EP3641584A1

EP3641584A1 - Band clasp comprising a device for adjusting band length

Info

Publication number: EP3641584A1
Application number: EP18740109.6A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Elio Granito
Original assignee: Dexel SA
Current assignee: Dexel SA
Priority date: 2017-06-21
Filing date: 2018-06-21
Publication date: 2020-04-29
Anticipated expiration: 2038-06-21
Also published as: CN110769716B; WO2018234474A1; CN110769716A; EP3641584B1

Abstract

The invention relates to a band clasp (10, 100, 200, 300), particularly a wristwatch band clasp, including a device (4) for finely adjusting the length of the band. The adjustment device is preferably arranged on a central support structure so as to emerge from a free end of the latter. A latching mechanism (3) is designed such that the activation of a manipulation member (7, 7') causes the movement of a part of the fine adjustment device, so as to unlock a moving part (5) and allow the adjustment of the useful length of the band.

Description

Clasp for bracelet comprising a device for adjusting the length of the bracelet

TECHNICAL FIELD The present invention relates to the field of bracelets, especially for watches. It relates to a bracelet clasp for adjusting the length of the bracelet. The invention also relates to a length adjustment device and a wristwatch having the clasp and / or the length adjustment device. State of the art and problems at the origin of the invention

A wristwatch clasp generally comprises two fasteners for attaching the free ends of the wristband, and a locking or closing mechanism for locking the two fasteners, and thus the free ends of the wristband, in a stable position of closure. or lock. This position is also the service position, as it allows the wristwatch to be worn on the wrist. There are a multitude of types of clasps, for example the buckle or buckle clasp fasteners, whose aesthetic is well appreciated. The clasps and bracelets for wristwatches generally include means for adjusting the length of the wristband. Typically in the case of leather or plastic bracelets, the free end of one of the two strands of the bracelet comprises a series of holes distributed in the longitudinal direction of the bracelet. The free end of the other strand of the bracelet is provided with a connecting device, for example a pin buckle, to join the two strands by inserting the barb in the hole corresponding to the desired length. In the case of metal link bracelets, the length of the bracelet is adjusted by removing or adding a link in one or both strands of the bracelet.

The size of the wrist varies considerably from one wearer to another. On the other hand, as raised in CH 704 335 and CH 705149, the size of a wearer's wrist can vary with changes in temperature. One wearer can therefore regularly wish to finely adjust the length of the bracelet to be perfectly comfortable. The state of the art knows clasps for wristwatches that allow a fine adjustment of the length of the bracelet. This is a mechanism arranged to allow a modification of the circumference defined by the case of the watch, the bracelet, and the clasp, when the clasp is closed, in order to adapt this circumference to the size of the wrist of an individual wearer. This modification takes place on a scale smaller than that defined by the spacing of the holes in a strand of leather bracelet or by the links of a metal bracelet, for example. Fine tuning is desirable to accurately fit the aforementioned circumference to the wrist of each wearer.

In some cases, the fine adjustment device of a bracelet clasp comprises a movable part arranged on a part of the clasp and carrying one of the two fasteners, the other fastener being attached to another part of the clasp. . The fine adjustment can be made by moving the moving part relative to the whole clasp, and blocking it to the position corresponding to the desired strap length. Often, the fine adjustment device includes a notching or toothing, which defines the discrete positions of length of the fine adjustment. The notching may also be part of the device for locking the moving part in a position of desired length.

Document CH 704 335 discloses a clasp with a folding clasp, in which a fastener is attached to a carriage arranged to slide in a housing arranged on a blade of the clasp. The clasp comprises a pull tab arranged to cooperate with the carriage and capable of occupying two axial positions so that the carriage is locked and unlocked when the pull tab is respectively in one and the other of the two axial positions. A disadvantage of this mechanism is the fact that at least one of the two opposite pushers of the pull tab is projecting relative to the side walls of the clasp blade. The protruding pusher is likely to cling to an external object, for example a garment.

As mentioned in CH 704 335, EP2452583 and CH700230, it may be desirable for the bracelet length to be adjustable regardless of the closed or open state of the clasp. Other objectives relate to the aesthetic appearance of the clasp. For example, an object of the present invention is to reduce the thickness, i.e. the extension of the clasp in a radial direction relative to the wrist axis of a wearer. The greater the thickness, the more the clasp becomes bulky. This problem is accentuated when choosing the positioning of length adjustment mechanism with respect to the whole clasp, this mechanism generally requiring access from the outside to allow a user to activate the setting. In many cases, the presence of a length adjustment mechanism increases the size of the bracelet. Another object of the invention is to reduce the weight of the clasp, for example to reduce the amount of metal used in the manufacture and to make the clasp easier to wear.

In several clasps of the state of the art, for example those described in documents EP2452583 and CH 698981, the fine adjustment device is arranged in a yoke or an upper cover, which contributes to the increase in thickness and general clutter clutter.

In the context of aesthetics, it would also be desirable to reduce the visibility of the length adjustment device. For example, in the aforementioned document CH704 335, the movable portion is arranged at one end of a clasp blade so as to extend beyond the end of the blade when the wristband is extended. In this case, the moving part becomes visible as an extension of the clasp. An object of the invention is to provide a clasp to adjust the length without this changing the appearance of the clasp from the outside.

Still from the point of view of aesthetics, a clasp whose adjustment mechanism remains discreet and fits into the general shape of the clasp may be desirable. For example, an objective is to avoid the presence of notches visible from the outside or longitudinal openings arranged along a side wall of a clevis clasp folding clasp.

An object of the present invention is to provide a clasp for activating the length adjustment when the clasp is closed, and this preferably without a dedicated and separate actuating member, such as a pusher, a zipper or another slide is visible from the outside when the clasp is closed.

Summary of the invention

According to one aspect, the present invention relates to a clasp for bracelets of the type comprising first and second free ends, the clasp having first and second strap fasteners to be respectively secured to said first and second free ends of the bracelet. According to one aspect, the present invention relates to a clasp with a folding clasp for a bracelet allowing adjustment of the bracelet length, said clasp having at least two blades articulated relative to each other.

According to one aspect, the present invention relates to a clasp comprising: a first blade and at least a second blade, articulated with respect to each other, the second blade having two side rails; a first fastener connected to the first blade and intended to be secured to a first free end of the bracelet; a second fixing member intended to be secured to a second free end of the bracelet; a locking mechanism arranged to immobilize said first and second blades in the closed position of the clasp when said first and second blades are brought together and folded towards each other; a wrist length adjustment device comprising: a movable part to which one of the two of said first and / or second fastener is attached (preferably said first fastener), said movable part being arranged so as to be able to moving longitudinally with respect to the longitudinal direction of the bracelet to make a length adjustment; and a blocking device arranged to block the displacement of the movable part in at least one direction of longitudinal displacement.

According to one aspect, the subject of the present invention is a clasp with a deploying buckle for a bracelet enabling the length of the bracelet to be adjusted, said clasp comprising: a first blade and a second blade, articulated with respect to one another, the second blade having two side members, a first fastener connected to the first blade and intended to be secured to a first free end of the bracelet; a second fixing member, intended to be secured to a second free end of the bracelet; a locking mechanism for holding said first and second blades in the hard clasp closed position when said blades are brought together and folded over each other, said locking mechanism including a manipulator adapted to be activated by a user to unlock the latch; locking mechanism and to open the clasp; a device for adjusting the length of the bracelet comprising: a movable part to which a two of said first and / or second fastening member are attached (preferably said first fastener), said movable portion being arranged to be movable longitudinally with respect to the longitudinal direction of the strap when adjusting the length, a locking device arranged to block the displacement of the movable part in at least one longitudinal direction of movement, characterized in that said locking mechanism and said length adjustment device are arranged so that an activation of said manipulation member by a user induces the unlocking of said locking device and allows the displacement of the movable portion in said at least one direction of longitudinal displacement.

According to one aspect, the present invention relates to a clasp with deploying buckle comprising: at least a first blade and a second blade, articulated with respect to each other, a first fastener connected to the first blade and intended to be secured to a first free end of the bracelet; a second fixing member, intended to be secured to a second free end of the bracelet; a wrist length adjustment device comprising: a movable part to which one of the two of said first or second fastening members is attached, said movable part being arranged so as to be able to move longitudinally with respect to the longitudinal direction of the wristband when the adjustment of the length, a locking device arranged to block the displacement of the movable part in at least one longitudinal direction of movement, the clasp comprising a manipulation member, arranged so that activation of said manipulation member by a user induces the unlocking of said locking device and allows the displacement of the mobile part in said at least one direction of longitudinal displacement, characterized in that said movable part and / or locking device is arranged on said first blade and said manipulation member is arranged on said second blade.

According to one aspect, the subject of the present invention is a clasp with a folding clasp for a bracelet enabling the length of a bracelet to be adjusted, said clasp comprising at least two blades articulated with respect to each other, characterized in that at least one of said blades comprises a part comprising a non-metallic material or the entire blade comprises a non-metallic material.

Other aspects of the invention and preferred embodiments are defined in the appended claims and in the description hereinafter. Brief description of the drawings

The features and advantages of the invention will appear more clearly on reading the description of three preferred embodiments, given solely by way of nonlimiting examples with reference to the figures in which:

Figure 1 is a perspective view from above of a wristlet clasp according to an embodiment of the present invention. The clasp is shown in the closed position. Figure 2 is a perspective view from below of the clasp of Figure 1 shown in the closed position.

Figures 3A and 3B are side elevational views of the clasp according to Figure 1 in the open and closed position, respectively.

Figure 4 is a perspective view from above of the clasp of Figure 1 in the open position, the clasp blades being fully extended.

Figure 5 is a perspective view below the clasp of Figure 1 in the open position, the clasp blades being fully deployed.

FIGS. 6A and 6B are, respectively, a perspective view (A) and a dive perspective view (B) of the clasp of FIG. 1 shown in the open position. FIGS. 7A and 7B are, respectively, a perspective view (A) and a bottom view (B) of the central structure of the clasp of FIG. 1.

Figure 8 is a perspective view of a portion of a lower blade of the clasp of Figure 1.

FIGS. 9A, 9B and 9C are longitudinal sectional views showing the device for adjusting the length of the clasp of FIGS. 1 to 8 respectively in the rest position (9A) and in the activated position (9B). Figure 10 is a perspective view of a clasp blade having the fine adjustment device.

Figs. 11A and 11B are top (A) and bottom (B) views of the clasp of Fig. 1, showing the length adjustment device in the activated position through the locking mechanism of the clasp. In these figures, some elements of the clasp have been omitted.

Fig. 11C is an enlarged partial view of the portion surrounded by a circle in Fig. 11B, shown by the circle in the latter figure.

Figure 12 is a perspective view of the clasp, in which for improvement of understanding, some structural elements are transparent and others are colored darker.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a clasp according to a second embodiment

Figure 14 is a perspective view of a part of the clasp shown in Figure 13. Figure 15 is a perspective view of a clasp according to a third embodiment.

Figure 16 is a perspective view of the clasp shown in Figure 15, in which some elements have been omitted. FIGS. 17A-17E are various views of a clasp according to a fourth embodiment (A: lateral in elevation, B: from above, C: from below, D: from below, and E: from above partially open clasp).

Fig. 18 is a perspective view of a first clasp blade shown in Figs. 17A-17E.

Figs. 19A and 19B are side elevational and longitudinal sectional views of the clasp shown in Figs. 17A-17E. Fig. 19B is a sectional view along the line A-A of FIG. 19A. The loop containing the second fastener and one of the two longitudinal members side of one of the clasp blades has been omitted for better understanding.

Fig. 19C is an excerpt of Fig. 19B showing enlarged blocking device of the length adjustment device.

Figure 20 corresponds to Figure 19B with the difference that the locking mechanism (or unlocking) is activated in Figure 20, so that in the position shown, an extension of the useful length is possible. Description of the embodiments

The present invention relates to a clasp, in particular a clasp for a bracelet. According to a preferred embodiment, the invention relates to a clasp for a timepiece bracelet, preferably for a wristwatch. The bracelet can be of any type, such as for example flexible plastic material, leather, or comprising an assembly of links, metal for example.

In general, the bracelet consists of two longitudinal portions of the bracelet, respectively in the form of first and second strands (not shown), and each of the strands is such that one of its ends is connected to the watch case while that the other is intended to be attached to a fastener of the clasp. As indicated above, in the case of a pin buckle, the end of one of the two strands has a series of holes, and the length is roughly adjusted by choosing the hole in which the pin is inserted. To describe the invention with reference to the figures, the expressions "direction of the length of the bracelet" or "longitudinal direction of the bracelet" are used to designate an axis which is that of the two bracelet strands, assuming that the bracelet is disposed flat and detached from a watch. When the bracelet is closed, the "direction of the length of the bracelet" designates the line which follows the periphery of the bracelet. The strap length adjusted by fine adjustment using the clasp adjusting device according to the invention is in the direction of the length of the bracelet. In the case of a conventional dial wristwatch, an axis connecting the digits 6 and 12 of the dial generally follows the direction of the wristband length in accordance with the present definition. If one ignores the locking mechanism of the length adjustment device, the clasp shown in the figures is substantially symmetrical and therefore comprises a plane which would constitute a plane of symmetry if the clasp is perfectly symmetrical. In the present description, this plane which extends in the direction of the length of the bracelet and the clasp is considered as "plane of symmetry", even if the symmetry of the clasp is not perfect, for example due to the positioning of the device length adjustment and its locking mechanism.

The term "orthogonal" refers to an axis that is perpendicular to the "direction of the length of the bracelet" and perpendicular to the plane of symmetry of the clasp. In the case of a dial wristwatch, an axis connecting the numerals 3 and 9 of the dial has an "orthogonal" direction in accordance with the present definition.

A "radial" axis is an axis that is radial to the axis of the wrist or forearm of a wristwatch wearer. The radial axis extends in the plane of symmetry or in a plane parallel to the plane of symmetry. In the view of FIG. 3B, the "radial" axis is a substantially "vertical" axis, and the two terms are used interchangeably in the present specification. The terms "low" and "high" generally refer respectively to the bottom and the top of the clasp as shown in FIG. 3B. The expressions "below" and "above" are to be understood in a similar way, the structural elements close to the wrist being below the more distant elements. If the expressions "longitudinal direction of the bracelet", "orthogonal" and "radial" refer to the orientation of an element of the clasp or an axis of this element, these expressions generally relate to the orientation of the element or of its axis when the clasp is closed.

According to one embodiment, the clasp of the invention is a clasp of the unfolding type, a folding clasp or folding clasp. This type of clasp is known, for example, from patent documents EP 0913106, CH700230, EP2452583, EP2361523 and CH704335. The clasp has at least two longitudinal clasp segments. In the present description, these longitudinal segments are also called "the blades" of the clasp. Generally, a clasp comprises two or three longitudinal segments. Clasps shown in the figures are clasps with two blades 1, 2. Of course, it would be quite possible to achieve the clasp of the invention with a folding clasp with three blades or with a clasp type buckle only. The present invention also contemplates clasps that combine the features of a clasp with a folding clasp with a known wrist strap fastener of the tongue buckle. A buckle-type clasp in the absence of a folding clasp corresponds to one embodiment of the invention.

Indeed, the skilled person will understand that the fine adjustment device of the length of the bracelet according to the invention can be adapted to any type of clasp and is not limited to a particular type of clasp.

The clasp shown in Figures 1-12 includes a first blade 1 and a second blade 2, hinged to one another at a first end. When the clasp is closed, the blades 1, 2 are brought together and folded over one another as shown in Figures 1, 2, 3B, 11A, 11B.

The blades 1, 2 are elongated in the longitudinal direction of the bracelet and slightly curved to better fit the shape of the wrist of a wearer. The first blade 1 comprises a lower surface 44 (FIG. 2) intended to face the wearer's wrist, and an upper surface 21 (FIG. 4).

The clasp of the invention comprises a locking mechanism 3 for locking the clasp in the closed position, and unlock the clasp to move to the open position (Figures 3A, 4, 5, 6A, 6B) to remove the wrist watch . Locking means for clasps with folding clasp are known per se.

In a variant, the locking mechanism is based on the presence of a latching mechanism, for example formed by extra thicknesses and possibly by recesses, respectively, on the first and second blades. In this case, a user acts directly on a blade to exert the force necessary to separate the blades or to lock them by fitting, for example. The disadvantage of this mechanism is that the wear can make the snap less effective. On the other hand, there is always the risk of accidental opening with this type of closure. In a preferred embodiment, the clasp of the invention comprises a locking mechanism comprising a handling member arranged so that activation of this member is necessary to open the clasp. The advantage of this type of mechanism is that accidental opening is excluded. The mechanical principle of the locking mechanism 3 of the clasp shown in the figures is similar to that disclosed in European Patent EP0913106B.

The locking mechanism 3 preferably comprises two lateral manipulation members, a first manipulation member 7 and a second manipulation member 7 '. To unlock the clasp, a carrier simultaneously activates the two members 7, 7 '. These handling members 7, 7 'are projecting on each side of the frame 20, in which they are guided and / or housed. This frame is preferably arranged at the second end of the first blade 1. Instead of a frame, it is possible to provide a clevis, a loop as shown in FIG. 14, or a cover, as shown in patent EP0913106B. to engage the pushers. It should be noted that the second fastener, not shown, is preferably attached to the frame 20. It may be a spring bar held, for example, between two side walls of the frame or the yoke. In Figures 1 and 6B, a hole 45 is visible on the inner face of a side wall of the frame 20, for housing the spring bar together with a corresponding hole arranged on the opposite wall (non-visible). On its upper face, the frame 20 of the clasp shown in the figures comprises a recess 46, intended to insert the logo of the manufacturer, for example.

Due to the general symmetry of the clasp of the invention, several elements are arranged in pairs in the clasp, on either side of the plane of symmetry. The present specification generally uses a single reference number to designate elements present in pairs, unless separate reference numbers are appropriate, for example because of the asymmetries of the blocking device or for the more detailed description of certain features. Each of the handling members 7, 7 'is connected to one of the two side rails, 14, 14' of the second blade 2. In the embodiment shown, the connection (not visible) between the longitudinal members and their respective handling members is located at the second end of the second blade, in the frame 20. Indeed, each of the two handling members 7, 7 'can come integrally with one of the two side rails. Towards the second end of the first blade 1, the side rails 14, 14 'are not rigidly connected to one another, but are engaged in the frame 20 so as to be able to move slightly in the general plane of the clasp, in an orthogonal direction. This freedom of movement can come from the flexibility of the side members, or at least the second end thereof. In the clasp shown in the drawings, the two longitudinal members 14, 14 'are two separate pieces, secured to the articulation of the second blade, towards the first end. In another embodiment, illustrated in the document EP0383039, the two longitudinal members 14, 14 'are rigidly connected to a common base, generally close to the first end, but they comprise free ends, which can move one by one. relative to each other due to the flexibility of the spars. The frame 20 further comprises return means, for example a spring, which urge the handling members 7, 7 'and the side members 14, 14' to the locking position, generally the outer lateral positions of the longitudinal members. The return means are not visible in the drawings because they are integrated in the frame 20. The return means are thus arranged to hold the members 7, 7 'in position remote relative to each other .

In the embodiment shown, the handling members 7, 7 'are in the form of pushers 7, 7'. Holding the pushers 7, 7 'between the thumb and forefinger and pressing, a carrier performs a rapprochement pushers and side rails 14, 14'.

In one embodiment, the locking mechanism 3 comprises at least two attachment members or complementary attachment members 22, 23, a first form of stop 22 disposed on the first blade 1 and a second form of stop 23 disposed on the second blade 2, said stop shapes 22, 23 being arranged to lock the clasp in the closed position when the stop forms 22, 23 are engaged. Activation of the manipulator 7, 7 'causes the disengagement of said complementary stop forms 22, 23 to unlock the locking mechanism 3. Preferably, the first stop form 23 is disposed on the spar 14 and the latter is arranged to act on the actuating member 9 when the clasp is closed and when the manipulation member 7 is activated by a user, as will be described below.

Each spar 14, 14 'has, on its outer side, a projecting hook-shaped member 23 (FIGS. 4, 6A). A recess or a corresponding stop surface 22 (FIGS. 4, 5) is formed in the inner side of each spar 15, 15 'of the first blade 1, for receiving the hook 23 when the second blade 2 is completely folded over the first blade 1. The hooks 23 have rounded shapes below and flattened retention surfaces extending in a plane perpendicular to the plane of symmetry clasp. The surfaces of the recesses 22 in contact with the retention surfaces of the hook 23 are also flattened and perpendicular to the clasp symmetry plane. Thanks to the rounded lower side, the hooks 23 provide a positive engagement automatic locking, when the second blade 2 is pressed to the first blade 1, even if the pushers 7, 7 'are not depressed. An accidental opening of the clasp is prevented thanks to the complementary flat surfaces, as long as the longitudinal members 14, 14 'of the second blade 2 have not been brought closer together by activating the pushers 7, 7'.

One of the differences of the clasp shown with respect to the clasp EP0913106B relates to the fact that the longitudinal members 14, 14 'of the second blade 2 are not inserted between the sides of the longitudinal members 15, 15' of the first blade 1. In the clasp of the For example, the rails 14, 14 'are placed at least partially above the longitudinal members 15, 15' of the first blade when the clasp is closed. Each of the hooks 23 is disposed laterally on a bulge 24 located on the underside of the spar 14, so that the hook is at a level lowered relative to the general plane of the spar 14 (Figure 6A). On the other hand, the first blade 1 comprises, at its second end, an extension forming a frame 18 provided for receiving and / or guiding the end of a bracelet strand. This frame has two lateral extensions 28 connected at their ends by a transverse plate 29 (FIGS. 4 and 8). The lateral extensions 28 comprise a structure 31 in elevation with respect to the upper surface of the first blade. The surfaces of the recess 22 are arranged on the inner face of the structure 31 in elevation, so as to be disposed above the general plane of the first blade. In fact, the bearing surfaces of the hooks 23 are in the same plane as the lower surfaces of the longitudinal members 14, 14 '. The bearing surfaces in the recesses 23 are in the same plane as the upper surfaces 21 of the first blade 1. It will be apparent from the following description that these features contribute to the implementation of a particularly light clasp and little cumbersome.

The present invention also covers a variant of the locking mechanism 4, according to which the side rails 14, 14 'are arranged so as to move away or to move apart during the activation of the handling member 7, 7' , in order to unlock the locking mechanism. According to another variant, one or both of the handling members 7, 7 'are arranged to be pulled, instead of being driven in, in order to allow the longitudinal members 14, 14' to move and thus to unlock the locking mechanism . The manipulation member (s) is / are then preferably made in the form of a pull-tab rather than a pair of push-buttons. In this case, it may also be a displacement of spacing or approximation of the rails 14, 14 'generating the unlocking. In all cases, the presence of return means, such as a spring, is preferred, in order to urge the clasp in the locked position in the absence of activation of the manipulation member 7, 7 '. In one embodiment, it is envisaged that the parts containing the rails 14, 14 'and the handling members 7, 7' intersect inside the frame 20, so that each beam is connected to the frame. manipulator on the opposite lateral side (Figure 13). In this case, the spar 14 is preferably connected to the manipulation member 7 ', and the spar 14' to the member 7. In this embodiment, the manipulation member and the corresponding spar are preferably made of a room too. According to this variant, the handling members 7, 7 'can be made in the form of pushers, and the activation of these handling members can cause spacing of the rails 14, 14'.

The clasp of the invention comprises a device for adjusting the length 4 of the bracelet. It is preferably a device for fine adjustment of the length. By "adjustment of the length" or "fine adjustment of the length" is meant a device for adjusting the circumference defined by the case of a watch, the two bracelet strands and the clasp. The purpose is to allow a wearer to adjust this circumference so that the wearer is most comfortable when wearing the wristwatch with the clasp on his wrist. The fine adjustment of the length results in a tightening or loosening of the wrist strap, depending on the length and shortened or lengthened. This last adjustment can be performed on a smaller and more accurate scale than the setting by adding or removing a link from a metal bracelet or by inserting the barb or a tenon into another hole in the case of a pin buckle, for example. In the state of the art, the expression "adjustment of useful length of the bracelet" is also used.

In the clasp shown in the figures, the adjusting device 4 is integrated in a central support structure 6 of the clasp. The central support structure 6 is integral with the first blade 1, but could also be formed in one piece with the first blade 1. In a embodiment, the support structure 6 constitutes the first blade 1.

The adjusting device 4 comprises a moving part or part 5 to which is attached the first fixing member 11. This member is intended to be secured to a first free end of the bracelet. In the embodiment shown, the first fixing member comprises two pins 11, intended to be inserted into the holes provided in the free end of a bracelet strand. The person skilled in the art knows many connecting members, including bars, and the present invention is not limited to a particular connecting member. As can be seen in FIGS. 4, 5, 6A, 9A, 9B, and 10, the movable portion 5 is in the form of a slider, housed in a channel 32 made in the central structure 6. The internal lateral walls of the channel 32 are formed to retain and guide the slide so that it can move in a longitudinal direction. Preferably, each of the side walls of the channel 32 comprises a groove, arranged to receive lateral flanges present on the slide 5, so as to allow sliding in the longitudinal direction of the moving part 5.

The moving part 5 is housed in a free end 8 of the central structure 6 to emerge from the end 8. The movable part 5 is arranged on the support structure 6 so as to be able to move longitudinally with respect to the longitudinal direction of the bracelet to make a length adjustment. During an extension, the displacement in the longitudinal direction causes the moving part 5 to emerge more from the end 8 of the central support structure 6, and during a shortening, the moving part 5 moves in the opposite direction in longitudinal direction, so as to fit more in the support 6. The clasp comprises a locking device arranged to block the displacement of the movable portion 5 in at least one longitudinal direction of movement. This locking device is illustrated in FIGS. 9A, 9B and 9C. In one embodiment the locking device comprises a notching or toothing 33, preferably a ratchet toothing, arranged on the moving part 5, a jaw or an opposing tooth 34 connected to an actuating member 9, and a means of recall 37, arranged to urge the locking device in the locked position, so as to prevent the displacement of the movable portion 5 in at least one direction along the longitudinal direction of the bracelet.

In one embodiment, the actuating member 9 is a pusher, connected to the jaw 34. The mobile part 5 has a notch 33, and the jaw 34 is arranged to cooperate with this notch 33 and to block the movement of the moving part 5 in the absence of actuation of the actuating member 9. In a embodiment, the locking device further comprises a rod or a bar 12 (FIGS. 9C and 12) connecting the jaw or tooth 34 to said actuating member 9. This rod is preferably housed in a housing 36 made in the support 6, and this housing 36 is arranged to position the rod above or below the movable portion 5 in the central support structure 6.

The actuating member 9 is preferably connected by the rod or bar 12 to the jaw 34 so as to form a pawl. The notch 33 is arranged on a lateral face of the slide 5, so as to cooperate with the jaw 34. The actuating member 9, the bar and the jaw 34 are preferably formed in one piece 19, housed in the housing 36 (FIGS. 7A and 7B) provided in the central structure 6. The return means, in particular the springs 37 act on the pusher in order to urge the jaw 34 towards the notch, thereby blocking the movement of the slide 5 in the absence of activation by a user.

In one embodiment, said length adjustment device 4 comprises a rack, a notch and / or a toothing 33. Preferably, the rack, toothing and / or the notch 33 is arranged on the movable part. Preferably, the notch 33 defines at least three indexing positions, preferably to determine at least three discrete and stable values of the length of the bracelet. The advantage of a notch is that it allows to define more indexing positions and thus to fine tune the length of the bracelet. For example, notching defines 4, 5, 6, 7 or more indexing positions.

In the embodiment shown in the figures, the shapes of the notch and the jaw are such that the displacement in a first of the two longitudinal directions is completely blocked by the locking device in the rest position, while the displacement in the other meaning can be performed when a force acts on the slide in this other direction. This is accomplished by the asymmetrical shape ("anti-recoil") of the teeth of the notching and the jaw. In practice, this configuration allows a user to shorten the bracelet by exerting a force on the strand attached to the movable part 5, by pushing the strand towards the clasp. This force is transmitted to the jaw which, in this case, is forced to disengage from the space between two teeth in which it is located. Accidental lengthening or force acting on the clasp bracelet is prevented by the orthogonal surfaces on one of the two sides of the teeth and the jaw. To lengthen the clasp, it is necessary to activate the locking device by pressing the pusher 9, which allows to completely disengage the jaw 34 of the teeth of the notching. In the latter case, the slide 5 can be moved in both longitudinal directions along the length of the bracelet, allowing the shortening and lengthening. As can be deduced from Figure 9C, the slide 5 is retained in its housing 32 in the structure 6 by a screw 25, which is arranged to abut against the bar 25 when a maximum extension of the length of the bracelet has been reached . The stop in the other direction is simply determined by the end of the housing 32 inside the structure 6. Figure 9C shows the slide 5 in its most withdrawn position in the structure 6, abutting against the inner end of the housing .

In another embodiment, shown in Figures 13 and 14, the actuating member 9 comprises or is connected to a pull tab, that is to say a member intended to be pulled to activate the locking device. From what has been described above, it follows that the unlocking of the locking mechanism of the clasp shown in the figures is effected by a movement in the orthogonal direction of the part 19 comprising the pusher 9, the bar 12 and the Jaw 34. This same movement can, in principle, be performed by pulling on the piece 19, as described later hereinafter with respect to a second embodiment shown in FIGS. 13 and 14.

As shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B, the return means 37 are made in the form of two springs 37, housed on the one hand in a pair of depressions present in the pusher 9 and on the other hand in a pair of recesses formed in the housing 36 of the part 9, 34, 12. These latter recesses are formed on either side of a channel in which the bar 12 is guided. In the case of an actuating member having a zipper 141 (Figure 13), it is possible to keep a support for springs such as that of the pusher 9, due to the limited space available for housing the springs. One of the peculiarities of the clasp shown in the figures lies in the integration of the locking device, including its actuator 9, in a relatively centered position, along the central axis of the direction of the length of the bracelet. On the other hand, the blocking device is centered in the radial / vertical direction, between the first and second blades 1, 2. It will be noted that the upper surface of the central structure 6 is in elevation relative to at the upper surface 21 of the longitudinal members 15, 15 '. When the clasp is closed (Figures 1, 2, 3B), the upper part of the central structure 6 is between the longitudinal members 14, 14 '.

Preferably, the central support structure 6 is centered with respect to the direction of the bracelet length so that, when the clasp is closed, the longitudinal members 14, 14 'of the second blade 2 are on either side of the central support structure 6. In one embodiment, said lateral spars 14, 14 'of the second blade 2 are arranged laterally with respect to the central support structure 6 when the clasp is closed, preferably so as to frame at least partially the central support structure 6 when the clasp is closed. This external lateral arrangement of the longitudinal members 14, 14 'represents a major difference compared to the clasps of the type EP0913106, in which the flexible longitudinal members of the locking mechanism are centered and integrated between the uprights of a first blade, the latter forming the frame . In the case of the clasp of the invention, the longitudinal members 14, 14 'of the locking mechanism 3 comprising the flexible ends connected to a handling member 7, 7' are preferably arranged externally with respect to a central structure or blade 6, carrying the locking device of the fine adjustment of length. In one embodiment, the actuating member 9 is arranged at least partially in a space 16 formed between the two side rails 14, 14 'of the second blade when the clasp is closed.

In one embodiment, the adjusting device 4 is arranged so that, when the clasp is closed, at least a portion of the adjusting device 4 extends, in the vertical direction, in a space 16 arranged by the second blade 2 (Figure 6A).

In the embodiment shown in the figures, this space 16 is formed between the two lateral spars 14, 14 'of the second blade 2.

In one embodiment, the length adjustment device 4 is integrated and / or mounted in the central structure 6 so that the actuating member 9 emerges vertically at least partially in the space 16 formed in the second blade 2. In one embodiment, the clasp comprises a frame or a yoke 20 arranged at a second end of the second blade 2. Preferably, the frame or the yoke 20 supports the second fixing member, and comprises, on its lower side, a space and / or a recess 17 to allow the movable part 5 to move in the space 17. In one embodiment, when the clasp is closed, the second blade 2 extends beyond the free end 8 of the central support structure 6 so that the frame or the yoke 20 is in front of the free end 8. In this way, the frame 20 does not obstruct the central support structure 6, but is positioned before the free end of the central structure 6. On the underside of the frame, the space 17 is provided, for example created by a recess, allowing the movable part 5 to emerge from the end of the central structure 6. The frame and / or the yoke 20 supports from preferably at least one manipulator 7, 7 '.

In one embodiment, the first blade 1 comprises upper lateral surfaces 21 arranged so that, when the clasp is closed, said lateral surfaces 21 and said longitudinal members 14, 14 'are at least partially superimposed.

The integration of the length adjustment device 4 and in particular the locking device in the central structure 6 makes it possible to reduce the size of the clasp in radial direction, that is to say, the thickness of the clasp.

In one embodiment, the length adjustment device 4 comprises an actuating member 9 arranged to allow the release of the locking mechanism, the actuating member 9 being separate, distinct and / or different from the body activation 7, 7 '. In one embodiment, the first fastener 11 is arranged on a lower face of the movable part 5, so as to face the wrist of a user wearing a wristwatch with the clasp. Note that the tenons of the fastener for the bracelet strand are oriented downwards, that is to say that they point from the slide 5 towards the wrist of the user. This also saves space and makes the clasp more compact. When the clasp is closed, the two fasteners 11, 12 are located one above the other radially / vertically (Figure 3B). In one embodiment, the first fastener 11 is arranged such that the free end of the strap (not shown) is attached below a lower general surface 44 of the first blade (Fig. 2). In one embodiment, the movable portion 5 is disposed at least partially below the second blade 2.

As can be seen in Figure 3B, the frame or the yoke 20 is disposed above the first fastener 11 when the clasp is closed. Similarly, the second fastener, which is supported by the frame or the yoke 20 is disposed above the first fastener 11 when the clasp is closed.

In one embodiment, the activation of at least one manipulation member 7 of the locking mechanism 3 causes the displacement of a piece 19 of the locking device and causes the unlocking of the adjusting device 4 and / or the locking device. blocking. Preferably, the activation of a manipulation member 7 causes the displacement of a spar 14 which, during this movement, acts on a piece 19 of the fine adjustment mechanism and causes the unlocking of the latter, thus enabling the adjustment the length.

In one embodiment, the locking mechanism 3 and the length adjusting device 4 are arranged in such a way that the activation of the manipulation member 7, 7 'by a user induces the unlocking of the locking device 25 only. when the clasp is closed.

In one embodiment, the actuating member 9 is directly accessible or activatable by a user only when the clasp is open and / or when said first and second blades 1, 2 are unfolded. In the embodiment shown, the actuating member 9 is not accessible directly from outside the clasp when the clasp is closed. In order to be able to press directly on the pusher 9, the user opens the clasp, in order to press the pusher. This is the result of integrating the adjustment device centrally. Nevertheless, the clasp is designed so that the length adjustment (in both directions in the longitudinal direction) can also be performed when the clasp is closed. According to one embodiment, the adjusting device 4 and in particular the actuating member 9 can be activated indirectly, preferably when the clasp is closed.

In one embodiment, the locking mechanism 3 comprises at least one manipulator 7 arranged to be activated by a user to unlock the mechanism of locking 3 to allow the opening of the clasp 10. Preferably, the locking mechanism 3 is arranged so that the activation of at least one of the two handling members 7, 7 'engenders the release of the locking device 19 , 33, 34, 37. In one embodiment, said movable portion 5 and / or said locking device 33, 34, 37 is arranged on the first blade 1 and said handling member 7 is arranged on said second blade 2.

As can be seen in Figures 1, 2, 4 and 5, for example, the pusher 9 protrudes from a side surface of the central support structure 6. The pusher 9 thus faces the spar 14, more precisely at an inner side surface of the spar 14, when the clasp is closed. As mentioned below, this spar 14 moves in a direction orthogonal to the direction of the length of the bracelet when the locking mechanism 3 is activated. FIGS. 11A, 11B, and 11C show that, when a user presses the push-buttons 7, 7 'of the locking mechanism 3, the displacement of the spar 14 causes pressure on the manipulation member 9, causing the unlocking of the adjusting device. In these figures, the spar 14 ', which does not cooperate with the length adjustment device when the clasp is closed, has been omitted. The arrow shown in black in FIGS. 11A and 11C indicates the contact between the spar 14 and the pusher 9 during the activation of the member 7.

In one embodiment, said longitudinal members 14, 14 'are arranged with respect to said manipulation member 7, 7' so as to move when the manipulation member 7, 7 'is activated by a user. Preferably, the displacement of at least one of the longitudinal members 14 causes an unlocking of the locking mechanism 3.

In one embodiment, the spar 14 is caused to move in a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the bracelet when the manipulator 7 is activated. During this displacement of the spar 14 in the orthogonal direction, the spar 14 acts on the actuating member 9 of the length adjustment device 4, in order to unlock the locking mechanism 2.

In one embodiment, the activation of the manipulation member 7, 7 'by a user makes it possible both to unlock the locking mechanism 3 and to unlock the device blocking.

It should be noted that the pressure exerted on the pushers 7, 7 'causes the unlocking of the locking mechanism 3, but not necessarily the opening of the clasp. To open the clasp, it is necessary not only to unlock the locking mechanism 3, but also to actively lift the second blade 2 to deploy the clasp blades. When a user presses the pushers 7, 7 'without deploying the blades, the clasp remains closed and a length adjustment can be made. When the length adjustment is completed, the user can release the pressure on the pushbutton (s) 7, 7 'and the locking mechanism 3 goes back to the locked position (rest position), without the clasp having been open.

In the embodiment shown, only the spar 14 and not the opposite spar 14 'is arranged to be able to act on the actuating member 9, due to the asymmetry of the length adjustment device. Therefore, according to a preferred embodiment, simply activate one of the two manipulators. A user can hold the clasp between the thumb and forefinger so as to press only the pusher 7, for example, and in this way unlock the locking device without completely unlocking the locking mechanism 4.

In one embodiment, the manipulation member 7 is arranged to be able to act either directly or by a mechanism or an intermediate structure 14 on the actuating member 9 when the clasp is closed. In the embodiment shown, this mechanism or this intermediate structure corresponds to the spar 14 of the second blade 2. In the embodiment shown in the figures, each spar is secured to one of the two handling members, for example formed in a room with one of the two manipulators. In one embodiment, one of the side rails 14 is not formed in one piece with the manipulation member 7, 7 ', but both are made in two or more pieces, which may or may not be integral with the one of the other. The two parts can be in direct contact or can cooperate via a mechanism and / or by one or more separate parts. In all these cases, it is preferred that the activation of the manipulation members 7, 7 'results in the displacement of the spars, preferably in an orthogonal direction. From the above, it becomes clear that the clasp of the invention allows a length adjustment when the clasp is open and also when the clasp is closed. Preferably, the locking device can be activated whether the clasp is open or closed. When the clasp is open, the user can press directly on the actuating member 9. When the clasp is closed, the activation of the length adjustment device is effected by means of the first manipulation member 7.

The first blade 1 is shown separately in FIG. 10. In the embodiment shown, the blade 1 comprises two parts, for example two semi-blades or two partial blades, a frame blade 30, shown in FIG. central blade 35, shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B.

In one embodiment, the first blade 1 comprises two separate parts 30, 35, made integral with one another, a first part 35 comprising the central support structure 6 and a second part 30 comprising two lateral side members 15, 15 ', between which the central support structure 6 is framed and / or attached.

According to a preferred embodiment, during the assembly of the two partial blades 30, 35, this assembly becomes unmountable. The two partial blades are thus rigidly connected so as to behave as a single piece.

The frame blade 30 (FIG. 8) comprises the two substantially parallel lateral side members 15, 15 ', a transverse post 43 rigidly connecting the longitudinal members, and at the second end a frame 18 comprising two lateral extensions 28 of the longitudinal members 15, 15. and a transverse plate 29. The frame 18 forms an opening in the first blade 1, making it possible to thread and frame the end of the bracelet strand which will be attached to the first fixing member 11. When the clasp is connected to Strands of bracelet, the bracelet strand connected to the first fastener 11 will pass over the transverse plate 29 and will be below the blades of the clasp, in contact with the wrist of the user.

As shown in FIG. 8, recesses or recesses 38 are arranged in the inner faces of the longitudinal members 15, 15 'intended to receive protuberances 39 arranged on the central blade 35, so as to form a retaining or attachment structure for allow to connect the two partial blades 30 and 35. Instead of protuberances and recesses, all another connection or interaction structure may be provided to allow a hooking between the two partial blades.

The central blade 35 (FIGS. 7A and 7B) comprises the central support structure 6, carrying the length adjustment device 4. The recesses forming the channel 32 and the housing 36 are created in the central blade 35. The latter also comprises two lateral fins 41, intended to be in contact with the longitudinal members 15, 15 'when the two partial blades 30, 35 are assembled, and forming a common upper surface 21. A transverse recess 42 is formed in the lower face of the central blade 35 (Figure 7B), to clear a space in which the transverse amount 43 of the frame blade 30 comes to rest when the two partial blades are assembled (Figure 6A). Towards its first end, the central blade 35 also has a transverse hole to allow the articulation relative to the second blade and to contribute to the assembly between the partial blades 30, 35. In general, the parts of the clasp The invention may be independently manufactured from any suitable material. Typically, the clasps and / or their parts are made of metal. For example, blades and functional parts are typically made of metal, for example steel, stainless steel, titanium, gold, silver, or any other metal or alloy of metals. In one embodiment of the invention, the first blade 1, the first piece or the partial blade 35, and / or the piece carrying the length adjustment device 4 may comprise a non-metallic material. For example, the first blade or the first piece 1 of the first blade is made of a material having a non-metallic material.

In one embodiment, the material comprising a non-metallic material is selected from the following: a material other than metal, a composite material, a plastic (polymer) and / or carbon fiber. Preferably, the blade or part in question is made of a material comprising carbon fiber and, optionally, plastic. In one embodiment, the first blade 1, the first piece 35, the first partial blade 35, and / or the blade carrying the length adjustment device is manufactured by injection and / or by injection molding. This applies to a part made of a material comprising a non-metallic material. The fact of making a blade or part of it by molding brings several advantages. On the one hand, when the part has a material other than metal materials, the weight of the part, compared to a metal part, is decreased. On the other hand, manufacturing costs are significantly lower. In one embodiment, the assembly of the first blade 1 is made of the same material other than metal, for example one of the abovementioned materials, preferably a plastic material comprising carbon fiber.

In one embodiment, the clasp of the invention comprises a length adjustment device 4 housed in the workpiece 35 or the blade 1 comprising the non-metallic material.

In one embodiment, the part 35 or the blade 1 comprising the (or made of) non-metallic material comprises one or more recesses 32, 36 intended to house one or more parts 5, 9, 34 which form part of the device of FIG. length adjustment 4. Said parts 5, 9, 34 which are part of the length adjustment device 4 are chosen from the moving part 5, a part 9, 12, 34 comprising a jaw or a tooth 34, intended to cooperate with the mobile 5, and an actuating member 9 arranged to allow the unlocking of the movable portion 5. In a preferred embodiment, one or more of the parts 5, 9, 12, 34 of the length adjustment device 4 are made of metal. In one embodiment, the clasp comprises parts made of a material comprising a non-metallic material and other parts made of metal. For example, the first blade may include a first partial blade 35 of a material having a non-metallic material, and a second partial blade or metal frame blade 30. In one embodiment, a full blade 1 is made of a material having non-metallic components, and another blade 2 is made of metal. A blade or partial blade made of a material having a non-metallic material can accommodate and / or cooperate with metal parts. On the other hand, the invention also covers the possibility that two, more or all of the clasp blades are made of a material comprising a non-metallic material, and the parts housed in these blades may be metallic or comprise non-metallic materials. , for example.

A material comprising non-metallic material may be made entirely of a non-metallic material, for example plastic and / or carbon fiber, or may comprise a mixture of one or more metals and one or more non-metallic materials. metal.

Figure 13 shows a clasp 100 according to a second embodiment. Clasp 100 includes a first blade 101 having a central structure 106, the first blade being hinged to a second blade 102 having two side rails 114, 114 'at a first end of the blades. The moving part, which emerges at the free end of the structure 106, is not visible, but the manipulation member 109 is arranged projecting in a lateral flank of the structure 106 (shown on the left side of the structure 106 in Figure 13). The two longitudinal members 114, 114 'are arranged laterally with respect to the central structure 106 of the first blade 101.

A particularity of the clasp of Figure 13 is that the longitudinal members 114, 114 'are connected to pushers 107, 107', respectively, arranged at the opposite lateral sides relative to the lateral side of the respective spar. The spar 114 is preferably connected to the manipulation member 107, and the spar 114 'to the member 107'. The two parts or entities comprising the longitudinal members 114, 114 'and the members 107, 107' intersect, preferably at the second end of the longitudinal members.

In this embodiment, the handling members 107, 107 'and / or the structure connecting these members to the respective longitudinal members, are preferably partially superimposed and / or overlap at a location, preferably towards said second end.

A spar and the member to which it is connected may form a member reminding the letter L. This element may be formed in one piece or in several pieces made integral with one another. Due to the crossing of these elements, a pressure exerted by a carrier pushing the members 107, 107 'causes a spacing of the longitudinal members 114, 114'. This spacing unlocks the locking mechanism. In the case of the clasp shown in Figure 13, the attachment members or complementary stop forms 22, 23 are arranged on the central structure 106 on the one hand and the longitudinal members 114, 114 ', on the other hand. These fastening members are not visible in Figure 13, but their operation is exactly the same in that the displacement of the longitudinal members 114, 114 'causes a separation of complementary fastening members, which allows a separation of the first and second blades 101, 102 by pivoting, and thus the opening of the clasp. Arranging the complementary fastening members 22, 23 on the outer flanks of the central structure 106 and the inner flanks of each of the longitudinal members 114, 114 'may be advantageous. The extensions 28 or even the elevation structures 31 of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1-11 are no longer necessary for arranging the complementary members on the side of the first blade 1. Indeed, in the clasp shown in FIG. it is possible to omit the partial blade 30 and / or its structural elements described above (Figure 8). For example, a first blade comprising or consisting essentially of the central support structure 106 could be sufficient.

Due to the spacing of the longitudinal members during the depression of the members 107, 107 ', the activation of the locking mechanism does not generate a pressure on the actuating member 109. As can be seen in FIG. 14, the part 119 comprising the pusher 109, the transverse bar 112, the jaw or the opposing tooth 134 also has an extension 140, extending the bar 112 in the orthogonal direction. The extension 140 emerges from the side flank opposite to that of the pusher 109 on the central structure 106. A pin 141, arranged on the extension 140 functions as a pull-tab or fastening member, making it possible to perform a traction force on the workpiece 119. For this purpose, a hole 142 is made in the spar 114 ', arranged to receive the pin 141 when the second blade 102 is folded on the first blade 101. When the clasp is in the closed position, the spar 114' is connected to the pull tab 141 so that the actuation of the member 107 'pulls on the pull tab, allowing the release of the unlocking device during activation of the actuating member. Of course, it is always preferred that the return means are arranged to hold the locking device in the locked position. These return means can be arranged between the pusher 109 and the structure 106, as shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B.

From the above it follows that a second actuating member 141 may be present instead of the pusher 109 or may exist in addition to the pusher 109. The presence of an actuating member in the form of a zipper 141 is particularly preferred when the locking mechanism described above is based on a spacing instead of the approximation of the longitudinal members of the second blade 102. In this case, the invention contemplates connection means, for example a pair of hooks or a connection by a pin and a hole, arranged so that when spacing at least one of the two side members 114, 114 ', traction is performed on the part 119, allowing the unlocking of the device of unblocking when activating the actuating member. It should also be noted that the element 119 can be made of several separate parts, made preferably integral.

In one embodiment, the locking device comprises both a pusher 109 and a zipper 141. Preferably, the activation of each of the two allows unblocking of the locking device. The pusher can preferably be actuated by a carrier having opened the clasp, for example by pressing with a finger on the pusher, while the zipper is preferably activated indirectly, by the movement of at least one spar during activation. locking mechanism.

The concept described in the example of Figures 13 and 14 can be adapted to all other clasps described in this specification, which is specifically covered by the present invention.

Figures 15 and 16 show a clasp 200 according to a third embodiment. A first blade 201 is hinged to a second blade 202 at a first end of the blades. The first blade 201 comprises a central support structure 206. In the free end of this structure (the second end of the first blade), a movable part 205 is housed, arranged to emerge from the end of the structure 106 The structure 206 contains recesses or recesses similar to those described above, for accommodating the movable part 205 and the part 219 comprising the actuating member 209. A first fastener 211, made for example in the form of A transverse bar is connected to the moving part 205. The second blade 202 comprises two lateral side members 214, 214 ', articulated at the first end and stabilized towards the second end by a transverse tube which is not shown. A difference of the clasp 200 from the previous clasps is that the actuator 209 emerges on the right side of the central structure 206, as shown in FIGS. 14 and 15. In the previous clasps, the locking device had an orientation opposite.

The rails 214, 214 'are arranged laterally with respect to the structure 206 when the clasp is closed. Each spar is connected to a respective manipulation member 207, 207 'by an orthogonally oriented rod 247 having a diameter which is smaller than the diameter of the members 207, 207. The clasp 200 comprises a U-shaped loop 220, whose two free ends have holes in which the rods 247 are threaded. The loop 220 can pivot about the axis defined by the rods 247, while stabilizing the ends of the rails 214, 214 '. A second fastener, not shown, is connected to the loop 220.

As in the clasp shown in FIGS. 1-12, the activation of the manipulation members 207, 207 ', by pressure causes the longitudinal members 214, 214' to come together. One of the two longitudinal members, the spar 214 'is arranged to act on the actuating member 209 and unlock the locking mechanism, during its displacement, according to the same principle described above. As can be seen more clearly in FIG. 16, the first blade 214 comprises, on its lower face, lateral plates or fins 215, on which the longitudinal members 214, 214 'come to rest when the clasp is closed. Each of the plates 215 has an edge or an elevated structure 231 for containing the respective spar. On the inside face of the edge 231 is a hooking member, arranged to cooperate with a complementary member arranged on the outer side of the respective spar. Together, the pair of latching members lock the clasp in the closed position, when the two blades are folded towards each other, as described with respect to the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1-12. The simultaneous activation of the two pushers 207, 207 'by pressure causes a coming together of the longitudinal members and the separation of complementary hooking members, to unfold the blades 201, 202 to open the clasp.

Those skilled in the art will understand that one aspect of the invention lies in the arrangement of the length adjustment device on a support structure of a first blade and in the possibility of activation of the adjustment device by a mechanism. locking device based on longitudinal members of a second blade, the ends of which can move apart or approach preferably along an orthogonal axis or in an orthogonal plane. In embodiments where the longitudinal members come closer when unlocking, at least one of them acts preferably on a pusher. In embodiments where the side members apart during unlocking, at least one of them acts preferably on a pull. As mentioned, there may also be a zipper and a pusher, the latter being preferably activated by the user directly, when the clasp is open. A particularity of some aspects of the invention lies in the fact that the movable part 5 as well as the blocking device 33, 34, 37, arranged to block the displacement of the mobile part in at least one direction of movement, is on a first blade 1, while the manipulator 7 arranged to allow a user to unlock the locking device 33, 34, 37 and thus lengthen and / or shorten the useful length of the bracelet is on another, for example a second blade 2. The invention covers this aspect also in the case where the manipulation member 7 is not used to unlock and open the clasp (as shown in the drawings), but is only used to activate the blocking device. Figures 17A-20 show a clasp 300 according to a fourth embodiment. The clasp 300 comprises first and second blades 301, 302, the second comprises two side rails 314, 314 '. Each of the two side rails is connected to a handling member 307, 307 ', housed in or arranged with respect to a frame 320 in a manner similar to that described above with respect to the clasp shown in FIGS. In particular, the loop 320 has a generally U-shaped shape and comprises an orthogonal hole arranged in each of the two free ends of the U, for accommodating the manipulation members 307, 307 '.

A tenon (not visible) is arranged on the lower face of the loop 320, to form the second fastener. Buckle 320 could also be provided with a barb instead of the tenon, or it could have both (pin and pin) to form a fastener, as disclosed in WO2017 / 144704 (eg, FIG. . This type of fastener is well known in the state of the art.

A difference of the fourth embodiment with respect to the previous embodiments is that a central support structure (6, 106, 206) is absent. The movable portion 305 emerges from the free end (or the second end) of the first blade 301 and is arranged, housed and / or stabilized in a transverse 343 arranged at said second end, as described below. Due to the absence of the central support structure, the space 306 between the two side members 315, 315 'of the first blade 301 is free and serves to accommodate the second blade 302 when the clasp is closed. With this, the clasp 400 has a reduced thickness (extension in a radial direction), as can be seen in Figs. 17A, 19A and 20, for example, and the release device as well as the length adjuster in its together remains invisible from the outside. The remainder of this description makes it possible to understand how a design that is so discreet and space-saving can be achieved thanks to the present invention.

FIGS. 18 and 19A to 20 make it possible to understand the arrangement of the mobile part 305 and the blocking device 303. The movable part 305 comprises a U-shape and / or a stirrup shape, the two lateral arms 351 and 352 are guided and / or housed in two dwellings longitudinal and lateral 332, arranged in the crossbar 343. As can be seen in Figures 19B and 20, a portion or a wall of these housing is formed by the extension of the longitudinal members 315, 315 'of the first blade 301 to the second end. The movable portion 305 U also comprises the base or the transverse 354 of the U, to which is attached the first fastening member 311, made for example in the form of a transverse rod.

At least one of the two side arms 351 of the movable portion 305 includes a rack 333 disposed on the inner side face of the arm. As can be seen in FIGS. 19B, 19C and 20, the locking device, in particular a jaw or counter-tooth 334 as well as return means 337, are also arranged in a housing in the cross section 343, so that the jaw 334 is urged towards a hollow of the rack 333.

In the illustrated embodiment, the tooth 334 is part of an L-shaped piece 319. The housing of this piece in the cross section 337 has an opening or a hole 338 in the direction of the "back", which is that is, opening towards the first end of the first blade. As can be seen in Figs. 19B, but also in Fig. 18, an arm 309 of the L-shaped piece passes through the opening 338 and emerges in the space 306 between the two longitudinal members 315, 315 'of the first blade 301. The arm 309 in the longitudinal direction of the part 319 forms an actuating member, which can be activated to unlock the locking mechanism 303 and thus allow the adjustment of length. The tooth 334 is formed by or at the end of one of the two arms of the L, while the actuating member 309 is formed by the end of the other arm.

When the clasp is opened (FIG 17E), the member 309 becomes visible and accessible, as can be seen in FIG 18. A user can then slide it against the force of the spring 337, in one direction orthogonal, in order to clear the tooth 334 of the rack 333 and allow the adjustment of the length.

Preferably, the locking device 303 is activated indirectly, by the activation of at least one of the two actuating members 307, 307 ', here the member 307, preferably when the clasp 300 is closed. In the bottom views of FIGS. 17C and 17D, it can be seen that at least one of the two lateral side members 314, 314 'has an recess 356 in the lower part, in particular towards the second end of the second blade 302, so that to provide a space for the actuating member 309, but also so as to create an inner side bearing surface 357 (Fig. 19C). When a user makes a connection of the longitudinal members 314, 314 ', by pressing the handling members 307, 307', or at least on the member 307, the bearing surface 357 arranged on the spar 314 acts on the actuating member 309 moving it along the orthogonal direction, to unlock the locking device 303 and allow in particular the extension of the length of the bracelet.

The solution represented by the fourth embodiment makes it possible to implement a clasp of a particularly small thickness while having a device for adjusting the length. This is achieved in particular by means of an activation mechanism using the displacement of the side members 314, 314 'of the locking device of the clasp. On the other hand, the arrangement of the housing of the stop structure 334 in a transverse 343, arranged below the second fixing member and / or in the continuation of the general plane of the side rails 314, 3014 'of the second blade 302 (when the clasp is closed), contributes to this advantageous arrangement.

As can be seen in Figures 18 to 20, the movable portion 305 extends beyond the second end of the first blade 301 when the bracelet is extended, which allows to see the U-shape or stirrup of the moving part in these figures. For aesthetic reasons, it is not desired for the moving part to become visible to the wearer when the length adjustment device is in its most elongated position. In the clasp 300, this is not the case: When a bracelet is attached to the two fasteners, a free end of one of the two strands of bracelets covers the moving part 305, so that it does not is not visible to the wearer of a wristwatch having the clasp. More specifically, when the tenon (not visible) of the second fastener is inserted into a hole of a bracelet strand, the free end of this bracelet strand passes between the loop 320 and the tube 348 having the housing of the strap. 307, 307 ', and extends exactly above the moving part 305. The end of this bracelet strand also covers the first attachment member 311 and the end of the strap strand attached to this last.

The invention covers combinations of the features of the clasps illustrated in the drawings. For example, each of the clasps described above can be made with displaceable spars as shown in FIG. 13, that is to say spars connected to handling members arranged on the opposite side of the spar. In this case, the parts comprising the longitudinal members, for example generally L-shaped, preferably cross at the second end of the longitudinal members, so at the end opposite the end where the side members are hinged, for example to the first blade.

By way of example, the invention covers in particular a clasp according to the fourth embodiment, as illustrated in FIGS. 17A-20, in which the manipulation member 307 and / or 307 'is arranged in such a way that activation of the member generates a spacing (instead of a rapprochement) of the longitudinal members and / or a pull on a pull tab which releases the locking device to allow movement of the movable part and adjustment of the length.

As those skilled in the art will note, the clasps of this description have the particularity of having a length adjustment device, which can be activated, when the clasp is closed, by activating a manipulation member 7, 107 ', 207 207 for opening the clasp.

The clasps of this description have the particularity of having a device for adjusting the length, which can be activated, when the clasp is closed, by activating a handling member which is on a blade other than the blade bearing the locking device. length adjustment, the locking device and / or in particular the moving part. The two blades are preferably articulated relative to each other, directly or via another structural element, preferably longitudinal, for example a third blade.

The clasps of this description have the particularity of having a device for adjusting the length, which can be activated, when the clasp is closed, by making a flexible displacement, in a general plane of the clasp, of at least one of the longitudinal members. a blade of the clasp.

Those skilled in the art will not encounter any particular difficulty in adapting the content of the present disclosure to their own needs and implementing a clasp, for a timepiece or the like, without departing from the scope of the present invention. Those skilled in the art could consider a locking mechanism different from that shown in the figures, while arranging the last so that an activation of a manipulator causes the unlocking of the locking device. The length adjustment device according to the invention can be adapted to other types of clasps, for wristwatch, bracelet, belt or other.

Claims

claims

Clasp (10, 100, 200, 300) with a folding clasp for a bracelet comprising:

- a first blade (1, 101, 201, 301) and a second blade (2, 102, 202, 302), articulated with respect to each other, the second blade (2) having two side rails (14 , 14 '),

- a first fastener (11) connected to the first blade (1) and intended to be secured to a first free end of the bracelet;

a second fixing member intended to be secured to a second free end of the bracelet;

a locking mechanism (3) for holding said first and second blades (1, 2) in closed hard clasp position when said blades (1, 2) are brought together and folded over one another, said locking mechanism ( 3) comprising:

- a manipulation member (7, 7 ') provided to be activated by a user to unlock the locking mechanism (3) and to open the clasp;

a device for adjusting the length (4) of the bracelet comprising:

a movable part (5) to which one of the two of said first or second fixing members is attached, said movable part (5) being arranged so as to be able to move longitudinally with respect to the longitudinal direction of the bracelet when adjusting the length,

a blocking device (33, 34, 37) arranged to block the displacement of the mobile part (5) in at least one longitudinal direction of movement,

characterized in that

said locking mechanism (3) and said length adjusting device (4) are arranged so that activation of said manipulator (7) by a user induces release of said locking device (33, 34, 37) and allows movement of the movable portion (5) in said at least one longitudinal direction of movement.

2. The clasp according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a first and a second manipulation member (7, 7 '), only the first manipulation member (7) being arranged to induce said unlocking locking device ( 33, 34, 37).

3. The clasp according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that said length adjustment device (4) comprises an actuating member (9, 109, 141, 209, 309) arranged to enable the unlocking of said locking device (33, 34, 37), said actuating member (9, 109, 141, 209, 309) being separate and distinct from said activation member (7, , 7 ').

4. The clasp according to claim 3, characterized in that said actuating member (9, 109, 141, 209, 309) is directly accessible by a user only when the clasp is open and / or when said first and second blades (1, 2) are unfolded.

5. Clasp according to any one of claims 3 to 4, characterized in that said actuating member (9, 109, 141, 209, 309) is arranged at least partially in a space (16) arranged between the two side rails (14, 14 ') of said second blade when the clasp is closed.

6. The clasp according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises a central support structure (6) integral with said first blade (1) or constituting said first blade (1), in that a space (16) is provided between the two longerons (14, 14 ') of the second blade (2), and in that said length adjustment device (4) is integrated and / or mounted in said central structure (6). ) so that said actuating member (9) emerges, in a radial direction, at least partially in said space (16) formed in said second blade (2), and so that said movable portion is disposed at least partially at the below said second blade (2).

7. The clasp (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said manipulation member (7) is arranged to be able to act either directly or by a mechanism or an intermediate structure (14) on said body of actuation (9, 141, 209, 309) when the clasp is closed.

8. The clasp according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said longitudinal members (14, 14 ') are arranged with respect to said manipulation member (7, 7') so as to move when said manipulation member ( 7, 7 ') is activated by a user, and in that the movement of at least one of said longitudinal members (14, 14') unlocks said locking mechanism (3).

The clasp (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said spar (14) is caused to move in a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the bracelet when said manipulator (7) is activated, and in that during said displacement of the spar (14) in the orthogonal direction, the spar (14) acts on said actuator (9) of said length adjuster (4) to release the locking device (33, 34, 37).

10. The clasp according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said locking mechanism (3) comprises at least two complementary stop shapes (22, 23), a first form of stop (22) disposed on said first blade (1) and a second stop shape (23) disposed on said second blade (2), said stop shapes (22, 23) being arranged to lock the clasp in said closed position when the shapes stop (22, 23) are engaged, and in that the activation of said manipulator (7, 7 ') causes the disengagement of said complementary stop forms (22, 23) to unlock said locking mechanism (3).

11. The clasp according to claim 10, characterized in that said first form of stop (23) is disposed on said spar (14), and in that the spar (14) is arranged to act on the body of actuation (9) when the clasp is closed and when the manipulation member (7) is activated by a user.

12. Clasp according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said device for adjusting the length (4) of the bracelet comprises biasing means biasing the length adjustment device (4) in the locked position.

13. The clasp according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said actuating member (9) is a pusher, connected to a jaw and / or an opposing tooth (34), in that said movable part ( 5) has a notch (33), and in that said jaw and / or opposing tooth (34) is arranged to cooperate with said notch (33) and to block the displacement of said movable part (5) in the absence of a actuation of the actuating member (9).

14. The clasp according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that said locking mechanism (3) and said length adjustment device (4) are arranged so that said activation of said manipulation member (7, 7) ') by a user induces the unlocking of said locking device (33, 34, 37) only when the clasp is closed.

15. Clasp according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said activation of said manipulation member (7, 7 ') by a user allows both to unlock the locking mechanism (3) and to unlock said device blocking device (33, 34, 37).

16. The clasp according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said length adjustment device (4), preferably said movable part (5), comprises a rack, a notch and / or a toothing (33). ).

17. The clasp according to claim 16, characterized in that said toothing (33) defines at least three indexing positions to determine at least three discrete and stable values of the length of the bracelet.

18. The clasp according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said movable part (5) and / or said locking device (33, 34, 37) is arranged on the first blade (1, 101, 201, 301) and said manipulation member (7) is arranged on said second blade (2, 102, 202, 302).

19. Clasp (10, 100, 200, 300) with a folding clasp for bracelet comprising:

at least one first blade (1, 101, 201, 301) and a second blade (2, 102, 202, 302), articulated with respect to each other,

a device for adjusting the length (4) of the bracelet comprising:

a blocking device (33, 34, 37) arranged to block the displacement of the part mobile (5) in at least one direction of longitudinal displacement,

- The clasp having a manipulation member (7), arranged so that activation of said manipulation member (7) by a user induces the unlocking of said locking device (33, 34, 37) and allows the movement of the part mobile (5) in said at least one direction of longitudinal displacement,

characterized in that

said movable portion and / or the locking device (33, 34, 37) is arranged on said first blade (1, 101, 201, 301) and said handling member (7) is arranged on said second blade (2, 102 , 202, 302).