Timepiece and method for assembling a timepiece

Abstract

The present invention relates to a timing mechanism for a watch movement, the timing mechanism comprising a zeroing mechanism (100) comprising a first zeroing hammer (110) and a second zeroing hammer (120) disposed on two levels to engage with non-coplanar zeroing members respectively; the two zeroing hammers being rotatably connected by an elastic connecting member (116) disposed between them, characterized in that the zeroing mechanism comprises: a pre-support member disposed on the second zeroing hammer for the elastic connecting member, which ensures that the elastic connecting member is pre-assembled on the second zeroing hammer; a snap-fit ​​member fixed to the first zeroing hammer, configured to engage with the elastic connecting member and move the elastic connecting member to its working position, in which a first leg abuts against the snap-fit ​​member to ensure that the two zeroing hammers are elastically rotatably connected during relative axial displacement in a direction parallel to their axis of rotation when the two zeroing hammers are assembled.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a timing mechanism for a watch movement.

[0002] More specifically, the present invention relates to a timing mechanism including a zeroing mechanism for resetting a timing counter to zero.

[0003] The present invention also relates to a method for assembling such a timing mechanism. Background Technology

[0004] The timing mechanism can use multiple timing counters (such as minute counters and second counters) to measure time as required.

[0005] Timing mechanisms typically include a zeroing mechanism to reset the timing counters, returning them to a reference position so that time can be measured again as required.

[0006] Typically, such a zeroing mechanism includes a zeroing control that can be operated by the user, for example by means of a button or actuation pin that can be accessed from the outside of the middle component where the watch movement is mounted.

[0007] The zeroing control unit works directly or indirectly with the zeroing hammer via a lever, and the zeroing hammer strikes the zeroing cam carried by each timing counter.

[0008] The timing counters and their corresponding pointers are reset to zero by the following method: a zeroing hammer abuts against a zeroing cam, thereby generating a driving torque to change the position of the timing counters until they return to a reference position determined by the geometry of the zeroing hammer and the zeroing cam.

[0009] In existing timing mechanisms, the zeroing hammer is either integrally formed or consists of multiple independent components fixed to each other by a fixing device. In this case, they share a single drive control unit. Exemplary embodiments are described in detail in patent application EP 2241945.

[0010] Adjusting the zeroing mechanism is complex, time-consuming, and requires highly skilled craftsmanship. In fact, to adjust such a mechanism, the seconds zeroing hammer must first be brought into contact with the seconds zeroing cam at its reference position. Then, the head of the minutes zeroing hammer must be leveled so that the minutes zeroing cam is also in its reference position. This operation is time-consuming and complex, and can only be performed by professional watchmakers.

[0011] One solution to this cumbersome calibration operation is to use two overlapping zeroing hammers, linking their angular movements while allowing for a limited relative angular movement of one hammer relative to the other during zeroing. This solution is described in detail in patent CH220536. Specifically, this method allows both zeroing hammers to act simultaneously on their respective cardioid components, helping to prevent the timing hand from drifting at the reference position.

[0012] However, in this solution, the energy is very small when the overlapping zeroing hammer contacts the zeroing cam because most of the actuation energy is absorbed by the reset and damping springs, which exert a greater force on the movement of the zeroing hammer. Therefore, this mechanism carries the risk that the timing counter may not return to zero correctly.

[0013] Therefore, it is necessary to improve the timing mechanism, especially the zeroing mechanism of the counter used in such timing mechanisms. Summary of the Invention

[0014] Therefore, the present invention aims to provide a timing mechanism that solves at least one of the above-mentioned problems.

[0015] One of the objectives of this invention is to provide a zeroing mechanism that can provide precise zeroing for various timing counters.

[0016] One of the objectives of this invention is to provide a reliable and safe zeroing mechanism.

[0017] Therefore, the present invention relates to a timing mechanism for a watch movement, the timing mechanism including a zeroing mechanism, the zeroing mechanism comprising:

[0018] - A first zeroing hammer and a second zeroing hammer, the first zeroing hammer and the second zeroing hammer being arranged on two levels to cooperate with a first zeroing component of a first timing counter and a second zeroing component of a second timing counter that are not coplanar; the first zeroing hammer and the second zeroing hammer pivot independently of each other about at least one axis of rotation;

[0019] - An elastic connecting member is arranged between the first zeroing hammer and the second zeroing hammer and has a working position in which the first leg of the elastic connecting member abuts against the first zeroing hammer and the second leg of the elastic connecting member abuts against the second zeroing hammer.

[0020] The zeroing mechanism further includes a pre-support member and a snap-fit ​​member. The pre-support member supports the elastic connecting member and is disposed on the second zeroing hammer and configured to support the first leg of the elastic connecting member in a pre-assembly position. The snap-fit ​​member is fixed to the first zeroing hammer and configured to engage with the first leg of the elastic connecting member and move the elastic connecting member to its working position, in which the first leg abuts against the snap-fit ​​member to ensure that the first zeroing hammer and the second zeroing hammer are elastically rotatably connected during relative axial displacement between the first zeroing hammer and the second zeroing hammer in a direction parallel to the rotation axis of the first zeroing hammer and the second zeroing hammer when assembling the first zeroing hammer and the second zeroing hammer.

[0021] In addition to the features mentioned in the preceding paragraphs, the timing mechanism according to the invention may have one or more of the following supplementary features, which may be used individually or in any technically feasible combination:

[0022] - Without applying a force greater than a predetermined value determined by the stiffness of the elastic connecting member to either the first zeroing hammer or the second zeroing hammer, the elastic connecting member ensures a rotational connection between the first zeroing hammer and the second zeroing hammer.

[0023] - The snap-fit ​​member is configured to ensure that the elastic connecting member bends when assembling the first zeroing hammer and the second zeroing hammer, such that the elastic connecting member has a second compression state in the working position, the degree of compression of the elastic connecting member in the second compression state is greater than the degree of compression in the first compression state, in the first compression state, the elastic connecting member is in a pre-assembled position on the second zeroing hammer;

[0024] - The snap-fit ​​member extends along a direction parallel to at least one rotation axis of the first zeroing hammer and the second zeroing hammer;

[0025] - The snap-fit ​​member includes a body portion and an end tapered portion forming the free end of the snap-fit ​​member. A portion of the body portion forms a first support member, which supports the first leg of the elastic connection member in the working position of the elastic connection member.

[0026] - The first support member on the first zeroing hammer has a recessed portion for axially fixing the first leg of the elastic connecting member in a direction parallel to the rotation axis of the first zeroing hammer and the second zeroing hammer.

[0027] - The recessed portion of the first support member is formed near the base of the end tapered portion;

[0028] - The second zeroing hammer includes a second support member configured to support the second leg of the elastic connecting member. The second support member has a recessed portion for axially fixing the second leg of the elastic connecting member in a direction parallel to the at least one rotation axis of the first zeroing hammer and the second zeroing hammer.

[0029] - The timing mechanism includes a zeroing control element that can be actuated by a user and configured to rotate the first zeroing hammer;

[0030] - The elastic connecting member is shaped to constrain the second zeroing hammer, which abuts against the stop surface of the first zeroing hammer, through elastic action.

[0031] - The second zeroing hammer includes a stop member, and the stop surface of the first zeroing hammer abuts against the stop member;

[0032] - The first zeroing hammer and the second zeroing hammer have a common axis of rotation or have proprietary axes of rotation that are parallel to each other.

[0033] The present invention also relates to a watch movement comprising a timing mechanism according to the present invention.

[0034] The present invention also relates to a watch comprising a watch movement according to the present invention.

[0035] The present invention also relates to a method for assembling a timing mechanism, and more specifically to a method for assembling all the zeroing hammers onto the zeroing mechanism.

[0036] More specifically, the assembly method includes the following steps: a positioning step of positioning the elastic connecting member on the second zeroing hammer, wherein the elastic connecting member is held in a pre-assembled position, the elastic connecting member being in a first compression state between a pre-support member carried by the second zeroing hammer and a second support member of the second zeroing hammer; and an assembly step of assembling the first zeroing hammer and the second zeroing hammer, wherein the first zeroing hammer and the second zeroing hammer are assembled by relative axial displacement of the first zeroing hammer and the second zeroing hammer in a direction parallel to the at least one rotation axis, and the elastic connection between the two zeroing hammers is ensured by elastically deforming the elastic connecting member and the relative axial displacement between the first zeroing hammer and the second zeroing hammer.

[0037] Preferably, in the assembly step, the elastic connection between the first zeroing hammer and the second zeroing hammer is achieved by means of a snap-fit ​​member, which is fixed to the first zeroing hammer and configured to cooperate with the elastic connection member in the pre-assembly position and move the elastic connection member to the working position and into a second compression state. In the second compression state, the elastic connection member is compressed between the snap-fit ​​member and the second support member of the second zeroing hammer. Attached Figure Description

[0038] The objects, advantages, and features of the present invention will become clear from the following detailed description with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0039] Figure 1 This is a partial schematic diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a timing mechanism for a watch movement according to the present invention, the timing mechanism including a zeroing mechanism for resetting a timing counter to zero;

[0040] Figure 2 It's an exploded view, illustrating the details more clearly. Figure 1 The zeroing mechanism shown has a double zeroing hammer system, which is elastically connected by an elastic connecting component.

[0041] Figure 3 A more detailed illustration shows the elastic connecting member pre-assembled on the second zeroing hammer before the assembly and rotational connection of the two zeroing hammers;

[0042] Figure 4 The diagram further illustrates the resilient connecting member in the working position, where the resilient connecting member abuts against the first zeroing hammer and the second zeroing hammer to rotatably connect the two zeroing hammers.

[0043] Figure 5 The main steps of the method for assembling a timing mechanism according to the present invention are illustrated schematically.

[0044] In all the accompanying drawings, unless otherwise stated, common elements have the same reference numerals. Detailed Implementation

[0045] Figure 1 This is a partial schematic top view of the timing mechanism 10 integrated into the watch movement 1 according to the present invention.

[0046] refer to Figure 1 The watch movement 1 includes a plate 2 for supporting the various components of the watch movement 1, and in particular for supporting a time train (not shown) dedicated to dividing time, which is driven by an energy source (not shown).

[0047] The timing mechanism 10 includes a timing gear train 20, which can be kinematically connected as needed to an hour gear train via a coupling (not shown), which is controlled by a timing start / stop control.

[0048] For example, the coupling is a lever-type coupling that allows the coupling wheel to pivot. Other variations of the coupling known to those skilled in the art may also be applied.

[0049] Specifically, the timing wheel system 20 includes a first timing counter and a second timing counter. The first timing counter includes a first timing counter wheel 21, such as a second counter wheel, and the second timing counter includes a second timing counter wheel 22, such as a minute counter wheel.

[0050] A first timing counter wheel 21 is connected to a first spindle, called a second counter spindle, which drives the second hand on a chronograph (not shown). The first spindle also carries a first zeroing member 51, which is rotatably fixed to the first spindle.

[0051] The second timing counter wheel 22 is connected to a second spindle, called the minute counter spindle, which drives the minute hand (not shown). The second spindle also carries a second zeroing member 52, which is rotatably fixed to the second spindle.

[0052] The first mandrel is coaxial with the second mandrel.

[0053] The first timing counter wheel 21 and the second timing counter wheel 22 overlap each other and are arranged in two overlapping and parallel independent planes. The corresponding first zeroing component 51 and second zeroing component 52 also overlap each other.

[0054] The first zeroing component 51 and the second zeroing component 52 are, for example, worm-shaped, heart-shaped or other shaped zeroing cams, whose shape allows them to return to the reference position of the pointer when actuated by the zeroing hammer.

[0055] In the example shown, the first zeroing component 51 and the second zeroing component 52 are zeroing heart-shaped components.

[0056] like Figure 1 As shown, the timing wheel train 20 may also include an additional third counter, such as an hour counter, which includes a third timing counter wheel 23 connected to the third reset member 53.

[0057] The timing wheel train 20 may include an intermediate timing motion element (not shown) to obtain the desired ratio between the individual counter wheels of the timing mechanism 10.

[0058] The timing mechanism 10 also includes a zeroing mechanism 100 for resetting each timing counter and returning each zeroing component and corresponding pointer to their reference positions.

[0059] The zeroing mechanism 100 includes a first zeroing hammer 110 and a second zeroing hammer 120 that overlap each other and are configured to engage with a first zeroing component 51 of a first timer counter and a second zeroing component 52 of a second timer counter, respectively. The first zeroing hammer 110 and the second zeroing hammer 120 are rotated by a zeroing control member 60, which can be operated by a user, for example, via a button or an actuating pin 61.

[0060] The zeroing control unit 60 can rotate around the rotation axis 66 and cooperate directly or indirectly with one of the first zeroing hammer 110 and the second zeroing hammer 120.

[0061] In the exemplary embodiment shown, the zeroing control member 60 directly engages with the first zeroing hammer 110 located at the lower position (i.e., the zeroing hammer close to the machine plate 2). However, the zeroing control member 60 may also directly engage with the second zeroing hammer 120 located at the upper position (i.e., the zeroing hammer away from the machine plate 2).

[0062] For this purpose, the first zeroing hammer 110 includes an actuating element 113, such as a pin or post, which is mounted to extend from the body of the first zeroing hammer 110 and configured to engage with a portion of the zeroing control element 60 in direct contact.

[0063] Figure 2 An exploded view of the overlapping first zeroing hammer 110 and second zeroing hammer 120 according to the present invention is shown in more detail.

[0064] The first zeroing hammer 110 and the second zeroing hammer 120 are pivotally mounted about a common axis of rotation 105, which extends perpendicularly to the overall plane formed by the machine plate 2. The two zeroing hammers are mounted to pivot independently of each other.

[0065] According to a variant embodiment, the first zeroing hammer 110 and the second zeroing hammer 120 may have different axes of rotation that are parallel to each other.

[0066] The second zeroing hammer 120 has a limited angular degree of freedom relative to the first zeroing hammer 110. Therefore, an angular motion limiting device can be arranged between the first zeroing hammer 110 and the second zeroing hammer 120 to limit the angular travel of the second zeroing hammer 120 relative to the first zeroing hammer 110.

[0067] An elastic connecting member 116 is arranged between the first zeroing hammer 110 and the second zeroing hammer 120 to create an elastic rotational connection between the two zeroing hammers.

[0068] More specifically, when a force greater than a predetermined value (determined by the stiffness of the elastic connecting member 116) is applied to one of the two zeroing hammers (more specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, the second zeroing hammer 120, since in the illustrated example, the zeroing control member 60 is engaging with the first zeroing hammer 110 to rotate it), the elastic deformation of the elastic connecting member 116 allows the first zeroing hammer 110 and the second zeroing hammer 120 to be rotatably connected, while allowing the second zeroing hammer 120 to have relative angular degrees of freedom.

[0069] More specifically, the resilient connecting member 116 includes a resilient first leg 116.1 and a resilient second leg 116.2. These two legs are connected to the elbow-shaped central body 116.3. The resilient connecting member 116 is, for example, a spring, a leaf spring, a string spring, etc.

[0070] like Figure 4 As shown in more detail, when the resilient connecting member 116 is in its working position, the first leg 116.1 abuts against the first zeroing hammer 110, more specifically against the first support member 111 of the first zeroing hammer 110, and the second leg 116.2 abuts against the second zeroing hammer 120, more specifically against the second support member 112 of the second zeroing hammer 120.

[0071] The first support member 111 and / or the second support member 112 may be an element added to and fixed to the body of the first zeroing hammer 110 and / or the second zeroing hammer 120, or may be integrally formed with the first zeroing hammer 110 and / or the second zeroing hammer 120.

[0072] In this working position, without applying a force greater than a predetermined value determined by the stiffness of the elastic connecting member 116 to the second zeroing hammer 120, the elastic connecting member 116 is configured to constrain the second zeroing hammer 120 relative to the first zeroing hammer 110.

[0073] More specifically, the second zeroing hammer 120 includes a stop member 122 facing the first zeroing hammer 110 and configured to engage with a complementary stop surface 128 disposed on the first zeroing hammer 110. Under the elastic constraint of the elastic connecting member 116 pressing against the two zeroing hammers, the stop member 122 of the second zeroing hammer 120 remains pressed against the stop surface 128 of the first zeroing hammer 110.

[0074] The first zeroing hammer 110 includes a first hammerhead 107 configured to strike a first zeroing member 51 of a first counter. The second zeroing hammer 120 includes a second hammerhead 126 configured to strike a second zeroing member 52 of a second counter.

[0075] When in a stable position, that is, when no force greater than a predetermined value related to the stiffness of the elastic connecting member 116 is applied to the second zeroing hammer 120, the second hammer head 126 of the second zeroing hammer 120 is not aligned with the first hammer head 107 of the first zeroing hammer 110. In fact, the second hammer head 126 of the second zeroing hammer 120 is slightly forward relative to the first hammer head 115 of the first zeroing hammer 110 (i.e., towards the direction of the first zeroing member 51 and the second zeroing member 52).

[0076] The forward offset of the second hammer head 126 of the second zeroing hammer 120 ensures that the first zeroing member 51 and the second zeroing member 52 return to their reference positions after the movement of the first zeroing hammer 110, the second zeroing hammer 120, and the zeroing control member 60 is completed. In fact, when these two zeroing hammers are actuated, once the second zeroing member 52 of the second counter is in the zeroing position, the supplementary angular displacement of these two zeroing hammers will generate a force on the second hammer head 126 of the second zeroing hammer 120 that is greater than the force determined by the stiffness of the elastic connecting member 116. This will allow the first zeroing member 51 of the first counter to continue to complete the zeroing process if it has not yet reached its reference position. Therefore, by counteracting the elastic force of the elastic connecting member 116, the second zeroing hammer 120 moves in the opposite direction to the first zeroing hammer 110.

[0077] The working principle of the timing mechanism is explained below:

[0078] When the user presses the zeroing control 60 with the actuating pin 61, the zeroing control 60 pivots about its rotation axis 66. The zeroing control 60 cooperates with the first zeroing hammer 110 via the actuating element 113, and causes the first zeroing hammer 110 to pivot about the rotation axis 105.

[0079] If no force is applied to the second hammer head 126 of the second zeroing hammer 120, the second zeroing hammer 120 is rotatably connected to the first zeroing hammer 110, and is therefore also activated by the zeroing control 60 and pivots about the rotation axis 105.

[0080] The two zeroing hammers continue to move angularly under the action of the zeroing control unit 60 until the first hammer head 107 of the first zeroing hammer 110 and the second hammer head 126 of the second zeroing hammer 120 strike the corresponding first zeroing component 51 and second zeroing component 52.

[0081] As the second hammer head 126 of the second zeroing hammer 120 moves forward, the second zeroing component 52 will reset to the reference position before the zeroing control component 60 completes its full angular stroke.

[0082] As the zeroing control unit 60 continues its angular displacement, the second zeroing component 52 of the second counter, which is in its reference position (i.e., stable position), applies a force to the second hammer head 126. This force is greater than the stiffness of the elastic connecting component 116, causing the elastic connecting component 116 to elastically deform, thereby changing the relative position of the two zeroing hammers. The disengagement of the two zeroing hammers allows the first zeroing hammer 110 to continue its angular movement under the drive of the zeroing control unit 60, ensuring that the first zeroing component 51 of the first counter is fully reset.

[0083] When the zeroing control element 60 reaches the end of its stroke, the two hammers are aligned with each other, and the two zeroing elements are in their reference positions.

[0084] The second zeroing hammer 120 also includes a third hammer head 127, which is configured to reset the third zeroing member 53 to its reference position.

[0085] Advantageously, the zeroing mechanism 100 includes a pre-support member 115 to ensure that the resilient connecting member 116 is pre-supported in place and to facilitate the assembly of the two zeroing hammers into the watch movement 1. The pre-support member 115 also makes it easier to install the resilient connecting member 116 between the two zeroing hammers.

[0086] In the example shown in the attached drawings, the pre-support member 115 is disposed on the second zeroing hammer 120, so that the elastic connecting member 116 can be pre-installed on the second zeroing hammer 120 before assembling the two zeroing hammers.

[0087] Of course, the pre-support member 115 can also be set on the first zeroing hammer 110, which is a zeroing hammer actuated by the zeroing control member 60, so that the elastic connection member 116 can be pre-installed on the first zeroing hammer 110.

[0088] The function of the pre-support member 115 is to elastically constrain the elastic connecting member 116 onto the second zeroing hammer 120, so that it is in a position called the pre-assembly position. Figure 2 and Figure 3 This location is shown particularly clearly.

[0089] The pre-support member 115 is configured to support the first leg 116.1 of the elastic connection member 116, such that the elastic connection member 116 can be elastically constrained between the pre-support member 115 and the second support member 112 of the second zeroing hammer 120 in its pre-assembled position.

[0090] When assembling the two zeroing hammers by relative axial displacement in a direction parallel to the rotation axis 105, the zeroing mechanism 100 includes a snap-fit ​​member 118 fixed to the zeroing hammer excluding the pre-support member 115 in order to move the elastic connecting member 116 to its working position. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the snap-fit ​​member 118 is disposed on the first zeroing hammer 110.

[0091] The locking member 118 extends toward the second zeroing hammer 120 relative to the body of the first zeroing hammer 110. The locking member 118 extends in a direction parallel to the rotation axis 105 of the two zeroing hammers.

[0092] The snap-fit ​​member 118 includes a body portion 118a and an end tapered portion 118b located on the far side of the body portion. A portion of the body portion 118a forms a first support member 111 of the first zeroing hammer 110, and the end tapered portion 118b forms the free end of the snap-fit ​​member 118.

[0093] The snap-fit ​​member 118 is configured such that, when the resilient connecting member 116 is in its pre-assembled position on the second zeroing hammer 120, the snap-fit ​​member 118 contacts the first leg 116.1 of the resilient connecting member 116 via an end tapered portion 118b. The end tapered portion 118b allows the first leg 116.1 to engage, and by sliding the first leg 116.1 on the tapered surface of the end tapered portion 118b, its support can be moved onto the support member 111 of the first zeroing hammer to change its position. When the resilient connecting member slides on the tapered surface of the end tapered portion 118b, the resilient connecting member is slightly compressed.

[0094] Preferably, the first support member 111 includes a recessed portion 117, such as a notch, cavity, pit, or uneven surface, configured to support the first leg 116.1 of the elastic connecting member 116, and axially fixes the elastic connecting member 116 in an axial direction parallel to the rotation axis 105 of the zeroing hammer. More specifically, it axially fixes the first leg 116.1 of the elastic connecting member 116. This prevents axial sliding of the first leg 116.1 of the elastic connecting member 116 and prevents the first leg 116.1 from losing support for the first support member 111 of the first zeroing hammer 110 when assembling the two zeroing hammers.

[0095] The recessed portion 117 is formed near the base of the end tapered portion 118b. In addition to axially fixing the elastic connecting member 116, the recessed portion 117 also provides the watchmaker with auditory and tactile indications that the elastic connecting member 116 has been correctly positioned between the two zeroing hammers, thereby achieving the elastic connection of the two zeroing hammers.

[0096] According to a variant embodiment, a recessed portion may be provided on the second support member 112 of the second zeroing hammer 120, which may be in the form of a notch, cavity, pit or uneven surface, to support the second leg 116.2 of the elastic connecting member 116 and axially fix the elastic connecting member 116.

[0097] Typically, the zeroing control 60 cooperates with a resilient zeroing element (not shown) configured to return the zeroing control 60 to a neutral rest position between each user actuation.

[0098] The zeroing mechanism 100 may further include a retaining member (not shown) for protecting the zeroing mechanism 100 and ensuring that the zeroing control 60 completes its actuation action. This retaining member is configured to temporarily restrict actuation of the zeroing control 60 and thus the zeroing hammer, as long as the zeroing control 60 is not subjected to a certain force. This retaining member is a safety component that prevents the pointer of the timing mechanism 10 from unintentionally returning to zero. The retaining member exhibits dynamic characteristics similar to a mechanical safety device.

[0099] As shown in the attached diagram, the timing mechanism 10 includes a column wheel 63 for controlling various movements of various levers that rest against a column or are located between two columns. Since the working principle of the timing mechanism 10 with this column wheel 63 is well known, there is no need to further explain the working principle of this wheel.

[0100] Of course, instead of the column wheel 63, the timing mechanism 10 can also be a timing mechanism with a cam installed, which does not depart from the scope of the present invention.

[0101] The present invention also relates to a timepiece, such as a wristwatch, that includes such a timepiece movement.

[0102] The present invention also relates to a method 400 for assembling the timing mechanism 10 of the present invention, the timing mechanism including a zeroing mechanism 100. More specifically, the method according to the present invention makes it easier to assemble and resiliently connect two zeroing hammers.

[0103] refer to Figure 5 The method includes step 410, in which the elastic connecting member 116 is pre-installed, that is, the elastic connecting member 116 is pre-positioned on one of the zeroing hammers (e.g., the second zeroing hammer 120) such that the elastic connecting member 116 is held in a first compression state in the pre-assembled position between the pre-support member 115 carried by the second zeroing hammer 120 and the second support member 112 of the second zeroing hammer 120. Figure 3 Specifically, this first compression state is shown of the elastic connecting member 116 positioned on the second zeroing hammer 120.

[0104] After the elastic connecting member 116 is pre-installed on the second zeroing hammer 120, the method includes step 420, in which the two zeroing hammers are assembled by translating the two zeroing hammers in a direction parallel to the rotation axis 105.

[0105] The axial proximity of the two zeroing hammers allows the locking member 118 to contact the first leg 116.1 of the elastic connecting member 116, which abuts against the pre-support member 115. With axial displacement, the end taper 118b gradually compresses the elastic connecting member 116, thereby releasing the pressure on the pre-support member 115. Once the first leg 116.1 has passed the base of the end taper 118b, the first leg 116.1 engages with the recessed portion 117 of the locking member 118 through its elastic reset action, as... Figure 4 As shown. Therefore, the elastic connecting member 116 is in a second compressed state in its working position. The degree of compression of the elastic connecting member 116 in the second compressed state is greater than the degree of compression in the first compressed state in the pre-assembled position, and the elastic connecting member 116 abuts against the first zeroing hammer 110 and the second zeroing hammer 120 to ensure an elastic rotational connection between the two zeroing hammers. In the working position, the elastic connecting member 116 is axially fixed to prevent unintentional loss of contact.

Claims

1. A timing mechanism (10) for a watch movement (1), the timing mechanism (10) including a zeroing mechanism (100), the zeroing mechanism (100) comprising: - A first zeroing hammer (110) and a second zeroing hammer (120), the first zeroing hammer (110) and the second zeroing hammer (120) being arranged on two levels to cooperate with a first zeroing member (51) of a first timing counter and a second zeroing member (52) of a second timing counter, which are not coplanar; the first zeroing hammer (110) and the second zeroing hammer (120) are pivoted independently of each other about at least one rotation axis (105); - An elastic connecting member (116) is arranged between the first zeroing hammer (110) and the second zeroing hammer (120) and has a working position in which the first leg (116.1) of the elastic connecting member (116) abuts against the first zeroing hammer (110) and the second leg (116.2) of the elastic connecting member (116) abuts against the second zeroing hammer (120); The zeroing mechanism (100) is characterized in that it comprises: - A pre-support member (115) for the elastic connecting member (116), the pre-support member (115) being disposed on the second zeroing hammer (120) and configured to support the first leg (116.1) of the elastic connecting member (116) in a pre-assembled position. - A snap-fit ​​member (118) is fixed to the first zeroing hammer (110) and configured to engage with the first leg (116.1) of the resilient connecting member and move the resilient connecting member (116) to its working position, in which the first leg (116.1) abuts against the snap-fit ​​member (118) to ensure that the first zeroing hammer (110) and the second zeroing hammer (120) are resiliently rotated during relative axial displacement between the first zeroing hammer (110) and the second zeroing hammer (120) in a direction parallel to the at least one axis of rotation (105) when the first zeroing hammer (110) and the second zeroing hammer (120) are assembled.

2. Timepiece movement (10) for a timepiece movement (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, Without applying a force greater than a predetermined value determined by the stiffness of the elastic connecting member (116) to either the first zeroing hammer (110) or the second zeroing hammer (120), the elastic connecting member (116) ensures a rotational connection between the first zeroing hammer (110) and the second zeroing hammer (120).

3. Timepiece movement (10) for a timepiece movement (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The snap-fit ​​member (118) is configured to ensure that the elastic connecting member (116) bends during the assembly of the first zeroing hammer (110) and the second zeroing hammer (120), such that the elastic connecting member (116) has a second compression state in the working position, the degree of compression of the elastic connecting member (116) in the second compression state is greater than the degree of compression in the first compression state, in the first compression state, the elastic connecting member (116) is in a pre-assembled position on the second zeroing hammer (120).

4. The timing mechanism (10) for a watch movement (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The snap-fit ​​member (118) extends along a direction parallel to at least one rotation axis (105) of the first zeroing hammer (110) and the second zeroing hammer (120).

5. The timing mechanism (10) for a watch movement (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The snap-fit ​​member (118) includes a body portion (118a) and an end tapered portion (118b) forming the free end of the snap-fit ​​member (118). A portion of the body portion (118a) forms a first support member (111). In the working position of the elastic connecting member (116), the first support member (111) supports the first leg (116.1) of the elastic connecting member (116).

6. The timing mechanism (10) for a watch movement (1) according to claim 5, characterized in that, The first support member (111) on the first zeroing hammer (110) has a recessed portion (117) for axially fixing the first leg (116.1) of the elastic connecting member (116) in a direction parallel to the at least one rotation axis (105) of the first zeroing hammer (110) and the second zeroing hammer (120).

7. The timing mechanism (10) for a watch movement (1) according to claim 6, characterized in that, The recessed portion (117) of the first support member (111) is formed near the base of the end tapered portion (118b).

8. The timing mechanism (10) for a watch movement (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The second zeroing hammer (120) includes a second support member (112) configured to support the second leg (116.2) of the elastic connecting member (116). The second support member (112) has a recessed portion for axially fixing the second leg (116.2) of the elastic connecting member (116) in a direction parallel to at least one rotation axis (105) of the first zeroing hammer (110) and the second zeroing hammer (120).

9. The timing mechanism (10) for a watch movement (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The timing mechanism (10) includes a zeroing control (60) that can be actuated by a user and configured to rotate the first zeroing hammer (110).

10. The timing mechanism (10) for a watch movement (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The elastic connecting member (116) is shaped to constrain the second zeroing hammer (120) against the stop surface (128) of the first zeroing hammer (110) by means of elastic action.

11. The timing mechanism (10) for a watch movement (1) according to claim 10, characterized in that, The second zeroing hammer (120) includes a stop member (122), and the stop surface (128) of the first zeroing hammer (110) abuts against the stop member (122).

12. The timing mechanism (10) for a watch movement (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The first zeroing hammer (110) and the second zeroing hammer (120) have a common axis of rotation (105) or have proprietary axes of rotation that are parallel to each other.

13. A watch movement (1), characterized in that, The watch movement (1) includes a timing mechanism (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

14. A clock, characterized in that, The watch includes the watch movement (1) according to claim 13.

15. A method (400) for assembling a timing mechanism (10), the timing mechanism (10) including a zeroing mechanism (100), the zeroing mechanism (100) comprising: - A first zeroing hammer (110) and a second zeroing hammer (120), the first zeroing hammer (110) and the second zeroing hammer (120) pivot about at least one rotation axis (105) and are arranged on two levels to cooperate with the first zeroing member (51) of the first timing counter and the second zeroing member (52) of the second timing counter, which are not coplanar; - An elastic connecting member (116) is arranged between the first zeroing hammer (110) and the second zeroing hammer (120) and is configured to rotatably connect the first zeroing hammer (110) and the second zeroing hammer (120). The method is characterized by comprising the following steps: - Positioning step (410) of positioning the elastic connecting member (116) on the second zeroing hammer (120), wherein the elastic connecting member (116) is held in a pre-assembled position, the elastic connecting member (116) being in a first compression state between the pre-support member (115) carried by the second zeroing hammer (120) and the second support member (112) of the second zeroing hammer (120); - Assembly step (420) of assembling the first zeroing hammer (110) and the second zeroing hammer (120), wherein the first zeroing hammer (110) and the second zeroing hammer (120) are assembled by relative axial displacement of the first zeroing hammer (110) and the second zeroing hammer (120) in a direction parallel to the at least one rotation axis (105), and the relative axial displacement between the first zeroing hammer (110) and the second zeroing hammer (120) ensures the elastic connection between the two zeroing hammers.

16. The method (400) for assembling the timing mechanism (10) according to claim 15, characterized in that, In the assembly step (420), the elastic connection between the first zeroing hammer (110) and the second zeroing hammer (120) is achieved by means of a snap-fit ​​member (118), which is fixed to the first zeroing hammer (110) and configured to engage with the elastic connection member (116) in the pre-assembly position and move the elastic connection member (116) to the working position and into a second compression state. In the second compression state, the elastic connection member (116) is compressed between the snap-fit ​​member (118) and the second support member (112) of the second zeroing hammer (120).

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