Calibration system for timepiece

Abstract

The invention relates to an adjustment system (1000) for a timepiece, said adjustment system comprising: a mechanical first oscillator (100) designed to at least partially adjust a drive train (82) of a timepiece movement (2000) driven by a drive system (81); a control device (600) configured to apply a main mode of operation to oscillate the mechanical first oscillator (100) at a predetermined first frequency (f1), the control device (600) being controlled by a drive train (82) at least partially tuned by the first oscillator (100); and an actuator device (500) configured to control a transition to an auxiliary operating mode in which the mechanical first oscillator (100) oscillates at a further predetermined frequency (f2, f3) different from the first frequency (f1).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a calibration system for a timepiece. The present invention also relates to a timepiece movement comprising the calibration system. The present invention also relates to a timepiece comprising the timepiece movement or the calibration system. Finally, the present invention relates to a method of operating the calibration system. Background Art

[0002] Although automatic watches have good timekeeping accuracy, the improvement rate remains a concern. "Rate" is a measure of the difference per unit time between two states of a timepiece separated by a specified time interval, and "state" can be defined as the difference between the time indicated by the timepiece and the time indicated by a reference clock at an exact moment. These definitions are in accordance with those specified in standard ISO 6426-2 (under headings 5.2 and 5.1 respectively).

[0003] Application EP1158373 discloses an oscillator of the balance wheel and hairspring type, in which the outer end of the hairspring can be actuated by a motor to modify the effective length of the hairspring, thereby decelerating or accelerating the oscillator. The document describes an error detection system (in particular by means of piezoelectric positioning pins) provided at the level of the escape anchor, which compares the effective frequency of the escapement mechanism with the effective frequency of a third-party time base. Based on this result, a motor associated with the error adjustment system will rotate in a first or second direction to shorten or lengthen the effective length of the hairspring. The intervention on the hairspring can be carried out hourly or daily.

[0004] Application EP1164441 describes a concept that is equivalent to the concept known from application EP1158373 but has a very different implementation. The error detection system is here located in the finishing train and more particularly includes a contactor provided on a central moving member that rotates once per hour and on which the minute hand is mounted. Thus, error detection can be carried out hourly.

[0005] In a first embodiment, the electromechanical device is only capable of correcting the advance of the movement rate. To this end, the device fixes the escape wheel for a time interval corresponding to the advance.

[0006] The second embodiment itself has the advantage of being able to correct the advance or retardation of the watch rate, as is the case with the movement known from application EP1158373. To this end, the second embodiment includes a device capable of acting on the effective length of the hairspring by means of a piezoelectric element provided at the level of the outer end of the hairspring. The piezoelectric element can be actuated in a first or second direction to shorten or lengthen the effective length of the hairspring.

[0007] It is also known from documents CH6444 and CH321947 a translatory component that can be moved step by step. The effective length of the hairspring can be selected from a plurality of predetermined lengths due to the influence of the movements of the watch wearer. Summary of the Invention

[0008] The object of the present invention is to improve the known adjustment system. In particular, the present invention proposes a simple and reliable adjustment system capable of improving the accuracy of a watch movement.

[0009] The adjustment system according to the present invention is defined by claim 1.

[0010] Embodiments of the adjustment system are defined by claims 2 - 8.

[0011] A watch movement according to the present invention is defined by claim 9.

[0012] A watch according to the present invention is defined by claim 10.

[0013] A method of operation according to the present invention is defined by claim 11.

[0014] Embodiments of the method of operation are defined by claims 12 - 16. Description of the Drawings

[0015] The drawings show, by way of example, an embodiment of a watch according to the present invention.

[0016] Figure 1 is a schematic view of an embodiment of a watch according to the present invention.

[0017] Figure 2 is a front view of the first oscillator of the embodiment of the watch according to the present invention.

[0018] Figure 3 is a view of the embodiment of the watch showing the finishing train.

[0019] Figure 4 is a view of the embodiment of the watch showing details of the stiffness selector device.

[0020] Figure 5 is a view of the embodiment of the watch showing the integration of the stiffness selector device.

[0021] Figure 6 is a view of the embodiment of the watch showing three configurations of the stiffness selector device.

[0022] Figure 7 is a view of the embodiment of the watch showing the integration of the actuator device.

[0023] Figure 8It is a flowchart showing the operation of a clock according to the present invention.

[0024] Figure 9 It is a view showing the embodiment of the clock with the comparator device integrated.

[0025] Figure 10 It is a view showing the embodiment of the clock with the control device integrated.

[0026] Figure 11 It is a view showing the embodiment of the clock with the details of the control device integrated.

[0027] Figure 12 It is a flowchart showing the operation method of the calibration system according to the present invention. Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiment

[0028] Hereinafter, a specific embodiment of the clock 3000 will be described in detail with reference to Figures 1 - 12 A specific embodiment of the clock 3000 will be described in detail.

[0029] The clock 3000 is, for example, a watch, especially a wristwatch. The clock 3000 includes a clock movement 2000, which is to be installed in a clock case to protect it from the external environment.

[0030] The clock movement 2000 is a mechanical movement, especially an automatic movement, or a hybrid movement.

[0031] The clock movement 2000 includes:

[0032] An oscillator 100;

[0033] An escapement system 83;

[0034] A finishing train 82; and

[0035] A drive system 81, which includes drive members 811 such as Figure 3 The barrel 811 shown.

[0036] The first oscillator 100 can calibrate, in particular through the escapement system 83, the drive of the finishing train 82 actuated by the action of the drive system 81. In particular, the first oscillator 100 can calibrate the drive of the moving member 821 on which the display element 71 is mounted, and the display element 71 is a pointer 71 of a display device 700 such as the clock 3000. The moving member 821 is, for example, the second hand moving member 821 on which the second hand 71 is mounted.

[0037] The clock movement 2000 includes a calibration system 1000.

[0038] The calibration system includes:

[0039] A mechanical first oscillator 100, which is designed to at least partially tune the transmission system 82 of a timepiece movement 2000 driven by a drive system 81;

[0040] A control device 600, which is configured to apply a main operating mode in which the mechanical first oscillator 100 oscillates at a predetermined first frequency f1, and the control device 600 is controlled by the transmission system 82 at least partially tuned by the first oscillator 100; and

[0041] An actuator device 500, which is configured to control the transition to an auxiliary operating mode in which the mechanical first oscillator 100 oscillates at additional predetermined frequencies f2, f3 different from the first frequency f1.

[0042] Here, "predetermined frequency" refers to a frequency determined in advance focused on the value f1 or f2 or f3. Each of these predetermined frequencies f1, f2, f3 can naturally vary within a specified range, the amplitude of which is a function of the tolerance of the system. To define the nominal frequency f1 of the first oscillator, this frequency f1 preferably can vary within a more restricted range, even a more restricted range than those associated with the frequencies f2, f3.

[0043] As Figure 2 shown, the first oscillator 100 advantageously includes an oscillating block 41 of an inertial element 4, in particular a balance wheel, and a first elastic return element 1, in particular a hairspring. The first oscillator 100 also includes a second elastic return element that is part of a bracket 2 of the first elastic return element 1.

[0044] The hairspring 1 is provided with vanes 11, which:

[0045] A first proximal end 14 is connected to the oscillating block 41 by a shaft 42 having a geometric axis A4; and

[0046] A second distal end includes a first connecting member 12, which is designed to be fixed to a second connecting member 23 of the bracket 2, in particular by means of tenons or pins 13a, 13b, which are designed to be inserted into corresponding openings 12a, 12b and 21a, 21b, and the corresponding openings 12a, 12b and 21a, 21b are formed on the first connecting member and the second connecting member respectively, in particular at each end of the first connecting member and the second connecting member.

[0047] The second connecting member 23 is fixed to a rigid frame 20 by elastic blades 21, 22, and each of the elastic blades 21, 22 is provided with a flexible portion at its corresponding end. Thus, the second elastic return element takes the form of a second connecting member 23 hinged to the body 20 by the elastic blades 21, 22.

[0048] The third elastic return element 3 itself takes the form of a single elastic blade 31, which is straight here, fixed to the second connecting member 23, and is arranged, for example, between the elastic blades 21, 22 at the outer periphery of the second connecting member 23.

[0049] In the embodiment described here, the elements 20, 21, 22, 23 of the bracket 2 and the blade 31 of the third elastic return element 3 form a monolithic structure 900 of the tuning system 1000, which is fixed to the clock 3000, in particular to the frame 6 of the movement 2000.

[0050] More generally, the elastic return system 10 of the first oscillator 100 thus comprises a first elastic return element, a second elastic return element and a third elastic return element. The first elastic return element 1 and the second elastic return element 2 are mounted in series between the inertial element 4 and the frame 6, and the third elastic return element 3 and the second elastic return element 2 are mounted in parallel between the said frame 6 and the first elastic return element 1.

[0051] In the embodiment described here, the stiffness selector device 300 of the elastic return system 10 is able to select one of three predetermined stiffnesses ksr1, ksr2, ksr3:

[0052] The stiffness ksr1 includes the nominal frequency f1 of the first oscillator 100;

[0053] The stiffness ksr2 is greater than the stiffness ksr1 and includes a frequency f2 higher than the frequency f1; and

[0054] The stiffness ksr3 is less than the stiffness ksr1 and includes a frequency f3 lower than the frequency f1.

[0055] Here, "predetermined stiffness" means a stiffness determined in advance focused on the value k1 or k2 or k3. Each of these predetermined stiffnesses k1, k2, k3 can naturally vary within a specified range, the amplitude of which is a function of the tolerance of the system. In order to obtain the nominal frequency f1 of the first oscillator, the stiffness k1 is preferably able to vary within a more restricted range, even more restricted than those associated with the stiffnesses k2, k3.

[0056] Thus, the stiffness ksr2 of the elastic return system 10 is able to correct the hysteresis of the display device of the clock or correct the hysteresis of the moving part (if any) that controls the display device of the clock, and the stiffness ksr3 of the elastic return system 10 is able to correct the advance of the display device of the clock or correct the advance of the moving part (if any) that controls the display device of the clock, which will be described below.

[0057] In the embodiments described herein, the stiffness selector device 300 of the resilient return system 10 acts in particular on the stiffness of the third resilient return element 3 and more particularly on the stiffness of the resilient blade 31. Thus, the stiffness selector device 300 is capable of selecting a specific stiffness of the third resilient return element 3 from among three predetermined stiffnesses k31, k32, k33, the stiffnesses ksr1, ksr2, ksr3 of the resilient return system 10 being associated with the stiffnesses k31, k32, k33 respectively. Thus, the stiffness k31 of the resilient blade 31 can define the nominal frequency f1 of the first oscillator 100, the stiffness k32 of the resilient blade 31 can correct the hysteresis of the display device of the clock or any hysteresis of the moving member (if any) that controls the display device of the clock, and the stiffness k33 of the resilient blade 31 can correct the lead of the display device of the clock or the lead of the moving member (if any) that controls the display device of the clock, which will be described hereinafter.

[0058] It is obvious that such an arrangement of the resilient return elements 1, 2, 3 with the correspondingly judiciously selected stiffnesses k1, k2, k3 can finely tune the rate particularly precisely. For example, a variation of ±10% of the stiffness k3 causes a variation of the rate of the clock including the first oscillator 100 equal to or substantially equal to ±10 s / d.

[0059] Thus, the rotation period P of the second moving member 821 is a function of the frequency of the first oscillator 100, and thus the stiffness selector device 300 can define the said period P of the moving member 821.

[0060] In the embodiments described herein, the stiffness selector device 300 takes the form of a device for modifying the effective length of the resilient blade 31, as Figure 4 shown. To this end, the device 300 includes a pair of clamps 301, 302 which clamp the resilient blade 31 and are capable of moving in the longitudinal direction of the said resilient blade 31 to reach three predetermined stable positions Pos1, Pos2, Pos3 which can respectively define the stiffnesses k31, k32, k33.

[0061] Thus, the selector device 300 can include a pair of clamps 301, 302 for determining the effective length of the resilient return system 10, in particular three effective lengths.

[0062] In this case:

[0063] The position Pos1 can define the rotation period P of the moving member 821 having the stiffness ksr1 of the resilient return system 10, in particular the stiffness k31 of the third resilient return element 3 and the nominal frequency f1 of the oscillator 100.

[0064] The position Pos2 can reduce the rotation period P of the moving member 821 having an elastic return system 10 with a stiffness ksr2 > ksr1, in particular the stiffness k32 > k31 of the third elastic return element 3 and an oscillator 100 with a frequency f2 > f1. Therefore, this position Pos2 can enable the display element 71 to compensate for the hysteresis amount.

[0065] The position Pos3 can increase the rotation period P of the moving member 821 having an elastic return system 10 with a stiffness ksr3 < ksr1, in particular the stiffness k32 < k31 of the third elastic return element 3 and an oscillator 100 with a frequency f3 < f1. Therefore, this position Pos3 can enable the display element 71 to compensate for the advance amount.

[0066] Each of the clamps 301, 302 is advantageously mounted on the unitary structure 900, in particular on the frame 304 of the unitary structure 900, by means of elastic blades, and the elastic blade 31 is biased due to the action of the tenons 303 that act against the elastic blades by loading the clamps 301, 302 to pivot substantially about their respective axes of rotation A301, A302. In particular, the clamps 301, 302 are designed to clamp the elastic blade 31 with sufficient force to prevent mechanical play during the oscillation of the oscillator. However, this force must be determined to enable the movement of the clamps 301, 302 from one stable position to another. This force can typically be between 0.1 mN and 10 mN (inclusive) depending on the dimensions of the calibration system.

[0067] The selector system includes:

[0068] The clamps 301, 302;

[0069] The tenons 303;

[0070] The frame 304;

[0071] The toothed structure 305;

[0072] The selector tip 306; and

[0073] The tenon 307.

[0074] The clamps 301, 302 can be held in one or the other of the positions Pos1, Pos2, Pos3 by means of the toothed structure 305 which is designed to position the selector tip 306 connected to the frame 304 by means of a flexible structure. In particular, the toothed structure 305 includes three tooth recesses in which the tip 306 can be positioned due to the action of the tenon 307 that loads the flexible structure connecting the tip 306 to the frame 304, so as to keep the tip 306 in contact with the toothed structure 305.

[0075] Figure 5The selector device 300 is shown by way of illustration and in black. Here, the device is part of a monolithic structure 900 designed to be mounted on the frame 6 of the movement 2000, in particular on a semi-finished movement "blank (ébauche)".

[0076] More generally, the selector device 300 thus includes at least a pair of clamps 301, 302 designed to act on the effective length of the elastic blade 31, and a selector tip 306 cooperating with a toothed structure 305, which is designed to position the pair of clamps 301, 302 in one of three stable positions Pos1, Pos2, Pos3 predefined by the teeth of the structure 305. Figure 6 Comprising:

[0077] Representing the selector device 300 in position Pos1 Figure 6 a;

[0078] Representing the selector device 300 in position Pos2 Figure 6 b; and

[0079] Representing the selector device 300 in position Pos3 Figure 6 c.

[0080] The selector device 300 is actuated periodically by an actuator device 500. In particular, the actuator device 500 is able to position the pair of clamps 301, 302 in one of the three stable positions Pos1, Pos2, Pos3 by selectively moving the selector tip 306 facing the toothed structure 305.

[0081] In the embodiment described here, the actuator device 500 takes the form of an electromechanical device comprising a power source 501 and an electromechanical actuator 502. The power source 501 is able to deliver a positive or negative voltage to the electromechanical actuator 502 and is thus able to act on the frame 304 by means of an arm 503 articulated by a flexible guide, in particular pivoting about a virtual axis of rotation A503. The arm 503 is connected to the actuator 502 and the frame 304 by a plurality of corresponding elastic structures. In particular, the arm 503 is also inscribed in the monolithic structure 900 and the actuator 502 is designed to be arranged in a receiving part 504 of the same monolithic structure.

[0082] Figure 7 A view of the elements of the actuator device 500 formed on the structure 900 is shown by way of example. These elements are shown in black as is the selector device 300. The actuator 502 itself is cross-hatched.

[0083] The actuator 502 is designed to be actuated in a direction parallel or substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction of the blade 31 in a first or second direction based on the sign of the voltage delivered by the power source 501. Advantageously, the voltage is only delivered periodically, thus uniquely causing the selector tip 306 to move relative to the toothed structure 305, which tip is held against the structure 305 due to the action of the tenon 307 and due to the action of a plurality of elastic structures, whereby the tip 306 can be hooked between two teeth of the toothed structure 305. The plurality of positions are advantageously mechanically stable. This design thus makes it possible to minimize the electrical energy consumed by the power source 501 to power the actuator device 500 and, when present, also to power the comparator device 400 described below.

[0084] The actuator 502 preferably only actuates when a pair of clamps 301, 302 are in position Pos1 ( Figure 6 a), which will be described below. In this configuration, the tip 306 is located between two teeth provided at the center of the toothed structure 305. When the actuator 502 operates in the first direction represented by the solid arrow S1 in Figure 7 , taking into account the position of the hinge axis A503 of the arm 503, the tip is driven in a second direction represented by the solid arrow S1' and opposite to the first direction. This action thus causes the tip 306 to move such that a pair of clamps 301, 302 can be positioned in position Pos3 ( Figure 6 c). Conversely, when the actuator 502 operates in the second direction represented by the dashed arrow S2 (representing the same direction as the arrow S1'), the tip is driven in a first direction represented by the dashed arrow S2' (representing the same direction as the arrow S1) and opposite to the second direction. This action thus causes the movement of the tip such that a pair of clamps 301, 302 can be positioned in position Pos2 ( Figure 6 b).

[0085] The sign of the voltage applied by the power source 501, and thus the direction S1, S2 (or S1', S2') of the movement of the actuator 502 or of the tip 306, is based on the result value VD from the comparator device 400. The comparator device 400 can be at least partly electronic. The device is capable of establishing at least one value VD of the difference between the rotation period P of the moving part 821 and the reference rotation period Pref of the moving part 821 provided by the counting device 200. The counting device 200 includes a second oscillator 210 having a frequency F1 which is significantly greater than the frequency f1 of the first oscillator 100. It can be, for example, a thermocompensated oscillator having a frequency of about several tens or hundreds of kHz or MHz and having good stability, which is thus capable of defining a reference rotation period Pref which can be considered as the period that the moving part 821 should ideally have in all cases.

[0086] In the case where the period P substantially corresponds to the period Pref, the power source 501 does not deliver a voltage, and thus the actuator 502 does not actuate a pair of clamps 301, 302. The clamps 301, 302 are thus continuously held in the position Pos1 ( Figure 6 a). In particular, the power source 501 does not deliver a voltage when

[0087] VD = Pref - P = x,

[0088] where x is within a predetermined tolerance range [a; b] as a function of the required rate of the clock.

[0089] x is preferably a real number, a is preferably a negative real number, and b is preferably a positive real number.

[0090] In the case where VD < a, the power source 501 delivers a current with a voltage of a first polarity, and thus the actuator 501 operates in a first direction to move a pair of clamps 301, 302 to the position Pos2, which can correct the amount of hysteresis displayed by the display element 71 by this movement.

[0091] In the case where VD > b, the power source 501 delivers a current with a voltage of a second polarity opposite to the first polarity, such that the actuator 501 operates in a second direction opposite to the first direction to move a pair of clamps 301, 302 to the position Pos3, which can correct the amount of advance displayed by the display element 71 by this movement.

[0092] Thus, the comparator device 400 is adapted to compare the rotation period P of the moving part 821 of the finishing transmission train 82 with the reference rotation period Pref of the moving part 821.

[0093] Figure 8 A flowchart summarizing these different cases is shown by way of illustration.

[0094] In the embodiment described herein, the comparator device 400 includes a lever 404 and a moving member 401 that is kinematically coupled to a moving member 821 of the finishing train 82 of the movement 2000. The transmission ratio here is 1:1, so the moving member 401 also has the same rotation period P as the moving member 821 (assuming the moving member 821 is a seconds moving member here, equal to or approximately 60 seconds). The moving member 401 includes a wheel 402 provided with a lug 403, which is designed to periodically cooperate with the lever 404 to drive it to rotate against a spring element 405 that is biased to a predetermined position by the lever when the lug is not in contact with the lever. In particular, the lever includes a tip 404a designed to cooperate with the lug 403 and an arm 404b designed to contact a pin 406, and the arm 404b serves as a contactor when the tip 404a is raised by the lug 403. The loss of contact between the arm 404b and the pin 406 can determine the rotation period P at regular or substantially regular intervals (here, every minute). This information is then sent to the integrated circuit 407 of the comparator device 400, which can be taken into account due to the action of the control device 600.

[0095] The control device 600 is capable of repositioning, in particular periodically repositioning, a pair of clamps 301, 302 in the position Pos1.

[0096] In the embodiment described herein, the control device 600 advantageously is capable of:

[0097] Periodically repositioning a pair of clamps 301, 302 in the position Pos1; and

[0098] Commanding the actuator device 500 to effect a possible movement of the pair of clamps 301, 302 to the position Pos2 or Pos3.

[0099] Figure 10 and 11The control device 600 shown includes a lever 602 actuated by the finishing train 82 of the movement 2000 and a tenon 601 fixed to the toothed structure 305 of the monobloc structure 900. The lever 602 is designed to act periodically on the tenon 601 to retract the selector tip 306 of the toothed structure 305 mounted on the structure 900 via a flexible structure. In particular, the lever 602 is designed to act locally on the tenon 601 in a direction perpendicular to the direction of the actuator 502 and in the direction of S3, which enables the toothed structure 305 to move away from the tip 306 and thus separate the tip 306 from the teeth 305. The tip then returns to its proper position due to the action of the flexible structure that connects the tip 306 to the frame 304 and the toothed structure 305 to the rest of the structure 900 respectively. A pair of clamps 301, 302 return to the position Pos1 due to the specific arrangement and configuration of various elastic structures.

[0100] The lever 602 is more particularly designed to be biased by a spring 603 and actuated by a cam 604 mounted on a wheel 605 itself in the form of a branch of the finishing train 82 (for example from a central moving part 822 connected to the hour hand 72 of the display device 700).

[0101] The tenon 601 is also designed to come into contact with a contactor 606 when the lever 602 acts on the tenon 601, which notifies the actuator device 500 to place a pair of clamps 301, 302 in the position Pos1. This information can actuate the actuator device 500 and thus actuate the selector device 300 taking into account the result value VD or the latest value VD from the comparator device 400.

[0102] The control device 600 thus has the advantage of being able to periodically (in the embodiment described here) reposition a pair of clamps 301, 302 in the position Pos1 without the intervention of the actuator device and / or the wearer of the watch. In addition, the control device also has the advantage of being able to achieve a single movement action of the specified amplitude of the actuator 502 regardless of the actuation directions (S1, S2). Such a configuration can thus minimize the electrical energy consumption from the main source since the action of the actuator is local and has a predetermined amplitude. Such a configuration is simpler and more reliable than a configuration that requires the actuator 502 to achieve all possible transitions between three stable positions. In addition, in the case where the devices 400 and / or 500 do not function or malfunction, the moving part 821 is only calibrated by the first oscillator 100, where the elastic return system 10 remains in or returns to the position Pos1 due to the action of the device 600, so that the first oscillator 100 has a nominal frequency f1.

[0103] Therefore, the moving part 821 can be calibrated by the first oscillator 100 in particular independently of the devices 200, 400.

[0104] The control device 600 preferably has the advantage of being integrated into the mechanical or automatic movement 2000, especially when considering the components 601, 602, 603, 604, 605.

[0105] As a result of what has been described above, the control device 600 and / or the actuator device 500 can act on a frequency selector device 300 configured to define the following three oscillation frequencies:

[0106] A first frequency f1;

[0107] A second frequency f2 lower than the first frequency f1; and

[0108] A third frequency f3 higher than the first frequency f1.

[0109] In particular, the actuator device 500 acting on the frequency selector device 300 can be controlled by the control device 600.

[0110] In order to be able to adjust the display device 700, which particularly includes the display elements 71 and 72, and in particular to be able to set the time, the calibration system 1000 advantageously further includes a device 800 for initializing the counting device 200, which counting device 200 is advantageously actuated by an adjustment mechanism 91 of the display device 700 of the clock 3000, such as an adjustment mechanism integrated into the movement 2000. After setting the time, the counting device 200 is thus initialized to take into account the new effective position of the display device 700. The actuator device 500 can advantageously be stopped for a specified period after the operation of the initialization device 800.

[0111] The monolithic structure 900 is preferably made of single-crystalline silicon. This advantageously enables a large number of components forming part of the calibration system 1000 to be grouped therein, especially the devices 300, 500, 600.

[0112] The structure 900 can be designed to be mounted on the frame 6 of the mechanical or automatic movement 2000. Other elements of the calibration system 1000 can also form an integral part of the movement 2000. Alternatively, these other elements, especially the electronic components, can be arranged at the periphery of the movement 2000 in the clock 3000.

[0113] The comparator device 400 advantageously operates at intervals of one minute or substantially one minute. The value VD can thus be established at the same frequency. In the embodiment described herein, the actuator 500 only takes into account the value VD established just before or after the contact between the lever 602 and the lug 606 (which occurs every hour or substantially every hour). The value VD can also be established at any other frequency.

[0114] The movement 2000 can advantageously be adjusted either uniquely by the first oscillator 100 (which is thus a mechanical or automatic movement) or by the entire adjustment system 1000. The finishing train 82, in particular the moving part 821, is adjusted at least in part by the first oscillator 100.

[0115] The inertial element 4 of the first oscillator 100 is preferably an assembled balance wheel, which includes a balance wheel 41 provided with screws or weights 43a, the screws or weights 43a being movable so as to be able to adjust the rate of the movement 2000 by a few seconds per day, as Figure 3 shown. These screws or weights are fixed, for example, in a manner that enables them to move relative to the rim 410 of the balance wheel 41. These screws or weights can be manipulated by a watchmaker, for example, when the balance wheel is stationary, by means of a key or screwdriver that enables them to move (towards or away from the axis A4). These tools are usually provided with means that can indicate the advance or lag of the screws or weights, so as to be able to adjust the rate of the movement particularly finely.

[0116] In the embodiment described herein, the rim 410 of the balance wheel 41 advantageously includes two pairs of weights 43a, 43b and 44a, 44b having different configurations, in particular different masses. The weights 43a, 43b are in particular longer than the weights 44a, 44b. For the same movement along the axis A4, the weights 44a, 44b cause a finer rate adjustment than the weights 43a, 43b. The weights are preferably moved in pairs to maintain the best balance of the assembled balance wheel 4.

[0117] These weights can advantageously adjust the rate of the movement 2000 in the range of ±2 s / d.

[0118] Preferably, for the first oscillator 100 having a nominal frequency of 4 Hz, ksr2 = 1.1 × ksr1 and ksr3 = 0.9 × ksr1, such that the positions Pos2 and Pos3 of the selector device 300 cause an advance and a lag of approximately 10 s / d, respectively.

[0119] The actuator device 500 and the control device 600 preferably act on the stiffness selector device 300 every hour or substantially every hour. Operations at any other frequency can be adopted.

[0120] In the above-described embodiments, the comparator device and the actuator device of the selector device, as well as the control device of the selector device, act periodically, i.e., at regular intervals. Alternatively, the comparator device and / or the actuator device and / or the control device are actuated at a specific moment rather than periodically, for example, when the control unit deems it appropriate in the case where the rate deviation is considered too large. Additionally or alternatively, if the wearer of the watch notices an advance or a lag of the display device of the timepiece, they can actuate the actuator device. Additionally or alternatively, the actuator device can be a purely mechanical device, for example, controlled by the wearer of the watch by means of a button or a corrector.

[0121] Regardless of the embodiment or variant, after the control unit or the wearer of the watch has intervened, the control device can apply a nominal oscillation frequency to the mechanical first oscillator, and the control device is controlled by a transmission system (at least partially) calibrated by the first oscillator.

[0122] In an alternative embodiment, the actuator device can be actuated by the control unit or the wearer according to a command. This also means the actuation of the control device, i.e., for example, establishing the relationship between the finishing transmission system and the tenon 601 of the toothed structure 305 fixed to the monolithic structure 900 by bringing the lever 602 into contact with the cam 604 due to the action of the auxiliary clutch system. In this particular case, when the actuator device is not actuated, for example, during the normal operation of the movement 2000, the lever 602 will then be separated from the cam 604.

[0123] In the embodiment described herein, the comparator device 400 is based on a moving member 401 having a rotation period P equal to the rotation period of the moving member 821 of the transmission system 82 of the movement 2000 (assuming the moving member 821 is particularly the second moving member, then equal to or approximately 60 seconds). In this case, the display element or the second hand 71 of the display device 700 is not necessary for the correct operation of the calibration system. Alternatively, the comparator device 400 can be based on the display element or the second hand 71 of the display device 700. For this purpose, the comparator device can include means (such as optical means) capable of identifying the effective position of the display element or the second hand 71 at a specified moment.

[0124] In the embodiments described herein, modifying the frequency of the mechanical first oscillator involves modifying the stiffness of the elastic return system, in particular modifying the effective length of the third elastic return element. However, other ways of modifying the frequency of the first oscillator can be envisaged. For example, it is conceivable to modify the surrounding elements of the mechanical first oscillator to cause a change in the aerodynamic friction experienced by the oscillating mass of the inertial element (as taught by patent CH109521). To this end, for example, a fairing can be provided around the oscillating mass of the inertial element, and the configuration of this fairing (its geometry and / or its setting on the frame of the movement) can be modified by the action of (a) control and / or actuator device(s).

[0125] The electromagnetic environment of the mechanical first oscillator can likewise be modified by the action of (a) control and / or actuator device(s) to change its oscillation frequency.

[0126] It is also conceivable to modify the inertia of the inertial element by changing the movement of the counterweight or counterweight elements provided on the oscillating mass of the inertial element. In this case, the corresponding position of the counterweight or counterweight element facing the oscillating mass depends on (a) control and / or actuator device(s). To this end, the counterweight element can be made of, for example, a piezoelectric material or a magnetostrictive material (as taught by application EP3120199).

[0127] More generally, the frequency of the first oscillator can thus be modified by:

[0128] changing the stiffness of the elastic return system of the first oscillator, in particular modifying the effective length of the elastic return element of the elastic return system;

[0129] in particular changing the inertia of the inertial element of the first oscillator by the movement of the counterweight element of the inertial element;

[0130] changing the aerodynamic and / or electromagnetic environment of the first oscillator.

[0131] These techniques can optionally be combined such that the control device uses the first technique to modify the frequency of the first oscillator and the actuator device uses the second technique to modify the frequency of the first oscillator.

[0132] A way of implementing the operating method according to the invention is described below. It is in particular a way of implementing the method of operating the calibration system 1000 described above.

[0133] The method comprises at least one iteration of the following steps and preferably comprises multiple iterations of the following steps, which are executed in sequence:

[0134] A first step of operating in the main operating mode, in which the mechanical first oscillator 100 oscillates at a predetermined first frequency f1; then

[0135] A second step, in which the actuator device 500 modifies the frequency of the mechanical first oscillator 100; then

[0136] As a result of the second step, a third step operates in an auxiliary operating mode, in which the mechanical first oscillator 100 oscillates at a second frequency f2 or a third frequency f3; then

[0137] A fourth step, in which the control device 600 applies a return to the main operating mode, the control device 600 being controlled by a transmission system 82 that is at least partially calibrated by the first oscillator 100.

[0138] As a result of the fourth step, the calibration system performs a first operating step in the main operating mode, in which the mechanical first oscillator 100 oscillates at a predetermined first frequency f1.

[0139] In other words, as Figure 12 shown, the method may include:[[]]END]]

[0140] An initialization step E1 occurring at a specified time t1, which is capable of applying the nominal stiffness value ksr1 (implied frequency f1) of the resilient return system due to the action of the control device and which also advantageously implements the command of the actuator device; and

[0141] A step E2 of pairing the period P and Pref by means of a comparator device at least at a specified time t2, which is capable of establishing a difference VD between the period P and Pref; and

[0142] A third step E3 of selecting a predetermined stiffness of the resilient return system according to the value VD, in particular from three stiffnesses ksr1, ksr2, ksr3, at a specified time t3 after t1 and t2 due to the action of the actuator device of the selector device.

[0143] As mentioned above, the control, comparison and actuator devices preferably act periodically, i.e. at regular intervals. In other words, these steps are repeated more particularly at regular intervals. For example, the second step E2 is repeated periodically at intervals of one minute or substantially one minute (first period P1), while the first and third steps E1, E3 are repeated every hour or substantially every hour (second period P2).

[0144] The method preferably includes:[[]]END]]

[0145] A step of comparing the time displayed by the timepiece movement 2000 with a reference time; and

[0146] Performing a second actuation step in the event of exceeding a specific threshold during the comparison step.

[0147] Thus, the second actuation step can be performed only when the value VD is not within the above-mentioned predetermined tolerance range [a; b]. The comparison step is advantageously performed by the comparator device 400.

[0148] Thanks to the above system, the comparison step can be performed at regular time intervals and / or at intervals defined by the timepiece movement 2000, for example at intervals of one minute or one hour. Alternatively, the comparison step can be performed when requested by the user or wearer of the timepiece. To this end, the user can act on a component of the timepiece such as a button so as to activate the comparator device and / or the actuator device.

[0149] Thanks to the above system, the fourth step occurs at regular time intervals and / or at intervals defined by the timepiece movement 2000, for example every hour.

[0150] As described above, the second step can include or consist of the step of moving a pair of fixed clamps along the elastic blade.

[0151] Thanks to the above solutions, the mechanical oscillator can be accelerated or decelerated, for example, according to the effective position of the display device of the watch. In the embodiments described herein:

[0152] The counting device and another oscillator of, for example, quartz type can define the reference position of the display device; and

[0153] The electronic comparator device can compare the effective position and the reference position of the display device,

[0154] so that, for example, the electromechanical actuator device can select the oscillation frequency of the mechanical oscillator adapted according to the load on the watch.

[0155] The solutions described herein are remarkable because they include a control device capable of applying a predetermined oscillation frequency f1 to the mechanical oscillator, whereby the timepiece has inherently good accuracy. In particular, the control device controls by driving a transmission system, especially a finishing transmission system, of the display device of the watch that is at least partially calibrated by the mechanical oscillator. In addition, the control device can also be well controlled by other devices or equipment, especially in the case of a movement where the rate correction occurs upstream of the fourth step at regular time intervals and / or defined intervals. The control device can therefore be controlled at least by the transmission system, especially the finishing transmission system.

[0156] The control device advantageously enables a pivoting frequency f1, referred to as the "nominal" frequency, to be applied to the mechanical oscillator, which can operate the mechanical oscillator sufficiently independently of the other devices 300, 400, 500, 600. In addition, in the embodiment described herein, the control device also has the advantage of being able to select at least one other oscillation frequency (f2, f3) of the mechanical oscillator by commanding the actuator device to select at least one other oscillation frequency.

[0157] To improve the rate of the clock, the calibration system includes a mechanical oscillator, the nominal frequency of which can possibly be modified at regular intervals, but can also possibly be re-established at regular intervals, because of the action of a control device controlled by a transmission system, in particular a finishing transmission system, at least partially calibrated by the first mechanical oscillator. The "nominal" frequency (f1) refers to the frequency of the first mechanical oscillator determined during the design phase and / or during the assembly of the first oscillator to achieve the target timekeeping accuracy when the transmission system, in particular the finishing transmission system, is uniquely modulated by the first oscillator. The assembly of the first oscillator may, for example, require a target adjustment of the stiffness, in particular the effective length, of the return element of the elastic return system forming part of the first oscillator, or a target adjustment of the counterweight provided on the inertial element forming part of the first oscillator. The frequency f1 of the system is the frequency at which the clock movement and / or the clock can be certified, in particular to obtain the chronometer certification of the COSC ( Officiel Suisse des Chronomètres, the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute), or even to enable the clock to obtain the applicant's "Superlative Chronometer" certification. Thus, these certifications can be obtained independently of the use of the above solutions that cause the movement to operate at a frequency of the first oscillator different from f1 during certain periods.

[0158] The solution described herein differs particularly from documents EP1158373 and EP1164441 in that the calibration system includes a first mechanical oscillator, the frequency f1 of which can be modified (by the actuator device of the selector device), but is then re-established (by the control device of the selector device), in particular autonomously re-established by an element directly actuated by the finishing transmission system.

[0159] The solution described herein differs particularly from documents CH6444 and CH321947 in that the control device can apply a predetermined frequency to the mechanical oscillator, which is controlled by a transmission system, in particular a finishing transmission system, coupled to the display device of the watch and is at least partially calibrated by the mechanical oscillator rather than by a third-party device or the wearer of the watch.

Claims

1. A calibration system (1000), wherein the calibration system comprises: a first mechanical oscillator (100) designed to at least partially regulate a drive train (82) of a timepiece movement (2000) driven by a drive system (81); a control device (600) configured to apply a main operating mode for causing the first mechanical oscillator (100) to oscillate at a predetermined first frequency (f1), the control device (600) being controlled by a drive train (82) at least partially regulated by the first oscillator (100); as well as An actuator device (500) is configured to control a transition to an auxiliary operating mode in which the first mechanical oscillator (100) oscillates at a further predetermined frequency (f2, f3) different from the first frequency (f1).

2. The calibration system (1000) according to claim 1, wherein: The tuning system (1000) comprises a frequency selector device (300) and the control device (600) and / or the actuator device (500) act on the frequency selector device (300), the frequency selector device (300) being configured to define the following three oscillation frequencies: the first frequency (f1); a second frequency (f2) lower than the first frequency (f1); and A third frequency (f3) higher than the first frequency (f1).

3. The calibration system (1000) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The first mechanical oscillator (100) comprises an inertial element (4) and an elastic return system (10), and the multiple frequencies are defined by multiple predetermined stiffnesses (ksr1, ksr2, ksr3) of the elastic return system (10).

4. The calibration system (1000) according to claim 3, wherein: The selector device (300) comprises a pair of clamps (301, 302) that determine the effective length, in particular three effective lengths, of the elastic return system (10).

5. The calibration system (1000) according to any of the preceding claims and according to claim 2, wherein: The actuator device (500) acting on the selector device (300) is controlled by the control device (600).

6. The calibration system (1000) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The calibration system comprises a comparator device (400) adapted to compare a rotation period (P) of a mobile element (821) of a finishing transmission (82) with a reference rotation period (Pref) of the mobile element (821).

7. The calibration system (1000) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein: The calibration system comprises a counting device (200) comprising a second oscillator (210) having a fourth frequency (F1) higher than the first frequency (f1).

8. The calibration system (1000) according to claim 7, wherein: The adjustment system comprises an initialization device (800) for the counting device (200), the initialization device (800) being configured to be actuated by an adjustment mechanism (91) of a display device (700) of a timepiece (3000).

9. A timepiece movement (2000) comprising a setting system (1000) according to any one of the preceding claims and a drive train (82), in particular a finishing drive train (82).

10. A timepiece (3000), in particular a wristwatch, comprising the adjustment system (1000) according to any one of claims 1 to 8 and / or the movement according to claim 9.

11. A method for operating a regulating system (1000) for a timepiece movement (2000), the regulating system (1000) comprising a mechanical first oscillator (100) designed to at least partially regulate a drive train (82) of a timepiece movement (2000) driven by a drive system (81), the method comprising at least one iteration of the following steps: a first step of operating in a main operating mode, wherein said first oscillator (100) of mechanical type oscillates at a predetermined first frequency (f1); A second step, in which an actuator device (500) modifies the frequency of said first oscillator (100) of a mechanical type; A third step of operating in an auxiliary operation mode, wherein the first mechanical oscillator (100) oscillates at a second frequency (f2) or a third frequency (f3); A fourth step in which a return to said main operating mode is imposed by a control device (600), said control device (600) being controlled by said drive train (82) at least partially regulated by said first oscillator (100).

12. The operating method according to claim 11, wherein: The method comprises: A comparison step of comparing the time displayed by the clock movement (2000) with a reference time; and Said second step of actuating is performed in case a certain threshold value is exceeded during said comparison step.

13. The operating method according to claim 12, wherein: The comparison step is performed at regular time intervals and / or at intervals defined by the timepiece movement (2000).

14. The operating method according to claim 12 or 13, wherein: The comparison step is performed upon user request.

15. The operating method according to any one of claims 11 to 14, wherein: Said fourth step is performed at regular time intervals and / or at intervals defined by the watch movement (2000).

16. The operating method according to any one of claims 11 to 15, wherein: The second step is a step of moving a pair of fixed clamps along the elastic blade and / or the fourth step is a step of moving a pair of fixed clamps along the elastic blade.

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