EP3671368B1 - Bearing, in particular shock absorber device, and rotating part of a clock movement - Google Patents

Bearing, in particular shock absorber device, and rotating part of a clock movement Download PDF

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Publication number
EP3671368B1
EP3671368B1 EP18214830.4A EP18214830A EP3671368B1 EP 3671368 B1 EP3671368 B1 EP 3671368B1 EP 18214830 A EP18214830 A EP 18214830A EP 3671368 B1 EP3671368 B1 EP 3671368B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
pivot
bearing
cone
curvature
radius
Prior art date
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Active
Application number
EP18214830.4A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP3671368A1 (en
Inventor
Jean-Jacques Born
Dominique Lechot
Yves Winkler
Christophe Vincent
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Swatch Group Research and Development SA
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Swatch Group Research and Development SA
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Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Swatch Group Research and Development SA filed Critical Swatch Group Research and Development SA
Priority to EP18214830.4A priority Critical patent/EP3671368B1/en
Priority to JP2019224233A priority patent/JP2020101539A/en
Priority to US16/713,079 priority patent/US11592784B2/en
Priority to CN201911329064.5A priority patent/CN111352332B/en
Publication of EP3671368A1 publication Critical patent/EP3671368A1/en
Priority to JP2022149179A priority patent/JP7411040B2/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP3671368B1 publication Critical patent/EP3671368B1/en
Active legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

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Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G04—HOROLOGY
    • G04B—MECHANICALLY-DRIVEN CLOCKS OR WATCHES; MECHANICAL PARTS OF CLOCKS OR WATCHES IN GENERAL; TIME PIECES USING THE POSITION OF THE SUN, MOON OR STARS
    • G04B37/00—Cases
    • G04B37/04—Mounting the clockwork in the case; Shock absorbing mountings
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G04—HOROLOGY
    • G04B—MECHANICALLY-DRIVEN CLOCKS OR WATCHES; MECHANICAL PARTS OF CLOCKS OR WATCHES IN GENERAL; TIME PIECES USING THE POSITION OF THE SUN, MOON OR STARS
    • G04B31/00—Bearings; Point suspensions or counter-point suspensions; Pivot bearings; Single parts therefor
    • G04B31/02—Shock-damping bearings
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G04—HOROLOGY
    • G04B—MECHANICALLY-DRIVEN CLOCKS OR WATCHES; MECHANICAL PARTS OF CLOCKS OR WATCHES IN GENERAL; TIME PIECES USING THE POSITION OF THE SUN, MOON OR STARS
    • G04B31/00—Bearings; Point suspensions or counter-point suspensions; Pivot bearings; Single parts therefor
    • G04B31/02—Shock-damping bearings
    • G04B31/04—Shock-damping bearings with jewel hole and cap jewel
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G04—HOROLOGY
    • G04B—MECHANICALLY-DRIVEN CLOCKS OR WATCHES; MECHANICAL PARTS OF CLOCKS OR WATCHES IN GENERAL; TIME PIECES USING THE POSITION OF THE SUN, MOON OR STARS
    • G04B13/00—Gearwork
    • G04B13/02—Wheels; Pinions; Spindles; Pivots
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G04—HOROLOGY
    • G04B—MECHANICALLY-DRIVEN CLOCKS OR WATCHES; MECHANICAL PARTS OF CLOCKS OR WATCHES IN GENERAL; TIME PIECES USING THE POSITION OF THE SUN, MOON OR STARS
    • G04B29/00—Frameworks
    • G04B29/02—Plates; Bridges; Cocks
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G04—HOROLOGY
    • G04B—MECHANICALLY-DRIVEN CLOCKS OR WATCHES; MECHANICAL PARTS OF CLOCKS OR WATCHES IN GENERAL; TIME PIECES USING THE POSITION OF THE SUN, MOON OR STARS
    • G04B31/00—Bearings; Point suspensions or counter-point suspensions; Pivot bearings; Single parts therefor
    • G04B31/004—Bearings; Point suspensions or counter-point suspensions; Pivot bearings; Single parts therefor characterised by the material used
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G04—HOROLOGY
    • G04B—MECHANICALLY-DRIVEN CLOCKS OR WATCHES; MECHANICAL PARTS OF CLOCKS OR WATCHES IN GENERAL; TIME PIECES USING THE POSITION OF THE SUN, MOON OR STARS
    • G04B31/00—Bearings; Point suspensions or counter-point suspensions; Pivot bearings; Single parts therefor
    • G04B31/004—Bearings; Point suspensions or counter-point suspensions; Pivot bearings; Single parts therefor characterised by the material used
    • G04B31/012—Metallic bearings
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G04—HOROLOGY
    • G04B—MECHANICALLY-DRIVEN CLOCKS OR WATCHES; MECHANICAL PARTS OF CLOCKS OR WATCHES IN GENERAL; TIME PIECES USING THE POSITION OF THE SUN, MOON OR STARS
    • G04B31/00—Bearings; Point suspensions or counter-point suspensions; Pivot bearings; Single parts therefor
    • G04B31/004—Bearings; Point suspensions or counter-point suspensions; Pivot bearings; Single parts therefor characterised by the material used
    • G04B31/016—Plastic bearings
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G04—HOROLOGY
    • G04B—MECHANICALLY-DRIVEN CLOCKS OR WATCHES; MECHANICAL PARTS OF CLOCKS OR WATCHES IN GENERAL; TIME PIECES USING THE POSITION OF THE SUN, MOON OR STARS
    • G04B31/00—Bearings; Point suspensions or counter-point suspensions; Pivot bearings; Single parts therefor
    • G04B31/06—Manufacture or mounting processes
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G04—HOROLOGY
    • G04B—MECHANICALLY-DRIVEN CLOCKS OR WATCHES; MECHANICAL PARTS OF CLOCKS OR WATCHES IN GENERAL; TIME PIECES USING THE POSITION OF THE SUN, MOON OR STARS
    • G04B33/00—Calibers

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a bearing of a watch movement, in particular a shock absorber, for an axis of a rotating mobile.
  • the invention also relates to a rotating mobile of a watch movement.
  • the invention also relates to a watch movement provided with such a bearing and such a rotating wheel set.
  • the axes of revolving mobiles In watch movements, the axes of revolving mobiles generally have pivots at their ends, which turn in bearings mounted in the plate or in bridges of a watch movement.
  • the bearings For certain mobiles, in particular the balance wheel, it is customary to equip the bearings with a shock-absorbing mechanism. Indeed, as the pivots of the axis of a balance are generally thin and the mass of the balance is relatively high, the pivots can break under the effect of a shock in the absence of a damping mechanism.
  • the configuration of a conventional shock absorber bearing 1 is represented by the figure 1 .
  • a domed olive-shaped stone 2 is driven into a bearing support 3 commonly called a chaton, on which is mounted a counter-pivot stone 4.
  • the chaton 3 is held against the bottom of a bearing block 5 by a damping spring 6 arranged to exert an axial stress on the upper part of the counter-pivot stone 4.
  • the bezel 3 further comprises a conical outer wall arranged in correspondence with a conical inner wall arranged at the periphery of the bottom of the bearing block 5.
  • the kitten comprises an outer wall having a surface of convex shape, that is to say domed.
  • the bearing 10 comprises a counter pivot 7 of the center plate type, comprising a cavity 8 in the shape of a cone to receive a pivot 12 of the axis 9 of the rotary wheel set, the bottom of the cavity being formed by the top 11 of the cone.
  • Pivot 12 is also tapered to fit into cavity 8, but the solid angle of pivot 12 is smaller than that of the cone of cavity 8.
  • this type of bearing has a significant drawback concerning the centering of the axis with respect to the bearing plates. Indeed, it is not possible to achieve good centering in the current configurations of this type of shock absorber. Thus, there is a high risk of having the shaft jammed by jamming between the clamps holding the shaft of the rotating mobile on either side.
  • a counter-pivot comprising a main body provided with a cavity configured to receive a pivot having the shape of a first cone having a first solid angle, the apex of the first cone being rounded with a first predefined radius of curvature included in a range from 0.2 ⁇ m to 50 ⁇ m, the cavity having a shape of a second cone having a second solid angle greater than the first solid angle, so that the pivot can rotate in the cavity, the top of the second cone being rounded and having a second predefined radius of curvature.
  • An object of the invention is, therefore, to provide a bearing, in particular a shock absorber, for an axis of a rotating mobile of a watch movement, for example an axis of a balance wheel, which avoids the aforementioned problem.
  • a bearing makes it possible to correctly center the axis in the center plate.
  • the invention relates to a bearing comprising a bearing block provided with a housing and a counter-pivot arranged in the housing, the counter-pivot comprising a main body provided with a cavity configured to receive a pivot of the axis of the rotating mobile, the pivot having the shape of a first cone having a first solid angle, the apex of the first cone being rounded with a first predefined radius of curvature comprised in an interval ranging from 5 ⁇ m to 50 ⁇ m, the cavity having a shape of a second cone having a second solid angle greater than the first solid angle, so that the pivot can rotate in the cavity, the apex of the second cone being rounded and having a second predefined radius of curvature, characterized in that the second radius of curvature is less than the first radius of curvature.
  • the bearing is remarkable in that the second radius of curvature is less than the first radius of curvature.
  • the pivot is well maintained in the cavity of the counter-pivot to prevent the axle from jamming in the bearing, while leaving it free to rotate.
  • the pivot can decenter in the bottom of the cavity and risks causing the shaft to jam, so that the balance is braked, or even completely blocked. Thanks to a radius of curvature of the bottom of the cavity smaller than that of the pivot of the axis, the pivot remains centered in the cavity, whatever the movement or the position of the timepiece.
  • this configuration of the counter-pivot makes it possible to keep a constant friction of the pivot inside the counter-pivot, whatever the position of the axis with respect to the direction of gravity, which is for example important for a balance shaft of a movement of a timepiece.
  • the cone shape of the cavity, as well as that of the pivot minimizes the difference in friction between the different positions of the axis with respect to the direction of gravity.
  • the second radius of curvature is less than 40 ⁇ m.
  • the second radius of curvature is less than 30 ⁇ m.
  • the second radius of curvature is less than 20 ⁇ m.
  • the second radius of curvature is less than 10 ⁇ m.
  • the second radius of curvature is substantially equal to 4 ⁇ m.
  • the second radius of curvature is at least equal to 0.1 ⁇ m.
  • the second radius of curvature is at least equal to 1 ⁇ m.
  • the main body of the counter-pivot is formed of a material to be chosen from the following list: an at least partially amorphous metal alloy, an electro-formed material, or a synthetic material.
  • the cavity can be obtained by a process of hot deformation of an at least partially amorphous metal alloy by a tool whose diameter is less than the first radius of curvature of the first cone.
  • the second solid angle is within a range ranging from 60 to 120°, or even 80 to 100°, preferably equal to 90°.
  • the at least partially amorphous metal alloy can be crystallized in order to create phases favorable to friction.
  • the at least partially amorphous metal alloy is ceramized to harden the surface of the main body, in particular in the second cone of the cavity.
  • the main body of the counter-pivot can be produced by a process of galvanic growth, such as electroforming on a corresponding cavity.
  • the main body of the counter-pivot made of synthetic material, for example of the POM type, and can be obtained by molding.
  • the main body of the counter-pivot made of composite material for example of the POM type loaded with particles of a material that lowers friction, for example PTFE, and can be obtained by molding.
  • it comprises an elastic support for the counter-pivot, such as a spring, to absorb shocks.
  • the main body of the counter-pivot and the elastic support are formed from the same piece.
  • the resilient support may be formed by a LIGA type lithography, electrodeposition and forming process.
  • the main body of the counter-pivot is molded onto the elastic support.
  • the first radius of curvature is within an interval ranging from 0.2 ⁇ m to 35 ⁇ m.
  • the first solid angle of the first cone is within an interval ranging from 0.2 ⁇ m to 25 ⁇ m.
  • the first solid angle of the first cone is within an interval ranging from 0.2 to 15 ⁇ m.
  • the invention also relates to a rotating mobile of a watch movement, such as a pendulum, for a bearing according to the invention, the mobile being provided with an axis with at least one pivot having the shape of a first cone having a first predefined solid angle, the vertex of the first cone being rounded and having a first predefined radius of curvature.
  • the mobile is remarkable in that the first radius of curvature is included in an interval going from 0.2 ⁇ m to 50 ⁇ m.
  • the first radius of curvature is within an interval ranging from 0.2 ⁇ m to 35 ⁇ m.
  • the first radius of curvature is within an interval ranging from 0.2 ⁇ m to 25 ⁇ m.
  • the first radius of curvature is within an interval ranging from 0.2 to 15 ⁇ m.
  • a particular shape of the rotary wheel set is defined in claim 17, in which the apex of the first cone of the pivot is cut to form a third circular cone, presenting a third solid angle greater than the first solid angle.
  • the third solid angle is substantially equal to the second angle of the counter-pivot.
  • the invention also relates to a watch movement comprising a plate and at least one bridge, said plate and/or the bridge comprising an orifice.
  • the movement is remarkable in that it comprises a bearing according to the invention inserted in the orifice and a rotating mobile according to the invention.
  • a bearing and an axle of a rotary wheel set will be described according to two embodiments, the same numbers being used to designate identical objects.
  • the bearing is used to maintain an axis of a rotating mobile, for example a pendulum axis, by allowing it to perform rotations around its axis.
  • the watch movement generally comprises a plate and at least one bridge, not shown in the figures, said plate and/or the bridge comprising an orifice, the movement further comprising a rotating wheel set and a bearing inserted in the orifice.
  • the picture 3 shows part 15 of a watch movement comprising two bearings 18, 20 and an axis 16 of a balance held at each end by two bearings 18, 20.
  • the axis 16 comprises a pivot 17 at each end, the pivots being formed in a hard material, preferably ruby.
  • Each bearing 18, 20 comprises a cylindrical bearing block 13 provided with a housing 14, a counter-pivot 22 arranged in the housing 14, and an opening 19 made in one face of the bearing 18, 20, the opening 19 leaving a passage for inserting the pivot 17 in the bearing as far as the counter-pivot 22.
  • the counter-pivot 22 comprises a main body provided with a cavity configured to receive the pivot 17 of the axis of the rotary wheel set. The pivots 17 of the shaft 16 are inserted into the housing 14, the shaft 16 being held while being able to rotate to allow the movement of the rotating mobile.
  • the two bearings 18, 20 are shock absorbers, and further comprise an elastic support 21 of the counter-pivot 22 to absorb shocks and prevent the axis 16 from breaking.
  • An elastic support 21, represented on the figure 4 is for example a flat spring with axial and radial deformation on which the counter-pivot 22 is assembled.
  • the elastic support 21 is fitted into the housing 14 of the bearing block 13 and it maintains the counter-pivot 22 in suspension in the housing 14.
  • the elastic support 21 has the shape of a spiral with several strands 25, here three, each strand 25 connecting a rigid central ring 24 to a rigid peripheral ring 23.
  • the peripheral ring 23 is fitted into the housing 14 of the bearing block 13 and held by one or more internal faces of the bearing block 13 of the picture 3 .
  • the counter-pivot 22 is fitted into the central ring 24 of the elastic support 21.
  • the material of the elastic support and its thickness is chosen to allow its deformation by a strong force, for example following an impact which can generate a force of 100G or 200G, one G being the force of earth's attraction due to gravity.
  • the pivot 17 has the shape of a substantially circular first cone 26 having a first solid angle 31.
  • the solid angle 31 is the angle formed inside the cone by its outer wall.
  • the vertex 29 of the first cone 26 is also rounded with a first predefined radius of curvature to allow rotation of the pivot 17.
  • the first radius of curvature is included in an interval ranging for example from 0.2 ⁇ m to 40 ⁇ m, or even 0.2 ⁇ m to 25 ⁇ m, preferably from 0.2 ⁇ m to 15 ⁇ m. On the picture 3 , the first radius of curvature is equal to 10 ⁇ m.
  • the cavity of the counter-pivot 22 has the shape of a second cone 28 having a second solid angle 32 at the apex.
  • second solid angle 32 is greater than first solid angle 31 of first cone 26. , or even 80 to 100°.
  • the second solid angle 32 is substantially equal to 90° on the picture 3 , because it is the angle which makes it possible to have a substantially equal friction between the different positions of the axis with respect to the direction of gravity, as explained previously.
  • the apex 27 of the second cone 28 is also rounded and has a second predefined radius of curvature. The curvatures of the vertices 27, 29 of the two cones 26, 28 facilitate the rotation of the pivot 17 in the counter-pivot 22.
  • the second radius of curvature 27 of the second cone 28 of the counter-pivot 22 is less than the first radius of curvature 29 of the first cone 26 of the pivot 19.
  • the second radius of curvature is for example less than 40 ⁇ m, or less than 30 ⁇ m, or even less than 20 ⁇ m, or even less than 10 ⁇ m.
  • the second radius of curvature is preferably at least equal to 0.1 ⁇ m, or even greater than 1 ⁇ m.
  • the second radius of curvature is equal to 4 ⁇ m, while the first radius of curvature is 10 ⁇ m.
  • Such radii of curvature improve the centering of the pivot 17 in the cavity and further avoid the risk of the axis being off-centered between the bearings 22.
  • the second radius of curvature of the counter-pivot is equal to 10 ⁇ m, while the first radius of curvature is 15 ⁇ m.
  • the counter-pivot 22 is the same as that of the first embodiment, but the pivot 30 is different.
  • the vertex 40 of the first cone 33 of the pivot 30 is recut to form a third circular cone 35, having a third solid angle 42 substantially equal to the second solid angle 32 of the second cone 28 of the counter-pivot 22.
  • the second solid angle 32 and the third solid angle 42 are 90°.
  • the third cone 35 is restricted around the vertex 40 of the pivot 30.
  • the third cone 35 has an average diameter 37 of 29 ⁇ m and a lateral radius 38 of 21 ⁇ m, while the height of the first cone is for example 500 ⁇ m.
  • the first cone 33 forms the body of the pivot 30, but it is truncated at its apex by the third cone 35 whose solid angle 42 is different to adapt to the cavity of the counter-pivot 22.
  • the third cone 35 has the same rounded apex with the same radius of curvature as the first cone 26 of the first mode of realization of the figure 5 , to keep the same advantages.
  • the connection between the pivot 30 and the counter-pivot 22 is also improved by slightly increasing the friction zone, to avoid premature wear of the pivot 30 and the counter-pivot 22.
  • the material used to make the body of the tailstock must be specifically chosen. Indeed, the materials conventionally used to manufacture counter-pivots are too hard to obtain such a radius of curvature.
  • the machining of a ruby or steel material allows to obtain second radii of curvature in the cavity of the counter-pivot of more than 40 ⁇ m, because the tool used to hollow out the cavity must have a thickness enough not to break during the machining of the main body of the counter-pivot.
  • the main body of the counter-pivot is formed of a material to be chosen from the following list: an at least partially amorphous metal alloy, an electro-formed material, an synthetic, or a composite material.
  • the main body is formed from an at least partially amorphous metal alloy comprising a metal element.
  • This metallic element can be a conventional metallic element of the iron, nickel, zirconium, titanium or aluminum type or a precious metallic element such as gold, platinum, palladium, rhenium, ruthenium, rhodium, silver, iridium or osmium.
  • the material is able to solidify at least partially in the amorphous phase, that is to say that it is subjected to a rise in temperature above its melting temperature allowing it to locally lose any crystalline structure, said rise being followed by cooling to a temperature below its glass transition temperature allowing it to become at least partially amorphous.
  • the amorphous metal is for example chosen from the following compositions: Zr58.5Cu15.6Ni12.8Al10.3Nb2.8 based on Zirconium (Zr), Pd43Cu27Ni10P20 based on Palladium (Pd), or Pt57.5Cu14.7Ni5.3P22. 5 based on Platinum (Pt).
  • Other compositions of amorphous metals can of course be used, and the invention is in no way limited to these examples.
  • the cavity is then obtained by a hot deformation process.
  • the amorphous metal is heated to a temperature above its glass transition temperature, which considerably reduces its viscosity and therefore makes it possible to faithfully replicate the tool on which it is deformed.
  • the tool will have been previously machined to have a conical shape whose radius of curvature is substantially equal to the second desired radius of curvature.
  • the second radius of curvature is smaller than the first radius of curvature.
  • the amorphous metal can be ceramized to improve the tribological properties and thus harden the surface of the main body, in particular in the second cone of the cavity.
  • the surface treatment consists in forming a layer of ceramic nature on this surface.
  • routes chemical, thermal, plasma, etc.
  • the main body of the counter-pivot is formed by an electro-formed material, for example of the type Ni, Ni-P, Ni-Co, Pd, Pd-Co, Pt , Au750, Au9ct, or others.
  • the galvanic growth is operated on a corresponding imprint.
  • the imprint has the shape of a convex cone whose dimensions correspond to those of the second cone.
  • a third embodiment of the formation of the main body consists in forming the main body in a synthetic or composite material, such as a polymer material or a filled polymer material.
  • the polymer is chosen from the group comprising polyoxymethylene, polyamide, polyetheretherketone, polyphenylene sulfide.
  • the filler can be, for example, particles of PTFE or of graphite, making it possible to modify the tribological properties of the base polymer material.
  • Other types of fillers can be envisaged, such as for example silicon oxide nanoparticles or other ceramics to mechanically reinforce the base polymer. It is also of course possible to combine several types of fillers with a given polymer.
  • the material is molded on an imprint corresponding to the desired shape.
  • the imprint has the shape of a convex cone whose dimensions correspond to those of the second cone. The body is obtained by molding this material on the impression.
  • the main body of the counter-pivot and the elastic support are formed from the same piece.
  • the main body and the elastic support are made of the same material, for example of amorphous metal, to form a single piece.
  • the main body of the counter-pivot is molded onto the elastic support.
  • the elastic support is formed beforehand by a LIGA type lithography, electrodeposition and forming process (for “Rôntgenlithographie, Galvanoformung, Abformung” in German).

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  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Manufacturing & Machinery (AREA)
  • Sliding-Contact Bearings (AREA)

Description

Domaine de l'inventionField of invention

La présente invention concerne un palier d'un mouvement horloger, notamment amortisseur de choc, pour un axe d'un mobile tournant. L'invention se rapporte également à un mobile tournant d'un mouvement horloger. L'invention se rapporte encore à un mouvement horloger muni d'un tel palier et d'un tel mobile tournant.The present invention relates to a bearing of a watch movement, in particular a shock absorber, for an axis of a rotating mobile. The invention also relates to a rotating mobile of a watch movement. The invention also relates to a watch movement provided with such a bearing and such a rotating wheel set.

Arrière-plan de l'inventionBackground of the invention

Dans les mouvements horlogers, les axes des mobiles tournants ont généralement des pivots à leurs extrémités, qui tournent dans des paliers montés dans la platine ou dans des ponts d'un mouvement horloger. Pour certains mobiles, en particulier le balancier, il est d'usage d'équiper les paliers d'un mécanisme amortisseur de choc. En effet, comme les pivots de l'axe d'un balancier sont généralement fins et la masse du balancier est relativement élevée, les pivots peuvent casser sous l'effet d'un choc en l'absence de mécanisme amortisseur.In watch movements, the axes of revolving mobiles generally have pivots at their ends, which turn in bearings mounted in the plate or in bridges of a watch movement. For certain mobiles, in particular the balance wheel, it is customary to equip the bearings with a shock-absorbing mechanism. Indeed, as the pivots of the axis of a balance are generally thin and the mass of the balance is relatively high, the pivots can break under the effect of a shock in the absence of a damping mechanism.

La configuration d'un palier amortisseur de choc 1 conventionnel est représentée par la figure 1. Une pierre bombée olivée 2 est chassée dans un support de palier 3 appelé communément chaton, sur lequel est montée une pierre contre-pivot 4. Le chaton 3 est maintenu en appui contre le fond d'un bloc de palier 5 par un ressort amortisseur 6 agencé pour exercer une contrainte axiale sur la partie supérieure de la pierre contre-pivot 4. Le chaton 3 comporte en outre une paroi externe conique agencée en correspondance avec une paroi interne conique disposée à la périphérie du fond du bloc de palier 5. Il existe également des variantes selon lesquelles le chaton comporte une paroi externe présentant une surface de forme convexe, c'est-à-dire bombée.The configuration of a conventional shock absorber bearing 1 is represented by the figure 1 . A domed olive-shaped stone 2 is driven into a bearing support 3 commonly called a chaton, on which is mounted a counter-pivot stone 4. The chaton 3 is held against the bottom of a bearing block 5 by a damping spring 6 arranged to exert an axial stress on the upper part of the counter-pivot stone 4. The bezel 3 further comprises a conical outer wall arranged in correspondence with a conical inner wall arranged at the periphery of the bottom of the bearing block 5. There is also variants according to which the kitten comprises an outer wall having a surface of convex shape, that is to say domed.

Cependant, il existe des problèmes de frottement qui engendrent des différences d'angle de rotation de l'axe selon la position dans laquelle se trouve le mobile tournant par rapport à la gravité. En effet, lorsque l'axe est perpendiculaire au sens de la gravité, il frotte plus fortement contre la pierre bombée 2 de sorte que l'angle de rotation du balancier est diminué par rapport à celui qu'il fait lorsqu'il est parallèle au sens de la gravité. La précision du mouvement est par conséquent réduite par cette différence.However, there are friction problems which generate differences in the angle of rotation of the shaft depending on the position in which the rotating mobile is located with respect to gravity. Indeed, when the axis is perpendicular to the direction of gravity, it rubs more strongly against the domed stone 2 so that the angle of rotation of the balance wheel is reduced compared to that which it makes when it is parallel to the sense of gravity. The precision of the movement is therefore reduced by this difference.

Pour contrôler ce problème, on a imaginé une autre configuration de palier amortisseur, en partie représenté sur la figure 2. Le palier 10 comporte un contre pivot 7 de type crapaudine, comprenant une cavité 8 en forme de cône pour recevoir un pivot 12 de l'axe 9 du mobile tournant, le fond de la cavité étant formé par le sommet 11 du cône. Le pivot 12 est également conique pour s'insérer dans la cavité 8, mais l'angle solide du pivot 12 est plus petit que celui du cône de la cavité 8. Cette configuration permet de contrôler la différence de frottement de sorte que la différence d'angle entre les positions précitées est bien moindre. En effet, grâce à cette géométrie, les frottements de la position perpendiculaire au sens de la gravité sont plus faibles.To control this problem, we imagined another damping bearing configuration, partly represented on the figure 2 . The bearing 10 comprises a counter pivot 7 of the center plate type, comprising a cavity 8 in the shape of a cone to receive a pivot 12 of the axis 9 of the rotary wheel set, the bottom of the cavity being formed by the top 11 of the cone. Pivot 12 is also tapered to fit into cavity 8, but the solid angle of pivot 12 is smaller than that of the cone of cavity 8. This configuration controls the difference in friction so that the difference in The angle between the aforementioned positions is much less. Indeed, thanks to this geometry, the friction of the position perpendicular to the direction of gravity is lower.

Cependant, ce type palier a un inconvénient important concernant le centrage de l'axe par rapport aux crapaudines. En effet, on n'arrive pas à atteindre un bon centrage dans les configurations actuelles de ce type d'amortisseur. Ainsi, le risque est important d'avoir un blocage de l'axe par coincement entre les crapaudines maintenant de part et d'autre l'axe du mobile tournant.However, this type of bearing has a significant drawback concerning the centering of the axis with respect to the bearing plates. Indeed, it is not possible to achieve good centering in the current configurations of this type of shock absorber. Thus, there is a high risk of having the shaft jammed by jamming between the clamps holding the shaft of the rotating mobile on either side.

On connaît le document FR 1 333 053 A , qui divulgue un contre-pivot comprenant un corps principal muni d'une cavité configurée pour recevoir un pivot ayant une forme de premier cône présentant un premier angle solide, le sommet du premier cône étant arrondi avec un premier rayon de courbure prédéfini compris dans un intervalle allant de 0.2 µm à 50 µm, la cavité ayant une forme de second cône présentant un second angle solide supérieur au premier angle solide, de sorte que le pivot puisse tourner dans la cavité, le sommet du second cône étant arrondi et présentant un second rayon de courbure prédéfini.We know the document FR 1 333 053 A , which discloses a counter-pivot comprising a main body provided with a cavity configured to receive a pivot having the shape of a first cone having a first solid angle, the apex of the first cone being rounded with a first predefined radius of curvature included in a range from 0.2 µm to 50 µm, the cavity having a shape of a second cone having a second solid angle greater than the first solid angle, so that the pivot can rotate in the cavity, the top of the second cone being rounded and having a second predefined radius of curvature.

Résumé de l'inventionSummary of the invention

Un but de l'invention est, par conséquent, de proposer un palier, notamment amortisseur de choc, pour un axe d'un mobile tournant d'un mouvement horloger, par exemple un axe d'un balancier, qui évite le problème précité. Un tel palier permet de centrer correctement l'axe dans la crapaudine.An object of the invention is, therefore, to provide a bearing, in particular a shock absorber, for an axis of a rotating mobile of a watch movement, for example an axis of a balance wheel, which avoids the aforementioned problem. Such a bearing makes it possible to correctly center the axis in the center plate.

A cet effet, l'invention concerne un palier comportant un bloc de palier muni d'un logement et un contre-pivot agencé dans le logement, le contre-pivot comprenant un corps principal muni d'une cavité configurée pour recevoir un pivot de l'axe du mobile tournant, le pivot ayant une forme de premier cône présentant un premier angle solide, le sommet du premier cône étant arrondi avec un premier rayon de courbure prédéfini compris dans un intervalle allant de 5 µm à 50 µm, la cavité ayant une forme de second cône présentant un second angle solide supérieur au premier angle solide, de sorte que le pivot puisse tourner dans la cavité, le sommet du second cône étant arrondi et présentant un second rayon de courbure prédéfini, caractérisé en ce que le second rayon de courbure est inférieur au premier rayon de courbure.To this end, the invention relates to a bearing comprising a bearing block provided with a housing and a counter-pivot arranged in the housing, the counter-pivot comprising a main body provided with a cavity configured to receive a pivot of the axis of the rotating mobile, the pivot having the shape of a first cone having a first solid angle, the apex of the first cone being rounded with a first predefined radius of curvature comprised in an interval ranging from 5 μm to 50 μm, the cavity having a shape of a second cone having a second solid angle greater than the first solid angle, so that the pivot can rotate in the cavity, the apex of the second cone being rounded and having a second predefined radius of curvature, characterized in that the second radius of curvature is less than the first radius of curvature.

Le palier est remarquable en ce que le second rayon de courbure est inférieur au premier rayon de courbure.The bearing is remarkable in that the second radius of curvature is less than the first radius of curvature.

Ainsi, le pivot est bien maintenu dans la cavité du contre-pivot pour éviter que l'axe ne puisse se bloquer dans le palier, tout en le laissant libre de tourner. En effet, lorsque le rayon de courbure du fond de la cavité est plus grand que celui du pivot de l'axe, le pivot peut se décentrer dans le fond de la cavité et risque d'engendrer un coincement de l'axe, de sorte que le balancier est freiné, voire complètement bloqué. Grâce à un rayon de courbure du fond de la cavité plus petit que celui du pivot de l'axe, le pivot reste centré dans la cavité, quel que soit le mouvement ou la position de la pièce d'horlogerie.Thus, the pivot is well maintained in the cavity of the counter-pivot to prevent the axle from jamming in the bearing, while leaving it free to rotate. In fact, when the radius of curvature of the bottom of the cavity is greater than that of the pivot of the shaft, the pivot can decenter in the bottom of the cavity and risks causing the shaft to jam, so that the balance is braked, or even completely blocked. Thanks to a radius of curvature of the bottom of the cavity smaller than that of the pivot of the axis, the pivot remains centered in the cavity, whatever the movement or the position of the timepiece.

En outre, cette configuration du contre-pivot permet de garder un frottement constant du pivot à l'intérieur du contre-pivot, quelle que soit la position de l'axe par rapport au sens de la gravité, ce qui est par exemple important pour un axe de balancier d'un mouvement d'une pièce d'horlogerie. La forme de cône de la cavité, ainsi que celle du pivot minimisent la différence de frottement entre les différentes positions de l'axe par rapport au sens de la gravité.In addition, this configuration of the counter-pivot makes it possible to keep a constant friction of the pivot inside the counter-pivot, whatever the position of the axis with respect to the direction of gravity, which is for example important for a balance shaft of a movement of a timepiece. The cone shape of the cavity, as well as that of the pivot, minimizes the difference in friction between the different positions of the axis with respect to the direction of gravity.

Des formes particulières du palier sont définies dans les revendications dépendantes 2 à 15.Particular forms of the bearing are defined in dependent claims 2 to 15.

Selon une forme de réalisation avantageuse, le second rayon de courbure est inférieur à 40 µm.According to an advantageous embodiment, the second radius of curvature is less than 40 μm.

Selon une forme de réalisation avantageuse, le second rayon de courbure est inférieurà 30 µm.According to an advantageous embodiment, the second radius of curvature is less than 30 μm.

Selon une autre forme de réalisation avantageuse, le second rayon de courbure est inférieur à 20 µm.According to another advantageous embodiment, the second radius of curvature is less than 20 μm.

Selon une autre forme de réalisation avantageuse, le second rayon de courbure est inférieur à 10 µm.According to another advantageous embodiment, the second radius of curvature is less than 10 μm.

Selon une autre forme de réalisation avantageuse, le second rayon de courbure est sensiblement égal à 4 µm.According to another advantageous embodiment, the second radius of curvature is substantially equal to 4 μm.

Selon une autre forme de réalisation avantageuse, le second rayon de courbure est au moins égal à 0.1µm.According to another advantageous embodiment, the second radius of curvature is at least equal to 0.1 μm.

Selon une autre forme de réalisation avantageuse, le second rayon de courbure est au moins égal à 1µm.According to another advantageous embodiment, the second radius of curvature is at least equal to 1 μm.

Selon un mode de réalisation préféré, le corps principal du contre-pivot est formé d'un matériau à choisir parmi la liste suivante : un alliage de métal au moins partiellement amorphe, un matériau électro-formé, ou un matériau synthétique.According to a preferred embodiment, the main body of the counter-pivot is formed of a material to be chosen from the following list: an at least partially amorphous metal alloy, an electro-formed material, or a synthetic material.

La cavité peut être obtenue par un procédé de déformation à chaud d'un alliage de métal au moins partiellement amorphe par un outil dont le diamètre est inférieur au premier rayon de courbure du premier cône.The cavity can be obtained by a process of hot deformation of an at least partially amorphous metal alloy by a tool whose diameter is less than the first radius of curvature of the first cone.

Avantageusement, le second angle solide est compris dans un intervalle allant de 60 à 120°, voire 80 à 100°, de préférence égal à 90°.Advantageously, the second solid angle is within a range ranging from 60 to 120°, or even 80 to 100°, preferably equal to 90°.

L'alliage de métal au moins partiellement amorphe peut être cristallisé afin de créer des phases favorables au frottement.The at least partially amorphous metal alloy can be crystallized in order to create phases favorable to friction.

Avantageusement, l'alliage de métal au moins partiellement amorphe est céramisé pour durcir la surface du corps principal, notamment dans le second cône de la cavité.Advantageously, the at least partially amorphous metal alloy is ceramized to harden the surface of the main body, in particular in the second cone of the cavity.

Le corps principal du contre-pivot peut être produit par un procédé de croissance galvanique, tel l'électroformage sur une empreinte correspondante.The main body of the counter-pivot can be produced by a process of galvanic growth, such as electroforming on a corresponding cavity.

Selon une forme de réalisation, le corps principal du contre-pivot en matériau synthétique, par exemple de type POM, et peut être obtenu par moulage.According to one embodiment, the main body of the counter-pivot made of synthetic material, for example of the POM type, and can be obtained by molding.

Selon une forme de réalisation, le corps principal du contre-pivot en matériau composite, par exemple de type POM chargé avec des particules d'un matériau abaissant le frottement, par exemple du PTFE, et peut être obtenu par moulage.According to one embodiment, the main body of the counter-pivot made of composite material, for example of the POM type loaded with particles of a material that lowers friction, for example PTFE, and can be obtained by molding.

Avantageusement il comprend un support élastique du contre-pivot, tel un ressort, pour amortir les chocs.Advantageously, it comprises an elastic support for the counter-pivot, such as a spring, to absorb shocks.

Selon une forme de réalisation, le corps principal du contre-pivot et le support élastique sont formés d'une même pièce.According to one embodiment, the main body of the counter-pivot and the elastic support are formed from the same piece.

Le support élastique peut être formé par un procédé de lithographie, électrodéposition et formage de type LIGA.The resilient support may be formed by a LIGA type lithography, electrodeposition and forming process.

Selon une forme de réalisation, le corps principal du contre-pivot est surmoulé sur le support élastique.According to one embodiment, the main body of the counter-pivot is molded onto the elastic support.

Selon une forme de réalisation, le premier rayon de courbure est compris dans un intervalle allant de 0.2 µm à 35µm.According to one embodiment, the first radius of curvature is within an interval ranging from 0.2 μm to 35 μm.

Selon une forme de réalisation, le premier angle solide du premier cône est compris dans un intervalle allant de 0.2 µm à 25µm.According to one embodiment, the first solid angle of the first cone is within an interval ranging from 0.2 μm to 25 μm.

Selon une forme de réalisation, le premier angle solide du premier cône est compris dans un intervalle allant de 0.2 à 15 µm.According to one embodiment, the first solid angle of the first cone is within an interval ranging from 0.2 to 15 μm.

L'invention se rapporte également à un mobile tournant d'un mouvement horloger, tel un balancier, pour un palier selon l'invention, le mobile étant muni d'un axe avec au moins un pivot ayant une forme de premier cône présentant un premier angle solide prédéfini, le sommet du premier cône étant arrondi et présentant un premier rayon de courbure prédéfini. Le mobile est remarquable en ce que le premier rayon de courbure est compris dans un intervalle allant de 0.2 µm à 50 µm.The invention also relates to a rotating mobile of a watch movement, such as a pendulum, for a bearing according to the invention, the mobile being provided with an axis with at least one pivot having the shape of a first cone having a first predefined solid angle, the vertex of the first cone being rounded and having a first predefined radius of curvature. The mobile is remarkable in that the first radius of curvature is included in an interval going from 0.2 μm to 50 μm.

Selon une forme de réalisation avantageuse, le premier rayon de courbure est compris dans un intervalle allant de 0.2 µm à 35µm.According to an advantageous embodiment, the first radius of curvature is within an interval ranging from 0.2 μm to 35 μm.

Selon une forme de réalisation avantageuse, le premier rayon de courbure est compris dans un intervalle allant de 0.2 µm à 25µm.According to an advantageous embodiment, the first radius of curvature is within an interval ranging from 0.2 μm to 25 μm.

Selon une forme de réalisation avantageuse, le premier rayon de courbure est compris dans un intervalle allant de 0.2 à 15 µm.According to an advantageous embodiment, the first radius of curvature is within an interval ranging from 0.2 to 15 μm.

Une forme particulière du mobile tournant est définie dans la revendication 17, dans laquelle le sommet du premier cône du pivot est taillé pour former un troisième cône circulaire, présentant un troisième angle solide supérieur au premier angle solide.A particular shape of the rotary wheel set is defined in claim 17, in which the apex of the first cone of the pivot is cut to form a third circular cone, presenting a third solid angle greater than the first solid angle.

Avantageusement, le troisième angle solide est sensiblement égal au second angle du contre-pivot.Advantageously, the third solid angle is substantially equal to the second angle of the counter-pivot.

L'invention se rapporte encore à un mouvement horloger comprenant une platine et au moins un pont, ladite platine et/ou le pont comportant un orifice. Le mouvement est remarquable en ce qu'il comporte un palier selon l'invention inséré dans l'orifice et un mobile tournant selon l'invention.The invention also relates to a watch movement comprising a plate and at least one bridge, said plate and/or the bridge comprising an orifice. The movement is remarkable in that it comprises a bearing according to the invention inserted in the orifice and a rotating mobile according to the invention.

Description sommaire des dessinsBrief description of the drawings

D'autres caractéristiques et avantages de la présente invention apparaîtront à la lecture de plusieurs formes de réalisation données uniquement à titre d'exemples non limitatifs, en référence aux dessins annexés dans lesquels :

  • la figure 1 représente une section transversale d'un palier de maintien amortisseur de choc pour un axe d'un mobile tournant selon un premier mode de réalisation de l'état de la technique ;
  • la figure 2 représente schématiquement un contre-pivot d'un palier et un pivot d'un axe d'un mobile tournant selon un deuxième mode de réalisation de l'état de la technique ;
  • la figure 3 représente schématiquement une section transversale d'une partie d'un mouvement horloger comprenant un axe de balancier maintenu par deux paliers selon l'invention,
  • la figure 4 représente une vue schématique d'un support élastique pour un pallier amortisseur de chocs selon l'invention.
  • la figure 5 représente un contre-pivot d'un palier de maintien et un pivot d'un axe d'un mobile tournant selon un premier mode de réalisation de l'invention ;
  • la figure 6 représente schématiquement un contre-pivot d'un palier de maintien et un pivot d'un axe d'un mobile tournant selon un deuxième mode de réalisation de l'invention ; et
  • la figure 7 représente schématiquement une vue agrandie du contre-pivot et du pivot du deuxième mode de réalisation de l'invention
Other characteristics and advantages of the present invention will appear on reading several embodiments given solely by way of non-limiting examples, with reference to the appended drawings in which:
  • the figure 1 shows a cross section of a shock-absorbing bearing bearing for an axis of a rotating mobile according to a first embodiment of the state of the art;
  • the figure 2 schematically represents a counter-pivot of a bearing and a pivot of an axis of a rotating mobile according to a second embodiment of the state of the art;
  • the picture 3 schematically represents a cross section of part of a watch movement comprising a balance shaft held by two bearings according to the invention,
  • the figure 4 represents a schematic view of an elastic support for a shock-absorbing bearing according to the invention.
  • the figure 5 shows a counter-pivot of a holding bearing and a pivot of an axis of a rotating mobile according to a first embodiment of the invention;
  • the figure 6 schematically represents a counter-pivot of a holding bearing and a pivot of an axis of a rotating mobile according to a second embodiment of the invention; and
  • the figure 7 schematically represents an enlarged view of the counter-pivot and the pivot of the second embodiment of the invention

Description détaillée de modes de réalisation préférésDetailed Description of Preferred Embodiments

Un palier et un axe d'un mobile tournant vont être décrits selon deux modes de réalisation, les mêmes numéros étant utilisés pour désigner des objets identiques. Dans un mouvement horloger, le palier sert à maintenir un axe d'un mobile tournant, par exemple un axe de balancier, en lui permettant d'effectuer des rotations autour de son axe. Le mouvement horloger comprend généralement une platine et au moins un pont, non représentés sur les figures, ladite platine et/ou le pont comportant un orifice, le mouvement comprenant en outre un mobile tournant et un palier inséré dans l'orifice.A bearing and an axle of a rotary wheel set will be described according to two embodiments, the same numbers being used to designate identical objects. In a watch movement, the bearing is used to maintain an axis of a rotating mobile, for example a pendulum axis, by allowing it to perform rotations around its axis. The watch movement generally comprises a plate and at least one bridge, not shown in the figures, said plate and/or the bridge comprising an orifice, the movement further comprising a rotating wheel set and a bearing inserted in the orifice.

La figure 3 montre une partie 15 d'un mouvement horloger comprenant deux paliers 18, 20 et un axe 16 d'un balancier maintenu à chaque extrémité par deux paliers 18, 20. L'axe 16 comprend un pivot 17 à chaque extrémité, les pivots étant formés dans un matériau dur, de préférence en rubis. Chaque palier 18, 20 comporte un bloc de palier 13 cylindrique muni d'un logement 14, un contre-pivot 22 agencé dans le logement 14, et une ouverture 19 opérée dans une face du palier 18, 20, l'ouverture 19 laissant un passage pour insérer le pivot 17 dans le palier jusqu'au contre-pivot 22. Le contre-pivot 22 comprend un corps principal muni d'une cavité configurée pour recevoir le pivot 17 de l'axe du mobile tournant. Les pivots 17 de l'axe 16 sont insérés dans le logement 14, l'axe 16 étant maintenu tout en pouvant tourner pour permettre le mouvement du mobile tournant.The picture 3 shows part 15 of a watch movement comprising two bearings 18, 20 and an axis 16 of a balance held at each end by two bearings 18, 20. The axis 16 comprises a pivot 17 at each end, the pivots being formed in a hard material, preferably ruby. Each bearing 18, 20 comprises a cylindrical bearing block 13 provided with a housing 14, a counter-pivot 22 arranged in the housing 14, and an opening 19 made in one face of the bearing 18, 20, the opening 19 leaving a passage for inserting the pivot 17 in the bearing as far as the counter-pivot 22. The counter-pivot 22 comprises a main body provided with a cavity configured to receive the pivot 17 of the axis of the rotary wheel set. The pivots 17 of the shaft 16 are inserted into the housing 14, the shaft 16 being held while being able to rotate to allow the movement of the rotating mobile.

Les deux paliers 18, 20 sont amortisseurs, et comprennent en plus un support élastique 21 du contre-pivot 22 pour amortir les chocs et éviter que l'axe 16 ne se brise. Un support élastique 21, représenté sur la figure 4, est par exemple un ressort plat à déformation axiale et radiale sur lequel le contre-pivot 22 est assemblé. Le support élastique 21 est emboîté dans le logement 14 du bloc de palier 13 et il maintient le contre-pivot 22 en suspension dans le logement 14. Ainsi, lorsque la pièce horlogère subit un choc violent, le ressort absorbe le choc et préserve l'axe 16 du mobile tournant. Le support élastique 21 a une forme de spirale à plusieurs brins 25, ici trois, chaque brin 25 reliant un anneau central 24 rigide à un anneau périphérique 23 rigide. L'anneau périphérique 23 est emboîté dans le logement 14 du bloc de palier 13 et maintenu par une ou plusieurs faces internes du bloc de palier 13 de la figure 3. Le contre-pivot 22 est emboité dans l'anneau central 24 du support élastique 21. Le matériau du support élastique et son épaisseur est choisi pour permettre sa déformation par une force importante, par exemple suite à choc qui peut engendrer une force de 100G ou 200G, un G étant la force d'attraction terrestre due à la gravité.The two bearings 18, 20 are shock absorbers, and further comprise an elastic support 21 of the counter-pivot 22 to absorb shocks and prevent the axis 16 from breaking. An elastic support 21, represented on the figure 4 , is for example a flat spring with axial and radial deformation on which the counter-pivot 22 is assembled. The elastic support 21 is fitted into the housing 14 of the bearing block 13 and it maintains the counter-pivot 22 in suspension in the housing 14. Thus, when the timepiece undergoes a violent shock, the spring absorbs the shock and preserves the mobile axis 16 turning. The elastic support 21 has the shape of a spiral with several strands 25, here three, each strand 25 connecting a rigid central ring 24 to a rigid peripheral ring 23. The peripheral ring 23 is fitted into the housing 14 of the bearing block 13 and held by one or more internal faces of the bearing block 13 of the picture 3 . The counter-pivot 22 is fitted into the central ring 24 of the elastic support 21. The material of the elastic support and its thickness is chosen to allow its deformation by a strong force, for example following an impact which can generate a force of 100G or 200G, one G being the force of earth's attraction due to gravity.

Dans un premier mode de réalisation de la figure 5, le pivot 17 a une forme de premier cône 26 sensiblement circulaire présentant un premier angle solide 31. L'angle solide 31 est l'angle formé à l'intérieur du cône par sa paroi externe. Le sommet 29 du premier cône 26 est en outre arrondi avec un premier rayon de courbure prédéfini pour permettre la rotation du pivot 17. Le premier rayon de courbure est compris dans un intervalle allant par exemple de 0.2 µm à 40 µm, voire de 0.2 µm à 25 µm, de préférence de 0.2 µm à 15 µm. Sur la figure 3, le premier rayon de courbure est égal à 10 µm.In a first embodiment of the figure 5 , the pivot 17 has the shape of a substantially circular first cone 26 having a first solid angle 31. The solid angle 31 is the angle formed inside the cone by its outer wall. The vertex 29 of the first cone 26 is also rounded with a first predefined radius of curvature to allow rotation of the pivot 17. The first radius of curvature is included in an interval ranging for example from 0.2 μm to 40 μm, or even 0.2 μm to 25 µm, preferably from 0.2 µm to 15 µm. On the picture 3 , the first radius of curvature is equal to 10 µm.

La cavité du contre-pivot 22 a une forme de second cône 28 présentant un second angle solide 32 au sommet. Pour que le pivot 17 puisse tourner dans la cavité, le second angle solide 32 est supérieur au premier angle solide 31 du premier cône 26. De préférence, le second cône 28 a un second angle solide 32 compris dans un intervalle de 60 à 120°, voire 80 à 100°. Le second angle solide 32 est sensiblement égal à 90° sur la figure 3, car c'est l'angle qui permet d'avoir un frottement sensiblement égal entre les différentes positions de l'axe par rapport au sens de la gravité, comme exposé précédemment. Le sommet 27 du second cône 28 est également arrondi et présente un second rayon de courbure prédéfini. Les courbures des sommets 27, 29 des deux cônes 26, 28 facilitent la rotation du pivot 17 dans le contre-pivot 22.The cavity of the counter-pivot 22 has the shape of a second cone 28 having a second solid angle 32 at the apex. In order for pivot 17 to rotate in the cavity, second solid angle 32 is greater than first solid angle 31 of first cone 26. , or even 80 to 100°. The second solid angle 32 is substantially equal to 90° on the picture 3 , because it is the angle which makes it possible to have a substantially equal friction between the different positions of the axis with respect to the direction of gravity, as explained previously. The apex 27 of the second cone 28 is also rounded and has a second predefined radius of curvature. The curvatures of the vertices 27, 29 of the two cones 26, 28 facilitate the rotation of the pivot 17 in the counter-pivot 22.

Selon l'invention, le second rayon de courbure 27 du second cône 28 du contre-pivot 22 est inférieur au premier rayon de courbure 29 du premier cône 26 du pivot 19. Ainsi, on évite un décentrage du pivot 19 dans le contre-pivot 22, et ainsi les risques de blocage de l'axe. Le second rayon de courbure est par exemple inférieur à 40 µm, ou inférieur à 30 µm, ou encore inférieur à 20 µm, voire inférieur à 10 µm. Le second rayon de courbure est de préférence au moins égal à 0.1 µm, voire supérieur à 1µm.According to the invention, the second radius of curvature 27 of the second cone 28 of the counter-pivot 22 is less than the first radius of curvature 29 of the first cone 26 of the pivot 19. Thus, an off-centering of the pivot 19 in the counter-pivot is avoided. 22, and thus the risks of blocking the axis. The second radius of curvature is for example less than 40 μm, or less than 30 μm, or even less than 20 μm, or even less than 10 μm. The second radius of curvature is preferably at least equal to 0.1 μm, or even greater than 1 μm.

Dans le premier mode de réalisation, représenté sur la figure 5, le second rayon de courbure est égal à 4µm, tandis que le premier rayon de courbure est de 10 µm. De tels rayons de courbure améliorent le centrage du pivot 17 dans la cavité et évite encore davantage un risque de décentrage de l'axe entre les paliers 22.In the first embodiment, shown in the figure 5 , the second radius of curvature is equal to 4 μm, while the first radius of curvature is 10 μm. Such radii of curvature improve the centering of the pivot 17 in the cavity and further avoid the risk of the axis being off-centered between the bearings 22.

Dans une variante de réalisation, non représentée sur les figures, le second rayon de courbure du contre-pivot est égal à 10µm, tandis que le premier rayon de courbure est de 15 µm.In a variant embodiment, not shown in the figures, the second radius of curvature of the counter-pivot is equal to 10 μm, while the first radius of curvature is 15 μm.

D'autres exemples de valeurs sont bien sûr possibles, du moment que le second rayon de courbure est inférieur au premier rayon de courbure. De préférence, ces valeurs appartiennent à l'un des intervalles mentionnés précédemment.Other examples of values are of course possible, as long as the second radius of curvature is less than the first radius of curvature. Preferably, these values belong to one of the intervals mentioned previously.

Dans un deuxième mode de réalisation du mouvement horloger des figures 6 et 7, le contre-pivot 22 est le même que celui du premier mode de réalisation, mais le pivot 30 est différent. En effet, le sommet 40 du premier cône 33 du pivot 30 est retaillé pour former un troisième cône 35 circulaire, présentant un troisième angle solide 42 sensiblement égal au second angle solide 32 du second cône 28 du contre-pivot 22. Dans l'exemple, le second angle solide 32 et le troisième angle solide 42 sont de 90°. Le troisième cône 35 est restreint autour du sommet 40 du pivot 30. Sur les figures 6 et 7, le troisième cône 35 a un diamètre moyen 37 de 29 µm et un rayon latéral 38 de 21µm, tandis que la hauteur du premier cône est par exemple de 500µm. Le premier cône 33 forme le corps du pivot 30, mais il est tronqué à son sommet par le troisième cône 35 dont l'ange solide 42 est différent pour s'adapter à la cavité du contre-pivot 22. Le troisième cône 35 a le même sommet arrondi avec le même rayon de courbure que le premier cône 26 du premier mode de réalisation de la figure 5, pour garder les mêmes avantages. Ainsi, on améliore, en plus, la connexion entre le pivot 30 et le contre-pivot 22 en augmentant un peu la zone de frottement, pour éviter une usure prématurée du pivot 30 et du contre-pivot 22.In a second embodiment of the watch movement of the figures 6 and 7 , the counter-pivot 22 is the same as that of the first embodiment, but the pivot 30 is different. Indeed, the vertex 40 of the first cone 33 of the pivot 30 is recut to form a third circular cone 35, having a third solid angle 42 substantially equal to the second solid angle 32 of the second cone 28 of the counter-pivot 22. In the example , the second solid angle 32 and the third solid angle 42 are 90°. The third cone 35 is restricted around the vertex 40 of the pivot 30. On the figures 6 and 7 , the third cone 35 has an average diameter 37 of 29 μm and a lateral radius 38 of 21 μm, while the height of the first cone is for example 500 μm. The first cone 33 forms the body of the pivot 30, but it is truncated at its apex by the third cone 35 whose solid angle 42 is different to adapt to the cavity of the counter-pivot 22. The third cone 35 has the same rounded apex with the same radius of curvature as the first cone 26 of the first mode of realization of the figure 5 , to keep the same advantages. Thus, the connection between the pivot 30 and the counter-pivot 22 is also improved by slightly increasing the friction zone, to avoid premature wear of the pivot 30 and the counter-pivot 22.

Pour obtenir un second rayon de courbure aussi petit dans une cavité conique d'un contre-pivot, le matériau utilisé pour fabriquer le corps du contre-pivot doit être choisi spécifiquement. En effet, les matériaux classiquement utilisés pour fabriquer des contre-pivots sont trop durs pour obtenir un tel rayon de courbure. Par exemple, l'usinage d'un matériau en rubis ou en acier permet d'obtenir des seconds rayons de courbure dans la cavité du contre-pivot de plus de 40 µm, car l'outil utilisé pour creuser la cavité doit avoir une épaisseur suffisante pour ne pas casser pendant l'usinage du corps principal du contre-pivot.To achieve such a small second radius of curvature in a tapered cavity of a tailstock, the material used to make the body of the tailstock must be specifically chosen. Indeed, the materials conventionally used to manufacture counter-pivots are too hard to obtain such a radius of curvature. For example, the machining of a ruby or steel material allows to obtain second radii of curvature in the cavity of the counter-pivot of more than 40 µm, because the tool used to hollow out the cavity must have a thickness enough not to break during the machining of the main body of the counter-pivot.

Ainsi, pour les deux modes de réalisation selon l'invention, le corps principal du contre-pivot est formé d'un matériau à choisir parmi la liste suivante : un alliage de métal au moins partiellement amorphe, un matériau électro-formé, un matériau synthétique, ou un matériau composite.Thus, for the two embodiments according to the invention, the main body of the counter-pivot is formed of a material to be chosen from the following list: an at least partially amorphous metal alloy, an electro-formed material, an synthetic, or a composite material.

Dans un premier mode de réalisation préférentiel de la formation du contre-pivot, le corps principal est formé d'un alliage métallique au moins partiellement amorphe comprenant un élément métallique. Cet élément métallique peut être un élément métallique classique du type fer, nickel, zirconium, titane ou aluminium ou un élément métallique précieux tel que l'or, le platine, le palladium, le rhénium, le ruthénium, le rhodium, l'argent, l'iridium ou l'osmium. On comprendra par matériau au moins partiellement amorphe que le matériau est apte à se solidifier au moins partiellement en phase amorphe, c'est-à-dire qu'il est soumis à une montée en température au-dessus de sa température de fusion lui permettant de perdre localement toute structure cristalline, ladite montée étant suivie d'un refroidissement à une température inférieure à sa température de transition vitreuse lui permettant de devenir au moins partiellement amorphe.In a first preferred embodiment of the formation of the counter-pivot, the main body is formed from an at least partially amorphous metal alloy comprising a metal element. This metallic element can be a conventional metallic element of the iron, nickel, zirconium, titanium or aluminum type or a precious metallic element such as gold, platinum, palladium, rhenium, ruthenium, rhodium, silver, iridium or osmium. It will be understood by at least partially amorphous material that the material is able to solidify at least partially in the amorphous phase, that is to say that it is subjected to a rise in temperature above its melting temperature allowing it to locally lose any crystalline structure, said rise being followed by cooling to a temperature below its glass transition temperature allowing it to become at least partially amorphous.

Le métal amorphe est par exemple choisi parmi les compositions suivantes: Zr58.5Cu15.6Ni12.8Al10.3Nb2.8 à base de Zirconium (Zr), Pd43Cu27Ni10P20 à base de Palladium (Pd), ou de Pt57.5Cu14.7Ni5.3P22.5 à base de Platine (Pt). D'autres compositions de métaux amorphes sont bien sûr utilisables, et l'invention n'est nullement limitée à ces exemples. La cavité est alors obtenue par un procédé de déformation à chaud. Le métal amorphe est chauffé à une température supérieure à sa température de transition vitreuse ce qui diminue considérablement sa viscosité et permet donc de répliquer fidèlement l'outil sur lequel il est déformé. L'outil aura été préalablement usiné pour avoir une forme conique dont le rayon de courbure est sensiblement égal au second rayon de courbure souhaité. Ainsi, le second rayon de courbure est inférieur au premier rayon de courbure. Grâce à l'utilisation de métal amorphe, l'outil ne subit pas d'usure lors du procédé de formage et conserve donc son rayon d'origine, contrairement au cas de l'usinage de matériaux très durs comme le rubis ou l'acier trempé. On atteint par conséquent des rayons de courbures plus petits, comme ceux requis pour le contre-pivot selon l'invention. Afin d'améliorer les propriétés tribologiques, le contre-pivot peut être cristallisé afin de créer des phases favorables au frottement.The amorphous metal is for example chosen from the following compositions: Zr58.5Cu15.6Ni12.8Al10.3Nb2.8 based on Zirconium (Zr), Pd43Cu27Ni10P20 based on Palladium (Pd), or Pt57.5Cu14.7Ni5.3P22. 5 based on Platinum (Pt). Other compositions of amorphous metals can of course be used, and the invention is in no way limited to these examples. The cavity is then obtained by a hot deformation process. The amorphous metal is heated to a temperature above its glass transition temperature, which considerably reduces its viscosity and therefore makes it possible to faithfully replicate the tool on which it is deformed. The tool will have been previously machined to have a conical shape whose radius of curvature is substantially equal to the second desired radius of curvature. Thus, the second radius of curvature is smaller than the first radius of curvature. Thanks to the use of amorphous metal, the tool does not undergo wear during the forming process and therefore retains its original radius, unlike the case of the machining of very hard materials such as ruby or steel soaked. Consequently, smaller radii of curvature are achieved, such as those required for the counter-pivot according to the invention. In order to improve the tribological properties, the counter-pivot can be crystallized in order to create phases favorable to friction.

Avantageusement, dans ce mode de réalisation, le métal amorphe peut être céramisé pour améliorer les propriétés tribologiques et ainsi durcir la surface du corps principal, en particulier dans le second cône de la cavité. Ainsi, l'usure due au frottement du pivot, par exemple en rubis de l'axe est diminuée grâce à la céramisation. Le traitement de surface consiste à former une couche de nature céramique sur cette surface. Plusieurs voies (chimique, thermique, plasma, etc.) sont envisageables pour former cette couche. On obtient par exemple une couche de surface en matériau ZrO2 ou ZrC ou ZrN, pour un métal amorphe à base de Zirconium (Zr).Advantageously, in this embodiment, the amorphous metal can be ceramized to improve the tribological properties and thus harden the surface of the main body, in particular in the second cone of the cavity. Thus, the wear due to the friction of the pivot, for example in jewel of the axis is reduced thanks to the ceramization. The surface treatment consists in forming a layer of ceramic nature on this surface. Several routes (chemical, thermal, plasma, etc.) can be envisaged to form this layer. We obtains for example a surface layer of ZrO2 or ZrC or ZrN material, for an amorphous metal based on Zirconium (Zr).

Dans un deuxième mode de réalisation de la formation du corps principal, le corps principal du contre-pivot est formé par un matériau électro-formé, par exemple de type Ni, Ni-P, Ni-Co, Pd, Pd-Co, Pt, Au750, Au9ct, ou autres. La croissance galvanique est opérée sur une empreinte correspondante. Ainsi, l'empreinte a une forme de cône convexe dont les dimensions correspondent à celles du second cône.In a second embodiment of the formation of the main body, the main body of the counter-pivot is formed by an electro-formed material, for example of the type Ni, Ni-P, Ni-Co, Pd, Pd-Co, Pt , Au750, Au9ct, or others. The galvanic growth is operated on a corresponding imprint. Thus, the imprint has the shape of a convex cone whose dimensions correspond to those of the second cone.

Un troisième mode de réalisation de la formation du corps principal consiste à former le corps principal dans un matériau synthétique ou composite, tel un matériau polymère ou un matériau polymère chargé. Le polymère est choisi dans le groupe comprenant le polyoxyméthylène, le polyamide, le polyétheréthercétone, le polyphenylene sulfide. Dans le cas d'un matériau composite, la charge peut être par exemple des particules de PTFE ou de graphite, permettant de modifier les propriétés tribologies du matériau polymère de base. D'autres types de charges peuvent être envisagés, comme par exemple des nanoparticules d'oxydes de silicium ou autres céramiques pour renforcer mécaniquement le polymère de base. Il est également bien sûr possible de combiner plusieurs types de charges à un polymère donné. Pour ces types de matériaux on procède par moulage du matériau sur une empreinte correspondant à la forme souhaitée. Ainsi, l'empreinte a une forme de cône convexe dont les dimensions correspondent à celles du second cône. Le corps est obtenu par moulage de ce matériau sur l'empreinte.A third embodiment of the formation of the main body consists in forming the main body in a synthetic or composite material, such as a polymer material or a filled polymer material. The polymer is chosen from the group comprising polyoxymethylene, polyamide, polyetheretherketone, polyphenylene sulfide. In the case of a composite material, the filler can be, for example, particles of PTFE or of graphite, making it possible to modify the tribological properties of the base polymer material. Other types of fillers can be envisaged, such as for example silicon oxide nanoparticles or other ceramics to mechanically reinforce the base polymer. It is also of course possible to combine several types of fillers with a given polymer. For these types of materials, the material is molded on an imprint corresponding to the desired shape. Thus, the imprint has the shape of a convex cone whose dimensions correspond to those of the second cone. The body is obtained by molding this material on the impression.

Avantageusement, dans un palier amortisseur, le corps principal du contre-pivot et le support élastique sont formés d'une même pièce. Autrement dit, le corps principal et le support élastique sont fait d'un même matériau, par exemple en métal amorphe, pour former une pièce monobloc.Advantageously, in a damping bearing, the main body of the counter-pivot and the elastic support are formed from the same piece. In other words, the main body and the elastic support are made of the same material, for example of amorphous metal, to form a single piece.

En variante, le corps principal du contre-pivot est surmoulé sur le support élastique. Le support élastique est préalablement formé par un procédé de lithographie, électrodéposition et formage de type LIGA (pour « Rôntgenlithographie, Galvanoformung, Abformung » en allemand).As a variant, the main body of the counter-pivot is molded onto the elastic support. The elastic support is formed beforehand by a LIGA type lithography, electrodeposition and forming process (for “Rôntgenlithographie, Galvanoformung, Abformung” in German).

Claims (14)

  1. Bearing (18, 20), particularly a shock absorber, for an arbor or staff (16) of a rotary wheel set of a timepiece movement, for example a balance staff, the bearing (18, 20) comprising a bearing block (13) provided with a housing (14) and an endstone (22) arranged inside the housing (14), the endstone (22) comprising a main body provided with a cavity configured to receive a pivot (17, 20) of the arbor (16) of the rotary wheel set, the pivot (17, 30) having the shape of a first cone (26) having a first solid angle (31, 36), the apex (29) of the first cone being rounded with a predefined first radius of curvature comprised in a range from 0.2 µm to 50 µm, the cavity having the shape of a second cone (28) having a second solid angle (32) greater than the first solid angle (31, 36), such that the pivot (17, 30) can rotate in the cavity, the apex of the second cone (28) being rounded and having a predefined second radius of curvature, characterized in that the second radius of curvature is smaller than the first radius of curvature.
  2. Bearing according to claim 1, characterized in that the second radius of curvature is less than 40 µm, or less than 30 µm.
  3. Bearing according to claim 1, characterized in that the second radius of curvature is less than 20 µm, or less than 10 µm.
  4. Bearing according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the main body of the endstone (22) is formed of a material to be chosen from the following list: an at least partially amorphous metal alloy, an electroformed material, a synthetic material or a composite material.
  5. Bearing according to claim 4, characterized in that the at least partially amorphous metal alloy is crystallised to create friction-enhancing phases.
  6. Bearing according to any of claims 4 or 5, characterized in that the at least partially amorphous metal alloy is ceramized to harden the surface of the main body, especially in the second cone (28) of the cavity.
  7. Bearing according to claim 4, characterized in that the main body of the endstone made of moulded synthetic materialis of the POM type.
  8. Bearing according to claim 4, characterized in that the main body of the endstone (22) made of composite materialis of the POM type reinforced with PTFE particles or oxide nanoparticles.
  9. Bearing according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the second solid angle is comprised in a range from 60 to 120°, or 80 to 100°, preferably equal to 90°.
  10. Bearing according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the bearing includes a resilient support (21) for the endstone (22), such as a spring, for dampening shocks.
  11. Bearing according to claim 10, characterized in that the main body of the endstone (22) and the resilient support (21) are formed in one piece.
  12. Rotary wheel set of a timepiece movement, such as a balance, for a bearing (18, 20) according to any of the preceding claims, the wheel set being provided with an arbor or staff (16) with at least one pivot (19) having the shape of a first cone (26) having a predefined first solid angle, the apex of the first cone (26) being rounded and having a predefined first radius of curvature, characterized in that the first radius of curvature is comprised in a range from 0.2 µm to 50, or from 0.2 µm to 25µm, preferably in a range from 0.2 µm to 15 µm.
  13. Rotary wheel set according to claim 12, characterized in that the apex of the first cone (26) of the pivot (19) is cut to form a circular third cone (35), having a third solid angle (42) greater than the first solid angle (32), preferably substantially equal to the second solid angle (31) of the endstone (22).
  14. Timepiece movement comprising a plate and at least one bar, said plate and/or the bar comprising an orifice, characterized in that the movement includes a bearing (22) according to any of claims 1 to 11, the bearing (22) being inserted into the orifice, and a rotary wheel set according to claim 12 or 13.
EP18214830.4A 2018-12-20 2018-12-20 Bearing, in particular shock absorber device, and rotating part of a clock movement Active EP3671368B1 (en)

Priority Applications (5)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP18214830.4A EP3671368B1 (en) 2018-12-20 2018-12-20 Bearing, in particular shock absorber device, and rotating part of a clock movement
JP2019224233A JP2020101539A (en) 2018-12-20 2019-12-12 Bearing of timepiece movement, shock absorber in particular, and rotary wheel set
US16/713,079 US11592784B2 (en) 2018-12-20 2019-12-13 Bearing, particularly a shock absorber, and rotary wheel set of a timepiece movement
CN201911329064.5A CN111352332B (en) 2018-12-20 2019-12-20 Bearing, in particular shock absorber and rotating wheel set for timepiece movement
JP2022149179A JP7411040B2 (en) 2018-12-20 2022-09-20 Bearings of watch movements, especially shock absorbers, and rotary wheel sets

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

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EP18214830.4A EP3671368B1 (en) 2018-12-20 2018-12-20 Bearing, in particular shock absorber device, and rotating part of a clock movement

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EP3671368A1 EP3671368A1 (en) 2020-06-24
EP3671368B1 true EP3671368B1 (en) 2022-11-23

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EP (1) EP3671368B1 (en)
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EP3929667A1 (en) * 2020-06-26 2021-12-29 ETA SA Manufacture Horlogère Suisse Rotating mobile system of a clock movement
EP3929666A1 (en) * 2020-06-26 2021-12-29 ETA SA Manufacture Horlogère Suisse Rotating mobile system of a clock movement

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US20200201259A1 (en) 2020-06-25
US11592784B2 (en) 2023-02-28
EP3671368A1 (en) 2020-06-24
CN111352332B (en) 2022-02-25
JP2020101539A (en) 2020-07-02
JP7411040B2 (en) 2024-01-10
JP2022171887A (en) 2022-11-11
CN111352332A (en) 2020-06-30

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