EP3258325B1 - Timepiece arbor - Google Patents

Timepiece arbor Download PDF

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Publication number
EP3258325B1
EP3258325B1 EP16174244.0A EP16174244A EP3258325B1 EP 3258325 B1 EP3258325 B1 EP 3258325B1 EP 16174244 A EP16174244 A EP 16174244A EP 3258325 B1 EP3258325 B1 EP 3258325B1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
shaft
less
pivot
guide
functional portion
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Active
Application number
EP16174244.0A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP3258325A1 (en
Inventor
Vannina Linck
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.)
Rolex SA
Original Assignee
Rolex SA
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Application filed by Rolex SA filed Critical Rolex SA
Priority to EP16174244.0A priority Critical patent/EP3258325B1/en
Priority to EP22216886.6A priority patent/EP4177677A1/en
Priority to EP19183765.7A priority patent/EP3584640B1/en
Priority to US15/618,859 priority patent/US20170357213A1/en
Priority to JP2017114859A priority patent/JP7214335B2/en
Priority to CN201710439362.4A priority patent/CN107490950B/en
Priority to CN202110419759.3A priority patent/CN113110010A/en
Priority to CH00766/17A priority patent/CH712552B1/en
Publication of EP3258325A1 publication Critical patent/EP3258325A1/en
Publication of EP3258325B1 publication Critical patent/EP3258325B1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Priority to US17/877,578 priority patent/US11982977B2/en
Priority to JP2022176828A priority patent/JP2023011848A/en
Priority to US18/661,843 priority patent/US20240295853A1/en
Active legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

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Classifications

    • G04B13/026—
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G04—HOROLOGY
    • G04B—MECHANICALLY-DRIVEN CLOCKS OR WATCHES; MECHANICAL PARTS OF CLOCKS OR WATCHES IN GENERAL; TIME PIECES USING THE POSITION OF THE SUN, MOON OR STARS
    • G04B1/00—Driving mechanisms
    • G04B1/10—Driving mechanisms with mainspring
    • G04B1/16—Barrels; Arbors; Barrel axles
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G04—HOROLOGY
    • G04B—MECHANICALLY-DRIVEN CLOCKS OR WATCHES; MECHANICAL PARTS OF CLOCKS OR WATCHES IN GENERAL; TIME PIECES USING THE POSITION OF THE SUN, MOON OR STARS
    • G04B13/00—Gearwork
    • G04B13/02—Wheels; Pinions; Spindles; Pivots
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G04—HOROLOGY
    • G04B—MECHANICALLY-DRIVEN CLOCKS OR WATCHES; MECHANICAL PARTS OF CLOCKS OR WATCHES IN GENERAL; TIME PIECES USING THE POSITION OF THE SUN, MOON OR STARS
    • G04B13/00—Gearwork
    • G04B13/02—Wheels; Pinions; Spindles; Pivots
    • G04B13/021—Wheels; Pinions; Spindles; Pivots elastic fitting with a spindle, axis or shaft
    • G04B13/022—Wheels; Pinions; Spindles; Pivots elastic fitting with a spindle, axis or shaft with parts made of hard material, e.g. silicon, diamond, sapphire, quartz and the like
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G04—HOROLOGY
    • G04B—MECHANICALLY-DRIVEN CLOCKS OR WATCHES; MECHANICAL PARTS OF CLOCKS OR WATCHES IN GENERAL; TIME PIECES USING THE POSITION OF THE SUN, MOON OR STARS
    • G04B15/00—Escapements
    • G04B15/14—Component parts or constructional details, e.g. construction of the lever or the escape wheel
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G04—HOROLOGY
    • G04B—MECHANICALLY-DRIVEN CLOCKS OR WATCHES; MECHANICAL PARTS OF CLOCKS OR WATCHES IN GENERAL; TIME PIECES USING THE POSITION OF THE SUN, MOON OR STARS
    • G04B17/00—Mechanisms for stabilising frequency
    • G04B17/04—Oscillators acting by spring tension
    • G04B17/06—Oscillators with hairsprings, e.g. balance
    • G04B17/063—Balance construction
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G04—HOROLOGY
    • G04B—MECHANICALLY-DRIVEN CLOCKS OR WATCHES; MECHANICAL PARTS OF CLOCKS OR WATCHES IN GENERAL; TIME PIECES USING THE POSITION OF THE SUN, MOON OR STARS
    • G04B17/00—Mechanisms for stabilising frequency
    • G04B17/32—Component parts or constructional details, e.g. collet, stud, virole or piton
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G04—HOROLOGY
    • G04B—MECHANICALLY-DRIVEN CLOCKS OR WATCHES; MECHANICAL PARTS OF CLOCKS OR WATCHES IN GENERAL; TIME PIECES USING THE POSITION OF THE SUN, MOON OR STARS
    • G04B17/00—Mechanisms for stabilising frequency
    • G04B17/32—Component parts or constructional details, e.g. collet, stud, virole or piton
    • G04B17/34—Component parts or constructional details, e.g. collet, stud, virole or piton for fastening the hairspring onto the balance
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G04—HOROLOGY
    • G04B—MECHANICALLY-DRIVEN CLOCKS OR WATCHES; MECHANICAL PARTS OF CLOCKS OR WATCHES IN GENERAL; TIME PIECES USING THE POSITION OF THE SUN, MOON OR STARS
    • G04B31/00—Bearings; Point suspensions or counter-point suspensions; Pivot bearings; Single parts therefor
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G04—HOROLOGY
    • G04B—MECHANICALLY-DRIVEN CLOCKS OR WATCHES; MECHANICAL PARTS OF CLOCKS OR WATCHES IN GENERAL; TIME PIECES USING THE POSITION OF THE SUN, MOON OR STARS
    • G04B31/00—Bearings; Point suspensions or counter-point suspensions; Pivot bearings; Single parts therefor
    • G04B31/06—Manufacture or mounting processes

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a watch axis, including a balance shaft.
  • the invention also relates to an oscillator or a watch movement or a timepiece comprising such an axis.
  • the balance shaft is an essential component of the watchmaking regulating organ.
  • the balance shaft comprises at each end a tigeron extending by a pivot.
  • the balance shaft carries the spiral spring and oscillates on its pivots in bearings.
  • the tigers and pivots of the axis constituting zones of lesser mechanical strength are designed to take up the forces involved. Nevertheless, in certain cases, especially during high-intensity shocks, the pivots can be mated to the ground. against their respective bearing because of their small size, especially their small diameter.
  • the watch axes are traditionally cut in a steel 20AP, then quenched.
  • the pivots are then rolled to obtain the desired surface condition and surface hardness.
  • the hardness typically reaches at least 700HV.
  • the 20AP steel shafts or made of other metallic materials, whether hardened or not, require this driving operation at the pivots to ensure the manufacturing accuracy, resistance over time, with respect to wear but also with respect to shocks, and to ensure the optimal operation of the movement by controlling the tribological parameters.
  • This operation which consists of steps of polishing and surface hardening of the surface of the pivot, is complex and delicate, and requires a great know-how which is strongly related to the control of the process by the person skilled in the art who 'applied.
  • 20AP steel contains lead (0.2% by weight) and will soon have to be replaced by another lead-free steel such as FinemacTM (or 20C1A).
  • the manufacturing of these axes is identical: they are turned from bar before tempering, then heat-treated and tempered to increase the hardness. A relaxation annealing ensures a release of internal stresses and prevents these axes from breaking like glass during shocks. This steel has the main lack of hardness at the pivots and therefore also require a rolling operation to achieve the final properties required.
  • These axes 20AP steel or Finemac are also ferromagnetic and can induce gait disturbances if the movements they are equipped with are subject to magnetic fields, residual magnetization.
  • nitriding or carburizing surface treatment to form nitrides or chromium carbides would have the intended effect in terms of hardening of the surface, but would result in a loss of corrosion resistance detrimental to the quality of the components and the product.
  • the patent application EP2757423 discloses a solution for curing an austenitic steel or an austenitic cobalt alloy or an austenitic nickel alloy by means of a thermochemical treatment, aimed at integrating into the interstitial sites of the crystal lattice of the alloy atoms carbon or nitrogen to strengthen the material before driving the pivot, while limiting the risk of corrosion of the axis.
  • the hardnesses thus reached are close to 1000 HV, which theoretically positions this type of parts to a better level than the 20AP steel parts.
  • Such axes also require a rolling at the pivots to reach the final dimension, in particular to obtain a surface condition to obtain adequate performance in terms of chronometry.
  • Such a solution is therefore not optimal insofar as it requires at least two axis processing steps: a superficial hardening step followed by a second rolling step.
  • An alternative described in the patent application EP2757424 and to overcome the rolling is to constitute all or part of the axis, but in any case or the pivots, metal material hardened by hard ceramic particles (composite metal matrix or MMC). It is a material partially composed of particles of hardness greater than or equal to 1000 HV, of size between 0.1 and 5 microns.
  • the materials given as examples comprise 92% of the particles of tungsten carbide (WC) embedded in a nickel matrix, which are mixed before being injected into a mold in the shape of the axis. After injection, the blank thus obtained is sintered and the axis is polished, especially at the pivots, using a diamond paste.
  • a composite metal matrix spindle with 92% WC and 8% nickel has a tenacity of 8 MPa.m 1/2 and a hardness greater than 1300 HV.
  • the use of composites comprising particles which are likely to become detached carries a risk .
  • the object of the invention is to provide a watch axis to overcome the disadvantages mentioned above and to improve the watch axes known from the prior art.
  • the invention proposes a hard and tenacious watch axis and whose manufacturing process is simplified.
  • a horological axis according to the invention is defined by claim 1.
  • An axis-guide assembly according to the invention is defined by claim 10.
  • An oscillator according to the invention is defined by claim 13.
  • a watch movement according to the invention is defined by claim 14.
  • a timepiece according to the invention is defined by claim 15.
  • the timepiece is for example a watch, in particular a wristwatch.
  • the timepiece comprises a watch movement 110, in particular a mechanical movement.
  • the watch movement comprises an oscillator 100, in particular a balance oscillator 8 - spiral.
  • the pendulum is for example driven on a balance axis 1.
  • the axis 1 comprises a first pivot 21a, a first beam 22a, a portion 33 for receiving a plate 9, a plate 34 for receiving the balance 8, a portion 32 for receiving the balance 8, a portion 31 for receiving a spiral hoop (not shown), a second pivot 21b and a second hinge 22b.
  • the tigeron portion has a dimension greater than 0.1 mm, or even greater than 0.2 mm, or even greater than 0.25 mm in at least one direction, or even in all directions.
  • the pivot portion has a dimension greater than 0.04 mm, or even greater than 0.05 mm, or even greater than 0.1 mm in at least one direction, or even in all directions.
  • the first portion of tigeron comprises a longitudinal section of the tigeron (or at least the outer surface of a section of the tigeron) over a length of at least 0.2 mm.
  • the first pivot portion comprises a longitudinal portion of the pivot (or at least the outer surface of a portion of the pivot) over a length of at least 0.1 mm.
  • the first and second pivots 21a, 21b provide a pivot function and a force recovery function in case of shock or, more generally, in case of acceleration experienced by the timepiece equipped with the axis.
  • the first and second tiberns 22a and 22b provide a force recovery function in case of impact or, more generally, in case of acceleration experienced by the timepiece equipped with the axis.
  • the portions 31, 32 and 33 each provide a reception function.
  • the second functional portion has a second outer diameter D2 less than 2 mm, or even less than 1 mm, or even less than 0.5 mm.
  • the second functional portion is ceramic.
  • the ratio of the dimension of the second diameter to the dimension of the first diameter is less than 0.9, or even less than 0.8, or even less than 0.6, or even less than 0.5, or even less than 0.4.
  • first functional portion and / or the second functional portion is ceramic means that this functional portion is entirely ceramic.
  • the embodiment of the functional portion made of a material composed of ceramic grains bonded together by a non-ceramic matrix, such as a metal matrix, is excluded.
  • ceramic is meant a homogeneous or substantially homogeneous material, including at the microscopic level.
  • the ceramic is homogeneous in at least one direction, or even in all directions, over a distance greater than 6 ⁇ m, or even greater than 10 ⁇ m, or even greater than 20 ⁇ m. More preferably, the ceramic does not have any non-ceramic material in at least one direction, or even in all directions, over a distance greater than 6 microns, or even greater than 10 microns, or even greater than 20 microns.
  • zirconium oxide and / or alumina may be the predominant elements in ceramics. Nevertheless, the proportion by weight or mole of zirconium oxide and / or alumina may be less than 50%.
  • the ceramic may be predominantly or mainly (in mass or in mole) composed of silicon nitride.
  • silicon nitride may be the predominant element in ceramics. Nevertheless, the proportion by weight or mole of silicon nitride may be less than 50%.
  • ceramics can be one of the ceramics of the table below: Main component Secondary component (s) and proportions Commercial references / resulting composition Hardness [HV1] Stress at break [MPa] Toughness [MPa.m 1 ⁇ 2] ZrO 2 Y 2 O 3 3 mol% TOSOH TZ3Y 1200-1400 900 - 1500 5 to 10 ZrO 2 MgO 3.5wt% Metoxit PSZ 1500 1500 10 ZrO 2 Al 2 O 3 20wt% TOSOH TZ3Y20A 1400-1600 1600-2000 5 to 8 Y 2 O 3 3 mol% ZrO 2 Al 2 O 3 21.5wt% Panasonic NanoZr 1100-1300 900-1300 8 to 18 CeO 2 10.6wt% If 3 N 4 KYOCERA SN-235P 1200-1600 600-850 5 to 8.8 B 4 C TiB 2 5 to 6.9 TiB 2 CNT TiB 2 - TiC - CNT 3 to 5.2
  • the injection or pressing of a preform which only the ends would be ground optimizes the process, including a gain in manufacturing cycle time.
  • CIP cold isostatic pressing
  • Ceramics also offer the additional advantage of being non-magnetic, and not influencing the movement of the timepiece when it is subjected to a magnetic field, especially a magnetic field greater than 32 kA / m (400G). .
  • the entire axis is made of ceramic.
  • the ceramic portion to the first functional portion which includes at least one pivot and / or at least one tigeron.
  • the first portion has a surface of revolution, in particular a cylindrical surface or a conical surface or a frustoconical surface or a curved generating surface.
  • the tiger and the pivot may be confused or at least not be delimited by a straight border as a scope.
  • the tigeron and the pivot may be separated by a frustoconical surface or a curved generating surface.
  • Two variants of a first embodiment of an assembly 41 comprising an axis 1 as described above and at least one guide 51, in particular a bearing 51, the axis being intended to rotate or to pivot in the at least one level, are represented respectively on the figures 2 and 3 .
  • the guide may be in the form of a conventional damping bearing.
  • the at least one Bearing 51 comprises a pivoting stone 511 provided to cooperate with a cylindrical or frustoconical section of a pivot 21 'and a support stone 512 provided to cooperate with an end 212' of the pivot. The stones thus cooperate with the pivot 21 'to pivot and receive, or define axially, the axis in the guide.
  • the axis 1 comprises a pivot 21 'having a convex or convex end 212'.
  • the axis 1 comprises a pivot 21 "having an end 212" hollow or concave.
  • a second embodiment of an assembly 42 comprising an axis 1 as described above and at least one guide, in particular a bearing 52, the axis being intended to rotate or to pivot in the at least one guide, is represented on the figure 4 .
  • the at least one guide 52 comprises a race 521 and balls 522, the balls cooperating by contact on a pivot 21 * with a conical end 212 * to guide the axis in the guide.
  • the end of the pivot 21 * could alternatively present a frustoconical surface. The balls thus roll on both the raceway and the pivot.
  • FIGS. 6 and 7 illustrate the advantages of a ball bearing intended to cooperate with a balance-type oscillator. Indeed, we see on figures 6 and 7 , respectively obtained by measuring in different clock positions an oscillator cooperating with a conventional damping bearing and by measuring in different clock positions an oscillator cooperating with a ball bearing, that the operation of the oscillator oscillator cooperating with a ball bearing has deviations quality factor between the different clock positions lower than those induced by the operation of the oscillator cooperating with a conventional damping bearing.
  • the use of ceramics for the manufacture of the balls and the pivot makes it possible to optimize the use of a ball bearing and to significantly reduce the differences in the quality factor between the different watch positions occupied by the piece. watchmaking.
  • a second embodiment of a watch axis 1 'according to the invention is described below with reference to the figure 5 .
  • This axis 1 ' is intended to be mounted on a pivot axis 6, in particular a pivot axis made of a separate material, in particular a free-cutting steel.
  • the first functional portion may comprise a pivot 2a
  • the second functional portion may for example be in the form of a portion 35 intended to be fixed, in particular by driving or welding, within a bore 36 formed on the body of the pivot axis 6.
  • the invention has been described previously applied to a balance shaft. However, this invention can obviously be applied to any other watch axis, for example a pivot axis of a watchmaker such as a mobile taking part in the finishing line of a watch movement, in particular a center mobile, or a mobile of medium, or a mobile of small average, or a mobile of seconds.
  • a pivot axis of a watchmaker such as a mobile taking part in the finishing line of a watch movement, in particular a center mobile, or a mobile of medium, or a mobile of small average, or a mobile of seconds.
  • a horological axis according to the invention can also be implemented in the context of an optimization of a clock escapement and thus allow the pivoting of an anchor wheel or a blocker or an anchor taking part in the exhaust.
  • this invention can be applied to any watch mobile taking part in an additional horological function, such as a calendar or a chronograph.
  • the first functional portion can provide a translation function.
  • the watch axis is here in the form of a pin 1 "comprising a first functional portion 2a which is in the form of a rod 22a.The latter cooperates with a groove 53 formed within a watch component, for example a hammer 91 chronograph, so as to guide in translation said component, in particular to guide in translation said component in the longitudinal direction of said groove.
  • the pin 1 has a second functional portion which is in the form of a rod 45 intended to be driven within a bore 46 of a blank 81.
  • the first and second functional portions are delimited by a range 450, including a plate 450.
  • the ceramic parts do not require heat treatment or rolling, to obtain high wear resistance performance.

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  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Manufacturing & Machinery (AREA)
  • Metallurgy (AREA)
  • Sliding-Contact Bearings (AREA)
  • Compositions Of Oxide Ceramics (AREA)
  • Electromechanical Clocks (AREA)
  • Rolling Contact Bearings (AREA)

Description

L'invention concerne un axe horloger, notamment un axe de balancier. L'invention concerne aussi un oscillateur ou un mouvement horloger ou une pièce d'horlogerie comprenant un tel axe.The invention relates to a watch axis, including a balance shaft. The invention also relates to an oscillator or a watch movement or a timepiece comprising such an axis.

L'axe de balancier est un composant essentiel de l'organe réglant horloger. L'axe de balancier comprend à chaque extrémité un tigeron se prolongeant par un pivot. L'axe de balancier porte notamment le ressort spiral et oscille sur ses pivots dans des paliers. Lors de chocs, les tigerons et les pivots de l'axe constituant des zones de moindre résistance mécanique sont prévus pour reprendre les efforts en jeu. Néanmoins, dans certains cas, notamment lors de chocs de forte intensité, les pivots peuvent être matés à l'encontre de leur palier respectif du fait de leurs faibles dimensions, notamment de leur faible diamètre.The balance shaft is an essential component of the watchmaking regulating organ. The balance shaft comprises at each end a tigeron extending by a pivot. The balance shaft carries the spiral spring and oscillates on its pivots in bearings. During shocks, the tigers and pivots of the axis constituting zones of lesser mechanical strength are designed to take up the forces involved. Nevertheless, in certain cases, especially during high-intensity shocks, the pivots can be mated to the ground. against their respective bearing because of their small size, especially their small diameter.

L'axe se doit donc:

  • d'avoir une haute limite élastique pour ne pas se déformer plastiquement lors de chocs importants,
  • d'être tenace pour ne pas de rompre lors des chocs importants, et
  • d'être dur, principalement au niveau des pivots, de manière à ne pas s'user ni se marquer lors des chocs courants, et afin d'optimiser le facteur de qualité et l'isochronisme de la pièce d'horlogerie qu'il équipe, l'axe étant constamment en mouvement.
The axis must therefore:
  • to have a high elastic limit not to deform plastically during major shocks,
  • to be tenacious not to break during major shocks, and
  • to be hard, mainly at the level of the pivots, so as not to wear out or to be marked during the current shocks, and in order to optimize the quality factor and the isochronism of the timepiece that it equips , the axis being constantly in motion.

Les axes horlogers sont traditionnellement décolletés dans un acier 20AP, puis trempés. Les pivots sont ensuite roulés pour obtenir l'état de surface et la dureté superficielle requis. La dureté atteint typiquement au moins 700HV. Les axes en acier 20AP ou réalisés dans d'autres matériaux métalliques, qu'ils aient été durcis ou non, nécessitent cette opération de roulage au niveau des pivots pour en assurer la précision de fabrication, la tenue dans le temps, par rapport à l'usure mais également par rapport aux chocs, ainsi que pour assurer le fonctionnement optimal du mouvement par la maîtrise des paramètres tribologiques. Cette opération, qui consiste en des étapes de polissage et d'écrouissage superficiel de la surface du pivot, est complexe et délicate, et requiert un grand savoir-faire qui est fortement lié à la maîtrise du procédé par l'homme du métier qui l'applique. Par ailleurs, l'acier 20AP contient du plomb (0.2 % en masse) et devra prochainement être remplacé par un autre acier sans plomb comme le FinemacTM (ou 20C1A). La fabrication de ces axes est identique : ils sont décolletés à partir de barre avant trempe, puis traités thermiquement et trempés pour en augmenter la dureté. Un recuit de détente permet d'assurer une libération des contraintes internes et évite que ces axes ne se brisent comme du verre lors des chocs. Cet acier a pour principal défaut de manquer de dureté au niveau des pivots et de nécessiter de ce fait également une opération de roulage pour atteindre les propriétés finales requises. Ces axes en acier 20AP ou en Finemac sont également ferromagnétiques et peuvent induire des perturbations de la marche si les mouvements dont ils sont équipés sont soumis à des champs magnétiques, par magnétisation résiduelle.The watch axes are traditionally cut in a steel 20AP, then quenched. The pivots are then rolled to obtain the desired surface condition and surface hardness. The hardness typically reaches at least 700HV. The 20AP steel shafts or made of other metallic materials, whether hardened or not, require this driving operation at the pivots to ensure the manufacturing accuracy, resistance over time, with respect to wear but also with respect to shocks, and to ensure the optimal operation of the movement by controlling the tribological parameters. This operation, which consists of steps of polishing and surface hardening of the surface of the pivot, is complex and delicate, and requires a great know-how which is strongly related to the control of the process by the person skilled in the art who 'applied. In addition, 20AP steel contains lead (0.2% by weight) and will soon have to be replaced by another lead-free steel such as FinemacTM (or 20C1A). The manufacturing of these axes is identical: they are turned from bar before tempering, then heat-treated and tempered to increase the hardness. A relaxation annealing ensures a release of internal stresses and prevents these axes from breaking like glass during shocks. This steel has the main lack of hardness at the pivots and therefore also require a rolling operation to achieve the final properties required. These axes 20AP steel or Finemac are also ferromagnetic and can induce gait disturbances if the movements they are equipped with are subject to magnetic fields, residual magnetization.

Des alternatives à ces axes en acier 20AP ou en Finemac existent, avec des axes en acier austénitique ou en alliages austénitiques à base de cobalt ou de nickel durcis par implantation d'ions carbone ou azote. Ils sont également roulés pour améliorer leurs propriétés. Selon la demande de brevet EP2757423 , des axes ont été réalisés dans un acier inoxydable austénitique de type 316L, dans le but de minimiser la sensibilité aux champs magnétiques, mais les résistances obtenues, de même que les duretés, sont en deçà des caractéristiques requises pour assurer la tenue à l'usure. La solution d'y apposer un revêtement de type DLC (Diamond Like Carbon) a été envisagée, mais des risques de délamination important ont été identifiés. De même, un traitement de surface par nitruration ou carburation destiné à former des nitrures ou des carbures de chrome aurait l'effet envisagé en termes de durcissement de la surface, mais entraînerait une perte de tenue en corrosion préjudiciable à la qualité des composants et du produit. La demande de brevet EP2757423 divulgue une solution de durcissement d'un acier austénitique ou d'un alliage de cobalt austénitique ou d'un alliage de nickel austénitique au moyen d'un traitement thermochimique, visant à intégrer dans les sites interstitiels du réseau cristallin de l'alliage des atomes de carbone ou d'azote destinés à renforcer la matière avant de procéder au roulage du pivot, tout en limitant les risques de corrosion de l'axe. Les duretés ainsi atteintes sont proches de 1000 HV, ce qui positionne théoriquement ce type de pièces à un meilleur niveau que les pièces en acier 20AP.Alternatives to these axes 20AP steel or Finemac exist, with austenitic steel pins or austenitic alloys based on cobalt or nickel hardened by implantation of carbon or nitrogen ions. They are also rolled to improve their properties. According to the patent application EP2757423 Axes were made in a 316L austenitic stainless steel, in order to minimize sensitivity to magnetic fields, but the resistances obtained, as well as the hardnesses, are below the characteristics required to ensure the resistance to the magnetic fields. wear. The solution to affix a type of coating DLC (Diamond Like Carbon) has been considered, but significant delamination risks have been identified. Similarly, nitriding or carburizing surface treatment to form nitrides or chromium carbides would have the intended effect in terms of hardening of the surface, but would result in a loss of corrosion resistance detrimental to the quality of the components and the product. The patent application EP2757423 discloses a solution for curing an austenitic steel or an austenitic cobalt alloy or an austenitic nickel alloy by means of a thermochemical treatment, aimed at integrating into the interstitial sites of the crystal lattice of the alloy atoms carbon or nitrogen to strengthen the material before driving the pivot, while limiting the risk of corrosion of the axis. The hardnesses thus reached are close to 1000 HV, which theoretically positions this type of parts to a better level than the 20AP steel parts.

De tels axes nécessitent toutefois aussi un roulage au niveau des pivots pour atteindre la dimension finale, afin d'obtenir notamment un état de surface permettant d'obtenir des performances adéquates en termes de chronométrie. Une telle solution n'est donc pas optimale dans la mesure où celle-ci requiert à minima deux étapes de traitement de l'axe : une étape de durcissement superficielle suivie d'une deuxième étape de roulage.Such axes, however, also require a rolling at the pivots to reach the final dimension, in particular to obtain a surface condition to obtain adequate performance in terms of chronometry. Such a solution is therefore not optimal insofar as it requires at least two axis processing steps: a superficial hardening step followed by a second rolling step.

Une alternative décrite dans la demande de brevet EP2757424 et permettant de s'affranchir du roulage est de constituer tout ou partie de l'axe, mais en tous les cas le ou les pivots, en matière métallique durcie par des particules dures en céramique (composite à matrice métallique ou MMC). Il s'agit d'une matière partiellement composée de particules de dureté supérieure ou égale à 1000 HV, de taille entre 0.1 et 5 microns. Les matières données en exemple comportent 92% des particules de carbure de tungstène (WC) intégrées à une matrice de nickel, qui sont mélangées avant d'être injectées dans un moule à la forme de l'axe. Après injection, l'ébauche ainsi obtenue est frittée et l'axe est poli, notamment au niveau des pivots, à l'aide d'une pâte diamantée. Un axe en composite à matrice métallique à 92% de WC et 8% de nickel présente une ténacité de 8 MPa.m1/2 et une dureté supérieure à 1300 HV. Au vu des dimensions typiques des pivots, de l'ordre de 60 microns, et de l'importance de la concentricité et de l'état de surface, l'utilisation de composites comprenant des particules qui risquent de s'en détacher comporte un risque. Il n'existe en effet que peu de recul, dans les dimensions horlogères, sur le comportement à l'usure de ce type de matériaux. Il est à craindre que le détachement des particules de renfort ne viennent prétériter l'intégrité géométrique du ou des pivots.An alternative described in the patent application EP2757424 and to overcome the rolling is to constitute all or part of the axis, but in any case or the pivots, metal material hardened by hard ceramic particles (composite metal matrix or MMC). It is a material partially composed of particles of hardness greater than or equal to 1000 HV, of size between 0.1 and 5 microns. The materials given as examples comprise 92% of the particles of tungsten carbide (WC) embedded in a nickel matrix, which are mixed before being injected into a mold in the shape of the axis. After injection, the blank thus obtained is sintered and the axis is polished, especially at the pivots, using a diamond paste. A composite metal matrix spindle with 92% WC and 8% nickel has a tenacity of 8 MPa.m 1/2 and a hardness greater than 1300 HV. In view of the typical dimensions of the pivots, of the order of 60 microns, and the importance of the concentricity and the surface condition, the use of composites comprising particles which are likely to become detached carries a risk . In fact, there is only a slight decline in the horological dimensions of the wear behavior of this type of material. It is to be feared that the detachment of the reinforcing particles does not pre-terminate the geometric integrity of the pivot or pivots.

Le but de l'invention est de fournir un axe horloger permettant de remédier aux inconvénients mentionnés précédemment et d'améliorer les axes horlogers connus de l'art antérieur. En particulier, l'invention propose un axe horloger dur et tenace et dont le procédé de fabrication est simplifié.The object of the invention is to provide a watch axis to overcome the disadvantages mentioned above and to improve the watch axes known from the prior art. In particular, the invention proposes a hard and tenacious watch axis and whose manufacturing process is simplified.

A cette fin, un axe horloger selon l'invention est défini par la revendication 1.For this purpose, a horological axis according to the invention is defined by claim 1.

Différents modes de réalisation de l'axe horloger selon l'invention sont définis par les revendications 2 à 9.Different embodiments of the watch axis according to the invention are defined by claims 2 to 9.

Un ensemble axe-guidage selon l'invention est défini par la revendication 10.An axis-guide assembly according to the invention is defined by claim 10.

Différents modes de réalisation de l'ensemble selon l'invention sont définis par les revendications 11 et 12.Different embodiments of the assembly according to the invention are defined by claims 11 and 12.

Un oscillateur selon l'invention est défini par la revendication 13.An oscillator according to the invention is defined by claim 13.

Un mouvement horloger selon l'invention est défini par la revendication 14.A watch movement according to the invention is defined by claim 14.

Une pièce d'horlogerie selon l'invention est définie par la revendication 15.A timepiece according to the invention is defined by claim 15.

Les figures annexées représentent, à titre d'exemple, trois modes de réalisation d'un axe horloger selon l'invention, différents modes de réalisation de systèmes selon l'invention et un mode de réalisation d'une pièce d'horlogerie selon l'invention.

  • La figure 1 est une vue d'un premier mode de réalisation d'une pièce d'horlogerie selon l'invention, comprenant un premier mode de réalisation d'un axe selon l'invention.
  • La figure 2 est une vue d'une première variante d'un premier mode de réalisation d'un ensemble axe-guidage selon l'invention.
  • La figure 3 est une vue d'une deuxième variante du premier mode de réalisation de l'ensemble axe-guidage selon l'invention.
  • La figure 4 est une vue d'un deuxième mode de réalisation de l'ensemble axe-guidage selon l'invention.
  • La figure 5 est une vue d'un deuxième mode de réalisation de l'axe selon l'invention.
  • La figure 6 est un graphique des variations de facteur de qualité d'un oscillateur balancier-spiral dans différentes positions horlogères, l'oscillateur étant équipé d'un palier amortisseur classique.
  • La figure 7 est un graphique des variations de facteur de qualité d'un oscillateur balancier-spiral dans différentes positions horlogères, l'oscillateur étant équipé d'un palier à billes.
  • La figure 8 est une vue d'un troisième mode de réalisation de l'axe selon l'invention.
  • La figure 9 est une vue en coupe selon le plan A-A de la figure 8 du troisième mode de réalisation de l'axe selon l'invention.
The appended figures represent, by way of example, three embodiments of a watch axis according to the invention, various embodiments of systems according to the invention and an embodiment of a timepiece according to the invention. invention.
  • The figure 1 is a view of a first embodiment of a timepiece according to the invention, comprising a first embodiment of an axis according to the invention.
  • The figure 2 is a view of a first variant of a first embodiment of an axis-guide assembly according to the invention.
  • The figure 3 is a view of a second variant of the first embodiment of the axis-guide assembly according to the invention.
  • The figure 4 is a view of a second embodiment of the axis-guide assembly according to the invention.
  • The figure 5 is a view of a second embodiment of the axis according to the invention.
  • The figure 6 is a graph of the quality factor variations of a balance-balance oscillator in different watch positions, the oscillator being equipped with a conventional damping bearing.
  • The figure 7 is a graph of the quality factor variations of a balance-balance oscillator in different watch positions, the oscillator being equipped with a ball bearing.
  • The figure 8 is a view of a third embodiment of the axis according to the invention.
  • The figure 9 is a sectional view according to the plane AA of the figure 8 of the third embodiment of the axis according to the invention.

Un mode de réalisation d'une pièce d'horlogerie 120 est décrit ci-après en référence à la figure 1. La pièce d'horlogerie est par exemple une montre, en particulier une montre bracelet. La pièce d'horlogerie comprend un mouvement horloger 110, en particulier un mouvement mécanique. Le mouvement horloger comprend un oscillateur 100, notamment un oscillateur balancier 8 - spiral. Le balancier est par exemple chassé sur un axe 1 de balancier.An embodiment of a timepiece 120 is described below with reference to the figure 1 . The timepiece is for example a watch, in particular a wristwatch. The timepiece comprises a watch movement 110, in particular a mechanical movement. The watch movement comprises an oscillator 100, in particular a balance oscillator 8 - spiral. The pendulum is for example driven on a balance axis 1.

L'axe de balancier 1 comprend une première portion fonctionnelle 2a ; 2b incluant :

  • au moins une partie 221a ; 221b d'un tigeron 22a ; 22b, et/ou
  • au moins une partie 211a ; 211b d'un pivot 21a ; 21b.
La première portion fonctionnelle est en céramique et la première portion fonctionnelle présente un premier diamètre extérieur D1 inférieur à 0.5 mm, voire inférieur à 0.4 mm, voire inférieur à 0.2 mm, voire inférieur à 0.1 mm.The balance shaft 1 comprises a first functional portion 2a; 2b including:
  • at least one portion 221a; 221b of a tigeron 22a; 22b, and / or
  • at least one portion 211a; 211b of a pivot 21a; 21b.
The first functional portion is ceramic and the first functional portion has a first outer diameter D1 less than 0.5 mm, or even less than 0.4 mm, or even less than 0.2 mm, or even less than 0.1 mm.

Dans le premier mode de réalisation représenté sur la figure 1, l'axe 1 comprend un premier pivot 21a, un premier tigeron 22a, une portion 33 de réception d'un plateau 9, une assiette 34 de réception du balancier 8, une portion 32 de réception du balancier 8, une portion 31 de réception d'une virole du spiral (non représentée), un deuxième pivot 21b et un deuxième tigeron 22b. Avantageusement, la partie de tigeron présente une dimension supérieure à 0.1 mm, voire supérieure à 0.2 mm, voire supérieure à 0.25 mm selon au moins une direction, voire selon toutes les directions. Avantageusement, la partie de pivot présente une dimension supérieure à 0.04 mm, voire supérieure à 0.05 mm, voire supérieure à 0.1 mm selon au moins une direction, voire selon toutes les directions, De préférence, la première partie de tigeron comprend un tronçon longitudinal du tigeron (ou au moins la surface externe d'un tronçon du tigeron) sur une longueur d'au moins 0.2 mm. De préférence, la première partie de pivot comprend un tronçon longitudinal du pivot (ou au moins la surface externe d'un tronçon du pivot) sur une longueur d'au moins 0.1 mm.In the first embodiment shown on the figure 1 the axis 1 comprises a first pivot 21a, a first beam 22a, a portion 33 for receiving a plate 9, a plate 34 for receiving the balance 8, a portion 32 for receiving the balance 8, a portion 31 for receiving a spiral hoop (not shown), a second pivot 21b and a second hinge 22b. Advantageously, the tigeron portion has a dimension greater than 0.1 mm, or even greater than 0.2 mm, or even greater than 0.25 mm in at least one direction, or even in all directions. Advantageously, the pivot portion has a dimension greater than 0.04 mm, or even greater than 0.05 mm, or even greater than 0.1 mm in at least one direction, or even in all directions. Preferably, the first portion of tigeron comprises a longitudinal section of the tigeron (or at least the outer surface of a section of the tigeron) over a length of at least 0.2 mm. Preferably, the first pivot portion comprises a longitudinal portion of the pivot (or at least the outer surface of a portion of the pivot) over a length of at least 0.1 mm.

Dans le premier mode de réalisation représenté sur la figure 1, l'axe 1 comprend deux premières portions fonctionnelles 2a et 2b incluant chacune :

  • au moins une partie 221a ; 221b d'un tigeron 22a ; 22b, et/ou
  • au moins une partie 211a ; 211b d'un pivot 21a ; 21b.
Dans le premier mode de réalisation représenté sur la figure 1, les deux premières portions fonctionnelles sont en céramique et chacune des deux premières portions fonctionnelles présente un premier diamètre extérieur D1 inférieur à 0.5 mm, voire inférieur à 0.4 mm, voire inférieur à 0.2 mm, voire inférieur à 0.1 mm.In the first embodiment shown on the figure 1 the axis 1 comprises two first functional portions 2a and 2b each including:
  • at least one portion 221a; 221b of a tigeron 22a; 22b, and / or
  • at least one portion 211a; 211b of a pivot 21a; 21b.
In the first embodiment shown on the figure 1 , the first two functional portions are ceramic and each of the first two functional portions has a first outer diameter D1 of less than 0.5 mm, or even less than 0.4 mm, or even less than 0.2 mm, or even less than 0.1 mm.

La première portion fonctionnelle peut assurer des fonctions diverses telles que notamment :

  • une fonction de guidage, notamment en pivotement et/ou translation, c'est-à-dire que la portion présente une surface de contact avec un autre composant, en particulier un guidage, pour assurer le pivotement et/ou la translation et qu'il y a un contact et un mouvement relatif entre la portion et cet autre composant, et/ou
  • une fonction de réception, c'est-à-dire que la portion présente une surface de contact avec un autre composant pour assurer le positionnement et/ou le maintien de l'autre composant sur la portion, et/ou
  • une fonction d'engrènement, c'est-à-dire que la portion présente une surface de contact en forme de dents avec un autre composant pour assurer l'engrènement entre la portion et cet autre composant, et/ou
  • une fonction de transmission d'efforts ou de reprise d'efforts, c'est-à-dire que la portion est sollicitée mécaniquement.
The first functional portion can perform various functions such as:
  • a guide function, in particular pivoting and / or translation, that is to say that the portion has a contact surface with another component, in particular a guide, to ensure pivoting and / or translation and that there is contact and relative movement between the portion and that other component, and / or
  • a reception function, that is to say that the portion has a contact surface with another component to ensure the positioning and / or maintenance of the other component on the portion, and / or
  • a meshing function, i.e. the portion has a tooth-shaped contact surface with another component for meshing between the portion and that other component, and / or
  • a function of transmission of forces or recovery of forces, that is to say that the portion is mechanically solicited.

Dans le premier mode de réalisation représenté sur la figure 1, les premier et deuxième pivots 21a, 21b assurent une fonction de pivotement et une fonction de reprise d'efforts en cas de choc ou, plus généralement, en cas d'accélération subie par la pièce d'horlogerie équipée de l'axe. Les premier et deuxième tigerons 22a et 22b assurent une fonction de reprise d'efforts en cas de choc ou, plus généralement, en cas d'accélération subie par la pièce d'horlogerie équipée de l'axe.In the first embodiment shown on the figure 1 , the first and second pivots 21a, 21b provide a pivot function and a force recovery function in case of shock or, more generally, in case of acceleration experienced by the timepiece equipped with the axis. The first and second tiberns 22a and 22b provide a force recovery function in case of impact or, more generally, in case of acceleration experienced by the timepiece equipped with the axis.

L'axe peut aussi présenter une deuxième portion fonctionnelle 3, notamment :

  • une deuxième portion fonctionnelle de réception 31, 32, 33 ; 34 d'un composant horloger, notamment du balancier 8, du plateau 9, de la virole de ressort-spiral, voire d'une roue dentée ou d'un autre axe 6 dans un autre mode de réalisation qui sera décrit plus bas, ou
  • une deuxième portion de pivotement d'un composant horloger, comme une roue, sur l'axe dans un autre mode de réalisation, de façon à permettre le pivotement de ce composant horloger vis-à-vis de l'axe, ou
  • une deuxième portion d'engrènement, notamment une denture, dans un autre mode de réalisation.
The axis may also have a second functional portion 3, in particular:
  • a second functional reception portion 31, 32, 33; 34 of a clock component, in particular of the balance 8, of the plate 9, of the spiral spring ferrule, or even of a toothed wheel or of another axis 6 in another embodiment which will be described below, or
  • a second pivoting portion of a clock component, such as a wheel, on the axis in another embodiment, so as to allow this clock component to pivot with respect to the axis, or
  • a second meshing portion, in particular a toothing, in another embodiment.

Dans le premier mode de réalisation représenté sur la figure 1, les portions 31, 32 et 33 assurent chacune une fonction de réception.In the first embodiment shown on the figure 1 , the portions 31, 32 and 33 each provide a reception function.

Avantageusement, la deuxième portion fonctionnelle présente un deuxième diamètre extérieur D2 inférieur à 2 mm, voire inférieur à 1 mm, voire inférieur à 0.5 mm. De préférence, la deuxième portion fonctionnelle est en céramique.Advantageously, the second functional portion has a second outer diameter D2 less than 2 mm, or even less than 1 mm, or even less than 0.5 mm. Preferably, the second functional portion is ceramic.

Avantageusement encore, le rapport de la dimension du deuxième diamètre sur la dimension du premier diamètre est inférieur à 0.9, voire inférieur à 0.8, voire inférieur à 0.6, voire inférieur à 0.5, voire inférieur à 0.4.Advantageously, the ratio of the dimension of the second diameter to the dimension of the first diameter is less than 0.9, or even less than 0.8, or even less than 0.6, or even less than 0.5, or even less than 0.4.

Le fait que la première portion fonctionnelle et/ou la deuxième portion fonctionnelle soit en céramique signifie que cette portion fonctionnelle est intégralement en céramique. La réalisation de la portion fonctionnelle en un matériau composé de grains de céramique liés entre eux par une matrice non céramique, comme une matrice métallique, est exclue. Par « céramique », on entend un matériau homogène ou sensiblement homogène, y compris au niveau microscopique. De préférence, la céramique est homogène dans au moins une direction, voire dans toutes les directions, sur une distance supérieure à 6 µm, voire supérieure à 10 µm, voire supérieure à 20 µm. De préférence encore, la céramique ne présente pas de matériau non-céramique dans au moins une direction, voire dans toutes les directions, sur une distance supérieure à 6 µm, voire supérieure à 10 µm, voire supérieure à 20 µm.The fact that the first functional portion and / or the second functional portion is ceramic means that this functional portion is entirely ceramic. The embodiment of the functional portion made of a material composed of ceramic grains bonded together by a non-ceramic matrix, such as a metal matrix, is excluded. By "ceramic" is meant a homogeneous or substantially homogeneous material, including at the microscopic level. Preferably, the ceramic is homogeneous in at least one direction, or even in all directions, over a distance greater than 6 μm, or even greater than 10 μm, or even greater than 20 μm. More preferably, the ceramic does not have any non-ceramic material in at least one direction, or even in all directions, over a distance greater than 6 microns, or even greater than 10 microns, or even greater than 20 microns.

Avantageusement, la céramique est majoritairement ou principalement (en masse ou en mole) composée :

  • d'oxyde de zirconium, et/ou
  • d'alumine.
Advantageously, the ceramic is predominantly or mainly (in mass or in mole) composed:
  • zirconium oxide, and / or
  • alumina.

Ainsi, l'oxyde de zirconium et/ou l'alumine peuvent être les éléments prépondérants dans la céramique. Néanmoins, la proportion en masse ou en mole d'oxyde de zirconium et/ou d'alumine peut être inférieure à 50 %.Thus, zirconium oxide and / or alumina may be the predominant elements in ceramics. Nevertheless, the proportion by weight or mole of zirconium oxide and / or alumina may be less than 50%.

Eventuellement, la céramique comprend, en plus de l'oxyde de zirconium et/ou de l'alumine, un ou plusieurs des éléments suivants :

  • nanotubes de carbone,
  • graphène,
  • fullérènes,
  • oxyde d'yttrium,
  • oxyde de cérium,
  • carbure de zirconium,
  • carbure de silicium,
  • carbure de titane,
  • borure de zirconium,
  • nitrure de bore,
  • nitrure de titane et
  • nitrure de silicium.
Optionally, the ceramic comprises, in addition to zirconium oxide and / or alumina, one or more of the following elements:
  • carbon nanotubes,
  • graphene,
  • fullerenes,
  • yttrium oxide,
  • cerium oxide,
  • zirconium carbide,
  • silicon carbide,
  • titanium carbide,
  • zirconium boride,
  • boron nitride,
  • titanium nitride and
  • silicon nitride.

Alternativement, la céramique peut être majoritairement ou principalement (en masse ou en mole) composée de nitrure de silicium.Alternatively, the ceramic may be predominantly or mainly (in mass or in mole) composed of silicon nitride.

Ainsi, le nitrure de silicium peut être l'élément prépondérant dans la céramique. Néanmoins, la proportion en masse ou en mole de nitrure de silicium peut être inférieure à 50 %.Thus, silicon nitride may be the predominant element in ceramics. Nevertheless, the proportion by weight or mole of silicon nitride may be less than 50%.

Eventuellement, la céramique comprend, en plus du nitrure de silicium, un ou plusieurs des éléments suivants :

  • nanotubes de carbone,
  • graphène,
  • fullérènes,
  • oxyde de zirconium,
  • oxyde d'aluminium,
  • oxyde d'yttrium,
  • oxyde de cérium,
  • carbure de zirconium,
  • carbure de silicium,
  • carbure de titane,
  • borure de zirconium,
  • nitrure de bore et
  • nitrure de titane.
Optionally, the ceramic comprises, in addition to the silicon nitride, one or more of the following elements:
  • carbon nanotubes,
  • graphene,
  • fullerenes,
  • zirconium oxide,
  • aluminum oxide,
  • yttrium oxide,
  • cerium oxide,
  • zirconium carbide,
  • silicon carbide,
  • titanium carbide,
  • zirconium boride,
  • boron nitride and
  • titanium nitride.

Par exemple, la céramique peut être l'une des céramiques du tableau ci-dessous : Composant principal Composant(s) secondaire(s) et proportions Références commerciales / composition résultante Dureté [HV1] Contrainte à la rupture [MPa] Ténacité [MPa.m ½] ZrO2 Y2O3 3% mol TOSOH TZ3Y 1200-1400 900 - 1500 5 à 10 ZrO2 MgO 3.5wt% Metoxit PSZ 1500 1500 10 ZrO2 Al2O3 20wt% TOSOH TZ3Y20A 1400-1600 1600-2000 5 à 8 Y2O3 3% mol ZrO2 Al2O3 21.5wt% Panasonic NanoZr 1100-1300 900-1300 8 à 18 CeO2 10.6wt% Si3N4 KYOCERA SN-235P 1200-1600 600-850 5 à 8.8 B4C TiB2 5 à 6.9 TiB2 CNT TiB2 - TiC - CNT 3 à 5.2 For example, ceramics can be one of the ceramics of the table below: Main component Secondary component (s) and proportions Commercial references / resulting composition Hardness [HV1] Stress at break [MPa] Toughness [MPa.m ½] ZrO 2 Y 2 O 3 3 mol% TOSOH TZ3Y 1200-1400 900 - 1500 5 to 10 ZrO 2 MgO 3.5wt% Metoxit PSZ 1500 1500 10 ZrO 2 Al 2 O 3 20wt% TOSOH TZ3Y20A 1400-1600 1600-2000 5 to 8 Y 2 O 3 3 mol% ZrO 2 Al 2 O 3 21.5wt% Panasonic NanoZr 1100-1300 900-1300 8 to 18 CeO 2 10.6wt% If 3 N 4 KYOCERA SN-235P 1200-1600 600-850 5 to 8.8 B 4 C TiB 2 5 to 6.9 TiB 2 CNT TiB 2 - TiC - CNT 3 to 5.2

Il peut être envisagé de réaliser un axe à partir d'un fil extrudé en céramique, à l'aide de différentes meules diamant. A l'issue de ces étapes, les pièces peuvent être conformes géométriquement et d'une dureté suffisante pour se passer de post-traitement.It may be envisaged to make an axis from an extruded ceramic wire, using different diamond grinding wheels. At the end of these steps, the parts can be geometrically compliant and of sufficient hardness to do without post-processing.

Alternativement, l'injection ou le pressage d'une préforme dont seules les extrémités seraient meulées permet d'optimiser le procédé, notamment par un gain du temps de cycle de fabrication.Alternatively, the injection or pressing of a preform which only the ends would be ground optimizes the process, including a gain in manufacturing cycle time.

Alternativement encore, d'autres techniques de fabrication permettent d'améliorer encore les propriétés des pièces obtenues, comme le pressage isostatique à froid (CIP), en réduisant le nombre de défauts présents dans la matière avant qu'elle ne soit usinée. Ceci augmente notamment sa ténacité.Alternatively, other manufacturing techniques can further improve the properties of the parts obtained, such as cold isostatic pressing (CIP), reducing the number of defects present in the material before it is machined. This increases in particular its tenacity.

De par les propriétés intrinsèques des céramiques citées précédemment, extrêmement dures, les pivots ne se marquent pas lors des chocs et la performance est maintenue dans la durée. Avantageusement, en cas de choc important, ces pivots ne se déformeront pas, a contrario des pivots en acier qui peuvent plier et de ce fait porter atteinte à la chronométrie de la pièce d'horlogerie. Ainsi, les céramiques telles que présentées plus haut permettent de maintenir l'intégrité géométrique des pivots dans le temps.Due to the intrinsic properties of the ceramics mentioned above, extremely hard, the pivots do not mark during shocks and the performance is maintained over time. Advantageously, in case of important shock, these pivots will not deform, a contrario steel pivots that can bend and thus undermine the chronometry of the timepiece. Thus, ceramics as presented above allow to maintain the geometric integrity of the pivots in time.

Les céramiques offrent par ailleurs l'avantage supplémentaire d'être amagnétiques, et de ne pas influencer la marche de la pièce d'horlogerie lorsqu'elle est soumise à un champ magnétique, notamment un champ magnétique supérieur à 32 kA/m (400G).Ceramics also offer the additional advantage of being non-magnetic, and not influencing the movement of the timepiece when it is subjected to a magnetic field, especially a magnetic field greater than 32 kA / m (400G). .

Avantageusement, l'entier de l'axe est réalisé en céramique. Toutefois, il est envisageable de limiter la partie en céramique à la première portion fonctionnelle qui inclut au moins un pivot et/ou au moins un tigeron.Advantageously, the entire axis is made of ceramic. However, it is conceivable to limit the ceramic portion to the first functional portion which includes at least one pivot and / or at least one tigeron.

Avantageusement, la première portion présente une surface de révolution, notamment une surface cylindrique ou une surface conique ou une surface tronconique ou une surface à génératrice courbe. Le tigeron et le pivot peuvent être confondus ou tout au moins ne pas être délimités par une frontière franche comme une portée. Par exemple, le tigeron et le pivot peuvent être séparés par une surface tronconique ou une surface à génératrice courbe.Advantageously, the first portion has a surface of revolution, in particular a cylindrical surface or a conical surface or a frustoconical surface or a curved generating surface. The tiger and the pivot may be confused or at least not be delimited by a straight border as a scope. For example, the tigeron and the pivot may be separated by a frustoconical surface or a curved generating surface.

Deux variantes d'un premier mode de réalisation d'un ensemble 41 comprenant un axe 1 tel que décrit précédemment et au moins un guidage 51, notamment un palier 51, l'axe étant destiné à tourner ou à pivoter dans l'au moins un palier, sont représentées respectivement sur les figures 2 et 3.Two variants of a first embodiment of an assembly 41 comprising an axis 1 as described above and at least one guide 51, in particular a bearing 51, the axis being intended to rotate or to pivot in the at least one level, are represented respectively on the figures 2 and 3 .

Le guidage peut se présenter sous la forme d'un palier amortisseur conventionnel. Ainsi, dans le premier mode de réalisation, l'au moins un palier 51 comprend une pierre de pivotement 511 prévue pour coopérer avec une section cylindrique ou tronconique d'un pivot 21' et une pierre de contre appui 512 prévue pour coopérer avec une extrémité 212' du pivot. Les pierres coopèrent donc avec le pivot 21' pour pivoter et réceptionner, ou délimiter axialement, l'axe dans le guidage.The guide may be in the form of a conventional damping bearing. Thus, in the first embodiment, the at least one Bearing 51 comprises a pivoting stone 511 provided to cooperate with a cylindrical or frustoconical section of a pivot 21 'and a support stone 512 provided to cooperate with an end 212' of the pivot. The stones thus cooperate with the pivot 21 'to pivot and receive, or define axially, the axis in the guide.

Dans la première variante du premier mode de réalisation de l'ensemble, l'axe 1 comprend un pivot 21' présentant une extrémité 212' bombée ou convexe.In the first variant of the first embodiment of the assembly, the axis 1 comprises a pivot 21 'having a convex or convex end 212'.

Dans la deuxième variante du premier mode de réalisation de l'ensemble, l'axe 1 comprend un pivot 21" présentant une extrémité 212" creusée ou concave.In the second variant of the first embodiment of the assembly, the axis 1 comprises a pivot 21 "having an end 212" hollow or concave.

Le fait d'avoir des axes en céramique, matériau à la fois dur et tenace, permet d'obtenir des géométries qui peuvent optimiser et pérenniser le contact au niveau du pivot et du palier dans lequel il pivote, notamment au niveau des extrémités de pivot. Ceci serait difficilement envisageable avec les alliages conventionnels tels que l'acier 20AP roulés où le risque de perte de performances au porter serait plus important, du fait notamment de pressions de contact trop conséquentes.The fact of having ceramic pins, a material that is both hard and tenacious, makes it possible to obtain geometries that can optimize and sustain the contact at the pivot and the bearing in which it pivots, in particular at the pivot ends . This would be difficult to envisage with conventional alloys such as rolled 20AP steel where the risk of loss of wearing performance would be greater, particularly because of excessive contact pressures.

Un deuxième mode de réalisation d'un ensemble 42 comprenant un axe 1 tel que décrit précédemment et au moins un guidage, notamment un palier 52, l'axe étant destiné à tourner ou à pivoter dans l'au moins un guidage, est représenté sur la figure 4. Dans ce deuxième mode de réalisation, l'au moins un guidage 52 comprend un chemin de roulement 521 et des billes 522, les billes coopérant par contact sur un pivot 21* doté d'une extrémité conique 212* pour guider l'axe dans le guidage. Bien entendu, l'extrémité du pivot 21* pourrait alternativement présenter une surface tronconique. Les billes roulent ainsi à la fois sur le chemin de roulement et sur le pivot.A second embodiment of an assembly 42 comprising an axis 1 as described above and at least one guide, in particular a bearing 52, the axis being intended to rotate or to pivot in the at least one guide, is represented on the figure 4 . In this second embodiment, the at least one guide 52 comprises a race 521 and balls 522, the balls cooperating by contact on a pivot 21 * with a conical end 212 * to guide the axis in the guide. Of course, the end of the pivot 21 * could alternatively present a frustoconical surface. The balls thus roll on both the raceway and the pivot.

Les figures 6 et 7 illustrent les avantages d'un palier à billes prévu pour coopérer avec un oscillateur de type balancier-spiral. En effet, on voit sur les figures 6 et 7, obtenues respectivement en mesurant dans différentes positions horlogères un oscillateur coopérant avec un palier amortisseur classique et en mesurant dans différentes positions horlogères un oscillateur coopérant avec un palier à billes, que le fonctionnement de l'oscillateur oscillateur coopérant avec un palier à billes présente des écarts de facteur de qualité entre les différentes positions horlogère plus faibles que ceux induits par le fonctionnement de l'oscillateur coopérant avec un palier amortisseur classique.The figures 6 and 7 illustrate the advantages of a ball bearing intended to cooperate with a balance-type oscillator. Indeed, we see on figures 6 and 7 , respectively obtained by measuring in different clock positions an oscillator cooperating with a conventional damping bearing and by measuring in different clock positions an oscillator cooperating with a ball bearing, that the operation of the oscillator oscillator cooperating with a ball bearing has deviations quality factor between the different clock positions lower than those induced by the operation of the oscillator cooperating with a conventional damping bearing.

Toutefois, il est essentiel, pour le bon fonctionnement du pivotement et la réduction des écarts de marche en position, que la géométrie des pivots soit pérenne dans le temps, quelles que soient les contraintes et chocs subis par la montre, ceci pour toutes les géométries de pivots. Ceci est encore plus critique dans certains cas : en effet, si un pivot associé à un palier à billes se mate ou présente des déformations plastiques suite à des chocs, une grande partie de l'avantage de la solution est perdue.However, it is essential, for the smooth operation of the pivoting and the reduction of the differences of position in position, that the geometry of the pivots is perennial in the time, whatever the constraints and shocks undergone by the watch, this for all the geometries pivots. This is even more critical in some cases: indeed, if a pivot associated with a ball bearing matures or plastic deforms following shocks, much of the advantage of the solution is lost.

Ainsi, l'emploi des céramiques pour la fabrication des billes et du pivot permet d'optimiser l'utilisation d'un palier à billes et de réduire de manière importante les écarts de facteur de qualité entre les différentes positions horlogère qu'occupe la pièce d'horlogerie.Thus, the use of ceramics for the manufacture of the balls and the pivot makes it possible to optimize the use of a ball bearing and to significantly reduce the differences in the quality factor between the different watch positions occupied by the piece. watchmaking.

Un deuxième mode de réalisation d'un axe horloger 1' selon l'invention est décrit ci-après en référence à la figure 5.A second embodiment of a watch axis 1 'according to the invention is described below with reference to the figure 5 .

Cet axe 1' est prévu pour être rapporté sur un axe de pivotement 6, notamment un axe de pivotement fait d'un matériau distinct, notamment un acier de décolletage.This axis 1 'is intended to be mounted on a pivot axis 6, in particular a pivot axis made of a separate material, in particular a free-cutting steel.

Ainsi, la première portion fonctionnelle peut comprendre un pivot 2a, mais la deuxième portion fonctionnelle peut par exemple se présenter sous la forme d'une portion 35 destinée à être fixée, notamment par chassage ou soudage, au sein d'un alésage 36 formé sur le corps de l'axe 6 de pivotement.Thus, the first functional portion may comprise a pivot 2a, but the second functional portion may for example be in the form of a portion 35 intended to be fixed, in particular by driving or welding, within a bore 36 formed on the body of the pivot axis 6.

L'invention a été décrite précédemment appliquée à un axe de balancier. Toutefois, cette invention peut évidemment être appliquée à tout autre axe horloger, par exemple un axe de pivotement d'un mobile horloger tel qu'un mobile prenant part à la chaîne de finissage d'un mouvement horloger, en particulier un mobile de centre, ou un mobile de grande moyenne, ou un mobile de petite moyenne, ou un mobile des secondes.The invention has been described previously applied to a balance shaft. However, this invention can obviously be applied to any other watch axis, for example a pivot axis of a watchmaker such as a mobile taking part in the finishing line of a watch movement, in particular a center mobile, or a mobile of medium, or a mobile of small average, or a mobile of seconds.

Un axe horloger selon l'invention peut également être mis en œuvre dans le cadre d'une optimisation d'un échappement horloger et ainsi permettre le pivotement d'une roue d'ancre ou d'un bloqueur ou d'une ancre prenant part à l'échappement. Bien entendu, cette invention peut être appliquée à tout mobile horloger prenant part à une fonction horlogère additionnelle, tel qu'un calendrier ou un chronographe.A horological axis according to the invention can also be implemented in the context of an optimization of a clock escapement and thus allow the pivoting of an anchor wheel or a blocker or an anchor taking part in the exhaust. Of course, this invention can be applied to any watch mobile taking part in an additional horological function, such as a calendar or a chronograph.

Dans un mode de réalisation alternatif, représenté sur les figures 8 et 9, la première portion fonctionnelle peut assurer une fonction de translation. L'axe horloger se présente ici sous la forme d'une goupille 1" comprenant une première portion fonctionnelle 2a qui se présente sous la forme d'un tigeron 22a. Ce dernier coopère avec une rainure 53 formée au sein d'un composant horloger, par exemple un marteau 91 de chronographe, de façon à guider en translation ledit composant, notamment guider en translation ledit composant selon la direction longitudinale de ladite rainure. La goupille 1" présente une deuxième portion fonctionnelle qui se présente sous la forme d'un tigeron 45 prévu pour être chassé au sein d'un alésage 46 d'une ébauche 81 d'horlogerie. Dans ce mode de réalisation, les première et deuxième portions fonctionnelles sont délimitées par une portée 450, notamment une assiette 450.In an alternative embodiment, shown in the figures 8 and 9 the first functional portion can provide a translation function. The watch axis is here in the form of a pin 1 "comprising a first functional portion 2a which is in the form of a rod 22a.The latter cooperates with a groove 53 formed within a watch component, for example a hammer 91 chronograph, so as to guide in translation said component, in particular to guide in translation said component in the longitudinal direction of said groove. The pin 1 "has a second functional portion which is in the form of a rod 45 intended to be driven within a bore 46 of a blank 81. In this embodiment, the first and second functional portions are delimited by a range 450, including a plate 450.

Une fois mises en forme, les pièces en céramique ne nécessitent ni traitement thermique, ni roulage, pour obtenir de hautes performances de résistance à l'usure.Once shaped, the ceramic parts do not require heat treatment or rolling, to obtain high wear resistance performance.

Claims (15)

  1. A timepiece shaft (1; 1'; 1"), especially a balance shaft (1), comprising a first functional portion (2a; 2b) including at least one part (221a; 221b) of a pivot-shank (22a; 22b) and/or at least one part (211a; 211b) of a pivot (21a; 21b; 21'; 21"; 21*), wherein the first functional portion is made entirely of ceramic and a first outer diameter (D1) of the first functional portion is less than 0.5 mm, or less than 0.4 mm, or less than 0.2 mm, or less than 0.1 mm.
  2. The shaft as claimed in the preceding claim, wherein the ceramic is for the most part composed of:
    - zirconium oxide, or
    - alumina, or
    - a combination of these two oxides,
    optionally adding one or more of the following elements:
    - carbon nanotubes,
    - graphene,
    - fullerenes,
    - yttrium oxide,
    - cerium oxide,
    - zirconium carbide,
    - silicon carbide,
    - titanium carbide,
    - zirconium boride,
    - boron nitride,
    - titanium nitride, and
    - silicon nitride.
  3. The shaft as claimed in claim 1, wherein the ceramic is for the most part composed of silicon nitride,
    optionally adding one or more of the following elements:
    - carbon nanotubes,
    - graphene,
    - fullerenes,
    - zirconium oxide,
    - aluminum oxide,
    - yttrium oxide,
    - cerium oxide,
    - zirconium carbide,
    - silicon carbide,
    - titanium carbide,
    - zirconium boride,
    - boron nitride, and
    - titanium nitride.
  4. The shaft as claimed in one of the preceding claims, wherein the first portion has a surface of revolution, especially a cylindrical surface or a conical surface or a truncated conical surface or a curve generating surface.
  5. The shaft as claimed in one of the preceding claims, wherein the shaft or the first functional portion has a convex (212') or concave (212") or conical (212*) or truncated conical end.
  6. The shaft as claimed in one of the preceding claims, wherein it comprises a second functional portion (3), especially:
    - a second functional portion (31, 32, 33; 34; 35; 45) for receiving a timepiece component, especially a balance, a plate, a spiral spring collet, a toothed wheel, another shaft (6), a movement-blank (81), or
    - a second pivoting portion for a timepiece component on the shaft, or
    - a second intermeshing portion, especially a toothing.
  7. The shaft as claimed in the preceding claim, wherein the second functional portion has a second outer diameter (D2) less than 2 mm, or less than 1 mm, or less than 0.5 mm.
  8. The shaft as claimed in the preceding claim, wherein the ratio of the dimension of the first diameter to the dimension of the second diameter is less than 0.9, or less than 0.8, or less than 0.6, or less than 0.5, or less than 0.4.
  9. The shaft as claimed in one of the preceding claims, wherein the shaft is made entirely of ceramic.
  10. An assembly (41; 42) comprising an shaft (1) as claimed in one of the preceding claims and at least one guide (51; 52; 53), especially a bearing (51; 52) or a groove (53), the shaft being designed to:
    - rotate or pivot in the at least one guide; and/or
    - move in translation in the at least one guide.
  11. The assembly (41) as claimed in the preceding claim, wherein the at least one guide (51) comprises a bearing stone (511) and an endstone (512), the stones cooperating with the pivot or pivot-shank to guide the shaft in the guide.
  12. The assembly (42) as claimed in claim 10, wherein the at least one guide (52) comprises a ball race way (521) and balls (522), the balls cooperating by contact with the pivot (21*) to guide the shaft in the guide.
  13. An oscillator (100) of the sprung balance type comprising a shaft (1; 1') as claimed in one of claims 1 to 9 and/or an assembly as claimed in one of claims 10 to 12.
  14. A watch movement (110) comprising an oscillator (100) as claimed in the preceding claim and/or an assembly as claimed in one of claims 10 to 12 and/or a shaft (1; 1'; 1") as claimed in one of claims 1 to 9.
  15. A timepiece (120) comprising a watch movement (110) as claimed in the preceding claim and/or an oscillator (100) as claimed in claim 13 and/or an assembly as claimed in one of claims 10 to 12 and/or a shaft (1; 1'; 1") as claimed in one of claims 1 to 9.
EP16174244.0A 2016-06-13 2016-06-13 Timepiece arbor Active EP3258325B1 (en)

Priority Applications (11)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP16174244.0A EP3258325B1 (en) 2016-06-13 2016-06-13 Timepiece arbor
EP22216886.6A EP4177677A1 (en) 2016-06-13 2016-06-13 Clock axis
EP19183765.7A EP3584640B1 (en) 2016-06-13 2016-06-13 Timepiece oscillator
US15/618,859 US20170357213A1 (en) 2016-06-13 2017-06-09 Timepiece shaft
CN202110419759.3A CN113110010A (en) 2016-06-13 2017-06-12 Shaft of timer
CN201710439362.4A CN107490950B (en) 2016-06-13 2017-06-12 Shaft of timer
JP2017114859A JP7214335B2 (en) 2016-06-13 2017-06-12 clock shaft
CH00766/17A CH712552B1 (en) 2016-06-13 2017-06-13 Timepiece axis, as well as axis-guide assembly, balance-spring oscillator, timepiece movement and timepiece comprising such an axis.
US17/877,578 US11982977B2 (en) 2016-06-13 2022-07-29 Method of manufacturing a timepiece shaft
JP2022176828A JP2023011848A (en) 2016-06-13 2022-11-04 Timepiece shaft
US18/661,843 US20240295853A1 (en) 2016-06-13 2024-05-13 Timepiece shaft

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EP16174244.0A EP3258325B1 (en) 2016-06-13 2016-06-13 Timepiece arbor

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EP22216886.6A Division EP4177677A1 (en) 2016-06-13 2016-06-13 Clock axis
EP19183765.7A Division-Into EP3584640B1 (en) 2016-06-13 2016-06-13 Timepiece oscillator
EP19183765.7A Division EP3584640B1 (en) 2016-06-13 2016-06-13 Timepiece oscillator

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EP3258325B1 true EP3258325B1 (en) 2019-10-30

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EP19183765.7A Active EP3584640B1 (en) 2016-06-13 2016-06-13 Timepiece oscillator
EP22216886.6A Pending EP4177677A1 (en) 2016-06-13 2016-06-13 Clock axis

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US (3) US20170357213A1 (en)
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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP4242753A1 (en) 2022-03-11 2023-09-13 ETA SA Manufacture Horlogère Suisse Device for guiding a shaft of a balance wheel with hairspring
EP4242752A1 (en) 2022-03-11 2023-09-13 ETA SA Manufacture Horlogère Suisse Device for guiding a shaft of a balance wheel with hairspring

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JP2023011848A (en) 2023-01-24
US20240295853A1 (en) 2024-09-05
EP3258325A1 (en) 2017-12-20
CH712552A2 (en) 2017-12-15
EP3584640A1 (en) 2019-12-25
CN107490950A (en) 2017-12-19
US20220373977A1 (en) 2022-11-24
JP7214335B2 (en) 2023-01-30
US11982977B2 (en) 2024-05-14
CN107490950B (en) 2021-05-07
JP2018028529A (en) 2018-02-22
EP3584640B1 (en) 2023-01-11
CN113110010A (en) 2021-07-13
EP4177677A1 (en) 2023-05-10
US20170357213A1 (en) 2017-12-14
CH712552B1 (en) 2021-12-15

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