EP4365684A1 - Timepiece mechanism - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a watch mechanism (100) for a timepiece, comprising:
- a leading assembly, comprising:
- a driving wheel (80), arranged to rotate around an axis of rotation (X) of the driving wheel (80),
- a finger (81) arranged to rotate around the axis of rotation (X) driving wheel (80),

- a transformation ring (70), comprising:
- an axis of rotation (Y) of the transformation ring (70),
- an exterior perimeter (700),
- an interior perimeter (705), defining a central opening (703) and comprising radial grooves (701), each radial groove (701) being arranged to cooperate with the finger (81) so that the transformation ring (70) ) rotates jerkily around the axis of rotation (Y) of the transformation ring (70.

The driving assembly is at least partially received in the central opening (703), which allows a gain in compactness compared to known solutions.

Description

Technical area

The present invention relates to a watch mechanism for a timepiece. The present invention also relates to a timepiece, such as a wristwatch, comprising this watch mechanism.

State of the art

Known watch mechanisms often include a transformation mobile, rotating jerkily around an axis of the mobile, thus occupying different angular positions. This mobile can for example be arranged to transform a continuous rotational movement into a jerky rotational movement.

In this context, the term "movable" does not necessarily indicate an assembly of a wheel with a pinion, but generally indicates a "movable" element (adjective), for example an element movable through a rotational movement.

An example of a transformation mobile is a Maltese cross. An example of a known watch mechanism 100' comprising a known Maltese cross is illustrated on the figure 1 .

The known watch mechanism 100' of the figure 1 comprises a driving assembly, comprising a driving wheel 80', arranged to rotate, for example continuously, around an axis of rotation X', and a finger 81' which on the figure 1 is integral with the driving wheel 80', i.e. it moves with the driving wheel 80'.

The transformation ring 70' of the watch mechanism 100' includes an outer perimeter 700', comprising grooves 701'. Each groove 701' is arranged to cooperate with the finger 81' of the driving assembly, so as to transform the rotational movement of the driving wheel 80' into a jerky rotational movement of the transformation ring 70', which is therefore a driven mobile.

Finger 81' of the figure 1 is arranged in fact to engage or penetrate at least partially in a groove 701', thus causing the transformation ring 70' to rotate by 1/n of a turn, n being the number of grooves 701' of the ring transformation 70' (n = 12 on the figure 1 ).

Following the rotation of the transformation ring 70', the finger 81' exits the groove 701': the driving wheel 80' continues to rotate around the axis X' while the transformation ring 70' remains stationary , until the moment when the finger 81' again enters a groove 701' adjacent to the previous one.

The peripheral part of the driving wheel 80' is partially hollowed out and the central part 802', namely that close to the axis X', has a shape which is complementary to a (rounded) portion 702' of the outer perimeter of the ring transformation ring 70', in order to stabilize the position of the transformation ring 70' when the finger 81' is not engaged in a groove 701'.

The transformation ring is generally called a “Maltese cross”.

This known watch mechanism 100' is bulky and therefore unsuitable for use in limited space, for example for use in a wristwatch case.

Brief summary of the invention

An aim of the present invention is to propose a watch mechanism free from the limitations of known watch mechanisms.

Another aim of the invention is to propose a less bulky watch mechanism compared to known watch mechanisms.

Another aim of the invention is to propose a watch mechanism adapted for use in a limited space, for example in a case of a wristwatch.

Another aim of the invention is to propose an alternative watch mechanism to known watch mechanisms.

According to the invention, these goals are achieved in particular by means of the watch mechanism according to claim 1, preferential embodiments being given in the dependent claims.

The watch mechanism for a timepiece according to the invention comprises a driving assembly, comprising a driving wheel, arranged to rotate around an axis of rotation of the driving wheel, and a finger arranged to rotate around the axis of rotation of the driving wheel.

• un axe de rotation de l'anneau de transformation,
• un périmètre extérieur, et
• un périmètre intérieur.

The watch mechanism for a timepiece according to the invention also comprises a transformation ring, comprising:

• an axis of rotation of the transformation ring,
• an exterior perimeter, and
• an interior perimeter.

According to the invention, the interior perimeter of the transformation ring defines a central opening and comprises radial grooves, each radial groove being arranged to cooperate with the finger of the driving assembly so that the transformation ring rotates jerkily around the axis of rotation of the transformation ring.

In this context, a "radial groove" is a groove whose main dimension is substantially aligned with a radius of the transformation ring. In this context, the expression "the principal dimension is substantially aligned with a radius of the transformation ring" indicates that angular offsets from perfect alignment with a radius of the transformation ring can be accepted. Angular offsets are present for example in the case where, as on the figure 1 , the center distance between the transformation ring and the axis of the driving wheel is too small to ensure proper operation with the grooves perfectly aligned with the spokes of the transformation ring. Indeed, without inclination, the risk of bracing when the finger enters the grooves would be significant.

According to the invention, the driving assembly is at least partially received in the central opening of the transformation ring.

Thanks to its arrangement, the watch mechanism according to the invention is less bulky compared to known watch mechanisms. It is therefore well suited for use in limited space, for example in a wristwatch case.

The transformation ring of the present invention can also be called "internal Maltese cross", because it has branches (the grooves), which are internal, namely they belong to the internal diameter of the ring.

The use of an internal Maltese cross is known in other fields, other than watchmaking. It has been used for a long time in cinema camera barrels.

Its use in the watchmaking field is surprising and allows advantages particularly sought after in watchmaking, such as a gain in compactness compared to a solution, such as that illustrated on the figure 1 , where the related elements would be arranged outside the Maltese cross.

Furthermore, the known disadvantages of an internal Maltese cross, such as sensitivity to bending or lower maximum acceleration, are not significant in the context of a timepiece such as a wristwatch, because the constraints in the field of watchmaking are similar to those in other fields, different from that of watchmaking, but on smaller scales.

In one embodiment, the driving wheel is arranged to rotate continuously about its axis of rotation. In this case, the transformation ring transforms the continuous rotational movement of the driving wheel into a jerky rotational movement of the transformation ring.

In another embodiment, the driving wheel is arranged to rotate jerkily around the axis of rotation of the driving wheel. In this case, the transformation ring can transform a first jerky rotational movement of the driving wheel into a second jerky rotational movement of the transformation ring, the second jerky rotational movement being different from the first.

In one embodiment, the finger is permanently attached to the driving wheel.

In this context, the expression "permanent driving wheel" indicates the entire period during which the driving wheel rotates (continuously or jerkily) around its axis.

In another embodiment, the finger is attached to the driving wheel for a predetermined period, namely for a sub-period of the period during which the driving wheel rotates (continuously or jerkily) around its axis.

In one embodiment, the driving assembly comprises a cam arranged to rotate around the axis of rotation of the driving wheel, the finger being permanently attached to the cam.

In this context, the expression "cam continuous" indicates the entire period during which the cam rotates around the axis of rotation of the driving wheel.

In one embodiment, the watch mechanism comprises a pin to permanently secure the finger to the cam, the cam comprising an opening arranged to receive the pin, the pin being arranged to cooperate with a groove cut in the driving wheel.

In one embodiment, the cam is arranged to be driven for a first period by the driving wheel, and for a second period by a rocker, for example via a roller.

In one embodiment, the radial grooves are equidistant. The equidistance of the grooves, and in particular of their entrances, ensures operation without bracing the finger on the entry points of the grooves.

In one embodiment, the shape of each groove outside the entry point may be different from one groove to another, for example it may be inclined or of a “left” shape or any other. The sides of the groove must, however, always remain sufficiently wide to allow the sliding of the finger plus any possible clearance. functioning. In one embodiment, the grooves are different for each operating step, so as to differentiate each movement (in the case of an application for setting a automaton in motion for example), while guaranteeing contact between the The element locks the transformation ring after a jump, without creating a blockage when the finger is still engaged in a groove. In another embodiment, the radial grooves are identical.

In one embodiment, the driving assembly comprises a locking element integral with the driving wheel, the interior perimeter of the transformation ring comprising locking portions, each locking portion being arranged to cooperate with the locking element so as to lock the position of the transformation ring after each jerky rotation movement of the transformation ring.

In one embodiment, the locking portion is placed between two consecutive radial grooves.

In one embodiment, the locking portion is in the shape of an arc of a circle, the locking element comprising a profile whose shape includes this arc of a circle.

In one embodiment, each locking portion is arranged to cooperate with the locking element in a period between the moment when the finger leaves a radial groove and the moment when the finger engages in an adjacent radial groove.

In one embodiment, the watch mechanism comprises a disk, the driving wheel being sandwiched between the cam and the disk.

In one embodiment, the disk also includes the finger and/or the locking element.

In one embodiment, the transformation ring includes at least one indexing hole for indexing the transformation ring during its manufacture.

In one embodiment, the transformation ring includes at least one balancing hole for balancing the transformation ring.

In one embodiment, the interior perimeter of the transformation ring includes twelve radial grooves.

The invention also relates to a timepiece, for example a wristwatch, comprising the watch mechanism according to the invention.

Brief description of the figures

• La figure 1 illustre une vue de dessus d'un mécanisme horloger de l'état de la technique.
• La figure 2 illustre une vue de dessus d'un mouvement pour montre-bracelet comprenant un mécanisme horloger selon un mode de réalisation de l'invention.
• La figure 3 illustre une vue en perspective du mouvement de la figure 2.
• La figure 4 illustre une vue de dessus du mécanisme horloger de la portion d'une montre-bracelet de la figure 2, dans une première position.
• La figure 5 illustre une vue en perspective du mécanisme horloger de la figure 4.
• La figure 6 illustre une vue de dessous du mécanisme horloger de la figure 4.
• La figure 7 illustre une vue en perspective du mécanisme horloger de la figure 6.
• La figure 8 illustre une vue éclatée d'une partie d'un mécanisme horloger selon un mode de réalisation de l'invention.
• La figure 9, qui illustre une autre vue en perspective du disque de la partie d'un mécanisme horloger de la figure 8.
• La figure 10 illustre une vue par le haut d'une partie du mécanisme horloger selon un mode de réalisation de l'invention dans une première position.
• La figure 11 illustre une vue par le haut de la partie du mécanisme horloger de la figure 10 dans une deuxième position.
• La figure 12 illustre une vue par le haut de la partie du mécanisme horloger de la figure 10 dans une troisième position.
• La figure 13 illustre une vue en perspective partiellement découpée de dessus de l'ensemble menant du mécanisme horloger selon un mode de réalisation.
• La figure 14 illustre une vue en perspective partiellement découpée de dessous de l'ensemble menant de la figure 13.
• La figure 15 illustre une vue de dessus du mécanisme horloger de la figure 4, dans une deuxième position.
• La figure 16 illustre une vue de dessus du mécanisme horloger de la figure 4, dans une troisième position.
• La figure 17 illustre une vue de dessus du mécanisme horloger de la figure 4, dans une quatrième position.
• La figure 18 illustre une vue de dessus du mécanisme horloger de la figure 4, dans une cinquième position.
• La figure 19 illustre une vue de dessus du mécanisme horloger de la figure 4, dans une sixième position.
• La figure 20 illustre une vue de dessus du mécanisme horloger de la figure 4, dans une septième position.
• La figure 21 illustre une vue de dessus d'un mouvement pour montre-bracelet comprenant un mécanisme horloger selon un autre mode de réalisation.
• La figure 22 illustre une vue de dessous du mouvement de la figure 21

Examples of implementation of the invention are indicated in the description illustrated by the appended figures in which:

• There figure 1 illustrates a top view of a watch mechanism of the state of the art.
• There figure 2 illustrates a top view of a movement for a wristwatch comprising a watch mechanism according to one embodiment of the invention.
• There Figure 3 illustrates a perspective view of the movement of the figure 2 .
• There figure 4 illustrates a top view of the watch mechanism of the wristwatch portion of the figure 2 , in a first position.
• There figure 5 illustrates a perspective view of the watch mechanism of the Figure 4 .
• There Figure 6 illustrates a bottom view of the watch mechanism of the Figure 4 .
• There Figure 7 illustrates a perspective view of the watch mechanism of the Figure 6 .
• There figure 8 illustrates an exploded view of a part of a watch mechanism according to one embodiment of the invention.
• There Figure 9 , which illustrates another perspective view of the disc part of a watch mechanism of the figure 8 .
• There Figure 10 illustrates a view from above of a part of the watch mechanism according to one embodiment of the invention in a first position.
• There Figure 11 illustrates a view from above of the part of the watch mechanism of the Figure 10 in a second position.
• There Figure 12 illustrates a view from above of the part of the watch mechanism of the Figure 10 in a third position.
• There Figure 13 illustrates a partially cut perspective view from above of the assembly leading to the watch mechanism according to one embodiment.
• There Figure 14 illustrates a partially cut perspective view from below of the assembly leading from the Figure 13 .
• There Figure 15 illustrates a top view of the watch mechanism of the Figure 4 , in a second position.
• There Figure 16 illustrates a top view of the watch mechanism of the Figure 4 , in a third position.
• There Figure 17 illustrates a top view of the watch mechanism of the figure 4 , in a fourth position.
• There Figure 18 illustrates a top view of the watch mechanism of the Figure 4 , in a fifth position.
• There Figure 19 illustrates a top view of the watch mechanism of the Figure 4 , in a sixth position.
• There Figure 20 illustrates a top view of the watch mechanism of the Figure 4 , in a seventh position.
• There Figure 21 illustrates a top view of a movement for a wristwatch comprising a watch mechanism according to another embodiment.
• There Figure 22 illustrates a bottom view of the movement of the Figure 21

Example(s) of mode(s) of carrying out the invention

In the following description provided by way of example, reference will be made, for simplicity, to a use of the watch mechanism according to the invention, in which the transformation ring is connected (directly or indirectly) to an indicator member, for example to allow it a jerky movement, or to allow one to move from one indicator member to the next, activating each time a clutch mechanism which makes it possible to rotate each engaged indicator member around its axis, for example to display information.

The invention, however, is not limited to these applications, but also relates to other uses of the watch mechanism according to the invention, for example and in a non-limiting manner a use of the watch mechanism according to the invention for a date and in general for any watchmaking application that requires jerky movement in angular steps.

There figure 2 illustrates a top view of a movement for a wristwatch comprising a watch mechanism 100 according to one embodiment of the invention.

This movement 1, as better visible on the Figure 3 , comprises several indicator bodies 10, in particular twelve indicator bodies. These indicator bodies 10 are cubes, as better visible on the Figure 3 . This shape is however not limiting and these indicator bodies can have other three-dimensional shapes, for example they can be bubbles, semi-bubbles, spherical elements, pyramidal elements, polyhedrons, etc.

In one embodiment, the indicator members are substantially two-dimensional elements, such as disks, polygons, alphanumeric characters or symbols, and/or elements.

The indicator members 10 are arranged to rotate jerkily thanks to the watch mechanism according to the invention.

In one embodiment, all the indicator members 10 are rotated in a first position with the exception of one mobile rotated in a second position. In one embodiment, a watch supra-mechanism comprising the watch mechanism 100 according to the invention makes it possible to turn the indicator member which occupies the second position every hour to return it to the first position, and to turn another indicator member from the first position to the second position. Thus, the current time is determined at each moment by the location of the mobile occupying the second position.

There Figure 4 illustrates a top view of the watch mechanism 100 of the portion of a wristwatch of the figure 2 , in a first position. There Figure 5 illustrates a perspective view of the watch mechanism 100 of the Figure 4 . There Figure 6 illustrates a bottom view of the watch mechanism 100 of the Figure 4 . There Figure 7 illustrates a perspective view of the watch mechanism 100 of the Figure 6 .

With reference to figures 4 to 7 , the watch mechanism 100 illustrated comprises a driving assembly, comprising a driving wheel 80, arranged to rotate around an axis of rotation X of the driving wheel 80, and a finger 81 arranged to rotate around the axis of rotation the driving wheel 80.

• un axe de rotation Y de l'anneau de transformation,
• un périmètre extérieur 700, et
• un périmètre intérieur 705.

The watch mechanism 100 of figures 4 to 7 also includes a transformation ring 70, comprising:

• an axis of rotation Y of the transformation ring,
• an exterior perimeter 700, and
• an interior perimeter 705.

According to the invention, the interior perimeter 705 defines a central opening 703 and comprises radial grooves 701, each radial groove 701 being arranged to cooperate with the finger 81 of the driving assembly so that the transformation ring 70 rotates so jerky around the axis of rotation Y of the transformation ring 70, namely ensuring that the transformation ring 70 rotates in angular steps.

According to the invention and as visible on the figures 4 to 7 , the driving assembly is at least partially received in the central opening 703 of the transformation ring 70.

Thanks to its arrangement, the watch mechanism 100 according to the invention is less bulky compared to known watch mechanisms. It is therefore well suited for use in limited space, for example in a wristwatch case.

In one embodiment, the driving wheel 80 is arranged to rotate continuously around its axis of rotation X. In this case, the transformation ring 70 transforms the continuous rotational movement of the driving wheel 80 into a movement of jerky rotation of the transformation ring 70.

In one embodiment, the driving wheel 80 is driven in continuous rotation thanks to a gear with an intermediate mobile 60, in turn connected to the cog of a basic movement, namely a movement which allows time to be counted fluent. An example of this embodiment is illustrated on the figures 4 to 7 .

In another embodiment (not illustrated), the driving wheel 80 is arranged to rotate jerkily around the axis of rotation X of the driving wheel. In this case, the transformation ring 70 can transform a first jerky rotational movement of the driving wheel 80 into a second jerky rotational movement of the transformation ring 70, the second jerky rotational movement being different from the first.

In the embodiment of figures 4 to 7 , the finger 81 is not permanently attached to the driving wheel 80, namely it is not attached to the driving wheel 80 for the entire period during which the driving wheel 80 rotates (continuously in the embodiment of the figures 4 to 7 ) around its X axis.

In the embodiment of figures 4 to 7 , the finger 81 is integral with the driving wheel 80 for a predetermined period, namely for a sub-period of the period during which the driving wheel 80 rotates (continuously in the embodiment of the figures 4 to 7 ) around its X axis.

In the embodiment of figures 4 to 7 , the finger 81 is on the other hand permanently attached to a cam 50, namely it is attached to the cam 50 for the entire period during which the cam 50 rotates around the rotation axis X of the driving wheel 80. The period during which the cam 50 rotates around the rotation axis X of the driving wheel 80 is a sub-period of the period during which the driving wheel 80 rotates around the rotation axis

In the embodiment of figures 4 to 7 , the transformation ring 70 comprises several through holes 704, visible in particular on the figure 4 , of different dimensions, which are only used for indexing the transformation ring 70 during its manufacture, for example during its machining. These are therefore indexing holes.

In the embodiment of figures 4 to 7 , the transformation ring 70 comprises two oblong holes, in the shape of a “C”, visible in particular on the figure 4 , which allow balancing of the masses of the transformation ring 70.

In the embodiment of figures 4 to 7 , the transformation ring 70 comprises substantially square openings 707, connected by a pin, which allow the training of the Maltese crosses known (not illustrated), which are dedicated to each indicator member 10, as for example described in the patent application CH700615 filed by the plaintiff.

In one embodiment, the radial grooves 701 are equidistant.

In one embodiment, the radial grooves 701 are identical. This embodiment is, however, not limiting and each radial groove 701 could have a shape and/or dimensions different from at least one other radial groove 701.

In one embodiment, the interior perimeter of the transformation ring comprises twelve radial grooves 701. In one embodiment, the number of radial grooves 701 corresponds to the number of indicator members 10.

In one embodiment and as better visible on the Figure 4 , the driving assembly comprises a locking element 82 secured to the driving wheel 80. In one embodiment, this locking element 82 is a cam, for example a cam having substantially a half-moon shape.

In one embodiment, the interior perimeter 701 of the transformation ring 70 comprising locking portions 702, visible for example on the Figure 4 , each locking portion 702 being arranged to cooperate with the locking element 82 (integral to the driving wheel 80) so as to lock the position of the transformation ring 70 after each jerky rotational movement of the transformation ring 70.

In one embodiment, as visible on the figure 4 , the locking portion 702 is placed between two consecutive radial grooves 701.

In one embodiment, as visible on the Figure 4 , the locking portion 701 is in the shape of an arc of a circle, the locking element 82 comprising a profile having the same arc of a circle shape.

In one embodiment, each locking portion 702 is arranged to cooperate with the locking element 82 in a period between the moment when the finger 81 leaves a radial groove 701 and the moment when the finger 81 engages in a adjacent radial groove 701.

There figure 8 illustrates an exploded view of a part of a watch mechanism according to one embodiment of the invention, in particular of the driving assembly, which in this case comprises the cam 50, the driving wheel 80 and a disc 90, the wheel driving 80 being sandwiched between the cam 50 and the disc 90. These three components of the figure 8 share the same axis of rotation X, carried by the disk 90.

As visible on the Figure 9 , which illustrates another perspective view of disk 90 of the figure 8 , in one embodiment the disk 90 also includes the finger 81 and a locking element 82. In one embodiment, the finger 81 and the locking element 82 are directly machined in the disk 90.

In one embodiment, the disk 90 also includes at least one hole 92 (two in the example of figures 8 And 9 ) which accommodate a pin 20 connecting the cam 50 to the finger 81.

Cam 50 of the figure 8 comprises an opening 52 arranged to receive the pin 20. In one embodiment, this pin 20 is arranged to slide in a groove 88 cut in the driving wheel 80, when the cam 50 rotates around the axis X. In one embodiment, this groove 88 is “C” shaped.

In particular, the pin 20 allows the cam 50 and the finger 81 to be joined together. In this embodiment, the driving wheel 80, placed between the cam 50 and the finger 81, drives the cam 50 and the finger 81 by contact between the pin 20 and one of the ends of the groove 88 cut in the driving wheel 80.

In one embodiment this contact between the pin 20 and one of the ends of the groove 88 is made for a period (for example during 59min 59s) which corresponds to the rise of cam 50 through 180°. During this period a spring 42 of a rocker 40 cooperating with the cam 50, for example via a roller 30, is tensioned, which makes it possible to accumulate the energy necessary for the instantaneous jump of the transformation ring 70. Thus during this period the cam 50 is driven by the driving wheel 80.

This embodiment allows the transformation ring 70 to move instantly from a first angular position to a second angular position. In another embodiment (not illustrated), the transformation ring 70 passes non-instantaneously from a first angular position to a second angular position.

As visible on the figure 8 , in one embodiment the cam 50 comprises two curves 53, 54 (one rise and one fall), a point 51 and hollow 55, arranged to stop the cam in the neutral position after a jump of the transformation ring 70.

There Figure 10 illustrates a view from above of a part of the watch mechanism 100 according to one embodiment of the invention in a first position which allows the transformation ring 70 to move instantly from a first angular position to a second angular position. In this embodiment, when the roller 30 of the rocker 40 exceeds the tip 51 of the cam, the cam 50 which was driving is then instantly rotated by the support of the roller 30 on a curve of the cam 50 (in particular the descending curve): the finger 81 linked to the cam 50 by the pin 20 rotates with the cam 50 and then comes into contact with one of the grooves 701 of the transformation ring 70.

There Figure 11 illustrates a view from above of the part of the watch mechanism 100 of the Figure 10 in a second position. In this position, which corresponds to the jump phase of the transformation ring 70, the wheel 80 continues its rotation (for example with the speed of one revolution per hour) while the finger 81, the pin 20, the cam 50, and the transformation ring 70 rotate instantly. In one embodiment, the cam 50 and the finger 81 perform an angular travel of 180° and the transformation ring 70 performs an angular travel of 1/N turns, N being the number of indicator members 10.

There Figure 12 illustrates a view from above of the part of the watch mechanism 100 of the Figure 10 in a third position. In this position, the transformation ring 70 has jumped, the cam 50 is at rest and kept in rotation by pressing the roller 30 on the points 56 at the ends of the hollow 55. The transformation ring 70 is kept immobile by contact with the locking portion 82.

In the position shown on the Figure 12 , the pin 20 is now placed close to the second end of the groove 88 of the wheel 80, it has rotated 180° with the cam 50 and the finger 81 under the impulse of the rocker 40. The driving finger 81 is disengaged of the groove 701, and the driving wheel 80 will rotate (by ½ turn in the example illustrated) so that the first end of the groove 88 comes into contact again with the pin 20 and thus drives the finger 81 again.

There Figure 13 illustrates a partially cut perspective view from above of the assembly leading to the watch mechanism 100 according to a first embodiment. There Figure 14 illustrates a partially cut perspective view from below of the assembly leading from the Figure 13 .

As visible on the figures 13 and 14 , if the disc 90 includes two holes 92, the pin 20 can be driven into one or the other of the holes 92 depending on the assembly and the desired direction of rotation of the drive of the transformation ring 70, thus making the reversible watch mechanism.

THE figures 15 to 20 illustrate a top view of the watch mechanism of the figure 4 , in several consecutive positions. Compared to the Figure 4 , the watch mechanism 100 of figures 15 to 20 also includes a central wheel 61, which meshes with the intermediate mobile 60.

In the position of the Figure 15 , the locking portion 702 is arranged to cooperate with the locking element 82, which rotates around the axis 80 rotates, for example in the direction of rotation indicated by arrow A.

The position of the Figure 16 corresponds to the position of the Figure 10 . The finger 81, secured to the cam 50, also rotates around the axis in the direction of rotation of arrow B, when the locking element 82 stops its cooperation with the locking portion 702.

When the finger 81 enters the groove 701, the locking element 82 stops its cooperation with the locking portion 702.

The rotation of the transformation ring 70 continues while the finger 81 enters the groove 701, as illustrated in the Figure 17 , which corresponds to the position of the Figure 11 . The locking element 82 is no longer in contact with the locking portion 702.

The rotation of the transformation ring 70 continues until the finger 81 reaches the bottom of the groove, as illustrated in the Figure 18 . There is not always contact between the locking element 82 and the locking portion 702.

When the finger 81 begins to approach the exit of the groove 701, the locking element 82 also approaches the locking portion 702, as illustrated in the Figure 19 .

When the finger 81 comes out of the groove 701, the locking element 82 comes into contact with the locking portion 702, as illustrated in the Figure 20 : the transformation ring 70 thus stops rotating.

THE figures 21 And 22 illustrate another (non-limiting) example of a use of the watch mechanism according to the invention.

In this embodiment, the watch mechanism 100 comprises a transformation mobile 70 arranged to be rotated around the axis X. The transformation mobile 70 occupies (at least) a number of angular positions equal to one revolution divided by an integer. In the embodiment of figures 21 And 22 , this integer corresponds to the number of indicator members 10 of the timepiece, twelve in the example illustrated.

Each indicator member 10 is arranged to rotate around an indicator member axis C. In the embodiment of figures 21 And 22 , the axis C of the indicator member passes through the center of gravity of the indicator member concerned 10.

In the embodiment of figures 21 And 22 , the indicator bodies 10 are semi-bubbles or semi-spherical elements. The invention, however, is not limited to indicator members 10 having these shapes, but also includes other indicator members 10 having another three-dimensional shape as well as substantially two-dimensional elements.

At least one indicator member 10 may carry one (or more) decorative pattern(s) 11, for example a relief pattern, as is visible on the Figure 3 , in order to further increase the dynamism and/or readability of the information indicated when the indicator member 10 turns on itself.

The watch mechanism 100 also includes a set of rockers 3, better visible on the Figure 22 , each rocker 30 being associated with an indicator member 10 and being placed in correspondence with one of the possible angular positions occupied by the transformation mobile 70.

The watch mechanism 100 also includes a driving mobile 4, arranged to rotate permanently around a driving mobile axis. In the embodiment of figures 21 And 22 , this leading mobile 4 is a ring which rotates around the same axis Figure 22 , this driving mobile 4 comprises internal teeth 402 and external teeth 401, and the internal teeth 402 cooperates (directly or indirectly, for example via an intermediate wheel 6) with a wheel 5 of the basic movement of the timepiece, which also constantly rotates around its axis (which in the example shown corresponds to the X axis).

In the watch mechanism 100 of figures 21 And 22 , when the transformation ring 70 is in one of its positions angular, it cooperates with the rocker 3 which is also located in correspondence with this angular position, thus activating a clutch between the driving mobile 4 and the indicator member 10 of this rocker 3, consequently causing the rotation of this indicator member 10 , this rotation making it possible to indicate information (temporal or non-temporal) to a user of the timepiece.

The watch mechanism 100 of this embodiment therefore allows a particularly dynamic display: the information is indicated to the user of the timepiece thanks to the rotation of the indicator member (or indicator members) 10 in correspondence of which (of which) the clutch is activated, the other indicator elements not rotating. In other words, the information is indicated at each moment in correspondence with the indicator member 10 which rotates at the moment when the user wishes to read this information. In other words still, the indicator members 10 which do not rotate (they are stationary) at the moment when the user wishes to read information do not make it possible to deduce this information.

In this case, the watch mechanism 100 also allows a particularly readable display: the user quickly detects the indicator member 10 which rotates on itself and deduces information therefrom.

When the cam 3 leaves this angular position, the clutch is deactivated, which stops the rotational drive of the indicator member 10 rotating on itself.

Clutch is one of several types of clutch mechanisms, including one of vertical clutch mechanisms, horizontal clutch mechanisms and swinging gear clutch mechanisms, known per se in the field of technology, and which will not be described here.

In the embodiment of figures 21 And 22 , the watch mechanism 100 includes a return spring 91 associated with each rocker 3, which improves the cooperation between the rocker 3 and the transformation ring 70.

In the embodiment figures 21 And 22 , the watch mechanism 100 also includes a stop 93 associated with each rocker 3, better visible on the Figure 22 , to limit pivoting of the corresponding rocker 3.

In the embodiment of figures 21 And 22 , the watch mechanism 100 comprises a single piece 9, clearly visible on the Figure 22 , comprising both rocker return springs 91 and stops 93. In other embodiments, the one-piece part 9 comprises either the rocker return springs 91 or the stops 93. In other embodiments , neither the rocker return springs 91 nor the stops 93 belong to a single piece part 9.

In the embodiment of figures 21 And 22 , the transformation mobile 70, the ring 4 and the one-piece part 9 are (at least partially) superimposed and the ring 4 is sandwiched between the one-piece part 9 and the transformation mobile 70.

In the embodiment of figures 21 And 22 , the axes C of all the indicator bodies 10 are perpendicular to a main plane xy (visible on the Figure 21 ) of the leading mobile 4.

In another embodiment (not illustrated), the axes C of all the indicator members 10 are not perpendicular to a main plane xy of the driving mobile 4.

In another embodiment (not shown), the mechanism includes a second transformation ring, arranged to cooperate with a first rocker or with a second rocker (not shown), thus activating a clutch between the driving mobile 4 and a first indicator member 10 or a second indicator member (not shown) associated with the second transformation ring, consequently causing the rotation of the first indicator member 10 (or of the second indicator member), this rotation making it possible to indicate a second piece of information (for example and in a non-limiting manner, GMT information) to a user of the timepiece.

In one embodiment, the first transformation ring 70 and the second transformation ring are at least partially stacked.

Reference signs used in the figures

1

Movement

3

Toggle

4

Mobile leading

5

Wheel

6

Intermediate wheel

9

One-piece piece

10

Indicator organ

20

Pin

30

Pebble

40

Toggle

42

Spring

50

Cam (heart)

51

Heart tip

52

Opening/hole

53

First cam curve

54

Second cam curve

55

Cam hollow

56

Point at end of cam trough

60

Intermediate mobile

70, 70'

Transformation Ring

80, 80'

Driving wheel

81.81'

Finger

82

Locking element

88

Groove

90

Disk

91

Spring

92

Opening/hole

93

Stopper

100, 100'

Watch mechanism

401

External toothing

402

Internal teeth

700, 700'

Outer perimeter of the transformation ring

701, 701'

Groove

702, 702'

Lock portion

703

Central opening

704

Index hole

705

Inner perimeter of the transformation ring

706

Balancing hole

707

Substantially square openings

802, 802'

Central part of the driving wheel

HAS

Arrow

B

Arrow

VS

Rotation axis

X, X'

Axis of rotation of the driving wheel

xy

Plan

Y

Transformation ring rotation axis

Claims (15)

Watch mechanism (100) for timepiece, comprising: - a leading assembly, comprising: - a driving wheel (80), arranged to rotate around an axis of rotation (X) of the driving wheel (80), - a finger (81) arranged to rotate around the axis of rotation (X) driving wheel (80), - a transformation ring (70), comprising: - an axis of rotation (Y) of the transformation ring (70), - an exterior perimeter (700), - an interior perimeter (705), defining a central opening (703) and comprising radial grooves (701), each radial groove (701) being arranged to cooperate with the finger (81) so that the transformation ring (70) ) rotates jerkily around the axis of rotation (Y) of the transformation ring (70), wherein the driving assembly is at least partially received in the central opening (703). Watch mechanism (100) according to claim 1, the driving wheel (80) being arranged to rotate continuously around the axis of rotation (X) of the driving wheel (80). Watch mechanism (100) according to claim 1, the driving wheel (80) being arranged to rotate jerkily around the axis of rotation (X) of the driving wheel (80). Watch mechanism (100) according to one of claims 1 to 3, the finger (81) being permanently attached to the driving wheel (80). Watch mechanism (100) according to one of claims 1 to 3, the finger (81) being integral with the driving wheel for a predetermined period. Watch mechanism (100) according to one of claims 1 to 5, the driving assembly comprising a cam (50) arranged to rotate around the axis of rotation (X) of the driving wheel (80), the finger (81 ) being permanently attached to the cam (50). Watch mechanism (100) according to claim 6, comprising a pin (20) to permanently secure the finger (81) to the cam (50), the cam 50 comprising an opening (52) arranged to receive the pin (20) , the pin (20) being arranged to cooperate with a groove (88) cut in the driving wheel (80). Watch mechanism (100) according to one of claims 6 or 7, the cam is arranged to be driven for a first period by the driving wheel (80), and for a second period by a rocker (40), for example via a roller (30). Watch mechanism (100) according to one of claims 1 to 8, the driving assembly comprising a locking element (802) integral with the driving wheel (8), the interior perimeter (705) comprising locking portions (702) , each locking portion (702) being arranged to cooperate with the locking element (82) so as to lock the position of the transformation ring (72) after each jerky rotational movement of the transformation ring (70). ). Watch mechanism (100) according to claim 9, each locking portion (702) being arranged to cooperate with the locking element (82) in a period between the moment when the finger (81) leaves a radial groove (701) and when the finger (81) engages in an adjacent radial groove (701). Watch mechanism (100) according to one of claims 9 or 10, the locking portion (702) being placed between two consecutive radial grooves (701). Watch mechanism (100) according to one of claims 9 to 11, the locking portion (702) being in the shape of an arc of a circle, the locking element (82) comprising a profile whose shape includes this arc of a circle . Watch mechanism (100) according to one of claims 6 to 12, comprising a disc (90) the driving wheel (80) being sandwiched between the cam (50) and the disc (90). Watch mechanism (100) according to claim 13 when dependent on one of claims 9 to 12, the disc (90) also comprising the finger (81) and/or the locking element (82). Watch piece comprising the watch mechanism (100) according to one of claims 1 to 14.

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