perdue lors du fonctionnement de la pièce d'horlogerie, réduisant ainsi sa réserve de marche.  As a result, a significant amount of energy delivered by the barrel is lost during operation of the timepiece, thus reducing its power reserve.
Par ailleurs, l'horlogerie utilise traditionnellement les aciers au carbone au soufre et au plomb trempés-revenus qui offrent une bonne usinabilité et de très bonnes propriétés mécaniques mais qui sont magnétiques. Les alternatives amagnétiques sont rares et généralement plus difficiles à usiner et offrant de moins bonnes propriétés mécaniques.  In addition, watchmaking traditionally uses hardened sulfur-lead carbon steels that offer good machinability and very good mechanical properties, but which are magnetic. Non-magnetic alternatives are rare and generally more difficult to machine and offer poorer mechanical properties.
Il est également connu du document EP 1 696 153 des engrenages de précisions notamment pour pièces d'horlogeries réalisés en métal amorphe. Ce document concerne des engrenages coopérant ensemble par imbrication. On entend par là le fait d'avoir, pour deux engrenages coopérant ensembles, les dents de chaque engrenage qui entre dans l'espace inter-dentaire de l'autre engrenage. Un phénomène de poussée et de glissement des dents est donc présent pour faire tourner les engrenages. Ce phénomène de glissement implique d'avoir un matériau à la fois dur, résistant et ayant des surfaces bien lisses afin d'éviter les frottements provoquant des pertes de rendement et une usure prématurée.  It is also known from document EP 1 696 153 of precision gears, in particular for timepieces made of amorphous metal. This document relates to gears cooperating together by nesting. By this is meant to have, for two gears cooperating together, the teeth of each gear that enters the inter-dental space of the other gear. A phenomenon of thrust and sliding of the teeth is present to rotate the gears. This sliding phenomenon involves having a material that is both hard, resistant and having very smooth surfaces in order to avoid friction causing yield losses and premature wear.
Or, une roue d'échappement est différente d'une roue d'engrenage classique car elle ne fonctionne pas selon le même principe. Effectivement, une telle roue d'échappement est entraînée par le ressort de barillet et sa rotation est contrôlée par le système d'échappement qui, via le balancier spiral, l'ancre et les palettes, libère et stoppe de façon successive la rotation de ladite roue. Ainsi, après la phase de dégagement et d'impulsion, la dent de la roue d'échappement vient buter violemment contre le plan de repos de la palette de l'ancre. Ces chocs violents répétés à chaque impulsion impliquent une sollicitation très différente de la roue d'échappement en comparaison d'une roue d'engrenage. However, an escape wheel is different from a conventional gear wheel because it does not work according to the same principle. Indeed, such an escape wheel is driven by the mainspring and its rotation is controlled by the exhaust system which, via the balance spring, the anchor and the pallets, releases and stops successively rotation of said wheel. So, after the release and impulse phase, the tooth of the escape wheel abuts violently against the resting plane of the pallet of the anchor. These violent shocks repeated at each pulse imply a very different stress on the escape wheel in comparison with a gear wheel.
Une telle roue d'échappement doit donc être réalisée dans un matériau ayant une limite élastique élevée afin d'éviter toute déformation plastique lors de ces chocs répétés. De plus, lors de la phase d'impulsion, lorsque la dent de la roue d'échappement se trouve sur le plan d'impulsion de l'ancre, la roue doit transmettre un maximum d'énergie à l'ancre afin que cette dernière puisse la redonner au balancier. Il est donc important que le matériau utilisé pour la roue d'échappement ait un facteur de restitution énergétique aussi élevé que possible afin de minimiser les pertes et donc d'augmenter le rendement du système.  Such an escape wheel must therefore be made of a material having a high elastic limit in order to avoid any plastic deformation during these repeated impacts. In addition, during the impulse phase, when the tooth of the escape wheel is on the impulse plane of the anchor, the wheel must transmit a maximum of energy to the anchor so that the latter can give it back to the pendulum. It is therefore important that the material used for the escape wheel has as high a factor of energy restitution as possible in order to minimize the losses and thus to increase the efficiency of the system.
On comprend donc que l'homme du métier cherchant à réaliser une roue d'échappement ayant un meilleur rendement n'est pas incité à utiliser des documents concernant des engrenages classiques utilisant des matériaux dont les propriétés recherchées sont différentes de celles recherchées pour une roue d'échappement.  It will thus be understood that a person skilled in the art seeking to produce an exhaust wheel having a better efficiency is not encouraged to use documents relating to conventional gears using materials whose sought-after properties are different from those sought for a production wheel. 'exhaust.
RESUME DE L'INVENTION SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
L'invention a pour but de pallier les inconvénients de l'art antérieur en proposant de fournir un système d'échappement au rendement plus élevé et plus simple à réaliser.  The invention aims to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art by proposing to provide an exhaust system with higher efficiency and simpler to achieve.
A cet effet, l'invention concerne le système d'échappement cité ci- dessus qui se caractérise en ce qu'au moins une partie du système d'échappement est réalisé en un alliage métallique au moins partiellement amorphe.  For this purpose, the invention relates to the exhaust system cited above which is characterized in that at least a portion of the exhaust system is made of an at least partially amorphous metal alloy.
Un premier avantage de la présente invention est de permettre au système d'échappement d'avoir un meilleur facteur de restitution de l'énergie que les échappements actuels. Effectivement, un métal amorphe se caractérise par le fait que, lors de sa fabrication, les atomes composant ces matériaux amorphes ne s'arrangent pas selon une structure particulière comme c'est le cas pour les matériaux cristallins Ainsi, même si les modules d'Young E d'un métal cristallin et d'un métal amorphe sont sensiblement identiques, leurs limites élastiques σθ sont différentes. Un métal amorphe se différencie alors par une limite élastique σθΑ plus élevée que celle aec du métal cristallin d'un facteur de deux à trois. La limite élastique σθ est augmentée permettant d'augmenter le rapport σθ/Ε de sorte que la limite de contrainte au-delà de laquelle le matériau ne reprend pas sa forme initiale augmente, et surtout de sorte que l'énergie maximale pouvant être stockée et restituée élastiquement augmente. A first advantage of the present invention is to allow the exhaust system to have a better energy restitution factor than current exhausts. Actually, an amorphous metal is characterized by the fact that, during its manufacture, the atoms composing these amorphous materials do not arrange according to a particular structure as is the case for crystalline materials Thus, even if the Young's modules E of a crystalline metal and an amorphous metal are substantially identical, their elastic limits σ θ are different. An amorphous metal is then differentiated by an elastic limit σ θ Α higher than that a e c of the crystalline metal by a factor of two to three. The elastic limit σ θ is increased making it possible to increase the ratio σ θ / Ε so that the stress limit beyond which the material does not return to its initial shape increases, and especially so that the maximum energy that can be stored and restored elastically increases.
Un autre avantage de la présente invention est de permettre une grande facilité dans la mise en forme permettant l'élaboration de pièces aux formes compliquées avec une plus grande précision. En effet, les métaux amorphes ont la caractéristique particulière de se ramollir tout en restant amorphes durant un certain temps dans un intervalle de température [Tg - Tx] donné propre à chaque alliage (avec Tx : température de cristallisation et Tg : température de transition vitreuse). Il est ainsi possible de les mettre en forme sous une contrainte de pression relativement faible et à une température peu élevée permettant alors l'utilisation d'un procédé simplifié par rapport à un usinage et emboutissage. L'utilisation d'un tel matériau permet en outre, dans le cas d'une mise en forme par moulage, de reproduire très précisément des géométries fines car la viscosité de l'alliage diminue fortement en fonction de la température dans l'intervalle de température [Tg - Tx] et l'alliage épouse ainsi tous les détails d'un négatif. On entend par négatif, un moule qui présente en creux un profil complémentaire à celui du composant recherché. Il devient alors aisé de réaliser des designs complexes mais de façon précise.  Another advantage of the present invention is to allow great ease in shaping allowing the development of complicated shapes with greater precision. Indeed, the amorphous metals have the particular characteristic of softening while remaining amorphous for a certain time in a given temperature range [Tg - Tx] specific to each alloy (with Tx: crystallization temperature and Tg: glass transition temperature ). It is thus possible to shape them under a relatively low pressure stress and a low temperature then allowing the use of a simplified process compared to machining and stamping. The use of such a material also makes it possible, in the case of molding shaping, to reproduce very precisely fine geometries because the viscosity of the alloy decreases sharply as a function of the temperature in the range of temperature [Tg - Tx] and the alloy thus marries all the details of a negative. Negative means, a mold which has a hollow profile complementary to that of the desired component. It then becomes easy to make complex but precise designs.
Des modes de réalisation avantageux de ce système d'échappement font l'objet des revendications dépendantes. Dans un premier mode de réalisation avantageux, l'ancre est réalisée en un alliage métallique au moins partiellement amorphe. Advantageous embodiments of this exhaust system are the subject of the dependent claims. In a first advantageous embodiment, the anchor is made of an at least partially amorphous metal alloy.
Dans une variante du premier mode réalisation avantageux, une partie seulement de l'ancre, comme la fourchette par exemple, est réalisée en un alliage au moins partiellement amorphe.  In a variant of the first advantageous embodiment, only part of the anchor, such as the fork, is made of an at least partially amorphous alloy.
Dans un second mode de réalisation avantageux, les palettes de l'ancre sont réalisées en un alliage métallique au moins partiellement amorphe.  In a second advantageous embodiment, the pallets of the anchor are made of an at least partially amorphous metal alloy.
Dans un troisième mode de réalisation avantageux, les palettes de l'ancre et l'ancre forment une seule et même pièce.  In a third advantageous embodiment, the pallets of the anchor and the anchor form a single piece.
Dans un autre mode de réalisation avantageux, la roue d'échappement est réalisée en un alliage métallique au moins partiellement amorphe.  In another advantageous embodiment, the escape wheel is made of an at least partially amorphous metal alloy.
Dans un autre mode de réalisation avantageux, le plateau est réalisé en un alliage métallique au moins partiellement amorphe.  In another advantageous embodiment, the plate is made of an at least partially amorphous metal alloy.
Dans un autre mode de réalisation avantageux, au moins une partie du système d'échappement comprend des évidements afin de réduire le moment d'inertie de cette partie.  In another advantageous embodiment, at least a portion of the exhaust system comprises recesses to reduce the moment of inertia of this part.
Dans un autre mode de réalisation avantageux, les évidements sont traversants.  In another advantageous embodiment, the recesses are through.
Dans un autre mode de réalisation avantageux, au moins une partie du système d'échappement comprend des zones amincies afin de réduire le moment d'inertie de cette partie.  In another advantageous embodiment, at least a portion of the exhaust system comprises thinned zones in order to reduce the moment of inertia of this part.
Dans un autre mode de réalisation avantageux, ladite ancre, ladite roue d'échappement et ledit plateau sont réalisés en un alliage métallique au moins partiellement amorphe.  In another advantageous embodiment, said anchor, said escape wheel and said plate are made of an at least partially amorphous metal alloy.
Dans un autre mode de réalisation avantageux, le matériau est totalement amorphe. Dans un autre mode de réalisation avantageux, le matériau est totalement métallique In another advantageous embodiment, the material is totally amorphous. In another advantageous embodiment, the material is completely metallic
Dans un autre mode de réalisation avantageux, ledit alliage métallique est amagnétique.  In another advantageous embodiment, said metal alloy is non-magnetic.
BREVE DESCRIPTION DES FIGURES BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
Les buts, avantages et caractéristiques du système d'échappement selon la présente invention apparaîtront plus clairement dans la description détaillée suivante d'au moins une forme de réalisation de l'invention donnée uniquement à titre d'exemple non limitatif et illustrée par les dessins annexés sur lesquels :  The aims, advantages and characteristics of the exhaust system according to the present invention will appear more clearly in the following detailed description of at least one embodiment of the invention given solely by way of nonlimiting example and illustrated by the appended drawings. on which ones :
- les figures 1 et 2 représentent de manière schématique un système d'échappement de pièce d'horlogerie selon l'invention;  - Figures 1 and 2 show schematically a timepiece exhaust system according to the invention;
DESCRIPTION DETAILLEE DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Sur les figures 1 et 2 est représenté un système d'échappement 1 avec son résonateur 3, c'est à dire le balancier spiral. De manière habituelle, le résonateur 3 coopère avec le système d'échappement 1 à l'aide d'un plateau 5 monté sur l'axe de balancier. Le système d'échappement 1 comporte une ancre 7 suisse formée par une face principale (visible à la figure 1 ) en projection. L'ancre 7 suisse est principalement formée par une baguette 9 reliant la fourchette 1 1 et les bras 13. La fourchette 1 1 comporte deux cornes 15 en vis-à-vis sous lesquelles est monté un dard 17 afin de coopérer respectivement avec une goupille fixée sur ledit plateau 5 de l'axe de balancier et la partie basse dudit plateau 5.  In Figures 1 and 2 is shown an exhaust system 1 with its resonator 3, ie the balance spring. In the usual way, the resonator 3 cooperates with the exhaust system 1 by means of a plate 5 mounted on the balance shaft. The exhaust system 1 comprises a Swiss anchor 7 formed by a main face (visible in Figure 1) in projection. The Swiss anchor 7 is mainly formed by a rod 9 connecting the fork 1 1 and arms 13. The fork 1 1 has two horns 15 vis-à-vis under which is mounted a dart 17 to cooperate respectively with a pin fixed on said plate 5 of the balance shaft and the lower part of said plate 5.
La baguette 9 reçoit, entre les deux bras 13, une tige 19 destinée à monter en rotation l'ancre entre un pont et la platine du mouvement. Enfin, sur chaque bras 13, est ajustée une palette 21 destinée à entrer en contact avec la roue d'échappement 23 par l'intermédiaire de ses dents 25. Les palettes peuvent, à titre d'exemple, être formées en rubis synthétique. Bien entendu, la présente invention pourra être également utilisée pour l'échappement coaxial de type comme en horlogerie. The rod 9 receives, between the two arms 13, a rod 19 for rotating the anchor between a bridge and the plate of the movement. Finally, on each arm 13, is fitted a pallet 21 intended to come into contact with the escape wheel 23 via its teeth 25. The pallets may, for example, be formed in synthetic ruby. Of course, the present invention may also be used for the type coaxial escapement as in watchmaking.
Préférentiellement selon l'invention, au moins une partie du système d'échappement 1 c'est-à-dire le plateau 5 ou l'ancre 7 ou la roue d'échappement 23 est réalisé en un alliage métallique au moins partiellement amorphe. Cet alliage métallique peut contenir un élément métallique du type précieux tel que de l'or, du platine, du palladium, du rhénium, du ruthénium, du rhodium, de l'argent, de l'iridium ou de l'osmium. On comprendra par alliage métallique au moins partiellement amorphe que le matériau est apte à se solidifier au moins partiellement en phase amorphe.  Preferably according to the invention, at least a part of the exhaust system 1, that is to say the plate 5 or the anchor 7 or the escape wheel 23 is made of a metal alloy at least partially amorphous. This metal alloy may contain a precious metal element such as gold, platinum, palladium, rhenium, ruthenium, rhodium, silver, iridium or osmium. It will be understood by at least partially amorphous metal alloy that the material is able to solidify at least partially in the amorphous phase.
Bien entendu, on comprendra que, dans une réalisation particulière, toutes les parties du système d'échappement 1 sont réalisées en un alliage métallique au moins partiellement amorphe. Néanmoins, ces parties peuvent être réalisées en différents matériaux amorphes. De même, l'alliage métallique ou le métal peuvent être totalement amorphe.  Of course, it will be understood that, in a particular embodiment, all parts of the exhaust system 1 are made of an at least partially amorphous metal alloy. Nevertheless, these parts can be made of different amorphous materials. Likewise, the metal alloy or the metal may be totally amorphous.
I II peut être envisagé également qu'une partie seulement de l'ancre 7, comme la fourchette 1 1 par exemple, est réalisée en un alliage métallique au moins partiellement amorphe.  It can also be envisaged that only part of the anchor 7, such as the fork 11 for example, is made of an at least partially amorphous metal alloy.
De plus, il peut être envisagé que cet alliage métallique au moins partiellement amorphe soit amagnétique de sorte que ledit système d'échappement 1 soit insensible aux perturbations magnétiques extérieures.  In addition, it may be envisaged that this at least partially amorphous metal alloy is non-magnetic so that said exhaust system 1 is insensitive to external magnetic disturbances.
L'avantage des alliages métalliques amorphes vient du fait que, lors de leur fabrication, les atomes composant ces matériaux amorphes ne s'arrangent pas selon une structure particulière comme c'est le cas pour les matériaux cristallins. Ainsi, même si les modules d'Young E d'un métal cristallin et d'un métal amorphe sont sensiblement identiques, leurs limites élastiques σθ sont différentes. Un métal amorphe se différencie alors par une limite élastique σθΑ plus élevée que celle aec du métal cristallin d'un facteur sensiblement égal à deux. Une limite élastique plus élevée signifie donc qu'une pièce en alliage métallique amorphe ou métal amorphe se déforme plastiquement sous une contrainte plus élevée que la même pièce en métal cristallin. The advantage of amorphous metal alloys comes from the fact that, during their manufacture, the atoms composing these amorphous materials do not arrange in a particular structure as is the case for crystalline materials. Thus, even if the Young E moduli of a crystalline metal and an amorphous metal are substantially identical, their limits elastic σ θ are different. An amorphous metal is then differentiated by an elastic limit σ θ Α higher than that e e c of the crystalline metal by a factor substantially equal to two. A higher elastic limit therefore means that a piece of amorphous metal alloy or amorphous metal deforms plastically under a higher stress than the same piece of crystalline metal.
Or, les pertes d'un système d'échappement 1 sont liées aux frottements entre les palettes 21 de l'ancre 7 et les dents 25 de la roue d'échappement 23 lors de la phase d'entraînement et entre la cheville de plateau 5 et l'entrée de la fourchette et aux chocs entre les dents 25 de la roue d'échappement 23 et les palettes 21 de l'ancre 7 lors de la phase de chute.  However, the losses of an exhaust system 1 are related to the friction between the pallets 21 of the anchor 7 and the teeth 25 of the escape wheel 23 during the training phase and between the plate pin 5 and the entry of the fork and the shocks between the teeth 25 of the escape wheel 23 and the pallets 21 of the anchor 7 during the fall phase.
Les pertes liées aux chocs entre les dents 25 de la roue d'échappement 23 et les palettes 21 de l'ancre 7 lors de la phase de chute sont fonction de l'énergie cinétique. Cette énergie cinétique, accumulée lors du fonctionnement du système d'échappement 1 , est dépendante du moment d'inertie. Ce moment d'inertie est fonction de la masse et du rayon d'inertie. Dans le cas d'une roue d'échappement, plus celle-ci aura un grand diamètre ou plus la masse de cette roue 23 sera importante et plus le moment d'inertie de ladite roue 23 sera élevé. Cette augmentation du moment d'inertie a pour conséquence une augmentation de l'énergie cinétique de ladite roue d'échappement 23. Par conséquent, lors des chocs entre les dents 25 de la roue d'échappement 23 et les palettes 21 de l'ancre 7, lors de la phase de chute, l'énergie cinétique accumulée est dissipée sans être transmise. Ainsi, pour diminuer ces pertes, une diminution de l'énergie cinétique de la roue 23 est une solution. De ce fait, une diminution de la masse ou du diamètre de ladite roue d'échappement 23 entraîne une diminution du moment d'inertie et donc de l'énergie cinétique de ladite roue d'échappement 23.  The losses due to shocks between the teeth 25 of the escape wheel 23 and the pallets 21 of the anchor 7 during the fall phase are a function of the kinetic energy. This kinetic energy, accumulated during the operation of the exhaust system 1, is dependent on the moment of inertia. This moment of inertia is a function of the mass and the radius of inertia. In the case of an escape wheel, the greater it will have a large diameter or the greater the mass of the wheel 23 will be significant and the moment of inertia of said wheel 23 will be high. This increase in the moment of inertia results in an increase in the kinetic energy of said escape wheel 23. Consequently, during shocks between the teeth 25 of the escape wheel 23 and the pallets 21 of the anchor 7, during the fall phase, the accumulated kinetic energy is dissipated without being transmitted. Thus, to reduce these losses, a decrease in the kinetic energy of the wheel 23 is a solution. As a result, a decrease in the mass or diameter of said escape wheel 23 results in a reduction of the moment of inertia and thus of the kinetic energy of said escape wheel 23.
Une caractéristique importante du matériau utilisé pour la fabrication de telles pièces est donc de maximiser la résistance spécifique qui est définie par le rapport de la limite élastique sur la densité. Pour les alliages cristallins, la résistance spécifique maximale est de l'ordre de 200-250 MPa*cm3/g. Par contre, la résistance spécifique des alliages amorphes est de l'ordre de 300-400 MPa*cm3/g. An important characteristic of the material used for the manufacture of such pieces is thus to maximize the specific resistance which is defined by the ratio of the elastic limit to the density. For crystalline alloys, the maximum specific resistance is of the order of 200-250 MPa * cm 3 / g. On the other hand, the specific resistance of the amorphous alloys is of the order of 300-400 MPa * cm 3 / g.
II est ainsi possible, pour une géométrie de pièce et une résistance mécanique nécessaire données, d'utiliser un alliage amorphe ayant une densité inférieure à celle de l'alliage cristallin satisfaisant au même critère. En conséquence, le moment d'inertie du système sera diminué et son fonctionnement amélioré.  It is thus possible, for a given piece geometry and a required mechanical strength, to use an amorphous alloy having a density lower than that of the crystalline alloy satisfying the same criterion. As a result, the moment of inertia of the system will be decreased and its operation improved.
Une autre solution consiste à diminuer la masse de la pièce en retirant de la matière, préférentiellement dans les zones contribuant le plus au moment d'inertie, c'est-à-dire dans les parties les plus éloignées de l'axe de rotation de la pièce. Il est possible par exemple de réaliser des évidements 29, traversant ou non, et/ou de diminuer localement l'épaisseur 27 de la pièce. Pour compenser cette diminution de matière, un alliage amorphe ayant une résistance mécanique supérieure à l'alliage cristallin sera choisi. Etant donné la résistance spécifique avantageuse des alliages amorphes, la densité de l'alliage amorphe pourra être choisie égale voir légèrement inférieure à celle de l'alliage cristallin et en conséquence le moment d'inertie du système 1 sera diminué.  Another solution is to reduce the mass of the part by removing material, preferably in the areas contributing most to the moment of inertia, that is to say in the parts furthest from the axis of rotation of the room. It is possible, for example, to make recesses 29, crossing or not, and / or to locally reduce the thickness 27 of the part. To compensate for this decrease in material, an amorphous alloy having a mechanical strength greater than the crystalline alloy will be chosen. Given the advantageous specific resistance of the amorphous alloys, the density of the amorphous alloy may be chosen to be equal to or slightly less than that of the crystalline alloy and consequently the moment of inertia of the system 1 will be decreased.
Une troisième possibilité est de réduire les dimensions des éléments du système d'échappement 1 comme l'ancre 7 ou la roue 23 ou le plateau 5. En choisissant un alliage amorphe de résistance mécanique plus élevée que l'alliage cristallin utilisé pour les dimensions actuelles, cette diminution des dimensions et de la masse n'entraînent pas de baisse de la résistance mécanique du système d'échappement 1 . Toutefois, la résistance spécifique des alliages amorphes étant plus grande en comparaison des alliages cristallins, la densité de l'alliage amorphe choisi pourra être égale ou inférieure à celle de l'alliage cristallin utilisé pour la pièce standard, et en conséquence le moment d'inertie ainsi que l'encombrement du système 1 pourront être réduits. Préférentiellement, on choisira de diminuer la masse des parties du système d'échappement 1 qui sont en métal ou alliage métallique amorphe. Cela permet de garder le même encombrement qu'un système d'échappement 1 en matériau cristallin et donc de garder des dimensions standard tout en ayant une meilleure résistance aux contraintes. A third possibility is to reduce the dimensions of the elements of the exhaust system 1 such as the anchor 7 or the wheel 23 or the plate 5. By choosing an amorphous alloy of higher mechanical strength than the crystalline alloy used for the current dimensions this reduction in dimensions and mass does not lead to a decrease in the mechanical strength of the exhaust system 1. However, the specific resistance of the amorphous alloys being greater in comparison with the crystalline alloys, the density of the amorphous alloy chosen may be equal to or less than that of the crystalline alloy used for the standard part, and consequently the time of inertia as well as the congestion of the system 1 can be reduced. Preferably, it will be chosen to reduce the mass of the parts of the exhaust system 1 which are metal or amorphous metal alloy. This makes it possible to keep the same size as an exhaust system 1 made of crystalline material and thus to keep standard dimensions while having a better resistance to stresses.
Pour réaliser un tel système d'échappement en métal amorphe il est avantageux d'utiliser les propriétés du métal amorphe pour le mettre en forme. En effet, le métal amorphe permet une grande facilité dans la mise en forme permettant l'élaboration de pièces aux formes compliquées avec une plus grande précision. Cela est dû aux caractéristiques particulières du métal amorphe qui peut se ramollir tout en restant amorphe durant un certain temps dans un intervalle de température [Tg - Tx] donné propre à chaq ^ue alliag ae ( vpr-ar exemple pour un alliag ae Zr 41.24 Ti 13.75 Cu 12.5 Ni 10 Be 2_2.5 ,'To achieve such an amorphous metal exhaust system it is advantageous to use the properties of the amorphous metal to shape it. Indeed, the amorphous metal allows great ease in shaping allowing the development of complicated shapes with greater precision. This is due to the specific characteristics of the amorphous metal that can soften while remaining amorphous during a time in a temperature range [Tg - Tx] gave specific to CHAQ ^ ue ALLIAG ae (Vpr-ar example for ALLIAG has e Zr 4 1.24 13.75 Ti Cu 12.5 Ni 10 Be 2_2.5 '
Tg=350°C et Tx=460°C). Il est ainsi possible de les mettre en forme sous une contrainte relativement faible et à une température peu élevée permettant alors l'utilisation d'un procédé simplifié tel que le formage à chaud. L'utilisation d'un tel matériau permet en outre de reproduire très précisément des géométries fines car la viscosité de l'alliage diminue fortement en fonction de la température dans l'intervalle de température [Tg - Tx] et l'alliage épouse ainsi tous les détails du négatif. Par exemple, pour un matériau à base de platine, la mise en forme se fait aux alentours de 300 °C pour une viscosité atteignant 103 Pa.s pour une contrainte de 1 MPa, au lieu d'une viscosité de 1012 Pa.s à la température Tg. L'utilisation de matrices a pour avantage la création de pièces en trois dimensions de grande précision, ce que le découpage ou l'étampage ne permettent pas d'obtenir. Tg = 350 ° C and Tx = 460 ° C). It is thus possible to shape them under a relatively low stress and at a low temperature then allowing the use of a simplified process such as hot forming. The use of such a material also makes it possible to reproduce fine geometries very precisely because the viscosity of the alloy decreases sharply as a function of the temperature in the temperature range [Tg-Tx] and the alloy thus allies the details of the negative. For example, for a platinum-based material, the shaping is done around 300 ° C for a viscosity up to 10 3 Pa.s for a stress of 1 MPa, instead of a viscosity of 10 12 Pa. s at temperature Tg. The use of dies has the advantage of creating highly accurate three-dimensional parts, which can not be cut or stamped.
Un procédé utilisé est le formage à chaud d'une préforme amorphe. Cette préforme est obtenue par fusion des éléments métalliques destinés à constituer l'alliage amorphe dans un four. Une fois ces éléments fondus, ils sont coulés sous forme de produit semi-fini, puis refroidis rapidement afin de conserver l'état au moins partiellement amorphe. Une fois la préforme réalisée, le formage à chaud est réalisé dans le but d'obtenir une pièce définitive. Ce formage à chaud est réalisé par pressage dans une gamme de température comprise entre sa température de transition vitreuse Tg et sa température de cristallisation Tx durant un temps déterminé pour conserver une structure totalement ou partiellement amorphe. Ceci est fait dans le but de conserver les propriétés élastiques caractéristiques des métaux amorphes. One method used is the hot forming of an amorphous preform. This preform is obtained by melting the metal elements intended to constitute the amorphous alloy in a furnace. Once these elements are melted, they are cast as a semi-finished product, then cooled rapidly to maintain the at least partially amorphous state. Once the preform realized, the hot forming is carried out in order to obtain a final piece. This hot forming is performed by pressing in a temperature range between its glass transition temperature Tg and its crystallization temperature Tx for a predetermined time to maintain a totally or partially amorphous structure. This is done in order to maintain the characteristic elastic properties of the amorphous metals.
Typiquement pour l'alliage Zr41 .2Ti13.8Cu12.5Ni10Be22.5 et pour une température de 440 °C, le temps de pressage ne devra pas dépasser 120 secondes environ. Ainsi, le formage à chaud permet de conserver l'état au moins partiellement amorphe initial de la préforme. Les différentes étapes de mise en forme définitive d'un élément du système d'échappement sont alors :  Typically for alloy Zr41 .2Ti13.8Cu12.5Ni10Be22.5 and for a temperature of 440 ° C, the pressing time should not exceed 120 seconds. Thus, hot forming makes it possible to maintain the at least partially initial amorphous state of the preform. The different stages of definitive formatting of an element of the exhaust system are then:
a) Chauffage des matrices ayant la forme négative de l'élément du système d'échappement 1 jusqu'à une température choisie b) Introduction de la préforme en métal amorphe entre les matrices chaudes,  a) Heating the dies having the negative form of the element of the exhaust system 1 to a chosen temperature b) Introduction of the amorphous metal preform between the hot dies,
c) Application d'une force de fermeture sur les matrices afin de répliquer la géométrie de ces dernières sur la préforme en métal amorphe,  c) applying a closing force on the matrices in order to replicate the geometry of the latter on the amorphous metal preform,
d) Attente durant un temps maximal choisi,  d) Waiting for a chosen maximum time,
e) Ouverture des matrices,  e) Opening of the matrices,
f) Refroidissement rapide de l'élément du système d'échappement en dessous de Tg de sorte que le matériau garde son état au moins partiellement amorphe, et g) Sortie de l'élément du système d'échappement 1 des matrices. f) Fast cooling of the exhaust system element below Tg so that the material keeps its at least partially amorphous state, and g) Exit of the exhaust system element 1 of the dies.
Ces caractéristiques de facilité de mise en forme, de précision de la pièce obtenue et de très bonne reproductibilité sont ainsi très utiles pour la réalisation des épaisseurs variables et des évidements. Cette facilité de mise en forme permet également de réaliser des pièces complexes facilement comme par exemple le plateau 5 du système d'échappement 1 avec sa goupille. These characteristics of ease of formatting, accuracy of the part obtained and very good reproducibility are thus very useful for the realization of variable thicknesses and recesses. This facility formatting also makes it possible to produce complex parts easily, such as, for example, the plate 5 of the exhaust system 1 with its pin.
De surcroît, la possibilité de mettre facilement en forme des pièces complexes permet justement de pouvoir réaliser des designs compliqués. Or, ceci peut être intéressant pour la mise en forme des dents de la roue d'échappement et la mise en forme de l'ancre de façon à améliorer la coopération entre la roue d'échappement et l'ancre.  In addition, the ability to easily shape complex parts makes it possible to perform complicated designs. However, this can be interesting for shaping the teeth of the escape wheel and the shaping of the anchor so as to improve the cooperation between the escape wheel and the anchor.
On comprendra que diverses modifications et/ou améliorations et/ou combinaisons évidentes pour l'homme du métier peuvent être apportées aux différents modes de réalisation de l'invention exposée ci-dessus sans sortir du cadre de l'invention définie par les revendications annexées.  It will be understood that various modifications and / or improvements and / or combinations obvious to those skilled in the art can be made to the various embodiments of the invention set out above without departing from the scope of the invention defined by the appended claims.
Bien entendu, on comprendra que les éléments du système d'échappement peuvent être réalisés par coulée ou par injection. Ce procédé consiste à couler l'alliage obtenu par fusion des éléments métalliques dans un moule possédant la forme de la pièce définitive. Une fois le moule rempli, celui-ci est refroidi rapidement jusqu'à une température inférieure à Tg afin d'éviter la cristallisation de l'alliage et ainsi obtenir un système 1 en métal amorphe ou partiellement amorphe. Of course, it will be understood that the elements of the exhaust system can be made by casting or injection. This process involves casting the alloy obtained by melting the metal elements in a mold having the shape of the final piece. Once the mold is filled, it is rapidly cooled to a temperature below T g in order to avoid the crystallization of the alloy and thus obtain a system 1 of amorphous or partially amorphous metal.
Bien entendu, on peut également imaginer que les palettes 21 de l'ancre 7 soient réalisées en métal ou alliage amorphe. Ces palettes 21 peuvent ne former qu'une seule et même pièce avec ladite ancre ou être surmoulées après fabrication de l'ancre 7. Il devient alors envisageable que les palettes 21 et l'ancre 7 soient en métal ou alliage amorphe mais différents l'un de l'autre.  Of course, one can also imagine that the pallets 21 of the anchor 7 are made of metal or amorphous alloy. These pallets 21 can form one and the same piece with said anchor or be overmolded after manufacture of the anchor 7. It then becomes possible that the pallets 21 and the anchor 7 are made of metal or amorphous alloy but different from each other. one of the other.

Claims

REVENDICATIONS
1 . Système d'échappement comportant une ancre (7) munie d'une fourchette (1 1 ) destinée à coopérer avec une cheville montée sur un plateau (5), et d'une baguette (9) comportant des bras (13) destinés à recevoir des palettes (21 ) afin de coopérer avec au moins une roue d'échappement (23), caractérisé en ce qu'au moins une partie du système d'échappement est réalisée en un alliage métallique au moins partiellement amorphe. 1. An escapement system comprising an anchor (7) provided with a fork (1 1) intended to cooperate with an anchor mounted on a plate (5), and a rod (9) comprising arms (13) intended to receive pallets (21) for cooperating with at least one escape wheel (23), characterized in that at least a portion of the exhaust system is made of an at least partially amorphous metal alloy.
2. Système d'échappement selon la revendication 1 , caractérisé en ce que l'ancre (7) est réalisée en un alliage métallique au moins partiellement amorphe.  2. Exhaust system according to claim 1, characterized in that the anchor (7) is made of an at least partially amorphous metal alloy.
3. Système d'échappement selon les revendications 1 ou 2, caractérisé en ce que les palettes (21 ) de l'ancre (7) sont réalisées en un alliage métallique au moins partiellement amorphe.  3. Exhaust system according to claims 1 or 2, characterized in that the pallets (21) of the anchor (7) are made of a metal alloy at least partially amorphous.
4. Système d'échappement selon les revendications 1 ou 2 ou 3, caractérisé en ce que les palettes (21 ) de l'ancre et l'ancre (7) forment une seule et même pièce.  4. Exhaust system according to claims 1 or 2 or 3, characterized in that the pallets (21) of the anchor and the anchor (7) form a single piece.
5. Système d'échappement selon l'une des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que la roue d'échappement (23) est réalisée en un alliage métallique au moins partiellement amorphe.  5. Exhaust system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the escape wheel (23) is made of a metal alloy at least partially amorphous.
6. Système d'échappement selon l'une des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que le plateau (5) est réalisé en un alliage métallique au moins partiellement amorphe.  6. Exhaust system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the plate (5) is made of a metal alloy at least partially amorphous.
7. Système d'échappement selon l'une des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce qu'au moins une partie du système d'échappement comprend des évidements (29) afin de réduire le moment d'inertie de cette partie. 7. Exhaust system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least a portion of the exhaust system comprises recesses (29) to reduce the moment of inertia of this part.
8. Système d'échappement selon la revendication 7, caractérisé en ce que les évidements sont traversants. 8. Exhaust system according to claim 7, characterized in that the recesses are through.
9. Système d'échappement selon l'une des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce qu'au moins une partie du système d'échappement comprend des zones amincies (27) afin de réduire le moment d'inertie de cette partie.  9. Exhaust system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least a portion of the exhaust system comprises thinned areas (27) to reduce the moment of inertia of this part.
10. Système d'échappement selon l'une des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que ladite ancre (7), ladite roue d'échappement (23) et ledit plateau (5) sont réalisés en un alliage métallique au moins partiellement amorphe.  10. Exhaust system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said anchor (7), said escape wheel (23) and said plate (5) are made of a metal alloy at least partially amorphous.
1 1 . Système d'échappement selon l'une des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que le matériau est totalement amorphe.  1 1. Exhaust system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the material is totally amorphous.
12. Système d'échappement selon l'une des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que le matériau est totalement métallique 13. Système d'échappement selon l'une des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que ledit alliage métallique est amagnétique.  12. Exhaust system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the material is completely metal 13. Exhaust system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said metal alloy is non-magnetic.
EP11726830.0A 2010-06-22 2011-06-22 Escapement system for a timepiece Active EP2585876B1 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

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EP10166938A EP2400352A1 (en) 2010-06-22 2010-06-22 Escapement system for a timepiece
PCT/EP2011/060511 WO2011161193A1 (en) 2010-06-22 2011-06-22 Escapement system for timepiece
EP11726830.0A EP2585876B1 (en) 2010-06-22 2011-06-22 Escapement system for a timepiece

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EP2585876A1 true EP2585876A1 (en) 2013-05-01
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US (1) US20130148480A1 (en)
EP (2) EP2400352A1 (en)
JP (1) JP5657107B2 (en)
CN (2) CN103026303A (en)
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WO (1) WO2011161193A1 (en)

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Also Published As

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CN103026303A (en) 2013-04-03
US20130148480A1 (en) 2013-06-13
CN105319939A (en) 2016-02-10
JP2013529779A (en) 2013-07-22
HK1219545A1 (en) 2017-04-07
EP2400352A1 (en) 2011-12-28
CN105319939B (en) 2018-02-13
WO2011161193A1 (en) 2011-12-29
JP5657107B2 (en) 2015-01-21
EP2585876B1 (en) 2021-02-17

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