EP3035127B1 - Clock oscillator with tuning fork - Google Patents
Clock oscillator with tuning fork Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- EP3035127B1 EP3035127B1 EP14199040.8A EP14199040A EP3035127B1 EP 3035127 B1 EP3035127 B1 EP 3035127B1 EP 14199040 A EP14199040 A EP 14199040A EP 3035127 B1 EP3035127 B1 EP 3035127B1
- Authority
- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- oscillator
- connection element
- mobile
- flexible elements
- connecting element
- 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.)
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Links
- 230000033001 locomotion Effects 0.000 claims description 31
- 230000009975 flexible effect Effects 0.000 claims description 26
- 230000000670 limiting effect Effects 0.000 claims description 7
- VYPSYNLAJGMNEJ-UHFFFAOYSA-N Silicium dioxide Chemical compound O=[Si]=O VYPSYNLAJGMNEJ-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims description 6
- 229910052710 silicon Inorganic materials 0.000 claims description 5
- 239000010703 silicon Substances 0.000 claims description 5
- 230000003647 oxidation Effects 0.000 claims description 3
- 238000007254 oxidation reaction Methods 0.000 claims description 3
- 239000010453 quartz Substances 0.000 claims description 3
- 229910052814 silicon oxide Inorganic materials 0.000 claims description 3
- 229910052799 carbon Inorganic materials 0.000 claims 1
- 230000007246 mechanism Effects 0.000 description 5
- XUIMIQQOPSSXEZ-UHFFFAOYSA-N Silicon Chemical compound [Si] XUIMIQQOPSSXEZ-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 4
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 description 4
- 238000005516 engineering process Methods 0.000 description 4
- 230000036961 partial effect Effects 0.000 description 4
- 238000006073 displacement reaction Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 description 2
- 229910052751 metal Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- 230000007935 neutral effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 230000010355 oscillation Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000013519 translation Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000012935 Averaging Methods 0.000 description 1
- 240000008042 Zea mays Species 0.000 description 1
- 230000003042 antagnostic effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000006243 chemical reaction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000013016 damping Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000007547 defect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000013461 design Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000011161 development Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000010586 diagram Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000005265 energy consumption Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000005284 excitation Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000005291 magnetic effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000005389 magnetism Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000002829 reductive effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000000284 resting effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000009183 running Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000035939 shock Effects 0.000 description 1
- 235000012431 wafers Nutrition 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
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- G—PHYSICS
- G04—HOROLOGY
- G04C—ELECTROMECHANICAL CLOCKS OR WATCHES
- G04C3/00—Electromechanical clocks or watches independent of other time-pieces and in which the movement is maintained by electric means
- G04C3/08—Electromechanical clocks or watches independent of other time-pieces and in which the movement is maintained by electric means wherein movement is regulated by a mechanical oscillator other than a pendulum or balance, e.g. by a tuning fork, e.g. electrostatically
- G04C3/10—Electromechanical clocks or watches independent of other time-pieces and in which the movement is maintained by electric means wherein movement is regulated by a mechanical oscillator other than a pendulum or balance, e.g. by a tuning fork, e.g. electrostatically driven by electromagnetic means
- G04C3/101—Electromechanical clocks or watches independent of other time-pieces and in which the movement is maintained by electric means wherein movement is regulated by a mechanical oscillator other than a pendulum or balance, e.g. by a tuning fork, e.g. electrostatically driven by electromagnetic means constructional details
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- G—PHYSICS
- G04—HOROLOGY
- G04B—MECHANICALLY-DRIVEN CLOCKS OR WATCHES; MECHANICAL PARTS OF CLOCKS OR WATCHES IN GENERAL; TIME PIECES USING THE POSITION OF THE SUN, MOON OR STARS
- G04B17/00—Mechanisms for stabilising frequency
- G04B17/04—Oscillators acting by spring tension
- G04B17/06—Oscillators with hairsprings, e.g. balance
- G04B17/063—Balance construction
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G04—HOROLOGY
- G04B—MECHANICALLY-DRIVEN CLOCKS OR WATCHES; MECHANICAL PARTS OF CLOCKS OR WATCHES IN GENERAL; TIME PIECES USING THE POSITION OF THE SUN, MOON OR STARS
- G04B17/00—Mechanisms for stabilising frequency
- G04B17/04—Oscillators acting by spring tension
- G04B17/045—Oscillators acting by spring tension with oscillating blade springs
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G04—HOROLOGY
- G04B—MECHANICALLY-DRIVEN CLOCKS OR WATCHES; MECHANICAL PARTS OF CLOCKS OR WATCHES IN GENERAL; TIME PIECES USING THE POSITION OF THE SUN, MOON OR STARS
- G04B15/00—Escapements
- G04B15/14—Component parts or constructional details, e.g. construction of the lever or the escape wheel
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G04—HOROLOGY
- G04B—MECHANICALLY-DRIVEN CLOCKS OR WATCHES; MECHANICAL PARTS OF CLOCKS OR WATCHES IN GENERAL; TIME PIECES USING THE POSITION OF THE SUN, MOON OR STARS
- G04B17/00—Mechanisms for stabilising frequency
- G04B17/04—Oscillators acting by spring tension
- G04B17/06—Oscillators with hairsprings, e.g. balance
- G04B17/066—Manufacture of the spiral spring
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G04—HOROLOGY
- G04C—ELECTROMECHANICAL CLOCKS OR WATCHES
- G04C3/00—Electromechanical clocks or watches independent of other time-pieces and in which the movement is maintained by electric means
- G04C3/008—Mounting, assembling of components
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G04—HOROLOGY
- G04B—MECHANICALLY-DRIVEN CLOCKS OR WATCHES; MECHANICAL PARTS OF CLOCKS OR WATCHES IN GENERAL; TIME PIECES USING THE POSITION OF THE SUN, MOON OR STARS
- G04B17/00—Mechanisms for stabilising frequency
- G04B17/04—Oscillators acting by spring tension
Definitions
- the invention relates to a watch oscillator comprising a time base with at least one resonator constituted by a tuning fork which comprises at least two oscillating mobile parts, said moving parts being fixed to a connecting element, which said oscillator comprises, by means of flexible elements whose geometry determines a virtual pivot axis of position determined with respect to said connecting element, about which virtual pivot axis oscillates said respective moving part, whose center of mass is merged in the rest position with said virtual pivot axis respective.
- the invention also relates to a watch movement comprising a structure to which is fixed such an oscillator.
- the invention also relates to a timepiece or watch comprising at least one such movement.
- Watch time bases are always a compromise between good running accuracy, acceptable performance, size and robustness allowing their use in a watch, and economic realization.
- Crossed blades are known to EP 2 645 189 .
- a crossed-leaf tuning fork is known to US 3,628,781 .
- the invention proposes to realize, for mechanical watch movements, a time base with a high quality factor, to guarantee a great autonomy, and a good accuracy of operation, while meeting the standards of quality, especially in terms of behavior. shock, temperature, and magnetism.
- the invention also proposes to provide a simple and economical alternative to the sprung balance.
- the invention relates to a watch oscillator comprising a time base with at least one resonator constituted by a tuning fork which comprises at least two oscillating moving parts, said movable parts being fixed to a connecting element, which comprises said oscillator, by flexible elements whose geometry determines a virtual pivot axis of position determined with respect to said connecting element, about which virtual pivot axis oscillates said respective moving part, whose center of mass is merged in the rest position with said respective virtual pivoting axis, characterized in that, for at least one said moving part, said flexible elements consist of crossed elastic blades and extending at a distance from one another in two parallel planes, and whose projections directions on one of said parallel planes intersect at said virtual pivot axis of said portion ie mobile considered.
- said resonator comprises two said moving parts whose centers of mass correspond to virtual axes of rotation aligned with a main center of said connecting element.
- said two moving parts are symmetrical with respect to an axis of symmetry passing through a main center of said connecting element.
- said connecting element couples the movements of said two moving parts by elastic forces.
- said connecting element is suspended by at least one elastic connection to a support arranged to be fixed on a structure of a clockwork movement.
- said elastic connection is made by elastic blades whose directions converge towards said main center of said connecting element.
- At least one said moving part comprises a substantially circular arc around its said virtual pivoting axis, said arc comprising a flyweight at each of its ends, and said flexible elements cooperating with said arc.
- At least one said resonator is a one-piece assembly comprising said connecting element, at least one said oscillating mobile part and said elastic blades which connect it to said connecting element.
- At least one said resonator is a one-piece assembly comprising said connecting element, and a plurality of said oscillating mobile parts each comprising said elastic blades which connect it to said connecting element.
- said oscillator is a one-piece assembly comprising said connecting element and a plurality of said resonators.
- said oscillator is a one-piece assembly further comprising a support integral with the structure of a clockwork movement, and a resilient connection connecting said support to said connecting element.
- said one-piece assembly is made of silicon and / or silicon oxide, or DLC, or quartz.
- said elastic blades constituting said flexible elements comprise an oxidation layer providing thermal compensation.
- said oscillator comprises abutment surfaces limiting the deflection of each said moving part.
- the invention also relates to a watch movement comprising a structure to which is fixed such an oscillator, either directly by said connecting element, or by a support to which said connecting element is connected by an elastic connection.
- the invention also relates to a timepiece or watch comprising at least one movement.
- the invention relates to a clock oscillator 200 comprising a time base with at least one resonator 100 constituted by a tuning fork which comprises at least two movable parts 11, 12, oscillating.
- movable parts 11, 12 are attached to a connecting element 2, which the oscillator 200 comprises, by flexible elements 31, 41 or respectively 32, 42, the geometry of which determines a virtual pivot axis O1, 02, of position determined with respect to the connecting element 2.
- the flexible elements 31, 41, or 32, 42 consist of crossed elastic blades and extending at a distance from each other in two parallel planes , and whose projections of the directions on one of these parallel planes intersect at the virtual pivot axis O1, O2, of the movable portion 11, 12, considered.
- These crossed blades allow the rotation of the masses, and substantially prevent the translation of the masses in the three directions XYZ, and provide good resistance to small shocks.
- At least one resonator 100 comprises two such moving parts 11, 12 whose center of mass correspond to virtual pivoting axes 01, 02, which are aligned with a main center O of the connecting element 2.
- this resonator then makes it possible to obtain an averaging of the oscillations of each of the two moving parts 11, 12: one oscillates faster if the other oscillates more slowly, the two centers of mass move, of a value very weak, in the same direction X, but in opposite directions, which allows the compensation of the defects of centers of mass.
- a tuning fork according to the invention makes it possible to adjust the chronometric defect to a very small value, of a few seconds per day, since the movement of centers of mass perpendicular to the direction of connection X does not affect chronometry.
- the two moving parts 11, 12 are symmetrical, in projection on a plane parallel to that of the crossed elastic blades, with respect to an axis of symmetry passing through a principal center O of the connecting element 2.
- these two moving parts 11, 12 are symmetrical with respect to the main center O.
- these two movable parts 11, 12 are identical.
- the connecting element 2 couples the movements of the two mobile parts 11, 12 by elastic forces.
- the element 2 is arranged to couple the two movable parts 11, 12 to ensure a symmetrical movement of the latter relative to the main center O, preferably due to a symmetrical arrangement of the fasteners of the flexible elements 31, 41, 32, 42 on this connecting element 2.
- the connecting element 2 is suspended by at least one elastic connection 60 to a support 5 arranged to be fixed on a structure of a clockwork movement 300, by fixing holes 71, 72.
- this connection 60 is at several degrees of freedom, either in an XY plane parallel to that of crossed blades, or pivoting in this plane.
- this elastic connection 60 is made by elastic strips 61, 62 whose directions converge towards the main center O of the connecting element 2.
- the elastic connection 60 is provided by a single blade, or a spring, or the like, arranged to be fixed to such a support 5.
- At least one such movable portion 11; 12 has an arc 110; 120, substantially circular about its respective virtual pivot axis O1; O2.
- This arc 110; 120 comprises a flyweight 111, 112, respectively 121, 122, at each of its ends.
- the flexible elements 31, 41, respectively 32, 42 cooperate with the arc considered 110; 120.
- the resilient blades that constitute the flexible elements 31, 41, 32, 42 are less rigid than the respective arc, 110; 120, which is itself less rigid than the respective weights 111, 112, 121, 122.
- the latter are preferably infinitely rigid.
- the arches 110, 120 and the weights 111, 112, 121, 122 have an equivalent rigidity between them, and only the resilient blades 31, 41, 32, 42 are less rigid than these arcs and weights.
- the movable part 11, 12 is in the form of an annular balance.
- the elastic strips constituting the flexible elements 31, 41, 32, 42 are symmetrical two by two in projection relative to an axis passing through the virtual pivot axis considered O1, 02, and by a main center O at the level of the connecting element 2.
- the virtual pivot axes O1, O2, and the main center O are aligned.
- At least one such resonator 100 is a one-piece assembly comprising the connecting element 2, at least two oscillating mobile parts 11, 12, and the resilient blades 31, 41 , 32, 42 which connect it to the connecting element 2.
- At least one such resonator 100 is a one-piece assembly comprising the connecting element 2, and a plurality of movable parts 11, 12, oscillating each comprising the resilient blades 31, 41, 32, 42, which connect it to the connecting element 2.
- the oscillator 200 is a one-piece assembly comprising the connecting element 2 and a plurality of such resonators 100.
- the oscillator 200 is a one-piece assembly further comprising a support 5 arranged to be secured to the structure of a watch movement 300, and an elastic connection 60 connecting the support 5 to the connecting element 2 .
- such a one-piece assembly is made of silicon or / and silicon oxide, or DLC, or quartz, or any micro-material made using "MEMS” or "LIGA” technologies.
- inertia in particular by metal masses, pivoted on the flyweights or on the arcs, or the like, moving parts, or guided in translation relative to to these elements.
- a metal mass extending in the direction Y may be guided, or even simply fixed, at two weights of the movable portion symmetrical with respect to the axis X.
- each movable part 11, 12 is thus carried out by crossed blades, which are manufactured with the double layer technology of the silicon wafers.
- the spacing between the crossed blades can thus be achieved with a very low value, which ensures a minimum footprint.
- the removal of an oxide layer formed between two layers corresponds to a set of 4 micrometers, which is sufficient to ensure proper operation without friction of the blades with each other.
- the elastic strips constituting said flexible elements 31, 41 , 32, 42 comprise an oxidation layer providing thermal compensation.
- the leverage of the moving parts 11, 12 makes it possible to obtain a displacement of the end weights 111, 112, 121, 122, which is large enough to associate with such an oscillator 200 or at least one such resonator 100 a mechanical escape mechanism, as visible on the figure 15 , or else magnetic, or electrostatic, or the like.
- the symmetrical movement of the weights, and centers of mass of the two moving parts 11, 12, at the same point, or at least in the immediate vicinity of the same point, as the crossing of the blades makes it possible to limit the maximum displacement of the overall center of mass of the complete system, and therefore the reactions on the support.
- the oscillator 200 comprises abutment surfaces 80, 91, 92, limiting the movement of each movable portion 11, 12, which this oscillator 200 comprises. The most important impact resistance is thus ensured.
- the invention also relates to a watch movement 300 comprising a structure to which such an oscillator 200 is fixed, either directly by its connecting element 2, or by a support 5 to which the connecting element 2 is connected by an elastic connection. 60.
- the invention also relates to a timepiece 400, in particular a watch, comprising at least one such movement 300.
- the Figures 1 to 3 represent an oscillator with a tuning fork resonator 100, comprising two movable parts 11 and 12 arranged symmetrically with respect to a connecting element 2, to which each is connected by an elastic connection more particularly formed by flexible elements 31, 41, 32, 43, and around which each oscillates around a virtual axis O1, 02.
- the element of link 2 is itself connected by another elastic connection to a support 5 integral with the structure of a watch movement 300.
- the flexible elements 31, 41, 32, 43 are elastic blades located at distinct levels two by two, and whose directions, in a neutral position at rest of the resonator, intersect at the virtual axis O1, 02, considered.
- the two virtual axes O1 and O2 are aligned with a principal center O at the level of the connecting element 2.
- the construction is entirely symmetrical with respect to an abscissa plane containing an X direction with the virtual axes O1 and O2 and the main center O, and an ordinate plane, containing a Y direction, orthogonal to the previous one and crossing it at the main center O.
- the figure 4 represents a movable part 11 of a resonator 100, with the same type of connection by flexible elements 31, 41, with the connecting element 2.
- the figure 5 represents the resonator 100 of the figure 4 , in which the connecting element 2 is connected to a fixed support 5 secured to the structure by a simple 60.
- figure 6 represents the resonator 100 of the figure 4 , in which the connecting element 2 is connected to a fixed support fixed to the structure by an elastic connection with two elastic blades 61 and 62, whose directions converge towards the main center O, as on the production of Figures 1 to 3 .
- the figure 7 represents a variant of the oscillator of the figure 1 , wherein the two movable portions 11 and 12 are offset with respect to the y-ordinate direction, and each oscillate about an axis X1, respectively X2, parallel to each other. The important thing is that these directions are parallel to ensure a very small chronometry error.
- the figure 8 represents another variant where one of the movable parts 11 is arc-shaped 110 provided with end weights 111 and 112 as the moving parts 11 and 12 of the Figures 1 to 7 while the other movable portion 12 is a mass 17 suspended by a simple elastic connection 170 such as a spring or a single blade, or the like.
- a simple elastic connection 170 such as a spring or a single blade, or the like.
- the figure 9 represents a variant of the oscillator of the figure 1 , in which the two movable parts 11 and 12 are of arc type 110, 120, with end weights, 111, 112, 121, 122, but of different dimensions, with a different stiffness of the flexible elements 31, 41 of one hand, and 32, 42 other on the other hand, so as to ensure the same frequency.
- the figure 10 represents a variant of the resonator of the figure 4 , in which a second movable portion 13 in arc 113 is suspended in series on the first movable portion 11, by means of similar crossed blades 310, 410, bearing on the first arc 110 of the first movable portion 11.
- FIGs 11 to 14 illustrate different types of connection between the connecting element 2 and the support 5 fixed to the structure of the movement 300: with blades 61 and 62 converging towards the main center O in Figures 11 and 12 with a simple elastic connection 60 such as a spring or a single blade in Figures 13 and 14 , the support 5 being external to the connecting element 2 on the figures 11 and 1 3, and inside the connecting element 2 on the Figures 12 and 14 .
- This elastic connection between the connecting element 2 and the support 5 ensures a good shock-absorbing damping.
- the figure 15 illustrates the cooperation of an oscillator with two moving parts 11, 12 of the type of the figure 1 with an anchor escapement mechanism 70; an arc 110 of a first movable portion 11 has a groove 7 in which is limitedly movable an end 72 of an anchor 70, pivoted along an axis 71, opposite to the vanes 74, 75 of a fork 73, which cooperate typically with an escape wheel 76.
- the figure 16 illustrates an oscillator with two moving parts 11, 12. of the type of the figure 1 and wherein the connecting element 2 is connected to the structure 90 by a spiral spring 9, the structure 90 having limiting abutment surfaces 91, 92, which can be arranged to limit the movement of the spiral 9, and / or to limit the movement of the moving parts 11, 12 .;
- the figure 17 illustrates an oscillator with two moving parts 11, 12, of the type of the figure 1 whose contour 1100, 1200, at rest is substantially circular, and which evolves in a circular housing 80 of the structure 8 forming a stop limiter, and the figure 18 illustrates an oblong version according to the same principle.
- the distance between the rest position of the moving parts 11, 12, and the housing 80 is reduced to the minimum minimum compatible with the oscillation stroke of the weights, of the order of a few tenths of a millimeter.
- the figure 19 illustrates an oscillator with two moving parts 11, 12 "each consisting of an annular balance connected by crossed blades to the connecting element 2, the two balances being located in parallel and distinct planes, and pivoting about parallel virtual axes O1 and 02.
- the figure 20 illustrates an oscillator including a movable portion 11 includes an arm 118 provided with a light 119 which serves to limit a pin 310 secured to an upper blade 31.
- the figure 21 illustrates an oscillator in a structure 8, a wall 80 limits the stroke of the end points of a movable portion 11 of any shape.
- the figures are very schematic, and illustrate represents a general case where the embedding of crossed blades is oblique in the connecting element which carries them.
- An advantageous configuration is to achieve this embedding at a surface that is orthogonal to the end of each blade at its embedding in this connecting element.
- the invention provides a monobloc mechanism, easy to install, reliable, highly reproducible, high quality factor, with low energy consumption, and ensuring good autonomy of movement.
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Description
L'invention concerne un oscillateur d'horlogerie comportant une base de temps avec au moins un résonateur constitué par un diapason lequel comporte au moins deux parties mobiles oscillantes, lesdites parties mobiles étant fixées à un élément de liaison, que comporte ledit oscillateur, par des éléments flexibles dont la géométrie détermine un axe de pivotement virtuel de position déterminée par rapport audit élément de liaison, autour duquel axe de pivotement virtuel oscille ladite partie mobile respective, dont le centre de masse est confondu en position de repos avec ledit axe de pivotement virtuel respectif.The invention relates to a watch oscillator comprising a time base with at least one resonator constituted by a tuning fork which comprises at least two oscillating mobile parts, said moving parts being fixed to a connecting element, which said oscillator comprises, by means of flexible elements whose geometry determines a virtual pivot axis of position determined with respect to said connecting element, about which virtual pivot axis oscillates said respective moving part, whose center of mass is merged in the rest position with said virtual pivot axis respective.
L'invention concerne encore un mouvement d'horlogerie comportant une structure à laquelle est fixé un tel oscillateur.The invention also relates to a watch movement comprising a structure to which is fixed such an oscillator.
L'invention concerne encore une pièce d'horlogerie ou montre comportant au moins un tel mouvement.The invention also relates to a timepiece or watch comprising at least one such movement.
Les bases de temps horlogères constituent toujours un compromis entre une bonne précision de marche, un rendement acceptable, un encombrement et une robustesse autorisant leur emploi dans une montre, et une réalisation économique.Watch time bases are always a compromise between good running accuracy, acceptable performance, size and robustness allowing their use in a watch, and economic realization.
Les résonateurs à balancier-spiral sont sensibles aux phénomènes externes, leur réalisation et leur mise au point nécessite de plus du personnel hautement qualifié, la reproductibilité des fabrications est difficile.Spiral balance resonators are sensitive to external phenomena, their realization and their development also requires highly qualified personnel, the reproducibility of fabrications is difficult.
Des lames croisées sont connues de
L'invention se propose de réaliser, pour des mouvements horlogers mécaniques, une base de temps à haut facteur de qualité, pour garantir une grande autonomie, et une bonne précision de marche, tout en répondant aux normes de qualité, notamment en termes de comportement aux chocs, à la température, et au magnétisme.The invention proposes to realize, for mechanical watch movements, a time base with a high quality factor, to guarantee a great autonomy, and a good accuracy of operation, while meeting the standards of quality, especially in terms of behavior. shock, temperature, and magnetism.
L'invention se propose aussi de procurer une alternative simple et économique au balancier-spiral.The invention also proposes to provide a simple and economical alternative to the sprung balance.
A cet effet, l'invention concerne un oscillateur d'horlogerie comportant une base de temps avec au moins un résonateur constitué par un diapason lequel comporte au moins deux parties mobiles oscillantes, lesdites parties mobiles étant fixées à un élément de liaison, que comporte ledit oscillateur, par des éléments flexibles dont la géométrie détermine un axe de pivotement virtuel de position déterminée par rapport audit élément de liaison, autour duquel axe de pivotement virtuel oscille ladite partie mobile respective, dont le centre de masse est confondu en position de repos avec ledit axe de pivotement virtuel respectif, caractérisé en ce que, pour au moins une dite partie mobile, lesdits éléments flexibles sont constitués de lames élastiques croisées et s'étendant à distance l'une de l'autre dans deux plans parallèles, et dont les projections des directions sur un desdits plans parallèles se croisent au niveau dudit axe de pivotement virtuel de ladite partie mobile considérée.For this purpose, the invention relates to a watch oscillator comprising a time base with at least one resonator constituted by a tuning fork which comprises at least two oscillating moving parts, said movable parts being fixed to a connecting element, which comprises said oscillator, by flexible elements whose geometry determines a virtual pivot axis of position determined with respect to said connecting element, about which virtual pivot axis oscillates said respective moving part, whose center of mass is merged in the rest position with said respective virtual pivoting axis, characterized in that, for at least one said moving part, said flexible elements consist of crossed elastic blades and extending at a distance from one another in two parallel planes, and whose projections directions on one of said parallel planes intersect at said virtual pivot axis of said portion ie mobile considered.
Selon une caractéristique de l'invention, ledit résonateur comporte deux dites parties mobiles dont les centres de masse correspondent à des axes virtuels de pivotement alignés avec un centre principal dudit élément de liaison.According to a characteristic of the invention, said resonator comprises two said moving parts whose centers of mass correspond to virtual axes of rotation aligned with a main center of said connecting element.
Selon une caractéristique de l'invention, lesdites deux parties mobiles sont symétriques par rapport à un axe de symétrie passant par un centre principal dudit élément de liaison.According to one characteristic of the invention, said two moving parts are symmetrical with respect to an axis of symmetry passing through a main center of said connecting element.
Selon une caractéristique de l'invention, ledit élément de liaison couple les mouvements desdites deux parties mobiles par des forces élastiques.According to a characteristic of the invention, said connecting element couples the movements of said two moving parts by elastic forces.
Selon une caractéristique de l'invention, ledit élément de liaison est suspendu par au moins une liaison élastique à un support agencé pour être fixé sur une structure d'un mouvement d'horlogerie.According to a characteristic of the invention, said connecting element is suspended by at least one elastic connection to a support arranged to be fixed on a structure of a clockwork movement.
Selon une caractéristique de l'invention, ladite liaison élastique est réalisée par des lames élastiques dont les directions convergent vers ledit centre principal dudit élément de liaison.According to a feature of the invention, said elastic connection is made by elastic blades whose directions converge towards said main center of said connecting element.
Selon une caractéristique de l'invention, au moins une dite partie mobile comporte un arc sensiblement circulaire autour de son dit axe de pivotement virtuel, ledit arc comportant une masselotte à chacune de ses extrémités, et lesdits éléments flexibles coopérant avec ledit arc.According to a characteristic of the invention, at least one said moving part comprises a substantially circular arc around its said virtual pivoting axis, said arc comprising a flyweight at each of its ends, and said flexible elements cooperating with said arc.
Selon une caractéristique de l'invention, au moins un dit résonateur est un ensemble monobloc comportant ledit élément de liaison, au moins une dite partie mobile oscillante et lesdites lames élastiques qui la relient audit élément de liaison.According to a characteristic of the invention, at least one said resonator is a one-piece assembly comprising said connecting element, at least one said oscillating mobile part and said elastic blades which connect it to said connecting element.
Selon une caractéristique de l'invention, au moins un dit résonateur est un ensemble monobloc comportant ledit élément de liaison, et une pluralité de dites parties mobiles oscillantes comportant chacune lesdites lames élastiques qui la relient audit élément de liaison.According to a characteristic of the invention, at least one said resonator is a one-piece assembly comprising said connecting element, and a plurality of said oscillating mobile parts each comprising said elastic blades which connect it to said connecting element.
Selon une caractéristique de l'invention, ledit oscillateur est un ensemble monobloc comportant ledit élément de liaison et une pluralité de dits résonateurs.According to one characteristic of the invention, said oscillator is a one-piece assembly comprising said connecting element and a plurality of said resonators.
Selon une caractéristique de l'invention, ledit oscillateur est un ensemble monobloc comportant encore un support solidaire de la structure d'un mouvement d'horlogerie, et une liaison élastique reliant ledit support audit élément de liaison.According to a feature of the invention, said oscillator is a one-piece assembly further comprising a support integral with the structure of a clockwork movement, and a resilient connection connecting said support to said connecting element.
Selon une caractéristique de l'invention, ledit ensemble monobloc est en silicium ou/et un oxyde de silicium, ou en DLC, ou en quartz.According to a feature of the invention, said one-piece assembly is made of silicon and / or silicon oxide, or DLC, or quartz.
Selon une caractéristique de l'invention, lesdites lames élastiques constituant lesdits éléments flexibles comportent une couche d'oxydation assurant une compensation thermique.According to one characteristic of the invention, said elastic blades constituting said flexible elements comprise an oxidation layer providing thermal compensation.
Selon une caractéristique de l'invention, ledit oscillateur comporte des surfaces de butée limitant le débattement de chaque dite partie mobile.According to one characteristic of the invention, said oscillator comprises abutment surfaces limiting the deflection of each said moving part.
L'invention concerne encore un mouvement d'horlogerie comportant une structure à laquelle est fixé un tel oscillateur, soit directement par son dit élément de liaison, soit par un support auquel ledit élément de liaison est reliée par une liaison élastique.The invention also relates to a watch movement comprising a structure to which is fixed such an oscillator, either directly by said connecting element, or by a support to which said connecting element is connected by an elastic connection.
L'invention concerne encore une pièce d'horlogerie ou montre comportant au moins un mouvement.The invention also relates to a timepiece or watch comprising at least one movement.
D'autres caractéristiques et avantages de l'invention apparaîtront à la lecture de la description détaillée qui va suivre, en référence aux dessins annexés, où :
- la
figure 1 représente, de façon schématisée et en plan, un oscillateur avec un résonateur à diapason selon l'invention, comportant deux parties mobiles disposées, en projection dans un plan, symétriquement par rapport à un élément de liaison, à laquelle chacune est reliée par une liaison élastique plus particulièrement réalisée par des éléments flexibles, et autour de laquelle chacune oscille autour d'un axe virtuel, cet élément de liaison étant lui-même relié par une liaison élastique à un support solidaire de la structure d'un mouvement d'horlogerie; dans cette réalisation les éléments flexibles sont des lames élastiques situées à des niveaux distincts, et dont les directions, dans une position neutre au repos du résonateur, se croisent au niveau de l'axe virtuel considéré; les deux axes virtuels sont alignés avec un centre principal au niveau de de l'élément de liaison; la construction est entièrement symétrique par rapport à un plan d'abscisse contenant les axes virtuels et le centre principal, et à un plan d'ordonnée séparant les deux pièces mobiles et contenant le centre principal, et orthogonal au précédent et le croisant au niveau du centre principal ; - la
figure 2 représente, de façon schématisée et en perspective, l'oscillateur de lafigure 1 ; - la
figure 3 représente, de façon schématisée et en section par le plan AA de lafigure 1 , ce même oscillateur ; - la
figure 4 représente, de façon schématisée, partielle et en plan, une partie mobile d'un résonateur avec une liaison par éléments flexibles avec l'élément de liaison ; - la
figure 5 représente, de façon partielle, le résonateur de lafigure 4 , dans lequel l'élément de liaison est relié à un support fixe solidaire de la structure par une liaison élastique simple ; - la
figure 6 représente, de façon partielle, le résonateur de lafigure 4 , dans lequel l'élément de liaison est relié à un support fixe solidaire de la structure par une liaison élastique à lames élastiques dont les directions convergent vers un centre principal, comme sur la réalisation desfigures 1 ;et 2 - la
figure 7 représente une variante de l'oscillateur de lafigure 1 , dans laquelle les deux parties mobiles sont décalées par rapport à la direction d'ordonnée ; - la
figure 8 représente une autre variante où une des parties mobiles est en forme d'arc muni de masselottes d'extrémité comme les parties mobiles desfigures 1 à 7 , tandis que l'autre partie mobile est une masse suspendue par une liaison élastique simple telle qu'un ressort ; - la
figure 9 représente une variante de l'oscillateur de lafigure 1 , dans laquelle les deux parties mobiles sont de type en arc avec masselottes d'extrémité, mais de dimensions différentes, avec une raideur différente des éléments flexibles ; - la
figure 10 représente, de façon partielle, une variante du résonateur de lafigure 4 , dans laquelle une deuxième partie mobile est suspendue en série sur la première ; - les
figures 11 à 14 illustrent, de façon partielle, différents types de liaison entre l'élément de liaison et le support fixé à la structure: à lames convergentes vers le centre principal enfigures 11 , à liaison élastique simple telle qu'un ressort ou une lame simple enet 12figures 13 et 14 , le support étant externe à l'élément de liaison sur lesfigures 11 , et à l'intérieur de l'élément de liaison sur leset 13figures 12 et 14 ; - la
figure 15 illustre la coopération d'un oscillateur à deux parties mobiles du type de lafigure 1 avec un mécanisme d'échappement à ancre; un arc d'une des parties mobiles comporte une gorge dans laquelle est mobile de façon limitée une extrémité d'ancre opposée aux palettes qui coopèrent classiquement avec une roue d'échappement ; - la
figure 16 illustre un oscillateur à deux parties mobiles du type de lafigure 1 et où l'élément de liaison est relié à la structure par un ressort spiral, la structure comportant des surfaces de butée de limitation; - la
figure 17 illustre un oscillateur à deux parties mobiles du type de lafigure 1 , dont le contour au repos est sensiblement circulaire, et qui évolue dans un logement circulaire de la structure faisant limiteur de butée, et lafigure 18 illustre une version oblongue selon le même principe; - la
figure 19 illustre un oscillateur à deux parties mobiles, chacune constituée par un balancier annulaire relié par lames croisées à l'élément de liaison, les deux balanciers étant situés dans des plans parallèles et distincts, et pivotant autour d'axes virtuels parallèles; - la
figure 20 illustre, de façon partielle, une partie mobile comportant un bras muni d'une lumière qui sert de limitation à une goupille solidaire d'une lame supérieure ; - la
figure 21 illustre, de façon partielle, un oscillateur dans une structure dont une paroi limite la course des points extrêmes d'une partie mobile; - la
figure 22 est un schéma-blocs représentant une pièce d'horlogerie comportant un mouvement avec un mécanisme comportant un tel oscillateur.
- the
figure 1 represents schematically and in plan, an oscillator with a tuning fork resonator according to the invention, comprising two moving parts arranged, in projection in a plane, symmetrically with respect to a connecting element, to which each is connected by a connection more elastic particularly made by flexible elements, and around which each oscillates around a virtual axis, this connecting element being itself connected by an elastic connection to a support integral with the structure of a watch movement; in this embodiment the flexible elements are elastic blades located at different levels, and whose directions, in a neutral position at rest of the resonator, intersect at the virtual axis considered; the two virtual axes are aligned with a main center at the connecting element; the construction is entirely symmetrical with respect to an abscissa plane containing the virtual axes and the principal center, and to an ordinate plane separating the two moving parts and containing the principal center, and orthogonal to the preceding one and crossing it at the level of main center; - the
figure 2 represents, schematically and in perspective, the oscillator of thefigure 1 ; - the
figure 3 represents, schematically and in section by the plane AA of thefigure 1 this same oscillator; - the
figure 4 shows, schematically, partially and in plan, a moving part of a resonator with a connection by flexible elements with the connecting element; - the
figure 5 represents, in a partial way, the resonator of thefigure 4 in which the connecting element is connected to a fixed support secured to the structure by a simple elastic connection; - the
figure 6 represents, in a partial way, the resonator of thefigure 4 , in which the connecting element is connected to a fixed support secured to the structure by an elastic link with elastic blades whose directions converge towards a main center, as on the realization ofFigures 1 and 2 ; - the
figure 7 represents a variant of the oscillator of thefigure 1 wherein the two moving parts are offset from the ordinate direction; - the
figure 8 represents another variant where one of the moving parts is arc-shaped provided with end weights as the moving parts ofFigures 1 to 7 while the other mobile part is a mass suspended by a simple elastic connection such as a spring; - the
figure 9 represents a variant of the oscillator of thefigure 1 , in which the two moving parts are of arc type with end weights, but of different dimensions, with a different stiffness of the flexible elements; - the
figure 10 represents, in a partial way, a variant of the resonator of thefigure 4 in which a second moving part is suspended in series on the first; - the
Figures 11 to 14 illustrate, in a partial way, different types of connection between the connecting element and the support fixed to the structure: convergent blades towards the main center inFigures 11 and 12 , with a simple elastic connection such as a spring or a single blade inFigures 13 and 14 , the support being external to the connecting element on theFigures 11 and 13 , and inside the connecting element on theFigures 12 and 14 ; - the
figure 15 illustrates the cooperation of an oscillator with two moving parts of the type of thefigure 1 with an anchor escapement mechanism; an arc of one of the moving parts comprises a groove in which is limitedly movable an anchor end opposite to the pallets which conventionally cooperate with an escape wheel; - the
figure 16 illustrates an oscillator with two moving parts of the type of thefigure 1 and wherein the connecting member is connected to the structure by a spiral spring, the structure having limiting abutment surfaces; - the
figure 17 illustrates an oscillator with two moving parts of the type of thefigure 1 , whose resting contour is substantially circular, and which evolves in a circular housing of the stop limiter structure, and thefigure 18 illustrates an oblong version according to the same principle; - the
figure 19 illustrates an oscillator with two moving parts, each consisting of an annular balance connected by crossed blades to the connecting element, the two balances being located in parallel and distinct planes, and pivoting about parallel virtual axes; - the
figure 20 partially illustrates a movable portion having an arm provided with a light which serves to limit a pin secured to an upper blade; - the
figure 21 illustrates, in part, an oscillator in a structure whose wall limits the travel of the end points of a moving part; - the
figure 22 is a block diagram showing a timepiece comprising a movement with a mechanism comprising such an oscillator.
La présente description se réfère à des « centres de masse », que l'on peut également comprendre comme « centres d'inertie ».This description refers to "centers of mass", which can also be understood as "centers of inertia".
L'invention concerne un oscillateur d'horlogerie 200 comportant une base de temps avec au moins un résonateur 100 constitué par un diapason lequel comporte au moins deux parties mobiles 11, 12, oscillantes.The invention relates to a
Ces parties mobiles 11, 12, sont fixées à un élément de liaison 2, que comporte l'oscillateur 200, par des éléments flexibles 31, 41 ou respectivement 32, 42, dont la géométrie détermine un axe de pivotement virtuel O1, 02, de position déterminée par rapport à l'élément de liaison 2.These
La partie mobile 11, 12, dont le centre de masse est confondu en position de repos avec ledit axe de pivotement virtuel respectif O1; 02, oscille autour de l'axe de pivotement virtuel 01,02, respectif.The
Selon l'invention, pour au moins deux parties mobiles 11, 12, les éléments flexibles 31, 41, ou 32, 42, sont constitués de lames élastiques croisées et s'étendant à distance l'une de l'autre dans deux plans parallèles, et dont les projections des directions sur un de ces plans parallèles se croisent au niveau de l'axe de pivotement virtuel O1, O2, de la partie mobile 11, 12, considérée. Ces lames croisées permettent la rotation des masses, et empêchent sensiblement la translation des masses dans les trois directions XYZ, et assurent de plus une bonne tenue aux petits chocs.According to the invention, for at least two
Dans une variante particulière avantageuse, illustrée par les
La conception de ce résonateur permet alors d'obtenir un moyennage des oscillations de chacune des deux parties mobiles 11, 12 : l'une oscille plus vite si l'autre oscille plus lentement, les deux centres de masse se déplacent, d'une valeur très faible, selon une même direction X, mais dans des sens opposés, ce qui permet la compensation des défauts de centres de masse.The design of this resonator then makes it possible to obtain an averaging of the oscillations of each of the two moving
L'utilisation d'un diapason selon l'invention permet d'ajuster le défaut chronométrique à une valeur très faible, de quelques secondes par jour, puisque le mouvement des centres de masse perpendiculairement à la direction de liaison X n'affecte pas la chronométrie.The use of a tuning fork according to the invention makes it possible to adjust the chronometric defect to a very small value, of a few seconds per day, since the movement of centers of mass perpendicular to the direction of connection X does not affect chronometry.
Le cas d'un diapason symétrique n'est qu'un cas particulier, et l'invention fonctionne aussi avec un diapason asymétrique.The case of a symmetrical tuning fork is only a particular case, and the invention also operates with an asymmetric tuning fork.
Le mouvement résultant par rapport à la platine d'un mouvement, sur laquelle est fixée un tel oscillateur 200, est pratiquement nul. L'absence de pertes au niveau du support garantit un facteur de qualité élevé, très supérieur à celui d'un balancier-spiral.The resulting movement with respect to the platen of a movement, on which is fixed such an
Dans une réalisation particulière, tel que visible sur les
Plus particulièrement, ces deux parties mobiles 11, 12, sont symétriques par rapport au centre principal O.More particularly, these two moving
Plus particulièrement encore, ces deux parties mobiles 11, 12, sont identiques.More particularly, these two
De façon avantageuse et propre à l'invention, l'élément de liaison 2 couple les mouvements des deux parties mobiles 11, 12, par des forces élastiques. L'élément 2 est agencé pour coupler les deux parties mobiles 11, 12, pour assurer un mouvement symétrique de ces dernières par rapport au centre principal O, de préférence grâce à un agencement symétrique des attaches des éléments flexibles 31, 41, 32, 42, sur cet élément de liaison 2.Advantageously and according to the invention, the connecting
Dans une réalisation avantageuse, et tel que visible de façon non limitative sur les
Dans une variante, tel que visibles sur les
Dans une autre variante, tel que visible sur les
Dans une réalisation avantageuse de l'invention, tel que visible sur les
On comprend que l'excitation du résonateur peut être effectuée aussi bien au niveau d'un arc, ou d'une masselotte, cette dernière alternative étant la plus commode à réaliser.It is understood that the excitation of the resonator can be performed both at an arc, or a flyweight, the latter alternative being the most convenient to achieve.
Dans une réalisation particulière non limitative, les lames élastiques qui constituent les éléments flexibles 31, 41, 32, 42, sont moins rigides que l'arc respectif, 110; 120, qui est lui-même moins rigide que les masselottes respectives 111, 112, 121, 122. Ces dernières sont de préférence infiniment rigides. Dans une autre variante, les arcs 110, 120 et les masselottes 111, 112, 121, 122, ont une rigidité équivalente entre eux, et seules les lames élastiques 31, 41, 32, 42, sont moins rigides que ces arcs et masselottes.In a particular non-limiting embodiment, the resilient blades that constitute the
Dans une autre réalisation intéressante, tel que visible sur les
De préférence, les lames élastiques constituant les éléments flexibles 31, 41, 32, 42 sont symétriques deux à deux en projection par rapport à un axe passant par l'axe de pivotement virtuel considéré O1, 02, et par un centre principal O au niveau de l'élément de liaison 2.Preferably, the elastic strips constituting the
Dans une réalisation préférée, quand le résonateur 100 comporte deux parties mobiles 11 et 12, les axes de pivotement virtuels O1, 02, et le centre principal O, sont alignés.In a preferred embodiment, when the
Dans une variante de réalisation avantageuse, tel que visible sur toutes les figures, au moins un tel résonateur 100 est un ensemble monobloc comportant l'élément de liaison 2, au moins deux parties mobiles oscillantes 11 , 12, et les lames élastiques 31, 41, 32, 42 qui la relient à l'élément de liaison 2.In an advantageous embodiment variant, as visible in all the figures, at least one
Plus particulièrement, au moins un tel résonateur 100 est un ensemble monobloc comportant l'élément de liaison 2, et une pluralité de parties mobiles 11, 12, oscillantes comportant chacune les lames élastiques 31, 41, 32, 42, qui la relient à l'élément de liaison 2.More particularly, at least one
Plus particulièrement encore, l'oscillateur 200 est un ensemble monobloc comportant l'élément de liaison 2 et une pluralité de tels résonateurs 100.More particularly still, the
De façon particulière, l'oscillateur 200 est un ensemble monobloc comportant encore un support 5 agencé pour être fixé solidaire à la structure d'un mouvement d'horlogerie 300, et une liaison élastique 60 reliant ce support 5 à l'élément de liaison 2.In particular, the
De préférence, un tel ensemble monobloc est en silicium ou/et un oxyde de silicium, ou en DLC, ou en quartz, ou en tout micro-matériau réalisé selon les technologies « MEMS » ou « LIGA ».Preferably, such a one-piece assembly is made of silicon or / and silicon oxide, or DLC, or quartz, or any micro-material made using "MEMS" or "LIGA" technologies.
L'emploi de telles technologies facilite l'équipement avec des moyens de réglage, par exemple avec des zones crantées sur deux surfaces antagonistes d'un même composant monolithique, pour modifier leur position relative, et, par conséquent la position du centre de masse d'une partie mobile. On peut encore, pour effectuer un réglage, utiliser des moyens usuels pour un réglage sur un balancier d'horlogerie, tels que masses additionnelles pour augmenter l'inertie et baisser la fréquence, et/ou ajout de masses additionnelles de réglage (vis de réglage, masselottes excentriques) pour régler finement la fréquence ou la position du centre de masse, ou des moyens similaires.The use of such technologies facilitates the equipment with means of adjustment, for example with notched zones on two antagonistic surfaces of the same monolithic component, to modify their relative position, and consequently the position of the center of mass d a moving part. It is also possible, to carry out an adjustment, to use conventional means for adjustment on a clockwork balance, such as additional masses to increase the inertia and to lower the frequency, and / or to add additional masses of adjustment (adjusting screws eccentric flyweights) to finely adjust the frequency or position of the center of mass, or similar means.
Pour obtenir une fréquence plus basse de l'oscillateur, il est possible de rajouter de l'inertie, notamment par des masses métalliques, pivotées sur les masselottes ou sur les arcs, ou similaire, des parties mobiles, ou encore guidées en translation par rapport à ces éléments. Par exemple, et de façon non limitative, une masse métallique s'étendant dans la direction Y peut être guidée, ou même simplement fixée, au niveau de deux masselottes de la partie mobile symétriques par rapport à l'axe X.To obtain a lower frequency of the oscillator, it is possible to add inertia, in particular by metal masses, pivoted on the flyweights or on the arcs, or the like, moving parts, or guided in translation relative to to these elements. For example, and without limitation, a metal mass extending in the direction Y may be guided, or even simply fixed, at two weights of the movable portion symmetrical with respect to the axis X.
La confection d'un tel diapason en une pièce en silicium, ou similaire permet une réalisation très précise, et un excellent ajustement relatif du centre de masse de chaque partie mobile avec l'axe de pivotement virtuel considéré. Le guidage de chaque partie mobile 11, 12, est ainsi effectué par des lames croisées, qui sont fabriquées avec la technologie double couche des plaquettes en silicium. L'écartement entre les lames croisées peut, ainsi être réalisé avec une valeur très faible, ce qui assure un encombrement minimal. Par exemple l'enlèvement d'une couche d'oxyde formée entre deux couches correspond à un jeu de 4 micromètres, ce qui est suffisant pour assurer un fonctionnement correct sans frottement des lames l'une avec l'autre.The making of such a tuning fork into a silicon piece, or the like, allows a very precise realization, and an excellent relative adjustment of the center of mass of each mobile part with the virtual pivot axis considered. The guiding of each
Cette technologie permet la fabrication de lames très fines, ce qui permet d'abaisser la fréquence d'oscillation à une valeur très faible, de l'ordre de 40 Hz. Dans une réalisation particulière, les lames élastiques constituant lesdits éléments flexibles 31, 41, 32, 42, comportent une couche d'oxydation assurant une compensation thermique.This technology makes it possible to manufacture very thin blades, which makes it possible to lower the oscillation frequency to a very low value, of the order of 40 Hz. In a particular embodiment, the elastic strips constituting said
L'effet de levier des parties mobiles 11, 12, permet d'obtenir un déplacement des masselottes d'extrémité 111, 112, 121, 122, qui est suffisamment important pour associer à un tel oscillateur 200 ou au moins à un tel résonateur 100 un mécanisme d'échappement mécanique, tel que visible sur la
Dans une construction entièrement symétrique préférée, le mouvement symétrique des masselottes, et des centres de masse des deux parties mobiles 11, 12, au même point, ou du moins à proximité immédiate du même point, que le croisement des lames, permet de limiter au maximum le déplacement du centre de masse global du système complet, et donc les réactions sur le support.In a completely symmetrical construction preferred, the symmetrical movement of the weights, and centers of mass of the two moving
Dans une réalisation particulière, l'oscillateur 200 comporte des surfaces de butée 80, 91, 92, limitant le débattement de chaque partie mobile 11, 12, que comporte cet oscillateur 200. La tenue aux chocs les plus importants est ainsi assurée.In a particular embodiment, the
L'invention concerne encore un mouvement d'horlogerie 300 comportant une structure à laquelle est fixé un tel oscillateur 200, soit directement par son élément de liaison 2, soit par un support 5 auquel l'élément de liaison 2 est relié par une liaison élastique 60.The invention also relates to a
L'invention concerne encore une pièce d'horlogerie 400, notamment une montre, comportant au moins un tel mouvement 300.The invention also relates to a
Les figures détaillent certaines réalisations particulières, nullement limitatives.The figures detail some particular achievements, in no way limiting.
Les
La
La
La
D'autres variantes sont encore possibles, par exemple avec une partie mobile suspendue par une liaison de type RCC à quatre cols, ou similaire.Other variants are still possible, for example with a mobile part suspended by a four-neck RCC type connection, or the like.
La
La
The
Les
Cette liaison élastique entre l'élément de liaison 2 et le support 5 assure un bon amortissement anti-chocs.This elastic connection between the connecting
La
La
La
La
La
La
Les figures sont très schématiques, et illustrent représente un cas général où l'encastrement des lames croisées est oblique dans l'élément de liaison qui les porte. Une configuration avantageuse consiste à réaliser cet encastrement au niveau d'une surface qui est orthogonale à l'extrémité de chaque lame au niveau de son encastrement dans cet élément de liaison.The figures are very schematic, and illustrate represents a general case where the embedding of crossed blades is oblique in the connecting element which carries them. An advantageous configuration is to achieve this embedding at a surface that is orthogonal to the end of each blade at its embedding in this connecting element.
L'invention permet l'obtention d'un mécanisme monobloc, facile à installer, fiable, très reproductible, à haut facteur de qualité, présentant une consommation d'énergie faible, et assurant une bonne autonomie du mouvement.The invention provides a monobloc mechanism, easy to install, reliable, highly reproducible, high quality factor, with low energy consumption, and ensuring good autonomy of movement.
Claims (19)
- Timepiece oscillator (200) comprising a time base with at least one resonator (100) formed by a tuning fork, which includes at least two mobile oscillating parts (11; 12), said mobile parts (11; 12) being secured to a connection element (2), comprised in said oscillator (200), by flexible elements (31, 41; 32, 42) whose geometry determines a virtual pivot axis (O1; O2) having a determined position relative to said connection element (2), said respective mobile part (11; 12) oscillates about said virtual pivot axis (O1; O2), the centre of mass of the mobile part coincides in the rest position with said respective virtual pivot axis (O1; O2), characterized in that, for at least one said mobile part (11; 12), said flexible elements (31, 41; 32, 42) are formed of intersecting resilient strips extending at a distance from each other in two parallel planes, and whose directions, in projection on one of said parallel planes, intersect at said virtual pivot axis (O1; O2) of said mobile part (11; 12) concerned.
- Oscillator (200) according to claim 1, characterized in that said at least one resonator (100) comprises two said mobile parts (11, 12) whose centres of mass correspond to virtual pivot axes (O1, O2) aligned with a main centre (O) of said connection element (2).
- Oscillator (200) according to claim 2, characterized in that said two mobile parts (11, 12) are symmetrical with respect to an axis of symmetry passing through a main centre (O) of said connection element (2).
- Oscillator (200) according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that said connection element (2) couples the motions of said two mobile parts (11, 12) by elastic forces.
- Oscillator (200) according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that said connection element (2) couples said two mobile parts (11, 12) to ensure a symmetrical motion thereof with respect to said main centre (O).
- Oscillator (200) according to any of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that said connection element (2) is suspended by at least one resilient connection (60) from a support (5) arranged to be fixed on a structure of a timepiece movement (300).
- Oscillator (200) according to claim 6, characterized in that said resilient connection (60) is achieved by resilient strips (61, 62) whose directions converge towards said main centre (O) of said connection element (2).
- Oscillator (200) according to any of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that at least one said mobile part (11; 12) includes a substantially circular arc (110; 120) around said respective virtual pivot axis (O1; O2), said arc (110; 120) comprising an inertia block (111, 112; 121, 122) at each end thereof, and in that said flexible elements (31, 41; 32, 42) cooperate with said arc (110; 120).
- Oscillator (200) according to claim 8, characterized in that said resilient strips forming said flexible elements (31, 41; 32, 42) are less stiff than said arc (110; 120) and said inertia blocks (111, 112; 121, 122).
- Oscillator (200) according to any of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that said resilient strips forming said flexible elements (31,41; 32, 42) are in symmetrical pairs in projection with respect to an axis passing through said virtual pivot axis (O1; O2), and through a main centre (O) on said connection element (2).
- Oscillator (200) according to any of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that at least one said resonator (100) is a one-piece assembly comprising said connection element (2), at least one said mobile oscillating part (11; 12) and said resilient strips (31, 41; 32, 42) which connect said mobile part to said connection element (2).
- Oscillator (200) according to claim 11, characterized in that at least one said resonator (100) is a one-piece assembly comprising said connection element (2), and a plurality of said mobile oscillating parts (11; 12) each including said resilient strips (31, 41; 32, 42) which connect said mobile part to said connection element (2).
- Oscillator (200) according to any of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that said oscillator (200) is a one-piece assembly comprising said connection element (2) and a plurality of said resonators (100).
- Oscillator (200) according to any of claims 11 to 13, characterized in that said oscillator (200) is a one-piece assembly further comprising a support (5) arranged to be fixedly secured to the structure of a timepiece movement (300), and a resilient connection (60) connecting said support (5) to said connection element (2).
- Oscillator (200) according to any of claims 11 to 14, characterized in that said one-piece assembly is made of silicon and/or a silicon oxide, or diamond-like-carbon, or quartz.
- Oscillator (200) according to claim 15, characterized in that said resilient strips forming said flexible elements (31, 41; 32, 42) include an oxidation layer providing heat compensation.
- Oscillator (200) according to any of claims 1 to 16, characterized in that said oscillator (200) comprises stop surfaces (80; 91; 92) limiting the motion of each said mobile part (11; 12).
- Timepiece movement (300) comprising a structure to which is fixed a said oscillator (200) according to any of claims 1 to 17, either directly by said connection element (2) thereof, or by means of a support (5) to which said connection element (2) is connected by a resilient connection (60).
- Timepiece (400) or watch including at least one movement (300) according to claim 18.
Priority Applications (7)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
EP14199040.8A EP3035127B1 (en) | 2014-12-18 | 2014-12-18 | Clock oscillator with tuning fork |
CH01978/14A CH710537A2 (en) | 2014-12-18 | 2014-12-18 | Clock oscillator tuning fork. |
US14/958,373 US9477205B2 (en) | 2014-12-18 | 2015-12-03 | Tuning fork oscillator for timepieces |
JP2015244894A JP6225156B2 (en) | 2014-12-18 | 2015-12-16 | Tuning fork oscillator for timer |
CN201510954576.6A CN105717777B (en) | 2014-12-18 | 2015-12-17 | Fork generator for clock and watch |
RU2015154391A RU2629167C2 (en) | 2014-12-18 | 2015-12-17 | Tuning clock oscillator |
HK16114472A HK1226149B (en) | 2014-12-18 | 2016-12-20 | Tuning fork oscillator for timepieces |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
EP14199040.8A EP3035127B1 (en) | 2014-12-18 | 2014-12-18 | Clock oscillator with tuning fork |
Publications (2)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
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EP3035127A1 EP3035127A1 (en) | 2016-06-22 |
EP3035127B1 true EP3035127B1 (en) | 2017-08-23 |
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Family Applications (1)
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EP14199040.8A Active EP3035127B1 (en) | 2014-12-18 | 2014-12-18 | Clock oscillator with tuning fork |
Country Status (7)
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US (1) | US9477205B2 (en) |
EP (1) | EP3035127B1 (en) |
JP (1) | JP6225156B2 (en) |
CN (1) | CN105717777B (en) |
CH (1) | CH710537A2 (en) |
HK (1) | HK1226149B (en) |
RU (1) | RU2629167C2 (en) |
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-
2014
- 2014-12-18 CH CH01978/14A patent/CH710537A2/en not_active Application Discontinuation
- 2014-12-18 EP EP14199040.8A patent/EP3035127B1/en active Active
-
2015
- 2015-12-03 US US14/958,373 patent/US9477205B2/en active Active
- 2015-12-16 JP JP2015244894A patent/JP6225156B2/en active Active
- 2015-12-17 RU RU2015154391A patent/RU2629167C2/en not_active IP Right Cessation
- 2015-12-17 CN CN201510954576.6A patent/CN105717777B/en active Active
-
2016
- 2016-12-20 HK HK16114472A patent/HK1226149B/en unknown
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
HK1226149B (en) | 2017-09-22 |
CN105717777B (en) | 2018-04-17 |
US9477205B2 (en) | 2016-10-25 |
EP3035127A1 (en) | 2016-06-22 |
US20160179058A1 (en) | 2016-06-23 |
JP6225156B2 (en) | 2017-11-01 |
CN105717777A (en) | 2016-06-29 |
RU2015154391A (en) | 2017-06-22 |
CH710537A2 (en) | 2016-06-30 |
JP2016118548A (en) | 2016-06-30 |
RU2629167C2 (en) | 2017-08-24 |
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