Electronic watchmaker's magnifier, electronic watchmaker's magnifier assembly, and watch repair manufacturing product, in particular a method for performing a check on a watch mechanism

Abstract

Watch repair and manufacturing products (3), in particular electronic watchmaker's magnifiers (1) intended for observing watch mechanisms, - a magnifying objective lens (8) for observing the watch repair and manufacturing product (3); - communication means (19) for receiving data; a display screen (9) for displaying the data; - a beam splitter (13) provided to simultaneously direct at least one image of the watch repair and manufacturing product (3) coming from the magnifying objective lens (8) and at least one image from the display screen (9) towards the user's eye (2);

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates generally to an electronic watchmaker's magnifier, the electronic magnifier intended for viewing a watch repair manufacturing product, in particular a watch mechanism. The present invention also relates to an electronic watchmaker's magnifier assembly, the magnifier assembly intended for viewing a watch repair manufacturing product, in particular a watch mechanism. The present invention relates to a method for performing a check on a watch repair manufacturing product, in particular a watch mechanism. [Background technology]

[0002] Traditionally, watchmakers observe the details of watch repair and manufacturing products with a watchmaker's magnifier, which they themselves precisely adjust to their eyes. The watchmaker keeps the magnifier permanently blocked on their brow bone and the upper part of their cheek. Different magnifiers on the market have magnifications ranging, for example, from 4x to 10x. Watchmakers observe the details of watch repair and manufacturing products to determine their origin, to carry out visual checks, but also to carry out assembly, maintenance, cleaning or setting operations, or to repair the product.

[0003] The watch repair and manufacturing product is in particular a watch with its mechanism and all its decorative parts, but can also be jewellery such as jewels with precious stones, for example diamonds or decorative stones (malachite, opal, turquoise, pearl, mother of pearl, etc.). Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, while the user of the magnifier remains focused on the task of observing the watch repair and manufacturing product through the magnifier, he or she may soon need other information to perform all of his or her tasks. The user can remove the magnifier from his or her eyes and refer to information located next to his or her work surface, in the form of a printed document or on a computer screen. This action of removing the magnifier and then replacing it at eye level to continue the observation task not only causes the user to lose time, but also causes visual fatigue. This fatigue occurs because of the necessary focusing when the user moves from document viewing without the magnifier to observation with the magnifier, and vice versa.

[0005] One object of the present invention is to address the shortcomings of the prior art mentioned above, and in particular to be the first to allow a user to view watch repair and manufacturing products and have direct access to the data.

[0006] A first aspect of the invention relates to a watch repair and manufacturing product, in particular an electronic watchmaker's magnifier intended for observing watch mechanisms, the electronic magnifier comprising: - a magnifying objective lens for observing watch repair and manufacturing products; - a communication means for receiving data; a display screen for displaying the data; - a beam splitter provided to simultaneously direct at least one image of the watch repair manufacturing product coming from the magnifying objective lens and at least one image from the display screen to the user's eye;

[0007] In other words, the user can see the watch repair manufacturing product he is observing directly and continuously, and simultaneously the data appearing on the watch repair manufacturing product he is observing. The data in the form of one or more images is seen by the user's eye and pops up and is superimposed on the image of the watch repair manufacturing product. The data is received by the electronic magnifier via the communication means.

[0008] Advantageously, the electronic magnifier further comprises an acquisition camera for acquiring at least one image of the watch repair manufacturing product, communication means are provided for transmitting the image of the watch repair manufacturing product acquired by the acquisition camera to a remote user, and a beam splitter is provided for simultaneously directing at least one image of the watch repair manufacturing product coming from the magnification objective lens and at least one image from the display screen to the acquisition camera.

[0009] Advantageously, the invention relates to a watch repair and manufacturing product, in particular an electronic watchmaker's magnifier intended for observing watch mechanisms, the electronic magnifier comprising: - a magnifying objective lens for observing watch repair and manufacturing products; - a communication means for receiving data; an acquisition camera for acquiring at least one image of a watch repair manufacturing product; - a beam splitter provided to simultaneously direct at least one image of the watch repair manufacturing product coming from the magnifying objective lens towards the user's eye and towards the acquisition camera.

[0010] Thus, the user observes the watch repair manufacturing product, while the camera simultaneously transmits an image or a continuous stream of images, known as "streaming," of the observed product to a remotely located user. The remote user may be in the same room and immediately next to the user, or may be thousands of kilometers from the room. In addition, the camera simultaneously transmits data in the form of an image or a continuous stream of images, known as "streaming," of the observed product and one or several superimposed images advantageously located on the optical axis: wearer's eye - electronic magnifier - watch repair manufacturing product to a remotely located user.

[0011] The possible uses of the electronic magnifier according to the present invention can be many. As an example, a possible use of the electronic magnifier can be commercial, where a user who is a sales representative shows a customer the details of a remote watch repair manufacturing product. Another possible use of the electronic magnifier can be for teaching purposes, where a user who is a master watchmaker shows a student the mechanism of a watch repair manufacturing product, in this case how a watch is mounted, how the mechanism works, or how to perform maintenance, etc. Another possible use of the electronic magnifier can be for evaluation purposes, where a master jeweler shows his colleague, on-site or remotely, all the features of a jewel.

[0012] Advantageously, the beam splitter may include a semi-reflective mirror for splitting the image on the display screen into a first refractive portion directed towards the camera and a second reflective portion directed towards the user's eyes, and / or for splitting the image of the watch repair manufacturing product coming from the magnifying objective lens into a first refractive portion directed towards the user's eyes and a second reflective portion directed towards the acquisition camera.

[0013] Advantageously, the electronic magnifier may comprise lighting means for illuminating or illuminating the watch repair and manufacturing product. In particular, the lighting means may be provided in the form of a perforated disc or ring coaxial with the magnification objective lens. In other words, the electronic magnifier may comprise lighting means that surround the magnification objective lens and illuminate the watch repair and manufacturing product without creating floating shadows.

[0014] Advantageously, the illumination means may be an illumination ring arranged to be removably mounted on or around the magnification objective. A quarter-turn or bayonet type mounting with integral electrical contacts can be envisaged.

[0015] Advantageously, electronic magnifiers: a support frame; - a secondary frame removably mounted on the support frame; optical means, including at least a magnification objective, fixedly mounted on the secondary frame, The support frame includes a left interface or a right interface each arranged to receive a secondary frame so as to position the magnifying objective lens facing the left or right eye of a user wearing the electronic magnifier, the secondary frame being received by the left interface or the right interface of the support frame, respectively.

[0016] Advantageously, the secondary frame can have at least one symmetry, so that it can be easily mounted on a left or right interface.

[0017] Advantageously, the secondary frame can include setting means arranged to change the relative position between the secondary frame and the support frame so as to adjust the position of the optical means embedded on the secondary frame relative to the user's eyes. It is possible to envisage sliding with wheels acting on precision screws. Depth settings, as well as lateral and / or vertical settings, can also be provided.

[0018] Advantageously, the electronic magnifier may comprise means for receiving corrective glasses. In particular, receiving means may be provided to removably fix the corrective glasses between the watch repair manufacturing product to be observed and the user's eye. Preferably, the receiving means is arranged to removably fix the corrective glasses between the magnification objective lens and the user's eye. This may be provided by a mechanical device, preferably with a magnet, to fix one or more lenses and / or lens filters onto the electronic magnifier, possibly to correct the wearer's refractive error. The refractive error is a refractive error, an optical defect of the eye, such as the wearer's myopia or astigmatism, and the wearer may then use the electronic magnifier without the glasses.

[0019] In another embodiment, not shown in the figures, the electronic magnifier includes a first optoelectronic device for automatic measurement of any abnormalities in the wearer's refraction, for example, by a device called an autorefractometer, which uses an infrared beam to determine diopters. The measurement unit, represented by the symbol D, quantifies the degree of refractive error. Diopters D are a unit of light intensity or vergence known in ophthalmology. Once measured and quantified for the wearer, they are used to automatically adjust a second optoelectronic device of one or more lenses integrated into the electronic magnifier until the wearer has a clear view of the product. This second adjustment device thus helps to improve the wearer's visual acuity. Visual acuity, expressed or quantified in tenths (e.g., 10 / 10, 8 / 10, etc.), indicates the eye's ability to distinguish between two different points, a particularly important ability in the fields of watchmaking and jewelry. Visual acuity is therefore related to the strength of the eye's compartment based on the minimum angle of resolution (MAR). This first device, in combination with a second automatic lens adjustment device, integrates a diopter-measuring autorefractometer with an electronic magnifier to improve the vision of the wearer's eye.

[0020] Advantageously, the electronic magnifier may comprise a zoom objective lens of an optical device, the magnification value of which can be freely set by the wearer or a third party, continuously or at several levels, using mechanical or electromechanical (such as a switch or a continuous or multi-position rotary switch) or electronic (such as a touch screen, remote control, etc.) means to select the desired magnification or as needed to observe the watch repair manufacturing product.

[0021] Advantageously, the electronic magnifier may be provided with means for receiving a neutral glass or a filter glass without a magnifying feature, allowing the wearer to choose according to his needs for observing or presenting watch repair and manufacturing products, for example, a watchmaking workshop or manufacturing center.

[0022] According to a second aspect of the present invention, a watch repair and manufacturing product, in particular an electronic watchmaker's magnifier assembly intended for observing watch mechanisms, comprises: a data processing unit having data; an electronic magnifier according to the first aspect of the invention, The communication means of the electronic magnifier communicates with the data processing unit to receive data and / or transmit images of the watch repair manufacturing product captured by the capture camera to the data processing unit.

[0023] Advantageously, the magnifying assembly may comprise means for controlling the electronic magnifier, the communication means of the electronic magnifier communicating with the control means. For example, such an accessory connecting to a computer mouse type electronic magnifier allows the user to operate the magnifier while maintaining a view of the watch repair manufacturing product. The user of the magnifier sees commands on the display screen of the electronic magnifier. By way of example, the commands may be a pointer arrow, a screen on / off icon, setting the screen brightness, etc.

[0024] Advantageously, the magnifying glass assembly may comprise means for recognizing a tool used with the watch repair manufacturing product in order to select at least one piece of information related to the tool from the data relating to the watch repair manufacturing product, the communication means of the electronic magnifying glass communicating with the recognition means to receive the selected information related to the tool, so that the information related to the tool is displayed on the display screen of the electronic magnifying glass.

[0025] With such an accessory connecting to an electronic magnifier and ensuring tool recognition on a watch repair manufacturing product, a user immediately has information about the tool used to perform a specific task on the watch repair manufacturing product. In the case of a watch mechanism, the user of the magnifier sees information about the right tool to use while keeping their eyes on it and focused on their watch repair manufacturing product. For example, information about a specific screwdriver is displayed, and the user grasps the appropriate screwdriver and unscrews a specific screw. Or, the user re-tightens a specific screw using displayed information related to the tightening torque recommended by the manufacturer.

[0026] Advantageously, the magnifying glass assembly may comprise means for recognizing at least one component of the watch repair manufacturing product in order to select at least one piece of information relating to the component from the data relating to the watch repair manufacturing product, the communication means of the electronic magnifying glass communicating with the recognition means to receive the selected information relating to the component, so that the information relating to the component is displayed on the display screen of the electronic magnifying glass.

[0027] By connecting an electronic magnifier to such an accessory and ensuring recognition of components on a watch repair manufacturing product, a user immediately has information about the components used to perform a specific task on the watch repair manufacturing product by using the component. In the case of a watch mechanism, the user of the magnifier sees information about the right component to use while keeping their eyes on it and focused on their watch repair manufacturing product. For example, in the step of installing a watch mechanism, information about the specific component is displayed, and the user grasps the appropriate component and installs it. Or, the user can optimally install a module integrating several components using the displayed information related to the manufacturer's recommendations.

[0028] Advantageously, the magnifying assembly can be equipped with a device for measuring parameters related to the watch repair and manufacturing product. By way of example, in the case of a watch mechanism, the parameters can be speed, frequency, amplitude of vibration, power reserve, etc. If necessary, the watchmaker can make settings of the mechanism based on these parameters.

[0029] Advantageously, the data processing unit may comprise a computer type machine connected to a server, which may be a personal computer, a smartphone, a connected watch (smartwatch), a tablet or any other type of portable accessory (wearable) that integrates computing and electronics.

[0030] Advantageously, the computer type machine can be connected to an external computer network, with a connection to the Internet allowing remote transmission of images.

[0031] Advantageously, the magnifier assembly may further comprise a wireless router forming an interface between the communication means of the electronic magnifier and / or the data processing unit and / or the recognition means and / or the measuring device.

[0032] Advantageously, the data is in particular -Information identifying the watch repair manufacturing product, and / or -Technical information about watch repair and manufacturing products, and / or - Information identifying a subset of watch repair manufacturing products, and / or - Information identifying the components of the watch repair and manufacturing product, and / or -It may contain information identifying the stage in which the watch repair manufacturing product is installed.

[0033] Thus, data related to the identity of a watch repair and manufacturing product can be displayed on the screen of the magnifying glass. In the case of a watch mechanism, data such as the date of manufacture and the watchmaker involved in the installation, the reference number of the caliber, references to the component modules, CAD (Computer Aided Design) images, and all references to the watch, including the installation stage, are useful to the user of the magnifying glass. Other data such as the strengths and weaknesses of the caliber, specific points to be monitored, can also be displayed. One or more of these data are displayed by being superimposed on the image of the observed watch repair and manufacturing product.

[0034] According to another aspect of the invention, a method for carrying out a check of a watch repair and manufacturing product, in particular a watch mechanism, comprises the steps of: - observing the watch repair manufacturing product with an objective lens of an electronic magnifier; -capturing, with a camera of the electronic magnifier, at least one image of the watch repair manufacturing product; - transmitting the acquired image of the watch repair and manufacturing product to a computer-type machine in the vicinity of the electronic magnifier.

[0035] This checking method with these steps allows a watchmaker with less knowledge to observe a watch repair manufacturing product using an electronic magnifier to send an image or a stream of acquired images and request the assistance of a more experienced watchmaker to ensure maintenance or repair, all of which is more useful when the watch repair manufacturing product is rare or complex.

[0036] Advantageously, the method may further comprise a step of transmitting the acquired image of the watch repair and manufacturing product to a second computer-type machine remote from the computer-type machine in the vicinity of the electronic magnifier.With this step of the checking method, the watchmaker communicates remotely with one of his colleagues by using software that allows the user to make telephone or video calls over the Internet and screen sharing.

[0037] Advantageously, the method comprises: - transmitting the acquired image of the watch repair manufacturing product to a data processing unit, the data processing unit being programmed to recognize the watch repair manufacturing product by a comparison between the acquired image of the watch repair manufacturing product and data relating to the watch repair manufacturing product; - displaying data relating to the watch repair manufacturing product on a display screen of the electronic magnifier.

[0038] These steps of the checking method result in automatic recognition of the watch repair manufacturing product and all useful information stored in the data processing unit can be displayed on the screen of the magnifying glass and made visible to the user, superimposed on the watch repair manufacturing product.

[0039] Advantageously, the method comprises: -recognizing a tool used with the watch repair manufacturing product to generate at least one piece of information related to the tool; - displaying information related to the generated tool on a display screen of the electronic magnifier.

[0040] Advantageously, the method comprises: - recognizing at least one component of a watch repair and manufacturing product to generate at least one piece of information related to the component of the watch mechanism; - displaying information relating to the components of the generated watch repair and manufacturing product on the display screen of the electronic magnifier. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0041] Other characteristics and advantages of the invention will become more clearly apparent on reading the following detailed description of one embodiment of the invention, given as a non-limiting example and illustrated by the accompanying drawings, in which: [Figure 1] FIG. 1 shows a transparent exploded perspective view of an electronic magnifier according to the present invention. [Figure 2]FIG. 2 shows a side view of the optoelectronic module of the magnifier of FIG. 1 and according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 depicts a simplified side view of an optoelectronic module of a magnifier according to a second embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 illustrates an electronic watchmaker magnifier assembly according to a first embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 depicts an electronic watchmaker magnifier assembly according to a second embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 shows a third embodiment of the electronic magnifier. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 depicts details of the optoelectronic module of the electronic magnifier of FIG. 6 in a rear view. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0042] As shown in Figures 1-3, an electronic watchmaker's magnifier 1 according to the present invention is used by a user to view a watch repair and manufacturing product 3, positioned directly against the user's eye 2. Figures 1-3 show a magnifier intended to be positioned over the user's right eye. According to another embodiment, a particular design of the magnifier allows the user to position it over either the right or left eye. The user, a watchmaker, generally functions with one eye 2 looking through the magnifier and one free eye. The user's free eye allows them to identify different components on the work surface and place them in the work area (zoom area). The electronic magnifier 1 comprises an optoelectronic module 4, a headband 6, which is partially visible in the exploded view of Figure 1, and a power supply unit 7 located at the back of the headband 6. The headband 6 is provided with an adjustment means 8 for adjusting the tightness of the electronic magnifier 1 around the user's head.

[0043] The power supply unit 7 supplies the optoelectronic module 4 via an electrical cable (not shown). It should be noted that a power supply, for example in the form of a rechargeable battery or cells, may also be arranged in the optoelectronic module 4.

[0044] The optoelectronic module 4 according to the first embodiment of Fig. 1 and according to the second first embodiment of Fig. 2 comprises a magnifying objective, in this case in the form of a magnifying lens 8. The magnifying lens 8 is selected so that the object being observed, i.e. the watch repair manufacturing product 3, is focused at infinity. This focusing has the advantage of not causing visual fatigue to the user, whose eye 2 crystal lenses remain focused at infinity. This focusing also has the advantage that the user maintains a clear view of the watch repair manufacturing product 3 that he is observing, even when he moves closer to or slightly away from it.

[0045] The optoelectronic module 4 comprises a display screen 9, an optical lens, for example a Fresnel type 11, an image acquisition camera 12, and a beam splitter 13. The splitter 13 can be in the form of a splitting prism or a semi-transparent mirror. The splitter 13 is provided to direct the image of the watch repair manufacturing product 3 coming from the magnifying lens 8 towards the user's eye 2 (refracted portion or refracted beam indicated by arrow 14 in FIGS. 2 and 3) and simultaneously direct the image from the screen 9 towards the user's eye 2 (reflected portion or refracted beam indicated by arrow 16 in FIGS. 2 and 3). The splitter 13 is provided to direct the image of the watch repair manufacturing product 3 coming from the magnifying lens 8 towards the camera 12 (reflected portion or refracted beam indicated by arrow 17 in FIGS. 2 and 3) and simultaneously direct the image of the screen 9 towards the camera 12 (refracted portion or refracted beam indicated by arrow 18 in FIGS. 2 and 3).

[0046] The magnifying objective lens 8 can be replaced with other objective lenses with different magnification factors, selected according to the user's wishes and according to the watch repair manufacturing product 2, while maintaining infinity focus. The electronic magnifier 1 has the advantage that the use of other objective lenses does not affect the user and the user's visual fatigue, or on the camera 12, and the crystal lens of the user's eye 2 remains focused on infinity.

[0047] The screen 9 is provided to be focused at infinity because the Fresnel lens 11 is in the immediate vicinity of the splitter 13. The electronic magnifier 1 therefore has the advantage that the crystal lens of the eye 2 remains focused at infinity when the user both looks at the watch repair manufacturing product 3 and receives the image from the image 9. The camera 12 may be provided with a fixed focal length set by focusing at infinity.

[0048] The optoelectronic module 4 comprises an electronic card or printed circuit 19 connected to a single-board computer. More specifically, the single-board computer comprises a communication circuit for communication means, a circuit forming a storage memory, and a processor. The single-board computer also comprises an operating system that makes it possible to organize the use of resources, for example the communication means or the storage memory.

[0049] In a second embodiment depicted in Figure 3, optoelectronic module 21 includes two successive reflecting prisms at right angles 22 and 23. First prism 22 is positioned relative to screen 9. Second prism 23 is positioned between first prism 22 and Fresnel lens 11. Reflected beam 16 and refracted beam 18 from screen 9 first enter first prism 22, are reflected by first prism 22, leave first prism 22, then enter second prism 23, are reflected by second prism 23, leave second prism 23, and reach Fresnel lens 11.

[0050] The distance between the magnifying objective with the magnifying lens 8 and the watch repair manufacturing product 3 is so small in the case of the first embodiment of the electronic magnifier 1 with the optoelectronic module 4 of FIG. 2 that the user's right hand can come into contact with the casing 24 of the optoelectronic module 21. This arrangement with the two prisms 22 and 23 of the second embodiment of FIG. 3 allows for the position of the screen 9 relative to the other components, the magnifying objective 8, the splitter 13, and the camera 12, to be modified and for this screen 9 to be moved. The geometry of the casing of the optoelectronic module 21 of the second embodiment is therefore modified and made more ergonomic. The user can more easily intervene in the watch repair manufacturing product 3, especially since some maintenance or installation operations are difficult to perform in the case of watch mechanisms.

[0051] The data are displayed on the screen 9. These data are therefore seen by the user superimposed on what the user sees through the magnifying objective lens 8. These data are also acquired by the camera 12 superimposed on what the user sees through the magnifying objective lens 8.

[0052] These data can be transferred to the electronic magnifier 2 for display on the screen 9 and / or for the data and the image to be viewed by the user and transferred to the camera 12, the electronic magnifier 1 being integrated into an electronic watchmaker's magnifier assembly 25 according to a first embodiment represented in Fig. 4. The magnifier assembly 25 comprises a data processing unit 26. The data processing unit 26 includes a computer-type machine 27, such as for example a personal computer. The computer-type machine 27 can also be a laptop computer, a smartphone, a tablet or a connected watch. The electronic magnifier 1 communicates with the unit 26, more specifically with the computer-type machine 27, for example by Wi-Fi wireless technology (arrow W in Fig. 4). It should be noted that the electronic magnifier 1 can also be driven via a smartphone.

[0053] The watch repair manufacturing product 3 seen by the user of the electronic magnifier 1 and the corresponding image transmitted by the acquisition camera 12 are displayed on a screen 28 of a computer-type machine 27. The data is also superimposed on the screen 28. This allows other users located in the immediate vicinity of the user of the electronic magnifier 1 to observe the watch repair manufacturing product 3 and the data streaming directly onto the screen 28.

[0054] When the computer type machine 27 is connected to a computer network, for example an intranet or the Internet, the images and data transmitted by the acquisition camera 12 can be transmitted to one or several other processing units, personal computers, laptop computers, smartphones and / or tablets, which can then be located remotely, so that other users, remote from the user of the electronic magnifier 1, can observe the watch repair manufacturing product 3 streaming directly onto their own screens, either via a dedicated application or via an Internet browser.

[0055] This Internet connection makes it possible that images or data coming from one or several other processing units located remotely may be superimposed or displayed in the form of an insert on the display screen 9 of the electronic magnifier 1. This Internet connection also has the advantage that the user of the electronic magnifier 1 can make telephone or video calls via the Internet, for example using a Skype type application. The user can also call up and share the screen 28 while keeping the electronic magnifier 1 in front of his eye 2 and focused on the watch repair manufacturing product 3.

[0056] The unit 26 can include a remote server 29. The server 29 is used to store and pre-store large amounts of information and data relating to a large number of watch repair and manufacturing products 3. A computer-type machine 27 is connected and communicates with the server 29, for example by a wired connection. The server 29 transfers data specific to the watch repair and manufacturing products to the computer-type machine 27, which then transfers these same data to the communication means 19 of the electronic magnifier 1, where they are displayed on the screen 9. The server 29 also serves to store images received from the acquisition camera 12. It should be noted that the server can be a dedicated server or a cloud.

[0057] The magnifying glass assembly 25 according to the first embodiment of Figure 4 can be equipped with one or several accessories 31 that connect to the electronic magnifier 1 to provide additional functionality to the user. Four examples of accessories are given below:

[0058] A first example of the accessory 31 is a unit for controlling a pointer-type device, such as an electronic magnifier 1 or a computer mouse, which the user moves by hand. The user controls the electronic magnifier 1 with this device. Thus, the user can create a pointer or display it superimposed on the image of the watch repair manufacturing product 3 that the user is viewing. The user sees the watch repair manufacturing product 3 along with an arrow in real time on the display screen 9. The composite image is captured by the capture camera 12. This composite image can then be viewed on the screen 28 of a computer-type machine 27. This image can then be transmitted to another computer connected to the Internet. As another example, the user controls the magnifier to capture or start "streaming" images or videos. For example, it is also possible to set the intensity of the screen of the electronic magnifier 1.

[0059] A second example of an accessory 31 is formed by means for recognizing a tool that can be used with the watch repair manufacturing product 3. If the watch repair manufacturing product 3 is a clock mechanism, the means for recognizing a tool is in the form of a tool holder, capable of holding one or several tools, such as a screwdriver, pliers, etc. As soon as a user grasps a particular tool present on the tool holder, the tool holder recognizes the type of tool and can transmit information related to the tool to the electronic magnifier 1. The communication means 19 of the electronic magnifier 1 communicate with the recognition means for receiving selected information related to the tool. This information related to the tool is then transmitted to a computer-type machine 27 and transmitted to a remote server 29.

[0060] The data relating to the watch repair manufacturing product 3 relates to all screws with specific parameters, such as dimensions, recess shape, tightening torque, and the specific tool used. From the received tool-related information, the remote server 29 selects at least one piece of information relating to this tool from all the data relating to the watch repair manufacturing product 3, such as the exact tightening torque of the screw. This information is sent back to the computer-type machine 27, which then sends it back to the electronic magnifier 1. The information relating to the specific tool selected by the user is loaded and displayed on the display screen 9 of the electronic magnifier 1. On the display screen 9, the user sees the tightening torque of the screw superimposed on the actual image of the mechanism in which the screw must be placed. This composite image can then be viewed on the screen 28 of the computer-type machine 27. This image can then be sent to another computer connected to the Internet.

[0061] A third example of an accessory 31 is formed by a means for recognizing at least one component of a watch repair and manufacturing product 3. If the watch repair and manufacturing product 3 is a watch mechanism, the component recognition means is in the form of a component holder in which one or more components are placed, such as teeth, screws, springs, bridges, movements, or one or more subassemblies already pre-assembled and made from several components forming the mechanism. When the user grasps a specific component present on the accessory, the accessory recognizes the type of component in question and transmits information related to this component to the electronic magnifier 1. The communication means 19 of the electronic magnifier 1 communicate with the recognition means for receiving selected information related to the component. This information related to the component tool is then transmitted to a computer-type machine 27, which transmits it to a remote server 29.

[0062] The data relating to the watch repair and manufacturing product 3 relate, for example, to plans and diagrams showing the exact positioning of components, the specific tools used, etc. The remote server 29 selects at least one piece of information relating to this component from all the data relating to the watch repair and manufacturing product 3. This information is returned to the computer-type machine 27, which returns it to the electronic magnifier 1. The information relating to the component selected by the user is loaded and displayed on the display screen 9 of the electronic magnifier 1. On the display screen 9, the user has a diagram of the positioning of the components of the watch mechanism superimposed on the actual image of the mechanism in which the components must be placed. This composite image can therefore be viewed on the screen 28 of the computer-type machine 27. This image can then be transmitted to other computers connected to the Internet.

[0063] A fourth example of an accessory 31 is a device for measuring parameters relating to the watch repair manufacturing product 3. The device is placed next to, against or on the watch repair manufacturing product 3. If the watch repair manufacturing product 3 is a clock mechanism, the device integrates sensors that allow for measuring, for example, speed, frequency, amplitude of vibration, power reserve. The device for measuring parameters returns the measurement information to the electronic magnifier 1. The communication means 19 of the electronic magnifier 1 communicate with the device for measuring parameters to receive selected information relating to the battery product 3. This information is then transmitted to a computer-type machine 27, which transmits it to a remote server 29.

[0064] The data relating to the watch repair and manufacturing product 3 relate, for example, to nominal pre-recorded values ​​of parameters of the watch mechanism. The remote server 29 selects at least one parameter-related piece of information from all the data relating to the watch repair and manufacturing product 3. This information is sent back to the computer-type machine 27, which then sends it back to the electronic magnifier 1. The information relating to the parameter with its nominal value is loaded and displayed on the display screen 9 of the electronic magnifier 1. The user, a watchmaker, can immediately set the watch movement based on the nominal value of the parameter. The user has both the measured value and the nominal value superimposed on the actual image of the mechanism on the display screen 9. This combined image can therefore be viewed on the screen 28 of the computer-type machine 27. This image can then be sent to another computer connected to the Internet.

[0065] The magnifying glass assembly 32 according to the second embodiment represented in Fig. 5 comprises the same unit as the magnifying glass assembly 25 according to the first embodiment of Fig. 4, i.e. an electronic magnifier 1 according to the first embodiment of Figs. 1 and 2 or according to the second embodiment of Fig. 3, with a data processing unit 26 having a computer-type machine 27 provided with a screen 28, a server 29 and an accessory 31. The electronic magnifier 1 and the components 26, 27, 29 and 31 have been described in detail above. The wireless router 33 forms the central interface between the communication means 19 of the electronic magnifier 1, the computer-type machine 27, the server 29 and the accessory 31.

[0066] In the second embodiment of the magnifier assembly 32, the wireless router 33 is configured so that the electronic magnifier 1, the computer-like machine 27, the server 29, and the accessory 31 are on the same local area network (LAN). The electronic magnifier 1, the computer-type machine 27, and the accessory 31 communicate with the wireless router 33 using Wi-Fi wireless technology (arrow W in FIG. 5). If the video data is streamed to the cloud, the wireless router 33 is also connected to a wide area network (WAN). The server 29 communicates with the wireless router 33 via a wired connection.

[0067] 6 depicts a front view of a third embodiment of an electronic magnifier, including, inter alia, a headband 60, an opto-electronic module 40, and a bearing module 90 having a pad for providing a bearing on the user's nose. Height settings for the bearing module 90 can be provided to adjust the wearing of the electronic magnifier to the user's morphology.

[0068] The headband 60 forms a support frame including a left interface 62 and a right interface 61. As with the other embodiments described above, the optoelectronic module 40 includes at least one magnifying objective lens with a lens 80, and communication means and / or an acquisition camera and / or a beam splitter embedded in the optoelectronic module 40 may be provided. This optoelectronic module 40 is received by both the left interface 62 and by the right interface 61 (typically via a flexible tab reversibly coupled with a counterform), forming a secondary frame that may also position the optoelectronic module 40 in front of the user's right or left eye. Note that the optoelectronic module 40 of FIG. 6 is symmetrical and can be reversed to be coupled with the right interface 61 and the left interface 62.

[0069] The positioning of the optoelectronic module 40 on the headband 60 can be provided for depth or lateral adjustment relative to the user's eyes. For this purpose, runners with wheels and precision screws can be provided.

[0070] It is further noted that the optoelectronic module 40 includes an annular illumination module 81 around the lens 80 to illuminate the object being observed without creating shadows. Light-emitting diodes distributed along the periphery of the lens 80 can be used to provide regular illumination of the object being observed.

[0071] 7 represents a rear view of the optoelectronic module 40 with a corrective lens 41 that can be removably coupled to the optoelectronic module 40, for example, via a magnet 42. Thus, a user who requires vision correction can couple a suitable corrective lens 81 (myopia, astigmatism, ...) and use the electronic magnifier without wearing glasses. If the user does not require optical correction, the corrective lens 41 can be a simple neutral lens, i.e., a non-corrective glass.

[0072] According to the present invention, an electronic magnifier 1 according to the first or second embodiment of Figures 1, 2 and 3, respectively, can be used with a magnifier assembly 32 according to the first or second embodiment of Figures 4 and 5, respectively, to carry out a check of a watch repair and manufacturing product 3, in particular, in a non-limiting manner, a watch mechanism.

[0073] The checking method comprises different successive steps. The first step of the checking method is for the user to observe the watch repair manufacturing product 3 with the objective lens 8 of the electronic magnifier 1. The second step of the checking method is for the camera 12 of the electronic magnifier 1 to capture at least one image of the watch repair manufacturing product 3. The third step of the checking method is for a computer-type machine 27 located in the vicinity of the electronic magnifier 1 to transmit the captured image of the watch repair manufacturing product to a data processing unit 26.

[0074] The fourth step of the checking method is to transmit the image of the watch repair and manufacturing product 3 acquired during the second step to a second computer-type machine, which is located remotely from the computer-type machine 27 located in the vicinity of the electronic magnifier 1. During the checking, the novice watchmaker equipped with the electronic magnifier 1 can request the assistance of an experienced watchmaker located remotely.

[0075] The fifth step of the checking method is to transmit the acquired image of the watch repair manufacturing product 3 to a data processing unit 26, a computer-type machine 27, and / or a server 29. The data processing unit 26, including the server 29, is programmed to recognize the watch repair manufacturing product 3 by performing a comparison between the acquired image of the watch repair manufacturing product and data related to the watch repair manufacturing product 3. This allows automatic recognition of the watch and / or caliber reference. The sixth step of the checking method is to display the data related to the watch repair manufacturing product 3 on the display screen 9 of the electronic magnifier 1. In this sixth step, a maintenance plan or other important information such as the strengths and weaknesses of the caliber, as well as preventive measures to be taken, are displayed on the display screen 9. The display screen 9 can also display a 3D CAD file for the purpose of comparing the watch or caliber under check with a theoretical design.

[0076] A seventh optional step of the checking method is to recognize a tool used with the watch repair manufacturing product 3 in order to generate at least one piece of information related to the tool. This recognition step is performed using a recognition accessory 31 connected to the electronic magnifier 1. An eighth optional step of the checking method is to display the generated tool related information on the display screen 9 of the electronic magnifier 1.

[0077] A ninth optional step of the checking method is to recognize at least one component of the watch repair manufacturing product 3 to generate at least one piece of information related to the component of the watch mechanism. This recognition step is performed using a recognition accessory 31 connected to the electronic magnifier 1. A tenth optional step of the checking method is to display the generated information related to the component of the watch repair manufacturing product 3 on the display screen 9 of the electronic magnifier 1.

[0078] The data may specifically include, but is not limited to: - information identifying the watch repair and manufacturing product 3, and / or -Technical information about watch repair and manufacturing products 3, and / or - information identifying a subset of watch repair and manufacturing products 3, and / or - information identifying the components of the watch repair and manufacturing product 3, and / or -Contains information identifying the stage in which the watch repair and manufacturing product 3 is installed.

[0079] Various modifications and / or improvements can be made by those skilled in the art to the various embodiments of the invention described herein without departing from the scope of the invention. In particular, recognition of the tool or component can be performed using image recognition software based on the shape of the tool or component visible on the image from the acquisition camera. The use of QR codes printed on the tool or component packaging can also be envisioned.

Claims

1. An electronic watchmaker's magnifier for observing a watch repair and manufacturing product (3) with one eye through the electronic watchmaker's magnifier and one eye freely, - a magnifying objective lens (8) for observing said watch repair and manufacturing product (3); - communication means (19) for receiving data; - a display screen (9) for displaying said data; - a beam splitter (13) provided to simultaneously direct at least one image of said watch repair and manufacturing product (3) coming from said magnifying objective lens (8) and at least one image from said display screen (9) towards the user's eye (2).

2. 2. An electronic watchmaker's magnifier according to claim 1, further comprising an acquisition camera (12) for acquiring at least one image of said watch repair manufacturing product (3), said communication means (19) being provided for transmitting said image of said watch repair manufacturing product (3) acquired by said acquisition camera (12) to a remote user, and said beam splitter (13) being provided for simultaneously directing at least one image of said watch repair manufacturing product (3) coming from said magnification objective lens (8) and at least one image from said display screen (9) to said acquisition camera (12).

3. 3. Electronic watchmaker's magnifier according to claim 2, wherein the beam splitter (13) comprises a semi-reflective mirror for splitting the image of the display screen (9) into a first refracted portion directed towards the camera (12) and a second reflective portion directed towards the eye (2) of the user and / or for splitting the image of the watch repair manufacturing product (3) coming from the magnifying objective lens (8) into a first refracted portion directed towards the eye (2) of the user and a second reflective portion directed towards the acquisition camera (12).

4. Electronic watchmaker's magnifier according to any one of claims 1 to 3, comprising lighting means for illuminating or illuminating said watch repair and manufacturing product (3).

5. 1. An electronic watchmaker's magnifier assembly intended for viewing watch repair and manufacturing products, comprising: a data processing unit (26) containing data; - an electronic watchmaker magnifier (1) according to claim 2, 3 or claim 4 further dependent thereon, wherein said communication means (19) of said electronic watchmaker magnifier (1) communicate with said data processing unit (26) to receive said data and / or transmit said images of said watch repair manufacturing product (3) acquired by said acquisition camera (12) to said data processing unit (26).

6. 6. An electronic watchmaker's magnifier assembly according to claim 5, comprising means for controlling said electronic watchmaker's magnifier (1), said communication means (19) of said electronic magnifier (1) communicating with said control means.

7. 7. An electronic watchmaker's magnifier assembly according to claim 5 or 6, comprising means for recognizing a tool used together with said watch repair manufacturing product (3) in order to select at least one piece of information related to said tool from data relating to said watch repair manufacturing product (3), said communication means (19) of said electronic watchmaker's magnifier (1) communicating with said recognition means to receive said selected piece of information related to said tool, so that said piece of information related to said tool is displayed on said display screen (9) of said electronic magnifier (1).

8. 8. Electronic watchmaker's magnifier assembly according to any one of claims 5 to 7, comprising means for recognizing at least one component of said watch repair manufacturing product (3) in order to select at least one information related to said component from data relating to said watch repair manufacturing product (3), said communication means (19) of said electronic watchmaker's magnifier (1) communicating with said recognition means to receive said selected information related to said component, so that said information related to said component is displayed on said display screen (9) of said electronic watchmaker's magnifier (1).

9. An electronic watchmaker's magnifier assembly according to any one of claims 5 to 8, comprising a device for measuring parameters relating to said watch repair manufacturing product (3).

10. Electronic watchmaker's magnifier assembly according to any one of claims 5 to 9, wherein said data processing unit (26) comprises a computer type machine (27) connected to a server (29).

11. 11. An electronic watchmaker's magnifier assembly according to claim 10, wherein said computer type machine (27) is connected to an external computer network.

12. Electronic watchmaker's magnifier assembly according to any one of claims 5 to 11, further comprising a wireless router forming an interface between said communication means (19) of said electronic watchmaker's magnifier (1) and said data processing unit (26).

13. The data is, in particular: - information identifying said watch repair and manufacturing product (3), and / or - technical information about said watch repair and manufacturing product (3), and / or - information identifying a subset of said watch repair and manufacturing products (3), and / or - information identifying the components of said watch repair and manufacturing product (3), and / or An electronic watchmaker's magnifier assembly according to any one of claims 5 to 12, including information identifying the stage on which said watch repair and manufacturing product (3) is mounted.

14. A method for carrying out a check of a watch repair and manufacturing product (3) using an electronic watchmaker's magnifier for observing said watch repair and manufacturing product (3) with one eye through the electronic watchmaker's magnifier and one eye free, comprising: The electronic watchmaker magnifier - a magnifying objective lens (8) for observing said watch repair and manufacturing product (3); - communication means (19) for receiving data; - a display screen (9) for displaying said data; a beam splitter (13) provided to simultaneously direct at least one image of the watch repair and manufacturing product (3) coming from the magnifying objective lens (8) and at least one image from the display screen (9) towards the user's eye (2); The method comprises: - observing said watch repair and manufacturing product (3) through said magnifying objective lens (8) of said electronic watchmaker's magnifier (1); - taking at least one image of said watch repair and manufacturing product (3) with the camera (12) of said electronic watchmaker's magnifier (1); - transmitting said acquired image of said watch repair and manufacturing product (3) to a computer type machine (27) in the vicinity of said electronic watchmaker's magnifier (1).

15. 15. The method according to claim 14, further comprising the step of transmitting the acquired image of the watch repair manufacturing product (3) to a second computer type machine remote from the computer type machine (27) in the vicinity of the electronic watchmaker's magnifier (1).

16. - transmitting the acquired image of the watch repair manufacturing product (3) to a data processing unit (26), the data processing unit (26) being programmed to recognize the watch repair manufacturing product (3) by a comparison between the acquired image of the watch repair manufacturing product (3) and data relating to the watch repair manufacturing product (3); - displaying said data relating to said watch repair and manufacturing product (3) on a display screen (9) of said electronic watchmaker's magnifier (1).

17. - recognizing a tool used with said watch repair and manufacturing product (3) and generating at least one piece of information related to said tool; - displaying on the display screen (9) of the electronic watchmaker magnifier (1) said information related to said generated tool.

18. - recognizing at least one component of said watch repair and manufacturing product (3) and generating at least one piece of information related to said component of said watch repair and manufacturing product (3); - displaying on the display screen (9) of the electronic watchmaker's magnifier (1) said information related to said components of said generated watch repair and manufacturing product (3).

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