WO2024132715A1 - Balance wheel for timepiece movement - Google Patents

Balance wheel for timepiece movement Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2024132715A1
WO2024132715A1 PCT/EP2023/085397 EP2023085397W WO2024132715A1 WO 2024132715 A1 WO2024132715 A1 WO 2024132715A1 EP 2023085397 W EP2023085397 W EP 2023085397W WO 2024132715 A1 WO2024132715 A1 WO 2024132715A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
assembly according
balance wheel
balance
electrical conductivity
density greater
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PCT/EP2023/085397
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Christian Charbon
Lionel MICHELET
Marco Verardo
Original Assignee
Nivarox-Far S.A.
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Application filed by Nivarox-Far S.A. filed Critical Nivarox-Far S.A.
Publication of WO2024132715A1 publication Critical patent/WO2024132715A1/en

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Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G04—HOROLOGY
    • G04B—MECHANICALLY-DRIVEN CLOCKS OR WATCHES; MECHANICAL PARTS OF CLOCKS OR WATCHES IN GENERAL; TIME PIECES USING THE POSITION OF THE SUN, MOON OR STARS
    • G04B17/00—Mechanisms for stabilising frequency
    • G04B17/04—Oscillators acting by spring tension
    • G04B17/06—Oscillators with hairsprings, e.g. balance
    • G04B17/063—Balance construction
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G04—HOROLOGY
    • G04B—MECHANICALLY-DRIVEN CLOCKS OR WATCHES; MECHANICAL PARTS OF CLOCKS OR WATCHES IN GENERAL; TIME PIECES USING THE POSITION OF THE SUN, MOON OR STARS
    • G04B43/00—Protecting clockworks by shields or other means against external influences, e.g. magnetic fields
    • G04B43/007—Antimagnetic alloys

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a balance wheel for a timepiece, as well as to an axle/balance assembly.
  • the regulating organ of a timepiece generally includes a flywheel called a balance wheel. This part is decisive for the running quality of the timepiece. Indeed, the combination of a balance wheel and a spiral spring forms an oscillator which makes it possible to regulate the movement at a specific frequency.
  • the rim and the arms are made from a copper-based alloy, in particular cupro-beryllium, brass, nickel silver or Declafor.
  • the cupro-beryllium which is mainly used offers an advantageous combination of qualities which include, in particular, non-magnetism, good chemical stability and sufficient mechanical characteristics.
  • the density of these alloys is generally greater than 8.
  • balance wheels of which at least the rim is made of ceramic material or diamond.
  • ceramic material or diamond Although non-magnetic, such materials are very difficult to machine for the production of balance wheels and make manufacturing costs very high.
  • An aim of the present invention is therefore to propose a balance wheel devoid of known limitations by using a specific alloy which is non-magnetic and insensitive to eddy currents.
  • Another aim of the present invention is to propose a balance wheel with a rim whose density is sufficiently high to allow the balance wheel to be integrated into the space available for a given movement. Indeed, if the density is too low, as is generally the case for ceramics, the balance becomes too large for a given inertia and can no longer be accommodated in the movement.
  • Another aim of the invention is to provide an assembly whose axis is made of a material making it possible both to limit the sensitivity to magnetic fields and to obtain mechanical properties making it possible to meet the requirements for resistance to wear and shock and in the watchmaking field.
  • the aim of the present invention is to overcome all or part of the drawbacks mentioned above by proposing an assembly comprising a balance axis and a balance wheel of which at least the edge is made of a non-magnetic material.
  • the present invention relates to an assembly comprising a balance wheel comprising a hub connected to a rim by at least one arm, at least the rim being made of a first material whose relative magnetic permeability is less than 1.01, and electrically insulating, and an axis arranged to receive said balance, the axis being made of a second material whose relative magnetic permeability is less than 1.01, with a density greater than 6.5, and electrically conductive.
  • the first material preferably has an electrical conductivity less than or equal to 2.5MS/m, and more preferably less than or equal to 1.5MS/m; the first material has a density greater than 2; the first material has a density greater than 4; the first material has a density greater than 5; the first material has a density greater than 6.5; the second material has an electrical conductivity greater than or equal to 5MS/m, the second material has an electrical conductivity greater than or equal to 10MS/m; the second material is tungsten; the second material is tungsten doped with lanthanum oxide; the first material is chosen from: metals or metal alloys, ceramics, ceramic-metal composites, non-magnetic hard metals; the first material is an alloy which contains chromium, iron, nickel and/or cobalt as main constituents; the first material has a face-centered cubic crystal structure; the first material is an austenitic alloy; the austenitic alloy preferably has a chromium content
  • the invention also relates to a watch movement comprising a balance wheel according to the invention.
  • the invention also relates to a watch comprising a movement equipped with a balance wheel according to the invention.
  • the invention relates to an assembly comprising a balance wheel and a balance shaft.
  • the balance shaft supports a balance wheel comprising a rim, at least one arm made in one piece with the rim and a hub.
  • the arms extend from the hub located in the center of the balance wheel, and in which the axis is driven against a shoulder.
  • the axis also supports a ferrule, intended for fixing a hairspring not shown.
  • At least the rim of the balance wheel is made of a first non-magnetic material, and electrically insulating, and the balance shaft is made of a second non-magnetic material, of density greater than 6.5, and electrically conductive.
  • non-magnetic material means a material whose relative magnetic permeability is less than 1.01.
  • electrically insulating material we mean a material which is weakly or very weakly electrically conductive, or whose electrical conductivity is less than or equal to 2.5MS/m,
  • electrically conductive material is meant a material whose electrical conductivity is greater than 5MS/m.
  • the first material from which the balance wheel is made has an electrical conductivity less than or equal to 2.5MS/m, and preferably, the electrical conductivity is less than or equal to 1.5MS/m.
  • electrical conductivity makes it possible to limit the influence of eddy currents and thus rate drifts when the watch is under a magnetic field.
  • the first material forming the balance wheel has a density greater than 2.
  • the first material has a density greater than 4.
  • the first material has a density greater than 5. [0028] According to the invention, the first material has a density greater than 6.5.
  • the first material forming the balance wheel is chosen from metals, metal alloys, ceramics such as ytterbium oxide, Europium (III) oxide, dysprosium oxide, cerium oxide (IV) or neodymium oxide, zirconia, ceramic-metal composites or non-magnetic hard metals such as tungsten carbide with a nickel binder or even grade 5 titanium.
  • the first material forming the balance is made from an alloy which contains as main constituents iron, chromium, nickel and/or cobalt, and has a face-centered cubic crystal structure.
  • the balance wheel is made of an austenitic alloy chosen from 316L steel, 904L steel, Phynox or MP35N. Obviously, other austenitic alloys with similar properties can be used without particular difficulty for those skilled in the art.
  • Such an austenitic alloy preferably has a chromium (Cr) content greater than 10%, preferably greater than 15%.
  • the alloy used to make the balance wheel is a 316L steel consisting of a maximum of 0.02% carbon (C), a maximum of 1% silicon (Si), a maximum of 2% manganese (Mn), a maximum of 0.04% phosphorus (P), a maximum of 0.03% sulfur (S), between 16% and 18% chromium (Cr), between 2 and 2.5% molybdenum (Mo), and between 10.5% and 13% nickel (Ni).
  • the second material in which the balance axis is made has an electrical conductivity greater than or equal to [0034] According to another embodiment of the invention, the second material in which the axis of the balance is made has an electrical conductivity greater than or equal to 10MS/m.
  • the second material forming the axis of the balance wheel is tungsten.
  • Tungsten is a paramagnetic material, which has a density of 19.25 and an electrical conductivity of 17.9MS/m.
  • the axis is made of tungsten doped with lanthanum oxide.
  • Tungsten combines low magnetic permeability, high hardness and very good wear resistance.
  • tungsten with an addition of lanthanum oxide retains the majority of the aforementioned properties and is more easily machinable by chip removal.
  • an assembly according to the invention can comprise, for example, a tungsten axis and a titanium balance (grade 5), or a tungsten axis and a zirconia balance, or even a tungsten axis doped with lanthanum oxide and a zirconia or titanium balance (grade 5).
  • the balance wheel is coated with a layer, in particular decorative, by electroplating, PVD or CVD deposition.
  • the axis can be coated with a layer, in particular chemical NiP or NiB to improve its properties, in particular its hardness, its resistance to wear and friction.
  • the invention also relates to a watch movement and a timepiece equipped with a balance wheel according to the invention.

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  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Metallurgy (AREA)
  • Electromechanical Clocks (AREA)

Abstract

The present invention relates to an assembly comprising a balance wheel that includes a hub connected to a felloe by at least one arm, at least the felloe being made of a first material which has a relative magnetic permeability of less than 1.01 and is electrically insulating, and a staff arranged to receive the balance wheel, the staff being made of a second material which has a relative magnetic permeability of less than 1.01 and a density of more than 6.5 and is electrically conductive.

Description

BALANCIER POUR MOUVEMENT D’HORLOGERIE BALANCER FOR CLOCK MOVEMENT

Domaine technique de l’invention Technical field of the invention

[0001] L'invention se rapporte à un balancier pour pièce d’horlogerie, ainsi qu’à un ensemble axe/balancier. [0001] The invention relates to a balance wheel for a timepiece, as well as to an axle/balance assembly.

Arrière-plan technologique Technology background

[0002] L’organe régulateur d’une pièce d’horlogerie comporte généralement un volant d’inertie appelé balancier. Cette pièce est déterminante pour la qualité de marche de la pièce d’horlogerie. En effet, l’association d’un balancier et d’un ressort spiral forme un oscillateur qui permet de réguler le mouvement à une fréquence déterminée. [0002] The regulating organ of a timepiece generally includes a flywheel called a balance wheel. This part is decisive for the running quality of the timepiece. Indeed, the combination of a balance wheel and a spiral spring forms an oscillator which makes it possible to regulate the movement at a specific frequency.

[0003] Actuellement, dans un balancier pour mouvement de montre, la serge et les bras sont réalisés à partir d'un alliage à base de cuivre, notamment en cupro-béryllium, en laiton, en maillechort ou en Declafor. Le cupro-béryllium qui est majoritairement utilisé offre une combinaison avantageuse de qualités qui comprennent, en particulier, amagnétisme, une bonne stabilité chimique et des caractéristiques mécaniques suffisantes. La densité de ces alliages est généralement supérieure à 8. [0003] Currently, in a balance wheel for a watch movement, the rim and the arms are made from a copper-based alloy, in particular cupro-beryllium, brass, nickel silver or Declafor. The cupro-beryllium which is mainly used offers an advantageous combination of qualities which include, in particular, non-magnetism, good chemical stability and sufficient mechanical characteristics. The density of these alloys is generally greater than 8.

[0004] La problématique des champs magnétiques est bien connue des horlogers et est rencontrée de plus en plus régulièrement. Les champs magnétiques se font de plus en plus présents dans la vie quotidienne et perturbent le fonctionnement des montres mécaniques, ce qui entraine une forte dérive de marche. [0004] The problem of magnetic fields is well known to watchmakers and is encountered more and more regularly. Magnetic fields are becoming more and more present in daily life and disrupt the operation of mechanical watches, which leads to significant rate drift.

[0005] Pour résoudre ce problème, les solutions envisagées jusqu’à présent tournent toutes autour de matériaux amagnétiques pour le spiral (Si ou alliages base Nb), les points de pivotement (axe de balancier, tige d’ancre, pignon d’échappement), les planches de roues et planches d’ancre. [0006] Les matériaux utilisés pour la serge de balancier sont habituellement amagnétiques : laiton, maillechort, cupro-béryllium mais ils présentent une bonne conductivité électrique. [0005] To resolve this problem, the solutions envisaged up to now all revolve around non-magnetic materials for the hairspring (Si or Nb-based alloys), the pivot points (balance axis, pallet rod, escapement pinion). ), wheel boards and anchor boards. The materials used for the balance wheel are usually non-magnetic: brass, nickel silver, cupro-beryllium but they have good electrical conductivity.

[0007] Malgré la combinaison de tous ces matériaux amagnétiques, un mouvement présente une importante dérive sous un champ magnétique. [0007] Despite the combination of all these non-magnetic materials, a movement exhibits significant drift under a magnetic field.

[0008] Il est généralement admis que cette dérive est due à la présence d’éléments ferromagnétiques dans les composants du mouvement, qui sont autres que l’échappement et l’oscillateur, tels que le piton ou la tige de remontoir par exemple. [0008] It is generally accepted that this drift is due to the presence of ferromagnetic elements in the components of the movement, which are other than the escapement and the oscillator, such as the eyebolt or the winding stem for example.

[0009] Ainsi, même en remplaçant ces pièces par des pièces en matériau sans éléments ferromagnétiques, cette dérive de marche est toujours constatée. [0009] Thus, even when replacing these parts with parts made of material without ferromagnetic elements, this drift is still observed.

[0010] Les inventeurs ont découvert que cette dérive peut être attribuée à l’influence des courants de Foucault. Ceux-ci apparaissent lorsqu’un matériau conducteur est en mouvement dans un gradient de champ magnétique ou lorsqu’un balancier est en rotation dans un champ constant parallèle à la serge du balancier, ce qui influe également sur la marche du balancier. [0010] The inventors discovered that this drift can be attributed to the influence of eddy currents. These appear when a conductive material is moving in a magnetic field gradient or when a balance wheel is rotating in a constant field parallel to the rim of the balance wheel, which also influences the movement of the balance wheel.

[0011] On connait également, de certains constructeurs, des balanciers dont au moins la serge est réalisée en matériau céramique ou en diamant. Cependant, bien qu’amagnétiques, de tels matériaux sont très difficilement usinables pour la réalisation de balanciers et rendent les coûts de fabrication très élevés. [0011] We also know, from certain manufacturers, balance wheels of which at least the rim is made of ceramic material or diamond. However, although non-magnetic, such materials are very difficult to machine for the production of balance wheels and make manufacturing costs very high.

[0012] Un but de la présente invention est par conséquent de proposer un balancier dépourvu des limitations connues en utilisant un alliage spécifique amagnétique et insensible aux courants de Foucault. Un autre but de la présente invention est de proposer un balancier avec une serge dont la densité est suffisamment élevée pour permettre l’intégration du balancier dans l’encombrement disponible pour un mouvement donné. En effet, si la densité est trop faible, comme c’est généralement le cas pour les céramiques, le balancier devient trop grand pour une inertie donnée et ne peut plus être logé dans le mouvement. [0012] An aim of the present invention is therefore to propose a balance wheel devoid of known limitations by using a specific alloy which is non-magnetic and insensitive to eddy currents. Another aim of the present invention is to propose a balance wheel with a rim whose density is sufficiently high to allow the balance wheel to be integrated into the space available for a given movement. Indeed, if the density is too low, as is generally the case for ceramics, the balance becomes too large for a given inertia and can no longer be accommodated in the movement.

[0013] Un autre but de l’invention est de fournir un ensemble dont l’axe est réalisé en un matériau permettant à la fois de limiter la sensibilité aux champs magnétiques et d’obtenir des propriétés mécaniques permettant de répondre aux exigences de résistance à l’usure et aux chocs et dans le domaine horloger. [0013] Another aim of the invention is to provide an assembly whose axis is made of a material making it possible both to limit the sensitivity to magnetic fields and to obtain mechanical properties making it possible to meet the requirements for resistance to wear and shock and in the watchmaking field.

Résumé de l’invention Summary of the invention

[0014] Le but de la présente invention est de pallier tout ou partie les inconvénients cités précédemment en proposant un ensemble comprenant un axe de balancier et un balancier dont au moins la serge est réalisée en un matériau amagnétique. [0014] The aim of the present invention is to overcome all or part of the drawbacks mentioned above by proposing an assembly comprising a balance axis and a balance wheel of which at least the edge is made of a non-magnetic material.

[0015] A cet effet, la présente invention concerne un ensemble comprenant un balancier comportant un moyeu relié à une serge par au moins un bras, au moins la serge étant réalisée en un premier matériau dont la perméabilité magnétique relative est inférieure à 1.01 , et isolant électriquement, et un axe agencé pour recevoir ledit balancier, l’axe étant réalisé en un second matériau dont la perméabilité magnétique relative est inférieure à 1 .01 , de densité supérieure à 6.5, et conducteur électriquement. [0015] For this purpose, the present invention relates to an assembly comprising a balance wheel comprising a hub connected to a rim by at least one arm, at least the rim being made of a first material whose relative magnetic permeability is less than 1.01, and electrically insulating, and an axis arranged to receive said balance, the axis being made of a second material whose relative magnetic permeability is less than 1.01, with a density greater than 6.5, and electrically conductive.

[0016] Conformément à d’autres variantes avantageuses de l’invention : le premier matériau présente de préférence une conductivité électrique inférieure ou égale à 2.5MS/m, et plus préférentiellement inférieure ou égale à 1.5MS/m ; le premier matériau présente une densité supérieure à 2 ; le premier matériau présente une densité supérieure à 4 ; le premier matériau présente une densité supérieure à 5 ; le premier matériau présente une densité supérieure à 6.5 ; le second matériau présente une conductivité électrique supérieure ou égale à 5MS/m, le second matériau présente une conductivité électrique supérieure ou égale à 10MS/m ; le second matériau est du tungstène ; le second matériau est du tungstène dopé à l’oxyde de lanthane ; le premier matériau est choisi parmi : les métaux ou alliages métalliques, les céramiques, les composites céramique-métal, les métaux durs amagnétiques ; le premier matériau est un alliage qui contient comme constituants principaux du chrome, du fer, du nickel et/ou du cobalt ; le premier matériau présente une structure cristalline cubique à faces centrées ; le premier matériau est un alliage austénitique ; l’alliage austénitique a de préférence une teneur en chrome supérieure à 10 %, de préférence supérieure à 15 % ; l'alliage austénitique est choisi parmi : l’acier 316L, l’acier 904L, le Phynox ou le MP35N. [0016] In accordance with other advantageous variants of the invention: the first material preferably has an electrical conductivity less than or equal to 2.5MS/m, and more preferably less than or equal to 1.5MS/m; the first material has a density greater than 2; the first material has a density greater than 4; the first material has a density greater than 5; the first material has a density greater than 6.5; the second material has an electrical conductivity greater than or equal to 5MS/m, the second material has an electrical conductivity greater than or equal to 10MS/m; the second material is tungsten; the second material is tungsten doped with lanthanum oxide; the first material is chosen from: metals or metal alloys, ceramics, ceramic-metal composites, non-magnetic hard metals; the first material is an alloy which contains chromium, iron, nickel and/or cobalt as main constituents; the first material has a face-centered cubic crystal structure; the first material is an austenitic alloy; the austenitic alloy preferably has a chromium content greater than 10%, preferably greater than 15%; the austenitic alloy is chosen from: 316L steel, 904L steel, Phynox or MP35N.

[0017] L’invention concerne également un mouvement horloger comprenant un balancier conforme à l’invention. [0017] The invention also relates to a watch movement comprising a balance wheel according to the invention.

[0018] L’invention concerne aussi une montre comprenant un mouvement équipé d’un balancier selon l’invention. [0018] The invention also relates to a watch comprising a movement equipped with a balance wheel according to the invention.

Description détaillée de l’invention Detailed description of the invention

[0019] L’invention se rapporte à un ensemble comprenant un balancier et un axe de balancier. L’axe de balancier supporte une roue de balancier comprenant une serge, au moins un bras fait d'une seule pièce avec la serge et un moyeu. Les bras s’étendent depuis le moyeu disposé au centre du balancier, et dans lequel l’axe est chassé contre un épaulement. De manière classique, l'axe supporte en outre une virole, destinée à la fixation d'un spiral non représenté. The invention relates to an assembly comprising a balance wheel and a balance shaft. The balance shaft supports a balance wheel comprising a rim, at least one arm made in one piece with the rim and a hub. The arms extend from the hub located in the center of the balance wheel, and in which the axis is driven against a shoulder. Conventionally, the axis also supports a ferrule, intended for fixing a hairspring not shown.

[0020] Selon l’invention, au moins la serge du balancier est réalisée en un premier matériau amagnétique, et isolant électriquement, et l’axe de balancier est réalisé en un second matériau amagnétique, de densité supérieure à 6.5, et conducteur électriquement. [0020] According to the invention, at least the rim of the balance wheel is made of a first non-magnetic material, and electrically insulating, and the balance shaft is made of a second non-magnetic material, of density greater than 6.5, and electrically conductive.

[0021] Par matériau amagnétique, on entend au sens de la présente invention, un matériau dont la perméabilité magnétique relative est inférieure à 1.01. [0021] For the purposes of the present invention, non-magnetic material means a material whose relative magnetic permeability is less than 1.01.

[0022] Par matériau isolant électriquement, on entend un matériau qui est faiblement ou très faiblement conducteur électriquement, ou dont la conductivité électrique est inférieure ou égale à 2.5MS/m, [0022] By electrically insulating material, we mean a material which is weakly or very weakly electrically conductive, or whose electrical conductivity is less than or equal to 2.5MS/m,

[0023] Par matériau conducteur électriquement, on entend un matériau dont la conductivité électrique est supérieure à 5MS/m. By electrically conductive material is meant a material whose electrical conductivity is greater than 5MS/m.

[0024] Selon l’invention, le premier matériau dans lequel est réalisé le balancier présente une conductivité électrique inférieure ou égale à 2.5MS/m, et de préférence, la conductivité électrique est inférieure ou égale à 1 ,5MS/m. Une telle conductivité électrique permet de limiter l’influence des courants de Foucault et ainsi les dérives de marche lorsque la montre est sous un champ magnétique. According to the invention, the first material from which the balance wheel is made has an electrical conductivity less than or equal to 2.5MS/m, and preferably, the electrical conductivity is less than or equal to 1.5MS/m. Such electrical conductivity makes it possible to limit the influence of eddy currents and thus rate drifts when the watch is under a magnetic field.

[0025] Selon l’invention, le premier matériau formant le balancier présente une densité supérieure à 2. [0025] According to the invention, the first material forming the balance wheel has a density greater than 2.

[0026] Selon l’invention, le premier matériau présente une densité supérieure à 4. [0026] According to the invention, the first material has a density greater than 4.

[0027] Selon l’invention, le premier matériau présente une densité supérieure à 5. [0028] Selon l’invention, le premier matériau présente une densité supérieure à 6.5. According to the invention, the first material has a density greater than 5. [0028] According to the invention, the first material has a density greater than 6.5.

[0029] Le premier matériau formant le balancier est choisi parmi les métaux, les alliages métalliques, les céramiques comme l’oxyde d’ytterbium, l’oxyde d’Europium (III), l’oxyde de dysprosium, l’oxyde de cérium (IV) ou l’oxyde de néodyme, la zircone, les composites céramique-métal ou les métaux durs amagnétiques tels que le carbure de tungstène avec un liant nickel ou encore le titane grade 5. The first material forming the balance wheel is chosen from metals, metal alloys, ceramics such as ytterbium oxide, Europium (III) oxide, dysprosium oxide, cerium oxide (IV) or neodymium oxide, zirconia, ceramic-metal composites or non-magnetic hard metals such as tungsten carbide with a nickel binder or even grade 5 titanium.

[0030] Selon un mode de réalisation préférentiel de l’invention, le premier matériau formant le balancier est réalisé à partir d’un alliage qui contient comme constituants principaux du fer, du chrome, du nickel et/ou du cobalt, et présente une structure cristalline cubique face centrées. [0030] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the first material forming the balance is made from an alloy which contains as main constituents iron, chromium, nickel and/or cobalt, and has a face-centered cubic crystal structure.

[0031] De manière encore plus préférentielle, le balancier est réalisé en un alliage austénitique choisi parmi l’acier 316L, l’acier 904L, le Phynox ou le MP35N. Bien évidemment, d’autres alliages austénitiques aux propriétés similaires peuvent être utilisés sans difficultés particulières pour l’homme du métier. [0031] Even more preferably, the balance wheel is made of an austenitic alloy chosen from 316L steel, 904L steel, Phynox or MP35N. Obviously, other austenitic alloys with similar properties can be used without particular difficulty for those skilled in the art.

[0032] Un tel alliage austénitique a de préférence une teneur en chrome (Cr) supérieure à 10 %, de préférence supérieure à 15 %. Such an austenitic alloy preferably has a chromium (Cr) content greater than 10%, preferably greater than 15%.

[0033] Par exemple, l’alliage utilisé pour la réalisation du balancier est un acier 316L constitué d'un maximum de 0,02 % de carbone (C), d'un maximum de 1 % de silicium (Si), d'un maximum de 2 % de manganèse (Mn), d'un maximum de 0,04% de phosphore (P), au maximum 0,03% de soufre (S), entre 16% et 18% de chrome (Cr), entre 2 et 2,5% de molybdène (Mo), et entre 10,5% et 13% de nickel (Ni). [0033] For example, the alloy used to make the balance wheel is a 316L steel consisting of a maximum of 0.02% carbon (C), a maximum of 1% silicon (Si), a maximum of 2% manganese (Mn), a maximum of 0.04% phosphorus (P), a maximum of 0.03% sulfur (S), between 16% and 18% chromium (Cr), between 2 and 2.5% molybdenum (Mo), and between 10.5% and 13% nickel (Ni).

[0034] Selon l’invention, le second matériau dans lequel est réalisé l’axe du balancier présente une conductivité électrique supérieure ou égale à [0035] Selon un autre mode de réalisation de l’invention, le second matériau dans lequel est réalisé l’axe du balancier présente une conductivité électrique supérieure ou égale à 10MS/m. [0034] According to the invention, the second material in which the balance axis is made has an electrical conductivity greater than or equal to [0035] According to another embodiment of the invention, the second material in which the axis of the balance is made has an electrical conductivity greater than or equal to 10MS/m.

[0036] Il est à noter que l’effet des courants de Foucault sur l’axe de balancier est négligeable par rapport à celui sur la serge. [0036] It should be noted that the effect of eddy currents on the balance axis is negligible compared to that on the serge.

[0037] Selon un mode de réalisation de l’invention, le second matériau formant l’axe du balancier est le tungstène. Le tungstène est un matériau paramagnétique, qui présente une densité de 19.25 et une conductivité électrique de 17.9MS/m. [0037] According to one embodiment of the invention, the second material forming the axis of the balance wheel is tungsten. Tungsten is a paramagnetic material, which has a density of 19.25 and an electrical conductivity of 17.9MS/m.

[0038] Selon un autre mode de réalisation de l’invention, l’axe est réalisé en tungstène dopé à l’oxyde de lanthane. According to another embodiment of the invention, the axis is made of tungsten doped with lanthanum oxide.

[0039] Le tungstène combine une faible perméabilité magnétique, une grande dureté ainsi qu’une très bonne résistance à l’usure. De plus, le tungstène avec un ajout d’oxyde de lanthane conserve la majorité des propriétés précitées et est plus facilement usinable par enlèvement de copeaux. [0039] Tungsten combines low magnetic permeability, high hardness and very good wear resistance. In addition, tungsten with an addition of lanthanum oxide retains the majority of the aforementioned properties and is more easily machinable by chip removal.

[0040] Ainsi, un ensemble selon l’invention peut comprendre, par exemple, un axe en tungstène et un balancier en titane (grade 5), ou un axe en tungstène et un balancier en zircone, ou encore un axe en tungstène dopé à l’oxyde de lanthane et un balancier en zircone ou titane (grade 5). [0040] Thus, an assembly according to the invention can comprise, for example, a tungsten axis and a titanium balance (grade 5), or a tungsten axis and a zirconia balance, or even a tungsten axis doped with lanthanum oxide and a zirconia or titanium balance (grade 5).

[0041] Selon les besoins de l’homme du métier, le balancier est revêtu d’une couche, notamment décorative, par galvanoplastie, dépôt PVD ou CVD. [0041] Depending on the needs of those skilled in the art, the balance wheel is coated with a layer, in particular decorative, by electroplating, PVD or CVD deposition.

[0042] L’axe peut être revêtu d’une couche, notamment du NiP ou NiB chimique pour améliorer ses propriétés, notamment sa dureté, sa tenue à l’usure et aux frottements. [0042] The axis can be coated with a layer, in particular chemical NiP or NiB to improve its properties, in particular its hardness, its resistance to wear and friction.

[0043] L’invention concerne également un mouvement horloger et une pièce d’horlogerie équipés d’un balancier conforme à l’invention. [0043] The invention also relates to a watch movement and a timepiece equipped with a balance wheel according to the invention.

Claims

REVENDICATIONS 1. Ensemble comprenant un balancier comportant un moyeu relié à une serge par au moins un bras, au moins la serge étant réalisée en un premier matériau dont la perméabilité magnétique relative est inférieure à 1 .01 et qui est isolant électriquement, et un axe agencé pour recevoir le balancier, l’axe étant réalisé en un second matériau dont la perméabilité magnétique relative est inférieure à 1.01 , de densité supérieure à 6.5, et conducteur électriquement. 1. Assembly comprising a balance wheel comprising a hub connected to a rim by at least one arm, at least the rim being made of a first material whose relative magnetic permeability is less than 1.01 and which is electrically insulating, and an axis arranged to receive the balance wheel, the axis being made of a second material whose relative magnetic permeability is less than 1.01, with a density greater than 6.5, and electrically conductive. 2. Ensemble selon la revendication 1 , caractérisé en ce que le premier matériau présente une conductivité électrique de préférence inférieure ou égale à 2.5MS/m, et plus préférentiellement inférieure à 1.5MS/m. 2. Assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that the first material has an electrical conductivity preferably less than or equal to 2.5MS/m, and more preferably less than 1.5MS/m. 3. Ensemble selon la revendication 1 ou 2, caractérisé en ce que le premier matériau présente une densité supérieure à 2. 3. Assembly according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the first material has a density greater than 2. 4. Ensemble selon la revendication 1 ou 2, caractérisé en ce que le premier matériau présente une densité supérieure à 4. 4. Assembly according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the first material has a density greater than 4. 5. Ensemble selon la revendication 1 ou 2, caractérisé en ce que le premier matériau présente une densité supérieure à 5. 5. Assembly according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the first material has a density greater than 5. 6. Ensemble selon la revendication 1 ou 2, caractérisé en ce que le premier matériau présente une densité supérieure à 6.5. 6. Assembly according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the first material has a density greater than 6.5. 7. Ensemble selon l’une des revendications 1 à 6, caractérisé en ce que le second matériau présente une conductivité électrique supérieure ou égale à 5S/m. 7. Assembly according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the second material has an electrical conductivity greater than or equal to 5S/m. 8. Ensemble selon l’une des revendications 1 à 6, caractérisé en ce que le second matériau présente une conductivité électrique supérieure ou égale à 10MS/m. 8. Assembly according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the second material has an electrical conductivity greater than or equal to 10MS/m. 9. Ensemble selon l’une des revendications 1 à 8, caractérisé en ce que le second matériau est du tungstène. 9. Assembly according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the second material is tungsten. 10. Ensemble selon la revendication 1 à 8, caractérisé en ce que le second matériau est du tungstène dopé à l’oxyde de lanthane. 10. Assembly according to claim 1 to 8, characterized in that the second material is tungsten doped with lanthanum oxide. 11 . Ensemble selon l’une des revendications 1 à 10, caractérisé en ce que le premier matériau est choisi parmi les métaux, les alliages métalliques, les céramiques, les composites céramique-métal ou les métaux durs amagnétiques. 11. Assembly according to one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the first material is chosen from metals, metal alloys, ceramics, ceramic-metal composites or non-magnetic hard metals. 12. Ensemble selon la revendication 1 à 11 , caractérisé en ce que le premier matériau est réalisé à partir d’un alliage qui contient comme constituants principaux du fer, du chrome, du nickel et/ou du cobalt.12. Assembly according to claim 1 to 11, characterized in that the first material is made from an alloy which contains as main constituents iron, chromium, nickel and/or cobalt. 13. Ensemble selon les revendications 1 à 12, caractérisé en ce que le premier matériau présente une structure cristalline cubique à faces centrées. 13. Assembly according to claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the first material has a face-centered cubic crystal structure. 14. Ensemble selon l'une des revendications 1 à 13, caractérisé en ce que le premier matériau est un alliage austénitique. 14. Assembly according to one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that the first material is an austenitic alloy. 15. Ensemble selon la revendication 14, caractérisé en ce que l’alliage austénitique a une teneur en chrome supérieure à 10 %, et de préférence supérieure à 15 %. 15. Assembly according to claim 14, characterized in that the austenitic alloy has a chromium content greater than 10%, and preferably greater than 15%. 16. Ensemble selon la revendication 14 ou 15, caractérisé en ce que l’alliage austénitique est choisi parmi : l’acier 316L, l’acier 904L, le Phynox ou le MP35N. 16. Assembly according to claim 14 or 15, characterized in that the austenitic alloy is chosen from: 316L steel, 904L steel, Phynox or MP35N. 17. Mouvement comprenant un ensemble selon l’une des revendications 1 17. Movement comprising an assembly according to one of claims 1
PCT/EP2023/085397 2022-12-23 2023-12-12 Balance wheel for timepiece movement WO2024132715A1 (en)

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EP22216362 2022-12-23

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Citations (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
GB2416408A (en) * 2003-10-20 2006-01-25 Gideon R Levingston Balance Wheel, Balance Spring and Other Components and Assemblies for a Mechanical Oscillator System and Methods of Manufacture
US9377760B2 (en) * 2013-01-17 2016-06-28 Omega S.A. Part for a timepiece movement
EP3273307A1 (en) * 2016-07-19 2018-01-24 Nivarox-FAR S.A. Part for clock movement
JP6743619B2 (en) * 2016-09-23 2020-08-19 セイコーエプソン株式会社 Method of manufacturing mechanical part and method of manufacturing timepiece
EP3709099A1 (en) * 2019-03-13 2020-09-16 Novasort SA Thermocompensated oscillating system

Family Cites Families (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP2466396A1 (en) * 2010-12-15 2012-06-20 The Swatch Group Research and Development Ltd. Magnetic shield for a spiral of a timepiece

Patent Citations (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
GB2416408A (en) * 2003-10-20 2006-01-25 Gideon R Levingston Balance Wheel, Balance Spring and Other Components and Assemblies for a Mechanical Oscillator System and Methods of Manufacture
US9377760B2 (en) * 2013-01-17 2016-06-28 Omega S.A. Part for a timepiece movement
EP3273307A1 (en) * 2016-07-19 2018-01-24 Nivarox-FAR S.A. Part for clock movement
JP6743619B2 (en) * 2016-09-23 2020-08-19 セイコーエプソン株式会社 Method of manufacturing mechanical part and method of manufacturing timepiece
EP3709099A1 (en) * 2019-03-13 2020-09-16 Novasort SA Thermocompensated oscillating system

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TWI866675B (en) 2024-12-11

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