EP3015927B1 - Chronograph mechanism and timepiece comprising the use thereof - Google Patents

Description

Technical field of the invention

The present invention relates to the field of watchmaking. More specifically, it relates to a chronograph mechanism and a timepiece comprising this chronograph mechanism.

State of the art

The European patent application EP 1 372 117 describes a watch having a chronograph mechanism capable of timing two times, each of which consists of an addition of periods. The periods constituting one of these two times alternate with the periods constituting the other time, which corresponds to the situation of two players confronting each other and playing their turn. The chronograph mechanism proposed in the patent application EP 1 372 117 can thus be useful in some games like chess, where one counts the accumulation of playing time of each of two players playing alternately.

In other words, the chronograph mechanism proposed in the patent application EP 1 372 117 is suitable for a particular type of situation, outside of which it is unusable. For example, the chronograph mechanism proposed in the patent application EP 1 372 117 is not adapted to follow and compare successive lap times of the same competitor playing on a closed circuit, that is to say the performance that such a competitor performs turn after lap.

Moreover, there are known chronograph mechanisms called catch-up mechanisms, thanks to which two second hand can rotate together by being superimposed until one of them is stopped to indicate an intermediate time while the other second hand continues timing. Among these two second hand, the split second hand is the second hand can be stopped without the other second hand is also: Each of the two second hand is mounted on one of two coaxial trees, one of which bears a heart. A split wheel fitted to the other shaft is provided with a lever. This lever cooperates with the edge of the heart so as to place the split wheel in the same angular position as the heart, except when a clamp performs a clamping blocking the wheel splitter.

In the patent US 6,842,403 in the United States of America, there is described a split-second mechanism which is improved in that the split-second needle and the second-hand can be returned simultaneously.

In the international patent application WO 2011/131788 , it is proposed a split-second mechanism that is particularized by the addition of a clutch between the shaft carrying the split-second wheel and the shaft carrying the second hand other than the split-second hand, whereby a secondary timing before occur during a main timing can be started after the latter.

The document EP 2 211 243 A2 proposed to add a second rattrapante to a chronograph already having a catch-up and a chronograph hand. The architecture of the set includes three coaxial shafts, including a chronograph shaft bearing the chronograph hand. The other two trees each carry a catcher. They are catch-up trees each of which can be immobilized by one of two clamps. Two return devices with heart and lever are also provided. Each of them is able to recall one of the splitters in a predetermined angular position relative to the chronograph shaft.

Summary of the invention

The invention aims at least to offer new possibilities or to allow a simpler use concerning the timing of several events in situations where these events articulate with each other in a particular way.

According to the invention, this object is achieved thanks to a chronograph mechanism for a timepiece comprising a watch movement. This chronograph mechanism includes a first second hand mobile intended to carry a first indication second hand of a measured time, and a second second hand moving intended to carry a second indication second hand of a measured time. The first and second second hand mobile are rotatable on the same axis of rotation. A first brake is able to angularly immobilize the first second hand mobile. A second brake is able to angularly immobilize the second second hand mobile. An intermediate mobile rotary chronograph on the same axis of rotation as the first and second second hand mobiles is provided to transmit a drive from the watch movement, first and second second hand mobiles. A first return device is able to recall the first second hand mobile in a predetermined angular position relative to the intermediate chronograph mobile, in the absence of an angular immobilization of the first second hand mobile by the first brake. A second return device is able to recall the second second hand mobile in a predetermined angular position relative to the intermediate chronograph mobile, in the absence of an angular immobilization of the second second hand mobile by the second brake. A control system is able to control the respective states of the first and second brakes. This control system comprises a coordination device adapted to maintain the first and second brakes in first and second alternative configurations. In the first configuration, the first brake is in an inactive state, leaving the first free second hand mobile in rotation and the second brake is in an active state by angularly immobilizing the second second hand mobile. In the second configuration, the second brake is in an inactive state leaving the second moving second hand free rotation and the first brake is in an active state by angularly immobilizing the first second hand mobile.

The chronograph mechanism defined above makes it possible to display the result of a first timekeeping completed and to perform a second timing at the same time.

The chronograph mechanism defined above can be configured in different ways, in particular by means of the presence or absence of one or more additional characteristics that may be chosen in particular from those specified below.

In particular, the chronograph mechanism defined above can be configured so that it can be used to visually perform and compare two successive timings.

In particular, the chronograph mechanism defined above can be configured so that it can be used at least to perform and visually compare the timing of events that succeed one another without interruption between them, such as successive turns of a runner moving on a closed circuit, or which succeed each other with a delay between them.

Also, the chronograph mechanism defined above can be configured so that it can be used at least for visually performing and comparing the timing of a reference event and the timing of an event starting some time after the end of this event. reference. Also, the chronograph mechanism defined above can be configured so that it can be used at least for visually performing and comparing the timing of a reference event and the timing of an event starting immediately following this event. reference. The reference event may be, for example, the best performance, on a lap, of a rider chaining laps on a closed circuit. The reference event may also be, for example, the performance of an opener on a track or the best performance among those of several competitors succeeding one another. travels, without overlap between their respective races, as is the case in ski competitions.

Also, the chronograph mechanism defined above can be configured so as at least to display the result of a first completed timing and to simultaneously perform a second timing that does not have the same starting point as the first one. timing. Also, the chronograph mechanism defined above can be configured so as at least to display the result of a first timing completed and simultaneously perform a second timing having the same starting point as the first timing. Also, the chronograph mechanism defined above can be configured so as to at least then allow, once this second timing is finished, to display its result and to perform a third timing simultaneously having the same starting point as the first one. and the second timekeeping.

The chronograph mechanism defined above may incorporate one or more other advantageous features, alone or in combination, in particular among those specified hereinafter.

Advantageously, the chronograph mechanism comprises a coupling clutch of the intermediate chronograph mobile watch movement. The control system is able to place the clutch alternately in an engaged state and in a disengaged state.

Advantageously, the chronograph mechanism comprises a reset device of the intermediate chronograph mobile.

Advantageously, the chronograph mechanism comprises a return mechanism in flight adapted to reset on the fly the intermediate chronograph mobile disengaging for a brief moment said clutch and actuating the reset device during this brief moment. When this is the case, the chronograph mechanism can be used especially to realize and compare the timing of events succeeding one another without interruption between them.

Advantageously, the coordination device comprises a first column wheel for selecting the state of the first brake from two inverse states, namely the inactive and active states of this first brake, as well as a second column wheel for selecting the first brake. state of the second brake among two inverse states, namely the inactive and active states of this second brake. Preferably, each step of the first column wheel reverses the state of the first brake. Preferably, each maneuver one step of the second column wheel reverses the state of the second brake. Preferably, the first and second column wheels are phase shifted relative to one another so as to place the first and second brakes in opposite states. Preferably, the control system is adapted to move the first and second column wheels together in one step during a command to reverse the configuration of the first and second brakes between the first and second configurations. A coordination device configured in this way can be integrated in a timepiece such as a watch and be effective in practice to perform the desired functions.

Advantageously, the coordination device is adapted to maintain the first and second brakes in three alternative configurations, namely the first configuration, the second configuration and a third configuration, in which the first and second brakes are in their respective inactive states, leaving the first and second second hand mobiles free to rotate.

• un premier mécanisme de commande à même de transformer un premier ordre manuel en un premier actionnement inversant l'état de l'embrayage entre ses états embrayé et débrayé, et
• un deuxième mécanisme de commande à même de transformer un deuxième ordre manuel au moins en un deuxième actionnement inversant la configuration des premier et deuxième freins entre leurs première et deuxième configurations.

Advantageously, the control system comprises:

• a first control mechanism capable of transforming a first manual order into a first actuation reversing the state of the clutch between its engaged and disengaged states, and
• a second control mechanism capable of transforming a second manual order into at least a second actuation reversing the configuration of the first and second brakes between their first and second configurations.

Advantageously, the second control mechanism is capable of transforming the second manual order into two actuations, namely said second actuation and a third actuation succeeding the second actuation and driving the flight return mechanism to reset the mobile on the fly. Intermediate chronograph unless this intermediate mobile chronograph is already zero.

Advantageously, the control system is able to transform a third manual order into the third actuation without causing the second actuation.

Advantageously, the second control mechanism is able to transform the second manual order into the second actuation, without causing a third actuation leading the reset device to reset the intermediate chronograph mobile.

Advantageously, the first control mechanism is able to transform the first manual order into two actuations, namely the first actuation and another actuation bringing the first and second brakes in the third configuration unless these first and second brakes are already in this third configuration. Preferably, the second actuation causes the first and second brakes out of the third configuration unless these first and second brakes are already in one of the first and second configurations.

Advantageously, the control system is able to transform a third manual order into a third operation leading the reset device to reset the intermediate chronograph mobile unless this mobile chronograph intermediate is already zero.

• un mouvement horloger,
• au moins des première et deuxième trotteuses, et
• un mécanisme de chronographe tel que défini précédemment, dont le mobile intermédiaire de chronographe est à même de recevoir un entraînement en provenance du mouvement horloger, le premier et le deuxième mobile de trotteuse portant respectivement la première et la deuxième trotteuse.

The invention also relates to a timepiece which comprises:

• a watch movement,
• at least first and second seconds, and
• a chronograph mechanism as defined above, including the intermediate chronograph mobile is able to receive a drive from the watch movement, the first and second second hand mobile respectively carrying the first and second second hand.

Brief description of the drawings

• la figure 1 représente une montre conforme à l'invention,
• la figure 2 est un schéma simplifié de l'architecture générale d'un mécanisme de chronographe selon un premier mode de réalisation de l'invention, que possède la montre de la figure 1,
• la figure 3 est une vue de dessus (depuis le cadran de la montre) d'un ensemble que contient le boîtier de la montre et qui comprend le mécanisme de chronographe de la figure 2,
• la figure 4 est une vue de dessous (depuis le fond de la montre) de l'ensemble représenté à la figure 3,
• la figure 5 est une vue en perspective d'un sous-ensemble du mécanisme de chronographe de la figure 2,
• la figure 6 est une vue en perspective représentant un mobile intermédiaire de chronographe faisant partie du sous-ensemble de la figure 5 et un marteau de remise à zéro de ce mobile intermédiaire de chronographe,
• la figure 7 est une vue en perspective d'une première trotteuse portée par un mobile de trotteuse faisant partie du sous-ensemble de la figure 5,
• la figure 8 est une vue en perspective d'une deuxième trotteuse portée par un mobile de trotteuse faisant également partie du sous-ensemble de la figure 5,
• la figure 9 est la partie supérieure d'une vue en coupe selon un plan passant par l'axe de rotation du sous-ensemble de la figure 5,
• la figure 10 est la partie inférieure de la vue en coupe dont la figure 9 est la partie supérieure,
• la figure 11 est une vue en perspective qui représente le même sous-ensemble que la figure 5 sans les première et deuxième trotteuses, ainsi qu'un autre sous-ensemble du mécanisme de chronographe de la figure 2,
• la figure 12 est une vue en perspective qui représente les mêmes sous-ensembles que la figure 11 et qui est identique à cette figure 11 sauf qu'elle est partiellement éclatée,
• la figure 13 est une vue de dessus représentant les mêmes sous-ensembles que la figure 11,
• la figure 14 est une vue en coupe selon le plan XIV de la figure 11,
• la figure 15 est une vue en perspective représentant plusieurs éléments d'un système de commande constitutif du mécanisme de chronographe de la figure 2, ainsi que d'autres organes dont la plupart font partie des sous-ensembles de la figure 11,
• la figure 16 est un schéma synoptique de la logique de fonctionnement du mécanisme de chronographe de la figure 2, et
• la figure 17 est un schéma synoptique de la logique de fonctionnement d'un mécanisme de chronographe selon un deuxième mode de réalisation de l'invention.

Other advantages and features will emerge more clearly from the following description of a particular embodiment of the invention given by way of non-limiting example and shown in the accompanying drawings, among which:

• the figure 1 represents a watch according to the invention,
• the figure 2 is a simplified diagram of the general architecture of a chronograph mechanism according to a first embodiment of the invention, that has the watch of the figure 1 ,
• the figure 3 is a top view (from the dial of the watch) of a set that contains the watch case and which includes the chronograph mechanism of the figure 2 ,
• the figure 4 is a view from below (from the bottom of the watch) of the assembly represented in the figure 3 ,
• the figure 5 is a perspective view of a subset of the chronograph mechanism of the figure 2 ,
• the figure 6 is a perspective view representing an intermediate mobile chronograph part of the subset of the figure 5 and a reset hammer of this intermediate chronograph mobile,
• the figure 7 is a perspective view of a first second hand carried by a second hand mobile part of the subset of the figure 5 ,
• the figure 8 is a perspective view of a second second hand carried by a second hand mobile also part of the subset of the figure 5 ,
• the figure 9 is the upper part of a sectional view along a plane passing through the axis of rotation of the subset of the figure 5 ,
• the figure 10 is the lower part of the sectional view whose figure 9 is the upper part,
• the figure 11 is a perspective view that represents the same subset that the figure 5 without the first and second second hand, as well as another subset of the chronograph mechanism of the figure 2 ,
• the figure 12 is a perspective view that represents the same subsets as the figure 11 and which is identical to this figure 11 except that it is partially broken,
• the figure 13 is a top view representing the same subsets as the figure 11 ,
• the figure 14 is a sectional view according to plan XIV of the figure 11 ,
• the figure 15 is a perspective view showing several elements of a control system constituting the chronograph mechanism of the figure 2 , as well as other bodies, most of which are part of the subsets of the figure 11 ,
• the figure 16 is a block diagram of the operating logic of the chronograph mechanism of the figure 2 , and
• the figure 17 is a block diagram of the operating logic of a chronograph mechanism according to a second embodiment of the invention.

Description of a first embodiment of the invention

On the figure 1 is partially shown a watch according to the invention. In a conventional manner, this watch comprises a casing 1 closed by a transparent glass and therefore not shown, a dial 2 mounted behind this transparent glass, a crown winding and setting time 3, a hand hours 4 and a minute hand 5.

The watch of the figure 1 further comprises means for displaying timings, including two indication hands of the timed seconds, namely a lower second hand 6 and an upper second hand 7, and a small dial 8 which is associated with a minute hand 9. A chronograph mechanism according to a first embodiment of the invention drives the needles 6, 7 and 9. Its operation is manually controlled by means of three pushbuttons, namely a first P1 start push / stop to start and stop a timing, a second pusher P2 and a third push P3 reset.

The chronograph mechanism controlled by the pushbuttons P1, P2 and P3 is referenced 10 and shown schematically in FIG. figure 2 . Its training comes from a classic watchmaking movement known in itself, which counts the current time and, as such, has the primary function of driving the needles 4 and 5.

The chronograph mechanism 10 comprises three mobiles which are rotatable on the same axis of rotation and which are an intermediate mobile chronograph 20 provided to transmit the drive from the watch movement 15, a second hand mobile 30 carrying the second hand 6, and a second hand mobile 35 carrying the second hand 7. A clutch 40 known per se makes it possible to choose whether to couple the intermediate chronograph wheel 20 to the watch movement 15.

The intermediate chronograph mobile 20 can also be actuated by a resetting device 41. This resetting device 41 and the clutch 40 are part of a flight return mechanism 42, also commonly called "flyback", thanks to which, while it is driven, the intermediate chronograph mobile 20 can be reset and immediately driven again. In this flight return mechanism 42, the reset device 41 is designed to disengage for a brief moment the clutch 40 and to perform a reset or initialization of the intermediate chronograph mobile 20 during this brief moment. The flight return mechanism 42 and its components 40 and 41 are known per se and are not described in detail here.

Alternatively, the flight return mechanism 42 may include a control mechanism capable of coordinating a reset on the fly the intermediate chronograph mobile 20, by disengaging for a brief moment the clutch 40 and actuating the reset device 41 during this brief moment. In this case, the brief moment during which the clutch 40 is disengaged may be independent of the duration of the manual thrust at the origin of the actuation of the flight return mechanism 42.

A brake 50a and a return device 55a are associated with the second hand mobile 30. The return device 55a is provided to recall the second hand mobile 30 in a predetermined angular position relative to the intermediate chronograph mobile 20, when the brake 50a is inactive. In particular, when the brake 50a is inactive, this return device 55a secures to each other the second hand mobile 30 and the intermediate chronograph mobile 20, which can then rotate together in the same movement. When active, the brake 50a immobilizes the second hand mobile 30 in an angular position, even if the intermediate chronograph mobile 20 is moving or stopped in a different angular position.

Similarly, a brake 50b and a return device 55b are associated with the second hand wheel 35. The return device 55b is provided to return the second hand wheel 35 to a predetermined angular position relative to the intermediate chronograph wheel 20, when the brake 50b is inactive. In particular, when the brake 50b is inactive, this return device 55b secures to each other the second hand wheel 35 and the intermediate chronograph wheel 20, which can then rotate together in a single movement. When active, the brake 50b immobilizes the second hand wheel 35 in an angular position, even if the intermediate chronograph mobile 20 is moving or stopped in a different angular position.

A coordination device 60 determines the configuration of the brakes 50a and 50b, among three possible configurations, two inverse, depending on the manual controls that have been applied to the pushers P1 and P2. The coordination device 60 comprises neutralization means 62 and an inversion mechanism 64, which is provided for alternately placing the brakes 50a and 50b in the two opposite configurations, when the means of neutralization 62 do not maintain one and the other of these brakes 50a and 50b in the same inactive state. In one of their reverse configurations, the brake 50a and the brake 50b are respectively active and inactive. In their other configuration among their reverse configurations, the brake 50a and the brake 50b are respectively inactive and active.

The coordination device 60 is part of a control system which determines an operating logic of the chronograph mechanism, according to the manual controls applied to the pushbuttons P1, P2 and P3.

The housing 1 encloses and protects an assembly shown in FIGS. figures 3 and 4 . In this assembly, the watch movement 15 and the chronograph mechanism 10 are mounted on the same assembly plate 150. The assembly contained by the case 1 comprises two opposite sides, which are a dial side lying on the dial side 2 and a bridge side on the bottom side of the housing 1. The dial side is shown in FIG. figure 3 , while the bridges side is represented at the figure 4 . The chronograph mechanism 10 and the aforementioned control system are partly on the dial side and partly on the bridge side.

Symbolized by an arrow to figures 3 and 4 , the pusher P1 is able to push a double transmission pin 701 and thus simultaneously operate two controls, which are a control 702 mounted on the dial side so as to be pivotable at 702 'and a control 703 mounted on the bridge side so as to to be pivoting in 703 '. As will be explained below, the control 702 is provided to generate an actuation leading to activation of the neutralization means 62 unless these neutralization means 62 are already active. The control 703 carries a hook 704 able to maneuver a clutch column wheel 705 which determines the clutched state or not of the clutch 40.

Symbolized by an arrow to figures 3 and 4 , the pusher P2 is able to push a double transmission pin 711 and thus operate two commands, which are a command 712 mounted on the dial side of to be pivotable at 712 'and a control 713 mounted on the bridge side so as to be pivotable at 713'. The control 713 is provided to act on the coordination device 60 in a manner to be specified later. The control 712 is able to operate a reset lever 714, which is located on the bridge side and is intended to actuate a reset hammer 410. Pivoting at 410 'as can be seen in FIG. figure 4 this reset hammer 410 constitutes the resetting device 41.

Symbolized by an arrow to figures 3 and 4 , the pusher P3 is able to maneuver the reset lever 714, in the same way that can do the command 712.

The recalls of the controls 702, 703, 712, and 713 by elastic members are in the opposite direction of their operating directions following pushes on the pushers P1, P2 and P3. These reminders are not detailed here for the sake of clarity.

On the figure 3 , the brake 50a is constituted by a clamp which is on the dial side and which can immobilize a wheel 300 of the second hand mobile 30 by clamping the wheel 300 between its two jaws.

On the figure 4 , the brake 50b is constituted by a clamp which is on the bridge side and which can immobilize a wheel 350 of the second hand mobile 35 by tightening the wheel 350 between its two jaws.

Placed on the dial side and visible at the figure 3 a column wheel 640a of the reversing mechanism 64 determines the state of the brake 50a in a manner specified below, in the absence of neutralization of its action by the neutralization means 62. Placed on the bridge side and visible at the figure 4 a column wheel 640b of the reversing mechanism 64 determines the state of the brake 50b in a manner specified below, in the absence of neutralization of its action by the neutralization means 62. figure 4 these neutralizing means 62 comprise an elastically flexible finger 620, whose free end forms a ratchet tooth 621 to which is attached an arm 500b of the brake 50b when the neutralization means 62 are active.

On the figure 4 , the clutch 40 comprises a clutch wheel 401 which engrains with a drive wheel 151 driven by the watch movement 15. A clutch rocker 402 pivoting at 402 'carries the clutch wheel 401. Its position is determined by the wheel with clutch columns 705, in a manner known per se. According to this position, the clutch wheel 401 engages or not with a gear wheel 201 of the intermediate chronograph wheel 20 and thus couples or not this intermediate chronograph wheel 20 to a drive from the watch movement 15. In addition to the column wheel clutch 705, the reset hammer 410 can actuate the clutch lever 402. More specifically, an arm 411 of the reset hammer 410 is provided to push on a lug 403 fitted to the clutch lever 402 and thus keep the clutch 40 away from the gear 201, the time that the reset hammer 410 resets the intermediate chronograph wheel 20.

Always on the figure 4 the reference 100 designates the mobile of the timed minutes, that is to say the mobile carrying the minute hand 9. During a timekeeping, the mobile of the timed minutes 100 is driven by the chronograph intermediate wheel 20 a manner known per se. During a reset, it is temporarily decoupled from the intermediate chronograph mobile 20 in a manner also known per se.

On the figure 5 , the intermediate chronograph mobile 20, the second hand mobile 30 provided with the second hand 6 and the second hand mobile 35 provided with the second hand 7 are assembled as they are within the set of figures 3 and 4 . They are separated and represented separately Figures 6 to 8 .

On the figure 6 in particular, the intermediate chronograph wheel 20 and the reset hammer 410 are shown such that they are relative to one another when a return spring 413 holds this reset hammer 410 in a waiting position. The intermediate mobile chronograph 20 comprises a hollow shaft 202 which are integral with the gear wheel 201, a core 412 of the resetting device 41, and two other hearts, namely a core 550a of the return device 55a and a heart 550b of the return device 55b. The 412 heart is meant to be hit laterally by a strike arm 414 of the reset hammer 410 and thus be pushed to its starting position, so that the entire intermediate chronograph mobile 20 is initialized, when the reset hammer 410 is actuated.

Always on the figure 6 , the reset hammer 410 has another striking arm 415, a free end is intended to hit a non-visible heart and known per se of the mobile timed minutes 100, during a reset. Each reset of the intermediate chronograph mobile 20 is accompanied by a concomitant resetting of the mobile of the timed minutes 100, since these two resets are produced by the same reset hammer 410.

On the figure 7 , the second hand mobile 35 comprises a shaft 351 which secures the second hand 7 to the wheel 350 and which passes into the hollow shaft 202 and into the second hand mobile 30 when the subset of the figure 5 is assembled within all of figures 3 and 4 The wheel 350 carries a coil spring 551b and a return lever 552b, which is pivotally mounted 553b and the coil spring 551b pulls inwards. On the figure 7 , the return lever 552b is shown in its inward end position as if it were against the core 550b and thus prevented from tilting further inwards. At its free end, the return lever 552b has a shoe 554b reported.

On the figure 8 , the second hand mobile 30 comprises a hollow shaft 301 which secures the second hand 6 to the wheel 300. The wheel 300 carries a helical pull spring 551 and a return lever 552a, which is pivotally mounted at 553a and that the coil spring 551a pulls inwards. On the figure 8 , the return lever 552a is shown in its inward end position as if it were against the core 550a and thus prevented from tilting further inwards. At its free end, the return lever 552a has a shoe 554a reported.

On the figure 5 , the shafts 202, 301 and 351 are coaxial and centered on the same axis of rotation x-x ', which is a common axis of rotation on which the intermediate chronograph mobile 20, the second hand mobile 30 and the second hand mobile 35 are rotatable by being able to rotate together in the same movement or with respect to each other.

Like the core 550a, the helical pull spring 551a and the return lever 552a form part of the return device 55a, the components of which cooperate operationally with the figure 5 and which is similar to the booster devices in conventional retrorever devices. The pad 554a is pushed against the edge of the core 550a. The thrust of the shoe 554a on the core 550a is exerted along an axis which intersects the axis of rotation xx 'when the second hand wheel 30 is in its predetermined angular position relative to the intermediate chronograph wheel 20, which is the case. to the figure 5 . When the second hand mobile 30 is instead angularly offset from its predetermined angular position relative to the intermediate chronograph mobile 20, the thrust axis of the shoe 554a on the core 550a away from the axis of rotation x-x ' , which results in a couple around this axis of rotation x-x '. This pair recalls the second hand mobile 30 in its predetermined angular position relative to the intermediate chronograph wheel 20, with a sliding of the shoe 554a on the edge of the core 550a, since the brake 50a does not immobilize the second hand mobile angularly 30.

Like the core 550b, the helical pull spring 551b and the return lever 552b form part of the return device 55b, the components of which cooperate operationally with the figure 5 and which has the same structure and the same operation as the return device 55a.

As can be seen at figure 9 , an upper guide of the second hand mobile 30 is a level of a plain bearing 110 comprising the upper portion of a centering tube 112. A lower guide of the second hand mobile 30 is the fact of a stone 113 which is attached to this second hand mobile 30 and which forms a smooth bearing with the hollow shaft 202 of the intermediate chronograph mobile 20.

Always on the figure 9 , an upper guide of the second hand mobile 35 is the fact of an annular element 115 which is integral with the second hand mobile 30 and which forms a 116 smooth bearing with the shaft 351.

The upper guide of the intermediate mobile chronograph 20 is via a pinion 203, itself rotatable, which is not shown at figures 5 and 6 for the sake of clarity. More specifically, the upper portion of the hollow shaft 202 is guided in rotation by an annular element 203 'with which it forms a sliding bearing, this annular element 203' being integral with the pinion 203. A stone 114, fixed to the plate 150 , and a stone 997 together guide the pinion 203 in rotation. Visible only to figure 10 , the stone 997 is carried by a frame 150 'rigidly associated with the plate 150.

On the figure 10 , the lower guide of the intermediate mobile chronograph 20 is the fact of a stone 999 held by a bridge 999 '. This stone 999 and an assembly tube 202 'constituting the intermediate mobile chronograph 20 together form a sliding bearing.

The lower guide of the second hand wheel 35 is made by a stone 118, with which the shaft 351 forms a sliding bearing. This stone 118 is integral with an annular element 118 'which constitutes the intermediate mobile chronograph 20 and which is held by the connecting tube 202'.

The subset of the figure 5 is held axially between the centering tube 112 and a flat stone 117 mounted in a bridge 152. At the figure 9 , the axial maintenance of the second hand mobile 30 is made by the tube 112 and a stone 119. A la figure 10 , a friction spring 998 axially pushes the intermediate chronograph mobile 20 abutting against the stone 999, according to a mounting solution known per se for certain specific situations. Always at the figure 10 , the second hand mobile 35 is held axially by the stone 118 and the flat stone 117.

On the figure 11 , the subset of the figure 5 equipped with pinion 203 and devoid of second hand 6 and 7, the brakes 50a and 50b, the coordination 60 and control 713 are represented as they are relative to each other within the set of figures 3 and 4 when the disabling means 62 hold the brakes 50a and 50b in their respective inactive states. The figure 12 is a partially exploded view of what the figure 11 .

Visibly to figures 11 and 12 , the brake 50a comprises a clamp, whose two jaws 501a face are able to immobilize the wheel 300 by clamping it between them. These two jaws 501a are defined one by a part 502a pivoting 502a 'and the other by a part 503a pivoting 503a'. A hinge 504a articulates parts 502a and 503a to each other. A return spring 505a recalls the brake 50a to its active state, acting on the part 502a in the direction of a return of the jaws 501a towards one another. Part 503a carries a pin 506a which forms an inwardly protruding pin so as to be actuable towards the second hand mobile 30 by the bumps 641a of the column wheel 640a. The part 503a also carries a screw 507a whose protruding head forms a crank pin provided to receive an actuation from the control 702, as will be specified below. The part 503a also carries a coupling bar 622 which is part of the neutralization means 62 by coupling the brakes 50a and 50b to each other when these neutralization means 62 place or maintain the brakes 50a and 50b in their states. inactive.

The brake 50b is similar to the brake 50a. In what follows, this brake 50b is described only what distinguishes it from the brake 50a. In addition, a reference used hereinafter to designate a part of the brake 50b similar or equivalent to a referenced part of the brake 50a is constructed by replacing the letter "a" by the letter "b" in the reference identifying this part on the brake. 50a. Thus are notably constructed the reference of the two jaws 501b intended to immobilize between them the wheel 350 by clamping, the reference of the part 502b pivoting 502b ', the reference of the part 503b pivoting 503b', and the references of the hinge 504b, the return spring 505b and the pin 506b.

The piece 503b of the brake 50b defines the arm 500b. This piece 503b is devoid of a screw similar to the screw 507a. Instead of a coupling bar similar to the coupling bar 622, the part 503b has a hole 623 in which the coupling bar 622 penetrates with clearance so as to have a transverse clearance. This travel is visible and designated by the letter d to the figure 14 .

The neutralization means 62 comprise the finger 620, the coupling bar 622 and the hole 623. Figures 11 to 14 , these neutralization means 62 are active because the free end of the arm 500b is hooked to the ratchet tooth 621 of the finger 620, which holds the brake clamp 50a and the brake clamp 50b one and the other in open position, against the reminders exerted by the return springs 505a and 505b. More specifically, the finger 620 directly retains the part 503b, which in turn retains the part 503a via the coupling bar 622, as can be seen by comparing the Figures 13 and 14 . The neutralization means 62 are inactive when the finger 500b is unhooked from the finger 620, in which case the column wheels 640a and 640b of the inverting device 64 determine the respective states of the brakes 50a and 50b then decoupled from each other thanks to the deflection d.

Again on the figures 11 and 12 , the column wheel 640a comprises a ratchet 642a, by which the column wheel 640a is intended to be driven so as to be turned by one step each received operation. Superimposed on the ratchet 642a, a star of the column wheel 640a defines the bumps 641a, with which recesses 643a alternate circumferentially. A jumper 644a is provided to stabilize the column wheel 640a in each of its successive angular positions.

As can be seen from the figure 13 , the pin 506a is in front of a boss 641a or a hollow 643a, according to the angular position of the column wheel 640a. When the arm 500b is unhooked from the finger 620, the pin 506a is either resting on a boss 641a, or driven into a hollow 643a, and whatever the state of the brake 50b, thanks to the travel d . When the pin 506a is resting on a hump 641a, the brake clamp 50a is held open and the jaws 501a are away from the wheel 300. When the pin 506a is driven into a hollow 643a, the jaws 501a clamp the wheel 300 between them due to the torque exerted by the return spring 505a. Pivoting one step of the column wheel 640a causes the hollows 643a to take the places of the bumps 641a and vice versa. In summary, the column wheel 640a controls the state of the brake 50a when the arm 500b is unhooked from the finger 620. The column wheel 640a inverts the state of the brake 50a between the active state and the inactive state, at each once she is maneuvered a step.

As can be seen at figures 11 and 12 the column wheel 640b of the coordinating device 60 is identical to the column wheel 640a. It comprises a ratchet 642b and a star which defines bumps 641b alternating with hollows 643b circumferentially. A jumper 644b is provided to stabilize the column wheel 640b in each of its successive angular positions. When the arm 500b is unhooked from the finger 620, the column wheel 640b determines the active or inactive state of the brake 50b, independently of the state of the brake 50a due to the travel d, in the same way that the column wheel 640a determines the active or inactive state of the brake 50a. The column wheel 640b controls the state of the brake 50b when the arm 500b is unhooked from the finger 620. The column wheel 640b reverses the state of the brake 50b between the active state and the inactive state, whenever she is maneuvered a step.

The column wheels 640a and 640b are substantially centered on the same axis, which is the axis of rotation on which they rotate one and the other. These column wheels 640a and 640b are furthermore angularly offset by one pitch from each other, so as to always place the brakes 50a and 50b in opposite active and inactive states when the arm 500b is unhooked from the finger 620. .

The control 713 comprises an arm 720, which carries two operating hooks 721a and 721b, as well as an extension stall 722. Located on the dial side, the operating hook 721a is provided for rotating the column wheel 640a with a not at each actuation, by pulling on one of the teeth of ratchet 642a. Located on the bridge side, the operating hook 721b is provided for rotating the column wheel 640b one step each time it is actuated. pulling on one of the teeth of ratchet 642b. The two operating hooks 721a and 721b are identical to each other and rigidly associated with the same orientation, so as to simultaneously operate one step the two column wheels 640a and 640b each actuation of the control 713. The extension stall 722 carries a lug 723 able to resiliently bend the finger 620 away from the arm 500b and thus cause this arm 500b is detached from the ratchet tooth 621 when the control 713 is actuated.

On the figure 15 where the stall extension 722 is omitted for the sake of clarity, it can be seen how the double transmission pin 711, the control 712, the control 713 and the reset lever 714 are arranged relative to each other. Always on the figure 15 it can be seen that the reset lever 714 pivots at 714 '.

We refer again to figures 3 and 4 . When a push pushes the pusher P1, the double transmission pin 701 simultaneously operates the control 702 and the control 703. If the arm 500b was unhooked from the finger 620, the control 702 then acts on the head of the screw 507a so that the part 503a of the brake 50a is operated in the direction of a spacing of the jaws 501a from one another. The coupling bar 622 follows the movement of this part 503a and in turn drives the part 503b in the direction of a spacing of the jaws 501b from each other, until the arm 500b crosses the tooth 621 by pushing this snap-in tooth 621. The arm 500b clings to the ratchet tooth 621 as soon as the control 702 is returned to its initial position. If the arm 500b was already hooked to the finger 620 during the push on the pusher P1, the actuation of the control 702 has no effect and the arm 500b remains attached to the finger 620. When the command 703 is operated further With a push on the pusher P1, the hook 704 moves the clutch column wheel 705 one step, so that the clutch 40 changes state between its engaged and disengaged states.

In summary, pressing the pushbutton P1 causes the clutch 40 to change state between its disengaged and engaged states. A pressure on the P1 push further activates the neutralization means 62, if these neutralization means 62 were inactive. Pressing the pusher P1 leaves the neutralization means 62 as such, if these neutralization means 62 were active. The neutralization means 62 are active when they hold the brakes 50a and 50b in the same inactive state, removing all influence on the reversing mechanism 64. The neutralizing means 62 are inactive when only the inversion mechanism 64 determines the respective states of the brakes 50a and 50b.

When the pusher P2 is depressed manually inwards, the double transmission pin 711 actuates the control 713 a moment before the command 712. When the control 713 is operated following a pressure on the pusher P2, its lug 723 pushes towards the outside the finger 620, which falls off the arm 500b unless the arm 500b was already off the hook. In addition, the operating hooks 721a and 721b simultaneously rotate the column wheels 640a and 640b. Immediately thereafter, the control 712 rotates the reset lever 714, which in turn actuates the reset hammer 410. As a result, the striking arm 414 of this reset hammer 410 strikes the heart. 412 and thus returns the intermediate mobile chronograph 20 to zero. Similarly, the striking arm 415 of the reset hammer 410 returns the mobile of the timed minutes 100 to zero.

In summary, a pressure on the pusher P2 deactivates the neutralization means 62, if these neutralization means 62 were active. Pressing the pusher P2 leaves the neutralization means 62 as it were, if these neutralization means 62 were inactive. Pressing the pusher P2 further causes the reversing mechanism 64 to reverse the states of the brakes 50a and 50b. In addition, a pressure on the pusher P2 actuates the flight return mechanism 42 and makes it reset on the fly the intermediate mobile chronograph 20.

When the pusher P3 is depressed manually inwards, the reset lever 714 is actuated and it in turn actuates the reset hammer 410. It follows that the striking arm 414 of this hammer resetting 410 hits the heart 412 and thus returns the intermediate mobile chronograph 20 to zero. Similarly, the striking arm 415 of the reset hammer 410 returns the mobile of the timed minutes 100 to zero.

In summary, a pressure on the pusher P3 actuates the flight return mechanism 42 and makes it reset on the fly on the intermediate chronograph wheel 20, and the mobile minutes timed 100. A pressure on the pusher P3 has no effect on the state of the coordination device 60.

The figure 16 is a block diagram illustrating the operating logic of the chronograph mechanism 10. The rectangles in double line there indicate manual controls on the pushbuttons P1, P2 and P3. The single-line rectangles contain a summary of the effects produced by these manual controls (A6 meaning second hand 6, A7 meaning second hand 7, R to Z meaning "reset"). The manual controls on the pushers P1, P2 and P3 bring the chronograph mechanism 10 into different states, each of which is symbolized by a circle on the figure 16 and designated by a capital letter.

A description of each state of the chronograph mechanism 10 is shown in the following table: Lower second hand 6 (A6) Upper second hand 7 (A7) State A When stopped, at zero, unlocked When stopped, at zero, unlocked State B In rotation In rotation, superimposed on the second hand A6 State C When stopped anywhere, unlocked At the stop, superimposed on the second hand A6, unlocked State D When stopped anywhere, blocked In rotation, just start from scratch State E In rotation, just start from scratch When stopped anywhere, blocked State F When stopped anywhere, blocked Zero, unlocked State G Zero, unlocked Zero, blocked State H Zero, blocked Zero, unlocked

The chronograph mechanism 10 can operate in several modes, including a conventional timing type mode and a mode called "LT" or "Lap Timer" of its own. In the type mode classic timing, the second hand 6 and 7 remain superimposed and indicate the same information, to be considered as forming together the single second hand of a classic chronograph. In Lap Timer mode, the second hand 6 and 7 are assigned to different timings.

State A

No timing occurs in state A, where the chronograph mechanism 10 is ready to begin a first timing. The clutch 40 is disengaged and isolates the mobiles 20, 30 and 35 of the watch movement 15 and its drive. The intermediate mobile chronograph 20 is at zero, that is to say in an initial position. The neutralization means 62 are active. As a result, the brakes 50a and 50b are inactive, so that the two second hand mobiles 30 and 35 are unlocked and are therefore zero too, in the same initial position as the intermediate chronograph wheel 20. The second hand 6 and 7 are zero, indicating 0 or 60 seconds. The timed minute hand 9 is also at zero, indicating 0 or 30 minutes.

Pressure on pusher P1 in state A

When the pushbutton P1 (start / stop) is pressed while the chronograph mechanism is in the state A, the clutch 40 moves from the disengaged state to the engaged state, after which it transmits between the watch movement 15 and the intermediate chronograph wheel 20.

The pressure on the pushbutton P1 changes from state A to state B.

State B

When the chronograph mechanism 10 is in the B state, the clutch 40 is engaged, while the brake 50a is inactive and the brake 50b is also inactive.

The intermediate mobile chronograph 20 is driven at the speed of one revolution per minute and it in turn drives the second hand mobiles 30 and 35, which are always unlocked, that is to say not immobilized by the brakes 50a and 50b.

The second hand 6 and 7 move at the same speed of one revolution per minute, in the same movement, remaining superimposed on one another.

Pressure on pusher P1 in state B

When the pushbutton P1 (start / stop) is pressed while the chronograph mechanism is in the B state, the clutch 40 returns to the disengaged state. The transmission between the watch movement 15 and the chronograph intermediate wheel 20 is broken. This intermediate mobile chronograph 20 stops. It is the same with second hand mobiles 30 and 35.

The new pressure on the pushbutton P1 changes from state B to state C.

State C

When the chronograph mechanism 10 is in the C state, the clutch 40 is disengaged, while the brake 50a is inactive and the brake 50b is also inactive.

The second hands 6, 7 and 9 indicate a timed time, namely that which has elapsed between the two successive pressures on the pusher P1.

Pressure on pushbuttons P3 in state C

Pressing on the pusher P3 actuates the flight return mechanism 42 and thus the zero return mechanism 41, which resets the intermediate chronograph wheel 20. The second wheel mobiles 30 and 35 follow the intermediate chronograph wheel 20 and also come back to zero.

Pressing the pushbutton P3 changes from state C to state A.

Pressure on pusher P1 in state C

When the pusher P1 is pressed while the chronograph mechanism is in the state C, the clutch 40 goes into the engaged state. The timing resumes from the last value indicated.

Pressing the pushbutton P1 changes from state A to state B.

Pressure on the pusher P3 in state B

Pressing the pusher P3 actuates the flight return mechanism 42. The clutch 40 is disengaged for a short time, during which the zero return mechanism 41 resets the chronograph intermediate wheel 20. The second hand mobiles 30 and follow the intermediate chronograph wheel 20 and also return to zero. The clutch 40 then returns to the engaged state and a new timing starts again from zero.

Following pressure on the pusher P3, the second hand 6 and 7 are instantly reset and they begin again to rotate together, remaining superimposed.

Pressing the pushbutton P3 resets the timing. It leaves the chronograph mechanism in state B.

As long as the pusher P2 is not pressed, the chronograph mechanism 10 alternates between the states A, B and C. It is then in conventional timing mode, which means that it is used as an improved basic chronograph of the "fly back" feature. Pressing on the pusher P2 switches to "Lap Timer" mode, which is particularly suitable for monitoring the successive performance of a runner for example automobile running a closed loop.

Pressure on pushbuttons P2 in state B

When the pusher P2 is pressed while the chronograph mechanism is in the B state, the neutralization means 62 are deactivated and the configuration of the brakes 50a and 50b is determined by the inversion mechanism 64. It follows that the brake 50a goes into the active state, while the brake 50b remains in the inactive state. The second hand mobile 30 is immobilized immediately and it instantly stops in its current angular position.

Pressing the pusher P2 further actuates the flight return mechanism 42, immediately after immobilization of the second hand mobile 30. The clutch 40 is disengaged for a short time, during which the reset mechanism 41 returns to Zero the intermediate chronograph mobile 20. Only the second hand mobile 35 follows the intermediate mobile chronograph 20 in its return to zero. The clutch 40 then returns to the engaged state and a new timing involving only the second hand wheel 35 starts again from zero.

Pressing the pusher P2 changes from state B to state D.

State D

When the chronograph mechanism 10 is in the D state, the clutch 40 is engaged, while the brake 50a is active and the brake 50b is inactive.

The second hand 6 is at a standstill and indicates a timed time. After being reset, the second hand 7 is in motion and indicates a new timing in progress.

The time indicated by the second hand 6 can be the time that a car racer has put to go through a first lap on a closed circuit. In this case, the pressure on the pusher P2 was carried out at the precise moment when this runner is ironed by the initialization point of the timings. The second hand 7 makes the timing of the second lap, which the car racer is doing. When the car racer approaches the initialization point of the timing, one can compare the respective positions of the second hand 6 and 7, to determine in which of the first and second laps the racer was the fastest.

Pressure on pusher P2 in state D

When the pusher P2 is pressed while the chronograph mechanism is in the D state, the reversing mechanism 64 reverses the states of the brakes 50a and 50b. It follows that the brake 50a goes into the idle state, while the brake 50b goes into the active state. The second hand mobile 35 is immobilized immediately and it instantly stops in its current angular position. The brake 50a no longer immobilizes the second hand mobile 30, that the return device 55a recalls in the predetermined angular position relative to the intermediate chronograph mobile 20.

A pressure on the pusher P2 further actuates the flight return mechanism 42, immediately after immobilization of the second hand mobile 35 and the unlocking of the second hand mobile 30. The clutch 40 is disengaged for a short time, during which the Zero return mechanism 41 resets the intermediate chronograph mobile 20. Only the second hand mobile 30 follows the intermediate chronograph mobile 20 in its return to zero. The clutch 40 then returns to the engaged state and a new timing involving only the second hand mobile 30 starts from zero again.

Pressing the pusher P2 changes from state D to state E.

State E

When the chronograph mechanism 10 is in the E state, the clutch 40 is engaged, while the brake 50a is inactive and the brake 50b is active.

The second hand 7 is at a standstill and indicates a timed time. After being reset, the second hand 6 is in motion and indicates a new timing in progress.

The new pressure on the pusher P2 may have been made at the precise moment when the car racer of the example is ironed by the initialization point of the timings. In this case, the time indicated by the second hand 7 is the time that the car racer has to go through the second lap. The second hand performs the timing of the third lap, which the car racer is doing.

Pressure on the pusher P3 in the state D

Pressing the push-button P3 in the state D actuates the flight return mechanism 42, but not the inverting mechanism 64. The brake 50a remains in its active state, while the brake 50b remains in its inactive state. Intermediate chronograph mobile 20 and second hand mobile 35 are reset together, and then a new timing which involves only this second hand mobile 35 starting from zero.

Pressing the pushbutton P3 in the state D resets the timing. She leaves the chronograph mechanism in state D.

The second hand mobile 30 does not change angular position. For example, the needle 6 carried by this second hand mobile 30 may indicate a reference time, for example the fastest lap time currently achieved by the car racer.

Pressure on pusher P1 in state D

When the pusher P1 is pressed while the chronograph mechanism 10 is in the state D, the clutch 40 returns to the disengaged state. The transmission between the watch movement 15 and the chronograph intermediate wheel 20 is broken. The second hand wheel 35 and the intermediate chronograph wheel 20 stop together.

Pressing the pusher P1 further activates the neutralization means 62, after which the brakes 50a and 50b are both inactive. The brake 50a no longer immobilizes the second hand mobile 30, that the return device 55a recalls in the predetermined angular position relative to the intermediate chronograph mobile 20. The second hand mobile 35 is already in this predetermined angular position. The second hand 6 and 7 are superimposed, stopped.

Pressing the pushbutton P1 moves from state D to state C.

Pressure on pusher P2 in state E

When the pusher P2 is pressed while the chronograph mechanism is in the state E, the reversing mechanism 64 reverses the state of the brakes 50a and 50b again. The second hand mobile 30 is immobilized immediately and it instantly stops in its current angular position. The brake 50b no longer immobilizes the second hand wheel 35, the return device 55b recalls in the predetermined angular position relative to the intermediate chronograph mobile 20.

A pressure on the pusher P2 further actuates the flight return mechanism 42, immediately after immobilization of the second hand mobile 30 and the unlocking of the second hand mobile 35. The intermediate chronograph mobile 20 and the second hand mobile 35 are handed to zero, then a new timing only involving this mobile second hand 35 leaves from zero.

Pressing the pusher P2 switches from state E to state D.

Pressure on pusher P3 in state E

Pressing the pushbutton P3 in the state E actuates the flight return mechanism 42, but not the reversing mechanism 64. The brake 50a remains in its inactive state, while the brake 50b remains in its active state. Intermediate chronograph mobile 20 and second hand mobile 30 are reset to zero together, then a new timing only involving this mobile second hand 30 leaves from zero.

Pressing the pushbutton P3 in the state E resets the timing. It leaves the chronograph mechanism in state E.

The second hand mobile 35 does not change angular position. For example, the needle 7 carried by this second hand mobile 35 may indicate a reference time, for example the best lap time realized for the moment by the car racer.

Pressure on pusher P1 in state E

The consequence of a pressure on the pusher P1 when the chronograph mechanism is in the state E is deduced from the foregoing description of what occurs when pressing the pusher P1 while the chronograph mechanism 10 is in the state D.

Pressing the pushbutton P1 switches from state E to state C.

Pressure on pusher P2 in state C

When the pusher P2 is pressed while the chronograph mechanism is in the state C, the neutralization means 62 are deactivated and the configuration of the brakes 50a and 50b is determined by the inversion mechanism 64. It follows that the brake 50a goes into the active state, while the brake 50b remains in the inactive state.

A pressure on the pusher P2 further actuates the flight return mechanism 42 and therefore the zero return mechanism 41, immediately after the immobilization of the second hand mobile 30. The zero return mechanism 41 resets the intermediate mobile Chronograph 20, that follows the second hand mobile 35.

Pressing the pusher P2 changes from state C to state F.

State F

When the chronograph mechanism 10 is in the F state, the clutch 40 is disengaged, while the brake 50a is active and the brake 50b is inactive.

The second hand 6 is at a standstill and indicates a timed time. The second hand 7 is stopped at zero.

Pressure on pusher P2 in state F

When the pusher P2 is pressed while the chronograph mechanism is in the F state, the reversing mechanism 64 reverses the states of the brakes 50a and 50b. It follows that the brake 50a goes into the idle state, while the brake 50b goes into the active state. The brake 50a no longer immobilizes the second hand mobile 30, that the return device 55a recalls in the predetermined angular position relative to the intermediate mobile chronograph 20. The second hand mobile 30 thus joins at zero the intermediate mobile chronograph 20 which is already at zero.

Pressing the pusher P2 changes from state F to state G.

State G

When the chronograph mechanism 10 is in the G state, the clutch 40 is disengaged, while the brake 50a is inactive and the brake 50b is active.

Seconds 6 and 7 are stopped at zero.

Pressure on pusher P2 in state G

When the pusher P2 is pressed while the chronograph mechanism is in the state G, the inversion mechanism 64 reverses the states brakes 50a and 50b. Intermediate chronograph mobile 20 and second hand mobiles 30 and 35 remain together at a stop at zero.

Pressing the pusher P2 changes from state G to state H.

State H

When the chronograph mechanism 10 is in the H state, the clutch 40 is disengaged, while the brake 50a is active and the brake 50b is inactive.

Seconds 6 and 7 are stopped at zero.

Pressure on pusher P2 in state H

When the pusher P2 is pressed while the chronograph mechanism is in the H state, the reversing mechanism 64 reverses the states of the brakes 50a and 50b. Intermediate chronograph mobile 20 and second hand mobiles 30 and 35 remain together at a stop at zero.

From the state H, a pressure on the pusher P2 returns to state G.

Pressure on pusher P3 in states F, G and H

When the chronograph mechanism 10 is in any of the states F, G and H, a pressure on the third pusher P3 has no effect, since the intermediate chronograph mobile 20 is already at zero and stopped.

Pressure on pusher P1 in states F, G and H

When the pushbutton P1 is pressed while the chronograph mechanism 10 is in any of the states F, G and H, the clutch 40 goes into the engaged state. Pressing the pushbutton P1 also activates the neutralizing means 62, after which the brakes 50a and 50b are both inactive.

Pressing the pushbutton P1 switches from one of the states F, G and H to state B.

Description of a second embodiment of the invention

A chronograph mechanism according to a second embodiment of the invention is also provided. He can equip the watch with the figure 1 instead of the chronograph mechanism 10 of the figures 3 and 4 .

The chronograph mechanism according to the second embodiment of the invention is identical to the chronograph mechanism 10 of the figures 3 and 4 except that it lacks control 712.

In the following, any mentioned part of the chronograph mechanism according to the second embodiment is designated by the same reference as the part which is identical in the chronograph mechanism of the figures 3 and 4 .

When pressing the pushbutton P2 of the chronograph mechanism according to the second embodiment, the only command operated is the control 713, which then has the same action on the coordination device 60 as in the embodiment of the figures 3 and 4 , while there is no reset on the fly of the intermediate chronograph mobile 20.

The figure 17 is a block diagram illustrating the operating logic of the chronograph mechanism according to the second embodiment of the invention. The same conventions of representation, with the same meanings, are used figure 16 .

A description of several states of the chronograph mechanism according to the second embodiment is shown in the following table: Lower second hand 6 (A6) Upper second hand 7 (A7) State A When stopped, at zero, unlocked When stopped, at zero, unlocked State B In rotation In rotation, superimposed on the second hand A6 State C When stopped anywhere, unlocked At the stop, superimposed on the second hand A6, unlocked State V When stopped anywhere, blocked In rotation State W In rotation When stopped anywhere, blocked

The chronograph mechanism according to the second embodiment can operate in several modes, including a conventional timing type of mode and a mode of operation for performing the same timing as a split-second chronograph, but more simply and more surely for the 'user. In the conventional timing type mode, the second hand 6 and 7 remain superimposed and indicate the same information, to be considered as forming together the single second hand of a conventional chronograph. In the operating mode for performing the same timing as a split second chronograph, the second hand 6 and 7 are assigned to different times, including different times with the same start time.

The chronograph mechanism according to the second embodiment can be placed in the same states A, B and C as the chronograph mechanism of the figures 3 and 4 . When the chronograph mechanism according to the second embodiment is in one of these states A, B and C, a pressure on the pusher P1 or a pressure on the pusher P3 has the same consequences as in the case of the chronograph mechanism of the figures 3 and 4 .

Pressure on pusher P2 in state B

When the pusher P2 is pressed while the chronograph mechanism according to the second embodiment is in the B state, the neutralization means 62 are deactivated and the configuration of the brakes 50a and 50b is determined by the inversion mechanism. 64. It follows that the brake 50a goes into the active state, while the brake 50b remains in the inactive state. The second hand mobile 30 is immobilized immediately and it instantly stops in its current angular position. The drive of the intermediate chronograph mobile 20 via the clutch 40 is not interrupted and the second hand mobile 35 continues the current timing.

Pressing the pusher P2 changes from state B to state V.

State V

When the chronograph mechanism according to the second embodiment is in the V state, the clutch 40 is engaged, while the brake 50a is active and the brake 50b is inactive.

The second hand 6 is at a standstill and indicates a timed time. The second hand 7 is in motion and indicates the time measured by a current timing.

In a state V directly following a state B, the current timing, which measures a time indicated by the second hand 7, is a continuation of the timing which took place in this state B. The time indicated by the second hand 6 may be, for example, an intermediate time during a race continuing. In a competition where several competitors have left at the same time, the timed time indicated by the second hand may also be, for example, the final time achieved by a competitor who has arrived before one or more other competitors, who continues to time at way of the current timing.

Pressure on pusher P2 in state V

When the pusher P2 is pressed while the chronograph mechanism according to the second embodiment is in the V state, the reversing mechanism 64 inverts the states of the brakes 50a and 50b. It follows that the brake 50a goes into the idle state, while the brake 50b goes into the active state. The second hand mobile 35 is immobilized immediately and it instantly stops in its current angular position.

Meanwhile, the return device 55a recalls the second hand mobile 30 in the predetermined angular position relative to the intermediate chronograph mobile 20, whose drive via the clutch 40 is not interrupted so that the timing in progress during the previous state V continues after transition to state W.

Following the pressure on the pusher P2, the second hand 6 catches the second hand 7 and replaces it in the indication of the measurement made by the current timing, while the second hand 7 stops.

Pressing the pusher P2 changes from state V to state W.

State W

When the chronograph mechanism according to the second embodiment is in the W state, the clutch 40 is engaged, while the brake 50a is inactive and the brake 50b is active.

The second hand 7 is at a standstill and indicates a timed time. The second hand 6 is in motion and indicates the time measured by a current timing.

In a state W directly following a state V, the second hand 6 is assigned to the current timing at which the second hand 7 was affected in this state V. The timed time indicated by the second hand 7 may be, for example, another intermediate time or in the case of the event with a simultaneous start of several competitors, the final time achieved by a next competitor.

Pressure on pusher P2 in state W

When the pusher P2 is pressed while the chronograph mechanism according to the second embodiment is in the state W, the inversion mechanism 64 reverses the states of the brakes 50a and 50b. The second hand mobile 30 is immobilized immediately and it instantly stops in its current angular position.

Meanwhile, the return device 55a recalls the second hand mobile 35 in the predetermined angular position relative to the intermediate chronograph wheel 20, the drive via the clutch 40 is not interrupted so that the timing in progress during the previous W state continues after transition to state V.

Following the pressure on the pusher P2, the second hand 7 catches the second hand 6 and replaces it in the indication of the current timing, while this second hand 6 stops.

Pressing the pusher P2 returns from state W to state V.

In a state V directly following a state W, the second hand 7 is assigned to the current timing at which the second hand 6 was affected in this state W. The timed time indicated by the second hand 6 may be, for example, still an intermediate time or , in the case of the test with a simultaneous start of several competitors, the final time achieved by yet another competitor.

It follows from the foregoing that the chronograph mechanism according to the second embodiment makes it possible to perform the same timing as a conventional split-second chronograph, by using the pusher P2 to cause changes of state between the states B, V and W.

In a conventional split-second chronograph, two successive presses on a push-button are necessary to stop secondary timing again after having already stopped it at least once, during a main timekeeping. The first of these two pressures is a preparatory pressure whose function is to unlock the jumper so that it catches the second hand assigned to the main timing. After the first press, the second pressure can be applied to lock the split again. In this respect, the user, for example absorbed by the event object of the timings, can forget to unblock the catcher with the first pressure, before the moment when it would normally apply the second pressure to determine the new moment stopping secondary timing. When this is the case, the user can apply the first pressure while thinking of applying the second pressure, but it can not irremediably apply this second pressure at the right time.

The chronograph mechanism according to the second embodiment of the invention is easier and safer to use than a conventional split second chronograph, since only one pressure is sufficient to change from state V to state W or vice versa.

Pressure on pusher P1 in states V and W

When the pushbutton P1 is pressed while the chronograph mechanism according to the second embodiment is in the state V or in the state W, the clutch 40 returns to the disengaged state. A pressure on the pusher P1 further activates the disabling means 62, after which the brakes 50a and 50b are both inactive.

After pressing the pusher P1 while the chronograph mechanism according to the second embodiment is in any of the states V and W, the second hand mobiles 30 and 35 are both in the position. angular predetermined with respect to the intermediate mobile chronograph 20, which is stopped. The second hand 6 and 7 are superimposed, stopped.

Pressing on the pusher P1 switches states V and W to the state C. This pressure can be applied at the precise moment when a test is finished in which bets in the states V and W have been used for indication of intermediate times. When this is the case, the second hand 6 and 7 indicate the measurement of the total duration of the test, in the state C consecutive to the pressure on the pusher P1.

Pressure on the pusher P3 in states V and W

Pressing the pusher P3 in any of the states V and W actuates the flyback mechanism 42, but not the inverting mechanism 64. The brakes 50a and 50b remain one in its active state and the other in its inactive state. Intermediate chronograph mobile 20 and unstuck second hand mobile 30 or 35 are reset together, then a new timekeeping involving only that second hand mobile 30 or 35 leaves from zero.

Pressing the pushbutton P3 resets the timing. It leaves the chronograph mechanism according to the second embodiment in the state V or in the state W, as the case may be.

Pressure on pushbuttons P2 in state C

On the figure 17 , the reference X designates a set of states reached by pressing the pusher P2 in the state C. In each of these states, the clutch 40 is disengaged, while one of the brakes 50a and 50b is active.

When the pushbutton P1 is pressed while the chronograph mechanism according to the second embodiment is in any state of the assembly X, the clutch 40 goes into the engaged state. Pressing the pusher P1 further activates the neutralization means 62, after which the brakes 50a and 50b are both inactive.

Pressing the pushbutton P1 switches from one of the states of the set X to the state B.

The invention is not limited to the embodiments described above. In particular, in the first embodiment of the invention, the pusher P3 can be removed without departing from the scope of the invention, even if the presence of this pusher P3 can be advantageous in terms of employment opportunities offered by the chronograph mechanism. Also, the coordination device 60 may be devoid of the neutralization means 62 without departing from the scope of the invention, even if the presence of these neutralization means 62 may be advantageous in terms of the employment possibilities offered by the chronograph mechanism .

Claims (13)

1. Chronograph mechanism for a timepiece comprising a clockwork movement, this chronograph mechanism comprising:

   - a first sweep-hand mobile (30) provided for carrying a first sweep hand (6) for indicating a measured time,

   - a first brake (50a) capable of angularly immobilising the first sweep-hand mobile (30),

   - a second sweep-hand mobile (35) which is provided for carrying a second sweep hand (7) for indicating a measured time and which rotates on the same axis of rotation (x-x') as the first sweep-hand mobile (30),

   - a second brake (50b) capable of angularly immobilising the second sweep-hand mobile (35),

   - an intermediate chronograph mobile (20) which rotates on the same axis of rotation (x-x') as the first and second sweep-hand mobiles (30, 35) and is arranged to transmit a drive from the clockwork movement to the first and second sweep-hand mobiles (30, 35),

   - a first return device (55a) capable of returning the first sweep-hand mobile (30) to a predetermined angular position relative to the intermediate chronograph mobile (20) in the absence of angular immobilisation of this first sweep-hand mobile (30) by the first brake (50a),

   - a second return device (55b) capable of returning the second sweep-hand mobile (35) to a predetermined angular position relative to the intermediate chronograph mobile (20) in the absence of angular immobilisation of this second sweep-hand mobile (35) by the second brake (50b),

   characterised in that it comprises a control system (P1, P2, P3, 60, 701-714) comprising a coordination device (60) which is arranged to maintain the first and second brakes (50a, 50b) in two alternative configurations, namely

   - a first configuration in which the first brake (50a) is in an inactive state, thereby allowing the first sweep-hand mobile (30) to rotate freely, and in which the second brake (50b) is in an active state, thereby angularly immobilising the second sweep-hand mobile (35), and

   - a second configuration in which the second brake (50b) is in an inactive state, thereby allowing the second sweep-hand mobile (35) to rotate freely, and in which the first brake (50a) is in an active state, thereby angularly immobilising the first sweep-hand mobile (30).
2. Chronograph mechanism according to claim 1, characterised in that it comprises a clutch (40, 401, 402) for coupling the intermediate chronograph mobile (20) to the clockwork movement, the control system (P1, P2, P3, 60, 701-714) being capable of placing the clutch (40, 401, 402) alternately in an engaged state and in a disengaged state.
3. Chronograph mechanism according to any one of claims 1 and 2, characterised in that it comprises a returning-to-zero device (41, 410-415) for returning to zero the intermediate chronograph mobile (20).
4. Chronograph mechanism according to claims 2 and 3, characterised in that it comprises a flyback mechanism (42) arranged to return to zero the intermediate chronograph mobile (20) on the fly by disengaging said clutch (40, 401, 402) for a brief moment and actuating the returning-to-zero device (41, 410-415) during that brief moment.
5. Chronograph mechanism according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the coordination device (60) comprises a first column wheel (640a) for selecting the state of the first brake (50a) from two opposite states, namely the inactive and active states of the first brake (50a), as well as a second column wheel (640b) for selecting the state of the second brake (50b) from two opposite states, namely the inactive and active states of the second brake (50b), each manoeuvre of the first column wheel (640a) by one step reversing the state of the first brake (50a), each manoeuvre of the second column wheel (640b) by one step reversing the state of the second brake (50b), the first and second column wheels (640a, 640b) being out of phase by one step relative to one another so as to place the first and second brakes (50a, 50b) in opposite states, the control system (P1, P2, P3, 60, 701-714) being arranged to actuate the first and second column wheels (640a, 640b) together by one step when instructed to reverse the configuration of the first and second brakes (50a, 50b) between the first and second configurations.
6. Chronograph mechanism according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the coordination device (60) is arranged to maintain the first and second brakes (50a, 50b) in three alternative configurations, namely the first configuration, the second configuration, and a third configuration in which the first and second brakes (50a, 50b) are in their respective inactive states, thereby allowing the first and second sweep-hand mobiles (30, 35) to rotate freely.
7. Chronograph mechanism according to claim 2, characterised in that the control system (P1, P2, P3, 60, 701-714) further comprises:

   - a first control mechanism (P1, 701-705) capable of converting a first manual instruction into a first actuation which reverses the state of the clutch (40, 401, 402) between its engaged and disengaged states, and

   - a second control mechanism (P2, 711-714) capable of converting a second manual instruction into at least a second actuation which reverses the configuration of the first and second brakes (50a, 50b) between their first and second configurations.
8. Chronograph mechanism according to claims 4 and 7, characterised in that the second control mechanism (P2, 711-714) is capable of converting the second manual instruction into two actuations, namely said second actuation and a third actuation which follows the second actuation and leads the flyback mechanism (42) to return to zero the intermediate chronograph mobile (20) on the fly, unless the intermediate chronograph mobile (20) is already at zero.
9. Chronograph mechanism according to claim 8, characterised in that the control system (P1, P2, P3, 60, 701-714) is capable of converting a third manual instruction into the third actuation without causing the second actuation.
10. Chronograph mechanism according to claim 7, characterised in that the second control mechanism (P2, 701-711, 713, 714) is capable of converting the second manual instruction into the second actuation without causing a third actuation leading the returning-to-zero device (41, 410-415) to return to zero the intermediate chronograph mobile (20).
11. Chronograph mechanism according to claim 6 and any one of claims 7 to 10, characterised in that the first control mechanism (P1, 701-705) is capable of converting the first manual instruction (P1) into two actuations, namely the first actuation and another actuation bringing the first and second brakes (50a, 50b) into the third configuration, unless these first and second brakes (50a, 50b) are already in the third configuration, while the second actuation brings the first and second brakes (50a, 50b) out of the third configuration, unless these first and second brakes (50a, 50b) are already in one of the first and second configurations.
12. Chronograph mechanism according to any one of claims 7 to 11 and any one of claims 3 and 4, characterised in that the control system (P1, P2, P3, 60, 701-714) is capable of converting a third manual instruction into a third actuation leading the returning-to-zero device (41, 410-415) to return to zero the intermediate chronograph mobile (20), unless this intermediate chronograph mobile (20) is already at zero.
13. Timepiece, comprising a clockwork movement (15) and at least first and second sweep hands (6, 7),
    characterised in that it comprises a chronograph mechanism (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, the intermediate chronograph mobile (20) of which is capable of receiving a drive from the clockwork movement (15), the first and second sweep-hand mobiles (35) carrying the first (6) and the second sweep hand (7), respectively.

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