EP4009115A1 - Hairspring for timepiece resonator mechanism provided with a means for adjusting rigidity - Google Patents

Hairspring for timepiece resonator mechanism provided with a means for adjusting rigidity Download PDF

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Publication number
EP4009115A1
EP4009115A1 EP21202213.1A EP21202213A EP4009115A1 EP 4009115 A1 EP4009115 A1 EP 4009115A1 EP 21202213 A EP21202213 A EP 21202213A EP 4009115 A1 EP4009115 A1 EP 4009115A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
flexible
flexible element
hairspring
blades
rigidity
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Pending
Application number
EP21202213.1A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Inventor
Mohammad Hussein Kahrobaiyan
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Omega SA
Original Assignee
Omega SA
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Omega SA filed Critical Omega SA
Priority to US17/526,504 priority Critical patent/US20220171336A1/en
Priority to CN202111402459.0A priority patent/CN114578672A/en
Priority to JP2021192759A priority patent/JP7270709B2/en
Publication of EP4009115A1 publication Critical patent/EP4009115A1/en
Pending legal-status Critical Current

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Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G04—HOROLOGY
    • G04B—MECHANICALLY-DRIVEN CLOCKS OR WATCHES; MECHANICAL PARTS OF CLOCKS OR WATCHES IN GENERAL; TIME PIECES USING THE POSITION OF THE SUN, MOON OR STARS
    • G04B18/00—Mechanisms for setting frequency
    • G04B18/02—Regulator or adjustment devices; Indexing devices, e.g. raquettes
    • G04B18/026—Locking the hair spring in the indexing device, e.g. goupille of the raquette
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G04—HOROLOGY
    • G04B—MECHANICALLY-DRIVEN CLOCKS OR WATCHES; MECHANICAL PARTS OF CLOCKS OR WATCHES IN GENERAL; TIME PIECES USING THE POSITION OF THE SUN, MOON OR STARS
    • G04B17/00—Mechanisms for stabilising frequency
    • G04B17/04—Oscillators acting by spring tension
    • G04B17/06—Oscillators with hairsprings, e.g. balance
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G04—HOROLOGY
    • G04B—MECHANICALLY-DRIVEN CLOCKS OR WATCHES; MECHANICAL PARTS OF CLOCKS OR WATCHES IN GENERAL; TIME PIECES USING THE POSITION OF THE SUN, MOON OR STARS
    • G04B17/00—Mechanisms for stabilising frequency
    • G04B17/04—Oscillators acting by spring tension
    • G04B17/06—Oscillators with hairsprings, e.g. balance
    • G04B17/063—Balance construction
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G04—HOROLOGY
    • G04B—MECHANICALLY-DRIVEN CLOCKS OR WATCHES; MECHANICAL PARTS OF CLOCKS OR WATCHES IN GENERAL; TIME PIECES USING THE POSITION OF THE SUN, MOON OR STARS
    • G04B17/00—Mechanisms for stabilising frequency
    • G04B17/32—Component parts or constructional details, e.g. collet, stud, virole or piton
    • G04B17/325—Component parts or constructional details, e.g. collet, stud, virole or piton for fastening the hairspring in a fixed position, e.g. using a block
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G04—HOROLOGY
    • G04B—MECHANICALLY-DRIVEN CLOCKS OR WATCHES; MECHANICAL PARTS OF CLOCKS OR WATCHES IN GENERAL; TIME PIECES USING THE POSITION OF THE SUN, MOON OR STARS
    • G04B18/00—Mechanisms for setting frequency
    • G04B18/04—Adjusting the beat of the pendulum, balance, or the like, e.g. putting into beat
    • G04B18/06—Adjusting the beat of the pendulum, balance, or the like, e.g. putting into beat by setting the collet or the stud of a hairspring

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a hairspring for a resonator clockwork mechanism, the hairspring being provided with means for adjusting the rigidity of said hairspring.
  • the invention also relates to a clockwork resonator mechanism fitted with such a hairspring.
  • the balance-spring constitutes the time base of the watch. It is also called resonator.
  • an inertial element To constitute a mechanical resonator, an inertial element, a guide and an elastic return element are required.
  • a spiral spring acts as an elastic return element for the inertial element that constitutes a balance. This balance wheel is guided in rotation by pivots which rotate in smooth ruby bearings.
  • the balance spring must generally be able to be adjusted to improve the precision of a watch.
  • means for adjusting the rigidity of the hairspring such as a racket, are used to modify the effective length of the spring.
  • its rigidity is modified to adjust the running precision of the watch.
  • the effect of a traditional snowshoe to adjust the gait remains limited, and it is not always effective in making the adjustment sufficiently precise, of the order of a few seconds or a few tens of seconds per day.
  • adjustment means comprising one or more screws arranged in the rim of the balance. By acting on the screws, the inertia of the balance wheel is modified, which has the effect of modifying its rate.
  • the object of the present invention is to overcome all or part of the aforementioned drawbacks by proposing a spiral spring provided with effective and precise adjustment means, configured in particular to adjust the rate of a timepiece by modifying the effective rigidity of said spiral.
  • the invention relates to a balance-spring for a clock resonator mechanism, the balance-spring comprising a flexible ribbon wound on itself according to several turns, the ribbon having a predefined rigidity, the balance-spring comprising means for adjusting its rigidity.
  • the adjustment means comprise a flexible element arranged in series with the ribbon, the flexible element connecting one end of said ribbon to a fixed support, so as to add additional rigidity to the ribbon, the element flexible having preferably a stiffness greater than that of the tape, the adjustment means comprising prestressing means for applying a force or a variable torque on the flexible element without modifying the position of the end of the tape, so as to vary only the stiffness of the flexible element.
  • the prestressing means by acting on the prestressing means, the force or the torque applied to the flexible element is modified, which leads to a modification of the rigidity of the assembly comprising the flexible element and the tape.
  • the flexible element placed in series with the tape provides additional rigidity to the tape, which is added to that of the tape.
  • the prestressing means apply a variable force or torque to the flexible element, they modify the rigidity of the flexible element and therefore of the assembly comprising the ribbon without modifying the rigidity of the ribbon, the end of which keeps the same position, regardless of the variable force or torque applied to the flexible element.
  • a flexible element is placed in series with the ribbon between one end of the ribbon and the fixed support.
  • This flexible element modifies the rigidity of the attachment point and provides additional flexibility to the resonator.
  • the effective stiffness of the resonator includes the stiffness of the ribbon and the stiffness of the flexible element.
  • a variable force or torque is then applied to pre-stress the flexible element without pre-stressing the tape and without moving the end of the tape. By pre-stressing the flexible element, its rigidity changes, while the rigidity of the ribbon remains unchanged, since it is not prestressed and its end does not move.
  • the rigidity of the resonator (ribbon rigidity and rigidity of the flexible element) changes, which consequently modifies the course of the resonator.
  • the flexible element is preferably more rigid than the tape, the share of the rigidity of the flexible element in the overall rigidity is lower than that of the tape. Consequently, a modification of the rigidity of the flexible element modifies the rigidity of the whole of the resonator, and consequently regulates its course in a fine way, which makes it possible to precisely adjust the frequency of our time base. Great precision is thus obtained in the adjustment of the rate, because it acts on a single element to adjust the rigidity.
  • the flexible element is arranged at an outer end of the tape.
  • the flexible element is arranged at an internal end of the tape.
  • the flexible element comprises a flexible neck.
  • the flexible element comprises a translation table provided with two substantially parallel flexible blades and with a movable rigid part to which the tape is connected.
  • the flexible element comprises a flexible guide provided with two crossed blades and with a movable rigid part to which the tape is connected.
  • the flexible element comprises a flexible guide provided with two uncrossed blades and with a movable rigid part to which the tape is connected.
  • the flexible element comprises a flexible ring to which the ribbon is connected.
  • the flexible element comprises a flexible arm to which the ribbon is connected.
  • the flexible element comprises a plurality of rigid sections connected by strips or flexible necks.
  • the flexible element comprises a flexible blade.
  • the torque or the force is continuously adjustable by the prestressing means.
  • the prestressing means comprise a screw configured to bear against the flexible element.
  • the prestressing means comprise a first magnet secured to the flexible element and a second magnet mobile relative to the first magnet.
  • the prestressing means comprise a spring and a movable element making it possible to stretch or compress the spring.
  • the spring comprises several substantially parallel flexible blades and another movable element.
  • the prestressing means comprise a secondary flexible strip connected to the flexible element.
  • the prestressing means comprise a lever.
  • the flexible element is arranged in series in the extension of the tape.
  • the hairspring extends substantially in one plane.
  • the entire length of the strip is used for the effective rigidity of the spiral spring.
  • no part of the ribbon is fixed during the oscillations.
  • the adjustment means are operable when the hairspring is mounted on a plate of a clock movement.
  • the invention also relates to a rotary resonator mechanism, in particular for a watch movement, comprising an oscillating mass and such a hairspring.
  • the figures 1 to 28 each show a schematic representation of a different embodiment of a spiral spring 1, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 110, 120, 130, 140, 150, 160, 170, 180, 190, 200, 210, 220, 230, 240, 250, 260, 270, in particular for a clock resonator mechanism.
  • the hairspring extends substantially in one plane.
  • the spiral spring 1, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 110, 120, 130, 140, 150, 160, 170, 180, 190, 200, 210, 220, 230, 240, 250, 260, 270 comprises a flexible ribbon 2 wound on itself in several turns, the ribbon 2 having a predefined stiffness.
  • the spiral spring comprises means adjustment of its stiffness.
  • the adjustment means are in particular operable when the hairspring is mounted on a plate of a clock movement.
  • the adjustment means comprise a flexible element 5 arranged in series with the ribbon 2, the flexible element 5 connecting one end 4, 9 of said ribbon 2 to a fixed support 11, 14, 17, 24, 29, 38, 44, 53, 93, 117, and integral with one of the ends 4, 9 of the ribbon 2.
  • the flexible element 5 adds additional rigidity to that of the ribbon 2.
  • the flexible element 5 preferably has a greater rigidity to that of the tape 2.
  • the flexible element 5 is here arranged in the extension of the tape 2.
  • the adjustment means 5 and the tape 2 are in one piece, or even formed from the same material.
  • the spiral spring 1, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 110, 120, 130, 140, 150, 160, 170, 180, 190, 200, 210, 220, 230, 240, 250, 260, 270 further comprises prestressing means 6 for applying a variable force or torque to the flexible element 5.
  • prestressing means 6 for applying a variable force or torque to the flexible element 5.
  • the end of the tape 2 remains substantially immobile, regardless of the adjustment of the prestressing means.
  • the force or the torque applied to the flexible element 5 does not modify the position of the end 4 of the strip 2 to which the flexible element is assembled.
  • the end 4 of the ribbon 2 can be mobile.
  • the torque or the force is continuously adjustable by the prestressing means 6.
  • the torque or the force is not not restricted to point values.
  • the rigidity of the flexible element 5 can be adjusted with great precision.
  • the prestressing means 6 preferably allow the flexible element 5 to perform a movement in translation or in rotation in the plane of the hairspring. Thus, the rigidity of the flexible element 5 is varied.
  • the embodiments described below comprise a flexible element 5 secured to the outer end 4 of the strip 2.
  • the inner end 9 of the strip 2 is assembled to a support 3 of an oscillating mass of the resonator.
  • the flexible element is connected to the internal end 9 of the ribbon 2, so as to be in series between the ribbon 2 and the support 3 of the oscillating mass.
  • the flexible element 5 of the hairspring 1 comprises an elongated body 7 provided with a neck 8 thinned in the thickness of the material, the neck being flexible.
  • the flexible element 5 comprises a fixed support 14, for example joined to the main plate of the movement, and a movable part 15 joined to the outer end 4 of the strip 2, the fixed support 14 and the movable part 14 being connected by the neck 8.
  • a variable force or torque By applying a variable force or torque to the movable part 15, it moves relative to the fixed support 14.
  • the rigidity of the flexible element 5e and therefore of the assembly comprising the ribbon 2 is modified. and the flexible element 5.
  • the second embodiment of the spiral spring 10 of the picture 2 shows a flexible element 5 comprising a flexible ring 12 joined to the outer end 4 of the ribbon 2.
  • the flexible element 5 also comprises a fixed support 11 in the shape of a T, which is immobile with respect to movement.
  • the ring 12 is also linked to the base 13 of the T. Thus, by applying a variable force or torque to the ring 12, it deforms relative to the fixed support 11, so that the rigidity of the the flexible element 5.
  • the flexible element 5 of the hairspring comprises a flexible arm 16 and a fixed support 17 on which the arm 16 is attached cantilevered.
  • the outer end 4 of the tape 2 is attached to the end 18 of the arm 16 in its extension.
  • the variable force or torque is applied from preferably parallel to arm 16.
  • the figure 4 shows a spiral spring 30 whose flexible element 5 comprises a translation table.
  • the translation table comprises at least one secondary flexible blade, here two secondary flexible blades 21, 22, and a rigid part 23.
  • the flexible blades 21, 22 are joined by one end to the rigid part 23, and by another end to a fixed support 24.
  • the secondary flexible blades 21, 22 are substantially parallel and are arranged on different lines.
  • the secondary flexible blades 21, 22 are joined to the same face 25 of the rigid part 23.
  • the rigid part 23 has an elongated rectangular shape, on which the outer end 4 of the strip 2 is joined in its extension of one side of the rigid part 23.
  • the secondary flexible blades 21, 22 are substantially perpendicular to the rigid part 23 and to the outer end 4.
  • the variable force or torque is applied to the rigid part 23, preferably parallel to the blades 21, 22.
  • the flexible element 5 of the hairspring 40 comprises a pivot with crossed blades, the pivot comprising two crossed blades 27, 28, connected on the one hand to a fixed support 29 of the movement, and on the other hand to a rigid part 31 movable pivot.
  • the rigid part 31 has an elongated rectangular shape arranged perpendicularly to the outer end 4 of the tape 2, which is assembled on a large side of the rigid part 31, opposite to the side on which the cross blades 27, 28 are assembled.
  • the pivot with crossed blades 27, 28 is arranged so that the crossing of the blades is in the extension of the outer end 4 of the strip 2.
  • the variable force or torque is applied to the rigid part 31, from preference parallel to the axis of symmetry of the pivot with crossed blades and to the outer end 4 of the ribbon 2.
  • the flexible element 5 of the spiral spring 50 comprises a pivot with crossed blades, the pivot comprising two crossed blades 33, 34 joined at their intersection 35.
  • the blades 33, 34 are linked by on the one hand to a fixed support 38 of the movement, and on the other hand to a rigid part 37 in the form of a T.
  • the rod 39 of the T is joined to the outer end 4 of the ribbon, while the blades are joined to the bar 41 of the T.
  • the pivot with crossed blades is arranged so that the crossing of the blades is in the extension of the outer end 4 of the tape 2.
  • the variable force or torque is applied to the bar 37 of the T of the rigid part 37, the pivot being arranged obliquely with respect to the ribbon 2.
  • the flexible element 5 of the spiral spring 60 comprises a translation table arranged in the extension of the outer end 4 of the ribbon 2.
  • the translation table comprises at least one secondary flexible blade, here two secondary flexible blades 42, 43 , and a rigid part 45.
  • the secondary flexible blades 42, 43 are joined by one end to the rigid part 45, and by another end to a fixed support 44 with respect to the movement.
  • the secondary flexible blades 42, 43 are substantially parallel and are arranged on different lines.
  • the secondary flexible blades 42, 43 are joined to the same face of the rigid part 45.
  • the rigid part 45 has an elongated rectangular shape, on which the outer end 4 of the tape 2 is joined perpendicularly cantilevered. fake.
  • the secondary flexible blades 42, 43 are substantially parallel to the outer end 4 and perpendicular to the rigid part 45.
  • the variable force or torque is applied to the rigid part 45, in the direction of the secondary blades 42, 43. Thanks to the bending of the secondary flexible blades 42, 43, the rigid part 45 can move parallel to the fixed support 44. By pulling the outer end 4 of the ribbon 2, the displacement of the rigid part 45 varies the rigidity of the flexible element 5.
  • the eighth embodiment of the spiral spring 70 of the figure 8 comprises a flexible element 5 identical to that of the seventh embodiment of the figure 7 .
  • the spiral spring further comprises means 6 for prestressing the flexible element 5.
  • the prestressing means 6 comprise magnets 47, 48, a first magnet 47 being arranged on the rigid part 45 of the translation table, and a second magnet 48 being arranged to move relative to the first magnet 47.
  • the magnets 47, 48 attract or repel each other depending on their polarities, so that a force is applied to the rigid part 45.
  • the second magnet 48 is for example arranged on a movable element relative to the translation table.
  • the flexible element 5 of the spiral spring comprises a pivot with uncrossed flexible blades.
  • the pivot comprises two uncrossed flexible blades 51, 52 and a rigid part 54.
  • the flexible blades 51, 52 are joined, on the one hand laterally to an elongated fixed support 53, and on the other hand to the rigid part 54 by approaching one from the other.
  • the rigid part 54 has a circular shape with a smaller diameter than the fixed support 53.
  • the flexible blades 51, 52 approach from the fixed support 53 to the rigid part 54.
  • the outer end 4 of the ribbon is joined to the rigid part 54.
  • the variable force or torque is applied to the rigid part 45, obliquely with respect to the pivot.
  • the force is parallel to the axis of symmetry of the flexible leaf pivot.
  • the figures 10 to 20 are embodiments of spiral springs 90, 100, 110, 120, 130, 140, 150, 160, 170, 180, 190 comprising a flexible element 5 identical to that of the ninth embodiment, but each having means for preload 6 different.
  • prestressing means 6 are of course adaptable to other embodiments of spiral springs with flexible elements 5 different from that of the ninth embodiment.
  • the tenth embodiment of the figure 10 comprises a screw 55 as prestressing means 6.
  • the screw 55 is positioned obliquely against the rigid part 54 of the pivot, preferably parallel to the axis of symmetry of the pivot.
  • the screw by screwing or unscrewing, the latter applies a variable force or torque to the rigid part 54, in particular in order to adjust the rigidity of the flexible element 5.
  • the prestressing means 6 comprise magnets 57, 58, a first magnet 57 being arranged on the rigid part 54, while a second magnet 58 is movable relative to the rigid part 54, in order to exert a force or a variable torque on the rigid part 54.
  • the variable force or torque is exerted obliquely on the rigid part 54 in order to adjust the rigidity of the flexible element 5.
  • the prestressing means 6 of the twelfth embodiment of the figure 12 comprise a spring 55 and a movable element 59.
  • the spring 55 is joined to the rigid part 54 of the pivot on the one hand, and to the movable element 59 on the other hand.
  • the spring applies a variable force or torque to the rigid part 54 in order to adjust the rigidity of the flexible element 5.
  • the thirteenth embodiment of the figure 13 shows a variation of the embodiment of the hairspring 110 of the figure 12 , in which a secondary flexible blade 61 is arranged in series in the extension of the spring 55 between the rigid part 54 of the pivot and the spring 55.
  • the prestressing means 6 are provided with a second movable element 62 on which are linked the spring 55 on one side, and the secondary flexible blade 61 on the other side.
  • the secondary flexible blade 61 is linked to the second mobile element 62 and to the rigid part 54.
  • the spiral spring 130 is similar to that of the figure 13 , the spiral spring 130 comprising prestressing means 6 provided with a secondary flexible blade 63 with a rigid section 64 in the middle of the secondary flexible blade 63.
  • the prestressing means 6 comprise, instead of the secondary flexible blade of the two previous embodiments, an elongated part 65 provided with at least one flexible neck, here two flexible necks 66, 67.
  • the part 65 comprises a section central rigid 69 and a flexible neck 66, 67 at each end, one neck being connected to the rigid part 54, the other neck being connected to the movable element 62.
  • the elongated part 65 is arranged in the extension of the spring 55.
  • the sixteenth and seventeenth embodiments of the figures 16 and 17 show the same prestressing means 6 oriented differently in the two figures.
  • the prestressing means 6 comprise a spring formed from flexible blades.
  • a secondary flexible blade 61 connects the rigid part of the flexible element 5 to a first rigid body 71 in the form of an elbow.
  • the prestressing means 6 comprise a second rigid body 75 in the shape of an elbow, as well as tertiary blades 72 connecting the two rigid bodies 71, 75.
  • the two rigid bodies 71, 75 are mobile and have substantially parallel segments two by two in rest position of the prestressing means 6.
  • the four tertiary blades 72 are substantially perpendicular to the secondary blade 61 in the rest position of the prestressing means 6.
  • the prestressing means 6 further comprise two quaternary blades 74 connecting the second body 75 to a fixed support 73.
  • the quaternary blades 74 are substantially parallel to the tertiary blades 72 and arranged on the same side of the second rigid body 75. In applying a variable force or torque to the second rigid body 75, the rigidity of the flexible element 5 is varied.
  • the prestressing means 6 are arranged in the axis of the flexible element 5, while on the figure 17 , the prestressing means 6 are arranged obliquely with respect to the flexible element 5.
  • the eighteenth embodiment of the figure 18 of the spiral spring 170 is similar to that of the seventeenth embodiment, except for the support 77 which is connected to the first mobile body 71 by the quaternary blades 78, and not to the second mobile body 76.
  • the support 77 and the blades quaternary blades 78 are arranged on the other side of the first mobile body 71 relative to the second mobile body 76 and the tertiary blades 72.
  • the quaternary blades 78 are substantially parallel to the tertiary blades 72 in the rest position of the hairspring 170.
  • the figure 19 shows prestressing means 6 similar to those of the figure 17 , to which a lever 81 has been added.
  • the lever 81 is connected to the second mobile body 75 by a five-year flexible blade 82 provided with a rigid central section 83 arranged in the extension of the second mobile body 75.
  • the five-year flexible blade 82 is substantially parallel to the secondary blade 61 in the rest position of the prestressing means 6.
  • the lever 81 is arranged perpendicular to the five-year flexible blade 82.
  • the lever is also connected to a second support 87 fixed by two five-year blades 84, 85 arranged either side of the lever 81.
  • the free end 86 of the lever is U-shaped, on which one can act by actuating it laterally, in order to apply a variable force or torque to the flexible element 5.
  • the prestressing means 6 comprise a lever 89 connected to the flexible element 5 by a spring 88, which may be helical or formed of a flat coil.
  • the spring is connected to the rigid part 54 of the flexible element 5 on the one hand, and to the lever 89 on the other hand.
  • the lever 89 can pivot around a fixed axis 91 passing through it at the end 92 connected to the spring.
  • the variable torque or the force exerted on the flexible element 5 is modified.
  • the twentieth-first embodiment of the hairspring 200 of the figure 21 comprises a flexible element 5 provided with a plurality of movable rigid sections 93, 94, 95, 96 joined by small flexible strips 97. In the rest position the sections 93, 94, 95, 96 and the small flexible strips 97 are arranged substantially on a straight line 98.
  • the flexible element 5 comprises four sections 93, 94, 95, 96 elongated in series and three small blades 97 each connecting two sections 93, 94, 95, 96 between them.
  • the first section 93 is a fixed support, while the other sections 94, 95, 96 are mobile.
  • the outer end 4 of the strip 2 is joined to the second section 94, the second section 94 comprising a lateral lug 99 on which the strip 2 is bound.
  • the sections 93, 94, 95, 96 and the small blades 97 extend tangentially to the spiral shape of the ribbon 2.
  • the prestressing means 6 further comprise a rigid body 75 in the form of an elbow, as well as secondary blades 72 connecting the rigid body 75 to the fourth section 96.
  • the four secondary blades 72 are substantially perpendicular to the straight line 98 in the rest position of the prestressing means 6.
  • the prestressing means 6 further comprise two tertiary blades 74 connecting the rigid body 75 to a fixed support 73.
  • the tertiary blades 74 are substantially parallel to the secondary blades 72 in the rest position of the prestressing means 6. applying a force or a variable torque on the bent part of the rigid body 75, the rigidity of the flexible element 5 is varied.
  • the force or the torque is partly transmitted to the fourth section 96 by the secondary blades 72, as well as to the other sections via the small blades 97.
  • the hairspring 210 is substantially the same as that of the figure 21 , the rigid sections 93, 94, 95, 96 being connected by flexible necks 101 instead small blades 97 of the figure 21 .
  • a collar 101 is an element of thinned material, which is flexible.
  • the embodiments of figures 23 to 25 of the spiral spring 220, 230, 240 each comprise a flexible element 5 such as that of the figures 9 to 20 , that is to say a pivot provided with two uncrossed flexible blades 51, 52 and a rigid part 104.
  • the rigid part 104 further comprises a lug 105 arranged at right angle on the side of the tape 2, and on which is joined the ending bet 4 of the tape 2.
  • the prestressing means 6 comprise a secondary flexible blade 61 joined at one end 108 to the circular part of the rigid part 104, preferably in the axis of symmetry of the pivot.
  • the secondary flexible blade 61 extends tangentially to the wound tape 2 in the rest position of the spiral spring.
  • the prestressing means 6 further comprise a lever 106 joined to the opposite end 109 of the secondary blade 61.
  • the lever 106 is preferably curved to circumvent the tape 2 wound. The force or the torque is applied to its free end 107 parallel to the secondary blade 61. Thus, the force or the torque is partly transmitted to the rigid part 104 through the secondary flexible blade 61.
  • the prestressing means 6 of the spiral spring 220 also comprise two tertiary blades 111, 112 substantially parallel.
  • the tertiary blades 111, 112 are joined on the one hand to the lever 106, at the level of the connection to the secondary blade 61.
  • the tertiary blades 111, 112 are connected on the other hand to a fixed support 113, and are substantially perpendicular to the secondary blade 61.
  • the 240 spiral spring of the figure 25 which takes up the characteristics of the embodiment of the figure 23 , further describes prestressing means 6 provided with tertiary blades 114, 115 uncrossed, which are joined to a fixed support 116 on the one hand, and to the lever 106 on the other hand.
  • the tertiary blades 114, 115 come together towards the lever 106 and are arranged in the curvature of the lever 106, being further from the connection with the secondary blade 61.
  • the spiral spring embodiments 250, 260, 270 of the figures 26 to 28 describe a flexible element 5 comprising a first flexible blade 119 and a movable rigid part 118, here rectangular, connected to the first flexible blade 119 and to the outer end 4 of the strip 2, preferably on the same side of the rigid part 118
  • the first flexible blade 119 is connected on the other hand to a fixed support 117.
  • the prestressing means 6 comprise a secondary flexible blade 122, 128 shorter, arranged on an opposite face of the rigid part 118 in the axis of the first flexible blade 119.
  • the first flexible blade 119 and the secondary flexible blade 122, 128 are arranged tangentially to the ribbon 2.
  • the secondary flexible blade 122 is connected to a second rigid part 121 of the prestressing means 6.
  • the force or the torque is exerted on the second rigid part 121 in the direction of the first 119 and secondary 122 flexible blades.
  • the secondary flexible blade 122 is connected to a curved lever 124 bypassing the ribbon 2 wound.
  • a tertiary flexible blade 123 connects the lever 124 to a fixed support 126, in the curvature of the lever 124.
  • the force or the torque is exerted on the free end 125 of the lever 124, preferably parallel to the first flexible blades 119 and secondary 122
  • the force or cut is partly transmitted to the secondary flexible blade 122, and to the first flexible blade 119.
  • the figure 28 shows an embodiment in which the secondary flexible blade 128 is connected by the other end to a curved lever 124 bypassing the wound tape 2.
  • the lever 124 is connected, in addition to the bent blade 128, to a semi-rigid structure 127 connected to the fixed support 117.
  • the semi-rigid structure 127 partially deforms when the lever 124 is operated by force or torque. The force or torque is exerted on the free end 125 of the lever.
  • the last embodiment of the figure 29 is similar to that of the figure 28 , the first flexible blade being replaced by a pivot with uncrossed flexible blades, as described in the embodiments of the figures 9 to 20 .
  • the pivot comprises two blades 51, 52 diverging from the rigid part 118 to the fixed support 117.
  • the flexible strips described in the different embodiments of the hairspring can be continuous flexible strips, as is generally the case in the figures, or else strips with rigid sections and flexible necks connecting the sections.
  • the invention also relates to a rotary resonator mechanism, in particular for a watch movement.
  • the resonator mechanism comprises an oscillating weight, not shown in the figures, and a hairspring as described previously.
  • the oscillating mass is for example an annular balance.
  • the oscillating weight is joined to the spiral spring to be integral with the support 3.

Abstract

L'invention concerne un ressort-spiral, notamment pour un mécanisme résonateur d'horlogerie, le ressort-spiral (30) comprenant un ruban flexible (2) enroulé sur lui-même selon plusieurs spires, le ruban (2) ayant une rigidité prédéfinie, le ressort-spiral (30) comportant des moyens d'ajustement de sa rigidité, caractérisé en ce que les moyens d'ajustement comportent un élément flexible (5) en contact direct avec le ruban (2), l'élément flexible (5) ayant de préférence une rigidité supérieure à celle du ruban (2), les moyens d'ajustement comportant des moyens de précontrainte (6) pour appliquer une force ou un couple variable sur l'élément flexible (5) de manière à faire varier la rigidité l'élément flexible (5).L'invention concerne aussi un mécanisme résonateur d'horlogerie comprenant un tel ressort-spiral.The invention relates to a balance-spring, in particular for a clock resonator mechanism, the balance-spring (30) comprising a flexible strip (2) wound on itself in several turns, the strip (2) having a predefined rigidity , the spiral spring (30) comprising means for adjusting its rigidity, characterized in that the adjustment means comprise a flexible element (5) in direct contact with the ribbon (2), the flexible element (5 ) preferably having a stiffness greater than that of the strip (2), the adjustment means comprising prestressing means (6) for applying a variable force or torque to the flexible element (5) so as to vary the stiffness of the flexible element (5). The invention also relates to a clockwork resonator mechanism comprising such a hairspring.

Description

Domaine technique de l'inventionTechnical field of the invention

L'invention se rapporte à un ressort-spiral pour un mécanisme résonateur d'horlogerie, le ressort-spiral étant muni de moyens de réglages de la rigidité dudit ressort-spiral. L'invention se rapporte également à un mécanisme résonateur d'horlogerie muni d'un tel ressort-spiral.The invention relates to a hairspring for a resonator clockwork mechanism, the hairspring being provided with means for adjusting the rigidity of said hairspring. The invention also relates to a clockwork resonator mechanism fitted with such a hairspring.

Arrière-plan technologiqueTechnology background

La plupart des montres mécaniques actuelles sont munie d'un balancier-spiral et d'un mécanisme d'échappement à ancre suisse. Le balancier-spiral constitue la base de temps de la montre. On l'appelle aussi résonateur.Most current mechanical watches are equipped with a balance-spring and a Swiss lever escapement mechanism. The balance-spring constitutes the time base of the watch. It is also called resonator.

L'échappement, quant à lui, remplit deux fonctions principales:

  • entretenir les va-et-vient du résonateur ;
  • compter ces va-et-vient.
The escapement, on the other hand, performs two main functions:
  • maintain the back and forth of the resonator;
  • count these comings and goings.

Pour constituer un résonateur mécanique, il faut un élément inertiel, un guidage et un élément de rappel élastique. Traditionnellement, un ressort spiral joue le rôle d'élément de rappel élastique pour l'élément inertiel que constitue un balancier. Ce balancier est guidé en rotation par des pivots qui tournent dans des paliers lisses en rubis.To constitute a mechanical resonator, an inertial element, a guide and an elastic return element are required. Traditionally, a spiral spring acts as an elastic return element for the inertial element that constitutes a balance. This balance wheel is guided in rotation by pivots which rotate in smooth ruby bearings.

Le ressort-spiral de balancier doit généralement pouvoir être réglé pour améliorer la précision d'une montre. A cette fin, on utilise des moyens de réglages de la rigidité du ressort-spiral, telle une raquette pour modifier la longueur effective du ressort. Ainsi, on modifie sa rigidité pour ajuster la précision de marche de la montre. Toutefois, l'effet d'une raquette traditionnelle pour ajuster la marche reste limitée, et elle n'est pas toujours efficace pour rendre le réglage suffisamment précis, de l'ordre de quelques secondes ou quelques dizaines de secondes par jour.The balance spring must generally be able to be adjusted to improve the precision of a watch. To this end, means for adjusting the rigidity of the hairspring, such as a racket, are used to modify the effective length of the spring. Thus, its rigidity is modified to adjust the running precision of the watch. However, the effect of a traditional snowshoe to adjust the gait remains limited, and it is not always effective in making the adjustment sufficiently precise, of the order of a few seconds or a few tens of seconds per day.

Pour un ajustement de la marche plus fin, il existe des moyens de réglage comprenant une ou plusieurs vis agencées dans la serge du balancier. En agissant sur les vis, on modifie l'inertie du balancier, qui a comme effet de modifier sa marche.For finer adjustment of the rate, there are adjustment means comprising one or more screws arranged in the rim of the balance. By acting on the screws, the inertia of the balance wheel is modified, which has the effect of modifying its rate.

Cependant, ce mode de réglage n'est pas facile à effectuer, et ne permet quand même pas d'obtenir une finesse du réglage suffisante de la marche de l'oscillateur.However, this mode of adjustment is not easy to perform, and still does not make it possible to obtain sufficient fineness of adjustment of the rate of the oscillator.

Résumé de l'inventionSummary of the invention

Le but de la présente invention est de pallier tout ou partie des inconvénients cités précédemment en proposant un ressort spiral muni de moyens de réglages efficaces et précis, configurés en particulier pour régler la marche d'une pièce d'horlogerie en modifiant la rigidité effective dudit spiral.The object of the present invention is to overcome all or part of the aforementioned drawbacks by proposing a spiral spring provided with effective and precise adjustment means, configured in particular to adjust the rate of a timepiece by modifying the effective rigidity of said spiral.

A cet effet, l'invention se rapporte à un ressort-spiral pour un mécanisme résonateur d'horlogerie, le ressort-spiral comprenant un ruban flexible enroulé sur lui-même selon plusieurs spires, le ruban ayant une rigidité prédéfinie, le ressort-spiral comportant des moyens d'ajustement de sa rigidité.To this end, the invention relates to a balance-spring for a clock resonator mechanism, the balance-spring comprising a flexible ribbon wound on itself according to several turns, the ribbon having a predefined rigidity, the balance-spring comprising means for adjusting its rigidity.

L'invention est remarquable en ce que les moyens d'ajustement comportent un élément flexible agencé en série du ruban, l'élément flexible reliant une extrémité dudit ruban à un support fixe , de manière à ajouter une rigidité supplémentaire au ruban, l'élément flexible ayant de préférence une rigidité supérieure à celle du ruban, les moyens d'ajustement comportant des moyens de précontrainte pour appliquer une force ou un couple variable sur l'élément flexible sans modifier la position de l'extrémité du ruban, de manière à faire varier uniquement la rigidité de l'élément flexible.The invention is remarkable in that the adjustment means comprise a flexible element arranged in series with the ribbon, the flexible element connecting one end of said ribbon to a fixed support, so as to add additional rigidity to the ribbon, the element flexible having preferably a stiffness greater than that of the tape, the adjustment means comprising prestressing means for applying a force or a variable torque on the flexible element without modifying the position of the end of the tape, so as to vary only the stiffness of the flexible element.

Grâce à l'invention, en agissant sur les moyens de précontrainte, on modifie la force ou le couple appliqué sur l'élément flexible, ce qui entraîne une modification de la rigidité de l'ensemble comprenant l'élément flexible et le ruban. En effet, l'élément flexible mis en série avec le ruban apporte une rigidité supplémentaire au ruban, qui s'ajoute à celle du ruban. Ainsi, lorsque les moyens de précontrainte appliquent une force ou un couple variable sur l'élément flexible, ils modifient la rigidité de l'élément flexible et donc de l'ensemble comprenant le ruban sans modifier la rigidité du ruban, dont l'extrémité garde la même position, quel que soit la force ou le couple variable appliqué sur l'élément flexible.Thanks to the invention, by acting on the prestressing means, the force or the torque applied to the flexible element is modified, which leads to a modification of the rigidity of the assembly comprising the flexible element and the tape. Indeed, the flexible element placed in series with the tape provides additional rigidity to the tape, which is added to that of the tape. Thus, when the prestressing means apply a variable force or torque to the flexible element, they modify the rigidity of the flexible element and therefore of the assembly comprising the ribbon without modifying the rigidity of the ribbon, the end of which keeps the same position, regardless of the variable force or torque applied to the flexible element.

Autrement dit, on place un élément flexible en série avec le ruban entre une extrémité du ruban et le support fixe. Cet élément flexible modifie la rigidité du point d'attache et apporte une flexibilité supplémentaire au résonateur. Ainsi, la rigidité effective du résonateur comprend la rigidité du ruban et la rigidité de l'élément flexible. On applique alors une force ou un couple variable pour pré-contraindre l'élément flexible sans pré-contraindre le ruban et sans déplacer l'extrémité du ruban. En pré-contraignant l'élément flexible, sa rigidité change, tandis que la rigidité du ruban reste inchangée, puisqu'il n'est pas précontraint et que son extrémité ne se déplace pas. En changeant la rigidité de l'élément flexible, la rigidité du résonateur (rigidité du ruban et rigidité de l'élément flexible) change, ce qui modifie par conséquent la marche du résonateur. L'élément flexible étant, de préférence, plus rigide que le ruban, la part de la rigidité de l'élément flexible dans la rigidité d'ensemble est inférieure à celle du ruban. Par conséquent, une modification de la rigidité de l'élément flexible modifie la rigidité de l'ensemble du résonateur, et par conséquent règle sa marche de manière fine, ce qui permet d'ajuster précisément la fréquence de notre base de temps. On obtient ainsi une grande précision dans le réglage de la marche, car on agit sur un seul élément pour ajuster la rigidité.In other words, a flexible element is placed in series with the ribbon between one end of the ribbon and the fixed support. This flexible element modifies the rigidity of the attachment point and provides additional flexibility to the resonator. Thus, the effective stiffness of the resonator includes the stiffness of the ribbon and the stiffness of the flexible element. A variable force or torque is then applied to pre-stress the flexible element without pre-stressing the tape and without moving the end of the tape. By pre-stressing the flexible element, its rigidity changes, while the rigidity of the ribbon remains unchanged, since it is not prestressed and its end does not move. By changing the rigidity of the flexible element, the rigidity of the resonator (ribbon rigidity and rigidity of the flexible element) changes, which consequently modifies the course of the resonator. Since the flexible element is preferably more rigid than the tape, the share of the rigidity of the flexible element in the overall rigidity is lower than that of the tape. Consequently, a modification of the rigidity of the flexible element modifies the rigidity of the whole of the resonator, and consequently regulates its course in a fine way, which makes it possible to precisely adjust the frequency of our time base. Great precision is thus obtained in the adjustment of the rate, because it acts on a single element to adjust the rigidity.

Selon une forme de réalisation particulière de l'invention, l'élément flexible est agencé à une extrémité externe du ruban.According to a particular embodiment of the invention, the flexible element is arranged at an outer end of the tape.

Selon une forme de réalisation particulière de l'invention, l'élément flexible est agencé à une extrémité interne du ruban.According to a particular embodiment of the invention, the flexible element is arranged at an internal end of the tape.

Selon une forme de réalisation particulière de l'invention, l'élément flexible comprend un col flexible.According to a particular embodiment of the invention, the flexible element comprises a flexible neck.

Selon une forme de réalisation particulière de l'invention, l'élément flexible comporte une table de translation munie de deux lames flexibles sensiblement parallèles et d'une partie rigide mobile sur laquelle est raccordée le ruban.According to a particular embodiment of the invention, the flexible element comprises a translation table provided with two substantially parallel flexible blades and with a movable rigid part to which the tape is connected.

Selon une forme de réalisation particulière de l'invention, l'élément flexible comprend un guidage flexible muni de deux lames croisées et d'une partie rigide mobile sur laquelle est raccordé le ruban.According to a particular embodiment of the invention, the flexible element comprises a flexible guide provided with two crossed blades and with a movable rigid part to which the tape is connected.

Selon une forme de réalisation particulière de l'invention, l'élément flexible comprend un guidage flexible muni de deux lames décroisées et d'une partie rigide mobile sur laquelle est raccordé le ruban.According to a particular embodiment of the invention, the flexible element comprises a flexible guide provided with two uncrossed blades and with a movable rigid part to which the tape is connected.

Selon une forme de réalisation particulière de l'invention, l'élément flexible comprend un anneau flexible sur lequel est raccordé le ruban.According to a particular embodiment of the invention, the flexible element comprises a flexible ring to which the ribbon is connected.

Selon une forme de réalisation particulière de l'invention, l'élément flexible comprend un bras flexible sur lequel est raccordé le ruban.According to a particular embodiment of the invention, the flexible element comprises a flexible arm to which the ribbon is connected.

Selon une forme de réalisation particulière de l'invention, l'élément flexible comprend une pluralité de tronçons rigides raccordés par des lames ou des cols flexibles.According to a particular embodiment of the invention, the flexible element comprises a plurality of rigid sections connected by strips or flexible necks.

Selon une forme de réalisation particulière de l'invention, l'élément flexible comprend une lame flexible.According to a particular embodiment of the invention, the flexible element comprises a flexible blade.

Selon une forme de réalisation particulière de l'invention, le couple ou la force est ajustable de manière continue par les moyens de précontrainte.According to a particular embodiment of the invention, the torque or the force is continuously adjustable by the prestressing means.

Selon une forme de réalisation particulière de l'invention, les moyens de précontrainte comprennent une vis configurée pour venir en appui contre l'élément flexible.According to a particular embodiment of the invention, the prestressing means comprise a screw configured to bear against the flexible element.

Selon une forme de réalisation particulière de l'invention, les moyens de précontrainte comprennent un premier aimant solidaire de l'élément flexible et un deuxième aimant mobile par rapport au premier aimant.According to a particular embodiment of the invention, the prestressing means comprise a first magnet secured to the flexible element and a second magnet mobile relative to the first magnet.

Selon une forme de réalisation particulière de l'invention, les moyens de précontrainte comprennent un ressort et un élément mobile permettant d'étirer ou de comprimer le ressort.According to a particular embodiment of the invention, the prestressing means comprise a spring and a movable element making it possible to stretch or compress the spring.

Selon une forme de réalisation particulière de l'invention, le ressort comprend plusieurs lames flexibles sensiblement parallèles et un autre élément mobile.According to a particular embodiment of the invention, the spring comprises several substantially parallel flexible blades and another movable element.

Selon une forme de réalisation particulière de l'invention, les moyens de précontrainte comprennent une lame flexible secondaire reliée à l'élément flexible.According to a particular embodiment of the invention, the prestressing means comprise a secondary flexible strip connected to the flexible element.

Selon une forme de réalisation particulière de l'invention, les moyens de précontrainte comprennent un levier.According to a particular embodiment of the invention, the prestressing means comprise a lever.

Selon une forme de réalisation particulière de l'invention, l'élément flexible est agencé en série dans le prolongement du ruban.According to a particular embodiment of the invention, the flexible element is arranged in series in the extension of the tape.

Selon une forme de réalisation particulière de l'invention, le ressort-spiral s'étend sensiblement dans un plan.According to a particular embodiment of the invention, the hairspring extends substantially in one plane.

Selon une forme de réalisation particulière de l'invention, la totalité de la longueur du ruban sert à la rigidité effective du ressort spiral.According to a particular embodiment of the invention, the entire length of the strip is used for the effective rigidity of the spiral spring.

Selon une forme de réalisation particulière de l'invention, aucune partie du ruban n'est fixe pendant les oscillations.According to a particular embodiment of the invention, no part of the ribbon is fixed during the oscillations.

Selon une forme de réalisation particulière de l'invention, les moyens d'ajustement sont actionnables lorsque le ressort-spiral est monté sur une platine d'un mouvement d'horlogerie.According to a particular embodiment of the invention, the adjustment means are operable when the hairspring is mounted on a plate of a clock movement.

L'invention se rapporte également à un mécanisme résonateur rotatif, notamment pour un mouvement horloger, comportant une masse oscillante et un tel ressort-spiral.The invention also relates to a rotary resonator mechanism, in particular for a watch movement, comprising an oscillating mass and such a hairspring.

Brève description des figuresBrief description of figures

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

  • la figure 1 représente schématiquement une vue de dessus d'un guidage flexible selon un premier mode de réalisation de l'invention,
  • la figure 2 représente schématiquement une vue de dessus d'un guidage flexible selon un deuxième mode de réalisation de l'invention,
  • la figure 3 représente schématiquement une vue de dessus d'un guidage flexible selon un troisième mode de réalisation de l'invention,
  • la figure 4 représente schématiquement une vue de dessus d'un guidage flexible selon un quatrième mode de réalisation de l'invention,
  • la figure 5 représente schématiquement une vue de dessus d'un guidage flexible selon un cinquième mode de réalisation de l'invention,
  • la figure 6 représente schématiquement une vue de dessus d'un guidage flexible selon un sixième mode de réalisation de l'invention,
  • la figure 7 représente schématiquement une vue de dessus d'un guidage flexible selon un septième mode de réalisation de l'invention,
  • la figure 8 représente schématiquement une vue de dessus d'un guidage flexible selon un huitième mode de réalisation de l'invention,
  • la figure 9 représente schématiquement une vue de dessus d'un guidage flexible selon un neuvième mode de réalisation de l'invention,
  • la figure 10 représente schématiquement une vue de dessus d'un guidage flexible selon un dixième mode de réalisation de l'invention,
  • la figure 11 représente schématiquement une vue de dessus d'un guidage flexible selon un onzième mode de réalisation de l'invention,
  • la figure 12 représente schématiquement une vue de dessus d'un guidage flexible selon un douzième mode de réalisation de l'invention,
  • la figure 13 représente schématiquement une vue de dessus d'un guidage flexible selon un treizième mode de réalisation de l'invention,
  • la figure 14 représente schématiquement une vue de dessus d'un guidage flexible selon un quatorzième mode de réalisation de l'invention,
  • la figure 15 représente schématiquement une vue de dessus d'un guidage flexible selon un quinzième mode de réalisation de l'invention,
  • la figure 16 représente schématiquement une vue de dessus d'un guidage flexible selon un seizième mode de réalisation de l'invention,
  • la figure 17 représente schématiquement une vue de dessus d'un guidage flexible selon un dix-septième mode de réalisation de l'invention,
  • la figure 18 représente schématiquement une vue de dessus d'un guidage flexible selon un dix-huitième mode de réalisation de l'invention,
  • la figure 19 représente schématiquement une vue de dessus d'un guidage flexible selon un dix-neuvième mode de réalisation de l'invention,
  • la figure 20 représente schématiquement une vue de dessus d'un guidage flexible selon un vingtième mode de réalisation de l'invention,
  • la figure 21 représente schématiquement une vue de dessus d'un guidage flexible selon un vingt-et-unième mode de réalisation de l'invention, et
  • la figure 22 représente schématiquement une vue de dessus d'un guidage flexible selon un vingt-deuxième mode de réalisation de l'invention,
  • la figure 23 représente schématiquement une vue de dessus d'un guidage flexible selon un vingt-troisième mode de réalisation de l'invention,
  • la figure 24 représente schématiquement une vue de dessus d'un guidage flexible selon un vingt-quatrième mode de réalisation de l'invention,
  • la figure 25 représente schématiquement une vue de dessus d'un guidage flexible selon un vingt-cinquième mode de réalisation de l'invention,
  • la figure 26 représente schématiquement une vue de dessus d'un guidage flexible selon un vingt-sixième mode de réalisation de l'invention,
  • la figure 27 représente schématiquement une vue de dessus d'un guidage flexible selon un vingt-septième mode de réalisation de l'invention,
  • la figure 28 représente schématiquement une vue de dessus d'un guidage flexible selon un vingt-huitième mode de réalisation de l'invention,
  • la figure 29 représente schématiquement une vue de dessus d'un guidage flexible selon un vingt-neuvième mode de réalisation de l'invention.
The aims, advantages and characteristics of the present invention will appear on reading several embodiments given solely by way of non-limiting examples, with reference to the appended drawings in which:
  • the figure 1 schematically represents a top view of a flexible guide according to a first embodiment of the invention,
  • the picture 2 schematically represents a top view of a flexible guide according to a second embodiment of the invention,
  • the picture 3 schematically represents a top view of a flexible guide according to a third embodiment of the invention,
  • the figure 4 schematically represents a top view of a flexible guide according to a fourth embodiment of the invention,
  • the figure 5 schematically represents a top view of a flexible guide according to a fifth embodiment of the invention,
  • the figure 6 schematically represents a top view of a flexible guide according to a sixth embodiment of the invention,
  • the figure 7 schematically represents a top view of a flexible guide according to a seventh embodiment of the invention,
  • the figure 8 schematically represents a top view of a flexible guide according to an eighth embodiment of the invention,
  • the figure 9 schematically represents a top view of a flexible guide according to a ninth embodiment of the invention,
  • the figure 10 schematically represents a top view of a flexible guide according to a tenth embodiment of the invention,
  • the figure 11 schematically represents a top view of a flexible guide according to an eleventh embodiment of the invention,
  • the figure 12 schematically represents a top view of a flexible guide according to a twelfth embodiment of the invention,
  • the figure 13 schematically represents a top view of a flexible guide according to a thirteenth embodiment of the invention,
  • the figure 14 schematically represents a top view of a flexible guide according to a fourteenth embodiment of the invention,
  • the figure 15 schematically represents a top view of a flexible guide according to a fifteenth embodiment of the invention,
  • the figure 16 schematically represents a top view of a flexible guide according to a sixteenth embodiment of the invention,
  • the figure 17 schematically represents a top view of a flexible guide according to a seventeenth embodiment of the invention,
  • the figure 18 schematically represents a top view of a flexible guide according to an eighteenth embodiment of the invention,
  • the figure 19 schematically represents a top view of a flexible guide according to a nineteenth embodiment of the invention,
  • the figure 20 schematically represents a top view of a flexible guide according to a twentieth embodiment of the invention,
  • the figure 21 schematically represents a top view of a flexible guide according to a twenty-first embodiment of the invention, and
  • the figure 22 schematically represents a top view of a flexible guide according to a twenty-second embodiment of the invention,
  • the figure 23 schematically represents a top view of a flexible guide according to a twenty-third embodiment of the invention,
  • the figure 24 schematically represents a top view of a flexible guide according to a twenty-fourth embodiment of the invention,
  • the figure 25 schematically represents a top view of a flexible guide according to a twenty-fifth embodiment of the invention,
  • the figure 26 schematically represents a top view of a flexible guide according to a twenty-sixth embodiment of the invention,
  • the figure 27 schematically represents a top view of a flexible guide according to a twenty-seventh embodiment of the invention,
  • the figure 28 schematically represents a top view of a flexible guide according to a twenty-eighth embodiment of the invention,
  • the figure 29 schematically represents a top view of a flexible guide according to a twenty-ninth embodiment of the invention.

Description détaillée de l'inventionDetailed description of the invention

Les figures 1 à 28 montrent, chacune, une représentation schématique d'un mode de réalisation différent d'un ressort-spiral 1, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 110, 120, 130, 140, 150, 160, 170, 180, 190, 200, 210, 220, 230, 240, 250, 260, 270, notamment pour un mécanisme résonateur d'horlogerie. Ici, le ressort-spiral s'étend sensiblement dans un plan. Le ressort-spiral 1, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 110, 120, 130, 140, 150, 160, 170, 180, 190, 200, 210, 220, 230, 240, 250, 260, 270 comprend un ruban flexible 2 enroulé sur lui-même selon plusieurs spires, le ruban 2 ayant une rigidité prédéfinie. Le ressort-spiral comporte des moyens d'ajustement de sa rigidité. Par exemple, les moyens d'ajustement sont notamment actionnables lorsque le ressort-spiral est monté sur une platine d'un mouvement d'horlogerie.The figures 1 to 28 each show a schematic representation of a different embodiment of a spiral spring 1, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 110, 120, 130, 140, 150, 160, 170, 180, 190, 200, 210, 220, 230, 240, 250, 260, 270, in particular for a clock resonator mechanism. Here, the hairspring extends substantially in one plane. The spiral spring 1, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 110, 120, 130, 140, 150, 160, 170, 180, 190, 200, 210, 220, 230, 240, 250, 260, 270 comprises a flexible ribbon 2 wound on itself in several turns, the ribbon 2 having a predefined stiffness. The spiral spring comprises means adjustment of its stiffness. For example, the adjustment means are in particular operable when the hairspring is mounted on a plate of a clock movement.

Selon l'invention, les moyens d'ajustement comportent un élément flexible 5 agencé en série du ruban 2, l'élément flexible 5 reliant une extrémité 4, 9 dudit ruban 2 à un support fixe 11, 14, 17, 24, 29, 38, 44, 53, 93, 117, et solidaire d'une des extrémités 4, 9 du ruban 2. L'élément flexible 5 ajoute une rigidité supplémentaire à celle du ruban 2. L'élément flexible 5 a de préférence une rigidité supérieure à celle du ruban 2. L'élément flexible 5 est ici agencé dans le prolongement du ruban 2. De préférence, les moyens d'ajustement 5 et le ruban 2 sont monoblocs, voire formés d'une même matière.According to the invention, the adjustment means comprise a flexible element 5 arranged in series with the ribbon 2, the flexible element 5 connecting one end 4, 9 of said ribbon 2 to a fixed support 11, 14, 17, 24, 29, 38, 44, 53, 93, 117, and integral with one of the ends 4, 9 of the ribbon 2. The flexible element 5 adds additional rigidity to that of the ribbon 2. The flexible element 5 preferably has a greater rigidity to that of the tape 2. The flexible element 5 is here arranged in the extension of the tape 2. Preferably, the adjustment means 5 and the tape 2 are in one piece, or even formed from the same material.

Le ressort-spiral 1, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 110, 120, 130, 140, 150, 160, 170, 180, 190, 200, 210, 220, 230, 240, 250, 260, 270 comporte en outre des moyens de précontrainte 6 pour appliquer une force ou un couple variable sur l'élément flexible 5. Ainsi, on peut ajuster la rigidité du ressort spiral 1, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 110, 120, 130, 140, 150, 160, 170, 180, 190, 200, 210, 220, 230, 240, 250, 260, 270, notamment pour améliorer la précision de la marche du mouvement.The spiral spring 1, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 110, 120, 130, 140, 150, 160, 170, 180, 190, 200, 210, 220, 230, 240, 250, 260, 270 further comprises prestressing means 6 for applying a variable force or torque to the flexible element 5. Thus, the rigidity of the spiral spring 1, 10, 20, 30 can be adjusted, especially for improve the running accuracy of the movement.

L'extrémité du ruban 2 reste sensiblement immobile, quel que soit l'ajustement des moyens de précontrainte. La force ou le couple appliqué sur l'élément flexible 5 ne modifie pas la position de l'extrémité 4 du ruban 2 auquel l'élément flexible est assemblé. On agit seulement sur l'élément flexible 5 pour modifier sa rigidité sans agir directement sur le ruban 2. On obtient ainsi encore davantage de précision car un seul élément sert à l'ajustement de la rigidité. Pendant les oscillations, l'extrémité 4 du ruban 2 peut être mobile.The end of the tape 2 remains substantially immobile, regardless of the adjustment of the prestressing means. The force or the torque applied to the flexible element 5 does not modify the position of the end 4 of the strip 2 to which the flexible element is assembled. One acts only on the flexible element 5 to modify its rigidity without acting directly on the tape 2. One thus obtains even more precision because a single element serves to adjust the rigidity. During the oscillations, the end 4 of the ribbon 2 can be mobile.

De plus, le couple ou la force est ajustable de manière continue par les moyens de précontrainte 6. Autrement dit, le couple ou la force n'est pas restreinte à des valeurs ponctuelles. Ainsi, on peut ajuster la rigidité de l'élément flexible 5 avec une grande précision.In addition, the torque or the force is continuously adjustable by the prestressing means 6. In other words, the torque or the force is not not restricted to point values. Thus, the rigidity of the flexible element 5 can be adjusted with great precision.

Les moyens de précontrainte 6 permettent, de préférence, à l'élément flexible 5 d'effectuer un déplacement en translation ou en rotation dans le plan du ressort-spiral. Ainsi, on fait varier la rigidité de l'élément flexible 5.The prestressing means 6 preferably allow the flexible element 5 to perform a movement in translation or in rotation in the plane of the hairspring. Thus, the rigidity of the flexible element 5 is varied.

Les modes de réalisation décrits ci-dessous comprennent un élément flexible 5 solidaire de l'extrémité externe 4 du ruban 2. L'extrémité interne 9 du ruban 2 est assemblée à un support 3 d'une masse oscillante du résonateur. Selon des variantes de réalisation, non représentées sur les figures, l'élément flexible est raccordé à l'extrémité interne 9 du ruban 2, afin d'être en série entre le ruban 2 et le support 3 de la masse oscillante.The embodiments described below comprise a flexible element 5 secured to the outer end 4 of the strip 2. The inner end 9 of the strip 2 is assembled to a support 3 of an oscillating mass of the resonator. According to variant embodiments, not shown in the figures, the flexible element is connected to the internal end 9 of the ribbon 2, so as to be in series between the ribbon 2 and the support 3 of the oscillating mass.

Dans l'exemple de la figure 1, l'élément flexible 5 du ressort-spiral 1 comprend corps allongé 7 muni d'un col 8 aminci dans l'épaisseur de matière, le col étant flexible. Ainsi, l'élément flexible 5 comporte un support fixe 14, par exemple joint à la platine du mouvement, et une partie mobile 15 jointe à l'extrémité externe 4 du ruban 2, le support fixe 14 et la partie mobile 14 étant reliée par le col 8. En appliquant une force ou un couple variable sur la partie mobile 15, elle se déplace par rapport au support fixe 14. Ainsi, on modifie la rigidité de l'élément flexible 5e et donc de l'ensemble comprenant le ruban 2 et l'élément flexible 5.In the example of the figure 1 , the flexible element 5 of the hairspring 1 comprises an elongated body 7 provided with a neck 8 thinned in the thickness of the material, the neck being flexible. Thus, the flexible element 5 comprises a fixed support 14, for example joined to the main plate of the movement, and a movable part 15 joined to the outer end 4 of the strip 2, the fixed support 14 and the movable part 14 being connected by the neck 8. By applying a variable force or torque to the movable part 15, it moves relative to the fixed support 14. Thus, the rigidity of the flexible element 5e and therefore of the assembly comprising the ribbon 2 is modified. and the flexible element 5.

Le deuxième mode de réalisation du ressort-spiral 10 de la figure 2 montre un élément flexible 5 comprenant un anneau flexible 12 joint à l'extrémité externe 4 du ruban 2. L'élément flexible 5 comprend aussi une support fixe 11 en forme de T, qui est immobile par rapport au mouvement. L'anneau 12 est en outre lié à la base 13 du T. Ainsi, en appliquant une force ou un couple variable sur l'anneau 12, il se déforme par rapport au support fixe 11, de sorte qu'on modifie la rigidité de l'élément flexible 5.The second embodiment of the spiral spring 10 of the picture 2 shows a flexible element 5 comprising a flexible ring 12 joined to the outer end 4 of the ribbon 2. The flexible element 5 also comprises a fixed support 11 in the shape of a T, which is immobile with respect to movement. The ring 12 is also linked to the base 13 of the T. Thus, by applying a variable force or torque to the ring 12, it deforms relative to the fixed support 11, so that the rigidity of the the flexible element 5.

Pour le troisième mode de réalisation du ressort spiral 20 de la figure 3, l'élément flexible 5 du ressort-spiral comprend un bras flexible 16 et un support fixe 17 sur lequel le bras 16 est joint en porte-à-faux. L'extrémité externe 4 du ruban 2 est joint au bout 18 du bras 16 dans son prolongement. Ainsi, en appliquant une force ou un couple variable sur le bras 16, il se déforme par rapport au support fixe 17, de sorte modifie la rigidité de l'élément flexible 5. Sur la figure, la force ou le couple variable est appliqué de préférence parallèlement au bras 16.For the third embodiment of the spiral spring 20 of the picture 3 , the flexible element 5 of the hairspring comprises a flexible arm 16 and a fixed support 17 on which the arm 16 is attached cantilevered. The outer end 4 of the tape 2 is attached to the end 18 of the arm 16 in its extension. Thus, by applying a variable force or torque to the arm 16, it deforms with respect to the fixed support 17, so as to modify the rigidity of the flexible element 5. In the figure, the variable force or torque is applied from preferably parallel to arm 16.

La figure 4 montre un ressort-spiral 30 dont l'élément flexible 5 comporte une table de translation. La table de translation comprend au moins une lame flexible secondaire, ici deux lames flexibles secondaires 21, 22, et une partie rigide 23. Les lames flexibles 21, 22 sont jointes par une extrémité à la partie rigide 23, et par une autre extrémité à un support fixe 24. Les lames flexibles secondaires 21, 22 sont sensiblement parallèles et sont disposées sur des lignes différentes. De préférence, les lames flexibles secondaires 21, 22 sont jointes à une même face 25 de la partie rigide 23. La partie rigide 23 a une forme rectangulaire allongée, sur laquelle l'extrémité externe 4 du ruban 2 est jointe dans son prolongement d'un côté de la partie rigide 23. Les lames flexibles secondaires 21, 22 sont sensiblement perpendiculaires à la partie rigide 23 et à l'extrémité externe 4. Sur la figure, la force ou le couple variable est appliqué sur la partie rigide 23, de préférence parallèlement aux lames 21, 22.The figure 4 shows a spiral spring 30 whose flexible element 5 comprises a translation table. The translation table comprises at least one secondary flexible blade, here two secondary flexible blades 21, 22, and a rigid part 23. The flexible blades 21, 22 are joined by one end to the rigid part 23, and by another end to a fixed support 24. The secondary flexible blades 21, 22 are substantially parallel and are arranged on different lines. Preferably, the secondary flexible blades 21, 22 are joined to the same face 25 of the rigid part 23. The rigid part 23 has an elongated rectangular shape, on which the outer end 4 of the strip 2 is joined in its extension of one side of the rigid part 23. The secondary flexible blades 21, 22 are substantially perpendicular to the rigid part 23 and to the outer end 4. In the figure, the variable force or torque is applied to the rigid part 23, preferably parallel to the blades 21, 22.

Sur la figure 5, l'élément flexible 5 du ressort-spiral 40 comprend un pivot à lames croisées, le pivot comprenant deux lames croisées 27, 28, liées d'une part à un support fixe 29 du mouvement, et d'autre part à une partie rigide 31 mobile du pivot. La partie rigide 31 a une forme rectangulaire allongée agencée perpendiculairement à l'extrémité externe 4 du ruban 2, qui est assemblée sur un grand côté de la partie rigide 31, opposé au côté sur lequel les lames croisées 27, 28 sont assemblées. Le pivot à lames croisées 27, 28 est agencé de sorte que le croisement des lames soit dans le prolongement de l'extrémité externe 4 du ruban 2. Sur la figure, la force ou le couple variable est appliqué sur la partie rigide 31, de préférence parallèlement à l'axe de symétrie du pivot à lames croisées et à l'extrémité externe 4 du ruban 2.On the figure 5 , the flexible element 5 of the hairspring 40 comprises a pivot with crossed blades, the pivot comprising two crossed blades 27, 28, connected on the one hand to a fixed support 29 of the movement, and on the other hand to a rigid part 31 movable pivot. The rigid part 31 has an elongated rectangular shape arranged perpendicularly to the outer end 4 of the tape 2, which is assembled on a large side of the rigid part 31, opposite to the side on which the cross blades 27, 28 are assembled. The pivot with crossed blades 27, 28 is arranged so that the crossing of the blades is in the extension of the outer end 4 of the strip 2. In the figure, the variable force or torque is applied to the rigid part 31, from preference parallel to the axis of symmetry of the pivot with crossed blades and to the outer end 4 of the ribbon 2.

Dans le sixième mode de réalisation de la figure 6, qui est semblable au cinquième mode de réalisation, l'élément flexible 5 du ressort-spiral 50 comprend un pivot à lames croisées, le pivot comprenant deux lames croisées 33, 34 jointes en leur croisement 35. Les lames 33, 34 sont liées d'une part à un support fixe 38 du mouvement, et d'autre part à une partie rigide 37 en forme de T. La tige 39 du T est jointe à l'extrémité externe 4 du ruban, tandis que les lames sont jointes à la barre 41 du T. Le pivot à lames croisées est agencé de sorte que le croisement des lames soit dans le prolongement de l'extrémité externe 4 du ruban 2. Sur la figure, la force ou le couple variable est appliqué sur la barre 37 du T de la partie rigide 37, le pivot étant agencé de manière oblique par rapport au ruban 2.In the sixth embodiment of the figure 6 , which is similar to the fifth embodiment, the flexible element 5 of the spiral spring 50 comprises a pivot with crossed blades, the pivot comprising two crossed blades 33, 34 joined at their intersection 35. The blades 33, 34 are linked by on the one hand to a fixed support 38 of the movement, and on the other hand to a rigid part 37 in the form of a T. The rod 39 of the T is joined to the outer end 4 of the ribbon, while the blades are joined to the bar 41 of the T. The pivot with crossed blades is arranged so that the crossing of the blades is in the extension of the outer end 4 of the tape 2. In the figure, the variable force or torque is applied to the bar 37 of the T of the rigid part 37, the pivot being arranged obliquely with respect to the ribbon 2.

Pour le septième mode de réalisation de la figure 7, l'élément flexible 5 du ressort-spiral 60 comprend une table de translation agencée dans le prolongement de l'extrémité externe 4 du ruban 2. La table de translation comprend au moins une lame flexible secondaire, ici deux lames flexibles secondaires 42, 43, et une partie rigide 45. Les lames flexibles secondaires 42, 43 sont jointes par une extrémité à la partie rigide 45, et par une autre extrémité à un support fixe 44 par rapport au mouvement. Les lames flexibles secondaires 42, 43 sont sensiblement parallèles et sont disposées sur des lignes différentes. De préférence, les lames flexibles secondaires 42, 43 sont jointes à une même face de la partie rigide 45. La partie rigide 45 a une forme rectangulaire allongée, sur laquelle l'extrémité externe 4 du ruban 2 est jointe perpendiculairement en porte-à-faux. Les lames flexibles secondaires 42, 43 sont sensiblement parallèles à l'extrémité externe 4 et perpendiculaire à la partie rigide 45. Sur la figure, la force ou le couple variable est appliqué sur la partie rigide 45, dans la direction des lames secondaires 42, 43. Grâce à la flexion des lames flexibles secondaires 42, 43, la partie rigide 45 peut se déplacer parallèlement au support fixe 44. En tirant l'extrémité externe 4 du ruban 2, le déplacement de la partie rigide 45 fait varier la rigidité de l'élément flexible 5.For the seventh embodiment of the figure 7 , the flexible element 5 of the spiral spring 60 comprises a translation table arranged in the extension of the outer end 4 of the ribbon 2. The translation table comprises at least one secondary flexible blade, here two secondary flexible blades 42, 43 , and a rigid part 45. The secondary flexible blades 42, 43 are joined by one end to the rigid part 45, and by another end to a fixed support 44 with respect to the movement. The secondary flexible blades 42, 43 are substantially parallel and are arranged on different lines. Preferably, the secondary flexible blades 42, 43 are joined to the same face of the rigid part 45. The rigid part 45 has an elongated rectangular shape, on which the outer end 4 of the tape 2 is joined perpendicularly cantilevered. fake. The secondary flexible blades 42, 43 are substantially parallel to the outer end 4 and perpendicular to the rigid part 45. In the figure, the variable force or torque is applied to the rigid part 45, in the direction of the secondary blades 42, 43. Thanks to the bending of the secondary flexible blades 42, 43, the rigid part 45 can move parallel to the fixed support 44. By pulling the outer end 4 of the ribbon 2, the displacement of the rigid part 45 varies the rigidity of the flexible element 5.

Le huitième mode de réalisation du ressort-spiral 70 de la figure 8 comprend un élément flexible 5 identique à celui du septième mode de réalisation de la figure 7. Le ressort-spiral comprend en outre des moyens de précontrainte 6 de l'élément flexible 5. Les moyens de précontrainte 6 comprennent des aimants 47, 48, un premier aimant 47 étant agencé sur la partie rigide 45 de la table de translation, et un deuxième aimant 48 étant agencé mobile par rapport au premier aimant 47. Ainsi, les aimants 47, 48 s'attirent ou se repoussent en fonction de leurs polarités, de sortent qu'une force est appliquée sur la partie rigide 45. Le deuxième aimant 48 est par exemple agencé sur un élément mobile par rapport à la table de translation.The eighth embodiment of the spiral spring 70 of the figure 8 comprises a flexible element 5 identical to that of the seventh embodiment of the figure 7 . The spiral spring further comprises means 6 for prestressing the flexible element 5. The prestressing means 6 comprise magnets 47, 48, a first magnet 47 being arranged on the rigid part 45 of the translation table, and a second magnet 48 being arranged to move relative to the first magnet 47. Thus, the magnets 47, 48 attract or repel each other depending on their polarities, so that a force is applied to the rigid part 45. The second magnet 48 is for example arranged on a movable element relative to the translation table.

Dans le neuvième mode de réalisation de la figure 9, l'élément flexible 5 du ressort spiral comprend un pivot à lames flexibles décroisées. Le pivot comprend deux lames flexibles décroisées 51, 52 et une partie rigide 54. Les lames flexibles 51, 52 sont jointes, d'une part latéralement à un support fixe 53 allongé, et d'autre part à la partie rigide 54 en se rapprochant l'une de l'autre. La partie rigide 54 a une forme circulaire de diamètre plus petit que le support fixe 53. Ainsi, de préférence, les lames flexibles 51, 52 se rapprochent depuis le support fixe 53 jusqu'à la partie rigide 54. L'extrémité externe 4 du ruban est jointe à la partie rigide 54. Sur la figure, la force ou le couple variable est appliqué sur la partie rigide 45, de façon oblique par rapport au pivot. De préférence, la force est parallèle à l'axe de symétrie du pivot à lames flexibles.In the ninth embodiment of the figure 9 , the flexible element 5 of the spiral spring comprises a pivot with uncrossed flexible blades. The pivot comprises two uncrossed flexible blades 51, 52 and a rigid part 54. The flexible blades 51, 52 are joined, on the one hand laterally to an elongated fixed support 53, and on the other hand to the rigid part 54 by approaching one from the other. The rigid part 54 has a circular shape with a smaller diameter than the fixed support 53. Thus, preferably, the flexible blades 51, 52 approach from the fixed support 53 to the rigid part 54. The outer end 4 of the ribbon is joined to the rigid part 54. In the figure, the variable force or torque is applied to the rigid part 45, obliquely with respect to the pivot. Preferably, the force is parallel to the axis of symmetry of the flexible leaf pivot.

Les figures 10 à 20 sont des modes de réalisation de ressorts-spiraux 90, 100, 110, 120, 130, 140, 150, 160, 170, 180, 190 comprenant un élément flexible 5 identique à celui du neuvième mode de réalisation, mais ayant chacun des moyens de précontrainte 6 différents. Ces moyens de précontrainte 6 sont bien-sûr adaptables aux autres mode de réalisation de ressorts-spiraux avec des éléments flexibles 5 différents de celui du neuvième mode de réalisation.The figures 10 to 20 are embodiments of spiral springs 90, 100, 110, 120, 130, 140, 150, 160, 170, 180, 190 comprising a flexible element 5 identical to that of the ninth embodiment, but each having means for preload 6 different. These prestressing means 6 are of course adaptable to other embodiments of spiral springs with flexible elements 5 different from that of the ninth embodiment.

Le dixième mode de réalisation de la figure 10 comprend une vis 55 comme moyens de précontrainte 6. La vis 55 est positionnée obliquement contre la partie rigide 54 du pivot, de préférence parallèlement à l'axe de symétrie du pivot. Ainsi, en actionnant la vis par vissage ou dévissage, celle-ci applique une force ou un couple variable sur la partie rigide 54, notamment afin d'ajuster la rigidité de l'élément flexible 5.The tenth embodiment of the figure 10 comprises a screw 55 as prestressing means 6. The screw 55 is positioned obliquely against the rigid part 54 of the pivot, preferably parallel to the axis of symmetry of the pivot. Thus, by actuating the screw by screwing or unscrewing, the latter applies a variable force or torque to the rigid part 54, in particular in order to adjust the rigidity of the flexible element 5.

Sur la figure 11, les moyens de précontrainte 6 comprennent des aimants 57, 58, un premier aimant 57 étant agencé sur la partie rigide 54, tandis qu'un second aimant 58 est mobile par rapport à la partie rigide 54, afin d'exercer une force ou un couple variable sur la partie rigide 54. La force ou le couple variable est exercée de manière oblique sur la partie rigide 54 afin d'ajuster la rigidité de l'élément flexible 5.On the figure 11 , the prestressing means 6 comprise magnets 57, 58, a first magnet 57 being arranged on the rigid part 54, while a second magnet 58 is movable relative to the rigid part 54, in order to exert a force or a variable torque on the rigid part 54. The variable force or torque is exerted obliquely on the rigid part 54 in order to adjust the rigidity of the flexible element 5.

Les moyens de précontrainte 6 du douzième mode de réalisation de la figure 12 comprennent un ressort 55 et un élément mobile 59. Le ressort 55 est joint à la partie rigide 54 du pivot d'une part, et à l'élément mobile 59 d'autre part. Ainsi, en déplaçant l'élément mobile 59, le ressort applique une force ou un couple variable sur la partie rigide 54 afin d'ajuster la rigidité de l'élément flexible 5.The prestressing means 6 of the twelfth embodiment of the figure 12 comprise a spring 55 and a movable element 59. The spring 55 is joined to the rigid part 54 of the pivot on the one hand, and to the movable element 59 on the other hand. Thus, by moving the movable element 59, the spring applies a variable force or torque to the rigid part 54 in order to adjust the rigidity of the flexible element 5.

Le treizième mode de réalisation de la figure 13 montre une variante du mode de réalisation du ressort-spiral 110 de la figure 12, dans lequel une lame flexible secondaire 61 est agencée en série dans la prolongement du ressort 55 entre la partie rigide 54 du pivot et le ressort 55. A cette fin, les moyens de précontrainte 6 sont munis d'un deuxième élément mobile 62 sur lequel sont liés le ressort 55 d'un côté, et la lame flexible secondaire 61 de l'autre côté. La lame flexible secondaire 61 est liée au deuxième élément mobile 62 et à la partie rigide 54. En agissant sur le premier élément mobile 59, on modifie la force ou le couple variable agissant sur la partie rigide du pivot par l'intermédiaire du deuxième élément mobile 62 et de la lame flexible secondaire 61.The thirteenth embodiment of the figure 13 shows a variation of the embodiment of the hairspring 110 of the figure 12 , in which a secondary flexible blade 61 is arranged in series in the extension of the spring 55 between the rigid part 54 of the pivot and the spring 55. To this end, the prestressing means 6 are provided with a second movable element 62 on which are linked the spring 55 on one side, and the secondary flexible blade 61 on the other side. The secondary flexible blade 61 is linked to the second mobile element 62 and to the rigid part 54. By acting on the first mobile element 59, the variable force or torque acting on the rigid part of the pivot via the second movable element 62 and the secondary flexible blade 61.

Sur la figure 14, le ressort-spiral 130 est semblable à celui de la figure 13, le ressort-spiral 130 comprenant des moyens de précontrainte 6 munis d'une lame flexible secondaire 63 avec un tronçon rigide 64 au milieu de la lame flexible secondaire 63.On the figure 14 , the spiral spring 130 is similar to that of the figure 13 , the spiral spring 130 comprising prestressing means 6 provided with a secondary flexible blade 63 with a rigid section 64 in the middle of the secondary flexible blade 63.

Dans le quinzième mode de réalisation du ressort-spiral 140 de la figure 15, qui est semblable à celui de la figure 14, les moyens de précontrainte 6 comprennent, à la place de la lame flexible secondaire des deux modes de réalisation précédents, une pièce allongée 65 munie d'au moins un col flexible, ici deux cols flexibles 66, 67. La pièce 65 comporte un tronçon central rigide 69 et un col flexible 66, 67 à chaque extrémité, un col étant relié à la partie rigide 54, l'autre col étant relié à l'élément mobile 62. La pièce allongée 65 est disposée dans le prolongement du ressort 55.In the fifteenth embodiment of the spiral spring 140 of the figure 15 , which is similar to that of figure 14 , the prestressing means 6 comprise, instead of the secondary flexible blade of the two previous embodiments, an elongated part 65 provided with at least one flexible neck, here two flexible necks 66, 67. The part 65 comprises a section central rigid 69 and a flexible neck 66, 67 at each end, one neck being connected to the rigid part 54, the other neck being connected to the movable element 62. The elongated part 65 is arranged in the extension of the spring 55.

Les seizième et dix-septième modes de réalisation des figures 16 et 17 montrent les mêmes moyens de précontrainte 6 orientés différemment sur les deux figures. Les moyens de précontrainte 6 comportent un ressort formé de lames flexibles. Une lame flexible secondaire 61 relie la partie rigide de l'élément flexible 5 à un premier corps rigide 71 en forme de coude.The sixteenth and seventeenth embodiments of the figures 16 and 17 show the same prestressing means 6 oriented differently in the two figures. The prestressing means 6 comprise a spring formed from flexible blades. A secondary flexible blade 61 connects the rigid part of the flexible element 5 to a first rigid body 71 in the form of an elbow.

Les moyens de précontrainte 6 comprennent un deuxième corps 75 rigide en forme de coude, ainsi que des lames tertiaires 72 reliant les deux corps rigides 71, 75. Les deux corps rigides 71, 75 sont mobiles et ont des segments sensiblement parallèles deux à deux en position de repos des moyens de précontrainte 6. Les quatre lames tertiaires 72 sont sensiblement perpendiculaires à la lame secondaire 61 en position de repos des moyens de précontrainte 6. Les moyens de précontrainte 6 comprennent en outre deux lames quaternaires 74 reliant le deuxième corps 75 à un support fixe 73. Les lames quaternaires 74 sont sensiblement parallèles aux lames tertiaires 72 et agencées du même côté du deuxième corps 75 rigide. En appliquant une force ou un couple variable sur le deuxième corps rigide 75, on fait varier la rigidité de l'élément flexible 5.The prestressing means 6 comprise a second rigid body 75 in the shape of an elbow, as well as tertiary blades 72 connecting the two rigid bodies 71, 75. The two rigid bodies 71, 75 are mobile and have substantially parallel segments two by two in rest position of the prestressing means 6. The four tertiary blades 72 are substantially perpendicular to the secondary blade 61 in the rest position of the prestressing means 6. The prestressing means 6 further comprise two quaternary blades 74 connecting the second body 75 to a fixed support 73. The quaternary blades 74 are substantially parallel to the tertiary blades 72 and arranged on the same side of the second rigid body 75. In applying a variable force or torque to the second rigid body 75, the rigidity of the flexible element 5 is varied.

Sur la figure 16, les moyens de précontrainte 6 sont agencés dans l'axe de l'élément flexible 5, tandis que sur la figure 17, les moyens de précontrainte 6 sont agencés obliquement par rapport à l'élément flexible 5.On the figure 16 , the prestressing means 6 are arranged in the axis of the flexible element 5, while on the figure 17 , the prestressing means 6 are arranged obliquely with respect to the flexible element 5.

Le dix-huitième mode de réalisation de la figure 18 du ressort-spiral 170 est semblable à celui du dix-septième mode de réalisation, sauf pour le support 77 qui est relié au premier corps mobile 71 par les lames quaternaires 78, et non au deuxième corps mobile 76. Le support 77 et les lames quaternaires 78 sont agencés de l'autre côté du premier corps mobile 71 par rapport au deuxième corps mobile 76 et les lames tertiaires 72. Les lames quaternaires 78 sont sensiblement parallèles aux lames tertiaires 72 en position de repos du ressort-spiral 170.The eighteenth embodiment of the figure 18 of the spiral spring 170 is similar to that of the seventeenth embodiment, except for the support 77 which is connected to the first mobile body 71 by the quaternary blades 78, and not to the second mobile body 76. The support 77 and the blades quaternary blades 78 are arranged on the other side of the first mobile body 71 relative to the second mobile body 76 and the tertiary blades 72. The quaternary blades 78 are substantially parallel to the tertiary blades 72 in the rest position of the hairspring 170.

La figure 19 montre des moyens de précontrainte 6 semblables à ceux de la figure 17, auxquels a été ajouté un levier 81. Le levier 81 est relié au deuxième corps mobile 75 par une lame flexible quinquénaire 82 munie d'un tronçon central 83 rigide agencé dans le prolongement du deuxième corps mobile 75. La lame flexible quinquénaire 82 est sensiblement parallèle à la lame secondaire 61 en position de repos des moyens de précontrainte 6. Le levier 81 est agencé perpendiculairement à la lame flexible quinquénaire 82. Le levier est en outre relié à un second support 87 fixe par deux lames quinquénaires 84, 85 agencées de part et d'autre du levier 81. L'extrémité libre 86 du levier est en forme de U, sur lequel on peut agir en l'actionnant latéralement, afin d'appliquer une force ou un couple variable sur l'élément flexible 5.The figure 19 shows prestressing means 6 similar to those of the figure 17 , to which a lever 81 has been added. The lever 81 is connected to the second mobile body 75 by a five-year flexible blade 82 provided with a rigid central section 83 arranged in the extension of the second mobile body 75. The five-year flexible blade 82 is substantially parallel to the secondary blade 61 in the rest position of the prestressing means 6. The lever 81 is arranged perpendicular to the five-year flexible blade 82. The lever is also connected to a second support 87 fixed by two five-year blades 84, 85 arranged either side of the lever 81. The free end 86 of the lever is U-shaped, on which one can act by actuating it laterally, in order to apply a variable force or torque to the flexible element 5.

Sur la figure 20, les moyens de précontrainte 6 comprennent un levier 89 relié à l'élément flexible 5 par un ressort 88, qui peut être hélicoïdal ou formé d'un serpentin plat. Le ressort est relié à la partie rigide 54 de l'élément flexible 5 d'une part, et au levier 89 d'autre part. Le levier 89 peut pivoter autour d'un axe fixe 91 le traversant à l'extrémité 92 connectée au ressort. Ainsi, en déplaçant latéralement le levier 89, on modifie le couple variable ou la force exercée sur l'élément flexible 5.On the figure 20 , the prestressing means 6 comprise a lever 89 connected to the flexible element 5 by a spring 88, which may be helical or formed of a flat coil. The spring is connected to the rigid part 54 of the flexible element 5 on the one hand, and to the lever 89 on the other hand. The lever 89 can pivot around a fixed axis 91 passing through it at the end 92 connected to the spring. Thus, by moving the lever 89 laterally, the variable torque or the force exerted on the flexible element 5 is modified.

Le vingtième-et-unième mode de réalisation du ressort-spiral 200 de la figure 21 comprend un élément flexible 5 muni d'une pluralité de tronçons rigides 93, 94, 95, 96 mobiles joints par des petites lames flexibles 97. En position de repos les tronçons 93, 94, 95, 96 et les petites lames flexibles 97 sont agencés sensiblement sur une ligne droite 98. Sur la figure, l'élément flexible 5 comprend quatre tronçons 93, 94, 95, 96 allongés en série et trois petites lames 97 reliant chacune deux tronçons 93, 94, 95, 96 entre eux. Le premier tronçon 93 est un support fixe, tandis que les autres tronçons 94, 95, 96 sont mobiles. L'extrémité externe 4 du ruban 2 est jointe au deuxième tronçon 94, le deuxième tronçon 94 comportant un ergot 99 latéral sur lequel est lié le ruban 2. Les tronçons 93, 94, 95, 96 et les petites lames 97 s'étendent tangentiellement à la forme en spirale du ruban 2.The twentieth-first embodiment of the hairspring 200 of the figure 21 comprises a flexible element 5 provided with a plurality of movable rigid sections 93, 94, 95, 96 joined by small flexible strips 97. In the rest position the sections 93, 94, 95, 96 and the small flexible strips 97 are arranged substantially on a straight line 98. In the figure, the flexible element 5 comprises four sections 93, 94, 95, 96 elongated in series and three small blades 97 each connecting two sections 93, 94, 95, 96 between them. The first section 93 is a fixed support, while the other sections 94, 95, 96 are mobile. The outer end 4 of the strip 2 is joined to the second section 94, the second section 94 comprising a lateral lug 99 on which the strip 2 is bound. The sections 93, 94, 95, 96 and the small blades 97 extend tangentially to the spiral shape of the ribbon 2.

Les moyens de précontrainte 6 comprennent encore un corps 75 rigide en forme de coude, ainsi que des lames secondaires 72 reliant le corps rigide 75 au quatrième tronçon 96. Les quatre lames secondaires 72 sont sensiblement perpendiculaires à la ligne droite 98 en position de repos des moyens de précontrainte 6. Les moyens de précontrainte 6 comprennent en outre deux lames tertiaires 74 reliant le corps rigide 75 à un support fixe 73. Les lames tertiaires 74 sont sensiblement parallèles aux lames secondaires 72 en position de repos des moyens de précontrainte 6. En appliquant une force ou un couple variable sur la partie coudée du corps rigide 75, on fait varier la rigidité de l'élément flexible 5. La force ou le couple est transmis en partie au quatrième tronçon 96 par les lames secondaires 72, ainsi qu'aux autres tronçons via les petites lames 97.The prestressing means 6 further comprise a rigid body 75 in the form of an elbow, as well as secondary blades 72 connecting the rigid body 75 to the fourth section 96. The four secondary blades 72 are substantially perpendicular to the straight line 98 in the rest position of the prestressing means 6. The prestressing means 6 further comprise two tertiary blades 74 connecting the rigid body 75 to a fixed support 73. The tertiary blades 74 are substantially parallel to the secondary blades 72 in the rest position of the prestressing means 6. applying a force or a variable torque on the bent part of the rigid body 75, the rigidity of the flexible element 5 is varied. The force or the torque is partly transmitted to the fourth section 96 by the secondary blades 72, as well as to the other sections via the small blades 97.

Dans le vingt-deuxième mode de réalisation de la figure 22, le ressort-spiral 210 est sensiblement le même que celui de la figure 21, les tronçons rigides 93, 94, 95, 96 étant reliés par des cols flexibles 101 à la place des petites lames 97 de la figure 21. Un col 101 est un élément de matière amincie, qui est flexible.In the twenty-second embodiment of the figure 22 , the hairspring 210 is substantially the same as that of the figure 21 , the rigid sections 93, 94, 95, 96 being connected by flexible necks 101 instead small blades 97 of the figure 21 . A collar 101 is an element of thinned material, which is flexible.

Les modes de réalisation des figures 23 à 25 du ressort-spiral 220, 230, 240 comprennent chacun un élément flexible 5 tel que celui des figures 9 à 20, c'est-à-dire un pivot muni de deux lames flexibles décroisées 51, 52 et une partie rigide 104. La partie rigide 104 comprend en plus un ergot 105 disposé en équerre du côté du ruban 2, et sur lequel est joint la parie finissante 4 du ruban 2. Les moyens de précontrainte 6 comprennent une lame flexible secondaire 61 jointe à une extrémité 108 sur la partie circulaire de la partie rigide 104, de préférence dans l'axe de symétrie du pivot. La lame flexible secondaire 61 s'étend tangentiellement au ruban enroulé 2 en position de repos du ressort-spiral. Les moyens de précontrainte 6 comprennent en outre un levier 106 joint à l'extrémité opposée 109 de la lame secondaire 61. Le levier 106 est de préférence courbe pour contourner le ruban 2 enroulé. La force ou le couple est appliqué à son extrémité libre 107 parallèlement à la lame secondaire 61. Ainsi, la force ou le couple est transmis en partie à la partie rigide 104 à travers la lame flexible secondaire 61.The embodiments of figures 23 to 25 of the spiral spring 220, 230, 240 each comprise a flexible element 5 such as that of the figures 9 to 20 , that is to say a pivot provided with two uncrossed flexible blades 51, 52 and a rigid part 104. The rigid part 104 further comprises a lug 105 arranged at right angle on the side of the tape 2, and on which is joined the ending bet 4 of the tape 2. The prestressing means 6 comprise a secondary flexible blade 61 joined at one end 108 to the circular part of the rigid part 104, preferably in the axis of symmetry of the pivot. The secondary flexible blade 61 extends tangentially to the wound tape 2 in the rest position of the spiral spring. The prestressing means 6 further comprise a lever 106 joined to the opposite end 109 of the secondary blade 61. The lever 106 is preferably curved to circumvent the tape 2 wound. The force or the torque is applied to its free end 107 parallel to the secondary blade 61. Thus, the force or the torque is partly transmitted to the rigid part 104 through the secondary flexible blade 61.

Dans le mode de réalisation de la figure 24, qui reprend les caractéristiques du mode de réalisation de la figure 23, les moyens de précontrainte 6 du ressort-spiral 220 comprennent en plus deux lames tertiaires 111, 112 sensiblement parallèles. Les lames tertiaires 111, 112 sont jointes d'une part au levier 106, au niveau de la connexion à la lame secondaire 61. Les lames tertiaires 111, 112 sont reliées d'autre part à un support fixe 113, et sont sensiblement perpendiculaires à la lame secondaire 61.In the embodiment of the figure 24 , which takes up the characteristics of the embodiment of the figure 23 , the prestressing means 6 of the spiral spring 220 also comprise two tertiary blades 111, 112 substantially parallel. The tertiary blades 111, 112 are joined on the one hand to the lever 106, at the level of the connection to the secondary blade 61. The tertiary blades 111, 112 are connected on the other hand to a fixed support 113, and are substantially perpendicular to the secondary blade 61.

Le ressort-spiral 240 de la figure 25, qui reprend les caractéristiques du mode de réalisation de la figure 23, décrit en outre des moyens de précontrainte 6 munis de lames tertiaires 114, 115 décroisées, qui sont jointes à un support fixe 116 d'une part, et au levier 106 d'autre part. Les lames tertiaires 114, 115 se rapprochent en allant vers le levier 106 et sont disposées dans la courbure du levier 106, en étant plus éloignée de la connexion avec la lame secondaire 61.The 240 spiral spring of the figure 25 , which takes up the characteristics of the embodiment of the figure 23 , further describes prestressing means 6 provided with tertiary blades 114, 115 uncrossed, which are joined to a fixed support 116 on the one hand, and to the lever 106 on the other hand. The tertiary blades 114, 115 come together towards the lever 106 and are arranged in the curvature of the lever 106, being further from the connection with the secondary blade 61.

Les modes de réalisation de ressort spiral 250, 260, 270 des figures 26 à 28 décrivent un élément flexible 5 comportant une première lame flexible 119 et une partie rigide 118 mobile, ici rectangulaire, reliée à la première lame flexible 119 et à l'extrémité externe 4 du ruban 2, de préférence sur un même côté de la partie rigide 118. La première lame flexible 119 est reliée d'autre part à un support fixe 117. Les moyens de précontrainte 6 comportent une lame flexible secondaire 122, 128 plus courte, agencée sur une face opposée de la partie rigide 118 dans l'axe de la première lame flexible 119. La première lame flexible 119 et la lame flexible secondaire 122, 128 sont disposées tangentiellement au ruban 2.The spiral spring embodiments 250, 260, 270 of the figures 26 to 28 describe a flexible element 5 comprising a first flexible blade 119 and a movable rigid part 118, here rectangular, connected to the first flexible blade 119 and to the outer end 4 of the strip 2, preferably on the same side of the rigid part 118 The first flexible blade 119 is connected on the other hand to a fixed support 117. The prestressing means 6 comprise a secondary flexible blade 122, 128 shorter, arranged on an opposite face of the rigid part 118 in the axis of the first flexible blade 119. The first flexible blade 119 and the secondary flexible blade 122, 128 are arranged tangentially to the ribbon 2.

Sur la figure 26, la lame flexible secondaire 122 est reliée à une seconde partie rigide 121 des moyens de précontrainte 6. La force ou le couple est exercé sur la seconde partie rigide 121 dans la direction des lames flexibles première 119 et secondaire 122.On the figure 26 , the secondary flexible blade 122 is connected to a second rigid part 121 of the prestressing means 6. The force or the torque is exerted on the second rigid part 121 in the direction of the first 119 and secondary 122 flexible blades.

Dans le mode de réalisation de la figure 27, la lame flexible secondaire 122 est reliée à un levier 124 courbe contournant le ruban 2 enroulé. Une lame flexible tertiaire 123 relie le levier 124 à un support fixe 126, dans la courbure du levier 124. La force ou le couple est exercé sur l'extrémité libre 125 du levier 124, de préférence parallèlement aux lames flexibles première 119 et secondaire 122. La force ou le coupe est en partie transmis à la lame flexible secondaire 122, et à la première lame flexible 119.In the embodiment of the figure 27 , the secondary flexible blade 122 is connected to a curved lever 124 bypassing the ribbon 2 wound. A tertiary flexible blade 123 connects the lever 124 to a fixed support 126, in the curvature of the lever 124. The force or the torque is exerted on the free end 125 of the lever 124, preferably parallel to the first flexible blades 119 and secondary 122 The force or cut is partly transmitted to the secondary flexible blade 122, and to the first flexible blade 119.

La figure 28 montre un mode de réalisation dans lequel la lame flexible secondaire 128 est reliée par l'autre extrémité à un levier courbe 124 contournant le ruban 2 enroulé. Le levier 124 est relié, en plus de la lame coudée 128, à une structure semi-rigide 127 liée au support fixe 117. La structure semi-rigide 127 se déforme en partie lorsque le levier 124 est actionné par la force ou le couple. La force ou le couple est exercé sur l'extrémité libre 125 du levier.The figure 28 shows an embodiment in which the secondary flexible blade 128 is connected by the other end to a curved lever 124 bypassing the wound tape 2. The lever 124 is connected, in addition to the bent blade 128, to a semi-rigid structure 127 connected to the fixed support 117. The semi-rigid structure 127 partially deforms when the lever 124 is operated by force or torque. The force or torque is exerted on the free end 125 of the lever.

Le dernier mode de réalisation de la figure 29 est semblable à celui de la figure 28, la première lame flexible étant remplacée par un pivot à lames flexibles décroisées, tel que décrit dans les modes de réalisation des figures 9 à 20. Le pivot comprend deux lames 51, 52 s'écartant depuis la partie rigide 118 jusqu'au support fixe 117.The last embodiment of the figure 29 is similar to that of the figure 28 , the first flexible blade being replaced by a pivot with uncrossed flexible blades, as described in the embodiments of the figures 9 to 20 . The pivot comprises two blades 51, 52 diverging from the rigid part 118 to the fixed support 117.

Les lames flexibles décrites dans les différents modes de réalisation du ressort-spiral, peuvent être des lames flexibles continues, comme cela est généralement le cas dans les figures, ou bien des lames avec des tronçons rigides et des cols flexibles reliant les tronçons.The flexible strips described in the different embodiments of the hairspring can be continuous flexible strips, as is generally the case in the figures, or else strips with rigid sections and flexible necks connecting the sections.

L'invention se rapporte également à un mécanisme résonateur rotatif, notamment pour un mouvement horloger. Le mécanisme résonateur comporte une masse oscillante, non représentée sur les figures, et un ressort-spiral tel que décrit précédemment. La masse oscillante est par exemple un balancier annulaire. La masse oscillante est jointe au ressort-spirale pour être solidaire du support 3.The invention also relates to a rotary resonator mechanism, in particular for a watch movement. The resonator mechanism comprises an oscillating weight, not shown in the figures, and a hairspring as described previously. The oscillating mass is for example an annular balance. The oscillating weight is joined to the spiral spring to be integral with the support 3.

Claims (19)

Ressort-spiral, notamment pour mécanisme résonateur d'horlogerie, le ressort-spiral (1, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 110, 120, 130, 140, 150, 160, 170, 180, 190, 200, 210, 220, 230, 240, 250, 260, 270) comprenant un ruban (2) flexible enroulé sur lui-même selon plusieurs spires, le ruban (2) ayant une rigidité prédéfinie, le ressort-spiral (1, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 110, 120, 130, 140, 150, 160, 170, 180, 190, 200, 210, 220, 230, 240, 250, 260, 270) comportant des moyens d'ajustement de sa rigidité, caractérisé en ce que les moyens d'ajustement comportent un élément flexible (5) agencé en série du ruban (2), l'élément flexible (5) reliant une extrémité (4, 9) dudit ruban (2) à un support fixe (11, 14, 17, 24, 29, 38, 44, 53, 93, 117), de manière à ajouter une rigidité supplémentaire au ruban (2), l'élément flexible (5) ayant de préférence une rigidité supérieure à celle du ruban (2), les moyens d'ajustement comportant des moyens de précontrainte (6) pour appliquer une force ou un couple variable sur l'élément flexible (5) sans modifier la position de l'extrémité (4, 9) du ruban (2), de manière à faire varier uniquement la rigidité de l'élément flexible (5).Hairspring, in particular for a clockwork resonator mechanism, the hairspring (1, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 110, 120, 130, 140, 150, 160 , 170, 180, 190, 200, 210, 220, 230, 240, 250, 260, 270) comprising a flexible strip (2) wound on itself in several turns, the strip (2) having a predefined rigidity, the spiral spring (1, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 110, 120, 130, 140, 150, 160, 170, 180, 190, 200, 210, 220, 230, 240, 250, 260, 270) comprising means for adjusting its rigidity, characterized in that the adjustment means comprise a flexible element (5) arranged in series with the tape (2), the flexible element ( 5) connecting one end (4, 9) of said tape (2) to a fixed support (11, 14, 17, 24, 29, 38, 44, 53, 93, 117), so as to add additional rigidity to the tape (2), the flexible element (5) preferably having a stiffness greater than that of the strip (2), the adjustment means comprising prestressing means (6) for a apply a variable force or torque to the flexible element (5) without modifying the position of the end (4, 9) of the strip (2), so as to vary only the rigidity of the flexible element (5) . Ressort-spiral selon l'une, quelconque, des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que l'élément flexible (5) est agencé à une extrémité externe (4) du ruban (2).Hairspring according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the flexible element (5) is arranged at an outer end (4) of the band (2). Ressort-spiral selon l'une, quelconque, des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que l'élément flexible (5) est agencé à une extrémité interne (9) du ruban (2).Hairspring according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the flexible element (5) is arranged at an internal end (9) of the band (2). Ressort-spiral selon l'une, quelconque, des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que l'élément flexible (5) comprend un col flexible (8, 101).Hairspring according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the flexible element (5) comprises a flexible neck (8, 101). Ressort-spiral selon l'une, quelconque, des revendications 1 à 3, caractérisé en ce que le l'élément flexible (5) comporte une table de translation munie de deux lames flexibles (21, 22, 42, 43, 74, 78) sensiblement parallèles et d'une partie rigide mobile (23, 45) sur laquelle est raccordée le ruban (2).Hairspring according to any one of Claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the flexible element (5) comprises a translation table provided with two flexible blades (21, 22, 42, 43, 74, 78 ) substantially parallel and a movable rigid part (23, 45) to which the tape (2) is connected. Ressort-spiral selon l'une, quelconque, des revendications 1 à 3, caractérisé en ce que l'élément flexible (5) comprend un guidage flexible muni de deux lames croisées (27, 28, 33, 34) et d'une partie rigide mobile (31, 37) sur laquelle est raccordé le ruban (2).Hairspring according to any one of Claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the flexible element (5) comprises a flexible guide provided with two crossed blades (27, 28, 33, 34) and with a part mobile rigid (31, 37) to which the ribbon (2) is connected. Ressort-spiral selon l'une, quelconque, des revendications 1 à 3, caractérisé en ce que l'élément flexible (5) comprend un guidage flexible muni de deux lames décroisées (51, 52) et d'une partie rigide mobile (54) sur laquelle est raccordé le ruban (2).Hairspring according to any one of Claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the flexible element (5) comprises a flexible guide provided with two uncrossed blades (51, 52) and with a movable rigid part (54 ) on which the ribbon (2) is connected. Ressort-spiral selon l'une, quelconque, des revendications 1 à 3, caractérisé en ce que l'élément flexible (5) comprend un anneau flexible (12) sur lequel est raccordé le ruban (2).Hairspring according to any one of Claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the flexible element (5) comprises a flexible ring (12) to which the strip (2) is connected. Ressort-spiral selon l'une, quelconque, des revendications 1 à 3, caractérisé en ce que l'élément flexible (5) comprend un bras flexible (18) sur lequel est raccordé le ruban (2).Hairspring according to any one of Claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the flexible element (5) comprises a flexible arm (18) to which the strip (2) is connected. Ressort-spiral selon l'une, quelconque, des revendications 1 à 3, caractérisé en ce que l'élément flexible (5) comprend une pluralité de tronçons rigides (93, 94, 95, 96) raccordés par des lames (97) ou des cols (101) flexibles.Hairspring according to any one of Claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the flexible element (5) comprises a plurality of rigid sections (93, 94, 95, 96) connected by blades (97) or flexible necks (101). Ressort-spiral selon l'une, quelconque, des revendications 1 à 3, caractérisé en ce que l'élément flexible (5) comprend une lame flexible (119) unique.Hairspring according to any one of Claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the flexible element (5) comprises a single flexible blade (119). Ressort-spiral selon l'une, quelconque, des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que le couple ou la force est ajustable de manière continue par les moyens de précontrainte (6).Hairspring according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the torque or the force is continuously adjustable by the preloading means (6). Ressort-spiral selon l'une, quelconque, des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que les moyens de précontrainte (6) comprennent une vis (55) configurée pour venir en appui contre l'élément flexible (5).Hairspring according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the prestressing means (6) include a screw (55) configured to bear against the flexible element (5). Ressort-spiral selon l'une, quelconque, des revendications 1 à 12, caractérisé en ce que les moyens de précontrainte (6) comprennent un premier aimant (47, 57) solidaire de l'élément flexible (5) et un deuxième aimant (48, 58) mobile par rapport au premier aimant (47, 58).Hairspring according to any one of Claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the prestressing means (6) comprise a first magnet (47, 57) integral with the flexible element (5) and a second magnet ( 48, 58) movable relative to the first magnet (47, 58). Ressort-spiral selon l'une, quelconque, des revendications 1 à 12, caractérisé en ce que les moyens de précontrainte (6) comprennent un ressort (55) et un élément mobile (59, 75) permettant d'étirer ou de comprimer le ressort (55).Hairspring according to any one of Claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the prestressing means (6) comprise a spring (55) and a movable element (59, 75) making it possible to stretch or compress the spring (55). Ressort-spiral selon la revendication 15, caractérisé en ce que le ressort comprend plusieurs lames flexibles (72) sensiblement parallèles et un autre élément mobile (75, 76).Hairspring according to Claim 15, characterized in that the spring comprises several flexible blades (72) substantially parallel and another movable element (75, 76). Ressort-spiral selon l'une, quelconque, des revendications 1 à 12, caractérisé en ce que les moyens de précontrainte (6) comprennent une lame flexible secondaire (61, 122, 128) reliée à l'élément flexible (5).Hairspring according to any one of Claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the prestressing means (6) comprise a secondary flexible blade (61, 122, 128) connected to the flexible element (5). Ressort-spiral selon l'une, quelconque, des revendications 15 à 17, caractérisé en ce que les moyens de précontrainte (6) comprennent un levier (81, 89, 106, 124).Hairspring according to any one of Claims 15 to 17, characterized in that the prestressing means (6) comprise a lever (81, 89, 106, 124). Mécanisme résonateur rotatif, notamment pour un mouvement horloger, comportant une masse oscillante, caractérisé en ce qu'il comprend un ressort-spiral (1, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 110, 120, 130, 140, 150, 160, 170, 180, 190, 200, 210, 220, 230, 240, 250, 260, 270) selon l'une, quelconque, des revendications précédentes.Rotary resonator mechanism, in particular for a watch movement, comprising an oscillating mass, characterized in that it comprises a hairspring (1, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 110 , 120, 130, 140, 150, 160, 170, 180, 190, 200, 210, 220, 230, 240, 250, 260, 270) according to any one of the preceding claims.
EP21202213.1A 2020-12-02 2021-10-12 Hairspring for timepiece resonator mechanism provided with a means for adjusting rigidity Pending EP4009115A1 (en)

Priority Applications (3)

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US17/526,504 US20220171336A1 (en) 2020-12-02 2021-11-15 Spiral spring for horological resonator mechanism provided with rigidity-adjustment means
CN202111402459.0A CN114578672A (en) 2020-12-02 2021-11-23 Spiral balance spring for a timepiece resonator mechanism provided with a stiffness adjustment device
JP2021192759A JP7270709B2 (en) 2020-12-02 2021-11-29 Spiral spring with stiffness adjustment means for timepiece resonator mechanism

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EP4286960A1 (en) * 2022-06-02 2023-12-06 ETA SA Manufacture Horlogère Suisse Timepiece regulator provided with an index-assembly system
EP4310602A1 (en) * 2022-07-21 2024-01-24 The Swatch Group Research and Development Ltd Adjusting element of a timepiece with hairspring provided with gravity compensation means
EP4310600A1 (en) * 2022-07-21 2024-01-24 The Swatch Group Research and Development Ltd Adjusting element of a timepiece with hairspring provided with temperature compensation means
EP4325302A1 (en) * 2022-08-19 2024-02-21 The Swatch Group Research and Development Ltd Timepiece regulating organ with hairspring-spring provided with pressure compensation means

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EP4286962A1 (en) 2022-06-02 2023-12-06 ETA SA Manufacture Horlogère Suisse Timepiece regulating member comprising a regulator assembly provided with locking means
EP4286960A1 (en) * 2022-06-02 2023-12-06 ETA SA Manufacture Horlogère Suisse Timepiece regulator provided with an index-assembly system
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EP4310600A1 (en) * 2022-07-21 2024-01-24 The Swatch Group Research and Development Ltd Adjusting element of a timepiece with hairspring provided with temperature compensation means
EP4325302A1 (en) * 2022-08-19 2024-02-21 The Swatch Group Research and Development Ltd Timepiece regulating organ with hairspring-spring provided with pressure compensation means

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