CLOCK MOVEMENT WITH A MOVABLE ORGAN EQUIPPED WITH MEANS FOR VARIABLE TILT ADJUSTMENT

Description

Technical field of the invention

[0001] The invention relates to the field of watch movements comprising a moving member, and more particularly comprising a moving member provided with means for variable adjustment of the inclination. Technological background

[0002] Most current mechanical watches are equipped with at least partly mobile organs, such as a display device equipped with hands, a mobile automaton, a moon phase, or a mobile decorative element, which can be activated by movement drive means.

[0003] More specifically, there are regulating organs comprising a sprung balance and a Swiss anchor escapement mechanism. The sprung balance constitutes the time base of the watch. It is also called a resonator.

[0004] The exhaust, meanwhile, fulfills two main functions: maintain the back and forth movements of the resonator, count these back and forth movements.

[0005] To build a mechanical resonator, you need an inertial mass, a guide, and an elastic return element. Traditionally, a balance spring acts as an elastic return element for the inertial mass, such as a balance wheel. This balance wheel is guided in rotation by pivots that rotate in ruby ​​plain bearings.

[0006] To reduce the undesirable effects of gravity on the movement of the regulating organ, there are complications such as tourbillons or carousels, which rotate the regulating organ around an axis. These complications also have a particular aesthetic effect, which makes the timepiece particularly attractive.

[0007] For aesthetic reasons, and in particular to facilitate their observation by a user, certain regulating organs are inclined on the plate. In some models, the regulating organ is even inclined along several axes.

[0008] However, in general, the inclination is set during the construction and assembly of the organ regulating the movement, but it cannot be changed during use.

[0009] Document US 2008 / 198701 proposes a timepiece whose regulating organ operation is not exposed to variations in gravitation. Summary of the invention

[0010] The invention aims to remedy the aforementioned drawbacks, and aims to provide a clockwork movement comprising an at least partly mobile member, the member being tiltable at an adjustable angle of inclination.

[0011] To this end, the invention relates to a watch movement comprising a plate extending substantially in a first plane, the plate being configured to support the other parts of the movement, such as an at least partly mobile member, the member extending at least partly along a second plane, the movement comprising drive means provided with a gear train, said member comprising activation teeth allowing it to be actuated.

[0012] The movement is remarkable in that it comprises means for variable adjustment of the inclination of the member relative to the plate, so that the second plane forms an angle of variable value with the first plane of the plate, the variable adjustment means comprising a return or a first return arranged on the plate to cooperate with the activation teeth of the member, the return or the first return being movable in rotation relative to the plate thanks to the drive means, the return or the first return having a concave peripheral face provided with substantially spherical teeth to mesh with the teeth of the member, so as to actuate it whatever the orientation of the member relative to the plate.

[0013] Thus, the member can be inclined relative to the plate in a preferred position, while allowing the actuation of the movable member by means of the return. The return meshes with the teeth of the member, regardless of the inclination of the member relative to the plate. Indeed, the concave peripheral face of the return allows optimal meshing of the return with the teeth of the member for all orientations of the movable member relative to the plate. The return allows in particular to transmit the driving force provided by the drive means in order to actuate the movable member.

[0014] Thanks to the invention, the organ is no longer fixed in a predefined position or movement. Depending on the orientation of the timepiece, the organ can be inclined into a preferred position, in particular to be better seen.

[0015] According to the invention as claimed, the return or first return comprises double-cut teeth, combining a spherical concave cut and a straight cut.

[0016] According to a particular embodiment of the invention, the means for variable adjustment of the inclination of the member comprise a cage inside which the member is arranged.

[0017] According to a particular embodiment of the invention, the cage comprises external teeth as activation teeth of the member, the external teeth being arranged to be engaged with the first gear, whatever the inclination of the regulating member, the first gear actuating the rotation of the cage.

[0018] According to a particular embodiment of the invention, the variable adjustment means comprise a radial gear wheel arranged on the member, the radial gear wheel being provided with peripheral teeth as activation teeth of the member, the substantially spherical teeth of the concave peripheral face of the first gear being engaged with the radial gear wheel, whatever the inclination of the member.

[0019] According to a particular embodiment of the invention, the peripheral teeth are inclined to cooperate with the teeth of the return or first return.

[0020] According to a particular embodiment of the invention, the drive means comprise a gear wheel of the return or first return, the gear wheel cooperating with a straight-toothed zone of the return or first return.

[0021] According to a particular embodiment of the invention, the variable adjustment means comprise a second return arranged on the plate, the second return being movable in rotation relative to the plate thanks to the drive means, the second return having a concave peripheral face provided with substantially spherical teeth, the cage comprising external teeth arranged to be engaged with the second return, whatever the inclination of the member, the second return actuating the rotation of the cage.

[0022] According to a particular embodiment of the invention, the second gear comprises double-cut teeth, combining a concave spherical cut and a straight cut.

[0023] According to a particular embodiment of the invention, the drive means comprise a crown with internal teeth, arranged around the member, so as to mesh with the second return

[0024] According to a particular embodiment of the invention, the two gears are actuated simultaneously by the drive means

[0025] According to a particular embodiment of the invention, the angle of inclination of the member relative to the plate is within a range from 0° to 90°, preferably from 0° to 45°; or even from 0° to 30°.

[0026] According to a particular embodiment of the invention, the means for variable adjustment of the inclination of the member comprise a tilting bridge on which the member is mounted, the tilting bridge being tiltable relative to the plate

[0027] According to a particular embodiment of the invention, the movement comprises means for actuating the inclination of the tilting bridge

[0028] According to a particular embodiment of the invention, the member is a regulating member provided with an inertial mass, a guide and an elastic return element of the inertial mass configured to make it oscillate in a second plane, as well as an escapement mechanism cooperating with the inertial mass, the regulating member being arranged on the plate.

[0029] The invention also relates to a timepiece comprising such a timepiece movement. Brief description of the figures

[0030] The aims, advantages and characteristics of the present invention will appear on reading several embodiments given solely as non-limiting examples, with reference to the appended drawings in which: there figure 1 shows a schematic representation of a perspective view of a carousel according to the invention in a position parallel to the foreground of the plate, the figure 2shows a schematic representation of a side view of the carousel according to the invention in an inclined position relative to the first plane of the plate, the figure 3 shows a schematic representation of a sectional view of the carousel along a plane passing through the first and second return, the carousel being in a position parallel to the first plane of the plate, the figure 4 shows a schematic representation of a sectional view of the carousel along a plane passing through the escapement mechanism and the first intermediate wheel, the carousel being in a position parallel to the first plane of the plate, the Figure 5 shows a schematic representation of a side sectional view of the cutting of a return of the carousel according to the invention, the figure 6 shows a schematic representation of a perspective view of the carousel according to the invention in a position parallel to the foreground of the plate, the figure 7shows a schematic representation of a view from below of the carousel according to the invention in a position parallel to the foreground of the plate, the figure 8 shows a schematic representation of a top view of the carousel according to the invention in a position parallel to the foreground of the plate, the figure 9 shows a schematic representation of a perspective view of the meshing of a carousel return with a crown according to the invention in a position parallel to the foreground of the plate, the figure 10 shows a schematic representation of a perspective view of a watch plate fitted with the carousel according to the invention in an inclined position relative to the first plane of the plate, the figure 11 shows a schematic representation of a side view of the meshing of the first return of the carousel with the drive gears according to the invention in a position parallel to the first plane of the plate, the figure 12shows a schematic representation of a perspective view of a tilting bridge of the carousel according to the invention, the figure 13 shows a schematic representation of a side sectional view of the carousel along an axis passing through the bridge, the figure 14 shows a schematic representation of a perspective view of a tourbillon according to the invention in a position parallel to the foreground of the plate, the figure 15 shows a schematic representation of a side view of the tourbillon according to the invention in an inclined position relative to the first plane of the plate, the figure 16 shows a schematic representation of a sectional view of the tourbillon according to the invention in a position parallel to the foreground of the plate, the figure 17 shows a schematic representation of a side view of the meshing of a ring of the tourbillon by a return according to the invention, the tourbillon being in a position parallel to the foreground of the plate, the figure 18shows a schematic representation of a top view of the tourbillon according to the invention in a position parallel to the foreground of the plate, the figure 19 shows a schematic representation of a perspective view of the tourbillon according to the invention in an inclined position relative to the first plane of the plate, the figure 20 shows a schematic representation of a bottom view of the tourbillon according to the invention in a position parallel to the foreground of the plate, the figure 21 shows a schematic representation of a perspective view of a timepiece fitted with the tourbillon according to the invention in an inclined position relative to the first plane of the plate, the figure 22 shows a schematic representation of a perspective view of a tilting bridge of the tourbillon according to the invention, the figure 23 shows a schematic representation of a sectional view of a regulating member according to the invention in a position parallel to the first plane of the plate, the figure 24shows a schematic representation of a perspective view of the regulating member according to the invention in a position parallel to the foreground of the plate, the figure 25 shows a schematic representation of a perspective view of the regulating member according to the invention in an inclined position relative to the first plane of the plate, the figure 26 shows a schematic representation of a side view of the regulating member according to the invention in an inclined position relative to the first plane of the plate, the figure 27 shows a schematic representation of a bottom view of the regulating member according to the invention in a position parallel to the foreground of the plate, and the figure 28 shows a schematic representation of a top view of the regulating member according to the invention in a position parallel to the foreground of the plate. Detailed description of the invention

[0031] The invention relates to a watch movement comprising a plate extending substantially in a first plane, the plate being configured to support parts of the movement. The movement comprises drive means comprising a barrel, a gear system and an at least partly movable member.

[0032] In the embodiments shown in the figures, the at least partly movable member is a regulating member provided with an inertial mass, a guide and an elastic return element of the inertial mass configured to make it oscillate substantially in a second plane, as well as an escapement mechanism cooperating with the inertial mass.

[0033] Furthermore, in these embodiments, the activation toothing of the member is defined either by an external toothing of a cage or by a peripheral toothing of a radial gear wheel of the regulating member.

[0034] In the following description, the drive means designate the parts making it possible to supply and transmit the energy necessary for the operation of the regulating member, the adjustment means relate to the elements allowing the inclination and the driving of the regulating member while allowing the transmission of the energy, while the actuation means designate the parts arranged to modify the inclination of the regulating member, for example by a user.

[0035] THE figures 1 to 13 show in particular a regulating organ of the carousel type 1. The invention does not specifically relate to the intrinsic characteristics and the operation of a carousel, which are known to those skilled in the art.

[0036] The carousel 1 comprises a carousel cage 2 inside which are arranged a mechanical resonator provided with an inertial mass 3, a guide and an elastic return element 4, as well as an escapement mechanism 5 with Swiss anchor. The carousel cage 2 is rotatably mounted around an axis of rotation by means of a ball bearing 6 arranged between the carousel cage 2 and a tilting bridge 7 on which the carousel cage 2 is mounted.

[0037] The carousel cage 2 comprises an upper support 8 and a lower support 9 assembled by screws 11 inserted into uprights 12, three in number. The mechanical resonator provided with the inertial mass, the guide and the elastic return element, as well as the escapement mechanism are suspended between the upper support 8 and the lower support 9. According to a non-limiting variant, the upper support 8 is a circular wheel, here provided with three branches 13, connected to a central hub 15. The lower support 9 here comprises three arms 14 extending from a central junction, the arms 14 connecting the three eccentric uprights 12 to the central junction. The three uprights 12 are distributed angularly at the periphery of the carousel cage 2, so as to connect the circular wheel to each arm 14.

[0038] The inertial mass 3 is an annular balance arranged on a first axial shaft 16 disposed in the middle of the carousel cage 2. The first axial shaft 16 is substantially perpendicular to the second plane of the inertial mass.

[0039] The balance wheel is arranged in the upper part of the carousel cage 2 so as to be visible from the outside. The balance wheel is configured to operate a rotary oscillatory movement around the first axial shaft 16, inside the carousel cage 2 at a predetermined frequency, as shown in Figures 3 and 4 .

[0040] To actuate the mechanical resonator, a second axial shaft 17 substantially collinear with the first axial shaft 16 is arranged under the first axial shaft 16. The second axial shaft 17 extends partly under the carousel cage 2 and the tilting bridge 7. A first axial pinion 18 secured to the second axial shaft 17 in its middle is coaxial with the balance and arranged under the carousel cage 2.

[0041] An intermediate wheel 19 is secured to the second axial shaft 17 below the balance in the carousel cage 2. The intermediate wheel 19 meshes with an escape pinion 21 arranged on a third radial shaft 22, which is substantially parallel to the axial shafts 16, 17. The third radial shaft 22 is arranged in the carousel cage 2. The third radial shaft 22 further holds an escape wheel 25, which is arranged above the escape pinion 21. The escape wheel 25 cooperates with a Swiss anchor 26 arranged perpendicularly between the first axial shaft 16 and the periphery of the escape wheel 25. The anchor 26 comprises an elongated body provided with a fork at a first end, the fork being configured to cooperate with a pin of the first axial shaft 16, which is linked to the movement of the balance.The second end of the anchor 26 comprises two pallets arranged to cooperate with the escape wheel 25, alternately blocking its rotation, so as to make it rotate in steps. The anchor 26 is carried by a fourth radial shaft 27 arranged in the carousel cage 2 between the first axial shaft 16 and the third radial shaft 22.

[0042] The tilting bridge 7 carries the regulating member, the second axial shaft 17 passing through the tilting bridge 7. The first axial pinion 18 is arranged under the tilting bridge 7.

[0043] By rotating the first axial pinion 18, the escape wheel 25, the anchor 26 and the movement of the balance wheel are actuated, via the intermediate wheel 19 and the escape pinion 21, which rotate the third radial shaft 22.

[0044] The carousel 1 also comprises a radial gear wheel 29 arranged under the carousel cage 2, which meshes with the first axial pinion 18. The radial gear wheel 29 is carried by a fifth radial shaft 28 arranged under the carousel cage 2. Actuation of the radial gear wheel 29 rotates the first axial pinion 18.

[0045] The clockwork movement comprises means 30 for variable adjustment of the inclination of the regulating organ relative to the plate, so that the second plane of the inertial mass forms an angle of variable value with the first plane of the plate, as shown in Figures 1 and 2 .

[0046] Thus, the carousel 1 can be moved between a position in which the second plane of the inertial mass is substantially parallel to the first plane of the plate, and an oblique position in which the second plane of the inertial mass forms an angle with the first plane of the plate.

[0047] The angle of inclination is selectable by means of the variable adjustment means 30 of the inclination. Preferably, the variable adjustment means 30 modify the angle of inclination of the regulating member with respect to the plate in a range from 0° to 45°. Thus, for 0°, the balance of the regulating member is preferably parallel to the first plane of the plate, while at 45°, the regulating member is oblique with respect to the first plane of the plate. By means of the variable adjustment means 30, the angle can take all the values ​​between the two extreme values. On the figure 1 , the minimum angle is approximately 0°, while on the figure 2 , the maximum angle is 30°. In this embodiment, the maximum angle is 30°.

[0048] According to the invention, to obtain such an adjustable inclination, the variable adjustment means 30 comprise a first gear 31 arranged on the plate. The first gear 31 is movable in rotation relative to the plate by means of the drive means. The first gear 31 is inclined relative to the plate. The first gear 31 comprises a substantially spherical toothing 32 configured to mesh with a radial gear wheel 29 of the regulating member in order to actuate the escapement mechanism and the balance.

[0049] The first return 31 has an hourglass shape with concave cylindrical symmetry around a longitudinal axis of symmetry. The peripheral face of the first return 31 is curved inwards. Thus, the diameter and the perimeter of the middle of the return are less than the nominal diameter and the perimeter of the ends of the first return 31. Preferably, the nominal perimeter and the diameter at the two ends of the first return 31 are preferably respectively identical. The length of the first return 31 is preferably greater than the nominal diameter of the first return 31.

[0050] The concave peripheral face allows the radial gear wheel 29 to be engaged with the first return 31, whatever the inclination of the carousel 1. Thus, the substantially spherical toothing 32 has a concave shape. The curvature of the face is chosen to cooperate with the radius and the inclination of the radial gear wheel 29. Thus, whatever the inclination of the carousel, the first return 31 meshes with the radial gear wheel 29. Each tooth is curved towards the inside of the first return 31 and has an identical radius of curvature. Such a concave spherical cutting promotes cohesion with the radial gear wheel 29, whatever the orientation of the radial gear wheel 29 with the first return 31

[0051] The first reference 31 further comprises a straight cut. Thus, the first reference 31 has a double cut, which is a combination of a spherical concave cut and a straight cut. A straight cut means that the teeth have an identical profile over the entire height of the tooth. A double cut is obtained by carrying out a first spherical concave cut, in order to obtain teeth curved towards the inside of the first reference 31. The teeth obtained have a variable profile over the height of the tooth, the teeth being thicker at the ends. Then, a second straight cut is carried out, in particular at the thick ends of the teeth to obtain teeth having a substantially identical profile at the ends.

[0052] Thus, the first gear 31 comprises a zone 23 where the teeth are straight. The zone 23 is arranged above the substantially spherical toothing 32 around the entire periphery of the first gear 31. This zone 23 promotes cohesion with the meshing wheel 20.

[0053] The gear wheel 20 comprises an inclined toothing 83 so as to cooperate with the zone 23 of the first return 31, the first return 31 being inclined relative to the axis of the gear wheel 20.

[0054] As a result, the gear wheel 20 does not change plane, so that its inclined cutting 83 cooperates effectively with the zone 23 of the first return 31 which is itself inclined

[0055] The radial gear wheel 29 has peripheral teeth configured to cooperate with the straight teeth of the zone 23 of the first gear 31. In order to improve the meshing with the first gear 31, the radial gear wheel 29 comprises peripheral teeth 34 inclined relative to the plane of the radial gear wheel 29. The radial gear wheel 29 has a smaller diameter and perimeter at its base than the diameter and perimeter of the radial gear wheel 29 in its upper part. The diameter and perimeter widen from the base to the upper part of the wheel.

[0056] The radial gear wheel 29 can be inclined between a minimum inclination position and a maximum inclination position. In the minimum inclination position, the peripheral toothing 34 of the radial gear wheel 29 meshes with the substantially spherical toothing 32 of the first intermediate gear 31 at a lower end of the first intermediate gear 31, while in the maximum inclination position, the peripheral toothing 34 of the radial gear wheel 29 meshes with the substantially spherical toothing 32 of the first intermediate gear 31 at an upper end of the first intermediate gear 31.

[0057] For the carousel 1, the variable adjustment means 30 comprise a second return 35 arranged on the plate, the second return 35 being movable in rotation relative to the plate. The second return 35 is configured to retain the carousel cage 2 of the regulating member by means of an external toothing 36 of the carousel cage 2. The external toothing 36 is arranged on the periphery of the upper support 8, the teeth moving away from the carousel cage 2 radially. Thus, the second return 35 retains the rotational movement of the carousel cage 2, so that the carousel cage 2 rotates about its axis of rotation at a predefined speed, and thus avoids excessively rapid rotation. The rotary movement about its axis of rotation of the second return 35 is itself retained by the movement drive means.

[0058] The second gear 35 is preferably similar, or even identical, to the first gear 31, the second gear 35 also comprising a substantially spherical toothing 37 and teeth with a straight cut 70. The teeth with a straight cut 70 are arranged below the substantially spherical toothing 37.

[0059] On the Figure 5 , the first or second gear 31, 35, is cut in two different ways. From a rough gear, a first cutting is carried out to produce a substantially spherical toothing 32, 37. A second straight cutting is carried out to obtain the final gear 31, 35, shown on the right. A straight cutting makes it possible to obtain teeth of the same profile over the entire height of the area of ​​the straight cutting. The straight cutting thus makes it possible to form the areas 23, 70 having straight teeth.

[0060] The two return wheels 31, 35 are arranged on either side of the carousel cage 2. The first return wheel 31 is inclined on the plate, while the second return wheel 35 is substantially perpendicular to the plate. The second return wheel 35 is arranged higher than the first return wheel 31. Indeed, the second return wheel 35 cooperates with the wheel of the upper support 8, which is arranged in the upper part of the carousel cage 2, while the first return wheel 31 cooperates with the radial gear wheel 29, which is arranged in the lower part of the carousel cage 2.

[0061] In the upright position, the upper support 8 meshes with the top of the second gear 35, while the radial gear wheel 29 meshes with the bottom of the first gear 31. In the inclined position, the upper support 8 meshes with the bottom of the second gear 35, while the radial gear wheel 29 meshes with the top of the first gear 31.

[0062] In the carousel 1, the two gears 31, 35 rotate simultaneously, the first gear 31 rotates thanks to the drive means, via the gear train 98, thus represented in the figures 6 to 9 , while the second return 35 is driven by the movement of the carousel cage 2, and it is retained by the drive means.

[0063] For this purpose, the drive means comprise a crown 38 with internal teeth 24, shown in the figures 6 to 9. The crown 38 is arranged around the carousel cage 2, so as to be able to retain the second intermediate wheel 35, when the second intermediate wheel 35 rotates, the crown 38 rotating around the carousel cage 2. Thus, by retaining the second intermediate wheel 35, the crown 38 makes it possible to control the movement of the carousel cage 2, and also makes it possible to actuate the escapement and the balance movement. The crown 38 meshes with the straight-cut teeth 70 of the second intermediate wheel 35. The crown further comprises an external toothing 92, configured to mesh with a gear wheel 93 of the gear train 98

[0064] The drive means comprise a gear wheel 20 of the first return 31, shown in the figure 11 , the gear wheel 20 also being actuated by the gear train 98.

[0065] Furthermore, the variable adjustment means 30 for the inclination of the regulating member comprise a tilting bridge 7 on which the carousel cage 2 is mounted, the ball bearing 6 being arranged between the carousel cage 2 and the tilting bridge 7. The bridge is tiltable to allow the regulating member to be tilted. The tilting bridge 7 is arranged under the carousel cage 2, above the first axial pinion 18 and the radial gear wheel 29. The tilting bridge 7 is rotatably mounted about an axis of rotation D 1 passing through the carousel cage 2, the axis of rotation D 1 being parallel to the tilting bridge 7, and preferably parallel to the plane of the plate. The tilting bridge 7 comprises two external pivots 42, 43 arranged symmetrically on either side of the carousel cage 2, each pivot 42, 43 extending from an upright arranged at the end of the tilting bridge 7.

[0066] The pivots 42, 43 each cooperate with a bearing 39, 41 of the plate, the pivots 42, 43 being arranged along the axis of rotation D 1 of the tilting bridge 7. Each bearing 39, 41 comprises a hole allowing the insertion of the pivot 42, 43. The two pivots 42, 43 can rotate inside each bearing 39, 41. Thus, the tilting bridge 7 can rotate around the axis of rotation D 1 thanks to the pivots 42, 43 and the bearings 39, 41.

[0067] The variable adjustment means 30 comprise a wheel 44 mounted integrally on the tilting bridge 7, the actuation of the wheel 44 generating the inclination of the tilting bridge 7. The wheel 44 comprises a tilting toothing 45 arranged around one of the pivots 42, 43, the tilting toothing 45 extending parallel to the axis of rotation D 1 of the tilting bridge 7. The tilting toothing 45 cooperates with actuation means. The actuation means mesh with the wheel 44, so that the tilting bridge 7 rotates around the axis of rotation D 1 .

[0068] Figures 6 to 87 show the means for actuating the tilt, which comprise a rod 46 and a gear train 47. The rod 46 is for example actuated by a crown, not shown in the figures. The rod 46 is provided with a pinion 48 comprising peripheral teeth 49, which meshes with a return 51 actuating the gear train 47. The gear train 47 comprises a series of gear wheels and pinions, which are actuated by the return 51 to transmit the rotational force received by the rod 46 to the tilting bridge 7. A last wheel 52 of the gear train meshes with the teeth 45 of the wheel 44 mounted integrally on the tilting bridge 7. Thus, by rotating the rod 46 around its axis, the gear train is actuated up to the wheel 44, which tilts the tilting bridge 7 at a chosen angle.

[0069] Other embodiments of the actuation means are conceivable, for example positioning by jumps.

[0070] There figure 10 shows a plate 33 provided with the carousel and the actuating means. The rod 46 extends outside the plate to be able to actuate and modify the inclination of the regulating member. The plate 33 comprises a housing in which the regulating member is arranged.

[0071] On the figure 11 , we observe an assembly comprising the first return 31 and the radial gear wheel 29. The radial gear wheel 29 and the return 31 cooperate in such a way as to be able to tilt the radial gear wheel 29, while maintaining a meshing of the same value between the return and the gear wheel. In other words, the capacity to transmit a rotary movement from one to the other is identical, whatever the inclination of the gear wheel, in the range of use defined between the minimum and maximum inclination.

[0072] On the figures 12 And 13, the tilting bridge 7 comprises a longitudinal main platform 53, at the ends of which the uprights of the pivots 42, 43 are arranged. The platform 53 comprises a central hole to allow the passage of the second axial shaft 17. The main platform comprises an eccentric bearing 95 to receive the fifth radial shaft 28.

[0073] The tilting bridge 7 comprises a secondary platform 54 arranged under the main platform 53. The secondary platform 54 comprises a first bearing 50 arranged to receive the second axial shaft 17. The first bearing 50 is arranged in the axis of the central hole of the main platform 53. The secondary platform 54 comprises a second eccentric bearing 94 to receive the fifth radial shaft 28, the second bearing 94 being arranged in the axis of the eccentric bearing of the main platform 53. Thus the fifth radial shaft 28 is held between the main platform 53 and the secondary platform 54.

[0074] The ball bearing is fitted into the central hole and held in a housing arranged between the main platform 53 and the secondary platform 54.

[0075] In a second embodiment of the invention, shown in Figures 14 to 222, the regulating member is a tourbillon 10. The invention does not specifically relate to the intrinsic characteristics and operation of a tourbillon, which are known to those skilled in the art.

[0076] The tourbillon 10 comprises a movable cage 55 inside which the inertial mass 56, the guide, the elastic return element 68 and the escapement mechanism 69 are arranged.

[0077] The tourbillon cage 55 is rotatably mounted about an axis of rotation by means of a ball bearing 60 arranged between the tourbillon cage 55 and a tilting bridge 57 on which the tourbillon cage 55 is mounted.

[0078] The tourbillon cage 55 comprises an upper support 58 and a lower support 59 assembled by screws inserted into two uprights 61. The mechanical resonator provided with the inertial mass 56, the guide and the elastic return element, as well as the escapement mechanism are suspended between the upper support 58 and the lower support 59. The upper support 58 and the lower support 59 each have the shape of a cross with two branches 63, 64 crossing at a crossing 65. The two supports 58, 59 are arranged parallel to one another. Two uprights 61, 62 connect the two supports 58, 59 to each other, each upright 61, 62 connecting one end of a branch 63 of one support 58 to the end of the corresponding branch of the other support 58, 59. The two ends of the other branch each support a bearing of a tourbillon shaft, the inertial mass shaft for one, and the escape wheel shaft for the other.The uprights 61, 62 are assembled by screws 66 to the two supports 58, 59.

[0079] On the figure 16 , the inertial mass 56 is an annular balance wheel arranged on a first radial shaft 67 arranged radially parallel to the rotation shaft of the tourbillon cage 55. The balance wheel is off-center and arranged halfway up in the tourbillon cage 55. The balance wheel is configured to operate a rotary oscillatory movement around the first radial shaft 67, inside the tourbillon cage 55 at a predetermined frequency.

[0080] A second radial shaft 72 is arranged in the tourbillon cage 55, the second radial shaft 72 carrying an escape wheel 73, which is arranged above an escape pinion 74 also carried by the second radial shaft 72. The second radial shaft 72 is parallel to the axis of rotation of the tourbillon cage 55 and to the first radial shaft 67. The escape pinion 74 protrudes below the tourbillon cage 55, in an off-center position.

[0081] The escape wheel 73 is arranged in the upper part of the tourbillon cage 55 so as to be visible from the outside. The escape wheel 73 cooperates with a Swiss anchor 75 arranged perpendicularly between the first radial shaft 67 and the periphery of the escape wheel 73. The anchor 75 comprises an elongated body provided with a fork at a first end, the fork being configured to cooperate with a pin of the first radial shaft 67, which is linked to the movement of the balance. The second end of the anchor comprises two pallets arranged to cooperate with the escape wheel 73, by alternately blocking its rotation, so as to make it rotate in steps. The anchor 75 is carried by a third radial shaft 76 arranged in the tourbillon cage 55 between the first radial shaft 67 and the second radial shaft 72.

[0082] A seconds wheel 71 is arranged axially below the tourbillon cage 55, between the tilting bridge 57 and the tourbillon cage 55. This seconds wheel 71 does not rotate with the tourbillon cage 55, and is secured to the tilting bridge 57. The seconds wheel 71 meshes with the escape pinion 74 arranged on the second radial shaft 72. The seconds wheel 71 is movable relative to the plate with the tilting bridge 57.

[0083] Thus, by rotating the tourbillon cage 55 around its axis of rotation, the rotation of the escape pinion 74 is caused by the seconds wheel 71, so that the escape wheel 73, the anchor 75 and the movement of the balance wheel are actuated.

[0084] According to the invention, the clockwork movement comprises means 40 for variable adjustment of the inclination of the tourbillon 10 relative to the plate, so that the second plane of the inertial mass forms an angle of variable value with the first plane of the plate, as shown in figures 14 And 15 . Thus, the tourbillon 10 can be moved between a straight position in which the second plane of the inertial mass is substantially parallel to the first plane of the plate, and an oblique position in which the second plane of the inertial mass forms an angle with the first plane of the plate.

[0085] The angle of inclination can be modified by the variable adjustment means 40 of the inclination. The variable adjustment means 40 make it possible to modify the angle of inclination of the regulating member with respect to the plate in a range from 0° to 90°. Thus, for 0°, the balance of the regulating member is parallel to the first plane of the plate, while at 90°, the regulating member is substantially perpendicular to the plate. Preferably the range goes from 0° to 45°, the regulating member being oblique with respect to the first plane of the plate. Thanks to the variable adjustment means 40, the angle can take all the values ​​between the two extreme values.

[0086] On the figure 14 , the minimum angle is approximately 0°, while on the figure 15 , the maximum angle is 30°. In this embodiment, the maximum angle is 30°.

[0087] The variable adjustment means 40 comprise a return 80 arranged on the plate, the return 80 being movable in rotation relative to the plate thanks to the drive means, the return 80 comprising a substantially spherical toothing 81 configured to mesh with the tourbillon cage 55 to actuate it.

[0088] The tourbillon cage 55 comprises a peripheral toothing 77 arranged on the lower support 59. The lower support 59 comprises an external ring 82 carrying the peripheral toothing 77. Thus, by meshing with the external ring 82, the tourbillon cage 55 rotates around its axis.

[0089] The reference 80 is similar, or even identical to those described in the carousel. It has a cylindrical shape whose toothing 81 of the peripheral face is concave to allow the peripheral toothing 77 of the external ring 82 to be engaged with the reference 80, whatever the inclination of the tourbillon 10.

[0090] Thus, the toothing 81 of the gear 80 comprises double-cut teeth, which is a combination of a concave spherical cut and a straight cut. A concave spherical cut promotes cohesion with the tourbillon cage 55, regardless of the orientation of the tourbillon cage 55 relative to the gear 80. The straight cut means that the teeth of the gear have a substantially equal width over the area of ​​the straight cut. Thus, the gear 80 comprises an area 90 with straight teeth to be able to cooperate with a meshing wheel.

[0091] Furthermore, the peripheral toothing 77 of the outer ring 82 is preferably inclined relative to the plane of the outer ring 82 to cooperate with the return 81.

[0092] Unlike the carousel of the first embodiment, the variable adjustment means 40 comprise a single return 80, which only drives the tourbillon cage 55 of the tourbillon 10 to actuate the escapement mechanism. The escapement pinion 74 is actuated by the movement of the tourbillon cage 55 and by the constraint of the fixed wheel 71. In other words, the escapement mechanism is arranged in series with the tourbillon cage 55, relative to the drive means.

[0093] To drive the intermediate wheel 80, a device similar to that of the carousel is used. For example, the variable adjustment means 40 comprise a gear wheel of the first intermediate wheel actuated by the gear train. Alternatively, a crown similar to that actuating the second intermediate wheel of the carousel could be used to actuate the tourbillon intermediate wheel.

[0094] There figure 21shows a timepiece 84 provided with a case 86 and a dial 85 on which hands move. The timepiece includes a housing for the tourbillon 10, the dial 85 being pierced to allow observation of the tilting tourbillon 10.

[0095] The variable adjustment means 40 of the inclination of the tourbillon 10 comprise the tilting bridge 57 (shown in the figure 22 ) and on which the tourbillon cage 55 is mounted, the ball bearing 60 being arranged between the tourbillon cage 55 and the tilting bridge 57. The tilting bridge 57 is tiltable to choose the inclination of the tourbillon 10. The tilting bridge 57 is arranged under the cage, the fixed seconds wheel 71 being arranged between the tilting bridge 57 and the tourbillon cage 55.

[0096] The tilting bridge 57 is rotatably mounted about an axis of rotation D 2 passing through the tourbillon cage 55, the axis being parallel to the tilting bridge 57, and preferably parallel to the first plane of the plate. The tilting bridge 57 comprises a longitudinal main platform 96 provided with a central hole 89, with uprights at the ends of the platform 96. Each upright comprises an external pivot 87, 88 arranged along the axis of rotation D 2 on either side of the tourbillon cage 55, and cooperating with bearings of the plate (not shown). The ball bearing 60 is fitted into the central hole 89, or preferably into the seconds wheel 71.

[0097] The other characteristics may be identical to those of the carousel bridge. The variable adjustment means 40 comprise, for example, a wheel 91 mounted securely on the tilting bridge 57, the wheel 91 being provided with tilting teeth, the actuation of the tilting wheel 91 generating the tilting of the tilting bridge 57.

[0098] The means of actuating the tilt are identical to those described for the embodiment of the carousel concerning the wheel mounted integrally on the tilting bridge.

[0099] In a third embodiment of the invention, shown in the figures 23 to 28 , the regulating member is a conventional regulating member 100 which can be inclined on demand. The invention does not specifically relate to the intrinsic characteristics and operation of a conventional regulating member, which are known to those skilled in the art.

[0100] The conventional regulating organ 100 comprises an inertial mass 103, a guide, an elastic return element and an escapement mechanism.

[0101] On the figures 23 to 28 , the conventional regulating organ 100 comprises a cage of the conventional regulating organ 102 inside which are arranged a mechanical resonator provided with an inertial mass 103, a guide and an elastic return element 104, as well as an escapement mechanism 105 with Swiss anchor 126. The cage of the conventional regulating organ 102 is mounted integrally on a tilting bridge 107.

[0102] The cage of the conventional regulating organ 102 comprises an upper support 108 and a lower support 109 assembled by screws 111 inserted into three uprights 112. The mechanical resonator provided with the inertial mass 103, the guide and the elastic return element, as well as the escapement mechanism are suspended between the upper support 108 and the lower support 109. The upper support 108 is a circular ring with three branches 113 connected to a central hub. The lower support 109 comprises three arms 114 extending from a central junction, the arms 114 connecting the three eccentric uprights 112 to the central junction. The three uprights 112 are distributed angularly at the periphery of the cage of the conventional regulating organ 102, so as to connect the wheel to each arm 114.

[0103] On the figure 23, the inertial mass 103 is an annular balance arranged on a first axial shaft 116 disposed in the middle of the cage of the conventional regulating member 102. The balance is disposed in the upper part of the cage of the conventional regulating member 102 so as to be visible from the outside. The balance is configured to operate a rotary oscillatory movement around the first axial shaft 116, inside the cage of the conventional regulating member 102 at a predetermined frequency.

[0104] To actuate the mechanical resonator, a second axial shaft 117 substantially colinear with the first axial shaft 116 is arranged under the first axial shaft 116. The second axial shaft 117 extends partly under the cage of the conventional regulating member 102 and the tilting bridge 107. A first axial pinion 118 secured to the second axial shaft 117 in its middle is coaxial with the balance and arranged under the cage of the conventional regulating member 102.

[0105] An intermediate wheel 119 is secured to the second axial shaft 117 below the balance in the cage of the conventional regulating member 102. The intermediate wheel 119 meshes with an escape pinion 121 arranged on a third radial shaft 122, which is substantially parallel to the axial shafts 116, 117. The third radial shaft 122 is arranged in the cage of the conventional regulating member 102. The third radial shaft 122 further holds an escape wheel 125, which is arranged above the escape pinion 121. The escape wheel 125 cooperates with a Swiss anchor 126 arranged perpendicularly between the first axial shaft 116 and the periphery of the escape wheel 125. The anchor 126 comprises an elongated body provided with a fork at a first end, the fork being configured to cooperate with a pin of the first axial shaft 116, which is linked to the movement of the pendulum.The second end of the anchor 126 comprises two pallets arranged to cooperate with the escape wheel 125, alternately blocking its rotation, so as to make it rotate in steps. The anchor 126 is carried by a fourth radial shaft 127 arranged in the cage of the conventional regulating member 102 between the first axial shaft 116 and the third radial shaft 122.

[0106] By rotating the first axial pinion 118, the escape wheel 125, the anchor 126 and the movement of the balance wheel are actuated, via the intermediate wheel 119 and the escape pinion 121, which rotate the third radial shaft 122.

[0107] The conventional regulating member 100 also comprises a radial gear wheel 129 arranged under the cage of the conventional regulating member 102, which meshes with the first axial pinion 118. The radial gear wheel 129 is carried by a fifth radial shaft 128 arranged under the cage of the conventional regulating member 102. Actuation of the radial gear wheel 129 rotates the first axial pinion 118.

[0108] According to the invention, the clockwork movement comprises variable adjustment means 130 for adjusting the inclination of the regulating member 100 relative to the plate, so that the rotation shaft and the second plane of the inertial mass form a variable inclination angle with the first plane of the plate. Thus, the regulating member 100 can be inclined so as to obtain a variable inclination angle, the angle being selectable using the variable adjustment means 130.

[0109] Preferably, the variable adjustment means 130 modify the angle of inclination of the regulating member relative to the plate in a range from 0° to 45°. Thus, for 0°, the balance of the regulating member is parallel to the first plane of the plate, while at 45°, the regulating member is oblique relative to the first plane of the plate. Thanks to the variable adjustment means 130, the angle can take all the values ​​between the two extreme values.

[0110] On the figure 24 , the minimum angle is approximately 0°, while on the figure 25 , the maximum angle is 30°. In this embodiment, the maximum angle is 30°.

[0111] To obtain such an adjustable inclination, the variable adjustment means 130 comprise a return 131 arranged on the plate. The return 131 is movable in rotation relative to the plate thanks to the drive means. The return 131 comprises a substantially spherical toothing 181 configured to mesh with the radial wheel 129 of the regulating member 100 to actuate it.

[0112] The reference 131 is similar, or even identical, to the first reference of the carousel. It has a cylindrical shape whose toothing 181 of the peripheral face is spherical to allow the radial gear wheel 129 to be engaged with the reference 131, whatever the inclination of the conventional regulating member. Such toothing 181 promotes cohesion with the radial gear wheel 129, whatever the orientation of the radial gear wheel 129 with the reference 131.

[0113] The 131 reference also has double-cut teeth, combining a concave spherical cut and a straight cut. The straight cut means that the teeth of the 131 reference have a width substantially equal to the height of the straight cut area.

[0114] Thus, the reference 131 comprises a zone 180 with straight teeth to be able to cooperate with a gear wheel. The zone 180 is arranged above the concave peripheral face.

[0115] Furthermore, the radial gear wheel 129 preferably comprises peripheral teeth 182 inclined relative to the plane of the radial gear wheel 129 to cooperate with the teeth with a straight cut 180 of the gear 131.

[0116] The variable adjustment means 130 comprise a single return 131, which drives only the escapement mechanism. The means for actuating the inclination are identical to those described for the carousel and tourbillon embodiments.

[0117] The return 131 is actuated by the drive means, via the gear train 98. For this purpose, the drive means comprise a meshing wheel which directly actuates the return 131 by the straight teeth 180, as for the first return of the carousel. Alternatively, the drive means may comprise a crown with internal teeth arranged around the cage of the conventional regulating member 102, so as to be able to actuate the return 131 when the crown rotates around the cage of the conventional regulating member 102, as for the second return of the carousel.

[0118] Thus, by rotating the reference 131, the crown or the meshing wheel produces the movement of the escapement and the balance in the cage of the conventional regulating organ 102 of the regulating organ 100. In this embodiment of a conventional regulating organ 100, the cage of the conventional regulating organ 102 does not move relative to the tilting bridge 107.

[0119] The variable adjustment means 130 of the inclination of the regulating member 100 comprise the inclinable bridge 107 on which the cage of the conventional regulating member 102 is mounted. The inclinable bridge 107 is inclinable to choose the inclination of the regulating member 100. The inclinable bridge 107 is arranged under the cage of the conventional regulating member 102.

[0120] The tilting bridge 107 is similar, if not identical, to that of the carousel of the first embodiment.

[0121] The tilting bridge 107 is rotatably mounted around an axis of rotation D 3 passing through the cage of the conventional regulating member 102, the axis of rotation D 3 being parallel to the tilting bridge 107. The tilting bridge 107 comprises a longitudinal main platform 97 provided with a central hole and uprights at the ends of the platform 97. Each upright comprises an external pivot 187, 188 arranged along the axis of rotation D 3 on either side of the cage of the conventional regulating member 102, and cooperating with two bearings of the plate.

[0122] The other characteristics are identical to those of the carousel bridge 1, the tilting bridge 107 also comprising a secondary platform 99. The actuation means comprise a wheel 185 mounted integrally on the tilting bridge 107, the actuation of the wheel 185 generating the inclination of the tilting bridge 107.

[0123] The actuating means comprise a wheel 185 mounted integrally on the tilting bridge 107, the actuation of the wheel 185 generating the inclination of the tilting bridge 107. The wheel 185 comprises a tilting toothing 145 arranged around one of the pivots 187, 188, the tilting toothing 145 extending parallel to the axis of rotation D 3 . The tilting toothing 145 cooperates with actuating means. The actuating means mesh with the wheel 185, so that the tilting bridge 107 rotates around the axis of rotation D 3 .

[0124] The means for actuating the tilt are identical to those described for the embodiments of the carousel 1 and the tourbillon 10.

[0125] Naturally, the invention is not limited to the embodiments of regulating organs described with reference to the figures and variants could be envisaged without departing from the scope of the invention. In particular, the at least partly mobile organ could for example be an automaton or a mobile decorative piece, such as a diamond or a rotation of the earth, or a day / night display, which can be inclined according to one's preferences. The at least partly mobile organ could also be a moon phase, a date, a power reserve indicator or a minute counter of a chronometer, or even a window of a hidden display, or even a GMT type display. The organ can also be a small seconds display, for example in precious stone, which can be observed from different angles thanks to the means for adjusting the inclination of the organ.

Claims

1. Horological movement comprising a plate (33) extending substantially in a first plane, the plate (33) being configured to support the other parts of the movement, such as an at least partly movable member, the member extending at least in part along a second plane, the movement including drive means provided with a gear train (98), said member including an activation toothing enabling it to be actuated, the horological movement comprising variable adjustment means (30, 40, 130) for variably adjusting the inclination of the member relative to the plate (33), so that the second plane forms an angle of variable value with the first plane of the plate (33), the variable adjustment means (30, 40, 130) including a transmission gear (80, 131) or a first transmission gear (31) arranged on the plate (33) to cooperate with the activation toothing of the member, the transmission gear (80, 131) or said first transmission gear (31) being capable of rotating relative to the plate (33) thanks to the drive means, the transmission gear (80, 131) or said first transmission gear (31) having a concave peripheral face provided with a substantially spherical toothing (32, 81, 181) for meshing with the toothing of the member, so as to actuate it regardless of the orientation of the member relative to the plate (33), characterised in that the transmission gear (80, 131) or said first transmission gear (31) includes double-cut teeth, combining a concave spherical cut and a straight cut2. Movement according to claim 1, characterised in that the variable adjustment means (30, 40, 130) for variably adjusting the inclination of the member (1, 10, 100) comprise a carriage (2, 55, 102) inside which the member (1, 10, 100) is arranged.

3. Movement according to claim 2, characterised in that the carriage (55) comprises an external toothing (77) which acts as the toothing for activating the member, the external toothing (77) being arranged to engage with the transmission gear (80), regardless of the inclination of the regulating member, the transmission gear (80) actuating the rotation of the carriage (55).

4. Movement according to claim 1, characterised in that the variable adjustment means (30, 130) include a radial gear-wheel (29, 129) arranged on the member, the radial gear-wheel (29, 129) being provided with a peripheral toothing (34, 182) which acts as the toothing for activating the member, the substantially spherical toothing (32, 181) of the concave peripheral face of the transmission gear (131) or of the first transmission gear (31) being engaged with the radial gear-wheel (29, 129), regardless of the inclination of the member (1, 100).

5. Movement according to claim 4, characterised in that the peripheral toothing (34, 182) is inclined in order to cooperate with the toothing (32, 181) of the transmission gear (131) or first transmission gear (80).

6. Movement according to claim 2 and any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the drive means include a gearing wheel (20) of the transmission gear (80, 131) or of the first transmission gear (31), the gearing wheel (20) cooperating with a straight-toothed zone (23, 90,180) of the transmission gear (80, 131) or first transmission gear (31).

7. Movement according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the variable adjustment means comprise a second transmission gear (35) arranged on the plate (33), the second transmission gear (35) being capable of rotating relative to the plate (33) thanks to the drive means, the second transmission gear (35) having a concave peripheral face provided with a substantially spherical toothing (37), the carriage (2) comprising an external toothing (36) arranged to engage with the second transmission gear (35), regardless of the inclination of the member, the second transmission gear (35) restraining the rotation of the carriage (2).

8. Movement according to claim 7, characterised in that the second transmission gear (35) comprises double-cut teeth, combining a concave spherical cut and a straight cut.

9. Movement according to claim 7 or 8, characterised in that the drive means include a crown (38) with an internal toothing (24) arranged around the member so as to mesh with the second transmission gear (35).

10. Horological movement according to any one of claims 7 to 9, characterised in that the first transmission gear (31) and the second transmission gear (35) are actuated simultaneously by the drive means.

11. Horological movement according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the angle of inclination of the member relative to the plate (33) is in the range of 0° to 90°, preferably 0° to 45°; or even 0° to 30°.

12. Horological movement according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the variable adjustment means (30, 40, 130) for variably adjusting the inclination of the member comprise an inclining bridge (7, 57, 107) on which the member is mounted, the inclining bridge (7, 57, 107) inclining relative to the plate (33).

13. Horological movement according to claim 12, characterised in that it comprises means for actuating the inclination of the inclining bridge (7, 57, 107).

14. Movement according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the member is a regulating member (1, 10, 100) provided with an inertial mass (3, 56, 103), a guide and an elastic return element (4, 68, 104) for the inertial mass (3, 56, 103) configured to cause it to oscillate in a second plane, as well as an escapement mechanism (25, 69, 125) cooperating with the inertial mass (3, 56, 103), the regulating member (1, 10, 100) being arranged on the plate.

15. Timepiece including a horological movement according to any one of the preceding claims.