Counting timepiece device

Abstract

To provide a timepiece movement that improves timepiece devices known from the prior art, in particular, a timepiece movement having a countdown mechanism which is practical and ergonomic to use.SOLUTION: A method of operating a counting device (90), such as a countdown device, or a timepiece movement (100) or a timepiece (200) is provided, the method comprising performing a first action on a first control member (C1) causing a first timepiece function to be returned to an initial state, and then performing a second action on the first control member (C1) causing an action of adjusting or winding a second timepiece function.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a measuring timepiece device. The invention also relates to a clock movement comprising such a measuring device. The invention also relates to a timepiece comprising such a clock movement or such a measuring device. The invention finally relates to a method for operating such a measuring device or such a clock movement or such a timepiece. [Background technology]

[0002] Various prior art documents disclose solutions for activating multiple separate functions using the same control means, such as a chronograph push button, but all of the solutions require additional actions and / or interfaces to allow the control means to be pre-configured to act on one or the other of the functions.

[0003] Patent document 1 discloses a programmable countdown mechanism with a measuring device. The design includes a first control means for returning the countdown to a start position, a second "start / stop" control means, a control stem, and an additional control member. The countdown is programmable by the control stem as long as the control means for returning to the start position is maintained in a depressed position by the additional control member.

[0004] Patent Document 2 discloses a chronograph movement including two conventional chronograph control means and a correction mechanism provided with a control stem. When the control stem is in a position different from the position corresponding to the first position, one of the two chronograph control means can correct a time-related variable rather than act on the chronograph. In other words, this solution allows the same control means to start the chronograph in the first position of the control stem and to correct another time-related variable in another position of the control stem different from the first position.

[0005] The solution proposed in patent document 3 discloses a (three-stroke) single pushbutton chronograph provided with a "flyback" function. The chronograph and the "flyback" are controlled by a single control means in the form of a stem that can be activated by translational and rotational movements. The stem serves, among other things, as a pushbutton for controlling the chronograph and the "flyback". Rotation of the stem makes it possible to switch the pushbutton function to control, among other things, either the chronograph or the "flyback". [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] European Patent Application Publication No. 1777598 [Patent Document 2] European Patent Application Publication No. 2453322 [Patent Document 3] European Patent Application Publication No. 2955590 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0007] The object of the present invention is to provide a clock movement that improves on the timepieces known from the prior art. In particular, the present invention proposes a clock movement with a countdown mechanism that is practical and ergonomic to use.

[0008] According to the invention, a method is defined in claim 1.

[0009] Method embodiments are defined in claims 2 to 11.

[0010] According to the invention, the measuring device or clock movement is defined in claim 12.

[0011] Embodiments of the measuring device or clock movement are defined in claims 13 and 14.

[0012] According to the invention, the watch is defined in claim 15.

[0013] The accompanying drawings show, by way of example, an embodiment of a timepiece according to the invention. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0014] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram of an embodiment of a timepiece according to the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating the operation of an embodiment of a watch. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a programmable portion. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram of an embodiment of the watch in a countdown start configuration. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram of an embodiment of a watch in a countdown configuration. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram of an embodiment of the watch in a stop countdown configuration. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram of an embodiment of a watch in a countdown reset configuration or state. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a diagram of an embodiment of a watch in a countdown reset configuration or state. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram of an embodiment of the watch in a countdown program configuration with the adjustment action being exerted. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram of an embodiment of the watch in another countdown program configuration, with no adjustment action being applied. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a diagram of an embodiment of the watch in an end of countdown configuration. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a diagram of an embodiment of a watch in a countdown correction configuration. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0015] An embodiment of a timepiece 200 will be described in detail below with reference to Figures 1 to 12. The timepiece 200 is, for example, a miniature timepiece, in particular a wristwatch. The timepiece 200 includes a timepiece movement 100, which is intended to be mounted in a timepiece casing or case to protect it from the external environment. The timepiece movement 100 may be a mechanical movement, in particular an automatic movement, or a hybrid movement, or an electronic movement.

[0016] In the illustrated embodiment, the clock movement is a mechanical clock movement. The clock movement includes a control stem 10, which, among other things, allows the time of the clock movement to be set. The clock movement is provided with a measuring device 90. The measuring device performs a first timekeeping function, for example, measuring time and displaying the measured time, more specifically counting down time and displaying the counted down time. Consequently, the measuring device is, for example, of the type that counts down a predetermined, programmable or adjustable elapsed time. The measuring device may be a module intended to be fitted to a basic movement or a device that is included within the basic movement. The measuring device includes a control device provided with first and second control members C1, C2, which are, among other things, push buttons. These control members (or control means) are, for example, located at 4 o'clock and 2 o'clock, respectively.

[0017] The measuring device further includes two display members. a first seconds moving part 22, for example fixed to the seconds hand 22a, and a second minute moving part 44, for example fixed to the minute hand 44a. For example, the first and second moving parts are arranged in the center of the timepiece movement. The second hand 22a can interact with a first scale ring, in particular a scale ring extending over 360° that allows for a display over 60 seconds. The minute hand 44a can interact with a second scale ring, in particular a scale ring extending over approximately 300° that allows for a "retrograde" type display, for example showing a maximum duration of 10 minutes.

[0018] The second control means C2 (of the start / stop type) make it possible to control the starting and stopping of the measuring device. To this end, the second control means C2 make it possible to actuate a lever 20 which makes it possible to actuate a control cam 21, in particular a two-cycle cylindrical gear 21, so that each actuation of the second control means C2 makes it possible to configure an alternately started or stopped measuring device. More specifically, the control cam 21 respectively - a first "run" or starting position P1; - a second "stop" or non-start position P2; It can be placed in.

[0019] The first control means C1 allows the return of the moving parts 22, 44 to their starting position, in particular the return or resetting of the first and second measuring moving parts to their initial position, when the measuring device is stopped. The moving parts and the hands fixed thereto are thus returned to their initial indicating state. In this embodiment, the first control means C1 for returning to the starting position also allows the function of correcting the first and second measuring moving parts, in particular of the "set to nearest minute" type (explained below), when the measuring device is running or activated.

[0020] Further advantageously, after the movable parts 22, 44 have been returned to their respective starting or initial positions, it is possible to adjust the measurement period by successive actions on the first control means C1, in particular by successively pressing the first control means C1.

[0021] The sequence of the construction and function of the clock movement according to the various operations carried out by the control device is illustrated in FIG.

[0022] In Figure 2, - the notation C1 illustrates the action on the first control means C1, - the notation C2 illustrates the action on the second control means C2, - the designation P1 illustrates the state in which the control cam 21 is in the configuration in which the measuring device is in operation; - the designation P2 illustrates the state in which the control cam 21 is in the configuration in which the control device is stopped; - The notation E1 illustrates the state in which the measuring device, more specifically the first clock function, is in the operational or activated configuration (activated state); - The notation E2 illustrates the state in which the measuring device, more specifically the first clock function, is in a stopped or inactive configuration (inactive state); - the notation E3 illustrates the state in which the measuring device, more specifically the first clock function, is in the return-to-start configuration or reset configuration (reset state); - the designation F1 illustrates a timekeeping device, more particularly a function for correcting the first timepiece function, in particular of the "setting to the nearest minute" type; and - The F2 designation illustrates the function of adjusting or programming the measuring device.

[0023] These various states and functions are described below.

[0024] <"Set to nearest minute" type correction function F1>

[0025] The correction function F1 is implemented by activating the first control means C1 when the measuring device is in the operating configuration E1.

[0026] This function allows the seconds moving part 22 and its hand 22a to be returned, preferably instantaneously, to their starting position ("0") while the measuring device is in the operating configuration E1. The minute moving part 44 and its hand 44a do not return to their starting position by themselves, but are returned to the nearest complete minute of the time midway through the measurement. For example, if there are 2 minutes and 18 seconds remaining in the countdown, an action on the first control means C1 can reposition the hands of the measuring device "on the fly" to indicate 2 minutes and 0 seconds. For example, if there are 2 minutes and 48 seconds remaining in the countdown, an action on the first control means C1 can reposition the hands of the measuring device "on the fly" to indicate 3 minutes and 0 seconds. Like the "flyback" function, this "set to nearest minute" function does not stop either the measuring part or the hands. The hands resume measuring time as soon as they are reset, and optionally as soon as the first control means C1 is released. As a result, as mentioned above, the first timepiece function is a chronograph or timing function, in particular a countdown function, which displays a first information, in particular a minute information, and a second information, in particular a seconds information. Furthermore, an action, in particular a pressing action, on the first control means C1 while the measuring device is in the activated state causes the display of the second information to return to its initial position, in particular to be reset to zero, and sets the display of the first information to the nearest complete information.

[0027] Advantageously, this feature allows, for example, the timing devices and reference countdowns to be synchronized "on the fly" if necessary, for example before or at the start of a regatta.

[0028] This function F1 is advantageous but not essential for the operation of the measuring device, so that the first control means C1 may simply be inactive in the operating configuration E1 of the measuring device.

[0029] <Adjustment function F2>

[0030] The adjustment or programming function F2 is made possible by activating the first control means C1 when the measuring device is in the configuration E3 returning to the starting position, i.e. when the measuring device has been reset, i.e. when the measuring device displays the initial measuring time.

[0031] This function makes it possible to program or adjust the number of minutes that the measuring device should count down. In particular, in configuration E3, each action on the first control means C1 makes it possible to move the minute moving part 44 through a predetermined pitch, and thus to configure the number of minutes that should be counted down by the hand 44a. For example, an action on the first control means C1 makes it possible to change from a configuration that counts down 1 minute to a configuration that counts down 2 minutes, etc. In the described embodiment, when the measuring device is in a configuration that counts down 10 minutes, an action on the first control means C1 will cause the minute hand 44a to be configured to count down 0 minutes.

[0032] <Operation configuration E1>

[0033] In this configuration, the measuring device counts down the programmed measuring period. The control cam 21 is in the operating position P1.

[0034] In this configuration, - Action on the first control means C1 to return to the starting position makes it possible to activate the "set to nearest minute" function F1. The measuring device remains in the operating configuration E1. - Acting on the second "start / stop" control means C2 makes it possible to move the control cam 21 from the operating position P1 to the stop position P2, changing the configuration of the measuring device from the operating configuration E1 to the stop configuration E2.

[0035] <Stop configuration E2>

[0036] In this configuration, the measuring device is stopped: the control cam 21 is in the stop position P2.

[0037] In this configuration, - acting on the second "start / stop" control means C2 makes it possible to move the control cam 21 from the stop position P2 to the operating position P1, changing the configuration of the measuring device from the stop configuration E2 to the operating configuration E1; - Acting on the first control means C1 to return to the starting position makes it possible to change from the stop configuration E2 to the preprogrammed return to starting position configuration E3.

[0038] <Configuration E3: Return to starting position>

[0039] In this configuration, the measuring device is in a pre-programmed starting position. The position of the control cam 21 remains unchanged relative to the stop configuration E2. Therefore, the measuring device remains stopped or deactivated in this configuration E3. In other words, in this configuration E3, the measuring device is deactivated and returned to its initial position.

[0040] In this configuration, - acting on the second "start / stop" control means C2 makes it possible to move the control cam 21 from the stop position P2 to the operating position P1 and changes the configuration of the measuring device from the return to start configuration E3 to the operating configuration E1. Action on the first control means C1 makes it possible to activate an adjustment or program function F2 and thus possibly correct the starting position without correcting the configuration E3.

[0041] The operation of the measuring device is described below.

[0042] When the measuring device is in the operating configuration E1, the first, seconds moving part 22 is driven by the gear train of the basic movement (not shown) via a coupling (not shown). When measurement is stopped, the seconds moving part 22 and its seconds hand 22a are decoupled from the gear train by the coupling and are maintained in this position, for example by means of friction, so as to display the measured time, in particular the counted-down time. Advantageously, the seconds moving part 22 is provided with a heart-shaped part (not shown) for returning it to its starting or initial position.

[0043] The second minute moving part 44 forms part of the gear train measuring the minutes, thereby enabling a kinematic connection with the first second moving part 22 via the one-way connecting moving part 23. The gear train for measuring the minutes further comprises (as shown in FIG. 1): - 40 programmable parts, - a moving part 41 for returning to the starting position or resetting the moving part, - a cam moving part 42, and - incrementally movable part 45, Includes:

[0044] The one-way connecting moving part 23 makes it possible to decouple the minute wheel 44 and the seconds wheel 22 under certain conditions (in particular the return of the timing device to its starting position or "setting to the nearest minute"). The moving part 23, which can be seen more specifically in Figure 3, is provided with a gear 23a fixed to a star wheel 23b. The gear 23a is kinematically connected to the seconds moving part 22. The star wheel 23b is intended to interact with a pawl 23c which provides a one-way connection that performs the decoupling function. The pawl 23c is joined to a flange 23d which rotates in conjunction with the gear 40a and star wheel 40b of the program moving part 40.

[0045] As a result, the one-way connecting movable part 23 allows independent repositioning of the needles 22a and 44a of the movable parts 22 and 44, respectively, particularly when returning to the starting position.

[0046] Gear 40a is connected to a return mover 41. More specifically, gear 40a meshes with gear 41a, which rotates in conjunction with cam 41b. The function of mover 41 is to enable return of the return mover 44 to the start position under the action of return hammer 32, which will be explained in more detail later.

[0047] The star wheel 40b of the programmable movement 40, like the gear 40a, can be driven by the one-way connection movement 23. The star wheel 40b is intended to interact with a pawl 40c arranged on a gear 40d, which is connected to the minute movement 44 via a cam movement 42.

[0048] Advantageously, the programmable element 40 allows the starting position of the minute moving element 44 to be programmed before the countdown begins. The shape of the star wheel 40b and the shape of the pawl 40c allow the gear 40a and gear 40d, which are connected to the moving element 41 for returning to the starting position and the minute moving element 44, respectively, to take on a number of relative angular positions. Each of these positions corresponds to a programmable countdown duration, which may range from 0 to 10 minutes, for example, and which may take on any integer value between 0 and 10.

[0049] As a result, when the measuring device is in the return to start position configuration E3, it is possible to correct the relative angular position of the minute movable part 44 with respect to the relative angular position of the movable part 41 for returning to the start position, and thus to program the duration of the countdown.

[0050] The cam moving part 42 includes a gear 42a arranged on the contact surface between the gear 40d and the minute moving part 44. The gear 42a is fixed to a snail-shaped cam 42b. A lever 43, which is elastically returned by an elastic return element 43a, is preferably provided with a runner 43b that interacts with the cam 42b. This interaction enables the moving part 42 to prevent the rotation of the minute moving part 44 when the countdown reaches the time to be counted down. In other words, in the operating configuration E1, when the programmed duration has been counted down, the hand 44a fixed to the minute moving part is at 0 minutes and remains in this position until the measuring device returns to the configuration E3, in which it returns to the starting position.

[0051] It should be noted that the rotation of the minute moving part 44 is now blocked, while the seconds moving part 22 continues to rotate. It is the one-way connecting moving part 23 that allows the decoupling between the two moving parts.

[0052] The incremental moving part 45 is provided with a star wheel 45b fixed to a toothed wheel 45a which engages with the minute moving part 44. The star wheel 45b is actuatable by the control device so that the user can correct the relative angular position of the star wheel 40b and the relative angular position of the pawl 40c of the program moving part 40 and the starting position of the hand 44a of the minute moving part 44. In this way, the program function F2 is implemented by said moving part 45.

[0053] The control device provides a sequence for the function of programming the countdown that is undoubtedly simple and intuitive for the user due to the use of the first control means C1 to return to the starting position. In addition to the first and second control means, the control device mainly comprises: - lever 20, - control cam 21, - control lever 30, - incremental claw 31, - Hammer 32 to return to the starting position or reset the hammer, and - locking lever 33, Includes:

[0054] The first control means C1 makes it possible to activate a lever 30, which is joined to the frame 50 of the measuring device or clock movement and which is pivoted about an axis A30. The lever 30 is elastically returned to its initial position by an element not shown. A pawl 31 provided with a beak 31c is arranged at a first end of the lever 30. The pawl 31 is pivotable relative to the lever 30 about the axis A31. The beak 31c is capable of interacting with a tooth row 45c of a star wheel 45b of the incremental movement 45 when the measuring device is in a configuration E3 returning to the starting position. The pawl 31 is elastically returned by an elastic return element 31a, more particularly so that it tends to interact with the star wheel 45b.

[0055] At the second end of the lever 30, a functional part 30b is able to interact with a first portion 32b of the hammer 32 when the measuring device is in the rest configuration E2.

[0056] The hammer 32 is pivotally mounted relative to the frame 50 about an axis A32. One end of the hammer 32 is intended to interact with the cam 41b of the moving part 41, preferably via a pivoting runner 32d. The elastic return element 32a interacts with the hammer 32 so as to exert a torque on the runner 32d tending to move the hammer 32 away from the range of the cam 41b.

[0057] The hammer 32 includes a second portion 32c that can interact with the control cam 21 when the measuring device is in the running configuration E1 or the stop configuration E2. Furthermore, the portion 32c can interact with a portion 33c of the locking lever 33 when the measuring device is in the return-to-start configuration E3. In the latter configuration, the hammer 32 is locked by the lever 33 in a recess in the cam 41b.

[0058] The lever 33 is pivotally mounted relative to the frame 50 about an axis A33. Depending on the configuration of the measuring device, its angular position relative to the frame 50 is defined by the interaction of the part 32c of the hammer 32 with the part 33c and by the interaction of the control cam 21 with another part 33d of the lever 33.

[0059] The lever 33 is also provided with a portion 33b intended to interact with the functional part 31b of the pawl 31, in order to position the beak 31c outside the range of the tooth row 45c of the incremental movement 45, when the measuring device is not in the configuration E3 back to the starting position. In other words, without this latter configuration, the pawl 31 is inactive.

[0060] The elastic return element 33 a makes it possible to return the lever 33 elastically so that the portion 33 d tends to interact with the control cam 21 and the pawl 31 tends to interact with the incremental movement 45 .

[0061] The lever 33 then performs two functions depending on the configuration of the measuring device: decoupling the pawl 31 from the incremental movement 45 in the running and stopping configurations E1, E2, and locking the hammer 32 in the return to start position configuration E3.

[0062] Said lever 33 advantageously makes it possible to modify the function of the control means C1 between configurations E1, E2 and E3.

[0063] This is because in the run and stop configurations E1, E2, the lever 33 keeps the pawl 31 out of the range of incremental movement and allows the hammer 32 to interact with the control cam 21. Here, a countdown cannot be programmed. The lever 30 allows the return to the start position when the measuring device is in configuration E2 and the "set to nearest minute" function F1 when the measuring device is in configuration E1.

[0064] In configuration E3, lever 33 locks hammer 32 in a recess in cam 41b, releasing pawl 31 so that each action on first control means C1 can activate program function F2.

[0065] 4 illustrates the metering device in operating configuration E1, particularly at the beginning of any activation of the device, in other words, the metering device starts counting down a pre-programmed countdown duration.

[0066] The control cam 21 is placed in the operating position P1 by the lever 20. In this position, the control cam 21 positions the lever 33 so as to keep the pawl 31 out of the range of the incremental movement 45 and the functional part 30b of the lever 30 out of the range of the hammer 32.

[0067] More specifically, the portion 33d of the lever 33 bears weight against the post of the control cam 21. The portion 33b of said lever, by means of a pin arranged in its functional part 31b, holds the pawl 31 so that its beak 31c is outside the range of the tooth row 45c of the star wheel 45b of the incremental movement 45. The hammer 32, which is pushed back by the elastic return element 32a, - so that the portion 32c is located between the two posts of the control cam 21; and - so that the portion 32b is outside the functional part 30b of the lever 30; The cam 41b of the movable part 41 can be completely released to return it to the starting position.

[0068] In this configuration, the lever 30 cannot act on the hammer 32 or the incremental movement 45 .

[0069] Figure 5 illustrates the position of the measuring device when the programmed time duration is counted down, in other words, in the operating configuration E1 of the measuring device. The configuration of the measuring device is unchanged compared to Figure 4. Compared to Figure 4, only the moving parts 22 and 44 and their respective hands 22a, 44a are moved. In particular, the seconds moving part 22 is driven by a gear train. The minutes moving part 44 is also driven by a gear train, but via the one-way connecting moving part 23 as described above.

[0070] By activating the second control means C2 in the operating configuration E1, the measuring device is changed to the stopped configuration E2. In this configuration, the control cam 21 is placed in the stopped position P2 by the lever 20 of the control means C2. This configuration is illustrated in Figure 6. The countdown of the duration is stopped after the seconds moving part 22 is decoupled (not shown). As a result, all gear trains measuring the minutes are also stopped.

[0071] In this position P2, the portion 32c of the hammer 32 interacts with one of the posts of the control cam 21 in order to position the hammer 32 so that it can be actuated by the lever 30 of the control means C1. More specifically, in this case the portion 32b of the hammer is positioned opposite a pin arranged in the functional part 30b of the lever 30.

[0072] In addition, portion 32c makes it possible to maintain lever 33 by means of its portion 33c in a position that places pawl 31 outside the range of incremental movement 45, as in configuration E1.

[0073] Figure 7 illustrates the device in a configuration E3 from the stop configuration E2, returning to the start position following activation of the control means C1. In this figure, the first control means C1 remains depressed. This allows the return to the start position to better illustrate the positions of the various elements of the control device. Of course, the lever 30 returns to its initial position when the control means C1 is released.

[0074] The second and minute moving parts 22, 44 are repositioned to their respective starting or initial positions.

[0075] Assuming this, in stop configuration E2, part 32b of hammer 32 is positioned opposite functional part 30b of lever 30, and action on lever 30 makes it possible to drive hammer 32 until it reaches the recess of snail cam 41b. Movement 41 is thus in the starting position, driving together minute mover 44 via program mover 40 and cam mover 42. On returning to the starting position, the gear train measuring the minutes is advantageously decoupled from seconds mover 22 by one-way connection mover 23, as described above.

[0076] When the hammer 32 reaches the recess of the cam 41b, the lever 33 is no longer held by the part 32c of the hammer and is exposed to the tension of its elastic return element 33a, which pivots to release the pawl 31 so that it can interact with the incremental moving part 45. More specifically, the part 33d of the lever is located between two pillars of the control cam 21. The part 33b releases the functional part 31b of the pawl 31, which is then pushed back by the elastic return element 31a so that its beak 31c can interact with the star wheel 45b of the moving part 45.

[0077] It should be noted that to avoid any false activation due to contact between the beak 31c and the star wheel 45b when returning to the starting position, the pawl 31 is temporarily held by a stop 34 provided on the frame 50. However, said stop is not essential for the operation of the control device.

[0078] Furthermore, the lever 33 is positioned between the two posts of the control cam. In this position, the part 33c makes it possible to maintain the hammer 32 in the recess of the cam 41b by means of its part 32c. This retention advantageously separates the lever 30 from the hammer 32 in order to maintain the blocking of the rotation of the movable part 41 in a predetermined position, thus making it possible to program the countdown duration. This will be explained in more detail below.

[0079] In a variant, the part 33c can hold the hammer 32 with its part 32c with a small amount of play, so that when the first control means C1 is released, a small amount of play is created between the hammer 32 and the recess of the cam 41b, but the rotation of the movable part 41 remains blocked with a very small amount of play.

[0080] 8 shows the measuring device in a configuration E3 back to the starting position, i.e. at rest in the reset position. In relation to the previous figure, the first control means C1 is released. This configuration can only be reached after the device has been in the stop configuration E2.

[0081] Once the return to start position configuration E3 has been reached and the first control means C1 is released, successive actions on the same first control means C1 make it possible to program the countdown duration.

[0082] In fact, it should be noted that the functional part 30b is outside the range of the hammer 32, and actions on the control means C1 have no effect on the hammer.

[0083] Conversely, the beak 31c of the pawl 31 engages with the tooth row 45c of the star wheel 45b, as shown in Figure 8. Each action on the control means C1 thus makes it possible to pivot the lever 30 together with the pawl 31 so as to advance the star wheel 45b by one pitch. Such a programmed action is, for example, illustrated in Figure 9.

[0084] When the moving part 45 is incremented by one pitch, the moving part 45 also drives the minute moving part 44, which moves to the next minute and also drives the cam moving part 42 and the gear 40d of the program moving part 40. The star wheel 40b, which is kinematically connected to the gear 40a and the return-to-start moving part 41, is advantageously prevented from rotating by the interaction of the hammer 32 and the return-to-start moving part 41. This allows the pawl 40c and the gear 40d to be positioned in a new angular position with respect to the star wheel 40b. The minute moving part 44 can thus assume a new relative angular position with respect to the start position of the moving part 41. This is how a new countdown duration is programmed.

[0085] FIG. 10 illustrates the return of the lever 30 to its initial position after the above-described action.

[0086] Once configuration E3 is reached, the first control means C1 can be activated indefinitely by successive presses to perform one or more actions of adjusting the function. The minute moving part 44 can thus go through the entire programmable range, in this case from 0 to 10 minutes, indefinitely. This change is particularly preferably continuous and / or incremental, with each step being one unit. The sequence can be 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 0, 1, 2, etc. The adjusting action is thus incremental and / or continuous.

[0087] To start a new countdown, it is sufficient to activate the second control means C2, which makes it possible to reposition the control cam in the operating position P1 and return the measuring device to the operating configuration E1 described above and illustrated in FIG. 4.

[0088] 11 shows the measuring device in operating configuration E1 at the end of the programmed countdown. The minute moving part 44 is stopped at 0 minutes, while the seconds moving part 22 continues to rotate. The moving part is blocked, more specifically by the runner 43b which penetrates into the recess of the snail cam 42b of the moving part 42. The gear train measuring the minutes is therefore decoupled from the seconds moving part 22 by the one-way connecting moving part 23, as described above.

[0089] 12 illustrates the activation of the first control means C1 for returning to the starting position when the measuring device is in the operating configuration E1. As mentioned above, in this configuration, the lever 30 does not affect the return-to-start position movable part 41 and the incremental movable part 45. However, like a "flyback" function, the action on a dedicated heart-shaped part for returning to the starting position (heart-shaped part not shown) makes it possible to position the seconds movable part 22 and hand 22a instantly to the starting position. Since the minute movable part 44 is kinematically connected to the seconds movable part 22, the return of the seconds movable part 22 to the starting position repositions the minute movable part 44 and hand 44a to the nearest minute of the countdown.

[0090] The described embodiment is based on a mechanism with two push buttons provided with a two-stroke control cam (a cylindrical gear with twice the number of teeth as the number of posts). Alternatively, the cylindrical gear may be replaced by a device with one or more cams or shuttles. More generally, any other two-component and / or bistable device may be used.

[0091] Regardless of the embodiment or modification, the measuring device may be a chronograph device.

[0092] Regardless of the embodiment or variant, the adjustment ensured by the first control means C1 may also perform other functions, such as adjusting the duration of a decompression dive for a diver. The first control means C1 may also perform other functions other than those forming part of the measuring device.

[0093] In particular, regardless of the embodiment or variant, the first control means C1 can be used for any adjustment of the miniature timepiece that can be performed using a push button, for example for incremental adjustment of the calendar or of jumping hours, etc. The first control means C1 can also be used for winding an energy storage device, for example a barrel intended for a chronograph gear train, an alarm barrel, etc.

[0094] It is therefore understood that it is also possible for the incremental moving part not to form part of the measuring device but to be connected, for a second timepiece function, to a kinematic chain not included in the measuring device.

[0095] For example, a first action on the first control means C1 results in returning the display to its initial state or resetting the countdown, and then a second action on the at least one first control means C1 results in winding of an alarm barrel which is intended to be unwound at the end of the countdown to cause the alarm mechanism to sound.

[0096] From the above description, one embodiment of a method for operating the measuring device 90 or the clock movement 100 or the clock 200 can be seen as follows: - a first action on the first control means C1 causing the first clock function to return to the initial state of display or to be reset, and thereafter a second action on the first control means C1, which causes an action to adjust the second timepiece function, said action assuming that the first timepiece function has been returned to its initial state, i.e. that the first function is in its initial position and is stopped; It is clear that this includes:

[0097] In the embodiment described in detail, the first action is the user first pressing the first control C1, in particular the push button C1, and / or the second action is the user second pressing the first control C1, in particular the push button C1. The action of pressing the push button preferably comprises a pressing phase followed by a releasing phase in which the push button is returned to its initial rest position. In the releasing phase, the push button may not have any effect on the measuring device, i.e. the push button may not exert any mechanical action that would change the state of parts of the measuring device.

[0098] Preferably, between the first and second actions, it is not necessary to exert any action on the measuring device in order for the second action to have a different result from the first action, i.e. it is not necessary to exert any action to change the configuration or state of the measuring device. Also preferably, between the first and second actions, it is not necessary to exert any action on any of the timepiece's user interfaces (push-buttons, crown, stem, rotating bezel, lever, bolt, trigger element, extraction element, knurling roller) in order for the second action to have a different result from the first action. Preferably, it is not necessary to exert any action on the second control means C2 between the first and second actions.

[0099] In other words, the user does not have to exert any action on the timepiece to change the function of the first control means C1 between the first action and the second action.

[0100] For this reason, the method is advantageously carried out without the user exerting any action on the watch, in particular without the user exerting any action on the user interface of the watch, between the first and second actions.

[0101] Advantageously, the first and second timepiece functions are identical timepiece functions.More advantageously, the first function is a chronograph or timekeeping function, in particular a countdown function.

[0102] Preferably, any second action on the first control means C1 while the first timepiece function is in the initial state causes an action of adjusting the second timepiece function.

[0103] Advantageously, a third action, in particular a third pressing action, on the second control means C2 causes a series of activations and deactivations of the measuring device and thus of the first timepiece function.

[0104] Preferably, the measurement device is configured such that the first action on the first control means C1 is - turning of the control lever 30, - the action of the hammer 32 on the moving part 41, in particular the pivoting of the hammer 30, to return it to its starting position, caused by the pivoting of the control lever; - the locking lever 33 - locking the hammer in a position where it interacts with the moving part 41 to return it to the starting position; and -- release the incremental claw 31, release of the locking lever 33 by the hammer 32 so that it is placed in position (i) (illustrated in Figure 7); Arranged and / or configured to cause

[0105] Preferably, the measurement device is configured such that the second action on the first control means C1 is - turning of the control lever 30, - movement of the incremental pawl 31 caused by the control lever, such that the incremental pawl 31 interacts with the incremental moving part 45 in order to rotate the incremental moving part by one pitch; Arranged and / or configured to cause

[0106] Preferably, the measurement device is configured such that when the first clock function is in the initial or reset state, the third action on the second control means C2 is: - rotation of the control cam 21, in particular the cylindrical gear 21, through one pitch, - the rotation of the control cam 21 causes the pivoting of the locking lever 33 so that it is placed in position (ii) (illustrated in FIG. 4) which releases the hammer 32 and deactivates the incremental pawl 31; - the release of the hammer 32 causes it to return to a position where it does not interact with the moving parts to return to the starting position; Arranged and / or configured to cause

[0107] The third action performed in the series causes the first timepiece function to be activated and deactivated in succession.

[0108] As a result of the above, the lever 30 - having a receiving part for the action of the first control means C1, - making it possible to pivot the incremental claw 31, - has a portion 30b intended to act on a hammer 32, and - has a part intended to act directly or indirectly on the heart-shaped part to return the first movable part 22 to its initial state, The method is arranged and / or configured so that:

[0109] As a result of the above, the hammer 32 - has a part 32d intended to act on the cam 41b of the mobile part 41 to return it to its starting position, - has a portion 32b intended to be acted upon by the lever 30, - the lever 30 has a portion 32c intended to interact with the control cam 21 in order to place or not place the hammer in a position in which it can act on the hammer; - has a portion 32c intended to interact with a locking cam 33 to lock the hammer 32 in a position acting on the cam 41b of the mobile part 41 to return it to its starting position; and - has a portion intended to be acted upon by the elastic return element 32a, The method is arranged and / or configured so that:

[0110] As a result of the above, the locking lever 33 is - has a portion 33d intended to interact with the control cam 21 to position the locking lever 33, - has a part 33c intended to interact with the hammer 32 so as to lock it in a position acting, in particular, on the cam 41b of the mobile part 41 for returning it to the starting position; and - has a portion 33b intended to interact with the incremental pawl 31 in order to prevent the incremental pawl 31 from acting on the incremental moving part 45; The method is arranged and / or configured so that:

[0111] In the described embodiment, the second action on the first control means C1 causes an action to adjust the second timepiece function. Alternatively, the second action on the first control means C1 causes an action to adjust the second timepiece function. - the winding action of a second watch function, or - performing a second clock function (if the second clock function is different from the first clock function); may cause.

[0112] The winding action causes deformation of the mainspring, the energy of which is ultimately used to perform a second timepiece function.

[0113] The proposed solution allows the countdown to be programmed using a return to start or reset control.

[0114] Advantageously, these solutions provide a specific sequence for the control means that allows programming the measuring device after the display of the measuring device has been returned to a starting position or reset. More specifically, once the measuring device has been reset, the control means allows incremental programming of the number of minutes to be counted down for the next countdown, without the user having to activate other control or interface means to activate the programming function.

[0115] These solutions therefore propose intuitive sequences that significantly simplify the handling required to program measuring devices, such as countdown devices. In addition, the solutions make it possible to propose devices that do not require additional control means.

[0116] Unless otherwise indicated, ordinal adjectives ("first," "second," "third," etc.) used herein have a distinguishing, rather than temporal, meaning. [Explanation of symbols]

[0117] 21 Control Cam 30 Control Lever 31 incremental claws 32 Hammer 33 Locking lever 41 Moving parts 45 incremental moving parts 90 Measuring Equipment 100 clock movements 200 watches C1 First control member C2 Second control member

Claims

1. A method for operating a measuring device (90), The first action is performed on the first control member (C1) to cause it to return to the initial state of the first clock function, and thereafter, The second action is performed on the first control member (C1) to cause adjustment or winding of the second clock function, Methods that include...

2. The first clock function and the second clock function are single clock functions. The method according to claim 1.

3. The first function is a timekeeping function or a chronograph function. The method according to claim 1.

4. The adjustment or winding action is incremental and / or continuous. The method according to claim 1.

5. Any second action on the first control member (C1) while the first clock function is returned to its initial state will cause the adjustment or winding action of the second clock function. The method according to claim 1.

6. The first action is a pressing action on the first control member (C1), and / or the second action is a pressing action on the first control member (C1), The method according to claim 1.

7. The third action on the second control member (C2) causes the continuous activation and deactivation of the first clock function. The method according to claim 1.

8. The first clock function is a chronograph function that displays first information and second information, and the fourth action on the first control member (C1) while the first clock function is activated causes the display of the second information to return to its initial state and the display of the first information to the nearest complete information. The method according to claim 1.

9. The aforementioned first action is, - Rotation of the control lever (30), - The rotation of the control lever causes the hammer (32) to act on the movable part (41) to return it to the starting position, - The release of the locking lever (33) by the hammer (32) is such that the locking lever (33) is positioned (i) to lock the hammer (32) at the position where the hammer (32) interacts with the movable part (41) for returning to the starting position and releases the incremental claw (31), to cause The method according to claim 1.

10. The second action described above is, - Rotation of the control lever (30), - In order to rotate the incremental movable part by one pitch, the movement of the incremental claw (31) caused by the control lever is such that the incremental claw (31) interacts with the incremental movable part (45), to cause The method according to claim 9.

11. The third action on the second control member (C2) causes the first clock function to be continuously activated and deactivated, and when the first clock function is in its initial state, the third action is performed. - Rotation of the control cam (21) by one pitch, - The rotation of the control cam (21) causes the locking lever (33) to pivot so that the locking lever is positioned (ii) in a position that releases the hammer (32) and deactivates the incremental claw (31), - The release of the hammer, which causes the hammer to return to a position where it does not interact with the incremental movable part for returning to the starting position, to cause The method according to claim 9.

12. A measuring device (90) including hardware means (C1, C2, 21, 30, 31, 32, 33, 41, 45) arranged and configured to carry out the method described in claim 1.

13. The aforementioned hardware means are - First control member (C1), — Second control member (C2), - Control cam, - Incremental nail (31), - Hammer (32), - Locking lever (33), - A movable part (41) for returning to the starting position, and - Incremental movable part (45), including, The measuring device (90) according to claim 12.

14. The hardware means includes a control lever (30), the first control member (C1) interacts with the control lever (30), the control lever (30) is capable of acting on the hammer (32) and the incrementing pawl (31), and / or the second control member (C2) is arranged to act on the control cam (21). The measuring device (90) according to claim 13.

15. A clock (200) including the measuring device (90) described in claim 12.

16. The measuring device (90) is part of the clock movement (100). The method according to claim 1.

17. The counting device (90) is a countdown device. The method according to claim 1.

18. The first function is a countdown function. The method according to claim 3.

19. The third action is a pressing action, The operating method according to claim 7.

20. The first clock function is a countdown function, the first information is minute information, the second information is second information, and the fourth action is a fourth pressing action. The method according to claim 8.

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