Testing device for timepiece component

Abstract

A testing device (20) for a timepiece component (100), comprising a holding device (30) arranged to accommodate and hold the timepiece component (100), a fixing device (40) arranged to fix the holding device (30) on a testing device (10), characterized in that the holding device (30) is arranged to hold the timepiece component (100), and the fixing device (40) is arranged to fix the timepiece component (100) on the testing device (10). One of the holding means (30) and the securing means (40) comprises a complementary shape portion at least partially matching the other of the holding means (30) and the securing means (40), and the complementary shape portion is arranged to allow adjustment of the fixation of the holding means (30) in at least seven different relative directions between the holding means (30) and the fixation means (40).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention generally relates to a testing device for timepiece components, and in particular to a testing device for positioning a timepiece component, such as a movement or a case containing a movement, for subjecting it to dynamic tests such as impact, vibration or acceleration tests. Background Art

[0002] In the prior art of testing devices for watch components, patent documents CH699300A1 and CH699301A1 are known, which describe test devices for positioning watch components during mechanical and environmental testing. However, these devices do not offer much flexibility in the relative positioning between the watch component and the test device, as only a few predetermined relative positions are possible. Furthermore, it can be noted that these documents do not propose solutions for easily handling the test device and installing it on the test device. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The object of the present invention is to resolve the above-mentioned drawbacks of the prior art and, in particular, to firstly propose a testing device which offers a high flexibility of use and / or a high degree of freedom in the relative positioning of the timepiece component to be tested and the testing device.

[0004] To this end, a first aspect of the present invention relates to a testing device for a timepiece component, comprising at least:

[0005] - a holding device, arranged to receive and hold a timepiece component,

[0006] - a fixing device, arranged to fix the holding device on the test device,

[0007] Characterized in that one of the holding device and the fixing device comprises a complementary shape that at least partially matches the other of the holding device and the fixing device, and the complementary shape is arranged to allow adjustment of the fixing of the holding device in at least seven different relative directions between the holding device and the fastening device.

[0008] The test device in the above embodiment includes a holding device that can be repositioned in at least seven different relative orientations relative to the fixture (and thus relative to the test equipment), which allows for testing components in multiple orientations. To this end, one of the holding device and the fixture includes a complementary shape that at least partially matches the other of the holding device and the fixture. In other words, one of the holding device and the fixture includes a predetermined shape, and the other of the holding device and the fixture includes a complementary shape that matches the predetermined shape, allowing for easy repositioning in multiple relative positions (at least seven).

[0009] In other words, current watch testing is limited to six watch positions, which is very restrictive. These six directions are orthogonal to each other, with the normal of the movement plane being parallel or perpendicular to the direction of gravity, and in the vertical position, the axis 12H-6H of the movement being parallel or perpendicular to the direction of gravity. According to the present invention, at least seven relative positions are allowed, and it can be noted that these are at least seven directions that are not necessarily orthogonal to each other. Therefore, there is a higher degree of freedom in adjusting the relative positions to improve the representativeness of the stresses to which the watch is subjected. Although these six standard watch positions are theoretical reference standards that can be used in the present invention, the test device for the watch components in the above-mentioned embodiment allows the watch components to be tested according to an unlimited number of arrangements or relative directions.

[0010] In one embodiment, the complementary shape comprises at least one continuous contact portion between the retaining means and the fixing means and is arranged to allow a continuous variation of the fixing adjustment between at least two different and orthogonal relative orientations of the retaining means and the fixing means. This continuous variation of the fixing adjustment provides an infinite number of relative positions between the retaining means and the fixing means, which constitutes a possibility for testing the watch component.

[0011] In one embodiment, the at least one continuation comprises a continuous contact surface between the retaining means and the fixing means, which is curved, and / or elliptical and / or spherical in shape.

[0012] In one embodiment, it is contemplated that the retaining device has a spherical, spheroidal, or generally spherical outer shape.

[0013] In one embodiment, the fixing means may have or comprise a concave receiving shape, comprising a cylindrical portion or a spherical portion or a conical portion, to accommodate the retaining means.

[0014] In one embodiment, the complementary shape comprises at least two separate parts, arranged to allow fine adjustment of the fixation in at least two different relative directions (e.g., in orthogonal directions) between the holding device and the fixing device. Graduations, in particular facets and / or notches, may be provided to provide predetermined fine positioning (separate different positions).

[0015] In one embodiment, the fixing device comprises at least one perforation and / or the holding device fixed by the fixing device comprises at least one portion that is directly accessible from the outside, for example for receiving an impact acting directly on the holding device. In other words, the fixing device is used to make at least a portion of the holding device directly accessible from the outside, so that an impact can be directly applied to the holding device during a bump test or a vibration can be directly applied during a vibration test. As a result, the test is reliable and representative because the holding device (which houses and carries the watch components) is directly subjected to the force.

[0016] In one embodiment, the test device includes a direction adjustment device with a directional drive component configured to move the holding device relative to the fixing device. Such a directional drive component allows automatic adjustment or operator-assisted quick and reliable adjustment of the direction between the holding device and the fixing device.

[0017] Alternatively or in combination, the directional drive component allows adjusting the position of the fixture on the test device. In other words, it is possible to consider changing the relative position of the entire test device with respect to the test device.

[0018] In one embodiment, the directional drive component:

[0019] - comprises an engagement portion arranged to reversibly engage with respect to the retaining means and / or with respect to the fixing means, and / or

[0020] - includes at least one drive roller for the holding device, and / or at least one drive track for the holding device, and / or at least one drive arm for the holding device. Generally, the directional drive component is configured to directly engage with the holding device and move it relative to the fixture, and / or to move directly on the fixture and move it relative to the equipment.

[0021] In one embodiment, the engagement portion comprises a drive block (or any other shape of rotational stop). In one embodiment, the directional drive member comprises a locking member on the retaining device, such as a ball pusher provided on the drive block.

[0022] In one embodiment, the directional drive component:

[0023] - including portions passing through perforations, and / or

[0024] - is arranged to be in contact with at least one portion of the holding device that is directly accessible from the outside.

[0025] In one embodiment, the fixing device comprises:

[0026] - at least one seat, configured to accommodate the holding device,

[0027] at least one clamping member movable between an open position, in which the holding device can be freely received in the seat or removed from the seat, and a clamping position, in which the holding device is clamped on the seat,

[0028] Furthermore, the at least one clamping member is configured to be capable of assuming an adjustment position between a clamped position and an open position, wherein the relative orientation of the retaining device and the fixing device can be adjusted in the adjusted position. In other words, the at least one clamping member can assume three different positions: an open position, a clamped position, and an adjustment position. In one embodiment, when the at least one clamping member is in the adjustment position, the retaining device cannot be removed from the testing device: the retaining device can be moved to adjust a specific relative position, but cannot be removed. Thus, in the adjusted position, the retaining device cannot be completely dislodged or detached.

[0029] In one embodiment, the mount comprises a complementary shape at least partially matching the retaining device, and the at least one clamping member is used to push and clamp the retaining device into the complementary shape.

[0030] In one embodiment, the at least one clamping member comprises at least:

[0031] - pivoting the clamping lever, and / or

[0032] - Sliding clamps, and / or

[0033] - clamping screws,

[0034] In one embodiment, the securing means comprises a reversible securing member on the test device.

[0035] In one embodiment, the retaining means comprises:

[0036] - two half-shells arranged to be fixed together and containing said timepiece components, and / or

[0037] - at least one measuring sensor, such as an inclinometer, an accelerometer, an image sensor, a force sensor, and / or

[0038] - a housing with a contact surface for contact with the fixing means, the contact surface being substantially continuous, and / or curved, and / or elliptical, and / or spherical, and / or

[0039] - positioning means, such as a retaining system, for positioning and / or retaining the timepiece component on or in the retaining means, for example by fastening or clamping, and / or

[0040] - A position identification member which identifies the position of the timepiece component in the retaining device.

[0041] For example, a system may be provided that allows the use of a three-axis sensor to measure linear acceleration, and the measurement of angular acceleration by combining the first sensor with a linear accelerometer.

[0042] The sensor may be positioned as close as possible to the timepiece component, preferably at the centre of gravity of the holding device, in order to ensure reliable acceleration measurement.

[0043] These acceleration measurements can be performed on simulated watch components, such as blanks of the same shape and weight as the watch movement, into which the accelerometers are fixed. Once the test equipment and the given orientations have been measured, the same tests can be performed on the watch components, provided that the forces and accelerations are the same as those measured on the simulated components. This ensures that tests can be performed in multiple orientations, and to further improve the accuracy of the measurements, a calibration phase can be considered regarding the relative orientations and physical parameter measurements. This calibration allows for the peculiarities of the test equipment, the relative orientations, or the test itself to be taken into account.

[0044] At least one vision system may be provided to observe the effects of shocks on the watch and movement.

[0045] All collected information can be sent to the host computer integrated into the test equipment.

[0046] The holding device may have a wired or wireless link for transmitting the measured information to a host computer (eg, a computer).

[0047] Preferably, the testing device further comprises at least one identification component, such as a barcode or an RFID chip.

[0048] In one embodiment, the components of the test device (holding device and fixture) that come into contact with other components (for clamping, applying impact, etc.) can be made of the following materials:

[0049] - wear-resistant steel with good surface hardness, such as DIN 1.2510, and / or

[0050] - Aluminium that has been treated with anodising or oxidation (e.g. micro-arc) to improve and harden its surface, and / or

[0051] - polymers (polyoxymethylene (POM)) and / or elastomers (polyurethane (PUR)) and / or plastics and / or titanium and / or any other metallic material.

[0052] It should be noted that these components can be made of different materials (bi-material or multi-material). The selection of the appropriate material must take into account the mechanical properties of the material and its weight, which must be as low as possible.

[0053] In one embodiment, the test device comprises a timepiece component, consisting of a watch movement or a watch case or a watch strap.

[0054] In one embodiment, the watch component is held on or in a holding device. The watch component may be contained in the holding device during the test, but it is also conceivable that the watch component can be accessed from the outside when the watch component is connected to the holding device. In other words, the watch component does not necessarily have to be contained or enclosed in the holding device during the test.

[0055] A second aspect of the present invention relates to a testing device comprising the testing apparatus according to the first aspect, for performing a shock test, and / or a linear acceleration test, and / or a vibration test, and / or an angular acceleration test.

[0056] In one embodiment, the testing device comprises:

[0057] -frame,

[0058] - a test arm, movable relative to the frame,

[0059] - an anvil (or target or impact plate or base), fixed relative to the frame,

[0060] And the test device is carried by the free end of the test arm, wherein the test arm is arranged to project the test device, in particular the holding device, onto the anvil (or target or impact plate or base).

[0061] In one embodiment, the test equipment can be configured to impact test movements and timepieces according to various standards, such as NIHS 91-10 of April 2016, NIHS 91-20 of April 2022, NIHS 91-30 of August 2021, or NIHS 93-20 of August 2021.

[0062] Therefore, in the following embodiments, it is possible to optimize the test speed and ensure reproducibility for each movement. This solution offers the following possibilities:

[0063] - Ability to use the same carrier for various movements or cases, allowing for various tests on various test equipment;

[0064] - Rapid and simple identification of the position of the reference plane of a timepiece component and its precise and reproducible orientation in all directions of space (automatically or not);

[0065] - Enables unprecedented new testing using the infinite directional spectrum of the movement under test. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0066] Other characteristics and advantages of the invention will become more apparent on reading the following detailed description of an embodiment of the invention given as a non-limiting example and illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

[0067] Figure 1 shows a simplified schematic diagram of a test device for applying an impact to a timepiece component and comprising a test arm in an initial position carrying a test device according to the invention, said test device itself comprising holding means for enclosing the timepiece component and fixing means arranged to fix the holding means to the test arm of the test device;

[0068] Figure 2 Shown Figure 1 a test device in which the test arm is in a final position and the holding device is projected onto an anvil (or target or impact plate) of the test device;

[0069] Figure 3a Shown Figure 1 a portion of a test device in which the fixing means partially releases the holding means so as to enable adjustment of the relative position of the holding means with respect to the test arm;

[0070] Figure 3b Shown Figure 1 a portion of a test device in which the securing means fully releases the retaining means so as to enable removal thereof from the test device;

[0071] Figure 4 Shown Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a portion of a retaining device in FIG.

[0072] Figure 5 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of a retaining system for retaining a timepiece component in a retaining device;

[0073] Figure 6 Shown Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of a portion of a holding device that accommodates Figure 5 Retention systems and clock components in;

[0074] Figure 7 Details show the accommodation Figure 4 or Figure 6 Implementation of the fixing device of the holding device;

[0075] Figure 8 A directional drive member is shown which can be used to change the relative orientation between the holding device and the securing device, for example when the securing device partially releases the holding device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0076] Figure 1A simplified schematic diagram of a test device 10 is shown, which is used to apply an impact to a timepiece component and comprises a test arm 14 in an initial position, which carries a test device 20 according to the invention, said test device itself comprising a holding device 30 for receiving a timepiece component and a fixing device 40 arranged to fix said holding device 30 on the test arm 14 of the test device 10.

[0077] In detail, in a simplified example shown, the test device 10 comprises:

[0078] - base 11,

[0079] - a boom 12 fixed to the base 11,

[0080] - an anvil 13 also fixed to the base 11,

[0081] A test arm 14 , mounted on said boom 12 and articulated according to a pivot connection in this particular example.

[0082] The test device 20 comprises in particular a holding device 30 carrying a clock component and a fixing device 40 for reversibly fixing or connecting the holding device 30 to the test apparatus 10 , in particular to the test arm 14 .

[0083] The holding device 30 comprises two half shells 31 and 32 assembled together to present a spherical, spherical or generally spherical shape. Figures 4 to 6 Let's describe this structure in more detail.

[0084] The fixing device 40 comprises complementary shapes forming a seat 41 which houses the holding device 30 , two pivoting clamping arms 42 and a clamping hydraulic cylinder 43 arranged between the two clamping arms 42 for applying a reversible clamping force to the holding device 30 . Figure 1 In the embodiment, the two clamping arms 42 are in contact with the holding device 30 and firmly fix it under the action of the clamping hydraulic cylinder 43.

[0085] The test device 10 may of course comprise control and / or electric means for pivoting the test arm 14 in order to apply an impact to the timepiece component loaded in the holding means. Figure 1 In the test arm 14, the test arm 14 is in the initial test position and holds the holding device (via the fixing device 40) opposite the anvil 13 supported by the base 11. Figure 2 In the embodiment of the present invention, the test arm 14 is moved to the final test position, wherein the holding device 30 is projected onto the anvil 13 to receive the impact. Depending on the pivoting speed of the test arm 14 and / or the mass of the individual components, it is possible to consider applying an impact with a deceleration ranging from a few grams to hundreds, thousands or tens of thousands of grams.

[0086] exist Figure 1In the embodiment, the two clamping arms 42 are in the clamping position, in which they fix and securely hold the holding device 30 on the support 41. Figure 3a In FIG, after actuation of the clamping hydraulic cylinder 43, the two clamping arms 42 are in an adjusted position in which they allow the holding device 30 to be freely moved and repositioned in the seat 41. However, due to the two clamping arms 42 being in the adjusted position, the holding device 30 is not completely removed from the fixture 40. Figure 3b In FIG. 4 , after actuation of the clamping hydraulic cylinder 43 , the two clamping arms 42 are in an open position in which they completely remove the holding device 30 from the support 41 and the test device 10 .

[0087] It can be noted that the seat 41 has a complementary shape that is complementary to the spherical (or substantially spherical) shape of the retaining device, so that an infinite number of relative positions can be provided between the retaining device 30 and the fixing device 40, and therefore between the retaining device 30 and the test device 10, in the open position or the adjustment position.

[0088] Figure 4 Shown Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a portion of a retaining device 30 in FIG. As shown, the retaining device 30 includes half-shells 31 and 32 assembled together, for example, by screwing. Specifically, a first half-shell 31 having a thread 311 and a second half-shell 32 having a tapped portion 321 for engaging with the thread 311 can be provided. Both the first half-shell 31 and the second half-shell 32 are hollowed to accommodate a retaining system for the timepiece component to be tested. In particular, a fixing interface 313 (here, a fixed inner surface with tapped threads and locating blind holes) can be provided in the hollowed portion of the first half-shell 31. Alternatively, a first drive block 312 (or any other rotational stop) leading to the outer surface of the first half-shell 31 and a second drive block 322 (or any other rotational stop) leading to the second half-shell 32 can be provided. It should be noted that the first drive block 312 and the second drive block 322 are substantially coaxial and / or oriented substantially perpendicular to the fixed inner surface of the fixing interface 313. The first driving block 312 and the second driving block 322 can be used to assemble, fasten, loosen, operate, and position the first half-shell 31 and / or the second half-shell 32 .

[0089] Figure 5 A perspective view of an embodiment of a retention system 50 for retaining a timepiece component 100 in a retaining device 30 is shown. In this particular example, the timepiece component 100 comprises a watch case containing a timepiece movement. The retention system 50 comprises two flanges that can clamp the watch lugs and the watch case, each flange comprising a base 51 and a flange head 52 held together by at least one fastening screw 53. A single base can be provided to accommodate both flange heads 52.

[0090] In the event that the test device 10 applies an impact, special materials can be used for the half-shells 31 and 32. Stainless steel, steel with a surface hardened or treated to provide sufficient hardness to ensure durability and prevent deformation, can be considered. Case-hardened aluminum or polymer materials are also considered. In other words, materials that allow for the most repeatable energy transfer possible to the movement can be considered. To fully account for the influence of material, geometry, and test equipment, the test equipment can be calibrated using sensors to accurately determine the acceleration to which the component under test is subjected in each relevant direction to be tested.

[0091] Figure 6 Shown Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of a portion of the retaining device 30 that accommodates Figure 5 The retaining system 50 and the watch component 100 in FIG. Figure 5 As shown, the timepiece component 100 is clamped or fastened between the base 51 and the flange head 52 of the two fixed flanges, and as shown in FIG. Figure 6 As shown, the flanges of the holding system 50 are fixed to the fixing interface 313 of the first half shell 31 by fastening screws 53. Figure 6 , retaining device 30 is closed on timepiece component 100 , that is to say first half-shell 31 is screwed into second half-shell 32 to form a sphere.

[0092] It can be noted that in Figure 6 In the embodiment of the present invention, a recessed portion is provided above or below the clock component 100, which can be used to place measurement sensors (impact, vibration, vision sensors, etc.) during the test. For example, such sensors can be clamped or fixed, for example, by screws, and calibration can be considered to ensure good measurement accuracy. It is also possible to install an analog clock component including the above-mentioned sensors instead of the clock component 10.

[0093] Figure 7 The fixture 40 housing the holding device 30 is shown. It can be noted that each of the two clamping arms 42 is pivotally articulated about a pivot axis 421, so that a contact interface 422 (in this case a cylindrical shaft) can be supported on the holding device 30 and a clamping hydraulic cylinder 43 can act on a control shaft 423 to move both clamping arms 42 simultaneously. Figure 7 In the embodiment of the present invention, the two clamping arms 42 are pushed back at the axis 423 by the clamping hydraulic cylinder 43 against the retaining device 30, which causes the retaining device 30 to be pressed against the complementary shape of the abutment 41. The retaining device 30 is thus firmly pressed against the abutment 41, and if an impact is applied to the retaining device 30, the relative position of the retaining device 30 relative to the abutment 41 remains unchanged.

[0094] like Figure 3aAs indicated in the explanations therein, the grip of the clamping arms 42 on the holding device 30 can be released to allow a relative movement between the holding device 30 and the fixing device, in particular relative to the support 41 .

[0095] Figure 8 An orientation drive member 60 is shown which can be used to change the relative orientation between the holding device 30 and the support 41, for example, when the fixing device partially releases the holding device 30, such as Figure 3a shown.

[0096] Figure 8 The directional drive component 60 in the embodiment includes in particular:

[0097] an engagement fixture 61 for engaging with the holding device 30 (using one of the first drive block 312 or the second drive block 322 ),

[0098] - controlling the hydraulic cylinder 62 for engaging or disengaging the engaging clamp 61 with the holding device 30,

[0099] a rotary actuator 63 , here a rotary motor with gears, to drive the engaging clamp 61 in rotation and the holding device 30 when the engaging clamp 61 engages with it,

[0100] - A displacement member 64 for approaching the engaging fixture 61 and inserting it into one of the first driving block 312 or the second driving block 322. Figure 8 As shown by the arrows at the bottom, elements may be provided that allow the directional drive member 60 to pivot about the following axes:

[0101] - around Figure 8 A substantially vertical axis extending substantially through the center of gravity of the retaining device 30, and / or

[0102] - around Figure 8 A substantially horizontal axis passes substantially through the center of gravity of the retaining device 30 .

[0103] Thus, it is possible to envisage a controlled and automated movement of the holding device 30 relative to the support 41. In particular, the rotation actuator 63 may comprise a stepper motor in order to impart a precise predetermined rotation to the holding device 30 relative to the support 41. It is also possible to envisage a calibration of the directional drive component 60 in order to ensure that the relative positioning imparted by the directional drive component 60 has good accuracy and / or good reproducibility.

[0104] Thus, the test apparatus 10 can accommodate the holding device 30 in a specific position to perform dynamic tests (such as a crash test in the given example).

[0105] As shown above, especially Figure 1 、 Figure 2 、 Figure 6As shown, the relative position between the holding device 30 and the fixture 40 determines the relative position between the watch component 100 and the test device 10, in particular, the anvil (or target or impact plate) 13 in the example of the impact device. It can be noted that after the first relative position between the holding device 30 and the test device 10 has been tested, it is easy to change this position or relative orientation. In fact, it is only necessary to put the clamping arm 42 in the adjustment position to release the holding device 30 and change its relative position relative to the support 41, and then the clamping arm 42 can be returned to the clamping position so that the holding device 30 can be clamped again in the new position relative to the test device 10.

[0106] The complementary shapes of the support 41 allow for an unlimited number of relative positions between the holding fixture 30 and the test apparatus 10. Testing can be performed in six orthogonal Cartesian coordinate axes: +X; +Y; +Z; -X; -Y; -Z, and testing can be easily performed in positions or orientations intermediate these axes. To ensure accuracy in position or relative orientation, it is contemplated to utilize an directional drive assembly 60 and / or to provide specific reference points or markings on the holding fixture 30 for the operator or automated device of the test apparatus 10.

[0107] Industrial Applications

[0108] The test device according to the invention and its manufacture can be used in industrial applications.

[0109] It will be understood that various modifications and improvements apparent to those skilled in the art can be made to the various embodiments of the invention described in this specification without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0110] In particular, it can be noted that Figure 4 and Figure 6 The first convex half shell 31 and the second half shell 32 are assembled together by screwing, but other types of assembly methods (such as screws, elastic snap connections, etc.) can also be considered.

[0111] The outer shape of the retaining device 30 is spherical, but other shapes that allow relative repositioning using a fixing device can also be considered. For example, a smooth complementary shape portion can be provided to provide an unlimited number of relative positions, but a complementary shape portion with a predetermined positioning (grooves, notches, etc.) can also be provided. As an example, grooves on the outer surface of the retaining device can be cited. For example, these grooves can also indicate the position of the watch component in the retaining device and / or provide identification components and / or provide index components.

[0112] In the example given, the seat 41 comprises a spherical complementary shape, but a cylindrical hole with chamfers or a tapered portion could be provided to house the retaining means 30 .

[0113] The orientation drive member 60 may comprise a small roller or a drive roller instead of the engagement clamp 61. Alternatively, a five-axis robot with a gripping clamp may be provided which can reposition the holding device 30 into the support 41.

[0114] Holding device 30 may vary depending on the model and size of timepiece component 100 to be tested.

[0115] Similarly, several types of fixing fixtures 50 can be provided, depending on the timepiece component 100 to be tested. It is possible to fix the timepiece component 100 to be tested by pressing on the lugs or, alternatively, on the bezel (or if it does not rotate). It is also possible to test a bare movement, in which case its fixation in the retaining device 30 is preferably achieved by directly pressing on the bridge. It is also possible to retain the timepiece mechanism 100 to be tested by pressing or clamping between the components of the retaining device 30. With regard to the testing of wristwatches, the retaining system can be composed of a cylinder of oval cross-section, which allows the retaining action to be similar to that of a human wrist.

[0116] It will be noted that the drive blocks 312 or 322 may be replaced by any other shape that allows for providing rotational indexing.If a sufficiently effective fixture is provided, a cylindrical hole of circular cross-section may be formed.

Claims

1. A testing device (20) for a timepiece component (100), comprising: - a holding device (30) arranged to receive and hold said timepiece component (100), - a fixing device (40) provided for fixing the holding device (30) on the test device (10), Characterized in that one of the holding device (30) and the fixing device (40) includes a complementary shape portion that at least partially matches the other of the holding device (30) and the fixing device (40), and the complementary shape portion is arranged to allow adjustment of the fixing of the holding device (30) in at least seven different relative directions between the holding device (30) and the fixing device (40).

2. A test device (20) according to claim 1, wherein the complementary shape portion includes at least one continuous contact portion between the holding device (30) and the fixing device (40), and is arranged to allow a continuous change in the fixing adjustment between at least two different and orthogonal relative directions between the holding device (30) and the fixing device (40).

3. The test device (20) according to claim 2, wherein the at least one continuous portion comprises a continuous contact surface between the holding device (30) and the fixing device (40), which is curved, and / or elliptical and / or spherical in shape.

4. The test device (20) according to claim 1, wherein the complementary shape comprises at least two independent parts, which are arranged to allow fine adjustment of the fixation in at least two different relative directions (for example in orthogonal directions) between the holding device (30) and the fixing device (40).

5. A test device (20) according to claim 1, wherein the fixing device (40) includes at least one perforation, and / or wherein the holding device (30) fixed by the fixing device (40) includes at least one portion that can be directly accessed from the outside, for example for receiving an impact directly acting on the holding device (30).

6. The test device (20) according to claim 1, comprising a direction adjustment device with a directional drive member (60) arranged to move the holding device (30) relative to the fixing device (40).

7. The testing device (20) according to claim 6, wherein the directional drive component (60): - comprising an engagement portion arranged to reversibly engage relative to said retaining means (30), and / or - comprising at least one drive roller of the holding device (30), and / or at least one drive track of the holding device (30), and / or at least one drive arm of the holding device (30).

8. The testing device (20) according to claim 6 and claim 5, wherein the directional drive component (60): - including portions passing through perforations, and / or - is arranged to be in contact with the at least one directly externally accessible portion of the holding device (30).

9. The test device (20) according to claim 1, wherein the fixing device (40) comprises: - at least one seat (41) configured to accommodate the holding device (30), at least one clamping member movable between an open position, in which the retaining device (30) can be freely accommodated in the seat (41) or removed from the latter, and a clamping position, in which the retaining device (30) is clamped on the seat (41), Furthermore, the at least one clamping member is configured to be able to be positioned in an adjustment position between a clamping position and an open position, and in the adjustment position, the relative direction between the holding device (30) and the fixing device (40) can be adjusted.

10. The test device (20) according to claim 9, wherein the seat (41) comprises a complementary shape that at least partially matches the holding device (30), and wherein the at least one clamping member is used to push the holding device (30) and clamp it into the complementary shape.

11. The test device (20) of claim 9, wherein the at least one clamping member comprises at least: - pivoting the clamping lever, and / or - Sliding clamps, and / or -Clamping screw.

12. The test apparatus (20) of claim 1, wherein the securing means (40) comprises a reversible securing member on the test device (10).

13. The testing device (20) according to claim 1, wherein the holding device (30) comprises: - two half-shells arranged to be fixed together and containing said timepiece component (100), and / or - at least one measuring sensor, such as an inclinometer, an accelerometer, an image sensor, a force sensor, and / or - a housing with a contact surface for contact with said fixing means (40), said contact surface being substantially continuous, and / or curved, and / or elliptical, and / or spherical, and / or - positioning means for positioning and / or retaining the timepiece component (100) on the retaining means (30), for example by fastening or clamping, - a position identification component for identifying the position of the timepiece component (100) in the holding device (30).

14. The testing device (20) according to claim 1, comprising the timepiece component (100) consisting of a watch movement, a watch case or a watch strap.

15. A test device (10) comprising the test apparatus (20) according to claim 1, for performing a shock test, and / or a linear acceleration test, and / or a vibration test, and / or an angular acceleration test.

Images