EP2645189B1 - Flexible escapement mechanism - Google Patents

Flexible escapement mechanism Download PDF

Info

Publication number
EP2645189B1
EP2645189B1 EP12162030.6A EP12162030A EP2645189B1 EP 2645189 B1 EP2645189 B1 EP 2645189B1 EP 12162030 A EP12162030 A EP 12162030A EP 2645189 B1 EP2645189 B1 EP 2645189B1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
balance
flexible
escape wheel
stud
pin
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Active
Application number
EP12162030.6A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP2645189A1 (en
Inventor
Marc Stranczl
Thierry Hessler
Andres Cabezas-Jurin
Davide Sarchi
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.)
Nivarox Far SA
Nivarox SA
Original Assignee
Nivarox Far SA
Nivarox SA
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Priority to CH00442/12A priority Critical patent/CH706274B1/en
Application filed by Nivarox Far SA, Nivarox SA filed Critical Nivarox Far SA
Priority to EP12162030.6A priority patent/EP2645189B1/en
Priority to RU2014143454A priority patent/RU2606342C2/en
Priority to PCT/EP2013/056577 priority patent/WO2013144236A1/en
Priority to CN201380017783.8A priority patent/CN104204966B/en
Priority to PCT/EP2013/056579 priority patent/WO2013144237A1/en
Priority to EP13713421.9A priority patent/EP2831676B1/en
Priority to CN201380018185.2A priority patent/CN104220941B/en
Priority to PCT/EP2013/056581 priority patent/WO2013144238A1/en
Priority to RU2014143453A priority patent/RU2607339C9/en
Priority to CN201380018152.8A priority patent/CN104220940B/en
Priority to KR1020147028155A priority patent/KR101676148B1/en
Priority to JP2015502334A priority patent/JP5918438B2/en
Priority to US14/389,012 priority patent/US9075394B2/en
Priority to EP13716231.9A priority patent/EP2831677B1/en
Priority to JP2015502335A priority patent/JP6034949B2/en
Priority to JP2015502336A priority patent/JP5918439B2/en
Priority to US14/388,641 priority patent/US9304493B2/en
Priority to US14/384,261 priority patent/US9207640B2/en
Publication of EP2645189A1 publication Critical patent/EP2645189A1/en
Priority to HK15105442.6A priority patent/HK1205284A1/en
Priority to HK15105665.6A priority patent/HK1205288A1/en
Priority to HK15105660.1A priority patent/HK1205287A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP2645189B1 publication Critical patent/EP2645189B1/en
Active legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

Links

Images

Classifications

    • GPHYSICS
    • G04HOROLOGY
    • G04BMECHANICALLY-DRIVEN CLOCKS OR WATCHES; MECHANICAL PARTS OF CLOCKS OR WATCHES IN GENERAL; TIME PIECES USING THE POSITION OF THE SUN, MOON OR STARS
    • G04B15/00Escapements
    • G04B15/14Component parts or constructional details, e.g. construction of the lever or the escape wheel
    • GPHYSICS
    • G04HOROLOGY
    • G04BMECHANICALLY-DRIVEN CLOCKS OR WATCHES; MECHANICAL PARTS OF CLOCKS OR WATCHES IN GENERAL; TIME PIECES USING THE POSITION OF THE SUN, MOON OR STARS
    • G04B15/00Escapements
    • GPHYSICS
    • G04HOROLOGY
    • G04BMECHANICALLY-DRIVEN CLOCKS OR WATCHES; MECHANICAL PARTS OF CLOCKS OR WATCHES IN GENERAL; TIME PIECES USING THE POSITION OF THE SUN, MOON OR STARS
    • G04B15/00Escapements
    • G04B15/02Escapements permanently in contact with the regulating mechanism
    • GPHYSICS
    • G04HOROLOGY
    • G04BMECHANICALLY-DRIVEN CLOCKS OR WATCHES; MECHANICAL PARTS OF CLOCKS OR WATCHES IN GENERAL; TIME PIECES USING THE POSITION OF THE SUN, MOON OR STARS
    • G04B15/00Escapements
    • G04B15/06Free escapements
    • GPHYSICS
    • G04HOROLOGY
    • G04BMECHANICALLY-DRIVEN CLOCKS OR WATCHES; MECHANICAL PARTS OF CLOCKS OR WATCHES IN GENERAL; TIME PIECES USING THE POSITION OF THE SUN, MOON OR STARS
    • G04B15/00Escapements
    • G04B15/06Free escapements
    • G04B15/08Lever escapements
    • GPHYSICS
    • G04HOROLOGY
    • G04BMECHANICALLY-DRIVEN CLOCKS OR WATCHES; MECHANICAL PARTS OF CLOCKS OR WATCHES IN GENERAL; TIME PIECES USING THE POSITION OF THE SUN, MOON OR STARS
    • G04B15/00Escapements
    • G04B15/10Escapements with constant impulses for the regulating mechanism
    • GPHYSICS
    • G04HOROLOGY
    • G04BMECHANICALLY-DRIVEN CLOCKS OR WATCHES; MECHANICAL PARTS OF CLOCKS OR WATCHES IN GENERAL; TIME PIECES USING THE POSITION OF THE SUN, MOON OR STARS
    • G04B15/00Escapements
    • G04B15/12Adjusting; Restricting the amplitude of the lever or the like
    • GPHYSICS
    • G04HOROLOGY
    • G04BMECHANICALLY-DRIVEN CLOCKS OR WATCHES; MECHANICAL PARTS OF CLOCKS OR WATCHES IN GENERAL; TIME PIECES USING THE POSITION OF THE SUN, MOON OR STARS
    • G04B17/00Mechanisms for stabilising frequency
    • G04B17/04Oscillators acting by spring tension
    • G04B17/045Oscillators acting by spring tension with oscillating blade springs

Definitions

  • the invention relates to an escapement mechanism for movement or timepiece, said mechanism comprising a fixed structure, at least one balance and at least one escape wheel, and a one-piece flexible mechanism arranged for transmission of pulses between said at least one rocker and said at least one escape wheel, said one-piece flexible mechanism comprising at least one flexible blade which connects said monobloc flexible mechanism to said fixed structure or to said at least one escape wheel, wherein said flexible mechanism monoblock comprises at least one probe cooperating with said at least one escape wheel or respectively said at least one balance
  • the invention also relates to a watch movement comprising at least one such mechanism.
  • the invention relates to a timepiece comprising at least one such mechanism, and / or at least one such watch movement.
  • the invention relates to the field of watch mechanisms, and in particular exhaust mechanisms.
  • Watchmaking performance requires high-precision movements with minimal footprint and fewer components to control production, assembly and tuning costs.
  • "LIGA” or “DRIE” technologies make it possible to produce flexible and precise components, and to completely call into question traditional architectures, characterized by a large number of components and delicate adjustments.
  • the document WO2011 / 120180 A1 ROLEX SA describes an anchor type blocker, with two arms each provided with a pallet to attack the same gear wheel, with two elastic arms connecting this blocker to a chassis allowing its pivoting, and a third elastic element substantially bistable.
  • the document EP 2,037,335 A2 ENZLER & VON GUNTEN describes a monobloc anchor, Swiss anchor type, with two arms each provided with a pallet, and having arms constituted by flexible blades connected to a structure and defining a dummy pivot.
  • the document EP 2 450 755 A1 NIVAROX discloses an escapement wheel for a clockwork mechanism comprising, coaxially and synchronously pivotally about a pivot axis, a plurality of toothed wheels having at least a first gear wheel pulse in a first pulse plane and at least a second release gear in a second stop plane parallel or coincident with the first pulse plane.
  • the second release gear comprises at least one moving element which comprises, on the one hand, at least one release tooth movable radially with respect to the pivot axis and biased towards an equilibrium position by first return means, and on the other hand at least one rest tooth biased in a first radial direction to an abutment position by second return means.
  • the release tooth comprises drive means arranged for, when the release tooth moves in a second radial direction opposite the first radial direction, cooperate with complementary drive means that includes the rest tooth to drive the tooth of rest in the second radial direction.
  • the drive means when the release tooth moves in the first radial direction, are arranged to move away from the complementary drive means without driving the rest tooth.
  • the document EP 2 105 806 A1 GIRARD PERREGAUX SA describes a deformable frame defining two orthogonal axes, comprising a buckling leaf spring in its largest dimension and arranged to restore energy during changes in shape of the bistable blade.
  • the document CH 60 813 A SHORTILL describes an anchor escapement whose escape wheel comprises, on either side of its flange, an alternation of teeth cooperating with pallets of anchor mounted in opposition and facing each other.
  • the document EP 1 967 919 A1 ETA SA describes a tangential pulse exhaust comprising a mobile ring frame, comprising vanes arranged to cooperate with teeth of an escape wheel located inside this ring.
  • the invention proposes to overcome the limitations of known architectures, by proposing compact mechanisms, of small thickness, and economic to produce.
  • the invention relates to an escapement mechanism for movement or timepiece, said mechanism comprising a fixed structure, at least one balance and at least one escape wheel, and a flexible monobloc mechanism arranged for transmission pulses between said at least one balance and said at least one escape wheel, said one-piece flexible mechanism comprising at least one flexible blade which connects said one-piece flexible mechanism to said fixed structure or to said at least one escape wheel, wherein said one-piece flexible mechanism comprises at least one probe cooperating with said at least one escape wheel or said at least one balance, characterized in that said mechanism comprises a spiral spring arranged to maintain the oscillation and which ends with a pin (arranged to move during operation, and which pin is guided by a flexible guide, with said flexible blades, said pin receiving a peg arranged to be housed in a cam path that includes said escape wheel, and characterized in that said peg is subjected to a force exerted on said hairspring, which force tending, during oscillations, to move said peg relative to its rest position and printing said peg pin
  • said balance has no trays.
  • said pin is guided by a flexible guide, with flexible blades, in a rotational movement.
  • said pin is guided by a flexible guide, with flexible blades, in a rotational movement whose center of rotation corresponds to the axis of said balance.
  • said escape wheel is devoid of teeth but includes said cam path.
  • said peg pin blocks the pivoting of said escape wheel, said pin being held by said hairspring, when the balance and the peg are in the rest position, during the clockwise rotation of the balance, just after the passage through the rest position of the hairspring, said pin is driven by the balance, and said pin is releases its rest in said escape wheel, and a counterclockwise pulse reloads said hairspring, and when the pendulum is at the end of the hourly stroke, said peg pin, once arrived at a next rest point on said escape wheel stays there, being held by the pendulum in the opposite direction.
  • the invention also relates to a watch movement comprising at least one such mechanism.
  • the invention relates to a timepiece comprising at least one such mechanism, and / or at least one such watch movement.
  • These flexible zones can be used to carry out guidance, especially pivoting, and / or to achieve elastic return means.
  • flexible guides are termed linear or rotary guides comprising one or more flexible blades.
  • Their advantages are numerous, and one will quote in particular: precision, absence of friction, absence of hysteresis, absence of wear, no need of lubrication, absence of seizing, monolithic manufacture.
  • the most frequent limitations are: limitation of displacements, weak intensity of forces or restoring torques, sometimes complex kinematics, limitation of the supported load.
  • the Figures 1 to 4 illustrate such flexible guides. They are linear on the Figures 1 and 2 where a movable mass 11 is suspended relative to a fixed anchor 12 by means of a set of spring blades 13 substantially parallel to each other interposed, on the one hand between the fixed anchor 12 and an intermediate mass 14, and on the other hand between the intermediate mass 14 and the moving mass 11, the figure 1 represents the system at rest, and the figure 2 under stress exerted on the moving mass; the linear displacement of the intermediate mass 14 is here half of the displacement of the moving mass 11.
  • Figures 3 and 4 at rest and under stress, illustrate a similarly constructed rotary guide, but where the blades 33 develop radially about a virtual pivot axis A; the angular displacement of the intermediate mass 34 is half of the displacement of the mobile mass 31.
  • the flexible guides can be modified to have a zero rigidity or to have a bistable state in the case of a component working in buckling under the action of forces exerted on both sides of an average direction, either side of which this component can occupy two different stable states.
  • a first watch application relates to a bistable flexible pivot 50, as visible on the figure 5 , and which can be implemented as guidance of an anchor, or Swiss anchor, or another watchmaking element.
  • the application of a force F on the flexible pivot 50, at a moving mass 51 creates a bistable behavior.
  • This force can be created by a flexible spring.
  • sets of radial spring blades 53 connect in pairs a fixed anchor 52, an intermediate mass 54, and the moving mass 51. It can be seen that the virtual pivot axis A and the moving mass 51 can, as required, be on the same side of the fixed anchor as on the figure 3 , either side of it as on the figure 5 .
  • FIG. 6 Another application visible on the figure 6 relates to a centering means 60, in particular made of silicon or the like, acting as a stone for centering an axis 61, with a plurality of elastic fingers 62.
  • a centering means 60 in particular made of silicon or the like, acting as a stone for centering an axis 61, with a plurality of elastic fingers 62.
  • Such a flexible element makes it possible to overcome the problem of lashes in the pivots.
  • Such flexible centering fingers 62, in particular silicon are not strictly speaking flexible guides because they are in constant friction with the axis 61 which they ensure the centering.
  • stops 63 makes it possible to avoid any breakage of the flexible elements 62.
  • the invention is applicable to an escapement mechanism 100 for movement 900 or timepiece 1000 comprising at least one balance wheel 300 and at least one escape wheel 400.
  • the transmission of pulses between said at least one balance wheel 300 and said at least one escape wheel 400 is carried out by a one-piece flexible mechanism 500.
  • This one-piece flexible mechanism 500 comprises at least one probe 600 for cooperation with said at least one escape wheel 400 or respectively said at least one rocker 300.
  • This one-piece flexible mechanism 500 is connected by at least one flexible blade 700, or preferably by a plurality of flexible blades constituting elastic return means, to a fixed structure 800 of said timepiece 1000, or respectively to said at least one escape wheel 400.
  • the anchor 70 comprises a rod 71 provided with a fork 72 with dart (not shown in the figures) similar to a Swiss anchor.
  • the anchor 70 has a flexible rod 73 which pivots at 74 and is guided at 75 (rotation and vertical translation). A displacement ⁇ x of the guidance at 75 induces a permanent bistable state.
  • anchor 70 cooperates with a two-level escapement wheel, represented here only by pins 77, 78, it comprises on these two respective levels.
  • An anchor 76 on a second level of the anchor 70, allows the escape wheel to move the anchor 70 close to its tipping point.
  • the stroke of the anchor 70 is limited by pins or limit stops 79, 80.
  • the pendulum and the small and large trays, not shown, are similar to those of a classic Swiss anchor.
  • the figure 10 is a descriptive graph of the potential energy variation of the mechanism, where the flexible anchor 70 is represented by a ball 81 which rolls on a bump of potential energy 82. The stroke is limited by the pins 79 and 80. The operation is explained for a movement in the direction S1 of the fork 72, corresponding to the direction S2 of the flexible rod 73, according to the different intermediate states represented on the figure 9 and symbolized on the figure 10 .
  • Step P1 corresponds to the recharge of the constant force. This state is of very short duration, because the escape wheel pushes, via its pegs, to the position P2, where the anchor 70 is just before the bistable tilting point.
  • the passage from the P2 position to the P3 position corresponds to the release of the anchor 70.
  • the pendulum plate pin rocker the anchor 70 on the other side of the bistable state.
  • the passage from the position P3 to the position P4 corresponds to the impulse phase of the anchor 70 on the balance: the rod 73 of the anchor 70 carries out the pulse with a constant force; indeed, only the energy stored in the rod 73 is restored.
  • the transition from the P4 position to the P5 position corresponds to the release of the escape wheel: the anchor rod 73 ends to bend, and it emerges from the escape wheel, this without influencing the movement of the pendulum which is already free.
  • the system can not create a pulse during an impact because the sting, not shown in the figures, prevents overturning.
  • the system has all the security features of a Swiss lever escapement.
  • This mechanism 110 comprises a movable frame 111 articulated by flexible blades 113 relative to fixed anchors 112.
  • the movable frame 111 comprises a load spring giving it a zero rigidity, as described above.
  • This mobile frame 111 which is the equivalent of an anchor, carries a fork 114 with horns 115 and a dart 116.
  • This fork 114 is similar to that of a Swiss anchor, with all the anti-rebate and anti-gallop security.
  • An escape wheel 118 has teeth 118A, B, C, D, arranged at 90 ° from each other, which can cooperate with teeth 118A, B, C, D, of the movable frame 111, also arranged at 90 °. each other.
  • the pendulum and the small and large trays are similar to those of a classic Swiss anchor.
  • a tooth 119A of the movable frame 111 releases recessively the escape wheel 118, and the tooth 118B of the escape wheel 118, substantially at right angle of the tooth 119A, performs a tangential pulse on the movable frame 111 of the anchor at a tooth 119B.
  • the tooth 118C of the escape wheel is stopped by the corresponding tooth 119C on the anchor.
  • the pulse cycle reproduces similarly with teeth 118D and 119D.
  • a larger load of the flexible blades 113 can create a bistable system.
  • the position of the pulse tooth 118B with respect to the tooth 119A can bring the anchor close to the instability, similarly to the position P2 on the figure 9 .
  • the anchor 111 provides a pulse via the escape wheel 118 and the energy stored in the flexible blades 113.
  • the system has all the safety features of the Swiss lever escapement.
  • the figure 12 represents a spiral escapement mechanism 120 according to the invention, claimed.
  • the principle of servicing and regulating the oscillator of this exhaust is very different from the conventional approach.
  • the pendulum is no longer equipped with trays and the maintenance of the oscillation is carried out via the stud and the hairspring.
  • the spiral spring 121 spiral ends with a pin 122, which is movable during operation.
  • This stud 122 is guided by a flexible guide 123, with flexible blades 124, and whose center of rotation 125 corresponds to the axis of the balance.
  • On this pin 122 is fixed ankle 127.
  • the escape wheel 126 has no teeth but a path 128, or cam, which is housed the peg pin 127, as visible on the figure 13 .
  • This path 128 comprises a succession of ramps 128A, 128B, oblique with respect to the radial of the escape wheel, separated by rest positions, and having the appearance of a toothed wheel centered on the axis of the wheel of exhaust, the ramps 128A and 128B being alternately increasing and decreasing when one traverses the periphery of the escape wheel 126.
  • the pendulum no longer has a plateau, and is therefore greatly simplified.
  • the Figures 14 and 15 illustrate an escapement without anchor 140.
  • the rocker 141 comprises a plate with a pin 142.
  • the plate has two pins / stops 143 and 144.
  • An escape wheel 145 has a plurality of teeth 146.
  • Each tooth 146 performs the function of a small anchor, and includes a mini-anchor 147:
  • Each mini-anchor 147 comprises an anchor pin 148 guided by flexible blades 149. This anchor pin 148 can be actuated by a small lever 150.
  • Each tooth 146 also comprises a Pulse plane 151.
  • the escape wheel mechanism is at two levels: a low level carries the anchor pins 148, and corresponds to the level at which the platen pins / stops 143 and 144 are disposed, while high level carries the escapement wheel structure 145 and the levers 150.
  • the operation is explained on a tooth 146 of the escape wheel 145 just after a pulse, the rocker 141 starting a time shift.
  • the plate pin 142 rotates the mini-anchor 147, which passes from the position PB to the position PA of the figure 15 , and disengages from the first pin / stop plate 143.
  • the escape wheel 146 advances a very small angle until the anchor pin 146 of the mini-anchor 147 abuts against the second pin / stop platinum 144.
  • the invention further relates to a watch movement 900 comprising the flexible mechanism described above with reference to the figures 12 and 13 , and in particular comprising a fixed structure 800 and at least one such mechanism 100.
  • the invention also relates to a timepiece 1000, in particular a watch, comprising at least one such clockwork movement 900, and / or at least one of the flexible mechanisms described above, in particular having a fixed structure 800 and at least one such a mechanism 100.

Landscapes

  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Micromachines (AREA)

Description

Domaine de l'inventionField of the invention

L'invention concerne un mécanisme d'échappement pour mouvement ou pièce d'horlogerie, ledit mécanisme comportant une structure fixe, au moins un balancier et au moins une roue d'échappement, et un mécanisme flexible monobloc agencé pour la transmission d'impulsions entre ledit au moins un balancier et ladite au moins une roue d'échappement, ledit mécanisme flexible monobloc comportant au moins une lame flexible qui relie ledit mécanisme flexible monobloc à ladite structure fixe ou à ladite au moins une roue d'échappement, où ledit mécanisme flexible monobloc comporte au moins un palpeur de coopération avec ladite au moins une roue d'échappement ou respectivement ledit au moins un balancierThe invention relates to an escapement mechanism for movement or timepiece, said mechanism comprising a fixed structure, at least one balance and at least one escape wheel, and a one-piece flexible mechanism arranged for transmission of pulses between said at least one rocker and said at least one escape wheel, said one-piece flexible mechanism comprising at least one flexible blade which connects said monobloc flexible mechanism to said fixed structure or to said at least one escape wheel, wherein said flexible mechanism monoblock comprises at least one probe cooperating with said at least one escape wheel or respectively said at least one balance

L'invention concerne encore un mouvement d'horlogerie comportant au moins un tel mécanisme.The invention also relates to a watch movement comprising at least one such mechanism.

L'invention concerne une pièce d'horlogerie comportant au moins un tel mécanisme, ou/et au moins un tel mouvement d'horlogerie.The invention relates to a timepiece comprising at least one such mechanism, and / or at least one such watch movement.

L'invention concerne le domaine des mécanismes d'horlogerie, et en particulier des mécanismes d'échappement.The invention relates to the field of watch mechanisms, and in particular exhaust mechanisms.

Arrière-plan de l'inventionBackground of the invention

La performance horlogère requiert des mouvements de haute précision, avec un encombrement minimal, et un nombre réduit de composants, de façon à maîtriser les coûts de production, d'assemblage et de réglage. Les technologies « LIGA » ou « DRIE » permettent de réaliser des composants souples et précis, et de remettre complètement en question les architectures traditionnelles, caractérisées par un grand nombre de composants et par des réglages délicats.Watchmaking performance requires high-precision movements with minimal footprint and fewer components to control production, assembly and tuning costs. "LIGA" or "DRIE" technologies make it possible to produce flexible and precise components, and to completely call into question traditional architectures, characterized by a large number of components and delicate adjustments.

Le document WO2011/120180 A1 ROLEX SA décrit un bloqueur de type ancre, avec deux bras chacun muni d'une palette pour attaquer la même roue dentée, avec deux bras élastiques reliant ce bloqueur à un châssis autorisant son pivotement, et un troisième élément élastique faisant sensiblement bistable.The document WO2011 / 120180 A1 ROLEX SA describes an anchor type blocker, with two arms each provided with a pallet to attack the same gear wheel, with two elastic arms connecting this blocker to a chassis allowing its pivoting, and a third elastic element substantially bistable.

Le document EP 2 037 335 A2 ENZLER & VON GUNTEN , décrit une ancre monobloc, de type ancre suisse, avec deux bras chacun muni d'une palette, et comportant des bras constitués par des lames flexibles liés à une structure et définissant un pivot fictif.The document EP 2,037,335 A2 ENZLER & VON GUNTEN , describes a monobloc anchor, Swiss anchor type, with two arms each provided with a pallet, and having arms constituted by flexible blades connected to a structure and defining a dummy pivot.

Le document EP 2 450 755 A1 NIVAROX décrit une roue d'échappement pour mécanisme d'horlogerie, comportant, coaxiales et synchrones en pivotement autour d'un axe de pivotement, une pluralité de roues dentées comportant au moins une première roue dentée d'impulsion dans un premier plan d'impulsion et au moins une deuxième roue dentée de libération dans un deuxième plan d'arrêt parallèle ou confondu avec le premier plan d'impulsion. La deuxième roue dentée de libération comporte au moins un équipage mobile lequel comporte, d'une part au moins une dent de libération mobile radialement par rapport à l'axe de pivotement et rappelée vers une position d'équilibre par des premiers moyens de rappel, et d'autre part au moins une dent de repos rappelée dans un premier sens radial vers une position de butée par des seconds moyens de rappel. La dent de libération comporte des moyens d'entraînement agencés pour, quand cette dent de libération se meut dans un deuxième sens radial opposé au premier sens radial, coopérer avec des moyens d'entraînement complémentaire que comporte la dent de repos pour entraîner la dent de repos dans le deuxième sens radial. Les moyens d'entraînement, quand la dent de libération se meut dans le premier sens radial, sont agencés pour se mouvoir à distance des moyens d'entraînement complémentaire sans entraîner la dent de repos.The document EP 2 450 755 A1 NIVAROX discloses an escapement wheel for a clockwork mechanism comprising, coaxially and synchronously pivotally about a pivot axis, a plurality of toothed wheels having at least a first gear wheel pulse in a first pulse plane and at least a second release gear in a second stop plane parallel or coincident with the first pulse plane. The second release gear comprises at least one moving element which comprises, on the one hand, at least one release tooth movable radially with respect to the pivot axis and biased towards an equilibrium position by first return means, and on the other hand at least one rest tooth biased in a first radial direction to an abutment position by second return means. The release tooth comprises drive means arranged for, when the release tooth moves in a second radial direction opposite the first radial direction, cooperate with complementary drive means that includes the rest tooth to drive the tooth of rest in the second radial direction. The drive means, when the release tooth moves in the first radial direction, are arranged to move away from the complementary drive means without driving the rest tooth.

Le document EP 2 105 806 A1 GIRARD PERREGAUX SA décrit un châssis déformable définissant deux axes orthogonaux, comportant un ressort-lame en flambage dans sa plus grande dimension et agencé pour restituer de l'énergie lors des changements de forme de la lame bistable.The document EP 2 105 806 A1 GIRARD PERREGAUX SA describes a deformable frame defining two orthogonal axes, comprising a buckling leaf spring in its largest dimension and arranged to restore energy during changes in shape of the bistable blade.

Le document EP 2 221 677 A1 ROLEX SA décrit un échappement à détente avec une bascule pivotant à l'encontre d'un ressort qui pousse un élément d'arrêt de cette bascule vers la roue d'échappement, la bascule porte un élément de dégagement qui coopère avec un doigt de dégagement porté par un plateau mobile en position par rapport au plateau de balancier sous l'effet des variations de vitesse du balancier.The document EP 2 221 677 A1 ROLEX SA describes an expansion escapement with a pivoting rocker against a spring which pushes a stop element of this rocker towards the escape wheel, the rocker carries a release element which cooperates with a release finger carried by a movable plate in position relative to the balance plate under the effect of the variations of speed of the beam.

Le document CH 60 813 A SHORTILL décrit un échappement à ancre dont la roue d'échappement comporte, de part et d'autre de son flasque, une alternance de dents coopérant avec des palettes d'ancre montées en opposition et se faisant face.The document CH 60 813 A SHORTILL describes an anchor escapement whose escape wheel comprises, on either side of its flange, an alternation of teeth cooperating with pallets of anchor mounted in opposition and facing each other.

Le document EP 1 967 919 A1 ETA SA décrit un échappement à impulsions tangentielles comportant un cadre mobile en anneau, comportant des palettes agencées pour coopérer avec des dents d'un mobile d'échappement situé à l'intérieur de cet anneau.The document EP 1 967 919 A1 ETA SA describes a tangential pulse exhaust comprising a mobile ring frame, comprising vanes arranged to cooperate with teeth of an escape wheel located inside this ring.

Résumé de l'inventionSummary of the invention

L'invention ce propose de pallier les limites des architectures connues, en proposant des mécanismes compacts, de faible épaisseur, et économiques à produire.The invention proposes to overcome the limitations of known architectures, by proposing compact mechanisms, of small thickness, and economic to produce.

A cet effet, l'invention concerne un mécanisme d'échappement pour mouvement ou pièce d'horlogerie, ledit mécanisme comportant une structure fixe, au moins un balancier et au moins une roue d'échappement, et un mécanisme flexible monobloc agencé pour la transmission d'impulsions entre ledit au moins un balancier et ladite au moins une roue d'échappement, ledit mécanisme flexible monobloc comportant au moins une lame flexible qui relie ledit mécanisme flexible monobloc à ladite structure fixe ou à ladite au moins une roue d'échappement, où ledit mécanisme flexible monobloc comporte au moins un palpeur de coopération avec ladite au moins une roue d'échappement ou respectivement ledit au moins un balancier, caractérisé en ce que ledit mécanisme comporte un ressort-spiral agencé pour entretenir l'oscillation et qui se termine par un piton (agencé pour se mouvoir durant le fonctionnement, et lequel piton est guidé par un guidage flexible, avec lesdites lames flexibles, ledit piton recevant une cheville agencée pour se loger dans un parcours de came que comporte ladite roue d'échappement, et caractérisée en ce que ledit piton est soumis à une force qu'exerce sur lui ledit spiral, laquelle force tendant, lors des oscillations, à déplacer ledit piton par rapport à sa position de repos et imprimant à ladite cheville de piton un mouvement pour l'entretien et la régulation de l'oscillation.For this purpose, the invention relates to an escapement mechanism for movement or timepiece, said mechanism comprising a fixed structure, at least one balance and at least one escape wheel, and a flexible monobloc mechanism arranged for transmission pulses between said at least one balance and said at least one escape wheel, said one-piece flexible mechanism comprising at least one flexible blade which connects said one-piece flexible mechanism to said fixed structure or to said at least one escape wheel, wherein said one-piece flexible mechanism comprises at least one probe cooperating with said at least one escape wheel or said at least one balance, characterized in that said mechanism comprises a spiral spring arranged to maintain the oscillation and which ends with a pin (arranged to move during operation, and which pin is guided by a flexible guide, with said flexible blades, said pin receiving a peg arranged to be housed in a cam path that includes said escape wheel, and characterized in that said peg is subjected to a force exerted on said hairspring, which force tending, during oscillations, to move said peg relative to its rest position and printing said peg pin a movement for the maintenance and regulation of the oscillation.

Selon une caractéristique de l'invention, ledit balancier est dépourvu de plateaux.According to a feature of the invention, said balance has no trays.

Selon une caractéristique de l'invention, ledit piton est guidé par un guidage flexible, avec lames flexibles, dans un mouvement de rotation.According to a characteristic of the invention, said pin is guided by a flexible guide, with flexible blades, in a rotational movement.

Selon une caractéristique de l'invention, ledit piton est guidé par un guidage flexible, avec lames flexibles, dans un mouvement de rotation dont le centre de rotation correspond à l'axe dudit balancier.According to a characteristic of the invention, said pin is guided by a flexible guide, with flexible blades, in a rotational movement whose center of rotation corresponds to the axis of said balance.

Selon une caractéristique de l'invention, ladite roue d'échappement est dépourvue de denture mais comporte ledit parcours de came.According to a characteristic of the invention, said escape wheel is devoid of teeth but includes said cam path.

Selon une caractéristique de l'invention, lors d'un déplacement horaire du balancier en mouvement, quand le balancier est dans une première position où il débute son mouvement horaire, ladite cheville de piton bloque le pivotement de ladite roue d'échappement, ladite cheville étant retenue par ledit spiral, quand le balancier et la cheville sont en position de repos, lors de la rotation horaire du balancier, juste après le passage par la position de repos du spiral, ledit piton est entrainé par le balancier, et ladite cheville se dégage de son repos dans ladite roue d'échappement, et une impulsion antihoraire recharge ledit spiral, et quand le balancier est en fin de course horaire, ladite cheville de piton, une fois arrivée dans un prochain point de repos sur ladite roue d'échappement, y reste, étant retenue par le balancier dans le sens opposé.According to a characteristic of the invention, during a time displacement of the pendulum in motion, when the balance is in a first position where it starts its clockwise movement, said peg pin blocks the pivoting of said escape wheel, said pin being held by said hairspring, when the balance and the peg are in the rest position, during the clockwise rotation of the balance, just after the passage through the rest position of the hairspring, said pin is driven by the balance, and said pin is releases its rest in said escape wheel, and a counterclockwise pulse reloads said hairspring, and when the pendulum is at the end of the hourly stroke, said peg pin, once arrived at a next rest point on said escape wheel stays there, being held by the pendulum in the opposite direction.

L'invention concerne encore un mouvement d'horlogerie comportant au moins un tel mécanisme.The invention also relates to a watch movement comprising at least one such mechanism.

L'invention concerne une pièce d'horlogerie comportant au moins un tel mécanisme, ou/et au moins un tel mouvement d'horlogerie.The invention relates to a timepiece comprising at least one such mechanism, and / or at least one such watch movement.

Description sommaire des dessinsBrief description of the drawings

D'autres caractéristiques et avantages de l'invention apparaîtront à la lecture de la description détaillée qui va suivre, en référence aux dessins annexés, où :

  • les figures 1 à 4 représentent, de façon schématisée et en élévation, des guidages flexibles, linéaires sur les figures 1 et 2, angulaires sur les figures 3 et 4, et représentés successivement à l'état au repos et dans un état excité par un effort d'impulsion ;
  • - la figure 5 représente, de façon analogue, un pivot flexible bistable ;
  • - la figure 6 représente, de façon schématisée et en plan, un moyen de centrage 60
  • les figures 7 à 10 illustrent une ancre suisse flexible à force constante, bistable en flambage, et la figure 10 est un graphique descriptif de la variation d'énergie potentielle du mécanisme, selon les différents états intermédiaires représentés sur la figure 9 ;
  • - la figure 11 illustre un mécanisme d'échappement110 avec un guidage à rigidité nulle ;
  • la figure 12 représente un mécanisme d'échappement au spiral, et la figure 13 est un détail de la roue d'échappement associée;
  • les figures 14 et 15 illustrent un échappement sans ancre ;
  • les figures 16 à 25 illustrent différentes variantes utilisables pour la réalisation de tels mécanismes flexibles :
    • la structure de la figure 16 comporte deux lames-ressort dans deux plans orthogonaux, et reliant deux structures en équerre;
    • la structure de la figure 17 est une structure de type RCC (Remote Center Compliance) avec une masse suspendue par deux lames-ressort en équerre par rapport à une structure fixe comportant des faces d'ancrage perpendiculaires ;
    • la première structure de la figure 18 comporte une masse mobile reliée à un ancrage fixe par deux lames-ressort parallèles, et la deuxième structure comporte une masse mobile reliée à un ancrage fixe par deux lames-ressort à l'équerre l'une de l'autre ;
    • la structure de la figure 19, similaire à la première structure de la figure 18, fait apparaître une translation de type parabolique sous l'effet d'une masse latérale additionnelle en équerre avec la masse mobile;
    • la structure de la figure 20 comporte des lames parallèles avec des charnières de type circulaire ;
    • la figure 21 illustre la déformée de la deuxième structure de la figure 18 ;
    • la structure de la figure 22 comporte une masse mobile par rapport à un ancrage fixe, auquel elle est reliée par deux lames-ressort constituant ensemble une structure en croix ;
    • la figure 23 est une variante de la figure 17, où la masse mobile est en équerre, sensiblement parallèle aux faces d'ancrage perpendiculaires ;
    • les figures 24 et 25 illustrent un système bistable avec pré-contrainte par un ressort de charge qui contraint fortement en flambage le système flexible, la figure 25 étant une courbe de rigidité relative en fonction de l'effort appliqué ;
    • la figure 26 représente, sous forme d'un schéma-blocs, une pièce d'horlogerie avec un mouvement comportant un tel mécanisme.
Other features and advantages of the invention will appear on reading the detailed description which follows, with reference to the appended drawings, in which:
  • the Figures 1 to 4 represent, schematically and in elevation, flexible guides, linear on the Figures 1 and 2 , angular on Figures 3 and 4 and successively represented in the idle state and in a state excited by a pulse force;
  • - the figure 5 represents, in a similar manner, a bistable flexible pivot;
  • - the figure 6 represents schematically and in plan, a centering means 60
  • the Figures 7 to 10 illustrate a flexible Swiss anchor with constant force, bistable in buckling, and the figure 10 is a descriptive graph of the potential energy variation of the mechanism, according to the different intermediate states represented on the figure 9 ;
  • - the figure 11 illustrates an exhaust mechanism 110 with zero rigidity guidance;
  • the figure 12 represents a spiral escapement mechanism, and the figure 13 is a detail of the associated escape wheel;
  • the Figures 14 and 15 illustrate an escapement without anchor;
  • the Figures 16 to 25 illustrate different variants that can be used for the realization of such flexible mechanisms:
    • the structure of the figure 16 has two leaf springs in two orthogonal planes, and connecting two structures at right angles;
    • the structure of the figure 17 is a RCC (Remote Center Compliance) type structure with a mass suspended by two leaf springs at right angles to a fixed structure having perpendicular anchoring faces;
    • the first structure of the figure 18 comprises a movable mass connected to a fixed anchor by two parallel spring blades, and the second structure comprises a movable mass connected to a fixed anchor by two leaf springs at right angles to one another;
    • the structure of the figure 19 , similar to the first structure of the figure 18 , shows a parabolic type translation under the effect of an additional lateral mass at right angles to the moving mass;
    • the structure of the figure 20 has parallel blades with hinges of circular type;
    • the figure 21 illustrates the distortion of the second structure of the figure 18 ;
    • the structure of the figure 22 has a movable mass relative to a fixed anchor, to which it is connected by two leaf springs together constituting a cross structure;
    • the figure 23 is a variant of the figure 17 where the moving mass is square, substantially parallel to the perpendicular anchoring faces;
    • the Figures 24 and 25 illustrate a bistable system with pre-stress by a load spring which strongly constrains the flexible system, the figure 25 being a curve of relative rigidity as a function of the force applied;
    • the figure 26 represents, in the form of a block diagram, a timepiece with a movement comprising such a mechanism.

Description détaillée des modes de réalisation préférésDetailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments

De nombreux mécanismes horlogers peuvent être réalisés, avec un nombre réduit de composants, et de préférence en utilisant des composants réalisés en silicium, ou par un procédé LIGA ou DRIE, en comportant des zones flexibles.Many watch mechanisms can be realized with a reduced number of components, preferably using components made of silicon, or by a LIGA or DRIE process, with flexible zones.

Ces zones flexibles peuvent être utilisées pour réaliser des guidages, notamment en pivotement, ou/et pour réaliser des moyens de rappel élastique.These flexible zones can be used to carry out guidance, especially pivoting, and / or to achieve elastic return means.

On appelle dans la suite de l'exposé «guidages flexibles» des guidages linéaires ou rotatifs comportant une ou plusieurs lames flexibles. Leurs avantages sont nombreux, et on citera en particulier: précision, absence de friction, absence d'hystérèse, absence d'usure, aucun besoin de lubrification, absence de grippage, fabrication monolithique. Les limitations les plus fréquentes sont : limitation des déplacements, faible intensité des forces ou couples de rappel, cinématique parfois complexe, limitation de la charge supportée.In the remainder of the description, "flexible guides" are termed linear or rotary guides comprising one or more flexible blades. Their advantages are numerous, and one will quote in particular: precision, absence of friction, absence of hysteresis, absence of wear, no need of lubrication, absence of seizing, monolithic manufacture. The most frequent limitations are: limitation of displacements, weak intensity of forces or restoring torques, sometimes complex kinematics, limitation of the supported load.

Les figures 1 à 4 illustrent de tels guidages flexibles. Ils sont linéaires sur les figures 1 et 2 où une masse mobile 11 est suspendue par rapport à un ancrage fixe 12 par l'intermédiaire d'un jeu de lames-ressort 13 sensiblement parallèles entre elles interposées, d'une part entre l'ancrage fixe 12 et une masse intermédiaire 14, et d'autre part entre la masse intermédiaire 14 et la masse mobile 11 , la figure 1 représente le système au repos, et la figure 2 sous contrainte exercée sur la masse mobile ; le déplacement linéaire de la masse intermédiaire 14 est ici la moitié du déplacement de la masse mobile 11. De façon analogue, les figures 3 et 4, au repos et sous contrainte, illustrent un guidage rotatif construit de façon similaire, mais où les lames 33 se développent de façon radiale autour d'un axe de pivotement virtuel A; le déplacement angulaire de la masse intermédiaire 34 est la moitié du déplacement de la masse mobile 31.The Figures 1 to 4 illustrate such flexible guides. They are linear on the Figures 1 and 2 where a movable mass 11 is suspended relative to a fixed anchor 12 by means of a set of spring blades 13 substantially parallel to each other interposed, on the one hand between the fixed anchor 12 and an intermediate mass 14, and on the other hand between the intermediate mass 14 and the moving mass 11, the figure 1 represents the system at rest, and the figure 2 under stress exerted on the moving mass; the linear displacement of the intermediate mass 14 is here half of the displacement of the moving mass 11. Similarly, the Figures 3 and 4 , at rest and under stress, illustrate a similarly constructed rotary guide, but where the blades 33 develop radially about a virtual pivot axis A; the angular displacement of the intermediate mass 34 is half of the displacement of the mobile mass 31.

Les guidages flexibles peuvent être modifiés afin d'avoir une rigidité nulle ou pour présenter un état bistable dans le cas d'un composant travaillant en flambage sous l'action d'efforts exercés de part et d'autre d'une direction moyenne, de part et d'autre de laquelle ce composant peut occuper deux états stables différents.The flexible guides can be modified to have a zero rigidity or to have a bistable state in the case of a component working in buckling under the action of forces exerted on both sides of an average direction, either side of which this component can occupy two different stable states.

Les figures 24 et 25 illustrent un tel système bistable qui peut être:

  • soit rigide en l'absence de ressort de charge ;
  • bistable si un ressort de charge R contraint fortement en flambage le système flexible ;
  • de rigidité nulle si un ressort de charge R contraint d'une valeur intermédiaire le guidage, tel que visible sur la figure 25 où la courbe de rigidité relative passe par la valeur zéro pour une valeur de charge correspondant à celle de la pré-contrainte due au ressort R.
The Figures 24 and 25 illustrate such a bistable system that can be:
  • be rigid in the absence of a load spring;
  • bistable if a load spring R strongly constrains the flexible system;
  • of zero stiffness if a load spring R forces an intermediate value the guidance, as visible on the figure 25 where the relative stiffness curve passes through the zero value for a load value corresponding to that of the pre-stress due to the spring R.

Une première application horlogère concerne un pivot flexible bistable 50, tel que visible sur la figure 5, et qui peut être implémenté comme guidage d'une ancre, ou ancre suisse, ou d'un autre élément horloger. L'application d'une force F sur le pivot flexible 50, au niveau d'une masse mobile 51, crée un comportement bistable. Cette force peut être créée par un ressort flexible. Comme sur les figures 3 et 4, des jeux de lames-ressort radiales 53 relient deux à deux un ancrage fixe 52, une masse intermédiaire 54, et la masse mobile 51. On voit que l'axe de pivotement virtuel A et la masse mobile 51 peuvent, selon le besoin, soit être du même côté de l'ancrage fixe comme sur la figure 3, soit de part et d'autre de celui-ci comme sur la figure 5.A first watch application relates to a bistable flexible pivot 50, as visible on the figure 5 , and which can be implemented as guidance of an anchor, or Swiss anchor, or another watchmaking element. The application of a force F on the flexible pivot 50, at a moving mass 51, creates a bistable behavior. This force can be created by a flexible spring. As on the Figures 3 and 4 , sets of radial spring blades 53 connect in pairs a fixed anchor 52, an intermediate mass 54, and the moving mass 51. It can be seen that the virtual pivot axis A and the moving mass 51 can, as required, be on the same side of the fixed anchor as on the figure 3 , either side of it as on the figure 5 .

Une autre application visible sur la figure 6 concerne un moyen de centrage 60, notamment en silicium ou similaire, faisant fonction de pierre pour le centrage d'un axe 61, avec une pluralité de doigts élastiques 62. Un tel élément flexible permet de pallier le problème des ébats dans les pivots. De tels doigts de centrage flexibles 62, notamment en silicium, ne sont pas à proprement parler des guidages flexibles car ils sont en constant frottement avec l'axe 61 dont ils assurent le centrage. L'intégration de butées 63 permet d'éviter toute casse des éléments flexibles 62.Another application visible on the figure 6 relates to a centering means 60, in particular made of silicon or the like, acting as a stone for centering an axis 61, with a plurality of elastic fingers 62. Such a flexible element makes it possible to overcome the problem of lashes in the pivots. Such flexible centering fingers 62, in particular silicon, are not strictly speaking flexible guides because they are in constant friction with the axis 61 which they ensure the centering. The integration of stops 63 makes it possible to avoid any breakage of the flexible elements 62.

De façon particulièrement avantageuse, l'invention est applicable à un mécanisme d'échappement 100 pour mouvement 900 ou pièce d'horlogerie 1000 comportant au moins un balancier 300 et au moins une roue d'échappement 400.In a particularly advantageous manner, the invention is applicable to an escapement mechanism 100 for movement 900 or timepiece 1000 comprising at least one balance wheel 300 and at least one escape wheel 400.

Selon l'invention, la transmission d'impulsions entre ledit au moins un balancier 300 et ladite au moins une roue d'échappement 400 est réalisée par un mécanisme flexible monobloc 500. Ce mécanisme flexible monobloc 500 comporte au moins un palpeur 600 de coopération avec ladite au moins une roue d'échappement 400 ou respectivement ledit au moins un balancier 300. Ce mécanisme flexible monobloc 500 est relié par au moins une lame flexible 700, ou de préférence par une pluralité de lames flexibles constituant des moyens de rappel élastique, à une structure fixe 800 de ladite pièce d'horlogerie 1000, ou respectivement à ladite au moins une roue d'échappement 400.According to the invention, the transmission of pulses between said at least one balance wheel 300 and said at least one escape wheel 400 is carried out by a one-piece flexible mechanism 500. This one-piece flexible mechanism 500 comprises at least one probe 600 for cooperation with said at least one escape wheel 400 or respectively said at least one rocker 300. This one-piece flexible mechanism 500 is connected by at least one flexible blade 700, or preferably by a plurality of flexible blades constituting elastic return means, to a fixed structure 800 of said timepiece 1000, or respectively to said at least one escape wheel 400.

Une application intéressante concerne une ancre, en particulier une ancre suisse flexible à force constante, tel qu'illustré par les figures 7 à 10, qui fonctionne selon le principe bistable en flambage. L'ancre 70 comporte une baguette 71 munie d'une fourchette 72 avec dard (non représenté sur les figures) similaire à une ancre suisse. L'ancre 70 comporte une tige flexible 73 qui pivote en 74 et qui est guidée en 75 (rotation et translation verticale). Un déplacement Δx du guidage en 75 induit un état bistable permanent. L'ancre 70 coopère avec une roue d'échappement à deux niveaux, représentée ici uniquement par des chevilles 77, 78, qu'elle comporte sur ces deux niveaux respectifs.An interesting application relates to an anchor, in particular a flexible Swiss anchor with constant force, as illustrated by the Figures 7 to 10 , which works according to the bistable principle in buckling. The anchor 70 comprises a rod 71 provided with a fork 72 with dart (not shown in the figures) similar to a Swiss anchor. The anchor 70 has a flexible rod 73 which pivots at 74 and is guided at 75 (rotation and vertical translation). A displacement Δx of the guidance at 75 induces a permanent bistable state. anchor 70 cooperates with a two-level escapement wheel, represented here only by pins 77, 78, it comprises on these two respective levels.

Une cheville 76, sur un deuxième niveau de l'ancre 70, permet à la roue d'échappement, de déplacer l'ancre 70 proche de son point de basculement.An anchor 76, on a second level of the anchor 70, allows the escape wheel to move the anchor 70 close to its tipping point.

La course de l'ancre 70 est limitée par des goupilles ou butées de limitation 79, 80.The stroke of the anchor 70 is limited by pins or limit stops 79, 80.

Le balancier et les petit et grand plateaux, non représentés, sont similaires à ceux d'une ancre suisse classique.The pendulum and the small and large trays, not shown, are similar to those of a classic Swiss anchor.

La figure 10 est un graphique descriptif de la variation d'énergie potentielle du mécanisme, où l'ancre flexible 70 est représentée par une bille 81 qui roule sur une bosse d'énergie potentielle 82. La course est limitée par les goupilles 79 et 80. Le fonctionnement est expliqué pour un mouvement dans le sens S1 de la fourchette 72, correspondant au sens S2 de la tige flexible 73, selon les différents états intermédiaires représentés sur la figure 9 et symbolisés sur la figure 10.The figure 10 is a descriptive graph of the potential energy variation of the mechanism, where the flexible anchor 70 is represented by a ball 81 which rolls on a bump of potential energy 82. The stroke is limited by the pins 79 and 80. The operation is explained for a movement in the direction S1 of the fork 72, corresponding to the direction S2 of the flexible rod 73, according to the different intermediate states represented on the figure 9 and symbolized on the figure 10 .

L'étape P1 correspond à la recharge de la force constante. Cet état est de très courte durée, car la roue d'échappement pousse, par l'intermédiaire de ses chevilles, vers la position P2, où l'ancre 70 est juste avant le point de basculement bistable.Step P1 corresponds to the recharge of the constant force. This state is of very short duration, because the escape wheel pushes, via its pegs, to the position P2, where the anchor 70 is just before the bistable tilting point.

Le passage de la position P2 à la position P3 correspond au dégagement de l'ancre 70. La cheville de plateau du balancier fait basculer l'ancre 70 de l'autre côté de l'état bistable.The passage from the P2 position to the P3 position corresponds to the release of the anchor 70. The pendulum plate pin rocker the anchor 70 on the other side of the bistable state.

Le passage de la position P3 à la position P4 correspond à la phase d'impulsion de l'ancre 70 sur le balancier : la tige 73 de l'ancre 70 effectue l'impulsion avec une force constante ; en effet, seule l'énergie emmagasinée dans la tige 73 est restituée.The passage from the position P3 to the position P4 corresponds to the impulse phase of the anchor 70 on the balance: the rod 73 of the anchor 70 carries out the pulse with a constant force; indeed, only the energy stored in the rod 73 is restored.

Dans la position P4, le balancier est libre, la cheville de plateau quitte la fourchette 72, et l'oscillateur est totalement libre.In the position P4, the balance is free, the plateau pin leaves the fork 72, and the oscillator is completely free.

Le passage de la position P4 à la position P5 correspond au dégagement de la roue d'échappement : la tige d'ancre 73 finit de se courber, et elle se dégage de la roue d'échappement, ceci sans influencer le mouvement du balancier qui est déjà libre.The transition from the P4 position to the P5 position corresponds to the release of the escape wheel: the anchor rod 73 ends to bend, and it emerges from the escape wheel, this without influencing the movement of the pendulum which is already free.

Le passage de la position P5 à la position P6 correspond au retour : la roue d'échappement avance d'un pas de dent, et amène l'ancre 70 dans la position P6, où l'ancre 70 est prête à accueillir la cheville de plateau pour un nouveau cycle.The transition from position P5 to position P6 corresponds to the return: the escape wheel advances one tooth pitch, and brings the anchor 70 to the position P6, where the anchor 70 is ready to receive the ankle of plateau for a new cycle.

Le système ne peut pas créer une impulsion lors d'un choc car le dard, non représenté sur les figures, empêche tout renversement. Le système présente toutes les sécurités d'un échappement à ancre suisse.The system can not create a pulse during an impact because the sting, not shown in the figures, prevents overturning. The system has all the security features of a Swiss lever escapement.

Une autre application est illustrée à la figure 11, et concerne un mécanisme d'échappement110 avec un guidage à rigidité nulle. Ce mécanisme 110 comporte un cadre mobile 111 articulé par des lames souples 113 par rapport à des ancrages fixes 112. Le cadre mobile 111 comporte un ressort de charge lui donnant une rigidité nulle, tel qu'exposé plus haut. Ce cadre mobile 111, qui est l'équivalent d'une ancre, porte une fourchette 114 avec des cornes 115 et un dard 116. Cette fourchette 114 est analogue à celle d'une ancre suisse, avec toutes les sécurités anti-rebat et anti-galop. Une roue d'échappement 118 comporte des dents 118A,B,C,D, disposées à 90° les unes des autres, qui peuvent coopérer avec des dents119A,B,C,D, du cadre mobile 111, également disposées à 90° les unes des autres. Le balancier et les petit et grand plateaux sont similaires à ceux d'une ancre suisse classique.Another application is illustrated in the figure 11 and relates to an exhaust mechanism 110 with zero stiffness guidance. This mechanism 110 comprises a movable frame 111 articulated by flexible blades 113 relative to fixed anchors 112. The movable frame 111 comprises a load spring giving it a zero rigidity, as described above. This mobile frame 111, which is the equivalent of an anchor, carries a fork 114 with horns 115 and a dart 116. This fork 114 is similar to that of a Swiss anchor, with all the anti-rebate and anti-gallop security. An escape wheel 118 has teeth 118A, B, C, D, arranged at 90 ° from each other, which can cooperate with teeth 118A, B, C, D, of the movable frame 111, also arranged at 90 °. each other. The pendulum and the small and large trays are similar to those of a classic Swiss anchor.

Lorsque la cheville de plateau 117 entre en contact avec la corne d'entrée, une dent 119A du cadre mobile 111 libère sans recul la roue d'échappement 118, et la dent 118B de la roue d'échappement 118, sensiblement à l'équerre de la dent 119A, effectue une impulsion tangentielle sur le cadre mobile 111 de l'ancre au niveau d'une dent 119B. A la fin de l'impulsion, la dent 118C de la roue d'échappement est stoppée par la dent correspondante 119C sur l'ancre. Le cycle d'impulsion se reproduit de manière similaire avec les dents 118D et 119D.When the plate pin 117 comes into contact with the input horn, a tooth 119A of the movable frame 111 releases recessively the escape wheel 118, and the tooth 118B of the escape wheel 118, substantially at right angle of the tooth 119A, performs a tangential pulse on the movable frame 111 of the anchor at a tooth 119B. At the end of the pulse, the tooth 118C of the escape wheel is stopped by the corresponding tooth 119C on the anchor. The pulse cycle reproduces similarly with teeth 118D and 119D.

De manière similaire au système précédent, une charge plus importante des lames flexibles 113 peut créer un système bistable. La position de la dent d'impulsion 118B par rapport à la dent 119A peut amener l'ancre près de l'instabilité, de manière similaire à la position P2 sur la figure 9. Il en résulte que l'ancre 111 fournit une impulsion via la roue d'échappement 118 et l'énergie stockée dans les lames flexibles 113.Similar to the previous system, a larger load of the flexible blades 113 can create a bistable system. The position of the pulse tooth 118B with respect to the tooth 119A can bring the anchor close to the instability, similarly to the position P2 on the figure 9 . As a result, the anchor 111 provides a pulse via the escape wheel 118 and the energy stored in the flexible blades 113.

Le système présente toutes les sécurités de l'échappement à ancre suisse.The system has all the safety features of the Swiss lever escapement.

La figure 12 représente un mécanisme d'échappement au spiral 120 selon l'invention, revendiquée.The figure 12 represents a spiral escapement mechanism 120 according to the invention, claimed.

Le principe de l'entretien et régulation de l'oscillateur de cet échappement est très différent de l'approche classique. Le balancier n'est plus muni de plateaux et l'entretien de l'oscillation est effectué via le piton et le spiral.The principle of servicing and regulating the oscillator of this exhaust is very different from the conventional approach. The pendulum is no longer equipped with trays and the maintenance of the oscillation is carried out via the stud and the hairspring.

Le ressort-spiral 121 spiral se termine par un piton 122, qui est mobile durant le fonctionnement. Ce piton 122 est guidé par un guidage flexible 123, avec lames souples 124, et dont le centre de rotation 125 correspond à l'axe du balancier. Sur ce piton 122 est fixée une cheville 127.The spiral spring 121 spiral ends with a pin 122, which is movable during operation. This stud 122 is guided by a flexible guide 123, with flexible blades 124, and whose center of rotation 125 corresponds to the axis of the balance. On this pin 122 is fixed ankle 127.

La roue d'échappement 126 ne possède pas de dents mais un parcours 128, ou came, où vient se loger la cheville 127 de piton, tel que visible sur la figure 13. Ce parcours 128 comporte une succession de rampes 128A, 128B, obliques par rapport aux radiales de la roue d'échappement, séparées par des positions de repos, et présentant l'aspect d'une roue dentée centrée sur l'axe de la roue d'échappement, les rampes 128A et 128B étant en alternance croissantes et décroissantes quand on parcourt la périphérie de la roue d'échappement 126.The escape wheel 126 has no teeth but a path 128, or cam, which is housed the peg pin 127, as visible on the figure 13 . This path 128 comprises a succession of ramps 128A, 128B, oblique with respect to the radial of the escape wheel, separated by rest positions, and having the appearance of a toothed wheel centered on the axis of the wheel of exhaust, the ramps 128A and 128B being alternately increasing and decreasing when one traverses the periphery of the escape wheel 126.

Le balancier ne possède plus de plateau, et est donc considérablement simplifié.The pendulum no longer has a plateau, and is therefore greatly simplified.

Si on imagine le comportement du mécanisme sans cheville de piton et sans roue d'échappement: dans ce cas, lors des oscillations, le piton 122 se déplace par rapport à sa position de repos sous l'action de la force qu'exerce le spiral 121 sur lui. Toutefois, le système s'arrête faute d'entretien. Dans le cas du système complet, la cheville de piton 127, guidée dans le profil 128, remplit la fonction d'entretien et de régulation de l'oscillation de la manière suivante, décrite lors d'un déplacement horaire du balancier en mouvement:

  • quand le balancier est dans la position qui correspond aux figures 12 et 13, le balancier débutant son mouvement horaire, la cheville de piton 127 bloque le pivotement de la roue d'échappement 126. La cheville 127 ne peut se déplacer dans le sens SD, car le spiral 121 la retient vers la gauche ;
  • quand le balancier et la cheville sont en position de repos, lors de la rotation horaire du balancier, juste après le passage par la position de repos du spiral121, le piton 122 est entrainé par le balancier. La cheville 127 se dégage de son repos 129 dans la roue d'échappement 126, et une impulsion antihoraire recharge le spiral 121 ;
  • - quand le balancier est en fin de course horaire, la cheville de piton 127, une fois arrivée dans son prochain point de repos 129A sur la roue d'échappement 126, ne va pas en sortir, car le balancier continue de la retenir dans le sens opposé.
If we imagine the behavior of the mechanism without peg pin and without escape wheel: in this case, during oscillations, the pin 122 moves with respect to its position of rest under the action of the force exerted by the balance spring 121 on him. However, the system stops for lack of maintenance. In the case of the complete system, the pin anchor 127, guided in the profile 128, performs the function of maintenance and regulation of the oscillation in the following manner, described during a time displacement of the pendulum in motion:
  • when the pendulum is in the position corresponding to the figures 12 and 13 , the balance beginning its clockwise movement, the peg pin 127 blocks the pivoting of the escape wheel 126. The pin 127 can not move in the SD direction, because the hairspring 121 holds it to the left;
  • when the balance and the peg are in the rest position, during the clockwise rotation of the balance, just after passing through the rest position of the spiral121, the pin 122 is driven by the pendulum. The peg 127 is disengaged from its rest 129 in the escape wheel 126, and a counterclockwise pulse recharges the hairspring 121;
  • when the pendulum is at the end of the hourly stroke, the peg pin 127, once arrived at its next rest point 129A on the escape wheel 126, will not come out of it, because the pendulum continues to hold it in the opposite.

Les figures 14 et 15 illustrent un échappement sans ancre 140. Le balancier 141 comporte un plateau avec une cheville 142. La platine comporte deux chevilles/butées 143 et 144. Une roue d'échappement 145 comporte une pluralité de dents 146. Chaque dent 146 remplit la fonction d'une petite ancre, et comporte une mini-ancre 147: Chaque mini-ancre 147 comporte une cheville d'ancre 148 guidée par lames flexibles 149. Cette cheville d'ancre148 peut être actionnée par un petit levier 150. Chaque dent 146 comporte également un plan d'impulsion 151. Le mécanisme de roue d'échappement est à deux niveaux : un niveau bas porte les chevilles d'ancre 148, et correspond au niveau où sont disposées les chevilles/butées de platine 143 et 144, tandis qu'un niveau haut porte la structure de roue d'échappement 145 et les leviers 150.The Figures 14 and 15 illustrate an escapement without anchor 140. The rocker 141 comprises a plate with a pin 142. The plate has two pins / stops 143 and 144. An escape wheel 145 has a plurality of teeth 146. Each tooth 146 performs the function of a small anchor, and includes a mini-anchor 147: Each mini-anchor 147 comprises an anchor pin 148 guided by flexible blades 149. This anchor pin 148 can be actuated by a small lever 150. Each tooth 146 also comprises a Pulse plane 151. The escape wheel mechanism is at two levels: a low level carries the anchor pins 148, and corresponds to the level at which the platen pins / stops 143 and 144 are disposed, while high level carries the escapement wheel structure 145 and the levers 150.

Le fonctionnement est expliqué sur une dent 146 de la roue d'échappement 145 juste après une impulsion, le balancier 141 commençant un déplacement horaire. Lors de la rotation du balancier 141 dans le sens horaire, la cheville de plateau 142 fait pivoter la mini-ancre 147, qui passe de la position PB à la position PA de la figure 15, et se dégage de la première cheville/butée de platine 143. La roue d'échappement 146 avance d'un très faible angle jusqu'à ce que la cheville d'ancre148 de la mini-ancre 147 bute contre la deuxième cheville/butée de platine 144.The operation is explained on a tooth 146 of the escape wheel 145 just after a pulse, the rocker 141 starting a time shift. During the rotation of the rocker 141 in the clockwise direction, the plate pin 142 rotates the mini-anchor 147, which passes from the position PB to the position PA of the figure 15 , and disengages from the first pin / stop plate 143. The escape wheel 146 advances a very small angle until the anchor pin 146 of the mini-anchor 147 abuts against the second pin / stop platinum 144.

Quand le balancier 141 pivote en sens anti-horaire, la cheville de plateau 142 fait pivoter la mini-ancre 147 qui lui fait face, amenant le levier 150 en position PC, et la cheville d'ancre 148 contourne la deuxième cheville/butée de platine 144. La roue d'échappement 145 tourne jusqu'à la prochaine dent. Dans ce mouvement, le plan d'impulsion 151 de la roue d'échappement 145 effectue une impulsion sur la cheville de plateau 142.When the rocker arm 141 pivots counter-clockwise, the plate pin 142 rotates the mini-anchor 147 facing it, bringing the lever 150 to the PC position, and the anchor pin 148 bypasses the second pin / stop of Platinum 144. The escape wheel 145 rotates to the next tooth. In this movement, the pulse plane 151 of the escape wheel 145 pulses on the plateau pin 142.

La forme spéciale des chevilles/butées 143 et 144 solidaires de la platine évitent le galop.The special shape of the pins / stops 143 and 144 integral with the plate avoid gallop.

Les figures 16 à 25 illustrent différentes variantes utilisables pour la réalisation de tels mécanismes flexibles :

  • la structure 160 de la figure 16 comporte deux lames-ressort 161 et 162 dans deux plans orthogonaux, et reliant deux structures en équerre 163 et 164 ;
  • la structure 170 de la figure 17 est une structure de type RCC (Remote Center Compliance) avec une masse 171 suspendue par deux lames-ressort 172 et 173 en équerre par rapport à une structure fixe 174 comportant des faces d'ancrage 175 et 176 perpendiculaires ;
  • la première structure 180 de la figure 18 comporte une masse mobile 181 reliée à un ancrage fixe 182 par deux lames-ressort parallèles 183 et 184, et la deuxième structure 185 comporte une masse mobile 186 reliée à un ancrage fixe 187 par deux lames-ressort 188 et 189 à l'équerre l'une de l'autre; la structure 180 de la figure 19, similaire à la première structure 180 de la figure 18, fait apparaître une translation de type parabolique sous l'effet d'une masse latérale additionnelle 181A en équerre avec la masse mobile 181, avec une valeur λ=0,6 X2 /L ;
  • la structure 200 de la figure 20 comporte des lames parallèles avec des charnières de type circulaire, si le dimensionnement du rayon R est inférieur à 5 fois la valeur de l'épaisseur minimale Hmin, les effets de concentration de contraintes sont négligeables ;
  • la figure 21 illustre la déformée de la deuxième structure 185 de la figure 18 ;
  • la structure 220 de la figure 22 comporte une masse mobile 221 par rapport à un ancrage fixe 222, auquel elle est reliée par deux lames-ressort 223 et 224 constituant ensemble une structure en croix ;
  • la figure 23 est une variante de la figure 17, où la masse mobile 171 est en équerre, sensiblement parallèle aux faces d'ancrage 175 et 176 perpendiculaires ;
  • les figures 24 et 25 illustrent un système bistable avec pré-contrainte par un ressort de charge R qui contraint fortement en flambage le système flexible, la figure 25 étant une courbe de rigidité relative en fonction de l'effort appliqué.
The Figures 16 to 25 illustrate different variants that can be used for the realization of such flexible mechanisms:
  • structure 160 of the figure 16 comprises two leaf springs 161 and 162 in two orthogonal planes, and connecting two square structures 163 and 164;
  • structure 170 of the figure 17 is a RCC (Remote Center Compliance) type structure with a mass 171 suspended by two leaf springs 172 and 173 square to a fixed structure 174 having perpendicular anchor faces 175 and 176;
  • the first structure 180 of the figure 18 comprises a movable mass 181 connected to a fixed anchorage 182 by two parallel spring blades 183 and 184, and the second structure 185 comprises a movable mass 186 connected to a fixed anchorage 187 by two leaf springs 188 and 189 to the square l one of the other; structure 180 of the figure 19 , similar to the first structure 180 of the figure 18 , shows a parabolic type translation under the effect of an additional lateral mass 181A at right angles to the moving mass 181, with a value λ = 0.6 X 2 / L;
  • the structure 200 of the figure 20 has parallel blades with hinges of circular type, if the dimensioning of the radius R is less than 5 times the value of the minimum thickness Hmin, the stress concentration effects are negligible;
  • the figure 21 illustrates the deformed second structure 185 of the figure 18 ;
  • structure 220 of the figure 22 comprises a movable mass 221 with respect to a fixed anchor 222, to which it is connected by two leaf springs 223 and 224 together constituting a cross structure;
  • the figure 23 is a variant of the figure 17 where the moving mass 171 is square, substantially parallel to the perpendicular anchor faces 175 and 176;
  • the Figures 24 and 25 illustrate a bistable system with pre-stressing by a load spring R which strongly constrains the flexible system, the figure 25 being a curve of relative rigidity as a function of the force applied.

L'invention concerne encore un mouvement d'horlogerie 900 comportant le mécanisme flexible décrit, ci-dessus en référence aux figures 12 et 13, et notamment comportant une structure fixe 800 et au moins un tel mécanisme 100.The invention further relates to a watch movement 900 comprising the flexible mechanism described above with reference to the figures 12 and 13 , and in particular comprising a fixed structure 800 and at least one such mechanism 100.

L'invention concerne encore une pièce d'horlogerie 1000, notamment une montre, comportant au moins un tel mouvement d'horlogerie 900, ou/et au moins un des mécanismes flexibles décrits ci-dessus, notamment comportant une structure fixe 800 et au moins un tel mécanisme 100.The invention also relates to a timepiece 1000, in particular a watch, comprising at least one such clockwork movement 900, and / or at least one of the flexible mechanisms described above, in particular having a fixed structure 800 and at least one such a mechanism 100.

Claims (8)

  1. Escapement mechanism (100) for a timepiece movement (900) or timepiece (1000), said mechanism (100) comprising a fixed structure (800), at least one balance (300) and at least one escape wheel (400; 126), and a flexible single-piece mechanism (500) arranged for the transmission of impulses between said at least one balance (300) and said at least one escape wheel (400; 126), said flexible single-piece mechanism (500) comprising at least one flexible strip (700; 124) which connects said flexible single-piece mechanism (500) to said fixed structure (800) or to said at least one escape wheel (400; 126), wherein said flexible single-piece mechanism (500) comprises at least one feeler-spindle (600) cooperating with said at least one escape wheel (400) or respectively said at least one balance (300), characterized in that said mechanism (100) includes a balance spring (121) arranged to maintain the oscillation and which ends in a balance spring stud (122) arranged to move during operation, and said stud (122) is guided by a flexible guide member (123), with said flexible strips (700; 124), said stud (122) receiving a pin (127) arranged to be accommodated in a cam path (128) comprised in said escape wheel (400; 126), and characterized in that said stud (122) is subjected to a force exerted thereon by said balance spring (121), said force being intended, during oscillations, to move said stud (122) relative to the locking position thereof and imparting a motion to said stud pin (127) in order to maintain and regulate the oscillation.
  2. Escapement mechanism (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that said balance (300) is devoid of rollers.
  3. Escapement mechanism (100) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that said balance spring stud (122) is guided by a flexible guide member (123) having flexible strips (700; 124), in a rotational motion.
  4. Escapement mechanism (100) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that said balance spring stud (122) is guided by a flexible guide member (123) having flexible strips (700; 124), in a rotational movement whose centre of rotation (125) corresponds to the axisof said balance (300).
  5. Escapement mechanism (100) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that said escape wheel (400; 126) is devoid of teeth but comprises said cam path (128).
  6. Escapement mechanism (100) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that, upon a clockwise motion of the moving balance, when the balance is in a first position at the start of the clockwise motion, said stud pin (127) blocks the pivoting of said escape wheel (126), said pin (127) being retained by said balance spring (121), when the balance and the pin are in a locking position, on the clockwise rotation of the balance, just after the balance spring (121) passes through the locking position, said stud (122) is driven by the balance, and said pin (127) is released from its locking point (129) in said escape wheel (126), and an anticlockwise impulse reloads said balance spring (121), and when the balance is at the end of the clockwise travel, said stud pin (127), once it has reached the next locking point (129A) on said escape wheel (126), remains there, retained by the balance in the opposite direction.
  7. Timepiece movement (900) comprising at least one said mechanism (100) according to any of the preceding claims.
  8. Timepiece (1000) comprising at least one said mechanism (100) according to any of claims 1 to 6, and/or at least one timepiece movement (900) according to the preceding claim.
EP12162030.6A 2012-03-29 2012-03-29 Flexible escapement mechanism Active EP2645189B1 (en)

Priority Applications (22)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP12162030.6A EP2645189B1 (en) 2012-03-29 2012-03-29 Flexible escapement mechanism
CH00442/12A CH706274B1 (en) 2012-03-29 2012-03-29 A clock exhaust mechanism comprising a one-piece flexible mechanism for transmitting pulses between the balance and the escapement wheel.
JP2015502335A JP6034949B2 (en) 2012-03-29 2013-03-27 Flexible escape mechanism without pallet lever
CN201380017783.8A CN104204966B (en) 2012-03-29 2013-03-27 Flexible escapement mechanism having a mobile frame
PCT/EP2013/056579 WO2013144237A1 (en) 2012-03-29 2013-03-27 Flexible lever-free escapement mechanism
EP13713421.9A EP2831676B1 (en) 2012-03-29 2013-03-27 Flexible escapement mechanism
CN201380018185.2A CN104220941B (en) 2012-03-29 2013-03-27 Flexible escapement mechanism having a plate-free balance
PCT/EP2013/056581 WO2013144238A1 (en) 2012-03-29 2013-03-27 Flexible escapement mechanism having a plate-free balance
RU2014143453A RU2607339C9 (en) 2012-03-29 2013-03-27 Flexible anchor escapement mechanism with movable frame
CN201380018152.8A CN104220940B (en) 2012-03-29 2013-03-27 Flexible lever-free escapement mechanism
KR1020147028155A KR101676148B1 (en) 2012-03-29 2013-03-27 Flexible lever-free escapement mechanism
JP2015502334A JP5918438B2 (en) 2012-03-29 2013-03-27 Flexible escape mechanism with movable frame
RU2014143454A RU2606342C2 (en) 2012-03-29 2013-03-27 Flexible anchor mechanism with balance without roller
EP13716231.9A EP2831677B1 (en) 2012-03-29 2013-03-27 Flexible escapement mechanism
PCT/EP2013/056577 WO2013144236A1 (en) 2012-03-29 2013-03-27 Flexible escapement mechanism having a mobile frame
JP2015502336A JP5918439B2 (en) 2012-03-29 2013-03-27 Flexible escape mechanism with balance without rollers
US14/388,641 US9304493B2 (en) 2012-03-29 2013-03-27 Flexible escapement mechanism having a balance with no roller
US14/384,261 US9207640B2 (en) 2012-03-29 2013-03-27 Flexible escape mechanism with no pallet lever
US14/389,012 US9075394B2 (en) 2012-03-29 2013-03-27 Flexible escapement mechanism with movable frame
HK15105442.6A HK1205284A1 (en) 2012-03-29 2015-06-08 Flexible escapement mechanism having a mobile frame
HK15105665.6A HK1205288A1 (en) 2012-03-29 2015-06-16 Flexible lever-free escapement mechanism
HK15105660.1A HK1205287A1 (en) 2012-03-29 2015-06-16 Flexible escapement mechanism having a plate-free balance

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP12162030.6A EP2645189B1 (en) 2012-03-29 2012-03-29 Flexible escapement mechanism

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP2645189A1 EP2645189A1 (en) 2013-10-02
EP2645189B1 true EP2645189B1 (en) 2016-02-03

Family

ID=48014005

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP12162030.6A Active EP2645189B1 (en) 2012-03-29 2012-03-29 Flexible escapement mechanism

Country Status (2)

Country Link
EP (1) EP2645189B1 (en)
CH (1) CH706274B1 (en)

Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
RU2783586C1 (en) * 2020-12-18 2022-11-14 Омега Са Resonator clock mechanism with a flexible guide, equipped with rigidity adjustment means

Families Citing this family (19)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP2998800B1 (en) 2014-09-16 2019-01-16 Patek Philippe SA Genève Timepiece component with flexible pivot
EP3021174A1 (en) * 2014-11-17 2016-05-18 LVMH Swiss Manufactures SA Monolithic timepiece regulator, timepiece movement and timepiece having such a timepiece regulator
EP3032352A1 (en) * 2014-12-09 2016-06-15 LVMH Swiss Manufactures SA Timepiece regulator, timepiece movement and timepiece having such a regulator
EP3230806B1 (en) * 2014-12-09 2024-03-13 LVMH Swiss Manufactures SA Mechanism for a timepiece and timepiece having such a mechanism
EP3032351A1 (en) * 2014-12-09 2016-06-15 LVMH Swiss Manufactures SA Timepiece mechanism, timepiece movement and timepiece having such a mechanism
EP3032350A1 (en) * 2014-12-09 2016-06-15 LVMH Swiss Manufactures SA Mechanism for a timepiece and timepiece having such a mechanism
EP3035127B1 (en) 2014-12-18 2017-08-23 The Swatch Group Research and Development Ltd. Clock oscillator with tuning fork
CH710524A2 (en) * 2014-12-18 2016-06-30 Swatch Group Res & Dev Ltd Resonator clockwork cross-band.
EP3037893B1 (en) 2014-12-22 2018-02-28 Patek Philippe SA Genève Micromechanical or clock component with flexible guidance
CH710662A1 (en) * 2015-01-16 2016-07-29 Creaditive Ag Regulating device and method for operating a control element with a constant energy.
CH711519B1 (en) * 2015-09-15 2020-04-15 Vaucher Mft Fleurier S A Adjustable bridge for timepiece.
WO2017068538A1 (en) 2015-10-23 2017-04-27 Richemont International Sa Oscillator for a mechanical timepiece movement
EP3206089B1 (en) * 2016-02-10 2018-12-19 The Swatch Group Research and Development Ltd. Timepiece resonator mechanism
WO2018146639A1 (en) 2017-02-13 2018-08-16 Patek Philippe Sa Geneve Timepiece drive member
EP3399373A1 (en) * 2017-05-03 2018-11-07 Patek Philippe SA Genève Clock device with positioning member
EP3707564B1 (en) * 2017-11-10 2022-08-31 Patek Philippe SA Genève Horological assembly comprising a horological component and a device for guiding the translation of a mobile component
EP3598242A1 (en) * 2018-07-19 2020-01-22 Patek Philippe SA Genève Cam timepiece mechanism
NL2023822B1 (en) * 2019-09-12 2021-05-17 Flexous Mech Ip B V Chronograph watch
NL2023823B1 (en) * 2019-09-12 2021-05-17 Flexous Mech Ip B V Watch

Family Cites Families (15)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CH60813A (en) * 1912-07-27 1913-09-01 James Shortill William Lever escapement for clockworks
US1336263A (en) * 1919-05-20 1920-04-06 Tideman Sven Chronometer-escapement
FR675597A (en) * 1929-05-22 1930-02-12 Improvements to exhaust systems and regulators
GB343734A (en) * 1930-02-12 1931-02-26 Seizo Murayama Escapements for clocks and watches
DE552368C (en) * 1930-06-06 1932-06-13 Edwin Achenbach Device on transmissions, e.g. B. timer-driven, to regulate the speed of the same
CH383887A (en) * 1961-11-09 1964-07-15 Far Fab Assortiments Reunies Timepiece anchor assortment, with anchor return device
CH590506B5 (en) * 1973-10-31 1977-08-15 Ebauches Sa
CH693805A5 (en) * 2002-12-03 2004-02-13 David Watson Lea Escapement mechanism for a timepiece has an impulse pallet integral with the balance that interacts with a duplex escape wheel by means of a forked rod and a further pallet element
ATE433136T1 (en) * 2007-03-09 2009-06-15 Eta Sa Mft Horlogere Suisse ESCAPEMENT WITH TANGENTIAL IMPULSES
DE602007008077D1 (en) * 2007-05-30 2010-09-09 Omega Sa Anchor escapement for watches
CH708113B1 (en) * 2007-09-13 2014-12-15 Stéphane Von Gunten Anchor for a watch escapement.
EP2105806B1 (en) * 2008-03-27 2013-11-13 Sowind S.A. Escapement mechanism
EP2221677A1 (en) * 2009-02-16 2010-08-25 Rolex Sa Detent escapement
CN102971678B (en) * 2010-04-01 2015-07-22 劳力士有限公司 Immobilizing device for a toothed wheel
CH704051B1 (en) * 2010-11-04 2013-10-15 Nivarox Sa Exhaust for synchronous clockwork.

Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
RU2783586C1 (en) * 2020-12-18 2022-11-14 Омега Са Resonator clock mechanism with a flexible guide, equipped with rigidity adjustment means

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
CH706274B1 (en) 2016-12-15
EP2645189A1 (en) 2013-10-02
CH706274A2 (en) 2013-09-30

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
EP2645189B1 (en) Flexible escapement mechanism
EP2831677B1 (en) Flexible escapement mechanism
WO2013144238A1 (en) Flexible escapement mechanism having a plate-free balance
EP2706416B1 (en) Constant force flexible anchor
EP2831676B1 (en) Flexible escapement mechanism
EP2730980B1 (en) Clockwork limitation or transmission mechanism
WO2018095997A2 (en) Rotary resonator with a flexible guide system based on a detached lever escapement
WO2009118310A1 (en) Escapement mechanism
WO2011120180A1 (en) Immobilizing device for a toothed wheel
EP3153935B1 (en) Timepiece detent escapement mechanism with constant force
EP3121661B1 (en) Constant-force direct escapement mechanism
WO2013092316A1 (en) Escapement mechanism
EP3191897B1 (en) Mechanism for synchronization of two timepiece oscillators with a wheel train
CH710925B1 (en) Exhaust mechanism.
CH714361A2 (en) Flexible guided rotary resonator serviced by a free anchor escapement.
EP3475765B1 (en) Clock escapement
CH712288A1 (en) Bi-functional sting, locking and securing device for timepiece, and watch exhaust.
EP3561605A1 (en) Timepiece regulator mechanism with hinged resonators
EP3479175B1 (en) Mechanical clock movement
EP3475763B1 (en) Clock escapement
EP4390555A1 (en) Constant force escapement mechanism for a clock movement
WO2015004336A2 (en) Escapement for a timepiece with a tourbillon without a cage
CH704784A2 (en) Mobile escapement for use in watch, has connecting units including teeth arranged with respect to pinions such that escape wheels of mobile escapement parts are rotated in opposite directions
WO2017013611A1 (en) Escapement mechanism
CH712715B1 (en) Exhaust mechanism using a leaf spring working in buckling.

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
PUAI Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: A1

Designated state(s): AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR

AX Request for extension of the european patent

Extension state: BA ME

17P Request for examination filed

Effective date: 20140403

RBV Designated contracting states (corrected)

Designated state(s): AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR

RIC1 Information provided on ipc code assigned before grant

Ipc: G04B 15/08 20060101ALI20150626BHEP

Ipc: G04B 15/00 20060101AFI20150626BHEP

Ipc: G04B 15/12 20060101ALI20150626BHEP

Ipc: G04B 15/06 20060101ALI20150626BHEP

Ipc: G04B 15/14 20060101ALI20150626BHEP

GRAP Despatch of communication of intention to grant a patent

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR1

INTG Intention to grant announced

Effective date: 20151013

GRAS Grant fee paid

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR3

GRAA (expected) grant

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009210

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: B1

Designated state(s): AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: GB

Ref legal event code: FG4D

Free format text: NOT ENGLISH

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: AT

Ref legal event code: REF

Ref document number: 773966

Country of ref document: AT

Kind code of ref document: T

Effective date: 20160215

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: EP

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: IE

Ref legal event code: FG4D

Free format text: LANGUAGE OF EP DOCUMENT: FRENCH

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: NV

Representative=s name: ICB INGENIEURS CONSEILS EN BREVETS SA, CH

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: FR

Ref legal event code: PLFP

Year of fee payment: 5

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R096

Ref document number: 602012014284

Country of ref document: DE

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: LT

Ref legal event code: MG4D

Ref country code: NL

Ref legal event code: MP

Effective date: 20160203

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: AT

Ref legal event code: MK05

Ref document number: 773966

Country of ref document: AT

Kind code of ref document: T

Effective date: 20160203

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

Ref country code: HR

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

Effective date: 20160203

Ref country code: FI

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

Effective date: 20160203

Ref country code: IT

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

Effective date: 20160203

Ref country code: NO

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

Effective date: 20160503

Ref country code: GR

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

Effective date: 20160504

Ref country code: ES

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

Effective date: 20160203

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

Ref country code: IS

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

Effective date: 20160603

Ref country code: AT

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

Effective date: 20160203

Ref country code: PT

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

Effective date: 20160603

Ref country code: BE

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

Effective date: 20160331

Ref country code: NL

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

Effective date: 20160203

Ref country code: LT

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

Effective date: 20160203

Ref country code: LV

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

Effective date: 20160203

Ref country code: RS

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

Effective date: 20160203

Ref country code: PL

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

Effective date: 20160203

Ref country code: SE

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

Effective date: 20160203

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

Ref country code: DK

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

Effective date: 20160203

Ref country code: EE

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

Effective date: 20160203

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R097

Ref document number: 602012014284

Country of ref document: DE

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

Ref country code: RO

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

Effective date: 20160203

Ref country code: CZ

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

Effective date: 20160203

Ref country code: SK

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

Effective date: 20160203

Ref country code: SM

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

Effective date: 20160203

PLBE No opposition filed within time limit

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009261

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: NO OPPOSITION FILED WITHIN TIME LIMIT

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: IE

Ref legal event code: MM4A

26N No opposition filed

Effective date: 20161104

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

Ref country code: IE

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

Effective date: 20160329

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: FR

Ref legal event code: PLFP

Year of fee payment: 6

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

Ref country code: SI

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

Effective date: 20160203

Ref country code: BG

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

Effective date: 20160503

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

Ref country code: MT

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

Effective date: 20160203

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: FR

Ref legal event code: PLFP

Year of fee payment: 7

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

Ref country code: CY

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

Effective date: 20160203

Ref country code: HU

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

Effective date: 20120329

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

Ref country code: LU

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

Effective date: 20160329

Ref country code: TR

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

Effective date: 20160203

Ref country code: MK

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

Effective date: 20160203

Ref country code: MC

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

Effective date: 20160203

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

Ref country code: AL

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

Effective date: 20160203

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

Effective date: 20230611

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

Ref country code: CH

Payment date: 20230401

Year of fee payment: 12

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

Ref country code: DE

Payment date: 20240220

Year of fee payment: 13

Ref country code: GB

Payment date: 20240220

Year of fee payment: 13

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

Ref country code: FR

Payment date: 20240220

Year of fee payment: 13