Regulating system for timepiece

Abstract

To improve existing regulating systems, in particular, to provide a simple and reliable regulating system that makes it possible to improve accuracy of timepiece movements.SOLUTION: A regulating system 1000 is provided, comprising: a mechanical first oscillator 100 designed to regulate at least partly a train of a timepiece movement 2000 driven by a drive system; a control device configured to impose a main operating mode in which the mechanical first oscillator oscillates at a first predetermined frequency f1, the control device being controlled by a train at least partly regulated by the first oscillator; and an actuator device configured to command transition to an auxiliary operating mode in which the mechanical first oscillator oscillates at another predetermined frequency f2, f3 different from the first frequency.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a speed regulation system for a timepiece. The present invention also relates to a timepiece movement including the speed regulation system. The present invention further relates to a timepiece including the timepiece movement or the speed regulation system. Finally, the present invention relates to a method of operating the speed regulation system.

Background Art

[0002] Even in an automatic small timepiece having excellent timekeeping accuracy, the greatest concern remains to improve the rate. "Rate" means an expression of the difference per unit time between two states of a timepiece divided by a predetermined time interval, and "state" is defined as the difference at that instant between the time indicated by the timepiece and the time indicated by a reference clock. These definitions conform to those given in ISO standard 6426-2 (headings 5.2 and 5.1 respectively).

[0003] Patent Document 1 discloses a hairspring and hairspring type oscillator in which the outer end of the hairspring is operable by a motor in order to change the effective length of the hairspring to decelerate or accelerate the oscillator. The document discloses an error detection system arranged at the height of the escapement anchor (especially using a piezoelectric anti-rotation pin) and comparing the effective frequency of the escapement with the frequency of a third-party time base. Depending on the result, the motor associated with the error adjustment system rotates in a first or second direction in order to shorten or lengthen the effective length of the hairspring. Intervention in the hairspring may be carried out hourly or daily.

[0004] Patent Document 2 discloses a concept equivalent to that known from Patent Document 1 but with a greatly different implementation. Here, the error detection system is in the final wheel train and more specifically includes a contactor arranged in a central movable part that makes one revolution per hour and on which the minute hand is mounted. For this reason, error detection is carried out hourly.

[0005] In the first embodiment, the electromechanical device can only correct the advance of the movement's pace. For this reason, the device immobilizes the escapement wheel for a time interval corresponding to said advance.

[0006] The second embodiment has the advantage of allowing the correction of the advance or delay of the clock's pace, as in the case of the movement known from Patent Document 1. For this reason, the second embodiment includes a device that enables acting on the effective length of the hairspring by means of a piezoelectric element arranged at the height of the outer end of the hairspring. The latter is operable in a first or second direction in order to shorten or lengthen the effective length of the hairspring.

[0007] Also, from Patent Documents 3 and 4, an escapement assembly that can be moved gradually is known. The effective length of the hairspring can be selected from a plurality of predetermined lengths under the influence of the action of the wearer of the small watch.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0008]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Patent Document 3

Patent Document 4

Patent Document 5

Patent Document 6

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0009] The object of the present invention is to improve known speed control systems. The present invention particularly proposes a simple and reliable speed control system that enables improvement of the accuracy of a clock movement.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0010] The speed control system according to the present invention is defined in claim 1.

[0011] Embodiments of the speed control system are defined in claims 2 to 8.

[0012] The clock movement according to the present invention is defined in claim 9.

[0013] The clock according to the present invention is defined in claim 10.

[0014] The operation method according to the present invention is defined in claim 11.

[0015] Embodiments of the operation method are defined in claims 12 to 16.

[0016] The accompanying drawings illustrate, by way of example, embodiments of the clock according to the present invention.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0017]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Figure 11

Figure 12

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0018] A specific embodiment of the clock 3000 will be described in detail below with reference to FIGS. 1 to 12.

[0019] The clock 3000 is, for example, a small clock, particularly a wristwatch. The clock 3000 includes a clock movement 2000 that is intended to be mounted within a clock casing to protect itself from the external environment.

[0020] The clock movement 2000 is a mechanical movement, particularly an automatic movement, or a hybrid movement.

[0021] The clock movement 2000 - an oscillator 100, - an escapement system 83, - a final wheel train 82, and - a drive system 81 including a drive member 811 such as a barrel 811 as shown in FIG. 3. includes.

[0022] The first oscillator 100 enables the speed regulation of the final gear train 82, which is actuated by the effect of the drive system 81, in particular by the derailment system 83. In particular, the first oscillator 100 enables the speed regulation of the drive of the movable part 821 on which the display element 71, such as the hand 71 of the display device 700 of the clock 3000, is mounted. The movable part 821 is, for example, the second movable part 821 on which the second hand 71 is mounted.

[0023] The clock movement 2000 includes a speed regulation system 1000.

[0024] The speed regulation system is - a mechanical first oscillator 100 designed to regulate at least part of the gear train 82 of the clock movement 2000 driven by the drive system 81, - a control device 600 configured to impose a main operating mode in which the mechanical first oscillator 100 oscillates at a first predetermined frequency f1, the control device 600 being controlled by the gear train 82 that is at least partially speed-regulated by the first oscillator 100, and - an operating device 500 configured to command a transition to an auxiliary operating mode in which the mechanical first oscillator 100 oscillates at other predetermined frequencies f2, f3 different from the first frequency f1. including.

[0025] Here, the "predetermined frequency" means a predetermined frequency centered on the value of f1 or f2 or f3. Each of these predetermined frequencies f1, f2, f3 may of course vary over a predetermined range, and the amplitude of the variation depends on the tolerance range of the system. To define the nominal frequency of the first oscillator f1, the frequency f1 is preferably variable over a more limited range, and even more limited range, than the range related to the frequencies f2, f3.

[0026] As shown in FIG. 2, the first oscillator 100 advantageously includes a vibrating mass 41 of the inertial element 4, specifically a balance wheel, and a first elastic return element 1, in particular a hairspring. The first oscillator 100 further includes a second elastic return element that is part of the support 2 of the first elastic return element 1.

[0027] The beard spring 1 includes a blade 11, - The base first end 14 of the blade is connected to the vibrating mass 41 by a shaft 42 having a geometric axis A4, - The distal end of the blade is designed to be inserted into respective openings 12a, 12b and 21a, 21b formed in respective ones of the first and second connecting members, particularly at respective ends thereof, and includes a first connecting member 12 fixed to the second connecting member 23 of the support portion 2 by a tenon or pin 13a, 13b.

[0028] The second connecting member 23 is fixed to the rigid frame 20 by elastic blades 21, 22 each provided with a flexible portion at each end. For this reason, the second elastic return element takes the form of the second connecting member 23 articulated to the body 20 by the elastic blades 21, 22.

[0029] By itself, the third elastic return element 3 is fixed to the second connecting member 23 and takes the form of a single, here linear, elastic blade 31 arranged between the elastic blades 21, 22, for example on the outer periphery of the second connecting member 23.

[0030] In the embodiment described here, the elements 20, 21, 22, 23 of the support portion 2 and the blade 31 of the third elastic return element 3 form a monolithic structure 900 of the speed control system 1000 fixed to the frame 6 of the clock 3000, particularly of the movement 2000.

[0031] More generally, the elastic return system 10 of the first oscillator 100 includes first, second and third elastic return elements, the first elastic return element 1 and the second elastic return element 2 being successively mounted between the inertial element 4, the frame 6 and the third elastic return element 3, and the second elastic return element 2 being mounted in parallel between the frame 6 and the first elastic return element 1.

[0032] In the embodiment described herein, the stiffness selection device 300 of the elastic return system 10 enables the selection of one of three predetermined stiffnesses ksr1, ksr2, and ksr3. - The stiffness ksr1 includes the nominal frequency f1 of the first oscillator 100. - The stiffness ksr2 is greater than the stiffness ksr1 and causes a frequency f2 higher than the frequency f1, and - The stiffness ksr3 is smaller than the stiffness ksr1 and causes a frequency f3 lower than the frequency f1.

[0033] Here, the "predetermined stiffness" means a stiffness centered on the value k1 or k2 or k3 and determined in advance. Each of the predetermined stiffnesses k1, k2, and k3 may of course vary over a predetermined range, and the amplitude of the variation depends on the allowable range of the system. In order to cause the nominal frequency of the first oscillator f1, the stiffness k1 can preferably vary over a more limited range, and even more limited range, than the ranges related to the stiffnesses k2 and k3.

[0034] For this reason, as described below, the stiffness ksr2 of the elastic return system 10, if present, enables the correction of the delay of the clock display device or the correction of the delay of the movable part that controls the clock display device, and the stiffness ksr3 of the elastic return system 10, if present, enables the correction of the advance of the clock display device or the correction of the advance of the movable part that controls the clock display device.

[0035] In the embodiment described herein, the stiffness selection device 300 of the elastic return system 10 acts on the stiffness of the third elastic return element 3, and more specifically on the stiffness of the elastic blade 31. For this reason, the stiffness selection device 300 enables the selection of a specific stiffness of the third elastic return element 3 from three predetermined stiffnesses k31, k32, k33, and the stiffnesses ksr1, ksr2, ksr3 of the elastic return system 10 are respectively related to the stiffnesses k31, k32, k33. For this reason, as will be described below, the stiffness k31 of the elastic blade 31 enables the definition of the nominal frequency f1 of the first oscillator 100, and the stiffness k32 of the elastic blade 31 enables, if present, the correction of the delay of the timepiece display device or any delay of the movable part controlling the timepiece display device, and the stiffness k33 of the elastic blade 31 enables, if present, the correction of the advance of the timepiece display device or the advance of the movable part controlling the timepiece display device.

[0036] Such an arrangement of the elastic return elements 1, 2, 3 with the respectively carefully selected stiffnesses k1, k2, k3 clearly enables a particularly delicate adjustment of the step rate. For example, a variation of ±10% of the stiffness k3 causes a variation of the step rate of the timepiece including the first oscillator 100 equal to or substantially equal to ±10 seconds per day.

[0037] For this reason, the rotation period P of the second movable part 821 is a function of the frequency of the first oscillator 100, and the stiffness selection device 300 enables the definition of said period P of the movable part 821.

[0038] In the embodiment described herein, the stiffness selection device 300 takes the form of a device for modifying the effective length of the elastic blade 31, as illustrated in FIG. 4. For this reason, the device 300 includes a pair of clamps 301, 302 that grip the elastic blade 31 and are movable in the longitudinal direction of said elastic blade 31 to reach three predetermined stable positions Pos1, Pos2, Pos3 that respectively enable the definition of the stiffnesses k31, k32, k33.

[0039] For this reason, the selection device 300 may include a pair of clamps 301, 302 that determine the effective length of the elastic return system 10, particularly three effective lengths.

[0040] In this case, - Position Pos1 enables the definition of the rotation period P of the movable part 821, which has the stiffness ksr1 of the elastic return system 10, particularly the stiffness k31 of the third elastic return element 3, and the nominal frequency f1 of the oscillator 100. - Position Pos2 enables a decrease in the rotation period P of the movable part 821, which has the stiffness ksr2 > ksr1 of the elastic return system 10, particularly the stiffness k32 > k31 of the third elastic return element 3, and the frequency f2 > f1 of the oscillator 100. For this reason, this position Pos2 enables the display element 71 to compensate for the delay. - Position Pos3 enables an increase in the rotation period P of the movable part 821, which has the stiffness ksr3 < ksr1 of the elastic return system 10, particularly the stiffness k32 < k31 of the third elastic return element 3, and the frequency f3 < f1 of the oscillator 100. For this reason, this position Pos3 enables the display element 71 to compensate for the advance.

[0041] Each of the clamps 301, 302 is preferably mounted on the monolithic structure 900, particularly on the frame 304 of the monolithic structure 900, by an elastic blade, and acts on the elastic blade by applying a load substantially pivotally around its respective rotation axes A301, A302 due to the effect of the dowel 303 that enables this. In particular, the clamps 301, 302 are designed to hold the elastic blade 31 with sufficient force to prevent mechanical play during the vibration of the oscillator. Nevertheless, this force must be determined to enable the movement of the clamps 301, 302 from one stable position to another. This force may typically be not less than 0.1 mN and not more than 10 mN, depending on the dimensions of the speed control system.

[0042] The selection system is - the clamps 301, 302, and - the dowel 303, and - Frame 304 and - Toothed structure 305, and - Selective beak 306, and - Tenon 307, and include.

[0043] Clamps 301, 302 can be held at one or the other of positions Pos1, Pos2, Pos3 thanks to a toothed structure 305 designed to position a selective beak 306 connected to the frame 304 by a flexible structure. In particular, the toothed structure 305 includes three tooth recesses in which the beak 306 can be positioned, due to the effect of a tenon 307 that allows the beak 306 to be held in contact with the toothed structure 305 and thus apply a load to the flexible structure connecting the beak 306 to the frame 304.

[0044] FIG. 5 illustrates, as an illustration and using black, the selection device 300. Here, the device is part of a monolithic structure 900 designed to be mounted on the frame 6 of the movement 2000, in particular on the "ebauche".

[0045] More generally, the selection device 300 includes at least a pair of clamps 301, 302 designed to act on the effective length of the elastic blade 31, and a selective beak 306 cooperating with a toothed structure 305 designed to position the pair of clamps 301, 302 in one of three predefined stable positions Pos1, Pos2, Pos3 by the teeth of the structure 305. FIG. 6 shows - FIG. 6a illustrating the selection device 300 in position Pos1, and - FIG. 6b illustrating the selection device 300 in position Pos2, and - FIG. 6c illustrating the selection device 300 in position Pos3, and include.

[0046] The selection device 300 is periodically actuated by an actuating device 500. In particular, the actuating device 500 enables positioning of the pair of clamps 301, 302 in one of three stable positions Pos1, Pos2, Pos3 by selectively moving the selection beak 306 that faces the toothed structure 305.

[0047] In the embodiment described herein, the actuating device 500 takes the form of an electromechanical device that includes an electrical energy source 501 and an electromechanical actuator 502. The electrical energy source 501 enables transmission of a positive or negative voltage to the electromechanical actuator 502, and thus enables an action on the frame 304 by means of the arm 503 that is articulated by a flexible guide, in particular by pivoting about an imaginary axis of rotation A503. The arm 503 is connected to the actuator 502 and to the frame 304 by a plurality of respective elastic structures. In particular, the arm 503 is also inscribed in a monolithic structure 900, and the actuator 502 is designed to be arranged within a housing 504 of the same monolithic structure.

[0048] FIG. 7 shows, by way of example, a view of the elements of the actuating device 500 formed on the structure 900. The elements of the actuating device 500 are illustrated in black, like the elements of the selection device 300. The actuator 502 is itself provided with a mesh pattern.

[0049] The actuator 502 is designed to operate in a first or second direction, parallel or substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction of the blade 31, depending on the sign of the voltage transmitted by the electrical energy source 501. The voltage is preferably transmitted only periodically so as to move the selection beak 306 exclusively relative to the toothed structure 305, and the beak is held in its position relative to the structure 305 due to the influence of the groove 307 and also due to the influence of various elastic structures, where the beak 306 may be hooked between two teeth of the toothed structure 305. The various positions are preferably mechanically stable. Such a design enables minimizing the electrical energy consumption from the electrical energy source 501 for power supply not only of the actuator 500 but also, if present, of the comparator device 400 described below.

[0050] The actuator 502 preferably actuates the pair of clamps 301, 302 only when the pair of clamps 301, 302 are in position Pos1 (Figure 6a), as described below. In this configuration, the beak 306 is positioned between two teeth, arranged at the center of the toothed structure 305. When the actuator 502 is operated in the first direction illustrated by the solid arrow S1 in Figure 7, the beak is illustrated by the solid arrow S1’ and is driven in a second direction opposite to the first direction, assuming the position of the articulation axis A503 of the arm 503. Such an action causes the movement of the beak 306 that enables positioning the pair of clamps 301, 302 in position Pos3 (Figure 6c). Conversely, when the actuator 502 is operated in the second direction illustrated by the dotted arrow S2 (indicating the same direction as arrow S1’), the beak is driven in the first direction illustrated by the dashed arrow S2’ (indicating the same direction as arrow S1), opposite to the second direction. Such an action causes the movement of the beak that enables positioning the pair of clamps 301, 302 in position Pos2 (Figure 6b).

[0051] The sign of the voltage provided by the electrical energy 501, and thus the direction of movement S1, S2 (or S1', S2') of the actuator 502 or the beak 306, depends on the resulting value VD from the comparator device 400. The comparator device 400 may be at least partially electronic. The device enables the definition of at least one value VD of the difference between the rotation period P of the movable part 821 and the reference rotation period Pref of the movable part 821 provided by the counting device 200. The counting device 200 includes a second oscillator 210 having a frequency F1 significantly higher than the frequency f1 of the first oscillator 100. For example, it may be a thermocompensated oscillator having a frequency on the order of several tens or hundreds of kHz or MHz and having excellent stability, which enables the definition of the reference rotation period Pref, which can be regarded as the period that the movable part 821 should ideally have under all circumstances.

[0052] When the period P substantially corresponds to the period Pref, the electrical energy source 501 does not transmit a voltage, and thus the actuator 502 does not operate a pair of clamps 301, 302. Therefore, the clamps 301, 302 remain maintained at the position Pos1 (Figure 6a). In particular, the electrical energy source 501 VD = Pref - P = x in the case of, does not transmit a voltage, where x is within a predefined tolerance range [a; b] as a function of the required pace of the clock.

[0053] x is preferably a real number, a is preferably a negative real number, and b is preferably a positive real number.

[0054] When VD < a, the electrical energy source 501 transmits a current of a voltage of the first polarity, and thus the actuator 501 operates in a first direction to move a pair of clamps 301, 302 to the position Pos2 so as to correct the delay whose movement is displayed by the display element 71.

[0055] When VD > b, the electrical energy source 501 transmits a current of a voltage of a second polarity opposite to the first polarity. Therefore, the actuator 501 operates in a second direction opposite to the first direction so as to move a pair of clamps 301, 302 to the position Pos3, enabling the movement to correct the advance displayed by the display element 71.

[0056] Therefore, the comparator device 400 is adapted to compare the rotation period P of the movable part 821 of the final gear train 82 with the reference rotation period Pref of the movable part 821.

[0057] FIG. 8 illustrates, as an illustration, a flowchart summarizing these various cases.

[0058] In the embodiment described herein, the comparator device 400 includes a lever 404 and a movable part 401 kinematically connected to the movable part 821 of the final gear train 82 of the movement 2000. Here, the gear ratio is 1:1, and the movable part 401 also has the same rotation period P as the rotation period of the movable part 821 (assuming the movable part 821 is a second movable part, equal to or on the order of 60 seconds). The movable part 401 includes a gear 402 provided with a spline 403 designed to periodically cooperate with the lever 404 so as to rotationally drive the lever against a spring element 405 that biases the lever to a predetermined position when the spline does not contact the lever. In particular, the lever includes a beak 404a designed to cooperate with the spline 403 and an arm 404b designed to contact a pin 406 that serves as a contactor when the beak 404a is lifted by the spline 403. The loss of contact between the arm 404b and the pin 406 enables the determination of the rotation period P at regular or substantially regular intervals (here, every minute). This information is transmitted to the integrated circuit 407 of the comparator device 400, and this information can be taken into account under the influence of the control device 600.

[0059] The control device 600 enables the repositioning of the pair of clamps 301, 302 to the position Pos1, particularly periodic repositioning.

[0060] In the embodiment described herein, the control device 600 advantageously enables - the periodic repositioning of the pair of clamps 301, 302 to position Pos1, and - commands to the actuator 500 to enable the possible movement of the pair of clamps 301, 302 to position Pos2 or Pos3. to be possible.

[0061] The control device 600 illustrated in FIGS. 10 and 11 includes a lever 602 actuated by the final gear train 82 of the movement 2000 and a tenon 601 fixed to the toothed structure 305 of the monolithic structure 900. The lever 602 is designed to act periodically on the tenon 601 so as to retract the selected beak 306 of the toothed structure 305 mounted on the structure 900 by a flexible structure. In particular, the lever 602 is designed for the local action of the tenon 601 in the direction S3 perpendicular to the direction of the actuator 502 so as to make the toothed structure 305 movable away from the beak 306 and to release the beak 306 from the tooth 305. The beak then returns to its position due to the influence of the flexible structure connecting the beak 306 to the frame 304 and the toothed structure 305 to the rest of the structure 900, respectively. The pair of clamps 301, 302 return to position Pos1 due to the particular arrangement and shape of various elastic structures.

[0062] More specifically, the lever 602 is biased by a spring 603 and is designed to be actuated by a cam 604 mounted on a gear 605 in the form of a branch from the final gear train 82, for example from the central movable part 822 connected to the hour hand 72 of the display device 700.

[0063] The tenon 601 is also designed to contact the contactor 606 when the lever 602 acts on the tenon 601 and to notify the actuator 500 to position the pair of clamps 301, 302 to position Pos1. This information enables the activation of the actuator 500 and thus enables the activation of the comparator device 400 or the selection device 300 taking into account the resultant value VD or the latest value VD.

[0064] For this reason, the control device 600 has the advantage of enabling periodic alternation of the pair of clamps 301, 302 in position Pos1 (in the embodiment described herein) without intervention by the actuator device and / or the wearer of the small clock. Furthermore, the control device also has the advantage of enabling a single action of the movement of the actuator 502 with a predetermined amplitude regardless of the operating directions (S1, S2). Such a structure enables minimization of the electrical energy consumption from the primary power supply device because the action of the actuator is local and has a predetermined amplitude. Such a structure is simpler and more reliable than a structure in which the actuator 502 is required for all possible implementations of all transitions between the three stable positions. Furthermore, in the case of malfunction or defect of the device 400 and / or 500, the movable part 821 is exclusively speed-controlled by the first oscillator 100, and the elastic return system 10 is held or returned to the position Pos1 due to the influence of the device 600 so that the first oscillator 100 has the nominal frequency f1.

[0065] For this reason, the movable part 821 can be speed-controlled by the first oscillator 100, particularly independently of the devices 200, 400.

[0066] The control device 600 preferably has the advantage of being integrated into the mechanical or automatic movement 2000, particularly as far as the elements 601, 602, 603, 604, 605 are concerned.

[0067] As a result of the above, the control device 600 and / or the actuator device 500 may act on a frequency selection device 300 configured to define the following three oscillation frequencies. - The first frequency f1, - A second frequency f2 lower than the first frequency f1, - A third frequency f3 higher than the first frequency f1.

[0068] In particular, the actuator device 500 acting on the frequency selection device 300 may be controlled by the control device 600.

[0069] In order to enable adjustment of the display device 700, particularly including the display elements 71, 72, and particularly to enable setting of the time, the speed control system 1000 advantageously includes a device 800 for initializing the counting device 200, which is preferably activated by the adjustment mechanism 91 of the display device 700 of the clock 3000, for example by an adjustment mechanism integrated within the movement 2000. After setting the time, the counting device 200 is initialized in order to take into account the new effective position of the display device 700. The actuating device 500 may advantageously be suppressed for a predetermined period following the action of the initializing device 800.

[0070] The monolithic structure 900 is preferably made of single-crystalline silicon. This advantageously enables grouping of a number of elements forming part of the speed control system 1000, particularly the devices 300, 500, 600, therein.

[0071] The structure 900 may be designed to be mounted on the frame 6 of the mechanical or automatic movement 2000. Other elements of the speed control system 1000 may form an integral part of the movement 2000. Alternatively, other elements, particularly electronic components, may be arranged around the movement 2000 within the clock 3000.

[0072] The comparator device 400 advantageously operates at intervals of one minute or substantially one minute. For this reason, the value VD may be defined at the same frequency. In the embodiments described herein, only the value VD defined immediately before or after the contact of the lever 602 and the pin 606 (occurring hourly or substantially hourly) is taken into account by the actuator 500. The value VD may also be defined at other frequencies.

[0073] The movement 2000 may advantageously be speed-controlled exclusively by the first oscillator 100 (in this case a mechanical or automatic movement), or by the entire speed control system 1000. The final gear train 82, particularly the movable part 821, is at least partially speed-controlled by the first oscillator 100.

[0074] The inertial element 4 of the first oscillator 100 is preferably an assembled pendulum including a pendulum wheel 41 provided with a screw or a weight 43a and is movable in order to enable adjustment of the pace of the movement 2000 on the order of several seconds per day as shown in FIG. 3. The screw or the weight is fixed, for example, in a movable manner with respect to the edge 410 of the pendulum wheel 41. The screw or the weight may be operated by a watchmaker using a key or a screwdriver that enables them to move (towards or away from the axis A4) when the pendulum wheel is stationary. These tools are provided with means that enable them to indicate the advance or delay of the screw or the weight, in particular to enable detailed fine-tuning of the pace of the movement.

[0075] In the embodiment described herein, the edge 410 of the pendulum wheel 41 preferably includes two pairs of weights 43a, 43b and 44a, 44b having distinct forms, in particular different masses. The weights 43a, 43b are specifically longer than the weights 44a, 44b. In the same movement along the axis A4, the weights 44a, 44b cause a more detailed adjustment of the pace compared to the weights 43a, 43b. The weights are preferably moved in pairs to maintain the optimal balance of the assembled pendulum.

[0076] These weights preferably enable adjustment of the pace of the movement 2000 over a range of ±2 seconds per day.

[0077] Preferably, for the first oscillator 100 having a nominal frequency of 4 Hz, ksr2 = 1.1×ksr1 and ksr3 = 0.9×ksr1 such that the positions Pos2 and Pos3 of the selection device 300 cause an advance and a delay of approximately 10 seconds per day, respectively.

[0078] The actuating device 500 and the control device 600 preferably act on the rigid selection device 300 hourly or substantially hourly. It is also possible to implement actions at other frequencies.

[0079] In the above-described embodiments, the comparator device and the operating device of the selection device, and the control device of the selection device act periodically, i.e., at regular intervals. Alternatively, the comparator device and / or the operating device and / or the control device do not necessarily act periodically, and may be activated at a specific moment, for example, when the control unit determines that the step deviation is too large. Additionally or alternatively, the operating device may be activated when the wearer of the small watch notices the advance or delay of the display device of the watch. Additionally or alternatively, the operating device may be a purely mechanical device that is controlled, for example, by a button or an adjustment mechanism by the wearer of the small watch.

[0080] Regardless of the embodiments or variations, the control device may impose the nominal oscillation frequency on the mechanical first oscillator after the control unit or the wearer of the small watch intervenes, and the control device is controlled by a gear train that is (at least partially) speed-regulated by the first oscillator.

[0081] In an alternative embodiment, the operating device may be activated by an instruction from the control unit or the wearer. This similarly implies setting the activation of the control device, i.e., the relationship between the final gear train and the tenon 601 fixed to the toothed structure 305 of the monolithic structure 900, for example, by bringing the lever 602 into contact with the cam 604 due to the influence of an auxiliary clutch system. In this particular case, the lever 602 is disengaged from the cam 604 when the operating device is not activated, for example, during the traditional functions of the movement 2000.

[0082] In the embodiment described herein, the comparator device 400 is based on a movable part 401 having the same rotation period P as the rotation period of the movable part 821 of the wheel train 82 of the movement 2000 (assuming that the movable part 821 is particularly a seconds movable part and equal to or on the order of 60 seconds). In this case, the display element or the second hand 71 of the display device 700 is not essential for the correction function of the speed regulation system. Alternatively, the comparator device 400 may be based on the display element or the second hand 71 of the display device 700. For this reason, the comparator device may include means (for example, optical means) that enable the effective position of the display element or the second hand 71 at a given instant to be specified.

[0083] In the embodiment described herein, changing the frequency of the mechanical first oscillator requires modifying the stiffness of the elastic return system, particularly modifying the effective length of the third elastic return element. Nevertheless, other means of changing the frequency of the first oscillator can also be foreseen. For example, it is also foreseen to change the surroundings of the mechanical first oscillator so as to cause a change in the aerodynamic friction to which the vibrating mass of the inertial element is exposed (as in the teaching of Patent Document 5). For this reason, for example, a fairing may be provided around the vibrating mass of the inertial element, and the structure of the fairing (shape and / or arrangement on the movement frame) may be changed by the influence of the control and / or actuation device.

[0084] The electromagnetic environment of the mechanical first oscillator may also be changeable by the influence of the control and / or actuation device in order to change the oscillation frequency.

[0085] Similarly, it is also possible to foresee a change in the inertia of the inertial element by changing the movement of the weight element or the weight arranged on the vibrating mass of the inertial element. In this case, the respective positions of the weight element or the weight facing the vibrating mass depend on the control and / or actuation device. For this reason, the weight element may be made of, for example, a piezoelectric material or a magnetostrictive material (as in the teaching of Patent Document 6).

[0086] More generally, the frequency of the first oscillator is - Changing the stiffness of the elastic return system of the first oscillator, in particular changing the effective length of the elastic return element of the elastic return system, - Changing the inertia of the inertial element of the first oscillator, in particular changing the movement of the weight element of the inertial element, - Changing the aerodynamic and / or electromagnetic environment of the first oscillator, may be changed thereby.

[0087] Such techniques may be optionally combined such that the control device changes the frequency of the first oscillator using the first technique and the actuating device changes the frequency of the first oscillator using the second technique.

[0088] One method of implementing the operating method according to the present invention will be described below. This is, in particular, one method of implementing the method of operating the speed control system 1000 described above.

[0089] The method includes at least one repetition, preferably a plurality of repetitions, of the following steps to be performed in sequence. - A first step in which the mechanical first oscillator 100 operates in a main operating mode and vibrates at a predetermined first frequency f1, - A second step in which the actuating device 500 changes the frequency of the mechanical first oscillator 100, and then - As a result of the second step, a third step in which the mechanical first oscillator 100 operates in an auxiliary operating mode and vibrates at a second frequency f2 or a third frequency f3, and then, - A fourth step in which the control device 600 imposes a return to the main operating mode, and the control device 600 is controlled by a gear train 82 that is at least partially speed-controlled by the first oscillator 100.

[0090] As a result of the fourth step, the speed control system performs a first operating step in a main operating mode in which the mechanical first oscillator 100 vibrates at a predetermined first frequency f1.

[0091] In other words, as shown in FIG. 12, the method is - An initialization step E1 that occurs at a given instant t1, enables the forcing of the nominal stiffness value ksr1 (which implies a frequency f1) of the elastic return system due to the influence of the control device, and more preferably enables the instruction of the actuator device; - A pairing step E2 of the periods P and Pref made possible by a comparator device at least at a given time t2, which makes it possible to define a difference value VD between the periods P and Pref; - A third step E3 of selecting a given stiffness of the elastic return system, in particular as a function of the value VD at a given time t3 after t1 and t2, from three stiffnesses ksr1, ksr2, ksr3 due to the influence of the actuator device of the selection device; may be included.

[0092] As described above, the control, comparison, and actuator devices preferably act periodically, i.e., at regular intervals. In other words, these steps are more specifically repeated at regular intervals. For example, the second step E2 is periodically repeated at intervals of 1 minute or substantially 1 minute (first period P1), while the first and third steps E1, E3 are periodically repeated hourly or substantially hourly (second period P2).

[0093] The method preferably - compares the time displayed by the timepiece movement 2000 with a reference time; - implements a second, actuation step when a specific threshold value is exceeded during the comparison step. is included. For this reason, the second actuation step may be implemented only when the value VD is not within the above-mentioned predetermined threshold range [a; b]. The comparison step is preferably implemented by the comparator device 400.

[0094] For the above system, the comparison step may be performed at regular time intervals and / or at intervals defined by the clock movement 2000, for example, at intervals of one minute or one hour. Alternatively, the comparison step may be performed at the request of the clock user or wearer. For this purpose, the user may act on a member of the clock, such as a button, that activates the comparator device and / or the operating device.

[0095] For the above system, the fourth step is performed at regular time intervals or at intervals defined by the clock movement 2000, for example, hourly.

[0096] As described above, the second step may include or consist of the step of moving a pair of fixed clamps along the elastic blade.

[0097] Thanks to the above solution, the mechanical oscillator can be accelerated or decelerated, for example, according to the effective position of the display device of a small clock. In the embodiment described here, - a counting device and other oscillators of, for example, quartz type enable the definition of the reference position of the display device, and - an electronic comparator device enables the comparison of the effective and reference positions of the display device, Therefore, the electromechanical operating device can select the oscillation frequency of the mechanical oscillator, which is adapted, for example, according to the load of the wristwatch.

[0098] The solution described here is excellent in that it includes a control device that enables the forcing of a predetermined oscillation frequency f1 on the mechanical oscillator so that the clock has essentially excellent accuracy. In particular, the control device drives the display device of the small clock and is controlled by a gear train, in particular the final gear train, which is at least partially regulated by the mechanical oscillator. Furthermore, the control device can be equally well controlled by other means or devices, especially in the case of a movement in which the pace correction is performed upstream of the fourth step that occurs at regular time intervals and / or defined intervals. The control device may be controlled by at least a gear train, in particular the final gear train.

[0099] The control device advantageously enables a mechanical oscillator to be forced to a turning frequency f1, called the "nominal" frequency, which enables the proper functioning of the mechanical oscillator independently of other devices 300, 400, 500, 600. Furthermore, in the embodiments described herein, the control device also has the advantage of enabling the selection of at least one other oscillation frequency number (f2, f3) of the mechanical oscillator by instructing the operating device to select at least one other oscillation frequency.

[0100] To improve the rate of the clock, the speed control system can, in some cases, change its nominal frequency at regular intervals and can, in some cases, be redefined at regular intervals, because of the effect of the control device controlled by a gear train, in particular the final gear train, which is at least partially speed-controlled by a mechanical first oscillator. The "nominal" frequency (f1) means the frequency of the mechanical first oscillator determined at the design stage and / or during the assembly of the first oscillator in order to achieve the target timing accuracy when the gear train, in particular the final gear train, is exclusively speed-controlled by the first oscillator. The assembly of the first oscillator may require, for example, the target adjustment of the stiffness, in particular the effective length, of the return element of the elastic return system forming part of the first oscillator, or the target adjustment of the weights placed on the inertial elements which are part of the first oscillator. The frequency f1 of the system is the frequency at which the clock movement and / or the clock can obtain a chronometer certification, in particular by the COSC (Swiss Chronometer Testing Institute), and furthermore at which the clock can obtain a "high-precision chronometer" certification by the applicant. Such certifications can be obtained independently of the use of the above-described solution, where the movement functions for a specific period at a frequency of a first oscillator different from f1.

[0101] The solution described herein is distinguished from Patent Document 1 and Patent Document 2 by the fact that the speed control system includes a mechanical first oscillator whose frequency f1 is changeable (by an operating device or a selection device) but is automatically reset by an element directly actuated by the final gear train and is redefined (by the control device of the selection device).

[0102] The solution described here is distinguished from Patent Document 3 and Patent Document 4, in particular, by the fact that the control device enables the mechanical oscillator to be forced at a predetermined frequency, and the device is connected to the display device of a small clock and is controlled by a gear train, in particular the final gear train, which is at least partially regulated by the mechanical oscillator, rather than by a third-party device or the wearer of the small clock.

Explanation of Signs

[0103] 4 Inertial element 10 Elastic return system 81 Drive system 82 Gear train 91 Adjusting mechanism 100 Mechanical first oscillator 200 Counting device 210 Second oscillator 300 Selection device 301 Clamp 302 Clamp 400 Comparator device 500 Actuating device 600 Control device 700 Display device 821 Movable part 1000 Regulating system 2000 Watch movement 3000 Watch

Claims

1. A speed control system (1000), A first mechanical oscillator (100) designed to at least partially regulate the gear train (82) of a timepiece movement (2000) driven by a drive system (81); a control device (600) configured to impose a main operating mode in which the first mechanical oscillator (100) oscillates at a first predetermined frequency (f1), the control device (600) being controlled by a gear train (82) that is at least partially regulated by the first oscillator (100); an actuation device (500) configured to command a transition to an auxiliary operating mode in which the first mechanical oscillator (100) oscillates at another predetermined frequency (f2, f3) different from the first frequency (f1); Including, Speed ​​control system (1000).

2. The speed regulation system (1000) includes a frequency selection device (300), and the control device (600) and / or the actuation device (500) are The first frequency (f1), a second frequency (f2) lower than the first frequency (f1); and a third frequency (f3) higher than the first frequency (f1); a frequency selection device (300) configured to define three oscillation frequencies: The system (1000) of claim 1.

3. said first mechanical oscillator (100) comprising an inertial element (4) and an elastic return system (10), different frequencies being defined by different predetermined stiffnesses (ksr1, ksr2, ksr3) of said elastic return system (10); A speed control system (1000) according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The selection device (300) comprises a pair of clamps (301, 302) for determining the effective length of the elastic return system (10), in particular three effective lengths. The speed control system (1000) of claim 3.

5. The actuation device (500) acting on the selection device (300) is controlled by the control device (600). A speed governing system (1000) according to any one of claims 1 to 4 and according to claim 2.

6. said speed regulation system comprising a comparator device (400) adapted to compare a period (P) of rotation of a moving part (821) of the final train (82) with a reference period (Pref) of rotation of said moving part (821); A speed governing system (1000) according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. The speed regulation system includes a counting device (200) having a second oscillator (210) with a fourth frequency (F1) greater than the first frequency (f1); A speed governor system (1000) according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. The regulating system includes a device (800) for initializing the counting device (200), configured to be activated by a regulating mechanism (91) of a display device (700) of a timepiece (3000), The speed control system (1000) of claim 7.

9. A timepiece movement (2000) comprising a speed regulating system (1000) according to any one of claims 1 to 8 and a gear train (82), in particular a final gear train (82).

10. A timepiece (3000), in particular a wristwatch, comprising a speed regulating system (1000) according to any one of claims 1 to 8 and / or a movement according to claim 9.

11. A method of operating a regulating system (1000) of a timepiece movement (2000), said regulating system (1000) comprising a first mechanical oscillator (100) designed to at least partially regulate a gear train (82) of the timepiece movement (2000) driven by a drive system (81), said method comprising the steps of: a first step in which the first mechanical oscillator (100) operates in a main operating mode in which it vibrates at a first predetermined frequency (f1); a second step in which an actuator (500) changes the frequency of the first mechanical oscillator (100); a third step of operating in an auxiliary operating mode in which the first mechanical oscillator (100) oscillates at a second frequency (f2) or a third frequency (f3); a fourth step in which a control device (600) imposes a return to the main operating mode, said control device (600) being controlled by said gear train (82) which is at least partially regulated by said first oscillator (100); comprising at least one repetition of the steps of method.

12. The method comprises: comparing said time indicated by the clock movement (2000) with a reference time; second, performing an actuation step if a certain threshold is exceeded during said comparison step; Including, The method of claim 11.

13. The comparison step is performed at regular time intervals and / or at intervals defined by a clock movement (2000); The method of claim 12.

14. the comparing step occurring at the request of the user; 14. A method according to claim 12 or 13.

15. The fourth step occurs at regular time intervals and / or at intervals defined by a clock movement (2000); 15. A method according to any one of claims 11 to 14.

16. the second step being a step of moving a pair of fixed clamps along the elastic blade, and / or the fourth step being a step of moving a pair of fixed clamps along the elastic blade; 16. A method according to any one of claims 11 to 15.

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