Clock movement regulating system

Abstract

A regulating system (150) for a timepiece movement (300) comprising a frame (6), an assembled balance wheel (4) pivoted relative to the frame (6) about a geometric axis (A4), and an elastic return system (1, 2, 3) connecting the assembled balance wheel (4) to the frame (6) so that the assembled balance wheel (4) and the elastic return system (1, 2, 3) form an oscillator (100), the elastic return system (1, 2, 3) comprising a first elastic return element in the form of a first hairspring (1) having a first stiffness k1, a second elastic return element (2) having a second stiffness k2, and a third elastic return element (3) having a third stiffness k3; wherein the first elastic return element (1) and the second elastic return element (2) are mounted in series between the assembled balance wheel (4) and the frame (6), and the third elastic return element (3) and the second elastic return element (2) are mounted in parallel between the frame (6) and the first elastic return element (1).

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a regulating system for a timepiece movement. The invention also relates to a device for modifying the stiffness of an elastic return element. The invention further relates to a timepiece movement comprising such a regulating system or such a device for modifying the stiffness. The invention finally relates to a timepiece comprising such a timepiece movement or such a regulating system or such a device for modifying the stiffness. [Background technology]

[0002] Mechanical timepiece movements are usually provided with an oscillator in the form of an assembly made up of an inertial element and an elastic return element, in particular a balance wheel and a hairspring.

[0003] To ensure that such an assembly constitutes a sufficiently accurate time base to ensure the correct operation of the movement, means for adjusting the inertia element or the elastic return element are used. The means may, for example, be adjustment means that change the inertia of the inertia element or means that act on the stiffness of the elastic return element. In particular, the inertia element may be provided with a movable inertia block or adjustment screw that allows for more or less fine adjustment of the movement's rate, on the order of a few seconds or tens of seconds per day. Such an inertia block may, for example, be adjusted by the watchmaker when the inertia element is stationary, more specifically when the movement is stationary. Additionally or alternatively, the stiffness of the elastic return element may be adjusted by changing its effective length, for example by using an index. While such a system has the advantage of being adjustable during operation of the inertia element, it does not allow for a sufficiently accurate adjustment equivalent to the accuracy achieved by moving the inertia block or adjusting the screw of the inertia element.

[0004] Patent Document 1 (Patent Document 1) relates to a device for adjusting the effective length of a first elastic return element connected to an inertia element, characterized by being directly integrated into the first elastic return element. In particular, the document discloses a first elastic return element in the form of a hairspring, the outer end of which includes a set of elastic elements. These are designed to precisely displace the clamp facing the outer end part of the hairspring. The effective length of the hairspring is thus adjusted by changing the ratio k / I, where k is the hairspring stiffness and I is the balance wheel inertia, thereby changing the hairspring stiffness and thus the oscillator frequency, i.e., the inertia element / hairspring assembly. However, such devices are particularly sensitive to variations in the effective length of the hairspring. Indeed, for an oscillator with a nominal frequency of 4 Hz, for example, a change in the hairspring stiffness by about 10% leads to a rate variation of several thousand seconds per day. With such an adjusting device, it is extremely difficult to achieve fine adjustments of the order of a few seconds or even tens of seconds per day. For a given hairspring, the length adjustment required to achieve a rate adjustment of about 10 seconds per day is estimated to be several tens of micrometers. Furthermore, acting directly on the length of the hairspring risks interfering with the operation of the oscillator.

[0005] Patent Document 2 (Patent Document 2) relates to a method for synchronizing the oscillator of a mechanical clock with an electronic reference oscillator. According to a specific embodiment shown in FIG. 2 of the specification, the clock oscillator includes a balance wheel returned by two hairsprings, preferably of the same dimensions, each of whose inner ends is fixed to the balance shaft and whose outer ends is fixed to a frame, and the effective length of one of the two hairsprings is variable using an additional device controlled by the electronic reference oscillator. Such an arrangement, in which two hairsprings are arranged in parallel, can double the rate accuracy to which a mechanical clock can be adjusted, since the stiffness of a single one of the two springs can be changed. However, this gain is insufficient to achieve fine adjustments on the order of a few seconds or tens of seconds per day, especially using indexes.

[0006] Patent Document 3 discloses an oscillator including a first elastic return element in the form of a hairspring connected to an inertia element in the form of a balance wheel and a second elastic return element connected in series to the hairspring, the stiffness of which is variable by prestressing means designed to apply a variable force or torque to the second elastic return element without changing the stiffness of the hairspring. The stiffness of the second elastic return element is preferably greater than the stiffness of the hairspring, meaning that adjusting the stiffness of the second elastic return element allows for finer rate adjustments than would be possible if the stiffness of the hairspring were acted on directly. However, to allow rate variations of the order of a few seconds per day by adjusting the stiffness of the second elastic return element, it appears that the stiffness of the second elastic return element must be significantly greater than the stiffness of the hairspring, on the order of 1,000 or even 10,000 times greater. Furthermore, changing the stiffness of the second elastic return element must be possible without changing the position of the outer end of the hairspring, which is very difficult to achieve in practice.

[0007] U.S. Patent No. 5,629,999 discloses a monolithic oscillator concept similar to that forming the subject matter of U.S. Patent No. 5,629,999. In particular, the oscillator includes a flexible guide formed from resilient blades designed to define a virtual pivot for an inertial element, and means for adjusting the stiffness of the oscillator, including the flexible element, arranged in series with the flexible guide. These adjustment means also include prestressing means designed to apply a variable force or torque to the flexible element to change its stiffness. Similarly, the flexible element would appear to have a stiffness significantly greater than that of the flexible guide in order to allow rate variations on the order of a few seconds per day by changing the stiffness of the flexible element without changing the positioning of the virtual pivot defined by the flexible guide, which is very difficult to achieve in practice. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0008] [Patent Document 1] European Patent Application Publication No. 4006648 [Patent Document 2] French Patent Application Publication No. 833085 [Patent Document 3] European Patent Application Publication No. 4009115 [Patent Document 4] European Patent Application Publication No. 4016194 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0009] The object of the present invention is to provide a speed control system that helps to overcome the above-mentioned problems and improves on speed control systems known from the prior art. In particular, the present invention proposes a speed control system that allows a fine and reliable adjustment of the oscillation frequency of an oscillator. Thanks to such a system, the adjustment can be performed while the oscillator is running, without affecting the oscillator. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] According to a first aspect, the subject matter is defined by the following proposition:

[0011] 1. Inertial element (4;4') and Frame (6) and an elastic return system (1; 1', 2, 3) intended to connect the inertial element (4; 4') to the frame (6) so that the inertial element (4; 4') and the elastic return system (1; 1', 2, 3) form an oscillator (100; 100'); A regulating system (150; 150') for a clock movement (300), comprising: The elastic return system (1; 1', 2, 3) a first elastic return element (1;1') having a first stiffness k1; a second elastic return element (2) having a second stiffness k2; a third elastic return element (3) having a third stiffness k3; A device (200) for changing the third stiffness k3; Including, the first elastic return element (1;1') and the second elastic return element (2) are assembled in series between the inertia element (4;4') and the frame (6); The third elastic return element (3) and the second elastic return element (2) are assembled in parallel between the frame (6) and the first elastic return element (1; 1'); Speed ​​control system (150;150').

[0012] 2. k2+k3>k1, more preferably k2+k3>>k1, and especially k2+k3>10×k1; and / or The second stiffness k2 is substantially greater than the first stiffness k1, in particular the second stiffness k2 is substantially greater than the first stiffness k1 and substantially greater than the third stiffness k3; The speed control system (150; 150') described in proposal 1.

[0013] 3. The first stiffness and the third stiffness k3 are similar or of the same order of magnitude, in particular k3 = α × k1, where 0.5 ≦ α ≦ 2; and the second stiffness k2 is substantially greater than the first stiffness k1 and the third stiffness k3, in particular k2=β×k1 and / or k2=β×k3, where 10≦β≦80, preferably β=20 or β≈20; A speed control system (150; 150') according to proposal 1 or 2.

[0014] 4. The second stiffness k2 and the third stiffness k3 are similar or of the same order of magnitude, in particular k3 = γ × k2, where 0.5 ≦ γ ≦ 2; and the second stiffness k2 and the third stiffness k3 are substantially greater than the first stiffness k1, in particular k2 = δ x k1 and / or k3 = δ x k1, where 100 ≤ δ ≤ 200, preferably δ = 125 or δ ≈ 125; A speed control system (150; 150') according to proposal 1 or 2.

[0015] 5. said inertial element (4; 4') and said elastic return system (1; 1', 2, 3) are constructed and / or arranged such that said oscillation frequency of said oscillator (100; 100') is between 8 Hz and 100 Hz, or even greater than 100 Hz; A speed control system (150; 150') according to any one of proposals 1 to 4.

[0016] 6. The first elastic return element (1) is a hairspring (1) including at least one blade (11) connected to the inertia element (4), the inertia element (4) being pivoted relative to the frame (6) about a geometric axis (A4); A speed control system (150) according to any one of proposals 1 to 5.

[0017] 7. The first elastic return element (1') is a flexible guide (1') including, in particular, two blades (11', 12') configured and / or arranged to elastically return and guide, in particular pivot, the inertial element (4') about a geometric axis (A4'); A speed control system (150') according to any one of proposals 1 to 5.

[0018] 8. The second elastic return element (2) comprises flexible blades (21, 22) embedded in the frame (6) and defining the RCC pivot of the first elastic return element (1; 1'), the virtual center of intersection of the flexible blades (21, 22) coinciding with the point through which the geometric axis (A4; A4') passes, around which the inertial element (4; 4') pivots; A speed control system (150; 150') according to any one of proposals 1 to 7.

[0019] 9. The third elastic return element (3) comprises a straight or curved elastic blade (31); A speed control system (150; 150') according to any one of proposals 1 to 8.

[0020] 10. The first, second and third elastic return elements are connected to one another by a connecting element (5), in particular forming part of the first elastic return element (1; 1') or formed in the extension of the blade (11) of the hairspring (1) forming the first elastic return element (1), or formed in the extension of the blades (11', 12') of the flexible guide (1') forming the first elastic return element (1'); A speed control system (150; 150') according to any one of proposals 1 to 9.

[0021] 11. The second elastic return element (2) is a curved blade (21) formed in the extension of the blade (11) of the hairspring (1) forming the first elastic return element (1); A speed control system (150) according to any one of proposals 1 to 10.

[0022] 12. The inertia element (4; 4') and the first, second and third elastic return elements are manufactured in one piece or form a single piece; A speed control system (150; 150') according to any one of proposals 1 to 11.

[0023] 13. At least one of the first, second, and third elastic return elements is at least partially: Single crystal silicon of any orientation, and / or Polycrystalline silicon, and / or amorphous silicon, and / or amorphous silicon dioxide, and / or Doped silicon, of any doping type and level, and / or porous silicon, and / or Silicon carbide, and / or Glass, and / or composite materials, and / or Technical ceramics, and / or quartz, may include A speed control system (150; 150') according to any one of proposals 1 to 12.

[0024] 14. An adjusting device (200) for a speed governing system (150; 150') according to any one of proposals 1 to 13, said device (200) being a device for changing the third stiffness k3 of the third elastic return element (3), in particular a device for changing the effective length of said third elastic return element (3), in particular a device for changing the effective length of at least one blade (31) of said third elastic return element (3); Adjustment device (200).

[0025] 15. A one-piece structure (900) intended to be mounted on the frame (6) of the clock movement (300) of the clock (400), The adjusting device (200) according to proposal 14.

[0026] 16. A connecting element (5) intended to support the first elastic return element (1) of the speed regulating system according to any one of proposals 1 to 13, and forming part of said integral structure (900), The adjusting device (200) according to proposal 15.

[0027] 17. A speed control system according to any one of proposals 1 to 13, the first elastic return element (1); the second elastic return element (2); the third elastic return element (3); wherein the first elastic return element (1), the second elastic return element (2), and the third elastic return element (3) form part of the integrally molded structure (900). The adjusting device (200) according to proposal 15 or 16.

[0028] 18. A pair of clamps (81, 82), in particular a pair of clamps (81, 82) forming part of said integrally formed structure (900), said pair of clamps comprising: movable relative to the frame (6); and / or It is intended to clamp the blade (31), in particular the blade (31) of the third elastic return element of the speed regulating system according to any one of proposals 1 to 13, and / or movable relative to the blade; 18. A regulation device (200) according to any one of proposals 14 to 17.

[0029] 19. A clock movement (300) comprising a speed regulating system (150; 150') according to any one of proposals 1 to 13 and / or a device (200) according to any one of proposals 14 to 18.

[0030] 20. A timepiece (400), in particular a wristwatch (400), comprising a speed regulating system (150; 150') according to any one of proposals 1 to 13, and / or a device (200) according to any one of proposals 14 to 18, and / or a timepiece movement (300) according to proposal 19.

[0031] 21. A method for adjusting an oscillator (100; 100') of a speed regulating system (150; 150') according to any one of proposals 1 to 13, or of a clock movement (300) according to proposal 19, or of a clock (400) according to proposal 20, comprising the step of changing the third stiffness k3 of the third elastic return element (3), in particular changing the effective length of the third elastic return element (3), in particular changing the effective length of at least one blade (31) of the third elastic return element (3).

[0032] According to a second aspect of the invention, the subject matter is defined by the following propositions.

[0033] 22. Frame (6) and an assembled balance wheel (4) pivoted relative to the frame (6) about a geometric axis (A4); an elastic return system (1, 2, 3) intended to connect the assembled balance wheel (4) to the frame (6) so that the assembled balance wheel (4) and the elastic return system (1, 2, 3) form an oscillator (100); A speed regulation system (150) of a timepiece movement (300), comprising: The elastic return system (1, 2, 3) comprises: A first elastic return element in the form of a first hairspring (1) having a first stiffness k1; A second elastic return element (2) having a second stiffness k2; A third elastic return element (3) having a third stiffness k3; Comprising: The first elastic return element (1) and the second elastic return element (2) are assembled in series between the assembled escape wheel (4) and the frame (6); The third elastic return element (3) and the second elastic return element (2) are assembled in parallel between the frame (6) and the first elastic return element (1); A speed regulation system.

[0034] 23. A device (200) for changing the third stiffness k3 is included, The speed regulation system (150) according to proposal 22.

[0035] 24. k2 + k3 > k1, further k2 + k3 >> k1, especially k2 + k3 > 10 × k1, particularly k2 + k3 > 100 × k1, where k2 = k3 or 0.5 < k2 / k3 < 2, and / or k2 + k3 > k1, further k = k3 or 0.5 < k2 / k3 < 2, and / or The second stiffness k2 is substantially greater than the first stiffness k1, especially the second stiffness k2 is substantially greater than the first stiffness k1 and substantially greater than the third stiffness k3; The speed regulation system (150) according to proposal 22 or 23.

[0036] 25. The first stiffness k1 and the third stiffness k3 are of the same order or identical, especially k3 = α × k1 where 0.5 ≤ α ≤ 2, and the second stiffness k2 is substantially greater than the first stiffness k1 and the third stiffness k3, in particular k2=β×k1 and / or k2=β×k3, where 10≦β≦80, preferably β=20 or β≈20; A speed control system (150) according to any one of proposals 22 to 24.

[0037] 26. The second stiffness k2 and the third stiffness k3 are similar or of the same order of magnitude, in particular k3 = γ × k2, where 0.5 ≦ γ ≦ 2; and the second stiffness k2 and the third stiffness k3 are substantially greater than the first stiffness k1, in particular k2 = δ x k1 and / or k3 = δ x k1, where 100 ≤ δ ≤ 200, preferably δ = 125 or δ ≈ 125; A speed control system (150) according to any one of proposals 22 to 25.

[0038] 27. The assembled balance wheel (4) and the elastic return system (1, 2, 3) are constructed and / or arranged such that the oscillation frequency of the oscillator (100) is between 3 Hz and 8 Hz, in particular 4 Hz or 5 Hz. A speed control system (150) according to any one of proposals 22 to 26.

[0039] 28. The first balance spring (1) comprises at least one first blade (11) connected to the assembled balance wheel (4) via a collet (14) arranged at a first proximal end of the first blade (11) and fastened to an axle (42) fixed to the balance wheel (41). A speed control system (150) according to any one of proposals 22 to 27.

[0040] 29. The first hairspring (1) comprises a first connecting member (12) arranged at a first distal end of the first blade (11) and connecting the first hairspring (1) to the second elastic return element (2), in particular by means of a connecting member (5); A speed control system (150) as described in proposal 28.

[0041] 30. The collet (14), the first blade (11), and the first connecting member (12) form an integral part. 30. A speed governor system (150) according to claim 28 or 29.

[0042] 31. The third elastic return element (3) comprises a second balance spring (3) including at least one second blade (31), the second proximal end (34) of which is intended to fasten the second balance spring (3) to the frame (6); A speed control system (150) according to any one of proposals 22 to 30.

[0043] 32. The second hairspring (3) also includes a second connecting member (32) arranged at the second distal end of the second blade (31) and connecting the hairspring (3) to the second elastic return element (2), in particular by means of a connecting member (5). A speed control system (150) as described in Proposal 31.

[0044] 33. The second proximal end (34), the second blade (31), and the second connecting member (32) form an integral part. A speed control system (150) according to proposal 31 or 32.

[0045] 34. The second elastic return element (2) comprises at least one pair, in particular two pairs, of elastic blades (21a, 21b, 22a, 22b) forming flexible guides, in particular RCC pivots, for the first hairspring (1) and the second hairspring (3), the virtual center of intersection of the blades coinciding with the point through which the axis (A4) passes; A speed governor system (150) according to any one of claims 22 to 33.

[0046] 35. The elastic blades (21a, 21b, 22a, 22b) are U-shaped or substantially U-shaped or V-shaped or substantially V-shaped or W-shaped or substantially W-shaped, respectively; A speed control system (150) as described in Proposal 34.

[0047] 36. The connecting member (5) comprises two plates (51, 52) that receive the first and second connecting members (12, 32), and the two plates (51, 52) are connected to the frame (6) by the second elastic return element (2); A speed control system (150) according to any one of proposals 22 to 35 and according to proposal 25 or 28.

[0048] 37. At least one of the first, second, and third elastic return elements is at least partially: Single crystal silicon of any orientation, and / or Polycrystalline silicon, and / or amorphous silicon, and / or amorphous silicon dioxide, and / or Doped silicon, of any doping type and level, and / or porous silicon, and / or Silicon carbide, and / or Glass, and / or composite materials, and / or Technical ceramics, and / or Quartz, and / or Metal, and / or Metal alloys, in particular alloys made of Nb-Zr or Nb-Ti, may include A speed control system (150) according to any one of proposals 22 to 36.

[0049] 38. An adjusting device (200) for a speed governing system (150) according to any one of proposals 22 to 37 and proposal 23, said device (200) being a device for changing the third stiffness k3 of the third elastic return element (3), in particular a device for changing the effective length of said third elastic return element (3), in particular a device for changing the effective length of at least one blade (31) of said third elastic return element (3), in particular a device for changing the effective length of at least one straight, curved or spiral-shaped blade (31) of said third elastic return element (3). Regulator (200).

[0050] 39. A one-piece structure (900) intended to be mounted on the frame (6) of the clock movement (300) of a clock (400), The adjusting device (200) according to proposal 38.

[0051] 40. A connecting element (5) intended to support the first elastic return element (1) of the speed regulating system according to any one of proposals 22 to 37, and forming part of the integral structure (900), The adjusting device (200) according to proposal 39.

[0052] 41. The speed regulating system according to any one of proposals 22 to 37, including the hairspring (1), wherein the hairspring (1) forms part of the integrally formed structure (900); The adjusting device (200) according to proposal 39 or 40.

[0053] 42. A clock movement (300) comprising a speed regulating system (150) according to any one of proposals 22 to 37 and / or a device (200) according to any one of proposals 38 to 41.

[0054] 43. A timepiece (400), in particular a wristwatch (400), comprising a speed regulating system (150) according to any one of proposals 22 to 37, and / or a device (200) according to any one of proposals 38 to 41, and / or a timepiece movement (300) according to proposal 42.

[0055] 44. A method for adjusting an oscillator (100) of a speed regulating system (150) according to any one of proposals 22 to 37, or of a clock movement (300) according to proposal 42, or of a clock (400) according to proposal 43, comprising the step of changing the third stiffness k3 of the third elastic return element (3), in particular changing the effective length of the third elastic return element (3), in particular changing the effective length of at least one blade (31) of the third elastic return element (3).

[0056] The accompanying drawings show, by way of example, two embodiments of a watch according to the invention. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0057] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing the principle of the overall structure of a timepiece according to the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a first modification of the first embodiment of the speed governing system. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of a second modification of the first embodiment of the speed governing system. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of a third modified example of the first embodiment of the speed governing system. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a side view of a third modified example of the speed governing system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a top view of a third modified example of the speed governing system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a fourth modified example of the first embodiment of the speed governing system. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram of a fifth modification of the first embodiment of the speed governing system. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram of a timepiece incorporating a first modified example of the second embodiment of the speed regulating system. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of a second modification of the second embodiment of the speed governing system. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a diagram specifying the structure of a first modified example of the first embodiment of the speed governing system. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a partial detailed view of the structure of a first modified example of the first embodiment of the speed governing system. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0058] Regardless of the embodiment or variant, the watch 400 is described in detail below with reference to FIG.

[0059] The timepiece 400 is for example a small timepiece, in particular a wristwatch, and includes a timepiece movement 300 that is intended to be mounted in a watch case or casing to protect it from the external environment.

[0060] The watch movement 300 may be a mechanical movement, in particular an automatic movement, or even a hybrid movement, i.e. a mechanical movement including electronic components.

[0061] The timepiece movement 300 includes a speed regulating system 150 .

[0062] The speed control system 150 is - Frame 6 and an oscillator 100; 100' including an inertial element 4; 4' and an elastic return system 1; 1', 2, 3; a device 200 for modifying the stiffness of the elastic return elements 3 of the elastic return system, preferably by modifying the effective length of the elastic return elements 3; Includes:

[0063] According to a first aspect of the present invention, the regulating system 150 of the timepiece movement 300 comprises: - inertia elements 4;4', - Frame 6 and an elastic return system 1;1', 2, 3 intended to connect the inertial element 4;4' to the frame 6; Including, The elastic return system 1;1', 2, 3 - a first elastic return element 1;1' having a first stiffness k1; a second elastic return element 2, having a second stiffness k2; a third elastic return element 3, having a third stiffness k3; a device 200 for varying the third stiffness k3, in particular by varying the effective length of the elastic return element 3; Includes: The first elastic return element 1;1' and the second elastic return element 2 are assembled in series between the inertia element 4;4' and the frame 6, and the third elastic return element 3 and the second elastic return element 2 are assembled in parallel between the frame 6 and the first elastic return element 1;1'.

[0064] According to a second aspect of the present invention, the speed regulating system 150 of the timepiece movement 300 comprises: - Frame 6 and an inertia element 4 in the form of an assembled balance wheel 4 pivoted relative to the frame 6 about a geometric axis A4; - an elastic return system 1, 2, 3 intended to connect the assembled balance wheel 4 to the frame 6; Includes: The elastic return elements 1, 2, 3 are a first elastic return element in the form of a first hairspring 1 having a first stiffness k1; a second elastic return element 2, having a second stiffness k2; a third elastic return element 3, having a third stiffness k3; Includes: The first elastic return element 1 and the second elastic return element 2 are assembled in series between the assembled balance wheel 4 and the frame 6, and the third elastic return element 3 and the second elastic return element 2 are assembled in parallel between the frame 6 and the first elastic return element 1.

[0065] Two elastic return elements of a system are called "in series" when one follows the other or when they are linked to each other by their respective ends in order to connect two separate elements, which means that when a mechanical load of a given intensity is applied to the system, in particular to one or the other of the two separate elements, each of the two elastic return elements is at least substantially exposed to said given intensity of said load.

[0066] Two elastic return elements of a system are called "parallel" if they directly connect two separate elements by their two respective ends, meaning that when a given magnitude of deformation is applied to the system, each of the two elastic return elements is at least substantially deformed by that magnitude.

[0067] The regulating system and / or the oscillator are specifically shaped and / or arranged to allow fine adjustment of the rate of the movement by modifying the stiffness of an elastic return element forming part of said oscillator, said adjustment may be performed in particular by using a lever or framework movable relative to the frame, in particular by modifying the effective or effective length of at least one elastic blade of said elastic return element forming part of said oscillator.

[0068] The oscillator 100 shown schematically in FIG. a first elastic return element 1 of stiffness k1, connected to the inertial element 4; a second elastic return element 2 of stiffness k2 connected in series with the first elastic return element 1; a third elastic return element 3 of stiffness k3, also connected in series with the first elastic return element 1 and in parallel with the second elastic return element 2, the stiffness k3 of which can be changed using a device 200 for changing the stiffness k3 of the third elastic return element 3; Advantageously, the stiffness k3 of the third elastic return element 3 may be changed by changing the effective or effective length of at least one elastic blade 31 of the third elastic return element 3, in particular by means of a lever or framework 7. Even more advantageously, the stiffness k3 of the third elastic return element 3 may be changed by changing the effective or effective length of only the elastic blade 31 of the third elastic return element 3. The first and second elastic return elements 1, 2 do not have a device for changing their respective stiffnesses k1, k2. This configuration offers the advantage of simplifying the use of the adjustment and / or speed control system compared to other systems in which the effective length of several elastic blades is modifiable.

[0069] The rate adjustment obtained with this configuration is finer if only the effective length of a single blade 31 is adjustable across the elastic return system comprising three elastic return elements 1, 2, 3. The single stiffness adjustment will therefore have a smaller effect on the overall stiffness of the elastic return system comprising three elastic return elements 1, 2, 3, thus allowing for finer adjustment of the system. Advantageously, therefore, the adjustment device 200 acts exclusively on the single blade 31 of the third elastic return element 3.

[0070] Studies carried out by the inventor have shown that such an arrangement of the return elements 1, 2, 3 of the oscillator 100 allows for considerable fine tuning of the rate with carefully selected stiffnesses k1, k2, k3. For example, for an oscillator 100 with a given frequency of 4 Hz, if k2=20*k1 and k3=k1 for a given stiffness k1, then a ±10% variation in stiffness k3 will result in a rate variation of a watch including the oscillator 100 equal to or substantially equal to ±10 seconds / day.

[0071] A variation of about ±10% in the stiffness k3 of the third elastic return element 3 appears to be possible through the use of a lever or framework that allows adjustment of the effective or effective length of at least one elastic blade 31 of the third elastic return element 3. The lever or framework may be actuated by the watchmaker or by any free-standing device. For example, a variation of about ±10% in stiffness may be caused by moving the lever or framework around the axis A4 by an angle of a few degrees or by about 10 degrees.

[0072] The regulating system 150 is described below according to various embodiments and variants, which involve either traditional watchmaking elements, such as a balance wheel and at least one hairspring, or the use of flexible guides and elements suitable for forming an integral part.

[0073] In a first embodiment (shown in FIGS. 2 to 8 ), the first elastic return element is in the form of a hairspring 1 connected to an inertia element 4 .

[0074] In a second embodiment (shown in FIGS. 9 and 10), the first elastic return element is in the form of a flexible guide 1' designed to elastically return and guide, in particular pivot, an inertial element 4'.

[0075] Various variations of these two embodiments are described below, in which: the third elastic return element may have various shapes, such as a straight or curved elastic blade, or may be a hairspring; and - the inertial element may be limited to the oscillating weight or may be in the form of a balance wheel (commonly referred to as an "assembled balance wheel") that is pivoted by the stem. In the latter case, the stem may be fixed to the balance wheel, in particular by being hammered in. Alternatively, the stem may be integral with the balance wheel. In other words, the stem and the balance wheel may form an integral part.

[0076] Regardless of the embodiment or variant, the first elastic return element 1 may be connected to the second and third elastic return elements 2, 3, respectively, by means of a connecting member 5, as shown in Figures 1 to 10. Advantageously, said connecting member 5 may be a rigid element that helps to mechanically decouple the second and third elastic return elements 2, 3 from the first elastic return element 1, which is connected to the inertial element, so that any disturbances (such as non-linearities in the stiffnesses k2 and k3) generated by the second and third elastic return elements 2, 3 have less influence on the operation of the assembly formed by the inertial element and the first elastic return element.

[0077] Regardless of the embodiment or variant, the second and third elastic return elements 2, 3 are connected to a frame 6. The frame may be the frame of a timepiece movement 300, and may also be a movement blank 6, in particular a plate or bridge, especially a balance bridge.

[0078] Regardless of the embodiment or variant, the third elastic return element 3 may be connected to the frame 6 by means of an adjustment element 7 of the modification device 200 .

[0079] Regardless of the embodiment or variant (implementing a hairspring or a flexible guide as the first return element), one advantageous way of manufacturing the second elastic return element is to use an RCC (Remote Center Compliance) pivot, constituted by at least two embedded blades, intended to guide the connecting member 5. The virtual center of intersection of the flexible blades constituting the RCC pivot may advantageously coincide with the point passing through the geometric axis A4 of the inertial element (for the first embodiment) or with the point passing through the geometric (and virtual) axis A4' of the flexible guide 1' and the inertial element (for the second embodiment). This configuration improves the stability of the oscillator 100; 100' compared to any other arrangement of three elastic return elements.

[0080] The inertia element 4;4', in particular the "balance wheel assembly 4", or more generally the oscillator 100:100' or the regulating system 150, regulates the final train or final gear of the movement 300 by means of a miniature watch escapement. Any known miniature watch escapement design and any known final gear design can be used.

[0081] In a first variant of the first embodiment (schematically shown in FIG. 2), the first elastic return element is in the form of a hairspring 1 provided with blades 11, the first proximal end of which is connected to the oscillating weight 41 of the inertia element 4 by means of the arbor 42 of the geometric axis A4.

[0082] The second elastic return element 2 comprises two elastic blades 21, 22. The two blades 21, 22 are preferably straight and are both oriented, for example, radially with respect to the pivot axis A4 of the inertia element 4.

[0083] The third elastic return element 3 is in the form of a single elastic blade 31. The blade 3 is preferably straight. The blade 31 is, for example, oriented radially with respect to the pivot axis A4 of the inertia element 4.

[0084] Blades 21, 22, and 31 are connected at their respective first ends to the balance spring 1 at end portions 5 of the balance spring 1, which are substantially stiffer than blade 11 and extend blade 11 at the distal end of the balance spring 1. These blades 21, 22, and 31 are also connected at their respective second ends to a frame 6. In particular, the second ends of blades 21 and 22 are embedded, in particular permanently embedded, in the frame 6. In particular, the second end of blade 31 is engaged with or held between two pins 81 and 82 fixed to an adjusting element 7, which may consist of a lever 7 or framework 7 connected to the frame 6 while being translationally movable relative to it. The pins allow the third blade 31 to be clamped and / or held and / or supported at the contact points with the pins. At these contact points, the deflection of the third blade 31 is limited or even counterbalanced. Thus, bending of the blade occurs between its connection point with the end portion 5 and the point of contact with the pin. As a result, the effective or effective length of the bending third blade can be adjusted by moving the lever 7 or framework 7. The effect of this is to change the stiffness k3 of the third blade 31.

[0085] During operation of the oscillator 100, the inertial element 4 oscillates about the axis A4, which causes expansion and compression of the blade 11 and deflection of the blades 21, 22, and 31. In particular, the blades 21 and 22 define flexible guides that connect the blade 11 and the connecting member 5 of the hairspring 1 to the frame 6. In particular, in this case, the blades 21 and 22 define an RCC (Remote Center Compliance) pivot that connects the blade 11 and the connecting member 5 of the hairspring 1 to the frame 6. The axis of the RCC pivot preferably coincides with the geometric axis A4 about which the inertial element 4 pivots. Varying the effective length of the blade 31 (and therefore its stiffness k3, as described above) makes it possible to vary the stiffness k100 of the oscillator 100, including such a hairspring 1 connected in series with the blades 21, 22, and the blade 31, respectively.

[0086] As mentioned above, this is possible thanks to the pins 81 , 82 which provide abutments and define the effective length of the blade 31 under the influence of a translational movement of the lever 7 or framework 7 .

[0087] Studies carried out by the inventors have shown that such an arrangement of the blades 11, 21, 22, 31 of the oscillator 100 allows for considerable fine tuning of the rate with carefully selected stiffnesses k1, k2, k3. For example, for an oscillator 100 with a given operating frequency of 4 Hz, if k2=20×k1 and k3=k1 for a given stiffness k1, then a ±10% variation in stiffness k3 will result in a rate variation of a watch including the oscillator 100 equal to or substantially equal to ±10 seconds / day.

[0088] In a second variant of the first embodiment (schematically shown in FIG. 3), the blade 31 has a curved (circular or substantially circular) shape and its effective length is adjustable by means of a rotatable lever 7 or framework 7. These features are in particular the only difference from the first variant of the first embodiment.

[0089] For example, in the second variant, the connecting member 5 has a slightly more complex configuration than the connecting member 5 of the first variant. In particular, the connecting member 5 according to the second variant may have an elbow shape. The connecting member 5 may have a first circular or substantially circular portion extending about the axis A4 for fixing the blades 21, 22 to the blade 11 (in the same manner as the first variant), and a second linear portion oriented radially or substantially radially relative to the axis A4, designed to fix the blade 31 to the blade 11.

[0090] The other end of the blade 31 is preferably embedded in the frame 6. However, the effective or effective length of the blade 31, which moves on either side of its rest position under the influence of the swinging of the inertial element 4 about the geometric axis A4, is defined by pins 81 and 82 fixed to a lever or framework 7 rotatable relative to the frame 6. As in the first variant, the pins 81 and 82 provide abutment points for the blade 31 and thus define one end of the effective or effective length of the blade 31, i.e., they effectively define the length of the blade 31 exposed to bending.

[0091] In a third variant of the first embodiment (shown in Figures 4 to 6), the third elastic element is in the form of a hairspring 3 provided with blades 31 whose proximal ends 34 are connected or fastened to a frame 6 (shown diagrammatically in Figures 4 and 5). The hairspring 3 is connected to the hairspring 1, in particular to the blades 11 of the hairspring 1, by means of a connecting member 5, which is mechanically connected to the frame 6 via a second elastic return element 2. In this case, the frame is preferably a movement blank 6, such as a bridge, in particular a balance bridge.

[0092] In particular, the second elastic return element 2 and the connecting member 5 are integral with an intermediate member 61, which is fixed or connected to the remainder of the frame 6. The intermediate member 61 thus forms part of the frame 6. More generally, the second elastic return element 2 and the connecting member 5 are contained within the same intermediate member 61, which is fixed to the remainder of the frame 6.

[0093] 6, the intermediate member 61 is generally in the form of an elongated panel, which is advantageously provided with two pairs of elastic blades 21a, 21b and 22a, 22b forming the second elastic return element 2.

[0094] In particular, these two pairs of blades are arranged symmetrically with respect to a plane P passing through the geometric axis A4 of the arbor 42 connected to the balance wheel 41, the arbor 42 passing through the central opening 610 of the member 61.

[0095] The pair of blades 21a, 21b resiliently connects the first part or plate 51 to the intermediate member 61. The pair of blades 22a, 22b resiliently connects the second part or plate 52 to the intermediate member 61. The parts or plates 51 and 52 together constitute the connecting member 5. Thus, the plates 51, 52 are fixed to the pairs of blades 21a, 21b and 22a, 22b, respectively.

[0096] Each of these plates 51, 52 is intended to be fastened to a respective first end 13a, 33a and a respective second end 13b, 33b of the hairsprings 1 and 3. The hairsprings 1, 3 are thus connected to the plates 51, 52 that constitute the connecting member 5. The plates are themselves connected to the frame 6 by means of the elastic blades 21a, 21b and 22a, 22b.

[0097] The element 61 fastened to the remainder of the bridge 6 can thus constitute a support for the balance springs 1 and 3.

[0098] In particular, the first ends 13a, 13b and the second ends 33a, 33b are each in the form of a stud or pin that is adapted to, and in particular intended to be driven into, openings 53a, 53b respectively formed in each of the plates 51, 52. Alternatively, the two plates may have studs and the connecting member of the balance spring may include openings for receiving or driving these studs.

[0099] Each of the plates 51, 52 is formed as an extension of the blades 21a, 21b and 22a, 22b, which in this case are U-shaped or substantially U-shaped. Alternatively, the elastic blades 21a, 21b and 22a, 22b may, for example, be V-shaped or substantially V-shaped, or W-shaped or substantially W-shaped, respectively. Alternatively, the elastic blades 21a, 21b and 22a, 22b may, for example, each be shaped in such a way as to achieve a required stiffness value.

[0100] In particular, structures 21a, 21b, 51 and 22a, 22b, 52 constitute a unitary or integrally formed element. More generally, these structures are contained within an intermediate member 61, the latter forming a unitary part. The unitary part may also include the two plates 51, 52.

[0101] The pairs of studs 13a, 13b and 33a, 33b are fixed at their distal ends to connecting members 12, 32 formed in the extension of the blades 11, 31 of the balance springs 1, 3, respectively. In particular, these two pairs of studs are arranged symmetrically with respect to the above-mentioned plane P, which means that each can cooperate with a pair of elastic blades 21a, 21b and 22a, 22b by means of plates 51, 52 forming the connecting member 5.

[0102] A first connecting member 12 is arranged at a first distal end of the first blade 11 and connects the first balance spring 1 to the second elastic return element 2 , in particular by means of the connecting member 5 .

[0103] A second connecting member 32 is arranged at the second distal end of the third blade 31 and connects the second balance spring 3 to the second elastic return element 2 , in particular by means of the connecting member 5 .

[0104] Each pair of elastic blades 21a, 21b and 22a, 22b defines a flexible guide for the hairsprings 1 and 3, in particular an RCC pivot (the virtual center of which coincides with the axis A4), while connecting the hairsprings 1 and 3 by means of portions 51, 52.

[0105] 4 and 5, the intermediate member 61 is arranged at the interface of the hairsprings 1 and 3. In other words, the intermediate member is arranged between the hairsprings 1 and 3 according to the axis A4 or according to the vertical direction z, which is indicated diagrammatically by an arrow in FIG.

[0106] The modifying device 200 may, for example, be arranged (in accordance with the vertical direction z) between the hairspring 3 and the frame 6, in particular the balance bridge 6. As explained in the above variants and as can be seen in particular from Figure 5, the pins 81, 82 are fixed to a lever 7 or framework 7 that is connected to the frame 6 while being rotatable relative to said frame 6.

[0107] Advantageously, the blades 11 and 31 of the balance springs 1, 3 are similar, or substantially similar, or even identical. Advantageously, k3=k1. For example, for a given oscillator 100 frequency of 4 Hz, and for a given stiffness k1 equal to k3, if k2=20*k1, a ±10% variation in stiffness k3 will result in a rate variation of the watch including oscillator 100 equal to or substantially equal to ±10 seconds / day.

[0108] Such a variant has the advantage of using traditional watchmaking elements (e.g. hairsprings 1, 3, assembled balance wheel 4) whilst simplifying assembly with the particular configuration of the intermediate member 61, which has the advantage of combining the functions of the second elastic return element 2 and the connecting member 5.

[0109] Furthermore, the balance wheel 41, the arbor 42 and the hairspring 1 (for example fastened to the arbor 42 by means of the collet 14) have the advantage that they can be mounted directly on the frame 6 when it is not desired to allow adjustment by means of the modifying device 200. The assembly 41, 42, 1 may thus constitute a standardized assembly that can be installed both in conventional movements and in movements 300 provided with the modifying device 200.

[0110] The collet 14 is preferably located at a first proximal end of the first blade 11 and is fastened to an arbour 42 fixed to the balance wheel 41 .

[0111] Advantageously, the collet 14, the first blade 11 and the first connecting member 12 form an integral part. Similarly, advantageously, the second proximal end 34, the second blade 31 and the second connecting member 32 may form an integral part.

[0112] The fourth variant of the first embodiment (shown in FIG. 7) differs from the third variant in that the third blade 31 is significantly stiffer. Compared to the third variant, the cross section of the blade 31 is larger and / or the length of the blade 31 is shorter. For example, the stiffness of the second elastic return element 2 and the stiffness of the third elastic return element 3 are the same or substantially the same.

[0113] In fact, studies carried out by the inventors have shown that for an oscillator 100 given an operating frequency of, for example, 4 Hz, for a given stiffness k1, and for a second stiffness k2 and a third stiffness k3 of similar or identical order of magnitude, approximately 125 x k1, which are substantially greater than stiffness k1, a variation of ±10% in stiffness k3 results in a rate variation of a watch including oscillator 100 equal to or substantially equal to ±15 seconds / day.

[0114] In a fifth variant of the first embodiment (schematically shown in FIG. 8 ), it is proposed that the second elastic return element 2 and the connecting member 5 are formed in the extension of the blade 11 of the hairspring 1. To this end, in this case, the second elastic return element 2 is in the form of a curved elastic blade 21 that is stiffer than the blade 11. The connecting member 5 is in the form of an elbow 51 (oriented radially or substantially radially with respect to the axis A4) formed at the distal end of the blade 11. This connects the blade 11 to the curved elastic blade 31 that forms the third elastic return element, and also connects the third elastic return element to the curved elastic blade 21. The distal ends of the blades 21 and 31 are connected to the frame 6 by means of an elbow 210 formed at the distal end of the blade 21, for example by a fixed connection.

[0115] The effective length of the curved elastic blade 31 is also adjusted by means of pins 81 , 82 of the lever 7 or framework, which are rotatable relative to the frame 6 .

[0116] According to the second embodiment, the first elastic return element 1' is in the form of a flexible guide 1' designed to elastically return and guide, in particular pivot, the inertia element 4' about the axis A4'. To this end, the first elastic return element 1' may comprise two blades 11' and 12', which intersect to form, for example, a Wittrick-type pivot. In particular, the blades 11' and 12' are arranged in two separate parallel planes. The blades 11' and 12' are connected at their first ends to the connecting element 5. The blades 11' and 12' are also connected at their second ends to the oscillating weight 41'. The inertia element 4' may therefore comprise the oscillating weight 41' and the blades 11' and 12', which form the first elastic return element 1' and the guide element 42'.

[0117] According to a first variant of the second embodiment (shown in FIG. 9 and whose principle is equivalent to that of the first variant of the first embodiment), the second elastic return element 2 comprises two straight elastic blades 21, 22 constituting an RCC pivot, and the third elastic return element 3 is in the form of a single straight elastic blade 31, each of these blades 21, 22, 31 extending radially or substantially radially relative to the axis A4′.

[0118] These blades 11′, 12′ and 21, 22, and 31 are connected to each other at their respective first ends by means of connecting members 5. Blades 21, 22, and 31 are also connected to frame 6 at their respective second ends. In particular, the second ends of blades 21 and 22 are permanently embedded in frame 6, and the second end of blade 31 is engaged between two protrusions 81 and 82 fixed to framework 7 of modification device 200, which is connected to frame 6 while being translationally movable relative to said frame 6.

[0119] During operation of the oscillator 100', the weight 41' oscillates about the axis A4', which causes bending of the blades 11' and 12' and deflection of the blades 21, 22, and 31. In particular, the blades 21 and 22 define flexible guides that connect the blades 11', 12' and the connecting member 5 to the frame 6. In particular, the blades 21 and 22 define RCC pivots that connect the blades 11', 12' and the connecting member 5 to the frame 6. The axis of the RCC pivot preferably coincides with the geometric (and imaginary) axis A4' about which the inertial element 4' pivots. Changing the effective length of the blade 31 makes it possible to change the stiffness k100' of the oscillator 100', including such a first elastic return element 1' connected in series with the blades 21, 22, and the blade 31, respectively.

[0120] Studies carried out by the inventors have shown that such an arrangement of the blades 11', 12', 21, 22, 31 of the oscillator 100' allows for considerable fine tuning of the rate with carefully selected stiffnesses k1', k2, k3. For example, for an oscillator 100' with a given operating frequency of 10 Hz, if for a given stiffness k1', k2 = 20 x k1' and k3 = k1', then a ±10% variation in stiffness k3 will result in a rate variation of a watch including the oscillator 100 equal to or substantially equal to ±10 seconds per day.

[0121] A second variation of the second embodiment (shown in Figure 10) is substantially identical to the first variation, except that the blade 31 has a curved shape and its effective or useful length is adjustable using a rotatable lever 7.

[0122] Therefore, the connecting member 5 has a slightly more complicated configuration than the connecting member 5 of the first variant. In particular, the connecting member 5 according to the second variant has an elbow shape. Two first circular or substantially circular portions extend around the axis A4' to fasten the blades 21, 22 to the blades 11' and 12', and a second linear portion oriented radially or substantially radially relative to the axis A4' is designed to fasten the blade 31 to the blades 11', 12'.

[0123] The other end of the blade 31 is embedded in the frame 6. However, the effective length of the blade 31, which moves on either side of its rest position under the influence of the swing of the inertial element 4' about the imaginary axis A4', is defined by pins 81 and 82 fixed to the rotating lever 7, which is mechanically connected to the frame 6.

[0124] An example of the configuration of a first modified example of the first embodiment of the speed governing system will be described below with reference to FIGS.

[0125] The oscillator 100 comprises an oscillating weight 41 of an inertia element 4, in particular a balance wheel, and a first elastic return element 1, in particular a hairspring. The oscillator 100 further comprises a second elastic return element, which forms part of the support 2 of the first elastic return element 1.

[0126] Hairspring 1 is its first proximal end 14 is connected to the oscillating weight 41 by means of the axis 42 of the geometric axis A4; and - a first connecting member 12, the second distal end of which is intended to be fixed to the second connecting member 5 of the support 2, in particular via posts or pins 213a, 213b, intended to be inserted into the openings 212a, 212b and 221a, 221b, respectively, formed in the first and second connecting members, in particular at each of their ends; A blade 11 is provided.

[0127] The second connecting member 5 is fixed to the rigid framework 20 via elastic blades 21, 22, each of which is provided with a flexible portion at each end, so that the second elastic return element takes the form of the second connecting member 5, articulated to the framework 20 via the elastic blades 21, 22.

[0128] The third elastic return element 3 itself is fixed to the second connecting member 5 and takes the form of a single, here straight, elastic blade 31, for example arranged between the elastic blades 21, 22 on the outer periphery of the second connecting member 5.

[0129] In the described embodiment, the elements 20, 21, 22, 5 of the support 2 and the blade 31 of the third elastic return element 3 form an integral structure 900 of the regulating system 150, fixed to the frame 6 of the watch 400, in particular of the movement 300.

[0130] In the embodiment described, the stiffness selection device 308 for selecting the stiffness of the elastic return system 10 makes it possible to select the stiffness from three predefined stiffnesses ksr1, ksr2, ksr3. the stiffness ksr1 results from the nominal frequency f1 of the first oscillator 100, - stiffness ksr2 is greater than stiffness ksr1 and arises from frequency f2, which is greater than frequency f1, and - Stiffness ksr3 is less than stiffness ksr1 and arises from frequency f3, which is lower than frequency f1.

[0131] Here, "predetermined stiffness" means a predetermined stiffness centered on the value of ksr1, ksr2, or ksr3. Of course, these predetermined stiffnesses ksr1, ksr2, and ksr3 may each vary within a predetermined range, the amplitude of which depends on the system tolerances. Optionally, the stiffness ksr1 can be varied over a more limited, or even significantly more limited, range than the ranges associated with the stiffnesses ksr2 and ksr3 to yield the nominal frequency f1 of the first oscillator.

[0132] Thus, the stiffness ksr2 of the elastic return system 10 makes it possible to correct any losses that may occur in the display of the watch or to correct any losses in the moving parts that drive any potential display of the watch, and the stiffness ksr3 of the elastic return system 10 makes it possible to correct any gains that may exist in the display of the watch or to correct any gains in the moving parts that drive any potential display of the watch.

[0133] In the described embodiment, the stiffness selection device 308 for selecting the stiffness of the elastic return system 10 acts in particular on the stiffness of the third elastic return element 3, more particularly on the stiffness of the elastic blade 31. Thus, the stiffness selection device 308 makes it possible to select the determined stiffness of the third elastic return element 3 from three predetermined stiffnesses k31, k32, k33, the stiffnesses ksr1, ksr2, ksr3 of the elastic return system 10 being correlated with the stiffnesses k31, k32, k33, respectively. Thus, as will be explained below, the stiffness k31 of the elastic blade 31 makes it possible to define the nominal frequency f1 of the first oscillator 100, the stiffness k32 of the elastic blade 31 makes it possible to correct any losses that may occur in the display of the watch or any losses of the moving parts that drive any potential display of the watch, and the stiffness k33 of the elastic blade 31 makes it possible to correct any gains that may be present in the display of the watch or any gains of the moving parts that drive any potential display of the watch.

[0134] Such an arrangement of the elastic return elements 1, 2, 3 and their carefully selected respective stiffnesses ksr1, ksr2, ksr3 appears to allow for considerable fine adjustment of the rate. For example, a ±10% variation in stiffness ksr3 results in a rate variation of a watch including the first oscillator 100 equal to or substantially equal to ±10 seconds / day.

[0135] By way of example, Figure 12 shows a selection device 308, illustrated in black, which here forms part of a single-piece structure 900 intended to be attached to the frame 6 of the movement 300, in particular to the blank.

[0136] For this reason, more generally, the selection device 308 comprises at least a pair of clamps 81, 82 intended to act on the effective length of the regulating element 7, or elastic blade 31, and a selection beak 306 cooperating with a toothed structure 305 intended to position the pair of clamps 81, 82 in one of three stable positions predetermined by the teeth of the structure 305.

[0137] The selection device 308 can be actuated to place the pair of clamps 81, 82 in three stable positions by moving the selection beak 306 over the toothed structure 305.

[0138] Overall, the stiffness adjustment or variation device 200 may include an integrally molded structure 900 of which the clamps 81 and 82 form part, the clamps being movable relative to a base 20 of the integrally molded structure 900 (along the third blade 3), the base 20 being fixed to the frame 6.

[0139] More specifically, clamps 81, 82 are connected to framework 304 via flexible blades 601, and framework 304 is connected to base 20 via flexible blades. As a result of this construction, clamps 81, 82 (and more generally the assembly including framework 304) are movable relative to the frame.

[0140] The selection device 308 includes clamps 81, 82, a framework 304, and a base 20. The toothed structure 305 may be formed on either the framework 304 or the base 20, and the selection beak may be formed on the other of either the framework 304 or the base 20.

[0141] The exemplary embodiment of FIGS. 11 and 12 is notable for the following features. the speed-governing element 7 is mounted on the frame 6 via the resilient blade 601 and includes two lugs or clamps 81, 82 which are returned against the third resilient blade 3 by reason of a preloaded element or post 303; and / or the clamps 81, 82 are incorporated in a single piece structure 900, the base 20 of which is intended to be supported on the frame 6; and / or the blades 21, 22 of the second elastic return element are also formed in the monolithic structure 900 and are connected to the connecting member 5 (of the first elastic return element) and to the base 20 mounted on the frame 6; and / or - one end of the third elastic blade may be free, and / or the first elastic return element 1 (which may take the form of a hairspring) may be formed in the one-piece structure 900; and / or the support 5 or connecting member 5 (which supports the first elastic return element 1, in particular the hairspring) is integrally formed with or forms part of the one-piece structure 900; and / or the clamps 81, 82 act to immobilize the third resilient blade in the transverse direction of the third blade (and in the plane of FIG. 12); and / or The clamps 81, 82 act without pre-loading or deforming the third blade. These features illustrated in the first variant of the first embodiment of the speed governor system in FIGS. 11 and 12 may be employed regardless of the embodiment or variant of the speed governor system.

[0142] More generally, the selection device 308 may also be intended to position the pair of clamps 81, 82 in n stable positions by moving the selection beak 306 over the toothed structure 305. Advantageously, n may be equal to 3, but may also be different, in particular equal to 2, or equal to 4 or 5. Alternatively, the selection device may be a continuous adjustment system. In this case, the selection device is not an individual adjustment system comprising n predetermined positions of adjustment, but rather an adjustment system operable, for example, by means of an eccentric that can be swung over a range without any notches or individual positions.

[0143] Regardless of the embodiment or variant, the oscillator 100, 100' may be an integral part or may be comprised of an assembly of elements.

[0144] The balance springs 1, 3 described herein preferably comprise a single blade. Of course, it is also possible to implement at least one balance spring comprising several blades, such as two blades, in one or more planes.

[0145] Regardless of the embodiment or variant, the oscillator 100; 100' may include one or more elastic return elements in addition to the first, second, and third elastic return elements described herein. For example, the oscillator 100; 100' may include at least one fourth elastic return element for thermal compensation purposes or for fine-tuning rate correction, which may be arranged, for example, in parallel to the second and third elastic return elements.

[0146] Regardless of the embodiment or variant, the elastic return element may at least partially comprise monocrystalline silicon of any orientation, polycrystalline silicon, amorphous silicon, amorphous silicon dioxide, doped silicon of any doping type and level, or even porous silicon, silicon carbide, glass, ceramic, composite material, or quartz. Alternatively, the elastic return element may be made of a metal or metal alloy, in particular a paramagnetic metal alloy, such as an alloy made of Nb-Zr or Nb-Ti.

[0147] This document describes a solution using pivoting inertial elements, but of course the inventive concept is also applicable to inertial elements designed to be moved, for example, in translation.

[0148] In this specification, the oscillation frequency of the inertial element may be between 3 and 8 Hz, typically 4 Hz. The frequency may of course be chosen according to the specific requirements of the timepiece, and may be higher than 8 Hz, for example 10 Hz, or between 10 and 100 Hz, or even higher than 100 Hz.

[0149] Advantageously, regardless of the embodiment or variant, the stiffnesses k1, k2, k3 are: k2+k3>k1, or even k2+k3>>k1, for example k2+k3>10×k1, and / or the second stiffness k2 is substantially greater than the first stiffness k1, in particular the second stiffness k2 is substantially greater than the first stiffness k1 and substantially greater than the third stiffness k3; It is made to be like this. In particular, regardless of the embodiment or modification, the stiffnesses k1, k2, and k3 are: the first stiffness k1 and the third stiffness k3 are similar or of the same order of magnitude, in particular k3 = α × k1, where 0.5 ≦ α ≦ 2, and the second stiffness k2 is substantially greater than the first stiffness k1 and the third stiffness k3, in particular k2=β×k1 and / or k2=β×k3, where 10≦β≦80, preferably β=20 or β≈20; It may be so. Alternatively, regardless of the embodiment or variant, the stiffnesses k1, k2, and k3 can be the second stiffness k2 and the third stiffness k3 are similar or of the same order of magnitude, in particular k3 = γ × k2, where 0.5 ≦ γ ≦ 2, and the second stiffness k2 and the third stiffness k3 are substantially greater than the first stiffness k1, in particular k2=δ×k1 and / or k3=δ×k1, where 100≦δ≦200, preferably δ=125 or δ≈125; It may be so.

[0150] In a particular variant, the second elastic return element 2 is a curved blade 21. Advantageously, said curved blade may be formed in the extension of the blade 11 of the hairspring 1 forming the first elastic return element 1.

[0151] In the various embodiments and variants described, the first, second and third elastic return elements are connected to one another by a connecting member 5, which comprises: - may form part of the first elastic return element 1; 1', or - may be formed in the extension of the blade 11 of the hairspring 1 forming the first elastic return element 1, or It may be formed in the extension of the blades 11', 12' of the flexible guide 1' forming the first elastic return element 1'.

[0152] Regardless of the embodiment or variant, the inertia element 4; 4' and the first, second and third elastic return elements may be manufactured in one piece or may form a one-piece part.

[0153] The invention also relates to the adjusting device 200 itself. The device may be used to adjust the speed-governing system 150; 150' as described above or to adjust the oscillator 100; 100' as described above. The adjusting device 200 may in particular be a device for changing the stiffness k3 of the third elastic return element 3. The change in stiffness may in particular be achieved by changing the effective or effective length of the third elastic return element 3, in particular by changing the effective or effective length of at least one blade 31 of the third elastic return element 3.

[0154] In the above solution, the adjusting device is more particularly a device 200 for varying the stiffness of the elastic return element, which can be used to vary the effective or effective length of the elastic return element.

[0155] Advantageously, whatever the embodiment or variant, the lever or framework 7 may be an element movable relative to the frame and provide an abutment or support for the third elastic return element, in particular by a surface, in particular a cylindrical surface, of the pins 81, 82 arranged to weight the third return element, in particular the elastic blade of the third elastic return element.

[0156] The invention also relates to a method for adjusting the oscillator 100; 100' of the above-mentioned speed-governing system 150; 150' or of the above-mentioned timepiece movement 300 or of the above-mentioned timepiece 400.

[0157] The method comprises the step of varying the third stiffness k3 of the third elastic return element 3.

[0158] The modification of the third stiffness k3 of said third elastic return element 3 may be a modification of the effective length of said third elastic return element 3, in particular of the effective length of at least one blade 31 of said third elastic return element 3. Said modification is preferably carried out by means of the above-mentioned adjusting device. Such an adjusting device makes it possible in particular to limit or even counteract deformations of said third elastic return element 3 at a point of said third elastic return element 3 which is movable along said third elastic return element 3.

[0159] The term "integral molding structure" means, for example, - Machined from a block of material, or - by crystal growth, or - by electroforming, or - By sintering, It is understood to mean a structure that is made of only one obtained part. This excludes structures consisting of several elements assembled to one another in a detachable manner, in particular with the aid of clipping or tools.

[0160] The solution described herein allows for a fine adjustment of the rate of the movement by modifying the stiffness of a given elastic return element forming part of the oscillator, in particular by means of a lever or framework that is movable and provides an abutment for the elastic blades, and in particular by modifying the effective length of at least one elastic blade of the elastic return element forming part of the oscillator. The proposed solution can also be implemented to adjust the rate while the oscillator is running.

[0161] In the described solution, the oscillator comprises a first elastic return element connected to the inertial element, a second elastic return element connected in series with the first elastic return element, and a third elastic return element connected in series with the first elastic return element, parallel to the second elastic return element 2, the stiffness of which can be varied using an additional device for varying the stiffness of the third elastic return element. Advantageously, the stiffness of the third elastic return element can be varied by adjusting the effective length of at least one elastic blade of the third elastic return element using an additional device for varying the effective length of the third elastic return element, which may in particular be in the form of a movable lever or framework. The movable lever or framework advantageously comprises pins or protrusions that clamp and / or hold and / or support the third blade 31 at the contact points with the pins or protrusions. At these contact points, the deflection of the third blade 31 is limited or counterbalanced. Advantageously, the lever or framework comprises a pair of two pins or two protrusions. Of course, the lever or framework may comprise more than two pins or more than two protrusions.

Claims

1. Frame (6), an assembled balance wheel (4) pivoted relative to said frame (6) about a geometric axis (A4); an elastic return system (1, 2, 3) intended to connect the assembled balance wheel (4) to the frame (6) so that the assembled balance wheel (4) and the elastic return system (1, 2, 3) form an oscillator (100); A timepiece movement (300) regulating system comprising: The elastic return system (1, 2, 3) a first elastic return element in the form of a first hairspring (1) having a first stiffness k1; a second elastic return element (2) having a second stiffness k2; a third elastic return element (3) having a third stiffness k3; Including, The first elastic return element (1) and the second elastic return element (2) are assembled in series between the assembled balance wheel (4) and the frame (6); The third elastic return element (3) and the second elastic return element (2) are assembled in parallel between the frame (6) and the first elastic return element (1); Speed ​​control system.

2. a device (200) for changing the third stiffness k3; The speed governor system (150) of claim 1.

3. k2+k3>k1, furthermore k2+k3>>k1, in particular k2+k3>10*k1, in particular k2+k3>100*k1, where k2=k3 or 0.5<k2 / k3<2, and / or k2+k3>k1, further k2+k3>>k1, in particular k2+k3>10×k1, in particular k2+k3>100×k1; and / or The second stiffness k2 is substantially greater than the first stiffness k1, in particular the second stiffness k2 is substantially greater than the first stiffness k1 and substantially greater than the third stiffness k3; The speed governor system (150) of claim 1 or 2.

4. The first stiffness k1 and the third stiffness k3 are similar or of the same order of magnitude, in particular k3 = α × k1, where 0.5 ≦ α ≦ 2; and the second stiffness k2 is substantially greater than the first stiffness k1 and the third stiffness k3, in particular k2 = β x k1 and / or k2 = β x k3, where 10 ≤ β ≤ 80, preferably β = 20 or β ≈ 20; The speed governor system (150) of any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The second stiffness k2 and the third stiffness k3 are similar or of the same order of magnitude, in particular k3 = γ × k2, where 0.5 ≦ γ ≦ 2; and the second stiffness k2 and the third stiffness k3 are substantially greater than the first stiffness k1, in particular k2 = δ × k1 and / or k3 = δ × k1, where 100 ≦ δ ≦ 200, preferably δ = 125 or δ ≈ 125; The speed governor system (150) of any one of claims 1 to 3.

6. the assembled balance wheel (4) and the elastic return system (1, 2, 3) are constructed and / or arranged such that the oscillation frequency of the oscillator (100) is between 3 Hz and 8 Hz, in particular 4 Hz or 5 Hz; The speed governor system (150) of any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. the first hairspring (1) comprises at least one first blade (11) connected to the assembled balance wheel (4) via a collet (14) arranged in particular at a first proximal end of the first blade (11) and fastened to an axle (42) fixed to the balance wheel (41); The speed governor system (150) of any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. the first hairspring (1) comprises a first connecting member (12) arranged at a first distal end of the first blade (11) and connecting the first hairspring (1) to the second elastic return element (2), in particular by means of a connecting member (5); The speed governing system (150) of claim 7.

9. The collet (14), the first blade (11) and the first connecting member (12) form an integral part. A speed governing system (150) according to claim 7 or 8.

10. the third elastic return element (3) comprises a second balance spring (3) including at least one second blade (31), the second proximal end (34) of which is intended to fasten the second balance spring (3) to the frame (6); The speed governor system (150) of any one of claims 1 to 9.

11. the second hairspring (3) also comprises a second connecting member (32) arranged at a second distal end of the second blade (31) and connecting the hairspring (3) to the second elastic return element (2), in particular by means of a connecting member (5); The speed governor system (150) of claim 10.

12. the second proximal end (34), the second blade (31), and the second connecting member (32) form an integral part; A speed governing system (150) according to claim 10 or 11.

13. the second elastic return element (2) comprises at least one pair, in particular two pairs, of elastic blades (21 a, 21 b, 22 a, 22 b) forming flexible guides, in particular RCC pivots, for the first hairspring (1) and the second hairspring (3), the virtual centre of intersection of the blades coinciding with the point through which the axis (A4) passes; The speed governor system (150) of any one of claims 1 to 12.

14. The elastic blades (21a, 21b, 22a, 22b) are U-shaped or substantially U-shaped or V-shaped or substantially V-shaped or W-shaped or substantially W-shaped, respectively; The speed governor system (150) of claim 13.

15. the connecting member (5) comprises two plates (51, 52) that receive the first and second connecting members (12, 32), and the two plates (51, 52) are connected to the frame (6) by the second elastic return element (2); A speed governing system (150) according to any one of claims 1 to 14 and according to claim 8 or 11.

16. At least one of the first, second and third elastic return elements is at least partially Single crystal silicon of any orientation, and / or Polycrystalline silicon, and / or amorphous silicon, and / or amorphous silicon dioxide, and / or Doped silicon, of any doping type and level, and / or porous silicon, and / or Silicon carbide, and / or Glass, and / or composite materials, and / or Technical ceramics, and / or Quartz, and / or Metal, and / or metal alloys, in particular alloys made of Nb—Zr or Nb—Ti, may include The speed governor system (150) of any one of claims 1 to 15.

17. An adjusting device (200) for a speed regulating system (150) according to any one of claims 1 to 14 and claim 2, said device (200) being a device for changing the third stiffness k3 of the third elastic return element (3), in particular a device for changing the effective length of said third elastic return element (3), in particular a device for changing the effective length of at least one blade (31) of said third elastic return element (3), in particular a device for changing the effective length of at least one straight or curved or spiral-shaped blade (31) of said third elastic return element (3). Adjustment device (200).

18. a single-piece structure (900) intended to be mounted on the frame (6) of a watch movement (300) of a watch (400); The adjusting device (200) of claim 17.

19. a connecting element (5) intended to support the first elastic return element (1) of the speed regulating system according to any one of claims 1 to 16 and forming part of said monolithic structure (900), The adjusting device (200) of claim 18.

20. 17. A speed regulating system according to claim 1, including the hairspring (1), the hairspring (1) forming part of the monolithic structure (900).

20. Regulating device (200) according to claim 18 or 19.

21. A timepiece movement (300) comprising a speed regulating system (150) according to any one of claims 1 to 16 and / or a device (200) according to any one of claims 17 to 20.

22. A timepiece (400), in particular a wristwatch (400), comprising a speed regulating system (150) according to any one of claims 1 to 16, and / or a device (200) according to any one of claims 17 to 20, and / or a timepiece movement (300) according to claim 21.

23. A method for adjusting an oscillator (100) of a speed regulating system (150) according to any one of claims 1 to 16, or of a timepiece movement (300) according to claim 21, or of a timepiece (400) according to claim 22, comprising the step of changing the third stiffness k3 of the third elastic return element (3), in particular changing the effective length of the third elastic return element (3), in particular changing the effective length of at least one blade (31) of the third elastic return element (3).

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