Device for adjusting the length of a bracelet

Abstract

Bracelet length adjustment device (100; 100'; 100"), comprising at least one adjustment assembly (10; 10'; 10") movable relative to a clasp cover (7; 7'; 7"), the adjustment assembly (10; 10'; 10") and the cover (7; 7'; 7") being respectively provided with a first and a second fixing elements (11, 71; 11', 71'; 11", 71") for their respective fixing in several positions suitable for inducing different bracelet lengths, the adjustment assembly (10; 10'; 10") and the cover (7; 7'; 7") being further provided respectively with a first and a second indexing elements (21, 72; 21', 72'; 21", 72") for their respective temporary positioning according to one of said several positions, the adjustment assembly (10; 10'; 10") also comprising a guide device comprising a first guide element (3, 4, 5; 3', 4', 5'; 3", 4") cooperating with a second guide element (74; 74'; 74") of the cover (7; 7';7") to guide the movement of the adjustment assembly (10; 10'; 10") relative to the cover (7; 7'; 7"), characterized in that the first indexing element (21; 21'; 21") is independent and / or distinct from the first guiding element (3, 4, 5; 3', 4', 5'; 3", 4") and / or in that the second indexing element (72; 72'; 72") is independent and / or distinct from the second guiding element (74; 74'; 74").;

Description

Introduction

[0001] The present invention relates to a device for adjusting the length of a bracelet, particularly suitable for a wristwatch bracelet provided with a folding blade clasp arranged between two ends of the bracelet. It also relates to a clasp and a bracelet as such, incorporating such a device for adjusting the length of a bracelet, as well as to a timepiece such as a wristwatch as such comprising such an adjustment device. State of the Art

[0002] A state-of-the-art folding clasp, designed to fasten the two ends of a watch strap around the wearer's wrist, comprises several hinged blades. These blades can occupy a first closed position, in which they are locked together, and a second open position, in which they are released, allowing the strap to be inserted or removed. Such a clasp typically features an initial adjustment for its positioning relative to the strap, known as the conventional adjustment. However, the resulting final length is often not optimal.

[0003] For this purpose, existing clasps are equipped with a solution allowing a second adjustment of the bracelet length, which can also be called comfort adjustment, complementary to the first conventional adjustment. Document EP0819391 describes such a solution, which is based on an adjustment link that pivots and can occupy two stable positions inducing two different lengths of the bracelet. The short position is maintained by a notch of an end link of the bracelet which hooks and locks elastically against the adjustment link in its short position. Document EP1908366 describes another solution in which an adjustment link of the bracelet is movable opposite a clasp cover of said bracelet, the adjustment link being fixed to the cover by a notch. These existing solutions require careful handling by a user when adjusting the length of the bracelet.This manipulation must in particular allow for adequate positioning of mobile elements relative to a notch, in order to obtain the desired length of the bracelet.

[0004] Document WO2019158471 describes another solution for adjusting the length of a bracelet, which takes up the principles of the solution set out in document EP1908366 while adding an indexing device, which makes the implementation of the bracelet length adjustment more user-friendly.

[0005] Document WO2019 / 166671A1 represents the most relevant prior art and discloses a device for adjusting the length of a bracelet.

[0006] A general objective of the invention is to further improve the convenience of adjusting the length of a bracelet.

[0007] More particularly, the invention proposes a solution for adjusting the length of a bracelet, the operation of which is reliable and the handling intuitive and user-friendly. Brief description of the invention

[0008] To this end, the invention is based on a bracelet length adjustment device, comprising an indexing device separate from a guide device for an adjustment link. In particular, the elastic functional elements of the indexing device and the guide device are separate.

[0009] In addition, the indexing device is also functionally distinct from a fixing device, and structurally wholly or partly distinct.

[0010] According to one embodiment, the device for adjusting the length of a bracelet comprises at least one adjustment assembly movable relative to a clasp cover, the adjustment assembly and the cover being respectively provided with a first and a second fixing elements for their respective fixing in several positions capable of inducing different bracelet lengths, the adjustment assembly and the cover being further provided respectively with a first and a second indexing element for their respective temporary positioning in one of said several positions, the adjustment assembly also comprising a guide device comprising a first guide element cooperating with a second guide element of the cover to guide the movement of the adjustment assembly relative to the cover,the first indexing element is independent and / or distinct from the first guide element and / or in that the second indexing element is independent and / or distinct from the second guide element. The invention is more precisely defined by the claims., Brief description of the figures

[0011] These objects, characteristics and advantages of the invention will be explained in detail in the following description of particular embodiments made without limitation in relation to the attached figures among which: There figure 1 represents a perspective view of a clasp in the open position incorporating a device for adjusting the length of a bracelet according to a first embodiment of the invention. The figure 2 represents a perspective view of the clasp in the closed position incorporating the device for adjusting the length of a bracelet according to the first embodiment of the invention. The figure 3represents a perspective view of the device for adjusting the length of a bracelet according to the first embodiment of the invention. The figure 4 represents a perspective view of an adjustment assembly of the device for adjusting the length of a bracelet according to the first embodiment of the invention. The Figure 5 represents a cross-sectional view along a transverse plane of the adjustment device at the level of a first bar of the adjustment assembly according to the first embodiment of the invention. figure 6 represents a cross-sectional view along a transverse plane of the adjustment device at the level of a second bar of the adjustment assembly according to the first embodiment of the invention. figure 7 represents a cross-sectional view along a longitudinal plane of the bracelet length adjustment device according to the first embodiment of the invention, in a first fixing position. figure 8represents a sectional view along a longitudinal plane of the device for adjusting the length of a bracelet according to the first embodiment of the invention, in a first intermediate adjustment position. The figure 9 represents a sectional view along a longitudinal plane of the device for adjusting the length of a bracelet according to the first embodiment of the invention, in a second intermediate adjustment position. The figure 10 represents a sectional view along a longitudinal plane of the device for adjusting the length of a bracelet according to the first embodiment of the invention, in a second fixing position. The figure 11 represents a perspective view of a cover for the bracelet length adjustment device according to the first embodiment of the invention. figure 12represents a perspective view of a cover of a device for adjusting the length of a bracelet according to a second embodiment of the invention. The figure 13 represents a perspective view of an adjustment assembly of the device for adjusting the length of a bracelet according to the second embodiment of the invention. The figure 14 represents a cross-sectional view along a longitudinal plane of the bracelet length adjustment device according to the second embodiment of the invention, in an intermediate adjustment position. figure 15 represents a perspective view of a cover of a device for adjusting the length of a bracelet according to a third embodiment of the invention. The figure 16 represents a perspective view of an adjustment assembly of the device for adjusting the length of a bracelet according to the third embodiment of the invention. The figure 17represents a sectional view along a longitudinal plane of the device for adjusting the length of a bracelet according to the third embodiment of the invention, in an intermediate adjustment position. The figure 18 represents a perspective view of an adjustment assembly for a bracelet length adjustment device according to a variant of the third embodiment of the invention. figure 19 represents a cross-sectional view of a variant of an indexing element for a bracelet length adjustment device.

[0012] A device for adjusting the length of a bracelet within a clasp according to embodiments of the invention will now be described. This clasp and the bracelet are intended to fit the contour of a wearer's wrist. In a frame of reference defined relative to a wrist, we will use the adjectives "inside" and "outside" to designate respectively surfaces or elements oriented towards the wrist or away from the wrist. The longitudinal direction will designate the direction along the length of a bracelet strand or a clasp. The transverse direction will be the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, in the plane of the bracelet strand or the clasp.

[0013] THE figures 1 to 11illustrate a first embodiment of a device 100 for adjusting the length of a bracelet. This adjustment device 100 is included within a folding clasp 200 provided with a cover 7, within which an adjustment assembly 10 is capable of sliding. This adjustment assembly 10 and the cover 7 of the folding clasp 200 together form the device 100 for adjusting the length of a bracelet.

[0014] The folding clasp 200 comprises two folding blades 91, 92, as can be seen in particular in the figure 1. A first longitudinal end of the first blade 91 is articulated on the cover 7 along a first axis A91, while a second longitudinal end of this first blade 91 is articulated to a first longitudinal end of the second blade 92 around a second axis A92. In particular, these blades 91, 92 are curved so as to best fit the shape of a wearer's wrist. In the closed position of the clasp, represented by the figure 2, the two blades 91, 92 are folded one on the other and retained in this configuration by a locking device 90 supported respectively by the cover 7 and by the second blade 92 at its second longitudinal end. The locking device 90 comprises in particular ball pawls 93 housed within the second blade 92, which are provided to cooperate with notches 94 formed on the cover 7. The locking device 90 further comprises a safety cover 95 pivoted about an axis A95, which is provided to fold against the cover 7, once the blades 91 and 92 are folded one on the other and retained in this position by the balls of the ball pawls 93, which are held within the notches 94.In this closed configuration of the clasp, the cover 7 is itself folded over the two blades 91, 92, and extends in a manner substantially superimposed on the first blade 91, so that the wearer can see the visible outer face of the cover 7, the two blades 91, 92 being hidden under the cover 7.

[0015] The adjustment device 100 therefore comprises an adjustment set 10, more specifically represented by the figure 4, which comprises a first mesh 1 and a second mesh 2, connected together in an articulated manner around a first axis A1. The first mesh 1 comprises a tooth, which extends outwardly, acting as a first fixing element 11, which is intended to cooperate with a first succession of notches arranged on the outer wall 73 of the cover, more precisely in the inner surface 731 of the outer wall 73 of the cover, and acting as a second fixing element 71. This second fixing element 71 therefore consists of a succession of notches arranged in a longitudinally aligned manner and in a centered manner in the inner surface 731 of the outer wall 73 of the cover 7, as is more particularly shown in the figure 11. In this embodiment, the notches are advantageously not open, so that the visible outer surface of the outer wall 73 of the cover 7 remains continuous and has an attractive aesthetic appearance. The first and second fixing elements together form a device for fixing the device for adjusting the length of the bracelet.

[0016] Furthermore, the first link 1 of the adjustment assembly 10 also includes a connecting pin 12 at its longitudinal end opposite the second link 2, which allows the first link 1 to be connected to other links of a bracelet strand, particularly a metal bracelet, or to a strand of a flexible bracelet. In this way, the movement of the adjustment assembly 10 causes the bracelet strand to move and determines the length of the bracelet strand according to the position of the adjustment assembly 10.

[0017] The second link 2 of the adjustment assembly 10 comprises, for its part, a ball ratchet, which projects from its outer surface, acting as a first indexing element 21. The ball 211 of the ball ratchet is designed to cooperate with a second succession of notches arranged on the outer wall 73 of the cover 7, acting as a second indexing element 72. The ball ratchet is here inserted with less play within a bore 22 formed on the outer surface of the second link 2. Alternatively, this ball ratchet could be fixed to the second link 2, in particular by driving, brazing or welding. According to this embodiment, the second indexing element 72 consists of a succession of notches arranged in a longitudinally aligned manner and in a centered manner in the inner surface 731 of the outer wall 73 of the cover 7, as is more particularly shown in the figure 11. In particular, these notches of the second indexing element 72 are aligned with the notches of the second fixing element 71 in the longitudinal direction. As for the notches of the second fixing element 71, these notches of the second indexing element 72 are advantageously not open, so that the visible outer surface of the outer wall 73 of the cover 7 remains continuous and has an attractive aesthetic appearance. The first and second indexing elements together form an indexing device of the bracelet length adjustment device.

[0018] The adjustment assembly 10 is mounted to move relative to the cover 7. Its movement is guided within the cover 7 by a guide device, which notably comprises guide pads 3 arranged laterally on the second mesh 2, provided to slide within slides or runners 74 arranged respectively on each of the side walls 75 of the cover 7, as can be seen in the figures 3 , 5 and 6. First and second pads 3 are arranged at each of the ends of a first bar 4, arranged along the first transverse axis A1 to the two meshes 1, 2. This transverse axis A1 also defines an axis of articulation of the first and second meshes 1, 2. A return spring 6 is arranged around this axis, to return the first mesh 1 towards the cover 7, as will be detailed later. Third and fourth pads 3 are also arranged at each of the ends of a second bar 5, arranged along a second transverse axis A2 of the second mesh 2, parallel to the first transverse axis A1. These two bars 4, 5 pass through the second mesh 2 from one side to the other, so that the pads 3 arranged on their two respective ends project from the two side walls of the second mesh 2, in order to be able to be housed in the aforementioned slides 74 of the cover 7.

[0019] The first bar 4, more particularly visible on the Figure 5 The assembly comprises a central annular portion 41 in which a spring 42 is arranged. This spring exerts an elastic thrust force on pivots 43 positioned at each end of the bar 4. The pads 3 are located at the ends of each of the pivots 43. Thus, the spring 42 exerts an elastic thrust force on the pads 3, via the pivots 43, against the slides 74 of the cover. This thrust force is designed to ensure the ideal positioning of the pads 3 in the slides to achieve reliable and minimal-play movement of the adjustment assembly 10.

[0020] Similarly, bar 5, visible on the figure 6, includes a central annular part 51 in which is arranged a spring 52, which exerts an elastic thrust force on pivots 53 positioned at each end of the bar 5. The pads 3 are arranged at the ends of each of the pivots 53. Thus, the spring 52 exerts an elastic thrust force on the pads 3, via the pivots 53, against the slides 74 of the cover.

[0021] Finally, the bars 4, 5 and their pads 3 of the adjustment assembly 10, as well as the slides 74 of the cover 7, together form a guide device for the adjustment assembly 10, and therefore a guide device for the adjustment device. The bars 4, 5 and their pads 3 represent a first guide element of the guide device, and the slides 74 a second guide element of the guide device. Optionally, the pads 3 may represent a first longitudinal stop element of the adjustment assembly 10 with respect to the cover 7, and the slides 74 a second longitudinal stop element of the adjustment assembly 10 with respect to the cover 7.

[0022] In this specific construction of the adjustment assembly 10, the mesh 1 is further elastically returned against the outer wall 73 of the cover 7, in particular against the inner surface 731 of the outer wall 73 of the cover 7, as previously mentioned, by means of a return spring 6, which here takes the form of a torsion spring. By this means, the first fastening element 11, i.e., the tooth of the first mesh 1 in this embodiment, is elastically returned against a second fastening element 71, a notch of the cover in this embodiment.Alternatively, the first fixing element could be fixed or locked in a stable position opposite a notch under the effect of a notching device which may involve, for example, one or more ball ratchets, without the latter necessarily inducing an elastic return force pressing the first fixing element 11 against or towards the second fixing element 71.

[0023] THE figures 7 to 10 are cross-sectional views passing through a vertical longitudinal median plane, which illustrate the operation of the adjustment device 100, in particular to allow maximum elongation of a bracelet equipped with such an adjustment device.

[0024] There figure 7illustrates the adjustment assembly 10 in a first fixing position with respect to the cover 7. This first position is a stable position for fixing the bracelet in the clasp. In this configuration, the tooth forming the first fixing element 11 is pressed within a notch belonging to the second fixing element 71 under the effect of the return spring 6. In addition, the ball 211 belonging to the first indexing element 21 is located or is substantially located within a notch belonging to the second indexing element 72, under the effect of an elastic element belonging to the first indexing element 21, in particular a spring 212 of the ball ratchet. The fixing of the adjustment assembly 10 within the cover 7 is here essentially ensured by the fixing device, therefore by the cooperation of the two fixing elements, that is to say the tooth in a notch.Indeed, this fastening device is designed to ensure the stable attachment of the adjustment assembly 10 to the cover 7, during conventional wearing of the bracelet.

[0025] There figure 8 illustrates an actuation of the adjustment assembly 10 in a first intermediate, temporary position, in which the first link 1 is pivoted in a first direction of rotation around the first axis A1, against the return spring 6, so as to move the tooth away from the notch of the cover, thus releasing the first fixing element 11 from the second fixing element 71. The tooth thus retracted from the notch allows the adjustment assembly 10 to slide within the cover 7, in particular by means of the pads 3 provided to slide within the slides 74 formed on the side walls 75 of the cover. As a note, in the temporary configuration represented by the figure 8, the ball 211 remains pressed against a notch in the cover under the effect of the spring 212. In other words, the first and second indexing elements remain engaged. However, as will be detailed later, this indexing device is designed to allow temporary maintenance of the adjustment assembly relative to the cover, but also to allow adjustment by sliding of the adjustment assembly.

[0026] Thus, the adjustment process continues by moving the adjustment assembly 10 to, for example, the position illustrated by the figure 9, which corresponds to the maximum elongation of the bracelet. As a remark, the adjustment assembly 10 can therefore be moved with respect to the cover 7 according to several temporary stable positions defined by the two indexing elements 21, 72, namely the ball ratchet and the succession of notches. The indexing device thus forms a pre-positioning means, which assists the user during a bracelet length adjustment, by allowing an adequate temporary positioning of the adjustment assembly, before acting adequately on the fixing device. This indexing device is however not sufficient for fixing the adjustment assembly, which can easily escape from the different indexed positions, by simple manual actuation by the user, to allow the continuation of the bracelet length adjustment. The indexing elements therefore do not fulfill a fixing function.They come in addition to the fixing device which is separate, as described previously.

[0027] There figure 9 therefore illustrates the adjustment assembly 10 positioned in a temporary extreme position, opposite the cover 7 (located towards the right, on the figures 7 to 10 ). In this position, the ball 211 is in the last notch of the second indexing element 72.

[0028] There figure 10This illustrates the adjustment assembly 10 once the tooth 11 is positioned within the outermost notch of the second fastening element 71, following a rotation of the link 1 around the first axis A1 in a second direction of rotation opposite to the first direction mentioned above. The adjustment device is thus in a second fastening position, in which the bracelet length has been increased. In this specific second fastening position, the pads 3 located at the ends of each of the pivots 43 of the bar 4 are, in particular, abutted against a longitudinal end of each of the slides 74. Naturally, any other length adjustment is possible according to the same operation, the movement in the opposite direction (to the left, on the figures 7 to 10 ) of the adjustment assembly allowing the bracelet to be shortened.

[0029] In this first embodiment of the adjustment device, the series of notches forming the second fastening element 71 is arranged along a first longitudinal portion P1 of the outer wall 73 of the cover 7, while the series of notches forming the second indexing element 72 is arranged along a second longitudinal portion P2 of the outer wall 73 of the cover 7. The aforementioned first and second portions are distinct and arranged continuously from one another along the longitudinal direction, as is particularly visible on the figure 11 In other words, the second fixing element and the second indexing element are distinct. Similarly, the first fixing element and the first indexing element are distinct.

[0030] Preferably, there are as many notches of the fixing device as there are notches of the indexing device, for example five according to the illustrated embodiment. Naturally, any other number of notches is possible, in particular two, three or four, or even more than five. Furthermore, the distance or pitch separating two successive notches of the fixing device and the indexing device respectively is advantageously the same or substantially the same. Thus, the architecture of the adjustment device is such that when the indexing elements are engaged, the fixing elements can cooperate to reach a fixing position of the adjustment device.

[0031] THE figures 12 to 15 illustrate a second embodiment of a 100' bracelet length adjustment device. As represented by the figure 12, this second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the notches forming respectively the second fixing element 71a', 71b' and the second indexing element 72' are arranged differently, but still within the inner surface 731' of the outer wall 73' of the cover 7'.

[0032] Indeed, the first and second portions P1 and P2 respectively comprising the notches of the second fixing element 71' and those of the second indexing element 72' partially overlap. The second fixing element in fact comprises two parallel longitudinal successions of notches 71a', 71b', arranged laterally on the outer wall 73' of the cover 7'. The notches of the second indexing element 72' form a longitudinal succession of notches arranged in the central part of the outer wall 73' of the cover. In addition, these notches of the second indexing element 72' are at least partially interposed between the notches 71a', 71b' of the second fixing element 71'. In other words, there is an area of ​​the outer wall 73' of the cover 7' where the portions P1, P2 overlap, and where notches of the second indexing element 72' can be arranged between two notches of the second fixing element 71' in the transverse direction.

[0033] Such an arrangement makes it possible to maximize the number of notches respectively of the second indexing element 72' and of the second fixing element 71' since they are capable of extending over the entire outer wall of the cover 7' in the longitudinal direction. More generally, such an arrangement therefore makes it possible to maximize the adjustment range of the length of a bracelet for a given longitudinal extent of the cover.

[0034] There figure 13 illustrates an adjustment assembly 10' adapted to such a cover 7' described above. This adjustment assembly 10' differs from that of the first embodiment in that its first mesh 1' comprises two teeth 11a', 11b' forming the first fixing element 11', aligned transversely, each designed to cooperate with one of the longitudinal successions of notches 71a', 71b' forming the second fixing element 71'.

[0035] On the other hand, the first indexing element 21' of the second link 2' is here brought closer to the teeth 11a', 11b' of the first fixing element 11'. In other words, the distance d' separating them in the longitudinal direction is reduced relative to the distance d of the first embodiment, shown in the figure 4 This second embodiment thus makes it possible to propose a more compact adjustment assembly 10' than the adjustment assembly 10 of the first embodiment.

[0036] The other features of this second embodiment remain substantially unchanged, and the operating principle of the adjustment device 100' of the second embodiment is also similar or identical to that of the adjustment device 100 of the first embodiment. For illustration purposes, the figure 14illustrates the adjustment device 100' in a length adjustment phase, in which the teeth 11a' (not visible), 11b' of the adjustment assembly 10' are retracted from a given pair of notches 71a' (not visible) and 71b' of the second fixing element.

[0037] As for the first embodiment, there are preferably as many pairs of notches 71a', 71b' of the second fixing element 71' as there are notches of the second indexing element 72'. Furthermore, the distance separating two notches or two pairs of notches of the second fixing element is advantageously the same or substantially the same as that separating two notches of the second indexing element 72'.

[0038] THE figures 15 to 18illustrate a third embodiment of a device 100' for adjusting the length of a bracelet. This embodiment differs from the first two in that the second fixing element 71" and the second indexing element 72" are merged. In other words, as appears on the figure 15 , a single longitudinal succession of notches in the inner surface 731" of the outer wall 73" of the cover 7" forms both the second fixing element 71" and the second indexing element 72". The same notch can thus simultaneously receive a first fixing element and a first indexing element. In other words, the first and second portions P1 and P2 overlap and are in particular merged. Such an arrangement makes it possible to further maximize the number of notches forming the second fixing element 71" and the second indexing element 72" for a given longitudinal extent of the cover.

[0039] As shown in the figure 16 , the adjustment assembly 10" comprises two articulated links 1", 2". The first link 1" comprises two teeth 11a" and 11b" aligned in the transverse direction, forming the first fixing element 11". The second link 2" comprises the first indexing element 21", which is here in the form of a wire spring 21", a first curved end 21a" of which at least partially coats or covers an axis 23", and a second free end 21b", arranged substantially between the two teeth 11a", 11b", is designed to cooperate with a notch forming the second indexing element 72" of the cover 7". The distance separating the end 21b" from the teeth 11a", 11b" in the longitudinal direction is zero or substantially zero in this embodiment, which further increases the compact nature of the adjustment assembly 10".

[0040] As a note, in this embodiment, the adjustment assembly 10" also has the specific feature of comprising a single pair of pads 3" arranged on either side of the second link 2" at a first axis A1", around which the first link 1" is articulated relative to the second link 2" (more particularly at a bar 4" arranged around the axis A1"). A ball ratchet system (not visible in the figures), arranged at another axis A", parallel to the first axis A1", makes it possible to lock the first link 1" relative to the second link 2", and therefore to lock the two teeth 11a", 11b" opposite a notch of the second fixing element 71" of the outer wall 73" of the cover 7".

[0041] The operating principle of the adjustment device 100" is similar to that of the adjustment devices 100, 100' of the two previous embodiments. A difference arises in particular from the fact that the first link 1" is not elastically returned against the outer wall 73" of the cover 7", but is locked in rotation relative to the second link 2" by means of the aforementioned ball ratchet system, in a position which makes it possible to guarantee the fixing of the adjustment element 100" on the cover 7". There is therefore in all the embodiments an elastic element which makes it possible directly or indirectly to act on the first fixing element to move it and / or hold it towards the cover or opposite the cover.

[0042] For illustration purposes, the figure 17represents the adjustment device 100" within which the adjustment assembly 10" is in a fixing position with respect to the cover 7", by the cooperation of the tooth portions 11a" (not visible) and 11b" with a first notch of the second fixing element 71". In this configuration, the free end 21b" of the wire spring 21" also cooperates with the same first notch, which is also a notch forming a second indexing element 72". This configuration corresponds here to a fixing position according to a minimal elongation of a bracelet provided with such an adjustment device 100".

[0043] In this embodiment, the second indexing 71" and fixing 72" elements comprise nine notches, which define as many positions of the adjustment assembly 10" with respect to the cover 7", and more generally lengths of a bracelet.

[0044] Alternatively, the 21" spring could have a different shape. For example, the figure 18 illustrates a spring 21" having a blade shape, the free end of which 21b" has a projection 211b" intended to improve cooperation with the succession of notches.

[0045] In the illustration on the figures 15 to 18The notches arranged on the outer wall 73" of the cover 7" extend continuously over a significant length in the transverse direction. Each notch thus comprises different zones that can belong to the second indexing element or the second fastening element. In particular, the central zone of each notch can cooperate with a first indexing element 21", and thus more precisely forms a second indexing element 72". In addition, the lateral zones of each notch form zones that can cooperate with a first fastening element 11", and thus belong to the second fastening element. Alternatively, each notch can be separated into distinct zones, thereby separating the second indexing and fastening elements, according to a configuration approaching the second embodiment.

[0046] The invention is not limited to the embodiments described. These embodiments can be combined with each other to form other embodiments.

[0047] Furthermore, in each of the three embodiments, the notches formed on the inner surface 731; 731'; 731" of the outer wall 73; 73'; 73" of the cover 7; 7'; 7" are non-through, so as not to be visible from the outside and to leave the visible outer surface of the cover intact. Alternatively, these notches could naturally be through, and could therefore be visible from the outside of the cover.

[0048] Furthermore, as described, the notches arranged in the outer wall of the lid can extend in a row along the longitudinal direction and may extend continuously or not in the transverse direction. A single notch can include different zones to fulfill both indexing and fastening functions, which thus appear to be combined on the lid. Alternatively, the notches could be completely separate for each of these two functions.

[0049] The notches forming the second fixing element may or may not be centered on the outer wall of the cover. The profile of these notches may be symmetrical or asymmetrical, in order to generate a different release depending on the direction of actuation of the adjustment assembly.

[0050] The same applies to the first indexing element. Thus, the first indexing element may be in the form of a ball ratchet. More generally, this ball may be replaced by any element with a hemispherical shape, in particular by a cylinder or a stud with one end having a hemispherical shape. Alternatively, this ball may be replaced by a cylinder or a stud, one end of which is provided with a tooth, this tooth being able to have a symmetrical or asymmetrical profile. Thus, more generally, the first indexing element may be in the form of an elastic ratchet. Such an elastic ratchet may or may not be removable. For example, the figure 19illustrates a variant of the first indexing element taking the form of a non-removable elastic pawl 21* comprising a stud 211* one end of which has a hemispherical shape, which is elastically returned by a spring 212*. Alternatively, the first indexing element may be in the form of a spring, such as a wire spring or a leaf spring, as represented by the third embodiment. In such a case, the free end 21b" of the spring 21" may have a symmetrical or asymmetrical profile. More generally, the first indexing element comprises one or more elastic elements, capable of cooperating elastically with a notch of the cover.

[0051] Similarly, the first fastening element could take a different form than those illustrated. It can include any shape of teeth, symmetrical or not, and any other number of teeth.

[0052] Alternatively, the indexing elements and / or the fastening elements may be reversed. For example, the first fastening element could be on the second link, which would be retractable, and the first indexing element could be on the first link of the adjustment assembly. Alternatively, the notches could be arranged on the adjustment assembly and not on the cover, the latter then comprising a projecting elastic element for the indexing function, and one or more teeth projecting towards the adjustment assembly for the fastening function.

[0053] Furthermore, the adjustment assembly is preferably guided within the clasp cover by a guide device, in particular by means of guide pads provided to slide within slides or runners arranged respectively on each of the side walls of the cover. Alternatively, the guide device could be in a completely different form. For example, it could more simply comprise a projection formed in particular on an outer surface of the second mesh of the adjustment assembly, which is provided to slide within a groove formed on the outer wall of the cover.Preferably, the first guide element comprises a projecting element, such as a pad, and an elastic element, for example arranged within a bar, to act on the projecting element in the direction of the cover, in order to maintain said element in cooperation with the second guide element of the cover, in particular a groove or a slide as shown in the different embodiments.

[0054] Such an adjustment device design advantageously makes it possible to provide an indexing device for the adjustment assembly that is totally or partially independent or distinct from the guide device for said adjustment assembly. In particular, the first indexing element may be distinct and / or independent of the first guide element. For example, the first indexing element may comprise an elastic element, as described above, distinct from an elastic means used in the first guide element. In other words, the elastic element of the first indexing element is distinct from the guide device. The first indexing element may alternatively or additionally be distinct and / or independent of the second guide element arranged on the cover.More specifically, the ball or the elastic element or any other projecting element belonging to the first indexing element can cooperate with an area of ​​the cover distinct from the second guide element, for example outside a groove or a slide provided for guiding the adjustment assembly. As a further variant, the second indexing element, arranged on the cover, can be distinct and / or independent of the second guide element. In particular, the second indexing element can be arranged on a wall of the cover distinct from the wall on which the second guide element is arranged. The second indexing element can also be independent and / or distinct from the first guide element, that is to say that this first guide element does not cooperate with the second indexing element for the implementation of the guide function.

[0055] Similarly, the indexing device is at least partially independent and / or distinct from the fixing device.

[0056] Preferably, the adjustment device is included within a folding clasp equipped with a locking device. Of course, the clasp could have a completely different form. In particular, the locking device could be without a safety cover.

[0057] Thanks to the adjustment device of the invention, the adjustment of the length of a bracelet becomes assisted and very user-friendly. If the user wishes to continue the adjustment, he continues to move the adjustment assembly, and his effort allows the release of the intermediate indexing elements encountered, against the effort of the elastic element of the indexing device, in particular of the first indexing element.

[0058] The invention also relates to a bracelet and / or a clasp and / or a wristwatch, which incorporate(s) a bracelet extension device as described above.

Claims

1. An adjustment device (100; 100'; 100") for adjusting the length of a bracelet, comprising at least one adjustment assembly (10; 10'; 10") that is movable relative to a clasp cover (7; 7'; 7"), the adjustment assembly (10; 10'; 10") and the cover (7; 7'; 7") being respectively provided with a first and a second fixing element (11, 71; 11', 71'; 11", 71") for their respective fixing according to several positions capable of inducing different bracelet lengths, the adjustment assembly (10; 10'; 10") and the cover (7, 7', 7") being also provided respectively with a first and a second indexing element (21, 72; 21', 72'; 21", 72") for their temporary respective positioning according to one of said several positions, the adjustment assembly (10; 10'; 10") also comprising a guiding device comprising a first guiding element (3, 4, 5; 3', 4', 5'; 3", 4") cooperating with a second guiding element (74; 74'; 74") of the cover (7; 7'; 7") to guide the displacement of the adjustment assembly (10; 10'; 10") relative to the cover (7; 7'; 7"), the first indexing element (21; 21'; 21") is independent of and / or distinct from the first guiding element (3, 4, 5; 3', 4', 5'; 3", 4") and / or the second indexing element (72; 72'; 72") is independent of and / or distinct from the second guiding element (74; 74'; 74").

2. The adjustment device (100; 100'; 100") for adjusting the length of a bracelet as claimed in the preceding claim, wherein the first indexing element (21; 21'; 21") comprises an elastic element distinct from the guiding device.

3. The adjustment device (100; 100'; 100") for adjusting the length of a bracelet as claimed in one of the preceding claims, wherein the second guiding element (74; 74'; 74") of the cover (7; 7'; 7") and the second indexing element (72; 72'; 72") of the cover (7; 7'; 7") are arranged on two distinct walls of the cover, respectively on the lateral walls (75; 75'; 75") and on the outer wall (73; 73'; 73"), or vice versa.

4. The adjustment device (100; 100'; 100") for adjusting the length of a bracelet as claimed in one of the preceding claims, wherein the first indexing element (21; 21'; 21"; 21*) comprises an elastic element such as an elastic pawl, notably a ball pawl, or a wire spring, or a leaf spring, and wherein the second indexing element (72; 72'; 72") comprises a longitudinal row of notches, arranged respectively on the outer surface of the adjustment assembly (10; 10'; 10") and on the outer wall (73; 73'; 73") of the cover (7; 7'; 7"), in particular on the inner surface (731; 731'; 731") of the outer wall (73; 73'; 73") of the cover (7; 7'; 7"), or vice versa.

5. The adjustment device (100; 100'; 100") for adjusting the length of a bracelet as claimed in one of the preceding claims, wherein the adjustment assembly (10; 10'; 10") comprises two links (1, 2; 1', 2'; 1", 2") articulated with respect to one another, the first link (1; 1'; 1") comprising a first fixing element (11; 11'; 11") and the second link (2; 2'; 2") comprising the first indexing element (21; 21'; 21"), and wherein it comprises an elastic element such as a spring (6; 6') or one or more ball pawls exerting a force making it possible to elastically return the first fixing element (11; 11') toward or against the second fixing element (71; 71') of the cover or to block the first fixing element (11") facing the second fixing element (71").

6. The adjustment device (100; 100'; 100") for adjusting the length of a bracelet as claimed in one of the preceding claims, wherein the second indexing element (72; 72'; 72") and the second fixing element (71; 71'; 71") comprise at least one succession of distinct notches, arranged aligned in the longitudinal direction and / or so as to be at least partially interleaved in the traverse direction, or comprise the same notches fulfilling the indexing and fixing functions.

7. The adjustment device (100; 100'; 100") for adjusting the length of a bracelet as claimed in one of the preceding claims, wherein the first guiding element comprises runners (3; 3'; 3") arranged on the lateral surfaces of the adjustment element (10; 10'; 10") cooperating with the second guiding element such as slideways (74; 74'; 74") arranged in the lateral walls (75; 75'; 75") of the cover (7; 7'; 7").

8. The adjustment device (100; 100'; 100") for adjusting the length of a bracelet as claimed in the preceding claim, wherein the first guiding element comprises runners (3; 3'; 3") arranged at the two ends of at least one transverse bar and wherein the at least one transverse bar comprises a spring arranged so as to exert an elastic thrust force on said runners (3; 3'; 3") toward the cover (7; 7'; 7"), notably toward the lateral walls (75; 75'; 75") of the cover (7; 7'; 7") .

9. The adjustment device (100; 100'; 100") for adjusting the length of a bracelet as claimed in one of the preceding claims, wherein the first and second fixing elements (11, 71; 11', 71'; 11", 71") on the one hand take the form of one or more teeth arranged on a link (1; 1'; 1") of the adjustment assembly (10; 10'; 10") and on the other hand take the form of a row of notches arranged on the outer wall (73; 73'; 73") of the cover (7; 7'; 7"), in particular on the inner surface (731; 731'; 731") of the outer wall (73; 73'; 73") of the cover (7; 7'; 7"), or vice versa.

10. The adjustment device (100; 100'; 100") for adjusting the length of a bracelet as claimed in one of the preceding claims, wherein notches of the indexing device are distributed according to a pitch that is equal or substantially equal to the pitch separating notches of the fixing device, and correspondingly, such that each position defined by the indexing device has a corresponding fixing position of the fixing device.

11. A deployant clasp for bracelets, wherein it comprises an adjustment device (100; 100'; 100") for adjusting the length of a bracelet as claimed in one of the preceding claims.

12. A bracelet, wherein it comprises a deployant clasp as claimed in the preceding claim.

13. A timepiece, notably a wristwatch, comprising an adjustment device (100; 100'; 100") for adjusting the length of a bracelet as claimed in one of claims 1 to 10 or a deployant clasp as claimed in claim 11 or a bracelet as claimed in claim 12.

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