EP3620864B1 - Oscillator balance for timepiece movement and method for manufacturing such an oscillator balance - Google Patents

Description

Technical field of the invention

The present invention relates to the field of watchmaking. More precisely, it relates to an oscillator balance for a clockwork movement, as well as to a method of manufacturing such an oscillator balance.

State of the art

A balance wheel is a flywheel mounted to pivot, forming part of a mechanical oscillator, within which it is generally associated with a hairspring intended to return it alternately in one direction and then in the opposite direction.

In a clockwork movement, the function of the mechanical oscillator is to divide time into equal elementary units and thus to provide the rate on the basis of which the time is counted. This rate must be as stable as possible and also as exact as possible.

In order to be able to adjust the operating rate of an oscillator, it is possible to use a balance with an adjustable moment of inertia, for example a balance having a rim provided with weights of which the degrees of tightening and thus the distances to the pivot axis. The thread on the shank of the weight and the internal thread intended to cooperate with this thread must meet high dimensional requirements aimed at preventing the degree of screwing of the weight from inadvertently being out of place. Such high requirements lead to substantial manufacturing costs and do not withstand the wear caused by a few adjustments. In the Swiss patent CH 704 131 and in the French patent FR 936 423 , we offer solutions to overcome it.

In the Swiss patent CH 704 131 Aforementioned, an oscillator balance has a complex structure comprising segments each of which has a free end which can be positioned by means of a screw in order to adjust the moment of inertia of the oscillator balance. A desired object with this oscillator balance is to allow imprecise manufacture.

In the French patent FR 936 423 mentioned above, it is proposed that adjustment weights screwed into the rim of an oscillator balance are each subjected to an axial return. The axial return on each screwed weight results in a tightening of the thread of the rod of the weight on the internal thread with which this thread cooperates. The axial returns exerted on the adjustment weights are due to flexible blades, which are reported. Each flexible blade has its own mass which will intervene in the distribution of masses within the balance and may be the cause of unwanted unbalance.

Brief description of the invention

The aim of the invention is at least to provide an oscillator balance with inertia adjustment which is stable over time, which can be manufactured with great precision in its shape and dimensions, and by precisely controlling where the masses are. positioned within the considered oscillator balance without its adjustment weights (since these are in principle movable).

• un trou à paroi de guidage qui forme au moins une portion d'un passage pour une tige de masselotte et qui se trouve dans la serge,
• au moins un motif en relief qui borde au moins partiellement le passage pour la tige de masselotte et qui est à même d'être en relation de vissage avec un filetage sur la tige de masselotte quand la tige de masselotte est insérée dans le trou à paroi de guidage,
• au moins une portion formant ressort positionnée de manière qu'une déformation élastique de cette portion formant ressort se produise lors d'un vissage de la tige de masselotte dans le premier système de retenue et s'accompagne d'un serrage produisant un freinage à vaincre pour modifier un degré de vissage de la tige de masselotte dans le premier système de retenue.

According to the invention, this object is achieved by means of an oscillator balance for a timepiece movement, comprising a rim, several systems for retaining adjustment weights distributed along the rim, as well as a first one-piece part defining a hub designed to be threaded onto a pivoting shaft. At least a first restraint system among the restraint systems comprises:

• a guide wall hole which forms at least a portion of a passage for a flyweight rod and which is in the rim,
• at least one relief pattern which at least partially borders the passage for the flyweight shank and which is able to be in screw connection with a thread on the flyweight shank when the flyweight shank is inserted into the wall hole guiding,
• at least one spring-forming portion positioned so that an elastic deformation of this spring-forming portion occurs when the weight rod is screwed into the first retaining system and is accompanied by tightening producing braking to be overcome to change a degree of tightening of the flyweight rod in the first retainer.

In the oscillator balance according to the invention, a second part fixed to the first part defines the rim, the first part defining the spring portion of the first retention system.

The guide wall hole can, for example, be smooth or threaded. Its guide wall is designed to at least provide axial guidance of a weight rod. Screwing of the weight rod into the first retaining system is effected by bearing on the relief pattern and by guiding the weight rod in the hole in the guide wall.

As it may not include the guide wall hole, the first part may extend in the plane of the oscillator balance without comprising a hole not perpendicular to this plane and may for example be produced with the LiGA process or with the Deep reactive ion etching also called DRIE, which is the acronym of the English expression Deep Reaction Ion Etching. The LiGA process is a very precise manufacturing method and makes it possible to produce complex shapes and / or small dimensions, in particular the complex shapes of a portion forming a spring of small dimensions. The same is true of deep reactive ion etching.

Therefore, the first part including its spring portion (s) can be made precisely.

Further, since it can be accomplished by means of the LiGA process or by means of deep reactive ion etching together with the rest of the first part, the spring portion may not be attached. As the spring-forming portion is not attached, its position relative to the pivot axis of the balance is determined invariably and not as a function of an assembly operation. As a result, it is easy to obtain that the spring-forming portion is not the source of an unwanted unbalance.

When the first part is produced with the LiGA process or with deep reactive ion etching, its constituent material normally has a high elastic limit, in which case the portion (s) forming a spring can be very efficient while being able to be of small dimensions.

When the first part is made with the LiGA process or with deep reactive ion etching, its constituent material is normally difficult to machine and difficult to drill mechanically. The second part can be made from a material different from that of the first part. In particular, the second part can be made of a material in which the guide wall hole or holes can easily be mechanically drilled.

More generally, an advantage of the invention is that the first part and the second part can be made of different materials which can thus be chosen for example according to the different manufacturing operations for the first part and for the second part, and / or depending on the properties which it is desired to take advantage of for the portion forming a spring, for the arms and / or for the rim.

In addition, the LiGA process like deep reactive ionic etching can be used for small series manufacturing and even for medium series manufacturing.

The assembly of the first part and of the second part to each other can involve very few operations whatever the technique used for this assembly. The manufacture of the oscillator balance according to the invention can be largely automated. Although its manufacture can therefore be facilitated, the oscillator balance according to the invention can have very precise dimensions, little or no intrinsic unbalance, and have very high quality operation.

The oscillator balance according to the invention can also be robust.

In addition, it is easy to ensure that a very large part of the mass of the oscillator balance according to the invention is at the level of the rim, which makes it possible to lighten the oscillator balance without harming the balance. its performance in operation.

The oscillator balance defined above may incorporate one or more other advantageous characteristics, singly or in combination, in particular among those defined below.

Advantageously, the first part is an electroformed part.

Advantageously, the first part is a part electroformed by the LiGA process.

Advantageously, the guide wall hole is a mechanically drilled hole.

Advantageously, the first part is made of a first material different from a second material from which the second part is made.

Advantageously, the elastic limit of the first material is greater than the elastic limit of the second material.

Advantageously, the second part is in one piece.

Advantageously, the first retainer system is configured such that the clamping producing the braking is a clamping exerted at least against one side of a weight rod when such a weight rod is screwed into the first retainer system. When this is the case, the value of this braking may not vary or only vary over a reduced range, depending on the degree of tightening of the weight rod, at least once beyond a certain degree of tightening. of this flyweight rod. In this way, the value of the torque to be applied to screw or unscrew the weight rod is calibrated in the sense that it is substantially constant and equal to a predetermined value or in the sense that, even if it is not exactly constant , it remains between two values not very far apart.

Advantageously, the portion forming a spring is a first portion forming a spring of the first retaining system which comprises a second portion forming a spring, the first and the second portion forming a spring being arranged so as to be each at the origin of two substantially opposite components of the clamping producing the braking and so that these two components of the clamping producing the braking clamp a weight rod between them when such a weight rod is screwed into the first retainer. When this is the case, the value of this braking may not vary or only vary over a reduced range, depending on the degree of tightening of the weight rod, at least once beyond a certain degree of tightening. of this flyweight rod. In this way, the value of the torque to be applied to screw or unscrew the weight rod is calibrated in the sense that it is substantially constant and equal to a predetermined value or in the sense that, even if it is not exactly constant , it remains between two values not very distant from each other.

Advantageously, the spring portion is a first spring portion of the first retaining system which comprises a second spring portion, the first and the second spring portion being arranged to be together at the origin of the clamping producing the braking by acting substantially symmetrically when a weight rod is screwed into the first retaining system.

Advantageously, the first and the second portion forming springs are arranged opposite, on either side of the passage, so as to be able to clamp between them a weight rod screwed into the first retention system. When this is the case, the braking value may not vary or only vary over a reduced range, depending on the degree of tightening of the flyweight rod, at least once beyond a certain degree of tightening of this flyweight rod. In this way, the value of the torque to be applied to screw or unscrew the weight rod is calibrated in the sense that it is substantially constant and equal to a predetermined value or in the sense that, even if it is not exactly constant , it remains between two values not very distant from each other.

Advantageously, the relief pattern comprises at least one succession of ribs parallel to each other, carried by the first part.

Advantageously, the first retaining system is configured so that the tightening producing the braking is a tightening that a face carrying the succession of ribs parallel to each other and another face of the first part exert between them on a weight rod when a such weight rod is screwed into the first retention system.

Advantageously, at least part of the ribs parallel to each other are carried by one face of the portion forming a spring.

Advantageously, the portion forming a spring is a first portion forming a spring of the first retaining system which comprises a second portion forming a spring, the first and the second portion forming a spring being arranged so as to be each at the origin of two substantially opposite components of the clamping producing the braking and so that these two components of the clamping producing the braking are each exerted by one of first and second facing faces which clamp a weight rod between them over at least part of its length when such a weight rod is screwed into the first retaining system. When this is the case, the braking value may not vary or only vary over a reduced range, depending on the degree of tightening of the flyweight rod, at least once beyond a certain degree of tightening of this flyweight rod. In this way, the value of the torque to be applied to screw or unscrew the weight rod is calibrated in the sense that it is substantially constant and equal to a predetermined value or in the sense that, even if it is not exactly constant , it remains between two values not very distant from each other.

In particular when the relief pattern does not include any succession of ribs parallel to one another, it is possible to choose that none of the first and second faces bears ribs. It can also be otherwise and, advantageously, when the relief pattern comprises at least one succession of ribs parallel to one another, the first face bears this succession of ribs parallel to one another.

Advantageously, the relief pattern comprises first and second successions of mutually parallel ribs carried by the first part, the first succession of mutually parallel ribs being carried by a face facing a face bearing the second succession of parallel ribs between they.

Advantageously, the first face is the face bearing the first succession of mutually parallel ribs, while the second face is the face carrying the second succession of mutually parallel ribs.

Advantageously, the portion forming a spring is an elastically flexible strip or a portion of an elastically flexible strip.

Advantageously, the relief pattern comprises an internal thread located in the hole with the guide wall.

Advantageously, the serge has the shape of a ring closed on itself. When this is the case, the rim can increase the strength of the oscillator balance and its ability to not buckle.

Advantageously, the oscillator balance comprises several adjustment weights, a first adjustment weight among these adjustment weights having a weight rod which is inserted into the guide wall hole and which is guided therein according to its screwing direction, a thread present over at least a part of the length of the flyweight shank of the first adjustment flyweight being in screwing relation with the relief pattern, while the spring portion undergoes the elastic deformation accompanying the clamping which is a tightening exerted on the first adjustment weight so that the braking produced by this tightening is a braking to be overcome in order to modify the degree of tightening of the first adjustment weight.

Advantageously, a segment of the flyweight rod of the first flyweight comprises a lateral surface comprising an annular succession of sections, the portion forming a spring resiliently returning one face of a portion of the first piece against any of these sections.

Advantageously, the first part comprises several arms and several connecting segments that the arms connect to the hub, the connecting segments connecting the arms to one another, at a distance from the hub.

Advantageously, the connecting segments form a continuous or interrupted peripheral ring of the rim.

Advantageously, the first part is fixed to the connecting segments.

Advantageously, the first part is crimped on the connecting segments.

1. a) on réalise une première pièce monobloc définissant au moins une portion formant ressort et un moyeu prévu pour être enfilé sur un arbre pivotant ;
2. b) on réalise une deuxième pièce définissant une serge dans laquelle il y a au moins un trou à paroi de guidage ; et
3. c) on fixe les première et deuxième pièces l'une à l'autre de manière à former un système de retenue qui comporte :
   • le trou à paroi de guidage qui forme au moins une portion d'un passage pour une tige de masselotte,
   • au moins un motif en relief qui borde au moins partiellement le passage pour la tige de masselotte et qui est à même d'être en relation de vissage avec un filetage sur la tige de masselotte quand la tige de masselotte est insérée dans le trou à paroi de guidage,
   • la portion formant ressort, qui est positionnée de manière qu'une déformation élastique de cette portion formant ressort se produise lors d'un vissage de la tige de masselotte dans le système de retenue et s'accompagne d'un serrage produisant un freinage à vaincre pour modifier un degré de vissage de la tige de masselotte dans le système de retenue.

The subject of the invention is also a method of manufacturing an oscillator balance for a timepiece movement, comprising steps in which:

1. a) a first integral part is produced defining at least one portion forming a spring and a hub designed to be slipped onto a pivoting shaft;
2. b) a second part is produced defining a rim in which there is at least one hole with a guide wall; and
3. c) the first and second parts are fixed to each other so as to form a retaining system which comprises:
   • the guide wall hole which forms at least a portion of a passage for a flyweight rod,
   • at least one relief pattern which at least partially borders the passage for the flyweight shank and which is able to be in screw connection with a thread on the flyweight shank when the flyweight shank is inserted into the wall hole guiding,
   • the spring portion, which is positioned such that an elastic deformation of this spring portion occurs when the weight rod is screwed into the retaining system and is accompanied by tightening producing braking to be overcome to change a degree of threading of the weight rod in the retainer.

Advantageously, in step a), the first part is produced by implementing the LiGA process.

Advantageously, in step b), the guide wall hole is mechanically drilled in the second part.

Advantageously, the first part is produced by implementing a first type of method which is different from a second type of method that is implemented to produce the second part.

Advantageously, in step b), the relief pattern is produced in the form of an internal thread in the hole with the guide wall.

Advantageously, in step a), one makes the first part so that this first part comprises the pattern in relief.

Brief description of the drawings

• la figure 1 est une éclatée, en perspective, d'un balancier d'oscillateur selon un premier mode de réalisation de l'invention,
• la figure 2 est une vue en plan du balancier d'oscillateur représenté à la figure 1,
• la figure 3 est un agrandissement d'une portion de la figure 2 et représente partiellement le même balancier d'oscillateur que cette figure 2,
• la figure 4 est un agrandissement d'une coupe transversale de la portion visible à la figure 3 et représente partiellement le même balancier d'oscillateur que les figures 1 à 3,
• la figure 5 est un agrandissement analogue à la figure 3 et représente une portion d'un balancier d'oscillateur selon un deuxième mode de réalisation de l'invention,
• la figure 6 est une vue en plan d'un balancier d'oscillateur selon un troisième mode de réalisation de l'invention,
• la figure 7 est un agrandissement d'une coupe transversale d'une portion du balancier d'oscillateur de la figure 6,
• la figure 8 est un agrandissement analogue aux figures 3 et 5 et représente une portion d'un balancier d'oscillateur selon un quatrième mode de réalisation de l'invention,
• la figure 9 est un agrandissement d'une coupe transversale et représente une portion d'un balancier d'oscillateur selon un cinquième mode de réalisation de l'invention,
• la figure 10 est un agrandissement d'une vue en perspective et en coupe selon la ligne X-X de la figure 9 et représente partiellement le même balancier que la figure 9,
• la figure 11 est un agrandissement analogue aux figures 3, 5 et 8, et représente une portion d'un balancier d'oscillateur selon un sixième mode de réalisation de l'invention,
• la figure 12 est un agrandissement d'une coupe transversale et représente une portion d'un balancier d'oscillateur selon un septième mode de réalisation de l'invention,
• la figure 13 est un agrandissement d'une coupe transversale et représente une portion d'un balancier d'oscillateur selon un huitième mode de réalisation de l'invention,
• la figure 14 est un agrandissement d'une coupe transversale et représente une portion d'un balancier d'oscillateur selon un neuvième mode de réalisation de l'invention,
• la figure 15 est un agrandissement d'une coupe transversale et représente une portion d'un balancier d'oscillateur selon un dixième mode de réalisation de l'invention, et
• la figure 16 est une vue en perspective d'un balancier d'oscillateur selon un onzième mode de réalisation de l'invention.

Other advantages and characteristics will emerge more clearly from the following description of particular embodiments of the invention given by way of non-limiting examples and shown in the accompanying drawings, among which:

• the figure 1 is an exploded view, in perspective, of an oscillator balance according to a first embodiment of the invention,
• the figure 2 is a plan view of the oscillator balance shown in figure 1 ,
• the figure 3 is an enlargement of a portion of the figure 2 and partially represents the same oscillator balance as this figure 2 ,
• the figure 4 is an enlargement of a cross section of the portion visible at the figure 3 and partially represents the same oscillator balance as the figures 1 to 3 ,
• the figure 5 is an enlargement analogous to the figure 3 and represents a portion of an oscillator balance according to a second embodiment of the invention,
• the figure 6 is a plan view of an oscillator balance according to a third embodiment of the invention,
• the figure 7 is an enlargement of a cross section of a portion of the oscillator balance of the figure 6 ,
• the figure 8 is an enlargement analogous to figures 3 and 5 and represents a portion of an oscillator balance according to a fourth embodiment of the invention,
• the figure 9 is an enlargement of a cross section and shows a portion of an oscillator balance according to a fifth embodiment of the invention,
• the figure 10 is an enlargement of a perspective and sectional view along line XX of the figure 9 and partially represents the same balance as the figure 9 ,
• the figure 11 is an enlargement analogous to figures 3, 5 and 8 , and represents a portion of an oscillator balance according to a sixth embodiment of the invention,
• the figure 12 is an enlargement of a cross section and shows a portion of an oscillator balance according to a seventh embodiment of the invention,
• the figure 13 is an enlargement of a cross section and shows a portion of an oscillator balance according to an eighth embodiment of the invention,
• the figure 14 is an enlargement of a cross section and shows a portion of an oscillator balance according to a ninth embodiment of the invention,
• the figure 15 is an enlargement of a cross section and shows a portion of an oscillator balance according to a tenth embodiment of the invention, and
• the figure 16 is a perspective view of an oscillator balance according to an eleventh embodiment of the invention.

Description of embodiments of the invention

On the figures 1 and 2 , an oscillator balance 1 according to a first embodiment of the invention comprises several adjustment weights 2, screwed, as well as a first part 3 and a second part 4, which are fixed to one another. The oscillator balance 1 is intended to be associated with a spring such as a hairspring (not shown) provided to return it alternately in one direction and in the opposite direction.

The first part 3 comprises a central hub 5, which is intended to receive a pivoting shaft (not shown) of axis y-y 'and which is pierced with a through hole 6 for the passage of this shaft. The yy 'axis is also the pivot axis of the oscillator balance 1, that is to say the axis around which this oscillator balance 1 is intended to pivot in one direction and then in the opposite direction when 'he oscillates.

In addition to the hub 5, the first part 3 comprises several arms 8, several connecting segments 9 and several pairs of portions forming springs 11, which are portions of flexible strip which can be elastically deformed.

Angularly offset from each other in a regular manner around the pivot axis y-y ', the arms 8 extend radially from the hub 5, to which they connect the connecting segments 9. Each connecting segment 9 connects a distal end of an arm 8 at the distal end of a next arm 8, while having an arcuate shape allowing a slight elastic deformation such that its middle portion is brought closer to the hub 5.

The connecting segments 9 follow one another in a closed loop around the hub 5 and thus form a reinforcing ring improving the strength of the first part 3.

In the first embodiment, each pair of portions forming springs 11 is located in the extension of an arm 8.

The second part 4 forms the rim 13 of the oscillator balance 1, without comprising other portions of this oscillator balance 1, although it could be otherwise.

The rim 13 has an internal shoulder 14. Several holes with a guide wall 15, with smooth walls, are drilled axially in the rim 13 and are distributed regularly along the latter, that is to say angularly offset from one another. regularly around the hub 5, as are the arms 8 and the pairs of portions forming springs 11.

The first part 3 and the second part 4 are each in one piece.

The first part 3 is produced by electroforming by means of the LiGA process (acronym of the German expression “ Li thographie G alvanoformung, A bformung”). The direction in which the irradiation of the resin takes place, followed by the galvanic growth during the implementation of the LiGA process, is parallel to the pivot axis y-y '. The first part 3 thus comprises two main faces, mutually parallel and connected by surfaces having a generatrix parallel to the pivot axis y-y '. The first part 3 can be, for example, made of nickel or nickel containing phosphorus.

Preferably, the second part 4 is machined and it is made of an easily machinable material such as Invar. Other materials can also be considered. For example, the second coin 4 can be made of gold.

The guide wall holes 15 are drilled mechanically, for example using a drill.

When assembling the first part 3 and the second part 4, care is taken to place the axis of each guide wall hole 15 in the plane passing at an equal distance from two adjacent spring portions 11.

On the figure 2 , the oscillator balance 1 is assembled. The connection segments 9 are in abutment against the shoulder 14 and are surrounded by the rim 13. The second part 4 is fixed to the connection segments 9. It can be fixed in different ways. For example, the second part 4 can be crimped onto the connecting segments 9. It is also possible to drive the first part 3 into the second part 4. As an alternative or in addition to the assembly methods mentioned above, an adhesive can be used to secure the first part 3 and the second part 4 to each other.

When the first part 3 is made by means of the LiGA process, the arms 8 can be quite thin, as is the case in the oscillator balance 1. When the arms 8 are thin enough, their mass can be low and a a very large part of the mass of the oscillator 1 balance can be located at the level of the rim 13, which is a sought-after property, capable of improving the performance of the oscillator 1 balance.

As we can clearly see from figures 3 and 4 , each adjustment weight 2 comprises a weight rod 20 and a head 21 carried by one end of this weight rod 20. The head 21 carries a recess 22 for coupling a maneuvering tool such as a screwdriver. In the example shown, the imprint 22 is a slot, but other shapes can be envisaged. The periphery of the head 21 can also have a shape allowing the coupling of a maneuvering tool.

The weight rod 20 comprises two successive segments, namely a cylindrical and smooth segment 23 and a threaded segment 24, the thread of which is referenced 25.

As can be seen at figure 4 , the smooth segment 23 is engaged with reduced clearance in a hole with a guide wall 15, the wall of which guides this smooth segment 23 in the screwing direction V of the weight rod 20, without opposing the rotation of the rod flyweight 20 on its longitudinal axis. The screwing direction V is chosen so that a displacement of an adjusting weight 2 along this screwing direction V modifies the moment of inertia of the oscillator balance 1 relative to the pivot axis y-y ' . For example, each screwing direction V can be radial, which is the case in the balance of oscillator 1.

Each adjustment weight 2 is retained by a retaining system 28 in which its weight rod 20 is screwed. The oscillator balance 1 therefore comprises several retention systems 28, namely first, second, third and fourth retention systems in the example shown. Also, the number of restraint systems 28 may be different from four.

Each retaining system 28 has a guide wall hole 15 and adjacent first and second spring portions 11.

Each spring portion 11 is a flexible strip portion and comprises a plane segment 30, carried by a connecting segment 9. Each spring portion 11 further comprises a clamping segment 31, plane, and an elbow 32 connecting the segment 30 to the clamping segment 31. The two clamping segments 31 of any retaining system 28 are opposite and connected to each other by a portion of strip 33 in the form of a flexible circular arc.

Within a retaining system 28, one face of each clamping segment 31 faces the other clamping segment 31 and carries a succession of ribs 35 parallel to one another. The two successions of mutually parallel ribs 35 of the same retaining system 28 form a relief pattern with which the threaded segment 24 of an adjusting weight 2 can be in a screw connection.

Each threaded segment 24 has a diameter greater than the distance between the opposite faces of two clamping segments 31 belonging to the same retaining system 28. Therefore, a threaded segment 24 moves the two clamping segments 31 away from a system. 28 from one another, when it is screwed into this retaining system 28 by resting on ribs 35 and progresses towards the hub 5. When a threaded segment 24 thus moves the two clamping segments 31 away. of a retaining system 28 from each other, it does so by resiliently deforming the two portions forming a spring 11 of this retaining system 28 and by resiliently deforming the portion of the arcuate strip 33 of this one. In reaction, the two portions forming a spring 11 and the portion of circular arc strip 33 of the retaining system 28 urge the two clamping segments 31 of this retaining system 28 towards one another. Consequently, two clamping segments 31 belonging to the same retaining system 28 exert a clamping on the threaded segment 24 located between them. This tightening produces braking to be overcome in order to modify the degree of tightening of the weight rod 20 of an adjustment weight 2 and therefore the distance of this adjustment weight 2 from the pivot axis y-y '.

On the figure 5 is shown a portion of an oscillator balance 101 according to a second embodiment of the invention. Any reference designating below a part of the oscillator balance 101 identical or equivalent to a referenced part of the oscillator balance 1 is constructed by increasing by 100 the reference identifying this part on the oscillator balance 1. In this way are made in particular the references of the first part 103, of the second part 104, of the portions forming a spring 111 and of the ribs 135 of the oscillator balance 101.

The oscillator balance 101 differs from the oscillator balance 1 in that the circular arc band portions 33 do not exist there. In each retaining system 128, the two opposite clamping segments 131 are therefore not connected by a portion of band 33 in the form of an arc of a circle.

On the figure 6 is shown an oscillator balance 201 according to a second embodiment of the invention. In what follows, we only describe this oscillator balance 201 what distinguishes it from the oscillator balance 1. In addition, any reference designating hereinafter a part of the oscillator balance 201 identical or equivalent to a referenced part of the oscillator balance 1 is constructed by increasing by 200 the reference marking this part on the oscillator balance 1. In this way, the references of the adjustment weights 202, of the first part 203, of the second part 204, portions of circular arc strip 233 and the ribs 235 of the oscillator balance 201 are constructed in particular.

Each restraint system 228 is located equidistant from two consecutive arms 208. At its middle part, each connecting segment 209 comprises two portions forming a spring 211 of a retaining system 228 and a portion of strip in an arc of a circle 233 connecting these two portions forming a spring 211 to one another, as we can see at the figure 7 .

On the figure 8 shown is a portion of an oscillator balance 301 according to a fourth embodiment of the invention. Any reference designating hereinafter a part of the oscillator balance 301 identical or equivalent to a referenced part of the oscillator balance 201 is constructed by increasing by 100 the reference identifying this part on the oscillator balance 201. In this way are constructed in particular the references of each adjustment weight 302, of the first part 303, of the second part 304 and of the ribs 335 of the oscillator balance 301.

The oscillator balance 301 differs from the oscillator balance 201 in that the circular arc strip portions 233 do not exist there. In each retaining system 328, the two portions forming a spring 311 are therefore not connected by a portion of strip in the form of an arc of a circle 233.

On the figure 9 is shown a portion of an oscillator balance 401 according to a fifth embodiment of the invention. In what follows, only what distinguishes it from oscillator balance 1 is described of this oscillator balance 1. In addition, any reference hereinafter designating a part of the oscillator balance identical or equivalent to a part referenced balance of oscillator 1 is constructed by increasing by 400 the reference marking this part on the balance of oscillator 1. In this way the references of the first part 403 and of the second part 404 of the oscillator balance 401 are made in particular.

Each guide wall hole 415 is threaded such that its wall can engage with a thread 425 on the flyweight rod 420 of an adjustment flyweight 402, in addition to being able to axially guide this flyweight rod 420.

The thread 425 is on a threaded segment 424 of the flyweight shank 420, which further includes a prismatic segment 440 spaced from the head 421. As can be seen from figure 10 , the prismatic segment 440 comprises side panels 441 which follow one another in a closed loop.

Each of the spring portions 411 of a retention system 428 consists of one of two flexible blades extending opposite each other from the distal end of an arm 408.

The threaded segment 424 of each weight 402 is screwed into the guide wall hole 415 of a retaining system 428, the spring portions of which 411 clamp together the prismatic segment 440 of this adjustment weight 402.

When rotating a flyweight rod 420 on its axis in the direction of screwing or the direction of unscrewing, its prismatic segment 440 moves two portions forming a spring 411 away from each other each time that two opposite edges of the prismatic segment 440 each push back one of these two portions forming a spring 411. In reaction, these portions forming a spring 411 increase their clamping of the prismatic segment 440 between them, which results in a braking to be overcome in order to modify the degree of tightening of the flyweight rod 420 comprising this prismatic segment 440. The internal thread 450 present in each guide wall hole 415 forms a relief pattern having the same function as two successions of mutually parallel ribs belonging to the same retaining system 28 of the oscillator balance 1.

On the figure 11 there is shown a portion of an oscillator balance 501 according to a sixth embodiment of the invention. In what follows, only what distinguishes it from the oscillator balance 401 will be described of this oscillator balance 501. In addition, any reference hereinafter designating a part of the oscillator balance 501 which is identical or equivalent to a part referenced of the oscillator balance 401 is constructed by increasing by one hundred the reference marking this part on the oscillator balance 401. In this way are constructed in particular the references of each adjustment weight 502, of each threaded segment 524, of each segment prism 540, sides 541, the first part 503 and the second part 504 of the oscillator balance 501.

Each retainer system 528 is located at the middle part of a connecting segment 509. At its middle part, each connecting segment 509 approaches the pivot axis yy 'of the oscillator balance 501 and carries two portions forming a spring 511 of a retaining system 528.

On the figure 12 is shown a portion of an oscillator balance 601 according to a seventh embodiment of the invention. In what follows, only what distinguishes it from oscillator balance 1 is described of this oscillator balance 1. In addition, any reference hereinafter designating a part of the oscillator balance 601 which is identical or equivalent to a part referenced of the oscillator balance 1 is constructed by increasing by six cents the reference marking this part on the oscillator balance 1. In this way, the references of each adjustment weight 602, of each retaining system 628, of the first part 603, the second part 604 and the ribs 635 of the oscillator balance 501.

Each spring portion 611 includes a planar segment 630 connecting to a connecting segment 609. Each spring portion 611 further includes an elbow 632 and a flat clamping segment 631, which the elbow 632 connects to segment 630. opposite the elbow 632 connecting it to a segment 630, each clamping segment 631 connects to an arm 608. The two ends of a portion forming a spring 611 are thus immobilized.

On the figure 13 is shown a portion of an oscillator balance 701 according to an eighth embodiment of the invention. In what follows, only what distinguishes it from the oscillator balance 601 will be described of this oscillator balance 701. In addition, any reference hereinafter designating a part of the oscillator balance 701 identical or equivalent to a part referenced of the oscillator balance 601 is constructed by increasing by one hundred the reference marking this part on the oscillator balance 601. In this way are constructed in particular the references of each adjustment weight 702, of the first part 703 and of the second part 704 of oscillator arm 701.

Each retainer 728 is located at the middle portion of a connecting segment 709. At its middle portion, each connecting segment 709 approaches the pivot axis yy 'of the oscillator beam 701 and carries the two spring portions 711 of a retainer system 728.

On the figure 14 is shown a portion of an oscillator balance 801 according to a ninth embodiment of the invention. In what follows, only what distinguishes it from the oscillator balance 401 will be described of this oscillator balance 801. In addition, any reference hereinafter designating a part of the oscillator balance 801 which is identical or equivalent to a part referenced of the oscillator balance 401 is constructed by increasing by four cents the reference marking this part on the oscillator balance 401. In this way are constructed in particular the references of each adjustment weight 802, of the first part 803 and of the second part 804 of the oscillator balance 801.

The flyweight rod 820 of each adjustment flyweight 802 has no prismatic segment 440. Each spring portion 811 of a retainer system 828 is carried by a connecting segment 809, from which it extends in a cutting plane. the axis of the guide wall hole 815 of this retainer 828. When screwed, a flyweight rod 820 is not clamped between two spring portions 811. When screwed, a flyweight rod 820 pushes the two spring portions 811 of a retaining system 828 and elastically bends them. In reaction, these two portions forming a spring 811 together urge the weight rod 820 outwardly, keeping them bent. The thread 825 of the outwardly biased weight rod 820 is tightened to the thread 850 in engagement therewith.

On the figure 15 there is shown a portion of an oscillator balance 901 according to a tenth embodiment of the invention. In what follows, only what distinguishes it from the oscillator balance 801 will be described of this oscillator balance 901. In addition, any reference hereinafter designating a part of the oscillator balance 901 which is identical or equivalent to a part referenced of the oscillator balance 801 is constructed by increasing by one hundred the reference marking this part on the oscillator balance 801. In this way are constructed in particular the references of each adjustment weight 902, of the first part 903 and of the second part 904 of oscillator arm 901.

Each retainer 928 is located at the middle portion of a connecting segment 909. At its middle portion, each connecting segment 909 approaches the pivot axis yy 'of the oscillator balance 901 and carries the two portions forming a spring 911 of a retention system 928.

On the figure 16 is shown a portion of an oscillator balance 1001 according to an eleventh embodiment of the invention. In what follows, only what distinguishes it from the oscillator balance 501 is described of this oscillator balance 1001. In addition, any reference hereinafter designating a part of the oscillator balance 1001 which is identical or equivalent to a part referenced of the oscillator balance 501 is constructed by increasing by five cents the reference marking this part on the oscillator balance 501. In this way are built in particular the references of the adjustment weights 1002, of the threaded segments 1024, of the first part 1003 and the second part 1004 of the oscillator balance 1001.

Each adjustment weight 1002 does not have an external head and does not protrude outside the second part 1004. Each adjustment weight 1002 is screwed from the inside into the second part 1004.

Each connecting segment 1009 is interrupted in its middle and thus divided into two portions, each of which forms one of the two portions forming a spring 1011 of the same retaining system 1028 and one of two jaws 1060 directed towards one another. 'other. Each portion forming a spring 1011 is bent several times and is extended by one of the jaws 1060. The prismatic segment 1040 of each adjusting weight 1002 is clamped between the end faces of two free ends, each of which is the free end of one of the two jaws 1060 of a retainer 1028.

The invention is not limited to the embodiments described above. In particular, the number of systems for retaining the adjustment weights may be different from four without departing from the scope of the invention. The same may apply to the number of adjustment weights and the number of arms of the oscillator balance, still without departing from the scope of the invention.

In addition, still without departing from the scope of the invention, the rim may not be circular over its entire length. For example, in several places, the rim may locally approach the hub so as to delimit lateral recesses where the heads of the weights are located, without protruding from the largest outside diameter of the rim.

Claims (17)

1. Oscillator balance for a timepiece movement, comprising a felloe or rim (13), a plurality of systems (28 ; 128 ; 228 ; 328 ; 428 ; 528 ; 628 ; 728 ; 828 ; 928 ; 1028) for retaining adjustment inertia blocks (2 ; 202 ; 302 ; 402 ; 502 ; 602 ; 702 ; 802 ; 902 ; 1002) distributed along the felloe (13), as well as a first monobloc part (3 ; 103 ; 203 ; 303 ; 403 ; 503 ; 603 ; 703 ; 803 ; 903 ; 1003) defining a hub (5) designed to be threaded onto a pivoting arbor,
   at least a first retaining system (28 ; 128 ; 228 ; 328 ; 428 ; 528 ; 628 ; 728 ; 828 ; 928 ; 1028) among the retaining systems comprising:

   - a guide wall hole (15 ; 415 ; 815) which forms at least a portion of a passage for an inertia block rod (20 ; 420 ; 820) and which is located in the felloe (13),

   - at least one relief pattern (35 ; 135 ; 235 ; 450 ; 635 ; 850) which at least partially borders the passage for the inertia block rod (20 ; 420 ; 820) and which is able to be in screwing relation with a thread (25 ; 425 ; 825) on the inertia block rod (20 ; 420 ; 820) when the inertia block rod (20 ; 420 ; 820) is inserted into the guide wall hole (15 ; 415 ; 815),

   - at least one portion forming a spring (11 ; 111 ; 211 ; 311 ; 411 ; 511 ; 611 ; 711 ; 811 ; 911 ; 1011) positioned in such a way that an elastic deformation of this portion forming a spring (11 ; 111 ; 211 ; 311 ; 411 ; 511 ; 611 ; 711 ; 811 ; 911 ; 1011) occurs when the inertia block rod (20 ; 420 ; 820) is screwed into the first retaining system (28 ; 128 ; 228 ; 328 ; 428 ; 528 ; 628 ; 728 ; 828 ; 928 ; 1028) and is accompanied by a tightening producing a braking to be overcome to change the degree to which the inertia block rod (20 ; 420 ; 820) is screwed into the first retaining system (28 ; 128 ; 228 ; 328 ; 428 ; 528 ; 628 ; 728 ; 828 ; 928 ; 1028),

   characterized in that a second part (4 ; 104 ; 204 ; 304 ; 404 ; 504 ; 604 ; 704 ; 804 ; 904 ; 1004) fixed to the first part (3 ; 103 ; 203 ; 303 ; 403 ; 503 ; 603 ; 703 ; 803 ; 903 ; 1003) defines the felloe (13), the first part (3 ; 103 ; 203 ; 303 ; 403 ; 503 ; 603 ; 703 ; 803 ; 903 ; 1003) defining the portion forming a spring (11 ; 111 ; 211 ; 311 ; 411 ; 511 ; 611 ; 711 ; 811 ; 911 ; 1011) of the first retaining system (28 ; 128 ; 228 ; 328 ; 428 ; 528 ; 628 ; 728 ; 828 ; 928 ; 1028).
2. Oscillator balance according to claim 1, characterized in that the first part (3 ; 103 ; 203 ; 303 ; 403 ; 503 ; 603 ; 703 ; 803 ; 903 ; 1003) is an electroformed part.
3. Oscillator balance according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the guide wall hole (15 ; 415 ; 815) is a mechanically pierced hole.
4. Oscillator balance according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the portion forming a spring (11 ; 111 ; 211 ; 311 ; 411 ; 511 ; 611 ; 711 ; 1011) is a first portion forming a spring (11 ; 111 ; 211 ; 311 ; 411 ; 511 ; 611 ; 711 ; 1011) of the first retaining system (28 ; 128 ; 228 ; 328 ; 428 ; 528 ; 628 ; 728 ; 1028) which includes a second portion forming a spring (11 ; 111 ; 211 ; 311 ; 411 ; 511 ; 611 ; 711 ; 1011), the first and the second portions forming a spring (11 ; 111 ; 211 ; 311 ; 411 ; 511 ; 611 ; 711 ; 1011) being arranged in such a way as to each be initially two substantially opposite components of the tightening producing the braking and in such a way that these two components of the tightening producing the braking pinch an inertia block rod (20 ; 420) between them when such an inertia block rod (20 ; 420) is screwed into the first retaining system (28 ; 128 ; 228 ; 328 ; 428 ; 528 ; 628 ; 728 ; 1028).
5. Oscillator balance according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the relief pattern comprises at least one series of ridges (35 ; 135 ; 235) parallel to one another, borne by the first part (3 ; 103 ; 203 ; 303 ; 603 ; 703).
6. Oscillator balance according to claim 5, characterized in that the portion forming a spring (11 ; 111 ; 211 ; 311 ; 611 ; 711) is a first portion forming a spring (11 ; 111 ; 211 ; 311 ; 611 ; 711) of the first retaining system (28 ; 128 ; 228 ; 328 ; 628 ; 728) which includes a second portion forming a spring (11 ; 111 ; 211 ; 311 ; 611 ; 711), the first and the second portions forming a spring (11 ; 111 ; 211 ; 311 ; 611 ; 711) being arranged in such a way as to each be initially two substantially opposite components of the tightening producing the braking and in such a way that these two components of the tightening producing the braking are each applied by one of the first and second opposite faces which clamp between them an inertia block rod (20) on at least one portion of its length when such an inertia block rod (20) is screwed into the first retaining system (28 ; 128 ; 228 ; 328 ; 628 ; 728), the first face bearing the series of ridges parallel to one another (35 ; 135 ; 235).
7. Oscillator balance according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the relief pattern includes first and second series of ridges (35 ; 135 ; 235), parallel to one another, borne by the first part (3 ; 103 ; 203 ; 303 ; 603 ; 703), the first series of ridges parallel to one another (35 ; 135 ; 235) being borne by one opposite face of a face bearing the second series of ridges parallel to one another (35 ; 135 ; 235).
8. Oscillator balance according to claims 6 and 7, characterized in that the first face is the face bearing the first series of ridges parallel to one another (35 ; 135 ; 235), while the second face is the face bearing the second series of ridges parallel to one another (35 ; 135 ; 235).
9. Oscillator balance according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the relief pattern includes a tapping (450 ; 850) located in the guide wall hole (415 ; 815).
10. Oscillator balance according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it includes a plurality of adjustment inertia blocks (2 ; 202 ; 302 ; 402 ; 502 ; 602 ; 702 ; 802 ; 902 ; 1002), a first adjustment inertia block (2 ; 202 ; 302 ; 402 ; 502 ; 602 ; 702 ; 802 ; 902 ; 1002) among these adjustment inertia blocks having an inertia-block rod (20 ; 420 ; 820) which is inserted into the guide wall hole (15 ; 415 ; 815) and which is guided there in its screwing direction (V), a threading (25 ; 425 ; 825) present on at least one portion of the length of the inertia-block rod (20 ; 420 ; 820) of the first adjustment inertia block (2 ; 202 ; 302 ; 402 ; 502 ; 602 ; 702 ; 802 ; 902 ; 1002) being in screwing relation with the relief pattern (35 ; 135 ; 235 ; 450 ; 635 ; 850), while the portion forming a screw (11 ; 111 ; 211 ; 311 ; 411 ; 511 ; 611 ; 711 ; 811 ; 911 ; 1011) is subject to elastic deformation at the beginning of the tightening which is a clamping occurring on the first adjustment inertia block (2 ; 202 ; 302 ; 402 ; 502 ; 602 ; 702 ; 802 ; 902 ; 1002) in such a way that the braking produced by this clamping is a braking to be overcome to change the degree to which the first adjustment inertia block is screwed (2 ; 202 ; 302 ; 402 ; 502 ; 602 ; 702 ; 802 ; 902 ; 1002).
11. Oscillator balance according to claim 10, characterized in that a segment of the inertia block rod (20 ; 420 ; 820) of the first inertia block includes a lateral surface comprising an annular series of sides (441 ; 541), the portion forming a spring (411 ; 511 ; 1011) elastically drawing back a face of a portion of the first part (403 ; 503 ; 1003) against any of these sides (441 ; 541).
12. Oscillator balance according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first part (3 ; 103 ; 203 ; 303 ; 403 ; 503 ; 603 ; 703 ; 803 ; 903 ; 1003) includes a plurality of arms (8 ; 208 ; 408 ; 608) and a plurality of connecting segments (9 ; 209 ; 509 ; 609 ; 709 ; 809 ; 909 ; 1009) that the arms (8 ; 208 ; 408 ; 608) connect to the hub (5), the connecting segments (9 ; 209 ; 509 ; 609 ; 709 ; 809 ; 909 ; 1009) connecting the arms (8 ; 208 ; 408 ; 608) to one another, at a distance from the hub (5).
13. Oscillator balance according to claim 12, characterized in that the first part (3 ; 103 ; 203 ; 303 ; 403 ; 503 ; 603 ; 703 ; 803 ; 903 ; 1003) is fixed to the connecting segments (9 ; 209 ; 509 ; 609 ; 709 ; 809 ; 909 ; 1009).
14. Method of manufacture of an oscillator balance for a timepiece movement, comprising the steps wherein :

    a) producing a first part (3 ; 103 ; 203 ; 303 ; 403 ; 503 ; 603 ; 703 ; 803 ; 903 ; 1003) in one piece defining at least one portion forming a spring (11 ;111 ; 211 ; 311 ; 411 ; 511 ; 611 ; 711 ; 811 ; 911 ; 1011) and a hub (5) intended to be screwed on a pivoting arbor;

    b) producing a second part (4 ; 104 ; 204 ; 304 ; 404 ; 504 ; 604 ; 704 ; 804 ; 904 ; 1004) defining a felloe or rim (13) in which there is at least one guide wall hole (15 ; 415 ; 815) ; and

    c) fixing the first and second parts to one another in such a way as to form a retaining system (28 ; 128 ; 228 ; 328 ; 428 ; 528 ; 628 ; 728 ; 828 ; 928 ; 1028) which includes :

    - the guide wall hole (15 ; 415 ; 815), which forms at least one portion of a passage for an inertia block rod (20 ; 420 ; 820),

    - at least one relief pattern (35 ; 135 ; 235 ; 450 ; 635 ; 850) which borders at least partially the passage for the inertia block rod (20 ; 420 ; 820) and which is able to be in screwing relation with a threading (25 ; 425 ; 825) on the inertia block rod (20 ; 420 ; 820) when the inertia block rod (20 ; 420 ; 820) is inserted in the guide wall hole (15 ; 415 ; 815),

    - the portion forming a spring (11 ; 111 ; 211 ; 311 ; 411 ; 511 ; 611 ; 711 ; 811 ; 911 ; 1011), which is positioned in such a way that an elastic deformation of this portion forming a spring (11 ; 111 ; 211 ; 311 ; 411 ; 511 ; 611 ; 711 ; 811 ; 911 ; 1011) occurs when the inertia block rod (20 ; 420 ; 820) is screwed into the retaining system (28 ; 128 ; 228 ; 328 ; 428 ; 528 ; 628 ; 728 ; 828 ; 928 ; 1028) and is accompanied by a tightening producing a braking to be overcome to change the degree to which the inertia block rod (20 ; 420 ; 820) is screwed into the retaining system (28 ; 128 ; 228 ; 328 ; 428 ; 528 ; 628 ; 728 ; 828 ; 928 ; 1028).
15. Method of manufacture according to claim 14, characterized in that, in step a), the first part (3 ; 103 ; 203 ; 303 ; 403 ; 503 ; 603 ; 703 ; 803 ; 903 ; 1003) is produced by implementing the LIGA process.
16. Method of manufacture according to either one of the claims 14 and 15, characterized in that, in step b), the guide wall hole (15 ; 415 ; 815) is mechanically pierced in the second part (4 ; 104 ; 204 ; 304 ; 404 ; 504 ; 604 ; 704 ; 804 ; 904 ; 1004).
17. Method of manufacture according to any one of the claims 14 to 16, characterized in that the first part (3 ; 103 ; 203 ; 303 ; 403 ; 503 ; 603 ; 703 ; 803 ; 903 ; 1003) is produced by implementing a first type of method which is different from a second type of method implemented to produce the second part (4 ; 104 ; 204 ; 304 ; 404 ; 504 ; 604 ; 704 ; 804 ; 904 ; 1004).

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