EP3885845B1 - Receptacle for timepiece assembly - Google Patents

Description

Field of the invention

The invention relates to a receptacle for receiving a watch assembly and handling it on a regulating machine.

The invention relates to the field of mechanisms for adjusting timepieces.

Background of the invention

The patent application CH 711617 A2 has a shuttle for handling a watch head.

In watchmaking, certain fine adjustments, in particular the frequency adjustment of an oscillator, or the rate adjustment of a watch, are not very automated operations, entrusted to highly qualified personnel, and which often require several successive elementary adjustments.

Obtaining high chronometric quality is thus a costly operation.

Summary of the invention

It is proposed to carry out the automation of fine adjustments on watch movements, or on watch heads, commonly called "watch head" or "WH", which are finished sets, and to carry out this automation at the level of a compact workstation, which can for example be installed on a watchmaker's workbench.

The means implemented are provided to ensure the cleanliness of this workstation, which is important due to the handling of finished watch heads or finished movements.

This installation must guarantee the expected performance in terms of sensitivity, precision, digitization, flexibility and reproducibility of the settings. Its digitization must make it possible to guarantee short cycle times and the achievement of high precision, with an ergonomic and easy-to-use workstation.

Although many applications of the invention are possible in the field of watchmaking, the invention is particularly well suited to the fine adjustment of an oscillator, in particular by action on adjusting screws, directly in the movement or the watch head. .

The goal is reliable adjustment in a single operation.

To this end, the invention relates to a receptacle for receiving a watch assembly and handling it on a regulating machine, according to claim 1.

This receptacle is designed to receive a movement or a watch head, to hold it during the adjustment and/or adjustment operation on a regulating machine.

Brief description of the drawings

• la figure 1 représente, de façon schématisée, et en perspective, sans son carter, une machine réglante, qui comporte, sur un bâti, différents modules qui sont représentés indépendamment les uns des autres dans les figures suivantes, et dont un module de positionnement est fixé directement sur le bâti et comporte un chariot à mouvements croisés portant une table qui porte elle-même un réceptacle d'un ensemble horloger, et dont un module d'acquisition est mobile par rapport à un montant vertical non représenté, sous la forme d'une colonne en porte-à-faux, et comporte des moyens de vison et des moyens laser pour la détermination de position du réceptacle et de son contenu; le bâti porte directement un module de réglage et/ou ajustement, qui comporte une pince agencée pour manoeuvrer un mobile ou un composant d'un ensemble disposé sur le réceptacle ; un module d'entraînement comporte un entraîneur agencé pour entraîner ce mobile ou composant ; un module de maintien et/ou d'appui comporte un doigt d'appui agencé pour appuyer sur ce mobile ou composant ;
• la figure 2 représente, de façon similaire à la figure 1, un module de réglage et/ou ajustement, agencé pour effectuer un réglage et/ou un ajustement sur un mobile ou un composant d'un ensemble porté par un réceptacle disposé sur la table du module de positionnement, ce module de réglage et/ou ajustement comporte une pince ici monolithique, dont l'ouverture et la fermeture sont motorisées, et qui est manœuvrable en rotation et/ou en translation ;
• la figure 3 représente, de façon schématisée, et en plan, la pince de la figure 2 ;
• la figure 4 représente, de façon similaire à la figure 2, un module d'entraînement agencé pour entraîner, au moins en rotation par le moyen d'un entraîneur rotatif, un tel composant ou mobile ;
• la figure 5 représente, de façon similaire à la figure 2, un module de maintien et/ou d'appui, comportant un doigt d'appui agencé pour exercer un appui sensiblement axial sur ce mobile ou composant ;
• la figure 6 représente, de façon schématisée, et en perspective, un réceptacle qui est un posage, portant ici une tête de montre disposée en position pour son réglage sur la machine réglante ;
• la figure 7 représente, de façon schématisée, partielle et en perspective, un autre réceptacle qui est un posage, portant ici un mouvement d'horlogerie disposé en position pour son réglage sur la machine réglante ;
• les figures 8 à 10 illustrent successivement, de façon schématisée, et en perspective :
• en figure 8, la préparation du posage de la figure 6 pour la réception d'une tête de montre, avec deux brides ou cales de blocage qui sont des fourches agencées pour prendre appui sur des cornes de la tête de montre ;
• - en figure 9, la dépose de la tête de montre sur un mécanisme à ressort et en appui sur une surface d'appui dans une position angulaire où les cornes sont en dehors des bras des fourches 102 ;
• en figure 10, la fixation de la tête de montre sur son réceptacle, après une rotation de la tête de montre jusqu'à une position d'appui de butée angulaire d'une des cornes sur une goupille ;
• la figure 11 représente, de façon schématisée, et en perspective, la coopération du module d'entraînement de la figure 4, et du module de maintien et/ou d'appui de la figure 5, avec un balancier que comporte la tête de montre monté sur le réceptacle selon la figure 10 ;
• la figure 12 est une vue similaire à la figure 11, où seul le doigt d'appui coopère en appui avec le balancier, tandis que l'entraîneur est en position dégagée par rapport à la tête de montre ;
• la figure 13 est une vue similaire à la figure 11 où le doigt d'appui coopère en appui avec le balancier, tandis que la pince est en position de réglage d'une vis réglante ;
• la figure 14 est un schéma de principe, en élévation, d'une variante de la machine réglante de la figure 1, cartérisée et montée sur un établi d'horloger, et comportant une pluralité de modules optiques ;
• la figure 15 est un schéma de principe, en élévation, d'un détail d'une variante de la machine réglante de la figure 1 ou 14, comportant un palettiseur permettant l'échange d'un réceptacle entre la table du module de positionnement d'une part, et d'un analyseur de fréquence, ou d'un dispositif de contrôle de la marche non représenté, d'autre part ;
• la figure 16 est un logigramme des étapes de réglage des vis réglantes d'un balancier que comporte un oscillateur balancier-spiral, sur la machine réglante , dans une première variante en boucle ouverte ;
• la figure 17 est un logigramme des étapes de réglage des vis réglantes d'un balancier que comporte un oscillateur balancier-spiral, sur une machine réglante comportant un analyseur de fréquence et/ou un dispositif de contrôle de la marche, dans une variante en boucle fermée.

Other characteristics and advantages of the invention will appear on reading the detailed description which follows, with reference to the appended drawings, where:

• the figure 1 represents, schematically, and in perspective, without its casing, a regulating machine, which comprises, on a frame, various modules which are represented independently of each other in the following figures, and of which a positioning module is fixed directly on the frame and comprises a cross-movement carriage carrying a table which itself carries a receptacle of a watch assembly, and of which an acquisition module is movable relative to a vertical upright not shown, in the form of a column cantilevered, and comprises vision means and laser means for determining the position of the receptacle and its contents; the frame directly carries an adjustment and/or adjustment module, which comprises a gripper arranged to maneuver a mobile or a component of an assembly placed on the receptacle; a drive module comprises a driver arranged to drive this mobile or component; a holding and/or support module comprises a support finger arranged to press on this mobile or component;
• the figure 2 represents, similarly to the figure 1 , an adjustment and/or adjustment module, arranged to perform an adjustment and/or an adjustment on a mobile or a component of an assembly carried by a receptacle placed on the table of the positioning module, this adjustment module and/or adjustment comprises a clamp here monolithic, the opening and closing of which are motorized, and which can be maneuvered in rotation and/or in translation;
• the picture 3 represents, schematically, and in plan, the clamp of the figure 2 ;
• the figure 4 represents, similarly to the figure 2 , a drive module arranged to drive, at least in rotation by means of a rotary drive, such a component or mobile;
• the figure 5 represents, similarly to the picture 2 , a holding and/or support module, comprising a support finger arranged to exert a substantially axial support on this mobile or component;
• the figure 6 represents, schematically, and in perspective, a receptacle which is a fitting, here carrying a watch head arranged in position for its adjustment on the regulating machine;
• the figure 7 represents, schematically, partially and in perspective, another receptacle which is a mounting, here carrying a clockwork arranged in position for its adjustment on the regulating machine;
• them figures 8 to 10 illustrate successively, in a schematic way, and in perspective:
• in figure 8 , the preparation of the laying of the figure 6 for receiving a watch head, with two flanges or blocking wedges which are forks arranged to rest on the horns of the watch head;
• - in figure 9 , placing the watch head on a spring mechanism and resting on a support surface in an angular position where the horns are outside the arms of the forks 102;
• in figure 10 , the fixing of the watch head on its receptacle, after rotation of the watch head to an angular abutment bearing position of one of the lugs on a pin;
• the figure 11 represents, in a schematic way, and in perspective, the cooperation of the training module of the figure 4 , and the module for maintaining and/or supporting the figure 5 , with a balance that includes the watch head mounted on the receptacle according to the figure 10 ;
• the figure 12 is a view similar to the figure 11 , where only the support finger cooperates in support with the balance wheel, while the coach is in a disengaged position with respect to the watch head;
• the figure 13 is a view similar to the figure 11 where the support finger cooperates in support with the balance, while the gripper is in the adjustment position of a regulating screw;
• the figure 14 is a block diagram, in elevation, of a variant of the regulating machine of the figure 1 , cased and mounted on a watchmaker's workbench, and comprising a plurality of optical modules;
• the figure 15 is a schematic diagram, in elevation, of a detail of a variant of the regulating machine of the figure 1 Where 14 , comprising a palletizer allowing the exchange of a receptacle between the table of the positioning module on the one hand, and a frequency analyzer, or a device for controlling the operation, not shown, on the other hand;
• the figure 16 is a flowchart of the adjustment steps of the regulating screws of a balance that comprises a balance-spring oscillator, on the regulating machine, in a first variant in open loop;
• the figure 17 is a flowchart of the adjustment steps of the adjusting screws of a balance that comprises a balance-spring oscillator, on a regulating machine comprising a frequency analyzer and/or a rate control device, in a closed-loop variant.

Detailed Description of Preferred Embodiments

The invention relates to a receptacle 10, arranged to carry at least one watch assembly 1 on a timepiece adjusting machine 1000, which is designed to perform at least one setting and/or adjustment on at least one such watch assembly 1. This receptacle 10 is more particularly a mounting, which is arranged for the reception of such an assembly 1 which is a watch, or a watch head, or a clockwork, or a regulating organ, or a balance wheel, or a bridge of pendulum, or the like.

This regulating machine 1000 comprises piloting means 3000, for coordinating in an automated manner the movements and/or the operation of at least one module, in particular of at least one positioning module 100.

The invention will be described more particularly for the use of this adjusting machine 1000 for adjusting a mechanical oscillator for a watch, of the balance-spring type, by acting on adjusting screws that conventionally include the balance of this oscillator. These adjusting screws are generally with differential pitch, to take up play; thus they remain in position once adjusted. This application is in no way limiting.

The figures illustrate a particular, non-limiting variant, where the axes are conventionally defined by an orthogonal system: the Z axis is the vertical of the place, the X axis corresponds to a longitudinal direction, the Y axis corresponds to a transverse direction , as seen on the figure 1 which represents a regulating machine 1000, fitted with all the basic modules and all the regulating modules which will be described below.

This positioning module 100 comprises maneuvering means, which are arranged to move in space a receptacle 10 according to the invention, on command from the piloting means 3000, to bring it under at least one module of the regulating machine 100, in particular under an adjustment and/or adjustment module 400 described later, in an adjustment and/or adjustment position with respect to a frame 2000 that includes the adjusting machine 1000, and to bring it under the least one acquisition module 200. This frame 2000 can be a base specific to the regulating machine 1000 which is then easily movable, or be constituted by a watchmaker's workbench 4000, which is then integrated into the regulating machine 1000.

The frame 2000 carries directly or indirectly at least one regulating module, and the control means 3000 are arranged to coordinate in an automated manner the movements and/or the operation of each regulating module, which comprises the regulating machine 1000.

The regulating machine 1000 preferably comprises a casing 5000, encompassing all of the modules which compose it, and which can be put under depression or overpressure to guarantee the cleanliness of the equipment. This casing 5000 notably carries the control means 3000, which conventionally comprise a user interface 3001 such as a screen/keyboard or the like, and a link with a production management system and/or a quality management system. More particularly, the user interface 3001 can be used for viewing the work area at high magnification during the intervention of the various modules, when the regulating machine 1000 comprises an optical module 700 equipped with a digital microscope or the like, which facilitates settings and validations.

The study shows that the work steps and movements in an assisted manual version require at least 29 functional steps, 37 movements, and 9 axes. The choice of a fully digital machine ensures perfect process management, with reproducible operations and easily configurable settings; moreover, a digital version alone makes it possible to reduce the cycle time; in the particular non-limiting variant illustrated by the figures, these control means 3000 control 13 axes digital, which reduces the number of functional steps and movements.

Naturally the number and arrangement of the axes depend on the configuration chosen for the machine, which here comprises a cantilevered column movable in Z; but the mobility in Z could also be at the level of the positioning module 100. The vertical movements can also be linked to a gantry instead of a column. The advantage of the cantilevered column is to clear the space in front of the column quite widely, for the various carriers and grippers, and to facilitate the vision or the passage of laser beams.

More particularly, the positioning module 100 is movable relative to the frame 2000 at least along the longitudinal direction X. The movement of a table 109 carrying a receptacle 10 along the longitudinal direction X takes place in at least three remarkable positions: rest, laser measurement position, adjusting screw retouching position. This positioning module 100 advantageously comprises a rotary axis Θ0 for the rotation of the table 109. In a variant as illustrated, this positioning module 100 is movable relative to the frame 2000 both in the longitudinal direction X and in the transverse direction Y, which makes it possible to go beyond the eccentric stroke allowed by the rotary axis Θ0.

The acquisition module 200 comprises measurement and/or control means, which are arranged for the identification and determination of the position in space of a receptacle 10, and/or of at least one set watchmaker 1 fixed on a receptacle 10, relative to the frame 2000, and to communicate to the control means 3000 the information for the control and/or the position correction of the positioning module 100.

The acquisition module 200 comprises in particular a carriage 209 movable in the vertical direction Z. This carriage 209 carries viewing means and a laser beam oriented here in the vertical direction Z. This module is designed for the automatic adjustment of the focal positions vision and laser, with respect to the various assemblies 1, movements or watch heads, carried by a receptacle 10 according to the invention. This focal adjustment of the vision system and the laser measurement system is done according to an adjustment cycle which includes: centering position pendulum, open area position, laser Z measurement position, adjusting screw orientation position.

This acquisition module 200 can also carry a secondary carriage, also movable in the vertical direction Z and carried by the carriage 209, to dissociate, for certain particular applications, the movements of the vision system and of the laser system. In a particular variant not shown, this acquisition module 200 may include another laser source, not devoted to measurement, but to ablation operations on the balance wheel or on the hairspring.

In the application of the regulating machine 1000 to the adjustment of a balance-spring oscillator, the acquisition module 200 essentially serves to detect the center of the balance to guarantee the reliability of the adjustment screw adjustment process, to guarantee the correct centering of an adjustment clamp 600, explained below, on the axis of the adjusting screws of the balance.

More particularly, the regulating machine 1000 comprises at least one regulating module which is an adjustment and/or adjustment mechanism 400. This adjustment and/or adjustment mechanism comprises an adjustment and/or adjustment module 400, which comprises adjustment means and/or adjustment, which are arranged to perform an adjustment and/or an adjustment on at least one assembly 1 carried by a receptacle 10, and/or on at least one component or a moving part that comprises an assembly 1, on command piloting means 3000.

More specifically, this adjustment and/or adjustment module 400 is an angular retouching module, the adjustment and/or adjustment means of which comprise a plurality of motorized axes which are arranged to move, open and close, in a plane gripper, preferably but not limited to a vertical plane passing through the vertical of the place, this gripper plane being perpendicular to a gripper rotation direction DF, DG, a gripper 600, which is arranged to drive or deform a mobile or a component that comprises an assembly 1 carried by a receptacle 10.

More particularly, this clamp 600 is arranged to allow the tightening/loosening of any type of screw head profile: “ ^Torx® ”, hexagonal, with slot, without head, “Imbus”, conical, with bearing surface, or other.

More particularly, the adjustment and/or adjustment module 400 is movable relative to the frame 2000 of the adjusting machine 1000 at least in the vertical direction Z.

More particularly, in the non-limiting arrangement illustrated in particular by the figure 2 , the adjustment and/or adjustment module 400 comprises a gripper holder body 401, which is arranged to carry a gripper 600, and which is rotatable around a gripper rotation axis DH, parallel to the direction of rotation of gripper DF, DG, along a rotary axis of gripper maneuver Θ2, relative to a gripper carriage 403. This gripper carriage 403 is movable in a vertical direction Z parallel to the vertical of the place relative to a structure 404 which is either fixed to the frame 2000, or else mobile in a horizontal direction X perpendicular to the vertical of the location, or even in a vertical direction Z parallel to the vertical of the location, with respect to a clamp base 405 fixed to the frame 2000 .

In a particular and advantageous manner, the clamp 600 is monolithic, in an elastic material. More particularly, clamp 600 is silicon and/or silicon oxide, spring steel, or the like. Indeed, in its preferred applications, the gripper 600 is of very small dimensions, its volume is similar to that of a movement, and this constraint is hardly compatible with an articulated mechanism for operation without play, and with a repetitive value of low-intensity support efforts to preserve the components concerned.

More particularly, this adjustment and/or adjustment module 400 comprises a gripper control body 406 comprising a roller 407, in particular a roller 407 forming a cam, which is arranged to exert a force on a surface of the gripper 600 and deform the gripper in an opening or closing movement. This gripper control body 406 is in particular mobile in rotation, along a rotary axis of gripper opening/closing control Θ1, either around a gripper rotation axis DH, or around a parallel roller axis DF to a clamp rotation axis DH, relative to a clamp carriage 403 which is movable in a vertical direction Z parallel to the vertical of the place relative to a structure 404 which is either fixed to the frame 2000, or else movable in a horizontal direction X perpendicular to the vertical of the place relative to a clamp base 405 fixed to the frame 2000.

More particularly, the gripper control body 406 is arranged to move the roller 407 over 360° for the opening or closing control of the gripper 600.

More particularly, the gripper control body 406 is rotatable around the gripper rotation axis DH, so as to be able in certain angular positions, exert a support offset with respect to a plane of symmetry PS that includes the clamp 600.

The gripper 600 comprises gripper arms 601 for maneuvering a component or mobile of the assembly 1, in particular a balancing adjusting screw. In the non-limiting mode of use illustrated by the figures, each clamp arm 601 is movable in a clamp plane, in particular a vertical plane passing through the vertical of the location, this clamp plane being perpendicular to a clamp rotation axis DH or to a roller axis DF parallel to a clamp rotation axis DH. Of course, for other applications, the plane common to the gripper arms 601 can be moved in space.

The 601 gripper arms are designed to clamp the outside diameter of the adjusting screws of all types of balance beams, even the smallest ones.

More particularly, the clamp 600 is elastic, and comprises at least one support portion 602 which is subjected to the action of an actuator or a roller 407 or an eccentric and/or a pusher, which comprises the adjustment and/or adjustment module 400, and of which any deformation of this at least one support portion 602 modifies the relative position of the arms 601 between them, and deforms the clamp 600, which makes it possible to use the clamp 600 as a tool for adjustment.

More particularly, the clamp 600 is symmetrical with respect to a plane of symmetry PS, and comprises first elastic arms 607 and/or second elastic arms 604.

More particularly, the clamp 600 comprises an attachment zone 603 which is more rigid than the first elastic arms 607 and the second elastic arms 604, for the attachment of the clamp 600 to a clamp holder body 401 that comprises the adjustment module and /or adjustment 400; this fixing can be achieved by the combination of at least one positioning pin driven into a pin hole 6030 visible on the picture 3 , and at least one screw or similar fixed at an implantation 608.

And, more particularly, the clamp 600 comprises at least one such bearing portion 602, which is more rigid than the first elastic arms 607 and the second elastic arms 604.

Advantageously, the first elastic arms 607 are substantially aligned with the gripper arms 601.

The system can operate without abutment on complementary surfaces. If necessary, the design of the roller 407, in particular a cam, allows a rotation of 360° without risk for the gripper 600.

In a particular variant, the attachment zone 603 comprises limitation surfaces 605, which are arranged to cooperate in abutment support with complementary limitation surfaces 606 that the support portion 602 comprises, so as to limit the deformation of the clamp 600.

In a particular execution corresponding to the figures 1 to 3 , the clamp 600 is held in reference by two pins and a clamping screw. The shape of the gripper 600 is optimized so as not to exceed the elastic limit stress of the material as well as the maximum value of the force exerted by the roller 407, in particular a cam. In the particular application of the adjustment of a regulating member, in particular the action on a balance adjustment screw, the profile (thickness, angular position) of the arms 601 and 604 is defined to be compatible with the space available. to come and tighten the adjusting screw in the balance wheel, to allow angular pivoting of the clamp 600 to carry out its adjustment process, without touching the watch case, and, in a particular and non-limiting execution, to make it possible to have a clamping force of up to 40 N per arm at the end of the cam stroke (approximately 0.6mm).

In short, the vertical axis Z makes it possible to manage the descent into position of the gripper 600 at the level of a regulating screw, the command of the rotary axis controlling the opening/closing of the gripper Θ1 triggers the opening of the pliers 600 to enclose a adjusting screw, then the closing of the pliers 600 around this adjusting screw. The maneuver of the rotary axis of pliers maneuver Θ2 commands the screwing or unscrewing of the regulating screw, as a watchmaker would do.

For applications other than adjusting screws, the 600 collet can be used both as a rotary operating tool and as a linear motion tool such as a rivet, pin, pin punch, chisel, chuck, or whatever. The clamp 600 can then be used as a deformation or engraving tool.

More particularly, the regulating machine 1000 further comprises at least one other regulating module which is a drive module 300. This drive module 300 comprises drive means 301, which are arranged to drive, at least in rotation, at least less a component or a mobile, than comprises such a watch assembly 1 carried by a receptacle 10, on command from the control means 3000.

More particularly, this drive module 300 is a balance drive module, illustrated by the figure 4 . This drive module 300 comprises a body 310 movable at least in a vertical direction Z parallel to the vertical of the place, and relative to which is movable in an articulated manner a motorized coach 301, which is rotatable around a coach axis DC parallel to the vertical Z direction, or substantially parallel to the vertical Z direction.

More particularly, in the non-limiting arrangement illustrated by the figure 4 , this body 310 comprises positioning means 340, which are arranged to position in rotation, around an axis DMN parallel to the vertical direction Z, at least one deflection arm 303, 304, with respect to which is pivotally mounted, around of an intermediate axis DB parallel to the drive axis DC, a drive arm 302 carrying the drive 301.

And this body 310 carries drive means 330 for driving the driver 301 in rotation, via transmission means 320 with a belt, or chain, or gear, or gimbal, or the like.

More particularly, the positioning means 340 are arranged to angularly position at least one deflection arm 304, to which is articulated a deflection arm, which is the driving arm 302, or a forearm 303 to which the arm is articulated. trainer 302.

The figure 4 thus illustrates, on the one hand a first motor 310 which rotates belts 320 which drive the drive shaft 301 in rotation, and on the other hand a second motor 340, which rotates around its axis DN the complete assembly 310 , 304-303-302, 301-320-330.

The arm can be retracted using the body around its motor axis. This arm is manually adjustable around the 2 axes DA and DGB. The adjustment is defined according to the caliber to be adjusted.

More particularly, the body 3440 is carried by a cross-movement table XZ in a vertical plane passing through the vertical of the place, comprising a carriage 350 which is carried by a carriage 360 movable relative to a table base 370 fixed to the frame 2000 .

The drive module 300 advantageously comprises a rotary axis Θ40 for the rotation of the transmission means 320, and the driver 301 is rotatable along a rotary axis Θ4.

This arrangement allows optimal positioning of the rotation drive finger 301 relative to the balance.

More particularly, the regulating machine 1000 further comprises at least one other regulating module which is a holding and/or support module 500, in particular a support finger module, and which comprises holding and/or support means 501.

These holding and/or support means 501 are arranged to exert a substantially axial support on a mobile or a component of an assembly 1 during or after an adjustment and/or an adjustment carried out on an assembly 1 by the adjustment module and/or adjustment 400, or to maintain the mobile or component without contact by the action of a magnetic or electrostatic field, in a direction DE which, in a particular application, is parallel to the vertical of the place, or which forms a angle less than 10° with the vertical direction of the location.

More particularly, in the variant illustrated by the figure 1 and which is particularly compact, this at least one holding and/or support module 500, in particular a support finger module, is carried by the at least one positioning module 100. It can however be independent of it, and fixed directly on the frame 2000 of the regulating machine 1000, or on a mobile carriage that comprises this regulating machine 1000.

More particularly, in the non-limiting arrangement illustrated by the figure 5 , this at least one holding and/or support module 500 comprises a body 520, which is rotatable about a rotary axis Θ3 for rotation relative to a vertical direction DD parallel to the vertical of the place and which drives a carrying arm 502 which carries, in a fixed or articulated manner, the holding and/or support means 501.

The design of this support uses a principle similar to the adjustment pliers 600, that is to say the use of the elasticity of the material. In the application of the regulating machine 1000 to the regulation of a balance-spring oscillator, it is imperative, in order to avoid stresses on the shock absorbers of the balance, to exert a support force that is the weakest and the most controlled as possible.

A first support variant comprises a shaft with a bronze bearing guide, which presses by its own weight on the pendulum to block it in rotation, and requires perfect adjustment of the guide play to ensure that the shaft falls from its own weight, while avoiding any blocking of the balance, or even harmful axial stress on the balance.

A variant, corresponding to the figures, applies a principle of support by elastic guidance which meets these requirements. Preferably, this support system is slightly inclined so as not to generate a shadow zone on the balance, which could disturb the detection of the regulating screw by optical means that comprises the regulating machine 1000, which explains the interest of 'a direction DE slightly inclined.

In a variant, the holding and/or support means 501 comprise a support finger which is a mass, maintained guided by elastic guide means 503, fixed to the carrying arm 502 and which are arranged to hold the mass in pressing on a mobile or component by applying a substantially vertical force. These elastic guide means 503 may in particular consist, as seen on the figure 5 , by two flexible blades substantially parallel to each other and slightly inclined with respect to the horizontal, and which constitute a deformable parallelogram with the support finger 501 and the structure which carries it.

In another variant not shown, the holding and/or support means 501 comprise a support finger which is a mass guided in a housing of the carrier arm 502 and which is arranged to hold by its own weight a mobile or component .

Advantageously when using measurement and/or control means of the acquisition module 200 which are optical means, the holding and/or support module 500 is arranged to orient said holding means and/or or support 501 in a direction DE slightly inclined relative to the vertical, in order to clear the field of vision of these devices.

More particularly, the body 520 is rotatable relative to a body 510, which is movable in a vertical direction Z parallel to the vertical of the place, relative to a structure 590 which is either fixed to the frame 2000, or else fixed to a carriage 530, 570, movable relative to a base 580 fixed to the frame 2000.

In a variant, this body 510 is movable in the vertical direction Z relative to a carriage carried by a base carriage 570 with horizontal movement Y, or X, or with crossed movements XY in a horizontal plane perpendicular to the vertical of the place, relative to a base 580 fixed to the frame 2000.

In another variant illustrated by the figure 5 , the body 510 is movable relative to a structure 590 which is either fixed to the frame 2000, or else fixed to a carriage 530, 570 movable relative to a base 580 fixed to the frame 2000, under the combined action of a roller 560 carried by the body 510 and a ramp 550 that includes a ramp carriage 540 movable relative to a base carriage 570 in a horizontal direction X in a horizontal plane perpendicular to the vertical of the place.

In short, the holding and/or support module 500 is arranged to hold in a substantially axial position, in the vertical direction Z or in such a direction DE, a mobile or component of an assembly 1 during or after training. of the mobile or component by the drive means of this at least one drive module 300. This maintenance in axial position is appropriate at the end of the drive of this mobile or of this component.

The holding and/or support module 500 provides a safe alternative to mechanisms of the traditional stop-seconds type, the blades of which risk damaging the balance wheel. The Z axis allows the descent of the support finger 501, and the axis Θ3 allows the rotation of the arm 502.

More particularly, the acquisition module 200 includes vision means arranged to scan the work area. In particular, in the application of the adjusting machine 1000 to the adjustment of a balance-spring oscillator, the viewing means are arranged to detect the entire surface of the balance, or any zone necessary for adjusting the adjusting screws. These viewing means also allow the number or type of a regulating screw to be detected, or an engraving made on the rim of the balance wheel to be read to determine the number and type of regulating screws.

More particularly, the acquisition module 200 is mobile at least along a vertical direction Z parallel to the vertical of the location, and includes viewing means arranged to determine the position of a surface of a mobile or component, and/or to determine the nature and the position of at least one adjusting member that an assembly 1 comprises, such as an adjusting screw, flyweight, piton, racket, or the like

More particularly, the acquisition module 200 is mobile at least along a vertical direction Z parallel to the vertical of the place, and comprises means of vision and means of laser measurement, and an automatic adjustment device of the vision and laser focal positions relative to a mobile or component of an assembly 1 carried by a receptacle 10, for the exact determination of the position of the upper surface of the mobile or component in the vertical direction.

More particularly, the regulating machine 1000 comprises at least one optical module 700, which is carried directly or indirectly by the frame 2000, or by the positioning module 100, or the acquisition module 200, or one of the regulating modules 300 , 400, 500, which comprises the regulating machine 1000. This optical module 700 is interfaced with the piloting means 3000, for the optical control of a component or a mobile during its adjustment or during an oscillation to which it is subjected.

More particularly, the positioning module 100, and/or the acquisition module 200, comprises identification means for identifying a receptacle 10 according to the invention, which advantageously comprises a marking or a marking or a component receptacle identification, and for the identification of each assembly 1 carried by the receptacle 10, which assembly 1 advantageously comprises a marking or a marking or a product identification component.

More particularly, the regulating machine 1000 comprises at least one such optical module 700 carried directly or indirectly by the frame 2000, and interfaced with the control means 3000, for the optical control of a mobile or component during its adjustment or during an oscillation to which it is subjected, and/or to constitute means of identification of a receptacle 10 and for the identification of each assembly 1 carried by the receptacle 10.

More particularly, each receptacle 10 according to the invention comprises, for receiving an assembly 1, a support surface 190 which, in a horizontal service position, extends substantially flat along a horizontal plane perpendicular to a vertical direction Z parallel to the vertical of the place.

Naturally, the regulating machine 1000 can comprise a manipulator to move such a receptacle 10 in space, which then makes it possible, in the case where the set 1 comprises an oscillator whose chronometric properties are to be tested, to present this set 1 in the standardized chronometric control positions, in a static position in the different angles, or even during a dynamic control passing through the standardized positions and orientations, in particular as described in the document EP3486734 in the name of MONTRES BREGUET.

The receptacle 10 according to the invention comprises positioning and orientation means with respect to the table 109 of the positioning module 100.

More particularly, this receptacle 10 is a mounting which comprises, under its support surface 190, a spring mechanism 180 for receiving an assembly 1, and, above the support surface 190, shims blocking 102 of an assembly 1. This receptacle 10 further comprises, between the support surface and the blocking wedges 102, angular orientation means 103 for the angular orientation in abutment support of an edge of the set 1 on the pose.

The figures 8 to 10 successively illustrate the preparation of the laying for the reception of a watch head, with two clamps or blocking wedges 102 which are forks arranged to rest on the lugs 101 of the watch head, the removal of the watch head 1 on the spring mechanism 180 and resting on the bearing surface 190 and in an angular position where the lugs 101 are outside the arms of the forks of the blocking wedges 102, then finally the rotation of the watch head 1 until to an angular abutment bearing position of one of the horns 101 on a pin 103 forming the angular orientation means, guided in a pin housing 105, abutment bearing position in which the spring mechanism 180 ensures a good support. The maintenance of the watch head in the vertical direction Z is ensured by the blocking wedges 102, the lower surface 104 of which rests on the lugs 101 of the watch head. The support of the watch head is done here on the watch crystal, a centering is carried out at the level of the bezel or the watch case. The spring mechanism 180 guarantees controlled tracking force. More particularly, the receptacle 10 comprises interchangeable blocks 110 carrying the blocking wedges 102 and the pin housings 105, and which are each adapted to a particular type of movement or watch head.

It is understood that such a receptacle can then be managed like a pallet of a machining center, and be moved between an entry station, a possible store, and an exit station, passing through an adjustment position and / or adjustment on the regulating machine 1000. For this purpose, the receptacle 10 may, in a variant not illustrated by the figures, comprise, in particular on its lower face, gripping means similar to those which comprise machining center pallets: Mors or ISO or SA cone, tee groove, dovetail, or similar, and also similar positioning means: bores, pins, grooves, or others.

More specifically, the regulating machine 1000 comprises a palletizing mechanism, for the automatic exchange of receptacles 10 at the level of the positioning module 100.

In a variant, a simple palletization, for example a palletizer 900, transfers the receptacle 10 to a frequency analyzer 800, without modifying the position of the positioning module, and a possible return of the receptacle 10 for refining the correction of the pendulum, is performed after redepositing the receptacle 10 on the table of the station whose position has not changed.

In another variant, the regulating machine 1000 is directly equipped with a device for launching the oscillation, and comprises optical means 700 with a camera and a clock, for optical control of the frequency.

Advantageously, the adjusting machine 1000 is equipped with a device for controlling the rate after adjustment. Such a palletizer 900 can also be used to transport the receptacle 10 on such a device.

More particularly, and when assembly 1 comprises an oscillator, regulating machine 1000 comprises a frequency analyzer 800 and/or a chronometry control device coupled to piloting means 3000, which are programmed to trigger an adjustment iteration on a regulating organ until entry into a required frequency and/or rate tolerance.

The use of the adjusting machine 1000 for adjusting balance adjusting screws is simple, all that is required is to release any oscillating weight from the working area beforehand. The receptacle 10 is positioned under the vision means of the acquisition module 200, which defines the position of the axis of the pendulum in XY, and which controls an XY movement of the receptacle 10 if necessary, or, in a variant, a movement angle of this receptacle, or even a more complex movement combining rotation(s) and translation(s). The search for the adjusting screw is done by dragging the balance rim by friction by the driver 301. A descent in Z follows. Once the adjusting screw is in the adjustment position in the plane, its vertical position is measured: the measurement of the position in Z of a adjusting screw with the laser can be done on a surface or on a flat of a adjusting screw, whose geometric parameters are known and managed by the control means 3000. It it is in fact a question of precisely positioning the arms 601 of the clamp 600 in symmetry with respect to the axis of the adjusting screw, so as not to create any torque on the screw other than the tightening or unscrewing torque. The balance is then locked in position with the support finger 501, to maintain the position of the balance and because the closing of the clamp generates a slight stress on the balance which can result in a Z movement of the order of 30 maximum micrometers; the driver 301 is then released. The adjustment is then carried out by screwing or unscrewing the adjusting screw.

The invention allows the easy implementation of a method for using such a regulating machine 1000. This method comprises relative movements between the different modules of the regulating machine 1000, it is described here for the regulating machine illustrated by the figures, those skilled in the art will be able to extrapolate it to neighboring architectures, depending on the mobility or not of each module, and the arrangement of the working axes for the different units. All these movements are therefore relative movements.

• on équipe au moins un réceptacle 10 d'au moins un ensemble 1 qui est un mouvement d'horlogerie ou une montre de direction axiale A, et dont on veut régler et/ou ajuster au moins un mobile ou un composant de cet ensemble 1 ;
• on aligne sa direction axiale A avec la verticale du lieu,
• on dégage en fin de course le module d'acquisition 200, le module de réglage et/ou ajustement 400, et chaque module réglant 300, 500, que comporte la machine réglante 1000, de façon à dégager une zone de travail pour la mesure, le réglage et/ou l'ajustement ;
• on charge un réceptacle 10 sur le module de positionnement 100;
• on fait coïncider la position du réceptacle 10 avec celle de la zone de travail, et pour ce faire, selon la configuration de la machine réglante 1000, soit on amène le réceptacle 10 dans la zone de travail, soit on amène tout ou partie des modules constituant cette machine réglante 1000 au-dessus du réceptacle 10 ;
• on amène le module de positionnement 100 au-dessous du module d'acquisition 200 ;
• on détermine une valeur cible de réglage d'au moins un paramètre ;
• on transmet aux moyens de pilotage 3000 la valeur du au moins paramètre mesurée sur cet au moins un ensemble 1 ;
• on choisit un cycle de programmation du module d'acquisition 200 pour mesurer au moins la position de la surface supérieure du mobile ou composant selon la direction verticale du lieu ;
• on transmet la position et toute mesure effectuée selon le cycle de programmation aux moyens de pilotage 3000 lesquels génèrent, selon le cycle de programmation choisi, des mouvements de positionnement du module de positionnement 100 pour mettre l'ensemble 1 dans une position imposée, et/ou des ordres de mouvement et de fonctionnement à chaque module réglant 300, 400, 500, que comporte la machine réglante 1000, selon une séquence programmée au niveau de la zone de travail.

According to this process:

• at least one receptacle 10 is fitted with at least one assembly 1 which is a clockwork movement or a watch with axial direction A, and for which it is desired to adjust and/or adjust at least one mobile or a component of this assembly 1;
• its axial direction A is aligned with the vertical of the location,
• the acquisition module 200, the adjustment and/or adjustment module 400, and each adjusting module 300, 500, included in the adjusting machine 1000, are cleared at the end of their travel, so as to clear a working area for the measurement, setting and/or adjustment;
• a receptacle 10 is loaded onto the positioning module 100;
• the position of the receptacle 10 is made to coincide with that of the work zone, and to do this, depending on the configuration of the regulating machine 1000, either the receptacle 10 is brought into the work zone, or all or part of the modules are brought constituting this regulating machine 1000 above the receptacle 10;
• the positioning module 100 is brought below the acquisition module 200;
• a target adjustment value of at least one parameter is determined;
• the value of the at least parameter measured on this at least one set 1 is transmitted to the control means 3000;
• a programming cycle of the acquisition module 200 is chosen to measure at least the position of the upper surface of the mobile or component in the vertical direction of the location;
• the position and any measurement taken according to the programming cycle are transmitted to the control means 3000 which generate, according to the chosen programming cycle, positioning movements of the positioning module 100 to place the assembly 1 in an imposed position, and/ or movement and operating commands to each regulating module 300, 400, 500, which comprises the regulating machine 1000, according to a sequence programmed at the level of the work zone.

More particularly, the adjusting machine 1000 is equipped with at least one holding and/or support module 500, which is arranged to exert a support on a mobile or component of an assembly 1 during or after an adjustment and/or an adjustment made on an assembly 1 by another regulating module 300, 400, 500, or to maintain the mobile or component without contact by the action of a magnetic or electrostatic field, in particular in a vertical direction DE parallel to the vertical of the place. This holding in support is appropriate at the end of the driving of this mobile or of this component.

More specifically, the adjusting machine 1000 is equipped with at least one drive module 300, which comprises a motorized driver 301 rotating about a driver axis DC parallel to the vertical direction Z for driving the mobile or component .

More specifically, the adjusting machine 1000 is equipped with at least one adjustment and/or adjustment module 400, which comprises a gripper 600 to drive or deform the mobile or component, and the parameter is adjusted by action of the gripper 600 on at least one mobile or component of set 1.

More specifically, the adjusting machine 1000 is equipped with at least one optical module 700 for the optical control of the mobile or component during its adjustment or during an oscillation to which it is subjected.

More particularly, the regulating machine 1000 is equipped with at least one parameter measurement means, interfaced with the control means 3000, and the parameter adjustment cycle is repeated until a compatible parameter value is obtained. with the target value.

More particularly, the adjusting machine 1000 is equipped with at least one palletizer 900 to take the receptacle 10 out of the adjusting machine 1000 in a memorized exit position, the palletizer is used to subject the receptacle 10 to the measuring means of the parameter, then to bring receptacle 10 back to the exit position to resume the adjustment and/or adjustment cycle of assembly 1.

More particularly, the regulating machine 1000 is equipped with at least one means of measuring the parameter, to proceed with the measurement of the value of the parameter before resuming the cycle of adjustment and/or adjustment of the assembly 1.

In the application to the adjustment of a balance-spring oscillator, the simplest implementation of the process is in open loop: we receive a set 1 measured beforehand, we know the value of the corrections to be made, we enter the target value and the actual value of the watch or movement; the adjustment screws are then corrected on the machine, and set 1 is restored without control.

• Etape A1: Chargement de la tête de montre 1 dans le posage du réceptacle 10 ;
• Etape A2 (Station 01): Détection du centre axe balancier, correction de position pour avoir l'origine machine ;
• Etape A3 (Station 01): Rotation du balancier ;
• Etape A4 (Station 01): Détection de la première vis réglante par système caméra ;
• Etape A5 (Station 01): Blocage du balancier en position ;
• Etape A6 (Station 02): Déplacement sous capteur laser, mesure de la position en Z du balancier ;
• Etape A7 (Station 03): Serrage de la vis et réglage de la vis ;
• Etape A8 (Station 01): Retour en position détection vis réglante ;
• Etape A9 (Station 01): Rotation du balancier pour détection de la vis réglante par système caméra ;
• Etape A10 (Station 01): Blocage du balancier en position ;
• Etape A11 (Station 02): Déplacement sous capteur laser, mesure de la position en Z du balancier ;
• Etape A12 (Station 03): Serrage de la vis et réglage de la vis ;
• Etape A13: Déchargement de la tête de montre du posage.

For example, the following sequence describes the operations carried out on a watch head 1, comprising a balance fitted with two adjusting screws, in an application where action is taken only on the balance and its adjusting screws:

• Step A1: Loading of the watch head 1 in the positioning of the receptacle 10;
• Step A2 (Station 01): Detection of the balance axis center, position correction to obtain the machine origin;
• Stage A3 (Station 01): Rotation of the pendulum;
• Step A4 (Station 01): Detection of the first adjusting screw by camera system;
• Step A5 (Station 01): Blocking of the pendulum in position;
• Step A6 (Station 02): Movement under laser sensor, measurement of the Z position of the pendulum;
• Step A7 (Station 03): Screw tightening and screw adjustment;
• Step A8 (Station 01): Return to regulating screw detection position;
• Step A9 (Station 01): Rotation of the balance for detection of the adjusting screw by camera system;
• Step A10 (Station 01): Blocking of the pendulum in position;
• Step A11 (Station 02): Movement under laser sensor, measurement of the Z position of the pendulum;
• Step A12 (Station 03): Screw tightening and screw adjustment;
• Step A13: Unloading the watch head from the jig.

Naturally, this sequence must be adapted according to the number of adjusting screws.

In the example above, the clamp 600 acts only on the regulating screws: the screw is tightened or loosened to modify the inertia of the balance wheel. The opening/closing of the gripper 600 uses the elasticity of the material, since the gripper 600 is preferably a monolithic piece. A roller 407, in particular with a cam profile, driven by a motor performs the opening/closing of the gripper 600.

The acquisition module 200 comprises a laser, which detects the stud in which the adjusting screw is placed. The laser makes it possible to define the position in Z of the pendulum to bring the clamp 600 in the same axis as the regulating screw, because the objective is to tighten/untighten the screw in the axis so as not to exert any parasitic torque. The target value (for example 2.5 s/day) is managed at the level of the control means 3000. The current value of the rate is entered by software. The system allows a reduced complete cycle time, of the order of 50 to 70 seconds, depending on the number of screws to be adjusted.

Closed-loop use makes it necessary to equip the regulating machine with an analyzer, which makes it more complex and requires more space, but makes it possible to verify that the target value has been reached on the station.

• Phase B1: Entrée de la valeur cible et de la valeur réelle de la montre ;
• Phase B2: Correction sur la machine des vis réglantes selon les étapes A1 à A12 ;
• Phase B3: Libération du mouvement/tête de montre après correction des vis réglantes ;
• Phase B4: Contrôle de la marche sur mouvement ou sur tête de montre sur appareil analyseur ;
• Phase B5: Vérification de l'écart entre valeur cible et valeur réelle ;
• Phase B6:
  • si écart nul, validation de la correction effectuée, déchargement selon A13 ;
  • si écart positif, nécessité d'une correction supplémentaire, avec alors itération du processus :
• Phase B7: Entrée de la valeur cible et de la valeur mesurée de la montre ;
• Phase B8: Correction sur la machine des vis réglantes ;
• Phase B9: Libération du mouvement/tête de montre après correction des vis réglantes ;
• Phase B10: Contrôle de la marche sur mouvement ou sur tête de montre sur analyseur ;
• Phase B11: Vérification de l'écart entre valeur cible et valeur réelle ;
• Phase B12:
  • si écart nul, validation de la correction effectuée et de l'ensemble 1, déchargement selon A13 ;
  • si écart positif, sortie de l'ensemble 1 sans le valider en poste de contrôle B13.

It is then possible to carry out the following cycle:

• Phase B1: Entry of the target value and the actual value of the watch;
• Phase B2: Correction on the machine of the adjusting screws according to steps A1 to A12;
• Phase B3: Release of the movement/watch head after correction of the regulating screws;
• Phase B4: Checking the rate on the movement or on the watch head on an analyzing device;
• Phase B5: Verification of the difference between target value and actual value;
• Phase B6:
  • if zero difference, validation of the correction made, unloading according to A13;
  • if positive difference, need for an additional correction, with then iteration of the process:
• Phase B7: Entry of the target value and the measured value of the watch;
• Phase B8: Correction on the machine of the regulating screws;
• Phase B9: Release of the movement/watch head after correction of the adjusting screws;
• Phase B10: Checking the rate on the movement or on the watch head on the analyzer;
• Phase B11: Verification of the difference between target value and actual value;
• Phase B12:
  • if zero difference, validation of the correction made and of set 1, unloading according to A13;
  • if positive difference, output of set 1 without validating it at checkpoint B13.

The regulating machine 1000 can also be equipped with a camera coupled to a clock, for optical control of the frequency.

The regulating machine can be used for many horological applications.

More particularly, the adjusting machine 1000 is used for adjusting a adjusting screw which is a balance weight or a balance bridge adjusting screw or a hairspring peak adjusting screw, or a partition adjusting screw, or an alignment adjustment screw, or for adjusting a racket.

More specifically, the adjusting machine 1000 is used to perform a partition adjustment by adjustment in Z and action on a screw or a punch, or an alignment adjustment, or a position adjustment in an oblong, or other.

More particularly, the regulating machine 1000 is used for the local deformation of a bridge or of a hairspring or of an arm or of a balance rim.

• la mise en œuvre d'une pince active pour effectuer le serrage de la vis réglante est effectué avec une pince sans jeu, car il s'agit d'une pince monolithique, avec fonctionnement en zone élastique de la matière, ce qui garantit la précision de la valeur de réglage ; une pince telle qu'illustrée est capable d'un effort de serrage de 40 N, dans la pratique, 20 N suffisent pour manipuler en sécurité une vis réglante sans risque de la casser ;
• il n'y a pas de limitation de la valeur de correction, et il est possible d'effectuer plusieurs cycles de vissage ou de dévissage de la vis réglante sans perte de précision ;
• le système numérique de pilotage du process de réglage de la vis réglante garantit la précision de la valeur de réglage, avec un cycle spécifique de rattrapage du jeu, et une flexibilité du réglage, puisqu'il est possible de choisir la ou les vis réglantes à corriger ;
• le réglage est effectué en une fois, et permet d'atteindre des valeurs de l'ordre de 1/- 1 seconde par jour quel que soit le calibre ;
• la détection de la position des vis réglantes est automatique, et permet le réglage en une fois des deux ou quatre vis réglantes dans les cas usuels ;
• aucune contrainte n'est exercée sur le mouvement, grâce aux axes numériques et au process automatique de détection du centre du balancier, de la position en Z du balancier, et de la position des réglantes ;
• aucun outil manuel n'est mis en œuvre, ce qui garantit l'absence d'altération ou de blessure d'un composant de la montre ;
• absence de contrainte sur le balancier lors du réglage grâce au doigt d'appui ;
• le process entièrement numérique évite tout besoin de comparaison à un balancier étalon ;
• la machine est compatible avec tous les calibres, même les plus petits, car la pince permet des manipulations impossibles à bien exécuter en toute sécurité avec des brucelles, une clé, ou un outil spécial de réglage.

In short, the invention provides or allows the provision of various advantages:

• the implementation of an active gripper to carry out the tightening of the adjusting screw is carried out with a gripper without backlash, since it is a monolithic gripper, with operation in the elastic zone of the material, which guarantees precision setting value; a clamp as illustrated is capable of a clamping force of 40 N, in practice, 20 N is enough to handle a adjusting screw safely without risk of breaking it;
• there is no limitation of the correction value, and it is possible to carry out several tightening or loosening cycles of the adjusting screw without loss of precision;
• the digital control system for the regulating screw adjustment process guarantees precision of the adjustment value, with a specific backlash compensation cycle, and adjustment flexibility, since it is possible to choose the adjusting screw(s) to to correct ;
• the adjustment is carried out in one go, and makes it possible to reach values of the order of 1/- 1 second per day regardless of the caliber;
• the detection of the position of the adjusting screws is automatic, and allows the adjustment in one go of two or four adjusting screws in the usual cases;
• no constraint is exerted on the movement, thanks to the digital axes and the automatic process for detecting the center of the balance, the position in Z of the balance, and the position of the regulators;
• no manual tool is used, which guarantees the absence of alteration or injury to a component of the watch;
• absence of constraint on the balance during adjustment thanks to the support finger;
• the entirely digital process avoids any need for comparison with a standard balance;
• the machine is compatible with all calibers, even the smallest, because the pliers allow manipulations that are impossible to perform safely with tweezers, a spanner, or a special adjustment tool.

The workstation equipped with such a very compact regulating machine is simple to use, with excellent ergonomics. The limited dimensions of the regulating machine 1000 in fact facilitate its combination with a classic watchmaker's workbench 4000, of which the regulating machine 1000 occupies only about half of the length.

Claims (6)

1. Receptacle (10) for receiving a horological assembly (1) and handling same on a setting machine (1000), said receptacle (10) being a support including, for receiving a said assembly (1), a substantially planar bearing surface (190), including, above said bearing surface (190), locking wedges (102) of a said assembly (1), and, between said bearing surface and said locking wedges (102), angular orientation means (103) for the angular orientation in abutment pressure of an edge of said assembly (1) on said support, characterised in that said support includes, under said bearing surface (190), a spring mechanism (180) for receiving said assembly (1).
2. Receptacle (10) according to claim 1, characterised in that said receptacle (10) includes a receptacle identification marking or index or component.
3. Receptacle (10) according to claim 1 or 2, characterised in that said angular orientation means (103) include a pin (103) guided in a pin housing (105) to define an abutment pressure position wherein said spring mechanism (180) ensures a good hold of said assembly, in combination with said locking wedges (102), the bottom surface (104) whereof bears on said assembly (1).
4. Receptacle (10) according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterised in that said receptacle (10) includes interchangeable units (110) bearing said locking wedges (102) and pin housings (105), and which are, each, adapted to a specific type of movement or watch head.
5. Receptacle (10) according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterised in that said receptacle (10) forms a pallet, and includes, on the bottom face thereof, gripping means for the cooperation thereof with a palletiser (900).
6. Receptacle (10) according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterised in that said receptacle (10) is a support arranged to receive a said assembly (1) which is a watch, or a watch head, or a horological movement, or a setting organ, or a balance, or a balance bridge.

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