EP3777599B1 - Resilient joint for clockwork assembly - Google Patents

Resilient joint for clockwork assembly Download PDF

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Publication number
EP3777599B1
EP3777599B1 EP19192106.3A EP19192106A EP3777599B1 EP 3777599 B1 EP3777599 B1 EP 3777599B1 EP 19192106 A EP19192106 A EP 19192106A EP 3777599 B1 EP3777599 B1 EP 3777599B1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
clasp
springs
elastic element
elastic
link
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Active
Application number
EP19192106.3A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
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EP3777599A1 (en
Inventor
Philippe DI PIAZZA
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Rolex SA
Original Assignee
Rolex SA
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Rolex SA filed Critical Rolex SA
Priority to EP19192106.3A priority Critical patent/EP3777599B1/en
Priority to US16/984,288 priority patent/US11707118B2/en
Priority to JP2020132743A priority patent/JP7539797B2/en
Priority to CN202010818705.XA priority patent/CN112385947A/en
Publication of EP3777599A1 publication Critical patent/EP3777599A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP3777599B1 publication Critical patent/EP3777599B1/en
Active legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

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Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A44—HABERDASHERY; JEWELLERY
    • A44C—PERSONAL ADORNMENTS, e.g. JEWELLERY; COINS
    • A44C5/00—Bracelets; Wrist-watch straps; Fastenings for bracelets or wrist-watch straps
    • A44C5/18—Fasteners for straps, chains or the like
    • A44C5/20—Fasteners for straps, chains or the like for open straps, chains or the like
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A44—HABERDASHERY; JEWELLERY
    • A44C—PERSONAL ADORNMENTS, e.g. JEWELLERY; COINS
    • A44C5/00—Bracelets; Wrist-watch straps; Fastenings for bracelets or wrist-watch straps
    • A44C5/0053—Flexible straps
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A44—HABERDASHERY; JEWELLERY
    • A44C—PERSONAL ADORNMENTS, e.g. JEWELLERY; COINS
    • A44C11/00—Watch chains; Ornamental chains
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A44—HABERDASHERY; JEWELLERY
    • A44C—PERSONAL ADORNMENTS, e.g. JEWELLERY; COINS
    • A44C5/00—Bracelets; Wrist-watch straps; Fastenings for bracelets or wrist-watch straps
    • A44C5/02—Link constructions
    • A44C5/04—Link constructions extensible
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A44—HABERDASHERY; JEWELLERY
    • A44C—PERSONAL ADORNMENTS, e.g. JEWELLERY; COINS
    • A44C5/00—Bracelets; Wrist-watch straps; Fastenings for bracelets or wrist-watch straps
    • A44C5/02—Link constructions
    • A44C5/10—Link constructions not extensible
    • A44C5/107—Link constructions not extensible with links made of more than two elements including connecting elements
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A44—HABERDASHERY; JEWELLERY
    • A44C—PERSONAL ADORNMENTS, e.g. JEWELLERY; COINS
    • A44C5/00—Bracelets; Wrist-watch straps; Fastenings for bracelets or wrist-watch straps
    • A44C5/14—Bracelets; Wrist-watch straps; Fastenings for bracelets or wrist-watch straps characterised by the way of fastening to a wrist-watch or the like
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A44—HABERDASHERY; JEWELLERY
    • A44C—PERSONAL ADORNMENTS, e.g. JEWELLERY; COINS
    • A44C5/00—Bracelets; Wrist-watch straps; Fastenings for bracelets or wrist-watch straps
    • A44C5/18—Fasteners for straps, chains or the like
    • A44C5/22—Fasteners for straps, chains or the like for closed straps
    • A44C5/24—Fasteners for straps, chains or the like for closed straps with folding devices
    • 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
    • G04B37/14—Suspending devices, supports or stands for time-pieces insofar as they form part of the case
    • G04B37/1486—Arrangements for fixing to a bracelet

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to an arrangement for an elastic articulated connection between two components of a watch assembly, more precisely two components of a watch dressing device, in particular for a wristwatch bracelet, arranged either at the level of a clasp of this bracelet, or at the level of the links of this bracelet. It also relates to a dressing device, or more generally a watchmaking device, a clasp, a bracelet and a wristwatch as such comprising such an arrangement.
  • the document EP1654950 describes, for example, a solution for implementing the elastic locking and unlocking of two movable blades of a bracelet clasp.
  • a first movable blade is locked in the folded position on a second blade by hooking a locking hook against a hooking stud under the effect of one or more elastic elements.
  • the document FR2251290 describes an arrangement according to the preamble of claim 1.
  • This second adjustment makes it possible in particular to improve the comfort of the wearer by allowing easy modification of the initial adjustment so as to compensate for possible changes in the circumference of the wrist, which depends for example on the ambient temperature or pressure, and the efforts made with the arm by the wearer of the bracelet.
  • This solution is based here on an elastic articulation between two covering components, in particular between two links of a bracelet.
  • a general object of the invention is to propose an elastic articulated connection solution between two components of a watch assembly, which achieves an optimal compromise between the performance of the elastic assembly and its perceived quality.
  • the invention is based on an arrangement for an elastic articulated connection between two components of a watch assembly, according to the combination of the characteristics of claim 1.
  • the invention is based on the use of at least one elastic element comprising at least two superimposed springs, as will be illustrated in detail below, making it possible to achieve advantageous behavior relative to the elastic forces implemented during the elastic articulation between two components of a watch dressing device.
  • these two springs are distinct.
  • one of the two springs covers the entire surface of the other of the two springs.
  • THE figures 1 to 7 illustrate a clasp 200 for a bracelet according to a first embodiment of the invention, comprising two articulated blades 6a, 6b.
  • This clasp operates similar to that described in the document EP1654950 and will not be described in detail. It mainly differs from this solution of the state of the art by the elastic elements comprising two superimposed springs, as will be detailed below.
  • the clasp 200 does not have a cover. It is intended for the direct arrangement of the end links of two strands of a bracelet 300 on their respective blade.
  • the bracelet includes in particular a mobile link 3, mounted movable on a first pin 1 of first axis A1, relative to a center mesh 4 and two edge meshes 5a, 5b secured to each other via in particular a third pin 9.
  • a locking hook 31 is secured to less play in the movable mesh 3 by means of a second pin or rivet 2 of second axis A2. This assembly is arranged on a first movable blade 6a of the clasp 200.
  • THE figures 1 to 6 represent a first closed configuration of the clasp 200, in which the locking hook 31 cooperates with a hooking stud 7 secured to a second blade 6b of the clasp.
  • the articulation of the movable mesh 3, in particular of the hook 31, relative to the center mesh 4 forms an elastic articulation 100 comprising two elastic elements 10, 10' identical or substantially identical.
  • Each elastic element 10, 10' is pre-stressed between the locking hook 31 on the one hand and the center link 4 of the bracelet on the other hand, secured to the edge links 5a, 5b.
  • This center mesh 4 forms a fixed stop 4a of the arrangement.
  • Each elastic element thus exerts a force on the locking hook 31 which tends to bring it and maintain it in the closed configuration in which it is engaged with the hooking stud 7.
  • the clasp according to the first embodiment comprises two elastic elements 10, 10' arranged substantially symmetrically on either side of a longitudinal median plane P of the clasp.
  • the elastic joint 100 therefore comprises two substantially identical elastic elements 10, 10'.
  • the elastic element 10 comprises two superposed springs 10a, 10b. These two springs 10a, 10b are both in the form of a curved blade. They include a rounded shape, allowing them to be arranged around the second axis A2 within a housing 33 of the hook 31.
  • the two springs 10a', 10b' are both substantially in the form of a curved blade. They include a rounded shape, allowing them to be arranged around the second axis A2 within a housing 33' of the hook 31, as is more particularly visible on the Figure 6 .
  • the two springs 10a, 10b are distinct. According to the embodiment, the two springs 10a, 10b belong to distinct elements. Each spring 10a, 10b forms a unitary and/or one-piece assembly.
  • the first spring 10b is called an internal spring, because it is closest to the second axis A2. It is covered by the second spring 10a, called the external spring.
  • This second outer spring 10a covers or advantageously covers the entire surface of the first inner spring 10b. It has a length greater than that of the first inner spring 10b.
  • a first end 102a of the second spring 10a allows the spring to rest on a first stop 4a of the center mesh 4, forming a fixed stop.
  • a second end 101a of the second spring 10a allows support on a stop 33a of the first housing 33 of the hook 31. This spring is thus pre-stressed between its two ends 101a, 102a and thus transmits a stress on the hook 31, as mentioned previously.
  • the second outer spring 10a also rests on the first spring 10b, at a contact surface, which likewise transmits an elastic force to the second outer spring 10a.
  • the behavior of the elastic element 10 thus corresponds to the combination of the behaviors of the two springs 10a, 10b.
  • FIG. 7 illustrates the operation of the arrangement forming an elastic articulated connection around said first axis of rotation A1, involving two components 3, 4 of a clasp, said two components being linked together according to an elastic articulated connection around an axis A1 of rotation, by via two elastic elements 10, 10'.
  • the articulated connection fulfills the locking/unlocking function of the clasp.
  • THE figures 1 to 6 represent the clasp in a first closed configuration, in which the locking hook 31 engages with a hooking element 7 of the blade 6b of the clasp.
  • the opening of the clasp 200 is carried out by means of a gripping member 32 secured to the movable mesh 3.
  • the actuation of the gripping member 32 requires a force Fd which induces a rotation of the movable mesh 3 ( clockwise on the Figure 7 ) around the axis A1, which induces the retraction of the locking hook 31 of the hooking stud 7.
  • the necessary opening or unlocking force Fd is here largely given by the sum of the compression forces F induced by the two elastic elements 10, 10' of two springs 10a, 10b, 10a', 10b', under the effect of the movement of the movable mesh 3, and therefore of the hook 31, relative to the center mesh 4.
  • This force F is exerted by the springs at the level of the stop 4a on the center mesh 4. It is substantially oriented parallel to the direction of superposition of the two springs 10b, 10a, this direction being considered on the ends of the two springs near this stop 4a.
  • the two elastic elements when opening, the two elastic elements are compressed due to the rotation of the movable mesh 3 relative to the central mesh 4 under the effect of the gripping member 32.
  • the element elastic When closing, the element elastic is compressed due to the contact between the end of the locking hook 31 and the top of the hooking stud 7. This causes the locking hook 31 and therefore the movable mesh 3 to be retracted, so that the locking hook 31 can be housed under the hooking stud 7.
  • the two elastic elements 10, 10' are prestressed by the stop 4a of the center mesh 4 and the respective stops 33a, 33a' of the housings 33, 33 '.
  • the two springs 10a, 10b are not fixed to each other. Consequently, the second outer spring 10a is completely free to move relative to the first spring 10b during compression of the springs.
  • Such an arrangement makes it possible to best distribute the stresses within the blades forming the springs, while maximizing the stiffness of each spring, and therefore the opening or unlocking force Fd of the clasp for a given angle of rotation of the movable link. 3.
  • such a conformation makes it possible to propose an elastic articulated connection that is particularly easy to implement, by simply inserting a second spring 10b, 10b' between a first spring 10a, 10a' and an axis A2 of the pin 2, as represented schematically by the figure 8 .
  • FIG. 9 illustrates a graph showing forces Fda, Fdb, Fdc for unlocking or opening a clasp as represented on the figures 1 and 2 , for a rotation angle of 15° of the movable mesh 3, for three different types of elastic joints A, B, C.
  • the articulation A corresponds to a first elastic articulation known from the prior art, the latter comprising two identical springs A10, A10', aligned, and arranged substantially symmetrically on either side of a longitudinal median plane P of a clasp as shown on the figures 1 and 2 , a spring A10 being represented on the section of the Figure 10 .
  • the A10, A10' springs are in the form of a single curved leaf, with a thickness of 0.18 mm.
  • Joint B corresponds to a second elastic joint known from the prior art, similar to joint A, but comprising two springs B10, B10' each having a thickness of 0.21 mm, instead of the 0.18 mm of joint A .
  • This joint B is represented by the section of the. Figure 11 , which leaves visualize the B10 spring, of greater thickness, a thickness which is exaggerated in this figure to better illustrate the difference.
  • the joint C corresponds to the elastic joint according to the first embodiment of the invention, as illustrated by the figure 4 And 5 , resting on two pairs of superimposed springs, the outer springs 10a, 10a' being two curved blades having a thickness of 0.18 mm and the inner springs 10b, 10b' being two curved blades having a thickness of 0.14 mm.
  • the springs or leaves are made here from the same material, steel, in particular Nivaflex.
  • the force Fdc produced by the joint C of the invention is increased by around 50% compared to the force Fda produced by the joint A, while inducing stresses lower than the elastic limit of the material constituting the spring leaves.
  • the force Fdb produced by the joint B is, for its part, substantially equal to the force Fdc.
  • the stresses accordinging to the Von Mises criterion are not admissible with regard to the elastic limit of the material constituting the spring, which is of the order of 2500 MPa for the Nivaflex material.
  • increasing the opening or unlocking force of such an unlocking device essentially involves a thickening of all or part of the springs taking part in the elastic joint, which can lead to a risk of plasticization of said blades beyond a given thickness, as is the case for joint B.
  • the maximum opening force of the clasp unlocking device is dependent on the maximum stresses that each of said blades forming a spring is capable of supporting, which can be limiting with regard to the expected level of opening force.
  • the joint C according to the invention comprises elastic elements each comprising two superimposed springs, these two springs having a different thickness.
  • these springs can alternatively have identical thicknesses. They can also have the same width La, La', Lb, Lb' as illustrated by the figure 8 , or not.
  • the materials of the superimposed springs 10a, 10b may also be identical or not.
  • the curves of the Figure 9 are offered by way of example, to illustrate the effect of the invention.
  • the at least two springs of the elastic element according to the invention have any other thickness Ea, Eb, Ea', Eb' advantageously between 0.1 mm and 0.25 mm, or even between 0.12 mm and 0.2 mm, or even between 0.13 mm and 0.19 mm.
  • the at least two springs of the elastic element are made of steel, in particular Nivaflex.
  • the elastic element according to the invention can take other shapes than that shown.
  • this elastic element can comprise more than two superimposed springs. It may include, for example, three, four, or more superimposed springs.
  • the invention is based on the use of an elastic element with multiple superimposed springs.
  • the joint according to the invention may comprise a single elastic element.
  • the invention can quite naturally be implemented within a clasp provided with a cover.
  • the movable mesh 3 can thus take the form of a gripping member provided with a locking hook
  • the center mesh 4 can take the form of a cover on which said gripping member provided with said locking hook is pivoted around an axis 1.
  • the axis A1 can advantageously coincide with the axis A2.
  • each spring can take any other form.
  • two superimposed springs 10a, 10b can be in the form of blades or beams, that is to say flat and thin elements, intended to be deformed in flexion during the rotation of a first component 3, 3* relative to a second component 4, 4*.
  • the blades can, for example, be made punctually united at the level of their embedding zone E adjoining components 3 and 4. Furthermore, they can have a constant section or not.
  • an elastic element according to the concept of the invention can be used in any elastic articulation between two watch components of a covering device.
  • the figures 13 to 15 illustrate by way of example the implementation of the concept of the invention in a 200' precision extension device of the length of a bracelet, as described in the document EP2606762 which will not be fully described.
  • the articulation comprises a single elastic element 10" comprising a set of two superimposed springs 10a", 10b". These two superimposed springs are arranged around a pin 1' (or axis of rotation) of axis A1 ', forming an axis of rotation of a movable mesh 3' of a bracelet 300'
  • Each spring has a V shape, obtained by a curved blade, the base of which is rounded to fit part of the rounded surface of the. pin 1'.
  • the movable mesh 3' is capable of being actuated in rotation around the axis A1' relative to a mesh 4' movable in translation in the longitudinal direction of a clasp cover 6' via a guide axis A2'.
  • first and second ends 101a", 102a" of the second outer spring 10a" are pre-stressed respectively against a first stop 3a' of the movable mesh 3' and a second stop 4a' of the mesh 4' movable in translation, so as to press the finger 31' against the teeth 7'.
  • a clockwise rotation of the 3' mesh, as shown in the Figure 15 , against the elastic element 10" induces the retraction of the finger 31' of the teeth 7' and thus authorizes the translation of the movable mesh 8' in translation, and therefore of the movable mesh 3' relative to the cover 6' of clasp.
  • the length of the bracelet 300' can thus be adjusted.
  • the gains provided by the elastic element 10" are the same as those of the elastic elements of the first embodiment, namely in particular an opening force of the extension device 200' which is maximized in a given size, and while retaining satisfactory stress levels within the material constituting the spring leaves.
  • one or more elastic elements with multiple superimposed springs can be used in the same elastic joint.
  • the elastic element can advantageously be arranged around an axis of rotation of two components of a watch dressing device taking part in the articulation elastic.
  • the elastic element could be arranged offset and/or dissociated from this axis of rotation. It could be arranged around any other axis, or independently of an axis.
  • the at least two springs of the elastic element are advantageously in the form of two blades. Furthermore, advantageously, a first blade covers the entirety of a second blade. Alternatively, the overlapping of the blades may only be partial.
  • the at least two springs of the elastic element advantageously have a thickness of between 0.1 mm and 0.25 mm, or even between 0.12 mm and 0.2 mm, or even between 0.13 mm and 0.19 mm.
  • these at least two springs are made of steel, in particular Nivaflex.
  • the invention has been illustrated using a bracelet clasp associated with a wristwatch, which is also concerned as such by this invention, and more precisely at the level of the locking mechanism of this clasp, or at the level of a bracelet extension device.
  • this principle can be implemented for any elastic connection articulated between two watch components, whether this movement is a pure rotation or more complex, such as a rotation combined with another movement.
  • This principle can, moreover, be implemented for the implementation of an elastic articulation 100" within the movement.
  • an elastic articulation 100" can be used to define a device 200" calendar cam rocker as shown in Figure 16 .
  • this device 200" may include a 3" rocker pivoted along a first axis A1" relative to a 4" blank of the movement.
  • the end 3a" of the rocker 3" is elastically biased against a calendar cam 5" by an elastic element 10* having the particularity of comprising two U-shaped springs 10a*, 10b* arranged around 'a second axis A2' within a dwelling (not shown on the Figure 16 ) of the 4" blank, and pre-tensioned between the 3" rocker and a stop 4a" of the 4" blank.
  • the expected gains are the same as those described previously, namely a force F" of return of the elastic element 10* maximized while maintaining acceptable stress levels within the leaves of the springs 10a*, 10b*.

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  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Buckles (AREA)
  • Clamps And Clips (AREA)
  • Springs (AREA)

Description

IntoductionIntroduction

La présente invention concerne un agencement pour une liaison articulée élastique entre deux composants d'un assemblage horloger, plus précisément deux composants d'un dispositif d'habillage horloger, notamment pour un bracelet de montre-bracelet, disposé soit au niveau d'un fermoir de ce bracelet, soit au niveau des mailles de ce bracelet. Elle porte aussi sur un dispositif d'habillage, voire plus généralement un dispositif horloger, un fermoir, un bracelet et une montre-bracelet en tant que tels comprenant un tel agencement.The present invention relates to an arrangement for an elastic articulated connection between two components of a watch assembly, more precisely two components of a watch dressing device, in particular for a wristwatch bracelet, arranged either at the level of a clasp of this bracelet, or at the level of the links of this bracelet. It also relates to a dressing device, or more generally a watchmaking device, a clasp, a bracelet and a wristwatch as such comprising such an arrangement.

Etat de l'ArtState of the art

Il existe plusieurs situations dans lesquelles il est nécessaire de mettre en oeuvre une articulation élastique entre deux composants d'un dispositif d'habillage horloger, notamment de montre-bracelet.There are several situations in which it is necessary to implement an elastic articulation between two components of a watch dressing device, in particular a wristwatch.

Le document EP1654950 décrit, par exemple, une solution pour mettre en oeuvre le verrouillage et le déverrouillage élastiques de deux lames mobiles d'un fermoir de bracelet. Une première lame mobile est verrouillée en position repliée sur une deuxième lame par le crochetage d'un crochet de verrouillage à l'encontre d'un plot d'accrochage sous l'effet d'un ou plusieurs éléments élastiques.The document EP1654950 describes, for example, a solution for implementing the elastic locking and unlocking of two movable blades of a bracelet clasp. A first movable blade is locked in the folded position on a second blade by hooking a locking hook against a hooking stud under the effect of one or more elastic elements.

Cette réalisation permet de garantir une très bonne sécurité de verrouillage tout en optimisant la force requise pour l'ouverture du fermoir, ce qui en fait une solution très satisfaisante en termes de sécurité de fermeture et de manipulation. Le document FR2251290 décrit un agencement selon le préambule de la revendication 1.This achievement makes it possible to guarantee very good locking security while optimizing the force required for opening the clasp, which makes it a very satisfactory solution in terms of closing and handling security. The document FR2251290 describes an arrangement according to the preamble of claim 1.

D'autre part, dans une solution avec fermoir, il existe en général un premier réglage du positionnement du fermoir relativement au bracelet, dit réglage conventionnel. Cependant, la longueur finale obtenue n'est souvent pas parfaite et non optimale. Pour cela, des fermoirs existants, comme celui décrit par le document EP2606762 , sont équipés d'une solution permettant la réalisation d'un second réglage de la longueur du bracelet, complémentaire avec le premier réglage conventionnel. Ce second réglage permet de faire varier le réglage initial, en mettant en oeuvre une modification de la longueur du bracelet par une manipulation très simple et conviviale, ne demandant ni outil ni habileté particulière. Ce second réglage permet notamment d'améliorer le confort du porteur en permettant une modification facile du réglage initial de façon à pallier les éventuelles évolutions du pourtour du poignet, qui dépend par exemple de la température ou de la pression ambiante, et des efforts réalisés avec le bras par le porteur du bracelet. Cette solution repose ici sur une articulation élastique entre deux composants d'habillage, notamment entre deux mailles d'un bracelet.On the other hand, in a solution with a clasp, there is generally a first adjustment of the positioning of the clasp relative to the bracelet, called conventional adjustment. However, the final length obtained is often not perfect and not optimal. For this, existing clasps, like the one described in the document EP2606762 , are equipped with a solution allowing the creation of a second adjustment of the length of the bracelet, complementary to the first conventional adjustment. This second adjustment makes it possible to vary the initial adjustment, by implementing a modification of the length of the bracelet by a very simple and user-friendly operation, requiring neither tools nor particular skill. This second adjustment makes it possible in particular to improve the comfort of the wearer by allowing easy modification of the initial adjustment so as to compensate for possible changes in the circumference of the wrist, which depends for example on the ambient temperature or pressure, and the efforts made with the arm by the wearer of the bracelet. This solution is based here on an elastic articulation between two covering components, in particular between two links of a bracelet.

Finalement, ces solutions existantes d'articulation élastique sont très performantes mais il existe toujours un besoin d'amélioration de ces solutions. En effet, il est toujours recherché un compromis optimal entre la sécurité et la fiabilité du fonctionnement de ces solutions et la perception d'un utilisateur lors de sa manipulation de ces solutions, cette perception ayant un lien direct avec l'impression de qualité perçue des produits incorporant de telles articulations élastiques.Finally, these existing elastic joint solutions are very efficient but there is still a need to improve these solutions. Indeed, an optimal compromise is always sought between the security and reliability of the operation of these solutions and the perception of a user when handling these solutions, this perception having a direct link with the impression of perceived quality of the products incorporating such elastic joints.

Ainsi, un objet général de l'invention est de proposer une solution de liaison articulée élastique entre deux composants d'un assemblage horloger, qui atteint un compromis optimal entre la performance de l'assemblage élastique et sa qualité perçue.Thus, a general object of the invention is to propose an elastic articulated connection solution between two components of a watch assembly, which achieves an optimal compromise between the performance of the elastic assembly and its perceived quality.

Notamment, une telle solution est plus particulièrement recherchée pour une application au sein d'un fermoir de bracelet.In particular, such a solution is particularly sought after for an application within a bracelet clasp.

Brève description de l'inventionBrief description of the invention

A cet effet, l'invention repose sur un agencement pour une liaison articulée élastique entre deux composants d'un assemblage horloger, selon la combinaison des caractéristiques de la revendication 1.To this end, the invention is based on an arrangement for an elastic articulated connection between two components of a watch assembly, according to the combination of the characteristics of claim 1.

L'invention est plus précisément définie par les revendications.The invention is more precisely defined by the claims.

Brève description des figuresBrief description of the figures

Ces objets, caractéristiques et avantages de la présente invention seront exposés en détail dans la description suivante de modes de réalisation particuliers faits à titre non-limitatif en relation avec les figures jointes parmi lesquelles :

  • La figure 1 représente une vue en perspective de dessus d'un fermoir selon un premier mode de réalisation de l'invention.
  • La figure 2 représente une vue de dessus du fermoir selon le premier mode de réalisation de l'invention.
  • La figure 3 représente une vue en coupe III-III du fermoir dans une première configuration du fermoir selon le premier mode de réalisation de l'invention.
  • La figure 4 représente une vue agrandie de détails de la vue en coupe de la figure 3.
  • La figure 5 représente une vue en coupe V-V du fermoir dans une première configuration du fermoir selon le premier mode de réalisation de l'invention.
  • La figure 6 représente une vue agrandie de détails de la vue en coupe de la figure 5.
  • La figure 7 représente une vue similaire à celle de la figure 4 lors de l'actionnement de l'articulation élastique du fermoir pour son passage de la première configuration vers une deuxième configuration.
  • La figure 8 représente une vue en perspective éclatée d'un élément élastique de l'articulation élastique selon le premier mode de réalisation de l'invention.
  • La figure 9 illustre un graphique faisant état de forces de déverrouillage ou d'ouverture d'un fermoir selon le premier mode de réalisation de l'invention en comparaison avec des solutions de l'état de la technique.
  • Les figures 10 et 11 représentent des vues en coupe d'articulations élastiques selon des solutions de l'état de la technique dont les forces de déverrouillage sont illustrées par la figure 9.
  • La figure 12 représente schématiquement un élément élastique selon une variante de réalisation qui n'est pas l'invention.
  • La figure 13 représente une vue en coupe d'un fermoir dans une première configuration selon un deuxième mode de réalisation de l'invention.
  • La figure 14 représente une vue de détails de la vue en coupe de la figure 13, illustrant l'articulation élastique du fermoir selon le deuxième mode de réalisation de l'invention.
  • La figure 15 représente une vue en coupe semblable à la figure 14, illustrant l'articulation élastique du fermoir selon le deuxième mode de réalisation de l'invention dans une deuxième configuration.
  • La figure 16 représente une vue d'un dispositif de bascule de came de calendrier selon une variante de réalisation de l'invention.
These objects, characteristics and advantages of the present invention will be explained in detail in the following description of particular embodiments made on a non-limiting basis in relation to the attached figures among which:
  • There figure 1 represents a top perspective view of a clasp according to a first embodiment of the invention.
  • There figure 2 represents a top view of the clasp according to the first embodiment of the invention.
  • There Figure 3 represents a sectional view III-III of the clasp in a first configuration of the clasp according to the first embodiment of the invention.
  • There Figure 4 represents an enlarged view of details of the section view of the Figure 3 .
  • There Figure 5 represents a sectional view VV of the clasp in a first configuration of the clasp according to the first embodiment of the invention.
  • There Figure 6 represents an enlarged view of details of the section view of the Figure 5 .
  • There Figure 7 represents a view similar to that of the Figure 4 during actuation of the elastic articulation of the clasp for its passage from the first configuration to a second configuration.
  • There figure 8 represents an exploded perspective view of an elastic element of the elastic joint according to the first embodiment of the invention.
  • There Figure 9 illustrates a graph showing unlocking or opening forces of a clasp according to the first embodiment of the invention in comparison with solutions of the state of the art.
  • THE figures 10 And 11 represent sectional views of elastic joints according to solutions of the state of the art whose unlocking forces are illustrated by the Figure 9 .
  • There Figure 12 schematically represents an elastic element according to an alternative embodiment which is not the invention.
  • There Figure 13 represents a sectional view of a clasp in a first configuration according to a second embodiment of the invention.
  • There Figure 14 represents a detail view of the sectional view of the Figure 13 , illustrating the elastic articulation of the clasp according to the second embodiment of the invention.
  • There Figure 15 represents a sectional view similar to Figure 14 , illustrating the elastic articulation of the clasp according to the second embodiment of the invention in a second configuration.
  • There Figure 16 represents a view of a calendar cam rocker device according to a variant embodiment of the invention.

L'invention repose sur l'utilisation d'au moins un élément élastique comprenant au moins deux ressorts superposés, comme cela va être illustré en détail par la suite, permettant d'atteindre un comportement avantageux relativement aux efforts élastiques mis en oeuvre lors de l'articulation élastique entre deux composants d'un dispositif d'habillage horloger. Avantageusement, ces deux ressorts sont distincts. Avantageusement encore, l'un des deux ressorts recouvre l'entier de la surface de l'autre des deux ressorts.The invention is based on the use of at least one elastic element comprising at least two superimposed springs, as will be illustrated in detail below, making it possible to achieve advantageous behavior relative to the elastic forces implemented during the elastic articulation between two components of a watch dressing device. Advantageously, these two springs are distinct. Advantageously, one of the two springs covers the entire surface of the other of the two springs.

Les figures 1 à 7 illustrent un fermoir 200 pour bracelet selon un premier mode de réalisation de l'invention, comprenant deux lames articulées 6a, 6b. Ce fermoir présente un fonctionnement semblable à celui décrit par le document EP1654950 et ne sera pas décrit en détail. Il se différencie principalement de cette solution de l'état de la technique par les éléments élastiques comprenant deux ressorts superposés, comme cela sera détaillé ci-dessous.THE figures 1 to 7 illustrate a clasp 200 for a bracelet according to a first embodiment of the invention, comprising two articulated blades 6a, 6b. This clasp operates similar to that described in the document EP1654950 and will not be described in detail. It mainly differs from this solution of the state of the art by the elastic elements comprising two superimposed springs, as will be detailed below.

Le fermoir 200 est dénué de couvercle. Il est prévu pour l'agencement direct des mailles d'extrémité de deux brins d'un bracelet 300 sur leur lame respective. Le bracelet comprend notamment une maille mobile 3, montée mobile sur une première goupille 1 de premier axe A1, relativement à une maille de centre 4 et à deux mailles de bord 5a, 5b solidarisées entre elles par l'intermédiaire notamment d'une troisième goupille 9. Un crochet de verrouillage 31 est solidarisé à moindre jeu à la maille mobile 3 par le biais d'une deuxième goupille ou rivet 2 de deuxième axe A2. Cet ensemble est disposé sur une première lame mobile 6a du fermoir 200.The clasp 200 does not have a cover. It is intended for the direct arrangement of the end links of two strands of a bracelet 300 on their respective blade. The bracelet includes in particular a mobile link 3, mounted movable on a first pin 1 of first axis A1, relative to a center mesh 4 and two edge meshes 5a, 5b secured to each other via in particular a third pin 9. A locking hook 31 is secured to less play in the movable mesh 3 by means of a second pin or rivet 2 of second axis A2. This assembly is arranged on a first movable blade 6a of the clasp 200.

Les figures 1 à 6 représentent une première configuration fermée du fermoir 200, dans laquelle le crochet de verrouillage 31 coopère avec un plot d'accrochage 7 solidaire d'une deuxième lame 6b du fermoir.THE figures 1 to 6 represent a first closed configuration of the clasp 200, in which the locking hook 31 cooperates with a hooking stud 7 secured to a second blade 6b of the clasp.

L'articulation de la maille mobile 3, notamment du crochet 31, relativement à la maille de centre 4 forme une articulation élastique 100 comprenant deux éléments élastiques 10, 10' identiques ou sensiblement identiques. Chaque élément élastique 10, 10' est précontraint entre d'une part le crochet de verrouillage 31 et d'autre part la maille de centre 4 du bracelet, solidaire des mailles de bord 5a, 5b. Cette maille de centre 4 forme une butée 4a fixe de l'agencement. Chaque élément élastique exerce ainsi une force sur le crochet de verrouillage 31 qui tend à l'amener et le maintenir dans la configuration fermée dans laquelle il est en prise avec le plot d'accrochage 7. Comme cela apparaît sur la figure 2 et les figures 3 à 6, le fermoir selon le premier mode de réalisation comprend deux éléments élastiques 10, 10' agencés sensiblement symétriquement de part et d'autre d'un plan P médian longitudinal du fermoir.The articulation of the movable mesh 3, in particular of the hook 31, relative to the center mesh 4 forms an elastic articulation 100 comprising two elastic elements 10, 10' identical or substantially identical. Each elastic element 10, 10' is pre-stressed between the locking hook 31 on the one hand and the center link 4 of the bracelet on the other hand, secured to the edge links 5a, 5b. This center mesh 4 forms a fixed stop 4a of the arrangement. Each elastic element thus exerts a force on the locking hook 31 which tends to bring it and maintain it in the closed configuration in which it is engaged with the hooking stud 7. As appears in the figure 2 and the figures 3 to 6 , the clasp according to the first embodiment comprises two elastic elements 10, 10' arranged substantially symmetrically on either side of a longitudinal median plane P of the clasp.

Dans ce mode de réalisation, l'articulation élastique 100 comprend donc deux éléments élastiques 10, 10' sensiblement identiques. L'élément élastique 10 comprend deux ressorts 10a, 10b superposés. Ces deux ressorts 10a, 10b se présentent tous deux sous la forme d'une lame courbée. Ils comprennent une forme arrondie, leur permettant un agencement autour du deuxième axe A2 au sein d'un logement 33 du crochet 31. De façon similaire, les deux ressorts 10a', 10b' se présentent tous deux sensiblement sous la forme d'une lame courbée. Ils comprennent une forme arrondie, leur permettant un agencement autour du deuxième axe A2 au sein d'un logement 33' du crochet 31, comme cela est plus particulièrement visible sur la figure 6.In this embodiment, the elastic joint 100 therefore comprises two substantially identical elastic elements 10, 10'. The elastic element 10 comprises two superposed springs 10a, 10b. These two springs 10a, 10b are both in the form of a curved blade. They include a rounded shape, allowing them to be arranged around the second axis A2 within a housing 33 of the hook 31. Similarly, the two springs 10a', 10b' are both substantially in the form of a curved blade. They include a rounded shape, allowing them to be arranged around the second axis A2 within a housing 33' of the hook 31, as is more particularly visible on the Figure 6 .

Les deux ressorts 10a, 10b sont distincts. Selon le mode de réalisation, les deux ressorts 10a, 10b appartiennent à des éléments distincts. Chaque ressort 10a, 10b forme un ensemble unitaire et/ou monobloc.The two springs 10a, 10b are distinct. According to the embodiment, the two springs 10a, 10b belong to distinct elements. Each spring 10a, 10b forms a unitary and/or one-piece assembly.

Le premier ressort 10b est dit ressort intérieur, car il est le plus proche du deuxième axe A2. Il est recouvert par le deuxième ressort 10a, dit ressort extérieur. Ce deuxième ressort 10a extérieur chemise ou recouvre avantageusement l'entier de la surface du premier ressort 10b intérieur. Il présente une longueur supérieure à celle du premier ressort 10b intérieur. Une première extrémité 102a du deuxième ressort 10a permet un appui du ressort sur une première butée 4a de la maille de centre 4, formant une butée fixe. Une deuxième extrémité 101a du deuxième ressort 10a permet un appui sur une butée 33a du premier logement 33 du crochet 31. Ce ressort est ainsi précontraint entre ses deux extrémités 101a, 102a et transmet ainsi une contrainte sur le crochet 31, comme mentionné précédemment. Le deuxième ressort 10a extérieur est de plus en appui sur le premier ressort 10b, au niveau d'une surface de contact, qui transmet de même un effort élastique au deuxième ressort 10a extérieur. Le comportement de l'élément élastique 10 correspond ainsi à la combinaison des comportements des deux ressorts 10a, 10b.The first spring 10b is called an internal spring, because it is closest to the second axis A2. It is covered by the second spring 10a, called the external spring. This second outer spring 10a covers or advantageously covers the entire surface of the first inner spring 10b. It has a length greater than that of the first inner spring 10b. A first end 102a of the second spring 10a allows the spring to rest on a first stop 4a of the center mesh 4, forming a fixed stop. A second end 101a of the second spring 10a allows support on a stop 33a of the first housing 33 of the hook 31. This spring is thus pre-stressed between its two ends 101a, 102a and thus transmits a stress on the hook 31, as mentioned previously. The second outer spring 10a also rests on the first spring 10b, at a contact surface, which likewise transmits an elastic force to the second outer spring 10a. The behavior of the elastic element 10 thus corresponds to the combination of the behaviors of the two springs 10a, 10b.

La figure 7 illustre le fonctionnement de l'agencement formant une liaison articulée élastique autour dudit premier axe de rotation A1, impliquant deux composants 3, 4 d'un fermoir, lesdits deux composants étant liés entre eux selon une liaison articulée élastique autour d'un axe A1 de rotation, par l'intermédiaire de deux éléments élastiques 10, 10'. Selon ce premier mode de réalisation de l'invention, la liaison articulée remplit la fonction de verrouillage/déverrouillage du fermoir. Les figures 1 à 6 représentent le fermoir dans une première configuration fermée, dans laquelle le crochet de verrouillage 31 est en prise avec un élément d'accrochage 7 de la lame 6b du fermoir. L'ouverture du fermoir 200 s'effectue par le biais d'un organe de préhension 32 solidaire de la maille mobile 3. L'actionnement de l'organe de préhension 32 nécessite une force Fd qui induit une rotation de la maille mobile 3 (dans le sens horaire sur la figure 7) autour de l'axe A1, qui induit l'escamotage du crochet de verrouillage 31 du plot d'accrochage 7. La force d'ouverture ou de déverrouillage Fd nécessaire est ici très majoritairement donnée par la somme des forces F de compression induites par les deux éléments élastiques 10, 10' de deux ressorts 10a, 10b, 10a', 10b', sous l'effet du déplacement de la maille mobile 3, et donc du crochet 31, relativement à la maille de centre 4. Cette force F est exercée par les ressorts au niveau de la butée 4a sur la maille de centre 4. Elle est sensiblement orientée parallèlement à la direction de superposition des deux ressorts 10b, 10a, cette direction étant considérée sur les extrémités des deux ressorts à proximité de cette butée 4a.There Figure 7 illustrates the operation of the arrangement forming an elastic articulated connection around said first axis of rotation A1, involving two components 3, 4 of a clasp, said two components being linked together according to an elastic articulated connection around an axis A1 of rotation, by via two elastic elements 10, 10'. According to this first embodiment of the invention, the articulated connection fulfills the locking/unlocking function of the clasp. THE figures 1 to 6 represent the clasp in a first closed configuration, in which the locking hook 31 engages with a hooking element 7 of the blade 6b of the clasp. The opening of the clasp 200 is carried out by means of a gripping member 32 secured to the movable mesh 3. The actuation of the gripping member 32 requires a force Fd which induces a rotation of the movable mesh 3 ( clockwise on the Figure 7 ) around the axis A1, which induces the retraction of the locking hook 31 of the hooking stud 7. The necessary opening or unlocking force Fd is here largely given by the sum of the compression forces F induced by the two elastic elements 10, 10' of two springs 10a, 10b, 10a', 10b', under the effect of the movement of the movable mesh 3, and therefore of the hook 31, relative to the center mesh 4. This force F is exerted by the springs at the level of the stop 4a on the center mesh 4. It is substantially oriented parallel to the direction of superposition of the two springs 10b, 10a, this direction being considered on the ends of the two springs near this stop 4a.

Ainsi, à l'ouverture, les deux éléments élastiques sont comprimés du fait de la rotation de la maille mobile 3 par rapport à la maille de centre 4 sous l'effet de l'organe de préhension 32. A la fermeture, l'élément élastique est comprimé du fait du contact entre le bout du crochet de verrouillage 31 et le dessus du plot d'accrochage 7. Cela provoque l'escamotage du crochet de verrouillage 31 et donc de la maille mobile 3, de sorte que le crochet de verrouillage 31 puisse se loger sous le plot d'accrochage 7. Dans tous les cas, les deux éléments élastiques 10, 10' sont précontraints par la butée 4a de la maille de centre 4 et les butées 33a, 33a' respectives des logements 33, 33'.Thus, when opening, the two elastic elements are compressed due to the rotation of the movable mesh 3 relative to the central mesh 4 under the effect of the gripping member 32. When closing, the element elastic is compressed due to the contact between the end of the locking hook 31 and the top of the hooking stud 7. This causes the locking hook 31 and therefore the movable mesh 3 to be retracted, so that the locking hook 31 can be housed under the hooking stud 7. In all cases, the two elastic elements 10, 10' are prestressed by the stop 4a of the center mesh 4 and the respective stops 33a, 33a' of the housings 33, 33 '.

Selon ce premier mode de réalisation, les deux ressorts 10a, 10b ne sont pas fixés l'un à l'autre. En conséquence, le deuxième ressort 10a extérieur est totalement libre de se mouvoir relativement au premier ressort 10b lors de la compression des ressorts. Un tel agencement permet de répartir au mieux les contraintes au sein des lames formant les ressorts, tout en maximisant la raideur de chaque ressort, et donc la force d'ouverture ou de déverrouillage Fd du fermoir pour un angle donné de rotation de la maille mobile 3. Par ailleurs, une telle conformation permet de proposer une liaison articulée élastique particulièrement facile à mettre en oeuvre, en intercalant simplement un deuxième ressort 10b, 10b' entre un premier ressort 10a, 10a' et un axe A2 de la goupille 2, comme représenté schématiquement par la figure 8. Bien entendu, il est possible en variante de solidariser ponctuellement les deux ressorts superposés, par exemple par le biais d'un point de soudure, tout en conservant un mouvement relatif des deux ressorts lors de leur compression.According to this first embodiment, the two springs 10a, 10b are not fixed to each other. Consequently, the second outer spring 10a is completely free to move relative to the first spring 10b during compression of the springs. Such an arrangement makes it possible to best distribute the stresses within the blades forming the springs, while maximizing the stiffness of each spring, and therefore the opening or unlocking force Fd of the clasp for a given angle of rotation of the movable link. 3. Furthermore, such a conformation makes it possible to propose an elastic articulated connection that is particularly easy to implement, by simply inserting a second spring 10b, 10b' between a first spring 10a, 10a' and an axis A2 of the pin 2, as represented schematically by the figure 8 . Of course, it is possible as a variant to locally join the two superimposed springs, for example by means of a welding point, while maintaining a relative movement of the two springs during their compression.

La figure 9 illustre un graphique faisant état de forces Fda, Fdb, Fdc de déverrouillage ou d'ouverture d'un fermoir tel que représenté sur les figures 1 et 2, pour un angle de rotation de 15° de la maille mobile 3, pour trois types d'articulations élastiques A, B, C différentes. L'articulation A correspond à une première articulation élastique connue de l'art antérieur, celle-ci comprenant deux ressorts A10, A10' identiques, alignés, et agencés sensiblement symétriquement de part et d'autre d'un plan P médian longitudinal d'un fermoir tel que représenté sur les figures 1 et 2, un ressort A10 étant représenté sur la coupe de la figure 10. Les ressorts A10, A10' se présentent sous la forme d'une seule et unique lame recourbée, et présentant une épaisseur de 0.18 mm. L'articulation B correspond à une deuxième articulation élastique connue de l'art antérieur, similaire à l'articulation A, mais comprenant deux ressorts B10, B10' présentant chacun une épaisseur de 0.21 mm, au lieu des 0.18 mm de l'articulation A. Cette articulation B est représentée par la coupe de la figure 11, qui laisse visualiser le ressort B10, de plus grande épaisseur, épaisseur qui est exagérée sur cette figure pour mieux illustrer la différence. Enfin, l'articulation C correspond à l'articulation élastique selon le premier mode de réalisation de l'invention, telle qu'illustrée par les figures 4 et 5, reposant sur deux couples de ressorts superposés, les ressorts extérieurs 10a, 10a' étant deux lames courbées présentant une épaisseur de 0.18 mm et les ressorts intérieurs 10b, 10b' étant deux lames courbées présentant une épaisseur de 0.14 mm. Les ressorts ou les lames sont ici fabriqués dans le même matériau, en acier, en particulier en Nivaflex.There Figure 9 illustrates a graph showing forces Fda, Fdb, Fdc for unlocking or opening a clasp as represented on the figures 1 and 2 , for a rotation angle of 15° of the movable mesh 3, for three different types of elastic joints A, B, C. The articulation A corresponds to a first elastic articulation known from the prior art, the latter comprising two identical springs A10, A10', aligned, and arranged substantially symmetrically on either side of a longitudinal median plane P of a clasp as shown on the figures 1 and 2 , a spring A10 being represented on the section of the Figure 10 . The A10, A10' springs are in the form of a single curved leaf, with a thickness of 0.18 mm. Joint B corresponds to a second elastic joint known from the prior art, similar to joint A, but comprising two springs B10, B10' each having a thickness of 0.21 mm, instead of the 0.18 mm of joint A . This joint B is represented by the section of the. Figure 11 , which leaves visualize the B10 spring, of greater thickness, a thickness which is exaggerated in this figure to better illustrate the difference. Finally, the joint C corresponds to the elastic joint according to the first embodiment of the invention, as illustrated by the figure 4 And 5 , resting on two pairs of superimposed springs, the outer springs 10a, 10a' being two curved blades having a thickness of 0.18 mm and the inner springs 10b, 10b' being two curved blades having a thickness of 0.14 mm. The springs or leaves are made here from the same material, steel, in particular Nivaflex.

Ces trois mesures permettent d'illustrer l'avantage de l'invention. En effet, on remarque que pour un même angle α d'ouverture, par exemple 15°, la force Fdc produite par l'articulation C de l'invention, est augmentée de l'ordre de 50% en regard de la force Fda produite par l'articulation A, tout en induisant des contraintes inférieures à la limite élastique du matériau constitutif des lames du ressort. La force Fdb produite par l'articulation B est, quant à elle, sensiblement égale à la force Fdc. Toutefois, les contraintes (selon le critère de Von Mises) ne sont pas admissibles en regard de la limite élastique du matériau constitutif du ressort, qui est de l'ordre de 2500 MPa pour le matériau Nivaflex. Selon les enseignements de l'état de la technique, l'augmentation de la force d'ouverture ou de déverrouillage d'un tel dispositif de déverrouillage implique essentiellement un épaississement de tout ou partie des ressorts prenant part à l'articulation élastique, ce qui peut conduire à un risque de plastification desdites lames au-delà d'une épaisseur donnée, comme c'est le cas pour l'articulation B. Autrement dit, la force d'ouverture maximale du dispositif de déverrouillage du fermoir est tributaire des contraintes maximales qu'est susceptible de supporter chacune desdites lames formant un ressort, ce qui peut être limitant en regard du niveau de force d'ouverture escompté.These three measurements make it possible to illustrate the advantage of the invention. Indeed, we note that for the same opening angle α, for example 15°, the force Fdc produced by the joint C of the invention is increased by around 50% compared to the force Fda produced by the joint A, while inducing stresses lower than the elastic limit of the material constituting the spring leaves. The force Fdb produced by the joint B is, for its part, substantially equal to the force Fdc. However, the stresses (according to the Von Mises criterion) are not admissible with regard to the elastic limit of the material constituting the spring, which is of the order of 2500 MPa for the Nivaflex material. According to the teachings of the state of the art, increasing the opening or unlocking force of such an unlocking device essentially involves a thickening of all or part of the springs taking part in the elastic joint, which can lead to a risk of plasticization of said blades beyond a given thickness, as is the case for joint B. In other words, the maximum opening force of the clasp unlocking device is dependent on the maximum stresses that each of said blades forming a spring is capable of supporting, which can be limiting with regard to the expected level of opening force.

L'articulation C selon l'invention comprend des éléments élastiques comprenant chacun deux ressorts superposés, ces deux ressorts présentant une épaisseur différente. Bien entendu, ces ressorts peuvent en variante présenter des épaisseurs identiques. Ils peuvent également présenter une même largeur La, La', Lb, Lb' comme illustré par la figure 8, ou non. Les matériaux des ressorts 10a, 10b superposés peuvent également être identiques ou non.The joint C according to the invention comprises elastic elements each comprising two superimposed springs, these two springs having a different thickness. Of course, these springs can alternatively have identical thicknesses. They can also have the same width La, La', Lb, Lb' as illustrated by the figure 8 , or not. The materials of the superimposed springs 10a, 10b may also be identical or not.

Les courbes de la figure 9 sont proposées à titre d'exemple, pour illustrer l'effet de l'invention. En variante, les au moins deux ressorts de l'élément élastique selon l'invention présentent toute autre épaisseur Ea, Eb, Ea', Eb' avantageusement comprise entre 0.1 mm et 0.25 mm, voire entre 0.12 mm et 0.2 mm, voire entre 0.13 mm et 0.19 mm. Préférentiellement, les au moins deux ressorts de l'élément élastique sont fabriqués en acier, notamment en Nivaflex.The curves of the Figure 9 are offered by way of example, to illustrate the effect of the invention. Alternatively, the at least two springs of the elastic element according to the invention have any other thickness Ea, Eb, Ea', Eb' advantageously between 0.1 mm and 0.25 mm, or even between 0.12 mm and 0.2 mm, or even between 0.13 mm and 0.19 mm. Preferably, the at least two springs of the elastic element are made of steel, in particular Nivaflex.

Il apparaît que l'articulation élastique selon l'invention présente les avantages suivants :

  • Elle génère une force d'ouverture ou de déverrouillage répétable, et ce indépendamment de l'élasticité des branches dépliantes et/ou du couvercle du fermoir ;
  • Elle permet de maximiser le couple de rappel et ainsi d'améliorer les sensations lors de sa manipulation ;
  • Malgré ce couple de rappel augmenté par rapport à l'état de la technique, des niveaux de contraintes satisfaisants sont conservés au sein du matériau constitutif des ressorts ;
  • Elle s'intègre aisément au sein de toutes les déclinaisons de fermoir dotées d'un dispositif de verrouillage mettant en oeuvre une articulation élastique.
It appears that the elastic joint according to the invention has the following advantages:
  • It generates a repeatable opening or unlocking force, independently of the elasticity of the folding branches and/or the clasp cover;
  • It makes it possible to maximize the restoring torque and thus improve the sensations when handling it;
  • Despite this increased return torque compared to the state of the art, satisfactory stress levels are maintained within the material constituting the springs;
  • It is easily integrated into all versions of clasp equipped with a locking device using an elastic joint.

Naturellement, l'élément élastique selon l'invention peut prendre d'autres formes que celle représentée. Tout d'abord, cet élément élastique peut comprendre plus de deux ressorts superposés. Il peut comprendre, par exemple, trois, quatre, ou plus ressorts superposés. Ainsi, l'invention repose sur l'utilisation d'un élément élastique à ressorts multiples superposés. Par ailleurs, l'articulation selon l'invention peut comprendre un unique élément élastique.Naturally, the elastic element according to the invention can take other shapes than that shown. First of all, this elastic element can comprise more than two superimposed springs. It may include, for example, three, four, or more superimposed springs. Thus, the invention is based on the use of an elastic element with multiple superimposed springs. Furthermore, the joint according to the invention may comprise a single elastic element.

Par ailleurs, l'invention peut tout naturellement être mise en oeuvre au sein d'un fermoir muni d'un couvercle. La maille mobile 3 peut ainsi prendre la forme d'un organe de préhension muni d'un crochet de verrouillage, et la maille de centre 4 peut prendre la forme d'un couvercle sur lequel est pivoté ledit organe de préhension muni dudit crochet de verrouillage autour d'un axe 1. Dans un tel fermoir, l'axe A1 peut avantageusement coïncider avec l'axe A2.Furthermore, the invention can quite naturally be implemented within a clasp provided with a cover. The movable mesh 3 can thus take the form of a gripping member provided with a locking hook, and the center mesh 4 can take the form of a cover on which said gripping member provided with said locking hook is pivoted around an axis 1. In such a clasp, the axis A1 can advantageously coincide with the axis A2.

De plus, selon une variante de réalisation alternative qui n'est pas l'invention, chaque ressort peut prendre toute autre forme. Par exemple, comme illustré par la figure 12, deux ressorts 10a, 10b superposés peuvent se présenter sous la forme de lames ou de poutres, c'est-à-dire des éléments plans et peu épais, prévues pour être déformées en flexion lors de la rotation d'un premier composant 3, 3* relativement à un deuxième composant 4, 4*. Dans ce cadre, les lames peuvent, par exemple, être rendues ponctuellement solidaires au niveau de leur zone d'encastrement E jouxtant les composants 3 et 4. Par ailleurs, elles peuvent présenter une section constante ou non.Furthermore, according to an alternative embodiment which is not the invention, each spring can take any other form. For example, as illustrated by the Figure 12 , two superimposed springs 10a, 10b can be in the form of blades or beams, that is to say flat and thin elements, intended to be deformed in flexion during the rotation of a first component 3, 3* relative to a second component 4, 4*. In this context, the blades can, for example, be made punctually united at the level of their embedding zone E adjoining components 3 and 4. Furthermore, they can have a constant section or not.

Naturellement, un élément élastique selon le concept de l'invention peut être utilisé dans toute articulation élastique entre deux composants horlogers d'un dispositif d'habillage. Ainsi, les figures 13 à 15 illustrent à titre d'exemple l'implémentation du concept de l'invention dans un dispositif de rallonge 200' de précision de la longueur d'un bracelet, tel que décrit dans le document EP2606762 qui ne sera pas intégralement décrit.Naturally, an elastic element according to the concept of the invention can be used in any elastic articulation between two watch components of a covering device. Thus, the figures 13 to 15 illustrate by way of example the implementation of the concept of the invention in a 200' precision extension device of the length of a bracelet, as described in the document EP2606762 which will not be fully described.

Les figures 13 à 15 illustrent ainsi plus précisément le détail d'une articulation élastique 100' mise en oeuvre dans le dispositif de rallonge 200', selon un deuxième mode de réalisation de l'invention. Dans cette réalisation, l'articulation comprend un unique élément élastique 10" comprenant un ensemble de deux ressorts 10a", 10b" superposés. Ces deux ressorts superposés sont agencés autour d'une goupille 1' (ou axe de rotation) d'axe A1', formant un axe de rotation d'une maille mobile 3' d'un bracelet 300'. Chaque ressort présente une forme en V, obtenue par une lame courbée, dont la base est arrondie pour épouser une partie de la surface arrondie de la goupille 1'.THE figures 13 to 15 thus illustrate more precisely the detail of an elastic articulation 100' implemented in the extension device 200', according to a second embodiment of the invention. In this embodiment, the articulation comprises a single elastic element 10" comprising a set of two superimposed springs 10a", 10b". These two superimposed springs are arranged around a pin 1' (or axis of rotation) of axis A1 ', forming an axis of rotation of a movable mesh 3' of a bracelet 300' Each spring has a V shape, obtained by a curved blade, the base of which is rounded to fit part of the rounded surface of the. pin 1'.

La maille mobile 3' est susceptible d'être actionnée en rotation autour de l'axe A1' relativement à une maille 4' mobile en translation selon la direction longitudinale d'un couvercle 6' de fermoir par le biais d'un axe de guidage A2'. La coopération d'un doigt 31' de la maille mobile 3' avec une dent 7a' d'une denture 7' du couvercle 6', sous l'effet de l'articulation élastique 100', permet de configurer le bracelet 300' selon une longueur prédéfinie. Pour ce faire, les première et deuxième extrémités 101a", 102a" du deuxième ressort 10a" extérieur sont précontraintes respectivement à l'encontre d'une première butée 3a' de la maille mobile 3' et d'une deuxième butée 4a' de la maille 4' mobile en translation, de sorte à plaquer le doigt 31' à l'encontre de la denture 7'.The movable mesh 3' is capable of being actuated in rotation around the axis A1' relative to a mesh 4' movable in translation in the longitudinal direction of a clasp cover 6' via a guide axis A2'. The cooperation of a finger 31' of the movable mesh 3' with a tooth 7a' of a toothing 7' of the cover 6', under the effect of the elastic articulation 100', makes it possible to configure the bracelet 300' according to a predefined length. To do this, the first and second ends 101a", 102a" of the second outer spring 10a" are pre-stressed respectively against a first stop 3a' of the movable mesh 3' and a second stop 4a' of the mesh 4' movable in translation, so as to press the finger 31' against the teeth 7'.

Une rotation de la maille 3' dans le sens horaire, comme représenté sur la figure 15, à l'encontre de l'élément élastique 10", induit l'escamotage du doigt 31' de la denture 7' et autorise ainsi la translation de la maille 8' mobile en translation, et donc de la maille mobile 3' relativement au couvercle 6' du fermoir. Dans cette configuration, la longueur du bracelet 300' peut ainsi être ajustée.A clockwise rotation of the 3' mesh, as shown in the Figure 15 , against the elastic element 10", induces the retraction of the finger 31' of the teeth 7' and thus authorizes the translation of the movable mesh 8' in translation, and therefore of the movable mesh 3' relative to the cover 6' of clasp. In this configuration, the length of the bracelet 300' can thus be adjusted.

Les gains procurés par l'élément élastique 10" sont les mêmes que ceux des éléments élastiques du premier mode de réalisation, à savoir notamment une force d'ouverture du dispositif de rallonge 200' qui est maximisée dans un encombrement donné, et tout en conservant des niveaux de contraintes satisfaisants au sein du matériau constitutif des lames du ressort.The gains provided by the elastic element 10" are the same as those of the elastic elements of the first embodiment, namely in particular an opening force of the extension device 200' which is maximized in a given size, and while retaining satisfactory stress levels within the material constituting the spring leaves.

Naturellement, certains éléments des solutions décrites précédemment peuvent en variante se trouver sous une autre forme. Notamment, comme cela a été vu, un ou plusieurs éléments élastiques à ressorts multiples superposés peuvent être utilisés dans une même articulation élastique.Naturally, certain elements of the solutions described above may alternatively be found in another form. In particular, as has been seen, one or more elastic elements with multiple superimposed springs can be used in the same elastic joint.

Cette superposition de ressorts induit que les ressorts présentent une surface de contact, directe ou indirecte, qui leur permet d'agir l'un sur l'autre lors de l'actionnement de l'articulation élastique, de sorte que leurs effets mutuels se combinent pour optimiser les forces élastiques induites tout en minimisant les contraintes en leur sein. Ainsi, les deux ressorts sont avantageusement superposés dans une direction parallèle à la force élastique qu'ils exercent lors de l'actionnement de l'articulation élastique.This superposition of springs induces that the springs have a contact surface, direct or indirect, which allows them to act on one another during the actuation of the elastic joint, so that their mutual effects combine to optimize the induced elastic forces while minimizing the stresses within them. Thus, the two springs are advantageously superimposed in a direction parallel to the elastic force which they exert during actuation of the elastic joint.

De plus, comme cela a été vu dans le cadre du dispositif de rallonge 200', l'élément élastique peut avantageusement être disposé autour d'un axe de rotation de deux composants d'un dispositif d'habillage horloger prenant part à l'articulation élastique. Bien entendu, comme cela a été décrit dans le cadre du fermoir 200, l'élément élastique pourrait être disposé de manière décalée et/ou dissociée de cet axe de rotation. Il pourrait être agencé autour de tout autre axe, ou indépendamment d'un axe.Furthermore, as has been seen in the context of the extension device 200', the elastic element can advantageously be arranged around an axis of rotation of two components of a watch dressing device taking part in the articulation elastic. Of course, as has been described in the context of the clasp 200, the elastic element could be arranged offset and/or dissociated from this axis of rotation. It could be arranged around any other axis, or independently of an axis.

Les au moins deux ressorts de l'élément élastique se présentent avantageusement sous la forme de deux lames. De plus, avantageusement, une première lame recouvre l'entier d'une deuxième lame. Alternativement, la superposition des lames peut n'être que partielle.The at least two springs of the elastic element are advantageously in the form of two blades. Furthermore, advantageously, a first blade covers the entirety of a second blade. Alternatively, the overlapping of the blades may only be partial.

De plus, les au moins deux ressorts de l'élément élastique présentent avantageusement une épaisseur comprise entre 0.1 mm et 0.25 mm, voire entre 0.12 mm et 0.2 mm, voire entre 0.13 mm et 0.19 mm. Préférentiellement, ces au moins deux ressorts sont fabriqués en acier, en particulier en Nivaflex.In addition, the at least two springs of the elastic element advantageously have a thickness of between 0.1 mm and 0.25 mm, or even between 0.12 mm and 0.2 mm, or even between 0.13 mm and 0.19 mm. Preferably, these at least two springs are made of steel, in particular Nivaflex.

L'invention a été illustrée à partir d'un fermoir de bracelet associé à une montre-bracelet, qui est d'ailleurs aussi concernée en tant que telle par cette invention, et plus précisément au niveau du mécanisme de verrouillage de ce fermoir, ou au niveau d'un dispositif de rallonge de bracelet. En variante, ce principe peut être implémenté pour toute liaison élastique articulée entre deux composants horlogers, que ce mouvement soit une pure rotation ou plus complexe, comme une rotation combinée à un autre déplacement. Ce principe peut, par ailleurs, être implémenté pour la mise en oeuvre d'une articulation élastique 100" au sein du mouvement. A titre d'exemple, une telle articulation élastique 100" peut être mise à profit pour la définition d'un dispositif de bascule de came de calendrier 200" tel qu'illustré en figure 16. A titre d'exemple, ce dispositif 200" peut comprendre une bascule 3" pivotée selon un premier axe A1" relativement à une ébauche 4" du mouvement. L'extrémité 3a" de la bascule 3" est rappelée élastiquement à l'encontre d'une came 5" de calendrier par un élément élastique 10* présentant la particularité de comprendre deux ressorts 10a*, 10b* en forme de U agencés autour d'un deuxième axe A2" au sein d'un logement (non représenté sur la figure 16) de l'ébauche 4", et précontraints entre la bascule 3" et une butée 4a" de l'ébauche 4". Les gains escomptés sont les mêmes que ceux décrits précédemment, à savoir une force F" de rappel de l'élément élastique 10* maximisée tout en conservant des niveaux de contraintes acceptables au sein des lames des ressorts 10a*, 10b*.The invention has been illustrated using a bracelet clasp associated with a wristwatch, which is also concerned as such by this invention, and more precisely at the level of the locking mechanism of this clasp, or at the level of a bracelet extension device. Alternatively, this principle can be implemented for any elastic connection articulated between two watch components, whether this movement is a pure rotation or more complex, such as a rotation combined with another movement. This principle can, moreover, be implemented for the implementation of an elastic articulation 100" within the movement. As an example, such an elastic articulation 100" can be used to define a device 200" calendar cam rocker as shown in Figure 16 . By way of example, this device 200" may include a 3" rocker pivoted along a first axis A1" relative to a 4" blank of the movement. The end 3a" of the rocker 3" is elastically biased against a calendar cam 5" by an elastic element 10* having the particularity of comprising two U-shaped springs 10a*, 10b* arranged around 'a second axis A2' within a dwelling (not shown on the Figure 16 ) of the 4" blank, and pre-tensioned between the 3" rocker and a stop 4a" of the 4" blank. The expected gains are the same as those described previously, namely a force F" of return of the elastic element 10* maximized while maintaining acceptable stress levels within the leaves of the springs 10a*, 10b*.

Claims (14)

  1. An arrangement comprising two components (3, 4; 3', 4'; 3", 4") of a timepiece component and an axis of rotation (A1; A1'; A1"), said two components (3, 4; 3', 4'; 3", 4") being linked to one another by an elastic articulated link (100; 100'; 100") about said axis of rotation (A1; A1'; A1"), the arrangement also comprising an elastic element (10, 10'; 10"; 10*) such that the relative movement of said two components (3, 4; 3', 4'; 3", 4") takes place against said elastic element (10, 10'; 10"; 10*), characterized in that said elastic element (10, 10'; 10"; 10*) comprises at least two superposed springs (10a, 10b, 10a', 10b'; 10a", 10b"; 10a*, 10b*), each of these at least two springs (10a, 10b, 10a', 10b'; 10a", 10b"; 10a*, 10b*) taking the form of a distinct element, and in that the elastic element (10, 10'; 10"; 10*) is arranged around an axis (A2; A1'; A2"), notably about the axis of rotation of said two components.
  2. The arrangement as claimed in the preceding claim, characterized in that the at least two springs (10a, 10b, 10a', 10b'; 10a", 10b"; 10a*, 10b*) of the elastic element (10, 10'; 10"; 10*) are able to be movable relative to one another and/or secured on at least a part of their surfaces, notably by a weld, a glue, or a mechanical means.
  3. The arrangement as claimed in one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least two springs (10a, 10b, 10a', 10b'; 10a", 10b"; 10a*, 10b*) of the elastic element (10, 10'; 10"; 10*) are superposed in a direction substantially parallel to a force acting against the at least two springs upon the relative rotational movement of said two components (3, 4; 3', 4'; 3", 4").
  4. The arrangement as claimed in one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least two springs (10a, 10b, 10a', 10b'; 10a", 10b"; 10a*, 10b*) of the elastic element (10, 10'; 10"; 10*) take the form of a curved blade.
  5. The arrangement as claimed in one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least two springs (10a, 10b, 10a', 10b'; 10a", 10b"; 10a*, 10b*) of the elastic element (10, 10'; 10"; 10*) take the form of blades, at least one first blade covering a second blade, in particular all of a second blade.
  6. The arrangement as claimed in one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least two springs (10a, 10b, 10a', 10b'; 10a", 10b"; 10a*, 10b*) of the elastic element (10, 10'; 10"; 10*) have a thickness of between 0.1 mm and 0.25 mm, or even between 0.12 mm and 0.2 mm, or even between 0.13 mm and 0.19 mm.
  7. The arrangement as claimed in one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the elastic element (10, 10'; 10") comprises at least two superposed springs (10a, 10b, 10a', 10b'; 10a", 10b") of different thickness.
  8. A watch exterior device characterized in that it comprises an arrangement for the elastic articulated link between two components (3, 4; 3', 4') as claimed in one of the preceding claims.
  9. The watch exterior device as claimed in the preceding claim, characterized in that it is a clasp for a bracelet wristwatch and in that the first component is a first movable bracelet link (3) comprising a gripping member (32) and a locking hook (31) and in that the second component is a second bracelet link (4), notably a center link, said two components being mounted on one and the same movable clasp blade (6a), and in that the clasp comprises at least two clasp blades (6a, 6b) that are movable relative to one another, the first movable link (6a) and the locking hook (31) being disposed at a free end of the first movable clasp blade (6a), so as to be able to cooperate with a locking block (7) of a second clasp blade (6b) on which the first movable clasp blade (6a) is articulated at a second end opposite said free end.
  10. The watch exterior device as claimed in the preceding claim, characterized in that the first movable link (3) takes the form of a gripping member provided with a locking hook, in that the second link (4) has a clasp cover form, on which said first movable link (3) is pivoted.
  11. The watch exterior device as claimed in claim 9 or 10, characterized in that the elastic element (10, 10') exerts a torque on the locking hook (31) to bring it to a position corresponding to the engagement of said locking hook (31) with said locking block (7) of the second clasp blade (6b), the elastic element (10, 10') being under tension in this position, such that said locking hook (31) must pivot against said elastic element (10, 10') upon the engagement and the disengagement of said locking hook (31) with said locking block (7).
  12. The watch exterior device as claimed in claim 8, characterized in that it is a bracelet extension device and in that the first component is a first, rotationally movable link (3') and in that the second component is a second, translationally movable link (4') relative to a clasp cover.
  13. The watch exterior device as claimed in the preceding claim, characterized in that it is a clasp, in that the first component is a first, rotationally movable link (3') comprising a finger (31') and in that the second component is a translationally movable link (4'), such that the clasp can occupy a closed position in which the first, rotationally movable link (3') can be fixed onto the clasp, the finger (31') cooperating with a tooth of complementary teeth (7') arranged on the clasp and in that the elastic element (10") tends to press the rotationally movable link (3') toward said complementary teeth (7') arranged on the clasp.
  14. A wristwatch characterized in that it comprises an arrangement for the elastic articulated link between two components (3, 4; 3', 4') of a timepiece component as claimed in one of claims 1 to 7 or a watch exterior device as claimed in one of claims 8 to 13.
EP19192106.3A 2019-08-16 2019-08-16 Resilient joint for clockwork assembly Active EP3777599B1 (en)

Priority Applications (4)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP19192106.3A EP3777599B1 (en) 2019-08-16 2019-08-16 Resilient joint for clockwork assembly
US16/984,288 US11707118B2 (en) 2019-08-16 2020-08-04 Elastic articulation for a watch assembly
JP2020132743A JP7539797B2 (en) 2019-08-16 2020-08-05 Elastic articulation of small clock assemblies.
CN202010818705.XA CN112385947A (en) 2019-08-16 2020-08-14 Elastic movable joint for watch assembly

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP19192106.3A EP3777599B1 (en) 2019-08-16 2019-08-16 Resilient joint for clockwork assembly

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP3777599A1 EP3777599A1 (en) 2021-02-17
EP3777599B1 true EP3777599B1 (en) 2024-06-26

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Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP19192106.3A Active EP3777599B1 (en) 2019-08-16 2019-08-16 Resilient joint for clockwork assembly

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US (1) US11707118B2 (en)
EP (1) EP3777599B1 (en)
JP (1) JP7539797B2 (en)
CN (1) CN112385947A (en)

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DE04405673T1 (en) 2004-11-03 2006-11-16 Rolex Sa strap closure
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EP2606762B1 (en) 2011-12-22 2015-08-12 Montres Tudor S.A. Clasp with different bracelet length settings
EP2721943B1 (en) * 2012-10-16 2015-08-12 Rolex Sa Resilient joint for clockwork assembly
JP2017122482A (en) * 2016-01-07 2017-07-13 株式会社ナチュラレーザ・ワン Lid body opening/closing device and various equipment comprising same lid body opening/closing device
US10470532B2 (en) * 2016-03-15 2019-11-12 Rolex Sa Adjusting device for bracelet
US10722006B2 (en) * 2016-12-05 2020-07-28 Rolex Sa Device for adjusting the length of a bracelet

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
JP7539797B2 (en) 2024-08-26
JP2021045533A (en) 2021-03-25
US11707118B2 (en) 2023-07-25
US20210045503A1 (en) 2021-02-18
CN112385947A (en) 2021-02-23
EP3777599A1 (en) 2021-02-17

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