Watch Pawl System

Abstract

A pawl system (1) is used for a wheel (2) of a transmission system for winding a clockwork barrel (3) and comprises: a pawl (10) having at least one tooth (1a) for cooperating with a tooth set (2a) of the wheel (2); and an element (6) for starting and stopping the pawl, the starting and stopping element being arranged so that when the starting and stopping element is in a first configuration, the at least one tooth (1a) of the pawl directly or indirectly cooperates with the tooth set (2a), in particular under the action of a restoring force that returns the at least one tooth (1a) of the pawl to abut against the tooth set (2a), and when the starting and stopping element is in a second configuration, the at least one tooth (1a) of the pawl does not cooperate with the tooth set (2a) or the restoring force that returns the at least one tooth (1a) of the pawl to abut against the tooth set (2a) is reduced.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a pawl system for a wheel of a transmission system for winding a timepiece barrel. The invention also relates to a timepiece movement comprising such a system. The invention also relates to a timepiece comprising such a system or such a movement. The invention finally relates to a method for constructing such a movement or such a timepiece. The invention further relates to a method for assembling such a movement or such a timepiece. The invention also relates to a method for disassembling such a movement or such a timepiece. Background Art

[0002] The mainspring in a manual or automatic winding timepiece is usually kept taut by a pawl designed to cooperate with a ratchet wheel mounted squarely on the barrel arbors. More specifically, the pawl fixes the ratchet wheel in the unwinding direction of the mainspring and is disengaged when the manual or automatic winding device is activated.

[0003] The automatic winding device is also configured to fix the ratchet in the direction of the winding of the mainspring, so that the ratchet pawl can be removed in a timepiece provided with such a device. However, there is still the problem of disassembling the automatic movement, which faces the watchmaker with the problem of uncontrolled and untimely loosening of the mainspring of the barrel. For this reason, the automatic winding timepieces known in the prior art also include a device designed to fix the barrel axle, in particular the ratchet pawl. Although such a solution allows the timepiece to be operated independently of its automatic winding module, it is not optimal in terms of the effectiveness of automatic winding. This is because, in such a case, the oscillating body must overcome the resistance torque caused by the pawl, in particular the pawl spring, in order to allow the mainspring to be automatically wound. Therefore, when the winding power of the oscillating body is limited due to the size of the timepiece, in particular in the case of an automatic movement of small diameter and / or small thickness, such a construction may be problematic.

[0004] Patent CH542468 discloses a single-piece ratchet pawl provided with a rigid first part and an elastic second part. The rigid part comprises a latch designed to cooperate with the teeth of the ratchet wheel so as to fix the ratchet wheel in the unwinding direction of the mainspring and to separate from the teeth of the ratchet wheel in the winding direction of the mainspring. To this end, the elastic part of the pawl takes the form of an elastic arm which, as the latch is separated from the teeth of the ratchet wheel, begins to reset so as to return the latch to a position in which the teeth of the ratchet wheel are fixed. In the case where such a device is incorporated into a timepiece with an automatic winding mechanism, the oscillating body must overcome the resistance torque caused by the pawl, in particular the elastic part of the pawl.

[0005] There are alternatives to the ratchet pawl. For example, the ratchet pawl can be replaced by one or more pawls provided in one or the other of the manual or automatic winding trains. For example, the book "La montre suisse à remontageautomatique (Automatic Swiss Watch)" discloses on pages 170 to 174 a unidirectional automatic winding movement without a ratchet pawl, with the reference name "Zenith No. 133". In this configuration, the pawl incorporated into the automatic winding module indirectly fixes the ratchet in the unwinding direction of the mainspring. Therefore, such a timepiece cannot run independently of its automatic winding module.

[0006] There are also alternatives to the pawl. Patent application WO2015193400 discloses a unidirectional automatic winding device in the third embodiment of the invention, which is equipped with an oscillating body pivoted by two radial ball clutches mounted oppositely. The first clutch can establish a one-way connection between the oscillating body and the ratchet in a first rotational direction of the oscillating body. In the second rotational direction of the oscillating body, the ball holds the automatic movement gear train in place and thus performs the same function as the pawl (in particular the ratchet pawl). Such a construction advantageously allows the use of a simplified automatic movement gear train with minimized dead angles. However, as with the above-mentioned Zenith movement, such a timepiece cannot operate independently of its automatic movement. Summary of the invention

[0007] The object of the present invention is to provide a timepiece detent system which overcomes the above-mentioned drawbacks and improves the timepiece detent systems known in the prior art. In particular, the present invention proposes a timepiece detent system which enables a timepiece equipped with the timepiece detent system to run without an automatic winding module and / or enables the automatic winding module to not have to overcome the resistance torque caused by the detent.

[0008] According to the automatic watch movement of the present invention, it includes: a transmission system, which is configured to wind a watch barrel, and a pawl system, which is used for the wheel of the transmission system, the pawl system including: a pawl having at least one tooth for cooperating with the tooth set of the wheel; and a start and stop element of the pawl, the start and stop element being movable between a first structure for starting and a second structure for stopping, and the start and stop element being arranged so that when the start and stop element is in the first structure, at least one tooth of the pawl directly or indirectly cooperates with the tooth set, and when the start and stop element is in the second structure, at least one tooth of the pawl does not cooperate with the tooth set or the restoring force that returns at least one tooth of the pawl to abut against the tooth set is reduced, wherein, when the automatic watch movement is assembled in the operating structure, the start and stop element is in the second structure.

[0009] Preferably, the wheel is a ratchet wheel.

[0010] Preferably, the pawl comprises an assembly element intended to be assembled to the frame of the movement, and wherein the pawl comprises at least one tooth at a distance from the assembly element.

[0011] Preferably, the pawl comprises a flexible portion between the assembly element and the at least one tooth.

[0012] Preferably, the assembly element is an element for fixing the pawl to the frame of the movement.

[0013] Preferably, the pawl comprises a rigid body, wherein the assembly element is a pivot element, and wherein the pawl comprises a return spring for returning at least one tooth of the pawl against the set of teeth.

[0014] Preferably, the spring is formed integrally with the rigid body, or is a connected spring that directly or indirectly presses the rigid body.

[0015] Preferably, the starting and stopping elements are assembly devices.

[0016] Preferably, the starting and stopping element is an eccentric device.

[0017] Preferably, the start and stop element has a portion or surface parallel or substantially parallel to its cross-section, said portion or surface being adapted to press on the pawl in the second configuration.

[0018] Preferably, the automatic watch movement automatic winding module, the starting and stopping element is an assembly device of the automatic movement.

[0019] Preferably, in the second configuration of the starting and stopping element, the mainspring is kept taut under the action of the automatic movement.

[0020] Preferably, the automatic winding module is a module equipped with a reversing wheel.

[0021] Preferably, when the start and stop element is in the first configuration, at least one tooth of the pawl cooperates directly or indirectly with the set of teeth under the action of a restoring force returning at least one tooth of the pawl against the set of teeth.

[0022] Preferably, the assembly element is intended to be assembled onto a first end of the pawl, the pawl comprising at least one tooth at a second end of the pawl.

[0023] Preferably, the start and stop element is a screw or a pin.

[0024] Preferably, the portion or surface is adapted to elastically deform the detent.

[0025] Preferably, the portion or surface is used to elastically deform the pawl.

[0026] Preferably, the starting and stopping element is a device for assembling the automatic winding module onto the movement blank.

[0027] Preferably, the assembling device is a mounting screw for mounting the automatic winding module.

[0028] The timepiece according to the present invention comprises the automatic watch movement described above.

[0029] Preferably, the starting and stopping element is a device for assembling a timer.

[0030] Preferably, the timer is a watch.

[0031] Preferably, the starting and stopping element is a device for assembling the movement inside the timepiece.

[0032] According to the method for constructing the automatic watch movement described above or the timer described above of the present invention, the method comprises: operating the start and stop element of the pawl so that it is in a first structure, wherein at least one tooth of the pawl cooperates directly or indirectly with the tooth set; and / or operating the start and stop element of the pawl so that it is in a second structure, wherein at least one tooth of the pawl does not cooperate with the tooth set, or wherein the restoring force that returns at least one tooth of the pawl to bear against the tooth set is reduced.

[0033] Preferably, at least one tooth of the pawl cooperates with the set of teeth directly or indirectly, through an obstacle and / or under the action of a restoring force which returns at least one tooth of the pawl against the set of teeth. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0034] The accompanying drawings depict, by way of example, three embodiments of a timepiece according to the invention.

[0035] Figure 1 Schematic diagram of a first embodiment of a timepiece according to the invention comprising a first embodiment of a timepiece click system.

[0036] Figure 2 and Figure 3 FIG. 1 is a view of a first embodiment of a timepiece pawl system in a stopped configuration.

[0037] Figure 4 A view of the automatic winding module.

[0038] Figure 5 and Figure 6 The first embodiment of the timepiece is shown in FIG. Figure 4 View of the automatic winding module.

[0039] Figure 7 A perspective view of an alternative form of the first embodiment of the timepiece pawl system.

[0040] Figure 8 Schematic diagram of a second embodiment of a timepiece according to the invention comprising a second embodiment of a timepiece click system.

[0041] Fig. 9 Schematic diagram of a third embodiment of a timepiece according to the invention comprising a third embodiment of a timepiece click system.

[0042] Fig.10 The present invention is a partial cross-sectional view of an embodiment of an automatic winding module preferably used in a timepiece movement according to the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0043] See below Figures 1 to 7 A first embodiment of a timepiece 110 is described. The timepiece is, for example, a watch, in particular a wristwatch. The timepiece comprises a mechanical watch movement 100, in particular an automatic watch movement.

[0044] Advantageously, the watch movement comprises a frame 99, a watch barrel 3, a gear train and an automatic movement or automatic winding device. The automatic winding device may be Figure 4 Depicted automatic winding module M'. Throughout this text, an "automatic movement" or "automatic winding device" refers to a transmission system for automatically winding a timepiece barrel 3 of a movement, or a part of a transmission system for automatically winding a timepiece barrel 3 of a movement. This part of the transmission system comprises at least one oscillating body 5, the mechanical energy of which is used to wind the barrel.

[0045] Preferably, the automatic movement is bidirectional and may include in particular reversing wheels 4, 4' which allow the ratchet to be driven in the winding direction of the mainspring by the transmission of motion from the oscillating body 5 and to be driven in the winding direction of the mainspring by the transmission of motion from the oscillating body 5. Figure 3 As shown, it is fixed in the direction of expansion of the mainspring under the action of the oscillating body 5. In fact, the transmission system for automatic winding of the movement cannot be inverted. Therefore, the automatic movement is preferably designed to fix the ratchet or wheel in the direction of expansion of the mainspring. Preferably, the automatic movement takes the form of an automatic winding module M', for example, the automatic winding module M' comprises two movement blanks M1', M2' that pivot the oscillating body 5 and the multiple gear trains of the automatic movement.

[0046] The movement comprises a pawl system for wheel 2 of the transmission system for winding timepiece barrel 3 , ie a pawl system for fixing wheel 2 of the transmission system for winding timepiece barrel 3 .

[0047] The pawl system includes:

[0048] a pawl 10 having at least one tooth 1 a for cooperating with the set of teeth 2 a of the wheel 2 ; and

[0049] - Element 6 for activating and deactivating the pawl.

[0050] The start and stop element is arranged so that when the start and stop element is in the first configuration (depicted in Figure 1 ) so that at least one tooth 1a of the pawl cooperates directly or indirectly with the tooth set 2a, in particular through an obstacle and / or under the action of a restoring force that returns at least one tooth 1a of the pawl to bear against the tooth set 2a, and when the start and stop element is in the second configuration (depicted in Figure 2 ), at least one tooth 1a of the pawl does not cooperate with the tooth set 2a, or the restoring force that returns at least one tooth 1a of the pawl to rest against the tooth set 2a is reduced, especially compared with the restoring force that returns at least one tooth 1a of the pawl to rest against the tooth set 2a in the first structure.

[0051] In other words, the start and stop elements include:

[0052] a first drive configuration or first drive position, in which the start and stop element drives the pawl, i.e. at least one tooth 1a of the pawl cooperates with the tooth set 2a directly or indirectly, in particular via an obstacle and / or under the action of a restoring force that returns at least one tooth 1a of the pawl against the tooth set 2a; and

[0053] - A second stop configuration or a second stop position, in which the start and stop element stops the pawl, i.e. at least one tooth 1a of the pawl does not cooperate with the tooth set 2a, or the restoring force which returns at least one tooth 1a of the pawl against the tooth set 2a is reduced, in particular compared to the restoring force which returns at least one tooth 1a of the pawl against the tooth set 2a in the first configuration.

[0054] In the various embodiments described, preferably, in the second configuration of the start and stop element, at least one tooth 1 a of the pawl does not cooperate with the set of teeth 2 a.

[0055] Advantageously, the pawl and the barrel ratchet are fixed together in a first driving configuration or first driving position of the starting and stopping element, and the pawl and the barrel ratchet are disconnected in a second stopping configuration or second stopping position of the starting and stopping element.

[0056] exist Figures 1 to 6In a first alternative form of the first embodiment depicted, the pawl 10 comprises an assembly element 1c for assembly to the frame 99 of the movement 100. The assembly element is preferably located at a first end of the pawl. For example, the assembly element comprises a shaped portion, such as a heel 1c, provided with a first hole for receiving a bolt or a pin and a hole for the passage of a screw. The screw passes through the hole and is screwed into a tapped hole in the frame. The bolt or the pin is partially housed in the frame and in the heel. In the first embodiment, the assembly element is an element for fixing to the frame of the movement.

[0057] The pawl comprises at least one tooth 1a, in particular 2 teeth in the first alternative form of the first embodiment, at a distance from the fixing element. Preferably, at least one tooth 1a is positioned at the second end of the pawl. For example, the profile of the one or more teeth is similar to the profile of the teeth of the tooth set 2a.

[0058] The pawl also comprises a flexible portion 1b located between the fixing element 1c and the at least one tooth 1a. For example, this portion has an elongated shape like a rod or an arm. Figures 1 to 5 In the first driving configuration of the pawl depicted in , the at least one tooth is returned to contact the tooth set 2a. Still preferably, in this first configuration, the pawl, in particular the flexible portion 1b of the pawl, is slightly preloaded and brings the at least one tooth against the tooth set 2a.

[0059] Pawl 1 is thus monostable. Its first position is that in which at least one tooth is returned to contact set 2a. The stable position is thus that in which at least one tooth, passing through an obstacle, cooperates with set 2a and is therefore that in which the pawl prevents wheel 2 from rotating, in particular in the direction of unwinding or unwinding the mainspring.

[0060] In the embodiment depicted, the start and stop element is an assembly device 6. This assembly device allows any device to be assembled on the movement. Advantageously, the assembly device allows an automatic movement, in particular an automatic winding module M', to be assembled on the movement.

[0061] In the embodiment depicted, the assembly means are screws 6 .

[0062] As previously seen, the first construction of the start and stop element enables at least one tooth 1a of the pawl to cooperate with the tooth set 2a through an obstacle or interference, and the second construction of the start and stop element enables at least one tooth 1a of the pawl to not cooperate with the tooth set 2a, or enables at least one tooth 1a of the pawl to be less firmly engaged in the tooth set 2a.

[0063] Advantageously, the first configuration is a first position of the starting and stopping element and the second configuration is a second position of the starting and stopping element.

[0064] Advantageously, if Figure 6 As shown, the assembly device has a first portion 6a of a first diameter. This first diameter is such that when the assembly device is in its second position or second configuration, the pawl contacts or presses against said first portion and at least one tooth is at a distance from the tooth set 2a or at least only partially engaged in the tooth set 2a. Figure 2 and Figure 3 In the depicted position, the pawl is elastically deformed in its flexible portion 1 b.

[0065] Advantageously, the assembly device has a second portion 6b, in particular of a second diameter. For example, this second portion is threaded and is intended to be screwed into a threaded hole made on frame 99 (for example on barrel bridge M1). Preferably, in the event that the assembly device is removed by the watchmaker, before it is completely removed, it is in its first position or configuration. In this first position, the pawl contacts or presses against this second portion, against which it is elastically returned by its flexible portion. It follows that, if Figure 1 As shown, at least one tooth returns to a position where it forms an obstacle or interferes with the tooth set 2a. Figure 1 , screw 6 has been completely removed.

[0066] The first and second parts are advantageously connected by a ramp, in particular a frustoconical profiling or chamfer 6c.

[0067] Of course, the screw 6 may be replaced by a pin connected to or integral with the blank or by an eccentric device or by any other device capable of providing assembly. For example, the pin may be a beveled cylindrical pin or a frustoconical pin. In general, any element protruding from the automatic winding module may perform the function of the screw 6, for example a machined portion of the blank forming part of the automatic winding module or any element connected to the automatic winding module.

[0068] Preferably, the start and stop element and the pawl are arranged so that at least one tooth of the pawl moves relative to wheel 2 in the plane of the movement or in the plane of wheel 2 when the start and stop element moves from its first position to its second position or when the start and stop element moves from its second position to its first position.

[0069] However, in Figure 7In a second alternative form of the first embodiment of the pawl depicted, the assembly means 6*, in this case a screw, have a surface 6e* parallel or substantially parallel to its cross section and intended to press on the pawl, in particular at its end near at least one tooth 1a. In the second configuration, the parallel surfaces 6e* are intended to press on the pawl so as to deform it elastically, in particular to deform it elastically in bending. Thus, in this second alternative form, the start and stop element and the pawl are arranged so that at least one tooth of the pawl moves relative to the wheel 2 perpendicularly to the plane of the movement or perpendicularly to the plane of the wheel 2 when the start and stop element moves from its first position to its second position or when the start and stop element moves from its second position to its first position. Thus, in this alternative form, the screw 6* is preferably arranged above the arm 1b of the pawl.

[0070] See below Figure 8 A second embodiment of a timepiece 110 ′ is described. The timepiece is, for example, a watch, in particular a wristwatch. The timepiece comprises a mechanical watch movement 100 ′, in particular an automatic watch movement.

[0071] The movement comprises a pawl system for wheel 2 of the transmission train for winding timepiece barrel 3 , ie for fixing wheel 2 of the transmission train for winding timepiece barrel 3 .

[0072] This second embodiment differs from the first in that it comprises a second embodiment of the pawl system 1 ′.

[0073] In a second embodiment, the pawl 10' comprises an assembly element 1c' for assembly to the frame 99 of the movement 100'. The assembly element is preferably located at a first end of the pawl. For example, the assembly element comprises a shaped portion, such as a heel 1c', provided with a hole for the passage of the spindle. In a second embodiment, the assembly element is a pivoting element designed to pivot the pawl on the frame.

[0074] As in the first embodiment, the pawl comprises at least one tooth 1a' at a distance from the assembly element. Preferably, the at least one tooth 1a' is positioned at the second end of the pawl. In this embodiment, the at least one tooth has the shape of a dowel tip.

[0075] Unlike the first embodiment, the pawl comprises a rigid portion 1d' between the pivoting element 1c' and the at least one tooth 1a'. This portion has, for example, an elongated shape like an arm. This rigid portion undergoes no or almost no deformation during normal operation of the pawl system.

[0076] Preferably, in a first driving configuration of the pawl, at least one tooth is returned to contact the tooth set 2a. In this first configuration, the pawl is loaded and presses at least one tooth into the tooth set 2a. This loading is achieved by means of an elastic arm 1b' of the pawl. In this first configuration, the elastic arm is deformed or preloaded to press against the start and stop element 6' (in this case a screw 6', in particular a screw 6' provided with a truncated cone-shaped portion designed to cooperate with the elastic arm 1b'). In this embodiment, the elastic arm 1b', which acts like a spring, is formed integrally with the rigid body 1d' of the pawl. Alternatively, a spring may also be connected. It may be arranged to press against the rigid body directly or indirectly.

[0077] Pawl 1 ' is thus monostable. Its first position is that in which at least one tooth is returned to contact set 2a. This first position is therefore that in which at least one tooth cooperates with set 2a through an obstacle and is therefore the position in which the pawl prevents wheel 2 from rotating, in particular in the direction of unwinding or unwinding the mainspring.

[0078] See below Fig. 9 A third embodiment of a timepiece 110 ″ is described. The timepiece is, for example, a watch, in particular a wristwatch. The timepiece comprises a mechanical watch movement 100 ″, in particular an automatic watch movement.

[0079] The movement comprises a pawl system for wheel 2 of the transmission train for winding timepiece barrel 3 , ie for fixing wheel 2 of the transmission train for winding timepiece barrel 3 .

[0080] This third embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that it comprises a third embodiment of a pawl system 1 ″.

[0081] In the third embodiment, the pawl 10" differs from the pawls of the first and second embodiments in that it is made in two parts: the actual pawl itself 10" and a separate spring 1b". This spring 1b" is designed to load the pawl and return it to its first position.

[0082] As in the second embodiment, the pawl comprises a rigid portion 1d'' between the pivoting element 1c'' and the at least one tooth 1a''. This rigid portion undergoes no or almost no deformation during normal operation of the pawl system.

[0083] Preferably, Fig. 9In the depicted first drive configuration of the pawl, at least one tooth is returned to contact the tooth set 2a. In this first configuration, the pawl is loaded and presses at least one tooth into the tooth set 2a. This loading is achieved by the action of a spring 1b". This first configuration is obtained in a first drive configuration or a first drive position, wherein a start and stop element (not depicted) causes the pawl to be started, i.e. at least one tooth 1a" of the pawl to engage with the tooth set 2a through an obstacle under the action of a restoring force that returns at least one tooth 1a" of the pawl to rest against the tooth set 2a. For example, in this first drive configuration or the first drive position, the start and stop element does not act on the spring 1b".

[0084] For another example, in the second stop structure or the second stop position, the start and stop element causes the pawl to stop or drive the pawl a lesser amount, which means that at least one tooth 1a" of the pawl does not cooperate with the tooth set 2a or the restoring force that returns at least one tooth 1a" of the pawl to resist the tooth set 2a is reduced.

[0085] In all the embodiments and alternative forms described, wheel 2 is a barrel ratchet. However, wheel 2 may also be any other wheel in a barrel winding train, in particular an automatic or manual winding train. The wheel may even form part of another train meshing with the barrel.

[0086] In all the embodiments and alternatives described, if the start and stop element is a screw for assembling the automatic winding module, as soon as this screw is unscrewed during disassembly of the automatic winding module, the pawl switches from the second configuration to the first configuration in which at least one tooth 1a, 1a', 1a" of the pawl meshes with the tooth set 2a, in particular under the action of a spring.

[0087] In all embodiments and alternative forms described, the start and stop element is an assembly device. Alternatively, the start and stop element can have any other function. The start and stop element can also be dedicated only to a single start and stop function. For example, the start and stop element can include an eccentric device.

[0088] In all the embodiments and alternatives described, it is possible to dampen the stiffness of the click spring so as to significantly minimize the resistance torque of the click during operation of the automatic winding mechanism. In such a configuration, the click is preferably a jumper 1 ' as in the second embodiment.

[0089] In all the embodiments and alternative forms described, the pawl is monostable. It is therefore retracted from the set of teeth 2a against the action of a spring which resets when retracted. The elastic stiffness of the spring may also be suppressed. The return or reset of the spring causes the pawl to return to the position of the first configuration.

[0090] Alternatively, the pawl can take the form of a bistable rocker, i.e. a rocker provided with two stable positions, for example defined by a flexible structure, in particular by the flexion of one or more flexible sheets. In such a configuration, the state of the rocker in its first position or in its second position depends on the state of the start and stop elements.

[0091] As seen before, the pawl can be Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 The one-piece component shown, or can be Fig. 9 The pawl can also be as shown. Figure 8 and Fig. 9 A rigid component is shown which is elastically returned by a spring.

[0092] As seen above, the pawl is designed to cooperate directly with ratchet 2. "Directly" here means that the pawl is preferably designed to mesh with the teeth of the ratchet. Alternatively, the pawl can cooperate with the teeth of another gear train of the manual winding train of the movement that meshes with the ratchet. For example, the pawl can cooperate with the crown wheel that meshes with the ratchet. In this case, the operating principle remains completely unchanged. As an alternative, the crown wheel or any other gear train in the manual winding train that is indexed by such a pawl can have a certain degree of freedom so that it can be retracted from the teeth of the ratchet under the action of the automatic winding module, more specifically under the action of the assembly device of the automatic winding module. To this end, for example, such a gear train can be pivoted by an olived tenon or a rocker.

[0093] Whatever the embodiment, the click is positioned in its first configuration once the oscillating body has been removed and preferably before it has been removed. In this way, any risk of untimely unwinding of the mainspring is avoided. Preferably, the automatic winding module M' is designed so that the oscillating body cannot be removed from the movement before the module has been removed and in particular before the screws (whose state determines the state of the click) have been unscrewed. Preferably, in a particular configuration, the screws 7 used to assemble and disassemble the oscillating body 5 are not accessible when the automatic winding module M' is assembled on the movement. For example, Fig.10 As shown, the screws are installed from the bottom surface of the automatic winding module M'.

[0094] Advantageously, the automatic winding timepiece movement provides the particular feature of being provided with a detachable pawl or a pawl that can be activated and stopped depending on the assembly state of the timepiece movement. It is thus possible to inhibit the function of the pawl during activation of the automatic winding device and to activate the function of the pawl when the automatic winding device is removed from the movement. As a result, during the operation of the automatic winding device, the oscillating body does not have to overcome the resistance torque caused by the pawl, in particular the pawl spring, thus allowing the mainspring to be automatically wound. Such a solution is particularly advantageous in terms of its simplicity and the expected advantages.

[0095] In a preferred embodiment, the automatic winding movement provides the particular feature of being provided with a pawl capable of being activated and stopped according to the assembly state of the automatic winding module M'.

[0096] In a first configuration or assembly state of the movement, corresponding to a timepiece movement without an automatic winding module, the pawl is actuated to secure the ratchet in the direction of unwinding of the mainspring. During operation of the movement without an automatic winding module, the pawl is retracted during winding but immediately returns to a configuration interfering with the toothing to avoid any movement of the toothing in the direction of unwinding of the barrel.

[0097] In a second configuration or assembly state of the movement, corresponding to a timepiece movement with an automatic winding module, the pawl is stopped so as to avoid interfering with the tooth set. For example, at least one tooth of the pawl cannot reach the tooth set so as not to oppose the movement of the oscillating body during operation of the automatic winding module.

[0098] In this particular configuration, the automatic winding module M' and in particular the assembly means for assembling it on the movement control the state of the ratchet pawl so as to place it in its driven or stopped state. For example, as previously seen, the assembly screw for assembling the automatic winding module on the movement can present a particular shape that allows it to move the pawl or cause its movement (in particular in the plane of the frame of the movement) during assembly and disassembly of the automatic winding module M'. To achieve this, as previously seen, the screw 6 can have a body portion 6a shaped so as to come into contact with the pawl as the screw 6 is screwed onto the rest of the movement M, in particular onto the barrel bridge M1. Preferably, screw 6 has at least two distinct portions 6a, 6b separated by a bevel 6c such that the bevel constitutes a ramp allowing the pawl to be moved and therefore allowing at least one tooth 1a, 1a', 1a" to move away from set 2a as screw 6 is screwed in. Thus, at the beginning of screwing in of screw 6, the pawl is in a first configuration and at the end of screwing in of screw 6, the pawl is in a second configuration. Advantageously, in the second configuration of start and stop element 6, the mainspring remains taut under the action of the automatic movement.

[0099] Various embodiments relate to an automatic winding movement having a specific feature of being provided with a pawl that can be separated or stopped according to the assembly state of the automatic winding module M'. In general, the automatic winding watch movement has a specific feature of being provided with a pawl that can be started and stopped according to the assembly state of the watch movement, in particular according to the state of the watch movement being assembled to the frame. For example, the pawl can be stopped when the movement is finally assembled in the watch case. For example, the pawl can be stopped by an element of the watch case (for example, the back cover). For example, the back cover can be provided with a pin designed to cooperate with the pawl so that the pawl is retracted from the teeth set of the ratchet wheel once the back cover of the watch case is assembled. Such a design can also prevent or stop the pawl when the automatic winding device is started, and ensure that the pawl is driven when the automatic movement is removed from the movement after the movement is removed from the housing. Such a design is particularly suitable for a movement provided with an oscillating body that does not cover the entire movement, such as a movement of the micro-rotor type.

[0100] Alternatively, such a device can also be driven by another controller, for example, by the stem of the watch movement. Thus, the start and stop element can change its state under the action of an auxiliary device, which is preferably activated by a mechanism at the stem of the watch movement. For example, the start and stop element can have an elastic structure or an additional degree of freedom so that it can be retracted.

[0101] Advantageously, a timepiece movement as described above or a timepiece as described above is constructed by using at least one of the following steps:

[0102] - operating the start and stop element of the pawl so as to place it in a first configuration in which at least one tooth of the pawl cooperates with the tooth set, in particular through an obstacle and / or under the effect of a restoring force which returns at least one tooth of the pawl against the tooth set,

[0103] - operating the start and stop element of the pawl so that it is in a second configuration in which at least one tooth of the pawl does not cooperate with the tooth set, or in which the restoring force that returns at least one tooth of the pawl against the tooth set is reduced, in particular compared to the restoring force that returns at least one tooth of the pawl against the tooth set 2a in the first configuration.

[0104] Preferably, the above-mentioned first step is carried out during a method of disassembling a timepiece movement or a timepiece.

[0105] Preferably, the above-mentioned second step is carried out during the method of assembling a timepiece movement or a timepiece.

[0106] Throughout said document, the word "pawl" or "catch" preferably refers to a mechanism that stops a component (usually a wheel or ratchet) only in a first direction and allows it to rotate in a second direction (opposite to the first direction). In a watch, the pawl prevents the ratchet from turning in the opposite direction at the end of the winding action. The pawl may be a rod provided with a prong that engages in the teeth of the wheel under the action of a spring.

[0107] Throughout said document, the expression "activated pawl" preferably means that the pawl stops a component only in a first direction and allows rotation of the component in a second direction.

[0108] Throughout said document, the term "deactivated pawl" or "unengaged pawl" preferably means that the pawl allows rotation of the component in both a first direction and a second direction.

Claims

1. An automatic watch movement, comprising: A transmission system configured to wind a timepiece barrel, and a pawl system for the wheels of the transmission system, The pawl system comprises: a pawl having at least one tooth for cooperating with the set of teeth of the wheel; and The starting and stopping element of the pawl, The start and stop element is movable between a first configuration in which the start and stop element is activated and a second configuration in which the start and stop element is stopped, and the start and stop element is arranged so that when the start and stop element is in the first configuration, at least one tooth of the pawl cooperates directly or indirectly with the set of teeth, and when the start and stop element is in the second configuration, at least one tooth of the pawl does not cooperate with the set of teeth or a restoring force that returns at least one tooth of the pawl against the set of teeth is reduced, wherein the start and stop element is in a first configuration when the automatic winding module of the automatic watch movement is not mounted or the oscillating body is removed, and in a second configuration when the automatic watch movement is assembled in the operating configuration, The pawl further comprises an assembly element for assembling the pawl to the frame of the movement, the assembly element being assembled to a first end of the pawl, and at least one tooth of the pawl being arranged at a second end of the pawl.

2. The automatic watch movement according to claim 1, wherein: The wheel is a ratchet.

3. The automatic watch movement according to claim 1, wherein: The pawl includes a flexible portion located between the assembly element and the at least one tooth.

4. The automatic watch movement according to claim 1, wherein: The assembly element is the element used to fix the pawl to the frame of the movement.

5. The automatic watch movement according to claim 1, wherein: The pawl comprises a rigid body, wherein the assembly element is a pivot element, and wherein the pawl comprises a return spring for returning at least one tooth of the pawl against the set of teeth.

6. The automatic watch movement according to claim 5, wherein: The spring is formed integrally with the rigid body, or is a connected spring that directly or indirectly presses the rigid body.

7. The automatic watch movement according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The start and stop elements are assembled devices.

8. The automatic watch movement according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The starting and stopping elements are eccentric devices.

9. The automatic watch movement according to claim 7, wherein: The start and stop element has a portion or surface parallel or substantially parallel to its cross section, said portion or surface being adapted to press on the pawl in the second configuration.

10. The automatic watch movement according to claim 1, wherein: The automatic watch movement comprises an automatic movement, the automatic movement is an automatic winding module, and the start and stop element is an assembly device of the automatic movement.

11. The automatic watch movement according to claim 10, wherein: In the second configuration of the starting and stopping elements, the mainspring remains tensioned by the automatic movement.

12. The automatic watch movement according to claim 10, wherein: The automatic winding module is a module equipped with a reversing wheel.

13. The automatic watch movement according to claim 1, wherein: When the start and stop element is in the first configuration, at least one tooth of the pawl is brought into direct or indirect cooperation with the set of teeth under the action of a restoring force which returns at least one tooth of the pawl against the set of teeth.

14. The automatic watch movement according to claim 7, wherein: The starting and stopping elements are screws or pins.

15. The automatic watch movement according to claim 9, wherein: The portion or surface is used to elastically deform the pawl.

16. The automatic watch movement according to claim 15, wherein: The portion or surface is used to elastically bend and deform the pawl.

17. The automatic watch movement according to claim 10, wherein: The start and stop element is the device that assembles the automatic winding module onto the movement blank.

18. The automatic watch movement according to claim 10, wherein: The assembly device is a mounting screw for mounting the automatic winding module.

19. A timepiece comprising the automatic watch movement according to any one of claims 1 to 18.

20. The timer according to claim 19, wherein: The start and stop element is the device that assembles the timer.

21. The timer according to claim 19, wherein: The timer is a wristwatch.

22. The timer according to claim 20, wherein: The starting and stopping element is the device that assembles the movement inside the timepiece.

23. A method for constructing an automatic watch movement as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 18 or a timepiece as claimed in claim 19 or 20, the method comprising: operating the start and stop element of the pawl to place it in a first configuration in which at least one tooth of the pawl cooperates directly or indirectly with the set of teeth; and / or The start and stop element of the pawl is operated to place it in a second configuration in which at least one tooth of the pawl does not cooperate with the set of teeth or in which a restoring force returning at least one tooth of the pawl against the set of teeth is reduced.

24. The method according to claim 23, wherein: At least one tooth of the pawl cooperates directly or indirectly with the set of teeth, through an obstacle and / or under the action of a restoring force that returns at least one tooth of the pawl against the set of teeth.

Images