EP4105733A1 - Chiming mechanism by impact, in particular for timepieces - Google Patents

Chiming mechanism by impact, in particular for timepieces Download PDF

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Publication number
EP4105733A1
EP4105733A1 EP21179616.4A EP21179616A EP4105733A1 EP 4105733 A1 EP4105733 A1 EP 4105733A1 EP 21179616 A EP21179616 A EP 21179616A EP 4105733 A1 EP4105733 A1 EP 4105733A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
hammer
magnet
striking mechanism
striker
mechanism according
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
EP21179616.4A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Inventor
Marc Stranczl
Polychronis Nakis Karapatis
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.)
Montres Breguet SA
Original Assignee
Montres Breguet 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 Montres Breguet SA filed Critical Montres Breguet SA
Priority to EP21179616.4A priority Critical patent/EP4105733A1/en
Priority to US17/836,407 priority patent/US20220397863A1/en
Priority to JP2022093513A priority patent/JP7407235B2/en
Priority to CN202210747967.0A priority patent/CN115480472B/en
Publication of EP4105733A1 publication Critical patent/EP4105733A1/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
    • G04B21/00—Indicating the time by acoustic means
    • G04B21/02—Regular striking mechanisms giving the full hour, half hour or quarter hour
    • G04B21/06—Details of striking mechanisms, e.g. hammer, fan governor
    • 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
    • G04B23/00—Arrangements producing acoustic signals at preselected times
    • G04B23/02—Alarm clocks
    • G04B23/026—Hammer driving; hammers; devices with several hammers or sounding bodies; vibrators

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a percussion striking mechanism, in particular for watchmaking.
  • the invention also relates to a clock movement comprising such a striking mechanism.
  • a striking mechanism can be combined with a traditional watch movement to serve in particular as minute repeaters or to signal a programmed alarm time.
  • a striking mechanism generally comprises at least one gong made of sapphire, quartz or metallic material, such as steel, bronze, precious metal or metallic glass.
  • This gong can describe for example at least a portion of a circle around the watch movement in the watch cage.
  • the stamp is fixed by at least one of its ends to a stamp holder, which is itself secured to a watch plate.
  • a hammer of the mechanism is rotatably mounted on the plate, for example near the gong holder, so as to strike the gong to make it vibrate.
  • the sound produced by the stamp struck by the hammer lies in particular in the audible frequency range of 1 kHz to 20 kHz. This allows the wearer of the watch to be notified of a well-defined time, a programmed alarm or a minute repeater.
  • the striking mechanism of a watch can comprise two or more gongs fixed by one of their ends to the same gong holder, which is itself integral with a plate.
  • Each stamp can be struck by a respective hammer.
  • each hammer is driven by its own spring drive, which had to be armed beforehand, so as to drive the hammer against the gong, in order to signal a minute repeater or an alarm time.
  • Two damping counter-springs are each provided to push back and maintain the two hammers at a distance from the gongs in a rest mode. In a striking mode, the damping counter-springs act with great force and slow the fall of each hammer before striking against the respective gong. These counter-springs make it possible, following the strike, to push back each hammer towards their rest position.
  • Eccentrics are also provided for adjusting the operation of the counter-springs to essentially prevent any bouncing of each hammer against the respective gong.
  • a disadvantage of such a structure of the striking mechanism with these counter-springs is that there is a significant loss of kinetic energy of the hammer when striking the respective gong, which reduces the acoustic level of the striking. This loss of energy is largely due to the slowdown imposed by each counter-spring on the path of the hammer when it strikes against the gong. Moreover, even if the pre-winding of the drive springs is increased, this implies an adaptation of the counter-springs via their eccentric to also avoid any rebound, which is another drawback of such a striking mechanism.
  • the object of the invention is therefore to overcome the drawbacks of the aforementioned state of the art by providing a striking mechanism for a timepiece, with the aim of avoiding a significant loss of energy during the fall of the hammer against the stamp.
  • the invention relates to a striking mechanism, in particular for watchmaking, the mechanism comprising at least one resonant element making it possible to emit a sound when it is struck, and a hammer mobile between a rest position and a shock position in which it strikes the resonant element to make it vibrate.
  • the mechanism is remarkable in that it comprises a system for actuating the hammer comprising a movable striker configured to pass from a trigger position to a percussion position, in which it transmits to the hammer a quantity of movement in order to do so move from its rest position to its impact position to vibrate the resonant element.
  • the momentum provided by a striker is used to operate the hammer. Thanks to the momentum of the striker, the hammer receives enough energy to strike the gong and cause it to vibrate. Furthermore, by selecting a particular mass difference between the hammer and the striker, one can adapt the speed of the hammer. For example, one can choose a hammer of reduced mass, which moves to strike the gong with a greater speed than that of the striker having a greater mass.
  • the mechanism comprises a magnet fixed relative to the clock movement, the magnet being configured to attract the movable striker into the percussion position.
  • the hammer comprises a magnetic conductive material.
  • the striker comprises a magnetic conductive material, so as to be attracted by the magnet.
  • the hammer is in contact with the magnet in its rest position.
  • the striker is configured to strike the magnet so as to give an impulse to the hammer.
  • the distance between the firing position of the striker and the magnet is chosen so that the magnet attracts the striker against itself in its percussion position.
  • the momentum transmitted by the striker is large enough to overcome the retaining force of the magnet acting on the hammer, so that the hammer detaches from the magnet and strikes the resonant element.
  • the mechanism comprises a flexible guide on which the hammer is mounted to allow it to move between its rest position and its impact position.
  • the flexible guide is configured to press the hammer against the magnet.
  • the actuation system comprises a flexible guide on which the striker is mounted to allow it to move between the release position and the percussion position.
  • the flexible guide comprises a flexible blade or a flexible neck.
  • the actuation system comprises a rotary device provided with the striker, the rotary device being configured to bring the firing pin into the trigger position.
  • the actuation system comprises at least one additional striker, preferably two additional strikers, arranged on the rotary device, so as to alternately bring each striker into the release position.
  • the rotary device comprises a rotary hub.
  • the rotary device comprises at least one arm, each arm carrying a striker.
  • the rotary device comprises several arms distributed angularly around the hub.
  • the mass of the striker is greater than that of the hammer, for example, the mass of the striker is at least twice as great as that of the hammer.
  • the invention also relates to a clock movement comprising such a striking mechanism.
  • the striking mechanism 1 is intended for a timepiece 10, such as a watch represented on the figure 1 .
  • the timepiece 10 comprises a middle part 2 and a timepiece movement 3, preferably mechanical, which is for example provided with a plate 4 and a barrel spring to supply the operating energy.
  • the embodiment described below is based on the combination of the “Gauss magnetic gun” principle and the principle of the conservation of momentum during a shock.
  • the striking mechanism 1 comprises a resonant element 5, for example a gong conventionally used in clock strikes.
  • the resonant element 5 makes it possible to emit a sound when struck.
  • the resonant element 5 is a rod comprising a rectilinear portion 6.
  • the resonant element 5 is preferably fixed to the plate 4, so as to extend above next to the plate 4, for example in a plane parallel to that of the plate.
  • the resonant element 5 may further comprise a circular portion 7, represented on the figure 1 , in particular to lengthen the inner face of the middle part 2.
  • the mechanism 1 comprises a movable hammer 8 relative to the plate 4.
  • the hammer 8 is movable between two positions, a rest position 9 away from the resonant element 5, and a shock position 11 in which it strikes the resonant element to make it vibrate.
  • the resonant element 5 produces a vibration which propagates in the watch.
  • the outer part of the watch radiates these vibrations so as to emit sound.
  • Other embodiments are possible with various shapes of hammer 8 and resonant element 5.
  • the mechanism 1 here comprises a flexible guide 12 on which the hammer 8 is mounted to allow it to move between its rest position 9 and its impact position 11.
  • the flexible guide 12 preferably comprises a first flexible blade 13 assembled to the plate 4 on the one hand, and hammer 8 on the other hand.
  • the first flexible blade 13 is preferably arranged substantially parallel to the resonant element 5 when the hammer 8 is in the rest position 9. By the elastic deformation of the first flexible blade 13, the hammer 8 passes from the position of rest 9 to shock position 11 and vice versa.
  • the mechanism 1 further comprises a magnet 15 fixed relative to the plate 4.
  • the magnet 15 is preferably assembled on the plate 4.
  • the magnet 15 is for example arranged on a promontory 14 opposite the resonant element 5.
  • the magnet 15 is configured to retain the hammer 8 in its rest position 9.
  • the hammer 8 comprises a material magnetic conductor, which induces a force of attraction of the hammer 8 against the magnet 15.
  • the flexible guide 12 is configured to apply a prestress on the hammer 8, so as to press it against the magnet 8.
  • the hammer 8 in the rest position 9, the hammer 8 is in contact with a front face 29 of the magnet 15.
  • the hammer 8 keeps this position permanently, except when it strikes the resonant element 5.
  • the flexible guide 12 is assembled to the plate 4 between the promontory 14 and the resonant element 5.
  • the hammer 8 can move between the magnet 15 and the resonant element 5 thanks to the flexible guide 12.
  • the front face 29 preferably has a substantially flat surface.
  • the hammer 8 has for example a cylindrical or spherical shape. These rounded shapes make it easier to separate the hammer 8 from the front face 29 of the magnet 15.
  • the mechanism 1 comprises a system for actuating the hammer 8.
  • This mechanism is configured to cause the displacement of the hammer 8 from its rest position 9 to its shock position 11. In particular, it serves to separate the hammer 8 of magnet 15 and allow it to reach resonant element 5.
  • the actuation system 20 comprises at least one movable striker 16, 17, 18 configured to transmit to the hammer 8 a quantity of movement sufficient for it to pass from its rest position 9 to its impact position 11 and to make the resonant element vibrate 5.
  • the striker 16, 17, 18 is configured to pass from a trigger position 19 to a percussion position 21 in which it transmits a quantity of movement to the hammer 8.
  • the actuation system comprises a rotary device 20 provided with three movable strikers 16, 17, 18.
  • the rotary device 20 comprises a hub 22 and three arms 23, 24, 25, distributed angularly around the hub 22, and are connected to the hub 22 by one end.
  • Each arm 23, 24, 25 carries a movable striker 16, 17, 18 disposed at the opposite end of the arm 23, 24, 25 relative to the hub 22.
  • the arms 23, 24, 25 are preferably arranged in the same plane substantially perpendicular to the axis of the hub 22. This plane also preferably passes through the magnet 15, the hammer 8 and the resonant element 5.
  • Each movable striker 16, 17, 18 is mounted on an arm 23, 24, 25 so as to form an angle with the arm 23, 24, 25.
  • the angle is between 30 and 60°, when the movable striker 16, 17, 18 is trigger position 19, and the angle is between 60 and 90°, when the movable striker 16, 17, 18 is percussion position 21.
  • An arm can, for example, be an oblong body, a tooth cog or a plate.
  • each movable striker 16, 17, 18 is mounted on the arm 23, 24, 25 by a flexible guide to allow it to move relative to the arm 23, 24, 25, and to pass from the trigger position 19 in the percussion position 21.
  • the flexible guide here comprises a second flexible blade 26 assembled with the movable striker 16, 17, 18 on the one hand, and on the other hand at the end of the arm 23, 24, 25.
  • Each movable striker 16, 17, 18 comprises a contact face 31, 32, 33, which is intended to come into contact with the magnet 15, when it passes from the trigger position 19 to the percussion position 21.
  • contact faces 31, 32, 33 of the movable striker 16, 17, 18 are preferably rounded, to allow easier unhooking when the movable striker 16, 17, 18 returns to its release position.
  • the rotary device 20 When the rotary device 20 rotates, it positions one of the movable strikers 16, 17, 18 opposite the magnet 15. The movable striker 16, 17, 18 then passes from the trigger position 19 to the percussion position 21 according to a radial displacement. Once the percussion has been performed, the rotary device 20 continues to rotate in order to prevent the movable striker 16, 17, 18 from remaining against the magnet 15.
  • the geometry of the movable strikers 16, 17, 18 is made in such a way as to require the least possible torque on the rotary device 20. For example, a contact face 32 is chosen having the shape of a ramp tangential to the rotary movement.
  • the rotary device 20 is actuated by rotating the hub 22 around its axis, so that the arms 23, 24, 25 rotate around the axis of the hub 22.
  • the movable strikers 16, 17, 18 also rotate around of the axis of the hub 22 while remaining in the trigger position 19. In other words, the movable strikers 16, 17, 18 remain in the same position relative to the arms 23, 24, 25, which carry them.
  • gear means 22 are mechanically connected to the barrel of the movement via gear means, not shown in the figures.
  • gear means comprise for example an actuation system configured to determine the chimes to be executed according to the time displayed by the movement 3, in particular to serve as minute repeaters or to signal a programmed alarm time.
  • the actuation system triggers the rotation of the hub 22.
  • the rotary device 20 is configured to bring the striker into the trigger position 21 in front of the magnet 15.
  • the picture 3 shows an example in which the striker 21 is in the trigger position closest to the magnet 15.
  • the magnet 15 has an opposite face 30 oriented towards the rotary device 20, so that the opposite face 30 of the magnet 15 and a contact face 31, 32, 33 of a movable striker 16, 17, 18 face each other when the rotating device 20 rotates.
  • the opposite face 30 preferably has a substantially planar surface.
  • the force of attraction of the magnet 15 and the distance between the contact face 31, 32, 33 of the movable striker 16, 17, 18 in the release position and the opposite face 30 of the magnet 15 are chosen, so that the magnet 15 attracts the striker 16 against its opposite face 30, when it passes in front of its opposite face 30.
  • the magnetic potential energy produced by the magnet 15 acting on the movable striker 16, 17, 18 is transformed in kinetic energy by the movable striker 16, 17, 18. This kinetic energy is transmitted to the hammer 8 by the impact of the movable striker 16, 17, 18.
  • This principle of motion transmission combined with a magnetic attraction is known as the “Gauss cannon”.
  • the attraction of the magnet 15 guarantees a minimum intensity with each strike of the hammer 8.
  • the ringing which results therefrom is more constant over the entire duration of the ringing, independently of the barrel torque.
  • each movable striker 16, 17, 18 is configured to strike the magnet 15 so as to give an impulse to the hammer.
  • the movable strikers 16, 17, 18 and the rotary device 20 are configured so that the quantity of movement transmitted to the hammer 8 by the striker 16, 17, 18 is greater than the retaining force of the magnet acting on the hammer 8, so that the hammer detaches from the magnet 15 and strikes the resonant element 5 with sufficient force, as shown in figure 4 .
  • the magnet 15 and the hammer 8 are also configured so that the front face 29 attracts the hammer 8 against it, after the latter has struck the resonant element 5.
  • the hammer 8 returns to its rest position 9, and perhaps actuated again by the mobile striker 16, 17, 18 next. It is also avoided that the hammer 8 rebounds and hits the resonant element 5 again inappropriately.
  • the rotation device 20 pulls on the movable striker 16, 17, 18 so that the latter detaches from the opposite face 30 of the magnet 15.
  • the hub 22 rotates, the moving striker 16, 17, 18 next approaches magnet 15.
  • the rotation device 20 is actuated by the movement, when a bell is required.
  • the ringing sounds automatically thanks to the movable strikers 16, 17, 18, the magnet 15, the hammer 8 and the resonant element 5.
  • each movable striker 16, 17, 18 strikes the magnet 15 one after the other, to produce a sound each time.
  • the hammer 8 strikes the resonant element 5, and returns to the rest position 9 against the magnet 15 between two successive percussions.
  • the rotation device is actuated for a predefined time.
  • the rotation takes place at constant speed so that the ringtones are emitted periodically at the same frequency.
  • the rotation speed can also be variable to emit a particular ringtone.
  • the present invention is not limited to the example illustrated but is susceptible to various variants and modifications which will become apparent to those skilled in the art.
  • the device may comprise a greater or lesser number of arms and strikers than those illustrated in the embodiment described.

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  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Acoustics & Sound (AREA)
  • Electromechanical Clocks (AREA)

Abstract

L'invention se rapporte à un mécanisme de sonnerie (1) à percussion, notamment pour un mouvement d'horlogerie (3), le mécanisme (1) comportant au moins un élément résonnant (5) permettant d'émettre un son lorsqu'il est frappé, et un marteau (8) mobile entre une position de repos (9) et une position de choc (11) dans laquelle il frappe l'élément résonnant (5) pour le faire vibrer, caractérisé en ce qu'il comprend un système d'actionnement du marteau (8) comportant un percuteur mobile (16, 17, 18) configuré pour passer d'une position de déclenchement (19) à une position de percussion (21) dans laquelle il transmet au marteau (8) au moins en partie sa quantité de mouvement afin de le faire passer de sa position de repos (9) à sa position de choc (11) pour faire vibrer l'élément résonnant (5).The invention relates to a percussion striking mechanism (1), in particular for a clock movement (3), the mechanism (1) comprising at least one resonant element (5) making it possible to emit a sound when it is struck, and a hammer (8) movable between a rest position (9) and a shock position (11) in which it strikes the resonant element (5) to make it vibrate, characterized in that it comprises a system for actuating the hammer (8) comprising a movable striker (16, 17, 18) configured to pass from a trigger position (19) to a percussion position (21) in which it transmits to the hammer (8) the less in part its momentum in order to move it from its rest position (9) to its impact position (11) to cause the resonant element (5) to vibrate.

L'invention se rapporte aussi à un mouvement d'horlogerie (3) comprenant un tel mécanisme de sonnerie (1).

Figure imgaf001
The invention also relates to a clock movement (3) comprising such a striking mechanism (1).
Figure imgaf001

Description

Domaine technique de l'inventionTechnical field of the invention

L'invention se rapporte à un mécanisme de sonnerie à percussion, notamment pour l'horlogerie.The invention relates to a percussion striking mechanism, in particular for watchmaking.

L'invention se rapporte également à un mouvement d'horlogerie comportant un tel mécanisme de sonnerie.The invention also relates to a clock movement comprising such a striking mechanism.

Arrière-plan technologiqueTechnology background

Dans le domaine de l'horlogerie, un mécanisme de sonnerie peut être combiné à un mouvement horloger traditionnel pour servir notamment de répétitions minutes ou pour signaler une heure d'alarme programmée. Un tel mécanisme de sonnerie comprend généralement au moins un timbre réalisé en saphir, en quartz ou en matériau métallique, tel qu'en acier, en bronze, en métal précieux ou en verre métallique. Ce timbre peut décrire par exemple au moins une portion de cercle autour du mouvement horloger dans la cage de montre. Le timbre est fixé par au moins une de ses extrémités à un porte-timbre, qui est lui-même solidaire d'une platine de montre. Un marteau du mécanisme est monté rotatif sur la platine par exemple à proximité du porte-timbre de manière à frapper le timbre pour le faire vibrer. Le son produit par le timbre frappé par le marteau se situe notamment dans la gamme de fréquences audibles de 1 kHz à 20 kHz. Cela permet de signaler au porteur de la montre, une heure bien définie, une alarme programmée ou une répétition minute.In the field of watchmaking, a striking mechanism can be combined with a traditional watch movement to serve in particular as minute repeaters or to signal a programmed alarm time. Such a striking mechanism generally comprises at least one gong made of sapphire, quartz or metallic material, such as steel, bronze, precious metal or metallic glass. This gong can describe for example at least a portion of a circle around the watch movement in the watch cage. The stamp is fixed by at least one of its ends to a stamp holder, which is itself secured to a watch plate. A hammer of the mechanism is rotatably mounted on the plate, for example near the gong holder, so as to strike the gong to make it vibrate. The sound produced by the stamp struck by the hammer lies in particular in the audible frequency range of 1 kHz to 20 kHz. This allows the wearer of the watch to be notified of a well-defined time, a programmed alarm or a minute repeater.

Comme représenté dans le document de brevet EP 1 574 917 A1 , le mécanisme de sonnerie d'une montre peut comprendre deux timbres ou plus fixés par une de leurs extrémités à un même porte-timbre, qui est lui-même solidaire d'une platine. Chaque timbre peut être frappé par un marteau respectif. Pour ce faire, chaque marteau est entraîné par un propre ressort d'entraînement, qui a dû au préalable être armé, de manière à entraîner le marteau contre le timbre, afin de signaler une répétition minute ou une heure d'alarme. Deux contre-ressorts amortisseurs sont prévus chacun pour repousser et maintenir les deux marteaux à distance des timbres dans un mode de repos. Dans un mode de sonnerie, les contre-ressorts amortisseurs agissent avec une force importante et ralentissent la chute de chaque marteau avant la frappe contre le timbre respectif. Ces contre-ressorts permettent suite à la frappe de repousser chaque marteau vers leur position de repos. Des excentriques sont également prévus pour le réglage du fonctionnement des contre-ressorts pour éviter essentiellement tout rebond de chaque marteau contre le timbre respectif.As depicted in the patent document EP 1 574 917 A1 , the striking mechanism of a watch can comprise two or more gongs fixed by one of their ends to the same gong holder, which is itself integral with a plate. Each stamp can be struck by a respective hammer. To do this, each hammer is driven by its own spring drive, which had to be armed beforehand, so as to drive the hammer against the gong, in order to signal a minute repeater or an alarm time. Two damping counter-springs are each provided to push back and maintain the two hammers at a distance from the gongs in a rest mode. In a striking mode, the damping counter-springs act with great force and slow the fall of each hammer before striking against the respective gong. These counter-springs make it possible, following the strike, to push back each hammer towards their rest position. Eccentrics are also provided for adjusting the operation of the counter-springs to essentially prevent any bouncing of each hammer against the respective gong.

Un inconvénient d'une telle structure du mécanisme de sonnerie avec ces contre-ressorts est qu'il se produit une perte importante d'énergie cinétique du marteau lors de la frappe du timbre respectif, ce qui réduit le niveau acoustique de la sonnerie. Cette perte d'énergie est due en grande partie par le ralentissement imposé par chaque contre-ressort sur le trajet du marteau lors de sa frappe contre le timbre. De plus même si le préarmage des ressorts d'entraînement est augmenté, cela implique une adaptation des contre-ressorts par l'intermédiaire de leur excentrique pour éviter également tout rebond, ce qui est un autre inconvénient d'un tel mécanisme de sonnerie.A disadvantage of such a structure of the striking mechanism with these counter-springs is that there is a significant loss of kinetic energy of the hammer when striking the respective gong, which reduces the acoustic level of the striking. This loss of energy is largely due to the slowdown imposed by each counter-spring on the path of the hammer when it strikes against the gong. Moreover, even if the pre-winding of the drive springs is increased, this implies an adaptation of the counter-springs via their eccentric to also avoid any rebound, which is another drawback of such a striking mechanism.

Résumé de l'inventionSummary of the invention

L'invention a donc pour but de pallier les inconvénients de l'état de la technique susmentionné en fournissant un mécanisme de sonnerie d'une pièce d'horlogerie, dans le but d'éviter une perte importante d'énergie lors de la chute du marteau contre le timbre.The object of the invention is therefore to overcome the drawbacks of the aforementioned state of the art by providing a striking mechanism for a timepiece, with the aim of avoiding a significant loss of energy during the fall of the hammer against the stamp.

A cette fin, l'invention se rapporte à un mécanisme de sonnerie, notamment pour l'horlogerie, le mécanisme comportant au moins un élément résonnant permettant d'émettre un son lorsqu'il est frappé, et un marteau mobile entre une position de repos et une position de choc dans laquelle il frappe l'élément résonnant pour le faire vibrer.To this end, the invention relates to a striking mechanism, in particular for watchmaking, the mechanism comprising at least one resonant element making it possible to emit a sound when it is struck, and a hammer mobile between a rest position and a shock position in which it strikes the resonant element to make it vibrate.

Le mécanisme est remarquable en ce qu'il comprend un système d'actionnement du marteau comportant un percuteur mobile configuré pour passer d'une position de déclenchement à une position de percussion, dans laquelle il transmet au marteau une quantité de mouvement afin de le faire passer de sa position de repos à sa position de choc pour faire vibrer l'élément résonnant.The mechanism is remarkable in that it comprises a system for actuating the hammer comprising a movable striker configured to pass from a trigger position to a percussion position, in which it transmits to the hammer a quantity of movement in order to do so move from its rest position to its impact position to vibrate the resonant element.

Ainsi, on utilise la quantité de mouvement fournie par un percuteur pour faire fonctionner le marteau. Grâce à la quantité de mouvement du percuteur, le marteau reçoit suffisamment d'énergie pour frapper le timbre et le faire vibrer. En outre, en sélectionnant une différence de masse particulière entre le marteau et le percuteur, on peut adapter la vitesse du marteau. Par exemple, on peut choisir un marteau de masse réduite, qui se déplace pour frapper le timbre avec une vitesse plus importante que celle du percuteur ayant une masse plus importante.Thus, the momentum provided by a striker is used to operate the hammer. Thanks to the momentum of the striker, the hammer receives enough energy to strike the gong and cause it to vibrate. Furthermore, by selecting a particular mass difference between the hammer and the striker, one can adapt the speed of the hammer. For example, one can choose a hammer of reduced mass, which moves to strike the gong with a greater speed than that of the striker having a greater mass.

Grâce à ce mécanisme de sonnerie, on économise l'énergie nécessaire à l'actionnement du marteau. De plus, un marteau plus léger se déplaçant rapidement diminue le risque de rebond après le choc contre le timbre.Thanks to this ringing mechanism, the energy necessary for the actuation of the hammer is saved. In addition, a lighter, faster-moving hammer decreases the risk of kickback after striking the gong.

Selon une forme de réalisation particulière de l'invention, le mécanisme comporte un aimant fixe par rapport au mouvement d'horlogerie, l'aimant étant configuré pour attirer le percuteur mobile en position de percussion.According to a particular embodiment of the invention, the mechanism comprises a magnet fixed relative to the clock movement, the magnet being configured to attract the movable striker into the percussion position.

Selon une forme de réalisation particulière de l'invention, le marteau comprend un matériau conducteur magnétique.According to a particular embodiment of the invention, the hammer comprises a magnetic conductive material.

Selon une forme de réalisation particulière de l'invention, le percuteur comprend un matériau conducteur magnétique, de manière à être attiré par l'aimant.According to a particular embodiment of the invention, the striker comprises a magnetic conductive material, so as to be attracted by the magnet.

Selon une forme de réalisation particulière de l'invention, le marteau est en contact avec l'aimant dans sa position de repos.According to a particular embodiment of the invention, the hammer is in contact with the magnet in its rest position.

Selon une forme de réalisation particulière de l'invention, le percuteur est configuré pour percuter l'aimant de manière donner une impulsion au marteau.According to a particular embodiment of the invention, the striker is configured to strike the magnet so as to give an impulse to the hammer.

Selon une forme de réalisation particulière de l'invention, la distance entre la position de déclenchement du percuteur et l'aimant est choisie de sorte que l'aimant attire le percuteur contre lui dans sa position de percussion.According to a particular embodiment of the invention, the distance between the firing position of the striker and the magnet is chosen so that the magnet attracts the striker against itself in its percussion position.

Selon une forme de réalisation particulière de l'invention, la quantité de mouvement transmise par le percuteur est suffisamment importante pour surmonter la force de retenue de l'aimant agissant sur le marteau, de sorte que le marteau se détache de l'aimant et frappe l'élément résonnant.According to a particular embodiment of the invention, the momentum transmitted by the striker is large enough to overcome the retaining force of the magnet acting on the hammer, so that the hammer detaches from the magnet and strikes the resonant element.

Selon une forme de réalisation particulière de l'invention, le mécanisme comprend un guidage flexible sur lequel le marteau est monté pour lui permettre de se déplacer entre sa position de repos et sa position de choc.According to a particular embodiment of the invention, the mechanism comprises a flexible guide on which the hammer is mounted to allow it to move between its rest position and its impact position.

Selon une forme de réalisation particulière de l'invention, le guidage flexible est configuré pour plaquer le marteau contre l'aimant.According to a particular embodiment of the invention, the flexible guide is configured to press the hammer against the magnet.

Selon une forme de réalisation particulière de l'invention, le système d'actionnement comprend un guidage flexible sur lequel le percuteur est monté pour lui permettre de se déplacer entre la position de déclenchement et la position de percussion.According to a particular embodiment of the invention, the actuation system comprises a flexible guide on which the striker is mounted to allow it to move between the release position and the percussion position.

Selon une forme de réalisation particulière de l'invention, le guidage flexible comporte une lame flexible ou un col flexible.According to a particular embodiment of the invention, the flexible guide comprises a flexible blade or a flexible neck.

Selon une forme de réalisation particulière de l'invention, le système d'actionnement comprend un dispositif rotatif munie du percuteur, le dispositif rotatif étant configuré pour amener le percuteur dans la position de déclenchement.According to a particular embodiment of the invention, the actuation system comprises a rotary device provided with the striker, the rotary device being configured to bring the firing pin into the trigger position.

Selon une forme de réalisation particulière de l'invention, le système d'actionnement comprend au moins un percuteur supplémentaire, de préférence deux percuteurs supplémentaires, agencés sur le dispositif rotatif, de manière à amener alternativement chaque percuteur dans la position de déclenchement.According to a particular embodiment of the invention, the actuation system comprises at least one additional striker, preferably two additional strikers, arranged on the rotary device, so as to alternately bring each striker into the release position.

Selon une forme de réalisation particulière de l'invention, le dispositif rotatif comprend un moyeu rotatif.According to a particular embodiment of the invention, the rotary device comprises a rotary hub.

Selon une forme de réalisation particulière de l'invention, le dispositif rotatif comprend au moins un bras, chaque bras portant un percuteur.According to a particular embodiment of the invention, the rotary device comprises at least one arm, each arm carrying a striker.

Selon une forme de réalisation particulière de l'invention, le dispositif rotatif comprend plusieurs bras répartis angulairement autour du moyeu.According to a particular embodiment of the invention, the rotary device comprises several arms distributed angularly around the hub.

Selon une forme de réalisation particulière de l'invention, la masse du percuteur est plus importante que celle du marteau, par exemple, la masse du percuteur est au moins deux fois plus importante que celle du marteau.According to a particular embodiment of the invention, the mass of the striker is greater than that of the hammer, for example, the mass of the striker is at least twice as great as that of the hammer.

L'invention se rapporte également à un mouvement d'horlogerie comportant un tel mécanisme de sonnerie.The invention also relates to a clock movement comprising such a striking mechanism.

Brève description des figuresBrief description of figures

D'autres particularités et avantages ressortiront clairement de la description qui en est faite ci-après, à titre indicatif et nullement limitatif, en référence aux dessins annexés, dans lesquels :

  • la figure 1 est une représentation schématique d'une pièce d'horlogerie comportant un mécanisme de sonnerie à percussion selon un mode de réalisation de l'invention;
  • la figure 2 est une représentation schématique agrandie du mécanisme de sonnerie de la figure 1;
  • la figure 3 est une représentation schématique du mécanisme de sonnerie de la figure 1, dans lequel le percuteur est en position de déclenchement;
  • la figure 4 est une représentation schématique du mécanisme de sonnerie de la figure 1, dans lequel le percuteur est en position de percussion avec l'aimant et le marteau est en position de choc avec le timbre; et
  • la figure 5 est une représentation schématique du mécanisme de sonnerie de la figure 1, dans lequel le percuteur n'est plus en position percussion ni en position de déclenchement et le marteau est revenu en position de repos.
Other features and advantages will emerge clearly from the description given below, by way of indication and in no way limiting, with reference to the appended drawings, in which:
  • the figure 1 is a schematic representation of a timepiece comprising a percussion striking mechanism according to one embodiment of the invention;
  • the picture 2 is an enlarged schematic representation of the striking mechanism of the figure 1 ;
  • the picture 3 is a schematic representation of the striking mechanism of the figure 1 , in which the firing pin is in the trigger position;
  • the figure 4 is a schematic representation of the striking mechanism of the figure 1 , in which the striker is in the percussion position with the magnet and the hammer is in the shock position with the gong; and
  • the figure 5 is a schematic representation of the striking mechanism of the figure 1 , in which the firing pin is no longer in the percussion position or in the trigger position and the hammer has returned to the rest position.

Description détaillée de l'inventionDetailed description of the invention

Comme expliqué ci-dessus, l'invention se rapporte à un mécanisme de sonnerie à percussion 1. Le mécanisme de sonnerie 1 est destiné à une pièce d'horlogerie 10, telle une montre représentée sur la figure 1. La pièce d'horlogerie 10 comprend une carrure 2 et un mouvement d'horlogerie 3, de préférence mécanique, qui est par exemple pourvu d'une platine 4 et d'un ressort de barillet pour fournir l'énergie de fonctionnement. Le mode de réalisation décrit ci-dessous, est basé sur la combinaison du principe de « canon magnétique de Gauss », et du principe de la conservation de la quantité de mouvement lors d'un choc.As explained above, the invention relates to a percussion striking mechanism 1. The striking mechanism 1 is intended for a timepiece 10, such as a watch represented on the figure 1 . The timepiece 10 comprises a middle part 2 and a timepiece movement 3, preferably mechanical, which is for example provided with a plate 4 and a barrel spring to supply the operating energy. The embodiment described below is based on the combination of the “Gauss magnetic gun” principle and the principle of the conservation of momentum during a shock.

Sur les figures 1 à 5, le mécanisme de sonnerie 1 comprend un élément résonnant 5, par exemple un timbre classiquement utilisé dans les sonneries d'horlogerie. L'élément résonnant 5 permet d'émettre un son lorsqu'il est frappé. Sur les figures, l'élément résonnant 5 est une tige comprenant une portion rectiligne 6. L'élément résonnant 5 est de préférence fixé à la platine 4, de manière à s'étendre au-dessus à côté de la platine 4, par exemple dans un plan parallèle à celui de la platine.On the figures 1 to 5 , the striking mechanism 1 comprises a resonant element 5, for example a gong conventionally used in clock strikes. The resonant element 5 makes it possible to emit a sound when struck. In the figures, the resonant element 5 is a rod comprising a rectilinear portion 6. The resonant element 5 is preferably fixed to the plate 4, so as to extend above next to the plate 4, for example in a plane parallel to that of the plate.

D'autres configurations d'élément résonnant 5 sont possibles. L'élément résonnant 5 peut en outre comprendre une portion circulaire 7, représentée sur la figure 1, notamment pour longer la face intérieure de la carrure 2.Other configurations of resonant element 5 are possible. The resonant element 5 may further comprise a circular portion 7, represented on the figure 1 , in particular to lengthen the inner face of the middle part 2.

Pour émettre un son, le mécanisme 1 comprend un marteau mobile 8 par rapport à la platine 4. Le marteau 8 est mobile entre deux position, une position de repos 9 éloignée de l'élément résonnant 5, et une position de choc 11 dans laquelle il frappe l'élément résonnant pour le faire vibrer. Ainsi, l'élément résonant 5 produit une vibration qui se propage dans la montre. La partie extérieure de la montre rayonne ces vibrations de manière à émettre un son. D'autres modes de réalisation sont possibles avec des formes variées de marteau 8 et d'élément résonant 5.To emit a sound, the mechanism 1 comprises a movable hammer 8 relative to the plate 4. The hammer 8 is movable between two positions, a rest position 9 away from the resonant element 5, and a shock position 11 in which it strikes the resonant element to make it vibrate. Thus, the resonant element 5 produces a vibration which propagates in the watch. The outer part of the watch radiates these vibrations so as to emit sound. Other embodiments are possible with various shapes of hammer 8 and resonant element 5.

Le mécanisme 1 comprend ici un guidage flexible 12 sur lequel le marteau 8 est monté pour lui permettre de se déplacer entre sa position de repos 9 et sa position de choc 11. Le guidage flexible 12 comprend de préférence une première lame flexible 13 assemblée à la platine 4 d'une part, et au marteau 8 d'autre part. La première lame flexible 13 est, de préférence agencée de manière sensiblement parallèle à l'élément résonant 5 lorsque le marteau 8 est en position de repos 9. Par la déformation élastique de la première lame flexible 13, le marteau 8 passe de la position de repos 9 à la position de choc 11 et réciproquement.The mechanism 1 here comprises a flexible guide 12 on which the hammer 8 is mounted to allow it to move between its rest position 9 and its impact position 11. The flexible guide 12 preferably comprises a first flexible blade 13 assembled to the plate 4 on the one hand, and hammer 8 on the other hand. The first flexible blade 13 is preferably arranged substantially parallel to the resonant element 5 when the hammer 8 is in the rest position 9. By the elastic deformation of the first flexible blade 13, the hammer 8 passes from the position of rest 9 to shock position 11 and vice versa.

Le mécanisme 1 comporte en outre un aimant 15 fixe par rapport à la platine 4. L'aimant 15 est de préférence assemblé sur la platine 4. L'aimant 15 est par exemple disposé sur un promontoire 14 en vis-à-vis de l'élément résonnant 5.The mechanism 1 further comprises a magnet 15 fixed relative to the plate 4. The magnet 15 is preferably assembled on the plate 4. The magnet 15 is for example arranged on a promontory 14 opposite the resonant element 5.

De préférence, l'aimant 15 est configuré pour retenir le marteau 8 dans sa position de repos 9. Dans ce but le marteau 8 comporte un matériau conducteur magnétique, qui induit une force d'attraction du marteau 8 contre l'aimant 15.Preferably, the magnet 15 is configured to retain the hammer 8 in its rest position 9. For this purpose the hammer 8 comprises a material magnetic conductor, which induces a force of attraction of the hammer 8 against the magnet 15.

Alternativement, on peut choisir un marteau 8 ne comprenant pas de matériau conducteur magnétique. Dans ce cas, le guidage flexible 12 est configuré pour appliquer une précontrainte sur le marteau 8, de manière à le plaquer contre l'aimant 8.Alternatively, one can choose a hammer 8 not comprising any magnetic conductive material. In this case, the flexible guide 12 is configured to apply a prestress on the hammer 8, so as to press it against the magnet 8.

Ainsi, en position de repos 9, le marteau 8 est en contact avec une face avant 29 de l'aimant 15. Le marteau 8 garde cette position en permanence, excepté dans les moments où il frappe l'élément résonnant 5. Le guidage flexible 12 est assemblé à la platine 4 entre le promontoire 14 et l'élément résonnant 5. Ainsi, le marteau 8 peut se déplacer entre le l'aimant 15 et l'élément résonnant 5 grâce au guidage flexible 12.Thus, in the rest position 9, the hammer 8 is in contact with a front face 29 of the magnet 15. The hammer 8 keeps this position permanently, except when it strikes the resonant element 5. The flexible guide 12 is assembled to the plate 4 between the promontory 14 and the resonant element 5. Thus, the hammer 8 can move between the magnet 15 and the resonant element 5 thanks to the flexible guide 12.

La face avant 29 présente de préférence une surface sensiblement plane. Le marteau 8 a par exemple une forme cylindrique ou sphérique. Ces formes arrondies permettent de séparer plus facilement le marteau 8 de face avant 29 de l'aimant 15.The front face 29 preferably has a substantially flat surface. The hammer 8 has for example a cylindrical or spherical shape. These rounded shapes make it easier to separate the hammer 8 from the front face 29 of the magnet 15.

Selon l'invention, le mécanisme 1 comprend un système d'actionnement du marteau 8. Ce mécanisme est configuré pour provoquer le déplacement du marteau 8 de sa position de repos 9 à sa position de choc 11. En particulier, il sert à séparer le marteau 8 de l'aimant 15 et de lui permettre d'atteindre l'élément résonnant 5.According to the invention, the mechanism 1 comprises a system for actuating the hammer 8. This mechanism is configured to cause the displacement of the hammer 8 from its rest position 9 to its shock position 11. In particular, it serves to separate the hammer 8 of magnet 15 and allow it to reach resonant element 5.

A cette fin, le système d'actionnement 20 comporte au moins un percuteur mobile 16, 17, 18 configuré pour transmettre au marteau 8 une quantité de mouvement suffisante pour qu'il passe de sa position de repos 9 à sa position de choc 11 et pour faire vibrer l'élément résonnant 5.To this end, the actuation system 20 comprises at least one movable striker 16, 17, 18 configured to transmit to the hammer 8 a quantity of movement sufficient for it to pass from its rest position 9 to its impact position 11 and to make the resonant element vibrate 5.

Le percuteur 16, 17, 18 est configuré pour passer d'une position de déclenchement 19 à une position de percussion 21 dans laquelle il transmet une quantité de mouvement au marteau 8.The striker 16, 17, 18 is configured to pass from a trigger position 19 to a percussion position 21 in which it transmits a quantity of movement to the hammer 8.

Dans, le mode de réalisation des figures 1 à 5, le système d'actionnement comprend un dispositif rotatif 20 munie de trois percuteurs mobiles 16, 17, 18.In, the embodiment of figures 1 to 5 , the actuation system comprises a rotary device 20 provided with three movable strikers 16, 17, 18.

Le dispositif rotatif 20 comprend un moyeu 22 et trois bras 23, 24, 25, répartis angulairement autour du moyeu 22, et sont reliés au moyeu 22 par une extrémité. Chaque bras 23, 24, 25 porte u percuteur mobile 16, 17, 18 disposé à l'extrémité opposée du bras 23, 24, 25 par rapport au moyeu 22. Les bras 23, 24, 25 sont de préférence agencés dans un même plan sensiblement perpendiculaire à l'axe du moyeu 22. Ce plan passe également, de préférence, par l'aimant 15, le marteau 8 et l'élément résonnant 5.The rotary device 20 comprises a hub 22 and three arms 23, 24, 25, distributed angularly around the hub 22, and are connected to the hub 22 by one end. Each arm 23, 24, 25 carries a movable striker 16, 17, 18 disposed at the opposite end of the arm 23, 24, 25 relative to the hub 22. The arms 23, 24, 25 are preferably arranged in the same plane substantially perpendicular to the axis of the hub 22. This plane also preferably passes through the magnet 15, the hammer 8 and the resonant element 5.

Chaque percuteur mobile 16, 17, 18 est monté sur un bras 23, 24, 25 de manière à former un angle avec le bras 23, 24, 25. L'angle est compris entre 30 et 60°, lorsque le percuteur mobile 16, 17, 18 est position de déclenchement 19, et l'angle est compris entre 60 et 90°, lorsque le percuteur mobile 16, 17, 18 est position de percussion 21. Un bras peut, par exemple, être un corps oblong, une dent de rouage ou une plaquette.Each movable striker 16, 17, 18 is mounted on an arm 23, 24, 25 so as to form an angle with the arm 23, 24, 25. The angle is between 30 and 60°, when the movable striker 16, 17, 18 is trigger position 19, and the angle is between 60 and 90°, when the movable striker 16, 17, 18 is percussion position 21. An arm can, for example, be an oblong body, a tooth cog or a plate.

De préférence, chaque percuteur mobile 16, 17, 18 est monté sur le bras 23, 24, 25 par un guidage flexible pour lui permettre de se déplacer par rapport au bras 23, 24, 25, et de passer de la position de déclenchement 19 à la position de percussion 21. Le guidage flexible comporte ici une deuxième lame flexible 26 assemblée au percuteur mobile 16, 17, 18 d'une part, et d'autre part à l'extrémité du bras 23, 24, 25.Preferably, each movable striker 16, 17, 18 is mounted on the arm 23, 24, 25 by a flexible guide to allow it to move relative to the arm 23, 24, 25, and to pass from the trigger position 19 in the percussion position 21. The flexible guide here comprises a second flexible blade 26 assembled with the movable striker 16, 17, 18 on the one hand, and on the other hand at the end of the arm 23, 24, 25.

Chaque percuteur mobile 16, 17, 18 comprend une face de contact 31, 32, 33, qui est destinée à entrer en contact avec l'aimant 15, lorsqu'il passe de la position de déclenchement 19 à la position de percussion 21. Les faces de contact 31, 32, 33 des percuteur mobile 16, 17, 18 sont de préférence arrondies, pour permettre un décrochage plus facile lorsque le percuteur mobile 16, 17, 18 retourne dans sa position de déclenchement.Each movable striker 16, 17, 18 comprises a contact face 31, 32, 33, which is intended to come into contact with the magnet 15, when it passes from the trigger position 19 to the percussion position 21. contact faces 31, 32, 33 of the movable striker 16, 17, 18 are preferably rounded, to allow easier unhooking when the movable striker 16, 17, 18 returns to its release position.

Lorsque le dispositif rotatif 20 tourne, il positionne un des percuteurs mobile 16, 17, 18 en face de l'aimant 15. Le percuteur mobile 16, 17, 18 passe alors de la position de déclenchement 19 à la position de percussion 21 selon un déplacement radial. Une fois la percussion effectuée, le dispositif rotatif 20 continue de tourner afin d'éviter que le percuteur mobile 16, 17, 18 ne reste contre l'aimant 15. La géométrie des percuteurs mobiles 16, 17, 18 est réalisée de manière à nécessiter le moins de couple possible sur le dispositif rotatif 20. Par exemple, on choisit une face de contact 32 ayant une forme de rampe tangentielle au mouvement rotatif.When the rotary device 20 rotates, it positions one of the movable strikers 16, 17, 18 opposite the magnet 15. The movable striker 16, 17, 18 then passes from the trigger position 19 to the percussion position 21 according to a radial displacement. Once the percussion has been performed, the rotary device 20 continues to rotate in order to prevent the movable striker 16, 17, 18 from remaining against the magnet 15. The geometry of the movable strikers 16, 17, 18 is made in such a way as to require the least possible torque on the rotary device 20. For example, a contact face 32 is chosen having the shape of a ramp tangential to the rotary movement.

Le dispositif rotatif 20 est actionné en faisant tourner le moyeu 22 autour de son axe, de sorte que les bras 23, 24, 25 tournent autour de l'axe du moyeu 22. Ainsi, les percuteurs mobiles 16, 17, 18 tournent également autour de l'axe du moyeu 22 tout en restant en positon de déclenchement 19. Autrement dit, les percuteurs mobiles 16, 17, 18 restent dans la même position par rapport aux bras 23, 24, 25, qui les portent.The rotary device 20 is actuated by rotating the hub 22 around its axis, so that the arms 23, 24, 25 rotate around the axis of the hub 22. Thus, the movable strikers 16, 17, 18 also rotate around of the axis of the hub 22 while remaining in the trigger position 19. In other words, the movable strikers 16, 17, 18 remain in the same position relative to the arms 23, 24, 25, which carry them.

Pour tourner, le moyen 22 est relié mécaniquement au barillet du mouvement par l'intermédiaire de moyens d'engrenage, non représentés sur les figures. Ces moyens d'engrenage comprennent par exemple un système d'actionnement configuré pour déterminer les sonneries à exécuter en fonction de l'heure affichée par le mouvement 3, pour servir notamment de répétitions minutes ou pour signaler une heure d'alarme programmée. Ainsi, lorsqu'une ou plusieurs sonneries doivent retentir, le système d'actionnement déclenche la rotation du moyeu 22.To turn, the means 22 is mechanically connected to the barrel of the movement via gear means, not shown in the figures. These gear means comprise for example an actuation system configured to determine the chimes to be executed according to the time displayed by the movement 3, in particular to serve as minute repeaters or to signal a programmed alarm time. Thus, when one or more bells should sound, the actuation system triggers the rotation of the hub 22.

Le dispositif rotatif 20 est configuré pour amener le percuteur en position de déclenchement 21 devant l'aimant 15. La figure 3 montre un exemple dans lequel le percuteur 21 est en position de déclenchement au plus proche de l'aimant 15. L'aimant 15 présente une face opposée 30 orientée vers le dispositif rotatif 20, de sorte que la face opposée 30 de l'aimant 15 et une face de contact 31, 32, 33 d'un percuteur mobile 16, 17, 18 soient en vis-à-vis lorsque le dispositif 20 rotatif tourne. La face opposée 30 présente de préférence une surface sensiblement plane.The rotary device 20 is configured to bring the striker into the trigger position 21 in front of the magnet 15. The picture 3 shows an example in which the striker 21 is in the trigger position closest to the magnet 15. The magnet 15 has an opposite face 30 oriented towards the rotary device 20, so that the opposite face 30 of the magnet 15 and a contact face 31, 32, 33 of a movable striker 16, 17, 18 face each other when the rotating device 20 rotates. The opposite face 30 preferably has a substantially planar surface.

La force d'attraction de l'aimant 15 et la distance entre la face de contact 31, 32, 33 du percuteur mobile 16, 17, 18 en position de déclenchement et la face opposée 30 de l'aimant 15 sont choisis, de sorte que l'aimant 15 attire le percuteur 16 contre sa face opposée 30, lorsqu'il passe devant sa face opposée 30. Ainsi, l'énergie potentielle magnétique produite par l'aimant 15 agissant sur le percuteur mobile 16, 17, 18 est transformée en énergie cinétique par le percuteur mobile 16, 17, 18. Cette énergie cinétique est transmise au marteau 8 par le choc du percuteur mobile 16, 17, 18.The force of attraction of the magnet 15 and the distance between the contact face 31, 32, 33 of the movable striker 16, 17, 18 in the release position and the opposite face 30 of the magnet 15 are chosen, so that the magnet 15 attracts the striker 16 against its opposite face 30, when it passes in front of its opposite face 30. Thus, the magnetic potential energy produced by the magnet 15 acting on the movable striker 16, 17, 18 is transformed in kinetic energy by the movable striker 16, 17, 18. This kinetic energy is transmitted to the hammer 8 by the impact of the movable striker 16, 17, 18.

En effet, lorsque le percuteur mobile 16, 17, 18 est attiré par l'aimant 15, il est accéléré et frappe l'aimant 15. Lorsque le percuteur mobile 16, 17, 18 entre en collision avec la face opposée 30 de l'aimant 15, au moins une partie de sa quantité de mouvement est transmise au marteau 8 à travers l'aimant 15, le marteau 8 étant disposé contre la face avant 29 de l'aimant en position de repos.Indeed, when the movable striker 16, 17, 18 is attracted by the magnet 15, it is accelerated and strikes the magnet 15. When the movable striker 16, 17, 18 collides with the opposite face 30 of the magnet 15, at least part of its momentum is transmitted to the hammer 8 through the magnet 15, the hammer 8 being placed against the front face 29 of the magnet in the rest position.

Ce principe de transmission de mouvement combiné à une attraction magnétique est connu sous le nom de « canon de Gauss ». L'attraction de l'aimant 15 garanti une intensité minimum à chaque frappe du marteau 8. La sonnerie qui en résulte est plus constante sur toute la durée de la sonnerie, indépendamment du couple de barillet.This principle of motion transmission combined with a magnetic attraction is known as the “Gauss cannon”. The attraction of the magnet 15 guarantees a minimum intensity with each strike of the hammer 8. The ringing which results therefrom is more constant over the entire duration of the ringing, independently of the barrel torque.

Comme le montre la figure 4, chaque percuteur mobile 16, 17, 18 est configuré pour percuter l'aimant 15 de manière à donner une impulsion au marteau.As shown in figure 4 , each movable striker 16, 17, 18 is configured to strike the magnet 15 so as to give an impulse to the hammer.

En outre, les percuteurs mobiles 16, 17, 18 et le dispositif rotatif 20 sont configurés pour que la quantité de mouvement transmise au marteau 8 par le percuteur 16, 17, 18 soit supérieure à la force de retenue de l'aimant agissant sur le marteau 8, de sorte que le marteau se détache de l'aimant 15 et frappe l'élément résonnant 5 avec une force suffisante, comme le montre la figure 4.Furthermore, the movable strikers 16, 17, 18 and the rotary device 20 are configured so that the quantity of movement transmitted to the hammer 8 by the striker 16, 17, 18 is greater than the retaining force of the magnet acting on the hammer 8, so that the hammer detaches from the magnet 15 and strikes the resonant element 5 with sufficient force, as shown in figure 4 .

Tel que représenté sur la figure 5, l'aimant 15 et le marteau 8 sont en outre configurés pour que la face avant 29 attire le marteau 8 contre elle, après que celui-ci a frappé l'élément résonnant 5. Ainsi, le marteau 8 retourne dans sa position de repos 9, et peut-être à nouveau actionné par le percuteur mobiles 16, 17, 18 suivant. On évite aussi que le marteau 8 rebondisse et frappe à nouveau l'élément résonnant 5 de manière inopportune.As shown on the figure 5 , the magnet 15 and the hammer 8 are also configured so that the front face 29 attracts the hammer 8 against it, after the latter has struck the resonant element 5. Thus, the hammer 8 returns to its rest position 9, and perhaps actuated again by the mobile striker 16, 17, 18 next. It is also avoided that the hammer 8 rebounds and hits the resonant element 5 again inappropriately.

Dans le cas d'un marteau 8 ne comportant pas de matériau conducteur magnétique, le guidage flexible 12 ramène le marteau contre l'aimant 15.In the case of a hammer 8 not comprising any magnetic conductive material, the flexible guide 12 brings the hammer back against the magnet 15.

En continuant de tourner, le dispositif de rotation 20 tire sur le percuteur mobile 16, 17, 18 pour que celui-ci se détache de la face opposée 30 de l'aimant 15. Dans le même temps, lorsque le moyeu 22 tourne, le percuteur mobile 16, 17, 18 suivant se rapproche de l'aimant 15.Continuing to rotate, the rotation device 20 pulls on the movable striker 16, 17, 18 so that the latter detaches from the opposite face 30 of the magnet 15. At the same time, when the hub 22 rotates, the moving striker 16, 17, 18 next approaches magnet 15.

Le dispositif de rotation 20 est actionné par le mouvement, lorsqu'une sonnerie est nécessaire. Ainsi, la sonnerie retentit automatiquement grâce aux percuteurs mobiles 16, 17, 18, à l'aimant 15, au marteau 8 et à l'élément résonnant 5.The rotation device 20 is actuated by the movement, when a bell is required. Thus, the ringing sounds automatically thanks to the movable strikers 16, 17, 18, the magnet 15, the hammer 8 and the resonant element 5.

En fonctionnement, chaque percuteur mobile 16, 17, 18 percute l'aimant 15 l'un après l'autre, pour produire un son à chaque fois. A chaque percussion d'un percuteur mobile 16, 17, 18, le marteau 8 frappe l'élément résonnant 5, et revient en position de repos 9 contre l'aimant 15 entre deux percussions successives.In operation, each movable striker 16, 17, 18 strikes the magnet 15 one after the other, to produce a sound each time. With each percussion of a movable striker 16, 17, 18, the hammer 8 strikes the resonant element 5, and returns to the rest position 9 against the magnet 15 between two successive percussions.

En fonction du nombre de coups de sonneries à émettre, le dispositif de rotation est actionné pendant un temps prédéfini.Depending on the number of ringtones to be emitted, the rotation device is actuated for a predefined time.

De préférence, la rotation s'effectue à vitesse constante pour que les coups de sonneries soient émis périodiquement à la même fréquence.Preferably, the rotation takes place at constant speed so that the ringtones are emitted periodically at the same frequency.

La vitesse de rotation peut aussi être variable pour émettre une sonnerie particulière.The rotation speed can also be variable to emit a particular ringtone.

Bien entendu, la présente invention ne se limite pas à l'exemple illustré mais est susceptible de diverses variantes et modifications qui apparaîtront à l'homme de l'art. En particulier, le dispositif peut comprendre un nombre de bras et de percuteurs plus ou moins important que ceux illustrés dans le mode de réalisation décrit.Of course, the present invention is not limited to the example illustrated but is susceptible to various variants and modifications which will become apparent to those skilled in the art. In particular, the device may comprise a greater or lesser number of arms and strikers than those illustrated in the embodiment described.

Claims (15)

Mécanisme de sonnerie (1) à percussion, notamment pour un mouvement d'horlogerie (3), le mécanisme (1) comportant au moins un élément résonnant (5) permettant d'émettre un son lorsqu'il est frappé, et un marteau (8) mobile entre une position de repos (9) et une position de choc (11) dans laquelle il frappe l'élément résonnant (5) pour le faire vibrer, caractérisé en ce qu'il comprend un système d'actionnement du marteau (8) comportant un percuteur mobile (16, 17, 18) configuré pour passer d'une position de déclenchement (19) à une position de percussion (21) dans laquelle il transmet au marteau (8) au moins en partie sa quantité de mouvement afin de le faire passer de sa position de repos (9) à sa position de choc (11) pour faire vibrer l'élément résonnant (5).Percussion striking mechanism (1), in particular for a clock movement (3), the mechanism (1) comprising at least one resonant element (5) making it possible to emit a sound when it is struck, and a hammer ( 8) movable between a rest position (9) and a shock position (11) in which it strikes the resonant element (5) to make it vibrate, characterized in that it comprises a system for actuating the hammer ( 8) comprising a movable striker (16, 17, 18) configured to pass from a trigger position (19) to a percussion position (21) in which it transmits to the hammer (8) at least part of its momentum in order to move it from its rest position (9) to its impact position (11) to cause the resonant element (5) to vibrate. Mécanisme de sonnerie selon la revendication 1, caractérisé en ce qu'il comporte un aimant fixe (15) par rapport au mouvement d'horlogerie (3), l'aimant (15) étant configuré pour attirer le percuteur mobile (16, 17, 18) en position de percussion (21).Striking mechanism according to Claim 1, characterized in that it comprises a magnet (15) fixed relative to the clock movement (3), the magnet (15) being configured to attract the movable striker (16, 17, 18) in percussion position (21). Mécanisme de sonnerie selon la revendication 2, caractérisé en ce que le marteau (8) est en contact avec l'aimant (15) dans sa position de repos (9).Striking mechanism according to Claim 2, characterized in that the hammer (8) is in contact with the magnet (15) in its rest position (9). Mécanisme de sonnerie selon la revendication 3, caractérisé en ce que le percuteur (16, 17, 18) est configuré pour percuter l'aimant (15) de manière donner une impulsion au marteau (8) via l'aimant (15).Striking mechanism according to Claim 3, characterized in that the striker (16, 17, 18) is configured to strike the magnet (15) so as to give an impulse to the hammer (8) via the magnet (15). Mécanisme de sonnerie selon la revendication 4, caractérisé en ce que la distance entre la position de déclenchement (19) du percuteur mobile (16, 17, 18) et l'aimant (15) est choisie, de sorte que l'aimant (15) attire le percuteur mobile (16, 17, 18) contre lui dans sa position de percussion (21).Striking mechanism according to Claim 4, characterized in that the distance between the release position (19) of the movable striker (16, 17, 18) and the magnet (15) is chosen so that the magnet (15 ) attracts the movable striker (16, 17, 18) against it in its percussion position (21). Mécanisme de sonnerie selon la revendication 4 ou 5, caractérisé en ce que la quantité de mouvement transmise par le percuteur mobile (16, 17, 18) surmonte la force magnétique de retenue de l'aimant (15) agissant sur le marteau (8), de sorte que le marteau (8) se détache de l'aimant (15) et frappe l'élément résonnant (5).Striking mechanism according to Claim 4 or 5, characterized in that the momentum transmitted by the movable striker (16, 17, 18) overcomes the magnetic retaining force of the magnet (15) acting on the hammer (8). , so that the hammer (8) detaches from the magnet (15) and strikes the resonant element (5). Mécanisme de sonnerie selon l'une, quelconque, des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce qu'il comprend un guidage flexible (12) sur lequel le marteau (8) est monté pour lui permettre de se déplacer entre sa position de repos (9) et sa position de choc (11).Striking mechanism according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises a flexible guide (12) on which the hammer (8) is mounted to allow it to move between its rest position (9) and its shock position (11). Mécanisme de sonnerie selon l'une, quelconque, des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que le système d'actionnement comprend un guidage flexible sur lequel le percuteur mobile (16, 17, 18) est monté pour lui permettre de se déplacer entre la position de déclenchement (19) et la position de percussion (21).Striking mechanism according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the actuation system comprises a flexible guide on which the movable striker (16, 17, 18) is mounted to allow it to move between the position trigger (19) and the percussion position (21). Mécanisme de sonnerie selon la revendication 7 ou 8, caractérisé en ce que le guidage flexible (12) comporte une lame flexible (13, 26, 27, 28), ou un col flexible.Striking mechanism according to Claim 7 or 8, characterized in that the flexible guide (12) comprises a flexible strip (13, 26, 27, 28), or a flexible neck. Mécanisme de sonnerie selon l'une, quelconque, des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que le système d'actionnement comprend un dispositif rotatif (20) munie du percuteur mobile (16, 17, 18), le dispositif rotatif étant configuré pour amener le percuteur mobile (16, 17, 18) dans la position de déclenchement (19).Striking mechanism according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the actuating system comprises a rotary device (20) provided with the movable striker (16, 17, 18), the rotary device being configured to bring the movable striker (16, 17, 18) in the release position (19). Mécanisme de sonnerie selon la revendication 7, caractérisé en ce que le système d'actionnement comprend au moins un percuteur supplémentaire (16, 17, 18), de préférence deux percuteurs supplémentaires, agencés sur le dispositif rotatif (20), de manière à amener alternativement chaque percuteur mobile (16, 17, 18) dans la position de déclenchement (19).Striking mechanism according to Claim 7, characterized in that the actuating system comprises at least one additional striker (16, 17, 18), preferably two additional strikers, arranged on the rotary device (20), so as to bring alternately each movable striker (16, 17, 18) in the trigger position (19). Mécanisme de sonnerie selon l'une, quelconque, des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que le dispositif rotatif (20) comprend un moyeu (22).Striking mechanism according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the rotary device (20) comprises a hub (22). Mécanisme de sonnerie selon la revendication 7, caractérisé en ce que le dispositif rotatif (20) comprend au moins un bras (22, 23, 24), chaque bras (22, 23, 24) portant un percuteur mobile (16, 17, 18).Striking mechanism according to Claim 7, characterized in that the rotary device (20) comprises at least one arm (22, 23, 24), each arm (22, 23, 24) carrying a movable striker (16, 17, 18 ). Mécanisme de sonnerie selon la revendication 7, caractérisé en ce que le dispositif rotatif (20) comprend plusieurs bras (22, 23, 24) répartis angulairement autour du moyeu (22).Striking mechanism according to Claim 7, characterized in that the rotary device (20) comprises several arms (22, 23, 24) distributed angularly around the hub (22). Mouvement d'horlogerie (3), caractérisé en ce qu'il comprend un mécanisme de sonnerie (1) selon l'une, quelconque, des revendications précédentes.Clock movement (3), characterized in that it comprises a striking mechanism (1) according to any one of the preceding claims.
EP21179616.4A 2021-06-15 2021-06-15 Chiming mechanism by impact, in particular for timepieces Pending EP4105733A1 (en)

Priority Applications (4)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP21179616.4A EP4105733A1 (en) 2021-06-15 2021-06-15 Chiming mechanism by impact, in particular for timepieces
US17/836,407 US20220397863A1 (en) 2021-06-15 2022-06-09 Impact striking mechanism, in particular for timepieces
JP2022093513A JP7407235B2 (en) 2021-06-15 2022-06-09 Shock strike mechanism, especially for timepieces
CN202210747967.0A CN115480472B (en) 2021-06-15 2022-06-14 Striking mechanism, in particular for a timepiece

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP21179616.4A EP4105733A1 (en) 2021-06-15 2021-06-15 Chiming mechanism by impact, in particular for timepieces

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP4105733A1 true EP4105733A1 (en) 2022-12-21

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Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP21179616.4A Pending EP4105733A1 (en) 2021-06-15 2021-06-15 Chiming mechanism by impact, in particular for timepieces

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US (1) US20220397863A1 (en)
EP (1) EP4105733A1 (en)
JP (1) JP7407235B2 (en)
CN (1) CN115480472B (en)

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US20220397863A1 (en) 2022-12-15
CN115480472B (en) 2024-05-28
JP2022191178A (en) 2022-12-27
CN115480472A (en) 2022-12-16
JP7407235B2 (en) 2023-12-28

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