EP2791740B1 - Elastomeric shockproof system for timepieces - Google Patents

Elastomeric shockproof system for timepieces Download PDF

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Publication number
EP2791740B1
EP2791740B1 EP12801718.3A EP12801718A EP2791740B1 EP 2791740 B1 EP2791740 B1 EP 2791740B1 EP 12801718 A EP12801718 A EP 12801718A EP 2791740 B1 EP2791740 B1 EP 2791740B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
pivot
shock
elastic means
premounting
assembly
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EP12801718.3A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP2791740A1 (en
Inventor
Julien Moulin
Jean-Luc Helfer
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ETA Manufacture Horlogere Suisse SA
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ETA Manufacture Horlogere Suisse SA
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Priority to EP12801718.3A priority Critical patent/EP2791740B1/en
Publication of EP2791740A1 publication Critical patent/EP2791740A1/en
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    • G—PHYSICS
    • G04—HOROLOGY
    • G04B—MECHANICALLY-DRIVEN CLOCKS OR WATCHES; MECHANICAL PARTS OF CLOCKS OR WATCHES IN GENERAL; TIME PIECES USING THE POSITION OF THE SUN, MOON OR STARS
    • G04B31/00—Bearings; Point suspensions or counter-point suspensions; Pivot bearings; Single parts therefor
    • G04B31/02—Shock-damping bearings
    • G04B31/04—Shock-damping bearings with jewel hole and cap jewel
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G04—HOROLOGY
    • G04B—MECHANICALLY-DRIVEN CLOCKS OR WATCHES; MECHANICAL PARTS OF CLOCKS OR WATCHES IN GENERAL; TIME PIECES USING THE POSITION OF THE SUN, MOON OR STARS
    • G04B31/00—Bearings; Point suspensions or counter-point suspensions; Pivot bearings; Single parts therefor
    • G04B31/004—Bearings; Point suspensions or counter-point suspensions; Pivot bearings; Single parts therefor characterised by the material used
    • G04B31/016—Plastic bearings
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G04—HOROLOGY
    • G04B—MECHANICALLY-DRIVEN CLOCKS OR WATCHES; MECHANICAL PARTS OF CLOCKS OR WATCHES IN GENERAL; TIME PIECES USING THE POSITION OF THE SUN, MOON OR STARS
    • G04B31/00—Bearings; Point suspensions or counter-point suspensions; Pivot bearings; Single parts therefor
    • G04B31/02—Shock-damping bearings
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G04—HOROLOGY
    • G04B—MECHANICALLY-DRIVEN CLOCKS OR WATCHES; MECHANICAL PARTS OF CLOCKS OR WATCHES IN GENERAL; TIME PIECES USING THE POSITION OF THE SUN, MOON OR STARS
    • G04B31/00—Bearings; Point suspensions or counter-point suspensions; Pivot bearings; Single parts therefor
    • G04B31/06—Manufacture or mounting processes

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to an anti-shock system for an axis of a mobile of a timepiece.
  • the axis comprises a tigeron, comprising a support.
  • the support is provided with a housing designed to receive a pivot module comprising a pivot assembly into which the tigeron is inserted and elastic means arranged to mount said pivot assembly in a suspended manner and to exert on said pivot system at least one axial force.
  • the technical field of the invention is the technical field of fine mechanics.
  • the present invention relates to bearings for timepieces, more particularly of the type making it possible to absorb shocks.
  • Mechanical watch manufacturers have long designed many devices allowing an axis to absorb the energy resulting from a shock by abutting against a wall of the hole in the base block it passes through, while allowing momentary movement of the tiger before it is returned to its rest position under the action of a spring.
  • FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate a device called a double inverted cone which is currently used in timepieces on the market.
  • the kitten 20 is held in a housing 6 of the support 1 by a spring 10 which in this example comprises radial extensions 9 compressing the counter-pivot stone 5.
  • the housing 6 has two bearing surfaces 7, 7a in the form of inverted cones on which bear complementary bearing surfaces 8, 8a of the kitten 20, said bearing surfaces having to be executed with very high precision.
  • the counter-pivot stone 5 moves and the spring 10 acts alone to return the balance pin 3 to its initial position.
  • the spring 10 is dimensioned to have a displacement limit calculated so that beyond this limit, the pendulum axis 3 comes into contact with stops 14 allowing said axis 3 to absorb the shock, which the tigers 3a of axis 3 cannot be done under penalty of breaking.
  • the spring 10 cooperates with the complementary inclined planes 7, 7a; 8, 8a for refocusing the kitten 20.
  • Such bearings have for example been sold under the brand Incabloc®.
  • These springs can be made of phynox, brass, CuBe or durumphy and are manufactured by traditional cutting means.
  • crystalline metals are characterized by a low elastic limit which can cause plastic deformation if the stresses following the shocks are too high. This problem is amplified by the lack of space. The elastic deformation of current springs is very close to the elastic limit.
  • the movement of the stones and of the pendulum can be of great amplitude and, consequently, a plastic, that is to say permanent, deformation of the spring can occur.
  • the spring becomes less effective in absorbing shocks and refocusing the pendulum axis in its rest position because it no longer returns to its original shape and therefore the preload decreases.
  • This permanent deformation can also occur during the handling of said springs during their installation or their removal.
  • This permanent deformation can also occur during the handling of said springs during their installation or their removal.
  • the invention aims to overcome the drawbacks of the prior art by proposing to provide a shockproof timepiece system which is more efficient and which is more shock-resistant and simpler and less expensive to produce.
  • the invention relates to two alternatives for a shock absorbing bearing, these two alternatives being defined, respectively in independent claims 1 and 2.
  • a first advantage of the present invention is to be simple and inexpensive to produce.
  • the elastomer parts are parts which can have complex shapes and can be easily shaped because they are produced by injection into a mold.
  • This mastered technique is inexpensive and easily adaptable because only the molds change.
  • These can be complex because, in liquid form, the elastomers can be inserted in any corner. A high precision part can thus be obtained.
  • Another advantage of the present invention is that it makes it possible to produce elastic means having advantageous mechanical properties. Indeed, elastomers have the property of deforming elastically significantly without, however, deforming plastically. This therefore makes it possible to manufacture parts which will withstand high stresses in being deformed plastically.
  • the elastic means comprise a part comprising a central orifice arranged so that the pivot assembly can be inserted therein, said part comprising in besides an outer wall whose shape is arranged to correspond to that of said pre-assembly element.
  • the pre-assembly element is a ring.
  • the elastic means are overmolded between the pre-assembly element and the pivot assembly.
  • said part comprises recesses locally making said part more flexible so as to obtain predetermined restoring forces.
  • One of the advantages of these embodiments is that it makes it possible to modify the behavior of the elastomer ring simply. Indeed, this modification of the behavior is carried out by the arrangement of recesses or openings in the ring in order to locally modify the rigidity of said ring. This then results in a different behavior in the areas where the recesses or openings are arranged and therefore an overall behavior of the elastomer ring which is modified.
  • the pivot assembly comprises a kitten in which a pierced stone and a stone against the pivot are arranged.
  • the pivot assembly comprises a one-piece bearing ensuring the pivot function.
  • the monobloc bearing is a single stone.
  • the support comprises a first part ensuring the fixing and a second part ensuring the stop function for the axis and its tigeron, the second part being dissociated from the first part.
  • the elastic means are molded between the first part of the support and the pivot assembly.
  • the elastic means comprise an interior wall
  • the pivot element comprises a outer wall and in that the inner wall of the elastic means and the outer wall of the pivot element have structures.
  • the structures include a male part or a female part.
  • the present invention proceeds from the general inventive idea which consists in providing a shock absorbing system having greater reliability by using an elastomeric material.
  • the figure 3 illustrates an anti-shock system 100 according to a first embodiment.
  • the system 100 comprises a support 101 of circular shape delimiting a housing 106 whose center is pierced with a hole 102. This hole allows the passage of a pendulum axis terminated by a tigeron.
  • the support 101 can either be an independent part driven out or fixed by any means in the frame of the watch movement, or be integrated into a part of the movement, such as a bridge or a plate.
  • a pivot system 103 In said support 101 is inserted a pivot system 103.
  • This pivot system comprises a pivot assembly 103a which is used to perform the pivot function of the balance wheel or wheel axis and an elastic means 107.
  • the pivot assembly 103a comprises a kitten 120 which supports a pierced stone 104 crossed by the tiger 103a and a counter-pivot stone 105.
  • the pivot system 103 further comprises elastic means 107.
  • the pivot assembly 103a is suspended in the housing 106 by elastic means 107.
  • the elastic means 107 shown in the figure 4 , is in the form of a ring 110 whose central opening 112 has dimensions arranged so that the kitten 120 can be driven into the central opening 112 of said ring 110.
  • the elastic means 107 are chosen to have a reaction force both along the axis of the balance and radially to it.
  • This ring 110 is mounted, for example by force, against the wall 106a of the housing 106 by bearing on a bead 106b located at the bottom of the housing 106 so as to provide a space between the ring 110 and the bottom of the housing 106 allowing a certain axial movement of the elastic means 107.
  • the kitten 120 is an annular piece, the inner wall of which comprises an annular rim. In the circular recess created by the rim is inserted the pierced stone 104. The counter-pivot stone 105 is driven into the kitten 120 so as to bear on the rim, the counter-pivot stone 105 being of a larger diameter than that of pierced stone 104.
  • the wheel In the event of an impact, the wheel is subjected to a force which is proportional to the acceleration undergone. This force is transmitted to the bearings via the pivots. The effect of this force is to deform the elastomer ring until the axis of the wheel comes to bear, via its tigerons, against the wall of the holes. In this case, the wheel is then stopped by the axle which abuts on the support serving as a stop. As the dimensions of the axis are much larger than those of the pivots, the energy produced during the impact against the stop is therefore transmitted to the axis, so as not to damage the tigerons.
  • the ring 110 shown in the figure 4 is made of an elastomeric material, that is to say a polymer having elastic properties obtained after crosslinking, that is to say after the formation of one or more three-dimensional networks, by chemical or physical means.
  • the advantage of these elastomers is to be able to deform strongly without deforming plastically.
  • This capacity is due to the capacities of elastic collisions, such as elastic rebounding and stretching, of the elastomers which allows them to resume their initial shape after the stress has ceased.
  • This special characteristic is the consequence of the presence of tangles and network nodes (these links are occasional and permanent respectively, the bridges play the role of "springs").
  • An elastomer withstands very large deformations (up to around 1000%) before rupture, almost completely reversible.
  • elastomers have the advantage of being able to be shaped using simple methods.
  • One technique used is, for example, injection molding.
  • this material is conveyed to the front of the plasticizing screw thus giving a reserve of material ready for injection (this is called the dosing phase).
  • the dynamic injection phase can begin.
  • the material present at the front of the plasticizing screw is injected under high pressure inside a mold (or cavity) having the shape of the desired part.
  • This mold can be composed of two dies assembled to each other and forming the imprint of the desired part.
  • the mold is regulated at a temperature below the processing temperature (ranging from 15 ° C to 130 ° C in some cases).
  • This step is the one where a constant pressure is applied during a determined time in order to continue to feed the impression despite the fact that it is filled. This makes it possible to compensate for the withdrawal of the material during its cooling. The part is cooled for a few seconds and then ejected.
  • the pivot assembly 103a comprises a single monobloc bearing which can be for example a single stone 108.
  • This single stone 108 is pierced with a non-through hole 109.
  • This stone 108 which performs the pivot function is driven into the central orifice 112 of the elastomer ring 110.
  • This single pivot stone 108 has the advantage of allowing the realization of a simple pivot system 103.
  • this pivot system 103 is composed only of two elements: the elastic means 107, that is to say the ring 110 made of elastomer which ensures the suspension function and the stone 108 which ensures the pivot / bearing function.
  • This configuration also makes it possible to limit the costs by limiting the number of elements making up the pivot system 103 but also to simplify its assembly process by reducing the number of steps.
  • a first solution consists in making the pivot assembly 103a and the ring 110 in elastomer separately and then fixing them together.
  • the fixing can be carried out by driving the pivot assembly 103a into the central opening 112 of the ring 110. Other methods such as bonding, clipping or even welding can be used.
  • the elastic means 107 that is to say the elastomer ring, comprise internal structures 111.
  • These structures are in the form of openings 113 or recesses 114.
  • These openings 113 or recesses 114 are arranged on the ring 110 along an axis parallel to the axis of revolution.
  • These internal structures 111 are preferably of circular or oval shapes, but other shapes can be envisaged.
  • These internal structures 111 are used in order to be able to adjust the axial and radial rigidity of the ring 110. Indeed, these internal structures 111 have the consequence of making more flexible the ring in the areas where they are made. This results in a reduction in the rigidity of the ring 110. The latter can then deform more easily in the areas where these structures are made.
  • the ring 110 comprises at least two openings 113 or recesses 114 diametrically opposite from each other. This arrangement thus makes it possible to distribute the restoring forces.
  • the elastomer ring 110 comprises four openings 113 or recesses 114. These openings 113 or recesses 114 are distributed uniformly, each being offset by ⁇ / 2 or 90 °.
  • openings 113 or recesses 114 may be greater, such as for example eight openings 113 each offset by ⁇ / 4 or 45 °.
  • openings 113 or recesses 114 may be odd, the most important being that these openings 113 or recesses 114 are distributed evenly.
  • the elastomer ring 110 is fixed to a pre-assembly part 130.
  • This pre-assembly part 130 is of annular shape and therefore comprises a central opening. In this central opening, the elastomer ring 110, supporting the pivot assembly 103a, is inserted there.
  • This arrangement thus makes it possible to produce a pre-mounted module 140 comprising the pivot system 103, that is to say the elastomer ring 110 and the pivot assembly 103a.
  • the advantage of such a pre-mounted module 140 is to facilitate assembly. Indeed, the mounting of the pivot system 103 by first inserting the ring 110 of elastomer then mounting the pivot assembly 103a to said ring is complex because the elastomer is difficult handy when constraints have to be applied. This difficulty is also found when the assembly consists in assembling the pivot assembly 103a to the ring 110 in elastomer and then fixing the whole to the support.
  • the assembly it becomes possible to overmold the pre-mounting part 130 so that it is directly fixed to the pivot system 130. Consequently, the joining of this pre-assembly part 130 with the pivot system 103 is effective and therefore allows easier handling of the module.
  • the assembly of said pre-mounted module 140 to the support is, therefore, simplified.
  • This pre-assembly part 130 makes it possible to use another manufacturing method.
  • This method consists in overmolding the ring 110 in elastomer directly in its final position.
  • the step of manufacturing the ring 110 of elastomer is simultaneous with the step of fixing said ring 110 with the pivot assembly 103a and the pre-assembly part 130.
  • This method consists in placing in a mold which includes an imprint, the pre-assembly part 130 and the pivot assembly 103a so that they can be housed there and take their final arrangement.
  • a space constituting the shape of the elastic means that is to say the shape of the ring, is then present.
  • Said space forming the imprint of the ring 110 is then overmolded with elastomer so that the steps for manufacturing said ring and for assembling / fixing said ring are simultaneous, thus saving time.
  • the mold can be designed so that the elastomer ring 110 partially envelops said single stone 108 at its periphery.
  • the advantage of overmolding of the elastomer is that it makes it possible to take advantage of the shaping characteristics of the latter and therefore to perfectly match the shapes of the mold so as to obtain improved support.
  • the support 101 is arranged so that the stop function and the support function are dissociated.
  • the support comprises a first part 101a and a second part 101b.
  • the first part 101a operates the support function and the second part 101b operates the stop function.
  • the first part 101a is presented as an annular part, that is to say having a central opening 101c.
  • This annular part comprises an outer profile having a step 150 in order to form a bearing surface.
  • the pivot system 103 that is to say the elastomer ring 110 and the pivot assembly 103a, is then fixed in the central opening 101c.
  • the second part 101b is in the form of a disc pierced by the opening 102. This opening 102 is arranged centrally allows the tigeron to pass through to cooperate with the pivot system.
  • This drilled disc makes it possible to perform the stop function since, during an impact, the axis on which the wheel is fixed moves until it comes to bear, via its tigerons, against the wall of the holes. The wheel is then stopped by the axle which abuts on the drilled disc.
  • a first advantage of separating the two functions is to be able to directly overmold the ring 110 in elastomer in the shock absorbing system according to the invention. Indeed, the separation of these functions makes it possible to provide an injection mold for the ring in which the support 101 and the pivot assembly 103a are placed in their final position. The elastomer can then be injected directly between the support 101 and the pivot assembly 103a so that the step of producing the ring 110 and the step of mounting the shockproof system are one.
  • the second part 101b in the form of a pierced disc has a diameter equal to that of the first part 101a.
  • This second part 101b can then be fixed below said first part 101a.
  • the fixing can be done by gluing or welding or any other method.
  • the second part 101b in the form of a pierced disc has a diameter equal to that of the opening 101c of the first annular part 101a. This allows the second part 101b to be fixed in said opening 101c.
  • the assembly of the assembly therefore consists in fixing the pivot system 103 in said opening 101c then in fixing the second part 101b.
  • This second part 101b can, for example, be fixed by gluing.
  • the pivot system 103 and the second part 101b do not have contact with each other making it possible to have a pivot system 103 suspended.
  • the second configuration is repeated with a second part 101b inserted into the opening 101c of the first part 101a.
  • the interior profile includes a shoulder 101d so the opening of the first part is separated into two zones having two different diameters.
  • the pivot system 103 is inserted in a first zone of a first diameter.
  • the second part 101b is inserted in a second zone of a second diameter.
  • the first diameter is smaller than the second diameter.
  • the different walls of the pivot system 103 are structured to have a non-smooth geometry.
  • the interior wall of the housing, the interior and exterior walls of the elastomer ring, the interior 116 and exterior walls 115 of the pre-assembly part, the exterior wall of the kitten or of the single stone can be structured.
  • This structure 117, 118 is based on the principle of male and female sockets which cooperate together.
  • each wall receives a structure so that the walls are complementary to one another. This then allows a nesting of the geometries resulting in the axial holding of the contacts because the structures block each other. Consequently, the risks of seeing the different parts of the pivot module separate from one another under the effect of constraints are low.

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  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Manufacturing & Machinery (AREA)
  • Springs (AREA)
  • Vibration Dampers (AREA)

Description

La présente invention concerne un système antichoc pour un axe d'un mobile d'une pièce d'horlogerie. L'axe comprend un tigeron, comportant un support. Le support est pourvu d'un logement prévu pour recevoir un module pivot comprenant un ensemble pivot dans lequel le tigeron est inséré et des moyens élastiques agencés pour monter ledit ensemble pivot de façon suspendu et pour exercer sur ledit système pivot au moins une force axiale.The present invention relates to an anti-shock system for an axis of a mobile of a timepiece. The axis comprises a tigeron, comprising a support. The support is provided with a housing designed to receive a pivot module comprising a pivot assembly into which the tigeron is inserted and elastic means arranged to mount said pivot assembly in a suspended manner and to exert on said pivot system at least one axial force.

Le domaine technique de l'invention est le domaine technique de la mécanique fine.The technical field of the invention is the technical field of fine mechanics.

ARRIERE PLAN TECHNOLOGIQUETECHNOLOGICAL BACKGROUND

La présente invention concerne des paliers pour pièces d'horlogerie, plus particulièrement du type permettant d'amortir les chocs. Les constructeurs de montres mécaniques ont conçu depuis longtemps de nombreux dispositifs permettant à un axe d'absorber l'énergie résultant d'un choc par butée contre une paroi du trou du bloc de base qu'il traverse, tout en permettant un déplacement momentané du tigeron avant qu'il ne soit ramené à sa position de repos sous l'action d'un ressort.The present invention relates to bearings for timepieces, more particularly of the type making it possible to absorb shocks. Mechanical watch manufacturers have long designed many devices allowing an axis to absorb the energy resulting from a shock by abutting against a wall of the hole in the base block it passes through, while allowing momentary movement of the tiger before it is returned to its rest position under the action of a spring.

Les figures 1 et 2 illustrent un dispositif dit à double cône inversé qui est actuellement utilisé dans des pièces d'horlogerie se trouvant sur le marché.The Figures 1 and 2 illustrate a device called a double inverted cone which is currently used in timepieces on the market.

Un support 1, dont la base comporte un trou 2 pour le passage de l'axe de balancier 3 terminé par un tigeron 3a, permet de positionner un chaton 20 dans lequel sont immobilisées une pierre percée 4 traversée par le tigeron 3a et une pierre contre-pivot 5. Le chaton 20 est maintenu dans un logement 6 du support 1 par un ressort 10 qui comprend dans cet exemple des extensions radiales 9 comprimant la pierre contre-pivot 5. Le logement 6 comporte deux portées 7, 7a en forme de cônes inversés sur lesquelles prennent appui des portées complémentaires 8, 8a du chaton 20, lesdites portées devant être exécutées avec une très grande précision. En cas de choc axial, la pierre contre-pivot 5 se déplace et le ressort 10 agit seul pour ramener l'axe de balancier 3 dans sa position initiale. Le ressort 10 est dimensionné pour avoir une limite de déplacement calculée de sorte qu'au delà de cette limite, l'axe de balancier 3 arrive en contact avec des butées 14 permettant audit axe 3 d'absorber le choc, ce que les tigerons 3a de l'axe 3 ne peuvent faire sous peine de casser. En cas de choc latéral, c'est-à-dire lorsque l'extrémité du tigeron déséquilibre le chaton 20 hors de son plan de repos, le ressort 10 coopère avec les plans inclinés complémentaires 7, 7a ; 8, 8a pour recentrer le chaton 20. De tels paliers ont par exemple été vendus sous la marque Incabloc®. Ces ressorts peuvent être réalisés en phynox,laiton, CuBe ou durumphy et sont fabriqués par des moyens traditionnels de découpage.A support 1, the base of which has a hole 2 for the passage of the balance axis 3 terminated by a tigeron 3a, makes it possible to position a kitten 20 in which are immobilized a pierced stone 4 crossed by the tigeron 3a and a counter-pivot stone 5. The kitten 20 is held in a housing 6 of the support 1 by a spring 10 which in this example comprises radial extensions 9 compressing the counter-pivot stone 5. The housing 6 has two bearing surfaces 7, 7a in the form of inverted cones on which bear complementary bearing surfaces 8, 8a of the kitten 20, said bearing surfaces having to be executed with very high precision. In the event of an axial shock, the counter-pivot stone 5 moves and the spring 10 acts alone to return the balance pin 3 to its initial position. The spring 10 is dimensioned to have a displacement limit calculated so that beyond this limit, the pendulum axis 3 comes into contact with stops 14 allowing said axis 3 to absorb the shock, which the tigers 3a of axis 3 cannot be done under penalty of breaking. In the event of a lateral impact, that is to say when the end of the tiger unbalances the kitten 20 out of its rest plane, the spring 10 cooperates with the complementary inclined planes 7, 7a; 8, 8a for refocusing the kitten 20. Such bearings have for example been sold under the brand Incabloc®. These springs can be made of phynox, brass, CuBe or durumphy and are manufactured by traditional cutting means.

Or, l'utilisation de métaux cristallins pour ces ressorts peut entraîner certains problèmes. Effectivement, les métaux cristallins se caractérisent par une faible limite élastique pouvant entraîner une déformation plastique si les contraintes suite aux chocs sont trop élevées. Ce problème est amplifié par le manque de place. La déformation élastique des ressorts actuels est très proche de la limite élastique.However, the use of crystalline metals for these springs can cause certain problems. Indeed, crystalline metals are characterized by a low elastic limit which can cause plastic deformation if the stresses following the shocks are too high. This problem is amplified by the lack of space. The elastic deformation of current springs is very close to the elastic limit.

Ainsi, si un choc trop important est appliqué sur la pièce d'horlogerie, le déplacement des pierres et du balancier peut être de grande amplitude et, par conséquent, une déformation plastique c'est-à-dire permanente du ressort peut se produire. Le ressort devient moins efficace pour amortir les chocs et recentrer l'axe du balancier dans sa position de repos car il ne reprend plus sa forme d'origine et donc la précontrainte diminue.Thus, if too great a shock is applied to the timepiece, the movement of the stones and of the pendulum can be of great amplitude and, consequently, a plastic, that is to say permanent, deformation of the spring can occur. The spring becomes less effective in absorbing shocks and refocusing the pendulum axis in its rest position because it no longer returns to its original shape and therefore the preload decreases.

Cette déformation permanente peut également se produire lors de la manipulation desdits ressorts lors de leur mise en place ou de leur retrait.This permanent deformation can also occur during the handling of said springs during their installation or their removal.

On connait du brevet EP 1 696 286 un tel type de palier pour pièces d'horlogerie.We know of the patent EP 1,696,286 such a type of bearing for timepieces.

Cette déformation permanente peut également se produire lors de la manipulation desdits ressorts lors de leur mise en place ou de leur retrait.This permanent deformation can also occur during the handling of said springs during their installation or their removal.

RESUME DE L'INVENTIONSUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

L'invention a pour but de pallier les inconvénients de l'art antérieur en proposant de fournir un système antichoc de pièce d'horlogerie plus performant et qui résiste mieux aux chocs et plus simple et moins couteux à réaliser.The invention aims to overcome the drawbacks of the prior art by proposing to provide a shockproof timepiece system which is more efficient and which is more shock-resistant and simpler and less expensive to produce.

A cet effet, l'invention concerne deux alternatives pour un palier amortisseur de chocs, ces deux alternatives étant définies, respectivement dans les revendications indépendantes 1 et 2.To this end, the invention relates to two alternatives for a shock absorbing bearing, these two alternatives being defined, respectively in independent claims 1 and 2.

Un premier avantage de la présente invention est d'être simple et peu coûteuse à réaliser. En effet, les pièces en élastomères sont des pièces qui peuvent avoir des formes complexes et mise en forme facilement car elles sont fabriquées par injection dans un moule. Cette technique maitrisée est peu coûteuse et facilement adaptable car il n'y a que les moules qui changent. Ces derniers peuvent être complexes car, sous forme liquide, les élastomères peuvent s'insérés dans tout les recoins. Une pièce de grande précision peut ainsi être obtenue.A first advantage of the present invention is to be simple and inexpensive to produce. Indeed, the elastomer parts are parts which can have complex shapes and can be easily shaped because they are produced by injection into a mold. This mastered technique is inexpensive and easily adaptable because only the molds change. These can be complex because, in liquid form, the elastomers can be inserted in any corner. A high precision part can thus be obtained.

Un autre avantage de la présente invention est de permettre de réaliser des moyens élastiques ayant des propriétés mécaniques intéressantes. Effectivement, les élastomères ont la propriété de se déformer élastiquement de façon importante sans toutefois se déformer plastiquement. Cela permet donc de fabriquer des pièces qui supporteront des fortes contraintes dans se déformer plastiquement.Another advantage of the present invention is that it makes it possible to produce elastic means having advantageous mechanical properties. Indeed, elastomers have the property of deforming elastically significantly without, however, deforming plastically. This therefore makes it possible to manufacture parts which will withstand high stresses in being deformed plastically.

Des modes de réalisation avantageux de ce système antichoc font l'objet des revendications dépendantes.Advantageous embodiments of this shockproof system are the subject of the dependent claims.

Dans un premier mode de réalisation avantageux, les moyens élastiques comprennent une pièce comprenant un orifice central agencé de sorte que l'ensemble pivot puisse s'y insérer, ladite pièce comprenant en outre une paroi extérieure dont la forme est agencée pour correspondre à celle dudit élément de prémontage.In a first advantageous embodiment, the elastic means comprise a part comprising a central orifice arranged so that the pivot assembly can be inserted therein, said part comprising in besides an outer wall whose shape is arranged to correspond to that of said pre-assembly element.

Dans un autre mode de réalisation avantageux, l'élément de prémontage est une bague.In another advantageous embodiment, the pre-assembly element is a ring.

Dans un autre mode de réalisation avantageux, les moyens élastiques sont surmoulés entre l'élément de prémontage et l'ensemble pivot.In another advantageous embodiment, the elastic means are overmolded between the pre-assembly element and the pivot assembly.

Dans un autre mode de réalisation avantageux, ladite pièce comprend des évidements rendant localement ladite pièce plus flexible de sorte à obtenir des forces de rappel prédéterminées.In another advantageous embodiment, said part comprises recesses locally making said part more flexible so as to obtain predetermined restoring forces.

Un des avantages de ces modes de réalisation est de permettre de modifier le comportement de la bague en élastomère simplement. En effet, cette modification du comportement est réalisée par l'agencement d'évidements ou d'ouvertures dans la bague afin de modifier localement la rigidité de ladite bague. Il en résulte alors un comportement différent dans les zones où les évidements ou ouvertures sont agencés et donc un comportement global de la bague en élastomère qui est modifié.One of the advantages of these embodiments is that it makes it possible to modify the behavior of the elastomer ring simply. Indeed, this modification of the behavior is carried out by the arrangement of recesses or openings in the ring in order to locally modify the rigidity of said ring. This then results in a different behavior in the areas where the recesses or openings are arranged and therefore an overall behavior of the elastomer ring which is modified.

Dans un autre mode de réalisation avantageux, l'ensemble pivot comprend un chaton dans lequel une pierre percée et une pierre contre pivot sont agencées.In another advantageous embodiment, the pivot assembly comprises a kitten in which a pierced stone and a stone against the pivot are arranged.

Dans un autre mode de réalisation avantageux, l'ensemble pivot comprend un palier monobloc assurant la fonction pivot.In another advantageous embodiment, the pivot assembly comprises a one-piece bearing ensuring the pivot function.

Dans un autre mode de réalisation avantageux, le palier monobloc est une unique pierre.In another advantageous embodiment, the monobloc bearing is a single stone.

Dans un autre mode de réalisation avantageux, le support comprend une première partie assurant la fixation et une seconde partie assurant la fonction butée pour l'axe et son tigeron, la seconde partie étant dissociée de la première partie.In another advantageous embodiment, the support comprises a first part ensuring the fixing and a second part ensuring the stop function for the axis and its tigeron, the second part being dissociated from the first part.

Dans un autre mode de réalisation avantageux, les moyens élastiques sont surmoulés entre la première partie du support et l'ensemble pivot.In another advantageous embodiment, the elastic means are molded between the first part of the support and the pivot assembly.

Dans un autre mode de réalisation avantageux, les moyens élastiques comprennent une paroi intérieure, l'élément pivot comprend une paroi extérieure et en ce que la paroi intérieure des moyens élastiques et la paroi extérieure de l'élément pivot présentent des structurations.In another advantageous embodiment, the elastic means comprise an interior wall, the pivot element comprises a outer wall and in that the inner wall of the elastic means and the outer wall of the pivot element have structures.

Dans un autre mode de réalisation avantageux, les structurations comprennent une partie mâle ou une partie femelle.In another advantageous embodiment, the structures include a male part or a female part.

BREVE DESCRIPTION DES FIGURESBRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

Les buts, avantages et caractéristiques du système antichoc selon la présente invention apparaîtront plus clairement dans la description détaillée suivante d'au moins une forme de réalisation de l'invention donnée uniquement à titre d'exemple non limitatif et illustrée par les dessins annexés sur lesquels :

  • les figures 1 et 2, déjà citées, permettent de représenter de manière schématique un système antichoc de pièce d'horlogerie selon l'art antérieur;
  • la figure 3 représente de manière schématique un système antichoc de pièce d'horlogerie selon un premier mode de réalisation compatible avec l'invention;
  • la figure 4 représente de manière schématique une vue de dessus des moyens élastiques selon la présente invention;
  • la figure 5 représente de manière schématique un système antichoc de pièce d'horlogerie selon un second mode de réalisation compatible avec l'invention;
  • les figures 6 et 7 représentent de manière schématique une première variante du système antichoc de pièce d'horlogerie. Cette variante est compatible avec la présente invention;
  • la figure 8 représentent de manière schématique une seconde variante du système antichoc de pièce d'horlogerie. Cette variante montre, de façon explicite, la présente invention;
  • la figure 9a, 9b, 9c représentent de manière schématique une troisième variante du système antichoc de pièce d'horlogerie. Cette variante est compatible avec la présente invention;
  • la figure 10a, 10b, 10c représentent de manière schématique une quatrième variante du système antichoc de pièce d'horlogerie. Cette variante est compatible avec la présente invention.
The objects, advantages and characteristics of the shock-absorbing system according to the present invention will appear more clearly in the following detailed description of at least one embodiment of the invention given solely by way of nonlimiting example and illustrated by the appended drawings in which :
  • the Figures 1 and 2 , already cited, make it possible to schematically represent an anti-shock timepiece system according to the prior art;
  • the figure 3 shows schematically an anti-shock timepiece system according to a first embodiment compatible with the invention;
  • the figure 4 shows schematically a top view of the elastic means according to the present invention;
  • the figure 5 shows schematically an anti-shock timepiece system according to a second embodiment compatible with the invention;
  • the Figures 6 and 7 schematically represent a first variant of the shockproof timepiece system. This variant is compatible with the present invention;
  • the figure 8 schematically represent a second variant of the shockproof timepiece system. This variant shows, explicitly, the present invention;
  • the figure 9a, 9b, 9c schematically represent a third variant of the shockproof timepiece system. This variant is compatible with the present invention;
  • the figure 10a, 10b, 10c schematically represent a fourth variant of the shockproof timepiece system. This variant is compatible with the present invention.

DESCRIPTION DETAILLEEDETAILED DESCRIPTION

La présente invention procède de l'idée générale inventive qui consiste à procurer un système amortisseur de choc ayant une plus grande fiabilité par utilisation d'un matériau élastomère.The present invention proceeds from the general inventive idea which consists in providing a shock absorbing system having greater reliability by using an elastomeric material.

La figure 3 illustre un système antichoc 100 selon un premier mode de réalisation. Le système 100 comporte un support 101 de forme circulaire délimitant un logement 106 dont le centre est percé d'un trou 102. Ce trou permet le passage d'un axe de balancier terminé par un tigeron.The figure 3 illustrates an anti-shock system 100 according to a first embodiment. The system 100 comprises a support 101 of circular shape delimiting a housing 106 whose center is pierced with a hole 102. This hole allows the passage of a pendulum axis terminated by a tigeron.

Le support 101 peut être soit une pièce indépendante chassée ou fixée par tout moyen dans le bâti du mouvement horloger, soit être intégré dans une pièce du mouvement, tel qu'un pont ou une platine.The support 101 can either be an independent part driven out or fixed by any means in the frame of the watch movement, or be integrated into a part of the movement, such as a bridge or a plate.

Dans ledit support 101 est inséré un système pivot 103. Ce système pivot comprend un ensemble pivot 103a qui est utilisé pour réaliser la fonction pivot de l'axe du balancier ou de la roue et un moyen élastique 107. L'ensemble pivot 103a comprend un chaton 120 qui supporte une pierre percée 104 traversée par le tigeron 103a et une pierre contre-pivot 105. Le système pivot 103 comprend en outre des moyens élastiques 107. L'ensemble pivot 103a est suspendu dans le logement 106 par un moyen élastique 107. Le moyen élastique 107, représenté à la figure 4, se présente sous la forme d'une bague 110 dont l'ouverture centrale 112 a des dimensions agencées de sorte que le chaton 120 puisse être chassé dans l'ouverture centrale 112 de ladite bague 110. Les moyens élastiques 107 sont choisis pour avoir une force de réaction à la fois selon l'axe du balancier et radialement à celui-ci. Cette bague 110 est montée, par exemple à force, contre la paroi 106a du logement 106 en prenant appui sur un bourrelet 106b situé au fond du logement 106 de façon à ménager un espace entre la bague 110 et le fond du logement 106 permettant un certain débattement axial du moyen élastique 107. Dans le cas particulier de la figure 3, le chaton 120 est une pièce annulaire dont la paroi intérieure comprend un rebord annulaire. Dans l'évidement circulaire créé par le rebord est insérée la pierre percée 104. La pierre contre-pivot 105 est chassée dans le chaton 120 de sorte à prendre appui sur le rebord, la pierre contre-pivot 105 étant d'un diamètre plus important que celui de la pierre percée 104.In said support 101 is inserted a pivot system 103. This pivot system comprises a pivot assembly 103a which is used to perform the pivot function of the balance wheel or wheel axis and an elastic means 107. The pivot assembly 103a comprises a kitten 120 which supports a pierced stone 104 crossed by the tiger 103a and a counter-pivot stone 105. The pivot system 103 further comprises elastic means 107. The pivot assembly 103a is suspended in the housing 106 by elastic means 107. The elastic means 107, shown in the figure 4 , is in the form of a ring 110 whose central opening 112 has dimensions arranged so that the kitten 120 can be driven into the central opening 112 of said ring 110. The elastic means 107 are chosen to have a reaction force both along the axis of the balance and radially to it. This ring 110 is mounted, for example by force, against the wall 106a of the housing 106 by bearing on a bead 106b located at the bottom of the housing 106 so as to provide a space between the ring 110 and the bottom of the housing 106 allowing a certain axial movement of the elastic means 107. In the particular case of the figure 3 , the kitten 120 is an annular piece, the inner wall of which comprises an annular rim. In the circular recess created by the rim is inserted the pierced stone 104. The counter-pivot stone 105 is driven into the kitten 120 so as to bear on the rim, the counter-pivot stone 105 being of a larger diameter than that of pierced stone 104.

En cas de choc, la roue est soumise à une force qui est proportionnelle à l'accélération subie. Cette force est transmise aux paliers par l'intermédiaire des pivots. L'effet de cette force est de déformer la bague en élastomère jusqu'à ce que l'axe de la roue vienne prendre appui, par l'intermédiaire de ses tigerons, contre la paroi des trous. Dans ce cas, la roue est alors stoppée par l'axe qui butte sur le support servant de butée. Comme les dimensions de l'axe sont beaucoup plus importantes que celles des pivots, l'énergie produite lors du choc contre la butée est donc transmise à l'axe permettant de ne pas endommager les tigerons.In the event of an impact, the wheel is subjected to a force which is proportional to the acceleration undergone. This force is transmitted to the bearings via the pivots. The effect of this force is to deform the elastomer ring until the axis of the wheel comes to bear, via its tigerons, against the wall of the holes. In this case, the wheel is then stopped by the axle which abuts on the support serving as a stop. As the dimensions of the axis are much larger than those of the pivots, the energy produced during the impact against the stop is therefore transmitted to the axis, so as not to damage the tigerons.

Avantageusement, la bague 110 représentée à la figure 4, est réalisée en un matériau élastomère, c'est à dire un polymère présentant des propriétés élastiques obtenues après réticulation c'est-à-dire après la formation d'un ou de plusieurs réseaux tridimensionnels, par voie chimique ou physique.Advantageously, the ring 110 shown in the figure 4 , is made of an elastomeric material, that is to say a polymer having elastic properties obtained after crosslinking, that is to say after the formation of one or more three-dimensional networks, by chemical or physical means.

En effet, l'avantage de ces élastomères est d'être capable de se déformer fortement sans se déformer plastiquement. Cette capacité est due aux capacités de collisions élastiques, tels le rebondissement et l'étirement élastiques, des élastomères qui leur permet de reprendre leur forme initiale après l'arrêt de la sollicitation. Cette caractéristique spéciale est la conséquence de la présence d'enchevêtrements et de nœuds de réseau (ces liaisons sont respectivement occasionnelles et définitives, les ponts jouent le rôle de « ressorts »). Un élastomère supporte de très grandes déformations (jusqu'à environ 1 000 %) avant rupture, presque totalement réversibles.Indeed, the advantage of these elastomers is to be able to deform strongly without deforming plastically. This capacity is due to the capacities of elastic collisions, such as elastic rebounding and stretching, of the elastomers which allows them to resume their initial shape after the stress has ceased. This special characteristic is the consequence of the presence of tangles and network nodes (these links are occasional and permanent respectively, the bridges play the role of "springs"). An elastomer withstands very large deformations (up to around 1000%) before rupture, almost completely reversible.

De plus, les élastomères ont l'avantage de pouvoir être mis en forme à l'aide de procédés simples. Une technique utilisée est, par exemple, le moulage par injection.In addition, elastomers have the advantage of being able to be shaped using simple methods. One technique used is, for example, injection molding.

Tout d'abord, on se munit de la matière première qui se présente sous la forme de petits granulés de plastique dépassant rarement les quelques millimètres. Ces granulés servent à alimenter la vis de plastification (type vis sans fin) de la machine d'injection.First, we take the raw material which is in the form of small plastic granules rarely exceeding a few millimeters. These granules are used to feed the plasticizing screw (worm type) of the injection machine.

Celle-ci est ensuite chauffée et régulée en température via un fourreau de plastification. La rotation de la vis de plastification et l'action conjuguée de la température du fourreau permettent de ramollir les granulés de matière plastique en les amenant jusqu'à un état visqueux.This is then heated and regulated in temperature via a plasticizing sleeve. The rotation of the plasticizing screw and the combined action of the temperature of the sheath make it possible to soften the plastic granules by bringing them to a viscous state.

Par la suite, cette matière est acheminée à l'avant de la vis de plastification donnant ainsi une réserve de matière prête à être injectée (c'est ce que l'on appelle la phase de dosage).Subsequently, this material is conveyed to the front of the plasticizing screw thus giving a reserve of material ready for injection (this is called the dosing phase).

Puis, la phase d'injection dynamique peut commencer. Dans cette phase, la matière présente à l'avant de la vis de plastification est injectée sous forte pression à l'intérieur d'un moule (ou cavité) présentant la forme de la pièce souhaitée. Ce moule peut être composé de deux matrices assemblées l'une à l'autre et formant l'empreinte de la pièce désirée. Le moule est régulé à une température inférieure à la température de transformation (allant de 15°C à 130°C dans certains cas).Then, the dynamic injection phase can begin. In this phase, the material present at the front of the plasticizing screw is injected under high pressure inside a mold (or cavity) having the shape of the desired part. This mold can be composed of two dies assembled to each other and forming the imprint of the desired part. The mold is regulated at a temperature below the processing temperature (ranging from 15 ° C to 130 ° C in some cases).

Enfin, la phase de maintien est réalisée. Cette étape est celle où l'on applique une pression constante durant un temps déterminé afin de continuer à alimenter l'empreinte malgré que celle ci soit remplie. Ceci permet de pallier le retrait de la matière durant son refroidissement. La pièce est refroidie durant quelques secondes puis éjectée.Finally, the maintenance phase is carried out. This step is the one where a constant pressure is applied during a determined time in order to continue to feed the impression despite the fact that it is filled. This makes it possible to compensate for the withdrawal of the material during its cooling. The part is cooled for a few seconds and then ejected.

Dans un second mode de réalisation représentée à la figure 5, l'ensemble pivot 103a comprend un unique palier monobloc pouvant être par exemple une seule pierre 108. Cette unique pierre 108 est percée d'un trou non traversant 109. Cette pierre 108 qui assure la fonction pivot est chassée dans l'orifice central 112 de la bague 110 en élastomère. Cette unique pierre pivot 108 a l'avantage de permettre la réalisation d'un système pivot 103 simple. En effet, ce système pivot 103 n'est composé que de deux éléments : les moyens élastiques 107 c'est-à-dire la bague 110 en élastomère qui assure la fonction suspension et la pierre 108 qui assure la fonction pivot/palier. Cette configuration permet aussi de limiter les coûts en limitant le nombre d'éléments composant le système pivot 103 mais aussi de simplifier son procédé d'assemblage en réduisant le nombre d'étape.In a second embodiment shown in figure 5 , the pivot assembly 103a comprises a single monobloc bearing which can be for example a single stone 108. This single stone 108 is pierced with a non-through hole 109. This stone 108 which performs the pivot function is driven into the central orifice 112 of the elastomer ring 110. This single pivot stone 108 has the advantage of allowing the realization of a simple pivot system 103. In fact, this pivot system 103 is composed only of two elements: the elastic means 107, that is to say the ring 110 made of elastomer which ensures the suspension function and the stone 108 which ensures the pivot / bearing function. This configuration also makes it possible to limit the costs by limiting the number of elements making up the pivot system 103 but also to simplify its assembly process by reducing the number of steps.

Pour fixer la bague 110 en élastomère avec l'ensemble pivot 103a c'est-à-dire avec, selon le premier mode de réalisation, le chaton 120 supportant la pierre percée 104 et la pierre contre-pivot 105 ou avec, selon le second mode de réalisation, la pierre pivot 108, plusieurs façons sont envisageables. Une première solution consiste à réaliser séparément l'ensemble pivot 103a et la bague 110 en élastomère puis à les fixer ensemble. La fixation peut être réalisée par chassage de l'ensemble pivot 103a dans l'ouverture centrale 112 de la bague 110. D'autres méthodes telles que le collage, le clipsage ou même le soudage peuvent être utilisées.To fix the elastomer ring 110 with the pivot assembly 103a, that is to say with, according to the first embodiment, the kitten 120 supporting the pierced stone 104 and the counter-pivot stone 105 or with, according to the second embodiment, the pivot stone 108, several ways are possible. A first solution consists in making the pivot assembly 103a and the ring 110 in elastomer separately and then fixing them together. The fixing can be carried out by driving the pivot assembly 103a into the central opening 112 of the ring 110. Other methods such as bonding, clipping or even welding can be used.

Dans une première variante de ces deux modes de réalisations représentée aux figures 4, 6 et 7, les moyens élastiques 107, c'est-à-dire la bague en élastomère, comprennent des structures internes 111. Ces structures se présentent sous la forme d'ouvertures 113 ou d'évidements 114. Ces ouvertures 113 ou évidements 114 sont agencées sur la bague 110 selon un axe parallèle à l'axe de révolution. Ces structures internes 111 sont de préférence de formes circulaires ou ovales mais d'autres formes peuvent être envisagées. Ces structures internes 111 sont utilisées afin de pouvoir régler la rigidité axiale et radiale de la bague 110. En effet, ces structures internes 111 ont pour conséquence de rendre plus flexible la bague dans les zones où elles sont réalisées. Cela entraîne une diminution de la rigidité de la bague 110. Cette dernière peut alors se déformer plus facilement dans les zones où sont réalisées ces structures. Au minimum, la bague 110 comprend au moins deux ouvertures 113 ou évidements 114 diamétralement opposées l'une de l'autre. Cet agencement permet ainsi de répartir les forces de rappel.In a first variant of these two embodiments shown in Figures 4, 6 and 7 , the elastic means 107, that is to say the elastomer ring, comprise internal structures 111. These structures are in the form of openings 113 or recesses 114. These openings 113 or recesses 114 are arranged on the ring 110 along an axis parallel to the axis of revolution. These internal structures 111 are preferably of circular or oval shapes, but other shapes can be envisaged. These internal structures 111 are used in order to be able to adjust the axial and radial rigidity of the ring 110. Indeed, these internal structures 111 have the consequence of making more flexible the ring in the areas where they are made. This results in a reduction in the rigidity of the ring 110. The latter can then deform more easily in the areas where these structures are made. At a minimum, the ring 110 comprises at least two openings 113 or recesses 114 diametrically opposite from each other. This arrangement thus makes it possible to distribute the restoring forces.

De façon préférentielle, la bague 110 en élastomère comprend quatre ouvertures 113 ou évidements 114. Ces ouvertures 113 ou évidements 114 sont réparties uniformément en étant décalées chacune de π/2 ou 90°.Preferably, the elastomer ring 110 comprises four openings 113 or recesses 114. These openings 113 or recesses 114 are distributed uniformly, each being offset by π / 2 or 90 °.

Bien entendu, on comprendra que le nombre d'ouverture 113 ou d'évidements 114 peut être supérieur, comme par exemple huit ouvertures 113 décalées chacune de π/4 ou 45°.Of course, it will be understood that the number of openings 113 or recesses 114 may be greater, such as for example eight openings 113 each offset by π / 4 or 45 °.

On comprendra également que le nombre d'ouvertures 113 ou d'évidements 114 peut être impair, le plus important étant que ces ouvertures 113 ou évidements 114 soient réparties de façon régulière.It will also be understood that the number of openings 113 or recesses 114 may be odd, the most important being that these openings 113 or recesses 114 are distributed evenly.

Ainsi, suivant le nombre et la position des structures, on peut ajuster le comportement de la bague 110 lorsque celle-ci subit des contraintes dues à des chocs.Thus, depending on the number and the position of the structures, it is possible to adjust the behavior of the ring 110 when the latter is subjected to stresses due to impacts.

Dans une seconde variante de ces deux modes de réalisations visible à la figure 8, la bague 110 en élastomère est fixée à une pièce de pré-montage 130. Cette pièce de pré-montage 130 est de forme annulaire et comprend donc une ouverture centrale. Dans cette ouverture centrale, la bague 110 en élastomère, supportant l'ensemble pivot 103a, y est insérée. Cet agencement permet ainsi de réaliser un module pré-monté 140 comprenant le système pivot 103 c'est à dire la bague 110 en élastomère et l'ensemble pivot 103a.In a second variant of these two embodiments visible on the figure 8 , the elastomer ring 110 is fixed to a pre-assembly part 130. This pre-assembly part 130 is of annular shape and therefore comprises a central opening. In this central opening, the elastomer ring 110, supporting the pivot assembly 103a, is inserted there. This arrangement thus makes it possible to produce a pre-mounted module 140 comprising the pivot system 103, that is to say the elastomer ring 110 and the pivot assembly 103a.

L'avantage d'un tel module pré-monté 140 est de faciliter l'assemblage. En effet, le montage du système pivot 103 en insérant en premier lieu la bague 110 en élastomère puis en montant l'ensemble pivot 103a à ladite bague est complexe car l'élastomère est difficilement maniable lorsqu'on doit lui appliquer des contraintes. Cette difficulté se retrouve également lorsque l'assemblage consiste à assembler l'ensemble pivot 103a à la bague 110 en élastomère puis à fixer le tout au support.The advantage of such a pre-mounted module 140 is to facilitate assembly. Indeed, the mounting of the pivot system 103 by first inserting the ring 110 of elastomer then mounting the pivot assembly 103a to said ring is complex because the elastomer is difficult handy when constraints have to be applied. This difficulty is also found when the assembly consists in assembling the pivot assembly 103a to the ring 110 in elastomer and then fixing the whole to the support.

Or, avec le module pré-monté 140 selon ladite seconde variante, l'assemblage, il devient possible de surmouler la pièce de pré-montage 130 se sorte qu'elle soit directement fixé au système pivot 130. En conséquence, la solidarisation de cette pièce de pré-montage 130 avec le système pivot 103 est efficace et permet donc une manipulation plus aisée du module. L'assemblage dudit module pré-monté 140 au support est, par conséquent, simplifié.However, with the pre-mounted module 140 according to said second variant, the assembly, it becomes possible to overmold the pre-mounting part 130 so that it is directly fixed to the pivot system 130. Consequently, the joining of this pre-assembly part 130 with the pivot system 103 is effective and therefore allows easier handling of the module. The assembly of said pre-mounted module 140 to the support is, therefore, simplified.

Cette pièce de pré-montage 130 permet d'utiliser une autre méthode de fabrication. Cette méthode consiste à surmouler la bague 110 en élastomère directement dans sa position définitive. On entend par la que l'étape de fabrication de la bague 110 en élastomère est simultanée à l'étape de fixation de ladite bague 110 avec l'ensemble pivot 103a et la pièce de pré-montage 130. Cette méthode consiste à placer dans un moule qui comprend une empreinte, la pièce de pré-montage 130 et l'ensemble pivot 103a se sorte qu'ils puissent s'y loger et prendre leur agencement définitif. Un espace constituant la forme des moyens élastiques c'est-à-dire la forme de la bague est alors présent. Ledit espace formant l'empreinte de la bague 110 est alors surmoulé avec de l'élastomère de sorte que les étapes de fabrication de ladite bague et d'assemblage / fixation de ladite bague, soient simultanées offrant ainsi un gain de temps.This pre-assembly part 130 makes it possible to use another manufacturing method. This method consists in overmolding the ring 110 in elastomer directly in its final position. By this is meant that the step of manufacturing the ring 110 of elastomer is simultaneous with the step of fixing said ring 110 with the pivot assembly 103a and the pre-assembly part 130. This method consists in placing in a mold which includes an imprint, the pre-assembly part 130 and the pivot assembly 103a so that they can be housed there and take their final arrangement. A space constituting the shape of the elastic means, that is to say the shape of the ring, is then present. Said space forming the imprint of the ring 110 is then overmolded with elastomer so that the steps for manufacturing said ring and for assembling / fixing said ring are simultaneous, thus saving time.

Par ailleurs, dans le cas où l'ensemble pivot 103a comprend une seule pierre 108, le moule peut être conçu pour que la bague 110 en élastomère enveloppe partiellement ladite unique pierre 108 au niveau de sa périphérie. L'avantage du surmoulage de l'élastomère est qu'il permet de profiter des caractéristiques de mise en forme de ce dernier et donc d'épouser parfaitement les formes du moule du sorte à obtenir un maintien amélioré.Furthermore, in the case where the pivot assembly 103a comprises a single stone 108, the mold can be designed so that the elastomer ring 110 partially envelops said single stone 108 at its periphery. The advantage of overmolding of the elastomer is that it makes it possible to take advantage of the shaping characteristics of the latter and therefore to perfectly match the shapes of the mold so as to obtain improved support.

Dans une troisième variante visible aux figures 9a à 9c, le support 101 est agencé pour que la fonction butée et la fonction support soient dissociées. Pour cela, le support comprend une première partie 101a et une seconde partie 101b. La première partie 101a opère la fonction support et la seconde partie 101b opère la fonction butée. La première partie 101a se présente comme une pièce annulaire c'est-à-dire présentant une ouverture centrale 101c. Cette pièce annulaire comprend un profil extérieur présentant un décrochement 150 afin de former une surface d'appui. Le système pivot 103, c'est à dire la bague 110 en élastomère et l'ensemble pivot 103a, est alors fixé dans l'ouverture centrale 101c. La seconde partie 101b se présente sous la forme d'un disque percée par l'ouverture 102. Cette ouverture 102 est agencée centralement permet au tigeron de passer au travers pour coopérer avec le système pivot.In a third variant visible to Figures 9a to 9c , the support 101 is arranged so that the stop function and the support function are dissociated. For this, the support comprises a first part 101a and a second part 101b. The first part 101a operates the support function and the second part 101b operates the stop function. The first part 101a is presented as an annular part, that is to say having a central opening 101c. This annular part comprises an outer profile having a step 150 in order to form a bearing surface. The pivot system 103, that is to say the elastomer ring 110 and the pivot assembly 103a, is then fixed in the central opening 101c. The second part 101b is in the form of a disc pierced by the opening 102. This opening 102 is arranged centrally allows the tigeron to pass through to cooperate with the pivot system.

Ce disque percé permet de réaliser la fonction butée puisque lors d'un choc, l'axe sur lequel est fixée la roue se déplace jusqu'à ce qu'il vienne prendre appui, par l'intermédiaire de ses tigerons, contre la paroi des trous. La roue est alors stoppée par l'axe qui butte sur le disque percé.This drilled disc makes it possible to perform the stop function since, during an impact, the axis on which the wheel is fixed moves until it comes to bear, via its tigerons, against the wall of the holes. The wheel is then stopped by the axle which abuts on the drilled disc.

Un premier intérêt de séparer les deux fonctions est de pouvoir directement surmouler la bague 110 en élastomère dans le système amortisseur de choc selon l'invention. En effet, la séparation de ces fonctions permet de prévoir un moule d'injection de la bague dans lequel le support 101 et l'ensemble pivot 103a sont placés selon leur position définitive. L'élastomère peut alors être injecté directement entre le support 101 et l'ensemble pivot 103a de sorte que l'étape de réalisation de la bague 110 et l'étape de montage du système antichoc ne fassent qu'une.A first advantage of separating the two functions is to be able to directly overmold the ring 110 in elastomer in the shock absorbing system according to the invention. Indeed, the separation of these functions makes it possible to provide an injection mold for the ring in which the support 101 and the pivot assembly 103a are placed in their final position. The elastomer can then be injected directly between the support 101 and the pivot assembly 103a so that the step of producing the ring 110 and the step of mounting the shockproof system are one.

Dans une première configuration visible figure 9a, la seconde partie 101b en forme de disque percé a un diamètre égal à celui de la première partie 101a. Cette seconde partie 101b peut alors être fixée en dessous de ladite première pièce 101a. La fixation peut être faite par collage ou soudage ou toutes autres méthodes.In a first visible configuration figure 9a , the second part 101b in the form of a pierced disc has a diameter equal to that of the first part 101a. This second part 101b can then be fixed below said first part 101a. The fixing can be done by gluing or welding or any other method.

Dans une seconde configuration visible figure 9b, la seconde partie 101 b en forme de disque percé a un diamètre égal à celui de l'ouverture 101c de la première partie annulaire 101a. Cela permet à la seconde partie 101b d'être fixée dans ladite ouverture 101c. Le montage de l'ensemble consiste donc à fixer le système pivot 103 dans la dite ouverture 101c puis à fixer la seconde partie 101b. Cette seconde partie 101b peut, par exemple, être fixée par collage. Préférentiellement, le système pivot 103 et la seconde partie 101b n'ont pas de contact entre eux permettant d'avoir un système pivot 103 suspendu.In a second visible configuration figure 9b , the second part 101b in the form of a pierced disc has a diameter equal to that of the opening 101c of the first annular part 101a. This allows the second part 101b to be fixed in said opening 101c. The assembly of the assembly therefore consists in fixing the pivot system 103 in said opening 101c then in fixing the second part 101b. This second part 101b can, for example, be fixed by gluing. Preferably, the pivot system 103 and the second part 101b do not have contact with each other making it possible to have a pivot system 103 suspended.

Dans une troisième configuration visible figure 9c, la seconde configuration est reprise avec une seconde partie 101b insérée dans l'ouverture 101c de la première partie 101a. Néanmoins, le profil intérieur comprend un épaulement 101d de sorte l'ouverture de la première partie est séparée en deux zones ayant deux diamètres différents. Dans une première zone d'un premier diamètre, le système pivot 103 est inséré. Dans une seconde zone d'un second diamètre, la seconde partie 101b est insérée. Préférentiellement, le premier diamètre est plus faible que le second diamètre. Cet agencement permet d'avoir un moule ayant une surface d'appui qui vient buter sur ledit épaulement 101d.In a third visible configuration figure 9c , the second configuration is repeated with a second part 101b inserted into the opening 101c of the first part 101a. However, the interior profile includes a shoulder 101d so the opening of the first part is separated into two zones having two different diameters. In a first zone of a first diameter, the pivot system 103 is inserted. In a second zone of a second diameter, the second part 101b is inserted. Preferably, the first diameter is smaller than the second diameter. This arrangement makes it possible to have a mold having a bearing surface which abuts on said shoulder 101d.

Dans une quatrième variante, visibles aux figures 10a à 10c, compatible avec les variantes précédentes, les différentes parois du système pivot 103 sont structurées pour avoir une géométrie non lisse. En effet, la paroi intérieure du logement, les parois intérieures et extérieures de la bague en élastomère, les parois intérieures 116 et extérieures 115 de la pièce de pré-montage, la paroi extérieure du chaton ou de la pierre unique peuvent être structurées. Cette structuration 117, 118 repose sur le principe de prises maies et femelles qui coopèrent ensemble. Pour deux parois en contacts, comme par exemple la paroi extérieure du chaton et la paroi intérieure de la bague en élastomère, chaque paroi reçoit une structuration de sorte que les parois soient complémentaires l'une de l'autre. Cela permet alors un emboitement des géométries entraînant la tenue axiale des contacts car les structures se bloquent mutuellement. En conséquence, les risques de voir les différentes parties du module pivot se séparer les unes des autres sous l'effet de contraintes sont faibles.In a fourth variant, visible to figures 10a to 10c , compatible with the previous variants, the different walls of the pivot system 103 are structured to have a non-smooth geometry. In fact, the interior wall of the housing, the interior and exterior walls of the elastomer ring, the interior 116 and exterior walls 115 of the pre-assembly part, the exterior wall of the kitten or of the single stone can be structured. This structure 117, 118 is based on the principle of male and female sockets which cooperate together. For two walls in contact, such as for example the outer wall of the kitten and the inner wall of the elastomer ring, each wall receives a structure so that the walls are complementary to one another. This then allows a nesting of the geometries resulting in the axial holding of the contacts because the structures block each other. Consequently, the risks of seeing the different parts of the pivot module separate from one another under the effect of constraints are low.

On comprendra que diverses modifications et/ou améliorations et/ou combinaisons évidentes pour l'homme du métier peuvent être apportées aux différents modes de réalisation de l'invention exposée ci-dessus sans sortir du cadre de l'invention définie par les revendications annexées.It will be understood that various modifications and / or improvements and / or combinations obvious to a person skilled in the art can be made to the various embodiments of the invention described above without departing from the scope of the invention defined by the appended claims.

Claims (13)

  1. Shock-absorbing bearing for an arbor (3) of a wheel of a timepiece, said arbor comprising a pivot-shank (3a), said bearing comprising a support (1, 101) provided with a housing (6, 106) designed to receive a pivot system (103) comprising a pivot assembly (103a) in which the pivot-shank (3a) is inserted, and elastic means (107) arranged to mount said pivot assembly in a suspended fashion and to exert at least an axial force on said pivot system, the elastic means being produced from an elastomer material and characterised in that said bearing further comprises a premounting element (130) in which the pivot assembly (103a) and the elastic means (107) are inserted so as to facilitate the manipulation and mounting of the pivot system (103), the premounting element (130) comprising an internal wall, the pivot system (103) comprising an external wall, and in that the internal wall of the premounting element and the external wall of the pivot system have structurings (117, 118), and in that the structurings comprise a male part or a female part.
  2. Shock-absorbing bearing for an arbor (3) of a wheel of a timepiece, said arbor comprising a pivot-shank (3a), said bearing comprising a support (1, 101) provided with a housing (6, 106) designed to receive a pivot system (103) comprising a pivot assembly (103a) in which the pivot-shank (3a) is inserted, and elastic means (107) arranged to mount said pivot assembly in a suspended fashion and to exert at least an axial force on said pivot system, the elastic means being produced from an elastomer material and characterised in that said bearing further comprises a premounting element (130) in which the pivot assembly (103a) and the elastic means (107) are inserted so as to facilitate the manipulation and mounting of the pivot system (103), the housing (106) comprising an internal wall, the premounting element (130) comprising an external wall, and in that the internal wall of the housing and the external wall of the premounting element have structurings (117, 118), and in that the structurings comprise a male part or a female part.
  3. Shock-absorbing bearing according to claim 1 or claim 2, characterised in that the elastic means (107) comprise a part (110) comprising a central orifice (112) arranged so that the pivot assembly (103a) can be inserted therein, said part (110) further comprising an external wall the form of which is arranged to correspond to that of said premounting element.
  4. Shock-absorbing bearing according to claim 1 or claim 2, characterised in that the premounting element (130) is a ring.
  5. Shock-absorbing bearing according to claim 1 or claim 2 or claim 3, characterised in that the elastic means (107) are moulded on between the premounting element (130) and the pivot assembly (103a).
  6. Shock-absorbing bearing according to claim 3, characterised in that said part (110) comprises recesses (111) making said part more flexible locally so as to obtain predetermined return forces.
  7. Shock-absorbing bearing according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that the pivot assembly (103a) comprises a setting (120) in which a pierced jewel (104) and an endstone (105) are arranged.
  8. Shock-absorbing bearing according to any of claims 1 to 7, characterised in that the pivot assembly (103a) comprises a single-piece bearing (108) providing the pivot function.
  9. Shock-absorbing bearing according to claim 8, characterised in that the single-piece bearing (108) is a single jewel.
  10. Shock-absorbing bearing according to any of claims 1 to 9, characterised in that the support comprises a first part (101a) providing the fixing and a second part (101b) providing the stop function for the arbor and its pivot-shank, the second part being separate from the first part.
  11. Shock-absorbing bearing according to claim 10, characterised in that the elastic means (107) are moulded on between the first part (101a) of the support and the pivot assembly (103a).
  12. Shock-absorbing bearing according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that the elastic means (107) comprise an internal wall and the pivot element (103a) comprises an external wall, and in that the internal wall of the elastic means and the external wall of the pivot element have structurings (117, 118).
  13. Shock-absorbing bearing according to claim 12, characterised in that the structurings comprise a male part or a female part.
EP12801718.3A 2011-12-15 2012-12-04 Elastomeric shockproof system for timepieces Active EP2791740B1 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP12801718.3A EP2791740B1 (en) 2011-12-15 2012-12-04 Elastomeric shockproof system for timepieces

Applications Claiming Priority (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP11193838.7A EP2605082A1 (en) 2011-12-15 2011-12-15 Elastomeric shockproof system for timepieces
EP12801718.3A EP2791740B1 (en) 2011-12-15 2012-12-04 Elastomeric shockproof system for timepieces
PCT/EP2012/074356 WO2013087453A1 (en) 2011-12-15 2012-12-04 Antishock system for timepiece made of elastomer

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP2791740A1 EP2791740A1 (en) 2014-10-22
EP2791740B1 true EP2791740B1 (en) 2020-03-25

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Family Applications (2)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP11193838.7A Withdrawn EP2605082A1 (en) 2011-12-15 2011-12-15 Elastomeric shockproof system for timepieces
EP12801718.3A Active EP2791740B1 (en) 2011-12-15 2012-12-04 Elastomeric shockproof system for timepieces

Family Applications Before (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP11193838.7A Withdrawn EP2605082A1 (en) 2011-12-15 2011-12-15 Elastomeric shockproof system for timepieces

Country Status (2)

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EP (2) EP2605082A1 (en)
WO (1) WO2013087453A1 (en)

Family Cites Families (10)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
FR967666A (en) * 1948-06-05 1950-11-09 Elastic bearing for watch movement
CH292136A (en) * 1949-06-04 1953-07-31 Abrahams Irene Bumper bearing for watch shaft.
CH296070A (en) * 1951-10-11 1954-01-31 Renfer Erwin Bumper bearing for a timepiece mobile.
US2956394A (en) * 1955-04-21 1960-10-18 Tissot Horlogerie Bearing element
CH333250A (en) * 1955-11-08 1958-10-15 Renfer Erwin Shock absorbing bearing for watch parts
GB852477A (en) * 1956-07-20 1960-10-26 Jaeger Ets Ed Improvements in and relating to sound-proof and shock absorbing bearings for precision mechanisms, more particularly for clockworks
CH333591A (en) * 1958-03-25 1958-10-31 Hirt Steiner Arthur Shock-proof balance bearings on watches
FR1263235A (en) * 1959-12-10 1961-06-09 Seitz & Co Industrial sapphire-ruby pivot and bumper with non-rectilinear characteristic
DE602005025585D1 (en) * 2005-02-23 2011-02-10 Eta Sa Mft Horlogere Suisse Shock absorbing watch storage
CH702314B1 (en) * 2007-02-16 2011-06-15 Patek Philippe Sa Geneve Bush for mechanical timepiece i.e. watch, has bearing provided with hole to receive pivot, where bush is formed of monocrystalline material, where faces of hole are plane and are situated for planes of monocrystalline material

Non-Patent Citations (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Title
None *

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
EP2791740A1 (en) 2014-10-22
EP2605082A1 (en) 2013-06-19
WO2013087453A1 (en) 2013-06-20

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