Modular polygon fixture with variable geometry and repeatable settings for symmetrical polishing, chamfering and satin finishing

Abstract

Modular polygon device with variable geometry and repeatable settings for symmetrical polishing, chamfering and satin finishing, characterized in that it comprises a base polygon (1), a repeating sleeve (4) sliding axially on the polygon (1) with facets with defined angles to serve as reference surfaces for the positioning of the workpiece, a clamping screw (8) for fastening the sleeve (4) to the base polygon, a handwheel (3) for adjusting the workpiece position, a stepped symmetrical repeating handwheel (2) for reproducing or reversing an angular setting defined with the handwheel (3), and a set of fastening screws (5, 6, 7) for maintaining the predefined settings.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a modular polygonal device for the symmetrical preparation and finishing (such as polishing, lapping, chamfering, and satin finishing) of cases and other watch parts or components. This modular, variable-geometry device offers symmetrically repeatable settings to ensure homogeneous results that meet the original requirements as well as the requirements of manufacturers and users.

[0002] These operations are traditionally performed using a tool such as a polishing carriage or lapping table, or manually, with operators holding the parts by hand. There are often limitations: lack of precision, lack of symmetrically repeatable results, damage to the part, the requirement of significant expertise, and potential hazards for the operator, as these operations can be performed on a belt machine where the operator works directly on the drive wheel of the finishing machine.

[0003] Some existing devices are characterized by simple, non-adjustable, and cumbersome shapes that neither allow for precise repeatability nor geometric adaptation to the workpiece to be polished. They do not ensure the maintenance of the original proportions of the machined parts, which adversely affects surface quality. Other devices do not allow modification of their external geometry and therefore pose a risk of accidental contact with the grinding tool, especially when accessing lateral areas of the workpiece. These limitations pose a problem for operator safety and reliability in symmetrical finishing operations.

[0004] The invention relates to a device called Symetrixx, which consists of a central polygonal module that can accommodate several adjustable sleeves or guides. This module enables precise adjustment of the angle, position, and contact geometry between the polishing tool (disk, felt, sanding belt, etc.) and the workpiece. Modular elements enable symmetrically repeatable repositioning, thus ensuring symmetrical surfaces even during successive operations. The device consists of a base polygon on which modular elements can be mounted to adapt the shape, angle, or configuration of the device to the user's needs. Symetrixx is a registered trademark of the applicant and is used here for information purposes only to designate the invention.

[0005] According to special embodiments: - The Symetrixx device consists of a compact base polygon, whose dimensions are generally smaller than those of a standard watch case. This compact geometry allows the device to be positioned around the workpiece without obstructing the grinding tool. This increases operator safety and freedom of movement around the workpiece. - The base polygon is designed to accommodate interchangeable polygon sleeves that slide into each other along their main axis. Each sleeve consists of a polygonal body with facets at defined angles (e.g., 30°, 45°, or 60°) that serve as reference surfaces for precise, repeatable part alignment. These references enable the operator to perform symmetrical surface machining on watch parts without loss of geometry. - Each sleeve is held in position by a system of notches and screw stops between the sleeve and the base polygon. This system guarantees rigid, play-free contact and ensures high stability during use. At the same time, it allows for quick assembly and disassembly to adapt the device's geometry to the specific requirements of the body part being treated. - By combining different sleeve geometries, the user can adapt the device to a variety of configurations while maintaining repeatable angles of attack and the symmetry of the work performed.

[0006] The attached drawings illustrate the invention: Fig. shows an isometric view of the device. Fig. shows a cross-sectional view of the device.

[0007] According to the drawings, the fixture comprises a base polygon (1) on which a repeating sleeve (4) is mounted. This sleeve slides axially on the polygon (1) and has a series of defined angular facets that serve as reference surfaces for positioning the workpiece in a precise geometric orientation. The handwheel (3) is located at the rear of the fixture. It allows precise adjustment of the workpiece position, in particular its orientation or its distance from the finishing tool used. At the rear is a scaled, symmetrical repeating handwheel (2), which can be used to symmetrically duplicate or reverse the setting defined with the handwheel (3) by means of an angular scaling system. Locking screws (5), (6) and (7) are integrated into the fixture.They fix the predefined settings made with the handwheels (2) and (3) and ensure that the workpiece is held in position during operation without displacement or disturbing play.

[0008] The simplified cross section in Fig. Shows only the elements necessary for understanding the main assembly: the base polygon (1), the axially mounted repeating sleeve (4), and a clamping screw (8) at the interface between the two components. This clamping screw (8) fixes the sleeve (4) to the base polygon (1) after it has been pushed onto it, thus ensuring firm contact and stability of the assembly after positioning. The cross-section deliberately omits further internal mechanical elements to improve readability and protect technical elements that are not necessary for understanding the external function.

[0009] In a variant not shown, the repeating cuff can have different geometries to enable precise repetition of the settings at a predefined angle.

[0010] The device according to the invention is particularly suitable for polishing, chamfering, shaping and satin finishing metal parts.

Claims

[1] Modular polygon device with variable geometry and repeatable settings for symmetrical polishing, chamfering and satin finishing, characterized by in that it comprises a base polygon (1), a repeating sleeve (4) sliding axially on the polygon (1) with facets with defined angles, which are to serve as reference surfaces for the positioning of the workpiece, a clamping screw (8) for fastening the sleeve (4) to the base polygon, a handwheel (3) for adjusting the workpiece position and a stepped symmetrical repeating handwheel (2) for reproducing or reversing an angular setting defined with the handwheel (3) and a set of fastening screws (5, 6, 7) for maintaining the predefined settings. [2] A device according to claim 1, wherein the repeating cuff (4) has an even or odd number of facets evenly distributed around the axis of the base polygon (1). [3] Device according to one of the preceding claims, in which the scaled symmetrical repeating handwheel (2) is indexed by means of an angle mark which enables symmetrical duplication of the initial setting. [4] Device according to one of the preceding claims, in which the sliding system of the sleeve (4) has mechanical notches allowing repositioning by snapping.

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