Chronograph watch

The chronograph watch mechanism addresses the limitations of constant-speed indicator members by varying the gear ratio, enhancing readability and accuracy for specific subsets of information through variable rotational speeds and scale divisions.

JP7762321B2Active Publication Date: 2025-10-29LVMH SWISS MFR SOCIETY ANONYMOUS
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Patent Information

Application Number
JP2024568197
Authority / Receiving Office
JP · JP
Patent Type
Patents
Current Assignee / Owner
Priority Date
2022-05-16
Filing Date
2023-05-16
Publication Date
2025-10-29
Estimated Expiration
2043-05-16

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing chronograph watches lack the ability to provide easier-to-read and more accurate information for specific subsets of graduations, as they typically use scales with constant division spacing and indicator members rotating at a constant speed, which limits the readability and accuracy of detailed information in certain applications.

Method used

A chronograph watch mechanism that allows the indicator member to rotate at varying speeds by varying the gear ratio between movable parts, enabling scales with constant or varying distances between graduations, enhancing readability and accuracy for specific subsets of information.

Benefits of technology

The mechanism provides improved readability and accuracy for specific subsets of information by varying the rotational speed of the indicator member, allowing for more detailed readings in applications requiring higher precision.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

Vary the readability and detail of some of the chronograph scales. The invention relates to a chronograph watch with a clock mechanism comprising a current time moving part (7) with an axis and arranged to rotate about said axis, a first moving part (1) with an axis (10) arranged connected to the current time moving part (7), an index member (24), a second moving part (2) meshing with the first moving part (1) and arranged connected to an indicator member (24), and an element (100) having a scale with a set of graduations, on which the indicator member can display information. Both moving parts (1, 2) are arranged in such a way that a gear ratio is obtained between both moving parts (1, 2) that varies as a function of the relative angular position, and the indicator member (24) rotates with a rotational speed that varies in accordance with at least a partial set of the set of graduations.
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Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to chronograph watches, and in particular to chronograph watches with a timepiece mechanism that allows a display member to be rotated at variable speeds. [Background technology]

[0002] A watch typically comprises a kinetic chain connecting a power source (for example and without limitation, a mainspring) to one or more current time moving parts. To display the current time (hours, minutes, seconds), the current time moving part is connected directly or indirectly (for example, via one or more intermediate moving parts) to one or more display components of the watch (for example and without limitation, hands, etc.). The current time moving part is thus arranged to rotate continuously at a constant speed.

[0003] A chronograph watch is a stopwatch. It generally has at least one indicator member that can be started and stopped by a push button or other control to measure time. After measuring time, the moving member can be returned to the starting point. Many chronographs also have an indicator member that displays the current time in addition to measuring time.

[0004] When a pushbutton (or other control) on a chronograph watch is first pressed, it starts ("starts") the indicator members, which are typically stationary at an initial hour mark on a first set of time markings on the dial. When the same pushbutton or a different pushbutton is pressed a second time, it stops ("stops") the indicator members at the exact position they were in at the time they were pressed. Pressing the same or a different pushbutton a third time instantly returns the indicator members to the starting point, i.e., the first hour marking ("reset"). In this way, time is measured.

[0005] In this context, the term "scale" refers to the scale of lines, numbers, letters, symbols and / or combinations thereof displayed on an element of the watch such as the dial or bezel.

[0006] Some chronograph watches, particularly wristwatches, include a second set of non-time or subsidiary scale indications, such as a tachometer, pulsometer (heart rate) or telemeter scale, which are also presented by elements of the watch such as the bezel or dial. Like the hour scale, this set of subsidiary scales usually has a first subsidiary scale, a last subsidiary scale and a subsidiary scale (intermediate scale) between the two.

[0007] At a given time, the indicator member is generally stationary, for example connected to a counter gear for the chronograph seconds hand, the chronograph minutes hand or the chronograph hours hand, and rotation of this indicator member is initiated when the user activates a control device of the chronograph watch, for example a push button.

[0008] In known solutions, the indicator member rotates at a constant speed. When a condition is met, the user stops the movement of this indicator member, for example by pressing the same push button. This causes the indicator member to stop at a minor scale mark or between two adjacent minor scale marks. This allows the user to read information corresponding to the stop position of the indicator member.

[0009] When a chronograph watch has a tachometer scale, the stop condition of this indicator member is generally a certain distance. This distance is the distance that a person or moving object travels as soon as the push button of the chronograph watch is activated. The moving object is, for example, a vehicle such as an automobile, particularly a sports car. For example, the stop condition distance is 100 m or 1000 m. In this way, the user can read the speed of the moving person or object corresponding to the stop position of the indicator member on the scale.

[0010] If the chronograph watch has a scale for measuring pulse (heart rate), the stop state of this indicator member is, for example, a certain number of heart beats that the user counts as soon as the push button of the chronograph watch is pressed, for example (but not limited to) 15 beats or 30 beats, and the user can therefore read his or her own heart rate or that of another person, which corresponds to the stop position of the indicator member on the scale.

[0011] In the case of a chronograph watch with a telemetric scale, this condition for stopping the indicator member is typically hearing the sound associated with the rotation of the indicator member, which is initiated when the user visually observes an event. The telemetric scale uses the speed of sound (approximately 340 m / s) to calculate the distance between the observer wearing the watch and the point where the event occurred by comparing the time it takes for the visual event to be seen and the sound to be heard. The indicator member thus stops at a particular mark on the telemetric scale, from which the user can read the distance between himself and a particular point, such as the distance from a lightning bolt to the user, or the distance between two or more troops based on the sound of, for example, gunfire or explosions.

[0012] In most known solutions, the time scale has a substantially constant time division spacing across the set of time divisions, in other words, in most known solutions the information resolution of the time scale is constant.

[0013] In some known solutions, the scale of the subdivisions (e.g., scales for tachometers, pulse (heart) rate measurement or telemetry) also has substantially constant distances (equidistances) between each subdivision across the set of subdivisions.

[0014] Generally, a time scale or subscale with regular intervals between scales and an appropriate length (of the intervals) is easy for the user to read.

[0015] A scale with a constant distance between one division and the next, combined with an indicator member that rotates at a constant speed, allows information to be read with the same degree of accuracy for all divisions (time or auxiliary). However, some applications require more detailed (or accurate) information for one or more subsets of all divisions on the scale.

[0016] Considering a time scale, for example a scale of measured seconds, one might be interested in reading more accurate information about a particular subset of the time scale, for example the first 10 or 15 measured seconds, compared to other subsets.

[0017] This requirement also applies to scales with specific subdivisions.

[0018] For example, an athlete under stress may have a heart rate of approximately 180 beats per minute, so one may be interested in more detailed readings corresponding to a subset (of the scale) around this heart rate.

[0019] Or a racing car may arrive after a certain distance, say 1000 meters, at a high speed, say 200 kilometers per hour or faster, so one may be interested in a more accurate reading corresponding to a subset (of the scale) around this arrival speed.

[0020] With indicator members that rotate at a constant speed, the scales (with time or subscale markings) generally make it easy for a user to read the information because the distance between one scale mark and the next is constant, but it is not possible to prioritize (make more detailed, easier to read) a particular subset of the set of (time or subscale) markings that is of interest in a particular application over other subsets.

[0021] In some known solutions, the scale showing the minor divisions has a varying distance between each minor division, i.e., the spacing distance is not constant for all minor divisions. In these solutions, the measured seconds indicator member typically rotates at a constant speed.

[0022] While this solution allows a particular subset of the set of minor scale divisions that is of interest for the intended application to be prioritized over other subsets, it uses a variable distance between the minor scale divisions and the next division, which results in unsatisfactory readability of the information. In fact, the distance between the minor scale division and the next division on the scale may be too small to be easily read. Furthermore, if the indicator member stops between two adjacent divisions, the information read may not be accurate enough for the intended application.

[0023] Patent Document 1 describes a timepiece mechanism that displays the current time with hands that rotate at varying speeds. The mechanism includes a first gear (reference number 7A) that is integral with a second gear (reference number 7B), which is smaller and located in a different plane. The first and second gears rotate around a drive shaft. The first gear is integral with a portion of a fourth gear (reference number 7D), which is located in the same plane as the second gear and meshes with a portion of a smaller third gear (reference number 7C). When the first gear no longer meshes with the third gear, the second gear meshes with the fourth gear. Patent Document 1 points out that the transition between the two gears (the first and third gears, and the second and fourth gears) must be carefully constructed.

[0024] Patent document 2 relates to a timepiece mechanism that allows the current time to be displayed on a display by hands that rotate at variable speeds. This mechanism includes an elliptical gear that connects the motor shaft and the hand shaft.

[0025] Patent Document 3 relates to an impact-resistant clutch device that includes a clutch gear arranged to hold an engaged position and a disengaged position, a clutch member, and a clutch cam that cooperates with the clutch member to determine the engaged position and the disengaged position of the clutch gear.

[0026] Patent Document 4 relates to a chronograph mechanism that counts the current time.

[0027] Patent Document 5 relates to a pulse meter having a scale in which the distance between each sub-scale mark varies, and the needle rotates at a constant speed.

[0028] Patent document 6, in the name of the present applicant, relates to a system for starting, stopping and resetting a mechanical chronograph watch. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0029] [Patent Document 1] Italian Patent Application Publication No. 20090056 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 7-209440 [Patent Document 3] European Patent Application Publication No. 2945029 [Patent Document 4] U.S. Patent No. 490,123 [Patent Document 5] West German Utility Model Publication No. 1949177 [Patent Document 6] Swiss Patent Invention No. 703579 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0030] One of the objects of the present invention is to provide a chronograph watch that is free from the limitations of known chronograph watches.

[0031] Another object of the present invention is to provide a chronograph watch that allows a user to obtain easier-to-read and more accurate information (i.e., improved resolution) for one or more subsets of a desired set of graduations than known solutions.

[0032] Another object of the present invention is to provide a chronograph watch that is an alternative to known solutions. [Means for solving the problem]

[0033] These objects are achieved according to the invention, in particular by a chronograph watch as defined in claim 1.

[0034] The chronograph watch according to the present invention comprises a clock mechanism, - a current time moving part provided with an axis and arranged to rotate (perpetually) around this axis; a first moving part having a first axis, connected to the current time moving part and arranged to rotate at a constant rotational speed around the first axis; - an indicator member; a second movable part arranged to engage with the first movable part and connected to the indicator member; an element comprising a scale with a set of graduations, said indicator member being adapted to display, for example, time or auxiliary information on said scale; Equipped with.

[0035] In this context, the term "movable" (part, member) means a watch part that moves or shifts, especially by rotational movement about an axis. In this context, a moving part can be a gear, a cam, etc.

[0036] According to the invention, the first and second movable parts are arranged such that the gear ratio between them varies as a function of the relative angular position of the movable parts, so that the indicator member rotates at a varying speed in at least one subset of the sets of scale graduations.

[0037] The fact that the indicator member rotates at a varying rotational speed (the rotational speed varies) in at least one subset of the set of indicia carried by the scale allows for the design of multiple scales that are more readable than known solutions, which can display more (or less) detailed information (or more or less precise information, i.e., more or less resolution information) for one or more subsets of the set of indicia.

[0038] For example, it is possible to use a scale where the distance between one mark and the next is constant throughout the set of marks on the scale. Instead of using a scale with varying distances between its divisions in conjunction with an indicator member that rotates at a constant rotational speed, the mechanism of the present invention allows for the use of a scale with constant distances between divisions, which is easier to read because the indicator member rotates at a variable rotational speed.

[0039] It is also possible to use a scale in which the distance between one graduation and the next graduation varies, at least for a subset of the graduations of the scale. This, in combination with the variable rotation speed of the mechanism according to the invention, makes it possible to have (variable) distances between one graduation and the next graduation that are longer than the corresponding distances of known solutions, corresponding to the subset of graduations that are of interest for the desired application. This allows for better legibility and a better resolution of the desired information compared to known solutions. This scale can also have a (varying) distance between one graduation and the next that is smaller in size than the corresponding distance in known solutions, in combination with the variable rotation speed of the mechanism according to the invention, corresponding to a subset of the graduations that is not of interest for the envisaged application.

[0040] In one embodiment, the scale has time indices, such as current second, minute or hour indices, or measured seconds, minutes or hours indices.

[0041] In one embodiment, the scale has subdivisions, for example the scale is a tachometer, pulsimeter, or telemeter scale.

[0042] In one embodiment, the clock mechanism has at least one scale with both hour and minor scale markings, and the two scales cooperate with the same indicator member that rotates at variable speeds, allowing the hour and minor scale markings to be read separately by a user.

[0043] The minor scale may be on the same element as the hour scale (e.g., both scales on the dial), or on a separate element (e.g., the hour scale on the dial and the minor scale on the bezel).

[0044] According to the invention, the above-mentioned timepiece mechanism comprises: an actuator; - a clutch mechanism that can connect the current time moving part to the first moving part under the action of the actuator; Equipped with.

[0045] In one embodiment, the mechanism includes an input shaft and an input moving part arranged to rotate about the input shaft, the input moving part being arranged to be rotationally driven by the current time moving part, and the clutch mechanism is arranged to connect the current time moving part and the first moving part via the input moving part under the action of the actuator.

[0046] In one embodiment, the first and second moving parts have the same shape, but are defined by radii of different lengths, and are arranged so that the sum of the radii of the moving parts corresponding to the gear mechanisms of both moving parts is constant, and the sum of the radii is equal to the distance between the axes of both moving parts.

[0047] In one embodiment, the sum of these radii is between 3 mm and 8 mm, preferably between 5 mm and 6 mm, in particular between 5.436 mm and 5.450 mm.

[0048] In one embodiment, the first movable part and the second movable part have the same circumference. In another embodiment, the circumference of the first movable part is a multiple of the circumference of the second movable part. In another embodiment, the circumference of the second movable part is a multiple of the circumference of the first movable part.

[0049] In this context, the expression "periphery of the moving part" refers to the base (or nominal) periphery of this moving part.

[0050] In one embodiment, the subset of graduations of the scale about which the indicator member rotates at a variable rotational speed is a first subset of the set of graduations, the set of graduations comprises a second subset different from the first subset, and the first and second movable parts are each arranged such that rotation of the second movable part is constant relative to the second subset of graduations of the scale.

[0051] In one embodiment, each of the first and second movable parts has the same shape (or contour).

[0052] In one embodiment, each of the first and second movable parts is a cam having a spiral shape.

[0053] In one embodiment, each of the first and second movable parts has a logarithmic spiral shape, i.e. the shape defined by the apexes of the teeth of each movable part is a portion of a logarithmic spiral, in one embodiment this logarithmic spiral shape is the same for the first and second movable parts.

[0054] The logarithmic spiral shape of each moving part makes it possible to limit the fluctuations in the speed of the indicator member, particularly for a predetermined period of time, e.g., less than one minute, from start-up. The curve of the speed of the indicator member as a function of time during this period is therefore a smooth curve without peaks. The logarithmic spiral shape of each moving part also gives a logarithmic curve of the torque of the indicator member as a function of time, which is therefore also without peaks.

[0055] In one embodiment, each of the first and second movable parts comprises a movable part body and a tooth part.

[0056] In one embodiment, each of the first and second movable parts comprises at least one recess to reduce instability when the indicator member is reset.

[0057] In one embodiment, each movable part having a logarithmic spiral shape comprises a first recess and a second recess.

[0058] In one embodiment, the first recess comprises: A first proximal portion of the body of the movable part, i.e., the portion closest to the axis of rotation of the movable part, by the first part of the teeth of the moving part, and With the first arm, The first arm connects one end of the first portion of the teeth of the movable part to one end of the first proximal portion of the body of the movable part.

[0059] In one embodiment, the second recess is A second proximal portion of the body of the movable part (adjacent to the first proximal portion) With the first arm, by the second part of the toothing of the moving part, and With the second arm, The second arm connects one end of the toothed portion to one end of the second proximal portion of the main body of the movable part.

[0060] In one embodiment, the shape and / or size of the first recess of the first movable part is different from the shape and / or size of the first recess of the second movable part. In one embodiment, the shape and / or size of the second recess of the first movable part is different from the shape and / or size of the second recess of the second movable part.

[0061] In one embodiment, the shape and / or size of the first arm of the first movable part is different from the shape and / or size of the first arm of the second movable part. In one embodiment, the shape and / or size of the second arm of the first movable part is different from the shape and / or size of the second arm of the second movable part.

[0062] The logarithmic spiral shape of each moving part allows the maximum torque (of the driven moving part) to have a larger value compared to the maximum torque that would be obtained with the circular shape of each moving part. In one embodiment, the logarithmic spiral shape of each moving part results in a maximum rotational torque (for the driven moving part) that is three times the maximum torque that would be obtained with a circular shape for each moving part.

[0063] In one embodiment, when a user initiates a reset of the indicator member, the second movable part is no longer the driven movable part but becomes the driving movable part, and during the reset, the second movable part guides the first movable part and, via the first movable part, also guides the input movable part.

[0064] In one embodiment, the clockwork comprises a heart part coaxial with the second moving part.

[0065] The maximum torque of the larger driven moving part, obtained by the logarithmic spiral shape of the moving parts, combined with the friction of the input moving part, causes disengagement between the second moving part and the heart part, so that when the clock mechanism is activated at start-up, there is a misalignment between the rotation of the heart part and the rotation of the second moving part, and therefore a misalignment of the indicator member relative to the dial.

[0066] Therefore, in one embodiment, the timepiece mechanism comprises connection means between the second moving part and the heart part, which allow the second moving part and the heart part to be united together, thereby reducing or avoiding any deviations that may occur during resetting. In one embodiment, the connection means comprises a pin provided on the heart portion and a through hole provided in the second movable portion for receiving the pin. In one embodiment, the first arm of the second movable part comprises the through hole. In one embodiment, the through hole also serves as a positioning means for the heart portion.

[0067] In another embodiment, the second movable part and the heart part constitute an integral part, i.e. a part realized in a single way, which allows the second movable part to be fixed to the heart part, thus avoiding any misalignment that may occur during resetting.

[0068] In one embodiment, the shape of the heart is optimized to compensate for the effect of the logarithmic spiral shape of the second movable part, allowing the indicator member to be reset.

[0069] In one embodiment, one of the second movable part and the heart part or the heart part comprises an indexing means, for example a through hole.

[0070] There is an (angular) play between the two moving parts, which allows the second moving part to rotate before being driven by the first moving part, so that when the chronograph watch is started, a backward movement of the indicator member is observed, in particular a backward movement of a few degrees (e.g. 3.5 degrees) counterclockwise relative to the starting position of the indicator member.

[0071] In order to reduce or eliminate this play, in one embodiment the timepiece mechanism also comprises means for limiting the play between the two moving parts (play limiting means). In one embodiment, the second movable part comprises the play limiting means. In one embodiment, the second arm of the second movable part is provided with this play limiting means. In one embodiment, the play limiting means comprises a protrusion on the arm of the second mobile part, in particular on the second arm of the second mobile part.

[0072] In one embodiment, the teeth of one or both of the first and second movable parts are arranged to reduce overlap of the indicia.

[0073] In one embodiment, said element of the timepiece mechanism according to the invention is a dial or part of a dial.

[0074] In one embodiment, said element of the timepiece mechanism according to the invention is a bezel or part of a bezel.

[0075] Examples of embodiments of the present invention are illustrated below and in the accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0076] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a top view showing a part of a movement of one embodiment of a chronograph watch according to the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of a part of the timepiece mechanism of the chronograph watch of FIG. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 shows a bottom view of the clock mechanism of FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 shows a top view of a timepiece mechanism according to another embodiment of the chronograph watch. [Figure 5A] FIG. 5A is a graph comparing the change in rotation speed over time of an indicator member of a timepiece mechanism according to an embodiment of the present invention with the constant speed of known solutions. [Figure 5B] FIG. 5B is also a graph illustrating the change over time in the rotation speed of the indicator member of a timepiece mechanism according to another embodiment of the invention. [Figure 5C] FIG. 5C is also a graph illustrating the change over time in the rotation speed of the indicator member of a timepiece mechanism according to another embodiment of the invention. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 shows a top view of a scale of one embodiment of the timepiece mechanism of a chronograph watch according to the present invention (in particular, a scale for a 100m tachometer in which the distance between the sub-scales is changed). [Figure 7] FIG. 7 shows a top view of one embodiment of a scale for the timekeeping mechanism of a chronograph watch according to the invention, in particular a scale for a 1000 m tachometer with varying distances between the sub-scales. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 shows in a top view an embodiment of a scale for the clockwork of a chronograph watch according to the invention, in particular a 30-beat pulsometer scale with varying distances between each sub-scale mark. [Figure 9]FIG. 9 shows a top view of one embodiment of the scale of the clockwork of a chronograph watch according to the present invention (in particular a 15-beat pulsometer scale with varying distances between each sub-scale). [Figure 10] FIG. 10 shows a top view of one embodiment of a scale for the timepiece mechanism of a chronograph watch according to the invention (in particular a telemeter scale in which the distance between each sub-scale mark is changed). DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0077] In the following examples, reference will be made to scales with multiple graduations, where the distance between one graduation and the next graduation varies over at least some of the set of graduations (a subset of the set of graduations). However, the invention is not limited to these embodiments and also includes timepiece mechanisms with scales with multiple graduations, where the distance between one graduation and the next graduation is constant over the entire set of graduations.

[0078] FIG. 1 is a top view of a portion of a movement 1000 of one embodiment of a chronograph watch according to the present invention.

[0079] 1, the movement 1000 displays the current time in addition to the measured elapsed time. In another embodiment (not shown), the movement 1000 does not display the current time.

[0080] The operation of a chronograph watch movement 1000 (with or without a current time indicator) is known per se and will not be described in detail here. By way of non-limiting example, the operation of the chronograph watch movement 1000 shown in Figure 1 is conventionally based on an actuation cam 4 connected to a lever 5.

[0081] The part of the mechanism shown in Figures 2 and 3 comprises an input movable part 8 with an input shaft 10, preferably permanently mounted to rotate about this input shaft 10.

[0082] 2 and 3, this input moving part 8 is driven in rotation by the current time moving part 7 of the kinetic chain so as to measure and display the current time. The kinetic chain connects a power source (e.g. a mainspring) to the governor and gear train of the watch, and the input moving part 8 is connected to a display member of the watch to display at least one of the hours, minutes and seconds of the current time. This current time movable part 7 is, for example, a current second hand, and is therefore arranged to rotate at a constant speed around its axis 70, for example, one rotation per minute (or 6° rotation per second). In the illustrated example, the input movable part 8 also rotates at a constant speed, for example, the same speed as one rotation per minute.

[0083] A clutch mechanism is provided so that, under the action of an actuation device, the input moving part 8 can be connected to the first moving part 1 of the mechanism according to the invention.

[0084] The clutch mechanism can be a horizontal or side clutch, a vertical clutch, an oscillating pinion clutch, etc. The clutch mechanism itself is well known and will not be described here. As an example, Figures 2 and 3 show a vertical clutch mechanism with a flange 9. In response to a user's operation of a push button (not shown) of the chronograph watch, the flange 9 is moved along the rotation axis 10 by an actuator (not shown), for example comprising pliers (not shown), to create a clutch between the input movable part 8 and the first movable part 1.

[0085] Of course, in the example shown in Figures 2 and 3, the fact that the rotation axis of the input movable part 8 coincides with the rotation axis 10 of the first movable part 1 is not an essential feature of the present invention, and depends on the type of clutch selected.

[0086] Therefore, when the first movable part 1 is connected to the input movable part 8 by the clutch mechanism, it can rotate around the shaft 10 at a constant speed.

[0087] In one embodiment, the rotational speed of the first moving part 1 is equal to the rotational speed of the input moving part 8, for example, but not limited to, one revolution per minute. In another embodiment, the rotational speed of the first moving part 1 is different from, for example, slower than, the rotational speed of the input moving part 8.

[0088] Therefore, the first movable part 1 is a driving movable part that is rotated around the rotation axis 10 by the user.

[0089] The timepiece mechanism 100 according to the invention also comprises a second moving part 2 arranged to mate with the first moving part 1 and connected to a display member (not shown in Figures 1 to 3).

[0090] Therefore, the second movable part 2 is moved by the first movable part 1. The second movable part 2 rotates around a rotation axis 20.

[0091] The timepiece mechanism according to the invention also comprises an element (not shown in Figures 1 to 3), such as a dial (or part of the dial) or a bezel (or part of the bezel) provided with a scale with a set of graduations, on which an indicator member makes it possible to display information of the scale, such as time or auxiliary information (for example tachometer, pulsimeter or telemeter information). Examples of auxiliary scales are shown, for example, in Figures 6 to 10, which are described below. The scales are typically arcuate or substantially circular. Of course, the scales may have other shapes, such as, for example and without limitation, a spiral shape.

[0092] In the present invention, the first movable part 1 and the second movable part 2 are arranged to obtain a gear ratio between the first movable part 1 and the second movable part 2 which varies as a function of their relative angular position, thereby making the rotational speed of the indicator member variable for at least a subset of the set of indications carried by the scale.

[0093] In particular, the indicator member rotates at a variable rotational speed because it is connected to a second movable part 2 which rotates at a variable rotational speed corresponding to at least a subset of the set of indications. In a preferred embodiment, the rotational speed of the second movable part 2 corresponds to the rotational speed of the indicator member. In a preferred embodiment, the indicator member is attached to a rotation axis 20 of the second movable part 2.

[0094] The fact that the indicator member rotates at variable rotational speeds in at least a subset of the set of graduations carried by the scale allows for the design of multiple graduations that are more readable than known solutions, which can display more (or less) detailed information (or more or less accurate information) for one or more subsets of the set of indications.

[0095] In one preferred embodiment, the first movable part 1 and the second movable part 2 have the same shape. In another embodiment, the first movable part 1 and the second movable part 2 have different shapes.

[0096] In a preferred embodiment, this shape is defined by radii of different lengths, and the first movable part 1 and the second movable part 2 are arranged so that the sum of the radii R1, R2 of each movable part 1, 2 corresponding to the gear mechanism of the two movable parts is constant, as shown, for example, in FIG.

[0097] Advantageously, the sum of these radii R1 and R2 is equal to the distance between the axes of the two mobile parts 1 and 2, i.e. the distance between the axis of rotation of the first mobile part 10 and the axis of rotation 20 of the second mobile part.

[0098] In one embodiment, the sum of these radii R1 and R2 is in the range of 3 mm to 8 mm, preferably in the range of 5 mm to 6 mm, in particular in the range of 5.436 mm to 5.450 mm.

[0099] In one embodiment, the first movable part 1 and the second movable part 2 have the same circumference. In another embodiment, the circumference of the first movable part 1 is a multiple of the circumference of the second movable part 2. In another embodiment, the circumference of the second movable part 2 is a multiple of the circumference of the first movable part 1.

[0100] The clock mechanism according to the invention allows the design of different indicators depending on the requirements of a particular application and, depending on the desired application, improves the readability for the user of at least the interesting subset of information shown by the scale.

[0101] In the embodiment shown in Figures 1 to 3, each of the first movable part 1 and the second movable part 2 is a helical cam.

[0102] 4, each of the first and second movable parts has a logarithmic spiral shape, i.e., the shape defined by the apexes of the teeth of each movable part is part of a logarithmic spiral SL1, SL2. In one embodiment, this logarithmic spiral shape is the same for the first movable part and the second movable part.

[0103] The logarithmic spiral shape of each moving part allows for limiting the fluctuations in the speed of the indicator member, particularly within a predetermined period of time, such as less than one minute after start-up, so that the curve of the speed of the indicator member as a function of time during this period is a smooth curve without peaks. The logarithmic spiral shape of each moving part also provides a logarithmic curve of the torque of the indicator member as a function of time, so that it also has no peaks.

[0104] In one embodiment, each of the first and second movable parts 1, 2 comprises a movable body and a tooth part.

[0105] In one embodiment, each of the first and second movable parts 1, 2 comprises at least one recess to reduce instability when the indicator member is reset.

[0106] In one embodiment, each movable part having a logarithmic spiral shape has a first recess (reference 12' for the first movable part 1 and reference 22' for the second movable part 2) and a second recess (reference 12'' for the first movable part 1 and reference 22'' for the second movable part 2).

[0107] In one embodiment, each of the first recesses 12′, 22′ includes: a first proximal portion 15, 25 of the body of each of the first and second movable parts (i.e., the portion close to the axis of rotation of the movable part); a first portion 17, 27 of the teeth of the movable part; First arms 13, 23 (first arms connecting one end of the first proximal portion 15, 25 of the main body of each of the first movable portion 1 and the second movable portion 2 to one end of the first portion 17, 27 of the tooth portion of the movable portion), are defined by

[0108] In one embodiment, each second recess 12′, 22″ is second proximal portions 16, 26 (adjacent to the first proximal portions 15, 25) of the main body of each of the first movable portion 1 and the second movable portion 2; First arms 13 and 23, The second portions 18 and 28 of the teeth of the first movable portion 1 and the second movable portion, respectively, Second arms 19, 29 (second arms 19, 29 connecting one end of the tooth portion to one end of the second proximal portion 16, 26 of the main body of each of the first movable portion 1 and the second movable portion 2), It is defined by

[0109] In one embodiment, the shape and / or size of the first recess 12' of the first movable part 1 is different from the shape and / or size of the first recess 22' of the second movable part 2. In one embodiment, the shape and / or size of the second recess 12 ″ of the first movable part 1 is different from the shape and / or size of the second recess 22 ″ of the second movable part 2 .

[0110] In one embodiment, the shape and / or size of the first arm 13 of the first movable part 1 differs from the shape and / or size of the first arm 23 of the second movable part 2 . In one embodiment, the shape and / or size of the second arm 19 of the first movable part 1 is different from the shape and / or size of the second arm 29 of the second movable part 2 .

[0111] The logarithmic spiral shape SL1, SL2 of each moving part may have a larger maximum torque (of the driven moving part) compared to the maximum torque obtained with a circular shape of each moving part. In one embodiment, the logarithmic spiral shape SL1, SL2 of each moving part may make the maximum torque (of the driven moving part) three times higher than the maximum torque obtained with a circular shape of each moving part.

[0112] In one embodiment, when the user initiates a reset of the indicator member, the second movable part 2 is no longer the driven movable part but becomes the driving movable part. During the reset, the second movable part 2 guides the first movable part 1 and, via the first movable part, also the input movable part 8.

[0113] In one embodiment, the clockwork comprises a heart part 3 coaxial with the second moving part 2 .

[0114] The larger torque maximum of the driven moving part, provided by the logarithmic spiral shape of the moving part, combined with the friction of the input moving part, causes the disengagement between the second moving part 2 and the heart part 3, thereby creating an offset of the indicator member relative to the dial when the timepiece mechanism is activated upon start-up.

[0115] Therefore, in one embodiment, the timepiece mechanism comprises connection means between the second moving part 2 and the heart part 3. The connection means allows the second moving part 2 and the heart part 3 to be held together and prevents any misalignment during resetting. In one embodiment, the connection means comprises a pin 33, as shown in Figure 4, which rests on the heart part 3 and is arranged to be received by a through-hole provided in the second movable part 2. In the embodiment shown in Figure 4, the first arm 23 of the second movable part 3 comprises this through-hole 21. In one embodiment, this through-hole 21 is also the indexing means of the heart part 3.

[0116] In another embodiment (not shown), the second movable part 2 and the heart piece 3 form an integral part, i.e. a part manufactured in a monolithic manner, which allows the second movable part 2 to be fixed to the heart piece 3 and prevents any slippage that may occur during resetting.

[0117] In one embodiment, the shape of the heart part 3 is optimized to compensate for the effect of the logarithmic spiral shape of the second movable part 2 so as to be able to reset the indicator member.

[0118] There is a play (angle) between the two moving parts 1, 2, which allows the second moving part 2 to rotate once before being driven by the drive part of the first moving part 1, so that when the chronograph watch is started, the indicator member moves backward, in particular by a few degrees (e.g. 3.5°) counterclockwise relative to the starting position of the indicator member.

[0119] In order to reduce or eliminate this play, in one embodiment the timepiece mechanism also comprises play limiting means between the two movable parts 1, 2. In the embodiment shown in Figure 4, the second arm 29 of the second movable part 2 comprises this play limiting means in the form of a protrusion 290 on the second arm 29.

[0120] In one embodiment, this protrusion 290 is provided so as to contact the first arm 19 of the first movable part, and in particular the outer surface 191 of the first arm 19, before the second movable part 2 is moved by the first movable part 1 through the teeth of both movable parts. The outer surface 191 of the arm 19 is located at a position furthest from the opening 12''.

[0121] In one embodiment, this protrusion 290 is a protrusion on the outer surface 291 of the arm 29 and protrudes towards the first movable part 1 . In one embodiment, the protrusions 290 have a bumpy or rounded shape. In one embodiment, the maximum height h of this protrusion 290 is less than the height of the teeth of one or both of the first and second movable parts 1 and 2 .

[0122] In one embodiment, this protrusion 290 is positioned to contact the end of the arm 19 distal to the center of rotation 10, i.e. the end of the arm 19 close to the teeth (and in particular the end teeth) of the first movable part 1. In one embodiment, the protrusion 290 is positioned substantially coincident with a central portion of the outer surface 291 of the arm 29 .

[0123] In one embodiment, the projection 290 and the arm 29 are an integrally formed, one-piece, monolithically manufactured component. In another embodiment, the protrusion 290 and the arm 29 are two separate parts connected by a (movable or detachable) connecting means.

[0124] In another embodiment, the first and second movable parts 1, 2 have a shape other than a spiral (eg, instead of a spiral shape, a potato shape or a shape similar to a toothed cam).

[0125] In general, the shape of the first and second movable parts 1 and 2 can be calculated by a calculation module taking into account the following: Constraints on the desired rotational speed within the subset of scales of interest and / or within the corresponding timing intervals; The constraint that the sum of the radii of the two moving parts (the first moving part 1 and the second moving part 2) corresponding to the gear mechanism is constant; The sum of the radii of the two movable parts (the first movable part 1 and the second movable part 2) is equal to the distance between the axes of the two movable parts; One of the constraints on the outer periphery of the two moving parts (first moving part 1 and second moving part 2).

[0126] In one embodiment, the timepiece mechanism according to the invention comprises a heart part 3 coaxial with the second moving part 2 (see Figures 2 and 3).

[0127] In one embodiment, one or both of the second movable part 2 and the heart part 3 are provided with means for positioning (indexing) the heart part, for example through-hole 21 in Figure 2 (better visible in Figure 2) or through-hole 31 in Figure 3, which are aligned to allow this positioning.

[0128] In one embodiment, the teeth on one or both of the first and second movable parts are arranged to reduce overlap of the indicator members.

[0129] In one embodiment, the first movable part 1 rotates, for example, at one revolution per minute to measure time in seconds, and can be connected to an element such as plate 6 shown in Figure 2, which can rotate, for example, by spring force, another time-measuring movable part, for example, a minute (hour, minute, second) movable part. The minute (minute) movable part can then be connected to an element similar to plate 6 in Figure 2, which in turn rotates, for example, a time (hour, minute, second) movable part.

[0130] When a user initiates a rotation of the indicator member, the input movable part 8 guides the first movable part 1 and thereby the second movable part 2. In one embodiment, when a user initiates a reset of the indicator member, the second movable part 2 guides the input movable part 8 via the first movable part 1, following the action of a hammer (not shown) on the heart part 3.

[0131] 5A is a graph showing the change over time in the rotational speed of an indicator member of a timepiece mechanism according to an embodiment of the present invention, relative to a constant speed of known solutions, typically 6° per second. In the example shown, when the indicator member is started, the rotational speed greater than 6° per second decreases according to a decreasing law, for example a logarithmic decreasing law, in the range from 0 to t3, for example 60 seconds.

[0132] 5B and 5C are also graphs showing the change over time in the rotation speed of an indicator member of a timepiece mechanism according to another embodiment of the invention.

[0133] In the example shown in FIG. 5B, the rotation speed is In the range 0 to t1 (which corresponds, for example, to the first subset of the scale), it decreases according to the first law, is kept constant in the range t1 to t2 (which corresponds, for example, to the second subset of the set of tick marks), In the range t2 to t3 (which corresponds, for example, to the third subset of the set of scales), it decreases according to the second law.

[0134] In the example shown in FIG. 5C, the rotation speed is increasing in the range 0 to t1 (which corresponds, for example, to the first subset of the set of tick marks), is constant in the range t1 to t2 (which corresponds to, for example, the second subset of the set of tick marks), In the range t2 to t3 (which corresponds for example to the third sub-set of the set of scales) it decreases.

[0135] The timepiece mechanism according to the invention therefore allows the design of multiple speed profiles of the indicator member, which, in combination with a scale of graduations (temporal or auxiliary) with constant or variable distances between one graduation and the next, allows the user to obtain more detailed or general information with easier readability than known solutions, using one or more subsets of the desired set of graduations.

[0136] In one embodiment, the scale of the mechanism according to the invention is a time scale, for example a scale measuring seconds, minutes or hours. In one embodiment, the first and second movable parts are arranged to allow a user to read the time more accurately in at least one subset of the sets indicated by the scale. In one preferred embodiment, this subset corresponds to the interval from 0 to 10 seconds of the measured seconds.

[0137] In one embodiment, the timepiece according to the invention is equipped with a tachometer scale.

[0138] 6 shows a top view of an embodiment of the tachometer scale 100 of a timepiece mechanism according to the invention. In this embodiment, the mechanism according to the invention also comprises a scale 300 for measuring time, for example for measuring seconds.

[0139] 6, the tachometer scale 100 and the measured seconds scale 300 share the same scale markings. The numbers on the tachometer scale 100 are located on the outer arc of a circle, and the numbers on the measured seconds scale 300 are located on the inner arc of that circle, with the two arcs having the same center 20.

[0140] This tachymeter scale 100 is particularly suited to athletes running distances of 100 meters or more, and measures the average speed in km / h over this distance. It has an initial auxiliary scale 101 of 100 km / h (this value is not limiting), a final auxiliary scale 102 of 10 km / h (this value is also not limiting), and auxiliary scales in between. Of course, the initial, final, and intermediate auxiliary scales are exemplary and not limiting. This also applies to all scales shown in Figures 6 to 10.

[0141] As shown in FIG. 6, the auxiliary display varies the distance between one tick mark and the next. In the example shown, in the sub-set between 100 km / h and 80 km / h the auxiliary indications are arranged in 10 km / h increments. In this first sub-set the distance between one scale mark and the next gradually increases. In the sub-set from 80 km / h to 40 km / h, the auxiliary display is in 5 km / h increments. In this second sub-set too, the distance between one scale mark and the next gradually increases. Finally, in the sub-set between 40km / h and 10km / h, the sub-displays are in 1km / h increments. In this third sub-set, the distance between one scale mark and the next gradually increases.

[0142] The scale 100 has the shape of a circular arc centered on the axis of rotation 20. An indicator member mounted for rotation about the axis of rotation 20 has one end at the 12 o'clock position when stationary, this angular position being designated by reference numeral 201. The time scale 300 typically has an initial indication (not shown) of the time, e.g., 0 seconds.

[0143] When the push button (or other control) of the chronograph watch is first pressed, the indicator member starts to rotate in the direction shown by arrow A.

[0144] In one embodiment, the first movable part 1 and second movable part 2 are arranged to cooperate with the scale 100 of Figure 6 so that they rotate at a slower rate as the indicator member rotates.

[0145] In this embodiment, the first movable part 1 and the second movable part 2 may have a spiral shape, for example a logarithmic spiral.

[0146] When the same or another push button is pressed a second time, the indicator member stops exactly where it was when the push button was pressed.

[0147] In combination with the variable rotation speed of the mechanism according to the invention, the scale 100 of FIG. 6 can be provided with (varying) distances between one graduation and the next graduation that are greater for a subset of indications that are of interest in the envisaged application than the corresponding (varying) distances in known solutions, thereby improving the readability and resolution of the desired information corresponding to the stop positions of the indicator member compared to known solutions.

[0148] This scale 100 may also have a (varying) distance between one scale and the next that is shorter than the corresponding (also varying) distance of known solutions for a subset of indications that are not of interest for the intended application.

[0149] This makes the desired information easier to read compared to known solutions, while providing a parametric level of detail for the combination of different subsets (of scales) depending on the application of interest.

[0150] As can be seen in FIG. 6, the readings on the timer scale 300 also vary in the distance between one tick mark and the next.

[0151] In the embodiment of Figure 6, the first division 301 of the time scale 300 is offset relative to the first division 101 of the tachometer scale 100, and the last division 302 of the time scale 300 shares the same scale symbol as the last division 102 of the tachometer scale 100. However, this embodiment is not limiting and other arrangements of the divisions of the two scales are envisioned. This also applies to the embodiments of Figures 6 to 10.

[0152] The measuring seconds scale 300 of FIG. 6, in combination with the variable rotation speed of the mechanism according to the invention, has a (varying) distance between one graduation and the next in the sub-set of indications that are of interest in the envisaged application, which has a larger dimension than the corresponding (also varying) distance of the known solution, improving the readability and resolution of the desired information corresponding to the stop position of the indicating element compared to the known solution.

[0153] 7 shows a top view of an embodiment of a scale 100 of a timepiece mechanism according to the invention, in particular a scale for a 1000m tachymeter. In this embodiment, the mechanism according to the invention also comprises a scale 300 for measuring time, for example in measured seconds.

[0154] 7, the tachometer (tachymeter) scale 100 and the measured seconds scale 300 also share the same scale markings. The numbers on the tachometer (tachymeter) scale 100 are arranged on the outer arc of a circle, and the numbers on the measured seconds scale 300 are arranged on the inner arc of the circle, with the two arcs having the same center 20.

[0155] This tachymeter scale 100 is particularly suitable for vehicles travelling a distance of 1000 m (for example between two levels of a motorway) and measures the average speed over this distance in km / h. The first subdivision 101 is for 400 km / h, the last subdivision 102 is for 60 km / h, and there are also subdivisions in between.

[0156] As can be seen from Figure 7, the subscales are spaced at 10 km / h intervals in the subset between 400 km / h and 200 km / h, with the intervals between one scale and the next gradually increasing in the first subset, and at 5 km / h intervals in the subset between 200 km / h and 60 km / h, with the intervals between one scale and the next gradually increasing in the second subset as well.

[0157] The scale 100 has the shape of a circular arc about the axis of rotation 20, and its centre is at the axis of rotation 20. The indicator member, which is arranged to rotate about the axis of rotation 20, terminates at the 12 o'clock position when at rest, where an auxiliary final graduation 102 is also located.

[0158] When the push button (or other control) of the chronograph watch is first pressed, the indicator member starts to rotate in the direction indicated by arrow A.

[0159] In one embodiment, the first and second movable parts 1 and 2 are arranged to cooperate with a scale 100 of Figure 7 so that the indicator member slows down as it rotates.

[0160] In this embodiment, the first movable part 1 and the second movable part 2 may have a spiral shape such as a logarithmic spiral.

[0161] A second press of the same or another push button will stop the indicator member exactly where it was when the push button was pressed.

[0162] Similar to the scale of FIG. 6, the scale 100 of FIG. 7 provides a degree of detail (of information) adjusted to the desired requirements for different subsets (of the scale) depending on the application of interest, while improving the readability of the desired information compared to known solutions.

[0163] Like the scale of FIG. 6, the timekeeping scale 300 of FIG. 7 has a degree of detail (of information) adjusted to the desired requirements while improving the readability of the desired information compared to known solutions.

[0164] 8 shows a top view of an embodiment of a scale 100 of a timepiece mechanism according to the invention, in particular a scale for measuring 30 beats of pulse. This scale 100 is particularly suitable for calculating the heart rate of an athlete. In this embodiment, the mechanism according to the invention also comprises a scale 300 for measuring time, for example measured seconds.

[0165] 8, the pulse meter (heart rate meter) scale 100 and the measurement seconds scale 300 share the same scale symbols. The numbers on the pulse meter scale 100 are arranged on the outer arc of the circle, and the numbers on the measurement seconds scale 300 are arranged on the inner arc of the circle, with the two arcs having the same center 20.

[0166] The pulse meter has a scale 100 with pulse rate scales that measure the number of pulses per minute (beats / min). It has an initial subscale 101 of 200 beats / min, a final subscale 102 of 41 beats / min, and subscales in between.

[0167] As shown in Figure 8, in the subset between 200 beats per minute and 140 beats per minute, the subscales are spaced at intervals of 10 beats per minute. In this first subset, the intervals between one subscale and the next become increasingly larger. In the subset between 140 beats / min and 80 beats / min, the subscales are spaced at intervals of 5 beats / min, and in the second subset, the intervals between one scale and the next also become increasingly larger. In the subsets between 80 and 41 beats per minute, the subscales are spaced at intervals of 1 beat per minute, and in the third subset, the intervals between one subscale and the next also become increasingly larger.

[0168] The scale 100 has the shape of an arc of a circle about the axis of rotation 20, and its center is at the axis of rotation 20. The indicator member, which is arranged to rotate about the axis of rotation 20, has one end at the 12 o'clock position when stationary. This angular position is indicated by reference numeral 201. The time measurement scale 300 typically has an initial time measurement graduation (not shown), such as 0 seconds.

[0169] When the push button (or other control) of the chronograph watch is first pressed, the indicator member begins to rotate in the direction indicated by arrow A.

[0170] In one embodiment, the first movable part 1 and the second movable part 2 are arranged to cooperate with the scale 100 of Figure 8 so that as the indicator member rotates, it rotates at a slower rate.

[0171] In this embodiment, the first movable part 1 and the second movable part 2 may have a spiral shape, for example a logarithmic spiral.

[0172] A second press of the same or a different push button will stop the indicator member exactly where it was when the push button was pressed.

[0173] The scale 100 of FIG. 8, in combination with the variable rotation speed of the mechanism according to the invention, allows the (varying) distance between one graduation and the next in the sub-set of indications that are of interest in the envisaged application to have a larger dimension than the corresponding (also varying) distance in known solutions, thereby improving the readability and resolution of the desired information corresponding to the stop position of the indicating element compared to known solutions.

[0174] In combination with the variable rotation speed of the mechanism according to the invention, this scale 100 also allows the (variable) distances between the graduations to be smaller in dimensions than the corresponding distances of known solutions in those graduations that are of less interest for the envisaged application.

[0175] This makes the desired information easier to read compared to known solutions, while providing a parametric level of detail for different subsets (of the scale) depending on the application of interest.

[0176] The time measurement scale 300 of FIG. 8 also provides an improved readability of the desired information compared to known solutions, with a degree of detail (of information) adjusted to the desired requirements for different subsets (of the scale) depending on the application of interest.

[0177] 9 shows a top view of an embodiment of a scale 100 of a timepiece mechanism according to the invention, in particular a scale for measuring pulses over 15 beats. This scale 100 is also particularly suitable for calculating the heart rate of athletes. In this embodiment, the mechanism according to the invention also comprises a scale 300 for measuring time, for example measuring seconds.

[0178] 9, the pulse measurement scale 100 and the measurement seconds scale 300 share the same scale symbols. The numbers on the pulse measurement scale 100 are arranged on an outer arc of a circle, and the numbers on the measurement seconds scale 300 are arranged on an inner arc of that circle, with the two arcs having the same center 20.

[0179] This pulse measurement scale 100 has a pulse rate scale that measures the number of pulses per minute (beats / min). This scale 100 has an initial subscale 101 of 200 beats / min, a final subscale 102 of 40 beats / min, and subscales in between.

[0180] The considerations mentioned for the scale of Figure 8 also apply to the scale of Figure 9.

[0181] 10 shows a top view of an embodiment of a scale 100 of a timepiece mechanism according to the invention, in particular a telemeter scale. In this embodiment, the mechanism according to the invention also comprises a scale 300 for measuring time, for example measuring seconds.

[0182] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 10 , the telemeter scale 100 and the measured seconds scale 300 share the same scale symbols, the numbers on the telemeter scale 100 are arranged on the outer arc of a circle, and the numbers on the measured seconds scale 300 are arranged on the inner arc of that circle, and the two arcs have the same center 20.

[0183] This telemeter scale 100 is particularly suited for calculating distances in meters. It has an initial value of 0.10 m, a final value of 20.00 m, and subdivisions therebetween. Of course, the initial, final, and intermediate subdivisions are examples and are not limiting.

[0184] As shown in Figure 10, there are spaced sub-scale divisions. In the subset from 0.10 km to 1.00 km, there are 0.10 km intervals. The intervals between each subsequent interval in this first subset are constant. The subset from 1.00 km to 5.00 km has 0.25 km intervals. The intervals between each subset vary and become smaller in the direction of arrow A. The subset between 5.00 km and 20.00 km has 0.50 km intervals. The spacing between each subset varies and decreases in the direction of arrow A.

[0185] The indicator member is arranged to rotate about an axis of rotation, which is typically the axis of rotation 20 of the second movable part 20. The axis of rotation 20 passes through the centre of the arc on which the scale 100 rides, and this arc has an end which corresponds to 12 o'clock when the indicator member is at rest.

[0186] When the push button (or other control) of the chronograph watch is first pressed, the indicator member begins to rotate in the direction of arrow A.

[0187] In one embodiment, the first and second movable parts 1, 2 are arranged to cooperate with the scale 100 of Figure 10 so that as the indicator member rotates, the indicator member rotates at a slower rate.

[0188] In this embodiment, the first movable part 1 and the second movable part 2 may have a spiral shape such as a logarithmic spiral.

[0189] While Figures 6 to 10 show examples of scales with particular sub-indices and time indices, the invention should not be limited to such scales and also applies to scales with no time indices or no sub-indices. The invention also applies to scales with other sub-indices and / or time indices, or with arrangements different from those shown in Figures 6 to 10.

[0190] By having the mechanism described in this invention, it is also possible to use a scale in which the distance between one graduation and the next is constant. The present application provides the following aspects, for example: [Point 1] A chronograph watch having a timepiece mechanism, the timepiece mechanism comprising: - a current time moving part (7) having an axis (70) and arranged to rotate around this axis (70); - a first movable part (1) having a first axis (10), connected to the current time movable part (7) and arranged to rotate at a constant rotation speed around the first axis (10); - an indicator member (24); - a second movable part (2) arranged to engage with said first movable part (1) and to be connected to said indicator member (24); an element comprising a scale (100) with a set of graduations, said indicator member being capable of displaying information on said scale; an actuator; - a clutch mechanism (9) that is provided so as to be able to connect the current time moving part (7) to the first moving part (1) under the action of the actuation device; In the chronograph watch, the first movable part (1) and the second movable part (2) are arranged to obtain a gear ratio between the first movable part (1) and the second movable part (2) that varies as a function of the relative angular position of the first movable part (1) and the second movable part (2), and the indicator member (24) rotates at a speed that varies depending on at least one partial set of the sets of graduations. [Point 2] - the chronograph watch comprises an input movable part (8) having an input shaft and arranged to rotate around the input shaft, the input movable part being provided to be rotationally driven by the current time movable part (7); The chronograph watch according to aspect 1, wherein the clutch mechanism (9) is arranged to connect the current time movable part (7) and the first movable part (1) via the input movable part (8) under the action of the actuation device. [Point 3] A chronograph watch according to aspect 1 or 2, wherein the scale (100) comprises a plurality of graduations, the distance between one graduation and the next graduation being constant throughout the set of graduations. [Point 4] 3. The chronograph watch according to aspects 1 to 2, wherein the scale (100) comprises a plurality of graduations, and the distance between one graduation and the next graduation varies in at least one subset of the graduation set. [Point 5] A chronograph watch according to any one of aspects 1 to 4, wherein the scale (100) is a scale for a tachometer, a pulse (heart rate) meter, or a telemeter. [Point 6] The chronograph watch according to any one of aspects 1 to 5, wherein the first movable part (1) and the second movable part (2) have the same shape. [Point 7] the shape being defined by radii of different lengths; The chronograph watch according to Aspect 6, wherein the first movable part (1) and the second movable part (2) are arranged so that the sum of the radii of the movable parts corresponding to the gear mechanisms of the first movable part (1) and the second movable part (2) is constant, and the sum of the radii is equal to the distance between the axes of the first movable part (1) and the second movable part (2). [Point 8] A chronograph watch according to aspect 7, wherein the sum of the radii is between 3 mm and 8 mm, preferably between 5 mm and 6 mm, in particular between 5.436 mm and 5.450 mm. [Point 9] the subset of scale graduations is a first subset, and the set of graduations comprises a second subset that is different from the first subset; A chronograph watch according to any one of aspects 1 to 8, wherein the first movable part and the second movable part are each arranged so that the rotation of the second movable part is constant in correspondence with the second partial set of scale markings. [Point 10] A chronograph watch according to any one of aspects 1 to 9, wherein the first movable part (1) and the second movable part (2) each have a logarithmic spiral shape. [Point 11] 11. The chronograph watch according to any one of aspects 1 to 10, wherein each of the first movable part (1) and the second movable part (2) comprises at least one recess (12', 12'' and 22', 22'') to reduce imbalance when the indicator member (24) is reset. [Point 12] a heart portion (3) coaxial with the second movable portion (2); a connecting means (33) between the second movable part (2) and the heart part (3), which connects the second movable part (2) and the heart part (3) together, thereby reducing or avoiding deviations during resetting towards zero; 12. The chronograph watch according to any one of aspects 10 to 11, comprising: [Point 13] The connection means is A chronograph watch according to aspect 12, comprising a pin (33) provided in the heart portion (3), the pin (33) being provided to be received in a through hole (21) of the second movable portion (2). [Point 14] A chronograph watch according to any one of aspects 10 to 13, comprising a play limiting means between the first movable part (1) and the second movable part (2), the play limiting means causing the second movable part (2) to rotate once before being moved by the first movable part (1). [Point 15] A chronograph watch according to aspect 14, wherein the second movable part (2) is provided with the play limiting means. [Point 16] A chronograph watch according to aspect 15, wherein the play limiting means is a protrusion on the arm (29) of the second movable part (2). [Explanation of symbols]

[0191] 1 1st moving part 2 Second moving part 3 Heart Club 4 Operating cam 5 Lever 6 boards 7 Current time moving part 8 Input moving part 9 flange 10 Rotation axis of first movable part 12' First recess of first moving part 12'' Second recess of first moving part 13 First arm of first movable part 15 first proximal portion of first movable part 16 second proximal portion of first movable part 17 First part of teeth of first movable part 18 Second part of teeth of first movable part 19 Second part of first moving part 20 Rotation axis of second movable part 21 Positioning hole 22' 1st recess of 2nd moving part 22'' Second recess of second moving part 23 First arm of second moving part 24 Display components 25 first proximal portion of second movable portion 26 second proximal portion of second movable portion 27 First part of teeth of second movable part 28 Second part of teeth of second movable part 29 Second arm of second movable part 31 Positioning hole 33 pin 61 Initial scale 62 Final Scale 70 Current time axis 100 minor divisions scale 101 Early auxiliary scale 102 Final auxiliary scale 103 Display component shutdown state 191 outer surface of arm 19 201 12 o'clock position 290 Protrusion 291 outer surface of arm 29 300 Time scale 301 Initial time scale 302 Final time scale 1000 movements A Rotation direction of indicator component h Maximum height of protrusion R1: Radius of the first movable part at the engagement portion between the first movable part and the second movable part R2 Radius of the second movable part at the meshing point between the first gear and the second movable part SL1 First logarithmic spiral SL2 logarithmic spiral t i time v Rotational speed of the indicator member

Claims

1. A chronograph watch having a timepiece mechanism, the timepiece mechanism comprising: a current time moving part (7) provided with an axis (70) and arranged to rotate around this axis (70); a first moving part (1) with a first axis (10), connected to said current time moving part (7) and arranged to rotate at a constant rotation speed around this first axis (10); an indicator member (24), a second mobile part (2) arranged to engage with said first mobile part (1) and to be connected to said indicator member (24); an element comprising a scale (100) with a set of graduations, said indicator member being capable of displaying information on said scale; - an actuation device; a clutch mechanism (9) arranged to be able to connect the current time moving part (7) to the first moving part (1) under the action of the actuation device; In the chronograph watch, the first movable part (1) and the second movable part (2) are arranged to obtain a gear ratio between the first movable part (1) and the second movable part (2) that varies as a function of the relative angular position of the first movable part (1) and the second movable part (2), and the indicator member (24) rotates at a speed that varies depending on at least one partial set of the sets of scales.

2. the chronograph watch comprises an input movable part (8) having an input shaft and arranged to rotate around this input shaft, the input movable part being provided to be rotationally driven by the current time movable part (7), 2. The chronograph watch according to claim 1, wherein the clutch mechanism (9) is arranged to connect the current time moving part (7) and the first moving part (1) via the input moving part (8) under the action of the actuation device.

3. 2. The chronograph watch according to claim 1, wherein the scale (100) is a scale for a tachometer, a pulsometer (heart rate) or a telemeter.

4. The chronograph watch according to claim 1, wherein the first moving part (1) and the second moving part (2) have the same shape.

5. the shape being defined by radii of different lengths; 5. The chronograph watch according to claim 4, wherein the first movable part (1) and the second movable part (2) are arranged so that the sum of the radii of the movable parts corresponding to the gear mechanisms of the first movable part (1) and the second movable part (2) is constant, and the sum of the radii is equal to the distance between the axes of the first movable part (1) and the second movable part (2).

6. The chronograph watch according to claim 1, wherein each of the first moving part (1) and the second moving part (2) has a logarithmic spiral shape.

7. 2. The chronograph watch according to claim 1, wherein each of the first moving part (1) and the second moving part (2) comprises at least one recess (12', 12'' and 22', 22'') to reduce imbalance when the indicator member (24) is reset.

8. a heart portion (3) coaxial with the second movable portion (2); a connecting means (33) between the second movable part (2) and the heart part (3), said connecting means (33) fixing the second movable part (2) and the heart part (3) together, so that deviation during resetting towards zero can be reduced or avoided; The chronograph watch according to claim 6, comprising:

9. The connection means is The chronograph watch according to claim 8, further comprising a pin (33) provided in the heart portion (3), the pin (33) being provided to be received in a through hole (21) of the second movable portion (2).

10. 7. The chronograph watch according to claim 6, further comprising a play limiting means between the first movable part (1) and the second movable part (2), the play limiting means causing the second movable part (2) to rotate once before being moved by the first movable part (1).

Citation Information

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