EP3087435A2

EP3087435A2 - Device intended to control the angular speed of a train in a timepiece movement and including a magnetic escapement

Info

Publication number: EP3087435A2
Application number: EP14821180.8A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Gianni Di Domenico; Pascal Winkler
Original assignee: Swatch Group Research and Development SA
Current assignee: Swatch Group Research and Development SA
Priority date: 2013-12-23
Filing date: 2014-12-22
Publication date: 2016-11-02
Anticipated expiration: 2034-12-22
Also published as: EP3087435B1; US9715217B2; US20160357155A1; CN106030422B; CN106030422A; WO2015097172A2; WO2015097172A3

Abstract

The invention relates to a device for controlling the operation of a timepiece movement, which includes a magnetic escapement. Said device includes a resonator (90) and a magnetic escapement train (82) rotating about an axis (20). Said train includes at least one magnetic track (86) comprising a plurality of magnets (102) having an angular size greater than the radial size thereof. The resonator includes at least one magnetic element for coupling with the magnetic track. Said coupling element (92, 94) is radially extended relative to the rotational axis and has a contour comprising one portion that is substantially angularly oriented when the resonator is in the resting position thereof. When the escapement train is rotated, each magnet penetrates under the coupling element and gradually accumulates a certain magnetic potential energy. Then, said magnet comes out from under the coupling element via the abovementioned portion, and said coupling element receives a pulse located around the resting position of said coupling element.

Description

T he re ga rte d stan d ar y of the angular velocity of a mobi le in a horl oger movement including a m ag nized lo w

Technical field

The present invention relates to the field of devices regulating the relative angular velocity between a magnetic structure and a resonator magnetically coupled so as to define an oscillator together. The regulating device of the present invention paces the course of a mechanical clockwork movement. More particularly, the invention relates to magnetic escapements for mechanical watch movements in which there is provided a direct magnetic coupling between a resonator and a magnetic structure. In general, their function is to subject the rotational frequencies of the wheels of a counter wheel of such a watch movement to the resonance frequency of the resonator.

The regulator device thus comprises a resonator, an oscillating portion of which is provided with at least one magnetic coupling element, and a magnetic escapement arranged to control the relative angular velocity between a magnetic structure forming this magnetic escapement and this resonator. It replaces the sprung balance and the classic exhaust mechanism, including the exhaust with a Swiss-type anchor and a toothed escape wheel.

The resonator or the magnetic structure is integral in rotation with a mobile driven in rotation with a certain engine torque which maintains oscillation of the resonator. In general the mobile is incorporated in a cog or more generally a kinematic chain of a mechanism. This oscillation makes it possible to adjust the relative angular velocity between the magnetic structure and the resonator by virtue of the magnetic coupling between them. Technological background

The devices for regulating the speed of a wheel, also called a rotor, by a magnetic coupling, also called a magnetic coupling, between a resonator and a magnetic wheel have been known for many years in the watchmaking field. Several patents relating to this field have been issued to Horstmann Clifford Magnetics for C. F. Clifford's inventions. In particular, US Pat. No. 2,946,183 is mentioned. The control device described in this document has various drawbacks, in particular anisochronism problem (a non-isochronism, that is to say an absence of isochronism), namely a significant variation of the pulsation (angular velocity ) of the rotor as a function of the engine torque applied to this rotor. Such anisochronism results from an anisochronism of the oscillator formed by the resonator and the magnetic wheel. The reasons for this anisochronism were included in the context of the developments that led to the present invention. These reasons will emerge later on reading the description of the invention.

It is also known from Japanese Patent Application JPS 5240366 (Application No JP197501 1 6941) and Japanese Utility Models JPS 5245468U (Application No JP19750132614U) and JPS 5263453U (Application No JP19750149018U) magnetic exhausts with direct magnetic coupling between a resonator and a wheel formed by a disc. In the first two documents, it is intended to fill rectangular openings of a non-magnetic disk with a high magnetic permeability powder or magnetic material. Two coaxial and adjacent annular tracks are thus obtained, each comprising rectangular magnetic zones arranged regularly with a given angular period, the zones of the first track being offset or out of phase by half a period relative to the zones of the second track. We therefore have magnetic zones distributed alternately on one side and the other of a circle corresponding to the rest position (zero position) of the element or magnetic coupling member of the resonator. This element or coupling member is formed by an open loop, as the case magnetic material or high magnetic permeability, between the ends of which passes the disk rotated. The third document describes an alternative in which the magnetic zones of the disk are formed by individual plates of high magnetic permeability material, the magnetic coupling element of the resonator then being magnetized. The magnetic exhausts described in these Japanese documents do not significantly improve the isochronism, especially for reasons which are explained below using Figures 1 to 4.

In Figure 1 is shown schematically a regulator device or oscillator 2 of the prior art comprising a magnetic escapement of the type described in the Japanese documents mentioned above. This device comprises a magnetic structure 4 and a resonator 6. The magnetic structure is supported by a mobile 8 of non-magnetic material on the surface of which are arranged two pluralities of rectangular magnets with axial magnetization, the first and second pluralities of magnets 10 and 12 respectively forming first and second annular magnetic tracks 11 and 13 which are adjacent and concentric. Each of the two plurality of magnets has the same number of magnets angularly distributed regularly and defining the same angular period Θ _Ρ , the first track being out of phase by half a period (corresponding to a phase shift of 180 °). The resonator 6 is represented symbolically by a spring 15, corresponding to its elastic deformation capacity defined by an elastic constant, and by an inertia 16 (symbol T) defined by its mass and its structure. This resonator comprises a magnet 18 having a rectangular shape and defining a coupling element to the magnetic structure. This magnet has an axial magnetization of direction opposite to that of the magnets 10 and 12, so that it is arranged in repulsion of these. It is able to oscillate with a natural frequency in a resonance mode where it has a radial oscillation relative to the axis of rotation of the mobile 8 which coincides with the central axis of the annular magnetic structure. This resonance mode is excited and maintained when the magnetic structure 4 is rotated by a motor torque in a range of useful torque, for example counterclockwise to the angular velocity ω as shown in Figure 1. For this purpose, the magnet 1 8 is located above the mobile 8 so that its center of mass is axially superimposed on an intermediate geometric circle defining a common boundary or interface of the two concentric annular tracks and contiguous when the resonator is in his rest position.

As the magnets 10 and 12 form zones of magnetic interaction with the magnet 1 8 of the resonator and they are located alternately on one side and the other of the aforementioned intermediate geometrical circle, they define a sinuous magnetic path ( sinusoidal) with a determined angular period Θ _Ρ , which corresponds to the angular period of each of the first and second annular tracks 1 1 and 13. When the resonator is magnetically coupled to the magnetic structure driven in rotation, the magnet 18 oscillates in the following this sinuous magnetic path and the angular velocity ω of the wheel is defined substantially by the oscillation frequency of the resonator. There is thus a synchronization between the frequency of the resonator and the rotation or pulsation frequency of the mobile 8. By synchronization, here comprises a fixed and constant relationship between two frequencies. Note the geometric shape of the magnet 18, the active end portion (shown in Figure 1) defines, in axial projection in the general geometric plane of the magnetic structure, a rectangular surface. In other words, this active end portion has a general and average outer contour or profile, in a plane parallel to that of the magnetic structure, which is substantially rectangular. In this embodiment of the prior art, the length of said rectangular surface is radial while its width, less than the length, is angular relative to the central axis of the annular or tangential magnetic structure relative to the aforementioned intermediate geometric circle. In the example described here, this length is approximately equal to twice the width.

In Figure 2 is shown schematically, for a portion of the magnetic structure 4 and a radial range corresponding to the width of the two magnetic tracks 1 1 and 13, the magnetic potential energy (also called potential energy of magnetic interaction) of the oscillator 2 which varies angularly and radially. The contour lines 22 correspond to different levels of the magnetic potential energy. They define equipotential curves. The magnetic potential energy of the oscillator at a given point corresponds to a state of the oscillator when the magnetic coupling element of the resonator is in a given position (its center of mass or geometry being situated at this given point) . It is set to a constant. In general, the magnetic potential energy is defined relative to a reference energy which corresponds to the minimum potential energy of the oscillator. In the absence of dissipative force, this potential energy corresponds to the work necessary to bring the magnet from a position of minimum energy to a given position. In the case of the oscillator considered, this work is provided by the motor torque applied to the mobile 8. The potential energy accumulated in the oscillator is transferred to the resonator when the resonator coupling member returns to an energy position. less potential, in particular minimum potential energy, by a radial movement relative to the axis of rotation of the moving body (that is to say according to the degree of freedom of the useful resonance mode). In the absence of dissipative force, this potential energy is transformed into kinetic energy and elastic energy in the resonator by the work of the magnetic force between the coupling element of the resonator and the magnetic structure. This is how the engine torque supplied to the wheel serves to maintain the oscillation of the resonator which in turn brakes the wheel by adjusting its angular velocity.

The outer annular track 1 1 defines an alternation of areas of low potential energy 24 and areas of high potential energy 26 while the inner annular track 13 defines, with an angular offset of one half-angular period Θ _Ρ / 2 relative to the first track (i.e., a 180 ° phase shift), alternating zones of low potential energy 28 and high potential energy zones 30. The trace 32 gives the position of the center of the magnet 18 when the oscillator 2 is excited and the mobile 8 is rotated with a certain motor torque. This plot is a representation of the oscillation of the magnet of the resonator 6 in a frame linked to the mobile. Since this magnet is in repulsion of the magnets of the magnetic structure 4, the zones of low potential energy correspond to the zones between the magnets of the magnetic structure whereas the zones of high potential energy correspond to the zones of these magnets, it is that is, in situations where the magnet 18 is at least partially superimposed on the magnets of the magnetic structure. Note that in the case where the magnets are arranged in attraction, alternatively in the case where the magnetic structure or the coupling member of the resonator is ferromagnetic material, there is a spatial inversion between the low potential energy zones and the areas of high potential energy relative to the case of magnets in repulsion.

By observing the contour lines 22 of the magnetic potential energy and the oscillation 32, it is noted that the oscillator accumulates magnetic potential energy at each alternation of the oscillation essentially when the magnet 18 has reached its maximum amplitude. and that he begins to return to his zero position. We also note that the potential energy of the oscillator decreases over a large part of each alternation. The force F exerted on the magnet of the resonator is given by the gradient of the magnetic potential energy, which is perpendicular to the contour lines 22. The angular component (degree of freedom of the magnetic structure) works by reaction on the wheel while the radial component (degree of freedom of the resonator) works on the coupling member of the resonator. The angular force corresponds on average to a mobile braking force because the angular reaction force is mainly opposed to the direction of rotation of the mobile over a period of oscillation. The radial force corresponds to a thrust force on the oscillating structure of the resonator. It is observed that the force F (see FIG. 2) has a radial component over a large distance between the extrema of the oscillation 32. A thrust force therefore acts on the magnet of the resonator for the greater part of each alternation.

When analyzing the potential energy curves 22 and studying the behavior of the oscillator considered here as a function of the engine torque applied to the wheel, there are at least two major disadvantages of such a regulating device. First, the range of values for the engine torque is reduced and secondly the regulating device has a significant anisochronism. This anisochronism is in the prior art so important that it is not possible to produce a watch movement having a suitable operating range, that is to say with acceptable accuracy.

Summary of the invention

In the context of the present invention, after having noted the problems of anisochronism and limited operating range in the aforementioned known regulatory devices, the inventors have set themselves the goal of understanding the reasons and providing a solution to the problem. these problems.

Reflections on the problems of the prior art and various research carried out have identified causes for these problems. The problem of anisochronism and also that of the useful range of limited motor torque are due in particular to the fact that a thrust force is exerted on the magnet of the resonator over a relatively large radial distance between the positions corresponding to the extrema of its oscillation. Thus, the resonator is disturbed because a thrust force is applied to its oscillating member out of a zone located around its zero position (rest position corresponding to a minimum elastic energy, generally zero, in the resonator). Indeed, only pulses located at the zero position of the oscillating member do not disturb the oscillator. The inventors have thus found that a thrust force on a relatively wide path out of a zone located around the zero position disturbs the oscillator; which varies its frequency as a function of the torque supplied, and thus of the amplitude of oscillation, and is therefore a source of anisochronism.

To solve the anisochronism problem identified while allowing an efficient and stable operation of the oscillator over a relatively large torque range, the present invention proposes a device regulating the relative angular velocity between a magnetic structure and a resonator, magnetically coupled. so as to define together an oscillator forming this regulating device, as defined in claim 1 for a first main embodiment and claim 1 1 for a second main embodiment.

In a general manner, according to a first main embodiment, the regulating device according to the invention determines the relative angular velocity between a magnetically coupled magnetic structure and a resonator so as to define together an oscillator forming this regulating device, the magnetic structure comprising at least one less an annular magnetic track centered on the axis of rotation of this magnetic structure or the resonator. The magnetic structure and the resonator are arranged to rotate relative to one another about the axis of rotation when a driving torque is applied to the structure magnetic or resonator. The resonator comprises at least one magnetic coupling element to the annular magnetic track, this coupling element having an active end portion formed of a first magnetic material and located on the side of this magnetic strip, the latter being formed at least partially a second magnetic material arranged so that the magnetic potential energy of the oscillator angularly varies periodically along the magnetic track, thereby defining an angular period (Θ _Ρ ) of this magnetic track, and that it defines magnetically first zones and second zones angularly alternated with a first zone and a second adjacent zone in each angular period.

Each second zone generates, relative to a first adjacent zone, an upper repulsion force or a lower attraction force for the same zone of said active end portion when this same zone is superimposed, in orthogonal projection to a surface general geometry in which the annular magnetic track extends to this second zone, respectively to this first adjacent zone. The magnetic coupling element is magnetically coupled to the magnetic track so that a degree of freedom oscillation of a resonance mode of the resonator is maintained within a useful range of the motor torque applied to the magnetic structure or the resonator and that a period of this oscillation occurs during said relative rotation in each angular period of the annular magnetic track, the frequency of the oscillation thereby determining the relative angular velocity. The degree of freedom defines an axis of oscillation of the active end portion passing through its center of mass.

The resonator is arranged relatively to the magnetic structure so that the active end portion is at least substantially superimposed, in projection orthogonal to the general geometric surface, to this annular magnetic strip during substantially a first time. alternating in each period of said oscillation, and so that the path of the magnetic coupling element during this first half cycle is substantially parallel to the general geometrical surface. The annular magnetic track has in this general geometrical surface a dimension according to the orthogonal projection of the oscillation axis which is greater than the dimension of the active end portion along this axis of oscillation. It will be noted that the oscillation axis may be rectilinear or curvilinear.

The regulating device according to the first main embodiment is particularly distinguished by the combination of the following characteristics:

each of the second zones has, in orthogonal projection in the general geometrical surface of the annular magnetic strip, a general contour with a first portion, defining a penetration line above this second zone for the active end portion of the annular magnetic strip. magnetic coupling element during said oscillation, and a second portion defining an output line from above said second zone for said active end portion during said oscillation;

the output line is oriented substantially in an angular direction parallel to a circle of zero position centered on the axis of rotation and passing through the orthogonal projection, in the general geometrical surface, of the center of mass of the active end portion; in the rest position of the coupling element;

the magnetic structure further defines, for the active end portion, at least one output zone which extends in the general geometrical surface, this at least one output zone receiving, in projection orthogonal to this general geometrical surface, at least the major part of the active end portion when it emerges, during said oscillation, successively from the annular magnetic track by the respective output lines of the second zones, this at least one output zone generating, relative to the second zones, a repulsive force lower or a higher attraction force for the same area of the active end portion when this same area is superimposed, orthogonal projection to the general geometric surface, to this at least one exit zone, respectively to these second areas;

the active end portion of the coupling element in its rest position has, in orthogonal projection in the general geometrical surface, a first dimension, along an axis perpendicular to the zero position circle and passing through the orthogonal projection of the center a mass of this active end portion, and a second dimension, along a second axis defined by the zero position circle, which is greater than this first dimension; and

the output line of each of the second zones has a length along said at least one output zone and along said second axis, which is greater than the first dimension of the active end portion.

It should be noted that the first zones in a repulsive magnetic coupling or the second zones in magnetic attraction coupling may be formed by a non-magnetic material or air. By 'magnetic material' is meant a material having a magnetic property generating an external magnetic field (magnet) or a good conductor of the magnetic flux (in particular a material having a high magnetic permeability, for example a ferromagnetic material). By "active end portion", it is understood the end portion of the coupling element, located on the side of the magnetic structure in question, through which passes most of the coupling magnetic flux between this coupling element and the magnetic structure.

According to a first variant, the second dimension of the active end portion is at least twice as large as its first dimension. According to a second variant, the dimension of each of the second zones, along an axis perpendicular to said position circle zero at a midpoint of its output line, is at least three times larger than the first dimension of the active end portion. According to a preferred variant, the output line of each second zone is substantially coincident with the zero position circle.

When it is indicated a projection in a surface, a superposition (in particular 'above', 'below', 'opposite' or 'facing') or the expression 'in projection' or 'in orthogonal projection', an orthogonal projection in the surface in question, an orthogonal projection superposition to a geometrical surface considered in the context or mentioned above, or an orthogonal projection to such a geometrical surface, respectively. This is to be considered hereinafter in the present description and in particular in the claims.

The invention also relates, according to a second embodiment of

Main embodiment, a regulating device which determines the relative angular velocity between a magnetic structure and a magnetically coupled resonator so as to define together an oscillator forming this regulating device, the magnetic structure comprising at least one annular magnetic track centered on an axis of rotation of this structure

The magnetic structure and the resonator are arranged to rotate relative to one another about said axis of rotation when a driving torque is applied to the magnetic structure or the resonator. The resonator comprises at least one magnetic coupling element to the annular magnetic track, this

Coupling member having an active end portion formed of a first magnetic material and located on the side of the annular magnetic strip. This annular magnetic strip is formed at least partially of a second magnetic material arranged so that the magnetic potential energy of the oscillator varies angularly from

Periodically along the annular magnetic track, defining and an angular period (Θ _Ρ ) of this annular magnetic strip. The magnetic coupling element is magnetically coupled to the annular magnetic track so that a degree of freedom oscillation of a resonance mode of the resonator is maintained within a useful range of the motor torque applied to the magnetic structure or the resonator and that a period of this oscillation occurs during said relative rotation in each angular period of the annular magnetic track, the frequency of the oscillation thus determining the relative angular velocity. The degree of freedom defines an axis of oscillation of the active end portion passing through its center of mass.

The regulating device according to the second main embodiment is particularly distinguished by the combination of the following characteristics:

the second magnetic material is arranged along the annular magnetic strip so that it magnetically defines first zones and second zones that are angularly alternating with a first zone and a second zone adjacent in each angular period;

in the useful range of the driving torque, the active end portion of the magnetic coupling element defines magnetically, in a general geometrical surface in which this active end portion extends and including the oscillation axis. , firstly an input zone successively for the second zones orthogonal projection to the general geometric surface, then a magnetic potential energy accumulation zone in the oscillator, which is angularly adjacent to the input zone and in which orthogonally projects at least partially each second zone from this input zone, and finally an output zone adjacent to the magnetic potential energy accumulation zone, this output zone receiving in orthogonal projection at least the major part of each second zone leaving this accumulation zone or a second following zone;

each second zone generates, by unit of angular length, relative to a first adjacent zone, a repulsive force

Upper for the magnetic potential energy accumulation zone or a higher attraction force for the entry zone and the exit zone;

the zone of accumulation of magnetic potential energy generates, relative to the entry zone and the exit zone, an upper repulsion force or a lower attraction force for the same zone of each second zone when this the same arbitrary zone is superimposed on this magnetic potential energy accumulation zone, respectively at the entry zone or at the exit zone;

the annular magnetic strip has, in orthogonal projection in the general geometrical surface, a dimension along the axis of oscillation which is smaller than the dimension along this axis of oscillation of the active end portion;

the resonator is arranged relative to the magnetic structure so that the magnetic potential energy accumulation zone is

Crossing in orthogonal projection by a median geometric circle, passing through the middle of the annular magnetic track, during substantially a given alternation in each period of said oscillation;

the magnetic potential energy accumulation zone has a general outline with a first portion defining a line of

Penetrating below this accumulation zone successively for each of the second zones during said oscillation, and a second portion defining an exit line from below this accumulation zone for this second zone or a second following zone during this oscillation;

The output line is oriented, when the magnetic coupling element is in its rest position, substantially in one direction angular parallel to the orthogonal projection of the median geometric circle of the annular magnetic strip;

each of the second zones has orthogonal projection, when the center of this second zone is superimposed on the axis of oscillation, a first dimension, along a first axis perpendicular to the orthogonal projection of the median geometric circle and passing through the point d intersecting this orthogonal projection of the median geometric circle with the axis of oscillation, and a second dimension, along a second axis perpendicular to the first axis and passing through the aforementioned intersection point, which is greater than the first dimension; and

when the magnetic coupling element is in its rest position, the output line has a length, along the exit zone and along the aforementioned second axis, which is greater than the first dimension of the second zones.

It will be noted that either the magnetic potential energy accumulation zone in a magnetic attraction coupling, or the input zone and the output zone in a magnetic repulsion coupling can be defined by a non-magnetic material integral with the magnetic coupling. coupling element or correspond to regions with air at the periphery of the active end portion of the coupling element. Then, it will also be noted that the first zones (repulsion coupling) or the second zones (attraction coupling) may be formed by a non-magnetic material or air.

A "general contour of a zone", when this zone is entirely delimited, is understood to mean an average line defining the general profile of its periphery or, when this zone is open and thus only partially delimited, an average line defining the general profile of the zone. the limit of this zone relative to the magnetic coupling element considered.

According to a preferred variant, the output line of the magnetic potential energy accumulation zone is substantially confused, in projection orthogonal to the general geometric surface, with the median geometric circle when the coupling element is in its rest position.

According to a first variant, the second dimension of each second zone is at least twice as large as its first dimension. According to a second variant, the length of the penetration line of the magnetic potential energy accumulation zone along the axis of oscillation is at least five times greater than the dimension of the annular magnetic strip along the axis of oscillation. this axis of oscillation io in orthogonal projection in the general geometric surface.

According to a first main variant, the general geometric surface is a plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation, the degree of freedom being substantially parallel to this plane. According to a second main variant, the general geometric surface is a cylindrical surface 15 having as central axis the axis of rotation, the degree of freedom being substantially oriented along this axis of rotation.

According to a particular embodiment, the regulator device forms an oscillator with a cylinder escapement of the magnetic type. In general, this regulating device is characterized in that

The active end portion of the coupling member is substantially formed by a truncated cylindrical tube section and having a central axis coincident with an axis of rotation of the resonator, the degree of freedom of the resonator being angular and the axis of circular oscillation. This section of truncated cylindrical tube defines in the general geometric surface a

Truncated annular surface, corresponding to said magnetic potential energy accumulation zone successively in the two half cycles of each oscillation period. This truncated annular surface has a first end and a second end, and an outer contour defining a first circular penetration line and a

Inner contour defining a second line of circular penetration. The first end defines a first output line, and the second end defines a second output line having characteristics similar to the first output line. The outer contour is associated with the first output line in a first alternation of the oscillation periods of the resonator to successively ensure the magnetic coupling with the second zones of the magnetic track and generate a first pulse at the end of each first alternation, then that the inner contour is associated with the second output line to successively ensure the magnetic coupling with these second zones in the second alternation of oscillation periods and generate a second pulse at the end of each second alternation.

Other particular features of the invention will be described below in the detailed description of various embodiments and variants of the invention.

Brief description of the drawings

The invention will be described hereinafter with the aid of annexed drawings, given by way of non-limiting examples, in which:

- Figure 1, already described, is a plan view of a clock oscillator of the prior art;

FIG. 2, already described, represents the magnetic potential energy in the oscillator of FIG. 1;

- Figures 3 and 3A are schematic plan views of a first main embodiment of the invention;

- Figures 5 and 5A are schematic plan views of a first variant of the first main embodiment;

- Figure 7 is a schematic plan view of a second main embodiment of the invention;

Figures 4, 6 and 8 show the magnetic potential energy respectively in the oscillators of Figures 3, 5 and 7; FIG. 9 is a simplified representation of the oscillator of FIG. 7, for the explanation of the operation of the second main embodiment;

FIG. 10 shows a succession of relative positions between the resonator and an annular magnetic track during an oscillation period for the oscillator of FIG. 7;

- Figures 1 1 and 1 1 A show a first variant of the second main embodiment with a magnetic coupling attraction;

Figure 12 partially shows a second variant of the second main embodiment, and Figure 12A gives a simplified alternative;

Figure 13 shows in part a third variant of the second main embodiment;

- Figure 14 shows schematically an alternative to Figure 13 with a resonator-type sprung balance;

- Figure 15 shows schematically a third embodiment of the invention;

- Figure 16 shows schematically a fourth embodiment of the invention;

- Figure 17 shows schematically a fifth embodiment of the invention;

Figure 18 is a sectional view of Figure 17;

- Figure 19 shows schematically a sixth embodiment of the invention;

Figure 20 is a sectional view of Figure 19;

- Figure 21 shows schematically a seventh embodiment of the invention;

- Figure 22 schematically shows an alternative to Figure 21 in a configuration corresponding to the second main embodiment; - Figures 23 schematically shows an eighth embodiment of the invention;

- Figure 24 schematically shows a ninth embodiment of the invention;

25A to 25D schematically show a tenth embodiment of the invention in respectively four different relative positions of the resonator and the escape wheel;

- Figure 26 is an advantageous variant of the tenth embodiment;

- Figure 27 shows schematically an eleventh embodiment of the invention.

Detailed description of the invention

With the help of Figures 3 to 6, will be described below a first main embodiment of the invention. The regulating device 36 of FIG. 3 determines the relative angular velocity ω between the magnetic structure 4 and a resonator 38 which are coupled magnetically so as to define together a clock oscillator forming this regulating device. The magnetic structure 4 is integral with a rotational axis mobile 20. It is similar to the magnetic structure of FIG. 1 and comprises a first annular magnetic track and a second annular magnetic track centered on the axis of rotation 20 and contiguous. The magnetic structure and the resonator are arranged to rotate relative to one another when a driving torque is applied to the magnetic structure or the resonator. In the example shown, the resonator is integral with the watch movement while the magnetic structure is pivotally arranged and defines a magnetic escape wheel. The resonator comprises a coupling element magnetically coupled to the annular magnetic tracks 1 1 and 1 3, this coupling element having an active end portion 46 formed of a first magnetic material and located on the side of said magnetic structure. Each magnetic track is formed partially of a second magnetic material arranged so that the magnetic potential energy of the oscillator angularly varies periodically along this annular magnetic track, thereby defining the same angular period (Θ _Ρ ) for the two magnetic tracks.

More particularly, each magnetic strip is formed of first zones 40, 42 respectively and second zones 10, respectively 12 which are angularly alternating with a first zone and a second zone adjacent in each angular period. Generally, each second zone generates, relative to a first adjacent zone, an upper repulsion force (in the case of a magnetic coupling in repulsion between the end portion 46 and the magnetic tracks 1 1 and 13, as shown in FIG. is the case in the examples of

Figures 3 to 6) or a lower attraction force (in the case of magnetic attraction coupling in a variant where either the coupled magnets are arranged in attraction or the active end portion or the magnetic tracks is / are formed of a high magnetic permeability material without a magnetic flux generator) for the same area

20 any 50 of the active end portion 46 when the same any one area is superimposed, orthogonal projection to a general geometric surface in which extends the annular magnetic track, to this second zone, respectively to this first adjacent zone. The general geometrical surface is here a general plan of the structure

25 in the variant of FIG. 3, the second zones 1 0 and 1 2 are rectangular and the first zones have a trapezoidal shape.

The magnetic coupling element is magnetically coupled to each annular magnetic strip, via the active end portion 46, so that a degree of freedom oscillation of a resonance of the resonator is maintained in a useful range of the motor torque applied to the magnetic structure or the resonator and that a period of this oscillation occurs during the relative rotation between the resonator and the magnetic structure in each angular period Θ _Ρ of each track annular magnetic. The frequency of this oscillation thus determines the relative angular velocity ω. The degree of freedom is linear in the schematic examples of FIGS. 3 and 5, and defines an oscillation axis 48 of the active end portion 46 passing through the center of mass of this active end portion. This axis of oscillation here has a radial direction relative to the axis of rotation 20. It will be noted that when the degree of freedom follows a curve, in particular when this degree of freedom is a rotation about a given axis, the axis of oscillation is curvilinear, in particular circular. The first main embodiment is characterized in that the annular magnetic tracks each have a dimension according to the degree of freedom, that is to say along an orthogonal projection of the oscillation axis 48 in the general plane of the magnetic tracks, which is greater than the dimension of the active end portion 46 according to this degree of freedom, that is to say along the axis of oscillation.

Each of the second zones 10, 12 of each annular magnetic strip has, in orthogonal projection, a general outline with a first portion, defining a penetration line 10a, 12a above this second zone for the active end portion 46 coming out of the first adjacent zone 40, 42 during the oscillation of this active end portion, and a second portion defining an output line 10b, 12b of this second zone for at least a major part of this passing active end portion; directly from this second zone to an exit zone 42, 40 during this oscillation. This exit zone is defined by the magnetic structure and extends in the general plane of the magnetic tracks. In the examples given in the figures with two magnetic tracks in the general geometric surface, the input zones 40, 42 of a magnetic strip, defined by the first areas of this track, correspond to the output areas for the other magnetic track. In one embodiment with a single magnetic track coupled to the active end portion 46, there can be a single annular exit area for all of the second areas. Thus, there is at least one output zone receiving in orthogonal projection the active end portion when it leaves during the oscillation of this active end portion, successively of an annular magnetic strip by the respective output lines. of its second zones.

In general, the exit zones or the annular exit zone are arranged so as to generate, in relation to the second zones, a lower repulsion force or a greater attraction force for the same zone 50 of any the active end portion when this same area is superimposed in projection orthogonal to these / this area (s) output respectively to these second areas. This condition is fulfilled when both the input areas and the output areas are defined by the first areas of the two magnetic tracks coupled to the active end portion, as is the case in Figures 3 and 5.

According to the invention, each output line is oriented substantially in an angular direction parallel to a zero position circle 44 which is centered on the axis of rotation 20 and passes through a projection of the center of mass of the active end portion. 46 in the general geometrical surface when this active end portion is in its rest position (position in which the elastic energy of the resonator is minimal and around which it oscillates). In Figure 3A is shown the orthogonal projection 54 of the active end portion in its rest position. As mentioned, the angular direction substantially gives the orientation of the exit line of each second zone; which includes in particular the directions tangential to the zero position circle 44 for the portion of this circle situated in an angular sector defined by this second zone. In the variant of Figure 3, the output line is parallel to the tangent to the circle 44 at the point of intersection with a radial line passing through the middle of this output line.

The active end portion 46 of the coupling member in its rest position has, in orthogonal projection in the general plane of the magnetic tracks, a first dimension W2 along a first axis in this general plane which is perpendicular to the circle of zero position 44 and passes through the orthogonal projection of the center of mass of this active end portion. In the variants shown in FIGS. 3 and 5, this first axis is rectilinear and coincides with an orthogonal projection of the axis of oscillation 48 in the general plane, and it has a radial direction relative to the axis of rotation 20. Then, the orthogonal projection of the active end portion 46 has a second dimension L2, along a second axis defined by the zero position circle, which is greater than the

First dimension W2. Here we understand a dimension along a circular axis coincident with the zero position circle or along a straight axis tangent to this circle at the point of intersection with the orthogonal projection of the axis of oscillation, that is to say at point determined by the orthogonal projection of the center of mass of Part 46, and perpendicular to

20 first axis. In addition, the exit line of each of the second zones 10, 12 has a length L1, along said at least one exit zone and along the second axis defined by the zero position circle, which is greater than the first dimension W2 of the active end portion 46. In the case of the circular axis, the angular position of the second zone

25 considered is irrelevant. On the other hand, if the tangential axis is chosen, the length L1 of a second zone is measured along this tangential axis when the middle of this length is positioned on the first axis. In a particular variant, the second dimension L2 of the active end portion is at least twice as large as its first dimension W2 and

The length L1 of the exit line is at least twice as large as this first dimension W2. In the example of Figure 3, the length-to-width ratio of the end portion 46 is approximately equal to three.

The resonator is arranged relative to the magnetic structure so that the active end portion is at least substantially superimposed on this annular magnetic strip during substantially a first half cycle in each period of oscillation of this active end portion, and in such a way that the path of the magnetic coupling element during this first alternation is substantially parallel to the general geometrical surface. It can be considered that this condition is generally satisfied when the orthogonal projection zone 54 of the active end portion according to the invention, in its rest position, is crossed by the inner circle of the outer magnetic strip 1 1 and the circle external of the inner magnetic strip 13. It will be noted that these two circles coincide when the two magnetic tracks are contiguous, as is substantially the case in the preferred embodiments of the invention. They then define an interface circle of the two tracks. Preferably, the zero position circle 44 is substantially coincident with the interface circle of the two magnetic tracks.

In a preferred variant, the output line of each second zone 10, 12 is substantially coincident with the zero position circle, as is the case in the variants of FIGS. 3 and 5. In another variant where the two magnetic tracks are remote and separated by an intermediate zone formed by a homogeneous magnetic medium, the zero position circle is located between these two tracks, preferably substantially in the middle of the intermediate zone. Such an intermediate zone, which will be kept small for various reasons, may be useful to ensure easy startup of the oscillator. A first reason relates to the small dimension provided for the active end portion of the coupling element along the axis of oscillation, since it is necessary to avoid that the oscillator turns 'empty' with this part. active end portion remaining substantially on the zero position circle. Another reason is an objective of the present invention, namely to obtain localized pulses which are close and preferably substantially centered on the zero position circle. The condition discussed here is also verified as long as the width of the intermediate zone is much smaller than the width of each magnetic strip; which is the case in the context of the invention.

According to a preferred variant, the zero position circle 44 and the oscillation axis 48 are, in orthogonal projection to the general geometric surface, substantially orthogonal to their point of intersection. This is the case in the variants shown in Figures 3 and 5.

According to another variant, the dimension W1 of each of the second zones, along an axis perpendicular to the circle of zero position at a midpoint of its output line, is at least three times larger than the first dimension W2 of the part of active end. In another preferred embodiment, this dimension of the second zones is at least six times larger than the first dimension of the active end portion.

The variant of FIGS. 5 and 5A differs from that of FIG. 3 firstly in that the second zones 10A and 12A as well as the first zones 40A and 42A of the annular tracks 11A and 13A define annular sectors. It will be noted that, in the variant of FIG. 5, the zero position circle 44 coincides, in orthogonal projection in the general plane of the magnetic structure 4A, with the output lines 1 0b, 12b. These output lines therefore have an angular direction and the penetration lines 10a, 12a are radial. Then, the variant of Figure 5 is distinguished by the dimensions W2 and L2 of the active end portion 46A of the coupling element of the resonator 38A. In a preferred variant, the second dimension L2 of the active end portion is at least four times larger than its first dimension W2 and the length L1 of the output line is at least four times larger. than this first dimension. In the variant of Figure 5, the length-to-width ratio of the end portion 46A is approximately equal to five.

In FIG. 5, the penetration line 10a, 12a of each second zone is oriented along the oscillation axis 48, projected orthogonally in the general plane of the magnetic tracks, when this line of penetration is aligned with the center of mass of the the active end portion 46A projected orthogonally in this general plane. In the variant of Figure 3, this is substantially the case. It will also be noted that the output line of the second zones, along the output zones defined by the second zones of the other magnetic track, and the active end portion extend angularly over half of an angular period θ _Ρ / 2 in Figure 5, and this is approximately the case in Figure 3.

In the embodiments described above, the degree of freedom of the resonator is entirely in a plane parallel to the general plane of the magnetic tracks and therefore of the magnetic structure. Thus, the entire path taken by the magnetic coupling element during its oscillation is, in these variants, parallel to the general plane of the magnetic structure. Note that other arrangements are possible, for example magnetic tracks whose general geometric surface is cylindrical or frustoconical. Generally, the path of the oscillating element is substantially parallel to the general geometrical surface defined by the magnetic structure. However, it will be noted that this path, and therefore the axis of oscillation, may deviate somewhat from a surface parallel to the general geometrical surface, particularly at the end points of the oscillation, and all the more so that the amplitude is large. Such a situation occurs for example when the coupling element of the resonator oscillates in a substantially circular path with an axis of rotation parallel to the general plane of the magnetic structure. In such a case, it is preferably provided that the direction defined by the degree of freedom of the coupling element in its rest position is parallel to a plane tangent to said general geometrical surface at a point corresponding to the orthogonal projection of the center of mass of the active end portion of the coupling element in its rest position.

FIG. 4 shows, in a manner similar to FIG. 2, the magnetic potential energy of the oscillator as a function of the relative position of the active end portion 46 and of the magnetic structure 4, in particular of each of its two magnetic tracks. This relative position is defined by the relative angular position in a reference frame linked to the magnetic tracks and by the position of the end portion along the oscillation axis 48. The equipotential lines 60 are given for relative positions corresponding to the two magnetic tracks. A great difference is easily observed with the distribution of the magnetic potential energy of FIG. 2. For each of the magnetic tracks, there is between each zone of low potential energy 62, 66 and a next high potential energy zone 64, 68 a sector 70, 72 magnetic potential energy accumulation in the oscillator, this sector being well defined and extending angularly over a relatively large range, namely about half a period for the inner magnetic track 13 and a little less for the outer magnetic track 1 1 of larger diameter. These sectors 70 and 72 respectively define two annular zones ZA1 and ZA2 of magnetic potential energy accumulation in which the equipotential curves are substantially radial. Thus, in these two annular zones, the force is essentially tangential and therefore corresponds to a braking force for the magnetic structure 4. On the other hand, in these annular zones ZA1 and ZA2, the force exerted on the coupling element according to its degree freedom is low or almost zero.

Then, it is observed that the equipotential lines 60 become substantially angular in a central zone ZC inside which the coupling member of the resonator receives a pulse along the axis oscillation. The plot of an oscillation 74 of the active end portion 46 is represented in a frame of reference related to the magnetic structure. Following this pattern, it is observed that most of the time the oscillation is substantially free and a pulse is provided at each alternation in the central zone of pulses ZC. This central zone ZC is situated between the two annular zones ZA1 and ZA2 and it comprises the zero position circle 44, more exactly the relative positions corresponding to this zero position circle which is located substantially in the middle of this central zone ZC. Thus, the pulses are generated around the rest position of the active end portion. The observations relating to the magnetic potential energy in the oscillator make it possible to understand that the regulating device according to the invention significantly solves the problem related to the anisochronism of the devices of the prior art.

In general, in the useful range of the motor torque applied to the clock oscillator of the invention, each annular magnetic strip, at least one output zone described above and the magnetic coupling element define in each angular period, depending the relative position of this annular magnetic strip and the active end portion (in a reference linked to the magnetic strip), an accumulation sector 70, 72 in which the oscillator essentially accumulates magnetic potential energy and a pulse sector 76, adjacent to this accumulation sector, in which the magnetic coupling element essentially receives a pulse, the pulse sectors being located in a central zone of pulses ZC comprising the zero position circle 44 Thus, by 'accumulation sector' is meant a sector in which the magnetic potential energy in the oscillator increases for the various oscillation amplitudes in the effective range of the engine torque and where the radial force is small or negligible; and by 'pulse sector' is understood a sector in which this magnetic potential energy decreases for the various amplitudes of oscillation of the useful range of the driving torque and where a thrust force is exerted on the drive member. coupling of the resonator according to its degree of freedom, generating a pulse supplied to this coupling member.

In general, the magnetic structure is arranged so that the average angular gradient of the magnetic potential energy of the oscillator in the sectors of magnetic potential energy accumulation is lower than the average gradient of this magnetic potential energy in the sectors. pulse according to the degree of freedom of the coupling element of the resonator and in the same unit. This condition is clearly visible in FIG. 4 and results from the characteristics of the invention. The relatively large angular extent of the accumulation sectors and the relatively small radial distance of the pulse sectors arise in particular from the first and second dimensions W2 and L2 of the active end portion as well as orientations of the penetration lines and output lines from magnetic potential energy accumulation areas. In each alternation of the oscillation of the coupling element when its active end portion is magnetically coupled to an annular magnetic track, this end portion gradually enters (or under) a potential energy storage zone magnetic. Given the contour and orientation of this active end portion and the contour of the accumulation zones, there is a superposition surface between the active end portion and each accumulation zone which progressively increases over a relatively long period of time. angular while the output of such an accumulation zone is performed over a relatively short radial distance, respectively along the axis of oscillation. This will be further discussed in the context of the second main embodiment of the invention.

Note that in the watchmaking field, the engine torque provided by a cylinder varies significantly depending on the tension level of the mainspring. To ensure a movement of the watch movement over a sufficiently long period, it is generally necessary for this movement can be driven by a torque varying between a maximum torque and about half that maximum torque. In addition, it is obviously necessary to ensure proper operation at maximum torque. In practice, to ensure such an operation and in particular to prevent the oscillator picks up at relatively large oscillation amplitude, it is necessary for the braking sectors to extend over a certain angular distance and thus to slow the braking. This is one of the benefits obtained by the regulator device according to the invention.

In Figure 6, there is a representation of the magnetic potential energy in the oscillator of Figure 5. The various references will not be described again here. It is observed that the radial dimension of the annular accumulation tracks ZA1 and ZA2 is greater than that obtained for the variant of FIG. 3, whereas the radial width of the pulse zones and therefore of the central zone of pulses ZC is lower. . This variant of Figure 5 is more advantageous than that of Figure 3 because the location of the pulses around the rest position of the resonator coupling element is better. This results in the first place from the length-to-width ratio of the active end portion which is greater in the variant of FIG. 5.

With the help of Figures 7 to 10, will be described hereinafter a second main embodiment of the invention. Various teachings given above also apply to this second embodiment. They will not be repeated here in detail. In this second embodiment, the annular magnetic track of the magnetic structure has a dimension, along the axis of oscillation of each active end portion coupled to this track and orthogonal projection, which is smaller than the dimension according to this oscillation axis of this active end portion. This second embodiment constitutes to a certain extent a technical inversion of the first embodiment. However, it has its own advantages, like this will appear later. In view of the previous embodiments, this second embodiment is a priori not obvious, the skilled person having generally provided magnetic ranges extended radially on an escape wheel and magnetic coupling elements of lesser extent associated with the resonator . In these prior embodiments, the sinuous magnetic path (sinusoidal) is arranged circularly on a mobile. When there are two annular magnetic tracks for generating this winding magnetic path, they have coaxial projections. In the most common embodiment, as in the variants of Figures 3 and 5, these two tracks extend in a general plane with an inner track and an outer track. These two tracks therefore do not have the same dimensions, the inner track having at least some smaller areas relative to the corresponding areas of the outer race, while the dimensions of the coupling element are by definition constant. We therefore have a magnetic interaction that varies to some extent between the two magnetic tracks and in the two half-waves of each oscillation period. The second main embodiment solves this disadvantage surprisingly by arranging at least one extended magnetic range at the coupling element of the resonator while the magnetic track is radially reduced and less wide than this coupling range. Thus, the sinuous magnetic track is no longer defined by the escape wheel, but by one or preferably two coupling elements integral with an oscillating structure of the resonator.

The device 80 regulates the angular velocity ω of an escapement mobile comprises a magnetic structure 82 integral with this mobile and a resonator 84 magnetically coupled so as to define an oscillator together. The magnetic structure comprises an annular magnetic strip 86 centered on the axis of rotation 20. The magnetic structure and the resonator are arranged to be rotated relative to each other about the axis of rotation when a pair engine is applied to the exhaust mobile and thus to the magnetic structure. The resonator is shown schematically. It comprises two magnetic coupling elements to the magnetic track which are arranged on a non-magnetic support 88, which has two arms respectively associated with two identical elastic structures 90 and 91 allowing a linear oscillation of the support 88 along a radial line 100. The elements in the variant described herein by two elongated magnets which respectively have first and second active end portions 92 and 94 located on the magnetic strip 86 side, these magnets having a magnetization direction generally along the axis of rotation (direction of axial magnetization). In Figure 7, as in the other figures, there is shown the general outline of these active end portions in their general plane, because their configuration is important for the invention. The degree of freedom of the resonator defines a first oscillation axis 96 and a second oscillation axis 98 for respectively the two active end portions and passing through their center of mass. These first and second axes of oscillation are parallel to a central axis 100 passing longitudinally between the two active end portions, this central axis being provided radially, that is to say, it intercepts the axis of rotation 20 .

The magnetic strip 86 comprises a plurality of magnets 102, of angularly elongated shape, which are arranged along this magnetic strip so that they define first non-magnetic zones 104 and second magnetic zones 106 angularly alternating with a first zone and a second adjacent area in each angular period Θ _Ρ , which is defined by the alternation of the first non-magnetic areas and the second magnetized areas. The coupling elements are magnetically coupled to the magnetic track 86 so that an oscillation according to the degree of freedom of the useful resonance mode of the resonator 84 is maintained within a useful range of the motor torque applied to the magnetic structure, and such that a period of this oscillation occurs during a rotation of the magnetic structure, resulting from this motor torque, in each angular period Θ _Ρ of the magnetic strip. In the variant described in FIGS. 7 to 10, the magnets 102 are arranged with an axial magnetization direction, in repulsion of the magnets forming the coupling elements.

It will be noted that, in the second main embodiment, it is considered as a decisive general geometrical surface the area in which the active end portions of the resonator coupled to the annular magnetic track in question and comprising their respective axes of oscillation generally extend. these active end portions defining in this surface magnetic ranges. FIG. 10 shows, in orthogonal projection in the general plane of the active end portions 92 and 94, the relative movement between the annular magnetic track and these active end portions during a period of oscillation during which magnetic track 86 rotates an angular period. Thus, this Figure 10 shows a succession of images a) up to i) which follow the oscillation movement of a magnet 102A, among the magnets 102 of the magnetic track 86. For ease of understanding, these images are data in a frame linked to the support 88 of the resonator and therefore to the coupling elements. Thus, we see in particular the magnet 102A of the magnetic track which oscillates with its center of mass substantially describing a sinusoidal curve 122, whereas in reality, the magnetic track undergoes only one rotation and it is the active end portions which oscillate along their linear oscillation axis. To indicate this fact, the magnetic ranges, defined by the orthogonal projection of the active end portions (hereinafter also called magnetic areas 92 and 94), have been marked with arrows indicating the direction of the oscillation movement and indicated approximately the speed of displacement by the length of these arrows, the absence of arrow corresponding to an extreme position where there is reversal of the direction of the linear movement of the coupling elements. Then, the magnets of the magnetic strip are projected in the general plane and are not represented as passing under the two coupling elements. In this Figure 10 (drawings 10a to 10i), it can be observed that the magnet 102A is located first upstream of the magnetic range 92 (drawing 10a), before progressively entering this range 92 (drawing 10b-10c) and then exiting from it (drawing Od) and being magnetically coupled in a similar manner with the magnetic range 94 (10e-10g drawings). Finally, the magnet 102A comes out of the magnetic range 94 (drawing 10h) while a next magnet 102 is in front of the range 92; which corresponds to the situation of drawing 10a for this next magnet 102, which will in turn undergo the same magnetic coupling with the two coupling elements of the resonator.

With particular reference to Figure 9, hereinafter will be described more precisely several features of the invention according to this second main embodiment. Each active end portion 92, 94 (of each magnetic coupling element) magnetically defines, in projection in the general plane in which this active end portion extends and comprising its oscillation axis:

an input zone 1 1 0, respectively 1 14 successively for the second zones 106 (magnets 102, 102A) in projection orthogonal to the general geometric plane,

a zone 92A, respectively 94A of magnetic potential energy accumulation in the oscillator, which is angularly adjacent to the aforementioned input zone and in which at least partially orthogonal projection each second zone 1 06 from this zone d entrance, and

an output zone 1 12, respectively 1 16 adjacent to the magnetic potential energy accumulation zone, this output zone receiving in orthogonal projection at least the major part of each second zone 106 leaving the accumulation zone or a second zone next.

In general terms, each second zone generates, by unit of angular length, relative to a first adjacent zone, a force higher repulsion for the magnetic potential energy accumulation zone (case of magnetic repulsion coupling described here) or a higher attraction force for the input zone and the output zone (case of a magnetic coupling in attraction described later). Then, the magnetic potential energy storage zone 92A, 94A generates, relative to the input area 110, 114 and the output area 112, 116, an upper repulsion force ( magnetic repulsion coupling) or a lower attraction force (in the case of magnetic coupling in attraction) for the same zone of each second zone 106 when the same zone is superimposed on this potential energy accumulation zone magnetic, respectively to the entrance area or the exit area.

In the case of a repulsion coupling, the magnetic potential energy accumulation zone 92A, 94A associated with a portion

The active end portion corresponds to a magnetic range 92, 94 formed materially by this active end portion, that is, to an orthogonal projection of this active end portion in its general geometric plane. The input and output areas do not have to be physically formed by a part of the coupling element. In

As a general variant, these zones correspond to free peripheral regions of the active end portion, that is to say filled with air. It will also be noted that the two end parts in the variant described here are arranged on either side of an arc of a circle, centered on the axis of rotation when the coupling elements are at rest, and have a width

25 (angular direction) approximately corresponding to an angular half-period Θ _Ρ / 2. The two magnetic ranges 92 and 94 are angularly offset by one half-angular period. In this configuration allowing to have a magnetic coupling between the magnetic track and the resonator in each alternation of the oscillation of its oscillating structure, the zone of

Output 1 12 associated with the first coupling element corresponds to the input zone 1 14 associated with the second coupling element. The resonator is arranged relative to the magnetic structure 82 so that the first and second magnetic potential energy accumulation zones 92A and 94A are traversed in orthogonal projection by a median geometric circle 120 passing through the middle 5 of the magnetic stripe. annular, during respectively the first and second alternations in each period of the oscillation of the two coupling elements considered. Next, each magnetic potential energy storage zone has a general outline 123, 124 with: i) a first portion, defining a penetration line 126, 1 28 under this accumulation zone successively for each of said second zones 106 during the oscillation of the coupling elements, and ii) a second portion defining an output line 127, 129 from below this accumulation zone for this second zone (case in magnetic repulsion described here) or a second following zone (case in attraction

15 magnetic) during this oscillation. The output line is oriented, when the magnetic coupling element considered is in its rest position, substantially in an angular direction parallel to the orthogonal projection of the median geometric circle 120. In the example shown, the output line is circular and remains parallel to the orthogonal projection

20 of the median geometric circle during the rectilinear oscillation. This exit line is confounded with the orthogonal projection of the median geometric circle when the coupling element is in its rest position (as shown in the drawings d) and h) of Figure 1 0). In addition, each of the second zones has an orthogonal projection a first dimension W3

25 along a first axis which is perpendicular to the orthogonal projection of the median geometric circle and passes in the center of this second zone. In the case of a general plane, such an axis is a line having a radial direction relative to the axis of rotation 20. Each second zone still has a second dimension L3, along a second axis defined by the

Orthogonal projection of the median geometric circle 120 in said general plane, which is greater than the first dimension W3. In the general case, the second dimension is preferably measured along a second axis perpendicular to the first axis and passing through the point of intersection of the orthogonal projection of the median geometric circle with the oscillation axis of the coupling element considered. 96, 98 or by the central axis 100 in the case of two adjacent coupling elements as described herein. In this general case, the dimensions of the second zones are measured when the center of the second zone considered is superimposed on an oscillation axis or on the central axis 100. Finally, when the magnetic coupling elements are in their rest position the exit line 127, 129 has a length L4, along the exit zone 1 12, 1 1 6 and along the aforementioned second axis, which is greater than the first dimension W3 of the second zones.

According to a preferred variant, the oscillation axis of each active end portion is substantially orthogonal to the median geometric circle 120, in orthogonal projection, at their point of intersection. This is the case in the variant of Figure 7, although it is the central axis 100 which is radial and therefore exactly orthogonal to the circle 120 centered on the axis of rotation. According to another advantageous variant, as is the case in the variant of FIG. 7, the output line of the magnetic potential energy accumulation zone along the exit zone and each second zone extend angularly. over substantially half of an angular period.

In FIG. 8 are represented equipotential curves 60 of the magnetic potential energy in the regulator device 80 of FIG. 7 as a function of the position of the central point between the two magnetic ranges 92 and 94 in a frame of reference related to the magnetic structure 82 It is observed that there are minimum energy zones 62A and 66A and maximum energy zones 64A and 68A which are radial and elongated. In the useful range of the driving torque, the annular magnetic track and each active end portion 92, 94 thus define in each period angular, as a function of the relative position of this annular magnetic track and this active end portion, an accumulation sector 70A, 72A in which the oscillator essentially accumulates magnetic potential energy and a pulse sector 76A 77A, adjacent to this accumulation zone, in which the coupling element essentially receives a pulse. The accumulation sectors are radially extended and define for the two active end portions respectively two annular accumulation zones ZA1 ^* and ZA2 ^* . It will be noted that the radial width of these annular accumulation zones depends essentially on the extent of the active end portions along their axis of oscillation and no longer on the radial width of the annular magnetic tracks, as in the first embodiment. main. In these annular accumulation zones, the equipotential lines are substantially radial, which indicates that the force

The resultant is angular (more precisely tangential) and the component of this force along the oscillation axis of each active end portion is very small. In this case, we can speak of pure accumulation of potential energy. The pulse sectors are located in a central zone of pulses ZC ^* corresponding substantially to the

20 annular magnetic track, that is to say having the same spatial coordinates as this magnetic track in its general geometric plane.

Thus, the higher the ratio along the central axis 100 between the size of the magnetic ranges of the resonator, defined by the active end portions of the coupling elements of this resonator, and the dimension of the

If the magnetic path is large, the portion of the free oscillation path may be large for these active end portions and the resonator oscillation sustain pulses located around the home position of its coupling members. In absolute value, plus the first dimension W3 of the magnets 102 and therefore the transverse dimension of the track

If the magnetic flux is small, the pulses supplied to the coupling elements are located around their rest position. Then, the more second dimension L3 magnets 102 is large, the greater the angular distance of the accumulation sectors. This follows from the fact that the superposition area between a magnet 102 and the active end portion increases progressively over a relatively large angular distance, as evidenced by the succession of relative positions between the magnetic track and the two active end portions. , for a period of oscillation, given in Figure 10. Such a situation is very favorable for a good isochronism of the regulating device.

According to a preferred variant, the penetration line 1 26, 128 in the magnetic potential energy storage zone 92A, 94A is oriented in a direction substantially parallel to said oscillation axis, as is the case in all the embodiments. corresponding to the second main embodiment shown in the figures. This characteristic is advantageous for obtaining substantially radial equipotential lines 60 in the sectors of magnetic potential energy accumulation. In a similar variant, the aforementioned line of penetration defines a path according to the degree of freedom. These two variants are combined when the degree of freedom is linear. It will be noted that the accumulation zone considered here is that which is decisive in the useful range of the driving torque, that is to say substantially an area corresponding to the overall zone of superposition between each magnet of the magnetic strip and the part of active end considered during the oscillation of the latter.

According to an alternative embodiment, the second dimension L3 of each second zone 106 is at least twice as large as its first dimension W3, and the length L4 of the output line is at least twice as large as this first dimension W3. In a preferred variant, this second dimension of each second zone is at least four times larger than its first dimension, and the length of the exit line is then at least four times greater than this first dimension. According to another variant embodiment, the dimension W4 of the penetration line of the magnetic potential energy accumulation zone 92A, 94A, along the axis of oscillation of the corresponding end portion, is at least five times larger than the transverse dimension W3 of the annular magnetic track along this orthogonal projection axis of oscillation. In a preferred variant, this dimension W4 of the penetration line is at least eight times greater than the transverse dimension W3.

FIGS. 11 and 11A show schematically a variant of the embodiment of FIGS. 7 to 10. This regulator device 126 is essentially distinguished by the fact that magnetic coupling is provided in attraction. The magnetic structure 82 is identical to that of Figure 7, only the magnetic track 86 being shown with two magnets 102A and 102B selected from the magnets 102 to explain the magnetic interaction of this variant in attraction. The resonator is represented only by the active end portion of a magnetic coupling element which here comprises two distinct magnetic portions 128 and 1 formed by a ferromagnetic material, this resonator not being provided with a magnetic flux generator so that both parts are subject to a force of attraction from the magnets of the magnetic strip. Note that the two parts 128 and 1 30 have, in the general geometric plane in which they extend, the same shape and the same linear degree of freedom as the two active end portions of the repulsion variant described above, but they are not independent and both are necessary for the operation of the oscillator; while in the repulsion variant each part 92 and 94 (FIG. 7) is independent and the magnetic repulsion oscillator can operate with only one of the two parts 92 and 94. In the present variant, the central axis 100 between two parts 128 and 1 30 correspond to the axis of oscillation of the active end portion. He has one radial direction and is perpendicular to the median geometric circle of runway 86.

The surprising difference between the oscillators 80 and 126 (two distinct coupling elements in the first case and a single coupling element in the second case) results from the fact that the two parts 128 and 130 generate for the magnets 102, when they are superimposed on these two parts, a situation where the magnetic potential energy is lower relative to the surrounding regions filled with air. Thus, the accumulation of magnetic potential energy occurs in a surrounding non-magnetic region downstream of the portions 128 and 130. The tracing 122A of the oscillation of the end portion relative to the magnetic track is angularly offset by half-angular period θ _Ρ / 2 (180 ° phase shift), just as the equipotential curves of the magnetic potential energy in a representation similar to that of Figure 8. In the useful range of the motor torque, the magnetic parts 128 and 130 define magnetically in orthogonal projection in their general geometric plane:

a first input area 128A and a second input area 130A successively for the second areas 106 of the magnetic strip in projection orthogonal to the general geometric plane,

a first zone 132 and a second magnetic potential energy accumulation zone 134 in the oscillator in which each second zone 106 of the magnetic strip penetrates at least partially orthogonal projection respectively in a first alternation and a second alternation of an oscillation period since the first and second input zones respectively, and

a first output zone 130A which receives in orthogonal projection at least the major part of each second zone 106A coming out of the first accumulation zone 132, and a second output zone 128A which receives in orthogonal projection at least the major part of a second following zone 106B of the magnetic strip, this next second zone 1 06B coming out of an area 1 35 complementary to the second accumulation zone 1 34 while the second zone 106A which precedes it enters entirely in an area 136 equivalent to the second accumulation zone and the complementary zone 1 35.

The terminology used here is chosen by analogy with the magnetic repulsion variant of FIG. 7. However, the two accumulation zones 132 and 134 as well as the complementary zone 135 and the equivalent zone 136 are all formed by the empty or filled region. of air surrounding the active end portion and are all magnetically equivalent. The magnetic portions 128 and 130 form magnetic areas 128A and 130A in their general plane which each constitute an input area and also an output area. The arrangement of these two ranges is provided for them to be magnetically active in each of the two half cycles of each oscillation period, first as an input area and a second time as an output area, and to generate a pulse. around the rest position of the coupling element at the end of each alternation. For the terminological unit, the accumulation zone 134 and the complementary zone 1 35 are considered together as a magnetic potential energy accumulation zone and the second following zone (magnet 102B) of the magnetic track is substituted for the second magnetic zone. preceding zone (previous magnet 102A) for generating a pulse (situation shown in FIG. 11A) following the accumulation of energy resulting from the passage of the magnetic range 1 30A in an output zone 134 situated in a region non-magnetic environment, which defines for this second zone a higher magnetic potential energy region relative to the magnetic range 130A for a portion of this second zone superimposed on this magnetic range, respectively to the exit zone 134. The situation represented in FIG. Figure 1 1 corresponds to a relative position of the coupling element and the magnetic track for which the energy mate ntial magnetic is minimal. The resonator of the regulating device 126 is arranged relative to the magnetic structure 82 so that each magnetic potential energy accumulation zone 132, 134 is traversed in orthogonal projection by the median geometric circle passing through the middle of the annular magnetic strip. during a first alternation, respectively a second alternation in each oscillation period of the resonator. In this case, the zones 132 and 134 are delimited spatially by a geometric circle passing through the central point between the two magnetic areas 128A and 130A along the axis of oscillation 100 and centered on the axis of rotation. when the coupling element is in its rest position. Each accumulation zone 132, 134 partially has a general contour, determined by the active end portion, which defines first and second penetration lines 138 and 1 39 and first and second output lines 140 and 141, by analogy with the terminology

15 used previously.

In Figure 12 is shown partially a second variant of the second main embodiment. This variant is essentially distinguished by the fact that the degree of freedom is circular, the coupling element to the magnetic track 86 oscillating about an axis of its own axis.

Rotation C. The active end portion 144 is in magnetic repulsion with the magnets 102, as in the variant of Figure 7. The teachings given for this latter variant also apply to this second variant. Part 144 follows a circular oscillation axis 150 passing through its center of mass. She is represented in the position

The rest of the corresponding coupling element of the resonator. In this variant, for the sake of a general description of the invention, the oscillation axis is not provided perpendicular to an orthogonal projection of the median geometric circle 120. For this particular configuration, the penetration line 145 and the output line 146 are optimal. The line of

30 output is confused with the orthogonal projection of the median geometric circle 1 20 so as to minimize the pulse areas around the rest position. The line of penetration in the magnetic potential energy storage zone 148 defines a path according to the degree of freedom.

It will be noted that the zone 148 is here represented with a surface 5 smaller than the projection of the portion 144. This zone 148 delimited by a curve 149 in broken lines effectively corresponds to the active accumulation zone. Thus, in a variant, the portion 144 may have an outer contour which follows the curve 149 or which is parallel thereto through the end point of the output line shown. For a given position of the magnetic track, corresponding to a partial superposition between a magnet 102 and the portion 144, the zone 148 (respectively the portion 144) can move along the axis of oscillation out of the zone. impulse without undergoing in the considered alternation of variation of potential energy. Thus, whatever the amplitude of oscillation, the interaction

The magnetic remains identical with an area of pure potential energy accumulation in this alternation which ends with a localized pulse at the rest position of the portion 144. The dimensions of this portion 144 and the magnets 102 have been previously defined and will not be described again here. They are indicated on the drawings. The exit line 146

20 extends angularly over one half-angular period while the magnets 102 extend over a slightly smaller angular distance.

FIG. 12A shows a simplified alternative of FIG. 12 in which the magnets 103 of the magnetic strip 86A define second rectangularly oriented zones 106A oriented tangentially.

25 to the median geometric circle 120, and first non-magnetic zones 1 04A between these second zones. The active end portion 144A has a parallelepiped shaped contour with a penetration line 145A and an output line 146A formed by linear segments. These linear segments are oriented optimally for

This particular configuration. The segments 145A and 146A are formed respectively by the strings of the circular segments 145 and 146 of Figure 1 2. In other words, each of these linear segments is parallel to the tangent to the midpoint of the corresponding circular segment. The oscillation axis 150 passes through the center of the portion 144A.

In Figure 13 is shown partially a third variant of the second main embodiment which may be provided in magnetic repulsion or magnetic attraction according to the teaching given above. For the following description of this third variant, we consider the case in repulsion. The magnetic structure comprises a magnetic track 86A already described. It will also be noted that this variant is represented with two coupling members oscillating around an own axis C. However, the specific form and the positioning of these two coupling members in their rest position also apply to a variant where the degree of freedom is linear, as in FIG. 7. In this third variant, the central axis 154 passing through the central point between the two active end portions 1 56 and 158 is orthogonal to the median circle 120 at their point of intersection. intersection. Taking the central axis 154 as the average oscillation axis and common to the two end portions, a first rectilinear axis is defined, perpendicular to the median circle 120 and passing through this point of intersection and a second rectilinear axis, perpendicular to the first axis and also passing through this point. In this system of orthogonal axes, the parts 156 and 158 define in their general plane rectangular magnetic areas each with an output line 160, 162 on the second axis. The penetration lines 164 and 166 of these two magnetic areas are parallel to the first axis. The magnetic potential energy storage zone 148B shows that part of the magnetic ranges is not active. However, the rectangular shape simplifies the construction of the resonator.

It should be noted that, in the context of the invention, the output lines 1 60 and 162 are considered to be oriented, when the element of magnetic coupling is in its rest position as shown in Figure 13, substantially in an angular direction parallel to the orthogonal projection of the median geometric circle 120 in the general geometric surface of the end portions 156 and 158. They are in fact tangent to the orthogonal projection of the circle 120 at the point of intersection of the central axis 154 with this orthogonal projection, this point of intersection corresponding to an inner corner of each magnetic range. In a variant shown in Figure 13 in broken lines, the rectangular shapes are replaced by annular sectors of center C on the axis of rotation of the resonator. The respective output lines of the magnetic ranges of this variant are identical to those of the rectangular ranges. On the other hand, the penetration lines are circular according to the degree of freedom of the corresponding coupling elements. They each define a path according to the degree of freedom and are therefore oriented in a direction substantially parallel to the respective axes of oscillation. Then, each of the second zones 103 has in orthogonal projection, when the center of this second zone is superimposed on the central axis, a first dimension W3, according to the aforementioned first axis, and a second dimension L3, according to the aforementioned second axis, which is greater than the first dimension. Finally, when the magnetic coupling elements are in their rest position, their respective output line 160, 162 has a length, along the exit zone and along said second axis, which is greater than the first dimension W3 of the second areas.

Subsequently will be described several regulatory devices according to the invention. The operating principle as well as the spatial and dimensional relationships specific to the invention already described above also apply to these regulatory devices and will not be described again in the description of these regulatory devices. The regulator device 170 of FIG. 14 comprises a magnetic escapement mobile 82 supporting a magnetic track 86 already described and a resonator 174 formed by a rocker 176 (represented diagrammatically) oscillating about the axis C parallel to the axis of rotation. 20. The rocker is associated with elastic means 178, 177 exerting a restoring force when it deviates from its rest position (zero position shown in Figure 14). The balance comprises two active end portions 92 and 94 essentially corresponding to those already described in FIGS. 7 and 9, except that the output lines 127A and 129A of the magnetic areas 92A and 94A are not superimposed on the circle. median 120, but are located a short distance from this circle on either side so that this circle is located in the middle of an annular intermediate zone between the two magnetic areas. This intermediate zone is magnetically homogeneous, here non-magnetic.

According to a third embodiment, the regulator device 1 80 of FIG. 15 comprises a magnetic escape mobile 182, with two concentric magnetic tracks 86A and 186, and a resonator 184. The first track 86A has already been described and the second Track 186 formed of a plurality of magnets 188 is similar to it, but with a smaller diameter. The magnetic potential energy of the oscillator 180 varies angularly along this second track with the same angular period Θ _Ρ and similarly to the variation of the first track. The first and second magnetic tracks have an angular offset equal to half the angular period. The resonator 184 comprises a coupling element with an active end portion 190 formed of a magnet arranged in repulsion and defining in its general plane a magnetic potential energy accumulation zone 190A of frustoconical shape. This portion 190 is arranged in a non-magnetic support 192 attached to the watch movement by two elastic blades 193 and 194 allowing an oscillation of the support 192. The active end portion is coupled to the two magnetic tracks. The accumulation zone 190A defined by this part has a common penetration line 196 for the magnets of the two tracks and two output lines 197 and 198 respectively defining the two parallel and substantially angular portions of this frustoconical zone. These two lines have different lengths since they extend substantially over the same angular distance slightly less than one half-angular period along median geometric circles 120 and 121 of different diameters. In a first half cycle of each oscillation period, the portion 190 is coupled to the first track 86A. Similarly, it is coupled to the second track 186 in the second half cycle of each oscillation period. The oscillating structure 192 receives a pulse at the end of each alternation around its rest position (position shown).

According to a fourth embodiment, the regulating device 200 of FIG. 16 comprises a magnetic escapement mobile 202 with a radially extended magnetic strip 204, as described in the first main embodiment. The magnets 206 of this track have a frustoconical shape with the two parallel sides in a tangential direction relative to the axis of rotation 20. The oscillator 200 also comprises a resonator 21 0 of the same type as that of FIG. 14, this resonator also comprising two coupling elements carried by a rocker 21 2 of non-magnetic material, but distinguished in that the two active end portions 46A and 46B corresponding are radially narrow relative to the magnets 206 in the rest position of coupling elements (position shown). The two parts 46A and 46B are located on either side of a straight line perpendicular to their longitudinal direction and substantially radial relative to the axis of rotation 20 of the escapement vehicle. Relative to this axis, they both extend over an angular distance substantially equal to one half-angular period of the magnetic tracks, with an angular offset of half a period. The longitudinal axis of each portion 46A and 46B is substantially perpendicular to the axis of oscillation of the balance 212. The line penetration 214 defined by each magnet of the magnetic stripe is common to both active end portions. In an angular position of a magnet 206 where its central axis is perpendicular to the two longitudinal axes of the two parts 46A and 46B in the rest position of the corresponding coupling elements, the longitudinal axis of the portion 46A is substantially superimposed on the output line 215 defined by the outer edge of this magnet while the longitudinal axis of the portion 46B is substantially superimposed on the output line 216 defined by the inner edge of this magnet. The balance 212 thus receives two pulses per oscillation period located substantially around its rest position.

With the help of Figures 1 7 and 18, will be described hereinafter a fifth embodiment of the invention. The regulating device 220 comprises a first magnetic escape wheel 222 and a second magnetic escape wheel 224 which are identical and arranged in a

15 same general plan. These two escape wheels form two magnetic structures each defining a radially narrow magnetic track 86A with a plurality of magnets 101. The magnetic potential energy of the oscillator thus varies angularly similarly along these two tracks 86A. The two escape wheels mesh

20 and 228. The two magnetic tracks are coupled to the same coupling element 234 of the resonator 230 which further comprises a non-magnetic support 232 T-shaped and two flexible blades. 233A, 233B at both ends of the crossbar of this support. The magnet 234 is arranged in

The free end of the central bar of the support. The flexible blades are arranged so that the magnet 234 can oscillate along a slightly curved axis of oscillation. It will be noted that, in one variant, the resonator may have two distinct coupling elements respectively coupled to the two magnetic tracks supported respectively

30 by the two wheels 222, 224. The magnet 234 is arranged in magnetic repulsion magnets 103. The regulator device 220 comprises in in addition to two additional magnetic structures respectively facing the two wheels 222, 224 and coaxial thereto. These two complementary structures are arranged on the other side of the magnet 234 forming a common coupling element for the two magnetic tracks located on either side of the magnet in an axial direction. Only one additional magnetic structure 236 is shown in Figure 18, but the second is similar to it.

In the variant shown, the structure 236 comprises a plate 237 supporting a magnetic track 86A identical to that of the escape wheel 224 and angularly arranged in the same manner. On the other hand, it will be noted that the two wheels mesh so that, along a transverse axis passing through their respective two axes of rotation and substantially corresponding to the axis of oscillation of the magnet 234, the two magnetic tracks present a magnetic phase shift of 180 °, the first track being coupled in a first alternation while the second track is coupled in a second alternation of each oscillation period, the coupling element 234 receiving a pulse at the end of each alternation, which is located around the rest position of the oscillating structure according to the concept of the present invention. In the variant shown, the magnetic tracks 86A superimposed magnetic structures are integral in rotation, the plate 237 being connected to the wheel 224 by a central tube 238. In another variant, these two tracks superimposed and arranged on either side the general plane of the magnet 234 are not integral in rotation.

With the aid of Figures 19 and 20, will be described below a sixth embodiment of the invention. The regulator device 240 is based on the same concept as the previous embodiment. In the variant proposed here, the relative dimensioning of each coupling member and magnetic tracks corresponds to the first main embodiment, whereas the variant proposed in the previous embodiment corresponds to the second main embodiment. Apart from this basic difference, the variants of each of the two modes can be applied to the other mode by adapting certain constructive elements. The oscillator 240 comprises a resonator 242 and two magnetic structures 244 and 246 located in the same general plane and secured respectively to two wheels 248 and 250 which mesh with each other indirectly via two intermediate wheels 252 and 254 arranged so that the two magnetic structures rotate at the same speed but in an opposite direction. The intermediate wheel 252 comprises a pinion 253 for the input of a motor torque supplied to the regulating device. The resonator is formed of two flexible blades 260 and 264 of high magnetic permeability material and comprising two respective end portions 262 and 266 located respectively on either side of the general plane of the two magnetic structures. In addition, the resonator comprises a magnetic flux generator 256 formed by a magnet 258 housed in a rigid structure 257, which is arranged to allow the attachment of the two flexible blades on either side of the magnet 258 so as to generate a closed magnetic path for the magnet flux passing through the flexible blades, in particular by the end portions 262 and 266 and the gap between these two ends. At the level of the magnet 258, the flexible blades may have an enlargement so as to channel all of the magnetic flux of this magnet.

The two magnetic structures are formed by two disks each having at their periphery a magnetized ring defining a plurality of magnetized zones 10A, which are provided on the height of the disk so as to produce an axial magnetic flux on both sides of the magnetic ring. . Thus, these magnetized zones form at the level of the upper surface of the magnetic structure a first magnetic strip 11A and at the level of the lower surface a second equivalent magnetic strip 11A2. These two magnetic tracks are respectively coupled with the two active end portions 262 and 266. note that the magnetized zones can be formed by a plurality of separate magnets or by a ring formed of the same material of which only the zones 10A are magnetized. In another interesting variant, this ring is magnetized with an alternation of the direction of polarity in each angular period. There is thus an alternation of magnetic zones North and South in each magnetic track. We thus pass from a magnetic coupling in attraction and repulsion in each angular period; which advantageously makes it possible to increase the potential energy difference between the minimum and maximum potential energy zones. This variant in a magnet-magnet coupling applies moreover to all the embodiments.

In other embodiments of the last two embodiments (not shown), the two magnetic tracks coupled to the resonator are respectively secured to two rotating mobiles.

15 having no meshing relationship with each other. These two mobiles can be coaxial or located next to each other with two distinct axes of rotation. According to two particular variants, these two mobiles are coupled to one and the same coupling element or to two coupling elements of the resonator. Both rotating mobiles can

20 each be driven by an own source of mechanical energy.

However, it is also possible that only a first mobile is rotated by a motor torque while the second mobile is actually rotated by the resonator excited by the first mobile, that is to say driven through the resonator that transmits energy received.

Those skilled in the art thus understand that several embodiments can be envisaged based on the concept of the fifth or sixth embodiment.

In Figure 21 is shown a seventh embodiment of a regulator device 270 according to the invention. The magnetic structure 4B is similar to that described in FIG. 5. It comprises two tracks 1 1 A and 13A which are concentric. The resonator 272 is of the sprung-balance type with a rigid balance 274 associated with a spiral spring 276. The balance can take various forms, including circular as in a classic watch movement. The rocker pivots about an axis 278 and comprises two magnetic coupling members 280 and 282 according to the invention which are angularly offset relative to the axis of rotation 20 of the magnetic structure 4B. These two bodies are formed by two magnets. The angular offset of the two magnets and their positioning relative to the structure 4B are provided so that these two magnets define the same zero position circle 44 and have in their rest position an angular offset θ ₀ equal to an integer of angular period Θ _Ρ increased by half a period. Thus these two magnets have a phase shift of π. The circle 44 substantially corresponds to the interface circle (common boundary) of the two magnetic tracks 11A and 13A. Preferably, the axis of rotation 278 of the balance is positioned at the intersection of the two tangents to the zero position circle 44 respectively at the two points of intersection of this circle with the two respective oscillation axes of the two magnets of the resonator. Note that it is preferable that the balance is balanced, more precisely that its center of mass is on the axis of the balance. Those skilled in the art will easily configure pendulums of various shapes with this important feature. It is therefore clear that the various variants shown in the figures are schematic and the problem related to the inertia of the resonator is not treated concretely in these figures. In addition, arrangements ensuring a zero resultant magnetic forces acting radially and axially on the axis of the balance are preferred. Note that, in a variant, there is provided a flexible leaf balance defining a fictitious axis of rotation, that is to say without pivoting, instead of the sprung balance. When passing through the central pulse zone located around the interface circle 44, each of the magnets 280 and 282 receives a pulse in each alternation of each oscillation period. We have here a double impulse. In a variant with two magnetic structures 4B arranged coaxially on both sides of the magnets 280 and 282, four simultaneous pulses are obtained at the end of the first and second alternations in each oscillation period. Such a system has a strong coupling between the resonator and the magnetic structures driven in rotation by a motor torque in a useful range, the latter can thus be relatively extensive.

Figure 22 is an alternative to the device of Figure 21, the device of Figure 22 being based on the second main embodiment while the device of Figure 21 is based on the first main embodiment. This alternative relates to a regulating device 290 with two concentric magnetic tracks 86A and 186 of small radial dimension forming the magnetic structure 182, which is similar to that already described in Figure 15 (the only difference is the arcuate shape of the magnets 1 03 and 188 in Figure 22). This regulator device further comprises a resonator 292 of the sprung balance type described above. The resonator therefore has a hairspring 276 or another suitable elastic element and a beam 274A having two arms whose two respective free ends respectively bear two coupling elements 294 and 296 formed by two magnets arranged in repulsion of the magnets of the magnetic tracks. Each coupling element is formed by a magnetic zone similar to the element 190 of FIG. 15. The operation of the oscillator 290 is therefore similar to that of this FIG. 1 for each of the two magnetic zones 294 and 296. These two magnetized zones are shifted by an angle θ ₀ = θ _Ρ - (2Ν + 1) / 2, where N is an integer. When a first magnetized range of the resonator 292 is coupled to a first magnetic track, the second magnetized range is then coupled to the second magnetic track. This doubles the magnetic coupling between the resonator and the magnetic structure relative to the Figure 15. Various remarks and variants mentioned for Figure 21 also apply here.

In Figure 23 is shown schematically an eighth embodiment. The regulating device 300 comprises a magnetic structure 82A similar to that described in FIGS. 12A and 13 and a resonator 302 formed by a two-branched tuning fork 308 and 309 (shown schematically) which have at their two free ends two identical magnetic plates 304A and 304B . Each magnetic wafer is formed of two magnetic pads 1 56 and 158 and two non-magnetic complementary parts 305 and 306. The magnetic pads 1 56 and 158 are arranged identically to the two active end portions which are described in FIG. The magnetic operation here is equivalent to that described with reference to FIGS. 9 to 11A and 13, and will therefore not be discussed again here. It will be noted that the magnetic coupling can be provided in repulsion (see FIGS. 9 and 10) or in attraction (see FIGS. 11 and 11A). The magnetic strip has an even number of magnets and therefore angular periods so that the two plates 304A, 304B oscillate advantageously in opposite directions. In another variant with a perfectly symmetrical tuning fork (by axially symmetrying one of the two plates along an axis of symmetry substantially tangential to the median circle 1 20), it is necessary to provide an odd number of magnets along the magnetic track 86A. Thus, the resonator is formed by a tuning fork whose two free ends of its resonant structure respectively carry the first and second magnetic coupling elements.

In Figure 24 is shown a ninth embodiment of the invention. The regulator device 310 differs essentially from the previous embodiments by three particular characteristics. First, it comprises two independent resonators 312 and 314, that is to say not having a common resonance mode. However, these two resonators are identical. Second, the magnetic structure 316 is provided fixed on a support or a turntable 318 of a watch movement, while the two resonators 312 and 314 are rotated at the angular velocity ω by a motor torque supplied to a rotor 320 which comprises two rigid arms 322 and 323 with respective free ends of which are arranged respectively the two resonators. These two resonators each comprise an elastic blade at the free end of which is arranged an elongated magnet 325, 326. These magnets are arranged according to the invention tangentially to an interface circle 44 between the two magnetic tracks 328 and 330 when the respective resonators are in their rest position, so that this interface circle corresponds to a zero position circle for the two active end portions defined by magnets 325 and 326. Each magnetic stripe includes first zones 332 and second zones 334 having properties already described in the discussion of the first main embodiment. Each of the two magnets defines with the two magnetic tracks an oscillator. It will be noted that the inversion of the drive at the level of the 'resonator - magnetic track' system with a motor torque applied to the resonator to drive it in rotation about an axis of rotation 20A coinciding with the central axis of the structure magnetic does not change the magnetic interaction between the resonator and the magnetic structure that has been previously discussed, so that this inversion can be implemented as an alternative in the other embodiments.

The third particular characteristic of this embodiment comes from the fact that, in an embodiment corresponding to the first main embodiment, the oscillation of the coupling elements is not radial relative to the axis of rotation 20A of the rotor 320 that the oscillation axis intercepts the zero position circle 44 non-perpendicularly. The degree of freedom of the coupling element of each resonator is substantially on a circle whose radius is substantially equal to the length L of the elastic blade and centered at the anchoring point of this blade. In order to obtain, according to a preferred variant of the invention, a substantially zero magnetic potential energy gradient according to the degree of freedom of each resonator (the two resonators having an axial symmetry with a geometric axis 20A) in the useful zones of magnetic potential energy accumulation, it is expected that the penetration lines 336 of the second zones 334 of each of the two tracks 328 and 330 follow arcs of the circle along the axis of oscillation of each of the coupling elements when the considered penetration line and an oscillation axis are superimposed. This third particular characteristic corresponds by analogy to the situation described in FIGS. 12 and 12A in the context of the second main embodiment.

Referring to Figs. 25A-25D, a tenth embodiment will be described below, which is based on the embodiment of Fig. 22 with respect to the magnetic coupling between the coupling members of the resonator 346 and an annular magnetic stripe 344. of an escapement mobile 342. In this embodiment, which may be called a "magnetic cylinder escapement", the regulating device 340 is distinguished by the fact that the resonator comprises a truncated annular magnet 352 rigidly connected to a pendulum 348 which is associated with a hairspring 350. The truncated annular magnet defines the wall of a cylindrical tube section open laterally. This truncated annular magnet is located in a first general plane parallel to a second general plane defined by the annular magnetic track, so that this annular magnet passes over the escapement mobile to be coupled magnetically in repulsion, and therefore without contact , to the annular track 344 rotated by a motor torque. Note that in a variant no balance other than the cylindrical tube section with its pivoting means is provided. The truncated annular magnet is arranged to rotate about the axis C. A shaft may be provided in this variant, this shaft being connected to the annular magnet for example by a plate supporting this magnet and fixedly mounted on the shaft. The plate is provided on the other side of the exhaust mobile relative to this annular magnet.

According to the concept presented in particular with reference to FIGS. 9 and 10, the annular magnet 352 forms two active end portions of two coupling elements, these two ends being in the variant represented formed by one and the same truncated annular magnet. . Indeed, in a variant limiting oscillation amplitudes can be provided two arcuate magnets of the same radius and connected by a non-magnetic fastening portion. In addition, the truncated annular magnet defines in its general plane a first penetration line 354, corresponding to its outer wall and a first output line 356 at a first end of this annular magnet in its general plane. The second end defines a second output line 357 while a second penetration line 355 is defined by the inner wall of this annular magnet. In this repulsion coupling mode, as explained above, the annular magnet corresponds in projection orthogonal to a magnetic potential energy accumulation zone. It will be noted that the penetration lines are oriented according to the degree of freedom of the resonator since they are circular and centered on the axis of oscillation C. They define paths according to this degree of freedom so that, for a given angular position of the magnetic strip 344, the magnetic potential energy of a magnet 343 partially superimposed on the annular magnet 352 does not change when this magnet oscillates in a first half-cycle of the sprung balance oscillation period (FIGS. 25A and 25C ) before reaching the exit line (Figures 25B and 25D) where a pulse P is supplied to the balance via the annular magnet.

The magnet 352 defines in its general plane a truncated annular surface. In the variant proposed here, the opening Θ _Α of this truncated annular surface, defined as the angle to the axis of rotation 20 from the the middle of the two output lines, is substantially equal to 150% of the angular period of the magnetic track, ie θ _Α = 3-θ _Ρ / 2. In a first oscillation oscillation of the balance 348, a first magnet 343 of the magnetic strip penetrates under the annular magnet by the external penetration line 354. In the useful range of the engine torque, thanks to the arrangement of a magnetic stop 345 following each magnet 343 (significantly stronger interaction with the magnet). annular magnet for this magnetic stop), the first magnet finally remains in a certain maximum penetration position or final superposition position. In this final superimposition position, the beam can freely rotate substantially during the entire first half cycle (FIG. 25A) until it substantially reaches its rest position around which it receives a first pulse P (FIG. 25B). The pendulum continues its rotation at a substantially maximum speed and a second magnet preceding the first magnet, relative to the direction of rotation of the driving wheel, penetrates after a certain rotation of the escapement wheel under the annular magnet by the inner penetration line 355. This second magnet also remains in a position of maximum penetration corresponding to a certain partial superposition with the annular magnet during most of the second alternation (FIG. 25C) before exiting through the exit line 357 around the position of rest of the resonator (Figure 25D) by providing a second pulse P to the sprung balance. It will be noted that, depending on the positioning of the magnetic stop 345 relative to the magnet 343 and the motor torque, the magnet 343 can be totally superimposed on the annular magnet in its maximum penetration position. The annular magnet forms the active end portion common to the coupling of the magnetic stripe to the resonator in the two half cycles of each oscillation period. It will be noted that in its rest position (FIGS. 25B and 25D), the output lines defined by this common active end portion each have an orientation according to the present invention, because these output lines are substantially tangential to the median geometric circle 120.

It will therefore be noted that this embodiment, in its main mode of operation, is characterized by a jerky advance of the escapement wheel with a large amplitude of oscillation. In fact, the truncated annular ring forms a magnetic barrier for the magnetic stops of the magnetic strip, making it possible to momentarily stop the escape wheel, which then advances in steps (two steps for a rotation of an angular period). In a specific operating mode, however, it is possible to obtain a quasi-continuous or continuous advance. In the latter case, the magnetic stops are no longer necessary. It will be noted that such a quasi-continuous or continuous advance is provided mainly in the other embodiments. However, some embodiments, depending on the design of the resonator and the magnetic structure, may also operate in a jerky mode.

In Figure 26 is shown a particular variant of the tenth embodiment (shown in a continuous operating mode of the mobile escape). The regulator device 360 of the 'magnetic cylinder escapement' type differs from the preceding variant essentially in that it is provided that a same magnet 343A which is first magnetically coupled to the annular magnet 352A of the resonator in a first alternation of an oscillation period, penetrating under this annular magnet by the outer penetration line 354 (substantially same radius R _E as in the previous variant) and exiting through the exit line 356A providing a first pulse, is then directly magnetically coupled to the annular magnet in the second alternation of this oscillation period by penetrating under this annular magnet by the inner penetration line 355A before finally exiting through the exit line 357A by providing a second impulse to the balance-spring ( no shown in Figure 26). Such a configuration makes it possible, for a given outside diameter of the annular magnet of the resonator, to considerably increase the thickness E _T of the wall of this cylindrical tube and therefore the length L4 of the output lines, as well as the longitudinal dimension L3. (Angular or tangential dimension) magnets 343A of the magnetic strip. This makes it possible to increase the accumulation of magnetic potential energy in the oscillator since, for a given first dimension W3, the second dimension L3 of these magnets can be enlarged, thereby increasing the ratio between these two dimensions. The opening of the annular magnet 352A, defined above, is less than an angular period of the magnetic track 342A.

In a particular embodiment of this variant, the annular magnet is mounted on or suspended from a structure comprising two crossed flexible blades defining a geometric axis of oscillation C for the annular magnet. This elastically deformable structure is arranged on the other side of this annular magnet relative to the magnetic structure of the mobile escape. Thus, no material axis is required at the annular magnet and the escape wheel.

In a particular embodiment incorporating the variant shown, the diameter (2- R |) of the inner contour of the truncated annular magnet is less than or substantially equal to the second dimension L3 of the second zones defined by the magnets of the magnetic strip. The difference between the radii of the first and second circular penetration lines 354 and 355A, corresponding approximately to the length L4 of the first and second output lines, is substantially equal to the second dimension L3 or between eighty and one hundred and twenty percent ( 80% to 1 20%) of this second dimension.

In Figure 27 is shown an eleventh embodiment. Regulator device 370 is particular in two main characteristics. First, it includes a magnetic escape wheel 372 formed by a disk 374 with a non-magnetic central portion and a peripheral ring 376 radially magnetized so as to define two lateral magnetic tracks 378 and 380 each formed by alternating magnetic poles 382 and 384, these magnetic poles generating a magnetic flux corresponding to radial magnetization axes of alternating directions. They define first and second zones of each magnetic track. The second zones are in magnetic repulsion with magnets 392 and 394 of the resonator while the first zones are in magnetic attraction with these magnets. The general geometric surface of the two magnetic tracks is a cylindrical surface so that the penetration lines opposite the second zones for the magnets of the resonator are segments of axial lines. The output lines follow the interface circle of the two magnetic tracks, this interface circle being preferably coincident with the zero position circle 44A defined by the orthogonal projection in the cylindrical surface of the center of mass of the end portion. active each of the magnets 394 and 396 in their rest position. In other words, in this case, each of the centers of mass is on a radial axis of the disk 374 intercepting the interface circle of the two magnetic tracks when the first and second coupling elements are in their rest position.

Then, the resonator 386 is of the torsion type with two free ends of its resonant structure respectively carrying the first and second coupling elements. This resonator has a resonant structure in H with two longitudinal bars 387 and 388, each carrying a coupling magnet 392, 394. These two longitudinal bars are connected by a transverse bar 390 which has a torsional deformation capacity. Indeed, it is expected that the longitudinal bars oscillate with a phase shift of 1 80 ° so that the transverse bar is elastically deformed in torsion about its longitudinal axis. For this purpose, the number of angular periods of the magnetic tracks, given by the number of pairs of reversed magnetic poles, is odd and, as in the other embodiments with two magnetic tracks, these two magnetic tracks are angularly offset by one half-angular period, that is to say phase-shifted by 180 °.

Two fixing portions 395 and 396 of the resonator are connected to the middle of the transverse bar by two relatively narrow bridges 398, because the material does not undergo in this median zone of rotation about the longitudinal axis of the transverse bar during the movements of the substantially axial oscillation, in opposite directions, of the two longitudinal bars. The first and second zones 382 and 384 of the two magnetic tracks 378 and 380 of the rotating magnetic structure and the two magnetic coupling elements 392 and 394 of the resonator are sized and arranged according to the criteria of the invention.

Claims

REV END ICATI ONS

1. Regulator device (36,56,200,240,270,310,370) of the relative angular velocity (ω) between a magnetic structure (4,4A, 202, 244,246, 4B, 316,372) and a resonator (38,38A, 210,242,312,314,386) magnetically coupled so as to together define a oscillator forming this regulating device, the magnetic structure comprising at least one annular magnetic strip (1 1, 13, 1 1 A, 1 3A, 204, 1 1 A1, 328, 330, 378, 380) centered on an axis of rotation (20, 20A) of this magnetic structure or the resonator, the magnetic structure and the resonator being arranged to rotate relative to one another about said axis of rotation when a driving torque is applied to the magnetic structure or the resonator; the resonator comprising at least one magnetic coupling element to said annular magnetic track, said coupling element having an active end portion (46,46A, 46B, 262,266, 280,282,325,326) formed of a first magnetic material and located on the said annular magnetic strip; this annular magnetic strip being formed at least partially of a second magnetic material arranged so that the magnetic potential energy of the oscillator angularly varies periodically along the annular magnetic strip, thereby defining an angular period (Θ _Ρ ) of this annular magnetic strip, and that it defines magnetically first regions (40,42,40A, 42A, 382) and second zones (1 0, 12, 10A, 12A, 206, 334,384) angularly alternating with a first zone and a second adjacent zone in each angular period; each second zone generating, relative to a first adjacent zone, an upper repulsion force or a lower attraction force for the same zone of said active end portion when this same zone is superimposed, in orthogonal projection to a surface general geometry in which the annular magnetic strip extends, at this second zone, respectively at this first adjacent zone; said magnetic coupling element being magnetically coupled to said annular magnetic track so that resonant mode resonant oscillation is maintained within a useful range of motor torque applied to the magnetic structure or the resonator and that a period of this oscillation occurs during said relative rotation in each angular period of said annular magnetic track, the frequency of said oscillation thereby determining said relative angular velocity, said degree of freedom defining an axis of oscillation (48) of said active end portion passing through its center of mass; said resonator being arranged relative to said magnetic structure so that said active end portion is at least substantially superimposed orthogonal to said annular magnetic track during substantially a first half cycle in each period of said oscillation, and such that the the path of the magnetic coupling element during this first alternation is substantially parallel to said general geometrical surface, the annular magnetic track having in this general geometrical surface a dimension according to the orthogonal projection of said axis of oscillation which is greater than the dimension of said active end portion along said oscillation axis;

the regulating device being characterized in that each of said second zones has, in orthogonal projection, a general contour with a first portion, defining a penetration line (10a, 12a, 214, 366) above this second zone for said active end portion of the magnetic coupling element during said oscillation, and a second portion defining an output line (10b, 12b, 216) from above this second zone for this active end portion during this oscillation, this output line being substantially oriented in an angular direction parallel to a zero position circle (44, 44A) which is centered on said axis of rotation and which passes through the orthogonal projection of the center of mass of said active end portion in its rest position; in that the magnetic structure further defines for the active end portion at least one output region which extends into said general geometrical surface, this at least one output zone receiving in orthogonal projection at least the major part of said active end portion when it emerges, during said oscillation, successively from the annular magnetic track by the respective output lines of the second zones, this at least one output zone generating, relative to said second zones, a lower repulsion force or a greater attraction force for the same arbitrary area of said active end portion when said same area is superimposed orthogonal to said at least one exit area, respectively to said second areas; in that the active end portion of said coupling member in its rest position has, in orthogonal projection in said general geometrical surface, a first dimension (W2), along a first axis perpendicular to said zero position circle and passing through the orthogonal projection of the center of mass of this active end portion, and a second dimension (L2), along a second axis defined by said zero position circle, which is greater than this first dimension; and in that said output line of each of the second zones has a length (L1), along said at least one output zone and along said second axis, which is greater than the first dimension (W2) of the portion d active end.

2. Regulator device according to claim 1, characterized in that said output line of each second zone is substantially coincident with said zero position circle.

3. Control device according to claim 2, characterized in that, in said useful range of the driving torque, said annular magnetic track, said at least one output zone and said magnetic coupling element define in each angular period, depending on the relative position of this annular magnetic track and said active end portion, an accumulation sector (70, 72) in which said oscillator essentially accumulates magnetic potential energy and a pulse sector (76) adjacent to this accumulation sector, in which the magnetic coupling element essentially receives a pulse, the pulse sectors being located in a central pulse zone comprising the relative positions corresponding to said zero position circle.

Regulator device according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that said zero position circle and said oscillation axis are substantially orthogonal to their point of intersection.

5. Regulator device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the second dimension (L2) of said active end portion is at least twice as large as its

First dimension (W2) and said length (L1) of the output line is at least twice as large as this first dimension.

6. Regulator device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the second dimension (L2) of said active end portion is at least four times larger than its first

Dimension (W2) and said length (L1) of the output line is at least four times larger than this first dimension.

7. Regulator device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, in orthogonal projection in said general geometric surface, said penetration line of each

The second zone is substantially oriented along said axis of oscillation when this line of penetration is aligned with the center of mass of said active end portion.

8. Regulator device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the output line of said second

30 zones along said at least one exit zone and said portion active ends extend angularly relative to said axis of rotation over substantially half of an angular period (Θ _Ρ ).

Regulator device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the dimension (W1) of each of said second zones, along an axis perpendicular to said zero position circle at a midpoint of said output line, is at less than three times larger than the first dimension (W2) of said active end portion.

10. Regulator device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the dimension (W1) of each of said io second zones, along an axis perpendicular to said zero position circle at a midpoint of said output line, is at least six times larger than the first dimension (W2) of said active end portion.

1 1. Regulator device (80,126,170,1 80,220,290,300,340,360) of the relative angular velocity (ω) between a magnetic structure

(82, 82, 322) and a resonator (84, 174, 184, 230, 292, 302, 346) magnetically coupled to define together an oscillator forming this regulator, the magnetic structure comprising at least one annular magnetic track (86, 86A, 186, 344) centered on an axis. of rotation (20) of this magnetic structure or of the resonator, the structure

The magnet and the resonator being arranged to rotate relative to each other about said axis of rotation when a driving torque is applied to the magnetic structure or the resonator; the resonator comprising at least one magnetic coupling element to said annular magnetic strip, this magnetic coupling element having a

Active end portion (92, 94, 128, 130, 144, 144A, 156, 158, 92A, 94A, 190A, 234, 294, 296, 156, 58, 352) formed of a first magnetic material and located on the side of said annular magnetic strip; this annular magnetic strip being formed at least partially of a second magnetic material arranged so that the magnetic potential energy of

The oscillator angularly varies periodically along the track annular magnet, thereby defining an angular period (Θ _Ρ ) of this annular magnetic track; said magnetic coupling element being magnetically coupled to the annular magnetic track so that a degree of freedom oscillation of a resonance mode of the resonator is maintained within a useful range of the motor torque applied to the magnetic structure or the resonator and that a period of this oscillation occurs during said relative rotation in each angular period of the annular magnetic track, the frequency of said oscillation thereby determining said relative angular velocity, said degree of freedom defining an axis of oscillation (94,96, 100, 150, 154) of said active end portion passing through its center of mass;

the regulating device being characterized in that said second magnetic material is arranged along the annular magnetic track so that it magnetically defines first zones (104, 104A and second zones (102, 106, 103, 106A, 343) angularly alternating with a first zone and a second adjacent zone in each angular period; in that, during said oscillation in said useful range of the driving torque, said active end portion of said magnetic coupling element defines magnetically in orthogonal projection in a general geometric surface in which this active end portion extends and comprising said oscillation axis,

an input zone successively for said second zones in projection orthogonal to the general geometric surface,

a zone of accumulation of magnetic potential energy in the oscillator, which is angularly adjacent to the input zone and in which at least partially orthogonal projection penetrates each second zone from this input zone, and

an output zone adjacent to the magnetic potential energy accumulation zone, this output zone receiving in orthogonal projection at least the major part of each second zone leaving this accumulation zone or a second following zone; each second zone generating, per unit angular length, relative to a first zone, an upper repulsion force for said magnetic potential energy accumulation zone or a higher attraction force for said entry zone and said exit zone ; said magnetic potential energy accumulation zone generating, relative to said input zone and said output zone, an upper repulsion force or a lower attraction force for the same zone of each second zone when this same zone any one is superimposed on this magnetic potential energy accumulation zone, respectively at the entry zone or the exit zone; in that said annular magnetic track has, in orthogonal projection in said general geometrical surface, a dimension along said axis of oscillation which is smaller than the dimension along said oscillation axis of said active end portion; in that the resonator is arranged relative to the magnetic structure so that the magnetic potential energy accumulation zone is traversed in orthogonal projection by a median geometric circle (120, 21) passing through the middle of the magnetic stripe annular, during substantially a given alternation in each period of said oscillation; in that said magnetic potential energy storage area has a general contour with a first portion, defining a penetration line (126,128,138,139,145,145A,164,166,196,354,355) beneath this accumulation zone successively for each of said second zones when of said oscillation, and a second portion defining an output line (127,129,140, 141, 146, 146A, 160, 162,1 27A, 129A, 197,198, 356,357) from below this accumulation zone for this second zone or a second zone next during this oscillation, the output line being oriented, when said magnetic coupling element is in its rest position, substantially in an angular direction parallel to the orthogonal projection of said median geometric circle; in that each of said second zones has orthogonal projection, when the center of this second zone is superimposed on said axis of oscillation, a first dimension (W3), along a first axis perpendicular to the orthogonal projection of the median geometric circle and passing through the point of intersection of this orthogonal projection of the median geometric circle with the axis of oscillation, and a second dimension (L3), along a second axis perpendicular to the first axis and passing through said point of intersection, which is greater than the first dimension; and in that, when the magnetic coupling element is in its rest position, said output line has a length (L4), along said output zone and along said second axis, which is greater than the first dimension (W3) second zones.

12. Regulator device according to claim 1 1, characterized in that said output line of said magnetic potential energy accumulation zone is substantially coincidental with said orthogonal projection of said median geometric circle when said coupling element is in its position of rest.

13. Control device according to claim 1 1 or 1 2, characterized in that, in said useful range of the engine torque, said annular magnetic track and said magnetic coupling element define in each angular period, depending on the relative position of this annular magnetic stripe and said active end portion, an accumulation sector (70A, 72A) wherein said oscillator substantially accumulates magnetic potential energy and a pulse sector (76A, 77A) adjacent to that region in which the coupling element essentially receives a pulse, the pulse sectors being located in a central zone of pulses substantially corresponding to the annular magnetic track.

14. Regulator device according to any one of claims 1 1 to 13, characterized in that said axis of oscillation and said median geometric circle are, orthogonal projection to said general geometric surface, substantially orthogonal to their point of intersection.

15. Control device according to any one of claims 1 1 to 14, characterized in that the second dimension (L3) of each second zone is at least twice as large as its first dimension (W3), and said length (L4 ) of the exit line is at least

5 twice as large as this first dimension.

16. Regulator device according to any one of claims 1 1 to 14, characterized in that the second dimension (L3) of each second zone is at least four times larger than its first dimension (W3), and said length (L4 ) of the output line is at least four times larger than this first dimension.

17. Regulator device according to any one of claims 1 1 to 16, characterized in that said line of penetration into said magnetic potential energy accumulation zone is oriented in a direction substantially parallel to said axis of oscillation.

18. Regulator device according to any one of the claims

1 1 to 16, characterized in that said penetration line in said magnetic potential energy accumulation zone defines a path according to said degree of freedom.

19. Regulator device according to any one of Claims 1 to 18, characterized in that the output line of said magnetic potential energy accumulation zone along said exit zone and each second zone extend angularly over substantially half of an angular period.

20. Control device according to any one of claims 1 1 to 19, characterized in that the dimension (W4) of said penetration line in said magnetic potential energy accumulation zone along said oscillation axis is at less than five times larger than the dimension (W3), in orthogonal projection in said general geometrical surface, of the annular magnetic track along this oscillation axis.

21. Regulator device according to any one of claims 1 1 to 19, characterized in that the dimension (W4) of said penetration line in said magnetic potential energy storage zone along said axis of oscillation is at least eight times greater than the dimension (W3), in orthogonal projection in said general geometrical surface, of the annular magnetic track along this oscillation axis.

22. Control device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said general geometric surface is a cylindrical surface having as central axis said axis of rotation, said degree of freedom being substantially oriented along this axis of rotation.

The regulator device (1 80) according to any one of the preceding claims and wherein said annular magnetic track defines a first track (86A), characterized in that said magnetic structure further comprises a second annular magnetic track (1 86). also coupled to said coupling element in a similar manner that said coupling element is coupled to the first track; the second track being formed at least partially of a magnetic material which has a variation along this second track so that the magnetic potential energy of the oscillator varies angularly, with said angular period and in a manner similar to the variation of the first track, along this second track, the first and second tracks having an angular offset equal to half of said angular period.

24. Regulator device (220) according to any one of claims 1 to 22 and wherein said annular magnetic track defines a first track, characterized in that it further comprises a second annular magnetic track formed at least partially of a magnetic material and coupled to said coupling element or other coupling element in a similar manner that said coupling element is coupled to the first track; the second track being formed at least partially of a magnetic material which has a variation therealong so that the magnetic potential energy of the oscillator varies angularly, similarly to the variation for the first track, also along this second track; and in that the first and second tracks are respectively integral with two rotational mobiles (222, 224) having distinct axes of rotation.

25. Control device according to claim 24, characterized in that the two mobiles have at their periphery respectively two sets of teeth (226, 228) meshing directly with each other.

26. Control device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said magnetic coupling element is a first coupling element (92,156,294) characterized in that it comprises at least one second coupling element (94, 158,296) also coupled. magnetically to said magnetic track in a manner similar to the first coupling member.

27. The regulator device according to claim 26, characterized in that said resonator is of the spiral-balance or flexible-leaf rocker type, the balance carrying the first and second coupling elements.

28. Regulator device according to claim 26, characterized in that said resonator is formed by a tuning fork whose two free ends of its resonant structure respectively carry the first and second magnetic coupling elements.

29. Control device according to claim 26 dependent on claim 22, characterized in that said resonator is of the torsion type with two free ends of its resonant structure respectively carrying the first and second magnetic coupling elements.

30. Regulator device (340,360) according to any one of claims 1 1 to 21, characterized in that said active end portion of said coupling element is formed substantially by a truncated annular magnet (352) and having a central axis coincides with an axis of rotation of the resonator, said degree of freedom being angular and said axis of circular oscillation, said truncated annular magnet defining in said general geometric surface a truncated annular surface corresponding to the magnetic potential energy accumulation zone successively in the two alternations of each oscillation period, said truncated annular surface having a first end and a second end and an outer contour defining said penetration line, which is a first circular penetration line (354), and an inner contour defining a second line of circular penetration (355 ); in that the first end defines said output line, which is a first output line (356), and the second end defines a second output line (357) having characteristics similar to the first output line; and in that the outer contour is associated with the first output line in a first alternation of the oscillation periods of the resonator to successively carry out magnetic coupling in repulsion with said second zones of the magnetic track and generate a first pulse at the end each first alternation, while the inner contour is associated with the second output line to ensure successively the repulsive magnetic coupling with these second zones in the second alternation of the oscillation periods and generate a second pulse at the end of each second alternately.

31. Regulator device (360) according to claim 30, characterized in that the opening of said truncated annular surface is smaller than said angular period, and in that the diameter of the inner contour of this truncated annular surface is substantially equal to said second dimension second zones or less than this second dimension.

32. Control device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said first and second magnetic materials are magnetized materials in repulsion.

33. Watch movement characterized in that it comprises a regulating device according to any one of the preceding claims, this regulating device defining a resonator and a magnetic escapement, and serving to adjust the operation of at least one mechanism of this watch movement .