Ring for mechanically connecting two horological components

Abstract

To provide a simple ring that can establish controlled and reliable mechanical connection between two horological components.SOLUTION: A ring 1 for mechanically connecting a first horological component to a second horological component has at least one first elastic arm 11 arranged and / or configured to press against the first horological component; and at least one second elastic arm 12 arranged and / or configured to press against the second horological component.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a ring for mechanically coupling a first watch part to a second watch part. The present invention also relates to a watch assembly, particularly a watch movement, including such a ring. The present invention also relates to a watch including such a ring or such a watch assembly.

Background Art

[0002] Many dials known from the prior art have feet. Such feet are usually provided on the back of the dial and are intended to be located in holes formed in the upper surface of the watch frame. In order to prevent separation of the dial and the frame, a screw disposed within the frame is used to press against the feet and immobilize them. This fixation has a first drawback in that it is inconvenient because it requires operating several small screws. A second drawback is that it is bulky and thus difficult to implement in small watches provided with a plurality of functions that need to occupy most of the available surface area, for example in the case of calendar small watches. The use of a skirt-type dial such as that forming the subject matter of Patent Document 1 makes it difficult to attach one or more function modifications and also a fitting lever for activation around the watch movement.

[0003] As an alternative to the solution of holding the dial feet in position using screws, Patent Document 2 discloses a coupling ring in the form of a hollow cylindrical sleeve made of a synthetic material, particularly polyamide or rubber. The outer periphery of the sleeve is driven into a dish-shaped hole formed within the watch movement blank, while the dial feet are held with a small amount of friction within the cylindrical opening of the sleeve. For this purpose, the respective diameters of the opening and the feet are given a tolerance to obtain a slight contact fit of the feet within the opening. The choice of a sleeve made of a synthetic material makes it possible to avoid any adhesion problems between the sleeve and the dial feet.

[0004] Patent Document 3 also relates to a sleeve made of a synthetic material. More specifically, this document discloses a particular shape of a sleeve having a particular feature of including an opening with an inclined side wall in order to better receive the dial feet.

[0005] Patent Document 4 discloses a coupling ring made of a plastic material such as nylon, taking the form of two elongated clips. The clips have a horseshoe shape. The clips are provided with two elastic portions that are symmetrically distributed and intended to grip the dial feet. The outside of the ring is intended to be held in place within a plate of a watch movement by fitting as precisely as possible into a countersunk hole. Thus, the ring is held in place within the movement by a fit between the diameter of the partially cylindrical outer circumference of the ring and the diameter of the countersunk hole into which the ring is intended to be received.

[0006] This arrangement generates retaining forces within the blank and / or gripping forces of the dial feet, which may turn out to be too weak and / or vary considerably due to variations in the tolerances of the elements involved in the assembly. Furthermore, the aforementioned composite materials tend to degrade, especially over time, and are particularly prone to deformation.

[0007] Patent Document 5 proposes a coupling ring solution for coupling a dial foot to a plate in the shape of a hollow metal sleeve, particularly obtained by turning. The sleeve is formed by slots provided around the sleeve and includes an elastic portion that extends perpendicular to the surface along the plate intended to receive the sleeve. In other words, the elastic portion extends parallel to the direction in which the dial foot, intended to cooperate with the sleeve, extends. When the sleeve is fitted into the plate, pressure is applied to the elastic portion in a bending manner to fit the sleeve into the hole in the plate and hold it in place. When the dial is fitted, the foot is guided into the sleeve, thereby applying pressure to the elastic portion in a bending manner, thereby ensuring proper retention of the dial on the plate. On the other hand, such a sleeve is particularly bulky in the axial direction of the dial foot. On the other hand, the elastic portion is intended to enable both the attachment of the sleeve to the plate and the attachment of the foot to the sleeve. Thus, the holding force of the dial feet is defined, at least in part, by the requirement to attach the sleeve to the plate.

[0008] A braking element is disclosed, for example, in Patent Document 6. The element includes a first elastic portion intended to press against the true of the second gear in particular in a first component. The element also includes a solid portion that allows it to integrate itself into the movement, particularly into the blank. The solid portion also includes a fork that provides relative axial holding to the blank and the chock, among other things. Mounting such a portion, and especially fixing such a portion into the blank, can sometimes prove difficult to handle, and this tendency is stronger when the component is made of a brittle or micro-machinable material. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0009] [Patent Document 1] European Patent Application Publication No. 2743783 [Patent Document 2] Swiss Patent Application Publication No. 368750 [Patent Document 3] U.S. Patent No. 4150538 [Patent Document 4] Swiss Patent Application Publication No. 590508 [Patent Document 5] Swiss Patent Application Publication No. 622661 [Patent Document 6] European Patent Application Publication No. 3396470 [Patent Document 7] European Patent Application Publication No. 3382472 [Patent Document 8] International Public Gazette 2017 / 102661 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0010] The object of the present invention is to provide a ring that can improve upon known devices from the prior art and overcome the aforementioned drawbacks. In particular, the present invention proposes a simple ring that can establish a controlled and reliable mechanical connection between two watch components. [Means for solving the problem]

[0011] According to the present invention, the mechanical coupling ring is defined in claim 1.

[0012] The ring embodiment is defined in claims 2 to 7.

[0013] According to the present invention, the clock assembly is defined in claim 8.

[0014] Embodiments of the assembly are defined in claims 9 to 14.

[0015] According to the present invention, the clock is defined in claim 15.

[0016] The attached drawings illustrate two embodiments of the clock as examples. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0017] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a view of a first embodiment of a clock. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a partial cross-sectional view of a first embodiment of an assembly. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a partial view from the top surface of a first embodiment of an assembly. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a partial view from the top surface of a first embodiment of an assembly. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a partial view from the top surface of a first embodiment of an assembly. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a partial cross-sectional view of a modified example of a first embodiment of an assembly. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a view showing a second use of a first embodiment of a mechanical coupling ring. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a view showing a second use of a first embodiment of a mechanical coupling ring. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a view showing a third use of a first embodiment of a mechanical coupling ring. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a view showing a third use of a first embodiment of a mechanical coupling ring. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a partial view of a second embodiment of a clock. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is a partial view from the top surface of a second embodiment of an assembly. [Figure 13] Figure 13 is a partial view from the top surface of a second embodiment of an assembly.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0018] An embodiment of the clock 200 will be described in detail below with reference to FIGS. 1 to 10.

[0019] The clock 200 is, for example, a small clock, and more particularly a wristwatch. The clock 200 includes an assembly 100, in particular a clock movement 100, which is intended to be housed within the clock casing or case to protect itself from the external environment. The clock movement 100 may be a mechanical movement, in particular an automatic movement, or an electronic movement, or a hybrid movement.

[0020] The assembly 100, in particular the clock movement 100, - First clock parts 2, 4, - Second clock component 3, and - Mechanical coupling ring 1, which enables the mechanical coupling of the first and second parts with defined and controlled characteristics. Includes.

[0021] In other words, the ring enables the mechanical coupling of the first watch component to the second watch component, particularly by an insert-type fixed coupling, or a sliding coupling with a controlled amount of friction, or a sliding pivot coupling with a controlled amount of friction, or a pivot coupling with a controlled amount of friction.

[0022] The ring is - At least one first elastic arm 11 positioned and / or configured to press against the first clock component 2;4, - At least one second elastic arm 12 positioned and / or configured to press against the second clock component 3, Includes.

[0023] In the first embodiment, at least one first elastic arm 11 is flexibly deformable to press against a first part 2;4, and / or at least one second elastic arm 12, different from the first, is flexibly deformable to press against a second part 3.

[0024] According to an advantageous embodiment of the ring 1 shown in Figures 1 and 2, the first component is the dial 2, in particular the dial feet 21, and the second component is the movement blank 3, in particular the plate or bridge.

[0025] According to another advantageous implementation of the ring 1, as illustrated in Figures 7 to 10, the first component is a clock gear 4, in particular a spindle or shaft 41 of the gear 4, and the second component is a movement blank 3, in particular a plate or bridge.

[0026] Figure 1 shows an exploded view of the clock assembly 100, including the dial 2 and the blank 3, where each of the dial's feet 21 is connected to the blank 3 by a ring 1. Optionally, multiple rings may be identical. Each ring is intended to be housed within a countersunk hole 31 formed in the blank 3, as can be seen more specifically in the partial cross-sectional view of Figure 2.

[0027] According to a specific modified embodiment of ring 1 shown in Figure 3, the ring has a substantially annular shape with respect to axis A1, and the plane P through which the ring extends is perpendicular to axis A1 (and parallel to the plane of the figure).

[0028] Ring 1 includes a central opening 14, which is intended to receive a first watch component. Ring 1 also includes an outer circumference 141, which is intended to be housed within a molding 31 of the second watch component 3, particularly a countersunk hole 31.

[0029] The first and second elastic arms 11 and 12 are flexible and deformable in a plane P, or in a plane parallel to or substantially parallel to plane P. In other words, the first and second elastic arms 11 and 12 preferably extend at least substantially in plane P.

[0030] The illustrated ring 1 more specifically includes three first elastic arms 11a, 11b, and 11c that are flexible. Each of these first arms is defined by at least one oval slot 13a, 13b, and 13c.

[0031] The first elastic arms 11a, 11b, and 11c extend substantially perpendicularly and radially with respect to axis A1 at a first radius R1 measured from axis A1, and at least partially define an opening 14 on axis A1, which is intended to accommodate, for example, the feet 21 of the dial 2. In other words, these first elastic arms at least partially define the internal contour of the ring 1.

[0032] The first arms 11a, 11b, and 11c are incorporated into the first rigid or substantially rigid portions 17a, 17b, and 17c at their respective first ends 111a, 111b, and 111c. The first rigid or substantially rigid portions 17a, 17b, and 17c are advantageously annular or substantially annular in shape with respect to the axis A1.

[0033] Depending on preference, the first elastic arm is evenly distributed around axis A1.

[0034] Therefore, the first elastic arm is - As a result of the pressure on its own first clock component 2;4, pressure is applied to the bending, and / or - Extending radially at a substantially right angle to axis A1, They are arranged and / or configured in such a manner.

[0035] The illustrated ring 1 is also flexible and includes six second elastic arms 12a, 12c, 12e, 12b, 12d, and 12f, each defined by oval slots 15a, 15b, 15c, 16a, 16b, and 16c, respectively.

[0036] The second elastic arm extends substantially perpendicularly and radially with respect to axis A1, with a second radius R2 measured from axis A1, and at least partially defines the outer contour 141 of ring 1. The second arms 12a, 12c, 12e and the second arms 12b, 12d, 12f may have two separate forms, as can be seen more specifically in the detailed view of Figure 4.

[0037] The second arms 12a, 12c, and 12e are incorporated into the first rigid or substantially rigid portions 17a, 17b, and 17c at their respective first ends 121a, 121c, and 121e.

[0038] The second arms 12a, 12c, and 12e include a first portion 122a that is bent and extends substantially radially with respect to axis A1, and a second portion 123a that extends substantially perpendicularly to the same axis A1. The bent oval slots 15a, 15b, and 15c include a first portion 152a that extends substantially radially with respect to axis A1, and a second portion 153a that extends substantially perpendicularly to the same axis A1.

[0039] The second arms 12b, 12d, and 12f are incorporated at their respective first ends 121b, 121d, and 121f into the second rigid or substantially rigid portions 18a, 18b, and 18c, which project from the ends 111a, 111b, and 111c of the first elastic arms 11a, 11b, and 11c, respectively. The second arms 12b, 12d, and 12f extend essentially in a right-angle radial manner. The oval slots 16a, 16b, and 16c that separate the second arms 12b, 12d, and 12f also extend essentially in a right-angle radial manner. The second rigid or substantially rigid portions 18a, 18b, 18c preferably include first portions 181a, 181b, 181c that are bent and extend substantially radially with respect to axis A1, and second portions 182a, 182b, 182c that extend substantially perpendicularly to the same axis A1 and incorporate second elastic arms 12b, 12d, 12f.

[0040] The first and second rigid parts 17a, 17b, 17c, 18a, 18b, and 18c are each essentially located in a third radius R3 that is contained between the first radius R1 and the second radius R2. These positions ensure that the force applied to the first clock component 2 by the first elastic arm is unaffected or only slightly affected by the force applied to the second clock component 3 by the second elastic arm.

[0041] Depending on preference, the second arms 12a, 12c, 12e and the second arms 12b, 12d, 12f are distributed evenly around axis A1, as shown in Figure 3. This also applies to the first and second rigid or substantially rigid parts 17a, 17b, 17c, 18a, 18b, 18c, as shown in Figure 3.

[0042] Therefore, the second elastic arm is - As a result of the pressure on its own second clock component 3, pressure is applied to the bending, and / or - Extending radially at a substantially right angle to axis A1, They are arranged and / or configured in such a manner.

[0043] The first and second rigid portions advantageously constitute the outer edge or periphery, i.e., the rigid portion, from which the first and second elastic arms extend. The first elastic arm extends from the inner surface of the outer edge. The second elastic arm extends from the outer surface of the outer edge.

[0044] One example of a method for attaching the dial 2 to the blank 3 using the ring 1 is described below.

[0045] By convention, we choose to define the horizontal plane as a plane parallel to the plate 22 of the dial 2, and the vertical direction z as a direction perpendicular to that plane and oriented upward from the blank 3 toward the dial plate 22. By convention, the feet 21 extend perpendicularly downward from the dial plate, and the dial 2 is fixed to the blank 3 by moving the feet 21 perpendicularly toward the blank 3, particularly within the ring 1. The plane P on which the ring 1 extends corresponds to, is parallel to, or substantially parallel to the horizontal plane, and axis A1 is parallel to the vertical axis.

[0046] The first step is to assemble at least one ring 1 into the countersunk hole 31 of the blank 3. This is done by moving the ring 1 vertically toward the countersunk hole 31 until the ring is accommodated within the countersunk hole. During this step, the second arms 12a, 12c, 12e, 12b, 12d, 12f are subjected to pressure to bend as a result of the fact that the dimensions of the countersunk hole, in particular its diameter, are slightly smaller than the dimensions of the outer contour 141 of the ring 1 defined by the second arms, in particular its diameter. More specifically, the radius R6 of the countersunk hole, which is circular here, is slightly smaller than the radius R4 of the circle tangent to the second end of the second arm, which at least partially defines the outer contour 141 of the ring 1 (when the second arm is in the unpressurized configuration shown in Figure 5). The pressure to bend the second arms when the ring 1 is introduced into the countersunk hole 31 may be facilitated by an entrance chamfer 311 formed at the entrance of the countersunk hole 31, for example, as shown in Figure 2. The axial holding force F2 of the ring 1 in the countersunk hole 31 is essentially determined by the elastic deformation of the second arm in the countersunk hole 31. This deformation, taking into account the stiffness of the second elastic arm, determines the contact force of the second elastic arm in the countersunk hole 31. This further determines the axial holding force F2, taking into account the coefficient of friction at the contact surface between the second arm and the countersunk hole 31.

[0047] The second step is to move at least one foot portion 21 perpendicularly toward the ring 1 until the foot portion is accommodated within the opening 14 of the ring 1. During this step, the first arms 11a, 11b, and 11c are subjected to pressure in bending due to the fact that the opening 14 is slightly smaller than the foot portion 21. More specifically, the radius R5 of the opening 14 before pressure is applied to the ring 1 (as shown in Figure 5) is slightly smaller than the radius R7 of the foot portion. The pressure in bending the first elastic arms when introducing the foot portion 21 into the ring 1 may be facilitated, for example, by an entrance chamfer 211 formed at the end of the foot portion 21. A second chamfer 212, known as an "exit" chamfer, may also be provided to immobilize the foot portion axially relative to the ring when the foot portion has at least partially passed through the ring. The axial holding force F1 of the foot portion 21 within the opening 14 is essentially determined by the elastic deformation of the first arms, under the influence of the foot portion 21. This deformation determines the contact force between the first elastic arm and the foot portion 21, taking into account the rigidity of the first elastic arm. This also, - The shape of the contact surface between the first arm and the foot portion 21, and - The coefficient of friction at the contact surface between the first arm and the foot portion 21, With this in mind, determine the axial holding force F1.

[0048] Advantageously, the axial force F1 of the foot portion 21 is less than or significantly less than the axial holding force F2 of the ring 1 in the countersunk hole 31.

[0049] Optionally, at least one foot portion 21 is also housed within an opening 32 in the blank 3, which at least partially overlaps with the countersunk hole 31. This may be, for example, a hole 32 located coaxially with respect to the countersunk hole 31. Advantageously, such an opening 32 guides the foot portion 21 into the blank 3. For this reason, optionally, the foot portion 21 is held in the blank 3 by a ring 1 and guided onto the blank 3 by the opening 32, in particular the hole 32.

[0050] The dial feet shown in Figures 1 and 2 have a cylindrical shape. Alternatively, they may have other shapes. For example, the feet 21 may take the shape of a ball, as shown in Figure 6. Such a solution has the significant advantage of circumventing the problem of the lack of perpendicularity between the feet and the dial plate. The ball may be attached to the plate 22 of the dial 2 by different methods, such as adhesive or welding. Advantageously, a recess 23 may be provided to house the ball 21 within the plate 22 and to precisely position the ball on the plate.

[0051] For example, the strength of force F1 is approximately 3N, and the strength of force F2 is approximately 10N. More generally, the ratio F1 / F2 is favorably less than 0.8, less than 0.6, or less than 0.4. Parametric optimization of the shape of ring 1 makes it possible to obtain the desired force precisely.

[0052] Thus, ring 1 functions as a retaining ring that holds the dial 2, particularly its legs 21, on the blank 3, particularly on a receiver or plate. Optionally, the dial 2 is held on the blank 3 by two legs 21, each housed within two rings 1. Optionally, the dial 2 is guided on the blank 3 by two legs 21, each housed within two openings 32, particularly with very small gaps between them. To limit the risk of static indetermination, the openings 32 provided to receive each of these legs may each have a distinct shape or format. For example, the first opening 32 may be circular or triangular, and the second opening 32 may be oval, particularly oval oriented at least substantially toward the first opening 32. The two rings 1 may or may not be identical, and the legs 21 may or may not be identical, the purpose being to optimize the positioning and / or retention of the dial 2 on the blank 3 while minimizing stress within the rings 1.

[0053] In other advantageous implementations, ring 1 may alternatively function as a braking ring, as shown in Figures 7 to 10. In such an implementation, the first clock component 4 is mounted movably relative to the second clock component 3 around axis A1, and the first clock component 4 and the second clock component 3 are braked relative to each other by ring 1, in particular with respect to translational motion along axis A1 and / or rotational motion around axis A1.

[0054] Figures 7 and 8 illustrate an application in which a ring 1, pre-fitted into a countersunk hole 31 of a blank 3, cooperates with the spindle 41 of a clock gear 4. The gear 4, in particular the spindle 41, passes through an opening 14 formed by the ring 1. More specifically, the spindle 41 is pivoted between two bearings, in particular between two jewels 5, 6, which allow it to position itself coaxially or substantially coaxially with respect to an axis A1. For example, jewel 5 is pressed into the blank 3. Alternatively, jewel 6 is supported by the gear 4 and, in particular, by a gear 7 positioned coaxially with the spindle 41.

[0055] Advantageously, gear 4 is an indicator gear, particularly an indicator gear in an indirect gear train, and especially an indicator gear mounted away from the main line in a main gear train. Gear 4 may be, for example, a seconds indicator gear. Thus, such a ring 1 can mitigate the flutter problem by generating a friction torque C1 against the spindle 41 as a result of the elastic deformation of the first elastic arms 11a, 11b, 11c that contact the spindle 41. Preferred, the friction torque C1 is about 0.5 to 5 μNm, preferably less than 10 μNm. Thus, the torque C1 is very small compared to the torque C2, preferably greater than 10 mNm, required to rotate the ring 1 around the axis A1 in the countersunk hole 31. Preferred, the ratio C1 / C2 is 10 -3 Smaller, or 5 × 10 -4 Smaller.

[0056] According to other specific variant implementations of the braking ring 1, the ring also functions as a pivot ring, thus replacing at least one bearing. For example, Figures 9 and 10 show such an implementation, in which the spindle 41 of the gear 4 pivots directly within the blank 3 via the ring 1. Thus, the ring 1 replaces the bearing 5 in Figures 7 and 8. Such embodiments are particularly advantageous for pivoting an oscillator, especially a balance wheel / hairspring assembly, as described in Patent Document 7, among other things. In this particular scenario, the first elastic arms 11a, 11b, and 11c allow for minimizing the difference between the oscillation-resistance torque of the oscillator in various clock positions.

[0057] A second embodiment of the clock 200' will be described in detail below with reference to Figures 11 to 13.

[0058] The clock 200' is, for example, a small clock, and more particularly a wristwatch. The clock 200' includes an assembly 100', in particular a clock movement 100', which is intended to be housed within the casing or case of the clock in order to protect itself from the external environment. The clock movement 100' may be a mechanical movement, in particular an automatic movement, or an electronic movement, or a hybrid movement.

[0059] The assembly 100', especially the clock movement 100', - First clock part 2, - Second clock component 3, and - Mechanical coupling ring 1' that enables the mechanical coupling of the first and second parts with particularly defined and controlled features, Includes.

[0060] In other words, ring 1' makes it possible to connect the first clock component 2 to the second clock component 3.

[0061] Ring 1' is, - At least one first elastic arm 11' positioned and / or configured to press against the first clock component 2;4, - At least one second elastic arm 12' positioned and / or configured to press against the second clock component 3, Includes.

[0062] Figure 11 shows an exploded view of a clock assembly 100' including a dial 2 and a blank 3, where at least one dial foot 21 is connected to the blank 3 by a ring 1' extending in a plane P'.

[0063] More specifically, ring 1', which can be seen in Figures 12 and 13, differs from ring 1 in that it includes at least one second elastic arm 12' that is compressible and deformable to press against the blank 3. This at least one elastic arm is contained within the outer edge 19' that defines the outer circumference of ring 1'.

[0064] More specifically, the outer edge 19' includes two thin-walled portions that constitute two elastic arms 12a' and 12b', respectively. To facilitate compressive deformation of both, each of the two arms has arc-shaped portions 121a' and 121b' whose curvature can be changed by elastic deformation when the ring 1' is assembled into the countersunk hole 31 of the blank 3.

[0065] The outer edge 19' also includes two rigid parts 19a', 19b' that support a pair of first elastic arms 11a', 11b', and 11c', 11d', respectively, which are positioned radially perpendicular to the axis A1' of the ring 1', and thus define the opening 14' and thus at least partially define the internal contour of the ring 1'. Optionally, these rigid parts 19a', 19b' are arc-shaped.

[0066] More specifically, these pair of first elastic arms are supported by connecting elements 13a', 13b' oriented axially with respect to axis A1'. Optionally, these connecting elements 13a', 13b' extend from the center of the rigid portions 19a', 19b'.

[0067] Here, ring 1' is constructed symmetrically. More specifically, the ring includes at least one plane of symmetry. In this particular case, the pair of first elastic arms 11a', 11b', and 11c', 11d' are symmetric with respect to a first plane of symmetry P1' perpendicular to plane P', and the arms 12a', 12b', in particular parts 121a', 121b', are symmetric with respect to a second plane of symmetry P2' perpendicular to plane P'. Furthermore, each of the first elastic arms of the pair 11a', 11b', and 11c', 11d', and / or the second elastic arms 12a', 12b', are also symmetric with respect to plane P2'. Advantageously, planes P1' and P2' are perpendicular. By preference, the first arms 11a', 11b', 11c', 11d' form arcs joined to a joint element at their centers. These arcs extend, for example, beyond 90° around axis A1'.

[0068] This ring configuration means that the force generated by the first elastic arm can be made completely unaffected by the force generated by the second elastic arm.

[0069] One embodiment of a method for attaching the dial 2 to the blank 3 using ring 1' is described below.

[0070] The method of attaching the dial 2 to the blank 3 using ring 1' is similar to or identical to the method described above with reference to ring 1 according to the first embodiment. When undeformed (as shown in Figure 13), ring 1', and in particular its outer edge 19', is circumscribed by a radius R4' greater than the radius R6 of the countersunk hole 31. The opening 14' itself has a radius R5' smaller than the radius R7 of the foot 21. Thus, the configuration of the countersunk hole 31 and the configuration of the foot 21 allow the ring 1', in particular the first and second elastic arms, to be deformed, thereby enabling the dial 2 to be attached to the blank 3. In this application, the force ratio F1' / F2' is less than 0.8, or less than 0.6, or less than 0.4, where F1' is the strength of the force generated by the first elastic arm on the first part 2, and F2' is the strength of the force generated by the second elastic arm on the second part 3. Parametric optimization of the shape of ring 1' makes it possible to obtain the desired force precisely.

[0071] Of course, like ring 1 of the first embodiment, ring 1' of the second embodiment may also function as a friction ring and, optionally, as a pivot ring for a watch gear. Such ring 1' is particularly advantageous when mounting bearings or thrust bearings, especially stones, to a blank, i.e., when fixing or mechanically coupling bearings or thrust bearings, especially stones, to a blank.

[0072] In all the embodiments described above, the second component is the movement blank 3, in particular a plate or bridge. However, regardless of the embodiment or modification, the second watch component 3 is - A blank, especially a plate or receiver, that is fixed to the frame 99. - Movable relative to frame 99, particularly rockers or levers, It is also possible.

[0073] This can also be applied to the first component.

[0074] In any embodiment or modification, the ring 1:1' may be made of a nickel-based alloy, particularly an alloy having a nickel content of 91% to 99.8% by weight and containing a second element selected from phosphorus, boron, bismuth, carbon, chlorine, calcium, indium, manganese, tin, or zirconium in a content of 0.2% to 6% or 0.2% to 4% by weight. The ring may be manufactured, for example, using a method for forming the subject matter of Patent Document 8.

[0075] In any embodiment or modification, the ring 1:1' may be obtained by performing microfabrication steps such as a deep reactive ion etching step (usually abbreviated as "DRIE") in the case of silicon-based components, or UV-LIGA technology in the case of nickel-based components.

[0076] In any embodiment or modification, the shapes of the first arm and the second arm are preferably different or distinct. The first arms may all have the same shape, if preferred. Alternatively, the first arms may have different shapes from each other. The second arms may all have the same shape, if preferred. Alternatively, the second arms may have different shapes from each other.

[0077] In scenarios where ring 1:1' is used to mount a dial onto a blank, it is entirely possible to press at least one ring 1:1' into the dial and to provide the blank with feet intended to be accommodated within the opening 14:14' formed by the ring 1:1' of the dial.

[0078] In any embodiment or modification, the ring preferably exhibits the same cross-sectional shape regardless of the perpendicular position of the plane of the cross-section perpendicular to or substantially perpendicular to the axis A1:A1' within the thickness of the ring along the axis A1:A1'. Alternatively, the ring may exhibit a cross-sectional shape that changes depending on the perpendicular position of the plane of the cross-section perpendicular to or substantially perpendicular to the axis A1:A1' within the thickness of the ring along the axis A1:A1'. In particular, the variation is - A change in the angular position of the cross-sectional shape relative to the axis A1:A1', depending on the vertical position of the plane of the cross-section perpendicular to the axis A1:A1', or substantially perpendicular to the axis A1:A1', within the thickness of the ring, while allowing the cross-sectional shape to remain the same, and / or - A change in the shape of the cross-section, depending on the vertical position of the plane of the cross-section perpendicular to or substantially perpendicular to the axis A1:A1', within the thickness of the ring along axis A1:A1'. That's fine.

[0079] In any embodiment or modification, the ring preferably has a thickness (measured parallel to axis A1 or A1') between 0.05 and 0.3 times, or between 0.08 and 0.2 times, the outer diameter of the smallest circle circumscribing the ring (when the ring is not pressurized).

[0080] In the embodiments and modifications described above, the first elastic arms 11;11' are positioned or configured such that they are essentially pressured to bend as a result of pressing against the first watch components 2;4, and / or extend radially perpendicular to the axis A1;A1'. However, alternatively, in any embodiment or modification, the first elastic arms 11;11' may be positioned or configured such that they are essentially pressured to compress as a result of pressing against the first watch components 2;4, and / or extend substantially radially with respect to the axis A1;A1'.

[0081] In the embodiments and modifications described above, the first elastic arms 11;11' partially define at least the internal contour of the ring 1;1', and the second elastic arms 12;12' partially define at least the external contour of the ring 1:1'. However, alternatively, in any embodiment or modification, the first elastic arms 11;11' may partially define at least the external contour of the ring 1;1', and the second elastic arms 12;12' may partially define at least the internal contour of the ring 1:1'.

[0082] In the first embodiment described above, the second elastic arm 12 was positioned or configured such that it was essentially pressured to bend as a result of the pressing on the second watch component 3, and / or extended substantially perpendicularly to the axis A1. However, alternatively, in any embodiment or modification, the second elastic arm may be positioned or configured such that it is essentially pressured to compress as a result of the pressing on the second watch component 3 (as in the second embodiment), and / or extended substantially radially to the axis A1.

[0083] In the first embodiment, depending on preference, - Ring 1 includes axis A1, - At least one first elastic arm 11 is positioned and / or configured to extend radially substantially perpendicular to axis A1, - At least one second elastic arm 12 is positioned and / or configured to extend radially substantially perpendicular to axis A1, - At least one first elastic arm 11 and at least one second elastic arm 12 extend substantially in the same direction S1 (as shown by arrow S1 in Figure 3).

[0084] Regardless of the above, as an alternative, the ring is, - Including axis A1, - At least one first elastic arm 11 is positioned and / or configured to extend radially substantially perpendicular to axis A1, - At least one second elastic arm is positioned and / or configured to extend radially substantially perpendicular to axis A1, - At least one first elastic arm 11 and at least one second elastic arm 12 extend in substantially opposite directions, i.e., - At least one first arm extends in direction S1 (as shown by arrow S1 in Figure 3), and at least one second arm extends in direction S2 (as shown by arrow S2 in Figure 3), or - At least one first arm extends in direction S2, and at least one second arm extends in direction S1. You may do so.

[0085] As a matter of preference, throughout this specification, “arm” means an elongated configuration in which the cross-sectional shape in a plane perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to axis A1;A1' has a length-to-width ratio greater than 2, greater than 3, or greater than 4, or - (Measured along the curve C of the extension of the shape along a given cross-section) for length Lo - The average width La along the cross-section (measured perpendicular to the curve C of the extension of the shape of a given cross-section) The ratio is greater than 2, greater than 3, or greater than 4.

[0086] Preferably, length Lo is measured from point A (the non-free end of the cross-sectional shape) located on the incorporation line E, as shown in Figure 3. During the elastic deformation of the arm (between the configuration in which the arm is unpressurized and the configuration under normal or habitual stress), point A or line E preferably does not shift relative to the axis of the ring, for example (when the ring is unpressurized, with radius R4 in Figure 5) the shift is less than 0.05 times or less than 0.03 times the outer diameter of the smallest circle circumscribing the ring. Preferably, line E is - Perpendicular to or substantially perpendicular to curve C, and / or - (As shown in Figure 3) radial with respect to axis A1;A1', and tangential to the closed end of the oval slot 16a, That is the case.

[0087] Optionally, point A may be located on a circle with radius R2 (as shown in Figure 3).

[0088] Preferably, the contact point of the first arm to the first component is positioned at a certain distance from point A or line E of the first arm's assembly. Further preference is that the contact point of the first arm to the first component is positioned near the free end of the first arm.

[0089] As a preference, the contact point of the second arm to the second component is positioned at a point or at a certain distance from the line of assembly of the second arm. As a further preference, the contact point of the second arm to the second component is positioned near the free end of the second arm.

[0090] Preferably, in any of the embodiments or modifications described above, the mechanically coupled ring 1 is particularly in the normal or standard use of the watch including the first and second components. - To mechanically fix the first and second parts, i.e., to achieve a complete (no-free) connection between the first and second parts. Preferably, the mechanical connection between the first and second parts is a mechanical connection with no play, or - To achieve controlled friction, sliding coupling between the first and second parts, or - To achieve a controlled friction, sliding pivot joint between the first and second parts, or - To achieve a controlled frictional pivot connection between the first and second parts, This makes it possible.

[0091] The coupling ring solution described above replaces assembly screws, among other things, which enable the mounting of the footed dial to the movement. Such a solution simplifies and improves the reliability of assembling the footed dial to the watch movement. Such a solution is also less bulky, especially in the axial or vertical direction. Such a solution also allows for fine adjustment of the force that the ring applies to the first and / or second watch components. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0092] 1 Ring 2, 4 First clock part 3. Second clock part 11. First Elastic Arm 12. Second Elastic Arm 19' outer edge 21 Foot 41 True 99 frames 100 watch movements 200 clocks

Claims

1. A ring (1; 1') for mechanically coupling a first watch part (2; 4) to a second watch part (3), said ring comprising: at least one first elastic arm (11; 11') arranged and / or configured to press against the first watch part (2; 4); at least one second elastic arm (12; 12') arranged and / or configured to press against the second watch part (3); and a ring.

2. The ring (1; 1') has an axis (A1; A1'), and the at least one first elastic arm (11; 11') is arranged and / or configured such that as a result of pressing against the first watch part (2; 4), pressure is essentially applied in bending and / or extends substantially radially at right angles to the axis (A1; A1'), or as a result of pressing against the first watch part (2; 4), pressure is essentially applied in compression and / or extends substantially radially with respect to the axis (A1; A1'), the ring (1; 1') according to claim 1.

3. The ring (1; 1') has an axis (A1; A1'), and the at least one second elastic arm (12; 12') is arranged and / or configured such that as a result of pressing against the second watch part (3), pressure is essentially applied in bending and / or extends substantially radially at right angles to the axis (A1; A1'), or as a result of pressing against the second watch part (3), pressure is essentially applied in compression and / or extends substantially radially with respect to the axis (A1; A1'), the ring (1; 1') according to claim 1.

4. The ring (1') includes an outer edge (19'), and the at least one first elastic arm (11') extends from the outer edge (19'), and / or the at least one second elastic arm (12') extends from the outer edge (19'), and / or the at least one second elastic arm (12') is included within the outer edge (19'), the ring (1') according to claim 1.

5. ​ ​ The ring (1) has an axis (A1), and the at least one first elastic arm (11) is arranged and / or configured to extend radially substantially perpendicular to the axis (A1), and the at least one second elastic arm (12) is arranged and / or configured to extend radially substantially perpendicular to the axis (A1), and the at least one first elastic arm (11) and the at least one second elastic arm (12) extend in substantially the same direction. The ring (1) according to claim 1.

6. The ring (1) has an axis (A1), and the at least one first elastic arm (11) is arranged and / or configured to extend radially substantially perpendicular to the axis (A1), and the at least one second elastic arm (12) is arranged and / or configured to extend radially substantially perpendicular to the axis (A1), and the at least one first elastic arm (11) and the at least one second elastic arm (12) extend in substantially opposite directions. The ring (1) according to claim 1.

7. The ring (1; 1') is manufactured by performing a microfabrication step. The ring (1; 1') according to claim 1.

8. The ring (1; 1') according to claim 1, a first watch part (2; 4), a second watch part (3), and a watch assembly (100; 100') including the same.

9. The first watch part (2; 4) is a dial (2), or a gear (4). The watch assembly (100; 100') according to claim 8.

10. The second watch part (3) is fixed to a frame (99). The watch assembly (100; 100') according to claim 8.

11. The first watch part (2; 4) is fixed to the second watch part by the ring (1; 1'). The watch assembly (100; 100') according to claim 8.

12. The first watch part (2; 4) is movably mounted relative to the second watch part around an axis (A1; A1'), and the first watch part (4) and the second watch part (3) are braked relative to each other using the ring (1; 1'). The watch assembly (100; 100') according to claim 8.

13. The axial force (F1) for holding the first watch part (2; 4) within the coupling ring (1; 1') is less than 0.8 times the axial force (F2) for holding the coupling ring (1; 1') within the second watch part (3). The watch assembly (100; 100') according to claim 8.

14. The torque (C1) for holding the first watch part (2; 4) within the coupling ring (1; 1') is less than 10 －３ times the torque (C2) for holding the coupling ring (1; 1') within the second watch part (3). The watch assembly (100; 100') according to claim 8.

15. A watch (200; 200') comprising the coupling ring (1; 1') according to claim 1.

16. The microfabrication step is a deep reactive ion etching step or a UV-LIGA fabrication step. The ring (1; 1') according to claim 7.

17. The first watch part (2; 4) is the foot (21) of the dial (2) or the core (41) of the gear (4). The watch assembly (100; 100') according to claim 8.

18. The second watch part (3) is movable relative to the frame (99). The watch assembly (100; 100') according to claim 8.

19. The second watch part (3) is a rocker or a lever. The watch assembly (100; 100') according to claim 18.

20. The first watch part (4) and the second watch part (3) are braked by translation along and / or rotation around the axis (A1; A1'). The watch assembly (100; 100') according to claim 12.

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