Switch mechanism, movement for timepiece, and timepiece

Abstract

Provided is a switching mechanism capable of suppressing the thickness of a timepiece movement and improving the degree of freedom of layout of parts near a stem. The switch mechanism (25) is provided with: a handle shaft (50) supported by the main plate (20); a lever-side gear (60) that is provided so as to be rotatable with respect to the main plate (20), has a first rotation axis (C1) extending in the vertical direction, and rotates in conjunction with the rotation of the stem (50); a circuit block having a first contact (37) and a second contact (38); a switch lever (70) which is detachably engaged with the teeth (61) of the lever-side gear (60), is formed so as to be able to swing along with the rotation of the lever-side gear (60), swings from a predetermined swing center position to a first side to contact a first contact (37), and swings from the swing center position to a second side to contact a second contact (38); and a return spring (80) that urges the switch lever (70) toward the center of oscillation.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a switch mechanism, a clock movement and a clock. Background Art

[0002] Conventional electronic timepieces, like mechanical timepieces, use a crown to adjust the time and other functions by rotating it. These electronic timepieces utilize a cam mounted on the stem to swing a switch lever, causing the lever to contact and separate with contacts on a circuit block. This determines the rotational direction and speed of the crown and stem, and controls the motor that drives the hands and other functions (see, for example, Patent Documents 1 and 2). Furthermore, a method has been developed in which the rotation of the stem is detected by irradiating light from a photosensor onto a rotating body that rotates in conjunction with the stem (see, for example, Patent Document 3). Prior art literature Patent Literature

[0003] Patent Document 1: Japanese Utility Model Publication No. 58-038504; Patent Document 2: Japanese Utility Model Publication No. 60-025595; Patent Document 3: Japanese Patent No. 7096383. Summary of the Invention Problems to be solved by the invention

[0004] However, conventional mechanisms that use a cam to swing the switch lever require the switch lever to be positioned so that it engages the cam, which limits its placement. Consequently, there is room for improvement in the layout of components near the winding stem. Furthermore, systems that use an optical sensor to detect winding stem rotation require the optical sensor to be positioned so that it overlaps the rotating element when viewed from above, which tends to increase the thickness of the movement.

[0005] Therefore, the present invention provides a switch mechanism capable of suppressing an increase in the thickness of a timepiece movement while improving the degree of freedom in the layout of parts near the stem, and a timepiece movement and a timepiece including the switch mechanism. Solutions to Problems

[0006] The switch mechanism involved in the first embodiment of the present invention comprises: a stem supported by a main board; a first gear arranged in a manner capable of rotating relative to the aforementioned main board, having a rotation axis extending in the direction of the back of the watch, and rotating in conjunction with the rotation of the aforementioned stem; a circuit block having a first contact and a second contact; a rod that is detachably engaged with the teeth of the aforementioned first gear and is capable of swinging along with the rotation of the aforementioned first gear, swinging from a predetermined center position to the first side to contact the aforementioned first contact, and swinging from the aforementioned center position to the second side to contact the aforementioned second contact; and a return spring that urges the aforementioned rod toward the aforementioned center position.

[0007] According to the first embodiment, when forming a switch mechanism such that the lever swings with the rotation of the first gear, it is sufficient to simply engage the lever with the teeth of the first gear. Thus, the lever can be positioned at any position around the first gear, around the axis of rotation, without changing the shape of the lever. This increases the freedom in the layout of parts near the stem. Furthermore, to allow the lever to disengageably engage the teeth of the first gear, the lever is offset relative to the first gear in a direction perpendicular to the back of the watch. Thus, by providing the switch mechanism, an increase in the thickness of the watch movement can be suppressed. This provides a switch mechanism that can suppress the thickness of the watch movement while increasing the freedom in the layout of parts near the stem. Furthermore, the switch mechanism accommodates multiple layouts of parts near the stem, allowing the switch mechanism to be incorporated into multiple models of watch movements. This allows the components of the switch mechanism to be standardized across multiple models of watch movements, reducing the manufacturing cost of the watch movement.

[0008] The switch mechanism involved in the second embodiment of the present invention may also be the switch mechanism involved in the above-mentioned first embodiment, further comprising a second gear, wherein the second gear is coaxially arranged with the above-mentioned winding shaft and is formed in a manner capable of rotating integrally with the above-mentioned winding shaft while meshing with the above-mentioned first gear.

[0009] According to the second aspect, the first gear can be rotated in conjunction with the rotation of the winding shaft. Therefore, a switch mechanism having the above-mentioned effects can be obtained.

[0010] The switch mechanism involved in the third embodiment of the present invention may also be a switch mechanism involved in the above-mentioned first embodiment or second embodiment, which has an engaging portion in which the above-mentioned teeth and the above-mentioned rod are engaged with each other, and the above-mentioned rod is formed in a manner that can swing around a swing axis extending along the back of the watch, and the distance between the above-mentioned rotation axis and the above-mentioned engaging portion is larger than the distance between the above-mentioned swing axis and the above-mentioned engaging portion.

[0011] According to the third embodiment, the swing angle of the lever, when the first gear rotates one tooth, can be increased compared to a case where the distance between the rotation axis and the engaging portion is less than or equal to the distance between the swing axis and the engaging portion. Thus, when the lever is swung without increasing its size, the portion of the lever that contacts the circuit block can be significantly displaced, enabling the lever to reliably engage and disengage with the contacts. This prevents the lever from becoming too large, increasing the flexibility of component layout near the stem.

[0012] The switch mechanism involved in the fourth embodiment of the present invention may also be the switch mechanism involved in any one of the above-mentioned embodiments 1 to 3, further comprising a wheel clamp plate that clamps the above-mentioned first gear and is arranged on the opposite side of the above-mentioned main board, and the above-mentioned circuit block clamps the above-mentioned rod and is arranged on the opposite side of the above-mentioned main board in a manner that does not protrude further toward the opposite side of the above-mentioned main board in the direction of the back of the watch than the above-mentioned wheel clamp plate.

[0013] According to the fourth embodiment, by using a member thinner than the circuit block along the back of the watch as the wheel bridge, the watch movement can be made thinner compared to a configuration in which the circuit block is arranged on the opposite side of the main plate with the first gear sandwiched therebetween. Thus, the watch movement can be prevented from becoming thicker.

[0014] A switch mechanism according to a fifth aspect of the present invention may be the switch mechanism according to any one of the first to fourth aspects, wherein the lever and the return spring are formed separately from each other.

[0015] According to the fifth embodiment, the lever and return spring can be made of different materials. This allows, for example, the return spring to be made of stainless steel with a high Young's modulus, while the lever can be made of a material with better workability than the return spring. This makes it easier to achieve the desired performance in the switch mechanism.

[0016] A switch mechanism according to a sixth aspect of the present invention may be the switch mechanism according to any one of the first to fifth aspects, wherein the lever and the return spring are formed integrally with each other.

[0017] According to the sixth aspect, compared with a configuration in which the rod and the return spring are formed separately from each other, the number of parts can be reduced, thereby reducing the manufacturing cost.

[0018] A timepiece movement according to a seventh aspect of the present invention includes the switch mechanism according to any one of the first to sixth aspects.

[0019] According to the seventh aspect, a switch mechanism is provided that can suppress the thickness of the timepiece movement, thereby enabling a timepiece movement suitable for thin timepieces. Furthermore, the switch mechanism can be incorporated into a variety of timepiece movements, thereby reducing the cost of switch mechanism parts and providing a timepiece movement with reduced manufacturing costs.

[0020] A timepiece according to an eighth aspect of the present invention includes the timepiece movement according to the seventh aspect.

[0021] According to the eighth aspect, a thin and inexpensive timepiece can be provided. Effects of the Invention

[0022] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a switch mechanism that can suppress an increase in the thickness of a timepiece movement while improving the degree of freedom in the layout of parts near the stem. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0023] Figure 1 This is an external view of a timepiece according to the embodiment. Figure 2 This is a perspective view showing a portion of the movement of the first embodiment. Figure 3 This is an exploded perspective view showing a portion of the movement of the first embodiment. Figure 4 It is a plan view showing a part of the switch mechanism according to the first embodiment. Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view of the movement of the first embodiment, showing the Figure 4 The cross section of the location of the VV line. Figure 6 It is an operation explanation diagram of the switch mechanism according to the first embodiment. Figure 7 This is a plan view showing another example of the movement including the switch mechanism according to the first embodiment. Figure 8 This is a plan view showing another example of the movement including the switch mechanism according to the first embodiment. Figure 9 This is a plan view showing another example of the movement including the switch mechanism according to the first embodiment. Figure 10 This is a perspective view showing a portion of the movement of the second embodiment. Figure 11 This is an exploded perspective view showing a portion of the movement of the second embodiment. Figure 12 This is a cross-sectional view of the movement of the second embodiment. Figure 5 The corresponding figure. Figure 13 It is a plan view showing a part of the switch mechanism according to the third embodiment. Figure 14 It is an operation explanation diagram of the switch mechanism according to the third embodiment. Figure 15 It is an operation explanation diagram of the switch mechanism according to the third embodiment. Figure 16 It is a plan view showing a part of the switch mechanism according to the fourth embodiment. Figure 17 This is a cross-sectional view of the movement of the fourth embodiment. Figure 5 The corresponding figure. Figure 18 It is a plan view showing a part of the switch mechanism according to the fifth embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0024] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described based on the accompanying drawings. In the following description, components having the same or similar functions are denoted by the same reference numerals. In addition, repeated descriptions of these components may be omitted.

[0025] First, a timepiece according to an embodiment will be described. In the embodiment described below, an analog electronic timepiece is exemplified as an example of a timepiece. Generally speaking, the mechanical body that includes the driving part of a watch is called the "movement." The finished product, after the movement is assembled with the dial and hands and placed in the watch case, is called the "finished product." The direction of the needle's axis of rotation is called the up-down direction (the direction of the watch back). In the up-down direction, the direction from the mainboard, which serves as the base of the watch, toward the back cover of the case is called the upside, and the opposite direction is called the downside. Directions perpendicular to the up-down direction are called planar directions.

[0026] Figure 1 This is an external view of a timepiece according to the embodiment. like Figure 1 As shown, the finished timepiece 1 of this embodiment includes a movement 3 (timepiece movement), a dial 4, and hands including an hour hand 5, a minute hand 6, and a second hand 7 in a timepiece case 2. The dial 4 has scales showing at least information related to time.

[0027] The watch case 2 includes a case body 10, a case back (not shown), and a cover glass 11. A stem 15 is provided at the 3 o'clock position on the side of the case body 10. The stem 15 is used to operate the movement 3 from the outside of the case body 10. The stem 15 is fixed to a stem 50 that is inserted through the case body 10.

[0028] [First embodiment] Figure 2 This is a perspective view showing a portion of the movement of the first embodiment. Figure 3 This is an exploded perspective view showing a portion of the movement of the first embodiment. like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the movement 3 of the first embodiment includes a main plate 20 and a switch mechanism 25 supported by the main plate 20. The main plate 20 constitutes the substrate of the movement 3. The main plate 20 is formed of, for example, a metal material or a resin material. When viewed from above, the main plate 20 has a circular shape. The dial 4 described above is disposed below the main plate 20. The switch mechanism 25 is disposed above the main plate 20.

[0029] The switch mechanism 25 includes a train wheel bridge 30 , a wheel bridge 40 , a circuit block 35 , a circuit block pressing plate 45 , a winding stem 50 , a winding stem-side gear 55 (second gear), a lever-side gear 60 (first gear), a switch lever 70 , and a return spring 80 .

[0030] The train wheel bridge 30 is a member having an extension in a planar direction and is arranged on the upper side of the main plate 20 with its front and back surfaces facing in the vertical direction.

[0031] The circuit block 35 is a printed circuit board. The circuit block 35 is arranged on the upper side of the main board 20 with its front and back surfaces facing in the vertical direction. The circuit block 35 is arranged on the opposite side of the main board 20, sandwiching the train wheel bridge 30 in the vertical direction. A window portion 36 is formed in the circuit block 35, which passes through in the vertical direction. A first contact 37, a second contact 38, and a third contact 39 are formed on the lower surface of the circuit block 35 (see FIG. 1 ). Figure 4 The formation positions of these contacts 37, 38, and 39 will be described later.

[0032] The wheel clamp 40 is a flat-plate-shaped component that extends in the planar direction. The wheel clamp 40 is formed to be thinner than the substrate of the circuit block 35. The wheel clamp 40 is arranged on the upper side of the main board 20 with the front and back surfaces facing the up-down direction. The wheel clamp 40 is arranged on the opposite side of the main board 20, sandwiching the train wheel clamp 30 in the up-down direction. When viewed from above, the entire wheel clamp 40 is arranged on the inner side of the window portion 36 of the circuit block 35. The upper surface of the wheel clamp 40 is located above the upper surface of the circuit block 35. Thus, the circuit block 35 is arranged in a manner that does not protrude further to the opposite side (i.e., the upper side) of the main board 20 than the wheel clamp 40 in the up-down direction. At least a portion of the wheel clamp 40 is arranged in the up-down direction within the thickness range of the substrate of the circuit block 35 in a manner that overlaps with the circuit block 35 in the planar direction.

[0033] The circuit block pressure plate 45 is a plate-shaped component. It is positioned on the opposite side of the main board 20, sandwiching the circuit block 35 in the vertical direction. The circuit block pressure plate 45 is positioned so as to overlap the circuit block 35 and the wheel clamp 40 from above. The case back cover of the watch case 2 is positioned above the circuit block pressure plate 45, directly facing the circuit block pressure plate 45.

[0034] The circuit block pressing plate 45 includes a stem contact portion 46 that contacts the stem 50. The stem contact portion 46 extends downward from the outer edge of the circuit block pressing plate 45 in a plan view. A through hole (see FIG. 4 ) is formed in the stem contact portion 46 for inserting the stem 50 therethrough. Figure 5 The stem contact portion 46 is in sliding contact with the outer peripheral surface of the stem 50 , and produces a click feeling when the stem 50 is displaced in the axis L direction.

[0035] The stem 50 is inserted into the stem guide hole 21 formed in the main plate 20. The stem 50 can rotate around the axis L relative to the main plate 20 and can move along the axis L. Figure 1 The outer side of the watch case 2 shown is connected to the turning handle 15. The stem 50 can move along the axis L as the turning handle 15 is pulled out. In this embodiment, the stem 50 can move between two positions: a normal position in which it is inserted into the inner side of the movement 3 to the greatest extent and an operating position in which it is pulled out from the normal position. An engaging shaft portion 51 having a non-circular cross-sectional shape is formed on the stem 50. The engaging shaft portion 51 is prism-shaped and extends in the axial direction of the stem 50. The engaging shaft portion 51 is square in cross section.

[0036] Figure 4 It is a plan view showing a part of the switch mechanism according to the first embodiment. Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view of the movement of the first embodiment, showing the Figure 4 The cross section of the VV line. Figure 4 , the state of removing the parts overlapping with the movable parts of the switch mechanism is shown (the same applies to other top views). Figure 4 In FIG. 1 , contacts 37 , 38 , and 39 of the circuit block 35 are shown by imaginary lines. like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the stalk-side gear 55 is externally inserted into the stalk 50 and is arranged coaxially with the axis L. The stalk-side gear 55 is separated from the engagement shaft portion 51 of the stalk 50 in the normal position and is freely rotatable relative to the stalk 50. The stalk-side gear 55 can engage with the engagement shaft portion 51 of the stalk 50 in the operating position and rotate integrally with the stalk 50.

[0037] The lever-side gear 60 is arranged above the main plate 20. It is rotatable relative to the main plate 20. The lever-side gear 60 has a first rotation axis C1 extending in the vertical direction. The first rotation axis C1 is orthogonal to the axis L of the winding stem 50. The lever-side gear 60 is arranged between the main plate 20 and the wheel bridge 40. In this embodiment, the lever-side gear 60 is arranged between the train wheel bridge 30 and the wheel bridge 40 and is rotatably supported by the train wheel bridge 30. The upper surface of the lever-side gear 60 directly faces the lower surface of the wheel bridge 40. The upper surface of the lever-side gear 60 is located below the upper surface of the circuit block 35 substrate. At least a portion of the lever-side gear 60 is arranged vertically within the thickness of the circuit block 35 substrate, overlapping with the circuit block 35 in the planar direction. The lever-side gear 60 is arranged closer to the center of the movement 3 than the winding stem gear 55. The lever-side gear 60 meshes with the winding stem gear 55. Thus, the lever-side gear 60 can rotate in conjunction with the rotation of the winding stem 50 .

[0038] The switch lever 70 is arranged on the upper side of the main plate 20. The switch lever 70 is arranged so as to be able to swing in a planar direction around an axis C2 (swing axis) extending in the vertical direction relative to the main plate 20. Figure 4 The switch lever 70 is configured so that it oscillates in two directions at the predetermined oscillation center position shown. The switch lever 70 rotates from the oscillation center position to a first oscillation end position on the first side. The switch lever 70 rotates from the oscillation center position to a second oscillation end position on the second side. Unless otherwise specified, the switch lever 70 is referred to as being at the predetermined oscillation center position.

[0039] The switch lever 70 is positioned between the main plate 20, the wheel bridge 40, and the circuit block 35. In this embodiment, the switch lever 70 is positioned between the train wheel bridge 30 and the wheel bridge 40, and then between the train wheel bridge 30 and the circuit block 35. The switch lever 70 is positioned offset in the planar direction relative to the lever-side gear 60 so that the entire switch lever 70 does not overlap with the lever-side gear 60 when viewed from above. The switch lever 70 is supported by the lever shaft 23, which is retained by the train wheel bridge 30. The switch lever 70 is formed of a conductive member such as metal.

[0040] The switch lever 70 includes a base 71 supported by the lever shaft 23; an engaging claw 72 that protrudes from the base 71 toward the lever-side gear 60 and engages with the teeth 61 of the lever-side gear 60; and a first arm 73 and a second arm 74 that extend in the planar direction from the base 71. The base 71 is formed in a flat plate shape that extends in the planar direction. The base 71 is arranged with its front and back surfaces facing in the vertical direction. The entire base 71 is arranged in the vertical direction within the thickness range of the lever-side gear 60 so as to overlap with the lever-side gear 60 in the planar direction. At least a portion of the base 71 is arranged in the vertical direction within the thickness range of the circuit block 35 substrate so as to overlap with the circuit block 35 in the planar direction. The engaging claw 72 enters the tooth groove of the lever-side gear 60.

[0041] The first arm 73 extends from the base 71 in a direction away from the rod-side gear 60 when viewed from above. The first arm 73 bends downward from the base 71 and extends to the space below the circuit block 35. The tip of the first arm 73 slides in contact with the lower surface of the circuit block 35. When the switch lever 70 is in the first swing end position, the tip of the first arm 73 contacts the first contact 37. If the switch lever 70 moves from the first swing end position toward the swing center position, the tip of the first arm 73 separates from the first contact 37. When the switch lever 70 is in the second swing end position, the tip of the first arm 73 contacts the second contact 38. If the switch lever 70 moves from the second swing end position toward the swing center position, the tip of the first arm 73 separates from the second contact 38.

[0042] The second arm 74 is arranged offset in the planar direction relative to the first arm 73. The second arm 74 extends from the base 71 in a direction away from the lever-side gear 60 when viewed from above. The second arm 74 bends downward from the base 71 and extends into the space below the circuit block 35. In the illustrated example, the second arm 74 is formed in a U-shape when viewed from above, but the shape of the second arm 74 is not particularly limited. The tip of the second arm 74 slides in contact with the lower surface of the circuit block 35. The tip of the second arm 74 contacts the third contact 39 when the switch lever 70 is in the first and second swing end positions. In this embodiment, the tip of the second arm 74 contacts the third contact 39 when the switch lever 70 is in either position between the first and second swing end positions. In this case, the third contact 39 extends continuously in a circumferential direction centered on the lever shaft 23 when viewed from above.

[0043] The switch lever 70 is formed with an engaged portion 75 with which the return spring 80 engages. In this embodiment, the engaged portion 75 is a notch formed in the side surface of the base 71. The engaged portion 75 is formed on the side of the base 71 opposite to the lever-side gear 60.

[0044] Here, the portion where the teeth 61 of the lever-side gear 60 and the engaging claw 72 of the switch lever 70 engage with each other is referred to as the engaging portion 85. The distance between the first rotation axis C1 and the engaging portion 85 is greater than the distance between the axis C2 and the engaging portion 85. Furthermore, the distance between the axis C2 and the engaging portion 85 is smaller than the distance between the axis C2 and the distal end of the first arm 73.

[0045] The return spring 80 engages with the engaged portion 75 of the switch lever 70 to bias the switch lever 70 toward its center of swing. The return spring 80 includes a spring base 81 fixed to the main plate 20 and a spring portion 82 connecting the spring base 81 and the switch lever 70. The spring base 81 is positioned between the main plate 20 and the train wheel bridge 30. The spring base 81 is positioned on the opposite side of the lever-side gear 60, sandwiching the base 71 of the switch lever 70 when viewed from above.

[0046] The spring portion 82 extends from the spring base 81 toward the switch lever 70. The spring portion 82 is formed in a rod-like shape with a width sufficiently small compared to its overall length, allowing for planar deflection. The spring portion 82 extends in the planar direction closer to the main board 20 side (lower side) than the switch lever 70 in the vertical direction. The spring portion 82 is positioned so as to overlap the swing path of the switch lever 70 when viewed from above. The spring portion 82 passes under the second arm 74 of the switch lever 70. The distal end of the spring portion 82 bends upward to engage with the engaged portion 75 of the switch lever 70.

[0047] Reference Figure 6 Next, the operation of the switch mechanism 25 of this embodiment will be described. Figure 6 1 is an operation diagram of the switch mechanism of the first embodiment. If the handle 50 in the operating position is rotated in the first direction, Figure 6 As shown, the lever-side gear 60 rotates in the A1 direction. When the lever-side gear 60 rotates in the A1 direction, the switch lever 70, which has an engaging pawl 72 meshing with the lever-side gear 60, simultaneously rotates from the swing center position in the B1 direction against the bias of the return spring 80. When the lever-side gear 60 rotates in the A1 direction, the engaging pawl 72 passes over the teeth 61 of the lever-side gear 60, and the switch lever 70 rotates in the B2 direction (opposite to the B1 direction) toward the swing center position due to the elastic restoring force of the return spring 80. Thus, by rotating the stem 50 in the operating position in the first direction, the switch lever 70 reciprocates between the swing center position and the first swing end position.

[0048] When the stem 50, in the operating position, is rotated in the second direction, the lever-side gear 60 rotates in the A2 direction. Rotating the lever-side gear 60 in the A2 direction causes the switch lever 70, which has an engaging pawl 72 meshing with the lever-side gear 60, to rotate from the swing center position in the B2 direction against the bias of the return spring 80. When the lever-side gear 60 is rotated in the A2 direction, the engaging pawl 72 passes over the teeth 61 of the lever-side gear 60, and the switch lever 70 rotates in the B1 direction toward the swing center position due to the elastic restoring force of the return spring 80. Thus, by rotating the stem 50 in the operating position in the second direction, the switch lever 70 reciprocates between the swing center position and the second swing end position.

[0049] When the switch lever 70 is in the first swing end position, the tip of the first arm 73 of the switch lever 70 contacts the first contact 37, establishing electrical conduction between the first contact 37 and the third contact 39 via the switch lever 70. Furthermore, when the switch lever 70 is in the second swing end position, the tip of the first arm 73 of the switch lever 70 contacts the second contact 38, establishing electrical conduction between the second contact 38 and the third contact 39 via the switch lever 70. Furthermore, by rotating the winding stem 50 in the first direction while in the operating position, the tip of the first arm 73 of the switch lever 70 contacts and separates from the first contact 37 in a cycle corresponding to the rotation speed of the winding stem 50, repeatedly establishing electrical conduction between the first contact 37 and the third contact 39 in a cycle corresponding to the rotation speed of the winding stem 50. In addition, by rotating the stem 50 in the operating position in the second direction, the end of the first arm 73 of the switch lever 70 contacts and separates from the second contact 38 in a cycle corresponding to the rotation speed of the stem 50, and the second contact 38 and the third contact 39 are repeatedly connected and insulated in a cycle corresponding to the rotation speed of the stem 50.

[0050] As described above, the switch mechanism 25 of this embodiment includes: a lever-side gear 60 that rotates in conjunction with the rotation of the winding stem 50; a circuit block 35 having a first contact 37 and a second contact 38; a switch lever 70 that is detachably engaged with the teeth 61 of the lever-side gear 60 and is configured to swing with the rotation of the lever-side gear 60, swinging from a swing center position in the direction B1 to contact the first contact 37, and swinging from the swing center position in the direction B2 to contact the second contact 38; and a return spring 80 that biases the switch lever 70 toward the swing center position. With this configuration, when the switch mechanism 25 is configured so that the switch lever 70 swings with the rotation of the lever-side gear 60, the switch lever 70 only needs to be engaged with the teeth 61 of the lever-side gear 60. Therefore, the switch lever 70 can be positioned at any position around the lever-side gear 60, about the first rotation axis C1, without changing the shape of the switch lever 70.

[0051] For example, Figure 7 As shown, when the main board 20A has a non-circular shape with a smaller outer shape than the main board 20 of the first embodiment, the switch lever 70 and the return spring 80 can be arranged closer to the center of the movement 3 in a manner that avoids the outer line of the main board 20A when viewed from above.

[0052] In addition, if Figure 8 As shown, when the button 90 is provided adjacent to the stem 50 , the switch lever 70 and the return spring 80 can be arranged closer to the center of the movement 3 so as to avoid the switch spring 91 and the like forming a contact point with the button 90 .

[0053] In addition, if Figure 9 As shown, when the battery 92 is arranged adjacent to the winding stem 50 in a plan view, the switch lever 70 and the return spring 80 can be arranged on the opposite side of the battery 92 with the winding stem 50 interposed therebetween so as to avoid the battery 92 .

[0054] This increases the degree of freedom in the layout of components near the winding stem 50. Furthermore, since the switch lever 70 is offset in the planar direction relative to the lever-side gear 60 to allow the switch lever 70 to disengageably engage with the teeth 61 of the lever-side gear 60, the provision of the switch mechanism 25 can suppress an increase in the thickness of the movement 3. Consequently, a switch mechanism 25 can be provided that increases the degree of freedom in the layout of components near the winding stem 50 while suppressing an increase in the thickness of the movement 3.

[0055] Furthermore, the switch mechanism 25 corresponds to multiple component layouts near the winding stem 50, making it possible to incorporate the switch mechanism 25 into multiple types of movements 3. This allows the components of the switch mechanism 25 to be shared across multiple types of movements 3, reducing the manufacturing cost of the movement 3.

[0056] The switch mechanism 25 further includes a stalk-side gear 55, which is coaxially arranged with the stalk 50 and is configured to rotate integrally with the stalk 50 while meshing with the lever-side gear 60. This configuration allows the lever-side gear 60 to rotate in conjunction with the rotation of the stalk 50. Consequently, the switch mechanism 25 can achieve the aforementioned operational effects.

[0057] The switch mechanism 25 includes an engaging portion 85 where the teeth 61 of the lever-side gear 60 and the switch lever 70 engage with each other. The distance between the first rotation axis C1 of the lever-side gear 60 and the engaging portion 85 is greater than the distance between the axis C2 of the switch lever 70 and the engaging portion 85. This configuration increases the swing angle of the switch lever 70 when the lever-side gear 60 rotates one tooth, compared to a case where the distance between the first rotation axis C1 and the engaging portion 85 is less than the distance between the axis C2 and the engaging portion 85. Consequently, when the switch lever 70 is swung without enlarging the switch lever 70, the portion of the switch lever 70 that contacts the contacts 37 and 38 of the circuit block 35 (the distal end of the first arm 73) can be significantly displaced, allowing the switch lever 70 to reliably contact and separate from the contacts 37 and 38. This prevents an increase in the size of the switch lever 70, increasing the flexibility of component layout near the winding stem 50.

[0058] The switch mechanism 25 further includes a wheel clamp 40 disposed on the opposite side of the main board 20, sandwiching the lever-side gear 60. The circuit block 35 is disposed on the opposite side of the main board 20, sandwiching the switch lever 70, so as not to protrude vertically further from the wheel clamp 40 than the wheel clamp 40. This configuration utilizes a member thinner vertically than the circuit block 35 as the wheel clamp 40. This allows the movement 3 to be made thinner compared to a configuration in which the circuit block 35 is disposed on the opposite side of the main board 20, sandwiching the lever-side gear 60. Consequently, the thickness of the movement 3 can be suppressed.

[0059] The switch lever 70 and return spring 80 are formed separately. This configuration allows the switch lever 70 and return spring 80 to be formed from different materials. This allows, for example, stainless steel with a high Young's modulus to be used for the return spring 80, making it possible to use a material with better workability than the material of the return spring 80 for the switch lever 70. This makes it easier to impart desired performance to the switch mechanism 25.

[0060] Furthermore, the movement 3 of this embodiment includes the switch mechanism 25 described above, making it suitable for a thin timepiece 1. Furthermore, the switch mechanism 25 can be incorporated into movements 3 of various models, thereby reducing the cost of components for the switch mechanism 25 and providing a movement 3 with reduced manufacturing costs.

[0061] [Second embodiment] Next, refer to Figures 10 to 12The second embodiment is described. The second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the switch mechanism 125 does not include the train wheel bridge 30 and the wheel bridge 40 of the first embodiment. The configuration other than that described below is the same as that of the first embodiment.

[0062] Figure 10 This is a perspective view showing a portion of the movement of the second embodiment. Figure 11 This is an exploded perspective view showing a portion of the movement of the second embodiment. like Figure 10 and Figure 11 As shown, the switch mechanism 125 includes a spring clamp 130 and a circuit block 135 instead of the train wheel bridge 30, wheel bridge 40, and circuit block 35 of the first embodiment. The spring clamp 130 and circuit block 135 are arranged above the main board 20. The circuit block 135 is arranged on the opposite side of the main board 20, sandwiching the spring clamp 130 in the vertical direction. As in the first embodiment, a circuit block pressure plate (not shown) may overlap the circuit block 135 from above.

[0063] Figure 12 This is a cross-sectional view of the movement of the second embodiment. Figure 5 The corresponding figure. like Figure 12 As shown, the lever-side gear 60 is disposed between the main board 20 and the circuit block 135 and is rotatably supported by the main board 20. The upper surface of the lever-side gear 60 directly faces the lower surface of the circuit block 135. The switch lever 70 is disposed between the main board 20 and the circuit block 135 and is supported by the lever shaft 23 retained by the main board 20. The spring base 81 of the return spring 80 is disposed between the main board 20 and the spring clamp 130.

[0064] In this embodiment, the same effects as those of the first embodiment are achieved. In addition, in this embodiment, the circuit block 135 is arranged on the opposite side of the main board 20 with the rod-side gear 60 sandwiched therebetween, thereby omitting the clamping plate member (wheel clamp) for the rod-side gear 60, thereby reducing the number of parts and lowering manufacturing costs.

[0065] [Third embodiment] Next, refer to Figures 13 to 15 The third embodiment will now be described. The third embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the switch mechanism 225 includes a plurality of switch levers 70. The configuration other than the configuration described below is the same as that of the first embodiment.

[0066] Figure 13 It is a plan view showing a part of the switch mechanism according to the third embodiment. like Figure 13As shown, the switch mechanism 225 includes two switch levers 70 and the same number of return springs 80 as the switch levers 70. The two switch levers 70 are arranged around the rod-side gear 60 so as to be offset from each other in the planar direction. The engaging claws 72 of the two switch levers 70 are arranged on the tooth top circle of the rod-side gear 60 at positions offset from each other by (n+0.5) teeth. However, n is an arbitrary natural number less than the number of teeth of the rod-side gear 60. The return spring 80 is engaged with each switch lever 70. On the lower surface of the circuit block 35, two of each of the first contact 37, the second contact 38, and the third contact 39 are provided corresponding to each switch lever 70. In addition, in the following description, one of the two switch levers 70 is referred to as the first switch lever 70A, and the other is referred to as the second switch lever 70B.

[0067] Reference Figure 14 and Figure 15 The operation of the switch mechanism 225 of this embodiment will be described. In the following description, the description of the operation common to the operation of the switch mechanism 225 of the first embodiment may be omitted or simplified.

[0068] Figure 14 and Figure 15 It is an operation explanation diagram of the switch mechanism according to the third embodiment. like Figure 14 As shown, if the lever-side gear 60 is rotated in the A1 direction, the two switch levers 70 reciprocate between a swing center position and a first swing end position, similar to the switch lever 70 of the first embodiment. Each time the lever-side gear 60 rotates one tooth in the A1 direction, the two switch levers 70 reciprocate once. Here, the engaging claws 72 of the two switch levers 70 are positioned offset by (n+0.5) teeth from each other, and thus alternately pass over the teeth 61 of the lever-side gear 60. As a result, the two switch levers 70 alternately reach the first swing end position, causing the tip of the first arm 73 to contact the first contact 37 of the circuit block 35. Therefore, by rotating the stem 50 in the operating position in the first direction, the first contact 37 and the third contact 39 repeatedly conduct and isolate each other in a cycle half that of the first embodiment.

[0069] like Figure 15As shown, if the lever-side gear 60 is rotated in the A2 direction, the two switch levers 70 reciprocate between a swing center position and a second swing end position, similar to the switch lever 70 in the first embodiment. Each time the lever-side gear 60 rotates one tooth in the A2 direction, the two switch levers 70 reciprocate once. The engaging claws 72 of the two switch levers 70 alternately pass over the teeth 61 of the lever-side gear 60, similar to when the lever-side gear 60 is rotated in the A1 direction. Consequently, the two switch levers 70 alternately reach the second swing end position, causing the distal end of the first arm 73 to contact the second contact 38 of the circuit block 35. Consequently, by rotating the stem 50 in the operated position in the second direction, the second contact 38 and the third contact 39 repeatedly connect and disconnect in a cycle half that of the first embodiment.

[0070] This embodiment achieves the same effects as the first embodiment. Furthermore, this embodiment increases the number of times the switch lever 70 contacts the contacts 37 and 38 of the circuit block 35 when the winding stem 50 is rotated. Consequently, the accuracy of detecting the rotation of the winding stem 50 can be improved.

[0071] [Fourth embodiment] Next, refer to Figure 16 and Figure 17 The fourth embodiment will now be described. The fourth embodiment differs from the second embodiment in that the rod-side gear 163 is provided as a two-stage gear. The configuration other than the configuration described below is the same as that of the second embodiment.

[0072] Figure 16 It is a plan view showing a part of the switch mechanism according to the fourth embodiment. Figure 17 This is a cross-sectional view of the movement of the fourth embodiment. Figure 5 The corresponding figure. like Figure 16 and Figure 17 As shown, the switch mechanism 325 includes an intermediate gear 165 and a lever-side wheel 160 instead of the lever-side gear 60 of the first embodiment.

[0073] The intermediate gear 165 is positioned above the main board 20. The intermediate gear 165 is rotatable relative to the main board 20. The intermediate gear 165 has a second rotation axis C3 extending in the vertical direction. The second rotation axis C3 is orthogonal to the axis L of the winding stem 50. The intermediate gear 165 is positioned between the main board 20 and the circuit block 135 and is rotatably supported by the main board 20. The intermediate gear 165 meshes with the winding stem gear 55.

[0074] The lever-side wheel 160 is positioned between the main board 20 and the circuit block 135 and is rotatably supported on the main board 20. The lever-side wheel 160 is a two-stage gear. It includes a pinion 162 that meshes with an intermediate gear 165, and a lever-side gear 163 having a larger number of teeth than the pinion 162. The lever-side gear 163 is positioned on the main board 20 side of the pinion 162. The lever-side gear 163 overlaps with the base 71 of the switch lever 70 in the planar direction. The engaging claw 72 of the switch lever 70 engages with the teeth 161 of the lever-side gear 163.

[0075] This embodiment achieves the same effects as the second embodiment. Furthermore, compared to a configuration in which the lever-side gear directly meshes with the shank-side gear 55, this embodiment increases the number of times the engaging claw 72 of the switch lever 70 passes over the teeth 161 of the lever-side gear 163 when the shank 50 is rotated. This increases the number of times the switch lever 70 contacts the contacts 37 and 38 of the circuit block 135 when the shank 50 is rotated. Consequently, the accuracy of detecting the rotation of the shank 50 can be improved.

[0076] [Fifth embodiment] Next, refer to Figure 18 The fifth embodiment will now be described. The fifth embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that a return spring is provided on the switch lever 170 itself. The configuration other than the configuration described below is the same as that of the first embodiment.

[0077] Figure 18 It is a plan view showing a part of the switch mechanism according to the fifth embodiment. like Figure 18 As shown, the switch mechanism 425 includes a switch lever 170 instead of the switch lever 70 and the return spring 80 of the first embodiment. The second arm 174 of the switch lever 170 extends from the base 71 in a direction away from the lever-side gear 60 when viewed from above. The second arm 174 extends linearly in the radial direction of the lever shaft 23 when viewed from above. The second arm 174 is formed in a rod shape with a width that is sufficiently smaller than its entire length and can bend and deform in a planar direction. The distal end of the second arm 174 contacts the third contact 39 of the circuit block 35 and is restricted from displacement in the circumferential direction around the lever shaft 23 relative to the main board 20. Thus, the second arm 174 acts as a return spring to urge the base 71 of the switch lever 170 and the first arm 73 toward the swing center position.

[0078] This embodiment has the same effects as those of the first embodiment. In addition, this embodiment can reduce the number of parts and manufacturing costs compared to a configuration in which the switch lever and the return spring are formed separately from each other.

[0079] In addition, the present invention is not limited to the above-mentioned embodiment described with reference to the drawings, and various modifications are conceivable within the technical scope of the present invention. For example, in the above-described embodiment, the present invention is applied to an analog electronic timepiece, but the present invention is not limited to this configuration, and for example, the present invention may also be applied to a digital electronic timepiece.

[0080] Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, the spur gear is used as the spur gear on the winding stem side. However, the spur gear on the winding stem side may be a so-called crown gear, for example. In the above embodiment, the switch mechanism is configured to be operated by rotating the stem in the operating position pulled out from the normal position, but the present invention is not limited to this configuration. For example, the switch mechanism may be operated by rotating the stem in the state in which it is pushed in as far as possible.

[0081] Furthermore, components in the above-described embodiments may be appropriately replaced with well-known components without departing from the spirit of the present invention, and the above-described embodiments and modifications may be appropriately combined. Description of Reference Numerals

[0082] 1...Watch 3...Movement (watch movement) 20, 20A...Main board 25, 125, 225, 325, 425...Switch mechanism 35, 135...Circuit block 37...First contact 38...Second contact 40...Wheel bridge 50...Stem 55...Stem-side gear (second gear) 60, 163...Lever-side gear (first gear) 61, 161...Teeth 70, 170...Switch lever (lever) 80...Return spring 85...Engaging portion C1...First axis of rotation (rotation axis) C2...Axis (swing axis).

Claims

1. A switch mechanism comprising: The stem is supported on the main plate; a first gear rotatably provided relative to the main plate, having a rotation axis extending in the direction of the watch case back, and rotating in conjunction with the rotation of the stem; a circuit block having a first contact and a second contact; a lever detachably engaged with the teeth of the first gear and formed to swing with the rotation of the first gear, swinging from a predetermined center position toward a first side to contact the first contact point, and swinging from the center position toward a second side to contact the second contact point; and A return spring urges the rod toward the center position.

2. The switch mechanism according to claim 1, wherein: The present invention further includes a second gear disposed coaxially with the winding stem and formed so as to be rotatable integrally with the winding stem while meshing with the first gear.

3. The switch mechanism according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein: An engaging portion is provided for engaging the teeth and the rod with each other, The lever is formed so as to be able to swing around a swing axis extending in the direction of the watch case back. The distance between the rotation axis and the engagement portion is greater than the distance between the swing axis and the engagement portion.

4. The switch mechanism according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein: It also includes a wheel clamp plate arranged on the opposite side of the main plate with the first gear sandwiched therebetween. The circuit block is arranged on the opposite side of the main plate with the lever interposed therebetween so as not to protrude further than the wheel bridge toward the opposite side of the main plate in the direction of the timepiece case back.

5. The switch mechanism according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein: The rod and the return spring are formed separately from each other.

6. The switch mechanism according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein: The rod and the return spring are formed integrally with each other. 7 . A timepiece movement comprising the switch mechanism according to claim 1 . A timepiece comprising the timepiece movement according to claim 7 .

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