Clockwork mechanism for a flyback chronograph

Abstract

The present invention relates to a clockwork mechanism (1) for a flyback chronograph, comprising: - a flyback wheel (20) arranged to rotate about an axis (X) and to be rotationally immobilized by a blocking device (40), - a heart piece (30) coaxial to the flyback wheel (20) and arranged to rotate about the axis (X), - an isolator (10) carried by the flyback wheel (20) and comprising: - a frame (11) arranged to be connected to the flyback wheel (20) so as to secure the isolator (10) to the flyback wheel (20), - an input piece (12, 12') of the isolator (10), - a hammer (13), arranged to cooperate with the heart piece (30), - at least one flexible blade (14, 14') connecting the input piece (12, 12') of the isolator (10) to the hammer (13), - at least two flexible blades (15, 16) connecting the input piece (12, 12') to the frame (11). Once the flyback wheel (20) is immobilized, the input piece (12, 12') of the isolator (10) is arranged to be moved radially towards the axis (X), this movement causing, via the flexible blade (14, 14'), a movement of the hammer (13), so as to move the hammer (13) away from the heart piece (30) by enough to avoid contact between the hammer (13) and the heart piece (30).

Description

Clock mechanism for split-seconds chronograph Technical field

[0001] The present invention relates to a timepiece mechanism for a split-seconds chronograph. The present invention also relates to a timepiece, for example a watch or a wristwatch, in particular a chronograph watch or a chronograph wristwatch, comprising the timepiece mechanism for a split-seconds chronograph according to the invention. State of the art

[0002] A chronograph watch is a timepiece that can measure time. Typically, a chronograph watch includes at least one indicator (such as a hand) that can be started and stopped by a pusher or other control element to measure time. It can then be returned to its starting point. Chronograph watches generally also include indicator elements for displaying the current time in addition to displaying the measured time.

[0003] When a push-piece (or other actuating device) of a chronograph watch is pressed for the first time, the indicator organ or second hand (also called the "chronograph seconds indicator" or "chronograph seconds hand"), which is at rest on the zero division of the dial, starts to move (start phase). Pressing the same push-piece or another push-piece a second time stops the second hand at the precise point where it is at the time of this pressure (stop phase). Pressing the same push-piece or another push-piece a third time causes the second hand to quickly return to its starting point, i.e., to the zero division of the dial (reset phase). In this way, it is possible to measure a duration in seconds.

[0004] The three phases or functions of a chronograph watch are therefore start, stop and reset.

[0005] In general, a split-seconds chronograph watch mechanism is complementary to the chronograph watch mechanism and allows the display of several successive times measured from the same initial moment. It allows a split-seconds indicator organ, for example a split-seconds hand, to be driven. In a known manner, the split-seconds indicator organ, for example a split-seconds hand, remains superimposed on the chronograph indicator organ, for example a chronograph hand, at the start. However, the split-seconds indicator organ can be stopped (by pressing the same stop push-button of the chronograph or another push-button) without the chronograph indicator organ being stopped. Then, the split-seconds indicator organ can be reset to zero at the same time as the chronograph indicator organ.Before being reset, the split-seconds indicator organ is generally returned to a position where it is once again superimposed on the running chronograph indicator organ.

[0006] In general, a split-seconds chronograph watch mechanism comprises a split-seconds wheel, arranged to rotate about an axis and to be locked in rotation by a locking device, this wheel being connected to the split-seconds indicator organ. It also comprises a heart, generally coaxial with the split-seconds wheel, arranged to rotate about the axis, the heart being connected to the chronograph indicator organ.

[0007] A clockwork mechanism for a split-seconds chronograph is generally controlled by a pusher acting on a known control device, for example a cam or a column wheel, and includes a blocking device cooperating with the control device. The device of blocking, for example a locking clamp, is arranged to block or release the flyback wheel following actuation of the pusher(s).

[0008] When the split-seconds wheel is released, the split-seconds wheel is then secured to the chronograph wheel set: this is generally achieved by a split-seconds lever which cooperates with the split-seconds heart, so that the split-seconds and chronograph indicator organs are superimposed. When the split-seconds wheel is blocked, the split-seconds indicator organ is stopped, and the chronograph indicator organ continues to rotate.

[0009] A watch mechanism for a split-seconds chronograph may also include an insulator, in order to prevent the split-seconds lever from being constantly in contact with the split-seconds heart and from slipping or rolling on this split-seconds heart when the split-seconds wheel is blocked and the heart rotates driven by the chronograph shaft. This involves wear, energy consumption due to the lever-heart contact, as well as a torque peak when the tip of the heart passes, which affects the accuracy of the watch and increases the consumption of the power reserve of the mechanism's energy source, for example a barrel.

[0010] Several insulators are known. To avoid contact with the core, regardless of the angular position of the core relative to the flyback wheel and / or the angular position of the flyback wheel, some solutions propose complicated mechanisms, comprising several parts, for example around 15 parts for the insulator, which complicates their assembly. In addition, the volume occupied by these solutions is quite large. Finally, some mechanisms are subject to friction and therefore more wear. Brief summary of the invention

[0011] An object of the present invention is to provide a clock mechanism for a split-seconds chronograph free from the limitations of known clock mechanisms for split-seconds chronographs.

[0012] Another object of the present invention is to provide a clock mechanism for a split-seconds chronograph as an alternative to known clock mechanisms for split-seconds chronographs.

[0013] Another object of the present invention is to provide a watch mechanism for a split-seconds chronograph which allows independent isolation of the angular position of the heart relative to the split-seconds wheel and / or the angular position of the split-seconds wheel, and having a lower number of parts compared to known watch mechanisms for split-seconds chronographs.

[0014] Another object of the present invention is to provide a watch mechanism for a split-seconds chronograph which allows independent isolation of the angular position of the heart relative to the split-seconds wheel and / or the angular position of the split-seconds wheel, and having a reduced volume compared to known watch mechanisms for split-seconds chronographs.

[0015] According to the invention, these aims are achieved in particular by means of a clockwork mechanism for a split-seconds chronograph according to claim 1, preferred embodiments being given in the dependent claims.

[0016] The clockwork mechanism for a split-seconds chronograph according to the invention comprises: - a flyback wheel, arranged to rotate around an axis and to be locked in rotation by a locking device, - a heart coaxial with the flyback wheel and arranged to rotate around the axis, - an insulator carried by the flyback wheel.

[0017] According to the invention, the insulator comprises: - a frame, arranged to be connected to the flyback wheel so as to make the insulator integral with the flyback wheel, - an insulator input part, - a hammer, arranged to cooperate with the heart, - at least one flexible blade connecting the insulator input part to the hammer, - at least two flexible blades connecting the entrance part to the frame.

[0018] As is known, the hammer allows the heart to be blocked and oriented in a first position, and to be released in a second position.

[0019] In the context of the present application, the expression "flexible blade" designates a blade or a beam, arranged to deform elastically in a main plane of the watch mechanism according to the invention, for example according to a bending movement.

[0020] According to the invention, once the flyback wheel is locked, the input part of the insulator is arranged to be displaced radially towards the axis, this displacement causing a displacement of the hammer via the flexible amplification blade, in order to move the hammer sufficiently away from the core to avoid contact between the hammer and the core.

[0021] In one embodiment, the flexible blade connecting the input part of the insulator to the hammer is an amplifying flexible blade. In this context, the term "amplifying flexible blade" indicates a flexible blade that allows amplifying a movement, in particular the movement of the hammer, relative to the movement of the input part. The presence of such a flexible amplification blade also makes it possible to optimize the size of the watch mechanism according to the invention.

[0022] If the movement of the input part and that of the hammer are substantially translational movements, the flexible amplification blade(s) allow the linear path of the hammer to be greater than that of the input part.

[0023] If the movement of the input part and that of the hammer are movements substantially by rotation, the flexible amplification blade(s) allow the angle traveled by the hammer to be greater than that traveled by the input part.

[0024] If the movement of the input part is a movement substantially by translation and that of the hammer substantially by rotation (or vice versa), the flexible amplification blade(s) allow the linear path traveled by the hammer to be greater compared to the length of the arc of a circle traveled by the input part (or vice versa).

[0025] The movement of the hammer is therefore amplified by the amplification blade relative to the movement of the actuating part. For example, the (non-linear) amplification ratio can be approximately four.

[0026] In one embodiment, the hammer deviates from the path of the core and leaves an operating clearance (e.g., a minimal clearance between the tip of the core and the hammer of about 0.135 mm).

[0027] In one embodiment, the minimum hammer travel is about 1.135 mm.

[0028] In one embodiment, the input part comprises at least a portion at the periphery of the flyback wheel.

[0029] In this context, the term "periphery of the split-second wheel" indicates an area of ​​the split-second wheel close to its edge and including its edge. This area does not include the center or axis of the split-second wheel and is sufficiently distant therefrom. In one embodiment, it is an annular or arc-shaped area.

[0030] In one embodiment, the clockwork mechanism comprises two insulator input pieces, each of the insulator input pieces being rigid, a flexible amplification blade connecting each input piece to the hammer.

[0031] In the context of the present application, the adjective "rigid" indicates that the component to which this adjective refers is not intended to be deformed during the operation of the watch mechanism according to the invention, and it has a rigidity greater than that of flexible blades.

[0032] In one embodiment, two parallel flexible blades connect each input piece to the frame.

[0033] In one embodiment, the clockwork mechanism comprises two hammers and two flexible amplification blades, each flexible amplification blade connecting an input part of the insulator to a hammer.

[0034] In one embodiment, the input part of the insulator comprises a peripheral rigid part connected via two flexible blades to two other rigid parts, a portion of which is peripheral, namely at the periphery of the flyback wheel.

[0035] In one embodiment, the movement of the hammer is a substantially translational movement.

[0036] In this context, a substantially translational (or "quasi-translational") movement is a translational movement, but there may also be a slight rotation of the hammer which is due to the deformation of the flexible blades. However, this rotation, of the order of magnitude of a few degrees, notably less than 10°, is negligible compared to the translation of the hammer.

[0037] In one embodiment, the clockwork mechanism comprises two frames.

[0038] In one embodiment, the input part of the insulator comprises a peripheral rigid part connected via two flexible blades to two other thinner rigid parts (i.e. having a smaller width, the width being the dimension of the blade parallel to the main plane of the watch mechanism) of the peripheral rigid part.

[0039] In one embodiment, the clockwork mechanism comprises two flexible amplification blades.

[0040] In one embodiment, a single flexible amplifying blade connects the input part of the isolator to the hammer, the mechanism including a pivot for the hammer.

[0041] In one embodiment, the movement of the hammer is a substantially rotational movement.

[0042] In this context, a substantially rotational (or "quasi-rotational") movement is a rotational movement, but there may also be a small translation of the hammer which is due to the deformation of the flexible blades, particularly in the case of a flexible pivot and not a mechanical one. However, this translation is negligible compared to the rotation of the hammer.

[0043] In one embodiment, the insulator is made of Liga, B-titanium, silicon, steel and / or superalloy, for example Phynox.

[0044] In one embodiment, the insulator is a single-piece.

[0045] In one embodiment, the clockwork mechanism comprises an actuating device, the input part of the insulator being arranged to be moved radially towards the axis by the actuating device, the actuating device and the input part comprising portions intended to come into contact and arranged so as to move the hammer sufficiently away from the heart to avoid contact between the hammer and the heart, independently of the angular position of the heart relative to the split-seconds wheel and / or the angular position of the split-seconds wheel.

[0046] In one embodiment, the insulator activation mechanism (e.g., clamps) always has the same displacement and position, and the insulator rotates with the flyback wheel and assumes several angular positions. In one embodiment, the hammer displacement is slightly dependent on the position of the insulator disc. The clockwork mechanism is arranged so that the smallest hammer displacement during insulator activation is greater than the distance between the center of the heart and the tip of the heart.

[0047] In one embodiment, the clockwork mechanism comprises a system for adjusting the actuating device.

[0048] In one embodiment, the actuating device is an actuating clamp.

[0049] In one embodiment, the portions intended to come into contact have a substantially arcuate shape and have the same radius of curvature as the flyback wheel.

[0050] In one embodiment, the clockwork mechanism comprises the blocking device, the blocking device being at least partially superimposed on the actuating device.

[0051] In one embodiment, the locking device is a locking clamp.

[0052] In one embodiment, the locking device is arranged to contact the split-second wheel before the actuating device actuates the isolator, in order to prevent movement of a split-second indicator member.

[0053] In one embodiment, the locking device and the actuating device form a single piece comprising a rigid body acting as an actuating device (i.e., arranged to actuate the insulator) and defining a cavity housing a flexible blade having a free and notched end, the flexible blade acting as a locking device (i.e., arranged to lock the flyback wheel). Brief description of the figures

[0054] Examples of implementation of the invention are indicated in the description illustrated by the appended figures in which: Figure 1A illustrates a top view of an embodiment of the timepiece mechanism for a split-seconds chronograph according to the invention, comprising a device for blocking the split-seconds wheel and a device for actuating the insulator, in which the blocking device and the actuating device are in the open position. Figure 1B illustrates a top view of the split-seconds chronograph clockwork mechanism of Figure 1A, in which the locking device and the actuating device are in the closed position. Figures 2A to 2D illustrate a top view of the split-seconds chronograph clockwork mechanism of Figure 1A without a locking device, in four different angular positions of the insulator. Figure 3 illustrates a top view of another embodiment of an insulator of the clockwork mechanism for a split-seconds chronograph according to the invention. Figure 4 illustrates a top view of another embodiment of an insulator of the clockwork mechanism for a split-seconds chronograph according to the invention. Figure 5A illustrates a top view of another embodiment of an insulator of the timepiece mechanism for a split-seconds chronograph according to the invention, when it is not actuated by an actuating device (not illustrated). Figure 5B illustrates a top view of the isolator of Figure 5A, when actuated by an actuating device (not shown). Figure 6A illustrates a top view of another embodiment of an insulator of the timepiece mechanism for a split-seconds chronograph according to the invention, when it is not actuated by an actuating device (not illustrated). Figure 6B illustrates a top view of the isolator of Figure 6A, when actuated by an actuating device (not shown). Figure 7 illustrates a top view of another embodiment of an insulator and a split-seconds wheel of the timepiece mechanism for a split-seconds chronograph according to the invention. Figure 8 illustrates a top view of a part integrating the blocking device and the actuating device according to an embodiment of the clock mechanism for a split-seconds chronograph. Example(s) of embodiment(s) of the invention

[0055] The clockwork mechanism for split-seconds chronograph of the invention is intended to equip a chronograph mechanism. In a known manner, the chronograph mechanism comprises one or more chronograph wheels actuated by a known control device device, for example a cam or column wheel, and connected to a base mechanism allowing the current time to be displayed via a known clutch mechanism, for example a horizontal, vertical or oscillating pinion clutch mechanism. The chronograph wheel(s) carry a chronograph indicator member. All these elements and mechanisms are known and will not be described or illustrated.

[0056] Figure 1A illustrates a top view of an embodiment of the timepiece mechanism 1 for a split-seconds chronograph according to the invention. In this embodiment, the timepiece mechanism 1 comprises a split-seconds wheel 20 arranged to rotate about an axis X and to be locked in rotation by a locking device 40. This split-seconds wheel 20 is connected to a split-seconds indicator member not shown, for example a split-seconds hand.

[0057] The locking device 40 cooperates with a control device (not shown), for example a cam or column wheel, in a known manner.

[0058] In the embodiment of Figure 1A, the clockwork mechanism 1 comprises a heart 30 coaxial with the split-seconds wheel 20 and arranged to rotate around the axis X. This heart wheel 30 is connected to a chronograph indicator member not shown, for example a chronograph hand.

[0059] As is known, the split-seconds indicator organ, for example a split-seconds hand, remains superimposed on the chronograph indicator organ, for example a chronograph hand, at the start. However, the split-seconds indicator organ can be stopped (by pressing the same stop push-button of the chronograph or another push-button) without the chronograph indicator organ being stopped. Then, the split-seconds indicator organ is reset to zero at the same time as the chronograph indicator organ. Before being reset to zero, the split-seconds indicator organ is generally returned to a position where it is again superimposed on the running chronograph indicator organ.

[0060] In the embodiment of Figure 1A, the clockwork mechanism 1 comprises an insulator 10 carried by the split-second wheel 20. This insulator 10 is at least partially superimposed on the split-second wheel 20, or completely superimposed on the split-second wheel 20 as illustrated in Figure 1A.

[0061] In one embodiment, the core 30 has a dimension adapted to the insulator 10 used. Indeed, the core 30 must not be too small relative to the insulator 30, and in particular to its hammer 13, in order to have sufficient torque to perform a reset. It must also not be too large relative to the insulator 30, and in particular to its hammer 13, in order to avoid contact between the core 30 and the hammer 13, independently of the angular position of the core 30 relative to the flyback wheel 20 and / or the angular position of the flyback wheel 20.

[0062] According to the invention, the insulator 10 comprises a frame 11 arranged to be connected to the flyback wheel 20 so as to make the insulator 10 integral with the flyback wheel 20. For example, the frame 11 comprises means for connection or fixing with the flyback wheel 20. In the embodiment of FIG. 1A, the frame 11 comprises two through holes 110, cooperating with means such as screws, rivets, pins, etc. (not shown), in order to make the insulator 10 integral with the flyback wheel 20. Of course, the number, shape and / or position of the holes 110 in FIG. 1A, nor the presence of holes, should not be considered as limiting.

[0063] According to the invention, the insulator 10 comprises at least one input part of the insulator 10: in the embodiment of FIG. 1A the insulator 10 comprises two input parts 12, 12' of the insulator 10, each of the input parts 12, 12' of the insulator being rigid.

[0064] In the context of the present application, the adjective "rigid" indicates that the component to which this adjective refers is not intended to be deformed during the operation of the watch mechanism according to the invention, and it has a rigidity greater than that of flexible blades.

[0065] In the embodiment of Figure 1A, the input parts 12, 12' are symmetrical with respect to the X axis. Each input part 12, 12' has a substantially arc-shaped shape and comprises at least one portion at the periphery of the flyback wheel 20.

[0066] In this context, the term "periphery of the split-second wheel" indicates an area of ​​the split-second wheel 20 close to its edge and including its edge. This area does not include the center or the X-axis of the split-second wheel 20 and is sufficiently far therefrom. In one embodiment, it is an annular or arc-shaped area.

[0067] In the embodiment of Figure 1A, each input part 12, 12' comprises a protrusion 120 respectively 120', directed towards the X axis.

[0068] A single input piece 12 or 12' could be sufficient, provided that the clockwork mechanism comprises a pivot 19, on the one hand connected to the input piece 12 via a flexible blade 14 and on the other hand connected to the hammer 13 (via a rigid body), as for example illustrated in the embodiment of figure 7.

[0069] According to the invention, the insulator 10 comprises a hammer 13, arranged to cooperate with the core 30 in a known manner, namely the hammer 13 is arranged to block and orient the core 30 in a first position (for example that of FIG. 1A), and to release it in a second position (for example that of FIG. 1B).

[0070] According to the invention, the insulator 10 comprises at least two flexible blades connecting the input part to the frame 11. In the embodiment of Figure 1A, two flexible blades 15, 16 respectively 15', 16' connect each input part 12, 12' to the frame 11. In the embodiment of Figure 1A, the two flexible amplification blades 15, 16 respectively 15', 16' are substantially parallel. The presence of two parallel blades allows a substantially translational movement of the hammer 13, makes the mechanism more rigid and / or stable, and / or allows a movement of the hammer 13 to move it sufficiently away from the heart to avoid contact between the hammer and the heart, independently of the angular position of the heart relative to the flyback wheel 20 and / or independently of the position of the flyback wheel 20.

[0071] In the embodiment of Figure 1A, the insulator 10 comprises at least one flexible amplification blade 14 connecting the input part 12 of the insulator to the hammer 13. In the embodiment of Figure 1A, two flexible amplification blades 14 connect each of the parts input 12, 12' of the insulator to the hammer 13, in particular symmetrically with respect to the hammer 13.

[0072] In the context of the present application, the expression "flexible blade" designates a blade or a beam, arranged to deform elastically in a main plane of the watch mechanism according to the invention, for example according to a bending movement.

[0073] In this context, the expression "flexible amplification blade" indicates a flexible blade which makes it possible to amplify a movement, in particular the movement of the hammer, relative to the movement of the input part. In the case of FIG. 1A, the movement of both the hammer 13 and the input parts 12, 12' is substantially by translation.

[0074] In the case of Figure 1A, the blades 15, 16 (15', 16') and the blade 14 (14') are on one side respectively on the other side of the protrusion 120 (120') of the input part 12 (12'). The blades 15, 16 (15', 16') are connected directly to the protrusion 120 (120').

[0075] The figure illustrates a top view of the split-seconds chronograph clockwork mechanism 1 of Figure 1A, in which the locking device 40 and the actuating device 50 are in the closed position.

[0076] Once the flyback wheel 20 is blocked by the blocking device 40, and once the isolator 10 is activated by the actuating device 50 as illustrated in FIG. 1 B, the input parts 12, 12' of the isolator 10 are arranged to be displaced radially towards the X axis via contact with the actuating device 50, this displacement causing a displacement of the hammer 13 via the flexible amplification blades 14, 14', in order to move the hammer sufficiently away from the core to avoid contact between the hammer 13 and the core 30.

[0077] The direction of movement of the hammer 13, which in this case is substantially by translation, relative to the configuration of Figure 1A is indicated in Figure 1B with the arrow A.

[0078] The movement of the hammer 13 is therefore amplified by the amplification blades 14, 14' relative to the movement of the actuating part. For example, the (non-linear) amplification ratio may be approximately equal to four. In one embodiment, for a movement of an input part 12, 12' towards the X axis of the flyback wheel 20 of 0.3 mm, a movement of 1.3 mm is obtained for the hammer 13.

[0079] In one embodiment, the hammer 13 deviates from the path of the core and leaves an operating clearance (e.g., a minimal clearance between the tip 130 of the core 13 and the hammer of approximately 0.135 mm).

[0080] In one embodiment, the minimum hammer travel is about 1.135 mm.

[0081] An embodiment of the actuating device 50 is also visible in FIGS. 2A to 2D, which illustrate a top view of the timepiece mechanism 1 for split-seconds chronograph of FIG. 1A without a blocking device, in four different angular positions of the insulator 10 (the split-seconds wheel is not illustrated in FIGS. 2A and 2B for clarity).

[0082] In the embodiment of Figures 2A to 2D, the actuating device 50 is arranged to move each of the input parts 12, 12' radially towards the X axis, the actuating device and the input part comprising portions intended to come into contact and arranged so as to move the hammer 13 sufficiently away from the heart 30 to avoid contact between the heart 30 and the hammer 13, independently of the angular position of the heart 30 relative to the flyback wheel (not shown) and / or the angular position of the flyback wheel.

[0083] In the embodiment of Figures 2A to 2D, the actuating device is an actuating clamp comprising two jaws 51, 52. Each of these jaws 51, 52 is arranged to pivot about an axis Yi, Y2. However, this embodiment is not limiting, and at least one or even both jaws 51, 52 may be arranged to move substantially by translation in order to actuate the isolator 10.

[0084] In the embodiment of Figures 2A to 2D, each jaw 51, 52 comprises an arm 510, 520 and two end portions, one of which 511, 512 is arranged to cooperate (directly or indirectly) with a known control device, for example a cam or column wheel, not shown. The other end portion 512, 522 is in the shape of an arc of a circle and is intended to come into contact with the insulator 10, in particular with its input part(s) 12, 12' and to maintain this contact during actuation of the insulator.

[0085] In the embodiment of Figures 2A to 2D, these portions 512, 522 intended to come into contact with the insulator 10 have a substantially arcuate shape and have the same radius of curvature of the flyback wheel and / or the same radius of curvature of the external edge of the input part(s) 12, 12'. In the embodiment of Figures 2A to 2D, the radius of curvature of the flyback wheel and the same radius of curvature of the external edge of each of the input parts 12, 12'.

[0086] In one embodiment, the clockwork mechanism comprises an adjustment system (not shown) for the actuating device.

[0087] An embodiment of the blocking device 30 is visible in Figures 1A and 1B. In this embodiment, the blocking device 40 is at least partially superimposed on the actuating device 50.

[0088] In the embodiment of Figures 1A and 1B, the locking device 40 is a locking clamp comprising two jaws 41, 42. Each of these jaws 41, 42 is arranged to pivot about an axis Yi, Y2, which in the illustrated embodiment is the same axis of the actuating device 50. However, this embodiment is not limiting, and the axes of the blocking device 40 may be different from the axes of the actuating device 50. In addition, at least one or even both jaws 31, 32 may be arranged to move substantially by translation in order to block the flyback wheel 20.

[0089] In the embodiment of Figures 1A to 1B, each jaw 41, 42 comprises an arm 410, 420 and two end portions, one of which 411, 412 is arranged to cooperate (directly or indirectly) with a known control device, for example a cam or column wheel, not shown. The other end portion 412, 422 comprises a notched portion intended to come into contact with the flyback wheel in order to block it.

[0090] In one embodiment, the locking device 40 is arranged to contact the split-second wheel before the actuating device 50 actuates the isolator 10, in order to prevent movement of a split-second indicator member.

[0091] In one embodiment, visible in Figure 8, a jaw of the locking device and a jaw of the actuating device form a part 60, preferably a single-piece part 60, comprising a rigid body 600 acting as an actuating device and defining a cavity 601 housing a flexible blade 602 having a free and notched end 604, the flexible blade 602 and acting as a locking device via contact between the end 604 and the flyback wheel. This part 60 is a jaw to be used with another symmetrical jaw, the two jaws being symmetrical with respect to the flyback wheel and the insulator.

[0092] A portion of the rigid body 600 and the free and notched end 604 form an arc of a circle. In one embodiment, this arc of a circle has the same radius of curvature as the flyback wheel and / or the same radius of curvature of the outer edge of the input part(s) 12, 12'. In one embodiment, the radius of curvature of the flyback wheel and the same radius of curvature of the outer edge of each of the input part(s) 12, 12'.

[0093] The part 60 of Figure 8 comprises an end portion, 603 arranged to cooperate (directly or indirectly) with a known control device, for example a cam or column wheel, not shown.

[0094] The part 60 of Figure 8 is arranged to rotate about an axis Yi (or Y2) in a similar manner to the embodiment of Figures 1A and 1B. However, this embodiment is not limiting, and at least the part 60 can be arranged to move substantially by translation in order to actuate the insulator 10 and / or block the flyback wheel 20.

[0095] Figure 3 illustrates a top view of another embodiment of an insulator 10 of the timepiece mechanism for a split-seconds chronograph according to the invention comprising two hammers 13', 13' and two flexible amplification blades 14, 14', each flexible amplification blade 14, 14' connecting an input part 12, 12' of the insulator to a hammer 13', 13'.

[0096] In one embodiment, the two hammers 13', 13' are at least partially superimposed, for example as illustrated in Figure 3. The fact of at least partially superimposing the two hammers 13', 13' makes it possible to lengthen the blades significantly and this reduces the stresses. It is therefore possible to choose more conventional materials (such as steel) for the mechanism according to the invention, and the manufacturing processes are also more conventional (therefore less expensive).

[0097] The presence of two hammers 13, 13' is independent of the configuration and the number of the other elements of the insulator according to the invention illustrated in Figure 3.

[0098] In the embodiment of Figure 3, the movement of both the peripheral rigid parts 12, 12' and the hammers 13, 13' is substantially by translation.

[0099] In the embodiment of Figure 3, the insulator 10 has axial symmetry, the axis (not shown) passing through the center of rotation of the flyback wheel when the insulator 10 is mounted on this wheel.

[0100] Figure 4 illustrates a top view of another embodiment of an insulator 10 of the timepiece mechanism for a split-seconds chronograph according to the invention.

[0101] In this embodiment, the input part of the insulator 10 comprising a peripheral rigid part 12 (“input 1” in FIG. 4) connected via two flexible blades 17 to two other rigid parts 12” of which a portion 120”, in particular an end portion (“input 2” in FIG. 4) is peripheral.

[0102] In one embodiment, the frame 13 has a substantially T-shape, as for example illustrated in FIG. 4. However, any other shape can be envisaged.

[0103] In one embodiment, the flexible blades 15 connecting the frame to the rigid parts 12" are parallel to each other, and parallel to the blades 17 connecting the peripheral rigid part 12 to the rigid parts 12".

[0104] In the embodiment of figure 4, the movement of both the peripheral rigid part 12, the two other rigid parts 12" as well as the hammer 13 is substantially by translation. SUBSTITUTION SHEET (RULE 26)

[0105] In the embodiment of Figure 4, the insulator 10 has axial symmetry, the axis (not shown) passing through the center of rotation of the flyback wheel when the insulator 10 is mounted on this wheel.

[0106] Figure 5A illustrates a top view of another embodiment of an insulator 10 of the timepiece mechanism for a split-seconds chronograph according to the invention, when it is not actuated by an actuating device (not shown). Figure 5B illustrates a top view of the insulator 10 of Figure 5A, when it is actuated by an actuating device (not shown).

[0107] This embodiment is similar to that of Figure 4, with the difference that the input part 12 comprises a cavity 121 to accommodate a portion of the frame 11 when the isolator 10 is actuated by an actuating device. This embodiment is therefore more compact compared to that of Figure 4. In addition, the other two rigid parts 12" are peripheral. This embodiment therefore allows better actuation of the isolator 10 compared to that of Figure 4, because the contact surface between the rigid parts 12" and the actuating device is larger compared to that of Figure 4.

[0108] In the embodiment of figures 5A and 5B, the movement of both the peripheral rigid part 12, the two other rigid parts 12" as well as the hammer 13 is substantially by translation.

[0109] In the embodiment of Figures 5A and 5B, the insulator 10 has axial symmetry, the axis (not shown) passing through the center of rotation of the flyback wheel when the insulator 10 is mounted on this wheel.

[0110] Figure 6A illustrates a top view of another embodiment of an insulator of the timepiece mechanism for a split-seconds chronograph according to the invention, when it is not actuated by an actuating device (not illustrated).

[0111] Figure 6B illustrates a top view of the isolator of Figure 6A, when actuated by an actuating device (not shown).

[0112] In the embodiment of Figures 6A and 6B, the insulator 10 comprises two frames 11, 11' and a peripheral rigid part 12 connected via two flexible blades 15 to two other rigid parts 12". In one embodiment, these rigid parts 12" are thinner than the peripheral rigid part 12. In one embodiment, these rigid parts 12" are in the shape of an arc of a circle. Each frame 11, 11' is connected via a flexible blade 17 to the rigid parts 12". In one embodiment, the flexible blades 15 connecting the frame to the rigid parts 12" are parallel to each other, and parallel to the blades 17 connecting the peripheral rigid part 12 to the rigid parts 12".

[0113] In the embodiment of Figures 6A and 6B, the hammer 13 is connected via an amplification blade 14, 14' to the rigid parts 12".

[0114] In the embodiment of Figures 6A and 6B, when the insulator is actuated, portions of the peripheral rigid part 12 come into contact with portions of each frame 11, 11', as illustrated in Figure 6B.

[0115] In the embodiment of Figures 6A and 6B, the movement of the peripheral rigid part 12 is substantially by translation, and the movement of the hammer 13 is substantially by rotation, in the direction of arrow B of Figure 6B.

[0116] In the embodiment of Figures 6A and 6B, the insulator 10 has no symmetry.

[0117] Figure 7 illustrates a top view of another embodiment of an insulator 10 and a split-seconds wheel 20 of the timepiece mechanism for a split-seconds chronograph according to the invention.

[0118] In this embodiment, a single flexible amplification blade 14 connects the input part 12 of the insulator to the hammer 13, the mechanism comprising a pivot 19 for the hammer. This pivot 19 is on the one hand connected to the input part 12 via a flexible blade 14 and on the other hand connected to the hammer 13 (via a rigid body).

[0119] In the embodiment of Figure 7, the frame 11 has a substantially arc-shaped shape. Two flexible blades 15, 16 connect the input part (and in particular a protuberance of this input part 12) to the frame 11.

[0120] In the embodiment of Figure 7, the movement of the peripheral rigid part 12 and of the hammer 13 is substantially by translation, and the movement of the hammer 13 is only in rotation due to the presence of the pivot 19.

[0121] In the embodiment of Figure 7, the insulator 10 has no symmetry.

[0122] In one embodiment, the insulator 10 is made of Liga, B-titanium, silicon and / or steel.

[0123] In one embodiment, the insulator 10 is a single-piece unit.

[0124] In one embodiment, the minimum thickness of each flexible blade, namely their dimension perpendicular to the main plane of the watch mechanism 1, is 0.05 mm.

[0125] In one embodiment, the minimum cross-section (height times width) of the parallel flexible blades is 0.060 mm x 0.2 mm.

[0126] In one embodiment, the minimum cross-section (height times width) of a single flexible blade is 0.050 mm x 0.2 mm. Reference symbols used in figures Clock mechanism Insulator, ir Frame, 12' Entrance piece " Rigid piece, 13' Hammer, 14' Flexible amplification blade Flexible blade Flexible blade Flexible blade Flexible blade Pivot Split-second wheel Heart Locking device, 42 Jaw Actuating device, 52 Jaw Part (one-piece) 0 Holes 0, 120' Protrusion 0" End portion of part 12" 1 Cavity 0 Heart tip 0, 420 Jaw arm 41, 42 1, 421 First end portion of jaw 41, 422, 422 Second end portion of jaw 41, 420, 520 Jaw arm 51, 52 1, 521 First end portion of jaw 51, 522, 522 Second end portion of jaw 51, 520 Rigid body of part 60 1 Cavity of part 60 2 Flexible blade of part 60 603 End portion of part 60 604 End of room 60 At Arrow B Arrow X Axis of rotation Yi Axis of rotation Y2 Axis of rotation

Claims

Tl Claims 1. Clock mechanism (1) for split-seconds chronograph, comprising: - a flyback wheel (20) arranged to rotate around an axis (X) and to be locked in rotation by a locking device (40), - a core (30) coaxial with the flyback wheel (20) and arranged to rotate around the axis (X), - an insulator (10) carried by the flyback wheel (20) and comprising: - a frame (11) arranged to be connected to the flyback wheel (20) so as to make the insulator (10) integral with the flyback wheel (20), - an input part (12, 12') of the insulator (10), - a hammer (13), arranged to cooperate with the heart (30), - at least one flexible blade (14, 14') connecting the input part (12, 12') of the insulator (10) to the hammer (13), - at least two flexible blades (15, 16) connecting the input part (12, 12') to the frame (11), wherein once the flyback wheel (20) is blocked, the input part (12, 12') of the insulator (10) is arranged to be displaced radially towards the axis (x), this displacement causing a displacement of the hammer (13) via the flexible blade (14, 14'), in order to move the hammer (13) sufficiently away from the core (30) to avoid contact between the hammer (13) and the core (30).

2. Clock mechanism (1) according to claim 1, the flexible blade (14, 14') connecting the input part (12, 12') of the insulator (10) to the hammer (13) being a flexible amplification blade (14, 14'), arranged to amplify the movement of the hammer (13) relative to the movement of the input part (12, 12').

3. Clock mechanism (1) according to one of claims 1 or 2, the input part (12, 12') comprising at least one portion at the periphery of the split-second wheel (20).

4. Clock mechanism (1) according to one of claims 1 to 3, comprising two input parts (12, 12') of the insulator, each of the input parts (12, 12') of the insulator being rigid, a flexible amplification blade (14, 14') connecting each input part to the hammer (13).

5. Clock mechanism (1) according to claim 4, two parallel flexible blades (15, 16) connecting each input part (12, 12') to the frame (11).

6. Clock mechanism (1) according to one of claims 4 or 5, comprising two hammers (13, 13') and two flexible amplification blades (14, 14'), each flexible amplification blade (14, 14') connecting one of the input parts (12, 12') of the insulator to a hammer (13, 13').

7. Clock mechanism (1) according to one of claims 1 to 3, the input part of the insulator comprising a peripheral rigid part (12) connected via two flexible blades (15) to two other rigid parts (12") of which a portion (120") is peripheral.

8. Clockwork mechanism (1) according to one of claims 1 to 7, the movement of the hammer (13) being a movement substantially by translation.

9. Clock mechanism (1) according to one of claims 1 to 3, comprising two frames (11, 11').

10. Clock mechanism (1) according to claim 9, the input part of the insulator comprising a peripheral rigid part (12) connected via two flexible blades (15) to two other thinner rigid parts (12") of the peripheral rigid part (12).

11. Clock mechanism (1) according to one of claims 1 to 10, comprising two flexible amplification blades (14, 14').

12. Clock mechanism (1) according to one of claims 1 to 3, a single flexible amplification blade (14) connecting the input part (12) of the insulator to the hammer (13), the mechanism comprising a pivot (19) for the hammer (13.

13. Clockwork mechanism (1) according to one of claims 9, 10 or 12, the movement of the hammer (13) being a movement substantially by rotation.

14. Clock mechanism (1) according to one of claims 1 to 13, the insulator (10) being made of Liga, B-titanium, silicon and / or steel.

15. Clock mechanism (1) according to one of claims 1 to 14, the insulator (10) being in one piece.

16. Clock mechanism (1) according to one of claims 1 to 15, comprising an actuating device (50), the input part (12, 12') of the insulator being arranged to be moved radially towards the axis (X) by the actuating device (50), the actuating device (50) and the input part (12, 12') comprising portions intended to come into contact and arranged so as to move the hammer (13) sufficiently away from the heart (30) to avoid contact between the hammer (13) and the heart (30), independently of the angular position of the heart (30) relative to the split-seconds wheel (20) and / or the angular position of the split-seconds wheel (20).

17. Clock mechanism (1) according to claim 16, the portions intended to come into contact having a shape substantially in an arc of a circle and having the same radius of curvature as the split-second wheel (20).

18. Clock mechanism (1) according to one of claims 16 or 17, comprising the locking device (40), the locking device (40) being at least partially superimposed on the actuating device (50).

19. A clockwork mechanism (1) according to claim 18, the blocking device (40) being arranged to come into contact with the split-seconds wheel (20) before the actuating device (50) actuates the insulator (10), in order to prevent movement of a split-seconds indicator member.

20. Clock mechanism (1) according to one of claims 18 to 19, the blocking device (40) and the actuating device (50) forming a single-piece part (60) comprising a rigid body (600) arranged to actuate the insulator (10) defining a cavity (601) housing a flexible blade (602) having a free and notched end (604), the flexible blade (604) being arranged to block the flyback wheel (20).

21. Timepiece comprising the clockwork mechanism (1) according to one of claims 1 to 20.

Images