EP2888967B1 - Bracelet clasp comprising a device for adjusting the useful length of the bracelet - Google Patents

Bracelet clasp comprising a device for adjusting the useful length of the bracelet Download PDF

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Publication number
EP2888967B1
EP2888967B1 EP13199618.3A EP13199618A EP2888967B1 EP 2888967 B1 EP2888967 B1 EP 2888967B1 EP 13199618 A EP13199618 A EP 13199618A EP 2888967 B1 EP2888967 B1 EP 2888967B1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
bracelet
clasp
lock
adjusting
clasp according
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
EP13199618.3A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP2888967A1 (en
Inventor
Cédric Kaltenrieder
Rocco Catanese
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Swatch Group Management Services AG
Original Assignee
Swatch Group Management Services AG
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
Application filed by Swatch Group Management Services AG filed Critical Swatch Group Management Services AG
Priority to EP13199618.3A priority Critical patent/EP2888967B1/en
Priority to US14/540,793 priority patent/US9993051B2/en
Priority to JP2014247661A priority patent/JP6040213B2/en
Priority to CN201410835029.1A priority patent/CN104738918B/en
Publication of EP2888967A1 publication Critical patent/EP2888967A1/en
Priority to HK15112785.7A priority patent/HK1211813A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP2888967B1 publication Critical patent/EP2888967B1/en
Active legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

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Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A44—HABERDASHERY; JEWELLERY
    • A44C—PERSONAL ADORNMENTS, e.g. JEWELLERY; COINS
    • A44C5/00—Bracelets; Wrist-watch straps; Fastenings for bracelets or wrist-watch straps
    • A44C5/18—Fasteners for straps, chains or the like
    • A44C5/22—Fasteners for straps, chains or the like for closed straps
    • A44C5/24—Fasteners for straps, chains or the like for closed straps with folding devices
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A44—HABERDASHERY; JEWELLERY
    • A44C—PERSONAL ADORNMENTS, e.g. JEWELLERY; COINS
    • A44C5/00—Bracelets; Wrist-watch straps; Fastenings for bracelets or wrist-watch straps
    • A44C5/18—Fasteners for straps, chains or the like
    • A44C5/22—Fasteners for straps, chains or the like for closed straps
    • A44C5/24—Fasteners for straps, chains or the like for closed straps with folding devices
    • A44C5/246—Fasteners for straps, chains or the like for closed straps with folding devices having size adjusting means
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
    • Y10T24/00—Buckles, buttons, clasps, etc.
    • Y10T24/21—Strap tighteners
    • Y10T24/2102—Cam lever and loop
    • Y10T24/213—Jewelry

Definitions

  • the present invention also relates to a wristwatch provided with such a clasp.
  • the value of the wrist circumference varies according to the seasons, a maximum value being generally reached in summer and a minimum value being reached in winter. It is also preferable to provide a fine adjustment device of the useful length of the bracelet allowing the wearer of the bracelet to adjust this length to improve the comfort of the bracelet to wear.
  • the patent application EP 0913106 A1 discloses a folding clasp type clasp having a cover having a series of pairs of holes for housing the ends of a strap of a strap. Two pairs of adjacent holes are spaced a distance defining a step of adjustment of the useful length of the bracelet, to meet the problems mentioned above.
  • the adjustment of the length of the corresponding bracelet is difficult, in particular because it can not be performed without the use of a sharp tool. Not only does this operation require dexterity but, in addition, it may lead to damage to the hood in case of awkwardness of the person performing the adjustment.
  • EP 0350785 B1 which describes a clasp similar to the previous but alternatively comprising a device for adjusting the useful length of the wristband that can be handled without tools.
  • the clasp described in this patent is of the folding clasp type having two blades articulated between it by means of a rod passing through both, each blade carrying at its free end a fastener member to a bracelet.
  • a first blade carries a hook for engaging in a hole in the second blade to cooperate with a trigger for locking the hook and thus the clasp in a closed state.
  • the second blade comprises two parts slidable relative to each other within a certain predefined range, defining a step of adjustment of the useful length of the bracelet.
  • a first of its two parts carries the hinge connecting it to the first blade while the second part carries the locking trigger.
  • the hole in which the hook engages to lock the clasp has a length, in the longitudinal direction of the bracelet, corresponding to the sliding range between the two parts of the second blade.
  • the trigger has a central portion defining two locations for the hook, in the longitudinal direction of the bracelet, corresponding to two different useful lengths of the bracelet.
  • a control member including a pusher can actuate the trigger to release the hook and open the clasp.
  • Adjustment devices comprising a specific locking member have also been proposed, alternatively, to avoid this type of inconvenience.
  • a main object of the present invention is to overcome the drawbacks of known clasps of the prior art, by proposing a bracelet clasp comprising a device for adjusting the useful length of the bracelet of simple structure, preferably proposing a stable adjustment, including when the clasp is open, and easy handling.
  • the present invention relates to a bracelet clasp according to claim 1 attached to the present patent application.
  • the adjustment device has a discrete structure, since it is actuated by the control member already provided to unlock the clasp, although it is distinct from the locking member of the clasp. , which further allows to adjust the length of the bracelet even when the clasp is in its closed state.
  • the unlocking of the clasp is associated with a displacement of the control member by a first amplitude d1, the unlocking of the adjustment member by the lock being associated with a displacement of the control member of a second amplitude d2, d1 being less than d2.
  • the adjustment member preferably comprises a frame carrying the first fastening member of the bracelet and at least one finger arranged to cooperate with the lock, the latter comprising a plate, adjacent to the frame and in which is formed a slot, following the longitudinal direction of the bracelet.
  • the slot has at least two notches capable of cooperating with the finger in the closed state of the lock, to define two different respective useful lengths of the bracelet, whereas the finger is capable of sliding in the slot in the open state of the lock for move from one notch to another and change the useful length of the bracelet.
  • the frame comprises upper and lower walls between which is arranged the wafer, the finger having the form of a screw making integral with the upper and lower walls.
  • the upper wall is formed by a cover comprising an upper surface carrying side walls having two holes for housing the ends of a bar of a bracelet strand, and at least one bearing surface against which the lower wall is held by means of the screw.
  • control member comprises a pusher capable of being displaced in a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the bracelet, in response to an action by the user, and that said pusher (213) is independent of said lock (212).
  • the clasp comprises an additional control member, the control members being similar and symmetrical with reference to the longitudinal direction of the bracelet and that the adjustment device comprises an additional lock associated with the additional control member, the locks being similar and symmetrical with reference to the longitudinal direction of the bracelet, and an extra finger associated with the additional lock.
  • the clasp is of the folding clasp type comprising at least two blades hinged together, of which a first blade comprises two uprights, symmetrical with reference to the longitudinal direction of the bracelet, inserted in a recess complementary to the second blade for placing the clasp in its closed position, by momentarily bringing the uprights against elastic return means, the outer lateral edge of each of the uprights cooperating with the corresponding inner edge of the recess to define a locking member of the clasp.
  • each of said uprights carries one of said latches, and that said pushers bear against the latches and are slidably engaged through corresponding openings in the side walls of the hood and in which they are retained by edges that extend on both sides of the pushers
  • the adjusting device comprises at least one elastic member exerting a force on the locks or tending to maintain or in its closed state or.
  • the adjusting device preferably comprises an intermediate member, fixed position with reference to the latch and having a bearing surface for one end of the elastic member.
  • the adjusting device may also comprise a ball pawl associated with at least two complementary recesses and arranged to index at least two configurations corresponding to two different useful lengths of the bracelet.
  • the ball pawl can then be carried by the intermediate member.
  • the recesses can be formed in the upper wall of the adjustment device.
  • the clasp illustrated in a non-limiting way on figures 7 and 8 corresponds to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. More specifically, the clasp 170 is of the folding clasp type and is intended to close a timepiece bracelet.
  • the clasp 1 comprises a first blade 2 hinged to a second blade 4 by means of a rod 6, here composed of an axis riveted to the blade 4, in a nonlimiting illustrative manner.
  • a rod 6 here composed of an axis riveted to the blade 4, in a nonlimiting illustrative manner.
  • Each of the blades has an elongated shape following the longitudinal direction of the bracelet and slightly curved to better fit the shape of the wrist of a wearer.
  • the first blade 2 comprises two uprights 8 arranged in contact with each other at their end located on the side of the rod 6 and, each having a cutout such that they are not in contact with each other over most of their length.
  • Each of the uprights 8 carries an extension 10, close to its end remote from the rod 6, extending in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the bracelet, to form a pusher defining a control member for unlocking the clasp, such as that will emerge from the detailed description of the figure 2 .
  • the free end of the first blade 2 carries a device 12 for adjusting the useful length of the bracelet intended to be associated with the clasp 1.
  • the adjusting device 12 comprises a cover 14 having an upper wall 16 carrying side walls 18.
  • the side walls 18 are provided with two holes for accommodating one end of a bar 20 for attaching a bracelet strand, so that conventional.
  • the figure 2 represents an exploded perspective view of the clasp 1, while it is open.
  • the second blade 4 comprises two arms 22 connected by a transverse amount 24 in their central region.
  • the arms 22 extend by bent portions 26 carrying a fastening plate 28 of a bracelet strand, offset from the general direction of the arms 22 to define a passage for the bracelet strand.
  • the fixing plate 28 has a plurality of holes 30, regularly spaced from each other and, allowing the establishment of a screw-head 32 with round head, intended to be engaged in a hole of the bracelet to ensure the fixation of the latter at the clasp, a screw (no visible being screwed into the foot-screw 32).
  • Each bent portion 26 further has a small tab 34 intended to improve the maintenance of the bracelet strand once it is placed on the clasp 1.
  • the transverse amount 24 carries a nail 36, or an optional screw, intended to be engaged in another hole of the bracelet to further improve its maintenance on the clasp.
  • the screw 32 may be placed in a hole 30 or another to define a gap, between it and the nail 36, corresponding to an integer number of pitches formed in the strand of bracelet.
  • the space between the arms 22 of the second blade 4 defines a recess for housing the first blade 2 in the closed state of the clasp 1, in a known manner.
  • each inner edge of the second blade has a recess 40 in which the corresponding extra thickness of the first blade 2 is engaged when the clasp is closed.
  • the cut made in each of the uprights 8 releases a space allowing them to approach against elastic return means when locking the clasp or when the pushers 10 are actuated to clear the extra thicknesses 38 of the recesses 40 to open the clasp.
  • Each pusher 10 is extended by a latch 42 of the device for adjusting the useful length of the bracelet.
  • Each latch 42 comprises a plate 44 having a slot 46 oriented in the longitudinal direction of the bracelet and having two notches 48 at its ends.
  • the locks are shaped so as to define between them a recess 50 in the shape of a T, intended to cooperate with an intermediate member 52, to ensure the maintenance of the latter with reference to the locks 42.
  • a first function of the intermediate member 52 is to present bearing surfaces for a first end of the springs 54 whose second end bears against the corresponding plate 44, these springs being arranged to hold the latches 42 in their closed state as will be apparent later in the detailed description of the Figures 3 and 4 .
  • a second function of the intermediate member is to act as a spacer to improve the structural stability of the adjustment device.
  • the frame of the adjusting device comprises a lower wall 56 made integral with the upper wall 16 of the cover 14 by means of two screws 58. Also, the upper wall 16 and the intermediate member 52 have respective bearing surfaces against which the lower wall 56 is arranged, thus improving the stability of the corresponding assembly.
  • the screws 58 are arranged through the slots 46 as well as through adapted slots 60 formed in the intermediate member 52.
  • the locks 42 are thus arranged between the lower 56 and upper 16 walls by being captive because of the cooperation of the slots 46 with the screws 58.
  • the figure 3 corresponds to the long configuration of the clasp, ie in which the useful length of the bracelet is the most great while the figure 4 corresponds to its short configuration, ie in which the useful length of the bracelet is the shortest.
  • the upper half illustrates a first latch 42 in its closed state
  • the lower half illustrates the second latch 42 in its open state
  • each of the screws 58 is located in one of the notches 48 and the frame can not move in the longitudinal direction of the bracelet with reference to the locks 42.
  • the notches 48 are offset during this operation, the screws 58 being thereby in the axis of the slots 46 and thus able to slide along the slots to position opposite a notch 48 or the other, depending on the needs.
  • a user actuates the pushers 10 to place the latches 42 in their open state, he can then manipulate the cover 14 to move it in the longitudinal direction of the bracelet to change the useful length of the latter.
  • the screws 58 are again facing one of the notches 48, the uprights 8 resume their shape at rest, in the absence of a user action on the pushers 10, by elasticity and simultaneous action of the springs 54. This action involves the return of the latches 42 in their closed state and thus the locking of the adjustment member, the latter comprising the cover 16 associated with the bottom wall 56 as well as the screws 58.
  • this particular feature also makes it possible to adjust the length of the clasp when the clasp is open while at the same time keeping this adjustment advantageously.
  • the figure 5 represents a clasp 100 in its closed configuration, in an exploded perspective view, the latter having a general structure identical to that of the clasp 1.
  • the clasp 100 is distinguished from the clasp 1 mainly by the structure of its adjustment device 112 of the useful length of the bracelet.
  • the adjusting device 112 comprises two latches 142 secured to the uprights 108 of the first blade 102 of the clasp 100, the pushers 110 being also provided both for opening the clasp and for passing the latches 142 from their closed state to their open state .
  • An intermediate member 152 is arranged between the lower walls 156 and upper 116 of the adjusting device, being retained in the longitudinal direction of the strap by a protrusion 162 formed on each of the latches 142.
  • the intermediate member 152 carries a ball pawl 164 for indexing the various possible adjustment configurations.
  • the upper wall 116 is provided with recesses 166 intended to cooperate with the ball of the pawl 164.
  • the arrangement of the adjusting device 112 is more clearly visible on the figure 6 which represents a cross-sectional view along a medium plane.
  • the intermediate member 152 comprises a small tab 168 defining two bearing surfaces for the first spring ends 154 acting on the latches 142 so as to maintain them in their closed state.
  • the figure 7 represents the clasp 100 in a longitudinal sectional view and better illustrates how the ball catch 164 cooperates with the upper wall 116 of the cover 114 to index the different possible adjustment positions for the clasp 100.
  • the clasp 100 is shown in its long configuration on the figure 7 . It follows from the foregoing explanations that if the hood 114 is moved to the left of the figure, the bracelet (not shown) is shortened.
  • the clasp comprises a first 172 blade articulated on a second blade 174 by means of a rod 176.
  • Each of the blades 172, 174 has an elongated shape in the longitudinal direction of the bracelet and slightly curved to better fit the shape of the wrist of a wearer.
  • the first blade 172 comprises two uprights 178 having a cutout such that they are in contact with each other only at their end located on the side of the rod 176.
  • Each of the uprights 178 carries, near its end remote from the rod 176, an extension 180 defining a control member for unlocking the clasp as described in detail below.
  • the free end of the first blade 172 carries a device 182 for adjusting the useful length of the bracelet intended to be associated with the clasp 170.
  • the adjusting device 182 comprises a cap 184 having an upper wall 186 carrying side walls. 188.
  • the side walls 188 are provided with two holes for accommodating one end of a bar 190 for attaching a bracelet strand in a conventional manner.
  • the second blade 174 comprises two arms 192 connected by a transverse post 194 in their central region.
  • the arms 192 are extended by bent portions 196 carrying a fastening plate 198 of a bracelet strand, offset from the general direction of the arms 192 to define a passage for the bracelet strand.
  • the fixing plate 198 has a plurality of holes 200, regularly spaced from each other and, allowing the establishment of a screw-head 202 to round head, intended to be engaged in a hole of the bracelet to ensure the fixation of the latter to the clasp, a screw 203 being screwed into the screw-foot 202.
  • Each bent portion 196 further has a small tab 204 for improving the maintenance of the bracelet strand once it is placed on the clasp 170.
  • the transverse post 194 carries a nail 206, or an optional screw, intended to be engaged in another hole of the bracelet to further improve its retention on the clasp.
  • the screw foot 202 may be placed in a hole 200 or another to define a gap between it and the nail 206, corresponding to an integer number of pitches formed in the bracelet strand.
  • the space between the arms 192 of the second blade 174 defines a recess for accommodating the first blade 172 in the closed state of the clasp 1.
  • Each extension 180 is extended by a lock 212 of the device for adjusting the useful length of the bracelet.
  • Each latch 212 comprises a plate 214 having a slot 216 oriented in the longitudinal direction of the bracelet and having two notches 218 at its ends.
  • the adjustment device 182 comprises two locks 212 integral with the uprights 178 of the first blade 172 of the clasp 170, pushers 213 also being provided both for opening the clasp and for passing the latches 212 from their closed state to their open state. .
  • These pushers 213 which bear against the latches 212 are slidably engaged through corresponding openings 215 formed in the side walls 188 of the cover 184 and in which they are retained by flanges 217 which extend on either side. 213.
  • the flanges 217 of the pushers 213 are engaged with the inner edges of the second blade 174 to maintain the closed condition of the clasp 170.
  • each inner edge of the clasp 170 second blade 174 has a recess 210 in which the corresponding flanges 217 of the pushers 213 are engaged when the clasp 170 is closed.
  • the flanges 217 emerge from the recesses 210, which allows the clasp 170 to be opened. made in each of the uprights 178 clears a space allowing them to come closer against the elastic spring restoring force 224 when locking the clasp 170 or when the pushers 213 are actuated to release the flanges 217 of the recesses 210 to open the clasp 170.
  • An intermediate member 222 is arranged between the lower walls 226 and upper 186 of the adjusting device, being retained in the longitudinal direction of the bracelet by a protrusion 232 formed on each of the locks 212.
  • the intermediate member 222 carries a ball pawl 234 for indexing the various possible adjustment configurations.
  • the arrangement of the adjustment device 182 is more clearly visible on the figure 10 which represents a cross-sectional view along a medium plane.
  • the intermediate member 222 comprises a small tab 238 defining two bearing surfaces for the first spring ends 224 acting on the latches 212 so as to maintain them in their closed state.
  • the figure 11 represents the clasp 170 in a longitudinal sectional view and better illustrates how the ball pawl 234 cooperates with the upper wall 186 of the cap 184 to index the different possible adjustment positions for the clasp 170.
  • the clasp 170 is shown in its long configuration on the figure 10 . It follows from the foregoing explanations that if the hood 184 is moved to the left of the figure, the bracelet (not shown) is shortened.
  • the locks 212 are shaped so as to define between them a recess 220 T-shaped intended to cooperate with the intermediate member 222, to ensure the maintenance of the latter with reference to the locks 212.
  • a first function of the intermediate member 222 is to present bearing surfaces for a first end of the springs 224 whose second end bears against the corresponding plate 214, these springs 224 being arranged to hold the bolts 212 in their state closed.
  • a second function of the intermediate member 222 is to act as a spacer to improve the structural stability of the adjustment device.
  • the frame of the adjusting device comprises a lower wall 226 made integral with the upper wall 186 of the cap 184 by means of two screws 228. Also, the upper wall 186 and the intermediate member 222 have respective bearing surfaces against which the lower wall 226 is arranged, thus improving the stability of the corresponding assembly.
  • the screws 228 are arranged through the slots 216.
  • the locks 212 are thus arranged between the lower walls 226 and upper 186 by being captive due to the cooperation of the slots 216 with the screws 228.
  • each latch 212 When the pushers 213 are not actuated by the user, the rest form of the uprights 178, assisted by the action of the springs 224, holds each latch 212 in a spaced apart position corresponding to the closed state.
  • each of the screws 228 is located in one of the notches 218 and the frame can not move in the longitudinal direction of the bracelet with reference to the locks 212.
  • the figure 12 corresponds to the long configuration of the clasp, that is to say in which the useful length of the bracelet is the largest while the figure 13 corresponds to its short configuration, ie in which the useful length of the bracelet is the shortest.
  • the upper half illustrates a first latch 212 in its closed state
  • the lower half illustrates the second latch 212 in its open state
  • each latch 212 When the extensions 180 are free, the rest form of the uprights 178, assisted by the action of the springs 224, holds each latch 212 in a spaced apart position corresponding to the closed state.
  • each of the screws 228 is located in one of the notches 218 and the frame can not move in the longitudinal direction of the bracelet with reference to the locks 212.
  • the notches 218 shift during this operation, the screws 228 being thereby in the axis of the slots 216 and thus able to slide along the slots to position themselves opposite a notch 218 or the other, depending on the needs.
  • a user actuates the pushers 213 to place the locks 212 in their open state, he can then manipulate the cover 184 to move it in the longitudinal direction of the bracelet to change the useful length of the latter.
  • the uprights 178 resume their shape at rest, in the absence of an action of the user on the pushers 213, by elasticity and simultaneous action. 224.
  • This action involves the return of the latches 212 in their closed state and thus the locking of the adjustment member, the latter comprising the cover 186 associated with the bottom wall 226 and the screws 228.
  • this particular feature also makes it possible to adjust the length of the clasp when the clasp is open while at the same time keeping this adjustment advantageously.
  • Said adjustment member comprises a frame 184 carrying said first attachment member 172 of the bracelet and at least one finger 228 arranged to cooperate with said lock 212, the latter comprising a plate 214 adjacent to said frame 184 and in which is formed a slot 216 following the longitudinal direction of the bracelet, said slot 216 having at least two notches 218 capable of cooperating with said finger 228 in the closed state of said latch 172, to define two different respective useful lengths of the bracelet, while said finger 228 is capable of sliding in said slot 216 in the open state of said lock 212 to go from one notch 218 to the other and change the useful length of the bracelet.
  • Said frame 184 comprises upper and lower walls 186 and 226 between which said plate 214 is arranged, said finger 228 having the shape of a screw rendering said upper and lower walls 186 and 226 integral with one another.
  • Said upper wall 186 is formed by a cover 184 comprising an upper surface carrying side walls 188 having two holes intended to house the ends of a bar 190 for fixing a strand. bracelet, and at least one bearing surface against which said bottom wall 226 is held by means of said screw 228.
  • the clasp is of the clasp type and comprises at least two blades 172, 174 hinged together, a first blade 172 comprises two posts 178 symmetrical with reference to the longitudinal direction of the bracelet, inserted into a recess substantially complementary to the second blade 174 to place the clasp in its closed position, by momentarily bringing said uprights 178 against the force of elastic return means (224).
  • Each of said uprights 178 carries one of said latches 212, and said pushers 213 are in abutment against the latches 212 and are slidably engaged through corresponding openings 215 formed in the side walls 188 of the hood 184 and in which they are retained by edges 217 which extend on either side of the pushers 213.
  • the flanges 217 of the pushers 213 are engaged with the inner edges of the second blade 174 to maintain the closed state of the clasp 170.
  • Each inner edge of the second blade 174 has a recess 210 in which the corresponding flanges 217 of the pushers 213 are engaged when the clasp 170 is closed.
  • Said adjustment device 182 comprises at least one elastic member 224 exerting a force on said one or more locks 212 tending to maintain it in its closed state or state.
  • Said adjustment device 182 comprises an intermediate member 222, of fixed position with reference to said lock 212 and having a bearing surface for one end of said elastic member 224.
  • Said adjustment device 182 further comprises a ball pawl 234 associated with at least two substantially complementary recesses 236 arranged to index at least two configurations of the adjusting device 182 corresponding to two different useful lengths of the bracelet.
  • Said ball pawl 234 is carried by said intermediate member 222.
  • Said recesses 236 are formed in said upper wall 186 of said adjustment device 182.
  • the unlocking of the clasp is associated with a displacement of said control member 180 by a first amplitude d1, the unlocking of said adjustment member 184, 186, 226, 228 by said latch (212) being associated with a displacement of said control member 180 a second amplitude d2, d1 being less than d2.
  • the invention also relates to a wristwatch comprising a bracelet provided with a clasp according to the invention.
  • the clasp according to the present invention comprises a device for adjusting the useful length of the bracelet of simple structure and handling, while maintaining a discrete aesthetic and a small footprint.
  • the clasp according to the present invention is not limited to the implementation of two positions of adjustment of the useful length of the bracelet. Indeed, the skilled person will not encounter any particular difficulty to adapt the present teaching to implement a clasp having a greater number of possible setting positions.

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  • Buckles (AREA)

Description

Domaine techniqueTechnical area

La présente invention concerne un fermoir pour bracelet du type comprenant des première et seconde extrémités libres, le fermoir comportant des premier et second organes de fixation du bracelet destinés à être rendus respectivement solidaires des première et seconde extrémités libres du bracelet, les organes de fixation étant mobiles l'un par rapport à l'autre entre au moins une position ouverte et une position fermée, de porter, dans laquelle ils sont plus proches l'un de l'autre que dans la position ouverte, pour fermer le bracelet et en définir une longueur utile. Le fermoir comporte au moins un organe de verrouillage agencé pour maintenir les organes de fixation du bracelet dans leur position fermée et au moins un organe de commande de l'organe de verrouillage agencé pour déverrouiller le fermoir en réponse à une action d'un utilisateur et passer de la position fermée à la position ouverte. En outre, le fermoir selon l'invention comporte un dispositif de réglage de la longueur utile du bracelet comprenant :

  • un organe de réglage, portant le premier organe de fixation du bracelet, et
  • au moins un verrou susceptible de présenter un état par défaut fermé, dans lequel l'organe de réglage est fixe, et un état ouvert, dans lequel l'organe de réglage est libre de coulisser dans la direction de la longueur du bracelet, en référence au second organe de fixation du bracelet, pour modifier la longueur utile du bracelet.
The present invention relates to a clasp for a bracelet of the type comprising first and second free ends, the clasp comprising first and second strap fastening members intended to be secured respectively to the first and second free ends of the bracelet, the fasteners being movable relative to each other between at least one open position and a closed position, to carry, in which they are closer to each other than in the open position, to close the bracelet and to define a useful length. The clasp comprises at least one locking member arranged to hold the fasteners of the bracelet in their closed position and at least one control member of the locking member arranged to unlock the clasp in response to a user action and move from the closed position to the open position. In addition, the clasp according to the invention comprises a device for adjusting the useful length of the bracelet comprising:
  • an adjusting member, carrying the first fastening member of the bracelet, and
  • at least one lock capable of presenting a closed default state, in which the adjustment member is fixed, and an open state, in which the adjustment member is free to slide in the direction of the length of the strap, with reference at the second fastening member of the bracelet, to modify the useful length of the bracelet.

La présente invention concerne également une montre-bracelet munie d'un tel fermoir.The present invention also relates to a wristwatch provided with such a clasp.

Etat de la techniqueState of the art

La problématique relative à la nécessité de prévoir un dispositif de réglage de la longueur utile d'un bracelet est bien connue.The problem of the need to provide a device for adjusting the useful length of a bracelet is well known.

D'une part, dans le cas de bracelets composés de maillon, il est possible que le poignet du porteur présente une circonférence dont la valeur est située entre deux configurations du bracelet différant l'une de l'autre d'un seul maillon. Cela est également le cas lorsqu'un bracelet en cuir caoutchouc ou analogues présente des perforations ne permettant pas un réglage suffisamment fin. Aussi, il est utile de prévoir un dispositif de réglage de la longueur utile du bracelet permettant un ajustement plus fin de la longueur du bracelet que le retrait ou l'ajout d'un maillon.On the one hand, in the case of bracelets composed of links, it is possible that the wrist of the wearer has a circumference whose value is located between two configurations of the bracelet differing from each other in a single link. This is also the case when a leather strap rubber or the like has perforations that do not allow a sufficiently fine adjustment. Also, it is useful to provide a device for adjusting the useful length of the bracelet allowing a finer adjustment of the length of the bracelet that the removal or addition of a link.

D'autre part, on sait également que la valeur de la circonférence du poignet varie en fonction des saisons, une valeur maximale étant généralement atteinte en été et une valeur minimale étant atteinte en hiver. Il est là encore préférable de prévoir un dispositif de réglage fin de la longueur utile du bracelet permettant au porteur du bracelet d'ajuster cette longueur pour améliorer le confort du bracelet au porter.On the other hand, it is also known that the value of the wrist circumference varies according to the seasons, a maximum value being generally reached in summer and a minimum value being reached in winter. It is also preferable to provide a fine adjustment device of the useful length of the bracelet allowing the wearer of the bracelet to adjust this length to improve the comfort of the bracelet to wear.

A titre d'exemple, la demande de brevet EP 0913106 A1 décrit un fermoir du type à boucle déployante comportant un capot présentant une série de paires de trous destinés à loger les extrémités d'une barrette de fixation d'un bracelet. Deux paires de trous adjacentes sont espacées d'une distance définissant un pas de réglage de la longueur utile du bracelet, pour répondre aux problèmes mentionnés ci-dessus.For example, the patent application EP 0913106 A1 discloses a folding clasp type clasp having a cover having a series of pairs of holes for housing the ends of a strap of a strap. Two pairs of adjacent holes are spaced a distance defining a step of adjustment of the useful length of the bracelet, to meet the problems mentioned above.

Toutefois, l'ajustement de la longueur du bracelet correspondant est malaisé, en particulier parce qu'il ne peut être effectué sans l'utilisation d'un outil pointu. Non seulement, cette opération requiert une certaine dextérité mais, en outre, elle risque de conduire à des dommages au niveau du capot en cas de maladresse de la personne réalisant l'ajustement.However, the adjustment of the length of the corresponding bracelet is difficult, in particular because it can not be performed without the use of a sharp tool. Not only does this operation require dexterity but, in addition, it may lead to damage to the hood in case of awkwardness of the person performing the adjustment.

Pour éviter une telle situation, des dispositifs alternatifs ont déjà été divulgués, comme par exemple dans le brevet EP 0350785 B1 qui décrit un fermoir similaire au précédent mais comprenant en alternative un dispositif d'ajustement de la longueur utile du bracelet pouvant être manipulé sans outil. En effet, le fermoir décrit dans ce brevet est du type à boucle déployante comportant deux lames articulées entre elle au moyen d'une tige les traversant toutes deux, chacune des lames portant à son extrémité libre un organe de fixation à un bracelet. Une première lame porte un crochet destiné à s'engager dans un trou ménagé dans la seconde lame pour y coopérer avec une gâchette permettant de verrouiller le crochet et donc le fermoir dans un état fermé. La seconde lame comprend deux parties susceptibles de coulisser l'une par rapport à l'autre dans une certaine plage prédéfinie, définissant un pas d'ajustement de la longueur utile du bracelet. Une première de ses deux parties porte la charnière la reliant à la première lame tandis que la seconde partie porte la gâchette de verrouillage. Le trou dans lequel le crochet s'engage pour verrouiller le fermoir présente une longueur, suivant la direction longitudinale du bracelet, correspondant à la plage de coulissement entre les deux parties de la seconde lame. La gâchette présente une partie centrale définissant deux emplacements pour le crochet, suivant la direction longitudinale du bracelet, correspondant à deux longueurs utiles différentes du bracelet. Un organe de commande comprenant notamment un poussoir permet d'actionner la gâchette pour libérer le crochet et ouvrir le fermoir.To avoid such a situation, alternative devices have already been disclosed, as for example in the patent. EP 0350785 B1 which describes a clasp similar to the previous but alternatively comprising a device for adjusting the useful length of the wristband that can be handled without tools. Indeed, the clasp described in this patent is of the folding clasp type having two blades articulated between it by means of a rod passing through both, each blade carrying at its free end a fastener member to a bracelet. A first blade carries a hook for engaging in a hole in the second blade to cooperate with a trigger for locking the hook and thus the clasp in a closed state. The second blade comprises two parts slidable relative to each other within a certain predefined range, defining a step of adjustment of the useful length of the bracelet. A first of its two parts carries the hinge connecting it to the first blade while the second part carries the locking trigger. The hole in which the hook engages to lock the clasp has a length, in the longitudinal direction of the bracelet, corresponding to the sliding range between the two parts of the second blade. The trigger has a central portion defining two locations for the hook, in the longitudinal direction of the bracelet, corresponding to two different useful lengths of the bracelet. A control member including a pusher can actuate the trigger to release the hook and open the clasp.

Ainsi, le fermoir décrit dans ce brevet nécessite d'être ouvert pour procéder à l'ajustement de sa longueur.Thus, the clasp described in this patent requires to be opened to adjust its length.

On pourra signaler qu'un inconvénient qui en résulte est la perte du réglage de la longueur du bracelet à chaque ouverture du fermoir. De ce fait, le porteur du bracelet doit veiller à chaque fermeture de son fermoir que le crochet est inséré du côté de la portion centrale de la gâchette correspondant à la longueur souhaitée pour le bracelet.It may be noted that a disadvantage that results is the loss of adjustment of the length of the bracelet each opening of the clasp. As a result, the wearer of the bracelet must ensure each closure of his clasp that the hook is inserted on the side of the central portion of the trigger corresponding to the desired length for the bracelet.

Des dispositifs de réglage comportant un organe de verrouillage spécifique ont également été proposés, en alternative, pour éviter ce type d'inconvénients.Adjustment devices comprising a specific locking member have also been proposed, alternatively, to avoid this type of inconvenience.

La demande de brevet EP 1378185 A1 en fournit un exemple. Toutefois, ces dispositifs présentent généralement des constructions complexes et peu discrètes puisqu'elles peuvent comporter au moins un organe de commande associé au verrouillage du fermoir et au moins un organe de commande supplémentaire associé au verrouillage du dispositif de réglage.The patent application EP 1378185 A1 provides an example. However, these devices generally have complex constructions and little discrete since they may comprise at least one control member associated with locking the clasp and at least one additional control member associated with the locking of the adjustment device.

Le document EP 0 793 924 A1 décrit un fermoir selon le préambule de la revendication 1.The document EP 0 793 924 A1 discloses a clasp according to the preamble of claim 1.

Divulgation de l'inventionDisclosure of the invention

Un but principal de la présente invention est de pallier les inconvénients des fermoirs connus de l'art antérieur, en proposant un fermoir de bracelet comprenant un dispositif de réglage de la longueur utile du bracelet de structure simple, proposant préférablement un réglage stable, y compris lorsque le fermoir est ouvert, et de manipulation aisée.A main object of the present invention is to overcome the drawbacks of known clasps of the prior art, by proposing a bracelet clasp comprising a device for adjusting the useful length of the bracelet of simple structure, preferably proposing a stable adjustment, including when the clasp is open, and easy handling.

A cet effet, la présente invention concerne un fermoir pour bracelet selon la revendication 1 annexée à la présente demande de brevet.For this purpose, the present invention relates to a bracelet clasp according to claim 1 attached to the present patent application.

Grâce à ces caractéristiques, le dispositif de réglage selon l'invention présente une structure discrète, puisqu'il est actionné par l'organe de commande déjà prévu pour déverrouiller le fermoir, bien qu'il soit distinct de l'organe de verrouillage du fermoir, ce qui permet en outre d'ajuster la longueur du bracelet même lorsque le fermoir est dans son état fermé.Thanks to these characteristics, the adjustment device according to the invention has a discrete structure, since it is actuated by the control member already provided to unlock the clasp, although it is distinct from the locking member of the clasp. , which further allows to adjust the length of the bracelet even when the clasp is in its closed state.

De manière générale, on peut avantageusement prévoir que le déverrouillage du fermoir est associé à un déplacement de l'organe de commande d'une première amplitude d1, le déverrouillage de l'organe de réglage par le verrou étant associé à un déplacement de l'organe de commande d'une seconde amplitude d2, d1 étant inférieur à d2.In general, it can advantageously be provided that the unlocking of the clasp is associated with a displacement of the control member by a first amplitude d1, the unlocking of the adjustment member by the lock being associated with a displacement of the control member of a second amplitude d2, d1 being less than d2.

Ainsi, il est possible de déverrouiller le fermoir sans déverrouiller l'organe de réglage, ce qui garantit le maintien du réglage souhaité lors de l'ouverture du fermoir, contrairement au fermoir de l'art antérieur décrit plus haut.Thus, it is possible to unlock the clasp without unlocking the adjustment member, which ensures the maintenance of the desired setting when opening the clasp, unlike the clasp of the prior art described above.

Par ailleurs, l'organe de réglage comporte préférablement un bâti portant le premier organe de fixation du bracelet et au moins un doigt agencé pour coopérer avec le verrou, ce dernier comportant une plaquette, adjacente au bâti et dans laquelle est ménagée une fente, suivant la direction longitudinale du bracelet. La fente présente au moins deux crans susceptibles de coopérer avec le doigt dans l'état fermé du verrou, pour définir deux longueurs utiles respectives différentes du bracelet, tandis que le doigt est susceptible de coulisser dans la fente dans l'état ouvert du verrou pour passer d'un cran à l'autre et modifier la longueur utile du bracelet.Furthermore, the adjustment member preferably comprises a frame carrying the first fastening member of the bracelet and at least one finger arranged to cooperate with the lock, the latter comprising a plate, adjacent to the frame and in which is formed a slot, following the longitudinal direction of the bracelet. The slot has at least two notches capable of cooperating with the finger in the closed state of the lock, to define two different respective useful lengths of the bracelet, whereas the finger is capable of sliding in the slot in the open state of the lock for move from one notch to another and change the useful length of the bracelet.

Selon une variante de réalisation préférée, le bâti comprend des parois supérieure et inférieure entre lesquelles est agencée la plaquette, le doigt présentant la forme d'une vis rendant solidaires entre elles les parois supérieure et inférieure.According to a preferred embodiment, the frame comprises upper and lower walls between which is arranged the wafer, the finger having the form of a screw making integral with the upper and lower walls.

On peut prévoir en outre que la paroi supérieure est formée par un capot comprenant une surface supérieure portant des parois latérales présentant
deux trous destinés à loger les extrémités d'une barrette de fixation d'un brin de bracelet, et
au moins une surface d'appui contre laquelle la paroi inférieure est maintenue au moyen de la vis.It can further be provided that the upper wall is formed by a cover comprising an upper surface carrying side walls having
two holes for housing the ends of a bar of a bracelet strand, and
at least one bearing surface against which the lower wall is held by means of the screw.

On peut également prévoir que l'organe de commande comprend un poussoir susceptible d'être déplacé suivant une direction sensiblement perpendiculaire à la direction longitudinale du bracelet, en réponse à une action de l'utilisateur, et que ledit poussoir (213) est indépendant dudit verrou (212).It can also be provided that the control member comprises a pusher capable of being displaced in a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the bracelet, in response to an action by the user, and that said pusher (213) is independent of said lock (212).

De manière générale, on peut prévoir que le fermoir comporte un organe de commande supplémentaire, les organes de commande étant similaires et symétriques en référence à la direction longitudinale du bracelet et, que le dispositif de réglage comporte
un verrou supplémentaire associé à l'organe de commande supplémentaire, les verrous étant similaires et symétriques en référence à la direction longitudinale du bracelet, et
un doigt supplémentaire associé au verrou supplémentaire.In general, it can be provided that the clasp comprises an additional control member, the control members being similar and symmetrical with reference to the longitudinal direction of the bracelet and that the adjustment device comprises
an additional lock associated with the additional control member, the locks being similar and symmetrical with reference to the longitudinal direction of the bracelet, and
an extra finger associated with the additional lock.

Selon un mode de réalisation préféré, le fermoir est du type à boucle déployante comportant au moins deux lames articulées entre elles, dont une première lame comprend deux montants, symétriques en référence à la direction longitudinale du bracelet, insérés dans un évidement complémentaire de la seconde lame pour placer le fermoir dans sa position fermée, par rapprochement momentané des montants contre des moyens de rappel élastiques, le bord latéral extérieur de chacun des montants coopérant avec le bord intérieur correspondant de l'évidement pour définir un organe de verrouillage du fermoir. On peut alors avantageusement prévoir que chacun desdits montants porte l'un desdits verrous, et que lesdits poussoirs sont en appui contre les verrous et sont engagés à coulissement à travers des ouvertures correspondantes ménagées dans les parois latérales du capot et dans lesquelles ils sont retenus par des rebords qui s'étendent de part et d'autre des poussoirs
De manière générale, on peut également prévoir que le dispositif de réglage comprend au moins un organe élastique exerçant une force sur le ou les verrous tendant à le ou les maintenir dans son ou leur état fermé.According to a preferred embodiment, the clasp is of the folding clasp type comprising at least two blades hinged together, of which a first blade comprises two uprights, symmetrical with reference to the longitudinal direction of the bracelet, inserted in a recess complementary to the second blade for placing the clasp in its closed position, by momentarily bringing the uprights against elastic return means, the outer lateral edge of each of the uprights cooperating with the corresponding inner edge of the recess to define a locking member of the clasp. It can then be advantageously provided that each of said uprights carries one of said latches, and that said pushers bear against the latches and are slidably engaged through corresponding openings in the side walls of the hood and in which they are retained by edges that extend on both sides of the pushers
In general, it can also be provided that the adjusting device comprises at least one elastic member exerting a force on the locks or tending to maintain or in its closed state or.

Dans ce cas, le dispositif de réglage comprend préférablement un organe intermédiaire, de position fixe en référence au verrou et, présentant une surface d'appui pour une extrémité de l'organe élastique.In this case, the adjusting device preferably comprises an intermediate member, fixed position with reference to the latch and having a bearing surface for one end of the elastic member.

Le dispositif de réglage peut également comprendre un cliquet à bille associé à au moins deux creusures complémentaires et agencées pour indexer au moins deux configurations correspondant à deux longueurs utiles différentes du bracelet. Le cliquet à bille peut alors être porté par l'organe intermédiaire. Dans ce cas, les creusures peuvent être ménagées dans la paroi supérieure du dispositif de réglage.The adjusting device may also comprise a ball pawl associated with at least two complementary recesses and arranged to index at least two configurations corresponding to two different useful lengths of the bracelet. The ball pawl can then be carried by the intermediate member. In this case, the recesses can be formed in the upper wall of the adjustment device.

Brève description des dessinsBrief description of the drawings

D'autres caractéristiques et avantages de la présente invention apparaîtront plus clairement à la lecture de la description détaillée de modes de réalisation préférés qui suit, faite en référence aux dessins annexés donnés à titre d'exemples non limitatifs et dans lesquels:

  • la figure 1 représente une vue générale en perspective simplifiée d'un fermoir de bracelet alors qu'il est fermé;
  • la figure 2 représente une vue en perspective partiellement éclatée du fermoir de la figure 1, alors qu'il est ouvert;
  • la figure 3 représente une vue en coupe simplifiée d'un détail de construction du fermoir de la figure 1 dans une première configuration;
  • la figure 4 représente une vue similaire à celle de la figure 3, dans une seconde configuration du fermoir;
  • la figure 5 représente une vue en perspective éclatée d'un fermoir de bracelet alors qu'il est fermé;
  • la figure 6 représente une vue en coupe simplifiée d'un détail de construction du fermoir de la figure 5 ;
  • la figure 7 représente une vue en coupe longitudinale du fermoir de la figure 5 ;
  • la figure 8 est une vue éclatée en perspective selon le côté intérieur d'une seconde variante de réalisation d'un fermoir selon l'invention alors qu'il est ouvert ;
  • la figure 9 est une vue analogue à celle de la figure 8 du côté extérieur du fermoir ;
  • la figure 10 représente une vue en coupe simplifiée d'un détail de construction du fermoir des figure 8 et 9 ;
  • la figure 11 représente une vue en coupe longitudinale du fermoir des figures 8 et 9 ;
  • la figure 12 représente une vue en coupe simplifiée d'un détail de construction du fermoir de la figure 8 dans une première configuration, et
  • la figure 13 représente une vue similaire à celle de la figure 12, dans une seconde configuration du fermoir.
Other features and advantages of the present invention will appear more clearly on reading the detailed description of preferred embodiments which follows, made with reference to the accompanying drawings given as non-limiting examples and in which:
  • the figure 1 represents a simplified perspective view of a bracelet clasp while it is closed;
  • the figure 2 represents a partially exploded perspective view of the clasp of the figure 1 while he is open;
  • the figure 3 represents a simplified sectional view of a construction detail of the clasp of the figure 1 in a first configuration;
  • the figure 4 represents a view similar to that of the figure 3 in a second configuration of the clasp;
  • the figure 5 represents an exploded perspective view of a bracelet clasp while it is closed;
  • the figure 6 represents a simplified sectional view of a construction detail of the clasp of the figure 5 ;
  • the figure 7 represents a longitudinal sectional view of the clasp of the figure 5 ;
  • the figure 8 is an exploded perspective view according to the inner side of a second embodiment of a clasp according to the invention while it is open;
  • the figure 9 is a view similar to that of the figure 8 on the outside of the clasp;
  • the figure 10 represents a simplified sectional view of a construction detail of the clasp of figure 8 and 9 ;
  • the figure 11 represents a longitudinal sectional view of the clasp of figures 8 and 9 ;
  • the figure 12 represents a simplified sectional view of a construction detail of the clasp of the figure 8 in a first configuration, and
  • the figure 13 represents a view similar to that of the figure 12 in a second configuration of the clasp.

Mode de réalisation de l'inventionEmbodiment of the invention

Le fermoir illustré à titre non limitatif sur les figures 7 et 8 correspond à un mode de réalisation préféré de la présente invention. Plus précisément, le fermoir 170 est du type à boucle déployante et est destiné à fermer un bracelet de pièce d'horlogerie.The clasp illustrated in a non-limiting way on figures 7 and 8 corresponds to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. More specifically, the clasp 170 is of the folding clasp type and is intended to close a timepiece bracelet.

Tel que cela ressort plus particulièrement de la figure 1, le fermoir 1 comporte une première lame 2 articulée sur une seconde lame 4 au moyen d'une tige 6, composée ici d'un axe riveté sur la lame 4, de manière illustrative non limitative. Chacune des lames présente une forme allongée suivant la direction longitudinale du bracelet et légèrement incurvée pour mieux épouser la forme du poignet d'un porteur.As is more particularly apparent from the figure 1 , the clasp 1 comprises a first blade 2 hinged to a second blade 4 by means of a rod 6, here composed of an axis riveted to the blade 4, in a nonlimiting illustrative manner. Each of the blades has an elongated shape following the longitudinal direction of the bracelet and slightly curved to better fit the shape of the wrist of a wearer.

La première lame 2 comprend deux montants 8 agencés en contact l'un avec l'autre à leur extrémité située du côté de la tige 6 et, présentant chacun une découpe telle qu'ils ne sont pas en contact l'un avec l'autre sur la plus grande partie de leur longueur.The first blade 2 comprises two uprights 8 arranged in contact with each other at their end located on the side of the rod 6 and, each having a cutout such that they are not in contact with each other over most of their length.

Chacun des montants 8 porte une extension 10, à proximité de son extrémité éloignée de la tige 6, s'étendant suivant une direction perpendiculaire à la direction longitudinale du bracelet, pour former un poussoir définissant un organe de commande permettant de déverrouiller le fermoir, tel que cela ressortira de la description détaillée de la figure 2.Each of the uprights 8 carries an extension 10, close to its end remote from the rod 6, extending in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the bracelet, to form a pusher defining a control member for unlocking the clasp, such as that will emerge from the detailed description of the figure 2 .

Par ailleurs, l'extrémité libre de la première lame 2 porte un dispositif 12 de réglage de la longueur utile du bracelet destiné à être associé au fermoir 1.Moreover, the free end of the first blade 2 carries a device 12 for adjusting the useful length of the bracelet intended to be associated with the clasp 1.

Le dispositif 12 de réglage comprend un capot 14 présentant une paroi supérieure 16 portant des parois latérales 18. Les parois latérales 18 sont munies de deux trous permettant de loger une extrémité d'une barrette 20 de fixation d'un brin de bracelet, de manière conventionnelle.The adjusting device 12 comprises a cover 14 having an upper wall 16 carrying side walls 18. The side walls 18 are provided with two holes for accommodating one end of a bar 20 for attaching a bracelet strand, so that conventional.

La figure 2 représente une vue en perspective éclatée du fermoir 1, alors qu'il est ouvert.The figure 2 represents an exploded perspective view of the clasp 1, while it is open.

Il ressort de la figure 2 que la seconde lame 4 comprend deux bras 22 reliés par un montant transversal 24 dans leur région centrale. Les bras 22 se prolongent par des portions coudées 26 portant une plaque de fixation 28 d'un brin de bracelet, décalée par rapport à la direction générale des bras 22 pour définir un passage pour le brin de bracelet.It appears from figure 2 that the second blade 4 comprises two arms 22 connected by a transverse amount 24 in their central region. The arms 22 extend by bent portions 26 carrying a fastening plate 28 of a bracelet strand, offset from the general direction of the arms 22 to define a passage for the bracelet strand.

La plaque de fixation 28 présente une pluralité de trous 30, régulièrement espacés les uns des autres et, permettant la mise en place d'un pied-vis 32 à tête ronde, destiné à être engagé dans un trou du bracelet pour assurer la fixation de ce dernier au fermoir, une vis (non visible étant vissée dans le pied-vis 32). Chaque portion coudée 26 présente en outre une petite patte 34 destinée à améliorer le maintien du brin de bracelet une fois qu'il est mis en place sur le fermoir 1. Le montant transversal 24 porte un clou 36, ou une vis, optionnel, destiné à être engagé dans un autre trou du bracelet pour améliorer encore plus son maintien sur le fermoir. La vis 32 peut être placée dans un trou 30 ou un autre pour définir un écart, entre elle et le clou 36, correspondant à un nombre entier de pas des trous ménagés dans le brin de bracelet.The fixing plate 28 has a plurality of holes 30, regularly spaced from each other and, allowing the establishment of a screw-head 32 with round head, intended to be engaged in a hole of the bracelet to ensure the fixation of the latter at the clasp, a screw (no visible being screwed into the foot-screw 32). Each bent portion 26 further has a small tab 34 intended to improve the maintenance of the bracelet strand once it is placed on the clasp 1. The transverse amount 24 carries a nail 36, or an optional screw, intended to be engaged in another hole of the bracelet to further improve its maintenance on the clasp. The screw 32 may be placed in a hole 30 or another to define a gap, between it and the nail 36, corresponding to an integer number of pitches formed in the strand of bracelet.

L'espace entre les bras 22 de la seconde lame 4 définit un évidement permettant de loger la première lame 2 dans l'état fermé du fermoir 1, de manière connue.The space between the arms 22 of the second blade 4 defines a recess for housing the first blade 2 in the closed state of the clasp 1, in a known manner.

Des moyens de verrouillage conventionnels sont prévus pour assurer le maintien de l'état fermé du fermoir. Les bords extérieurs des montants 8 comprennent des surépaisseurs 38, à proximité des poussoirs 10, destinées à coopérer avec les bords intérieurs de la seconde lame 4, au niveau de l'évidement, par frottement. En particulier, chaque bord intérieur de la seconde lame présente un creux 40 dans lequel la surépaisseur correspondante de la première lame 2 est engagée lorsque le fermoir est fermé. La découpe réalisée dans chacun des montants 8 dégage un espace leur permettant de se rapprocher contre des moyens de rappel élastique lors du verrouillage du fermoir ou lorsque les poussoirs 10 sont actionnés pour dégager les surépaisseurs 38 des creux 40 pour ouvrir le fermoir.Conventional locking means are provided to maintain the closed state of the clasp. The outer edges of the uprights 8 comprise extra thicknesses 38, near the pushers 10, intended to cooperate with the inner edges of the second blade 4, at the recess, by friction. In particular, each inner edge of the second blade has a recess 40 in which the corresponding extra thickness of the first blade 2 is engaged when the clasp is closed. The cut made in each of the uprights 8 releases a space allowing them to approach against elastic return means when locking the clasp or when the pushers 10 are actuated to clear the extra thicknesses 38 of the recesses 40 to open the clasp.

La demande de brevet EP 0913106 A1 mentionnée précédemment décrit en détail un fermoir de ce type et l'homme du métier pourra s'y reporter en cas de besoin.The patent application EP 0913106 A1 mentioned above describes in detail a clasp of this type and the skilled person can refer to it when needed.

Chaque poussoir 10 se prolonge par un verrou 42 du dispositif de réglage de la longueur utile du bracelet.Each pusher 10 is extended by a latch 42 of the device for adjusting the useful length of the bracelet.

Chaque verrou 42 comprend une plaquette 44 présentant une fente 46 orientée suivant la direction longitudinale du bracelet et présentant deux crans 48 à ses extrémités.Each latch 42 comprises a plate 44 having a slot 46 oriented in the longitudinal direction of the bracelet and having two notches 48 at its ends.

Les verrous sont conformés de manière à définir entre eux un évidement 50 en forme de T, destiné à coopérer avec un organe intermédiaire 52, pour assurer le maintien de ce dernier en référence aux verrous 42.The locks are shaped so as to define between them a recess 50 in the shape of a T, intended to cooperate with an intermediate member 52, to ensure the maintenance of the latter with reference to the locks 42.

Une première fonction de l'organe intermédiaire 52 est de présenter des surfaces d'appui pour une première extrémité de ressorts 54 dont la seconde extrémité est en appui contre la plaquette 44 correspondante, ces ressorts étant agencés pour maintenir les verrous 42 dans leur état fermé, comme cela ressortira plus loin de la description détaillée des figures 3 et 4.A first function of the intermediate member 52 is to present bearing surfaces for a first end of the springs 54 whose second end bears against the corresponding plate 44, these springs being arranged to hold the latches 42 in their closed state as will be apparent later in the detailed description of the Figures 3 and 4 .

Une seconde fonction de l'organe intermédiaire est de jouer le rôle d'entretoise pour améliorer la stabilité structurelle du dispositif de réglage.A second function of the intermediate member is to act as a spacer to improve the structural stability of the adjustment device.

En effet, il ressort de la figure 2 que le bâti du dispositif de réglage comporte une paroi inférieure 56 rendue solidaire de la paroi supérieure 16 du capot 14 au moyen de deux vis 58. Aussi, la paroi supérieure 16 et l'organe intermédiaire 52 présentent des surfaces d'appui respectives contre lesquelles est agencée la paroi inférieure 56, améliorant ainsi la stabilité de l'assemblage correspondant.Indeed, it appears from figure 2 that the frame of the adjusting device comprises a lower wall 56 made integral with the upper wall 16 of the cover 14 by means of two screws 58. Also, the upper wall 16 and the intermediate member 52 have respective bearing surfaces against which the lower wall 56 is arranged, thus improving the stability of the corresponding assembly.

Les vis 58 sont agencées au travers des fentes 46 ainsi qu'au travers de fentes 60 adaptées, ménagées dans l'organe intermédiaire 52.The screws 58 are arranged through the slots 46 as well as through adapted slots 60 formed in the intermediate member 52.

Les verrous 42 sont ainsi agencés entre les parois inférieure 56 et supérieure 16 en y étant captifs du fait de la coopération des fentes 46 avec les vis 58.The locks 42 are thus arranged between the lower 56 and upper 16 walls by being captive because of the cooperation of the slots 46 with the screws 58.

Le fonctionnement du dispositif de réglage va maintenant être exposé en relation avec les figures 3 et 4 qui représentent des vues en coupe simplifiées similaires du dispositif de réglage, suivant un plan moyen, dans des première et seconde configurations respectives.The operation of the adjuster will now be exposed in relation to the Figures 3 and 4 which show similar simplified sectional views of the adjusting device, in a mean plane, in respective first and second configurations.

Plus précisément, la figure 3 correspond à la configuration longue du fermoir, c'est à dire dans laquelle la longueur utile du bracelet est la plus grande tandis que la figure 4 correspond à sa configuration courte, c'est à dire dans laquelle la longueur utile du bracelet est la plus courte.More specifically, the figure 3 corresponds to the long configuration of the clasp, ie in which the useful length of the bracelet is the most great while the figure 4 corresponds to its short configuration, ie in which the useful length of the bracelet is the shortest.

Sur chacune de ces figures, la moitié supérieure illustre un premier verrou 42 dans son état fermé, tandis que la moitié inférieure illustre le second verrou 42 dans son état ouvert.In each of these figures, the upper half illustrates a first latch 42 in its closed state, while the lower half illustrates the second latch 42 in its open state.

Lorsque les poussoirs 10 sont libres, la forme au repos des montants 8, assistée par l'action des ressorts 54, maintient chaque verrou 42 dans une position écartée correspondant à l'état fermé.When the pushers 10 are free, the form at rest of the uprights 8, assisted by the action of the springs 54, holds each latch 42 in a remote position corresponding to the closed state.

Dans cette configuration, chacune des vis 58 est située dans l'un des crans 48 et le bâti ne peut pas se déplacer dans la direction longitudinale du bracelet en référence aux verrous 42.In this configuration, each of the screws 58 is located in one of the notches 48 and the frame can not move in the longitudinal direction of the bracelet with reference to the locks 42.

Lorsque les poussoirs 10 sont actionnés, les verrous 42 se rapprochent l'un de l'autre pour passer dans leur état ouvert (moitiés inférieures des figures 3 et 4).When the pushers 10 are actuated, the locks 42 move toward each other to move to their open state (lower halves of the Figures 3 and 4 ).

Les crans 48 se décalent au cours de cette opération, les vis 58 se trouvant de ce fait dans l'axe des fentes 46 et donc capables de coulisser le long des fentes pour se positionner en regard d'un cran 48 ou l'autre, en fonction des besoins. Ainsi, lorsqu'un utilisateur actionne les poussoirs 10 pour placer les verrous 42 dans leur état ouvert, il peut ensuite manipuler le capot 14 pour le déplacer suivant la direction longitudinale du bracelet pour modifier la longueur utile de ce dernier. Lorsque les vis 58 se trouvent à nouveau en regard de l'un des crans 48, les montants 8 reprennent leur forme au repos, en l'absence d'une action de l'utilisateur sur les poussoirs 10, par élasticité et action simultanée des ressorts 54. Cette action implique le retour des verrous 42 dans leur état fermé et donc le verrouillage de l'organe de réglage, ce dernier comportant le capot 16 associé à la paroi inférieure 56 ainsi que les vis 58.The notches 48 are offset during this operation, the screws 58 being thereby in the axis of the slots 46 and thus able to slide along the slots to position opposite a notch 48 or the other, depending on the needs. Thus, when a user actuates the pushers 10 to place the latches 42 in their open state, he can then manipulate the cover 14 to move it in the longitudinal direction of the bracelet to change the useful length of the latter. When the screws 58 are again facing one of the notches 48, the uprights 8 resume their shape at rest, in the absence of a user action on the pushers 10, by elasticity and simultaneous action of the springs 54. This action involves the return of the latches 42 in their closed state and thus the locking of the adjustment member, the latter comprising the cover 16 associated with the bottom wall 56 as well as the screws 58.

En comparant les figures 3 et 4, on constate que dans la configuration de la figure 3, en supposant qu'un bracelet soit assemblé au fermoir 1, la longueur des portions superposées des brins du bracelet est inférieure à cette longueur dans la configuration de la figure 4, ce qui signifie que la configuration de la figure 3 correspond à une longueur utile du bracelet plus importante que celle de la figure 4.Comparing the Figures 3 and 4 , we see that in the configuration of the figure 3 , assuming that a bracelet is assembled at clasp 1, the length of the superimposed portions of the strands of the bracelet is less than this length in the configuration of the figure 4 , which means that the configuration of the figure 3 corresponds to a useful length of the bracelet greater than that of the figure 4 .

Il ressort par ailleurs d'une comparaison des moitiés inférieure et supérieure de la figure 3 qu'une première amplitude d1 de déformation des montants 8 permet de déverrouiller le fermoir 1 tandis qu'une seconde amplitude de déformation d2 des montants 8, supérieure à la première amplitude d1, est nécessaire pour libérer les vis 58 et leur permettre de coulisser dans les fentes 56. Ainsi, il est possible, de manière préférée, de prévoir par construction que le fermoir 1 peut être ouvert sans que le réglage réalisé au niveau du dispositif de réglage ne soit modifié.It also appears from a comparison of the lower and upper halves of the figure 3 that a first amplitude d1 of deformation of the uprights 8 makes it possible to unlock the clasp 1 while a second amplitude of deformation d2 of the uprights 8, greater than the first amplitude d1, is necessary to release the screws 58 and allow them to slide in Slots 56. Thus, it is possible, preferably, to provide by construction that the clasp 1 can be opened without the adjustment made at the level of the adjustment device is changed.

Par ailleurs, cette caractéristique particulière permet également d'ajuster la longueur du fermoir lorsque ce dernier est ouvert tout en conservant ensuite ce réglage, de manière avantageuse.Moreover, this particular feature also makes it possible to adjust the length of the clasp when the clasp is open while at the same time keeping this adjustment advantageously.

Les figures 5 à 7 illustrent une variante de réalisation du fermoir qui vient d'être décrit. Pour simplifier le présent exposé, les éléments identiques à ceux du mode de réalisation qui a été décrit portent les mêmes références numériques et, seules les caractéristiques qui diffèrent seront décrites en détail.The Figures 5 to 7 illustrate an alternative embodiment of the clasp which has just been described. To simplify the present disclosure, elements identical to those of the embodiment which has been described bear the same numerical references and only the characteristics which differ will be described in detail.

La figure 5 représente un fermoir 100 dans sa configuration fermée, dans une vue en perspective éclatée, celui-ci présentant une structure générale identique à celle du fermoir 1.The figure 5 represents a clasp 100 in its closed configuration, in an exploded perspective view, the latter having a general structure identical to that of the clasp 1.

Le fermoir 100 se distingue du fermoir 1 principalement par la structure de son dispositif de réglage 112 de la longueur utile du bracelet.The clasp 100 is distinguished from the clasp 1 mainly by the structure of its adjustment device 112 of the useful length of the bracelet.

Le dispositif de réglage 112 comporte deux verrous 142 solidaires des montants 108 de la première lame 102 du fermoir 100, des poussoirs 110 étant également prévus tant pour l'ouverture du fermoir que pour faire passer les verrous 142 de leur état fermé à leur état ouvert.The adjusting device 112 comprises two latches 142 secured to the uprights 108 of the first blade 102 of the clasp 100, the pushers 110 being also provided both for opening the clasp and for passing the latches 142 from their closed state to their open state .

Un organe intermédiaire 152 est agencé entre les parois inférieure 156 et supérieure 116 du dispositif de réglage, en étant retenu suivant la direction longitudinale du bracelet par une excroissance 162 ménagée sur chacun des verrous 142.An intermediate member 152 is arranged between the lower walls 156 and upper 116 of the adjusting device, being retained in the longitudinal direction of the strap by a protrusion 162 formed on each of the latches 142.

Outre les fonctions déjà décrites en relation avec l'organe intermédiaire 52, l'organe intermédiaire 152 porte un cliquet à bille 164 destiné à assurer une indexation des différentes configurations de réglage possibles.In addition to the functions already described in relation to the intermediate member 52, the intermediate member 152 carries a ball pawl 164 for indexing the various possible adjustment configurations.

Il apparaît également de la figure 5 que la paroi supérieure 116 est munie de creusures 166 destinées à coopérer avec la bille du cliquet à bille 164.It also appears from the figure 5 that the upper wall 116 is provided with recesses 166 intended to cooperate with the ball of the pawl 164.

L'agencement du dispositif de réglage 112 est plus clairement visible sur la figure 6 qui en représente une vue en coupe transversale suivant un plan moyen.The arrangement of the adjusting device 112 is more clearly visible on the figure 6 which represents a cross-sectional view along a medium plane.

L'organe intermédiaire 152 comprend une petite patte 168 définissant deux surfaces d'appui pour les premières extrémités de ressorts 154 agissant sur les verrous 142 de manière à les maintenir dans leur état fermé.The intermediate member 152 comprises a small tab 168 defining two bearing surfaces for the first spring ends 154 acting on the latches 142 so as to maintain them in their closed state.

La figure 7 représente le fermoir 100 dans une vue en coupe longitudinale et permet de mieux illustrer comment le cliquet à bille 164 coopère avec la paroi supérieure 116 du capot 114 pour indexer les différentes positions de réglage possibles pour le fermoir 100.The figure 7 represents the clasp 100 in a longitudinal sectional view and better illustrates how the ball catch 164 cooperates with the upper wall 116 of the cover 114 to index the different possible adjustment positions for the clasp 100.

Le fermoir 100 est représenté dans sa configuration longue sur la figure 7. Il ressort des explications qui précèdent que si le capot 114 est déplacé vers la gauche de la figure, le bracelet (non représenté) est raccourci.The clasp 100 is shown in its long configuration on the figure 7 . It follows from the foregoing explanations that if the hood 114 is moved to the left of the figure, the bracelet (not shown) is shortened.

Une autre variante de réalisation d'un fermoir selon l'invention est représentée sur les figures 8 et 9. Désigné dans son ensemble par la référence numérique générale 170, le fermoir comporte une première lame 172 articulée sur une seconde lame 174 au moyen d'une tige 176. Chacune des lames 172, 174 présente une forme allongée suivant la direction longitudinale du bracelet et légèrement incurvée pour mieux épouser la forme du poignet d'un porteur.Another variant embodiment of a clasp according to the invention is represented on the figures 8 and 9 . Designated as a whole by the general reference numeral 170, the clasp comprises a first 172 blade articulated on a second blade 174 by means of a rod 176. Each of the blades 172, 174 has an elongated shape in the longitudinal direction of the bracelet and slightly curved to better fit the shape of the wrist of a wearer.

La première lame 172 comprend deux montants 178 présentant une découpe telle qu'ils ne sont en contact l'un avec l'autre qu'à leur extrémité située du côté de la tige 176.The first blade 172 comprises two uprights 178 having a cutout such that they are in contact with each other only at their end located on the side of the rod 176.

Chacun des montants 178 porte, à proximité de son extrémité éloignée de la tige 176, une extension 180 définissant un organe de commande permettant de déverrouiller le fermoir comme décrit en détail ci-dessous.Each of the uprights 178 carries, near its end remote from the rod 176, an extension 180 defining a control member for unlocking the clasp as described in detail below.

Par ailleurs, l'extrémité libre de la première lame 172 porte un dispositif 182 de réglage de la longueur utile du bracelet destiné à être associé au fermoir 170. Le dispositif 182 de réglage comprend un capot 184 présentant une paroi supérieure 186 portant des parois latérales 188. Les parois latérales 188 sont munies de deux trous permettant de loger une extrémité d'une barrette 190 de fixation d'un brin de bracelet, de manière conventionnelle.Furthermore, the free end of the first blade 172 carries a device 182 for adjusting the useful length of the bracelet intended to be associated with the clasp 170. The adjusting device 182 comprises a cap 184 having an upper wall 186 carrying side walls. 188. The side walls 188 are provided with two holes for accommodating one end of a bar 190 for attaching a bracelet strand in a conventional manner.

Il ressort des figures 8 et 9 que la seconde lame 174 comprend deux bras 192 reliés par un montant transversal 194 dans leur région centrale. Les bras 192 se prolongent par des portions coudées 196 portant une plaque de fixation 198 d'un brin de bracelet, décalée par rapport à la direction générale des bras 192 pour définir un passage pour le brin de bracelet.It emerges figures 8 and 9 that the second blade 174 comprises two arms 192 connected by a transverse post 194 in their central region. The arms 192 are extended by bent portions 196 carrying a fastening plate 198 of a bracelet strand, offset from the general direction of the arms 192 to define a passage for the bracelet strand.

La plaque de fixation 198 présente une pluralité de trous 200, régulièrement espacés les uns des autres et, permettant la mise en place d'un pied-vis 202 à tête ronde, destiné à être engagé dans un trou du bracelet pour assurer la fixation de ce dernier au fermoir, une vis 203 étant vissée dans le pied-vis 202. Chaque portion coudée 196 présente en outre une petite patte 204 destinée à améliorer le maintien du brin de bracelet une fois qu'il est mis en place sur le fermoir 170. Le montant transversal 194 porte un clou 206, ou une vis, optionnel, destiné à être engagé dans un autre trou du bracelet pour améliorer encore plus son maintien sur le fermoir. Le pied-vis 202 peut être placé dans un trou 200 ou un autre pour définir un écart, entre lui et le clou 206, correspondant à un nombre entier de pas des trous ménagés dans le brin de bracelet.The fixing plate 198 has a plurality of holes 200, regularly spaced from each other and, allowing the establishment of a screw-head 202 to round head, intended to be engaged in a hole of the bracelet to ensure the fixation of the latter to the clasp, a screw 203 being screwed into the screw-foot 202. Each bent portion 196 further has a small tab 204 for improving the maintenance of the bracelet strand once it is placed on the clasp 170. The transverse post 194 carries a nail 206, or an optional screw, intended to be engaged in another hole of the bracelet to further improve its retention on the clasp. The screw foot 202 may be placed in a hole 200 or another to define a gap between it and the nail 206, corresponding to an integer number of pitches formed in the bracelet strand.

L'espace entre les bras 192 de la seconde lame 174 définit un évidement permettant de loger la première lame 172 dans l'état fermé du fermoir 1.The space between the arms 192 of the second blade 174 defines a recess for accommodating the first blade 172 in the closed state of the clasp 1.

Chaque extension 180 se prolonge par un verrou 212 du dispositif de réglage de la longueur utile du bracelet.Each extension 180 is extended by a lock 212 of the device for adjusting the useful length of the bracelet.

Chaque verrou 212 comprend une plaquette 214 présentant une fente 216 orientée suivant la direction longitudinale du bracelet et présentant deux crans 218 à ses extrémités.Each latch 212 comprises a plate 214 having a slot 216 oriented in the longitudinal direction of the bracelet and having two notches 218 at its ends.

Le dispositif de réglage 182 comporte deux verrous 212 solidaires des montants 178 de la première lame 172 du fermoir 170, des poussoirs 213 étant également prévus tant pour l'ouverture du fermoir que pour faire passer les verrous 212 de leur état fermé à leur état ouvert. Ces poussoirs 213 qui sont en appui contre les verrous 212 sont engagés à coulissement à travers des ouvertures 215 correspondantes ménagées dans les parois latérales 188 du capot 184 et dans lesquelles ils sont retenus par des rebords 217 qui s'étendent de part et d'autre des poussoirs 213. En position fermée du fermoir 170, les rebords 217 des poussoirs 213 sont en prise avec les bords intérieurs de la seconde lame 174 pour assurer le maintien de l'état fermé du fermoir 170. En particulier, chaque bord intérieur de la seconde lame 174 présente un creux 210 dans lequel les rebords 217 correspondants des poussoirs 213 sont engagés lorsque le fermoir 170 est fermé. Lorsque les poussoirs 213 sont actionnés par l'utilisateur en direction l'un de l'autre, les rebords 217 se dégagent des creux 210, ce qui permet d'ouvrir le fermoir 170.La découpe réalisée dans chacun des montants 178 dégage un espace leur permettant de se rapprocher à l'encontre de la force de rappel élastique de ressorts 224 lors du verrouillage du fermoir 170 ou lorsque les poussoirs 213 sont actionnés pour dégager les rebords 217 des creux 210 pour ouvrir le fermoir 170.The adjustment device 182 comprises two locks 212 integral with the uprights 178 of the first blade 172 of the clasp 170, pushers 213 also being provided both for opening the clasp and for passing the latches 212 from their closed state to their open state. . These pushers 213 which bear against the latches 212 are slidably engaged through corresponding openings 215 formed in the side walls 188 of the cover 184 and in which they are retained by flanges 217 which extend on either side. 213. In the closed position of the clasp 170, the flanges 217 of the pushers 213 are engaged with the inner edges of the second blade 174 to maintain the closed condition of the clasp 170. In particular, each inner edge of the clasp 170 second blade 174 has a recess 210 in which the corresponding flanges 217 of the pushers 213 are engaged when the clasp 170 is closed. When the pushers 213 are actuated by the user in the direction of one another, the flanges 217 emerge from the recesses 210, which allows the clasp 170 to be opened. made in each of the uprights 178 clears a space allowing them to come closer against the elastic spring restoring force 224 when locking the clasp 170 or when the pushers 213 are actuated to release the flanges 217 of the recesses 210 to open the clasp 170.

Un organe intermédiaire 222 est agencé entre les parois inférieure 226 et supérieure 186 du dispositif de réglage, en étant retenu suivant la direction longitudinale du bracelet par une excroissance 232 ménagée sur chacun des verrous 212.An intermediate member 222 is arranged between the lower walls 226 and upper 186 of the adjusting device, being retained in the longitudinal direction of the bracelet by a protrusion 232 formed on each of the locks 212.

L'organe intermédiaire 222 porte un cliquet à bille 234 destiné à assurer une indexation des différentes configurations de réglage possibles.The intermediate member 222 carries a ball pawl 234 for indexing the various possible adjustment configurations.

Il apparaît également des figures 8 et 9 que la paroi supérieure 186 est munie de creusures 236 destinées à coopérer avec la bille du cliquet à bille 234.It also appears figures 8 and 9 that the upper wall 186 is provided with recesses 236 intended to cooperate with the ball of the ball pawl 234.

L'agencement du dispositif de réglage 182 est plus clairement visible sur la figure 10 qui en représente une vue en coupe transversale suivant un plan moyen.The arrangement of the adjustment device 182 is more clearly visible on the figure 10 which represents a cross-sectional view along a medium plane.

L'organe intermédiaire 222 comprend une petite patte 238 définissant deux surfaces d'appui pour les premières extrémités de ressorts 224 agissant sur les verrous 212 de manière à les maintenir dans leur état fermé.The intermediate member 222 comprises a small tab 238 defining two bearing surfaces for the first spring ends 224 acting on the latches 212 so as to maintain them in their closed state.

La figure 11 représente le fermoir 170 dans une vue en coupe longitudinale et permet de mieux illustrer comment le cliquet à bille 234 coopère avec la paroi supérieure 186 du capot 184 pour indexer les différentes positions de réglage possibles pour le fermoir 170.The figure 11 represents the clasp 170 in a longitudinal sectional view and better illustrates how the ball pawl 234 cooperates with the upper wall 186 of the cap 184 to index the different possible adjustment positions for the clasp 170.

Le fermoir 170 est représenté dans sa configuration longue sur la figure 10. Il ressort des explications qui précèdent que si le capot 184 est déplacé vers la gauche de la figure, le bracelet (non représenté) est raccourci.The clasp 170 is shown in its long configuration on the figure 10 . It follows from the foregoing explanations that if the hood 184 is moved to the left of the figure, the bracelet (not shown) is shortened.

Les verrous 212 sont conformés de manière à définir entre eux un évidement 220 en forme de T destiné à coopérer avec l'organe intermédiaire 222, pour assurer le maintien de ce dernier en référence aux verrous 212.The locks 212 are shaped so as to define between them a recess 220 T-shaped intended to cooperate with the intermediate member 222, to ensure the maintenance of the latter with reference to the locks 212.

Une première fonction de l'organe intermédiaire 222 est de présenter des surfaces d'appui pour une première extrémité des ressorts 224 dont la seconde extrémité est en appui contre la plaquette 214 correspondante, ces ressorts 224 étant agencés pour maintenir les verrous 212 dans leur état fermé.A first function of the intermediate member 222 is to present bearing surfaces for a first end of the springs 224 whose second end bears against the corresponding plate 214, these springs 224 being arranged to hold the bolts 212 in their state closed.

Une seconde fonction de l'organe intermédiaire 222 est de jouer le rôle d'entretoise pour améliorer la stabilité structurelle du dispositif de réglage.A second function of the intermediate member 222 is to act as a spacer to improve the structural stability of the adjustment device.

En effet, il ressort des figures 8 et 9 que le bâti du dispositif de réglage comporte une paroi inférieure 226 rendue solidaire de la paroi supérieure 186 du capot 184 au moyen de deux vis 228. Aussi, la paroi supérieure 186 et l'organe intermédiaire 222 présentent des surfaces d'appui respectives contre lesquelles est agencée la paroi inférieure 226, améliorant ainsi la stabilité de l'assemblage correspondant.Indeed, it appears figures 8 and 9 that the frame of the adjusting device comprises a lower wall 226 made integral with the upper wall 186 of the cap 184 by means of two screws 228. Also, the upper wall 186 and the intermediate member 222 have respective bearing surfaces against which the lower wall 226 is arranged, thus improving the stability of the corresponding assembly.

Les vis 228 sont agencées au travers des fentes 216. Les verrous 212 sont ainsi agencés entre les parois inférieure 226 et supérieure 186 en y étant captifs du fait de la coopération des fentes 216 avec les vis 228.The screws 228 are arranged through the slots 216. The locks 212 are thus arranged between the lower walls 226 and upper 186 by being captive due to the cooperation of the slots 216 with the screws 228.

Lorsque les poussoirs 213 ne sont pas actionnés par l'utilisateur, la forme au repos des montants 178, assistée par l'action des ressorts 224, maintient chaque verrou 212 dans une position écartée correspondant à l'état fermé.When the pushers 213 are not actuated by the user, the rest form of the uprights 178, assisted by the action of the springs 224, holds each latch 212 in a spaced apart position corresponding to the closed state.

Dans cette configuration, chacune des vis 228 est située dans l'un des crans 218 et le bâti ne peut pas se déplacer dans la direction longitudinale du bracelet en référence aux verrous 212.In this configuration, each of the screws 228 is located in one of the notches 218 and the frame can not move in the longitudinal direction of the bracelet with reference to the locks 212.

Lorsque les poussoirs 213 sont actionnés par l'utilisateur, les verrous 212 se rapprochent l'un de l'autre pour passer dans leur état ouvert. Les crans 218 se décalent au cours de cette opération, les vis 228 se trouvant de ce fait dans l'axe des fentes 216 et donc capables de coulisser le long des fentes pour se positionner en regard d'un cran 218 ou l'autre, en fonction des besoins. Ainsi, lorsqu'un utilisateur actionne les poussoirs 213 pour placer les verrous 212 dans leur état ouvert, il peut ensuite manipuler le capot 184 pour le déplacer suivant la direction longitudinale du bracelet pour modifier la longueur utile de ce dernier. Lorsque les vis 228 se trouvent à nouveau en regard de l'un des crans 218, les montants 178 reprennent leur forme au repos, en l'absence d'une action de l'utilisateur sur les poussoirs 213, par élasticité et action simultanée des ressorts 224. Cette action implique le retour des verrous 212 dans leur état fermé et donc le verrouillage de l'organe de réglage, ce dernier comportant le capot 186 associé à la paroi inférieure 226 ainsi que les vis 228.When the pushers 213 are actuated by the user, the locks 212 come closer to each other to go into their open state. The notches 218 shift during this operation, the screws 228 being thereby in the axis of the slots 216 and thus able to slide along the slots to position themselves opposite a notch 218 or the other, depending on the needs. Thus, when a user actuates the pushers 213 to place the locks 212 in their open state, he can then manipulate the cover 184 to move it in the longitudinal direction of the bracelet to change the useful length of the latter. When the screws 228 are again facing one of the notches 218, the uprights 178 resume their shape at rest, in the absence of an action of the user on the pushers 213, by elasticity and simultaneous action. 224. This action involves the return of the latches 212 in their closed state and thus the locking of the adjustment member, the latter comprising the cover 186 associated with the bottom wall 226 and the screws 228.

Le fonctionnement du dispositif de réglage va maintenant être exposé en relation avec les figures 12 et 13 qui représentent des vues en coupe simplifiées similaires du dispositif de réglage, suivant un plan moyen, dans des première et seconde configurations respectives.The operation of the adjuster will now be exposed in relation to the Figures 12 and 13 which show similar simplified sectional views of the adjusting device, in a mean plane, in respective first and second configurations.

Plus précisément, la figure 12 correspond à la configuration longue du fermoir, c'est à dire dans laquelle la longueur utile du bracelet est la plus grande tandis que la figure 13 correspond à sa configuration courte, c'est à dire dans laquelle la longueur utile du bracelet est la plus courte.More specifically, the figure 12 corresponds to the long configuration of the clasp, that is to say in which the useful length of the bracelet is the largest while the figure 13 corresponds to its short configuration, ie in which the useful length of the bracelet is the shortest.

Sur chacune de ces figures, la moitié supérieure illustre un premier verrou 212 dans son état fermé, tandis que la moitié inférieure illustre le second verrou 212 dans son état ouvert.In each of these figures, the upper half illustrates a first latch 212 in its closed state, while the lower half illustrates the second latch 212 in its open state.

Lorsque les extensions 180 sont libres, la forme au repos des montants 178, assistée par l'action des ressorts 224, maintient chaque verrou 212 dans une position écartée correspondant à l'état fermé.When the extensions 180 are free, the rest form of the uprights 178, assisted by the action of the springs 224, holds each latch 212 in a spaced apart position corresponding to the closed state.

Dans cette configuration, chacune des vis 228 est située dans l'un des crans 218 et le bâti ne peut pas se déplacer dans la direction longitudinale du bracelet en référence aux verrous 212.In this configuration, each of the screws 228 is located in one of the notches 218 and the frame can not move in the longitudinal direction of the bracelet with reference to the locks 212.

Lorsque les poussoirs 213 sont actionnés, les verrous 212 se rapprochent l'un de l'autre pour passer dans leur état ouvert (moitiés inférieures des figures 12 et 13).When the pushers 213 are actuated, the locks 212 come closer to each other to go into their open state (lower halves of the Figures 12 and 13 ).

Les crans 218 se décalent au cours de cette opération, les vis 228 se trouvant de ce fait dans l'axe des fentes 216 et donc capables de coulisser le long des fentes pour se positionner en regard d'un cran 218 ou l'autre, en fonction des besoins. Ainsi, lorsqu'un utilisateur actionne les poussoirs 213 pour placer les verrous 212 dans leur état ouvert, il peut ensuite manipuler le capot 184 pour le déplacer suivant la direction longitudinale du bracelet pour modifier la longueur utile de ce dernier. Lorsque les vis 228 se trouvent à nouveau en regard de l'un des crans 218, les montants 178 reprennent leur forme au repos, en l'absence d'une action de l'utilisateur sur les poussoirs 213, par élasticité et action simultanée des ressorts 224. Cette action implique le retour des verrous 212 dans leur état fermé et donc le verrouillage de l'organe de réglage, ce dernier comportant le capot 186 associé à la paroi inférieure 226 ainsi que les vis 228.The notches 218 shift during this operation, the screws 228 being thereby in the axis of the slots 216 and thus able to slide along the slots to position themselves opposite a notch 218 or the other, depending on the needs. Thus, when a user actuates the pushers 213 to place the locks 212 in their open state, he can then manipulate the cover 184 to move it in the longitudinal direction of the bracelet to change the useful length of the latter. When the screws 228 are again facing one of the notches 218, the uprights 178 resume their shape at rest, in the absence of an action of the user on the pushers 213, by elasticity and simultaneous action. 224. This action involves the return of the latches 212 in their closed state and thus the locking of the adjustment member, the latter comprising the cover 186 associated with the bottom wall 226 and the screws 228.

En comparant les figures 12 et 13, on constate que dans la configuration de la figure 12, en supposant qu'un bracelet soit assemblé au fermoir 170, la longueur des portions superposées des brins du bracelet est inférieure à cette longueur dans la configuration de la figure 13, ce qui signifie que la configuration de la figure 12 correspond à une longueur utile du bracelet plus importante que celle de la figure 13.Comparing the Figures 12 and 13 , we see that in the configuration of the figure 12 , assuming that a bracelet is assembled to the clasp 170, the length of the superposed portions of the strands of the bracelet is less than this length in the configuration of the figure 13 , which means that the configuration of the figure 12 corresponds to a useful length of the bracelet greater than that of the figure 13 .

Il ressort par ailleurs d'une comparaison des moitiés inférieure et supérieure de la figure 12 qu'une première amplitude d1 de déformation des montants 178 permet de déverrouiller le fermoir 170, tandis qu'une seconde amplitude de déformation d2 des montants 178, supérieure à la première amplitude d1, est nécessaire pour libérer les vis 228 et leur permettre de coulisser dans les fentes 226. Ainsi, il est possible, de manière préférée, de prévoir par construction que le fermoir 170 peut être ouvert sans que le réglage réalisé au niveau du dispositif de réglage ne soit modifié.It also appears from a comparison of the lower and upper halves of the figure 12 that a first amplitude d1 of deformation of the uprights 178 makes it possible to unlock the clasp 170, while a second amplitude of deformation d2 of the uprights 178, greater than the first amplitude d1, is necessary to release the screws 228 and to allow them to slide 226. Thus, it is possible, preferably, to provide by construction that the clasp 170 can be opened without the adjustment made at the adjustment device is changed.

Par ailleurs, cette caractéristique particulière permet également d'ajuster la longueur du fermoir lorsque ce dernier est ouvert tout en conservant ensuite ce réglage, de manière avantageuse.Moreover, this particular feature also makes it possible to adjust the length of the clasp when the clasp is open while at the same time keeping this adjustment advantageously.

L'invention concerne un fermoir pour bracelet du type comprenant des première et seconde extrémités libres, le fermoir 170 comportant :

  • des premier et second organes de fixation 172, 174 du bracelet destinés à être rendus respectivement solidaires desdites première et seconde extrémités libres du bracelet, lesdits organes de fixation 172, 174 étant mobiles l'un par rapport à l'autre entre au moins une position ouverte et une position fermée, de porter, dans laquelle ils sont plus proches l'un de l'autre que dans la position ouverte, pour fermer le bracelet et en définir une longueur utile ;
  • au moins un organe de verrouillage 210, 217 agencé pour maintenir lesdits organes de fixation 172, 174 du bracelet dans leur position fermée ;
  • au moins un organe de commande 180 dudit organe de verrouillage 210, 217 agencé pour déverrouiller le fermoir 170 en réponse à une action d'un utilisateur et passer de ladite position fermée à ladite position ouverte ;
  • un dispositif de réglage 182 de la longueur utile du bracelet comprenant :
    • un organe de réglage 184, 186, 226, 228, portant ledit premier organe de fixation 172 du bracelet, et
    • au moins un verrou 212 susceptible de présenter un état par défaut fermé, dans lequel ledit organe de réglage 184, 186, 226, 228 est fixe, et un état ouvert, dans lequel ledit organe de réglage 184, 186, 226, 228 est libre de coulisser dans la direction de la longueur du bracelet, en référence audit second organe de fixation 174 du bracelet, pour modifier la longueur utile du bracelet,
    • ledit dispositif de réglage 182 étant distinct dudit organe de verrouillage 210, 217 et ledit verrou 212 étant agencé pour passer de son état fermé à son état ouvert par action de l'utilisateur sur ledit organe de commande 180 de l'organe de verrouillage 210, 217, de telle manière que ledit organe de réglage 184, 186, 226, 228 est susceptible d'être déplacé indépendamment de l'état ouvert ou fermé du fermoir,
    • ledit organe de commande comprend un poussoir 213 susceptible d'être déplacé suivant une direction sensiblement perpendiculaire à la direction longitudinale du bracelet, en réponse à une action de l'utilisateur, ledit poussoir 213 étant indépendant dudit verrou 212.
The invention relates to a clasp for a bracelet of the type comprising first and second free ends, the clasp 170 comprising:
  • first and second fasteners 172, 174 of the bracelet intended to be secured respectively to said first and second free ends of the bracelet, said fasteners 172, 174 being movable relative to each other between at least one position open and closed position, to carry, in which they are closer to each other than in the open position, to close the bracelet and to define a useful length;
  • at least one locking member 210, 217 arranged to hold said fasteners 172, 174 of the bracelet in their closed position;
  • at least one control member 180 of said locking member 210, 217 arranged to unlock the clasp 170 in response to an action of a user and to move from said closed position to said open position;
  • an adjustment device 182 of the useful length of the bracelet comprising:
    • an adjusting member 184, 186, 226, 228, carrying said first fastener 172 of the bracelet, and
    • at least one lock 212 capable of having a closed default state, in which said adjustment member 184, 186, 226, 228 is fixed, and an open state, in which said adjustment member 184, 186, 226, 228 is free to slide in the direction of the length of the bracelet, with reference to said second fastener 174 of the bracelet, to modify the useful length of the bracelet,
    • said adjusting device 182 being separate from said locking member 210, 217 and said latch 212 being arranged to move from its closed state to its open state by action of the user on said control member 180 of the locking member 210, 217, such that said adjusting member 184, 186, 226, 228 is movable independently of the open or closed state of the clasp,
    • said control member comprises a pusher 213 capable of being displaced in a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the bracelet, in response to an action by the user, said pusher 213 being independent of said lock 212.

Ledit organe de réglage comporte un bâti 184 portant ledit premier organe de fixation 172 du bracelet et au moins un doigt 228 agencé pour coopérer avec ledit verrou 212, ce dernier comportant une plaquette 214 adjacente audit bâti 184 et dans laquelle est ménagée une fente 216 suivant la direction longitudinale du bracelet, ladite fente 216 présentant au moins deux crans 218 susceptibles de coopérer avec ledit doigt 228 dans l'état fermé dudit verrou 172, pour définir deux longueurs utiles respectives différentes du bracelet, tandis que ledit doigt 228 est susceptible de coulisser dans ladite fente 216 dans l'état ouvert dudit verrou 212 pour passer d'un cran 218 à l'autre et modifier la longueur utile du bracelet.Said adjustment member comprises a frame 184 carrying said first attachment member 172 of the bracelet and at least one finger 228 arranged to cooperate with said lock 212, the latter comprising a plate 214 adjacent to said frame 184 and in which is formed a slot 216 following the longitudinal direction of the bracelet, said slot 216 having at least two notches 218 capable of cooperating with said finger 228 in the closed state of said latch 172, to define two different respective useful lengths of the bracelet, while said finger 228 is capable of sliding in said slot 216 in the open state of said lock 212 to go from one notch 218 to the other and change the useful length of the bracelet.

Ledit bâti 184 comprend des parois supérieure 186 et inférieure 226 entre lesquelles est agencée ladite plaquette 214, ledit doigt 228 présentant la forme d'une vis rendant solidaires entre elles lesdites parois supérieure 186 et inférieure 226.Said frame 184 comprises upper and lower walls 186 and 226 between which said plate 214 is arranged, said finger 228 having the shape of a screw rendering said upper and lower walls 186 and 226 integral with one another.

Ladite paroi supérieure 186 est formée par un capot 184 comprenant une surface supérieure portant des parois latérales 188 présentant deux trous destinés à loger les extrémités d'une barrette 190 de fixation d'un brin de bracelet, et au moins une surface d'appui contre laquelle ladite paroi inférieure 226 est maintenue au moyen de ladite vis 228.Said upper wall 186 is formed by a cover 184 comprising an upper surface carrying side walls 188 having two holes intended to house the ends of a bar 190 for fixing a strand. bracelet, and at least one bearing surface against which said bottom wall 226 is held by means of said screw 228.

Le fermoir comporte d'une part un organe de commande 180 supplémentaire, lesdits organes de commande 180 étant similaires et symétriques en référence à la direction longitudinale du bracelet et d'autre part :

  • un verrou 212 supplémentaire associé audit organe de commande 180 supplémentaire, lesdits verrous 212 étant similaires et symétriques en référence à la direction longitudinale du bracelet, et
  • un doigt 228 supplémentaire associé audit verrou 212 supplémentaire.
The clasp comprises on the one hand an additional control member 180, said control members 180 being similar and symmetrical with reference to the longitudinal direction of the bracelet and on the other hand:
  • an additional lock 212 associated with said additional control member 180, said locks 212 being similar and symmetrical with reference to the longitudinal direction of the bracelet, and
  • an additional finger 228 associated with said additional lock 212.

Le fermoir est du type à boucle déployante et comporte au moins deux lames 172, 174 articulées entre elles, dont une première lame 172 comprend deux montants 178 symétriques en référence à la direction longitudinale du bracelet, insérés dans un évidement sensiblement complémentaire de la seconde lame 174 pour placer le fermoir dans sa position fermée, par rapprochement momentané desdits montants 178 à l'encontre de la force de moyens de rappel élastiques (224). Chacun desdits montants 178 porte l'un desdits verrous 212, et lesdits poussoirs 213 sont en appui contre les verrous 212 et sont engagés à coulissement à travers des ouvertures 215 correspondantes ménagées dans les parois latérales 188 du capot 184 et dans lesquelles ils sont retenus par des rebords 217 qui s'étendent de part et d'autre des poussoirs 213.The clasp is of the clasp type and comprises at least two blades 172, 174 hinged together, a first blade 172 comprises two posts 178 symmetrical with reference to the longitudinal direction of the bracelet, inserted into a recess substantially complementary to the second blade 174 to place the clasp in its closed position, by momentarily bringing said uprights 178 against the force of elastic return means (224). Each of said uprights 178 carries one of said latches 212, and said pushers 213 are in abutment against the latches 212 and are slidably engaged through corresponding openings 215 formed in the side walls 188 of the hood 184 and in which they are retained by edges 217 which extend on either side of the pushers 213.

En position fermée du fermoir 170, les rebords 217 des poussoirs 213 sont en prise avec les bords intérieurs de la seconde lame 174 pour assurer le maintien de l'état fermé du fermoir 170.In the closed position of the clasp 170, the flanges 217 of the pushers 213 are engaged with the inner edges of the second blade 174 to maintain the closed state of the clasp 170.

Chaque bord intérieur de la seconde lame 174 présente un creux 210 dans lequel les rebords 217 correspondants des poussoirs 213 sont engagés lorsque le fermoir 170 est fermé.Each inner edge of the second blade 174 has a recess 210 in which the corresponding flanges 217 of the pushers 213 are engaged when the clasp 170 is closed.

Ledit dispositif de réglage 182 comprend au moins un organe élastique 224 exerçant une force sur ledit ou lesdits verrous 212 tendant à le ou les maintenir dans son ou leur état fermé.Said adjustment device 182 comprises at least one elastic member 224 exerting a force on said one or more locks 212 tending to maintain it in its closed state or state.

Ledit dispositif de réglage 182 comprend un organe intermédiaire 222, de position fixe en référence audit verrou 212 et présentant une surface d'appui pour une extrémité dudit organe élastique 224.Said adjustment device 182 comprises an intermediate member 222, of fixed position with reference to said lock 212 and having a bearing surface for one end of said elastic member 224.

Ledit dispositif de réglage 182 comprend en outre un cliquet à bille 234 associé à au moins deux creusures 236 sensiblement complémentaires agencées pour indexer au moins deux configurations du dispositif de réglage 182 correspondant à deux longueurs utiles différentes du bracelet.Said adjustment device 182 further comprises a ball pawl 234 associated with at least two substantially complementary recesses 236 arranged to index at least two configurations of the adjusting device 182 corresponding to two different useful lengths of the bracelet.

Ledit cliquet à bille 234 est porté par ledit organe intermédiaire 222.Said ball pawl 234 is carried by said intermediate member 222.

Lesdites creusures 236 sont ménagées dans ladite paroi supérieure 186 dudit dispositif de réglage 182.Said recesses 236 are formed in said upper wall 186 of said adjustment device 182.

Le déverrouillage du fermoir est associé à un déplacement dudit organe de commande 180 d'une première amplitude d1, le déverrouillage dudit organe de réglage 184, 186, 226, 228 par ledit verrou (212) étant associé à un déplacement dudit organe de commande 180 d'une seconde amplitude d2, d1 étant inférieur à d2.The unlocking of the clasp is associated with a displacement of said control member 180 by a first amplitude d1, the unlocking of said adjustment member 184, 186, 226, 228 by said latch (212) being associated with a displacement of said control member 180 a second amplitude d2, d1 being less than d2.

L'invention concerne aussi une montre-bracelet comportant un bracelet muni d'un fermoir selon l'invention.The invention also relates to a wristwatch comprising a bracelet provided with a clasp according to the invention.

Il ressort du présent exposé que le fermoir selon la présente invention comprend un dispositif de réglage de la longueur utile du bracelet de structure et de manipulation simples, tout en conservant une esthétique discrète et un encombrement réduit.It will be apparent from the present disclosure that the clasp according to the present invention comprises a device for adjusting the useful length of the bracelet of simple structure and handling, while maintaining a discrete aesthetic and a small footprint.

La description qui précède s'attache à décrire un mode de réalisation particulier à titre d'illustration non limitative et, l'invention n'est pas limitée à la mise en oeuvre de certaines caractéristiques particulières qui viennent d'être décrites, comme par exemple les formes spécifiquement illustrées et décrites pour les lames ou encore leur mode de coopération permettant d'assurer le verrouillage du fermoir.The foregoing description attempts to describe a particular embodiment by way of non-limiting illustration and, the invention is not limited to the implementation of certain particular characteristics which come to be described, such as the specifically illustrated forms and described for the blades or their mode of cooperation to ensure the locking of the clasp.

L'homme du métier ne rencontrera pas de difficulté particulière pour adapter le contenu de la présente divulgation à ses propres besoins et mettre en oeuvre un fermoir, notamment pour pièce d'horlogerie, sans sortir du cadre de la présente invention. On notera par exemple que l'adaptation du présent enseignement pour la construction d'une boucle déployante de structure différente à celle illustrée et décrite ne posera pas de difficulté particulière à l'homme du métier.The skilled person will not encounter any particular difficulty to adapt the content of the present disclosure to his own needs and implement a clasp, especially for a timepiece, without departing from the scope of the present invention. It will be noted for example that the adaptation of the present teaching for the construction of a folding clasp of a different structure to that illustrated and described will not pose any particular difficulty to the skilled person.

Par ailleurs, le fermoir selon la présente invention n'est pas non plus limité à la mise en oeuvre de deux positions de réglage de la longueur utile du bracelet. En effet, l'homme du métier ne rencontrera pas non plus de difficulté particulière pour adapter le présent enseignement pour mettre en oeuvre un fermoir présentant un nombre supérieur de positions de réglage possibles.Furthermore, the clasp according to the present invention is not limited to the implementation of two positions of adjustment of the useful length of the bracelet. Indeed, the skilled person will not encounter any particular difficulty to adapt the present teaching to implement a clasp having a greater number of possible setting positions.

Claims (15)

  1. Clasp for a bracelet of the type comprising first and second free ends, the clasp (170) comprising:
    first and second bracelet fastening members (172, 174) intended to be made respectively integral with said first and second free ends of the bracelet, said fastening members (172, 174) being movable in relation to one another between at least one open position and a closed wearing position, in which said members are closer to one another than in the open position, to close the bracelet and define a useful length therefore;
    at least one locking member (210, 217) arranged to hold said bracelet fastening members (172, 174) in the closed position thereof,
    at least one control member (180) for said locking member (210, 217) arranged to unlock the clasp (170) in response to an action of a user and to change from said closed position to said open position;
    a device (182) for adjusting the useful length of the bracelet comprising:
    an adjusting member (184, 186, 226, 228) carrying said first bracelet fastening member (172), and
    at least one lock (212) capable of having a default closed state, in which said adjusting member (184, 186, 226, 228) is fixed, and an open state, in which said adjusting member (184, 186, 226, 228) is free to slide in the direction of the length of the bracelet with respect to said second bracelet fastening member (174) to modify the useful length of the bracelet,
    characterised in that said adjusting device (182) is distinct from said locking member (210, 217), and said lock (212) is arranged to change from the closed state to the open state thereof by action of the user on said control member (180) of the locking member (210, 217) such that said adjusting member (184, 186, 226, 228) is capable of being shifted independently of the open or closed state of the clasp,
    said control member comprises a push-piece (213) capable of being displaced in a substantially perpendicular direction to the longitudinal direction of the bracelet in response to an action of the user, said push-piece (213) being independent of said lock (212).
  2. Clasp according to claim 1, characterised in that said adjusting member comprises a support structure (184) carrying said first bracelet fastening member (172) and at least one finger (228) arranged to cooperate with said lock (212), said lock comprising a plate (214), which is adjacent to said support structure (184) and in which a slot (216) is arranged in the longitudinal direction of the bracelet, said slot (216) having at least two notches (218) capable of cooperating with said finger (228) in the closed state of said lock (172) to define two different respective useful lengths of the bracelet, whereas said finger (228) is capable of sliding into said slot (216) in the open state of said lock (212) to pass from one notch (218) to the other and modify the useful length of the bracelet.
  3. Clasp according to claim 2, characterised in that said support structure (184) comprises upper (186) and lower (226) walls, between which said plate (214) is arranged, said finger (228) taking the form of a screw securing said upper (186) and lower (226) walls to one another.
  4. Clasp according to claim 3, characterised in that said upper wall (186) is formed by a cover (184) comprising an upper surface carrying lateral walls (188) having two holes intended to accommodate the ends of a bracelet strand fastening bar (190), and at least one support surface against which said lower wall (226) is held by means of said screw (228).
  5. Clasp according to claim 4, characterised in that the clasp has an additional control member (180), said control members (180) being similar and symmetrical with respect to the longitudinal direction of the bracelet, and in that said adjusting device (182) comprises:
    an additional lock (212) associated with said additional control member (180), said locks (212) being similar and symmetrical relative to the longitudinal direction of the bracelet, and
    an additional finger (228) associated with said additional lock (212).
  6. Clasp according to any of claims 1 to 5, of the type having a buckle of the unfolding type including at least two strips (172, 174) hinged to each other, of which a first strip (172) includes two posts (178) that are symmetrical with reference to the longitudinal direction of the bracelet, inserted into a substantially complementary recess in the second strip (174) to place the clasp in the closed position thereof, by momentarily moving said posts (178) closer together against the force of elastic return means (224), characterized in that each of said posts (178) carries one of said locks (212), and in that said push-pieces (213) abut against the locks (212) and are slidably engaged through corresponding apertures (215) arranged in the lateral walls (188) of the cover (184) and in which said push-pieces are retained by rims (217) which extend on both sides of the push-pieces (213).
  7. Clasp according to claim 6, characterized in that in the closed position of the clasp (170), the rims (217) of the push-pieces (213) are in mesh with the inner edges of the second strip (174) so as to maintain the closed state of the clasp (170).
  8. Clasp according to claim 7, characterized in that each inner edge of the second strip (174) has a hollow (210), in which the corresponding rims (217) of the push-pieces (213) are engaged when the clasp (170) is closed.
  9. Clasp according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that said adjusting device (182) comprises at least one elastic member (224) exerting a force on said lock or locks (212) tending to hold said lock or locks in the closed state.
  10. Clasp according to claim 9, characterised in that said adjusting device (182) comprises an intermediate member (222) whose position is fixed relative to said lock (212) and having a support surface for one end of said elastic member (224).
  11. Clasp according to claim 10, characterised in that said adjusting device (182) also comprises a ball click (234) associated with at least two substantially complementary openings (236) arranged to index at least two configurations of the adjusting device (182) corresponding to two different useful lengths of the bracelet.
  12. Clasp according to claim 11, characterised in that said ball click (234) is carried by said intermediate member (222).
  13. Clasp according to any of claims 9 to 12 in that they depend on claim 3, characterized in that said openings (236) are arranged in said upper wall (186) of said adjusting device (182).
  14. Clasp according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the unlocking of the clasp is associated with a displacement of said control member (180) of a first amplitude d1, and the unlocking of said adjusting member (184, 186, 226, 228) by said lock (212) is associated with a displacement of said control member (180) of a second amplitude d2, wherein d1 is less than d2.
  15. Wristwatch including a bracelet provided with a clasp according to any of the preceding claims.
EP13199618.3A 2013-12-26 2013-12-26 Bracelet clasp comprising a device for adjusting the useful length of the bracelet Active EP2888967B1 (en)

Priority Applications (5)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP13199618.3A EP2888967B1 (en) 2013-12-26 2013-12-26 Bracelet clasp comprising a device for adjusting the useful length of the bracelet
US14/540,793 US9993051B2 (en) 2013-12-26 2014-11-13 Bracelet clasp comprising a device for adjusting the useful length of the bracelet
JP2014247661A JP6040213B2 (en) 2013-12-26 2014-12-08 Bracelet clasp with device for adjusting the effective length of the bracelet
CN201410835029.1A CN104738918B (en) 2013-12-26 2014-12-26 The chain clasp of device including the effective length for adjusting chain
HK15112785.7A HK1211813A1 (en) 2013-12-26 2015-12-29 Bracelet clasp comprising a device for adjusting the useful length of the bracelet

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP13199618.3A EP2888967B1 (en) 2013-12-26 2013-12-26 Bracelet clasp comprising a device for adjusting the useful length of the bracelet

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP2888967A1 EP2888967A1 (en) 2015-07-01
EP2888967B1 true EP2888967B1 (en) 2018-05-02

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EP13199618.3A Active EP2888967B1 (en) 2013-12-26 2013-12-26 Bracelet clasp comprising a device for adjusting the useful length of the bracelet

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US (1) US9993051B2 (en)
EP (1) EP2888967B1 (en)
JP (1) JP6040213B2 (en)
CN (1) CN104738918B (en)
HK (1) HK1211813A1 (en)

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JP4232792B2 (en) * 2006-05-25 2009-03-04 セイコーエプソン株式会社 Nakadome
EP2740381B1 (en) * 2012-12-04 2015-09-16 Omega SA Adjustable bracelet clasp
EP2740382B1 (en) * 2012-12-04 2015-10-28 Omega SA Bracelet clasp comprising a device for adjusting the useful length of the bracelet

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Publication number Publication date
US9993051B2 (en) 2018-06-12
JP2015123371A (en) 2015-07-06
JP6040213B2 (en) 2016-12-07
US20150181988A1 (en) 2015-07-02
EP2888967A1 (en) 2015-07-01
CN104738918A (en) 2015-07-01
CN104738918B (en) 2018-04-10
HK1211813A1 (en) 2016-06-03

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