EP3885846A1 - Timepiece adjusting machine and method for adjusting - Google Patents

Abstract

Clockwork regulating machine (1000) for setting and / or adjustment on an assembly (1) fixed on a receptacle (10), comprising a positioning module (100) for moving this receptacle (10) on command of control means ( 3000) to bring it into an adjustment and / or adjustment position under an acquisition module (200), which comprises measuring and / or control means for determining the position in space of the receptacle (10 ), and comprising an adjustment and / or adjustment module (400) for carrying out an adjustment and / or an adjustment on this assembly (1), and method of using such an adjustment machine for the adjustment and / or the adjustment of at least one watch component.

Description

Field of the invention

The invention relates to a clockwork regulating machine for performing at least one setting and / or adjustment on at least one clockwork assembly fixed to a receptacle, said regulating machine comprising control means, for automatically coordinating the movements and / or the operation of at least one positioning module, which comprises maneuvering means arranged to move in space a said receptacle on command of said control means to bring it into an adjustment position and / or adjustment in relation to to a frame that the said regulating machine comprises, under at least one acquisition module, which comprises measuring and / or control means arranged for the identification and determination of the position in space of a said receptacle, and / or of a said at least one watch assembly fixed on a said receptacle, with respect to said frame and to communicate to said control means the information for the control or / and the position correction of said positioning module.

The invention also relates to a method of using such an adjusting machine for setting and / or adjusting at least one watch component.

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

Background of the invention

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 an expensive operation.

Summary of the invention

The invention proposes to carry out the automation of fine adjustments on watch movements, or on watch heads, commonly called "watch head" or "WH", which are completed sets, and to carry out this automation at the same time. level of a compact workstation, which can for example be installed on a watchmaker's bench.

The means used are provided to ensure the cleanliness of this workstation, which is important because of 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.

While numerous 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 acting 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 regulating machine according to claim 1.

The invention also relates to an adjustment and / or adjustment method, implementing such an adjusting machine, according to claim 18.

Brief description of the drawings

• - la figure 1 représente, de façon schématisée, et en perspective, sans son carter, une machine réglante selon l'invention, 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; la bâti port directement un module de réglage et/ou ajustement, qui comporte une pince agencée pour manœuvrer 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 un 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 la 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 la pince est introduite dans le mouvement et coopère avec une vis réglante du balancier, et où le doigt d'appui maintient le balancier;
• - 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 selon l'invention, 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 selon l'invention 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 become apparent on reading the detailed description which follows, with reference to the appended drawings, where:

• - the figure 1 shows, schematically, and in perspective, without its housing, a regulating machine according to the invention, which comprises, on a frame, different modules which are shown independently of each other in the following figures, and including 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 cantilever column, and comprises mink 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 clamp arranged to maneuver a mobile or a component of an assembly arranged on the receptacle; a drive module comprises a trainer designed 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 arranged 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 operated in rotation and / or in translation;
• - the figure 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 one rotation by means of a rotary drive, such a component or mobile;
• - the figure 5 represents, similarly to the figure 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 disposed in position for its adjustment on the regulating machine;
• - the figure 7 shows, schematically, partially and in perspective, another receptacle which is a fitting, here carrying a clockwork movement arranged in position for its adjustment on the regulating machine;
• - the figures 8 to 10 illustrate successively, schematically, and in perspective:
• - in figure 8 , the preparation of the installation of the figure 6 for receiving a watch head, with two clamps or blocking wedges which are forks arranged to rest on the horns of the watch head;
• - - in figure 9 , depositing the watch head on a spring mechanism and resting on a bearing 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 a rotation of the watch head to an angular stop bearing position of one of the horns on a pin;
• - the figure 11 represents, schematically, 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 figure 11 , where only the support finger cooperates in support with the balance, while the driver is in the disengaged position relative to the watch head;
• - the figure 13 is a view similar to figure 11 , where the clamp is introduced into the movement and cooperates with an adjusting screw of the balance, and where the support finger maintains the balance;
• - the figure 14 is a block diagram, in elevation, of a variant of the regulating machine of the figure 1 , protected and mounted on a watchmaker's bench, and comprising a plurality of optical modules;
• - the figure 15 is a block 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 of a frequency analyzer, or of a device for controlling the rate not shown, on the other hand;
• - the figure 16 is a flowchart of the steps for adjusting the adjusting screws of a balance that a sprung balance oscillator comprises, on the adjusting machine according to the invention, in a first open-loop variant;
• - the figure 17 is a flowchart of the steps for adjusting the adjusting screws of a balance that a sprung balance oscillator comprises, on a regulating machine according to the invention comprising a frequency analyzer and / or a rate control device, in a variant in closed loop.

Detailed description of the preferred embodiments

The invention relates to a clockwork setting machine 1000, which is designed to perform at least one setting and / or adjustment on at least one clock assembly 1 fixed on a receptacle 10.

This regulating machine 1000 comprises control means 3000, for automatically coordinating 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 to adjust a mechanical watch oscillator, of the sprung balance type, by acting on adjusting screws that the balance of this oscillator conventionally comprises. These adjusting screws are generally with differential pitch, to take up the play; so they stay in position once set. 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 location, 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 according to the invention, equipped 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 a receptacle 10 in space, on command from the piloting means 3000, to bring it into an adjustment position and / or adjustment with respect to a frame 2000 that the regulating machine 1000 comprises, and to bring it under at least one acquisition module 200, or under another module of the regulating machine 1000, in particular an adjustment and / or adjustment module 400 which will be described later. 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 bench 4000, which is then integrated into the regulating machine 1000.

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

The regulating machine 1000 preferably comprises a casing 5000, encompassing all of the modules that make it up, and which can be placed under vacuum or overpressure to ensure 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 at high magnification of the working area 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 control of the process, with reproducible operations and easily configurable settings; in addition a digital version on its own, it is possible to reduce the cycle time; in the particular non-limiting variant illustrated by the figures, these control means 3000 control 13 digital axes, which makes it possible to reduce the number of functional steps and movements.

Naturally, the number and the arrangement of the axes depend on the configuration chosen for the machine, which here comprises a cantilever 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 cantilever column is that it leaves enough space in front of the column for the various trainers and grippers, and to facilitate vision or the passage of laser beams.

More particularly, the positioning module 100 is movable relative to the frame 2000 at least in the longitudinal direction X. The movement of a table 109 carrying a receptacle 10 in the longitudinal direction X takes place in at least three remarkable positions: position of rest, laser measurement position, adjustment screw retouch 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 mobile relative to the frame 2000 both in the longitudinal direction X and in the direction transverse Y, which makes it possible to go beyond the eccentric travel allowed by the rotary axis Θ0.

The acquisition module 200 comprises measuring 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 assembly. 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 or / and 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 vision 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 different sets 1, movements or watch heads, carried by a receptacle 10. This focal adjustment of the vision system and of the laser measurement system is made according to an adjustment cycle which includes: balance centering position, free zone position, laser Z measurement position, adjustment 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 separate, 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 or on the hairspring.

In the application of the adjusting machine 1000 to the adjustment of a spiral balance oscillator, the acquisition module 200 is mainly used to detect the center of the balance to guarantee the reliability of the adjustment process of the adjusting screws, to guarantee the correct centering of an adjustment clamp 600, described below, on the axis of the adjustment screws of the balance.

According to the invention, 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 means adjustment 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 mobile that comprises an assembly 1, on command of the piloting means 3000.

More particularly, 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 of gripper, preferably but not limited to in a vertical plane passing through the vertical of the place, this gripper plane being perpendicular to a direction of rotation of gripper 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 designed to allow the tightening / loosening of any type of screw head profile: “Torx®”, hexagonal, with slot, without head, “Imbus”, conical, with bearing, or other.

More particularly, the adjustment and / or adjustment module 400 is movable relative to the frame 2000 of the adjustment 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 movable in rotation about an axis of rotation of gripper DH, parallel to the direction of rotation of gripper DF, DG, along a rotary gripper maneuver axis 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 place, or else in a vertical direction Z parallel to the vertical of the place, 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, the clamp 600 is made of silicon and / or silicon oxide, spring steel, or the like. In fact, in its preferred applications, the clamp 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 d 'low-intensity support efforts to preserve the affected components.

More particularly, this adjustment and / or adjustment module 400 comprises a clamp 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 clamp 600 and deform the clamp. in an opening or closing movement. This clamp control body 406 is notably movable in rotation, along a rotary clamp opening / closing control axis Θ1, either around an axis of rotation of the clamp DH, or around a parallel roller axis DF to an axis of rotation of gripper DH, relative to a gripper carriage 403 which is movable in a vertical direction Z parallel to the vertical of the place with respect 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 place relative to a clamp base 405 fixed to the frame 2000.

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

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

The gripper 600 comprises gripper arms 601 for maneuvering a component or mobile of the assembly 1, in particular a balance adjusting screw. In the non-limiting mode of use illustrated by the figures, each gripper arm 601 is movable in a gripper plane, in particular a vertical plane passing through the vertical of the place, the gripper plane being perpendicular to an axis of rotation of the gripper DH or to a DF roller axis parallel to a DH collet rotation axis. 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 tighten the outside diameter of adjusting screws of all types of balances, even the smallest.

More particularly, the clamp 600 is elastic, and comprises at least one bearing portion 602 which is subjected to the action of an actuator or of a roller 407 or of an eccentric and / or of a pusher, which comprises the adjustment and / or adjustment module 400, and in which any deformation of this at least one bearing 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 making an 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 a fixing zone 603 which is more rigid than the elastic arms and the second elastic arms 604, for fixing the clamp 600 to a clamp holder body 401 that the adjustment module comprises 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 figure 3 , and at least one screw or the like fixed at an implantation 608.

And, more particularly, the clamp 600 comprises at least one such support 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 a stop on complementary surfaces. Where appropriate, the design of the roller 407, in particular a cam, allows a 360 ° rotation without risk for the clamp 600.

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

In a particular execution corresponding to figures 1 to 3 , the clamp 600 is held in reference by two pins and a clamping screw. The shape of the clamp 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 tighten the adjusting screw in the balance, 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 embodiment, to provide a tightening 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 clamp 600 at the level of an adjusting screw, the control of the rotary axis for opening / closing the clamp Θ1 triggers the opening of the clamp. clamp 600 to clamp an adjusting screw, then closing the clamp 600 around this adjusting screw. The maneuver of the rotary clamp maneuver axis Θ2 controls the tightening or unscrewing of the adjusting screw, as the watchmaker would do.

For applications other than adjusting screws, the gripper 600 can be used both as a rotating tool and as a linear motion tool such as a punch, dowel, pin punch, chisel, etc. a mandrel, or the like. The gripper 600 can then be used as a deformation or engraving tool.

More particularly, the regulating machine 1000 also 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, the drive. at least one component or a mobile, which such a clock assembly 1 comprises 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 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 with respect to which is movable in an articulated manner a motorized driver 301, which is rotatable about a driver axis. DC parallel to the vertical direction Z, or substantially parallel to the vertical direction Z.

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

And this body 310 carries drive means 330 for driving the driver 301 in rotation, by means of transmission means 320 with a belt, or chain, or gearing, or cardan shaft, or the like.

More particularly, the positioning means 340 are arranged to angularly position at least one return arm 304, to which is articulated a return arm, which is the driver arm 302, or a forearm 303 to which the arm of the driver 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 DB. The adjustment is defined according to the caliber to be adjusted.

More particularly, the body 340 is carried by a table with cross movements 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 movable in rotation about a rotary axis Θ4.

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

More particularly, the regulating machine 1000 also 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 else to maintain the moving part 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 place.

More particularly, in the variant illustrated by 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 thereof, and fixed. directly on the frame 2000 of the regulating machine 1000, or on a mobile carriage included in this regulating machine 1000.

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

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

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

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

In a variant, the holding and / or support means 501 comprise a support finger which is a mass, held guided by elastic guide means 503, fixed to the carrier arm 502 and which are arranged to hold the mass in support on a mobile or component by the application of a substantially vertical force. These elastic guide means 503 may in particular consist, as can be seen on the figure 5 , by two flexible blades substantially parallel to one another and slightly inclined relative 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 carrying arm 502 and which is arranged to hold a mobile or component by its own weight. .

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

More particularly, the body 520 is movable in rotation relative to a body 510, which is movable in a vertical direction Z parallel to the vertical of the place, with respect 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 cross movements XY in a horizontal plane perpendicular to the vertical of the place, compared to a base 580 fixed to the frame 2000.

In another variant illustrated by 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 rolling 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 maintain 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 the 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 this component.

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

More particularly, the acquisition module 200 comprises viewing means arranged to scan the work zone. In particular, in the application of the regulating machine 1000 to the adjustment of a sprung balance oscillator, the viewing means are arranged to detect the entire surface of the balance, or any zone necessary for the adjustment of the adjusting screws. These viewing means also make it possible to detect the number or type of an adjusting screw, or to read an engraving carried out on the rim of the balance to determine the number and type of the adjusting screws.

More particularly, the acquisition module 200 is mobile at least in a vertical direction Z parallel to the vertical of the place, and comprises viewing means arranged to determine the position of a surface of a mobile or component, and / or to determine the nature and position of at least one adjustment member that comprises an assembly 1, such as an adjustment screw, weight, eyebolt, snowshoe, or the like

More particularly, the acquisition module 200 is mobile at least in a vertical direction Z parallel to the vertical of the place, and comprises vision means and laser measurement means, and a device for automatic adjustment of the vision and focal positions. laser 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 the regulating machine 1000 comprises. This optical module 700 is interfaced with the control means 3000, for the optical control of a component or a moving body 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 the identification of a receptacle 10 which advantageously comprises a marking or an identification or a receptacle identification component. , and for the identification of each assembly 1 carried by the receptacle 10, which assembly 1 advantageously comprises a marking or an identification 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 moving body 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 comprises, for the reception of an assembly 1, a substantially planar bearing surface 190, which, in a particular horizontal service position, extends in a substantially planar manner along a horizontal plane perpendicular to a vertical direction Z parallel to the vertical of the place.

Naturally, the regulating machine 1000 can include a manipulator for moving such a receptacle 10 in space, which then makes it possible, in the case where the assembly 1 comprises an oscillator whose properties we want to test chronometric, to present this set 1 in the standardized chronometric control positions, in a static position in the various 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 comprises means for positioning and orientation with respect to the table 109 of the positioning module 100.

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

The figures 8 to 10 successively illustrate the preparation of the fitting for the reception of a watch head, with two clamps or locking wedges 102 which are forks arranged to rest on the horns 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 horns 101 are outside the arms of the forks of the locking 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. Maintaining the watch head in the vertical direction Z is provided by the blocking wedges 102, the lower surface 104 of which bears on the horns 101 of the watch head. The watch head is supported here on the watch crystal, centering is carried out on the bezel or on the watch case. The spring mechanism 180 guarantees a controlled support force. More particularly, the receptacle 10 comprises interchangeable blocks 110 carrying the locking 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 /Where adjustment on the regulating machine 1000. To this end, the receptacle 10 may, in a variant not illustrated by the figures, comprise, in particular on its underside, gripping means similar to those provided by pallets of centers of machining: Mors or ISO or SA cone, T-slot, dovetail, or similar, and also similar positioning means: bores, pins, grooves, or the like.

More particularly, 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 to refine the correction of the balance, is performed after redeposition of the receptacle 10 on the station table 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 frequency control.

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

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

Using the regulating machine 1000 for adjusting the balance adjusting screws is simple, all you have to do is remove any oscillating weight from the working area beforehand. The receptacle 10 is positioned under the viewing means of the acquisition module 200, which defines the position of the axis of the balance in XY, and which controls an XY displacement of the receptacle 10 if necessary, or, in a variant, a displacement angular position of this receptacle, or even a more complex movement combining rotation (s) and translation (s). The search for the adjusting screw is done by friction drive of the balance rim by the driver 301. A descent in Z follows. Once the adjusting screw is in the in-plane adjustment position, its vertical position is measured: the Z position measurement of a laser adjusting screw can be done on a bearing or on a flat of an adjusting screw, the geometric parameters of which are known and managed by the control means 3000. It is in fact a matter 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 other torque on the screw than the screwing or unscrewing torque. The balance is then locked in position with the support finger 501, to maintain the position of the balance and because closing the clamp generates a slight stress on the balance which can result in a Z movement of the order of 30 micrometers at most; the driver 301 is then released. The adjustment is then carried out by screwing or unscrewing the adjusting screw.

The invention also relates to a method of using such a setting machine 1000, for setting and / or adjusting at least one watch component. 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, the person skilled in the art will know how to extrapolate it to neighboring architectures, depending on the mobility or not of each. module, and the arrangement of the work 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;
• one aligns its axial direction A with the vertical of the place,
• at the end of the stroke, the acquisition module 200, the adjustment and / or adjustment module 400, and each adjusting module 300, 500, which the adjusting machine 1000 comprises, are released, so as to free a work zone for the measurement, setting and / or adjustment;
• loading a receptacle 10 on 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 assembly 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 place;
• the position and any measurement carried out according to the programming cycle are transmitted to the control means 3000 which generate, according to the programming cycle chosen, positioning movements of the positioning module 100 to put the assembly 1 in a prescribed position, and / or movement and operating orders to each regulating module 300, 400, 500, which the regulating machine 1000 comprises, according to a sequence programmed at the level of the work zone.

More particularly, the regulating machine 1000 is fitted 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 carried out on an assembly 1 by another module regulating 300, 400, 500, or else to maintain the moving part 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 support is appropriate at the end of the training of this mobile or this component.

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

More particularly, the adjusting machine 1000 is equipped with at least one adjustment and / or adjustment module 400, which comprises a clamp 600 for driving or deforming the mobile or component, and the parameter is adjusted by action of the clamp 600. on at least one mobile or component of the assembly 1.

More particularly, the adjusting machine 1000 is equipped with at least one optical module 700 for the optical control of the moving body 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 means for measuring the parameter, interfaced with the control means 3000, and we iterates the parameter adjustment cycle until a parameter value compatible with the target value is obtained.

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

More particularly, the regulating machine 1000 is equipped with at least one means for measuring the parameter, in order to measure the value of the parameter before resuming the setting cycle and / or adjusting the assembly 1.

In the application to the adjustment of a spiral balance oscillator, the simplest implementation of the method 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 actual value of the watch or movement; the adjustment screws are then corrected on the machine, and the assembly 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 equipped with two adjusting screws, in an application where one acts only on the balance and its adjusting screws:

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

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

In the example above, the clamp 600 acts only on the adjusting screws: the screw is tightened or loosened to modify the inertia of the balance. The opening / closing of the gripper 600 utilizes the elasticity of the material, as the gripper 600 is preferably a monolithic part. A roller 407, in particular with a cam profile, driven by a motor performs the opening / closing of the clamp 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 Z position of the balance to bring the clamp 600 in the same axis as the adjusting screw, because the objective is to tighten / loosen the screw in the axis so as not to exert a parasitic torque. The target value (for example 2.5 s / day) is managed at the level of 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 check whether 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 perform the following cycle:

• Phase B1: Entry of the target value and the real value of the watch;
• Phase B2: Correction on the machine of the adjusting screws according to steps A1 to A12;
• Phase B3: Movement / watch head release after correction of the adjusting screws;
• Phase B4: Checking the rate on movement or on the watch head on an analyzer device;
• Phase B5: Verification of the difference between target value and actual value;
• Phase B6:
  • if deviation zero, validation of the correction made, unloading according to A13;
  • if positive deviation, 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 adjusting screws;
• Phase B9: Movement / watch head release after correction of the adjusting screws;
• Phase B10: Rate control on a movement or on a watch head on an analyzer;
• Phase B11: Verification of the difference between target value and actual value;
• Phase B12:
  • if deviation zero, validation of the correction made and of assembly 1, unloading according to A13;
  • if the deviation is positive, output of assembly 1 without validating it at the B13 control station.

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

The regulating machine according to the invention can be used for numerous horological applications.

More particularly, the adjusting machine 1000 is used for the adjustment of an adjusting screw which is a balance weight or a balance bridge adjustment screw or a hairspring adjustment screw, or a sharing adjustment screw, or an alignment adjustment screw, or for adjusting a racquet.

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

More particularly, the regulating machine 1000 is used for the local deformation of a bridge or a hairspring or an arm or 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 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 oeuvre, 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 various advantages:

• the implementation of an active clamp to tighten the adjusting screw is carried out with a clamp without play, because it is a monolithic clamp, with operation in the elastic zone of the material, which guarantees precision the setting value; a clamp as illustrated is capable of a tightening force of 40 N, in practice 20 N is sufficient to safely handle an adjusting screw without the risk of breaking it;
• there is no limitation of the correction value, and it is possible to perform several tightening or unscrewing cycles of the adjusting screw without loss of precision;
• the digital control system of the adjustment screw adjustment process guarantees the precision of the adjustment value, with a specific cycle for taking up the play, and flexibility of the adjustment, since it is possible to choose the adjustment screw (s) to to correct ;
• the adjustment is carried out all at once, and makes it possible to reach values of the order of +/- 1 second per day whatever the caliber;
• the detection of the position of the adjusting screws is automatic, and allows the adjustment in one go of the 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 Z position 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;
• no stress on the balance during adjustment thanks to the support finger;
• the fully digital process eliminates 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 well in complete safety with tweezers, a wrench, or a special adjustment tool.

The workstation equipped with such a very compact regulating machine is simple to use, with excellent ergonomics. The small size of the regulating machine 1000 makes it easier to combine it with a classic watchmaker's bench 4000, of which the regulating machine 1000 only occupies about half the length.

Claims (23)

Clockwork regulating machine (1000) for performing at least one setting and / or adjustment on at least one clockwork assembly (1) fixed to a receptacle (10), said regulating machine (1000) comprising control means (3000), to coordinate automatically the movements and / or the operation of at least one positioning module (100), which comprises maneuvering means arranged to move in space a said receptacle (10) on command of said control means ( 3000) to bring it into an adjustment position and / or adjustment with respect to a frame (2000) that the said adjusting machine (1000) comprises, under at least one acquisition module (200), which comprises means of measurement and / or control arranged for the identification and determination of the position in space of a said receptacle (10), and / or of a said at least one watch assembly (1) fixed on a said receptacle (10), relative to said frame (2000) and to communicate to said control means (3000) information for controlling or / and correcting the position of said positioning module (100), characterized in that said adjusting machine (1000) comprises at least one adjustment and / or adjustment module (400) comprising adjustment means and / or adjustment arranged to perform an adjustment and / or an adjustment on at least one said assembly (1) carried by a said receptacle (10), and / or on at least one component or a mobile that comprises a said assembly ( 1), on command of said control means (3000). Adjusting machine (1000) according to claim 1, characterized in that said adjusting machine (1000) comprises at least one said adjustment and / or adjustment module (400), of which said adjustment and / or adjustment means comprise a plurality motorized axes which are arranged to move, open and close, in a gripper plane 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 a said assembly (1) carried by a said receptacle (10). Adjusting machine (1000) according to claim 2, characterized in that said adjustment and / or adjustment module (400) comprises a gripper holder body (401) arranged to carry a said gripper (600) and which is movable in rotation around a gripper rotation axis (DH) along a gripper rotary axis Θ2, relative to a gripper carriage (403) which is movable in a vertical direction Z parallel to the vertical of the location relative to a structure (404 ) which is, or else fixed to said frame (2000), or else mobile in a horizontal direction X perpendicular to the vertical of the place, or in a vertical direction Z parallel to the vertical of the place, relative to a clamp base (405) fixed to said frame (2000). Adjusting machine (1000) according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that said adjustment and / or adjustment module (400) comprises a gripper control body (406) comprising a roller (407) which is arranged to exert a force on a surface of said clamp (600) and deform said clamp in an opening or closing movement, which clamp control body (406) is movable in rotation, about a rotary clamp control axis Θ1, i.e. around d 'a clamp rotation axis (DH), either around a roller axis (DF) parallel to a clamp rotation axis (DH), relative to a clamp carriage (403) which is movable in one direction vertical Z parallel to the vertical of the place with respect to a structure (404) which is either fixed to said frame (2000), or else mobile in a horizontal direction X perpendicular to the vertical of the place with respect to a clamp base ( 405) attached to said frame (2000). Adjusting machine (1000) according to claims 3 and 4, characterized in that said clamp control body (406) is arranged to move said roller (407) through 360 ° for the opening or closing control of said clamp ( 600). Adjusting machine (1000) according to claims 3 and 4, characterized in that said gripper control body (406) is movable in rotation about said 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 the said clamp (600) comprises. Regulating machine (1000) according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that said regulating machine (1000) comprises at least one drive module (300) comprising drive means (301) arranged to drive at least a component or a mobile that comprises a said assembly (1) carried by a said receptacle (10), on command of said control means (3000); Adjusting machine (1000) according to claim 7, characterized in that said at least one drive module (300) comprises a body (310) movable at least in a vertical direction Z parallel to the vertical of the place, and with respect to which is movable in an articulated manner a motorized drive (301) rotating about a drive axis (DC) parallel to said vertical direction Z. Adjusting machine (1000) according to claim 8, characterized in that said body (310) comprises positioning means (340) which are arranged to position in rotation, around an axis (DN) parallel to said vertical direction Z, at least one return arm (303, 304) with respect to which is pivotally mounted, about an intermediate axis (DB) parallel to said driver axis (DC), a driver arm (302) carrying said driver (301 ), and in that said body (310) carries drive means (330) for driving said driver (301) in rotation by means of transmission means (320) with belt, or chain, or gear , or gimbal. Adjusting machine (1000) according to claim 9, characterized in that said positioning means (340) are arranged to angularly position at least one deflection arm (303, 304) to which is articulated a deflection arm which is said control arm. trainer (302) or to which said trainer arm (302) is articulated. Adjusting machine (1000) according to one of claims 8 to 10, characterized in that said body (340) is carried by a table with crossed movements XZ in a vertical plane passing through the vertical of the place, comprising a carriage (350) carried by a carriage (360) movable relative to a table base (370) fixed to said frame (2000). Regulating machine (1000) according to one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that said regulating machine (1000) comprises at least one holding and / or support module (500) comprising means for holding and / or d 'support (501), which are arranged to exert a substantially axial support on a mobile or a component of a said assembly (1) during or after an adjustment and / or an adjustment carried out on a said assembly (1) by said module adjustment and / or adjustment (400), or to maintain contactless said mobile or component by the action of a magnetic or electrostatic field, in a direction (DE) parallel to the vertical of the place or in a direction making a angle less than 10 ° with said vertical direction of the place. Adjusting machine (1000) according to claim 12, characterized in that said at least one holding and / or support module (500) is carried by said at least one positioning module (100). Adjusting machine (1000) according to claim 12 or 13, characterized in that said at least one holding and / or support module (500) comprises a body (520) rotating with respect 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 hinged manner, said holding and / or support means (501). Adjusting machine (1000) according to claim 14, characterized in that said holding and / or support means (501) comprise a mass held by elastic guide means (503) fixed to said carrying arm (502) and arranged to maintaining said mass in abutment on said moving body or component by applying a substantially vertical force. Adjusting machine (1000) according to one of claims 7 to 11, and one of claims 12 to 15, characterized in that said holding and / or support module (500) is designed to hold in a substantially axial position , in said vertical direction Z or in a direction forming an angle of less than 10 ° with said vertical direction Z, a said mobile or component of a said assembly (1) during or after the drive of said mobile or component by said means d 'drive said at least one drive module (300). Regulating machine (1000) according to one of claims 1 to 16, characterized in that said regulating machine (1000) comprises a frequency analyzer and / or a chronometry control device coupled to said control means (3000), which are programmed to trigger an iteration of regulation on a regulating organ until it has entered a required tolerance. Method of using a regulating machine (1000) according to one of claims 1 to 17, for the setting and / or adjustment of at least one watch component, characterized in that at least one said receptacle (10) of at least one said assembly (1) which is a clockwork movement or a watch of axial direction A, of which said axial direction A is aligned with the vertical of the place, and of which it is desired to adjust and / or adjust at least one moving body or a component, in that at the end of its travel, said acquisition module (200), said adjustment and / or adjustment module (400) are released, so as to free a work area for the measurement, setting and / or adjustment, in that a said receptacle is loaded on said positioning module (100), and in that it is brought into said working area, in that it is brought said acquisition module (200) above said positioning module (100), in that a target adjustment value of at least one parameter is determined, in that one transmits and at said control means the value of said at least parameter measured on said at least one assembly (1), in that a programming cycle of said acquisition module (200) is chosen to measure at least the position of the upper surface of said moving body or component in said vertical direction of the place, and in that said position and any measurement carried out according to said programming cycle are transmitted to said control means (3000) which generate, according to said chosen programming cycle, positioning movements of said positioning module (100) to put said assembly (1) in an imposed position, and / or movement and operating orders to said adjustment and / or adjustment module (400) and / or at least a regulating module (300, 500) according to a programmed sequence at the level of said work zone. Method according to Claim 18, characterized in that said regulating machine (1000) according to one of Claims 12 to 15 is used, and said regulating machine (1000) is fitted with at least one said holding module and / or support (500) arranged to exert a support on a said mobile or component of a said assembly (1) during or after an adjustment and / or an adjustment carried out on a said assembly (1) by said adjustment module and / or adjustment (400) and / or said holding and / or support module (500) and / or at least one other said regulating module (400), or else to hold said moving body or component without contact by the action of 'a magnetic or electrostatic field, in a vertical direction (DE) parallel to the vertical of the place. Method according to claim 18 or 19, characterized in that said regulating machine (1000) according to one of claims 7 to 11 is used, and said regulating machine (1000) is fitted with at least one drive module ( 300), which comprises a motorized drive (301) rotating about a drive axis (DC) parallel to said vertical direction Z for driving said mobile or component. Method according to one of claims 18 to 20, characterized in that said adjusting machine (1000) according to one of claims 2 to 10 is used, and said at least one adjustment and / or adjustment module (400 ) of a said clamp (600) for driving or deforming said moving body or component, and in that said parameter is adjusted by action of said clamp (600) on at least one moving body or component of said assembly (1). Method according to one of claims 18 to 21, characterized in that said adjusting machine (1000) is used for adjusting an adjusting screw which is a balance weight or a balance bridge adjusting screw or a screw. hairspring adjustment screw, or split adjustment screw, or alignment adjustment screw, or for adjusting a racquet. Method according to one of Claims 18 to 22, characterized in that the said regulating machine (1000) is used for the local deformation of a bridge or a hairspring or an arm or a balance rim.

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