CLOCKWORK

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a clock mechanism. The invention further relates to a clock movement comprising such a mechanism. The invention also relates to a timepiece comprising such a mechanism or movement.

[0002] Modular clock movements are known from earlier art.

[0003] Document EP2085833 discloses a movement with interchangeable modules that can be positioned according to the layout of the displays in the wristwatch in which the movement is used. Different variations of the same movement can thus be obtained by modifying the relative positioning of one or another of the modules with respect to a base plate that has multiple positioning holes for each module. The differentiation of the various movement variants is therefore achieved during the movement assembly process, specifically during the assembly of the modules onto the rest of the movement.

[0004] Document EP2442191 also discloses a movement with interchangeable modules that can be positioned according to the layout of the displays in the wristwatch in which the movement is used. Different variations of the same movement can thus be obtained by modifying the relative positioning of one or another of the modules with respect to an intermediate support fixed to a plate, which has multiple positioning holes for each of the modules. The differentiation of the various movement variants is therefore achieved during the movement assembly process, specifically during the assembly of the modules onto the rest of the movement.

[0005] Such constructions can be problematic if it is desired to adjust the layout of a particular display element within the timepiece after the basic movement has been assembled, as this requires a complete repositioning of at least one module relative to the mainplate or intermediate support. Furthermore, the assembly precision of the various moving parts involved in such movements can be difficult to guarantee due to the large number of intermediate blanks required for the production of each module. Therefore, such solutions are not satisfactory.

[0006] Document EP2275883 discloses a device for transmitting homokinetic rotational motion between a first stem of a watch movement and a second stem of a watch case, whose axes of rotation are substantially parallel. Such a device includes, in particular, a connecting element located at the interface of the axes of rotation of the two stems, which is in the form of an Oldham joint. This element comprises two slides respectively arranged on two distinct planes that are substantially perpendicular to the respective axes of rotation of the two stems. Such an embodiment is not feasible for certain applications.

[0007] The aim of the invention is to provide a clockwork mechanism that overcomes the aforementioned drawbacks and improves upon devices known in the prior art. In particular, the invention proposes a clockwork mechanism that enables precise and homokinetic or substantially homokinetic motion transmission. Finally, the invention offers a compact mechanism particularly suited to a clockwork movement.

[0008] According to the invention, a clockwork mechanism is defined by claim 1.

[0009] Different embodiments of the clockwork mechanism are defined by claims 2 to 11.

[0010] According to the invention, a watch movement is defined by claim 12.

[0011] According to the invention, a timepiece is defined by claim 13.

[0012] The attached figures represent, by way of example, four embodiments of a timepiece to better understand the invention as defined in the attached claim 1.

[0013] THE figures 1 to 11 illustrate a first embodiment of a mechanism close to the invention as claimed, comprising a first embodiment of a transmission joint.

[0014] THE figures 12 to 17 illustrate an embodiment of a watch mechanism according to the invention as claimed, comprising a first variant or a second variant of a second embodiment of a transmission joint.

[0015] THE Figures 18 to 20 illustrate a third variant of the embodiment of the mechanism according to the invention as claimed.

[0016] THE Figures 21 and 22 illustrate a fourth variant of the embodiment of the transmission joint, according to the invention as claimed.

[0017] THE figures 23 to 26 illustrate a third embodiment of a timepiece, close to the invention as claimed.

[0018] THE figures 27 to 31 illustrate a fourth embodiment of a timepiece, close to the invention as claimed.

[0019] A first embodiment of a 400 timepiece is described below with reference to figures 1 to 11 A timepiece is, for example, a watch, specifically a wristwatch. A timepiece comprises a watch case (350) and a watch movement (300) mounted within the case. The movement can be mechanical, specifically automatic. Alternatively, the movement can be electronic.

[0020] The movement includes a 200 motion transmission mechanism or the watch case includes a motion transmission mechanism or the timepiece includes a motion transmission mechanism at the watch case - movement interface.

[0021] The movement transmission mechanism includes, for example, in addition to a transmission joint 100, a gear train of a transmission chain 1100 and a display element 6. The display element can, for example, display or indicate time information or information derived from the time. The display element may include a hand 6, in particular a hand indicating time information or information derived from the time in conjunction with a limb and / or indices arranged on a dial. The gear train of a transmission chain may be a finishing gear train providing the connection between a driving element such as a mainspring barrel and a regulating element such as a balance-spring oscillator. Alternatively, the transmission chain 1100 may, for example, be in the form of a chronograph counter chain. The mechanism may also include a horological module, for example a chronograph module, between the finishing gear train and the transmission joint.

[0022] As depicted on the Figures 1 , 10 And 11 The watch movement can be modular. The joint 100 here allows a chronograph wheel 2 to be connected to a display wheel 3 for an indication provided by said chronograph wheel 2. The wheel 2 is an integral part of a chronograph counting chain 1100. This chain includes a wheel 4 mounted on a shaft 21 and which is kinematically linked to a pinion 5 of the chronograph counting chain 1100, as shown in the diagram. Figure 10The mobile 3 includes the display element 6, which is mounted on a shaft 31. The shaft 21 has pivoting elements 23, 24, in particular cylindrical bearing surfaces 23, 24, adapted to cooperate with bearings 71, 81, in particular jewels 71, 81, mounted respectively on blanks 7, 8 of the movement so as to guide the shaft 21 in rotation about its axis A2. The shaft 31 also has pivoting elements 33, 34, in particular cylindrical bearing surfaces 33, 34, adapted to cooperate with a bearing 91, in particular a tube 91, mounted on a blank 9 of the movement so as to guide the shaft 31 in rotation about its axis A3. Preferably, the blank 9 can be mounted on a plate 9' of the movement 200 as shown in the figure 11Depending on the location of axis A3 relative to axis A2, the watchmaker simply needs to choose a suitable blank 9 equipped with a bearing 91 whose axis coincides with the desired axis A3. Alternatively, blank 9 can have a plurality of bearings (not shown) so as to receive the shaft 31 at a desired center distance r between axis A2 and axis A3 and / or at an angular position of axis A3 relative to axis A2 shown on the figure 9 , the set of angular positions with center distance r forming a circle C.

[0023] The transmission joint 100 is preferably of the constant velocity (CV) type. The joint is arranged to mechanically connect at least one first portion 2A of the first shaft, which is rotatable about a first axis A2, to at least one second portion 3A of the second shaft, which is rotatable about a second axis A3. The first and second axes are parallel or substantially parallel. In this embodiment, at least one first portion 2A of the first shaft is formed from the same material as the rest of the first shaft. Therefore, at least one first portion 2A of the first shaft and the rest of the first shaft form a single unit and together constitute the first shaft. In this embodiment, at least one second portion 3A of the second shaft is formed from the same material as the rest of the second shaft. Therefore, at least one second portion 3A of the second shaft and the rest of the second shaft form a single unit and together constitute the second shaft.

[0024] Trees 21, 31 are here mobile in rotation respectively along axes A2, A3.

[0025] The transmission joint comprises, in addition to at least one first shaft section 2A and at least one second shaft section 3A, at least one first elastic return system 15 arranged to limit or eliminate play between at least one first shaft section 2A and at least one second shaft section 3A. The at least one first return system, possibly in conjunction with a second return system 16, mechanically connects at least one first shaft section 2A and at least one second shaft section 3A.

[0026] The transmission joint includes at least one linking element 10, 110, 210 disposed at the interface of the respective shafts 21, 31 of two movable parts 2, 3, in particular at the interface between the first part 2A of the first shaft and the second part 3A of the second shaft.

[0027] Advantageously, the transmission joint includes a frame to which at least one first elastic return system 15 is fixed. In the variant illustrated in figure 3 , the chassis 15a, 16a is partially constituted by a part of at least one first elastic return system 15, in particular by a part of the first elastic return system 15 and by a part of the second elastic return system 16.

[0028] Preferably, the joint includes a second elastic return system 16 arranged to limit or eliminate the play between at least one first part 2A of the first shaft and at least one second part 3A of the second shaft, the at least one first return system mechanically linking at least one first part 2A of the first shaft to at least one second part 3A of the second shaft.

[0029] According to the first embodiment, which is close to the invention as claimed, the transmission joint comprises a first slide element 11 of a first slide, and a second slide element 12; 12a, 12b of a second slide. These features are also included in the wording of the attached claim 1.

[0030] Preferably, the first slide element comprises one or more grooves and / or the second slide element comprises one or more grooves and / or the first slide element comprises at least one friction surface 13 and / or the second slide element comprises at least one friction surface 14. These friction surfaces are advantageously the flanks of the slide elements.

[0031] Preferably, at least one first elastic return system includes one or more first elastic blades and / or the second elastic return system includes one or more second elastic blades.

[0032] The first and second trees extend, in the direction of the first or second axis, over axial segments Z1 and Z2, each aligned respectively with axes A2 and A3, but not overlapping. Indeed, as shown in the figure 7 , the first tree extends over a portion Z1 and the second tree extends over a portion Z2.

[0033] The axial portions z1, z2 along which the first slide element and the second slide element extend, overlap in the direction of the first or second axis; that is, the axial portions are aligned respectively with axes A2 and A3, but they do not overlap, as shown in the figure 7The first slide element and the second slide element are arranged according to distinct planes P1, P2.

[0034] The first tree includes a second slide element 22 of the first slide, in particular a second projecting element of substantially rectangular shape. Alternatively, the second element could include several pegs. The second tree includes a second slide element 32 of the second slide, in particular a second projecting element of substantially rectangular shape. Alternatively, the second element could include several pegs.

[0035] Thus, in the first embodiment, the connecting member 10 is provided with two sliding elements 11, 12 or two slides 11, 12, which can be likened to those of an Oldham joint. These slides 11, 12 are, for example, recessed and designed to cooperate respectively with sliding elements 22, 32 of the shafts 21, 31 of the moving parts 2, 3. These elements 22, 32 are, for example, projecting. Each of these elements 22, 32 has a geometry substantially complementary to that of the slides 11, 12. For example, these elements 22, 32 may have a substantially rectangular cross-section along a plane perpendicular to the axes A2, A3, this rectangular cross-section extending the shaft along its axis. For example, these elements 22, 32 have parallelepiped shapes with a larger side extending perpendicularly to the axes A2, A3 of the trees.The largest side of the parallelepiped conformation may correspond or substantially correspond to the diameter of a portion of the respective parts (2A), (3A) of the first and second trees.

[0036] In the first embodiment, the slides 11, 12 are arranged along two distinct planes P1, P2 that are substantially parallel, as shown in the figure 7 . The shots are, for example, the medial shots of the wings.

[0037] Advantageously, the component 10 also includes at least one friction element 13, 14 for connecting the moving parts 2 and 3 with minimal play, particularly with minimal angular play. The friction elements are parts of the slides 11, 12, specifically the contact faces of the slides. The friction elements are brought into contact with the sliding elements 22, 32 by the first and second elastic return systems. To this end, at least one friction element 13, 14 cooperates with an elastic return element 15, 16 designed to return at least one element 13, 14 to a cooperative position with one or the other of the sliding elements 22, 32 of the shafts 21, 31, specifically in contact with one or the other of the sliding elements 22, 32 of the shafts 21, 31.Thus, the organ 10 can kinematically connect, in particular homokinetically or substantially homokinetically, two mobiles 2, 3 whose axes A2, A3 of rotation are substantially parallel and close together, while minimizing as much as possible the angular play at the interface of the shafts 21, 31.

[0038] In the first embodiment, the member 10 comprises two friction elements 13, 14 which are respectively coincident with the slides 11, 12. Each slide 11, 12 or friction element 13, 14 is elastically recalled by an elastic element 15, 16 which is in the form of an elastic blade 15, 16 defining the perimeter of portions 1a, 1b of the member 10. The thickness of the member is noted E on the different figures.

[0039] The component 10, for example, consists of two portions 1a, 1b arranged respectively along the two parallel planes P1, P2. The first portion 1a comprises the first slide 11, the first friction element 13, and the elastic blade 15. The second portion 1b comprises the second slide 12, the second friction element 14, and the elastic blade 16. Preferably, each portion 1a, 1b is in the form of a single-piece subassembly or a molded piece of material. The portions 1a, 1b can be joined by welding, particularly by laser welding, specifically over a predefined area of ​​the portions 1a, 1b in order to maintain the elastic properties of the elements 15, 16.

[0040] Alternatively, the component 10 can be in the form of a single-piece component or made from material.

[0041] Subassemblies 1a, 1b or component 10 may be made of silicon and / or coated silicon, in particular coated with silicon oxide or silicon nitride, or of nickel or a nickel-phosphorus alloy.

[0042] Of course, subassemblies 1a, 1b or component 10 can alternatively be made of a completely different material, in particular any other elastic material, such as metallic glass or a polymer.

[0043] Subassemblies 1a and 1b may or may not be made of the same material. The subassemblies or the component may preferably be manufactured by electroforming or engraving. Alternatively, subassemblies 1a and 1b or the component could be machined by electrical discharge machining (EDM) or laser machining.

[0044] Preferably, the slides 11 and 12 of the member 10 are arranged perpendicularly to each other to allow the transmission of rotational movements between the shafts 21 and 31, as permitted according to the Oldham principle. The slides 11 and 12 are further preferably arranged perpendicular to the first and second axes. The operation of this embodiment is based on the fact that the driving shaft, for example shaft 21, drives the connecting member in rotation by the action of the projecting element 22 on the flanks of the groove 11, and the connecting member drives the driven shaft in rotation by the action of the flanks of the groove 12 on the projecting element 32, the projecting elements moving in the grooves 11 and 12.

[0045] The length of the slides determines the maximum center distance between axes A2 and A3. The location of bearing 91 determines the position of axis A3 relative to axis A2 for a given range of center distances r. Preferably, the connecting member 10 allows for center distances r between 0 and 1 mm, or even between 0 and 0.6 mm.

[0046] In general, such a transmission joint can be advantageously implemented at the interface of shafts 21 and 31 when it is not possible to house toothed moving parts between these two elements.

[0047] Advantageously, the transmission joint allows the rotational movements of shaft 21 to shaft 31 to be transmitted smoothly. In particular, the rotational movement of wheel 4 is transmitted to needle 6 smoothly, resulting in the absence of any wobble in needle 6. Advantageously, the transmission joint, especially the friction elements 13 and 14 of component 10, can replace a friction plate while performing its function. Preferably, the generated friction torque is on the order of 0.1 to 5 µNm, or even on the order of 1 to 5 µNm. A single component 10 of the joint thus acts as both a transmission and a control element for the transmission.

[0048] In an alternative embodiment (not shown) of the first embodiment, at least one first part 2A of the first shaft includes a third elastic return system arranged to limit or eliminate the play of the first slide element in the first slide, and / or at least one second part 3A of the second shaft includes a fourth elastic return system arranged to limit or eliminate the play of the second slide element in the second slide. The third return system may replace the first return system. Alternatively, the third return system may complement the first return system so as to limit or eliminate the play in the first slide. The fourth return system may replace the second return system. Alternatively, the fourth return system may complement the second return system so as to limit or eliminate the play in the second slide.

[0049] The third elastic return system may include one or more third elastic blades and / or the fourth elastic return system may include one or more fourth elastic blades.

[0050] The third elastic return system may include at least one third deformation limiting stop of the third elastic return system and / or the fourth elastic return system may include at least one fourth deformation limiting stop of the fourth elastic return system.

[0051] In other words, the 100 transmission joint according to the first mode is an Oldham joint having a first and a second slide or runner and comprising a first elastic system for limiting, or even canceling, the play in the first slide and a second elastic system for limiting, or even canceling, the play in the second slide.

[0052] A second embodiment of a 400 timepiece is described below with reference to figures 12 to 22 .

[0053] This second embodiment differs from the first embodiment at the level of the transmission joint.

[0054] As in the first embodiment, the transmission joint 100 is preferably of the constant velocity type. The joint is arranged so as to mechanically connect at least one first portion 2A of the first shaft 21, which is rotatable about a first axis A2, to at least one second portion 3A of the second shaft 31, which is rotatable about a second axis A3. The first and second axes are parallel or substantially parallel. At least one first portion 2A of the first shaft is formed from the rest of the first shaft. At least one first portion 2A and the rest of the first shaft thus form a single unit and together constitute the first shaft. At least one second portion 3A of the second shaft is formed from the rest of the second shaft. At least one second portion 3A and the rest of the second shaft thus form a single unit and together constitute the second shaft.

[0055] The joint includes at least one first part 2A of the first shaft and at least one second part 3A of the second shaft.

[0056] The transmission joint 100 also includes a connecting element 10.

[0057] Trees 21, 31 are mobile in rotation respectively along axes A2, A3.

[0058] The mechanical linking member is intended to mechanically link the first shaft 21 to a second shaft 31. The mechanical linking member comprises a first slide element 11 of a first slide, extending in particular along a first axis D1, and a second slide element 12 of a second slide, extending in particular along a second axis D2.

[0059] The first and second slide elements are intended to cooperate with at least one first part 2A of the first shaft and at least one second part 3A of the second shaft.

[0060] However, in the second embodiment, the first slide element and the second slide element extend along a third axis D3: perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the first axis D1 and the second axis D2, and / or parallel or substantially parallel to the axes A2, A3 of the first and second trees, on axial portions z1, z2 partially or totally overlapping, as shown on the figure 17 .

[0061] In the embodiment shown, the axial portions along which the first and second slide elements extend, in the direction of the first or second axis, completely overlap, that is, they either completely cover each other or coincide. The first and second slide elements are then arranged along the same median plane P10.

[0062] Alternatively, the axial portions along which the first and second slide elements extend, in the direction of the first or second axis, could partially overlap. This would be the case, for example, in a component 10 in which the first and second slide elements are formed by blind grooves cut from two opposite faces of the component, the sum of the groove depths being greater than the thickness E of the component. The first and second slide elements would then be arranged in substantially coincident median planes.

[0063] Thus, in this embodiment, the connecting member 10 is equipped with slides 11, 12 arranged along a single plane P10 which substantially coincides with the median plane of the member 10. This second embodiment therefore has the advantage of being particularly compact and space-saving. Such a member also has the advantage of being particularly simple to manufacture, especially when it is produced by electroforming or engraving.

[0064] In this second embodiment, the first slide element comprises one or more grooves 11. The second slide element comprises several grooves 12a, 12b. The grooves 12a and 12b are advantageously aligned.

[0065] Advantageously, the first slide element comprises at least one friction surface 13, in particular a friction surface 13 formed by a face of the groove 11. Advantageously, the second slide element comprises at least two friction surfaces 14a and 14b, in particular friction surfaces 14a and 14b formed by faces of the grooves 12a and 12b.

[0066] As in the first embodiment, the transmission joint advantageously includes a frame 17 on which is fixed at least one first elastic return system and / or the second elastic return system.

[0067] At least one slide 11, 12 is formed of two portions delimited by one or the other of the slides 11, 12. Slide 12, for example, is formed of two portions 12a, 12b delimited by slide 11. As in the first embodiment, friction elements 13, 14 are respectively incorporated with the slides 11, 12. Thus, friction elements 14a, 14b are distinguished on each of the portions 12a, 12b of slide 12. To achieve this, slide 11, 12a, 12b or friction element 13, 14a, 14b is returned by an elastic element or elastic return system which includes an elastic blade made of material from the frame 17 of the component 10.More specifically, each slide side can be made of material with an elastic blade intended to recall the elements 11, 12 or 13, 14 in a state of cooperation with one or the other of the sliding elements 22, 32 of the shafts 21, 31, in particular in contact with one or the other of the sliding elements 22, 32 of the shafts 21, 31.

[0068] Thus, the first tree and the second tree extend, in the direction of the first axis or the second axis, over axial portions Z1 and Z2 which totally or partially overlap.

[0069] In the first and second variants of the second embodiment, shown in detail on the Figures 13 and 14The first elastic return system includes one or more first elastic blades provided in particular for elastically returning a slide 11, in particular each of the sides of the groove 11. The second elastic return system includes one or more second elastic blades provided in particular for elastically returning the slide portions 12a, 12b, in particular each of the sides of the slide portions 12a, 12b.

[0070] THE Figures 13 and 14These two initial construction variants of the component 10, according to the second embodiment, are illustrated. The variants are distinguished by the different arrangements of the elastic blades. In the first variant, the slides, friction elements, and elastic elements are manufactured continuously. A monolithic network 18 of elastic blades is thus formed, attached to a frame 17 at its end 180. In the second variant, elastic blades 16a'-16d' are formed from the material at one end, along with each of the flanks of portions 12a, 12b of the slide 12. These elastic blades are each attached to the frame 17 at a second end 160a' - 160d'. Advantageously, stops 19 delimiting the slides 11, 12 are provided to prevent any risk of plastic deformation of the blades 16a'-16d'.Thus, in the second variant of the second embodiment, the first elastic return system includes at least a first stop 19 for limiting the deformation of the first elastic return system and / or the second elastic return system includes at least a second stop 19 for limiting the deformation of the second elastic return system.

[0071] In variants not shown, component 10 may not have a chassis 17.

[0072] The network 18 or the blades 16a'-16d' can of course include variations in cross-section, in particular of the necks, so as to adjust the friction torque against the sliding element 22 and / or the sliding element 32. Preferably, like the first embodiment, the friction torque generated is on the order of 0.1 to 5 µNm, or even on the order of 1 to 5 µNm.

[0073] To allow for proper cooperation between the slide 12 and the sliding element 32, the latter is made of two parts 32a, 32b whose geometries are complementary to those of the portions 12a, 12b of the slide 12. For example, the parts 32a, 32b can be in the form of studs or pins 32a, 32b as shown in the Figures 15 And 17 .

[0074] A third variant of the second embodiment of the connecting element 10, and more generally a third variant of the second embodiment of the transmission joint, is described below with reference to figures 18 to 21 .

[0075] This third variant differs from the first and second variants described above in that the connecting element includes rigid grooves, that is, grooves with non-deformable flanks (during normal use of the element). Thus, the elastic return systems can be offset on shafts 21 and 31, particularly at the ends of shafts 21 and 31.

[0076] As seen on the Figures 19 and 20 , it is the first part of the first shaft 2A and the second part of the second shaft 2B which can present the elastic return systems.

[0077] A first elastic return system consists of two pairs of projections or slats 21a and 21b.

[0078] A second elastic return system consists of two pairs of projections or slats 32a and 32b.

[0079] Each pair of these strips can be made up of a split pin.

[0080] Each of these strips is elastically deformed when placed in the grooves of the connecting element. In other words, each of these strips is elastically prestressed when placed in the grooves of the connecting element.

[0081] Alternatively or complementarily, as seen on the figure 21 The shafts 21 and 31 can respectively cooperate with friction elements 301 and 302. More generally, the moving parts 2 and 3 can respectively cooperate with friction elements 301 and 302. These friction means 301 and 302 can, for example, be in the form of a shim. A single shim 301 or 302 may be sufficient to generate an adequate friction torque.

[0082] In the first three variants of the second embodiment, the slides are straight. Each one allows sliding along a line.

[0083] The operating principle of the transmission joint according to the second embodiment is similar to that of the transmission joint according to the first embodiment.

[0084] A fourth variant of the second embodiment of the connecting element 10, and more generally a fourth variant of the second embodiment of the transmission joint, is described below with reference to the figure 22 .

[0085] This fourth variant differs from the first, second, and third variants described above in that the connecting member includes recessed sliding elements, specifically grooves 11 and 12, which are not straight. In fact, the sliding grooves are curved, specifically in the shape of a circular arc or substantially in the shape of a circular arc. Furthermore, the grooves do not intersect.

[0086] Trees 21 and 31 each include two pins arranged axially at one of their ends.

[0087] The recessed slide element 11 is intended to receive a projecting slide element 22b, 32a, in particular a pin, from each shaft 21, 31.

[0088] The recessed slide element 12 is intended to receive a projecting slide element 22a, 32b, including a pin, from each shaft 21, 31.

[0089] The operation of this variant of the embodiment is based on the fact that the driving shaft, for example shaft 21, drives the connecting member in rotation by action of the pins 22a and 22b on the respective flanks of the grooves 11, 12 and the connecting member drives the driven shaft in rotation by action of the respective flanks of the grooves 11, 12 on the pins 32a and 32b, the pins moving in the grooves 11 and 12.

[0090] Unlike the other variants mentioned above, each of the slide elements of the shafts 21, 31 interacts with two slide elements 11, 12 of the component 10.

[0091] The first and / or second elastic return systems can, as in other embodiments and variants, be arranged on the connecting member and / or on the shafts.

[0092] A third embodiment of a 400 timepiece is described below with reference to figures 23 to 26 .

[0093] This third embodiment differs from the first embodiment at the level of the transmission joint.

[0094] As in the first embodiment, the joint is arranged to mechanically connect at least one first part 2A of the first shaft, here a first end, for example cylindrical, of the first shaft, which is at least rotatable about a first axis A2, to at least one second part 3A of the second shaft, here a second end, for example cylindrical, of the second shaft, which is at least rotatable about a second axis A3. The first and second axes are parallel or substantially parallel. They are thus offset. The transmission joint comprises at least one first part 2A of the first shaft and at least one second part 3A of the second shaft. The shafts 21 and 31 are here rotatable about axes A2 and A3, respectively.

[0095] The transmission joint includes at least one first elastic return system 111 arranged to eliminate play between the first shaft section 2A of the first shaft and the second shaft section 3A of the second shaft. The first return system 111 mechanically connects the first shaft section 2A of the first shaft and the second shaft section 3A of the second shaft. The first return system 111 is part of a connecting member 110.

[0096] The transmission joint includes a second elastic return system 112 arranged to eliminate play between the first shaft section 2A of the first shaft and the second shaft section 3A of the second shaft. This second return system 112 mechanically connects the first shaft section 2A of the first shaft and the second shaft section 3A of the second shaft. The second system 112 forms part of the connecting member 110.

[0097] The transmission joint therefore includes the linking element 110 disposed at the interface of the respective shafts 21, 31 of two mobile parts 2, 3, in particular at the interface between the first part of shaft 2A of first shaft and the second part of shaft 3A of second shaft.

[0098] Thus, in the third embodiment of the transmission joint, the connecting member 110 is equipped with connecting elements 111, 112 whose operating principle is similar to those of Schmidt joints. These connecting elements 111, 112 are each connected to receiving elements 113, 114 of the shafts 21, 31 of the moving parts 2, 3, in particular the ends of the shafts 21, 31.

[0099] The component 110 comprises two portions 11a, 11b arranged respectively along two parallel planes P11, P12. These planes P11 and P12 are preferably perpendicular to the axes A2 and A3.

[0100] The first section 11a comprises initial connecting elements 111 in the form of two parallel or substantially parallel flexible arms 111a, 111b. The flexibility of each arm 111a, 111b is achieved by flexible collars 111aa, 111ab; 111ba, 111bb located at the ends of each arm. Thus, each arm 111a, 111b is capable of moving in translation or substantially in translation relative to a frame 115 of the section 11a. These arms 111a, 111b are also connected by an arm 116 supporting the receiving element 113 of the first shaft. Thus, the arm 116 can be likened to a table with four circular necks so that the receiving element 113 can move in relation to the frame 115. The movement of the receiving element 113 relative to the frame 115 approaches a translational movement, in particular of low amplitude.

[0101] The structure of portion 11b is similar to that of portion 11a. It includes second connecting elements 112 in the form of two parallel or substantially parallel flexible arms 112a, 112b. The flexibility of each arm 112a, 112b is achieved by flexible collars 112aa, 112ab; 112ba, 112bb located at the ends of each arm. Thus, each arm 112a, 112b is capable of translational or substantially translational movement relative to a frame 117 of portion 11b. These arms 112a, 112b are also connected by an arm 118 supporting a receiving element 114 for a second shaft. Thus, the arm 118 can be likened to a table with four circular necks so that the receiving element 114 can move relative to the frame 117. The movement of the receiving element 114 relative to the frame 117 approaches a translational movement, in particular of small amplitude.

[0102] Thus, the first elastic return system 111a, 111b includes at least one elastically deformable arm. Similarly, the second elastic return system 112a, 112b includes at least one elastically deformable arm.

[0103] Preferably, each portion 11a, 11b is in the form of a single-piece subassembly or a material component. The portions 11a, 11b can be joined by welding, particularly by laser welding, especially at the frames 115, 117. Preferably, these frames, or one or both of them, have an extra thickness so that the arms can move without friction against each other. The frame 115 here has an extra thickness 115a.

[0104] Portions 11a and 11b are mounted one on top of the other in such a way that arms 111a, 111b, 112a, and 112b can translate in orthogonal or substantially orthogonal directions. Before assembly of the transmission device, component 110 has concentric or substantially concentric receiving elements 113 and 114, as shown in the figure. figure 24 where arms 111a, 111b, 112a, 112b are at rest.

[0105] During the assembly of the transmission device, the receiving elements 113, 114 are spaced apart relative to each other so that each receiving element is fixed to one or the other of the shafts 21, 31 of the moving parts 2, 3. This spacing, corresponding to the distance between axis A2 and axis A3, induces the displacement of the arms 111a, 111b, 112a, 112b and an accumulation of elastic potential energy at each of the flexible necks. For example, the figure 26illustrates portion 11b according to two states of arm movement 112a, 112b.

[0106] Thus, the transmission joint includes the first receiving element and at least one first elastic return system is arranged so as to be deformable in order to position the first receiving element along the first axis.

[0107] Similarly, the transmission joint includes the second receiving element and the second elastic return system is arranged so as to be deformable in order to position the second receiving element along the second axis.

[0108] The receiving elements may include elastic jaw clamps.

[0109] During operation of the transmission device, the arms 111a, 111b, 112a, and 112b move along their respective flexible necks while remaining parallel or substantially parallel to each other. The movement of the arms 111a, 111b, 112a, and 112b along two orthogonal or substantially orthogonal directions allows for the provision of a connecting element 110, enabling the homokinetic connection of two moving parts whose axes of rotation are parallel or substantially parallel and close together. Advantageously, the elastic potential energy accumulated by the return elements, in the form of flexible collars, allows the mobiles 2 and 3 to be connected with less play, in particular with less angular play. Thus, the member 110 can homokinetically connect two mobiles 2, 3 whose axes A2, A3 of rotation are parallel or substantially parallel and close together, while minimizing as much as possible the angular play at the interface of the shafts 21, 31.

[0110] Advantageously, the elastic potential energy accumulated by the connecting member 110 during the assembly of the transmission device remains constant during the operation of the transmission device, given that the angular displacements of the arms 111a, 111b, 112a, 112b are phase-shifted by 90° during the rotation of the shafts 21, 31. Preferably, the receiving elements 113, 114 have a flexible structure so as to allow assembly to the rest of the shafts 21, 31 by pressing the ends.

[0111] As with the components of the first embodiment, the subassemblies 11a, 11b, or the component 110 are preferably made of silicon and / or coated silicon, in particular coated with silicon oxide or silicon nitride, or of nickel or a nickel-phosphorus alloy. Of course, the subassemblies 11a, 11b, or the component 110 may alternatively be made of any other material, in particular any other elastic material, such as metallic glass or a polymer.

[0112] These subassemblies 11a and 11b may or may not be made of the same material. These subassemblies or this component may preferably be manufactured by electroforming or engraving. Alternatively, such components may be machined by electrical discharge machining (EDM) or laser machining. The subassemblies 11a and 11b may be joined, particularly at the chassis 115, by bonding, welding, brazing, or any other suitable method.

[0113] In an alternative embodiment of the third embodiment, the member 110 may comprise two portions 11a, 11b arranged in a single plane. This plane is preferably perpendicular to axes A2 and A3. In this embodiment, the arms 111a, 111b have a different length from the arms 112a, 112b so that the first or second elastic return system can be arranged in the same plane as the second or first elastic return system. The receiving elements 113, 114 may be adapted to coexist in a single plane and may be, for example, in the form of pairs of bores or projections arranged perpendicularly.

[0114] A fourth embodiment of a 400 timepiece is described below with reference to figures 27 to 31 .

[0115] This fourth embodiment differs from the first embodiment at the level of the transmission joint.

[0116] As in the first embodiment, the joint is arranged to mechanically connect at least one first portion 2A of the first shaft, which is rotatable about a first axis A2, to at least one second portion 3A of the second shaft, which is rotatable about a second axis A3. The first and second axes are parallel or substantially parallel. In this embodiment, at least one first portion 2A of the first shaft is a plate or disk 210 attached to the end of the rest of the shaft 21. However, the first portion may be formed from the same material as the rest of the first shaft. The first portion and the rest of the shaft can therefore together form the first shaft, this first shaft being a single piece. In this embodiment, at least one second portion 3A of the second shaft is a single piece with the rest of the second shaft. The second shaft portion and the rest of the second shaft therefore together form the second shaft.

[0117] Trees 21, 31 are here mobile in rotation respectively along axes A2, A3.

[0118] The transmission joint includes at least one first elastic return system 221 arranged to limit or eliminate play between at least one first part 2A of the first shaft and at least one second part 3A of the second shaft. The at least one first return system mechanically connects at least one first part 2A of the first shaft and at least one second part 3A of the second shaft.

[0119] The transmission joint includes at least one linking element 210 disposed at the interface of the respective shafts 21, 31 of two movable parts 2, 3, in particular at the interface between the first part 2A of the first shaft and the second part 3A of the second shaft.

[0120] The connecting member 210, or frame 210, is rotationally fixed to one or the other of the shafts 21, 31. In the embodiment shown, the member 210 is rotationally fixed to the shaft 21 at one end 26 of the shaft 21. This end 26 may have a non-circular cross-section and cooperate with a complementary geometry 220 of the member 210 so as to allow the transmission of a torque from the shaft 21 to the member 210. Thus, the member 210 is rotationally fixed to the moving part 2 and is therefore rotationally free about the axis A2. This member 210 is advantageously formed on a single plane P20.

[0121] The component 210 comprises curved cam surfaces 211, 212, 213, 214, arranged on the same plane P20, which are designed to cooperate respectively with studs 311, 312, 313, 314 provided on the second part 3A of the second shaft 31. In the embodiment shown, the surfaces 211, 212, 213, 214 are portions of circles centered on the same circle c, itself centered on the axis A2. The studs 311, 312, 313, 314 are, for their part, arranged on the same circle c' centered on the axis A3. The radii of the circles c and c' are preferably equal or substantially equal. The cam surfaces and the studs are preferably equally distributed around the axes A2 and A3. The cooperation of surfaces 211, 212, 213, 214 and of pads 311, 312, 313, 314 thus causes the mobile 3 to rotate about the axis A3.

[0122] Surfaces 211, 212, 213, 214 can cooperate with each of the pads 311, 312, 313, 314 simultaneously or not. Preferably, only two cam surfaces cooperate simultaneously with their respective pads.

[0123] Preferably, the surfaces 211, 212, 213, 214 respectively comprise friction elements 215, 216, 217, 218. Each friction element 215, 216, 217, 218 is arranged so as to be elastically returned against a pad by an elastic return element 221, 222, 223, 224. Each elastic return element is preferably in the form of an elastic blade 221, 222, 223, 224. Advantageously, at least one friction element is always in contact with a pad, regardless of the angular position of the connecting member 210. Such a solution thus makes it possible to eliminate angular play at the interface of the shafts 21, 31 while avoiding the risks of hyperstaticity which can impair the homokinetic character of the transmission device in which the linking member takes part.

[0124] Thus, the chassis includes the first part 2A of the first shaft and at least one cam surface 211, 212, 213, 214, in particular at least one circular opening, intended to cooperate with at least one pin provided on the second shaft, the first elastic return system 221, 222, 223, 224 of the chassis including at least one elastic blade provided on the at least one cam surface.

[0125] Advantageously, the chassis comprises N cam surfaces and / or N elastic blades arranged according to a rotational symmetry of order N, with N an integer greater than or equal to 2. Preferably, N=2 or N=3 or N=4.

[0126] Alternatively, the friction elements could be supported by the studs.

[0127] Like the components of the aforementioned embodiments, the 210 element is preferably made of silicon and / or coated silicon, particularly coated with silicon oxide or silicon nitride, or of nickel or a nickel-phosphorus alloy. Of course, the 210 element can alternatively be made of any other material, in particular any other elastic material, such as metallic glass or a polymer. This element can preferably be manufactured by electroforming or etching. Alternatively, it could be machined by electrical discharge machining (EDM) or laser machining.

[0128] As seen previously, in the different embodiments and variants, a transmission joint allows to connect kinematically, in particular homokinetically, two moving parts whose axes of rotation are parallel or substantially parallel and close together.

[0129] Such a transmission joint can, for example, be advantageously implemented in a timepiece with a modular analog display, where the rotation axis of a first moving part displaying a time indication or a time derivative is movable relative to the rotation axis of a second moving part of a watch movement providing said time indication or time derivative. The transmission joint can, in particular, be integrated into a chronograph mechanism. Of course, the transmission joint can also be used to offset any second moving part relative to a first moving part. The moving part is not necessarily a component of the movement.For example, it may include a winding stem to provide an improved transmission device compared to the one disclosed in document EP2275883, in which a movement stem is mechanically linked to a case stem via a transmission joint. The solutions described above can also be used to link two moving parts that are part of a watch's casing, particularly a wristwatch, and can be used to connect a shaft to a flange, a rotating bezel, or any other shaft.

[0130] Various embodiments and variants of the transmission joint include slides. Each slide comprises a recessed slide element and a projecting slide element. The flanks of the recessed element and the flanks of the projecting slide element cooperate by contact to ensure the guidance defined by the slide. If two parts are connected to each other or guided relative to each other by a slide connection, the recessed and projecting elements may be located on either part, provided that a projecting element is on one of the parts and the recessed element cooperating with that projecting element is on the other part. A recessed element advantageously comprises one or more grooves. A projecting element advantageously comprises one or more parallelepiped shapes, studs, or pins.Advantageously, an elastic return system is associated with each slide so as to limit or eliminate the play between the protruding element and the recessed element of the slide.

[0131] Advantageously, the elastic return system can be configured such that the projecting element has a dimension greater than one dimension of the recessed element, such that the projecting element and / or the recessed element are elastically deformed when the projecting element is inserted into the recessed element. This deformation preferably involves multiple contacts between the flanks of the projecting element and the flanks of the recessed element. The elastic return system preferably comprises one or more elastic blades or elastic tabs. These blades or tabs can directly form the flanks or portions of flanks of a recessed element or directly form the flanks or portions of flanks of a projecting element. Alternatively or complementarily, the blades or tabs can support the flanks or portions of flanks of a recessed element or support the flanks or portions of flanks of a projecting element.

[0132] In the first two embodiments and in the various transmission joint variants, the transmission joint may present: a first elastic return system on the connecting member at the level of a first slide; and / or a second elastic return system on the connecting member at the level of a second slide; and / or a third elastic return system on the first shaft at the level of the first slide; and / or a fourth elastic return system on the second shaft at the level of the second slide.

[0133] Each of these return systems may include a stop to limit the deformation of the elastic return system.

[0134] Reducing, or even eliminating, the backlash between at least one part of the first shaft and at least one part of the second shaft, or between the first and second moving parts, is an important factor contributing to the constant velocity (homokinetic) behavior of the transmission joint. This avoids non-homokinetic backlash compensation phases where at least one part of the first shaft rotates while at least one part of the second shaft remains stationary.

[0135] In the various embodiments and in the different variants of the clockwork mechanism comprising a transmission joint, the mechanism may include at least one friction element 301, 302 (as shown in the figure 21relating to the second embodiment). At least one friction element may be a shim 301 disposed in contact with a shaft or, more generally, with any element forming part of the moving part to which the shaft is associated or forms part. The mechanism may also include a first shim 302 disposed in contact with the first shaft 21 and a second shim 301 disposed in contact with the second shaft 31. Such a friction element may replace the first elastic return system on the connecting member at the level of a first slide, or the second elastic return system on the connecting member at the level of a second slide, or the third elastic return system on the first shaft at the level of the first slide, or the fourth elastic return system on the second shaft at the level of the second slide.

[0136] In the various embodiments and variants, at least one first retrieval system returns the second moving part to a single position dependent on the position of the first moving part. Thus, the first retrieval system associates a single position of the second moving part with any position of the first moving part. This function can be performed by the first retrieval system. In some embodiments, this function can be performed jointly by the first and second retrieval systems.

[0137] By "moving element," we mean, preferably throughout this document, a wheel or pinion or an assembly of wheels and / or pinions, or a display element or an assembly of wheels and / or pinions and / or display elements. A "moving element" includes a shaft which may be derived from the manufacture of one of the aforementioned elements or constitute a separate component.

[0138] By "transmission joint," we mean, preferably throughout this document, a transmission device that enables: To link in rotation two shafts end to end or substantially end to end; and / or To link in rotation two parallel or substantially parallel shafts; and / or To transmit a homokinetic or substantially homokinetic rotational motion between two shafts; and / or To transmit a rotational motion without multiplication or reduction of speed between two shafts; and / or To transmit a rotational motion between two shafts, the shafts rotating in the same direction.

[0139] The term "transmission joint" excludes a rigid assembly between two aligned shafts, such as a rigid sleeve or a splined sleeve rigidly connecting two aligned shafts. The term "transmission joint" also excludes a gear drive. A transmission joint allows the transmission of rotational motion from a first shaft to a second shaft, the second shaft being offset relative to the first. However, a transmission joint also allows the transmission of rotational motion from a first shaft to a second shaft, the first and second shafts being coaxial.

[0140] By "chassis", we mean, preferably throughout this document, any portion of a connecting element that allows for a complete mechanical connection: two slide elements from two different slides, and / or two elastic return systems, and / or two elements of an elastic return system.

[0141] Thus, the chassis is advantageously a structural component of the connecting element. For example, the chassis generally has the shape of a disc or a circular ring.

[0142] By "at least a part of a shaft", we mean, preferably, throughout this document, any part of a shaft, even if that part is attached to the rest of the shaft and is subsequently detachable, assuming, however, that in normal service operation of the shaft, the part is in complete connection with the rest of the shaft.

Claims

1. Clock mechanism (200) comprising a mechanical linkage element (10) for a timepiece transmission coupling (100) for a watch, the mechanical linkage element being designed to mechanically link a first shaft (21) to a second shaft (31), the mechanical linkage element comprising a first sliding element (11) of a first slideway, notably along a first axis (D1), and a second sliding element (12) of a second slideway, notably along a second axis (D2), the first and second sliding elements being designed to cooperate with at least one first part (2A) of the first shaft and at least one second part (3A) of the second shaft, characterized in that the first sliding element and the second sliding element extend, along a third axis (D3) perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to said first axis (D1) and to said second axis (D2) or along a third axis (D3) parallel or substantially parallel to the axes (A2), (A3) of the first and second shafts, overlapping on axial portions (z1, z2).

2. Clock mechanism (200) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the first sliding element comprises a groove (11) or several grooves, and / or in that the second sliding element comprises a groove (12) or several grooves (12a, 12b), and / or in that the first sliding element comprises at least one friction surface (13), and / or in that the second sliding element comprises at least one friction surface (14).

3. Clock mechanism (200) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the mechanical linkage element (10) comprises at least a first elastic return system (15, 16; 18; 16a'-16d'; 111a, 111b; 221, 222, 223, 224) arranged so as to limit or cancel out the play between the at least one first part (2A) of the first shaft and the at least one second part (3A) of the second shaft, the at least one first return system mechanically connecting the at least one first part (2A) of the first shaft and the at least one second part (3A) of the second shaft.

4. Clock mechanism (200) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the mechanical linkage element (10) comprises a second elastic return system (15, 16; 18; 16a'-16d'; 112a, 112b; 221, 222, 223, 224) arranged so as to limit or cancel out the play between the at least one first part (2A) of the first shaft and the at least one second part (3A) of the second shaft, the second return system mechanically connecting the at least one first part (2A) of the first shaft and the at least one second part (3A) of the second shaft.

5. Clock mechanism (200) according to Claim 3 or 4, characterized in that the mechanical linkage element (10) comprises a frame (15a, 16a; 17; 115, 117; 210) on which is fastened the at least one first elastic return system and / or the second elastic return system.

6. Clock mechanism (200) according to one of Claims 3 to 5, characterized in that the first elastic return system comprises one or more first elastic blades (18; 16a'-16d') and / or the second elastic return system comprises one or more second elastic blades (18; 16a'-16d').

7. Clock mechanism (200) according to one of Claims 3 to 6, characterized in that the first elastic return system comprises at least a first abutment (19) to limit the deformation of the first elastic return system and / or the second elastic return system comprises at least a second abutment (19) to limit the deformation of the second elastic return system.

8. Clock mechanism (200) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the clock mechanism (200) comprises a timepiece transmission coupling (100) for a watch, notably a homokinetic transmission coupling, for the mechanical linkage of at least one first part (2A) of the first shaft at least movable in rotation about a fourth axis (A2) to at least one second part (3A) of the second shaft at least movable in rotation about a fifth axis (A3), the fourth and fifth axes being parallel or substantially parallel, the coupling comprising: - the at least one first part (2A) of the first shaft (21), and - the at least one second part (3A) of the second shaft (31), the timepiece mechanism (200) further comprising: - a gear train of a transmission chain (1100), and - a display element (6), the first shaft, notably the at least one first part (2A) of the first shaft, being in engagement with the gear train of a transmission chain and the second shaft, notably the at least one second part (3A) of the second shaft, being in engagement with the display element.

9. Clock mechanism (200) according to Claim 8, characterized in that the transmission coupling, notably the at least one first part (2A) of the first shaft, comprises at least a third elastic return system (21a, 21b) arranged so as to limit or cancel out the play between the at least one first part (2A) of the first shaft and the linkage element, the at least one third return system mechanically connecting the at least one first part (2A) of the first shaft and the linkage element and / or in that the transmission coupling, notably the at least one second part (3A) of the second shaft, comprises a fourth elastic return system (32a, 32b) arranged so as to limit or cancel out the play between the at least one second part (3A) of the second shaft and the linkage element, the at least one first return system mechanically connecting the at least one second part (3A) of the second shaft and the linkage element.

10. Clock mechanism (200) according to one of Claims 8 and 9, characterized in that the at least one first part (2A) of the first shaft comprises a second sliding element (22; 22a, 22b) of the first slideway or of the second slideway, notably a second projecting element of rectangular or substantially rectangular shape or in the form of pegs, and / or in that the at least one second part (3A) of the second shaft comprises a second sliding element (32; 32a, 32b) of the first slideway or of the second slideway, notably a second projecting element of rectangular or substantially rectangular shape or in the form of pegs.

11. Clock mechanism (200) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises a first mobile (2) including the first shaft (21), a second mobile (3) including the second shaft (31) and at least one friction element (301, 302), notably at least one friction shim, arranged so as to act on the first mobile (2) and / or on the second mobile (3), notably arranged so as to act on the first shaft and / or on the second shaft.

12. Timepiece movement (300) comprising a mechanism according to one of the preceding claims.

13. Timepiece (400), notably a wristwatch, comprising a movement according to the preceding claim or a mechanism according to one of Claims 1 to 11.