Speed adjustment device for the rotating wheel set of a timer

Abstract

To provide a speed control device for a rotary wheel set of a clock.SOLUTION: The clock comprises a control device for controlling the rotation speed of a rotary wheel set. This control device is provided with a microgenerator and at least one LED to which power is supplied from the microgenerator, does not store electric energy, and generates, within the functional speed range (Vmin-Vmax) of the rotary wheel set, an induction voltage range such that a maximum induction voltage with respect to a maximum frequency (Fmax) is larger than a threshold voltage (US) and larger than a minimum induction voltage value with respect to a minimum frequency (Fmin) in a coil regarding a frequency range (Fmin-Fmax) corresponding to rotation of a rotor of the microgenerator. A power device for driving the rotary wheel set has an effective power torque range which enables driving of the rotary wheel set substantially within the functional speed range. A method for controlling the rotation speed of the rotary wheel set is also provided.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a timepiece comprising a rotating wheel set, a power device configured to drive the rotating wheel set, and an adjustment device for adjusting the rotational speed of the rotating wheel set. The adjustment device comprises a micro-generator having a stator and a rotor mechanically coupled to the rotating wheel set, the stator carrying one of a permanent magnet and a coil, and the rotor carrying the other of the permanent magnet and the coil.

[0002] The present invention further relates to a method for adjusting the rotational speed of a rotating wheel set of a timepiece, the adjustment being performed within a functional speed range of the rotating wheel set between a minimum speed and a maximum speed strictly greater than the minimum speed, the rotating wheel set being driven by a power device of the timepiece. The method enables implementation of an adjustment device for adjusting the rotational speed of the rotating wheel set implementation, the adjustment device comprising a micro-generator having a rotor mechanically coupled to the rotating wheel set, the rotor being movable about a rotation axis relative to a stator, the stator carrying one of a permanent magnet and a coil, the rotor carrying the other of the permanent magnet and the coil, and the coil being connected directly or indirectly to at least one light-emitting diode.

[0003] The present invention relates to the field of timepieces, particularly portable timepieces, and more specifically portable timepieces having a mechanical energy source, the timepiece being of the type having auxiliary mechanisms that are not dedicated to time measurement and are typically dedicated to sound or visual display functions, such as, for example, portable timepieces with a strike function or visual movement, or music boxes, the mechanism comprising at least one rotating wheel set. More particularly, the present invention relates to the field of adjusting the speed of such a rotating wheel set, typically activated by a spring, and without an adjustment mechanism, the speed of the rotating wheel set would vary significantly due to discharge.

Background Art

[0004] Adjusting the speed of the vehicle set of a timer has been an issue since ancient times and was originally related to adjusting the ringing of bells. The old solutions were purely mechanical, based on variations in the inertia of the vehicle set using a ball governor or the like, or braking by air friction. Such solutions, even if applicable to pendulum clocks or balance clocks, could not be applied to portable clocks.

[0005] Due to the limited space available within the case of a portable clock, new methods such as electromagnetic or eddy current governors have been developed. Such methods are functional but costly, limited to high-end products, some of whose components are very delicate and require special maintenance.

[0006] European Patent Document EP3838424 by The Swatch Group Research & Development Ltd describes a music mechanism and a striking mechanism for timepieces and music boxes, which comprises an energy source that outputs mechanical torque and means for transmitting the mechanical torque from the energy source to a train set that generates music or chimes. This mechanism further comprises a train set governor. The governor comprises means for braking the train set, which is configured to adjust the speed at which the train set rotates around a pivot axis in the vicinity of a reference speed value and is configured to return the rotational speed of the train set to the reference speed. This train set governor consists of a system comprising a micro-generator, also called a "generator", and an electronic circuit for adjusting the rotational frequency of the micro-generator, the rotor of the micro-generator being mechanically connected to the energy source that outputs mechanical torque. This circuit electronically adjusts the frequency in the same way as a portable timepiece comprising a time-indicating generator. That is, using a technique that counts rotor rotations, which requires an electronic time base, the rotational frequency is compared with the time base, and acts on a transistor that adjusts the current in a coil by means of a short-circuit braking pulse. Briefly written, an electronic braking circuit controls the generation of braking pulses.

[0007] Using an electronic or electrical circuit creates significant problems for portable timepieces with a mechanical movement, particularly for high-end portable timepieces where it is important to maintain the mechanical nature of the portable timepiece as much as possible. In fact, these known systems include an electronic circuit comprising various electronic elements arranged on an electrical circuit (typically a PCB) located around the microgenerator, which will introduce a relatively extensive range of electronic devices into this portable timepiece. Thus, all of these fixed electrical and electronic components occupy a relatively large surface area over or on the surface area delimited by the microgenerator, and this assembly is typically visible, which will make the hybrid nature of the portable timepiece stand out to the consumer.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

PROBLEMS TO BE SOLVED BY THE INVENTION

[0008] The present invention aims particularly to solve the above problems of the prior art. Other objects will become apparent by reading the following description of the present invention.

MEANS FOR SOLVING THE PROBLEMS

[0009] To this end, the present invention relates to a timepiece according to claim 1, the timepiece comprising a set of rotating wheels, a power device configured to be able to drive the set of rotating wheels, and an adjustment device for adjusting the rotational speed of the set of rotating wheels. This adjustment device comprises a stator and a microgenerator comprising a rotor mechanically coupled to the set of rotating wheels, and at least one light-emitting diode directly or indirectly powered by the microgenerator.

[0010] The present invention further relates to a method for adjusting the rotational speed of the set of rotating wheels of a timepiece according to claim 25, the adjustment being carried out in a functional speed range of the set of rotating wheels between a minimum speed and a maximum speed strictly greater than this minimum speed.

[0011] By reading the following detailed description while referring to the accompanying drawings, the objects, advantages, and features of the present invention can be more clearly understood.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0012]

Figure 1

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Figure 17

Best Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0013] The present invention proposes to adjust the speed of a rotary wheel set by using a microgenerator that powers at least one light-emitting diode so as to consume a part of the energy supplied to the rotary wheel set by a power device.

[0014] The present invention relates to a timepiece 2000 comprising a rotary wheel set 1, a power device configured to be able to drive the rotary wheel set, and an adjustment device 1000 for adjusting the rotational speed of the rotary wheel set. This power device is in particular a mechanical power device, and in particular is formed by a barrel 200.

[0015] The adjustment device 1000 comprises a microgenerator 100 of a type for timepieces and at least one light-emitting diode 31, 32 (also called "LED"). This microgenerator 100 comprises a stator 20 and a rotor 10 mechanically coupled to the rotary wheel set 1. The light-emitting diodes 31, 32 are powered directly or indirectly by the microgenerator 100, specifically by at least one coil provided in the microgenerator 100. Generally, the stator carries one of the permanent magnet 25 and the coil 11, and the rotor carries the other of the permanent magnet 25 and the coil 11. Hereinafter, the "speed" of the rotation of the rotary wheel set 1 and the "frequency" of the rotation of the rotor 10 are used separately. When the rotor 10 rotates relative to the stator 20, each coil 11 powers the at least one light-emitting diode 31, 32 by the induced current.

[0016] Figures 1 to 5 show an example of a micro generator 100 comprising a rotor 10 including a coil 11, in particular a flat (wafer-shaped) coil, and a stator 20. This stator 20 includes an annular base 21 having an L-shaped radial cross-section that carries a first part of a permanent magnet 25, and an annular flange 22 that closes the annular base 21 and carries a second part of the permanent magnet 25. The annular base 21 and the annular flange 22 form a stator cage having a C-shaped (U-shaped) radial cross-section with three straight parts. The diameter of the micro generator 100 is typically in the range of 6 mm to 15 mm.

[0017] The annular base 21 and the flange 22 are preferably made of a ferromagnetic material that forms an outer closure for the magnetic field of the permanent magnet 25. This permanent magnet 25 is magnetized axially and is arranged inside the stator cage so as to face the coil 11 of the rotor 10. More generally, the coil 11 and the permanent magnet 25 are configured such that when the rotor 10 is rotated and directly or indirectly driven by a barrel 200 provided in the power device or any suitable driving means, the coil 11 at least partially passes over the permanent magnet 25. Thus, a micro generator 100 having a "three-level" structure of the type that the permanent magnet 25 is magnetized axially and the rotor 10 carries the coil 11 arranged at an intermediate level in the space between two levels of the permanent magnet 25 located on both axial sides of the coil 11 is obtained. The axially opposed magnets 25 have the same polarity, and two adjacent magnets at the same level have opposite magnetic polarities. Thus, in the traditional form, the polarities at each of the two levels of the magnets are in an alternating configuration.

[0018] In one preferred alternative embodiment, as shown in FIG. 4, at least one of the light-emitting diodes 31 or 32 is directly powered by at least one coil 11 as it rotates relative to the stator 20 of the microgenerator 100. This power supply is effected such that there is no electrical and / or electronic circuit between the at least one light-emitting diode and the at least one coil, with the exception of contact pads made of gold or the like and two annular tracks, and in particular such that there are no capacitors and / or other electrical and / or electronic components.

[0019] In a preferred alternative embodiment of the invention, the at least one light-emitting diodes 31, 32 together with the microgenerator 100 form the adjustment device 1000.

[0020] When the at least one light-emitting diodes 31, 32 are indirectly powered by the microgenerator 100, the at least one light-emitting diodes 31, 32 are connected to the microgenerator 100 via an electrical and / or electronic circuit without any substantial electrical energy storage components. In this advantageous alternative embodiment of the invention, the at least one light-emitting diodes 31, 32, the electrical and / or electronic circuit without any substantial electrical energy storage components, and the microgenerator 100 together form an adjustment device.

[0021] The microgenerator 100 and the at least one light-emitting diodes 31, 32 have a minimum speed V min and a maximum speed V min which is strictly greater than this minimum speed V. In the functional speed range of the rotary wheel set 1 between max the corresponding frequency range of the rotation of the rotor 10, between a minimum frequency F min and a maximum frequency F max is such that in the coil 11, the maximum induced voltage value (peak voltage) U max is generated for the maximum frequency F maxgenerates an induced voltage range that is greater than the threshold voltage U of the at least one light emitting diode 31, 32. Preferably, the minimum induced voltage (peak voltage) value U generated for the minimum frequency F of the induced voltage range S is also greater than the threshold voltage U of the at least one light emitting diode 31, 32. min corresponding to F min is also greater than the threshold voltage U of the at least one light emitting diode 31, 32. S is greater than.

[0022] When the at least one light emitting diode 31, 32 is compatible with the electrical and / or electronic circuit, it constitutes the only electrical energy consuming device incorporated in the adjustment device 1000, and the power device is configured to have an effective power torque range that enables the rotary wheel set 1 to be driven within a substantially functional speed range.

[0023] Thanks to this combination of features, the one or more LEDs 31, 32 can be adjusted with respect to the rotational frequency of the rotor 10, and thus the rotational speed of the rotary wheel set 1, with respect to the effective mechanical torque range supplied by the power device, and the adjustment device 1000 can be configured for this purpose, which device is limited to an assembly formed by the one or more LEDs 31, 32, an electrical and / or electronic circuit that, in some cases, does not have any substantial electrical energy storage components, and the microgenerator 100. Thus, the one or more LEDs 31, 32 and the microgenerator 100 ensure that the voltage induced in the microgenerator 100 remains within the range of the induced voltage with respect to the effective mechanical torque range, which effective mechanical torque range corresponds to the operating voltage range of each LED 31, 32 with respect to the characteristics of the current / voltage curve of the LED shown in FIG. 6.

[0024] Also, according to one particular feature, the minimum induced voltage (peak voltage) value U of the range of induced voltage corresponding to the minimum frequency F min is the threshold voltage U of the at least one light emitting diode 31, 32. min is the threshold voltage U of the at least one light emitting diode 31, 32.S is greater. Thus, these LEDs operate over the entire speed range of the rotary wheel set 1 to adjust the rotational speed of this rotary wheel set over the entire speed range provided for the normal operation of this rotary wheel set.

[0025] According to one particular feature, the adjustment device does not comprise any means for dissipating the kinetic energy of the rotor 10 of the microgenerator 100, the purpose of which is to prevent the frequency of the rotor from decreasing but rather from increasing.

[0026] According to one particular feature, the power device is configured such that its effective power torque range has a minimum torque C min for driving at the minimum speed V MotMin of the rotary wheel set 1 and a maximum torque C max for driving at the maximum speed V MotMax of this functional speed range of the rotary wheel set 1.

[0027] Advantageously, the adjustment device 1000 adjusts by maintaining the rotational frequency of the rotor 10 within the frequency range between a minimum frequency F MotMin and a maximum frequency F MotMax with respect to the effective torque range of the power device between the minimum power torque C min and the maximum power torque C max .

[0028] Specifically, the power device is formed by a barrel 200 dedicated to driving the mechanism including the rotary wheel set 1, and this barrel 200 is configured such that the effective range of the torque it outputs between the minimum power torque C MotMin and the maximum power torque C MotMax meets the following conditions. This condition is that the minimum power torque C MotMin is the mechanical torque C min required to drive the mechanism, with the exception of the rotor 10 of the microgenerator 100, when the rotary wheel set 1 is rotating at the minimum speed V MecVmin and the minimum frequency F of the rotor 10min The minimum rotor drive torque C corresponding thereto EDmin is equal to the sum with, and the effective range of the torque to be output (C MotMin , C MotMax ), when the rotary wheel set 1 is rotating at the maximum speed V max , except for the rotor 10 of the micro generator 100, the mechanical torque C required to drive the mechanism MecVmax and the maximum rotor drive torque C corresponding to the maximum frequency F max of the rotor 10. That is, the following holds. EDmax It is equal to the sum of C MotMin = C MecVmin + C EDmin C MotMax = C MecVmax + C EDmax

[0029] The adjustment device 1000 includes one or more light emitting diodes 31, 32, which, depending on the type and size of the light emitting diodes 31, 32, all the light emitting diodes 31, 32 included in this adjustment device 1000 are such that the minimum rotor drive torque C corresponding to the minimum frequency F min of the rotor 10 EDmin and the maximum rotor drive torque C corresponding to the maximum frequency F max of the rotor 10 EDmax dissipate electrical energy with the drive torque of the rotor 10 between them. It is carried out as configured.

[0030] According to two specific alternative embodiments, the coil 11 is connected to the at least one light emitting diode 31, 32, either directly or indirectly.

[0031] According to one preferred feature, at least one of the light-emitting diodes 31, 32 is indirectly powered by at least one of the coils 11 that supplies an induced current when rotating relative to the stator 20 of the micro-generator 100 via an electrical and / or electronic circuit comprising a Graetz bridge rectifier 37, and the Graetz bridge rectifier 37 forms the only electrical and / or electronic circuit.

[0032] According to some advantageous features shown in the drawings, the stator 20 carries permanent magnets 25, the rotor 10 carries coils 11, and each light-emitting diode 31, 32 is attached to the rotor 10.

[0033] Specifically, in the axial projection, the permanent magnets 25 are arranged within the range of the circular surface defined by the rotor 10 when the rotor 10 is rotating.

[0034] Preferably, at least one of the light-emitting diodes 31, 32 is directly powered by at least one of the coils 11 when rotating relative to the stator 20 of the micro-generator 100.

[0035] Specifically, as shown in the advantageous alternative embodiments shown in FIGS. 1 to 5, the rotor 10 carries at least a pair of light-emitting diodes 31, 32 that are preferably diametrically opposite and configured to have opposite polarities to each other.

[0036] Specifically, in an alternative embodiment not shown, the rotor 10 carries four light-emitting diodes (also called "LEDs") that are located 90° apart from each other and configured to form pairs of opposite polarities (preferably two diametrically opposite LEDs of the same polarity).

[0037] According to one advantageous feature, any electrical and / or electronic device included in the timer 2000 is a component of the micro-generator 100 or the adjustment device.

[0038] Preferably, any electrical and / or electronic devices included in the timepiece 2000 are attached to the rotor 10 of the micro-generator 100. This electrical and / or electronic device is formed by the at least one light-emitting diode 31, 32, the one or more coils, and, if appropriate, an electrical and / or electronic circuit arranged between at least one of the coils and the at least one light-emitting diode 31, 32. Therefore, the mechanical timepiece can avoid using wiring or means for transmitting electrical energy outside the rotor 10.

[0039] In particular, as shown in FIGS. 1 to 5, the rotor 10 and the stator 20 are coaxially attached about the rotation axis D of the micro-generator 100, and the at least one light-emitting diode 31, 32 is attached eccentrically with respect to the rotation axis D. Therefore, each light-emitting diode 31, 32 describes an annular surface when the rotor 10 is rotating.

[0040] Also, in one particular embodiment, the at least one light-emitting diode 31, 32 is configured to provide at least a majority of the light 70 emitted to at least one visible part of the timepiece 1000 visible to the user of the timepiece 1000, thereby brightening this at least one visible part. Therefore, the light-emitting diodes 31, 32 are arranged on the rotor 10 to obtain the best results, and the outer structure must be open with holes on the side where the light is emitted so that most of the emitted light 70 can pass through this outer structure. Thus, preferably, substantially all of the emitted light can pass through this outer structure.

[0041] Specifically, as shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the rotor 10 has a hub 19 with a drive pinion 19a. This hub 19 carries a lower annular structure 52, a disk 54 made of ceramics or the like, and a gear 18 with an opening 17 and perforations. The disk 54 forms a support for the coil 11 disposed within the peripheral opening of this disk 54 and for two LEDs 31, 32 disposed within two corresponding openings 55 of the disk. The gear 18 is disposed above the light-emitting surfaces of the LEDs 31, 32. The opening 17 is configured to allow the light 70 emitted by each of the LEDs 31, 32 to pass toward means for guiding this emitted light toward at least one visible portion of the timepiece.

[0042] The gear 18 is a ratchet forming a device for locking and releasing the microgenerator 100. The lower annular structure 52 is preferably opaque and without openings in order to mask the openings 55, contact pads 65, adhesive drops 68, and annular track 66. The contact pads 60 and the connections between the coil 11 and those contact pads 60 are hidden from view by the base 22 of the stator cage. Thus, except for a small part of two contact pads 64 that may be visible through a circular groove located between the annular structure 52 and the base 22, the microgenerator 100 has an elegant appearance and hides any electrical or electronic elements, with the exception of the LED light-emitting surfaces located within the inner region of the microgenerator 100. Such a configuration is particularly suitable for an illumination device incorporated into a high-class mechanical movement. Also, the electrical connections can be made of gold.

[0043] Specifically, the adjustment device 1000 has at least one static light guide structure in the vicinity of the microgenerator 100. This static light guide structure 40 collects at least the majority of the light emitted by the at least one light-emitting diode 31, 32 when the rotor 10 is in any angular position while the rotor 10 is rotating, and guides this emitted light towards the at least one visible part of the timepiece, so as to obtain a substantially constant and / or substantially uniform illumination of this visible part when the at least one light-emitting diode is emitting light.

[0044] In one particular embodiment, the rotor 10 is driven by the barrel 200 through a barrel gear train 300. The microgenerator 100 comprises a device 400 for locking and releasing the rotor, this device 400 comprising a ratchet 18 and a click mechanism 92, and this device 400 makes it possible to activate the microgenerator on demand, in the same way as a governor, particularly in a portable timepiece with a music or strike function. This device 400 is used to start and stop the rotation of the microgenerator on demand. Thus, it is possible to quickly turn on the rotation of the rotor several times during a single charge of the barrel.

[0045] The rotor 10 comprises a module consisting of a specific number of small coils 11 and a support disk 54 (in particular, made of a ceramic material) carrying at least one light-emitting diode, in particular two LEDs 31, 32, on its periphery. The rotation of the coils 11 in the magnetic field of the magnets 25 of the stator 20 generates an induced voltage, and thus an induced alternating current, which powers the light-emitting diodes according to the corresponding wiring diagram shown in FIG. 8. The coils 11 are connected in series such that their polarities alternate, and the inner ends 61 and outer ends 62 of each coil are connected to two contact pads 60 formed on the support disk 54, respectively. The plurality of coils are connected to the two LEDs via a printed circuit board comprising, in particular, two contact pads 64 for the two corresponding ends of the two end coils of a series of coils, and for the electrical connection 67 of the first LED 31 to these coils, two contact pads 65 for the electrical connection 67 of the second LED 32, and two annular tracks 66 connecting the two contact pads 64 to the two contact pads 65, respectively. The two LEDs 31, 32 are reverse-biased in order to utilize the alternating nature of the current generated in this system to directly power the LEDs using the coils 11. In the advantageous alternative embodiment shown, the contact pads 64 and 65 and the two annular tracks 66 are printed / deposited directly on the support disk. This eliminates the need for a traditional PCB made of synthetic material. Note that the electrical connection 67 is further protected by an adhesive drop 68 which serves to fix the LED in the corresponding opening 55 in the support disk 54.

[0046] Therefore, a simple electrical circuit as shown in FIG. 8 can be used.

[0047] And the current i flowing through each light-emitting diode 31, 32 LED takes the form shown in FIG. 9 over time.

[0048] What affects the rotational frequency of the microgenerator is the average current i shown in FIG. 10 passing through the two light-emitting diodes LED AVGis thus obtained. As a result, the average braking torque C applied to the rotor MFR is as shown in FIG. 11. In one alternative embodiment, where the light emitting diode is indirectly powered and there is no substantial electrical energy storage component in any electrical and / or electronic circuit, this circuit can be easily configured to consume very little electrical energy compared to the light emitting diode, such that its impact is low or negligible. In particular, such a circuit can consist of only passive elements. In any case, the electrical and / or electronic circuit for managing the power supply to the light emitting diode consumes only a small, substantially constant current, which results in an offset in the graph of FIG. 10 when considering the total current including the current of this circuit. Similarly, there is a small offset in the graph of FIG. 11. Also, even if the consumption of this electrical and / or electronic circuit increases somewhat when the threshold voltage of the light emitting diode is exceeded and a larger current flows through this electrical and / or electronic circuit, there is a small offset above this threshold voltage and thus it is within the functional range for adjusting the microgenerator. Such an offset does not change the principle of adjustment. Because the electrical energy consumption curve maintains a profile similar to the profile shown in FIG. 11, enabling the adjustments carried out in relation to the present invention.

[0049] In one specific example, the barrel initially outputs a maximum torque of 20 μN·m to the rotor, and an initial rotational frequency of the rotor of approximately 120 Hz is obtained, which gradually slows down to approximately 100 Hz as the barrel discharges, corresponding roughly to a minimum torque of 12 μN·m supplied to the rotor. The minimum and maximum torques correspond to the effective range of the power torque of the barrel for the correct operation of the driven mechanism. Without the power consumed by the light emitting diode (LED), this assembly would rotate faster. Regarding the voltage induced in the coil, K U is the inductance coefficient of the coil (the maximum value of the induced voltage of the coil), and n BOBwhere \(n\) is the number of turns of the coil, \(\omega\) is the rotational frequency (rad / s), and considering that all coils are connected in series and configured in an alternating manner, the induced voltage is \(V\) as follows: IND as follows.

[0050] \(V\) IND =\(\omega\cdot n\) BOB \(\cdot K\) U \(\cdot\sin(\omega\cdot n\) BOB / 2\(t)\) is as follows.

[0051] The electric pulsation is \((n\) BOB / 2)\(\cdot\)(rotational frequency \(\omega\)). This is because the induced voltage is the derivative of the change in magnetic flux, which first changes from + to -, and then from - to +. Therefore, the induced voltage is a linear function of the rotational frequency.

[0052] The relationship between the induced voltage and current in a light-emitting diode is theoretically given by the following Shockley equation. Here, \(V_t\) is 26 mV at room temperature, and \(n\) is a quality parameter in the range of 1 to 2. \(I = I\) S \((e\) VIND / nVt -1)\) A good approximation is given in Figure 6. That is, the diode is reverse-biased at a negative and low voltage, and the characteristic curve \(I\) D = \(f(U\) D ) shows a strong increase in the current in the LED, which is substantially linear above the threshold voltage \(U\) S , and a small increase in the voltage above the threshold voltage \(U\) S generates a large increase in the current, resulting in energy dissipation. This approximation is very close to the actual behavior of the LED given by the above Shockley equation.

[0053] As shown in Figure 5, the dimensional configuration of the magnet and coil is optimized for a relatively small stator cage with an outer diameter of 8.4 mm and a total thickness of 1.4 mm excluding the hub.

[0054] The number of turns and diameter of the wire are configured to ensure the operation of the light-emitting diode. Different numbers of coil turns, magnets, and different dimensional configurations are also possible. By increasing the volume of the magnet 25 or reducing the air gap, the coupling between the coil 11 and the magnet 25 can be increased. To maximize the magnetic flux variation, the magnet 25 and the coil 11 are placed as close to each other as possible. By increasing the volume of the coil 11 or reducing the diameter of the wire, the induced voltage coefficient Ku (defined as the ratio of the induced voltage to the rotational frequency) can be increased, but the resistance of the coil also increases. In this case, the intensity of the current in the light-emitting diode decreases, but since the rotational frequency of the rotor also decreases, the discharge time and illumination time of the barrel increase. Figures 12 to 15 show the effects of the wire thickness of the coil 11 on the resistance (Figure 12), the current in the diode (Figure 13), the induced voltage (Figure 13), and the total discharge time of the barrel (Figure 15).

[0055] When a wire diameter of 14 μm is selected, with the barrel charged, a rotor frequency of 120 rotations per second is obtained, which provides an operating time longer than 40 seconds with a power reserve of approximately 5500 rotations for the rotor.

[0056] According to one particular feature, the timepiece 2000 comprises a device for releasing and stopping the microgenerator 100, which comprises a control device 400 and an engagement mechanism 500. The control device 400 can be actuated by the user to at least trigger and preferably also subsequently stop the driving of the rotor 10 of the microgenerator 100. The control device 400 comprises an outer control member, in particular a push button or a bolt provided with a bolt spring. The engagement mechanism 500 is actuated by the movement 600 comprised in the timepiece 2000 to, for example, strike the hours or generate a melody in response to a request or at a given time.

[0057] In one alternative embodiment shown in FIG. 17, the user can release the rotary wheel set, the rotor 10, and the microgenerator 100 by pressing a push button 401 that actuates, in particular, a lever 402 acting on the actuating arm 403 and an elastic element 404 that controls a click mechanism 92 included in the releasing and stopping device. The elastic element 404 can be actuated automatically by the actuating arm 403 and by an engagement mechanism 500 driven by movement. This rotation continues until the push button is released or a set period of time has elapsed. The engagement mechanism 500 actuated by the timepiece movement 600 preferably acts on the elastic element 404 during a specific time interval, in particular for an alarm function. Any similar system can be configured to control the rotation and stop of the rotary wheel set 1 according to commands. In particular, the various mechanisms described are configured to release the click mechanism 92 from the ratchet 18 of the rotor 10 for a short time and thus allow the rotation of the rotor 10 of the microgenerator 100 to drive the rotary wheel set.

[0058] Note that the most sophisticated of the mechanisms with a repeater function and / or a strike function include a safety device with a lever called an isolator, which makes it possible to reproduce the entire melody or sound representation, preventing any operation by the user during this time or any other control by the timepiece itself. In a barrel or bolt spring with a strike function, for example, the energy stored for this purpose is greater than the energy required to reproduce the longest-lasting sound range.

[0059] Specifically, the releasing and stopping device includes a mechanical delay device for limiting the duration of the rotation of the rotor 10.

[0060] According to one particular feature, the timepiece 2000 has a specific area that can be brightened directly or indirectly by at least one light-emitting diode 31, 32 when emitting light.

[0061] According to one particular feature, the timepiece 2000 comprises an acoustic dynamic display mechanism with a strike function, a repeater function or a music function, which is a dynamic display mechanism with a rotating wheel set 1 whose rotation speed is adjusted by an adjustment device 1000.

[0062] According to one particular feature, the timepiece 2000 comprises a visual dynamic display mechanism with a rotating wheel set whose rotation speed is adjusted by an adjustment device 1000.

[0063] Specifically, at least one light-emitting diode 31, 32 emits light synchronously towards a given area during the sequence of the acoustic movement or the visual movement of the timepiece 2000. The light-emitting diodes can particularly brighten one or more specific areas of the mechanism, the visual movement, the specific decorative elements of the portable timepiece, such as stained glass decoration, musical notes.

[0064] According to one particular feature, the timepiece 2000 does not have an electrical energy storage capacitor.

[0065] The present invention further relates to a method for adjusting the rotation speed of the rotating wheel set 1 of the timepiece 2000 in the functional speed range of the rotating wheel set 1 between a minimum speed V min and a maximum speed V max which is strictly greater than this minimum speed, this rotating wheel set 1 being driven by a power device, in particular a barrel 200 comprised in the timepiece 2000.

[0066] This method includes an adjustment device 1000 for adjusting the rotational speed of the rotating wheel set 1. This adjustment device 1000 includes a micro generator 100 having a rotor 10 mechanically coupled to the rotating wheel set 1. This rotor 10 is movable about a rotation axis D with respect to a stator 20. The stator 20 carries one of a permanent magnet 25 and a coil 11, and the rotor 10 carries the other of the permanent magnet 25 and the coil 11. The coil 11 is directly or indirectly connected to at least one light emitting diode 31, 32.

[0067] According to the present invention, the micro generator 100 and the at least one light emitting diode 31, 32, together with an electrical circuit and / or an electronic circuit without a substantial electrical energy storage component when appropriate, constitute the only device that consumes the electrical energy generated by the micro generator 100, and, in combination with the adjustment device 1000 between the rotating wheel set 1 and the rotor 10, with respect to the functional speed range of the rotating wheel set 1, the minimum frequency F min and the maximum frequency F max the corresponding frequency range of the rotation of the rotor 10 between them causes an induced voltage range in the coil 11 such that the maximum voltage value Umax corresponding to the maximum frequency F max is greater than the threshold voltage U of the coil 11 of the at least one light emitting diode 31, 32 S . Also, the power device is selected such that its effective power torque range has a minimum torque C min for driving the rotating wheel set 1 at the minimum speed V of the functional speed range MotMin and has a maximum torque C max for driving the rotating wheel set 1 at the maximum speed V of the functional speed range MotMax . Preferably, the range of the induced voltage is within the functional voltage range of the at least one light emitting diode 31, 32 and within the voltage range above the threshold voltage U S so that the at least one light emitting diode emits light through the associated induced voltage range during normal operation, enabling a friendly adjustment through the intended operating range.

[0068] Specifically, the adjustment device 1000 is designed to control by maintaining the rotational frequency of the rotor 10 within the frequency range between the minimum frequency F MotMin and the maximum power torque C MotMax with respect to the effective torque range of the power device. Also, the minimum voltage value U min for the minimum frequency F max is set above the threshold voltage. min min

[0069] Specifically, the adjustment device 1000 is configured not to have any means for dissipating the kinetic energy of the rotor 10 of the microgenerator 100. It can be seen that the present invention is not to brake the rotor to reduce its frequency, but simply to prevent its frequency from increasing.

[0070] Specifically, the power device includes a barrel 200, and the barrel 200 is configured such that the effective range of the torque it outputs satisfies the following conditions between the minimum power torque C MotMin and the maximum power torque C MotMax . This condition means that the minimum power torque C MotMin is equal to the sum of the mechanical torque C min required to drive the mechanism driven by the barrel, excluding the rotor 10 of the microgenerator 100, when the rotary wheel set 1 rotates at the minimum speed V MecVmin and the minimum rotor drive torque C min corresponding to the minimum frequency F EDmin of the rotor 10. And the maximum power torque C MotMax is equal to the sum of the mechanical torque C max required to drive the mechanism, excluding the rotor 10 of the microgenerator 100, when the rotary wheel set 1 rotates at the maximum speed V MecVmax and the maximum rotor drive torque C max corresponding to the maximum frequency F EDmax of the rotor.​​

[0071] Specifically, as shown in FIG. 7, the number of the one or more light-emitting diodes 31, 32 is selected such that all the light-emitting diodes 31, 32 provided in the adjustment device 1000 dissipate electricity with a driving torque of the rotor between a minimum rotor driving torque C min corresponding to a minimum frequency F EDmin and a maximum rotor driving torque C max corresponding to a maximum frequency F EDmax .

[0072] According to a specific alternative embodiment, the at least one light-emitting diode 31, 32 is indirectly powered by the micro-generator 100, and the at least one light-emitting diode 31, 32 is connected to the micro-generator 100 via an electrical and / or electronic circuit without any substantial component for storing the current induced in the coil 11 when the rotor 10 of the micro-generator 100 is rotating.

[0073] In short, the present invention implements passive adjustment without requiring electronic circuits for data processing and adjustment control. Utilizing a micro-generator for an adjustment device for adjusting the rotational speed of a vehicle set to directly or indirectly power an LED via an electrical / electronic circuit without any substantial electrical energy storage component is a new concept, which can combine high efficiency, a high degree of miniaturization, a small number of components, and low cost. Further, such a device can obtain a robust and relatively high-class configuration suitable for a high-class portable watch.

[0074] Also, according to the present invention, mechanical components that are brittle and subject to wear, such as those used in inertial governors, aerodynamic governors, eddy current governors, etc., can be dispensed with. Also, mechanical return means such as springs are no longer required.

[0075] The present invention has many advantages as follows.

[0076] Placing the light emitting diode directly on the microgenerator means that no rubbing contacts, conducting wires, or PCB tracks are required. This ensures compatibility with the manufacture of high - end portable watches. Thanks to the advantageous configuration in the rotor, the presence of electronic components made of materials not suitable for the finest mechanical portable watches can be prevented in any case. Thus, in a preferred alternative embodiment, the light emitting diode is the only component that can be expressed as "electronic", but its structure is inorganic and most of its volume is composed of crystals and metals. As a result, the proposed configuration is not aesthetically obtrusive and is highly compatible with the configuration of a skeleton watch where the system is exposed. Also, in an advantageous alternative embodiment where the light emitting diode is indirectly powered and there are no substantial current storage components in any of the electrical and / or electronic circuits, the "electronic" type of elements can be composed only of crystals, especially silicon and metal, which can give a very long lifespan. Therefore, this alternative embodiment is suitable for the manufacture of high - end portable watches for sophisticated mechanical movements.

[0077] It is possible to power one or more light emitting diodes without the need for a primary battery. Of course, a leveling capacitor attached to the rotor can be used, but it is not necessarily required when the rotor rotates at a relatively high frequency and the lighting function of the LED is used to brighten the visible part of the timepiece because the periodic variation in brightness is not perceptible to the human eye. In fact, in a preferred embodiment of the present invention, each diode can be directly powered from a coil, so that there is an advantage that a passive circuit without any intermediate energy storage device can be achieved without necessarily requiring an induction voltage rectifier or a leveling capacitor.

[0078] It is highly advantageous that the rotation of the rotor set 1 can be combined with another function to activate the lighting function and that the lighting can be stopped after a set time. This option is not available in portable watches known in the prior art. Thus, when the rotor set is rotating, it can have an additional lighting function to illuminate, for example, the dial, the rotor set visible to the user, or other elements.

[0079] When the current is off, the light-emitting diode does not emit persistent light. However, the user's eye will perceive persistent light. This is because the rotation on the order of 100 Hz and, for example, the presence of 12 or 14 poles in a microgenerator cause it to blink on the order of 1 kHz, which the eye cannot perceive. Regarding the rotation of the microgenerator, a small braking torque generated 1000 times per second levels out the rotation speed. The energy storage capacitor is not desirable because the voltage fluctuations do not follow the induced voltage fluctuations quickly enough and are not very effective in speed regulation. The light-emitting diode (LED) generates an annular light distribution that appears almost continuous and uniform to the human eye and has much greater reach to the surface when rotating at a high frequency.

[0080] By using a method that does not use electronic components except for the (passive) Graetz bridge attached to the rotor and does not use an electrical energy storage device, it is ensured that it is fully compatible with the production application of high-end portable watches.

Explanation of Signs

[0081] 1 Rotor set 10 Rotor 11 Coil 18 Ratchet 20 Stator 25 Permanent magnet 31, 32 Light-emitting diode 92 Click mechanism 100 Microgenerator 200 Power device 300 Barrel gear train 400 Control device 1000 Adjustment device 2000 Timer

Claims

1. A timepiece (2000) comprising a rotary wheel set (1), a power device (200) configured to drive the rotary wheel set, and an adjustment device (1000) for adjusting the rotational speed of the rotary wheel set, wherein the adjustment device comprises a microgenerator (100) having a stator (20) and a rotor (10) mechanically coupled to the rotary wheel set (1), the stator (20) carries one of a permanent magnet (25) and a coil (11), and the rotor (10) carries the other of the permanent magnet (25) and the coil (11), the adjustment device (1000) further comprises at least one light emitting diode (31, 32) powered by the microgenerator (100) without an electrical energy storage component intervening therebetween, The micro generator (100) and the at least one light emitting diode (31, 32) are within a functional speed range of the rotor set (1) between a minimum speed (V min ) and a maximum speed (V min ) that is strictly greater than this minimum speed (V max ), and a corresponding frequency range of rotation of the rotor (10) between a minimum frequency (F min ) and a maximum frequency (F max ) is such that, in the coil (11), a maximum induced voltage value generated with respect to the maximum frequency (F max ) is greater than a threshold voltage (U S ) of the at least one light emitting diode (31, 32), and the power device is arranged to have a useful power torque range such that it can drive the rotor set within the functional speed range. the at least one light emitting diode mainly constitutes a variable electrical energy consumption device for adjusting the rotational speed of the rotor of the microgenerator, thereby adjusting the rotational speed of the rotary wheel set characterized timepiece (2000).

2. The minimum induced voltage value generated with respect to the minimum frequency (F min ), within the induced voltage range, is also greater than the threshold voltage (U S ) of the at least one light emitting diode (31, 32). A timepiece (2000) according to claim 1, characterized in that

3. the adjustment device does not include any means for dissipating the kinetic energy of the rotor (10) of the microgenerator (100) characterized timepiece (2000) according to claim 1.

4. The power device is configured such that its effective power torque range has a minimum torque (C min ), which drives the rotary wheel set (1) at the minimum speed (V MotMin ) within the functional speed range, and a maximum torque (C max ), which drives the rotary wheel set (1) at the maximum speed (V MotMax ) within the functional speed range. A timepiece (2000) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that

5. The adjustment device (1000) adjusts by maintaining the rotational frequency of the rotor (10) within the frequency range between the minimum frequency (F MotMin ), and the maximum frequency (F MotMax ), with respect to the effective torque range of the power device between the minimum power torque (C min ), and the maximum power torque (C max ). A timepiece (2000) according to claim 4, characterized in that

6. the power device is formed by a barrel (200) dedicated to driving a mechanism including the rotary wheel set (1), This barrel (200) is configured such that the effective range of the torque it outputs between the minimum power torque (C MotMin ) and the maximum power torque (C MotMax ) meets the following conditions. This condition means that the minimum power torque (C MotMin ), excluding the rotor (10) of the micro generator (100), is equal to the sum of the mechanical torque (C min ) required to drive the mechanism when the rotary wheel set (1) is rotating at the minimum speed (V MecVmin ) and the minimum rotor drive torque (C min ) corresponding to the minimum frequency (F EDmin ) of the rotor (10). And the maximum power torque (C MotMax ), excluding the rotor (10) of the micro generator (100), is equal to the sum of the mechanical torque (C max ) required to drive the mechanism when the rotary wheel set (1) is rotating at the maximum speed (V MecVmax ) and the maximum rotor drive torque (C max ) corresponding to the maximum frequency (F EDmax ) of the rotor (10). characterized timepiece (2000) according to claim 5.

7. The adjustment device (1000) includes one or more light-emitting diodes (31, 32), and the number of the light-emitting diodes (31, 32) included in the adjustment device (1000) depends on the type and size of the light-emitting diodes (31, 32). All the light-emitting diodes (31, 32) included in the adjustment device (1000) dissipate electrical energy with a driving torque of the rotor (10) between the minimum rotor driving torque (C min ), which corresponds to the minimum frequency (F EDmin ) of the rotor (10), and the maximum rotor driving torque (C max ), which corresponds to the maximum frequency (F EDmax ) of the rotor (10). A timepiece (2000) according to claim 6, characterized in that

8. at least one of the light emitting diodes (31, 32) is indirectly powered via a full-bridge rectifier forming the only electrical and / or electronic circuit by at least one coil (11) supplying a current induced when the rotor rotates relative to the stator (20) of the microgenerator (100) The timepiece (2000) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that...

9. At least one of the light-emitting diodes (31, 32) is directly powered by at least one coil (11) when rotating relative to the stator (20) of the micro-generator (100). The timepiece (2000) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that...

10. The stator (20) carries the permanent magnet (25), and the rotor (10) carries the coil (11). Each light-emitting diode (31, 32) is attached to the rotor (10). The timepiece (2000) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that...

11. The permanent magnet (25) is arranged within the range of the circular surface defined by the rotor (10) when the rotor (10) is rotating in the axial projection. The timepiece (2000) according to claim 10, characterized in that...

12. The rotor (10) carries at least one pair of light-emitting diodes (31, 32) configured to be on opposite sides in the diametrical direction and have opposite polarities to each other. The timepiece (2000) according to claim 10, characterized in that...

13. The adjustment device (1000) has at least one static light guide structure in the vicinity of the micro-generator (100). This static light guide structure collects at least the majority of the light emitted by at least one light-emitting diode (31, 32) when the rotor (10) is at any angular position while rotating, and guides this emitted light towards at least one visible part of the timepiece to obtain a constant and / or uniform illumination of the visible part when at least one light-emitting diode is emitting light. The timepiece (2000) according to claim 10, characterized in that...

14. Any electrical and / or electronic device included in the timepiece is an element of the micro-generator (100). The timepiece (2000) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that...

15. Any electrical and / or electronic circuit included in the timepiece is attached to the rotor (10) of the micro-generator (100). The timepiece (2000) according to claim 10, characterized in that...

16. Any electrical and / or electronic circuit included in the timer is attached to the rotor (10) of the microgenerator (100). The timer (2000) according to claim 14, characterized in that.

17. The timer comprises a release stop device for releasing and stopping the microgenerator (100), and this release stop device can be actuated by the user so as to trigger the drive of the rotor (10) of the microgenerator (100), and comprises a control member, and / or a push button, and / or a control device (400) comprising a bolt with a bolt spring, or an engagement mechanism that can be actuated by a mechanism (600) comprised by the timer (2000). The timer (2000) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that.

18. The rotor (10) comprises a ratchet (18), and the release stop device comprises a click mechanism (92) that cooperates with the ratchet (18) to trigger the rotation of the microgenerator (100) on demand. The timer (2000) according to claim 17, characterized in that.

19. The release stop device comprises a mechanical delay device for limiting the duration of the rotation of the rotor (10). The timer (2000) according to claim 17, characterized in that.

20. The timer has a specific area that can be directly or indirectly brightened when the light-emitting diodes (31, 32) emit light by at least one light-emitting diode (31, 32). The timer (2000) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that.

21. The timer is an acoustic dynamic display mechanism with a strike function, a repeater function or a music function, comprising a rotating wheel set (1) whose rotation speed is adjusted by the adjustment device (1000). The timer (2000) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that.

22. The timer comprises a visual dynamic display mechanism comprising a rotating wheel set (1) whose rotation speed is adjusted by the adjustment device (1000). The timer (2000) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that.

23. At least one light-emitting diode (31, 32) emits light towards a predetermined area during an acoustic movement or a visual movement sequence of the timepiece (2000). The timepiece (2000) according to claim 20, characterized in that.

24. The adjustment device does not have an electrical energy storage capacitor. The timepiece (2000) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that.

25. A method for adjusting the rotational speed of a rotor set (1) of a timepiece (2000), wherein This adjustment is made in the functional speed range of the rotary wheel set (1) between a minimum speed (V min ) and a maximum speed (V max ) that is strictly greater than this minimum speed, the rotor set (1) is driven by a power device (200) provided in the timepiece (2000), the method implements an adjustment device (1000) for adjusting the rotational speed of the rotor set (1), formed by at least one light-emitting diode (31, 32) and a micro-generator (100) mechanically coupled to the rotor set (1), the rotor (10) is movable about a rotation axis (D) with respect to a stator (20), and the stator (20) carries one of a permanent magnet (25) and a coil (11), the rotor (10) carries the other of the permanent magnet (25) and the coil (11), the coil (11) is connected to the at least one light-emitting diode (31, 32) without an electrical energy storage component intervening therebetween, The features of the micro generator (100), the features of the at least one light emitting diode (31, 32), and the features of the means for adjusting the rotation ratio between the rotary wheel set (1) and the rotor (10) are such that, with respect to the functional speed range of the rotary wheel set (1), the corresponding frequency range of the rotation of the rotor (10) between the minimum frequency (F min ) and the maximum frequency (F max ) causes, in the coil (11), an induced voltage range such that the maximum induced voltage value generated with respect to the maximum frequency (F max ) is greater than the threshold voltage (U S ) of the at least one light emitting diode (31, 32). The at least one light emitting diode mainly constitutes a variable electrical energy consumption device that adjusts the rotational speed of the rotor and thereby adjusts the rotational speed of the rotary wheel set. The power device (200) has an effective power torque range that has a minimum torque (C MotMin ) for driving the rotary wheel set (1) at the minimum speed of the functional speed range, and a maximum torque (C MotMax ) for driving the rotary wheel set (1) at the maximum speed of the functional speed range, and is configured as such. A method characterized by this.

26. The minimum induced voltage value generated with respect to the minimum frequency (F min ), within the induced voltage range, is also greater than the threshold voltage (U S ) of the at least one light-emitting diode (31, 32). The method according to claim 25, characterized in that.

27. The adjustment device (1000) is designed to adjust by maintaining the rotational frequency of the rotor (10) within the frequency range between a minimum frequency (F MotMin ), and a maximum frequency (F MotMax ), with respect to the effective torque range of the power device, between a minimum power torque (C min ), and a maximum power torque (C max ). The method according to claim 25 or 26, characterized in that.

28. The adjustment device is configured not to include any means for dissipating the kinetic energy of the rotor (10) of the micro-generator (100). The method according to claim 25 or 26, characterized in that.

29. The power device includes a barrel (200) dedicated to driving a mechanism including the rotary wheel set (1), and this barrel (200) has an effective range of torque output by itself between a minimum power torque (C MotMin ) and a maximum power torque (C MotMax ) configured to meet the following conditions. This condition means that the minimum power torque (C MotMin ), excluding the rotor (10) of the microgenerator (100), is equal to the sum of the mechanical torque (C min ) required to drive the mechanism when the rotary wheel set (1) is rotating at the minimum speed (V MecVmin ) and the minimum rotor drive torque (C min ) corresponding to the minimum frequency (F EDmin ) of the rotor (10), and the maximum power torque (C MotMax ), excluding the rotor (10) of the microgenerator (100), is equal to the sum of the mechanical torque (C max ) required to drive the mechanism when the rotary wheel set (1) is rotating at the maximum speed (V MecVmax ) and the maximum rotor drive torque (C max ) corresponding to the maximum frequency (F EDmax ) of the rotor The method according to claim 25 or 26, characterized in that. **Claim 30**: The number of the light emitting diodes (31, 32) is selected such that, according to their types and sizes, all the light emitting diodes (31, 32) included in the adjustment device (1000) dissipate electricity with the driving torque of the rotor between the minimum rotor driving torque (C min ) corresponding to the minimum frequency (F EDmin ) and the maximum rotor driving torque (C max ) corresponding to the maximum frequency (F EDmax ) The method according to claim 29, characterized in that.

31. The power supply to the at least one light-emitting diode (31, 32) is selected to be performed indirectly by the micro-generator (100). The at least one light emitting diode (31, 32) is connected to the microgenerator (100) via an electrical and / or electronic circuit without a component for storing the current induced in the coil (11) when the rotor (10) of the microgenerator (100) is rotating. Method according to claim 25 or 26, characterized in that.

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