EP3457220B1 - Acoustic radiation membrane, and chiming watch provided with the acoustic membrane - Google Patents

Acoustic radiation membrane, and chiming watch provided with the acoustic membrane Download PDF

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Publication number
EP3457220B1
EP3457220B1 EP18189746.3A EP18189746A EP3457220B1 EP 3457220 B1 EP3457220 B1 EP 3457220B1 EP 18189746 A EP18189746 A EP 18189746A EP 3457220 B1 EP3457220 B1 EP 3457220B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
membrane
watch
acoustic
case
striking
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
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Application number
EP18189746.3A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP3457220A1 (en
Inventor
Jérôme Favre
Maude Spaetti
Gilles Duvoisin
Agnès Marlot Doerr
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Swatch Group Research and Development SA
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Swatch Group Research and Development SA
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Publication of EP3457220A1 publication Critical patent/EP3457220A1/en
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Classifications

    • 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
    • G04B21/00—Indicating the time by acoustic means
    • G04B21/02—Regular striking mechanisms giving the full hour, half hour or quarter hour
    • G04B21/08—Sounding bodies; Whistles; Musical apparatus
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A44—HABERDASHERY; JEWELLERY
    • A44C—PERSONAL ADORNMENTS, e.g. JEWELLERY; COINS
    • A44C5/00—Bracelets; Wrist-watch straps; Fastenings for bracelets or wrist-watch straps
    • A44C5/0007—Bracelets specially adapted for other functions or with means for attaching other articles
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A44—HABERDASHERY; JEWELLERY
    • A44C—PERSONAL ADORNMENTS, e.g. JEWELLERY; COINS
    • A44C5/00—Bracelets; Wrist-watch straps; Fastenings for bracelets or wrist-watch straps
    • A44C5/14—Bracelets; Wrist-watch straps; Fastenings for bracelets or wrist-watch straps characterised by the way of fastening to a wrist-watch or the like
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
    • A45C—PURSES; LUGGAGE; HAND CARRIED BAGS
    • A45C13/00—Details; Accessories
    • A45C13/008—Details; Accessories for making water- or air-tight
    • 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
    • G04B23/00—Arrangements producing acoustic signals at preselected times
    • G04B23/02—Alarm clocks
    • G04B23/028—Sounding bodies; boxes used as sounding cases; fixation on or in the case
    • 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
    • G04B37/00—Cases
    • G04B37/0075—Cases with means to enhance sound transmission
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G10—MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS; ACOUSTICS
    • G10K—SOUND-PRODUCING DEVICES; METHODS OR DEVICES FOR PROTECTING AGAINST, OR FOR DAMPING, NOISE OR OTHER ACOUSTIC WAVES IN GENERAL; ACOUSTICS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • G10K13/00—Cones, diaphragms, or the like, for emitting or receiving sound in general

Definitions

  • the invention relates to an acoustic radiation membrane for a striking or musical watch.
  • the invention also relates to a striking or musical watch comprising at least one acoustic radiation membrane.
  • the watch comprises a watch case essentially having a middle part and a back fixed in a leaktight manner and in a removable manner on the middle part.
  • a crystal is arranged on an opposite side of the caseband to seal said case.
  • a watch movement or a watch electronic module are held in a sealed manner in the watch case. With the watch movement, a striking mechanism is likely to be activated in determined periods to produce sound or music.
  • At least one acoustic membrane is connected to the box to radiate the sound produced by the striking mechanism or the electronic watch module to the outside of the box.
  • a traditional architecture is used to produce movements, which can also include striking mechanisms.
  • a striking mechanism can be activated in well-determined periods to signal a programmed alarm or minute repeaters, for example.
  • the striking mechanism may comprise at least one gong.
  • This gong is generally a circular-shaped metal wire, which can surround part of the watch movement in a watch cage.
  • This stamp is attached to a stamp holder normally secured to a watch plate. The vibration of the timbre is produced by the impact of at least one hammer or equivalent against the gong in determined periods.
  • the sound is produced by the vibrations of blades of a keyboard of the striking mechanism.
  • a membrane of the acoustic type may also be used for the vibro-acoustic transduction.
  • This acoustic membrane is fixed in a sealed manner, preferably between the back and the middle part of the watchcase, in particular by being sandwiched between a part of the middle part and the bottom of the watchcase.
  • the bottom may further comprise one or more openings for the transmission of sound from the vibrating membrane to the outside of the watch case.
  • the acoustic membrane is usually made of steel, or of amorphous metal or metallic glass, or of polymer, or of another metallic material. This type of material is also chosen for reasons of resistance to environmental constraints, such as humidity or water. With these types of acoustic membranes in a watch case, the acoustic radiation of the vibrating membrane is generally not sufficient, which is a disadvantage.
  • the object of the invention is therefore to overcome the drawbacks of the state of the art by providing a striking or musical watch, which is provided with an acoustic radiation membrane, to obtain good acoustic performance during the operation of a striking mechanism in the watch case.
  • the invention relates to an acoustic radiation membrane for a striking or musical watch, which comprises the characteristics defined in independent claims 1 and 2.
  • an advantage of the acoustic radiation membrane according to the present invention lies in the fact that this acoustic membrane in the watch case is made at least partly of wood or of a composite material, such as a wood composite, preferably of solid or precious or noble wood, such as mahogany.
  • a protective layer or lacquer can be deposited on the wooden membrane or impregnate said membrane to protect it from environmental conditions, such as humidity or water.
  • wood has been the material of choice for centuries for its acoustic properties, in particular its ability to radiate the vibrations of a large part of the audio spectrum into the air.
  • wood has never been imagined to use a wooden structure or membrane to effectively radiate the sound generated in the watch case by the striking mechanism.
  • the invention also relates to a striking or musical watch, which comprises an acoustic membrane, and which comprises the characteristics defined in independent claim 16.
  • the acoustic membrane can be mounted in the watch case like a double bottom and one or more side openings can be provided in the bottom giving access to the membrane for good transmission of the sound of the vibrating membrane towards the outside of the watch box.
  • This membrane can be mounted by gluing on an inner surface of the middle part of the watch case or wedged between parts of the metal case, for example.
  • the acoustic membrane can be mounted at the level of the watch dial to replace the latter or above or below the traditional dial. It can be connected to the bezel securing the watch crystal and one or more side openings in the bezel can be provided giving access to the membrane for good transmission of sound from the vibrating membrane to the outside of the watch case.
  • the acoustic membrane can be mounted in combination with a part of the dial and preferably in the same plane.
  • the membrane may be in the shape of a half-moon, while the dial part is in the shape of a half-moon of complementary shape to the membrane to form in combination a circular dial. It can also be envisaged to have a dial in rectangular form with the membrane constituting a rectangular part linked to the other part of the dial.
  • acoustic membranes made of wood or wood composite can be provided in the watch case.
  • a first membrane may be provided at the level of the dial and a second membrane as a false bottom above the bottom of the watch case. Provision may also be made to mount several acoustic membranes spaced from one another or superposed.
  • FIG. 1 represents a simplified partial section of a first embodiment of a striking or musical watch 1 with an acoustic membrane 10.
  • the watch essentially comprises a watch case, which is composed of a middle part 4, on which a bezel 3 is fixed in a leaktight manner with a gasket 18 on one side and a back 5 fixed to the other side of the middle part 4.
  • the back part 5 is mounted by known means and in a removable manner on the middle part 4 with a sealing gasket 9.
  • a watch crystal 2 is fixed in particular by a seal 19 to the bezel 3 to seal the watch case.
  • a dial 13 is held at the edge of the middle part 4 and arranged below the watch crystal 2.
  • the time indication hands which are not not shown, are provided on the dial 13 which generally bears hour markers on the periphery.
  • the striking or musical watch 1 also includes a watch movement 12 or a watch electronic module, which are normally mounted on a plate.
  • a rim piece is attached to the plate, which defines a watch cage.
  • both the plate and the border piece are made of a metallic material, which is usual in a high-end type mechanical watch.
  • the watch movement 12 or the electronic watch module comprises a sound vibration generator for generating sound or music in defined time periods.
  • the sound vibration generator is a striking mechanism, not shown.
  • This striking mechanism may comprise at least one gong mounted on a gong holder fixed to the plate, and at least one hammer mounted rotatably on the plate to strike said gong in determined periods.
  • the gong generally circular in shape, can surround certain parts of the watch movement.
  • Such a striking mechanism is provided to signal a programmed alarm or minute repeaters, for example.
  • the striking mechanism may comprise a keyboard with a set of blades connected to a bead, which is fixed to the plate.
  • the sound or the succession of musical notes is produced by the vibrations of the blades of the keyboard.
  • Each blade is configured to produce a particular note.
  • the blades of the keyboard are lifted and then released by pins attached to a cylinder or a disc rotating on the turntable.
  • Each blade activated mainly oscillates at its first natural frequency. The vibrations generated by the activated blades are transmitted to the outer parts of the watch, which must make it possible to acoustically radiate the sound produced by each vibrating blade.
  • the sound vibration generator of the electronic watch module generates at least one sound or music, which can be stored in a dedicated memory.
  • the sound vibration generator may traditionally comprise a piezoelectric element or a loudspeaker to broadcast sound or music in defined time periods.
  • the mechanical or electronic striking or musical watch 1 essentially comprises at least one acoustic membrane 10 to improve the acoustic performance of the sound produced by the sound vibration generator, such as the striking mechanism.
  • the acoustic membrane 10 is advantageously made of wood or a composite material, which can be a wood composite for example without any limitation.
  • the thickness of the membrane can be close to 1 mm.
  • composite material generally means a material, which consists of a framework or base called reinforcement, which can generally comprise fibers, which provides the mechanical strength, and a binder called matrix.
  • This binder is usually a plastic material, such as a thermoplastic or thermosetting resin, which ensures the cohesion of the structure and the transmission of forces to the reinforcement.
  • the composite material can also comprise a matrix of one or more polymers in which are inserted one or more natural or synthetic fibers and/or particles of any type. It can also be a wooden matrix in which is inserted a resin and/or particles of any type.
  • the material of the acoustic membrane 10 can also be precious or noble wood, such as mahogany or oak or cherry, which is known for its excellent acoustic radiation properties. It can also be chosen from spruce or maple or rosewood or kingwood or cherry or ebony usually used for the design of violins or guitars. It can also be chosen from other woods, such as poplar, willow, walnut, fir and even certain fruit trees.
  • precious or noble wood such as mahogany or oak or cherry, which is known for its excellent acoustic radiation properties. It can also be chosen from spruce or maple or rosewood or kingwood or cherry or ebony usually used for the design of violins or guitars. It can also be chosen from other woods, such as poplar, willow, walnut, fir and even certain fruit trees.
  • Wood is a material relatively sensitive to humidity, especially its geometric properties. Typically, an elongation of 2-10% can be observed when dry wood is immersed in water. This undesirable effect may be acceptable in a watch of suitable construction, but ideally this effect should be minimized, for example with infiltration treatment or with surface layers.
  • the acoustic membrane once made can still be tinted with a color, coated with a protective layer or lacquer or impregnated with a protective substance to protect the membrane from environmental conditions, such as humidity or water.
  • Nano-cellulose is a new material that can be used to reinforce the mechanical properties of the wooden membrane, and improve the dimensional behavior in variable environments (T and RH), or even avoid moisture absorption.
  • wood can also be used in the same radiation membrane, the acoustic properties of which are complementary. It can be used a light and very nervous wood with a homogeneous dense wood. Welding techniques exist and can be applied in this particular case. These combinations can take the form of reinforcements or thinnings of different geometries, for example straight or concentric in the same membrane.
  • the wood used can be further densified to improve the acoustic radiation properties using a technique from the Haute-isme du Bois in Bienne, Switzerland.
  • a membrane can be produced with an assembly or bonding of several layers one above the other, for example with different species of wood. Provision may be made for at least one of the layers to consist of natural or synthetic fibers arranged in a well-defined orientation. It is still possible to make openings in the membrane, which are inspired by the rosettes and soundholes of stringed instruments, but in this case, there must still be a protective membrane inside the watch case to protect the watch movement or the watch electronic module.
  • the orientation of the fibers in the membrane may be dependent on the location of the membrane in the watch case and depending on the arrangement of the stamp holder or the base of a keypad for a mechanical striking mechanism.
  • the superposed layer(s) may comprise wood fibers or also carbon fibers.
  • the tonal balance is also improved. All the frequencies created by the struck timbre, in particular the low frequencies below 7 kHz, are radiated at a substantially equivalent level, whereas a traditional solution based on metal or ceramic membranes tends to select a mode timbre for example treble at about 6.8 kHz, and radiate little other modes. This results in a richer and more balanced radiated sound when the wooden cone, in particular mahogany, is used. This was also confirmed by psychoacoustic listening.
  • the acoustic membrane 10 is made in the form of a bowl, the upper edge of which is mounted in a sealed manner by an annular gasket 8 on an inner annular rim of the bottom 5 of the box.
  • the diameter of this basin which may be equivalent to the diameter of the watch crystal 2, may be between 20 and 40 mm.
  • a support 11 of annular shape supports on one side the plate with the edge piece and rests on the upper edge of the acoustic membrane 10.
  • the central part of the acoustic membrane is not in contact with the support 11 and the inner surface of the bottom 5. As a result, sufficient space 7 in the box is provided for the acoustic membrane to be able to freely vibrate or radiate acoustically.
  • the whole of the acoustic membrane 10 and of the bottom 5 thus constitutes a double bottom.
  • One or more side openings 6 are also provided laterally through the bottom 5 to allow the acoustic membrane 10 to radiate the sound produced by the striking mechanism to the outside.
  • the sound produced by said striking mechanism is transmitted directly to the acoustic membrane 10 to make it vibrate.
  • a vibration transmission to the acoustic membrane 10 is also provided at the edge of the acoustic membrane by the connecting parts, such as the annular support 11.
  • the connecting parts such as the annular support 11.
  • the acoustic membrane 10 is made of wood or a composite material, it is likely to radiate more intensely the sound generated by the outward striking mechanism compared to a traditional acoustic membrane made of metal or amorphous metal or ceramic for example.
  • the acoustic membrane 10 made of wood or of composite material, such as wood composite, is for example of flat circular shape.
  • This acoustic membrane 10 is fixed to a support 11 comprising an inner edge in the shape of a wedge for fixing the acoustic membrane in particular by gluing.
  • This support 11 can be made of a metallic material.
  • a peripheral edge of the support 11 is held by pinching via a gasket 9 between the caseband 4 and the back 5 fixed to the caseband 4.
  • One or more openings 6 are made in the back 5, and a sufficient space 7 is left in the watch case between the acoustic membrane 10 and the inner surface of the back.
  • FIG. 3 shows a simplified partial section of a second embodiment of a striking watch 1 with an acoustic membrane 10'.
  • This second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the acoustic membrane 10' is arranged like a watch dial under the crystal 2 fixed by a seal 19 for example to a bezel 3.
  • the membrane is in this case in the form of a plane disc.
  • the bezel can also be mounted in a sealed manner with a gasket 18 on the middle part 4.
  • the acoustic membrane 10' can therefore replace the traditional dial of such a watch, but can also be arranged below or preferably on the above a traditional dial.
  • one or more side openings 16 can also be provided in the bezel giving access to the acoustic membrane 10'. These side openings 16 are provided for the transmission of sound from the vibrating membrane to the outside of the watch case.
  • the bottom 5 of the watch case no longer comprises openings given that the acoustic membrane 10' is not arranged only at the level of the dial.
  • the back 5 is mounted by known means and in a removable manner on the caseband 4 with a gasket 9, and another gasket 8 can also be provided to hold the annular support 11 supporting the watch movement 12 with the ringing mechanism.
  • FIG. 4 there is shown a third embodiment of the striking watch 1 with an acoustic membrane 10'.
  • This third embodiment is similar to the second embodiment with the only difference that the acoustic membrane 10' in the form of a half-moon is linked in the same plane to a half-moon of part of the dial 13.
  • the acoustic membrane 10' and the part of the dial 13 constitute the entirety of the dial visible under the crystal 2 fixed to the bezel 3.
  • the watch hands are not shown for simplification, as well as the side opening(s) on the bezel.
  • This acoustic membrane can be made or mounted in part of dial 13.
  • the acoustic membrane can be made of a complex non-uniform thickness or of a shape other than circular. It can be conical in shape or undulating from the center outwards or include grooves.
  • the acoustic membrane may also comprise, as a composite material, in association a layer of wood with a layer of carbon or polymer (resin). These two layers can be combined by gluing or another shaping process. She can still be coated or impregnated with at least one protective layer, which comprises an inorganic layer, such as a metal or oxide layer.
  • the membrane can be made of a wood composite comprising a polymer matrix, into which fibers and/or wood particles are inserted. These wood particles can be associated with organic particles, such as natural plant fibers or inorganic particles, such as graphene particles or carbon nanotubes.
  • the membrane can also be an assembly or bonding of layers one above the other with a relative orientation of the different fibers between each successive layer.
  • the membrane can also be an assembly or bonding of several layers one above the other, of which at least one of the layers is made of wood and associated with other layers of graphene or natural fibers or fiberglass. glass.
  • This wooden acoustic membrane can also be located in the watch case at the level of the middle part with an opening through the middle part for the sound radiation of the vibrating acoustic membrane.

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  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Acoustics & Sound (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Multimedia (AREA)
  • Electromechanical Clocks (AREA)

Description

DOMAINE TECHNIQUE DE L'INVENTIONTECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

L'invention concerne une membrane de rayonnement acoustique pour une montre à sonnerie ou musicale.The invention relates to an acoustic radiation membrane for a striking or musical watch.

L'invention concerne également une montre à sonnerie ou musicale comprenant au moins une membrane de rayonnement acoustique. La montre comprend une boîte de montre ayant essentiellement une carrure et un fond fixé de manière étanche et de manière amovible sur la carrure. Une glace est disposée sur un côté opposé de la carrure pour fermer de manière étanche ladite boîte. Un mouvement horloger ou un module électronique horloger sont maintenus de manière étanche dans la boîte de montre. Avec le mouvement horloger, un mécanisme de sonnerie est susceptible d'être activé dans des périodes déterminées pour produire un son ou une musique. Au moins une membrane acoustique est reliée à la boîte pour rayonner le son produit par le mécanisme de sonnerie ou le module électronique horloger vers l'extérieur de la boîte.The invention also relates to a striking or musical watch comprising at least one acoustic radiation membrane. The watch comprises a watch case essentially having a middle part and a back fixed in a leaktight manner and in a removable manner on the middle part. A crystal is arranged on an opposite side of the caseband to seal said case. A watch movement or a watch electronic module are held in a sealed manner in the watch case. With the watch movement, a striking mechanism is likely to be activated in determined periods to produce sound or music. At least one acoustic membrane is connected to the box to radiate the sound produced by the striking mechanism or the electronic watch module to the outside of the box.

ETAT DE LA TECHNIQUESTATE OF THE ART

Dans le domaine de l'horlogerie, une architecture traditionnelle est utilisée pour réaliser des mouvements, qui peuvent aussi comprendre des mécanismes de sonnerie. Un tel mécanisme de sonnerie peut être activé dans des périodes bien déterminées pour signaler une alarme programmée ou des répétitions minutes, par exemple. Pour une réalisation conventionnelle d'une montre à sonnerie, le mécanisme de sonnerie peut comprendre au moins un timbre. Ce timbre est généralement un fil métallique de forme circulaire, qui peut entourer une partie du mouvement horloger dans une cage de montre. Ce timbre est fixé à un porte-timbre solidaire normalement d'une platine de montre. La vibration du timbre est produite par l'impact d'au moins un marteau ou équivalent contre le timbre dans des périodes déterminées.In the field of watchmaking, a traditional architecture is used to produce movements, which can also include striking mechanisms. Such a striking mechanism can be activated in well-determined periods to signal a programmed alarm or minute repeaters, for example. For a conventional embodiment of a striking watch, the striking mechanism may comprise at least one gong. This gong is generally a circular-shaped metal wire, which can surround part of the watch movement in a watch cage. This stamp is attached to a stamp holder normally secured to a watch plate. The vibration of the timbre is produced by the impact of at least one hammer or equivalent against the gong in determined periods.

Dans le cas d'une montre musicale, le son est produit par les vibrations de lames d'un clavier du mécanisme de sonnerie.In the case of a musical watch, the sound is produced by the vibrations of blades of a keyboard of the striking mechanism.

Pour pouvoir bien rayonner vers l'extérieur le son généré dans la boîte de montre par le mécanisme de sonnerie ou musical, il peut être utilisé encore une membrane du type acoustique pour la transduction vibro-acoustique. Cette membrane acoustique est fixée de manière étanche de préférence entre le fond et la carrure de la boîte de montre, notamment en étant prise en sandwich entre une partie de la carrure et le fond de la boîte de montre. Le fond peut comprendre encore une ou plusieurs ouvertures pour la transmission du son de la membrane en vibration vers l'extérieur de la boîte de montre.In order to be able to radiate outwardly the sound generated in the watch case by the striking or musical mechanism, a membrane of the acoustic type may also be used for the vibro-acoustic transduction. This acoustic membrane is fixed in a sealed manner, preferably between the back and the middle part of the watchcase, in particular by being sandwiched between a part of the middle part and the bottom of the watchcase. The bottom may further comprise one or more openings for the transmission of sound from the vibrating membrane to the outside of the watch case.

La membrane acoustique est habituellement réalisée en acier, ou en métal amorphe ou verre métallique, ou en polymère, ou dans un autre matériau métallique. Ce type de matériau est choisi également pour des raisons de résistance aux contraintes de l'environnement, telles que l'humidité ou l'eau. Avec ces types de membranes acoustiques dans une boîte de montre, le rayonnement acoustique de la membrane en vibration n'est généralement pas suffisant, ce qui constitue un inconvénient.The acoustic membrane is usually made of steel, or of amorphous metal or metallic glass, or of polymer, or of another metallic material. This type of material is also chosen for reasons of resistance to environmental constraints, such as humidity or water. With these types of acoustic membranes in a watch case, the acoustic radiation of the vibrating membrane is generally not sufficient, which is a disadvantage.

Il est connu du brevet BE 414646 A , une pendule à sonnerie ou à carillon. Le mécanisme de sonnerie ou de carillon est disposé dans une gaine en bois fixée sur une gaine en marbre. Une face de la gaine en bois est libre de résonner suite à la génération d'un son par le mécanisme de sonnerie ou de carillon. Cependant un tel agencement est de grande dimension et ne peut pas équiper une montre du type montre-bracelet à sonnerie ou musicale, ce qui constitue un inconvénient. Cet arrangement peut encore être vu dans les demandes de brevet US1503570A et JP2001242855A .It is known from the patent BE 414646 A , a bell or chime clock. The bell or chime mechanism is placed in a wooden sheath fixed on a marble sheath. One face of the wooden sheath is free to resonate upon generation of sound by the bell or chime mechanism. However, such an arrangement is large and cannot be fitted to a watch of the striking or musical wristwatch type, which constitutes a drawback. This arrangement can still be seen in patent applications US1503570A And JP2001242855A .

RESUMÉ DE L'INVENTIONSUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

L'invention a donc pour but de pallier aux inconvénients de l'état de la technique en fournissant une montre à sonnerie ou musicale, qui est munie d'une membrane de rayonnement acoustique, pour obtenir un bon rendement acoustique lors du fonctionnement d'un mécanisme de sonnerie dans la boîte de montre.The object of the invention is therefore to overcome the drawbacks of the state of the art by providing a striking or musical watch, which is provided with an acoustic radiation membrane, to obtain good acoustic performance during the operation of a striking mechanism in the watch case.

A cet effet, l'invention concerne une membrane de rayonnement acoustique pour une montre à sonnerie ou musicale, qui comprend les caractéristiques définies dans les revendications indépendantes 1 et 2.To this end, the invention relates to an acoustic radiation membrane for a striking or musical watch, which comprises the characteristics defined in independent claims 1 and 2.

Des formes d'exécution particulières de la membrane de rayonnement acoustique sont définies dans les revendications dépendantes 3 à 15.Particular embodiments of the acoustic radiation membrane are defined in dependent claims 3 to 15.

Un avantage de la membrane de rayonnement acoustique selon la présente invention, réside dans le fait que cette membrane acoustique dans la boîte de montre est réalisée au moins en partie en bois ou en matériau composite, tel qu'en composite de bois, de préférence en bois massif ou précieux ou noble, tel que de l'acajou. Une couche de protection ou laque peut être déposée sur la membrane en bois ou imprégner ladite membrane pour la protéger des conditions environnementales, telles que l'humidité ou l'eau.An advantage of the acoustic radiation membrane according to the present invention lies in the fact that this acoustic membrane in the watch case is made at least partly of wood or of a composite material, such as a wood composite, preferably of solid or precious or noble wood, such as mahogany. A protective layer or lacquer can be deposited on the wooden membrane or impregnate said membrane to protect it from environmental conditions, such as humidity or water.

Dans le domaine des instruments de musique, le bois est le matériau privilégié depuis des siècles pour ses propriétés acoustiques, en particulier sa capacité à rayonner les vibrations d'une grande partie du spectre audio dans l'air. Cependant dans une conception d'une montre à sonnerie ou musicale de haut de gamme, il n'a jamais été imaginé d'utiliser une structure ou membrane en bois pour rayonner efficacement le son généré dans la boîte de montre par le mécanisme de sonnerie.In the field of musical instruments, wood has been the material of choice for centuries for its acoustic properties, in particular its ability to radiate the vibrations of a large part of the audio spectrum into the air. However, in a design of a high-end striking or musical watch, it has never been imagined to use a wooden structure or membrane to effectively radiate the sound generated in the watch case by the striking mechanism.

A cet effet, l'invention concerne également une montre à sonnerie ou musicale, qui comprend une membrane acoustique, et qui comprend les caractéristiques définies dans la revendication indépendante 16.To this end, the invention also relates to a striking or musical watch, which comprises an acoustic membrane, and which comprises the characteristics defined in independent claim 16.

Des formes d'exécution de la montre à sonnerie ou musicale sont définies dans les revendications dépendantes 17 à 28.Forms of execution of the striking or musical watch are defined in the dependent claims 17 to 28.

Avantageusement, la membrane acoustique peut être montée dans la boîte de montre comme un double fond et une ou des ouvertures latérales peuvent être prévues dans le fond donnant accès à la membrane pour une bonne transmission du son de la membrane en vibration vers l'extérieur de la boîte de montre. Cette membrane peut être montée par collage sur une surface intérieure de la carrure du boîtier de montre ou coincée entre des parties du boîtier métalliques par exemple.Advantageously, the acoustic membrane can be mounted in the watch case like a double bottom and one or more side openings can be provided in the bottom giving access to the membrane for good transmission of the sound of the vibrating membrane towards the outside of the watch box. This membrane can be mounted by gluing on an inner surface of the middle part of the watch case or wedged between parts of the metal case, for example.

Avantageusement, la membrane acoustique peut être montée au niveau du cadran de montre en remplacement de celui-ci ou en dessus ou en dessous du cadran traditionnel. Elle peut être reliée à la lunette fixant la glace de montre et une ou des ouvertures latérales dans la lunette peuvent être prévues donnant accès à la membrane pour une bonne transmission du son de la membrane en vibration vers l'extérieur de la boîte de montre.Advantageously, the acoustic membrane can be mounted at the level of the watch dial to replace the latter or above or below the traditional dial. It can be connected to the bezel securing the watch crystal and one or more side openings in the bezel can be provided giving access to the membrane for good transmission of sound from the vibrating membrane to the outside of the watch case.

Avantageusement, la membrane acoustique peut être montée en combinaison d'une partie du cadran et de préférence dans un même plan. La membrane peut être sous la forme d'une demi-lune, alors que la partie de cadran est sous la forme de demi-lune de forme complémentaire à la membrane pour former en combinaison un cadran circulaire. Il peut aussi être envisagé d'avoir un cadran sous forme rectangulaire avec la membrane constituant une partie rectangulaire liée à l'autre partie du cadran.Advantageously, the acoustic membrane can be mounted in combination with a part of the dial and preferably in the same plane. The membrane may be in the shape of a half-moon, while the dial part is in the shape of a half-moon of complementary shape to the membrane to form in combination a circular dial. It can also be envisaged to have a dial in rectangular form with the membrane constituting a rectangular part linked to the other part of the dial.

Avantageusement, il peut être prévu plusieurs membranes acoustiques en bois ou en composite de bois dans la boîte de montre. Il peut être prévu une première membrane au niveau du cadran et une seconde membrane comme double fond au-dessus du fond de la boîte de montre. Il peut être aussi prévu de monter plusieurs membranes acoustiques espacées l'une de l'autre ou superposées.Advantageously, several acoustic membranes made of wood or wood composite can be provided in the watch case. A first membrane may be provided at the level of the dial and a second membrane as a false bottom above the bottom of the watch case. Provision may also be made to mount several acoustic membranes spaced from one another or superposed.

BREVE DESCRIPTION DES FIGURESBRIEF DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES

Les buts, avantages et caractéristiques de la membrane de rayonnement acoustique et de la montre à sonnerie ou musicale la comprenant apparaîtront mieux dans la description suivante sur la base de formes d'exécution non limitatives illustrées par les dessins sur lesquels :

  • la figure 1 représente de manière simplifiée une coupe partielle d'une première forme d'exécution d'une montre à sonnerie ou musicale munie d'une membrane acoustique selon l'invention,
  • la figure 2 représente de manière simplifiée une coupe partielle d'une variante de la première forme d'exécution d'une montre à sonnerie ou musicale munie d'une membrane acoustique selon l'invention,
  • la figure 3 représente de manière simplifiée une coupe partielle d'une seconde forme d'exécution d'une montre à sonnerie ou musicale munie d'une membrane acoustique selon l'invention, et
  • la figure 4 représente de manière simplifiée une vue de dessus partielle d'une troisième forme d'exécution d'une montre à sonnerie ou musicale munie d'une membrane acoustique selon l'invention.
The purposes, advantages and characteristics of the acoustic radiation membrane and of the striking or musical watch comprising it will appear better in the following description on the basis of non-limiting embodiments illustrated by the drawings in which:
  • there figure 1 schematically represents a partial section of a first embodiment of a striking or musical watch provided with an acoustic membrane according to the invention,
  • there picture 2 represents in a simplified manner a partial section of a variant of the first embodiment of a striking or musical watch provided with an acoustic membrane according to the invention,
  • there picture 3 schematically represents a partial section of a second embodiment of a striking or musical watch provided with an acoustic membrane according to the invention, and
  • there figure 4 schematically shows a partial top view of a third embodiment of a striking or musical watch provided with an acoustic membrane according to the invention.

DESCRIPTION DETAILLEE DE L'INVENTIONDETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Dans la description suivante, toutes les parties de la montre à sonnerie ou musicale, qui comprend au moins une membrane acoustique, et qui sont bien connues d'un homme du métier dans ce domaine technique, ne sont décrites que de manière simplifiée.In the following description, all the parts of the striking or musical watch, which comprises at least one acoustic membrane, and which are well known to a person skilled in the art in this technical field, are only described in a simplified manner.

La figure 1 représente une coupe partielle simplifiée d'une première forme d'exécution d'une montre à sonnerie ou musicale 1 à membrane acoustique 10. La montre comprend essentiellement une boîte de montre, qui est composée d'une carrure 4, sur laquelle une lunette 3 est fixée de manière étanche avec une garniture d'étanchéité 18 d'un côté et un fond 5 fixé d'un autre côté de la carrure 4. Le fond 5 est monté par des moyens connus et de manière amovible sur la carrure 4 avec une garniture d'étanchéité 9. Une glace de montre 2 est fixée notamment par un joint 19 à la lunette 3 pour fermer de manière étanche la boîte de montre. Un cadran 13 est maintenu en bordure sur la carrure 4 et disposé au-dessous de la glace de montre 2. Dans le cas d'une montre mécanique à sonnerie ou musicale 1, des aiguilles d'indication de l'heure, qui ne sont pas représentées, sont prévues sur le cadran 13 qui porte généralement des index horaires en périphérie.There figure 1 represents a simplified partial section of a first embodiment of a striking or musical watch 1 with an acoustic membrane 10. The watch essentially comprises a watch case, which is composed of a middle part 4, on which a bezel 3 is fixed in a leaktight manner with a gasket 18 on one side and a back 5 fixed to the other side of the middle part 4. The back part 5 is mounted by known means and in a removable manner on the middle part 4 with a sealing gasket 9. A watch crystal 2 is fixed in particular by a seal 19 to the bezel 3 to seal the watch case. A dial 13 is held at the edge of the middle part 4 and arranged below the watch crystal 2. In the case of a mechanical striking or musical watch 1, the time indication hands, which are not not shown, are provided on the dial 13 which generally bears hour markers on the periphery.

La montre à sonnerie ou musicale 1 comprend également un mouvement horloger 12 ou un module électronique horloger, qui sont normalement montés sur une platine. Une pièce de bordure est fixée à la platine, ce qui définit une cage de montre. Habituellement aussi bien la platine que la pièce de bordure sont réalisées dans un matériau métallique, ce qui est habituel dans une montre mécanique de type haut de gamme.The striking or musical watch 1 also includes a watch movement 12 or a watch electronic module, which are normally mounted on a plate. A rim piece is attached to the plate, which defines a watch cage. Usually both the plate and the border piece are made of a metallic material, which is usual in a high-end type mechanical watch.

Le mouvement horloger 12 ou le module électronique horloger comprend un générateur de vibrations sonores pour la génération d'un son ou d'une musique en des périodes temporelles définies. Dans le cas d'un mouvement horloger 12, le générateur de vibrations sonores est un mécanisme de sonnerie, non représenté. Ce mécanisme de sonnerie peut comprendre au moins un timbre monté sur un porte-timbre fixé sur la platine, et au moins un marteau monté rotatif sur la platine pour venir frapper ledit timbre dans des périodes déterminées. Le timbre généralement de forme circulaire peut entourer certaines parties du mouvement horloger. Un tel mécanisme de sonnerie est prévu pour signaler une alarme programmée ou des répétitions minutes, par exemple.The watch movement 12 or the electronic watch module comprises a sound vibration generator for generating sound or music in defined time periods. In the case of a watch movement 12, the sound vibration generator is a striking mechanism, not shown. This striking mechanism may comprise at least one gong mounted on a gong holder fixed to the plate, and at least one hammer mounted rotatably on the plate to strike said gong in determined periods. The gong, generally circular in shape, can surround certain parts of the watch movement. Such a striking mechanism is provided to signal a programmed alarm or minute repeaters, for example.

Dans une forme d'exécution plus élaborée d'une montre musicale, le mécanisme de sonnerie peut comprendre un clavier avec un ensemble de lames reliées à un talon, qui est fixé sur la platine. Le son ou la succession de notes de musique est produit par les vibrations de lames du clavier. Chaque lame est configurée pour la production d'une note particulière. Pour produire une musique par exemple dans des périodes programmées, les lames du clavier sont levées puis relâchées par des goupilles solidaires d'un cylindre ou d'un disque en rotation sur la platine. Chaque lame activée oscille principalement à sa première fréquence propre. Les vibrations générées par les lames activées sont transmises aux pièces d'habillage de la montre, qui doivent permettre de rayonner acoustiquement le son produit par chaque lame en vibration.In a more elaborate embodiment of a musical watch, the striking mechanism may comprise a keyboard with a set of blades connected to a bead, which is fixed to the plate. The sound or the succession of musical notes is produced by the vibrations of the blades of the keyboard. Each blade is configured to produce a particular note. To produce music for example in programmed periods, the blades of the keyboard are lifted and then released by pins attached to a cylinder or a disc rotating on the turntable. Each blade activated mainly oscillates at its first natural frequency. The vibrations generated by the activated blades are transmitted to the outer parts of the watch, which must make it possible to acoustically radiate the sound produced by each vibrating blade.

Dans le cas d'une montre à sonnerie ou musicale électronique 1, le générateur de vibrations sonores du module électronique horloger génère au moins un son ou une musique, qui peut être mémorisée dans une mémoire dédicacée. Le générateur de vibrations sonores peut comprendre de manière traditionnelle un élément piézoélectrique ou un haut-parleur pour diffuser un son ou une musique en des périodes temporelles définies.In the case of a striking or musical electronic watch 1, the sound vibration generator of the electronic watch module generates at least one sound or music, which can be stored in a dedicated memory. The sound vibration generator may traditionally comprise a piezoelectric element or a loudspeaker to broadcast sound or music in defined time periods.

La montre à sonnerie ou musicale 1 mécanique ou électronique comprend essentiellement au moins une membrane acoustique 10 pour améliorer le rendement acoustique du son produit par le générateur de vibrations sonores, tel que le mécanisme de sonnerie. Pour cette présente invention, la membrane acoustique 10 est réalisée avantageusement en bois ou en matériau composite, qui peut être un composite de bois par exemple sans aucune limitation. L'épaisseur de la membrane peut être voisine de 1 mm.The mechanical or electronic striking or musical watch 1 essentially comprises at least one acoustic membrane 10 to improve the acoustic performance of the sound produced by the sound vibration generator, such as the striking mechanism. For this present invention, the acoustic membrane 10 is advantageously made of wood or a composite material, which can be a wood composite for example without any limitation. The thickness of the membrane can be close to 1 mm.

Il est à noter que l'on entend généralement par matériau composite, un matériau, qui est constitué d'une ossature ou base appelée renfort, qui peut comprendre généralement des fibres, qui assure la tenue mécanique, et d'un liant appelé matrice. Ce liant est la plupart du temps une matière plastique, telle qu'une résine thermoplastique ou thermodurcissable, qui assure la cohésion de la structure et la transmission des efforts vers le renfort. Dans le cas de la présente invention, le matériau composite peut aussi comprendre une matrice d'un ou plusieurs polymères dans laquelle sont insérées une ou plusieurs fibres naturelles ou synthétiques et/ou des particules de tout type. Il peut s'agir aussi d'une matrice en bois dans laquelle est insérée une résine et/ou des particules de tout type.It should be noted that the term "composite material" generally means a material, which consists of a framework or base called reinforcement, which can generally comprise fibers, which provides the mechanical strength, and a binder called matrix. This binder is usually a plastic material, such as a thermoplastic or thermosetting resin, which ensures the cohesion of the structure and the transmission of forces to the reinforcement. In the case of the present invention, the composite material can also comprise a matrix of one or more polymers in which are inserted one or more natural or synthetic fibers and/or particles of any type. It can also be a wooden matrix in which is inserted a resin and/or particles of any type.

Le matériau de la membrane acoustique 10 peut être également du bois précieux ou noble, tel que de l'acajou ou du chêne ou du merisier, qui est connu pour ses excellentes propriétés de rayonnement acoustique. Il peut également être choisi de l'épicéa ou de l'érable ou du bois de rose ou du bois de violette ou du cerisier ou de l'ébène utilisés généralement pour la conception de violons ou de guitares. Il peut encore être choisi d'autres bois, tel que le peuplier, le saule, le noyer, le sapin et même certains arbres fruitiers.The material of the acoustic membrane 10 can also be precious or noble wood, such as mahogany or oak or cherry, which is known for its excellent acoustic radiation properties. It can also be chosen from spruce or maple or rosewood or kingwood or cherry or ebony usually used for the design of violins or guitars. It can also be chosen from other woods, such as poplar, willow, walnut, fir and even certain fruit trees.

Le bois est un matériau relativement sensible à l'humidité, en particulier ses propriétés géométriques. Typiquement, un allongement de 2 à 10% peut être observé lorsqu'un bois sec est immergé dans l'eau. Cet effet indésirable peut être acceptable dans une montre dont la construction est adaptée, mais idéalement cet effet devra être minimisé, par exemple avec un traitement par infiltration ou avec des couches superficielles.Wood is a material relatively sensitive to humidity, especially its geometric properties. Typically, an elongation of 2-10% can be observed when dry wood is immersed in water. This undesirable effect may be acceptable in a watch of suitable construction, but ideally this effect should be minimized, for example with infiltration treatment or with surface layers.

Ainsi, la membrane acoustique une fois réalisée peut encore être teintée d'une couleur, revêtue d'une couche ou laque de protection ou imprégnée d'une substance de protection pour protéger la membrane des conditions environnementales, telles que l'humidité ou l'eau. La nano-cellulose est un nouveau matériau qui peut être utilisé pour renforcer les propriétés mécaniques de la membrane en bois, et améliorer la tenue dimensionnelle dans des environnements variables (T et RH), voire éviter l'absorption d'humidité.Thus, the acoustic membrane once made can still be tinted with a color, coated with a protective layer or lacquer or impregnated with a protective substance to protect the membrane from environmental conditions, such as humidity or water. Nano-cellulose is a new material that can be used to reinforce the mechanical properties of the wooden membrane, and improve the dimensional behavior in variable environments (T and RH), or even avoid moisture absorption.

Pour réaliser une telle membrane en bois, il peut aussi être utilisé plusieurs essences de bois dans la même membrane de rayonnement, dont les propriétés acoustiques sont complémentaires. Il peut être utilisé un bois léger et très nerveux avec un bois dense homogène. Des techniques de soudage existent et peuvent être appliquées dans ce cas particulier. Ces combinaisons peuvent prendre la forme de renforts ou d'amincissements de différentes géométries, par exemple droites ou concentriques dans la même membrane. Le bois utilisé peut encore être densifié pour améliorer les propriétés de rayonnement acoustique selon une technique de la Haute-Ecole du Bois à Bienne en Suisse.To produce such a wooden membrane, several species of wood can also be used in the same radiation membrane, the acoustic properties of which are complementary. It can be used a light and very nervous wood with a homogeneous dense wood. Welding techniques exist and can be applied in this particular case. These combinations can take the form of reinforcements or thinnings of different geometries, for example straight or concentric in the same membrane. The wood used can be further densified to improve the acoustic radiation properties using a technique from the Haute-Ecole du Bois in Bienne, Switzerland.

Il peut être réalisé une membrane avec un assemblage ou collage de plusieurs couches l'une au-dessus de l'autre par exemple avec des essences de bois différentes. Il peut être prévu qu'au moins une des couches soit constituée de fibres naturelles ou synthétiques disposées selon une orientation bien définie. Il peut encore être réalisé des ouvertures dans la membrane, qui sont inspirées des rosaces et des ouïes d'instruments à cordes, mais dans ce cas, il doit encore être prévu une membrane de protection à l'intérieur de la boîte de montre pour protéger le mouvement horloger ou le module électronique horloger.A membrane can be produced with an assembly or bonding of several layers one above the other, for example with different species of wood. Provision may be made for at least one of the layers to consist of natural or synthetic fibers arranged in a well-defined orientation. It is still possible to make openings in the membrane, which are inspired by the rosettes and soundholes of stringed instruments, but in this case, there must still be a protective membrane inside the watch case to protect the watch movement or the watch electronic module.

Dans le cas d'au moins une couche à fibres naturelles ou synthétiques, l'orientation des fibres dans la membrane peut être dépendante de l'emplacement de la membrane dans la boîte de montre et en fonction de la disposition du porte-timbre ou de la base d'un clavier pour un mécanisme de sonnerie mécanique. La ou les couches superposées peuvent comprendre des fibres de bois ou également des fibres de carbone.In the case of at least one natural or synthetic fiber layer, the orientation of the fibers in the membrane may be dependent on the location of the membrane in the watch case and depending on the arrangement of the stamp holder or the base of a keypad for a mechanical striking mechanism. The superposed layer(s) may comprise wood fibers or also carbon fibers.

A titre comparatif, il a été réalisé des tests sur une membrane en acajou, qui ont été comparés à une construction traditionnelle. Ces tests ont montré qu'une membrane en acajou permet d'améliorer le rayonnement acoustique de 4 à 5 dBA par rapport à une construction traditionnelle, ce qui est significatif pour l'usager à une distance de 30 cm de la membrane en vibration. La résonance en est également augmentée.For comparison, tests were carried out on a mahogany membrane, which were compared to a traditional construction. These tests have shown that a mahogany membrane improves acoustic radiation by 4 to 5 dBA compared to a traditional construction, which is significant for the user at a distance of 30 cm from the vibrating membrane. The resonance is also increased.

Il est encore à noter que l'équilibre tonal est également amélioré. Toutes les fréquences créées par le timbre frappé, en particulier les basses fréquences en-dessous de 7 kHz, sont rayonnées à un niveau sensiblement équivalent, alors qu'une solution traditionnelle basée sur des membranes en métal ou en céramique a tendance à sélectionner un mode du timbre par exemple aigu à environ 6.8 kHz, et rayonner peu les autres modes. Il en résulte un son rayonné plus riche et équilibré lorsque la membrane en bois notamment en acajou est utilisée. Ceci a également été confirmé par des écoutes psycho acoustiques.It should also be noted that the tonal balance is also improved. All the frequencies created by the struck timbre, in particular the low frequencies below 7 kHz, are radiated at a substantially equivalent level, whereas a traditional solution based on metal or ceramic membranes tends to select a mode timbre for example treble at about 6.8 kHz, and radiate little other modes. This results in a richer and more balanced radiated sound when the wooden cone, in particular mahogany, is used. This was also confirmed by psychoacoustic listening.

On peut encore constater que la membrane en acajou améliore à la fois le rayonnement des basses fréquences, ce qui contribue à « l'assise » du son, ainsi que l'attaque en hautes fréquences, ce qui améliore sa « brillance ».We can still see that the mahogany cone improves both the radiation of low frequencies, which contributes to the "base" of the sound, as well as the attack at high frequencies, which improves its "brilliance".

Dans la première forme d'exécution de la figure 1, la membrane acoustique 10 est réalisée en forme de cuvette, dont le bord supérieur est monté de manière étanche par une garniture annulaire 8 sur un rebord annulaire intérieur du fond 5 de la boîte. Le diamètre de cette cuvette, qui peut être équivalent au diamètre de la glace 2 de montre, peut se situer entre 20 et 40 mm. Un support 11 de forme annulaire supporte d'un côté la platine avec la pièce de bordure et s'appuie sur le bord supérieur de la membrane acoustique 10. Au moment de la fixation de la carrure 4 sur le fond 5 de la boîte de montre, le support 11 et le bord périphérique de la membrane acoustique 10 sont pincés, voire collés entre la carrure 4 et le rebord du fond 5.In the first embodiment of the figure 1 , the acoustic membrane 10 is made in the form of a bowl, the upper edge of which is mounted in a sealed manner by an annular gasket 8 on an inner annular rim of the bottom 5 of the box. The diameter of this basin, which may be equivalent to the diameter of the watch crystal 2, may be between 20 and 40 mm. A support 11 of annular shape supports on one side the plate with the edge piece and rests on the upper edge of the acoustic membrane 10. When fixing the middle part 4 on the bottom 5 of the watch case , the support 11 and the peripheral edge of the acoustic membrane 10 are pinched, or even glued between the middle part 4 and the edge of the back 5.

La partie centrale de la membrane acoustique n'est pas en contact avec le support 11 et la surface intérieure du fond 5. De ce fait, un espace suffisant 7 dans la boîte est prévu pour que la membrane acoustique puisse librement vibrer ou rayonner acoustiquement. L'ensemble de la membrane acoustique 10 et du fond 5 constitue ainsi un double fond. Une ou plusieurs ouvertures latérales 6 sont également prévues latéralement à travers le fond 5 pour permettre à la membrane acoustique 10 de rayonner le son produit par le mécanisme de sonnerie vers l'extérieur.The central part of the acoustic membrane is not in contact with the support 11 and the inner surface of the bottom 5. As a result, sufficient space 7 in the box is provided for the acoustic membrane to be able to freely vibrate or radiate acoustically. The whole of the acoustic membrane 10 and of the bottom 5 thus constitutes a double bottom. One or more side openings 6 are also provided laterally through the bottom 5 to allow the acoustic membrane 10 to radiate the sound produced by the striking mechanism to the outside.

Lors du fonctionnement du mécanisme de sonnerie, le son produit par ledit mécanisme de sonnerie est transmis directement à la membrane acoustique 10 pour la faire vibrer. Une transmission de vibration à la membrane acoustique 10 est également fournie en bordure de la membrane acoustique par les pièces de liaison, telles que le support annulaire 11. Comme la membrane acoustique 10 est réalisée en bois ou en matériau composite, elle est susceptible de rayonner plus intensément le son généré par le mécanisme de sonnerie vers l'extérieur en comparaison à une membrane acoustique traditionnelle réalisée en métal ou métal amorphe ou en céramique par exemple.During operation of the striking mechanism, the sound produced by said striking mechanism is transmitted directly to the acoustic membrane 10 to make it vibrate. A vibration transmission to the acoustic membrane 10 is also provided at the edge of the acoustic membrane by the connecting parts, such as the annular support 11. As the acoustic membrane 10 is made of wood or a composite material, it is likely to radiate more intensely the sound generated by the outward striking mechanism compared to a traditional acoustic membrane made of metal or amorphous metal or ceramic for example.

La figure 2 représente une variante de la première forme d'exécution décrite ci-dessus en relation à la figure 1. Dans cette variante d'exécution, la membrane acoustique 10 en bois ou en matériau composite, tel qu'en composite de bois est par exemple de forme circulaire plane. Cette membrane acoustique 10 est fixée à un support 11 comprenant une bordure intérieure en forme de coin pour la fixation de la membrane acoustique notamment par collage. Ce support 11 peut être réalisé dans un matériau métallique.There figure 2 represents a variant of the first embodiment described above in relation to the figure 1 . In this alternative embodiment, the acoustic membrane 10 made of wood or of composite material, such as wood composite, is for example of flat circular shape. This acoustic membrane 10 is fixed to a support 11 comprising an inner edge in the shape of a wedge for fixing the acoustic membrane in particular by gluing. This support 11 can be made of a metallic material.

Une bordure périphérique du support 11 est maintenue par pincement par l'intermédiaire d'une garniture d'étanchéité 9 entre la carrure 4 et le fond 5 fixé à la carrure 4. Une ou plusieurs ouvertures 6 sont réalisées dans le fond 5, et un espace suffisant 7 est laissé dans la boîte de montre entre la membrane acoustique 10 et la surface intérieure du fond.A peripheral edge of the support 11 is held by pinching via a gasket 9 between the caseband 4 and the back 5 fixed to the caseband 4. One or more openings 6 are made in the back 5, and a sufficient space 7 is left in the watch case between the acoustic membrane 10 and the inner surface of the back.

La figure 3 représente une coupe partielle simplifiée d'une seconde forme d'exécution d'une montre à sonnerie 1 à membrane acoustique 10'. Cette seconde forme d'exécution se différencie de la première forme d'exécution en ce que la membrane acoustique 10' est disposée comme un cadran de montre sous la glace 2 fixée par un joint 19 par exemple à une lunette 3. La membrane est dans ce cas sous la forme d'un disque plan. La lunette peut aussi être montée de manière étanche avec une garniture d'étanchéité 18 sur la carrure 4. La membrane acoustique 10' peut donc remplacer le cadran traditionnel d'une telle montre, mais peut aussi être disposée au-dessous ou de préférence au-dessus d'un cadran traditionnel.There picture 3 shows a simplified partial section of a second embodiment of a striking watch 1 with an acoustic membrane 10'. This second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the acoustic membrane 10' is arranged like a watch dial under the crystal 2 fixed by a seal 19 for example to a bezel 3. The membrane is in this case in the form of a plane disc. The bezel can also be mounted in a sealed manner with a gasket 18 on the middle part 4. The acoustic membrane 10' can therefore replace the traditional dial of such a watch, but can also be arranged below or preferably on the above a traditional dial.

Dans cette seconde forme d'exécution, il peut encore être prévu une ou plusieurs ouvertures latérales 16 dans la lunette donnant accès à la membrane acoustique 10'. Ces ouvertures latérales 16 sont prévues pour la transmission du son de la membrane en vibration vers l'extérieur de la boîte de montre. Par contre, le fond 5 de la boîte de montre ne comprend plus d'ouvertures étant donné que la membrane acoustique 10' n'est disposée qu'au niveau du cadran. Le fond 5 est monté par des moyens connus et de manière amovible sur la carrure 4 avec une garniture d'étanchéité 9, et une autre garniture d'étanchéité 8 peut aussi être prévue pour maintenir le support annulaire 11 supportant le mouvement horloger 12 avec le mécanisme de sonnerie.In this second embodiment, one or more side openings 16 can also be provided in the bezel giving access to the acoustic membrane 10'. These side openings 16 are provided for the transmission of sound from the vibrating membrane to the outside of the watch case. On the other hand, the bottom 5 of the watch case no longer comprises openings given that the acoustic membrane 10' is not arranged only at the level of the dial. The back 5 is mounted by known means and in a removable manner on the caseband 4 with a gasket 9, and another gasket 8 can also be provided to hold the annular support 11 supporting the watch movement 12 with the ringing mechanism.

Il est à noter qu'il peut aussi être envisagé d'avoir une combinaison des deux formes d'exécution susmentionnées avec une membrane acoustique 10 en double fond et une autre membrane acoustique 10' au niveau du cadran. Dans ce cas de figure, il est nécessaire d'avoir des ouvertures latérales 6, 16 au niveau du fond 5 et à travers la lunette 3 pour la transmission du son vers l'extérieur de la boîte de montre.It should be noted that it can also be envisaged to have a combination of the two aforementioned embodiments with an acoustic membrane 10 in the double bottom and another acoustic membrane 10' at the level of the dial. In this case, it is necessary to have side openings 6, 16 at the bottom 5 and through the bezel 3 for the transmission of sound to the outside of the watch case.

A la figure 4, il est représenté une troisième forme d'exécution de la montre à sonnerie 1 à membrane acoustique 10'. Cette troisième forme d'exécution est similaire à la seconde forme d'exécution à la seule différence que la membrane acoustique 10' sous forme de demi-lune est liée dans le même plan à une demi-lune d'une partie du cadran 13. La membrane acoustique 10' et la partie du cadran 13 constituent l'entier du cadran visible sous la glace 2 fixée à la lunette 3. Les aiguilles de montre ne sont pas représentées par simplification, ainsi que la ou les ouvertures latérales sur la lunette. Cette membrane acoustique peut être réalisée ou montée dans une partie du cadran 13.To the figure 4 , there is shown a third embodiment of the striking watch 1 with an acoustic membrane 10'. This third embodiment is similar to the second embodiment with the only difference that the acoustic membrane 10' in the form of a half-moon is linked in the same plane to a half-moon of part of the dial 13. The acoustic membrane 10' and the part of the dial 13 constitute the entirety of the dial visible under the crystal 2 fixed to the bezel 3. The watch hands are not shown for simplification, as well as the side opening(s) on the bezel. This acoustic membrane can be made or mounted in part of dial 13.

Il peut encore être imaginé d'incorporer une portion de membrane dans la glace de montre, même si cette réalisation est plus compliquée que celles décrites ci-devant.It can also be imagined to incorporate a membrane portion in the watch crystal, even if this embodiment is more complicated than those described above.

La membrane acoustique peut être réalisée d'une épaisseur non uniforme complexe ou d'une forme autre que circulaire. Elle peut être de forme conique ou ondulant du centre vers l'extérieur ou comprendre des rainures. La membrane acoustique peut comprendre encore, comme matériau composite, en association une couche de bois avec une couche de carbone ou polymère (résine). Ces deux couches peuvent être associées par collage ou un autre procédé de mise en forme. Elle peut encore être revêtue ou imprégnée d'au moins une couche de protection, qui comprend une couche inorganique, telle qu'une couche métallique ou d'oxyde.The acoustic membrane can be made of a complex non-uniform thickness or of a shape other than circular. It can be conical in shape or undulating from the center outwards or include grooves. The acoustic membrane may also comprise, as a composite material, in association a layer of wood with a layer of carbon or polymer (resin). These two layers can be combined by gluing or another shaping process. She can still be coated or impregnated with at least one protective layer, which comprises an inorganic layer, such as a metal or oxide layer.

La membrane peut être réalisée en composite de bois comprenant une matrice polymère, dans laquelle sont insérées des fibres et/ou des particules de bois. Ces particules de bois peuvent être associées à des particules organiques, telles que des fibres végétales naturelles ou des particules inorganiques, telles que des particules de graphène ou des nanotubes de carbone. La membrane peut aussi être un assemblage ou collage de couches l'une au-dessus de l'autre avec une orientation relative des fibres différentes entre chaque couche successive. La membrane peut en outre être un assemblage ou collage de plusieurs couches l'une au-dessus de l'autre, dont au moins une des couches est en bois et associée à d'autres couches en graphène ou en fibres naturelles ou en fibres de verre.The membrane can be made of a wood composite comprising a polymer matrix, into which fibers and/or wood particles are inserted. These wood particles can be associated with organic particles, such as natural plant fibers or inorganic particles, such as graphene particles or carbon nanotubes. The membrane can also be an assembly or bonding of layers one above the other with a relative orientation of the different fibers between each successive layer. The membrane can also be an assembly or bonding of several layers one above the other, of which at least one of the layers is made of wood and associated with other layers of graphene or natural fibers or fiberglass. glass.

A partir de la description qui vient d'être faite, plusieurs variantes de réalisation de la membrane de rayonnement acoustique et de la montre à sonnerie ou musicale la comprenant peuvent être conçues par l'homme du métier sans sortir du cadre de l'invention définie par les revendications. Cette membrane acoustique en bois peut aussi être située dans la boîte de montre au niveau de la carrure avec une ouverture à travers la carrure pour le rayonnement sonore de la membrane acoustique en vibration. Il peut être prévu plusieurs membranes acoustiques disposées à plusieurs endroits à l'intérieur de la boîte de montre ou superposées. Il peut aussi être prévu de réaliser la membrane acoustique avec une peau tendue fixée sur un cadre pour rayonner le son généré par le générateur de vibrations sonores.From the description which has just been made, several variant embodiments of the acoustic radiation membrane and of the striking or musical watch comprising it can be designed by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the invention defined by claims. This wooden acoustic membrane can also be located in the watch case at the level of the middle part with an opening through the middle part for the sound radiation of the vibrating acoustic membrane. There may be several acoustic membranes arranged at several places inside the watch case or superimposed. Provision may also be made to produce the acoustic membrane with a stretched skin fixed to a frame to radiate the sound generated by the sound vibration generator.

Claims (28)

  1. Acoustic radiation membrane (10, 10') for a striking or musical wristwatch-type watch (1) and intended to be mounted in a case of the striking or musical watch, characterised in that at least one part of the acoustic membrane is made of wood or a wood composite material, and
    in that the acoustic membrane (10) has a dished shape, of which an upper edge is intended to be mounted in a sealed manner by an annular sealing gasket (8) on an interior annular rim of the back (5) of the case, the diameter of this dish being equivalent to the diameter of the glass (2) of the watch, to be between 20 and 40 mm.
  2. Acoustic radiation membrane (10, 10') for a striking or musical wristwatch-type watch (1) and intended to be mounted in a case of the striking or musical watch, characterised in that at least one part of the acoustic membrane is made of wood or a wood composite material, and in that the thickness of the membrane is close to 1 mm.
  3. Acoustic radiation membrane (10, 10') according to one of claims 1 and 2, characterised in that the membrane is made of solid wood, such as mahogany, oak or birch.
  4. Acoustic radiation membrane (10, 10') according to one of claims 1 and 2, characterised in that the membrane is made of a wood composite comprising a plurality of species of wood bonded together.
  5. Acoustic radiation membrane (10, 10') according to claim 4, characterised in that the membrane is made of lightweight and very nervous wood using a homogeneous densified wood.
  6. Acoustic radiation membrane (10, 10') according to one of claims 1 and 2, characterised in that the membrane is made of a wood composite comprising a polymeric matrix, into which fibres and/or particles of wood are introduced.
  7. Acoustic radiation membrane (10, 10') according to claim 6, characterised in that the particles of wood are associated with organic particles, such as natural vegetable fibres or inorganic particles, such as particles of graphene or carbon nanotubes.
  8. Acoustic radiation membrane (10, 10') according to one of claims 1 and 2, characterised in that the membrane is an assembly or adhesive bonding of a plurality of layers one on top of the other, and in that the layers comprise different species of wood.
  9. Acoustic radiation membrane (10, 10') according to one of claims 1 and 2, characterised in that the membrane is an assembly or adhesive bonding of a plurality of layers one on top of the other having a relative orientation of the different fibres between each successive layer.
  10. Acoustic radiation membrane (10, 10') according to one of claims 1 and 2, characterised in that the membrane is an assembly or adhesive bonding of a plurality of layers one on top of the other, and in that at least one of the layers is made of wood and is associated with other layers made of graphene or natural fibres or glass fibres.
  11. Acoustic radiation membrane (10, 10') according to one of claims 1 and 2, characterised in that a protective layer or a protective lacquer is deposited on the acoustic membrane in order to protect it from environmental conditions.
  12. Acoustic radiation membrane (10, 10') according to one of claims 1 and 2, characterised in that the acoustic membrane is impregnated with a protective substance in order to protect it from environmental conditions.
  13. Acoustic radiation membrane (10, 10') according to one of claims 1 and 2, characterised in that the acoustic membrane is impregnated with nano-cellulose in order to reinforce its mechanical properties.
  14. Acoustic radiation membrane (10, 10') according to one of claims 1 and 2, characterised in that the acoustic membrane is stained with a colour.
  15. Acoustic radiation membrane (10, 10') according to one of claims 1 and 2, characterised in that the acoustic membrane is coated or impregnated with at least one protective layer, which comprises an inorganic layer, such as a metallic layer or an oxide layer.
  16. Striking or musical wristwatch-type watch (1) comprising a watch case, which comprises a case middle (4) and a back (5) attached in a sealed manner and in a detachable manner to the case middle, a glass (2) closing the case in a sealed manner, a watch movement (12) or a watch electronic module retained in the interior of the watch case and equipped with a sonic vibration generator intended to be activated during specific periods in order to produce a sound or music, and at least one acoustic radiation membrane (10, 10') according to one of claims 1 and 2, which is made at least in part of wood or a wood composite material, and is attached to a part of the case in order to radiate the sound produced by the sonic vibration generator towards the exterior of the case.
  17. Striking or musical wristwatch-type watch (1) according to claim 16, characterised in that the sonic vibration generator is a striking mechanism equipped with at least one gong intended to be struck by at least one hammer, or with at least one pin-barrel having a set of tongues, which may be raised and then released by pins that are integral with a cylinder or with a rotating disc.
  18. Striking or musical wristwatch-type watch (1) according to claim 16, characterised in that the acoustic membrane (10, 10') is disposed in the interior of the watch case between the back (5) of the case and the watch movement (12) or the watch electronic module with the sonic vibration generator constituting a double back thereof.
  19. Striking or musical wristwatch-type watch (1) according to claim 18, characterised in that the acoustic membrane (10, 10') is retained on an interior rim of the back (5) of the case and a part of the case middle (4).
  20. Striking or musical wristwatch-type watch (1) according to claim 19, characterised in that the watch movement (12) or the watch electronic module is disposed on an annular support (11), and in that the periphery of the acoustic membrane (10, 10') is crimped with the periphery of the support between the case middle (4) and an interior rim of the back (5) of the case.
  21. Striking or musical wristwatch-type watch (1) according to claim 20, characterised in that the acoustic membrane (10, 10') has a dished shape, of which an upper edge is crimped with the annular support between the case middle (4) and an interior annular rim of the back (5) of the case, an annular sealing gasket (8) being positioned between the rim of the back (5) and the annular edge of the membrane, and in that a central part of the acoustic membrane is not in contact with the support (11) and an interior surface of the back (5) of the case in order to define a space (7) so as to be able to oscillate freely.
  22. Striking or musical wristwatch-type watch (1) according to claim 18, characterised in that the acoustic membrane is of plane circular form and is attached to a support (11) comprising an interior edge in the form of a corner for the attachment of the acoustic membrane by adhesive bonding, and in that a peripheral edge of the support (11) is retained by crimping by means of a sealing gasket (9) between the case middle (4) and the back (5).
  23. Striking or musical wristwatch-type watch (1) according to claim 18, characterised in that the back (5) of the case comprises at least one aperture (6) in the side or in the back in order to permit the vibrating acoustic membrane to produce sound radiation towards the exterior of the watch case.
  24. Striking or musical wristwatch-type watch (1) according to claim 18, characterised in that a plurality of acoustic membranes (10, 10') are attached to the watch case and are spaced apart one from the other or are superposed.
  25. Striking or musical wristwatch-type watch (1) according to claim 16, characterised in that the glass (2) is attached to a bezel (3) of the watch case, which is mounted in a sealed manner on the case middle (4) of the watch case, and in that the acoustic membrane (10, 10') is mounted in the form of a watch dial or above or below a traditional watch dial (13).
  26. Striking or musical wristwatch-type watch (1) according to claim 16, characterised in that the glass (2) is attached to a bezel (3) of the watch case, which is mounted in a sealed manner on the case middle (4) of the watch case, and in that the acoustic membrane is produced or mounted in a part of the watch dial (13).
  27. Striking or musical wristwatch-type watch (1) according to claim 26, characterised in that the acoustic membrane is in the form of a half-moon attached to a part of the dial (13) in the form of a half-moon.
  28. Striking or musical wristwatch-type watch (1) according to one of claims 25 to 27, characterised in that the bezel (3) comprises at least one lateral aperture (16) in order to permit the vibrating acoustic membrane to produce sound radiation towards the exterior of the watch case.
EP18189746.3A 2017-09-14 2018-08-20 Acoustic radiation membrane, and chiming watch provided with the acoustic membrane Active EP3457220B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP17191103.5A EP3457219A1 (en) 2017-09-14 2017-09-14 Acoustic radiation membrane, and chiming watch provided with the acoustic membrane

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EP3457220A1 EP3457220A1 (en) 2019-03-20
EP3457220B1 true EP3457220B1 (en) 2023-05-03

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EP18189746.3A Active EP3457220B1 (en) 2017-09-14 2018-08-20 Acoustic radiation membrane, and chiming watch provided with the acoustic membrane

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EP (2) EP3457219A1 (en)
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EP3812845A1 (en) * 2019-10-25 2021-04-28 Patek Philippe SA Genève Timepiece generating sounds
EP3835883A1 (en) * 2019-12-11 2021-06-16 The Swatch Group Research and Development Ltd Arrangement for holding and vibration transmission of an acoustic radiation membrane in a watch case

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JP2019053053A (en) 2019-04-04
US20190079456A1 (en) 2019-03-14
EP3457219A1 (en) 2019-03-20
JP6698767B2 (en) 2020-05-27
CN109507863B (en) 2024-03-26
US11360434B2 (en) 2022-06-14
EP3457220A1 (en) 2019-03-20
CN109507863A (en) 2019-03-22

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