EP3206089B1 - Timepiece resonator mechanism - Google Patents

Timepiece resonator mechanism Download PDF

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Publication number
EP3206089B1
EP3206089B1 EP16155039.7A EP16155039A EP3206089B1 EP 3206089 B1 EP3206089 B1 EP 3206089B1 EP 16155039 A EP16155039 A EP 16155039A EP 3206089 B1 EP3206089 B1 EP 3206089B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
pivot axis
virtual pivot
flexible
angle
timepiece resonator
Prior art date
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EP16155039.7A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP3206089A1 (en
Inventor
Gianni Di Domenico
Dominique Léchot
Jean-Luc Helfer
Pascal Winkler
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Swatch Group Research and Development SA
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Swatch Group Research and Development SA
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Publication date
Application filed by Swatch Group Research and Development SA filed Critical Swatch Group Research and Development SA
Priority to EP16155039.7A priority Critical patent/EP3206089B1/en
Priority to CH00173/16A priority patent/CH712105A2/en
Priority to US15/410,294 priority patent/US9958831B2/en
Priority to JP2017018401A priority patent/JP6285584B2/en
Priority to CN201710071187.8A priority patent/CN107065493B/en
Priority to RU2017104280A priority patent/RU2729625C2/en
Publication of EP3206089A1 publication Critical patent/EP3206089A1/en
Priority to EP18150706.2A priority patent/EP3355130B1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP3206089B1 publication Critical patent/EP3206089B1/en
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Classifications

    • GPHYSICS
    • G04HOROLOGY
    • G04BMECHANICALLY-DRIVEN CLOCKS OR WATCHES; MECHANICAL PARTS OF CLOCKS OR WATCHES IN GENERAL; TIME PIECES USING THE POSITION OF THE SUN, MOON OR STARS
    • G04B17/00Mechanisms for stabilising frequency
    • G04B17/04Oscillators acting by spring tension
    • G04B17/045Oscillators acting by spring tension with oscillating blade springs
    • GPHYSICS
    • G04HOROLOGY
    • G04BMECHANICALLY-DRIVEN CLOCKS OR WATCHES; MECHANICAL PARTS OF CLOCKS OR WATCHES IN GENERAL; TIME PIECES USING THE POSITION OF THE SUN, MOON OR STARS
    • G04B15/00Escapements
    • G04B15/02Escapements permanently in contact with the regulating mechanism
    • GPHYSICS
    • G04HOROLOGY
    • G04BMECHANICALLY-DRIVEN CLOCKS OR WATCHES; MECHANICAL PARTS OF CLOCKS OR WATCHES IN GENERAL; TIME PIECES USING THE POSITION OF THE SUN, MOON OR STARS
    • G04B15/00Escapements
    • G04B15/14Component parts or constructional details, e.g. construction of the lever or the escape wheel
    • GPHYSICS
    • G04HOROLOGY
    • G04BMECHANICALLY-DRIVEN CLOCKS OR WATCHES; MECHANICAL PARTS OF CLOCKS OR WATCHES IN GENERAL; TIME PIECES USING THE POSITION OF THE SUN, MOON OR STARS
    • G04B17/00Mechanisms for stabilising frequency
    • G04B17/04Oscillators acting by spring tension
    • GPHYSICS
    • G04HOROLOGY
    • G04BMECHANICALLY-DRIVEN CLOCKS OR WATCHES; MECHANICAL PARTS OF CLOCKS OR WATCHES IN GENERAL; TIME PIECES USING THE POSITION OF THE SUN, MOON OR STARS
    • G04B17/00Mechanisms for stabilising frequency
    • G04B17/20Compensation of mechanisms for stabilising frequency
    • G04B17/22Compensation of mechanisms for stabilising frequency for the effect of variations of temperature
    • G04B17/225Compensation of mechanisms for stabilising frequency for the effect of variations of temperature with pendulums
    • GPHYSICS
    • G04HOROLOGY
    • G04BMECHANICALLY-DRIVEN CLOCKS OR WATCHES; MECHANICAL PARTS OF CLOCKS OR WATCHES IN GENERAL; TIME PIECES USING THE POSITION OF THE SUN, MOON OR STARS
    • G04B17/00Mechanisms for stabilising frequency
    • G04B17/20Compensation of mechanisms for stabilising frequency
    • G04B17/26Compensation of mechanisms for stabilising frequency for the effect of variations of the impulses
    • GPHYSICS
    • G04HOROLOGY
    • G04BMECHANICALLY-DRIVEN CLOCKS OR WATCHES; MECHANICAL PARTS OF CLOCKS OR WATCHES IN GENERAL; TIME PIECES USING THE POSITION OF THE SUN, MOON OR STARS
    • G04B17/00Mechanisms for stabilising frequency
    • G04B17/20Compensation of mechanisms for stabilising frequency
    • G04B17/28Compensation of mechanisms for stabilising frequency for the effect of imbalance of the weights, e.g. tourbillon
    • GPHYSICS
    • G04HOROLOGY
    • G04BMECHANICALLY-DRIVEN CLOCKS OR WATCHES; MECHANICAL PARTS OF CLOCKS OR WATCHES IN GENERAL; TIME PIECES USING THE POSITION OF THE SUN, MOON OR STARS
    • G04B17/00Mechanisms for stabilising frequency
    • G04B17/32Component parts or constructional details, e.g. collet, stud, virole or piton
    • GPHYSICS
    • G04HOROLOGY
    • G04BMECHANICALLY-DRIVEN CLOCKS OR WATCHES; MECHANICAL PARTS OF CLOCKS OR WATCHES IN GENERAL; TIME PIECES USING THE POSITION OF THE SUN, MOON OR STARS
    • G04B31/00Bearings; Point suspensions or counter-point suspensions; Pivot bearings; Single parts therefor
    • G04B31/02Shock-damping bearings

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a timepiece resonator mechanism comprising a first support with a first anchor and a second anchor to which is fixed a flexible pivoting guide mechanism, which defines a virtual pivot axis about which rotates a pivoting mass, and which comprises at least one anterior RCC flexible pivot and a posterior RCC flexible pivot mounted in series and head to tail with respect to each other about said virtual pivot axis, said prior RCC flexible pivot comprising, between said first support and an intermediate rotatable support, two straight anterior flexible blades of the same anterior length between their recesses, defining two anterior linear directions which intersect at said virtual pivot axis and which define with said virtual pivot axis an anterior angle, and whose respective anchorages of said two most straight forward flexible blades away from said virtual pivot axis are both at the same previous distance from said virtual pivot axis, and said posterior flexible pivot RCC having, between said intermediate rotary support, which comprises a third anchor and a fourth anchor, and said pivoting mass, two posterior flexible blades having the same posterior length between their reces
  • the invention also relates to a watch movement comprising at least one such resonator mechanism.
  • the invention also relates to a watch comprising at least one such movement.
  • the invention relates to the field of clock resonator mechanisms.
  • the document EP3021174 in the name of LVMH SWISS MFT SA describes a monolithic timepiece controller made of a single plate, comprising a rigid outer element, an internal rigid element, and elastic suspensions connecting the external rigid element to the inner rigid element and allowing oscillation movements.
  • the rigid inner member has arms which are rigidly connected to each other, leaving between them free angular spaces, in which are located the elastic suspensions.
  • This document illustrates a compact system, including pivots that have flexible blades, but this document does not describe a feature to ensure the isochronism (step independent of the amplitude), nor the insensitivity to the positions in space, in the gravity field (position independent).
  • the architecture of the blades and intermediate supports is particular: it may be noted that the ends of the two blades close to the axis of rotation are connected to two different intermediate supports, and are not connected to the same rigid element, it is not is therefore not RCC pivots (Remote Compliance Center); it can also be noted that the recesses close to the pivot axis of the first pivot are not rigidly connected by the intermediate support to the recesses distant from the pivot axis of the second pivot.
  • the system described is obviously hyperstatic, that is, there is more than constraints than is necessary for the operation of the system. This has the consequence of destroying the desired linearity of the elastic return torque.
  • the teachings of this document do not make it possible to determine its particular geometrical parameters.
  • the document WO2012 / 010408 in the name of NIVAROX-FAR describes an oscillating mechanism for a watch movement, comprising a first rigid element and a second rigid element, each arranged to be fixed to a different element of the movement, and one of which is movable relative to the other and pivots around a theoretical pivot axis.
  • This oscillating mechanism is flexible with variable geometry, while being made in one piece, and comprises first elastic return means providing a direct or indirect elastic connection between said first rigid element and an intermediate rigid element, and comprises at least second means resilient return, which provide a direct or indirect elastic connection between the intermediate rigid element and the second rigid element.
  • the first rigid element, the first elastic return means, the intermediate rigid element, the second elastic return means, and the second rigid element are coplanar, and are arranged to deform in this plane. More particularly, the first elastic return means comprise at least one elastic blade, and the second elastic return means comprise at least one elastic blade.
  • the document EP2645189 in the name of NIVAROX-FAR describes a clockwork escapement mechanism comprising a balance wheel and an escape wheel.
  • the transmission of pulses between the balance wheel and the escape wheel is carried out by a one-piece flexible mechanism comprising at least one probe cooperating with the escape wheel or the rocker, and this flexible one-piece mechanism is connected by at least one flexible blade to a fixed structure of said timepiece, or respectively to the escape wheel.
  • this flexible one-piece mechanism is a Swiss anchor, or anchor, flexible with constant force, bistable buckling, this anchor comprising a rod provided with a fork with dart and having a pivoting flexible rod and guided, this anchor cooperating with a two-level escapement wheel, having pins on these two respective levels, and the anchor still carrying, on a level other than the flexible rod, an ankle arranged to cooperate with the escape wheel for moving the anchor near its tipping point.
  • the document EP2911012 in the name of CSEM describes a rotary oscillator for a timepiece comprising a support element intended to allow the assembly of the oscillator on a timepiece, a balance, a plurality of flexible blades connecting the support element to the pendulum and able to exercise a pair of booster on the pendulum, and a serge mounted solidarity pendulum.
  • This plurality of flexible blades comprises at least a first flexible blade disposed in a first plane perpendicular to the plane of the oscillator, and a second flexible blade disposed in a second plane perpendicular to the plane of the oscillator and secant with the first plane.
  • the oscillation geometric axis of the oscillator is defined by the intersection of the first plane and the second plane, this geometric axis of oscillation crossing the first and second blades to 7/8 of their respective length.
  • the plurality of flexible blades comprises a pair formed of a first and a second blade of identical geometry and arranged in the first plane, and a third blade disposed in the second plane, interposed between the first and the second blade. and having a height twice that of the first or second blade.
  • the invention proposes to produce a mechanical resonator with a high quality factor using an inertial part such as a rocker, supported by a guide with flexible blades in rotation, also called flexible guide pin, which also acts as a means of elastic return. It is desired that this resonator is isochronous (independent of amplitude) and insensitive to positions in the gravitational field (position independent).
  • the invention seeks to combine the advantages of two known two-dimensional and three-dimensional geometries, in a simple and economical, therefore two-dimensional, execution.
  • the invention thus relates to a clock resonator mechanism according to claim 1.
  • the invention also relates to a watch movement comprising at least one such resonator mechanism.
  • the invention also relates to a watch comprising at least one such movement.
  • the invention relates to a timepiece resonator mechanism 1000, comprising a first rigid support 100, fixed or mobile, with a first anchor 1 and a second anchor 2, to which is fixed a flexible pivoting guide mechanism 10, which defines an axis virtual pivoting A, about which rotatably pivots a pivotal mass 200 rigid.
  • This flexible pivot guide mechanism 10 is a 2D flexible guide pivot, that is to say, achievable in a plane.
  • This flexible pivoting guide mechanism 10 allows the rigid pivoting mass 200 to rotate the virtual pivot axis A relative to the first rigid support 100. It is composed of two flexible pivots RCC (Remote Center Compliance, that is to say, center of rotation offset) whose axes of rotation coincide and which are connected by a rigid intermediate rotating support 20. The two RCC pivots are thus put in series, but head to tail with respect to each other, so that their parasitic movements compensate each other.
  • RCC Remote Center Compliance
  • the flexible pivotal guide mechanism 10 includes an earlier RCC flexible pivot 10A and a rearward flexible RCC pivot 10P, which are connected in series with each other, and head-to-tail, about the pivot axis virtual A common, and which incorporate elastic flexible elements.
  • the front flexible pivot RCC 10A comprises, between the first support 100 and an intermediate rotary support 20, two anterior resilient assemblies 11, 21, formed, in the embodiment of the figures, by two straight forward flexible blades 110, 210, and the like.
  • the rear flexible pivot RCC 10P comprises, between the intermediate rotary support 20, which comprises a third anchorage 3 and a fourth anchorage 4, and the pivoting mass 200, two rear elastic assemblies 31, 41, formed in the embodiment of the figures, by two straight posterior flexible blades 310, 410 of the same posterior length LP between their recesses, defining two posterior linear directions D3, D4, which intersect at the level of the virtual pivot axis A, and which define with this virtual pivot axis has a posterior angle aP, and whose respective anchors two straight posterior flexible blades 310, 410, the farthest from the virtual pivot axis A are both at the same rear distance DP of the virtual pivot axis A.
  • the flexible pivoting guide mechanism 10 is planar.
  • the invention consists in optimizing the angle between the elastic elements of each flexible pivot RCC, so that the pivot has a linear elastic return force, so that the mechanical resonator is isochronous in a given range of angular amplitude.
  • the anterior angle ⁇ A and the posterior angle ⁇ P are equal to a common angle ⁇ . More particularly, this common angle ⁇ is close to 112.0 °.
  • the anterior distance DA and the posterior distance DP are equal to a common distance D
  • the anterior length LA and the posterior length LP are equal to a common length L.
  • the common angle ⁇ is then between: 109.5 + 5 / D / The - 2 / 3 and 114.5 + 5 / D / The - 2 / 3
  • the figure 5 shows the evolution of the optimal angle ⁇ , as a function of the D / L ratio.
  • first anterior elastic assembly 11, the second anterior elastic assembly 21, the first posterior elastic assembly 31, and the second posterior elastic assembly 41 each comprise at least one straight flexible blade 110, 210 , 310, 410, or a bundle of parallel straight flexible blades, not shown not to complicate the figures.
  • the first anterior elastic assembly 11, the second anterior elastic assembly 21, the first posterior elastic assembly 31, and the second posterior elastic assembly 41 each consist of a straight flexible blade 110, 210, 310, 410.
  • first anterior elastic assembly 11, the second anterior elastic assembly 21, the first posterior elastic assembly 31, and the second posterior elastic assembly 41 each comprise an alternation of straight flexible blades and elements. intermediates more rigid than these straight flexible blades, aligned in the respective directions D1, D2, D3, D4.
  • an inertial element 201 to the pivoting mass 200, or to integrate it therewith, and to fix the first rigid support 100 to a plate or a bridge of the watch movement, or any other element that can act as a support for the flexible pivot resonator, for example, without limitation, a tuning element of a tuning fork, or an anti-shock element which is authorized to move only in the event of a violent impact, so as to reduce the acceleration experienced by the resonator.
  • the fixed part and the moving part represented here are permutable.
  • This inertial element can be a disk, a ring such as a beam serge as visible on the figure 2 , or a simple arm as visible on the figure 1 . It is important that the center of mass of the inertial element is substantially aligned with the virtual pivot axis A.
  • the elastic elements comprise intermediate elements that are stiffer than the straight flexible blades, these intermediate elements are advantageously also skeletonized.
  • Another advantageous variant consists of arranging the rigid parts 100, 20, 200, very close to each other around the virtual pivot axis A, so that they act as anti-shock, radial or / and angular abutments, in order to prevent a rupture of the blades, as visible with the surfaces 105, 25, 26, 206, 28, 208, of the figure 4 , in particular the oblique faces 28 and 208 which contribute greatly to the impact resistance of the system.
  • the arrangement of the most rigid parts comprises limiting surfaces 101, 102, 203, 204 arranged to limit the flexible blades, as visible on the figure 4 .
  • the invention can be implemented with blades having other geometries, for example in zig-zag or serpentine or with curved parts, but it is clear that the geometry of straight blades strongly limits the possible parasitic displacements of the virtual pivot axis A, and remains the most advantageous mode of implementation of the invention.
  • the blades may, again, have varying thicknesses.
  • the essential thing is to respect the symmetry of flexibility with respect to the bisector of the angle aA, and with respect to the virtual pivot axis A.
  • the invention is particularly well suited to monolithic execution.
  • the first support 100, the pivoting mass 200, and the flexible pivoting guide mechanism 10 form a one-piece assembly.
  • This one-piece assembly can be produced either by conventional machining, or else, in a particular and non-exhaustive manner, by "MEMS" or "LIGA” type technologies or 3D printing or additive manufacturing by laser or the like, in silicon, quartz , DLC, metal alloys, glass, ruby, sapphire or other ceramic, or polymers, whether charged or not, or the like, thermally compensated, in particular by particular local growth of silicon dioxide, in certain areas of the room arranged for this purpose, when this one-piece assembly is made of silicon.
  • other materials are usable, for some at the cost of temperature compensation. Mention may be made in particular, and not exclusively, of amorphous or crystalline metal alloys.
  • the flexible pivoting guide mechanism 10 is advantageously made of silicon, oxidized in such a way that the complete resonator mechanism 1000, with this reported inertial mass 201, is thermally compensated.
  • the clock resonator mechanism 1000 may comprise a plurality of such flexible pivoting guide mechanisms 10 connected in series, for increase the total angular travel, arranged in parallel planes, and around the same virtual pivot axis A, by joining rigid parts together.
  • Such a part can be formed by assembling two pieces engraved on one level, or can be etched in silicon SOI two levels.
  • the invention also relates to a 2000 clockwork movement comprising at least one such resonator mechanism 1000.
  • the invention also relates to a watch 3000 comprising at least one such movement 2000.

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  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Metallurgy (AREA)
  • Piezo-Electric Or Mechanical Vibrators, Or Delay Or Filter Circuits (AREA)
  • Electric Clocks (AREA)

Description

Domaine de l'inventionField of the invention

L'invention concerne un mécanisme résonateur d'horlogerie comportant un premier support avec un premier ancrage et un deuxième ancrage auxquels est fixé un mécanisme flexible de guidage en pivotement, qui définit un axe de pivotement virtuel autour duquel pivote de façon rotative une masse pivotante, et qui comporte au moins un pivot flexible RCC antérieur et un pivot flexible RCC postérieur montés en série et tête-bêche l'un par rapport à l'autre autour dudit axe de pivotement virtuel, ledit pivot flexible RCC antérieur comportant, entre ledit premier support et un support rotatif intermédiaire, deux lames flexibles antérieures droites de même longueur antérieure entre leurs encastrements, définissant deux directions linéaires antérieures qui se croisent au niveau dudit axe de pivotement virtuel et qui définissent avec ledit axe de pivotement virtuel un angle antérieur, et dont les ancrages respectifs desdites deux lames flexibles antérieures droites les plus éloignés dudit axe de pivotement virtuel sont tous deux à une même distance antérieure dudit axe de pivotement virtuel, et ledit pivot flexible RCC postérieur comportant, entre ledit support rotatif intermédiaire, qui comporte un troisième ancrage et un quatrième ancrage, et ladite masse pivotante, deux lames flexibles postérieures droites de même longueur postérieure entre leurs encastrements, définissant deux directions linéaires postérieures qui se croisent au niveau dudit axe de pivotement virtuel et qui définissent avec ledit axe de pivotement virtuel un angle postérieur, et dont les ancrages respectifs desdites deux lames flexibles postérieures droites les plus éloignés dudit axe de pivotement virtuel sont tous deux à une même distance postérieure dudit axe de pivotement virtuel.The invention relates to a timepiece resonator mechanism comprising a first support with a first anchor and a second anchor to which is fixed a flexible pivoting guide mechanism, which defines a virtual pivot axis about which rotates a pivoting mass, and which comprises at least one anterior RCC flexible pivot and a posterior RCC flexible pivot mounted in series and head to tail with respect to each other about said virtual pivot axis, said prior RCC flexible pivot comprising, between said first support and an intermediate rotatable support, two straight anterior flexible blades of the same anterior length between their recesses, defining two anterior linear directions which intersect at said virtual pivot axis and which define with said virtual pivot axis an anterior angle, and whose respective anchorages of said two most straight forward flexible blades away from said virtual pivot axis are both at the same previous distance from said virtual pivot axis, and said posterior flexible pivot RCC having, between said intermediate rotary support, which comprises a third anchor and a fourth anchor, and said pivoting mass, two posterior flexible blades having the same posterior length between their recesses, defining two posterior linear directions which intersect at said virtual pivot axis and which define with said virtual pivoting axis a posterior angle, and whose respective anchors of said two posterior flexible blades Straightest furthest from said virtual pivot axis are both at the same posterior distance from said virtual pivot axis.

L'invention concerne encore un mouvement d'horlogerie comportant au moins un tel mécanisme résonateur.The invention also relates to a watch movement comprising at least one such resonator mechanism.

L'invention concerne encore une montre comportant au moins un tel mouvement.The invention also relates to a watch comprising at least one such movement.

L'invention concerne le domaine des mécanismes résonateurs d'horlogerie.The invention relates to the field of clock resonator mechanisms.

Arrière-plan de l'inventionBackground of the invention

Il est connu que l'utilisation d'un pivot à guidage flexible permet de remplacer le pivot réel d'un balancier ainsi que le ressort spiral de rappel élastique. Ceci à l'avantage de supprimer les frottements de pivots. Toutefois les pivots à guidage flexible sont connus pour avoir une force de rappel élastique non-linéaire ce qui rend le résonateur anisochrone, c'est-à-dire que la fréquence dépend de l'amplitude de l'oscillation, et pour avoir un mouvement parasite de l'axe instantané de rotation, ce qui rend la marche du résonateur sensible à sa position dans le champ de la gravité.It is known that the use of a flexible guiding pivot makes it possible to replace the real pivot of a balance and the spiral spring of elastic return. This has the advantage of eliminating the friction of pivots. However the guiding pivots flexible are known to have a nonlinear elastic restoring force which makes the resonator anisochronous, that is to say that the frequency depends on the amplitude of the oscillation, and to have a parasitic movement of the axis instantaneous rotation, which makes the movement of the resonator sensitive to its position in the field of gravity.

Le problème de la non-linéarité de la force de rappel élastique est difficile à résoudre, et les solutions géométriques existantes, pour améliorer la linéarité de la force de rappel élastique et par conséquent rendre le résonateur isochrone pour une gamme d'amplitude angulaire donnée, nécessitent une fabrication sur plusieurs niveaux. La demande de brevet WO2016096677 , au nom de The Swatch Group Research & Development Ltd, incorporée ici par référence, décrit ainsi un résonateur d'horlogerie à lames croisées dans deux plans superposés et expose l'importance de la valeur d'un angle particulier, pour optimiser la linéarité de la force de rappel élastique et par conséquent rendre le résonateur isochrone pour une gamme d'amplitude angulaire donnée. Toutefois un tel pivot à guidage flexible ne peut pas être gravé en une seule fois en 2D, ce qui complique sa fabrication.The problem of the non-linearity of the elastic return force is difficult to solve, and the existing geometric solutions, to improve the linearity of the elastic restoring force and therefore make the isochronous resonator for a given range of angular amplitude, require manufacturing on several levels. The patent application WO2016096677 , on behalf of The Swatch Group Research & Development Ltd., incorporated herein by reference, thus discloses a cross-blade clock resonator in two superimposed planes and outlines the importance of the value of a particular angle, to optimize the linearity of the elastic return force and therefore make the resonator isochronous for a given range of angular amplitude. However, such a pivot with flexible guidance can not be engraved at once in 2D, which complicates its manufacture.

Le document EP3021174 au nom de LVMH SWISS MFT SA décrit un régulateur monolithique de pièce d'horlogerie réalisé en une seule plaque, comprenant un élément extérieur rigide, un élément rigide interne, et des suspensions élastiques reliant l'élément rigide externe à l'élément rigide intérieur et permettant des mouvements d'oscillation. L'élément interne rigide comporte des bras qui sont rigidement reliés les uns aux autres, en laissant entre eux des espaces angulaires libres, dans lesquels sont situées les suspensions élastiques. Ce document illustre bien un système compact, comportant des pivots qui comportent lames flexibles, mais ce document ne décrit pas de caractéristique propre à assurer l'isochronisme (marche indépendante de l'amplitude), ni l'insensibilité aux positions dans l'espace, dans le champ de gravité (marche indépendante des positions). L'architecture des lames et des supports intermédiaires y est particulière : on peut remarquer que les extrémités des deux lames proches de l'axe de rotation sont raccordées à deux supports intermédiaires différents, et ne sont pas connectées au même élément rigide, il ne s'agit donc pas de pivots RCC (Remote Compliance Center); on peut encore remarquer que les encastrements proches de l'axe de pivotement du premier pivot ne sont pas rigidement liés par le support intermédiaire aux encastrements éloignés de l'axe de pivotement du second pivot. Enfin, le système décrit est manifestement hyperstatique, c'est-à-dire qu'il y a plus de contraintes que ce qui est nécessaire au fonctionnement du système. Ceci a pour conséquence de détruire la linéarité recherchée du couple de rappel élastique. Les enseignements de ce document ne permettent pas de déterminer ses paramètres géométriques particuliers.The document EP3021174 in the name of LVMH SWISS MFT SA describes a monolithic timepiece controller made of a single plate, comprising a rigid outer element, an internal rigid element, and elastic suspensions connecting the external rigid element to the inner rigid element and allowing oscillation movements. The rigid inner member has arms which are rigidly connected to each other, leaving between them free angular spaces, in which are located the elastic suspensions. This document illustrates a compact system, including pivots that have flexible blades, but this document does not describe a feature to ensure the isochronism (step independent of the amplitude), nor the insensitivity to the positions in space, in the gravity field (position independent). The architecture of the blades and intermediate supports is particular: it may be noted that the ends of the two blades close to the axis of rotation are connected to two different intermediate supports, and are not connected to the same rigid element, it is not is therefore not RCC pivots (Remote Compliance Center); it can also be noted that the recesses close to the pivot axis of the first pivot are not rigidly connected by the intermediate support to the recesses distant from the pivot axis of the second pivot. Finally, the system described is obviously hyperstatic, that is, there is more than constraints than is necessary for the operation of the system. This has the consequence of destroying the desired linearity of the elastic return torque. The teachings of this document do not make it possible to determine its particular geometrical parameters.

Le document WO2012/010408 au nom de NIVAROX-FAR décrit un mécanisme oscillant pour un mouvement d'horlogerie, comportant un premier élément rigide et un deuxième élément rigide, chacun agencé pour être fixé à un élément différent du mouvement, et dont l'un est mobile par rapport à l'autre et pivote autour d'un axe théorique de pivotement. Ce mécanisme oscillant est flexible à géométrie variable, tout en étant réalisé de façon monobloc, et comporte des premiers moyens de rappel élastique réalisant une liaison élastique directe ou indirecte entre ledit premier élément rigide et un élément rigide intermédiaire, et comporte au moins des deuxièmes moyens de rappel élastique, qui réalisent une liaison élastique directe ou indirecte entre l'élément rigide intermédiaire et le deuxième élément rigide. Le premier élément rigide, les premiers moyens de rappel élastique, l'élément rigide intermédiaire, les deuxièmes moyens de rappel élastique, et le deuxième élément rigide, sont coplanaires, et sont agencés pour se déformer dans ce plan. Plus particulièrement, les premiers moyens de rappel élastique comportent au moins une lame élastique, et les deuxièmes moyens de rappel élastique comportent au moins une lame élastique.The document WO2012 / 010408 in the name of NIVAROX-FAR describes an oscillating mechanism for a watch movement, comprising a first rigid element and a second rigid element, each arranged to be fixed to a different element of the movement, and one of which is movable relative to the other and pivots around a theoretical pivot axis. This oscillating mechanism is flexible with variable geometry, while being made in one piece, and comprises first elastic return means providing a direct or indirect elastic connection between said first rigid element and an intermediate rigid element, and comprises at least second means resilient return, which provide a direct or indirect elastic connection between the intermediate rigid element and the second rigid element. The first rigid element, the first elastic return means, the intermediate rigid element, the second elastic return means, and the second rigid element are coplanar, and are arranged to deform in this plane. More particularly, the first elastic return means comprise at least one elastic blade, and the second elastic return means comprise at least one elastic blade.

Le document EP2645189 au nom de NIVAROX-FAR décrit un mécanisme d'échappement d'horlogerie comportant un balancier et une roue d'échappement. La transmission d'impulsions entre le balancier et la roue d'échappement est réalisée par un mécanisme flexible monobloc comportant au moins un palpeur de coopération avec la roue d'échappement ou respectivement le balancier, et ce mécanisme flexible monobloc est relié par au moins une lame flexible à une structure fixe de ladite pièce d'horlogerie, ou respectivement à la roue d'échappement. Plus particulièrement, ce mécanisme flexible monobloc est une ancre, ou une ancre suisse, flexible à force constante, bistable en flambage, cette ancre comportant une baguette munie d'une fourchette avec dard et comportant une tige flexible pivotante et guidée, cette ancre coopérant avec une roue d'échappement à deux niveaux, comportant des chevilles sur ces deux niveaux respectifs, et l'ancre portant encore, sur un autre niveau que la tige flexible, une cheville agencée pour coopérer avec la roue d'échappement pour le déplacement de l'ancre à proximité de son point de basculement.The document EP2645189 in the name of NIVAROX-FAR describes a clockwork escapement mechanism comprising a balance wheel and an escape wheel. The transmission of pulses between the balance wheel and the escape wheel is carried out by a one-piece flexible mechanism comprising at least one probe cooperating with the escape wheel or the rocker, and this flexible one-piece mechanism is connected by at least one flexible blade to a fixed structure of said timepiece, or respectively to the escape wheel. More particularly, this flexible one-piece mechanism is a Swiss anchor, or anchor, flexible with constant force, bistable buckling, this anchor comprising a rod provided with a fork with dart and having a pivoting flexible rod and guided, this anchor cooperating with a two-level escapement wheel, having pins on these two respective levels, and the anchor still carrying, on a level other than the flexible rod, an ankle arranged to cooperate with the escape wheel for moving the anchor near its tipping point.

Le document EP2911012 au nom de CSEM décrit un oscillateur rotatif pour pièce d'horlogerie comprenant un élément de support destiné à permettre l'assemblage de l'oscillateur sur une pièce d'horlogerie, un balancier, une pluralité de lames flexibles reliant l'élément de support au balancier et aptes à exercer un couple de rappel sur le balancier, et une serge montée solidaire du balancier. Cette pluralité de lames flexibles comporte au moins une première lame flexible disposée dans un premier plan perpendiculaire au plan de l'oscillateur, et une deuxième lame flexible disposée dans un deuxième plan perpendiculaire au plan de l'oscillateur et sécant avec le premier plan. L'axe géométrique d'oscillation de l'oscillateur est défini par l'intersection du premier plan et du deuxième plan, cet axe géométrique d'oscillation croisant les première et deuxième lames aux 7/8 de leur longueur respective. Plus particulièrement, la pluralité de lames flexibles comporte une paire formée d'une première et d'une deuxième lames de géométrie identique et disposées dans le premier plan, et une troisième lame disposée dans le deuxième plan, intercalée entre la première et la deuxième lame et présentant une hauteur double de celle de la première ou de la deuxième lame.The document EP2911012 in the name of CSEM describes a rotary oscillator for a timepiece comprising a support element intended to allow the assembly of the oscillator on a timepiece, a balance, a plurality of flexible blades connecting the support element to the pendulum and able to exercise a pair of booster on the pendulum, and a serge mounted solidarity pendulum. This plurality of flexible blades comprises at least a first flexible blade disposed in a first plane perpendicular to the plane of the oscillator, and a second flexible blade disposed in a second plane perpendicular to the plane of the oscillator and secant with the first plane. The oscillation geometric axis of the oscillator is defined by the intersection of the first plane and the second plane, this geometric axis of oscillation crossing the first and second blades to 7/8 of their respective length. More particularly, the plurality of flexible blades comprises a pair formed of a first and a second blade of identical geometry and arranged in the first plane, and a third blade disposed in the second plane, interposed between the first and the second blade. and having a height twice that of the first or second blade.

Le document EP2273323 au nom de ULYSSE NARDIN LE LOCLE décrit un oscillateur mécanique doté d'un mécanisme de guidage flexible comprenant plusieurs pivots RCC montés en série. Chaque pivot RCC est situé sur un plan parallèle et distinct par rapport aux plans des autres pivots RCC, ce qui permet d'éviter tout frottement entre les lames des pivots.The document EP2273323 in the name of ULYSSE NARDIN THE LOCLE describes a mechanical oscillator with a flexible guide mechanism comprising several RCC pins mounted in series. Each pivot RCC is located on a plane parallel and distinct from the plans of the other RCC pivots, which avoids any friction between the blades of the pivots.

Résumé de l'inventionSummary of the invention

L'invention se propose de réaliser un résonateur mécanique à haut facteur de qualité à l'aide d'une partie inertielle telle qu'un balancier, supportée par un guidage à lames flexibles en rotation, appelé aussi pivot à guidage flexible, qui agit aussi comme moyen de rappel élastique. On désire que ce résonateur soit isochrone (marche indépendante de l'amplitude) et insensible aux positions dans le champ de gravité (marche indépendante des positions).The invention proposes to produce a mechanical resonator with a high quality factor using an inertial part such as a rocker, supported by a guide with flexible blades in rotation, also called flexible guide pin, which also acts as a means of elastic return. It is desired that this resonator is isochronous (independent of amplitude) and insensitive to positions in the gravitational field (position independent).

L'invention cherche à allier les avantages des deux géométries connues bidimensionnelle et tridimensionnelle, dans une exécution simple et économique, donc bidimensionnelle.The invention seeks to combine the advantages of two known two-dimensional and three-dimensional geometries, in a simple and economical, therefore two-dimensional, execution.

L'invention concerne ainsi un mécanisme résonateur d'horlogerie selon la revendication 1.The invention thus relates to a clock resonator mechanism according to claim 1.

L'invention concerne encore un mouvement d'horlogerie comportant au moins un tel mécanisme résonateur.The invention also relates to a watch movement comprising at least one such resonator mechanism.

L'invention concerne encore une montre comportant au moins un tel mouvement.The invention also relates to a watch comprising at least one such movement.

Description sommaire des dessinsBrief description of the drawings

D'autres caractéristiques et avantages de l'invention apparaîtront à la lecture de la description détaillée qui va suivre, en référence aux dessins annexés, où :

  • la figure 1 représente, de façon schématisée et en vue en perspective, un résonateur mécanique selon l'invention, comportant, entre un premier support agencé pour être fixé directement ou indirectement à la structure d'un mouvement d'horlogerie, et une masse pivotante mobile sur laquelle un rapporté un balancier à bras, deux pivots flexibles RCC montés en série, et tête-bêche, autour d'un support rotatif intermédiaire et de même axe de pivotement virtuel, et comportant chacun deux lames flexibles droites, avec le centre de masse de l'ensemble constitué par la masse pivotante mobile et le balancier rapporté coïncidant avec l'axe de pivotement virtuel;
  • la figure 2 est une variante où le balancier rapporté comporte une serge circulaire ;
  • la figure 3 représente, de façon schématisée et en vue en plan, la partie centrale du résonateur de la figure 1 ;
  • la figure 4 est un détail de la même partie centrale, mettant en évidence les différentes surfaces de limitation pour la protection anti-chocs, que comporte ce résonateur ;
  • la figure 5 est un graphique représentant la valeur optimale de l'angle entre les deux lames de chaque pivot flexible RCC, en fonction du ratio entre, d'une part la distance de l'encastrement d'une lame, opposé à l'axe de pivotement, et d'autre part avec la longueur de la lame concernée ;
  • les figures 6 à 8 illustrent d'autres variantes d'arrangements géométriques;
  • la figure 9 est un schéma-blocs représentant une montre avec un mouvement incorporant un résonateur selon l'invention, lequel comporte plusieurs mécanismes flexibles de guidage en pivotement disposés en série.
Other features and advantages of the invention will appear on reading the detailed description which follows, with reference to the appended drawings, in which:
  • the figure 1 represents schematically and in perspective view, a mechanical resonator according to the invention, comprising, between a first support arranged to be fixed directly or indirectly to the structure of a watch movement, and a mobile pivoting mass on which a rocker arm, two flexible pivots RCC mounted in series, and head-to-tail, around an intermediate rotary support and the same virtual pivot axis, and each having two straight flexible blades, with the center of mass of the assembly consisting of the mobile pivoting mass and the reported balance coinciding with the virtual pivot axis;
  • the figure 2 is a variant where the reported balance has a circular serge;
  • the figure 3 represents schematically and in plan view, the central part of the resonator of the figure 1 ;
  • the figure 4 is a detail of the same central part, highlighting the different limiting surfaces for the impact protection, that includes this resonator;
  • the figure 5 is a graph representing the optimum value of the angle between the two blades of each flexible pivot RCC, as a function of the ratio between, on the one hand, the distance of the embedding of a blade, opposite to the axis of pivoting, and on the other hand with the length of the blade concerned;
  • the Figures 6 to 8 illustrate other variations of geometric arrangements;
  • the figure 9 is a block diagram showing a watch with a movement incorporating a resonator according to the invention, which comprises a plurality of flexible pivot guide mechanisms arranged in series.

Description détaillée des modes de réalisation préférésDetailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments

L'invention concerne un mécanisme résonateur d'horlogerie 1000, comportant un premier support 100 rigide, fixe ou mobile, avec un premier ancrage 1 et un deuxième ancrage 2, auxquels est fixé un mécanisme flexible de guidage en pivotement 10, qui définit un axe de pivotement virtuel A, autour duquel pivote de façon rotative une masse pivotante 200 rigide.The invention relates to a timepiece resonator mechanism 1000, comprising a first rigid support 100, fixed or mobile, with a first anchor 1 and a second anchor 2, to which is fixed a flexible pivoting guide mechanism 10, which defines an axis virtual pivoting A, about which rotatably pivots a pivotal mass 200 rigid.

Ce mécanisme flexible de guidage en pivotement 10 est un pivot à guidage flexible 2D, c'est-à-dire réalisable dans un plan.This flexible pivot guide mechanism 10 is a 2D flexible guide pivot, that is to say, achievable in a plane.

Ce mécanisme flexible de guidage en pivotement 10 permet à la masse pivotante 200 rigide d'effectuer une rotation de l'axe de pivotement virtuel A, relativement au premier support 100 rigide. Il est composé de deux pivots flexibles RCC (Remote Center Compliance, c'est-à-dire centre de rotation déporté) dont les axes de rotation coïncident et qui sont reliés par un support rotatif intermédiaire 20 rigide. Les deux pivots RCC sont ainsi mis en série, mais tête-bêche l'un par rapport à l'autre, de sorte que leurs mouvements parasites se compensent.This flexible pivoting guide mechanism 10 allows the rigid pivoting mass 200 to rotate the virtual pivot axis A relative to the first rigid support 100. It is composed of two flexible pivots RCC (Remote Center Compliance, that is to say, center of rotation offset) whose axes of rotation coincide and which are connected by a rigid intermediate rotating support 20. The two RCC pivots are thus put in series, but head to tail with respect to each other, so that their parasitic movements compensate each other.

On comprend que les encastrements proches de l'axe de pivotement virtuel A du premier pivot RCC sont rigidement reliés, par le support rotatif intermédiaire 20, aux encastrements éloignés de l'axe de pivotement virtuel A du second pivot RCC, ou vice-versa, tel que visible sur les figures 6 et 7.It will be understood that the recesses close to the virtual pivot axis A of the first pivot RCC are rigidly connected, by the intermediate rotary support 20, to the recesses distant from the virtual pivot axis A of the second pivot RCC, or vice versa, as visible on the Figures 6 and 7 .

Ainsi, le mécanisme flexible de guidage en pivotement 10 comporte un pivot flexible RCC antérieur 10A et un pivot flexible RCC postérieur 10P, qui sont montés en série l'un avec l'autre, et tête-bêche, autour de l'axe de pivotement virtuel A commun, et qui incorporent des éléments flexibles élastiques.Thus, the flexible pivotal guide mechanism 10 includes an earlier RCC flexible pivot 10A and a rearward flexible RCC pivot 10P, which are connected in series with each other, and head-to-tail, about the pivot axis virtual A common, and which incorporate elastic flexible elements.

Le pivot flexible RCC antérieur 10A comporte, entre le premier support 100 et un support rotatif intermédiaire 20, deux ensembles élastiques antérieurs 11, 21, formés, dans le mode de réalisation des figures, par deux lames flexibles antérieures droites 110, 210, de même longueur antérieure LA entre leurs encastrements, définissant deux directions linéaires antérieures D1, D2, qui se croisent au niveau de l'axe de pivotement virtuel A, et qui définissent avec cet axe de pivotement virtuel A un angle antérieur aA, et dont les ancrages respectifs des deux lames flexibles antérieures droites 110, 210, les plus éloignés de l'axe de pivotement virtuel A sont tous deux à une même distance antérieure DA de l'axe de pivotement virtuel A.The front flexible pivot RCC 10A comprises, between the first support 100 and an intermediate rotary support 20, two anterior resilient assemblies 11, 21, formed, in the embodiment of the figures, by two straight forward flexible blades 110, 210, and the like. anterior length LA between their recesses, defining two linear previous directions D1, D2, which intersect at the virtual pivot axis A, and which define with this virtual pivot axis A at an anterior angle aA, and whose respective anchors of the two right anterior flexible blades 110, 210, the farthest from the virtual pivot axis A are both at the same distance anterior DA of the virtual pivot axis A.

De façon similaire, le pivot flexible RCC postérieur 10P comporte, entre le support rotatif intermédiaire 20, qui comporte un troisième ancrage 3 et un quatrième ancrage 4, et la masse pivotante 200, deux ensembles élastiques postérieurs 31, 41, formés, dans le mode de réalisation des figures, par deux lames flexibles postérieures droites 310, 410 de même longueur postérieure LP entre leurs encastrements, définissant deux directions linéaires postérieures D3, D4, qui se croisent au niveau de l'axe de pivotement virtuel A, et qui définissent avec cet axe de pivotement virtuel A un angle postérieur aP, et dont les ancrages respectifs des deux lames flexibles postérieures droites 310, 410, les plus éloignés de l'axe de pivotement virtuel A sont tous deux à une même distance postérieure DP de l'axe de pivotement virtuel A.Similarly, the rear flexible pivot RCC 10P comprises, between the intermediate rotary support 20, which comprises a third anchorage 3 and a fourth anchorage 4, and the pivoting mass 200, two rear elastic assemblies 31, 41, formed in the embodiment of the figures, by two straight posterior flexible blades 310, 410 of the same posterior length LP between their recesses, defining two posterior linear directions D3, D4, which intersect at the level of the virtual pivot axis A, and which define with this virtual pivot axis has a posterior angle aP, and whose respective anchors two straight posterior flexible blades 310, 410, the farthest from the virtual pivot axis A are both at the same rear distance DP of the virtual pivot axis A.

De plus, le mécanisme flexible de guidage en pivotement 10 est plan.In addition, the flexible pivoting guide mechanism 10 is planar.

L'invention consiste à optimiser l'angle entre les éléments élastiques de chaque pivot flexible RCC, pour que le pivot ait une force de rappel élastique linéaire, afin que le résonateur mécanique soit isochrone dans un domaine d'amplitude angulaire donné.The invention consists in optimizing the angle between the elastic elements of each flexible pivot RCC, so that the pivot has a linear elastic return force, so that the mechanical resonator is isochronous in a given range of angular amplitude.

Selon l'invention, le centre d'inertie de l'ensemble formé par la masse pivotante 200 et toute masse inertielle rapportée 201 que porte la masse pivotante 200, comme dans les variantes non limitatives illustrées aux figures 1 et 2, est sur l'axe de pivotement virtuel A ou dans son voisinage immédiat, et le résonateur mécanique est isochrone si:

  • l'angle antérieur aA exprimé en degrés est compris entre : 109.5 + 5 / DA / LA 2 / 3 et 114.5 + 5 / DA / LA 2 / 3
    Figure imgb0001
  • et l'angle postérieur αP exprimé en degrés est compris entre : 109.5 + 5 / DP / LP 2 / 3 et 114.5 + 5 / DP / LP 2 / 3 .
    Figure imgb0002
According to the invention, the center of inertia of the assembly formed by the pivoting mass 200 and any reported inertial mass 201 carried by the pivoting mass 200, as in the non-limiting variants illustrated in FIGS. Figures 1 and 2 , is on the virtual pivot axis A or in its immediate vicinity, and the mechanical resonator is isochronous if:
  • the previous angle aA expressed in degrees is between: 109.5 + 5 / DA / THE - 2 / 3 and 114.5 + 5 / DA / THE - 2 / 3
    Figure imgb0001
  • and the posterior angle αP expressed in degrees is between: 109.5 + 5 / DP / LP - 2 / 3 and 114.5 + 5 / DP / LP - 2 / 3 .
    Figure imgb0002

Dans une variante particulière, l'angle antérieur αA et l'angle postérieur αP sont égaux à un angle commun a. Plus particulièrement, cet angle commun α est voisin de 112.0°.In a particular variant, the anterior angle αA and the posterior angle αP are equal to a common angle α. More particularly, this common angle α is close to 112.0 °.

Dans une variante préférée, la distance antérieure DA et la distance postérieure DP sont égales à une distance commune D, et la longueur antérieure LA et la longueur postérieure LP sont égales à une longueur commune L.In a preferred variant, the anterior distance DA and the posterior distance DP are equal to a common distance D, and the anterior length LA and the posterior length LP are equal to a common length L.

L'angle commun α est alors compris entre : 109.5 + 5 / D / L 2 / 3 et 114.5 + 5 / D / L 2 / 3

Figure imgb0003
The common angle α is then between: 109.5 + 5 / D / The - 2 / 3 and 114.5 + 5 / D / The - 2 / 3
Figure imgb0003

La figure 5 montre l'évolution de l'angle α optimal, en fonction du rapport D/L.The figure 5 shows the evolution of the optimal angle α, as a function of the D / L ratio.

Plus particulièrement, et tel que visible sur les figures, le premier ensemble élastique antérieur 11, le deuxième ensemble élastique antérieur 21, le premier ensemble élastique postérieur 31, et le deuxième ensemble élastique postérieur 41 comportent chacun au moins une lame flexible droite 110, 210, 310, 410, ou encore un faisceau de lames flexibles droites parallèles, non représenté pour ne pas compliquer les figures.More particularly, and as visible in the figures, the first anterior elastic assembly 11, the second anterior elastic assembly 21, the first posterior elastic assembly 31, and the second posterior elastic assembly 41 each comprise at least one straight flexible blade 110, 210 , 310, 410, or a bundle of parallel straight flexible blades, not shown not to complicate the figures.

Plus particulièrement, dans les variantes illustrées sur les figures, le premier ensemble élastique antérieur 11, le deuxième ensemble élastique antérieur 21, le premier ensemble élastique postérieur 31, et le deuxième ensemble élastique postérieur 41 sont constitués chacun d'une lame flexible droite 110, 210, 310, 410.More particularly, in the variants illustrated in the figures, the first anterior elastic assembly 11, the second anterior elastic assembly 21, the first posterior elastic assembly 31, and the second posterior elastic assembly 41 each consist of a straight flexible blade 110, 210, 310, 410.

Dans une autre variante non illustrée sur les figures, le premier ensemble élastique antérieur 11, le deuxième ensemble élastique antérieur 21, le premier ensemble élastique postérieur 31, et le deuxième ensemble élastique postérieur 41 comportent chacun une alternance de lames flexibles droites et d'éléments intermédiaires plus rigides que ces lames flexibles droites, alignés selon les directions respectives D1, D2, D3, D4.In another variant not illustrated in the figures, the first anterior elastic assembly 11, the second anterior elastic assembly 21, the first posterior elastic assembly 31, and the second posterior elastic assembly 41 each comprise an alternation of straight flexible blades and elements. intermediates more rigid than these straight flexible blades, aligned in the respective directions D1, D2, D3, D4.

Pour obtenir un résonateur mécanique à haut facteur de qualité, il est avantageux de rapporter un élément inertiel 201 à la masse pivotante 200, ou de l'intégrer à celle-ci, et de fixer le premier support 100 rigide à une platine ou un pont du mouvement d'horlogerie, ou tout autre élément susceptible d'agir comme support du résonateur à pivot flexible, par exemple, de façon non limitative, un élément de liaison d'un diapason, ou encore un élément anti-choc qui est autorisé à se déplacer uniquement en cas de choc violent, de façon à diminuer l'accélération subie par le résonateur. Naturellement, la partie fixe et la partie mobile représentées ici sont permutables. Cet élément inertiel peut être un disque, un anneau tel qu'une serge de balancier tel que visible sur la figure 2, ou un simple bras tel que visible sur la figure 1. Il est important que le centre de masse de l'élément inertiel soit sensiblement aligné avec l'axe de pivotement virtuel A.In order to obtain a mechanical resonator with a high quality factor, it is advantageous to relate an inertial element 201 to the pivoting mass 200, or to integrate it therewith, and to fix the first rigid support 100 to a plate or a bridge of the watch movement, or any other element that can act as a support for the flexible pivot resonator, for example, without limitation, a tuning element of a tuning fork, or an anti-shock element which is authorized to move only in the event of a violent impact, so as to reduce the acceleration experienced by the resonator. Of course, the fixed part and the moving part represented here are permutable. This inertial element can be a disk, a ring such as a beam serge as visible on the figure 2 , or a simple arm as visible on the figure 1 . It is important that the center of mass of the inertial element is substantially aligned with the virtual pivot axis A.

Pour éviter des modes propres indésirables, il est avantageux de squeletter le support rotatif intermédiaire 20 rigide avec des évidements 209, de façon à réduire son inertie, tout en lui conférant une rigidité très supérieure à celle des lames flexibles constituant les ensembles élastiques 11, 21, 31, et 41, tel que visible sur les figures 1 à 4.To avoid undesirable eigenmodes, it is advantageous to skeleton the rigid intermediate rotary support 20 with recesses 209, so as to reduce its inertia, while giving it a rigidity much greater than that of the flexible blades constituting the elastic assemblies 11, 21 , 31, and 41, as visible on the Figures 1 to 4 .

De la même façon, quand les éléments élastiques comportent des éléments intermédiaires plus rigides que les lames flexibles droites, ces éléments intermédiaires sont avantageusement également squelettés.In the same way, when the elastic elements comprise intermediate elements that are stiffer than the straight flexible blades, these intermediate elements are advantageously also skeletonized.

Une autre variante avantageuse, concernant tous les modes de réalisation, consiste à agencer les parties rigides 100, 20, 200, très proches l'une de l'autre autour de l'axe de pivotement virtuel A, de sorte qu'elles agissent comme des butées anti-choc, radiales ou/et angulaires, afin d'empêcher une rupture des lames, tel que visible avec les surfaces 105, 25, 26, 206, 28, 208, de la figure 4, en particulier les faces obliques 28 et 208 qui contribuent grandement à la résistance aux chocs du système. Ou encore à équiper certaines des parties rigides avec des bras de limitation 27 agencés pour coopérer en butée, en cas de choc, avec des surfaces complémentaires 107 que comporte le premier support 100, tel que visible sur la figure 4 où le support rotatif intermédiaire 20 porte de tels bras de limitation 27.Another advantageous variant, concerning all the embodiments, consists of arranging the rigid parts 100, 20, 200, very close to each other around the virtual pivot axis A, so that they act as anti-shock, radial or / and angular abutments, in order to prevent a rupture of the blades, as visible with the surfaces 105, 25, 26, 206, 28, 208, of the figure 4 , in particular the oblique faces 28 and 208 which contribute greatly to the impact resistance of the system. Or to equip some of the rigid parts with limiting arms 27 arranged to cooperate in abutment, in case of impact, with complementary surfaces 107 that includes the first support 100, as visible on the figure 4 where the intermediate rotary support 20 carries such limiting arms 27.

De préférence, l'agencement des parties les plus rigides comporte des surfaces de limitation 101, 102, 203, 204 agencées pour limiter les lames flexibles, tel que visible sur la figure 4.Preferably, the arrangement of the most rigid parts comprises limiting surfaces 101, 102, 203, 204 arranged to limit the flexible blades, as visible on the figure 4 .

L'invention peut être mise en oeuvre avec des lames présentant d'autres géométries, par exemple en zig-zag ou serpentin ou encore comportant des parties courbes, mais il est clair que la géométrie de lames droites limite très fortement les déplacements parasites éventuels de l'axe de pivotement virtuel A, et reste le mode le plus avantageux de mise en oeuvre de l'invention.The invention can be implemented with blades having other geometries, for example in zig-zag or serpentine or with curved parts, but it is clear that the geometry of straight blades strongly limits the possible parasitic displacements of the virtual pivot axis A, and remains the most advantageous mode of implementation of the invention.

Les lames peuvent, encore, présenter des épaisseurs variables.The blades may, again, have varying thicknesses.

L'essentiel est de respecter la symétrie de flexibilité par rapport à la bissectrice de l'angle aA, et par rapport à l'axe de pivotement virtuel A.The essential thing is to respect the symmetry of flexibility with respect to the bisector of the angle aA, and with respect to the virtual pivot axis A.

L'invention se prête particulièrement bien à une exécution monolithique.The invention is particularly well suited to monolithic execution.

Dans une réalisation avantageuse, le premier support 100, la masse pivotante 200, et le mécanisme flexible de guidage en pivotement 10 forment un ensemble monobloc. Cet ensemble monobloc peut être réalisé, ou bien par usinage classique, ou bien, de façon particulière et non exhaustive, par des technologies de type « MEMS » ou « LIGA » ou impression 3D ou fabrication additive par laser ou similaire, en silicium, quartz, DLC, alliages métalliques, verre, rubis, saphir ou autre céramique, ou polymères, chargés ou non, ou similaire, compensé thermiquement, notamment par une croissance locale particulière de dioxyde de silicium, dans certaines zones de la pièce agencées à cet effet, quand cet ensemble monobloc est réalisé en silicium. Naturellement, d'autres matériaux encore sont utilisables, pour certains au prix d'une compensation en température. On citera notamment et non limitativement des alliages métalliques amorphes ou cristallins.In an advantageous embodiment, the first support 100, the pivoting mass 200, and the flexible pivoting guide mechanism 10 form a one-piece assembly. This one-piece assembly can be produced either by conventional machining, or else, in a particular and non-exhaustive manner, by "MEMS" or "LIGA" type technologies or 3D printing or additive manufacturing by laser or the like, in silicon, quartz , DLC, metal alloys, glass, ruby, sapphire or other ceramic, or polymers, whether charged or not, or the like, thermally compensated, in particular by particular local growth of silicon dioxide, in certain areas of the room arranged for this purpose, when this one-piece assembly is made of silicon. Naturally, other materials are usable, for some at the cost of temperature compensation. Mention may be made in particular, and not exclusively, of amorphous or crystalline metal alloys.

Quand la masse pivotante 200 porte une masse inertielle rapportée 201, le mécanisme flexible de guidage en pivotement 10 est avantageusement en silicium, oxydé de façon telle que le mécanisme résonateur 1000 complet, avec cette masse inertielle rapportée 201, soit compensé thermiquement.When the pivoting mass 200 carries a reported inertial mass 201, the flexible pivoting guide mechanism 10 is advantageously made of silicon, oxidized in such a way that the complete resonator mechanism 1000, with this reported inertial mass 201, is thermally compensated.

Le mécanisme résonateur d'horlogerie 1000 peut comporter une pluralité de tels mécanismes flexibles de guidage en pivotement 10 montés en série, pour augmenter la course angulaire totale, disposés dans des plans parallèles, et autour du même axe de pivotement virtuel A, par solidarisation de parties rigides entre elles. Une telle pièce peut être formée par assemblage de deux pièces gravées sur un seul niveau, ou bien peut être gravée dans du silicium SOI deux niveaux.The clock resonator mechanism 1000 may comprise a plurality of such flexible pivoting guide mechanisms 10 connected in series, for increase the total angular travel, arranged in parallel planes, and around the same virtual pivot axis A, by joining rigid parts together. Such a part can be formed by assembling two pieces engraved on one level, or can be etched in silicon SOI two levels.

On peut, avantageusement, utiliser deux mécanismes flexibles de guidage en pivotement en configuration de diapason, pour éliminer la réaction au support ; ceci est généralisable à un nombre N de mécanismes flexibles de guidage en pivotement.It is advantageous to use two flexible pivot steering mechanisms in tuning fork configuration, to eliminate the reaction to the support; this is generalizable to a number N of flexible pivoting guide mechanisms.

L'invention concerne encore un mouvement d'horlogerie 2000 comportant au moins un tel mécanisme résonateur 1000.The invention also relates to a 2000 clockwork movement comprising at least one such resonator mechanism 1000.

L'invention concerne encore une montre 3000 comportant au moins un tel mouvement 2000.The invention also relates to a watch 3000 comprising at least one such movement 2000.

L'invention apporte plusieurs avantages:

  • bon isochronisme, marche indépendante des positions dans le champ de gravité, marche indépendante de l'amplitude;
  • facilité de fabrication, grâce au regroupement des éléments fonctionnels dans un seul plan, réalisable en deux dimensions, par gravure en une seule fois dans du silicium ou similaire, ou bien par découpage dans une plaque, par électro-érosion, laser, jet d'eau, fabrication additive ou autre
The invention provides several advantages:
  • good isochronism, independent walking of positions in the gravity field, independent of amplitude;
  • ease of manufacture, thanks to the grouping of the functional elements in a single plane, feasible in two dimensions, by one-time etching in silicon or the like, or by cutting into a plate, by electro-erosion, laser, jet of water, additive manufacturing or other

Claims (13)

  1. Timepiece resonator mechanism (1000) comprising a first support (100) with a first anchor (1) and a second anchor (2) to which is attached a flexural pivot guide mechanism (10), which defines a virtual pivot axis (A) about which rotatably pivots a pivoting weight (200), and which includes at least one front RCC flexural pivot (10A) and one back RCC flexural pivot (10P), mounted in series and head-to-tail relative to each other about said virtual pivot axis (A), arranged such that their parasite movements compensate each other,
    said front RCC flexural pivot (10A) including, between said first support (100) and an intermediate rotary support (20), two straight flexible front strips (110, 210) of the same front length (LA) between the clamping points thereof, defining two linear front directions (D1, D2) which intersect at said virtual pivot axis (A) and which define, with said virtual pivot axis (A), a front angle (αA), and wherein the respective anchors of said two straight flexible front strips (110, 210) farthest from said virtual pivot axis (A) are both at the same front distance (DA) from said virtual pivot axis (A),
    and said back RCC flexural pivot (10P) including, between said intermediate rotary support (20), which includes a third anchor (3) and a fourth anchor (4), and said pivoting weight (200), two straight flexible back strips (310, 410) of the same back length (LP) between the clamping points thereof, defining two linear back directions (D3, D4) which intersect at said virtual pivot axis (A) and which define, with said virtual pivot axis (A), a back angle (αP), and wherein the respective anchors of said two straight flexible back strips (310, 410) farthest from said virtual pivot axis (A) are both at the same back distance (DP) from said virtual pivot axis (A),
    characterized in that said flexural pivot guide mechanism (10) is two-dimensional and can be made in a single plane,
    in that the centre of inertia of the assembly formed by said pivoting weight (200) and any added inertial weight (201) carried by said pivoting weight (200) is on said virtual pivot axis (A) or in the immediate proximity thereof,
    in that said front angle (αA) expressed in degrees is between: 109.5 + 5 / DA / LA 2 / 3 et 114.5 + 5 / DA / LA 2 / 3 ,
    Figure imgb0006
    and in that said back angle (αP) expressed in degrees is between: 109.5 + 5 / DP / LP 2 / 3 et 114.5 + 5 / DP / LP 2 / 3 .
    Figure imgb0007
  2. Timepiece resonator mechanism (1000) according to claim 1, characterized in that said front angle (αA) and said back angle (αP) are equal.
  3. Timepiece resonator mechanism (1000) according to claim 2, characterized in that said front length (LA) and said back length (LP) are equal to a common length (L), and in that said front distance (DA) and said back distance (DP) are equal to a common distance (D).
  4. Timepiece resonator mechanism (1000) according to claim 3, characterized in that said front angle (αA) and said back angle (αP) are equal to a common angle (α), expressed in degrees, that is equal to 112.0° + 5/((D/L)-(2/3)).
  5. Timepiece resonator mechanism (1000) according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterised in that the intermediate rotary support (20) is formed into a skeleton by recesses (209) to minimise its mass and prevent unwanted natural frequencies.
  6. Timepiece resonator mechanism (1000) according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that said first support (100), said pivoting weight (200), and said flexural pivot guide mechanism (10) are arranged very close to each other about said virtual pivot axis (A) and include surfaces (105, 25, 26, 206) forming anti-shock stops to prevent breakage of said flexible strips (11, 21, 31, 41).
  7. Timepiece resonator mechanism (1000) according to claim 6, characterized in that said intermediate rotary support (20) comprises limitation arms (27) arranged to cooperate forming a stop in case of shock with complementary surfaces (107) included in said first support (100).
  8. Timepiece resonator mechanism (1000) according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that said first support (100), said pivoting weight (200), and said flexural pivot guide mechanism (10) form a one-piece assembly.
  9. Timepiece resonator movement (1000) according to claim 8, characterized in that said one-piece assembly is a temperature-compensated silicon assembly.
  10. Timepiece resonator movement (1000) according to claim 8, characterized in that said pivoting weight (200) carries an added inertia weight (201), and in that said flexural pivot guide mechanism (10) is made of silicon, oxidised such that said complete resonator mechanism (1000) with said added inertial weight (201) is temperature-compensated.
  11. Timepiece resonator mechanism (1000) according to one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that it comprises a plurality of said flexural pivot guide mechanisms (10) mounted in series, to increase the total angular travel, disposed in parallel planes, and about the same said virtual pivot axis (A).
  12. Timepiece movement (2000) including at least one timepiece resonator mechanism (1000) according to one of claims 1 to 11.
  13. Watch (3000) including at least one movement (2000) according to claim 12.
EP16155039.7A 2016-02-10 2016-02-10 Timepiece resonator mechanism Active EP3206089B1 (en)

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EP16155039.7A EP3206089B1 (en) 2016-02-10 2016-02-10 Timepiece resonator mechanism
CH00173/16A CH712105A2 (en) 2016-02-10 2016-02-10 Resonator clock mechanism.
US15/410,294 US9958831B2 (en) 2016-02-10 2017-01-19 Timepiece resonator mechanism
JP2017018401A JP6285584B2 (en) 2016-02-10 2017-02-03 Resonance mechanism for timer
CN201710071187.8A CN107065493B (en) 2016-02-10 2017-02-09 Clock and watch resonance mechanism
RU2017104280A RU2729625C2 (en) 2016-02-10 2017-02-09 Clock resonator mechanism
EP18150706.2A EP3355130B1 (en) 2016-02-10 2018-01-09 Timepiece resonator mechanism

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RU2729625C2 (en) 2020-08-11
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CN107065493A (en) 2017-08-18
US20170227930A1 (en) 2017-08-10

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