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
  • G04B17/00—Mechanisms for stabilising frequency
  • G04B17/04—Oscillators acting by spring tension
• • G—PHYSICS
  • G04—HOROLOGY
  • G04B—MECHANICALLY-DRIVEN CLOCKS OR WATCHES; MECHANICAL PARTS OF CLOCKS OR WATCHES IN GENERAL; TIME PIECES USING THE POSITION OF THE SUN, MOON OR STARS
  • G04B17/00—Mechanisms for stabilising frequency
  • G04B17/04—Oscillators acting by spring tension
  • G04B17/045—Oscillators acting by spring tension with oscillating blade springs
• • G—PHYSICS
  • G04—HOROLOGY
  • G04B—MECHANICALLY-DRIVEN CLOCKS OR WATCHES; MECHANICAL PARTS OF CLOCKS OR WATCHES IN GENERAL; TIME PIECES USING THE POSITION OF THE SUN, MOON OR STARS
  • G04B18/00—Mechanisms for setting frequency
  • G04B18/02—Regulator or adjustment devices; Indexing devices, e.g. raquettes

Definitions

• the invention relates to a regulating system for a watch movement.
• the invention also relates to a device for modifying the stiffness of an elastic return element.
• the invention also relates to a watch movement comprising such a regulating system or such a stiffness modification device.
• the invention finally relates to a timepiece comprising such a watch movement or such a regulating system or such a stiffness modification device.
• means for adjusting the inertial element or the elastic return element are used. It may for example be adjustment means making it possible to vary the inertia of the inertial element, or means making it possible to act on the stiffness of the elastic return element.
• the inertial element can be provided with weights or movable adjustment screws in order to allow a more or less fine adjustment of the rate of movement, of the order of a few seconds or tens of seconds per day. These weights can for example be manipulated by a watchmaker when the inertial element is stationary, and a fortiori when the movement is stationary.
• the stiffness of the elastic return element can be adjusted by modifying the effective length of said element, for example by means of a racket. If such a system has the advantage of being able to be manipulated while the inertial element is in motion, this is however not satisfactory to make the adjustment sufficiently precise, with a precision comparable to that provided by the movement of the weights or the adjustment screws of the inertial element.
• Patent application EP4006648 relates to a device for adjusting the effective length of a first elastic return element connected to an inertial element, which has the particularity of being directly integrated into said first elastic return element.
• a first elastic return element taking the form of a spiral spring whose outer end comprises a set of elastic elements. The latter are intended to move a clamp precisely opposite the terminal part of the outer end of the spiral spring.
• the effective length of the spiral spring can thus be adjusted, which induces a modification of the stiffness of the spiral spring and therefore a modification of the frequency of the oscillator, namely of the inertial element - spiral spring assembly, by modification of the ratio k/l where k is the stiffness of the spiral spring and I the inertia of the balance wheel.
• such a device is particularly sensitive to variations in the effective length of the spiral spring. Indeed, for an oscillator with, for example, a nominal frequency of 4 Hz, a modification of the stiffness of the spiral spring of the order of 10% induces a variation in operation of several thousand seconds per day. It is therefore very difficult, with such an adjustment device, to achieve fine adjustment of the order of a few seconds or tens of seconds per day. For a given spiral spring, we can estimate at a few tens of micrometers the length adjustment necessary for an adjustment of the rate of around ten seconds per day. In addition, direct action on the length of the spiral spring entails risks of disrupting the operation of the oscillator.
• Patent FR833085 relates to a method of synchronizing an oscillator of a mechanical clock with an electrical reference oscillator.
• the oscillator of the clock comprises a balance returned by two hairsprings, preferably of the same dimensions, the respective interior ends of which are integral with the axis of the balance and the respective exterior ends are integral with a frame, the active length of one of the two hairsprings being modifiable by means of an additional device controlled by the electrical reference oscillator.
• Such an arrangement, with two hairsprings arranged in parallel makes it possible to gain in fineness of adjustment of the running of the mechanical clock, by a factor of 2, because the stiffness of only one of the two springs is likely to be modified. However, this gain is not sufficient to achieve fine adjustment of the order of a few seconds or tens of seconds per day, in particular using a racket.
• Patent application EP40091 15 discloses an oscillator having the particularity of comprising a first elastic return element taking the form of a spiral spring connected to an inertial element taking the form of a balance wheel, as well as a second return element elastic connected in series with the spiral spring, the stiffness of this second elastic return element being modifiable by means of prestressing means provided to apply a variable force or torque on the second elastic return element, without modification of the stiffness of the spiral spring.
• the stiffness of the second elastic return element is greater than that of the spiral spring, so that a modification of the stiffness of the second elastic return element allows finer adjustment of the rate than if we acted directly on the stiffness of the spiral spring.
• the stiffness of the second elastic return element must be very significantly greater than that of the spiral spring, of the order of a thousand or ten thousand times more substantial than that of the spiral spring to allow variations in operation of the order of a few seconds per day by a modification of said stiffness of the second elastic return element. Furthermore, this modification of the stiffness of the second elastic return element should be able to be done without varying the position of the outer end of the spiral spring, which in practice is very difficult to achieve.
• Patent application EP4016194 discloses a concept similar to that which is the subject of application EP40091 15, but for a monolithic oscillator.
• this oscillator comprises a flexible guide formed of elastic blades, which is intended to define a virtual pivot of an inertial element, as well as means for adjusting the stiffness of the oscillator comprising a flexible element arranged in series of the flexible guidance.
• These adjustment means also include prestressing means designed to apply a variable force or torque to the flexible element so as to vary its stiffness.
• the flexible element must have a stiffness very significantly greater than that of the flexible guide to allow variations in operation of the order of a few seconds per day by a modification of said stiffness of the flexible element, and this without varying the location of the virtual pivot defined by the flexible guidance, which in practice is very difficult to achieve.
• the aim of the invention is to provide a regulating system making it possible to resolve the problems mentioned above and to improve the regulating systems known from the prior art.
• the invention proposes a regulating system allowing fine and reliable adjustment of an oscillation frequency of an oscillator. Thanks to such a system, the adjustment can be carried out while the oscillator is operating and without disturbing it.
• objects are defined by the following propositions:
• Regulating system (150; 150’) for watch movement (300) comprising:
• an elastic return system (1; 1 ', 2, 3) intended to connect the inertial element (4; 4') to the frame (6) so that the inertial element (4; 4') and the system elastic return system (1; 1 ', 2, 3) form an oscillator (100; 100'),
• the elastic return system (1; 1 ', 2, 3) comprising:
• Regulating system (150; 150') according to one of propositions 1 to 4, characterized in that the inertial element (4; 4') and the elastic return system (1; 1', 2, 3) are configured and/or arranged so that the oscillation frequency of the oscillator (100; 100') is between 8 Hz and 100 Hz, or even is equal to or greater than 100 Hz.
• Regulating system (150) according to one of the propositions 1 to 5, characterized in that the first elastic return element (1) is a spiral spring (1) comprising at least one blade (1 1) connected to the inertial element (4), the inertial element ( 4) being pivoted relative to the frame (6) around a geometric axis (A4).
• Regulating system (150') according to one of propositions 1 to 5, characterized in that the first elastic return element (1') is a flexible guide (1'), comprising in particular two blades (11', 12 '), configured and/or arranged to elastically recall and guide, in particular pivot along a geometric axis (A4'), the inertial element (4').
• Regulating system (150; 150') according to one of propositions 1 to 7, characterized in that the second elastic return element (2) comprises flexible blades (21, 22) embedded in the frame (6) and defining a pivot RCC of the first elastic return element (1; 1 '), whose virtual center of crossing of the flexible blades (21, 22) coincides with a point through which passes a geometric axis (A4; A4') around which the inertial element (4; 4').
• Regulating system (150; 150') according to one of propositions 1 to 8, characterized in that the third elastic return element (3) comprises a rectilinear or curved elastic blade (31).
• Regulating system (150; 150') according to one of propositions 1 to 9, characterized in that the first, second and third elastic return elements are connected to each other by a connecting member (5), in particular a connecting member (5) forming part of the first elastic return element (1; 1 ') or formed in the continuity of a blade (1 1) of a spiral spring (1) forming the first elastic return element ( 1) or formed in the continuity of blades (1 1 ', 12') of a flexible guide (1 ') forming the first elastic return element (1 ').
• Regulating system (150) according to one of propositions 1 to 10, characterized in that the second elastic return element (2) is a curved blade (21) formed in continuity with a blade (1 1) of a spiral spring (1) forming the first elastic return element (1) - Regulating system (150; 150') according to the one of propositions 1 to 1 1, characterized in that the inertial element (4; 4') and the first, second and third elastic return elements are in one piece or form a monolithic assembly.
• Regulating system (150; 150') according to one of propositions 1 to 12, characterized in that at least one of the first, second and third elastic return elements can comprise at least in part:
• Adjusting device (200) according to proposition 15 characterized in that it comprises a connecting member (5) intended to support a first elastic return element (1) of an adjusting system according to one of propositions 1 to 13 and forming part of the monolithic structure (900).
• Adjustment device (200) according to proposition 15 or 16 characterized in that it comprises:
• Adjustment device (200) according to one of propositions 14 to 17, characterized in that it comprises a pair of clamps (81, 82), in particular a pair of clamps (81, 82) forming part of the monolithic structure ( 900), the pair of pliers being:
• Watch movement (300) comprising a regulating system (150; 150') according to one of propositions 1 to 13 and/or a device (200) according to one of propositions 14 to 18.
• Regulating system (150) for watch movement (300) comprising:
• an elastic return system (1, 2, 3) intended to connect the balance assembled (4) to the frame (6) so that the assembled balance (4) and the elastic return system (1, 2, 3) form an oscillator (100), the elastic return system (1, 2, 3) including:
• Regulating system (150) according to proposition 22, characterized in that it comprises a device (200) for modifying the third stiffness k3.
• Regulating system (150) according to one of propositions 22 to 27, characterized in that the first spiral spring (1) comprises at least a first blade (1 1) connected to the assembled balance (4), in particular via a ferrule (14) arranged at a first proximal end of the first blade (11) and fixed to an integral axis (42). of the balance (41).
• Regulating system (150) according to proposition 28, characterized in that the first spiral spring (1) comprises a first connecting member (12) disposed at a first distal end of the first blade (1 1) and making it possible to connect the first spiral spring (1) to the second elastic return element (2), in particular via a connecting member (5).
• Regulating system (150) according to one of propositions 28 to 29, characterized in that the ferrule (14), the first blade (1 1) and the first connecting member (12) form a monolithic assembly.
• Regulating system (150) according to one of propositions 22 to 30, characterized in that the third elastic return element (3) comprises a second spiral spring (3) including at least one second blade (31) whose second end proximal (34) is provided for fixing said second spiral spring (3) to the frame (6).
• Regulating system (150) according to proposition 31 characterized in that the second spiral spring (3) also comprises a second connecting member (32) disposed at a second distal end of the second blade (31) making it possible to connect said spring -spring (3) to the second elastic return element (2), in particular via a connecting member (5).
• Regulating system (150) according to one of propositions 31 to 32, characterized in that the second proximal end (34), the second blade (31) and the second connecting member (32) form a monolithic element.
• Regulating system (150) according to one of propositions 22 to 33, characterized in that the second elastic return element (2) comprises at least one pair, in particular two pairs, of elastic blades (21 a, 21 b, 22a, 22b) forming a flexible guide, in particular an RCC pivot, of the first spiral spring (1) and the second spiral spring (3), whose virtual center of crossing of the blades coincides with a point through which the axis (A4) passes.
• Regulating system (150) according to proposition 34, characterized in that the elastic blades (21 a, 21 b, 22a, 22b) each have a U-shaped or substantially U-shaped or V-shaped or substantially V-shaped or W-shaped or substantially in W.
• Regulating system (150) according to one of propositions 22 to 35 and according to proposition 25 or 28, characterized in that the connecting member (5) comprises two plates (51, 52) for receiving the first and second connecting members (12, 32), the two plates (51, 52) being linked to the frame (6) by the second elastic return element (2).
• Regulating system (150) according to one of propositions 22 to 36, characterized in that at least one of the first, second and third elastic return elements can comprise at least in part:
• Adjustment device (200) according to proposition 38 characterized in that it comprises a monolithic structure (900) intended to be mounted on a frame (6) of a watch movement (300) of a timepiece ( 400). Adjusting device (200) according to proposition 39, characterized in that it comprises a connecting member (5) intended to support a first elastic return element (1) of an adjusting system according to one of propositions 22 to 37 and forming part of the monolithic structure (900). Adjusting device (200) according to proposition 39 or 40, characterized in that it comprises the spiral spring (1) of an adjusting system according to one of propositions 22 to 37, the spiral spring (1) making part of the monolithic structure (900). 42. Watch movement (300) comprising a regulating system (150) according to one of propositions 22 to 37 and/or a device (200) according to one of propositions 38 to 41.
• Figure 1 is a schematic view of the general structure of a timepiece according to the invention.
• Figure 2 is a schematic view of a first variant of a first embodiment of a regulating system.
• Figure 3 is a schematic view of a second variant of the first embodiment of the regulating system.
• Figure 4 is an exploded perspective view of a third variant of the first embodiment of the regulating system.
• Figure 5 is a side view of the third variant of the first embodiment of the regulating system.
• Figure 6 is a top view of part of the third variant of the first embodiment of the regulating system.
• Figure 7 is a perspective view of a fourth variant of the first embodiment of the regulating system.
• Figure 8 is a schematic view of a fifth variant of the first embodiment of the regulating system.
• Figure 9 is a view of a timepiece integrating a first variant of a second embodiment of a regulating system.
• Figure 10 is a schematic view of a second variant of the second embodiment of the regulating system.
• Figure 1 1 is a view specifying the structure of the first variant of the first embodiment of the regulating system.
• Figure 12 is a partial detail view of the structure of the first variant of the first embodiment of the regulating system.
• a timepiece 400 is described below in detail with reference to Figure 1.
• the timepiece 400 is for example a watch, in particular a wristwatch.
• the timepiece 400 comprises a watch movement 300 intended to be mounted in a timepiece case or box in order to protect it from the external environment.
• the watch movement 300 can be a mechanical movement, in particular an automatic movement, or even a hybrid movement, namely a mechanical movement comprising electronic elements.
• the 300 watch movement includes a 150 regulating system.
• the regulating system 150 includes:
• an oscillator 100 including an inertial element 4; 4’ and an elastic return system 1; 1’, 2, 3, and
• the regulating system 150 for watch movement 300 comprises:
• the elastic return system 1; 1 ', 2, 3 intended to connect the inertial element 4; 4’ to frame 6, the elastic return system 1; 1’, 2, 3 including:
• the device 200 for modifying the third stiffness k3, in particular by modifying an active length of the third elastic return element 3.
• the first elastic return element 1; 1 ' and the second elastic return element 2 are mounted in series between the inertial element 4; 4’ and the frame 6, and the third elastic return element 3 and the second elastic return element 2 are mounted in parallel between the frame 6 and the first elastic return element 1; 1’.
• the regulating system 150 for watch movement 300 comprises:
• an inertial element 4 taking the form of an assembled pendulum 4 pivoted relative to the frame 6 around a geometric axis A4,
• the elastic return system 1, 2, 3 includes:
• the first elastic return element 1 and the second elastic return element 2 are mounted in series between the assembled balance 4 and the frame 6, and the third elastic return element 3 and the second elastic return element 2 are mounted in parallel between the frame 6 and the first elastic return element 1.
• Two elastic return elements of a system are said to be "in series" when they follow one another or are linked to one another by one of their respective ends, so as to connect two distinct elements, so that when a mechanical stress presenting a given intensity is applied to the system, in particular to one or the other of the two distinct elements, each of the two elastic return elements is subjected at least substantially to this intensity given this request.
• Two elastic return elements of a system are said to be "in parallel" when they directly connect two distinct elements via their two respective ends, so that when a deformation presenting a given intensity is applied to the system, each of the two elements of elastic return is deformed at least significantly by this intensity.
• the regulating system and/or the oscillator are specifically shaped and/or arranged so as to allow fine adjustment of the course of the movement by modifying the stiffness of an elastic return element taking part in said oscillator.
• This adjustment can in particular be carried out by modifying the effective or active length of at least one elastic blade of an elastic return element taking part in said oscillator, in particular by means of a lever or a frame movable relatively to the building.
• the oscillator 100 represented schematically in Figure 1, has the particularity of comprising:
• the stiffness k3 of this third elastic return element 3 can be modified by a modification of the effective or active length of at least one elastic blade 31 of said third elastic return element 3, in particular by means of a lever or a frame 7.
• the stiffness k3 of this third elastic return element 3 can be modified by a modification of the effective or active length of only an elastic blade 31 of said third elastic return element 3 ; the first and second elastic return elements 1, 2, having no device for modifying their respective stiffnesses k1, k2.
• This configuration has the advantage of simplifying the implementation of the regulating system and/or the adjustment system compared to another system within which the effective lengths of several elastic blades can be modified.
• the adjustment of the step obtained by this configuration is all the finer as only the effective length of a single blade 31 is adjustable throughout the elastic return system comprising the three elastic return elements 1, 2, 3.
• This unique stiffness adjustment will therefore have a reduced effect on the total stiffness of the elastic return system comprising the three elastic return elements 1, 2, 3, which allows finer adjustment of the system.
• the adjustment device 200 acts exclusively on a single blade 31 of the third elastic return element 3.
• a variation of the order of ⁇ 10% of the stiffness k3 of the third elastic return element 3 can be made possible by the use of a lever or a frame making it possible to adjust the length effective or active of at least one elastic blade 31 of the third elastic return element 3.
• the lever or the frame can be manipulated by a watchmaker or by any autonomous device.
• such a variation in stiffness of the order of ⁇ 10% can be generated by moving a lever or a frame through an angle of a few degrees or around ten degrees around the A4 axis.
• the regulating system 150 is described below according to different embodiments and variants which either involve traditional watchmaking elements such as a balance wheel and at least one spiral spring, or guides and flexible elements capable of forming a monolithic assembly.
• the first elastic return element takes the form of a spiral spring 1 which is connected to an inertial element 4.
• the first elastic return element takes the form of a flexible guide 1' intended to elastically return, but also guide, in particular pivot, the inertial element 4 '.
• a flexible guide 1' intended to elastically return, but also guide, in particular pivot, the inertial element 4 '.
• the third elastic return element can take various forms such as a straight or curved elastic blade, or a spiral spring, and
• the inertial element can be reduced to an oscillating mass or take the form of a balance wheel pivoted by an axis (commonly called “assembled balance wheel”).
• the axis can be secured to the balance, in particular by driving.
• the axis can be made from balance material.
• the axis and the balance can form a monolithic assembly.
• the first elastic return element 1 can be connected respectively to the second and third elastic return elements 2, 3 via a connecting member 5 as shown in Figures 1 to 10.
• this connecting member 5 can be a rigid element contributing to mechanically decoupling the second and third elastic return elements 2, 3 from the first elastic return element 1 connected to the inertial element, so that possible disturbances induced by the second and third elastic return elements 2, 3 (such as for example a non-linearity of the stiffnesses k2 and k3), affect to a lesser extent the operation of the assembly constituted by the inertial element and the first return element elastic.
• the second and third elastic return elements 2, 3 are connected to the frame 6.
• the frame can be a frame of the watch movement 300, in particular a blank 6, like a plate or a bridge, especially a balance bridge.
• the third elastic return element 3 can be connected to the frame 6 via an element 7 for adjusting the modification device 200.
• an advantageous way of producing the second elastic return element consists of the use of an RCC pivot (acronym for “Remote Center Compliance” or “remote axis pivot”), made up of at least two recessed blades, having a function of guiding the connecting member 5.
• the virtual crossing center of the flexible blades which constitute the pivot RCC can advantageously coincide with a point through which the geometric axis A4 of the inertial element passes (for the first embodiment) or coincide with a point through which the geometric (and virtual) axis A4 'of the flexible guidance 1 'and the inertial element (for the second embodiment). This configuration improves the stability of oscillator 100; 100’ in relation to any other arrangement of the three elastic return elements.
• the inertial element 4; 4’ in particular the “assembled balance wheel 4”, or more generally the oscillator 100; 100’ or the regulating system 150, regulates a finishing chain or finishing train of the movement 300 via a watch escapement. Any known watch escapement structure and any known finishing gear structure can be used.
• the first elastic return element takes the form of a spiral spring 1 provided with a blade 1 1, a first proximal end of which is connected to an oscillating mass 41 of an inertial element 4 via an axis 42 of geometric axis A4.
• the second elastic return element 2 comprises two elastic blades 21, 22.
• the two blades 21, 22 are preferably rectilinear. They are for example oriented radially relative to the pivot axis A4 of the inertial element 4.
• the third elastic return element 3 takes the form of a single elastic blade 31.
• the blade 3 is preferably rectilinear.
• the blade 31 is for example oriented radially relative to the pivot axis A4 of the inertial element 4.
• the blades 21, 22, 31 are connected, at each of their first ends, to the spiral spring 1 at the level of an extremal portion 5 of the spiral spring 1, substantially more rigid than the blade 11 and extending the blade 11 at the distal end of the spiral spring 1.
• These blades 21, 22, 31 are also connected, at each of their second ends, to the frame 6.
• the second ends of the blades 21, 22 are embedded, in particular permanently embedded, in the frame 6.
• the second end of the blade 31 is taken or held between two pins 81, 82 secured to the adjustment element 7 consisting of a lever 7 or a frame 7 which is connected to the frame 6 while being able to be moved in translation relatively said frame 6.
• the pins make it possible to pinch and/or hold and/or support the third blade 31 at the point of contact with the pins. At these points of contact, the deflection of the third blade 31 is limited, or even canceled. The bending of the blade thus occurs between its point of connection to the extremal portion 5 and the points of contact with the pins. Consequently, the effective or active length of the third blade which is in flexion can be adjusted by moving the lever 7 or the frame 7. This has the effect of modifying the stiffness k3 of the third blade 31.
• the inertial element 4 oscillates around the axis A4, which induces an expansion and compression of the blade 11, but also a bending of the blades 21, 22, 31.
• the blades 21, 22 define a flexible guide making it possible to connect the blade 11 and the connecting member 5 of the spiral spring 1 to the frame 6.
• the blades 21, 22 define here an RCC (Remote Center) pivot Compliance) connecting the blade 11 and the connecting member 5 of the spiral spring 1 to the frame 6.
• the axis of the pivot RCC is preferably coincident with the geometric axis A4 around which the inertial element 4 is pivoted. modification of the effective length of the blade 31 (and therefore of its stiffness k3, as seen previously) makes it possible to vary the stiffness k100 of the oscillator 100 comprising such a spiral spring 1 connected in series with the blades 21, 22 respectively , and the blade 31.
• the blade 31 has a curved geometry (circular or substantially circular), and its effective length can be adjusted by means of a lever 7 or a frame 7 movable in rotation.
• the connecting member 5 has a slightly more complex conformation than that of the connecting member 5 of the first variant.
• the connecting member 5 according to this second variant may have a bent geometry.
• the connecting member 5 may have a first circular or substantially circular portion extending around the axis A4 to secure the blades 21, 22 to the blade 11 (identically to the first variant) and a second rectilinear portion, oriented radially or substantially radially relative to the axis A4, being intended to secure the blade 31 to the blade 11.
• the other end of the blade 31 is, for its part, preferably embedded in the frame 6.
• the effective or active length of this blade 31, which moves on either side of its rest position under the effect of the oscillations of the inertial element 4 around the geometric axis A4, is defined by pins 81 and 82 which are secured to a lever or a rotating frame 7 relative to the frame 6.
• the pins 81 and 82 provide points of support against the blade 31 and thus define one end of the effective or active length of this blade 31, that is to say define the length of the blade 31 effectively subjected to bending.
• the third elastic return element takes the form of a spiral spring 3 provided with a blade 31 whose proximal end 34 is connected or fixed to the frame 6 (shown schematically in Figures 4 and 5).
• This spiral spring 3 is connected to the spiral spring 1, in particular to the blade 11 of the spiral spring 1, via a connecting member 5, which connecting member 5 is mechanically connected to the frame 6 via A second elastic return element 2.
• the frame here is preferably a blank 6, like a bridge, in particular a balance bridge.
• the second elastic return element 2 and the connecting member 5 come from the material of an intermediate member 61 fixed or attached to the rest of the frame 6.
• the intermediate member 61 therefore forms part of the frame 6.
• the second elastic return element 2 and the connecting member 5 are included within the same intermediate member 61 fixed to the rest of the frame 6.
• This intermediate member 61 shown specifically in Figure 6, has the shape of a generally elongated plate.
• This intermediate member 61 is advantageously equipped with two pairs of elastic blades 21a, 21b and 22a, 22b forming the second elastic return element 2.
• these two pairs of blades are arranged symmetrically facing a plane P passing through the geometric axis A4 of the axis 42 which is connected to the balance 41, the axis 42 passing through a central opening 610 of organ 61.
• the pair of blades 21 a, 21 b elastically connects a first portion or plate 51 to the intermediate member 61.
• the pair of blades 22a, 22b elastically connects a second portion or plate 52 to the intermediate member 61.
• the portions or plates 51 and 52 together constitute the connecting member 5.
• the plates 51, 52 are respectively integral with the pairs of blades 21 a, 21 b and 22a, 22b.
• Each of these plates 51, 52 is intended to be fixed respectively to a respective first end 13a, 33a and to a respective second end 13b, 33b of the spiral springs 1 and 3.
• the spiral springs 1, 3 are connected to the plates 51, 52 constituting the connecting member 5.
• These plates are themselves connected to the frame 6 by the elastic blades 21 a, 21 b and 22a, 22b.
• the member 61 fixed to the rest of the bridge 6 can thus constitute a support for spiral springs 1 and 3.
• first ends 13a, 13b and second ends 33a, 33b each take the form of studs or pins intended to be attached, in particular driven out, within openings 53a, 53b respectively formed at the level of each of the plates 51, 52.
• the two plates could include studs and the connecting members of the spiral springs could include openings for receiving or driving out these studs.
• Each of the plates 51, 52 is formed in the continuity of the blades 21 a, 21 b and 22a, 22b which each have here a U shape or substantially U shape.
• the elastic blades 21 a, 21 b and 22a, 22b can for example each have a V shape or substantially V or W shape or substantially W.
• the elastic blades 21 a, 21 b and 22a, 22b can for example each have a shape making it possible to obtain the value of targeted stiffness.
• the structures 21a, 21b, 51 and 22a, 22b, 52 constitute one-piece elements or formed in one piece. More generally, these structures are included within the intermediate organ 61, the latter forming a monolithic assembly.
• the one-piece assembly can integrate the two plates 51, 52.
• pairs of studs 13a, 13b and 33a, 33b are respectively secured to a connecting member 12, 32 formed respectively in the continuity of the blades 11, 31 of the spirals 1, 3 at their distal end.
• these two pairs of studs are arranged symmetrically facing the aforementioned plane P, so that they can each cooperate with the pairs of elastic blades 21 a, 21 b and 22a, 22b via the plates 51 , 52 which form the connecting member 5.
• the first connecting member 12 is arranged at a first distal end of the first blade 11 and makes it possible to connect the first spiral spring 1 to the second elastic return element 2, in particular via the connecting member 5.
• the second connecting member 32 is arranged at a second distal end of the third blade 31 and makes it possible to connect the second spiral spring 3 to the second elastic return element 2, in particular via the connecting member 5.
• Each of these pairs of elastic blades 21 a, 21 b and 22a, 22b defines flexible guidance of the hairsprings 1 and 3, in particular an RCC pivot (whose virtual center coincides with the axis A4), while connecting the hairsprings 1 and 3 via portions 51, 52.
• the intermediate member 61 is arranged at the interface of the hairsprings 1 and 3.
• the intermediate member is arranged between the hairsprings 1 and 3 along the axis A4 or in a vertical direction z represented schematically by an arrow in Figure 5.
• the modification device 200 can for example be placed between the spiral spring 3 and the frame 6, in particular the balance bridge 6 (in the vertical direction z).
• pins 81, 82 are integral with a lever 7 or a frame 7, which is connected to the frame 6 while being able to be moved in rotation relative to said frame 6.
• the blades 11 and 31 of the hairsprings 1, 3 can be similar or substantially similar, or even identical.
• k3 k1.
• k1 stiffness which is equal to k3
• Such a variant has the advantage of involving traditional watchmaking elements (for example, the hairsprings 1, 3, the assembled balance 4) while allowing assembly facilitated by the specific conformation of intermediate member 61, which has the advantage of combining the functions of the second elastic return element 2 and the connecting member 5.
• this assembly 41, 42, 1 can constitute a standardized assembly which can be integrated both within a conventional movement, and 'within a movement 300 equipped with a modification device 200.
• the ferrule 14 is preferably arranged at a first proximal end of the first blade 11 and fixed to the axis 42 secured to the balance 41.
• the ferrule 14, the first blade 11 and the first connecting member 12 form a monolithic assembly.
• the second proximal end 34, the second blade 31 and the second connecting member 32 can form a monolithic element.
• a fourth variant (shown in Figure 7) of the first embodiment differs essentially from the third variant in that the third blade 31 is much more rigid. Compared to the third variant, the section of the blade 31 is increased and/or the length of the blade 31 is shortened. For example, the stiffness of the second elastic return element 2 and the stiffness of the third elastic return element 3 are equal or substantially equal.
• the second elastic return element 2 is here in the form of a curved elastic blade 21, more rigid than the blade 11.
• the connecting member 5 is in the form of an elbow 51 (oriented radially or substantially radially relative to the axis A4), which is formed at the distal end of the blade 11. This makes it possible to connect the blade 1 1 to a curved elastic blade 31 forming the third elastic return element, but also to connect the latter to the curved elastic blade 21.
• the distal ends of the blades 21 and 31 are for their part connected to the frame 6 via an elbow 210 formed at the distal end of the blade 21, for example by an embedding connection.
• the first elastic return element 1' takes the form of a flexible guide 1' intended to elastically return, but also guide, in particular pivot, an inertial element 4' along an axis A4'.
• the first elastic return element 1' may comprise two blades 11' and 12' which intersect so as to form, for example, a Wittrick pivot.
• these blades 11' and 12' are arranged in two distinct and parallel planes.
• These blades 1 1', 12' are connected, at each of their first ends, to a connecting member 5.
• These blades 1 1', 12' are also connected, at each of their second ends, to a oscillating weight 41'.
• the inertial element 4' can include the oscillating mass 41', but also the blades 11' and 12' forming the first elastic return element 1' as well as a guide element 42'.
• the second elastic return element 2 comprises two rectilinear elastic blades 21, 22 constituting an RCC pivot
• the third elastic return element 3 takes the form of a single rectilinear elastic blade 31, each of these blades 21, 22, 31 extending radially or substantially radially relative to the axis A4'.
• the blades 11', 12' and 21, 22 and 31 are connected together, at each of their first ends, via a connecting member 5.
• the blades 21, 22, 31 are also connected, at the level of each of their second ends, to the frame 6.
• the second ends of the blades 21, 22 are permanently embedded in the frame 6, and the second end of the blade 31 is taken between two projections 81, 82 integral with a frame 7 of a modification device 200, which is connected to the frame 6 while being able to be moved in translation relative to said frame 6.
• the mass 41' oscillates around the axis A4', which induces a bending of the blades 11' and 12', but also a bending of the blades 21, 22, 31.
• the blades 21, 22 define a flexible guide making it possible to connect the blades 11 ', 12' and the connecting member 5 to the frame 6.
• the blades 21, 22 define an RCC pivot connecting the blades 1 1' , 12' and the connecting member 5 to the frame 6.
• the axis of the pivot RCC is preferably coincident with the geometric (and virtual) axis A4' around which the inertial element 4' is pivoted.
• a modification of the effective length of the blade 31 makes it possible to vary the stiffness k100' of the oscillator 100' comprising such a first elastic return element 1' connected in series with the blades 21, 22, respectively. and the blade 31.
• a second variant of the second embodiment is substantially equivalent to the first variant with the difference that the blade 31 has a curved geometry, and that its effective or active length can be adjusted by means of a lever 7 movable in rotation.
• the connecting member 5 has a slightly more complex conformation than that of the connecting member 5 of the first variant.
• the connecting member 5 according to this second variant has a bent geometry.
• Two first circular or substantially circular portions extend around the axis A4' to secure the blades 21, 22 to the blades 11' and 12' and a second rectilinear portion, oriented radially or substantially radially relative to the axis A4', is intended to secure the blade 31 to the blades 11', 12'.
• the other end of the blade 31 is embedded in the frame 6.
• the effective length of this blade 31, which moves on either side of its rest position under the effect of the oscillations of the inertial element 4' around the virtual axis A4', is defined by the pins 81 and 82 which are integral with the rotary lever 7 mechanically linked to the frame 6.
• the oscillator 100 comprises an oscillating mass 41 of an inertial element 4, in particular a balance wheel, and a first elastic return element 1, in particular a spiral spring.
• the oscillator 100 also includes a second elastic return element forming part of a support 2 of the first elastic return element 1.
• the spiral spring 1 is equipped with a blade 1 1:
• a second distal end comprises a first connecting member 12 intended to be fixed to a second connecting member 5 of the support 2, in particular by means of tenons or pins 213a, 213b intended to be inserted respectively within openings 212a, 212b and 221a, 221b formed respectively on the first and second connecting members, in particular at each of their ends.
• the second connecting member 5 is fixed to a rigid frame 20 by means of elastic blades 21, 22, each provided with flexible portions at their respective ends.
• the second elastic return element takes the form of the second connecting member 5 articulated on the frame 20 via the elastic blades 21, 22.
• a third elastic return element 3 takes the form of a single elastic blade 31, here rectilinear, which is integral with the second connecting member 5, and which is for example arranged between the elastic blades 21, 22 at the outer periphery of the second connecting member 5.
• the elements 20, 21, 22, 5 of the support 2 and the blade 31 of the third elastic return element 3 form a monolithic structure 900 of the regulating system 150, which is integral with the frame 6 of the part d 400 watchmaking, in particular the 300 movement.
• a stiffness selection device 308 of the elastic return system 10 makes it possible to select a stiffness among 3 predetermined stiffnesses ksr1, ksr2, ksr3,
• the stiffness ksr2 being greater than the stiffness ksr1 and inducing a frequency f2 greater than the frequency f1,
• the stiffness ksr3 being lower than the stiffness ksr1 and inducing a frequency f3 lower than the frequency f1.
• predetermined stiffness we mean here a stiffness determined in advance, which is centered on a value ksr1 or ksr2 or ksr3.
• these predetermined stiffnesses ksr1, ksr2, ksr3 can each vary over a given range, the amplitude of which depends on the tolerances of the system.
• the stiffness ksr1 is likely to vary over a more restricted range, or even much more restricted than those associated with the stiffnesses ksr2, ksr3, so as to induce a nominal frequency f1 of the first oscillator.
• a stiffness ksr2 of the elastic return system 10 makes it possible to correct a possible delay of a display device of the timepiece or makes it possible to correct a possible delay of a mobile controlling a possible display device of the timepiece.
• timepiece, and a stiffness ksr3 of the elastic return system 10 makes it possible to correct a possible advance of a display device of the timepiece or makes it possible to correct a possible advance of a mobile controlling a possible display device display of the timepiece.
• the stiffness selection device 308 of the elastic return system 10 acts specifically on the stiffness of the third elastic return element 3, more particularly on the stiffness of the elastic blade 31.
• the stiffness selection device 308 makes it possible to select a determined stiffness of the third elastic return element 3 among 3 predetermined stiffnesses k31, k32, k33, the stiffnesses ksr1, ksr2, ksr3 of the elastic return system 10 being correlated respectively with the stiffnesses k31, k32, k33.
• a stiffness k31 of the elastic blade 31 makes it possible to define a nominal frequency f1 of the first oscillator 100
• a stiffness k32 of the elastic blade 31 makes it possible to correct a possible delay of a display device of the timepiece or a possible delay of a mobile controlling a possible display device of the timepiece
• a stiffness k33 of the elastic blade 31 makes it possible to correct a possible advance of the display device of the timepiece or a possible advance of a mobile controlling a possible display device of the timepiece, as will be described below.
• Figure 12 represents the selection device 308 in black color. This is here part of the monolithic structure 900 intended to be attached to the frame 6 of the movement 300, in particular on a blank.
• the selection device 308 comprises an adjustment element 7 or at least a pair of pliers 81, 82 provided to act on the active length of the elastic blade 31, as well as a cooperating selection nozzle 306 with a toothed structure 305 which are provided to position the pair of pliers 81, 82 according to one of three stable positions predefined by the teeth of the structure 305.
• This selection device 308 can be actuated in order to position the pair of pliers 81, 82 in three stable positions by moving the selection nose 306 opposite the toothed structure 305.
• the device for adjusting or modifying the stiffness 200 may comprise a monolithic structure 900 of which the clamps 81 and 82 are part, the clamps being movable (along the third blade 3), relative to a base 20 of the structure monolithic 900, this base 20 being fixed to the frame 6.
• clamps 81, 82 are linked to a frame 304 via flexible blades 601 and the frame 304 is linked to the base 20 via flexible blades. Due to this structure, the clamps 81, 82 (and more generally the assembly comprising the frame 304) can be moved relative to the frame.
• the selection device 308 comprises the clamps 81, 82, the frame 304 and the base 20.
• the toothed structure 305 can be produced on one of the frame 304 and the base 20, and the selection nozzle can be produced on the other of the frame 304 and the base 20.
• the adjustment element 7 comprises two projections or clamps 81, 82 which are mounted on the frame 6 via elastic blades 601, and are recalled against the third elastic blade 3 thanks to a prestressing element or tenon 303 ; and or
• the clamps 81, 82 are integrated into a monolithic structure 900 of which a base 20 is intended to be attached to the frame 6; and or
• the blades 21, 22 of the second elastic return element are also formed within this monolithic structure 900 and are connected to the connecting member 5 (of the first elastic return element) and to a base 20 mounted on the frame 6 , and or
• - one end of the third elastic blade may be free, and/or
• the first elastic return element 1 (which can take the form of a spiral spring) can be formed within the monolithic structure 900, and/or
• the support 5 or the connecting member 5 (supporting the first elastic return element 1, in particular supporting the spiral spring) is integral with the monolithic structure 900 or is part of the monolithic structure, and/or
• the clamps 81, 82 act to immobilize the third elastic blade in a transverse direction of the third blade (and in the plane of Figure 12), and/or
• the clamps 81, 82 act without pre-stressing or deforming the third blade.
• the selection device 308 can also be provided in order to position the pair of pliers 81, 82 in n stable positions by moving the selection nose 306 opposite the toothed structure 305.
• n can be equal to 3, but can also be different, in particular can be equal to 2 or be equal to 4 or 5.
• the selection device can be a continuous adjustment system. In this case, it is not a discrete adjustment system comprising n predefined adjustment positions, but an actionable adjustment system for example by means of an eccentric which can oscillate over a determined range devoid of notch or discrete position.
• the oscillator 100, 100' can be monolithic or consist of an assembly of elements.
• the spiral springs 1, 3 described in this document comprise a single blade.
• at least one spiral spring comprising several leaves, such as two leaves, on one or more planes.
• oscillator 100; 100' may include one or more other elastic return elements in addition to the first, second and third elastic return elements described in the document.
• oscillator 100; 100' could include at least a fourth elastic return element for thermocompensation purposes or for the purpose of specifying gait correction. This could for example be arranged in parallel with the second and third elastic return elements.
• the elastic return elements may comprise at least in part monocrystalline silicon whatever its orientation, polycrystalline silicon, amorphous silicon, amorphous silicon dioxide, doped silicon whatever. either the type and level of doping, or even porous silicon. They may also include silicon carbide, glass, ceramic, composite material, or quartz. Alternatively, the elastic return elements can be made of metal or of a metal alloy, in particular a paramagnetic metal alloy such as an alloy based on Nb-Zr or Nb-Ti. In this document, solutions with rotated inertial elements have been described. Naturally, the concept of the invention can also be applied to an inertial element intended, for example, to be moved in translation.
• the oscillation frequency of the inertial element can be between 3 Hz and 8 Hz, typically being 4 Hz.
• this frequency can be chosen according to the needs specific to the timepiece, and this frequency can also be equal to or greater than 8 Hz like 10 Hz or between 10 Hz and 100 Hz, or even equal to or greater than 100 Hz.
• the stiffnesses k1, k2 and k3 are such that:
• the second stiffness k2 is significantly greater than the first stiffness k1, in particular in that the second stiffness k2 is significantly greater than the first stiffness k1 and significantly greater than the third stiffness k3.
• stiffnesses k1, k2 and k3 can be such that:
• stiffnesses k1, k2 and k3 can be such that:
• the second elastic return element 2 is a curved blade 21.
• this curved blade can be formed in continuity with a blade 11 of a spiral spring 1 forming the first elastic return element 1.
• first, second and third elastic return elements are connected to each other by a connecting member 5.
• This connecting member 5 can be
• the inertial element 4; 4’ and the first, second and third elastic return elements can be formed in one piece or can form a monolithic assembly.
• the invention also relates to an adjustment device 200 as such.
• the device makes it possible to adjust a system regulating 150; 150' as described above or an oscillator 100; 100' as described previously.
• the adjustment device 200 can in particular be a device for modifying the stiffness k3 of a third elastic return element 3. This modification of the stiffness can in particular be obtained by modifying an active or effective length of the third element of elastic return 3, in particular by a modification of an active length or effective of at least one blade 31 of the third elastic return element 3.
• the adjustment device is a device 200 for modifying the stiffness of an elastic return element making it possible more particularly to modify the active or effective length of the elastic return element.
• the lever or the frame 7 can be an element movable relative to the frame and providing support or support for the third elastic return element.
• the support or support can be produced by surfaces, in particular cylindrical surfaces, of pins 81, 82 arranged to come to bear against the third elastic return element, in particular against an elastic blade of the third element of elastic reminder.
• the invention also relates to a method for adjusting the oscillator 100; 100’ from the system regulating 150; 150 'described previously or the watch movement 300 described previously or the timepiece 400 described previously.
• the method comprises a step of modifying the third stiffness k3 of the third elastic return element 3.
• This modification of the third stiffness k3 of the third elastic return element 3 can be a modification of an active length of the third elastic return element 3, in particular a modification of an active length of at least one blade 31 of the third element elastic return 3.
• This modification is preferably carried out using an adjustment device as described previously. Such adjustment device makes it possible in particular to limit, or even cancel, the deformation of the third elastic return element 3 at a point of the third elastic return element 3, this point being movable along the third elastic return element 3.
• the solutions described in this document allow fine adjustment of the course of the movement by modifying the stiffness of a given elastic return element taking part in an oscillator, in particular by modifying the effective length of at least one blade elastic of an elastic return element taking part in said oscillator, in particular by means of a lever or a movable frame and providing support for an elastic blade.
• the proposed solution is also likely to be implemented for adjustment of the rate while the oscillator is in operation.
• the oscillator has the particularity of comprising a first elastic return element connected to an inertial element, a second elastic return element connected in series with the first elastic return element, as well as a third return element elastic also connected in series with the first elastic return element, in parallel with the second elastic return element 2, the stiffness of this third elastic return element being modifiable by means of an additional device for modifying the stiffness of the third elastic return element.
• the stiffness of this third elastic return element can be modified by adjusting the effective length of at least one elastic blade of said third elastic return element, in particular by means of an additional device for modifying the effective length of the third elastic return element which can take the form of a lever or a movable frame.
• This lever or this movable frame advantageously comprises pins or projections which make it possible to pinch and/or hold and/or support the third blade 31 at the point of contact with the pins or with the projections. At these points of contact, the deflection of the third blade 31 is limited, or even canceled.
• this lever or this frame comprises a pair of two pins or two projections. Naturally, this lever or this frame may include more than two pins or two projections.

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• 2023
  • 2023-12-28 WO PCT/EP2023/087924 patent/WO2024141601A1/fr not_active Ceased
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