Speed regulation device for a timepiece rotating mobile

Abstract

One aspect of the invention relates to a timepiece with, for regulating the rotational speed of a rotating wheel, a regulation device comprising a micro-generator and at least one LED powered by the micro-generator without electrical energy storage and arranged so that, for a functional speed range of the rotating wheel (Vmin; Vmax), the corresponding frequency range (Fmin; Fmax) of rotation of the micro-generator rotor generates, in the coils thereof, a range of induced voltage whose maximum voltage value for said maximum frequency (Fmax) is greater than a threshold voltage (Us), preferably also the minimum voltage value for said minimum frequency (Fmin), the motor device which drives the rotating wheel being arranged so as to have a useful range of motor torque allowing the rotating wheel to be driven substantially within said functional speed range.The invention also relates to a method for regulating the rotational speed of the rotating mobile.

Description

Technical field of the invention

[0001] The invention relates to a timepiece comprising a rotating mobile, a motor device arranged to drive this rotating mobile, a regulation device to regulate the rotation speed of the rotating mobile, this regulation device comprising a micro-generator which includes a stator and a rotor mechanically coupled to the rotating mobile, the stator carrying permanent magnets or coils and the rotor carrying coils or permanent magnets respectively.

[0002] The invention further relates to a method for regulating the rotational speed of a rotating part of a timepiece, within a functional speed range of the rotating part between a minimum speed and a maximum speed strictly greater than the minimum speed, the rotating part being driven by a motor device included in the timepiece, by which method a device for regulating the rotational speed of the rotating part is implemented, this regulating device comprising a micro-generator which has a rotor mechanically coupled to the rotating part, this rotor being movable around an axis of rotation relative to a stator carrying permanent magnets or coils, the rotor carrying respectively coils or permanent magnets, the coils being connected, directly or indirectly, to at least one light-emitting diode.

[0003] The invention relates to the field of horological components, and more particularly to watches, and even more particularly to watches comprising a mechanical power source, of the type including an auxiliary mechanism not dedicated to timekeeping but generally dedicated to audible or visual display functions, for example for chiming or visual animation watches, or even music boxes, this mechanism comprising at least one rotating element. The invention relates more particularly to the field of speed regulation of such a rotating element, generally actuated by a spring whose discharge results in a highly variable speed of the rotating element in the absence of a regulating mechanism. Technological background

[0004] Regulating the speed of clockwork mechanisms is an age-old problem, originally linked to regulating the ringing of bells. Early solutions were purely mechanical, based on varying the inertia of the mechanism, for example with centrifugal governors, or on air friction braking, but such solutions, applicable to clocks or pendulums, are not suitable for watches.

[0005] The limited space available in a watch case has led to the development of new solutions, such as electromagnetic regulators or eddy current regulators. These solutions are functional but expensive and reserved for luxury products; some of their components are very delicate and require special maintenance.

[0006] Document EP3838424, issued on behalf of The Swatch Group Research & Development Ltd, describes a musical or chiming mechanism for a timepiece or music box, comprising a power source delivering mechanical torque and means for transmitting mechanical torque from the power source to a moving part for generating music or a chime. The mechanism further includes a moving part regulator. The regulator is configured to control the pivoting speed of the moving part around a pivot axis around a set speed value and includes means for braking the moving part configured to return its pivoting speed to the set speed. The moving part regulator consists of a system comprising a micro-generator, also called a "generator," whose rotor is mechanically connected to the power source delivering the mechanical torque, and an electronic circuit for regulating the rotational frequency of the micro-generator.This circuit electronically regulates the frequency, similar to generator clocks that tell the time. It therefore relies on rotor revolution counting technology, requiring an electronic time base to compare the rotation frequency with a time base. This system also controls a transistor that regulates the current flow through the coils, generating short-circuit braking pulses. In short, an electronic braking circuit controls the generation of these braking pulses.

[0007] The use of electronic or electrical circuits presents major drawbacks for a watch with a mechanical movement, particularly for a high-end watch where preserving the mechanical character as much as possible is crucial. These systems typically incorporate an electronic circuit with various electronic components arranged on a circuit board (usually a PCB) located on the periphery of the micro-generator, thus introducing a relatively large electronic component within the watch. All these stationary electrical and electronic parts occupy a significant surface area, extending beyond the micro-generator itself, and this assembly is generally visible, which, for the consumer, emphasizes the watch's hybrid nature. Summary of the invention

[0008] The invention aims to solve, in particular, the problems of the prior art mentioned above. Other objectives will also become apparent from the following description of the invention.

[0009] For this purpose, the invention relates to a timepiece according to claim 1, which includes a rotating wheel, a motor device arranged to be able to drive this rotating wheel, a regulation device to regulate the speed of rotation of the rotating wheel, this regulation device comprising a micro-generator, which includes a stator and a rotor mechanically coupled to the rotating wheel, and at least one light-emitting diode which is powered, directly or indirectly, by the micro-generator.

[0010] The invention further relates to a method for regulating the rotational speed of a rotating moving part of a watchmaking component, within a functional speed range of the rotating moving part between a minimum speed and a maximum speed strictly greater than the minimum speed, according to claim 24. Brief description of the figures

[0011] The aims, advantages and features of the invention will become clearer upon reading the detailed description that follows, and with reference to the accompanying drawings, where: there figure 1The figure represents, in perspective, an example of the application of the invention to a watch comprising a lighting device: on the left side of the figure is visible a barrel, which powers, via a gear train, a micro-generator, which comprises a rotor rotating opposite a stator; the micro-generator carries at least one light-emitting diode, which is powered by at least one coil and which is mounted on the rotor, eccentric with respect to the rotor's axis of rotation, while the stator carries permanent magnets; this rotor carries a ratchet, which cooperates with a pawl to release or lock its rotation; the arrow schematically indicates a pawl actuating device that rotates to stop and release the generator; the figure 2A represents in perspective the micro-generator of the figure 1in which two stator rings carry permanent magnets of alternating polarities, and the rotor carries coils in their air gap; the arrows show the alternating directions of the magnetic field, along the same direction parallel to the rotor's axis of rotation; the rotor carries two light-emitting diodes mounted symmetrically with respect to this axis of rotation, and both eccentric; the figure 2B is a top view of the micro-generator of the figure 1 ; there figure 3 represents in exploded perspective the microgenerator of the Figures 1 , 2A and 2B The rotor disc here carries 12 coils; the double row of 12 magnets of the stator rings is visible; the figure 4 represents, in a top view along the direction of the axis of rotation, the rotor of the micro-generator figures 1 to 3 ; we can see the connections between the coils and with the light-emitting diodes, all mounted on the rotor; the figure 5is a cross-section of the micro-generator from the previous figures, passing through the axis of rotation of the micro-generator; in this particular and non-limiting example, the dimensions of the micro-generator are very small, with a stator cage of approximately 8 mm in diameter and a thickness of approximately 1.4 mm; the figure 6 represents the characteristic curve of the current intensity in a light-emitting diode (LED) (on the y-axis) as a function of the voltage applied across the terminals of this LED (on the x-axis); it can be seen that beyond a threshold voltage Us, the current intensity increases rapidly in a nearly linear fashion with the voltage; the figure 7is a graph representing the dissipation of electrical energy in the regulation device according to the invention, with the rotor drive torque as a function of the rotor frequency on the ordinate and the rotor frequency on the abscissa, this drive torque being between a minimum value, corresponding to a minimum rotor frequency planned for a functional torque range, and a maximum value corresponding to a maximum rotor frequency planned; the rotor drive torque characteristic as a function of rotor frequency is substantially linear in the selected range.In summary, we see on the x-axis, between the minimum and maximum rotor frequencies, a range of rotor frequencies "accepted" for a rotational speed of the rotating part within its operating range; and on the y-axis, between the minimum and maximum drive torque, we see a range of torque dissipated by the LEDs which corresponds to a variation in rotor drive torque expected for the functional torque range, which allows the rotor rotational frequency to be regulated in the presence of a variable motor torque so as to maintain this frequency within a relatively narrow range; the . figure 8This schematically represents an equivalent electrical circuit of a preferred variant of the proposed regulation device, with a micro-generator, generating an alternating signal, connected in parallel with two light-emitting diodes (LEDs) in reverse polarity. In this way, during the alternation of the signal, one or the other of the diodes will emit light. For frequencies above 30 Hz, the eye no longer distinguishes this alternation and therefore perceives both diodes as lit simultaneously; the figure 9 represents the shape of the induced current (on the y-axis) in the light-emitting diodes, as a function of time (on the x-axis), for a frequency of 150 Hz; the solid line corresponds to a first LED, and the dashed line to a second LED connected in parallel with the first LED, directly connected to it and arranged in the opposite polarity to the first LED; the Figure 10represents the shape of the average current (on the y-axis) flowing through the two light-emitting diodes as a function of the rotor's rotational speed (on the x-axis); the figure 11 represents the shape of the average braking torque applied to the rotor (on the y-axis) by the two light-emitting diodes as a function of the rotor's rotational speed (on the x-axis); the figure 12 is a curve showing the influence of the coil wire thickness on the x-axis on the coil resistance on the y-axis; figure 13 is a curve showing the influence of the coil wire thickness on the x-axis on the current in the light-emitting diodes on the y-axis; the figure 14 is a curve showing the influence of the coil wire thickness on the x-axis on the induced voltage on the y-axis; figure 15 is a curve showing the influence of the coil wire thickness on the x-axis on the total discharge time of the barrel on the y-axis; the figure 16represents, in schematic form, a timepiece according to a general embodiment of the invention; the figure 17 represents, in part, a timepiece which includes a micro-generator release and stop device associated with a user-operated push-button control device to trigger the drive or stop of the micro-generator rotor. Detailed description of the invention

[0012] The invention proposes to use a micro-generator powering at least one light-emitting diode to consume part of the energy supplied by a motor device to a rotating mobile, in order to regulate the speed of this rotating mobile.

[0013] The invention relates to a watch part 2000 comprising a rotating mobile 1, a motor device arranged to drive this rotating mobile 1, and a regulation device 1000 to regulate the rotation speed of the rotating mobile 1. This motor device is in particular a mechanical motor device, notably formed by a barrel 200.

[0014] The regulating device 1000 comprises a clockwork-type micro-generator 100, which includes a stator 20 and a rotor 10 mechanically coupled to the rotating element 1, and at least one light-emitting diode 31, 32 (hereafter also referred to as an 'LED'), which is powered, directly or indirectly, by the micro-generator 100, and more particularly by at least one coil of the micro-generator 100. Generally, the stator carries permanent magnets 25 or coils, and the rotor carries coils 11 or permanent magnets, respectively. The rotational speed of the rotating element 1 and the rotational frequency of the rotor 10 are referred to below as the "speed". Each coil 11 supplies at least one light-emitting diode 31, 32 with an induced electric current during the rotation of the rotor 10 relative to the stator 20.

[0015] THE figures 1 to 5These figures illustrate a non-limiting example of a microgenerator 100 with a rotor 10 comprising coils 11, in particular flat coils (wafers), and a stator 20 comprising an annular base 21, with an L-shaped radial cross-section, carrying a first portion of the permanent magnets 25, and an annular flange 22 closing the annular base and carrying a second portion of the permanent magnets 25. The annular base and the annular flange form a stator cage with a C-shaped radial cross-section with three straight segments. The microgenerator 100 generally has a diameter between 6 mm and 15 mm.

[0016] The annular base 21 and the flange 22 are preferably made of a ferromagnetic material forming an external closure for the magnetic field of the permanent magnets 25, which are axially magnetized and arranged on the inner side of the stator cage, opposite the coils 11 of the rotor 10. More generally, the coils 11 and the permanent magnets 25 are arranged so that the coils pass at least partially over the permanent magnets when the rotor 10 rotates, driven directly or indirectly by a barrel 200, which is included in the motor device, or by any suitable drive means. We therefore have a micro-generator 100 of the type with axial magnetization of permanent magnets 25 and a "three-level" structure with the rotor 10 carrying the coils 11 placed in the intermediate level, in the space between two levels of permanent magnets 25 located respectively on the two axial sides of the coils 11.Magnets 25 axially opposite each other have the same polarity; two adjacent magnets on the same level have opposite magnetic polarities. Thus, conventionally, for each of the two levels of magnets, the polarities alternate.

[0017] In a preferred variant, and as seen on the figure 4 , at least one light-emitting diode 31, respectively 32, is powered directly by at least one coil 11 when rotating relative to the stator 20 of the micro-generator 100, without any electrical and / or electronic circuit between said at least one light-emitting diode and said at least one coil, except for contact areas and two circular tracks, for example made of gold, in particular without a capacitor and / or other electrical and / or electronic components.

[0018] According to the preferred embodiment of the invention, at least one light-emitting diode 31, 32 forms with the micro-generator 100 the regulation device 1000.

[0019] In the case of indirect power supply to at least one LED 31, 32 by the micro-generator 100, the at least one LED 31, 32 is connected to the micro-generator 100 through an electrical and / or electronic circuit without a substantial electrical energy storage component. According to this advantageous embodiment of the invention, the at least one LED 31, 32, the electrical and / or electronic circuit (without a substantial electrical energy storage component), and the micro-generator 100 together form the control device.

[0020] The micro-generator 100 and at least one light-emitting diode 31, 32 are arranged such that, for a functional speed range of the rotating part 1 between a minimum speed Vmin and a maximum speed Vmax strictly greater than the minimum speed Vmin, the corresponding frequency range of the rotation of the rotor 10, between a minimum frequency Fmin and a maximum frequency Fmax, generates, in the coils 11, a range of induced voltage whose maximum induced voltage value (peak voltage) Umax, occurring for the maximum frequency Fmax, is greater than a threshold voltage Us of said at least one light-emitting diode 31, 32. Preferably, the minimum induced voltage value (peak voltage) Umin, occurring for said minimum frequency Fmin, of the induced voltage range is also greater than the threshold voltage Us of said at least one light-emitting diode 31, 32.

[0021] The at least one light-emitting diode 31, 32 and, where applicable, the aforementioned electrical and / or electronic circuit constitute the only electrical energy-consuming device incorporated in the control device 1000, the motor device being arranged so that it has a useful motor torque range allowing the rotating mobile 1 to be driven substantially within the functional speed range.

[0022] The combination of these characteristics results in the LED(s) 31, 32 regulating the rotational frequency of the rotor 10, and thus the rotational speed of the rotating part 1, for a useful mechanical torque range supplied by the motor device. The regulation device 1000 is configured for this purpose, this device being limited to the assembly formed by the LED(s) 31, 32, possibly an electrical and / or electronic circuit, without a substantial electrical energy storage component, and the micro-generator 100. Thus, the LED(s) 31, 32 and the micro-generator 100 are arranged so that the voltage induced in the micro-generator 100 remains within an induced voltage range, for the useful mechanical torque range, which corresponds to a working voltage range of each LED 31, 32, on the characteristic current / voltage curve of an LED and represented in figure 6 .

[0023] According to a particular characteristic, the minimum voltage value U min (peak voltage) of the induced voltage range, corresponding to the minimum frequency F min, is also greater than the threshold voltage Us of said at least light-emitting diode 31, 32. Thus the LEDs operate over the entire speed range of the rotating mobile 1 and therefore regulate the rotational speed of this rotating mobile over the entire speed range expected in normal operation for this rotating mobile.

[0024] According to a particular feature, the regulation device does not include any means of dissipating kinetic energy from the rotor 10 of the micro-generator 100. The aim is to prevent the rotor frequency from increasing, rather than lowering its frequency;

[0025] According to a particular characteristic, the motor device is arranged so that its useful motor torque range has a minimum torque C MotMin, driving the rotating mobile 1 at the minimum speed V min of the functional speed range, and a maximum torque C MotMax driving the rotating mobile 1 at the maximum speed V max of this functional speed range.

[0026] Advantageously, the control device 1000 regulates the rotational frequency of the rotor 10 by maintaining it in the frequency range, between the minimum frequency F min and the maximum frequency F max, for the useful torque range of the motor device between the minimum motor torque C MotMin and the maximum motor torque C MotMax.

[0027] More specifically, the motor device is formed by a barrel 200 which is dedicated to driving a mechanism including the rotating mobile 1 and is dimensioned so that the useful range of the torque it delivers, between the minimum motor torque C MotMin and the maximum motor torque C MotMax, is such that the minimum motor torque C MotMin is equal to the sum of a mechanical torque C MecVmin required to drive the mechanism, with the exception of the rotor 10 of the micro-generator 100, with the rotating mobile 1 rotating at the minimum speed V min, on the one hand, and a minimum rotor drive torque C EDmin corresponding to the minimum frequency F min of the rotor 10 on the other hand, and so that the useful range (C MotMin;C MotMax ) of the torque it delivers is such that the maximum motor torque C MotMax is equal to the sum of a mechanical torque C MecVmax required to drive the mechanism, with the exception of the rotor 10 of the micro-generator 100, with the rotating part 1 rotating at the maximum speed V max, on the one hand, and at a maximum rotor drive torque C EDmax corresponding to the maximum frequency F max of the rotor 10 on the other hand. Thus: ; C MotMin = C MecVmin + C EDmin C MotMax = C MecVmax + C EDmax

[0028] The control device 1000 includes one or more light-emitting diodes 31, 32, in such a number that, according to their type and dimensioning, the set of light-emitting diodes 31, 32, which comprise the control device 1000, is arranged to carry out an electrical energy dissipation with a drive torque of the rotor 10 between the minimum drive torque of the rotor C EDmin, corresponding to the minimum frequency F min of the rotor 10 on the one hand, and the maximum drive torque of the rotor C EDmax corresponding to the maximum frequency F max of the rotor 10 on the other hand.

[0029] According to two particular variants, the coils 11 are connected, directly or indirectly, to at least one light-emitting diode 31, 32.

[0030] According to an advantageous feature, at least one light-emitting diode 31, 32 is indirectly powered, through an electrical or electronic circuit which includes a Graetz bridge rectifier forming the only electrical and / or electronic circuit, by at least one coil 11 supplying an induced electric current during its rotation relative to the stator 20 of the micro-generator 100.

[0031] According to advantageous features illustrated by the figures, the stator 20 carries the permanent magnets 25, and the rotor 10 carries the coils 11, and each light-emitting diode 31, 32 is mounted on the rotor 10.

[0032] More specifically, the permanent magnets 25 are located, in axial projection, inside a circular surface defined by the rotor 10 when it rotates.

[0033] Preferably, at least one light-emitting diode 31, 32 is powered directly by at least one coil 11 when it rotates relative to the stator 20 of the micro-generator 100.

[0034] More specifically, and as can be seen in the advantageous variant shown in figures 1 to 5 , the rotor 10 carries at least one pair of light-emitting diodes 31, 32, preferably diametrically opposed and arranged in opposite polarities to each other.

[0035] More specifically, in an unillustrated variant, the rotor 10 carries four light-emitting diodes (also called 'LEDs') at 90°, arranged two by two in opposite polarities (preferably two diametrically opposed LEDs having the same polarity).

[0036] According to an advantageous characteristic, any electrical and / or electronic device included in the timepiece 2000 is an element of the micro-generator 100 and the regulating device.

[0037] Preferably, all electrical and / or electronic equipment comprising the timepiece 2000 is mounted on the rotor 10 of the microgenerator 100. This electrical and electronic equipment consists of said at least one light-emitting diode 31, 32, the coil or coils, and, where applicable, an electrical and / or electronic circuit arranged between at least one of the coils and said at least one light-emitting diode 31, 32. A mechanical timepiece thus avoids any wiring or means of transferring electrical energy outside the rotor 10.

[0038] In particular, and as can be seen on the figures 1 to 5, the rotor 10 and the stator 20 are mounted coaxially around an axis of rotation D of the microgenerator 100, and said at least one light-emitting diode 31, 32, is mounted eccentric with respect to said axis of rotation D, each light-emitting diode 31, 32, thus describing an annular surface during the rotation of the rotor 10.

[0039] And, in a particular embodiment, said at least one light-emitting diode 31, 32, is arranged to provide at least a major part of the light 70 it emits to at least a part of the timepiece 1000 visible to a user of that timepiece, so as to illuminate that at least visible part. Thus, the light-emitting diodes 31, 32, are arranged on the rotor 10 to achieve the best result, and the outer structure on the light-emitting side must be perforated to allow the emitted light 70 to pass through most of this outer structure, preferably so that substantially all of the emitted light can pass through this outer structure.

[0040] Also, more specifically, as seen on the figures 4 And 5, the rotor 10 includes a hub 19 which includes a drive pinion 19a and which carries a lower annular structure 52, a disc 54, for example of ceramic, forming a support for the coils 11 arranged in peripheral openings of this disc and for the two LEDs 31, 32, arranged in two respective openings 55 of the disc, and a toothed wheel 18 situated above the emission surfaces of the LEDs 31, 32, and which is openwork, having openings 17 configured to allow the light 70 emitted by each of these LEDs to pass to means for guiding this emitted light towards said at least a visible part of the timepiece.

[0041] The toothed wheel 18 is a ratchet forming a locking and release device for the micro-generator 100. The lower annular structure 52 is preferably opaque and without openings, so as to conceal the openings 55, the contact surfaces 65, the glue drops 68, and the circular tracks 66. The contact surfaces 60 and the connections of the coils 11 to these contact surfaces are hidden from view by the base 22 of the stator cage. Thus, apart from a small portion of the two contact surfaces 64 that may be visible through the circular slot located between the annular structure 52 and the base 22, the micro-generator 100 does not reveal any electrical or electronic components, with the exception of the LED emission surfaces, which have a refined appearance and are located in an internal region of this light-emitting micro-generator.Such a construction is particularly well-suited to a lighting device incorporated into a high-end mechanical movement. Furthermore, the electrical connections can be made of gold.

[0042] More particularly, the control device 1000 includes, in the vicinity of the micro-generator 100, at least one stationary light guide structure, which is arranged to collect, for any angular position of the rotor 10 when it is rotating, at least a major part of the light emitted by at least one light-emitting diode 31, 32, and then to guide this emitted light towards at least one visible part of the timepiece, so as to obtain an illumination of this visible part substantially constant and / or substantially uniform when the at least one light-emitting diode emits.

[0043] In a particular variant, the rotor 10 is driven by a barrel 200, via a barrel gear train 300. The micro-generator 100 is equipped with a rotor locking and release device 400, comprising a ratchet 18 and a pawl 92. This device allows the micro-generator to be activated on demand as a speed regulator, particularly in a musical or striking watch. It is used to start and stop the rotation of the micro-generator as needed. It is therefore possible to briefly activate the rotor's rotation several times on a barrel load.

[0044] The rotor 10 comprises a module consisting of the support disc 54 (made of ceramic material, in particular) which carries a number of small coils 11 on its periphery as well as at least one light-emitting diode, in particular two LEDs 31, 32. The rotation of the coils 11 in the magnetic field of the magnets 25 of the stator 20 generates an induced voltage and thus an alternating induced current, which powers the light-emitting diodes according to the equivalent electrical circuit given in figure 8The coils 11 are connected in series, with alternating polarities, the inner end 61 and the outer end 62 of each coil being connected respectively to two contact areas 60 formed on the support disc 54. This plurality of coils is connected to the two LEDs, notably via a printed circuit board which consists of two contact areas 64 for the two respective ends of two end coils of the series of coils and for an electrical connection 67 from the first LED 31 to these coils, two contact areas 65 for the electrical connection 67 of the second LED 32, and two circular tracks 66 connecting the two contact areas 64 respectively to the two contact areas 65. The two LEDs 31, 32 are arranged in reverse bias in order to exploit the alternating current generated in this direct power supply system for the LEDs by the coils 11.In the advantageous variant shown, the contact areas 64 and 65 and the two circular tracks 66 are directly printed / deposited onto the support disc. Thus, no conventional PCB made of synthetic material is required. Note that the electrical connections 67 are protected by drops of adhesive 68, which also serve to secure the LEDs in the respective openings 55 of the support disc 54.

[0045] Therefore, we can operate with an electrical circuit as simple as the one shown in the diagram. figure 8 .

[0046] The current i LED flowing through each light-emitting diode 31, 32 over time then takes the form visible on the figure 9 .

[0047] What matters for the rotational frequency of the microgenerator is the average current i LED MOY, represented at the Figure 10circulating in the two light-emitting diodes; this results in an average braking torque CMFR applied to the rotor as shown in the figure 11 It should be noted that in the case of a variant where LEDs are indirectly powered and which includes an electrical and / or electronic circuit without substantial electrical energy storage components, this circuit can easily be configured to consume very little electrical energy relative to the LEDs, so that its impact is small, or even negligible. In particular, such a circuit can be composed exclusively of passive elements. However, an electrical and / or electronic circuit for managing the power supply of LEDs consumes a small, nearly constant current, which generates an offset in the graph of the Figure 10by taking the total current including that of this circuit. Similarly, a small offset will be observed in the graph of the figure 11 Even if the power consumption of the electrical and / or electronic circuit were to increase slightly when the threshold voltage of the LEDs is exceeded and a stronger current flows through the circuit, there would be a small offset beyond this threshold voltage, and thus within the functional range for regulating the microgenerator. Such an offset does not change the regulation principle; the electrical energy consumption curve retains a profile similar to that shown in the diagram. figure 11 enabling the regulation provided for in the invention.

[0048] In a specific example, the drum initially delivers a maximum torque of 20 µN·m to the rotor, and the initial rotational frequency of this rotor is approximately 120 Hz. This frequency gradually decreases as the drum discharges, notably to approximately 100 Hz, corresponding roughly to a minimum torque of 12 µN·m supplied to the rotor. The minimum and maximum torques represent a useful range of the drum's motor torque for the correct operation of the driven mechanism. Without power dissipated by the light-emitting diodes (LEDs), the assembly would rotate much faster. Regarding the voltage induced in the coils, if we denote: Ku as the induced voltage coefficient for a coil (maximum value of the induced voltage in a coil), n BOB as the number of coils, ω as the rotational frequency (rad / s), and considering all the coils alternating in series, the induced voltage is V IND: V IND = ω ⋅ n BOB ⋅ K U ⋅ sin ω ⋅ n BOB ⋅ t / 2

[0049] Indeed, the electric angular frequency is equal to n BOB / 2 multiplied by the rotational frequency ω, because the induced voltage is the derivative of the change in magnetic flux, which goes from + to - once and then from - to + the next time. The induced voltage is therefore a linear function of the rotational frequency.

[0050] Regarding the relationship between the induced voltage and the current in the light-emitting diode, it is theoretically given by Shockley's equation, where Vt is 26 mV at room temperature and n is a quality parameter between 1 and 2: I = IS · (e VIND / nVt < -1). A good approximation is given by the figure 6The diode is blocked at negative and low voltages, and conducts above the threshold voltage Us. The characteristic curve ID = f(UD) shows the strong current increase in the LED, which is nearly linear beyond the threshold voltage Us. It can be seen that small increases in voltage beyond the threshold value Us produce large increases in current and a consequent energy dissipation. This approximation is very close to the actual behavior of the LED given by the Shockley equation above.

[0051] The dimensions of the magnets and coils are optimized, as can be seen in figure 5 , for a relatively small stator cage, with an outside diameter of 8.4 mm, and a total thickness excluding the hub of only 1.4 mm.

[0052] The number of turns and the wire diameter are adapted to ensure the operation of the LEDs. A different number of coils, magnets, and different dimensions are entirely possible. Increasing the volume of the magnets 25, or decreasing the air gap, increases the coupling between the coils 11 and the magnets 25. To maximize flux variations, the magnets 25 are placed as close together as possible, as are the coils 11. Regarding the coils 11, increasing their volume or decreasing the wire diameter increases the induced voltage coefficient Ku (defined as the ratio of the induced voltage to the rotational speed) but also increases the coil resistance. In this case, the current in the LEDs decreases, but the rotor speed also decreases, thus increasing the discharge time of the battery and the illumination time. figures 12 to 15show the effects of the thickness of coil wire 11 on the resistance ( figure 12 ), on the current in the diodes ( figure 13 ), on the induced voltage ( figure 13 ), and on the total discharge time of the cylinder ( figure 15 ).

[0053] Thus, by choosing a wire diameter of 14 µm, we obtain a rotor frequency of 120 revolutions per second, barrel loaded, which, with a power reserve of around 5500 revolutions relative to the rotor, allows an operating time of more than 40 seconds.

[0054] According to a particular feature, the timepiece 2000 includes a device for releasing and stopping the micro-generator 100 which includes, on the one hand, a control device 400 actuable by a user to at least trigger and preferably also stop the drive of the rotor 10 of the micro-generator 100, the control device 400 having an external control element, in particular a push-button or a slide equipped with a slide spring and on the other hand an engagement mechanism 500 actuable by the movement 600 which includes the timepiece 2000, for example to strike the time or produce a melody on demand or at given times.

[0055] In a variant illustrated by the figure 17The user can release the rotating wheel, rotor 10, and micro-generator 100 by pressing a push-button 401, which actuates a rocker 402. This rocker acts on an actuating arm 403 and an elastic element 404, which controls the ratchet 92 of the release and stop device. The ratchet is actuated by the actuating arm 403 and automatically by an engagement mechanism 500 driven by the movement. Rotation continues until the push-button is released or for a predetermined time interval. The engagement mechanism 500, driven by the clockwork movement 600, acts on the elastic element 404, particularly for an alarm function, preferably for a predetermined time interval. Any similar system can be devised to control the rotation and stopping of the rotating wheel 1.In particular, the various mechanisms provided are arranged to momentarily release the ratchet 92 from the ratchet 18 of the rotor 10, and thus allow the rotation of the rotor 10 of the micro-generator 100 on demand, enabling the drive of the rotating mobile.

[0056] It should be noted that the most sophisticated repeating and / or striking mechanisms incorporate safety devices with levers called isolators. These isolators allow the entire melody or audible display to play, preventing any further action by the user or any other command from the timepiece itself. The energy stored for this purpose, in a striking barrel, bolt spring, or similar mechanism, is greater than the energy required to play the longest musical segment.

[0057] More specifically, the release and stop device includes a mechanical timer device to limit the rotation time of the rotor 10.

[0058] According to a particular feature, the timepiece 2000 has a determined area that can be illuminated directly or indirectly by at least one light-emitting diode 31, 32, when the latter emits light.

[0059] According to a particular feature, the 2000 timepiece includes an acoustic animation mechanism which is a striking or repeating or musical animation mechanism comprising the rotating mobile 1 whose rotation speed is regulated by the regulating device 1000.

[0060] According to a particular feature, the 2000 timepiece includes a visual animation mechanism comprising the rotating mobile 1 whose rotation speed is regulated by the regulating device 1000.

[0061] More specifically, at least one light-emitting diode 31, 32 emits light towards a determined area synchronously during an acoustic or visual animation sequence of the timepiece 2000. It can specifically illuminate a particular area / areas of the mechanism, or a visual animation, or a particular decorative element of the watch such as a stained-glass window, musical notes, or other.

[0062] According to a particular feature, the 2000 timepiece is devoid of an electrical energy storage capacitor.

[0063] The invention further relates to a method of regulating the rotational speed of a rotating mobile 1 of a timepiece 2000, within a functional speed range of the rotating mobile 1 between a minimum speed V min and a maximum speed V max strictly greater than the minimum speed, the rotating mobile 1 being driven by a motor device, in particular a barrel 200, which comprises the timepiece 2000.

[0064] By this process a device 1000 is implemented for regulating the speed of rotation of the rotating mobile 1, this regulation device 1000 comprising a micro-generator 100 which has a rotor 10 mechanically coupled to the rotating mobile 1, this rotor being mobile around an axis of rotation D relative to a stator 20 carrying permanent magnets 25 or coils, the rotor carrying respectively coils 11 or permanent magnets, the coils 11 being connected, directly or indirectly, to at least one light-emitting diode 31, 32.

[0065] According to the invention, the characteristics of the microgenerator 100 and at least one light-emitting diode 31, 32 together with, where appropriate, the electrical and / or electronic circuit without substantial electrical energy storage component, which constitute the only electrical energy consumption device produced by the microgenerator, are determined, and the reduction of the regulation device 1000 between the rotating mobile 1 and the rotor 10 is determined so that, for the functional speed range of the rotating mobile 1, the corresponding frequency range of the rotation of the rotor 10, between a minimum frequency F min and a maximum frequency F max, generates in the coils 11 a range of induced voltage whose maximum voltage value U max for the maximum frequency F max is greater than a threshold voltage Us of the at least one light-emitting diode 31, 32.The motor device is arranged such that its useful torque range has a minimum torque CMotMin driving the rotating part 1 at the minimum speed of the functional speed range, and a maximum torque CMotMax driving the rotating part 1 at the maximum speed of the functional speed range. Preferably, the induced voltage range is located within the functional voltage range of at least one light-emitting diode 31, 32, i.e., within a voltage range above the threshold voltage Us, so that at least one light-emitting diode produces light throughout the relevant induced voltage range during normal operation, thus enabling effective regulation over the entire intended operating range.

[0066] More specifically, the control device 1000 is defined to regulate the rotational frequency of the rotor 10, maintaining it within the frequency range between the minimum frequency Fmin and the maximum frequency Fmax, for a useful torque range of the motor device between a minimum motor torque CMoTmin and a maximum motor torque CMoTmax. The minimum voltage value Umin for the minimum frequency Fmin is specified to be above the threshold voltage Us.

[0067] In particular, the regulation device 1000 is arranged so as not to include any means of dissipating kinetic energy from the rotor 10 of the micro-generator 100. It is understood that the invention does not brake the rotor to reduce its frequency, but only to prevent its frequency from increasing.

[0068] More specifically, the motor device is equipped with a barrel 200 dimensioned so that the useful range of the torque it delivers, between the minimum motor torque C MotMin and the maximum motor torque C MotMax, is such that the minimum motor torque C MotMin is equal to the sum of a mechanical torque C MecVmin required to drive the mechanism driven by the barrel, with the exception of the rotor 10 of the micro-generator 100, with the rotating part 1 rotating at the minimum speed V min, on the one hand, and a minimum rotor drive torque C EDmin corresponding to the minimum frequency F min of the rotor 10 on the other hand, and such that the maximum motor torque C MotMax is equal to the sum of a mechanical torque C MecVmax required to drive the mechanism, with the exception of the rotor 10 of the micro-generator 100, with the rotating part 1 rotating at the maximum speed V max, on the one hand,and to a maximum rotor drive torque C EDmax corresponding to the maximum rotor frequency F max, on the other hand.

[0069] More specifically, the light-emitting diode or several light-emitting diodes 31, 32 are chosen in such a number that, according to their type and dimensions, the set of light-emitting diodes 31, 32 comprising the regulation device 1000 is arranged to perform electrical dissipation with a rotor drive torque between the minimum rotor drive torque CEDmin, corresponding to the minimum frequency Fmin, and the maximum rotor drive torque CEDmax, corresponding to the maximum frequency Fmax, as shown on the figure 7 .

[0070] According to a particular variant, an indirect supply of at least one LED 31, 32 is chosen by the micro-generator 100, and at least one LED 31, 32 is connected to the micro-generator 100 through an electrical and / or electronic circuit without a substantial storage component for an electric current induced in the coils 11 during a rotation of the rotor 10 of the micro-generator 100.

[0071] In summary, the invention implements passive regulation, requiring no electronic circuitry for data processing and control of the regulation. Powering LEDs directly or indirectly via an electrical / electronic circuit, without substantial electrical energy storage components, using a micro-generator for a mobile speed control device is a novel concept that combines high efficiency, compactness, a small number of components, and reduced cost. Furthermore, such a device allows for a robust and relatively high-end design, suitable for high-end watchmaking.

[0072] The invention also eliminates the need for fragile, wear-prone moving mechanical components, such as those used in inertial governors, aerodynamic governors, or eddy current governors. It also eliminates the need for mechanical return mechanisms such as springs.

[0073] The invention has numerous advantages.

[0074] Arranging the LEDs directly on the micro-generator eliminates the need for contact connections, conductive wires, or printed circuit board (PCB) traces. This ensures compatibility with high-end watchmaking. Their advantageous arrangement on the rotor avoids the presence of any electronic components made of materials incompatible with a high-end mechanical watch. In the preferred version, the LEDs are the only components that could be considered "electronic," but their composition is inorganic, and the vast majority of the volume is made of crystal and metal. Therefore, the proposed arrangement is aesthetically discreet and also compatible with skeleton watch constructions featuring a visible movement.In the advantageous variant with indirect power supply for the LEDs, which incorporates an electrical and / or electronic circuit without substantial current storage components, one can essentially use only crystals, particularly silicon and metal, and ensure a very long lifespan for the electronic components. This variant is therefore also suitable for high-end watchmaking involving sophisticated mechanical movements.

[0075] Powering one or more light-emitting diodes (LEDs) is possible without using a battery. While a smoothing capacitor on the rotor could be used, this does not appear necessary because the rotor rotates at a relatively high frequency, making the periodic variation in brightness imperceptible to the human eye when the LEDs are used to illuminate a visible part of the timepiece. Indeed, the preferred embodiment of the invention offers the advantage of a passive circuit without any intermediate energy storage, thanks to the direct powering of each diode by the coils, thus eliminating the need for an induced voltage rectifier or smoothing capacitor.

[0076] The ability to activate a luminous function, coupled with another function linked to the rotation of the rotating element 1, and to deactivate it after a desired time is highly advantageous. This option is not found in watches known from the prior art. It is thus possible to have an additional lighting function, for example, to illuminate a dial, or an element visible to the user, or something else, while the rotating element is rotating.

[0077] The LED does not provide sustained illumination when the current is switched off, but the user's eye perceives a persistent light because, with a rotation speed on the order of a hundred Hertz and, for example, 12 or 14 poles in the micro-generator, there is a flicker on the order of a kHz, imperceptible to the naked eye. As for the micro-generator's rotation, small braking torques a thousand times per second will smooth the rotational frequency. An energy storage capacitor is not desirable because its voltage variation would not keep pace with the induced voltage variation sufficiently, and would therefore be inefficient for speed regulation.When light-emitting diodes (LEDs) rotate at high frequency, they generate a nearly continuous and uniform ring-shaped light distribution for the human eye, and whose surface area is much greater than that of a light-emitting diode.

[0078] The solution, with no electronics other than a possible (passive) Graetz bridge on the rotor, and without any electrical energy storage, guarantees full compatibility with a high-end watchmaking construction.

Claims

1. Timepiece (2000) comprising a rotating wheel set (1), a motor device (200) arranged to be able to drive this rotating wheel set, and a regulating device (1000) for regulating the speed of rotation of the rotating wheel set, this regulating device including a microgenerator (100) which includes a stator (20) and a rotor (10) mechanically coupled to the rotating wheel set (1), the stator (20) carrying permanent magnets (25) or coils and the rotor carrying coils (11) or permanent magnets respectively; characterised in that the regulating device further comprises at least one light-emitting diode (31, 32) which is powered, directly or indirectly, by the microgenerator; in that, in the case of said at least one light-emitting diode being indirectly powered by the microgenerator, said at least one light-emitting diode is connected to the microgenerator via an electrical and / or electronic circuit without any substantial electrical energy storage component; in that the microgenerator (100) and said at least one light-emitting diode are arranged in such a way that, for a functional speed range of the rotating wheel set between a minimum speed (Vmin) and a maximum speed (Vmax) that is strictly greater than the minimum speed, the corresponding frequency range of the rotation of the rotor (10), between a minimum frequency (Fmin) and a maximum frequency (Fmax), generates, in the coils (11), a range of induced voltage whose maximum induced voltage value, occurring for said maximum frequency (Fmax), is greater than a threshold voltage (Us) of said at least one light-emitting diode (31, 32); and in that said at least one light-emitting diode and, where appropriate, said electrical and / or electronic circuit without any substantial electrical energy storage component constitute substantially the only electrical energy-consuming device incorporated in the regulating device, the motor device being arranged in such a way that it has a useful motor torque range allowing the rotating wheel set to be driven substantially within said functional speed range.

2. Timepiece (2000) according to claim 1, characterised in that the minimum induced voltage value, occurring for said minimum frequency (Fmin), of said induced voltage range is also greater than the threshold voltage (Us) of said at least one light-emitting diode (31, 32).

3. Timepiece (2000) according to claim 1 or 2, characterised in that the regulating device does not include any means for dissipating the kinetic energy of the rotor (10) of the microgenerator (100).

4. Timepiece (2000) according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterised in that the motor device is arranged so that its useful motor torque range has a minimum torque (CMotMin), driving the rotating wheel set (1) at said minimum speed (Vmin) of the functional speed range, and a maximum torque (CMotMax) driving the rotating wheel set at said maximum speed (Vmax) of this functional speed range.

5. Timepiece (2000) according to claim 4, characterised in that the regulating device (1000) regulates the frequency of rotation of the rotor (10) by maintaining it in said frequency range, between the minimum frequency (Fmin) and the maximum frequency (Fmax), for the useful torque range of the motor device between the minimum motor torque (CMotMin) and the maximum motor torque (CMotMax).

6. Timepiece (2000) according to claim 5, characterised in that said motor device is formed by a barrel (200) which is dedicated to driving a mechanism comprising the rotating wheel set (1) and dimensioned so that the useful range of the torque which it outputs, between the minimum motor torque (CMotMin) and the maximum motor torque (CMotMax), is such that the minimum motor torque (CMotMin) is equal to the sum of a mechanical torque (CMecVmin) required to drive the mechanism, with the exception of the rotor (10) of the microgenerator (100), with the rotating wheel set (1) rotating at the minimum speed (Vmin), on the one hand, and a minimum rotor drive torque (CEDmin) corresponding to the minimum frequency (Fmin) of the rotor (10), on the other hand, and such that the maximum motor torque (CMotMax) is equal to the sum of a mechanical torque (CMecVmax) required to drive the mechanism, with the exception of the rotor (10) of the microgenerator (100), with the rotating wheel set (1) rotating at the maximum speed (Vmax), on the one hand, and to a maximum rotor drive torque (CEDmax) corresponding to the maximum frequency (Fmax) of the rotor, on the other hand.

7. Timepiece (2000) according to claim 6, characterised in that said regulating device (1000) includes one light-emitting diode (31, 32) or several light-emitting diodes (31, 32) in such a number that, according to their type and size, all of the light-emitting diodes (31, 32) included in the regulating device (1000) are arranged to dissipate electrical energy with a drive torque of the rotor (10) between the minimum rotor drive torque (CEDmin), corresponding to the minimum frequency (Fmin) of the rotor, and the maximum rotor drive torque (CEDmax) corresponding to the maximum frequency (Fmax) of the rotor (10).

8. Timepiece (2000) according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterised in that at least one light-emitting diode (31, 32) is powered indirectly, via a Graetz bridge rectifier forming the one and only electrical and / or electronic circuit, by at least one coil (11) supplying an electric current induced during the rotation of the rotor relative to the stator (20) of the microgenerator (100).

9. Timepiece (2000) according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterised in that at least one light-emitting diode (31, 32) is powered directly by at least one coil (11) as it rotates relative to the stator (20) of the microgenerator (100).

10. Timepiece (2000) according to one of claims 1 to 9, characterised in that the stator (20) carries the permanent magnets (25), and the rotor (10) carries the coils (11); and in that each said light-emitting diode (31, 32) is mounted on said rotor (10).

11. Timepiece (2000) according to claim 10, characterised in that the permanent magnets (25) are located, whe projected axially, inside a circular surface defined by the rotor (10) when it is rotating.

12. Timepiece (2000) according to claim 10 or 11, characterised in that the rotor (10) carries at least one pair of light-emitting diodes (31, 32), which are preferably diametrically opposed and arranged in reverse polarity to one another.

13. Timepiece (2000) according to one of claims 10 to 12, characterised in that the regulating device (1000) includes, in the vicinity of the microgenerator (100), at least one stationary light-guiding structure arranged to collect, for any angular position of the rotor (10) when the latter is rotating, at least a major part of the light emitted by at least one light-emitting diode (31, 32) and to then guide this emitted light towards at least one visible part of the timepiece, so as to obtain a substantially constant and / or substantially uniform illumination of this visible part when the at least one light-emitting diode is emitting.

14. Timepiece (2000) according to one of claims 1 to 13, characterised in that any electrical and / or electronic equipment included in the timepiece is an element of the microgenerator (100).

15. Timepiece (2000) according to claims 10 and 14, characterised in that any electrical and / or electronic circuit which the timepiece comprises is mounted on the rotor (10) of the microgenerator (100).

16. Timepiece (2000) according to one of claims 1 to 15, characterised in that the timepiece includes a device for releasing and stopping said microgenerator (100) which comprises either a control device (400) which can be actuated by a user to trigger the driving of the rotor (10) of the microgenerator (100), said control device (400) including a control member and / or a push-button and / or a bolt equipped with a bolt spring, or an engagement mechanism which can be actuated by a mechanism (600) included in said timepiece (2000).

17. Timepiece (2000) according to claim 16, characterised in that the rotor (10) includes a ratchet (18), and the release and stop device comprises a click (92) cooperating with the ratchet (18) to trigger the rotation of the microgenerator (100) on demand.

18. Timepiece (2000) according to claim 16 or 17, characterised in that the release and stop device includes a mechanical delay device for limiting the duration of rotation of the rotor (10).

19. Timepiece (2000) according to one of claims 1 to 18, characterised in that the timepiece includes a specific zone which can be illuminated directly or indirectly by at least one light-emitting diode (31, 32) when the latter is emitting light.

20. Timepiece (2000) according to one of claims 1 to 19, characterised in that the timepiece includes an acoustic animation mechanism which is a striking or repeating or musical animation mechanism including the rotating wheel set (1) whose speed of rotation is regulated by the regulating device (1000).

21. Timepiece (2000) according to one of claims 1 to 19, characterised in that the timepiece includes a visual animation mechanism including the rotating wheel set (1), the speed of rotation of which is regulated by the regulating device (1000).

22. Timepiece (2000) according to claim 20 or 21, characterised in that at least one light-emitting diode (31, 32) emits light towards a determined zone during an acoustic animation or visual animation sequence of the timepiece (2000).

23. Timepiece (2000) according to one of claims 1 to 22, characterised in that the regulating device has no electrical energy storage capacitor.

24. Method for regulating the speed of rotation of a rotating wheel set (1) of a timepiece (2000), in a functional speed range of the rotating wheel set (1) between a minimum speed (Vmin) and a maximum speed (Vmax) that is strictly greater than the minimum speed, the rotating wheel set (1) being driven by a motor device (200) included in the timepiece (2000), this method implementing a device (1000) for regulating the speed of rotation of the rotating wheel set (1) which is formed by a microgenerator (100) comprising a rotor (10) mechanically coupled to the rotating wheel set (1), this rotor being movable about an axis of rotation (D) relative to a stator (20) carrying permanent magnets (25) or coils, the rotor carrying coils (11) or permanent magnets respectively; characterised in that the coils (11) are connected, directly or indirectly, to at least one light-emitting diode (31, 32); in that the features of the microgenerator (100) and of said at least one light-emitting diode (31, 32), which together with, where appropriate, an electrical and / or electronic circuit without any substantial electric current storage component arranged between the coils, constitute the only device consuming electrical energy and reducing the ratio of the regulating device (1000) between the rotating wheel set (1) and the rotor (10), are determined in such a way that, for the functional speed range of the rotating wheel set (1), the corresponding frequency range of the rotation of the rotor (10), between a minimum frequency (Fmin) and a maximum frequency (Fmax), generates in the coils an induced voltage range whose maximum induced voltage value, occurring for said maximum frequency (Fmax), is greater than a threshold voltage (Us) of said at least one light-emitting diode (31, 32); and in that the motor device (200) is arranged so that its useful motor torque range has a minimum torque (CMotMin) driving the rotating wheel set (1) at said minimum speed of the functional speed range, and a maximum torque (CMotMax) driving the rotating wheel set (1) at the maximum speed of the functional speed range.

25. Regulation method according to claim 24, characterised in that the minimum induced voltage value, occurring for said minimum frequency (Fmin), of said induced voltage range is also greater than the threshold voltage (Us) of said at least one light-emitting diode (31, 32).

26. Regulation method according to claim 24 or 25, characterised in that the regulating device (1000) is designed to regulate the rotation frequency of the rotor (10) by maintaining it in said frequency range, between the minimum frequency (Fmin) and the maximum frequency (Fmax), for a useful torque range of the motor device, between a minimum motor torque (CMotmin) and a maximum motor torque (CMotMax).

27. Regulation method according to one of claims 24 to 26, characterised in that the regulating device is arranged so as not to include any means of dissipating the kinetic energy of the rotor (10) of the microgenerator (100).

28. Regulation method according to one of claims 24 to 27, characterised in that the motor device is equipped with a barrel (200) dimensioned so that the useful range of the torque which it outputs, between the minimum motor torque (CMotMin) and the maximum motor torque (CMotMax), is such that the minimum motor torque (CMotMin) is equal to the sum of a mechanical torque (CMecVmin) required to drive the mechanism, with the exception of the rotor (10) of the microgenerator (100), with the rotating wheel set (1) rotating at the minimum speed (Vmin), on the one hand, and a minimum rotor drive torque (CEDmin) corresponding to the minimum frequency (Fmin) of the rotor (10) on the other hand, and such that the maximum motor torque (CMotMax) is equal to the sum of a mechanical torque (CMecVmax) required to drive the mechanism, with the exception of the rotor (10) of the microgenerator (100), with the rotating wheel set (1) rotating at the maximum speed (Vmax), on the one hand, and to a maximum rotor drive torque (CEDmax) corresponding to the maximum frequency (Fmax) of the rotor, on the other hand.

29. Regulation method according to claim 28, characterised in that the light-emitting diode (31, 32) or several light-emitting diodes (31, 32) are chosen in such a number that, depending on their type and size, all of the light-emitting diodes (31, 32) included in the regulating device (1000) are arranged to dissipate electricity with a rotor drive torque between the minimum rotor drive torque (CEDmin), corresponding to the minimum frequency (Fmin), and the maximum rotor drive torque (CEDmax) corresponding to the maximum frequency (Fmax).

30. Regulation method according to one of claims 24 to 29, characterised in that an indirect powering of said at least one light-emitting diode (31, 32) by the microgenerator (100) is chosen, and in that said at least one light-emitting diode (31, 32) is connected to the microgenerator (100) via an electrical and / or electronic circuit without a substantial component for storing an electric current induced in the coils (11) when the rotor (10) of the microgenerator (100) is rotating.

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