Apparatus for the observation and / or manipulation of objects, and gripping device

Abstract

The present invention relates to a device (10) for gripping a timepiece and / or item of jewellery. The device is arranged to allow the observation and / or manipulation of an object held under a binocular magnifier, and to allow the position of the object to be changed during the observation. The device comprises an arc-shaped component and / or part (2) comprising two ends (11, 12), bearing a support (3) for supporting a gripping device (4) for gripping the object. The gripping device is preferably arranged movably on said support.

Description

[0001] Device for observing and / or manipulating objects and gripping device

[0002] Technical field

[0003] The present invention relates to an apparatus for observing and / or manipulating an object, including small objects and / or parts. The apparatus may be adapted to be placed under a binocular loupe and is suitable for observing and / or manipulating small objects and parts as well. The objects may come from the fields of watchmaking, jewelry, electronics, medical technology (Medtech), biology, archaeology and model making, for example. The invention also relates to a gripping device that may be used with or in the apparatus.

[0004] State of the art and problems giving rise to the invention

[0005] In the watchmaking and jewelry industries, it is often necessary to observe, measure, or manually work on small objects and parts, for example, to clean them, machine them, or assemble or disassemble them. To do this, it is necessary to hold and position the objects in a particular orientation, and it would even be advantageous to be able to change the position of the object during work. When an enlargement of the object is necessary to be able to carry out the work efficiently, it would be advantageous to be able to observe the object under a binocular loupe.

[0006] In the patent literature, we find for example the French patent FR394251, which discloses a support for the suspension of watch movements. This support has an elongated column which makes it difficult to use under a binocular loupe. Then, the support seems to be suitable for the suspension of a relatively large object, such as a complete movement. The American patent US 2,593,703 also relates to a device suitable for the support of a watch movement, the device comprising a base and a rocker guided by rails arranged on the base. In order to hold the movement, a separate disc is placed on the rocker. As in the case of the aforementioned French patent, this device is suitable for holding a complete movement, and does not allow the handling of very small parts.

[0007] Brütsch-Rüegger Tools markets the CHATELAIN PROTOTYPES Eight-Figure device, which allows the observation of watch parts under binoculars. This device is complex and consists of several components arranged to pivot relative to each other.

[0008] Ryf BRF sells a ball-joint workpiece holder with a precision clamp. This workpiece holder is suitable for observation under a binocular loupe. The ball joint has a steel sphere, on which the clamp is attached. The sphere is freely rotatable, so the position of the clamp can be adjusted.

[0009] It is an objective of the invention to implement an apparatus for holding objects and parts, for example from the field of watchmaking and / or jewelry, including components and / or small mechanical parts, and not only complete movements. It is also an objective to implement a device that is less expensive in production. A particular objective of the invention is to provide a device of which the or at least some of the main components or a large part of the components can be manufactured by 3D printing. It is also an objective of the invention to provide an apparatus that can be used in conjunction with a binocular loupe, i.e. that allows working on an object held by the device when it is placed below the loupe and that allows changing the position of the object and manipulating it when it is under the loupe.

[0010] Another object of the invention is to implement a gripping device that can be used in an apparatus as mentioned above, but that can also be used to grip an object separately, outside the apparatus. It is an objective to implement a gripper for holding small parts of a watch, for example. Preferably, some parts of the gripping device can also be manufactured by 3D printing. An objective of the gripping device, but also of the apparatus, is to allow simple and rapid disassembly and / or assembly, for example for the purpose of replacing a part of the apparatus and / or the device.

[0011] The technical problems discussed above are not limited to the field of watchmaking and jewelry, but concern other technical fields as well, as mentioned above.

[0012] The present invention aims to overcome the drawbacks of the state of the art, in particular the aforementioned drawbacks. Summary of the invention

[0013] In one aspect, the invention relates to an apparatus for observing and / or manipulating an object, the apparatus comprising a base and a piece and / or an arcuate portion, said piece and / or arcuate portion being arranged to be capable of movement relative to said base, said movement comprising at least one rotational movement component.

[0014] In one embodiment, the arcuate part and / or portion has two ends, a space is provided between two ends of the arcuate part and / or portion and / or is partially surrounded by the bending of said arcuate part and / or portion.

[0015] In one embodiment, said space is preferably a place of observation and / or manipulation, and / or that the object to be observed and / or manipulated according to the invention is preferably placed, positioned and / or stabilized in said space.

[0016] In one embodiment, said apparatus is adapted to be used, at the user's choice, with a gripping device and / or with an object holder, preferably to place, position and / or stabilize an object in said space in order to be able to observe and / or manipulate it.

[0017] In a preferred embodiment, said part and / or arcuate portion comprises a support for carrying an object holder and / or a gripping device for gripping said object, for example a timepiece and / or piece of jewelry.

[0018] In one embodiment, the part and / or arcuate portion comprises a housing area, arranged to cooperate with said base in order to allow the part and / or arcuate portion to perform a guided movement and at least one support area comprising at least one support making it possible to arrange an object holder and / or a gripping device on the part and / or arcuate portion.

[0019] Said support zone is preferably located in a longitudinal extension of said housing zone, preferably near one end of a guide structure arranged in said housing zone and / or at the end of the part and / or arcuate portion. Said first and second ends are preferably opposite ends. In a preferred embodiment, said object holder and / or said gripping device is arranged to be movable by said support.

[0020] In a preferred embodiment, said gripping device comprises a gripping member arranged to hold and / or position said object, preferably in said space and / or possibly in an adjacent space which is laterally displaced relative to said space.

[0021] Said base and said arcuate part and / or portion comprise cooperation structures allowing said arcuate part and / or portion to perform a guided and / or predefined movement relative to the base.

[0022] In a preferred embodiment, said movement is a sliding and / or sliding guided by a curved rail and / or a curved groove, arranged or on said part and / or arcuate portion or on the base, preferably on the part and / or arcuate portion.

[0023] In a preferred embodiment, said movement is further guided by a protrusion and / or a bearing arranged or on said part and / or arcuate portion or on the base, for example on said base, said protrusion and / or said bearing being arranged to cooperate with said rail and / or said groove to guide said movement.

[0024] In a preferred embodiment, said arcuate part and / or portion comprises two lateral sides, said rail and / or said groove being arranged on at least one of the two lateral sides. Preferably, a rail and / or a groove is arranged on each of the two sides of the arcuate part and / or portion.

[0025] In a preferred embodiment, said movement of the part and / or arcuate portion takes place in a plane or parallel to a plane defined by the curvature of the part and / or arcuate portion, said plane preferably being a vertical plane or a plane forming an angle between 0° and (inclusive) 75° with a vertical plane. Preferably, said plane forms an angle between 0 and (inclusive) 45°, more preferably between 0 and (inclusive) 25° with a vertical plane.

[0026] In a preferred embodiment, said movement of the part and / or arcuate portion and / or the center of rotation of the rotational movement component takes place and / or is located in a plane, said plane preferably being the plane mentioned above.

[0027] In a preferred embodiment, said base comprises a housing for receiving said part and / or arcuate portion, and for guiding, facilitating and / or stabilizing said movement of the part and / or arcuate portion.

[0028] In a preferred embodiment, said arcuate part and / or portion comprises an inner side and / or face and an outer side and / or face, a portion of said outer side preferably facing the above-mentioned housing and / or preferably being placed in said housing.

[0029] In a preferred embodiment, at least said side and / or said outer face is arched and / or curved.

[0030] In a preferred embodiment, said gripping device has a longitudinal axis and is preferably arranged, preferably on said apparatus, to be able to move in translation along its longitudinal axis.

[0031] In a preferred embodiment, said gripping device has a longitudinal axis and is preferably arranged to be rotatable about its longitudinal axis. The longitudinal axis may be a straight axis or a curved axis. Preferably, the longitudinal axis follows a straight line.

[0032] In a preferred embodiment, said holder comprises a through hole or passage, said gripping device being movably housed in said through hole or passage.

[0033] In a preferred embodiment, said gripping device is longitudinal and has first and second ends. A gripping member is arranged at a first end and an activating member is arranged at a second end of said gripping device.

[0034] In a preferred embodiment, said gripping device comprises a tube, the gripping member and an activation member, the gripping member being arranged at a first end and said activation member at a second end of said tube.

[0035] In a preferred embodiment, said gripping device comprises first and second ends, the gripping member being arranged at a first end, preferably in said space, and an activation member is arranged at a second end of said gripping device.

[0036] In a preferred embodiment, said arcuate part and / or portion separates an interior space (or area) and an exterior space (or area). Said interior space preferably fulfills one, more or all of the following characteristics:

[0037] The interior space

[0038] - is located between the ends of said piece and / or arched part,

[0039] - faces an inner side or face of said part and / or arcuate part, and / or,

[0040] - is partially surrounded by said part and / or arched part,

[0041] - is a space for observation and / or manipulation, and / or

[0042] - is the space in which an object to be observed and / or manipulated is placed.

[0043] Preferably, said outdoor space

[0044] - faces an outer side or face of said part and / or arcuate part, and / or,

[0045] - is located outside a circle defined and / or surrounded at least partially by said part and / or arcuate part.

[0046] In a preferred embodiment, said activation member is arranged in said exterior space.

[0047] In one aspect, the invention relates to a gripping device comprising a gripping member comprising a clamp having two jaws adapted to close on each other to grip and hold an object.

[0048] In one aspect, the invention relates to a gripping device comprising first and second ends, a gripping member being arranged towards the first end, and an activating member being arranged towards the second end. In a preferred embodiment, the gripping member comprises a material selected from resins, composites and / or shape memory alloys.

[0049] In a preferred embodiment, the gripping member comprises a material selected from non-metallic materials, composite materials and metal materials or alloys. For example, the non-metallic materials are selected from plastic materials and a material based on or comprising carbon fiber.

[0050] In a preferred embodiment, the gripping device comprises first and second ends, said gripping member being arranged towards the first end, and an activation member being arranged towards the second end, activation of the gripping member making it possible to open and / or close the clamp, preferably to open the clamp.

[0051] In a preferred embodiment, the gripper is arranged to be in at least first and second positions, the first position being a position in which the jaws of the gripper are biased toward each other to allow an object to be held between the jaws, and a second position, in which the jaws are biased in opposite directions to allow an object held between the jaws to be released.

[0052] In a preferred embodiment, the gripping device comprises a first return element, arranged to urge the clamp towards the first position, the first position preferably being a rest position, i.e. a position assumed by the gripping device in the absence of activation of the activation member by a user.

[0053] In a preferred embodiment, the gripping device comprises a second return element, arranged to urge the gripper towards (or to assist the gripper in moving towards) the second position, the second position preferably being an activated position, resulting from the activation of the activation member by a user.

[0054] In a preferred embodiment, the gripping device further comprises first and second magnets, the first magnet preferably being arranged integral with the gripping member, and the second magnet preferably being arranged integral with the activation member. In a preferred embodiment, said first and second magnets each have a polarity so as to allow an attractive force between the magnets arranged in the device, and the magnets being arranged to mechanically connect the gripping member to the activation member in the absence of a force applied by a user for the purpose of separating a mechanical connection between the gripping member and the activation member.

[0055] In one aspect, the invention relates to the use of the apparatus and / or gripping device of the invention in one or more fields selected from watchmaking, jewelry, electronics, medtec, biology, archaeology and model making. In one embodiment, the apparatus and / or gripping device of the invention is used to hold an object from one or more of the aforementioned fields.

[0056] Other aspects and preferred embodiments of the invention are defined in the appended claims and in the description below.

[0057] Description of the drawings

[0058] The characteristics and advantages of the invention will appear more clearly on reading a non-limiting description of a preferred embodiment. This description is given solely by way of example and with reference to the schematic figures in which:

[0059] Figure 1 is a perspective view of the apparatus according to a first embodiment of the invention.

[0060] Figures 2A to 2D are views of the base of the apparatus shown in Figure 1, including a perspective view (2A), a top view (2B), a sectional view along AA of Figure 2B (2C), and a sectional view along BB of Figure 2B (2D).

[0061] Figures 3A to 3C are views of the arcuate part of the apparatus shown in Figure 1, in particular a perspective view (3 A), a top view (3B) and a section along AA of Figure 3B (3C) (longitudinal couple). Figures 4A to 4C are views of the gripping device according to a first embodiment of the invention, in particular a perspective view (4A), a top view (4B), and a longitudinal section along AA of Figure 4B (4C).

[0062] Figure 5 is a perspective view of the apparatus according to a second embodiment of the invention.

[0063] Figure 6 is a perspective view of the apparatus according to a third embodiment of the invention.

[0064] Figures 7A and 7B are views of the base of the apparatus shown in Figure 6, including a top view (7A) and a sectional view along AA of Figure 7A (7B).

[0065] Figures 8A and 8B are views of the arcuate part of the apparatus shown in Figure 6, including a perspective view (8A) and a longitudinal sectional view (8B).

[0066] Figures 9A and 9B are views of the gripping device according to a second embodiment of the invention, in particular a top view (9 A) and a longitudinal section along AA of Figure 9A (9B).

[0067] Detailed Description of Preferred Embodiments

[0068] The apparatus and device illustrated in the figures without limitation correspond to preferred embodiments of the present invention.

[0069] In this specification, a single reference number is preferably used for structural elements which are present as a pair, unless it is necessary to distinguish between two identical elements.

[0070] Figure 1 shows the apparatus 10, comprising a base 1 and an arcuate part and / or portion 2, the latter preferably comprising first and second ends 11, 12.

[0071] An "arced part" according to the present invention is preferably a part comprising an arc. The arced part may be a ring. An arc is preferably a curved longitudinal element. Preferably, the arced part comprises the section or part of a ring, which is why the reference to "arced part" in this specification also includes an "arced part", particularly in the case where only a part of the part is arced. Preferably, the ring of the arced part and / or the section or part of a ring is a ring with a rectangular and / or square section.

[0072] The arcuate part is arranged on or in the base to be able to perform a movement relative to the base, preferably while remaining linked and / or connected to the base. This movement is preferably a rotational movement, a partial rotational movement, and / or comprises at least one rotational movement component. The rotational movement component can be realized using a rotational axis, the arcuate part being arranged to rotate about said axis. In the embodiment shown in the figures, the movement of the arcuate part relative to the base 1 is a guided sliding, sliding and / or rolling movement.

[0073] Preferably, the base and the arcuate piece each comprise a cooperation structure having complementary shapes to allow the arcuate piece to perform a predefined movement while remaining connected to the base. For example, a first cooperation structure 14 is arranged on or in the arcuate piece, and a second cooperation structure 41 is arranged in the base. For example, one of the first and second cooperation structures 14, 41 comprises a kind of rail or a groove, and the other at least one element having a shape that allows it to be inserted into the rail and / or to slide on the rail. Said first and second cooperation structures are preferably arranged on the base 1 and / or the arcuate piece so as to keep the base and the arcuate piece connected, that is to say, to preferably define a predefined movement of the arcuate piece relative to the base.

[0074] In one embodiment, one of the cooperating structures comprises a rail or a groove, and the movement takes place along the rail and / or the groove. The guided movement can be achieved using a groove-slider or rail-slider assembly. This slider can be a guide structure, a retainer, a slider or more generally a projecting element to be able to cooperate with the groove or the rail to achieve the guided movement. The groove / rail can be arranged either on the base 1 or on the arcuate part 2 and the slider, respectively, on the other of the two components. In the embodiment shown, the groove 14 is arranged on the arcuate part 2. Since it is the arcuate part that can move relative to the base, the structural element functioning as a slider is a stationary guide structure, linked to the base, and it is the groove / rail of the arcuate part that moves in this case relative to said guide structure.Other structural elements of the arched part and / or the base may contribute to guiding the movement and may thus be part of the cooperating structures, such as, for example, the rollers 45 in the base and / or a curved outer rolling surface 17 of the arched part which cooperates with said rollers by rolling over said rollers.

[0075] As seen in Figure 1, a groove 14 is arranged on the arcuate piece, and a retainer 41 (Figures 2A-2D), functioning as a guide structure that cooperates with the groove 14, is arranged in the base to be placed in the groove and to retain the arcuate piece at the base. The arcuate piece preferably has two lateral sides 18, and a groove 14 is preferably arranged in at least one, preferably in each of the two lateral sides 18 of the arcuate piece. As seen in Figures 2B and 2D, two retainers 41 are arranged in the base, to cooperate respectively with each of the two grooves 14.

[0076] In the embodiment shown, the groove 14 follows an arc of a circle, and the arcuate piece preferably also follows an arc of a circle.

[0077] The base 1 comprises a body 8, in which a housing 15 is arranged, as seen in Figures 2A to 2D, the housing 15 being open upwards, and the arcuate part 2 being arranged in the housing so as to project relative to the base. The base 1 comprises an upper surface 9, substantially horizontal, comprising an opening giving access to the housing 15.

[0078] The guide structure, here the two members 41, is arranged in the housing. The latter further comprises two side walls 42 and a bottom 43. On each of the two side walls, a guide structure 14 projects, to fit into the groove of the corresponding wall of the arched part. The two side walls preferably extend in parallel. The bottom 43 is preferably curved to receive by complementary shapes the curved outer face 17 of the arched part (Figures 1, 3A, 3C). The movement of the arched part could partly be guided by the curved or rounded shape of the bottom 43, but in the case of the embodiment shown, two rollers 45 are arranged in the base, in particular in the housing 15, and the outer face 17 of the arched part is placed on the rollers 45 to reduce the friction of the movement of the arched part relative to the base.

[0079] In the embodiment shown, the retainers 41 are reversibly arranged at the base (Figure 2D). A housing 46 is provided in the body 8 for each of the retainers 41, accessible through an opening 47 closed by a removable plug 48. A spring 49 is arranged in the housing 46 to urge the retainer into its housing, while allowing the end of the retainer 41 to exit through a hole 51 in the side wall 42 of the housing 15 and to project relative to this wall. In this embodiment, the extent and / or distance of the protrusion of the retainer 41 from the wall 42 can be adjusted by screwing or unscrewing the removable cap 48. Furthermore, the retainer can be completely removed from the housing 15, for example before placing the arcuate piece in the housing 15 and / or to allow removal of the arcuate piece from the base by disengaging the retainers from their respective groove. Before the arcuate piece is mounted in the base, the retainers are removed.Once the arched part is placed in its housing, the retainers are then placed in the corresponding groove by screwing the cap 48 to adjust the position of the retainer 41 in the groove 14.

[0080] Instead of a pair of retainers 41, another guide structure may be provided, for example bearings or a protruding element other than a retainer.

[0081] The arcuate part 2 is shown separately in Figures 3A-3C. As mentioned, it mainly comprises the two side faces 18, the outer face 17, intended to face the housing 15 in the base, and the inner face 16, which faces the space or area 6 defined and / or partially surrounded by the arcuate part, in particular by the curvature of the latter. The space 6 may be located between the two ends 11, 12 of the arcuate part, the latter having overall a curved / arcuated longitudinal shape in the embodiment shown. In this embodiment, the side faces 18 are substantially planar and the inner 16 and outer 17 faces substantially correspond to the lateral surfaces of a section of a cylinder of revolution.In this way, the cross-section of the arched piece, at these surfaces, is substantially rectangular or square, and the arched piece has four edges to connect the aforementioned outer faces.

[0082] At each of the two ends of the arcuate part 2, a support 3 is arranged. In the embodiment shown, this support 3 has the shape of a sphere or part of a sphere, but could just as well have any other shape. The invention also envisages that a single support is arranged, preferably at one of the two ends 11 or 12.

[0083] The outer surfaces 16-18 of the central part of the arcuate part, which connects these ends 11, 12, can also have different shapes.

[0084] The invention is not limited to a particular shape of the base 1 or of the arcuate part 2. The arcuate part could also have a curved circular cylinder shape, or a tubular shape, for example, or a cross-section other than rectangular, for example trapezoidal or any other section. The inner surface 16 does not necessarily have to be curved and / or arcuate, but can also be flat or have a flat part. The outer surface 17 preferably has an arcuate and / or curved surface, preferably corresponding to the lateral surface of a section of a cylinder of revolution.

[0085] The curved outer surface 17 allows the arcuate part to roll on the casters 45 arranged in the base and / or to perform the pivoting movement and / or having at least one rotational movement component.

[0086] Likewise, the supports 3 arranged to stabilize the gripping device 4, can be arranged in the arched part without being characterized by a different external shape (here: spherical) compared to the curved part and comprising the groove 14 of the arched part. In the embodiment shown in Figures 3A-3C the supports 3 are manufactured in one piece with the arched part of the arched part. In another embodiment, the supports 3 are separate pieces which can be mounted at the ends of the arched part, as will be described with reference to Figure 5.

[0087] In the embodiment shown, the arcuate piece 2 is guided in the housing 15 of the base, by the "grooves 14-holders 41" assembly, and by the rollers 45, to perform a rotational movement that takes place in a single plane, that defined by the curvature of the groove 14 of the arcuate piece. This plane is a vertical plane, due to the vertical arrangement of the walls 42 of the housing 15 and the position / orientation of the rollers 45. It is also possible to arrange the walls 42 in an inclined manner relative to the vertical and to arrange the axes of the rollers 45 in an inclined manner as well, so that the plane in which the rotation of the arcuate piece takes place is inclined accordingly. For example, the plane in which the movement of the arcuate piece takes place may form an angle between 0° and 75° with a vertical plane.The rotation of the arcuate part, together with the mobility of the gripping device 4 described below, makes it possible to adjust the position and / or orientation of an object held by the apparatus of the invention.

[0088] Each of the two supports 3 is arranged to carry and / or stabilize a gripping device 4 (or an object holder, as will be described with reference to FIG. 5). In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, only one gripping device 4 is shown, in particular carried by the support 3 at the first end 11. The gripping device 4 is preferably arranged to be movable relative to the arcuate part, in particular by the support 3, to allow a change in the position of an object held by the gripping device thanks to the mobility of the gripping device.

[0089] It is conceivable to use, for example, an annular shape instead of an arcuate part. In this case, or in the case of an almost annular arcuate part, the supports 3 do not necessarily form the ends 11, 12 of the arcuate part. However, according to the invention, the arcuate part, even if it is made in the form of a ring or an almost annular part, or in another form, comprises at least two separate zones 95 and 96, indicated by the dotted lines in Figure 3A. A housing and / or guide zone 95 (hereinafter: "housing zone") has the purpose of cooperating with the base in order to allow the housing and / or guiding of the arcuate part during a movement of the latter. This zone 95 generally comprises the first guide structure 14 and it cooperates with the base 1 and / or with the second guide structure arranged in the base, produced here in the form of a 4L part.

[0090] At least one support zone 96 is located in extension of the housing zone, the latter being generally longitudinal and arcuate. The support zone comprises the support 3 for an object holder and / or a gripping device 4. In the embodiment shown, the arcuate part comprises first and second support zones 96, arranged on either side of the housing zone 95.

[0091] In a preferred embodiment, the support zone 96, preferably the first and second support zones 96, is separated from the housing zone 95 along a direction 75 (Figure 8B) which corresponds to, coincides with, is parallel to and / or at least partially overlaps with the direction of movement of the arcuate part. This direction of movement 75 comprising successive zones 96, 95, 96 substantially corresponds to, or is parallel to, the direction of the rail 14 and / or the main curvature of the arcuate part.

[0092] Thus, the support zone 96 is preferably separated, along said direction of movement 75 (and / or the extension of this direction of movement), from the housing zone 95. According to a preferred embodiment, along a direction comprising the direction of movement of the arcuate part, the housing and support zones are arranged at different locations or sections, preferably successive.

[0093] For example, the guide structure 14 may comprise first and second ends 91, 92, a support structure 3 preferably being arranged near at least one of the two ends. Preferably, the arcuate part comprises at least two support structures 3, one of which is near each of the ends of the guide structure 14 and / or the housing area 95.

[0094] In the embodiment shown, the gripping device 4 comprises an outer tube 20, guided in a through passage 19 arranged in the support 3 (Figure 3C). The passage 19 defines a hollow cylinder capable of receiving the tube 20, and, due to this guidance, the gripping device can perform a rotation, and can also perform a linear translational movement along its axis 25, by moving forward and / or backward in the passage 19.

[0095] The device 4 is stabilized in the passage, so that the aforementioned movements must be generated by a user acting on the device and forcing it in the desired direction and / or position. To stabilize the gripping device 4, a stabilizing device 52-57, here comprising a kind of ball ratchet, is arranged for each of the arms in the arcuate part, as visible in Figure 3C. The two stabilizing devices are identical, and comprise a ball 57 arranged to exert a force on the gripping device when it is in the corresponding holder 3. The ball exerts a force on the outer surface of the tube 20 of the gripping device (not shown, because the gripping device is omitted from Figure 3C for reasons of clarity).

[0096] The arcuate part 2 comprises a housing 55, accessible through an opening 56 on the outer wall 17 of the arcuate part. In this housing, the ball 54 is biased by a spring 53 towards an opening 57 in the passage 19. The opening 57 allows only a portion of the ball to pass through the passage 19, this portion being sufficient to exert pressure on the gripping device. The opening 56 of the housing 55 in the arcuate part is closed by a plug-shaped screw 52, ​​this plug being able to be unscrewed, for example to change a part (the ball, the spring) of this stabilizing device.

[0097] Instead of a ball-spring system, any other stabilizing device is contemplated by the invention. A simpler stabilizing device comprises a ring of plastic, preferably elastomer and / or other material having a desired coefficient of friction, the ring being fixedly housed in the passage 19. In this case, the ring preferably has dimensions chosen so that it is necessary to apply a certain force to place the gripping device in the passage and / or to move it once it is placed in the passage through the ring. For example, the ring may have an outside diameter slightly larger than the general inside diameter of the passage 19 and an inside diameter which is smaller than the outside diameter of the tube 20.

[0098] The invention also contemplates a stabilizing device comprising an activating member, for example a button, to enable the gripping device to be placed in the passage and / or to effect a change of position. In this case, the stabilizing device is preferably a locking device, enabling the position of the gripping device to be locked in the absence of activation of an activating member.

[0099] In Figure 3C it is visible that a stabilizing device 52-57 is arranged for each of the two supports 3 of the arched part. The apparatus of the invention can thus be used with a single gripping device, as shown in Figure 1, or with two, for example.

[0100] The gripping device 4 is shown in more detail in Figures 4A-4C. This device is arranged to be removable and / or detachable, and can be completely and preferably manually separated from the support 3 of the arcuate part 2. Preferably, the gripping device 4 is removable and / or detachable without the need to use a tool, such as a screwdriver or any key.

[0101] The gripping device 4 preferably comprises a clamp or tweezers. Preferably, it comprises an actuating member, 21, intended to be activated by a user to open and / or close the clamp.

[0102] Preferably, the gripping device 4 is longitudinal and comprises first and second ends 61, 62. The gripping device preferably has a longitudinal axis 25 (FIG. 4B). The activation member 21, here a pusher, is arranged towards the second end 62 and a gripping member 5 is arranged towards the first end 61. This gripping member 5 is intended to grasp and / or hold an object, for the purpose of observing and / or manipulating the object, for example.

[0103] For the purposes of this description, "handling" an object includes, for example, cleaning, repairing, machining, polishing, decorating and / or applying paint and / or varnish, for example.

[0104] The gripping member 5 comprises two jaws 26, 27, arranged to be able to approach and / or close on each other to grasp the object.

[0105] The construction of the gripping device 4 is shown in Figure 4C. It comprises a tubular and / or longitudinal portion 20 (hereinafter: a tube) comprising first and second openings 71, 72. The gripping member 5 preferably emerges from the first opening 71 and the actuating member 21 preferably emerges from the second opening 72 of the tube 20.

[0106] In the embodiment shown, the gripping member 5 comprises a single continuous piece forming the two jaws 25-26, which emerge from the tube 20 at the opening 71 of the tube at the first end 61 of the gripping device, and an inner part 28, arranged inside the tube 20, and made integral with a magnet 31, using an inner tube 34, which can slide inside the tube 20, and which is made integral, for example by gluing, with the part 28 and the magnet 31. The gripping member with its inner part 28, the magnet 31 and the inner tube 34 form a first part or a first assembly 29 of the gripping device. A spring 33 is further arranged between the jaws 26, 27, to bias them towards a spaced apart position. Thus, the spring 33 biases the jaws in opposite directions to allow an object held between the jaws to be released.A second part (or a second assembly) 30 of the gripping device 4 comprises the activation member 21, which projects at the second end 62 of the tube 20, emerging from the second opening 72. Inside the tube 20, the part 35 forming the activation member 21 comprises a tubular part 36 forming a housing, in which a second magnet 32 ​​is housed. Preferably, the first and second magnets 31, 32 are permanent magnets. Preferably, the first and second magnets are arranged in the gripping device 4 so as to exert an attractive force between them. In this way, the parts 29 and 30 of the gripping device are kinematically linked, unless they are separated by a force which acts on the two parts 29, 30 in directions opposite to the attractive force of the magnets 31, 32.The gripping device 4 further comprises a return element 37, preferably a spring, urging the assembly 30 towards the second end 62 of the device 4, pushing the activation member 21 towards the opening of the tube 20 at this second end. The return element thus opposes the depression of the activation member by a user, and, in the absence of such depression, urges the assemblies 29 and 30 as well as the gripping device towards the rest position. For this purpose, an annular rim 73 is arranged in the tube 20, and a second annular rim 74 is arranged on the part 35. The cylindrical spring 37 is positioned between the two annular rims, so as to urge the gripping device towards said rest position.

[0107] The tube 20 thus houses the two assemblies 29, 30, and can be considered as a third part or a third assembly. The counter-pressure ring and / or the flange 63, arranged on the outer surface of the tube 20, is preferably part of this third assembly.

[0108] It should also be mentioned that the member 5 comprising the two jaws is preferably made of a material which has elastic characteristics, for example an elastic plastic material, or an elastic metal or alloy. In a preferred embodiment, the member 5 and / or at least the two jaws 26, 27, is made of a material chosen from resins, composites and / or shape memory alloys. The member 5 can, like the arched part and the base, be manufactured by 3D printing, for example using a shape memory resin allowing 3D printing.

[0109] Alternatively, the gripping member may comprise a clamp with a pivot axis connecting two jaws made of separate parts, as is the case with conventional clamps.

[0110] Based on the above, the person skilled in the art will understand the operation of the gripping device 4. In a rest position, without activation of the activation member 21, the spring 37 biases the assembly 30 towards the second end 62. The force of the spring 37 also biases the first assembly 29 towards the second end, due to the attractive force between the magnets 31, 32, which makes the two assemblies 29, 30 integral and / or which links them mechanically and / or kinematically. Towards the first end,

[0111] 61, the member 5, and more precisely the proximal part of the jaws 26, 27 cooperates with the opening 71 of the tube 20. The dimensions of the opening 71 and of the jaws 26, 27 are such that the opening 71 forms a stop for the member 5 when the latter is urged towards the second end by the return element 37. Due to the connection of the assemblies 29 and 30 using the magnets, the stop formed by the opening 71 stabilizes the assemblies 29, 30 and thus the entire gripping member in a rest position.

[0112] To activate the activation member 21, a user pushes it into the tube 20, against the force of the spring 37. To make this operation easy, a counter-pressure ring or a flange 63 is arranged on the tube 20, integral with the latter, and close to the second end

[0113] 62. The user may hold the tube 20 between the index and middle fingers, and depress the activating member 21 using the thumb, for example, in a manner similar to depressing a syringe plunger. In doing so, the user acts against the force of the spring 37 and pushes the member 5 towards the first end 61. As the member 5 disengages from the stop formed by the opening 71, the two jaws 26, 27 may move apart with the aid of the spring 33, and may now be used to grip an object of a suitable size. Once the object is between the two jaws 26, 27, the user releases pressure on the activating member 21, and the spring 37 pulls the assemblies 29, 30, as well as the member 5 and the jaws, back towards the second end 62. The jaws 26, 26 close, due to the shape of the opening 71, which acts on the jaws and forces them to close under the force of the spring 37.

[0114] The clamp and its two jaws can be in at least two positions, a first position in which the jaws are biased towards each other to allow an object to be held. This is the rest and / or non-activation position, in which the spring 37 pulls the assemblies 29, 30 towards the second end. In a second position, an activation position, the activation member is fully depressed by a user, which causes the jaws to move apart, and which allows an object held between the jaws to be released and / or another object to be grasped. Of course, other positions exist between the two aforementioned positions, for example, if the activation member is partially depressed and the spacing between the two jaws is in an intermediate position.

[0115] By connecting the assemblies 29 and 30 using the magnets 31, 32, the gripping device 4 can be easily disassembled. It is sufficient to separate the connection between the two magnets 31, 32, by pulling on one or both assemblies in the direction of separation. Both assemblies then come out of the tube and can be repaired or replaced, for example.

[0116] Figure 1 shows the apparatus 10 according to one embodiment of the invention ready for use. The gripping device 4 is held by the support 3, placed in the passage 19 and stabilized therein by the stabilizing device 52-57 described with reference to Figure 3C. In this configuration, the gripping member is located in the space 6, which is a space or area defined by and / or partially surrounded by the curvature of the arcuate part 2. This area 6 faces the inner surface 16 of the arcuate part. The activating member 21, on the other hand, is located in an area and / or space 7, which is outside the area partially surrounded by the curvature of the arcuate part, the area 7 instead facing the outer surface 17 of the arcuate part. Zone 6 is intended to be an observation area, for example when the device is placed under a binocular magnifier.The user can easily change the orientation of an object held by the member 5 of the gripping device, pivoting the arcuate part along the groove 14, by rotating the gripping device 4, and / or by moving the gripping device 4 forward and / or backward along its longitudinal axis 25.

[0117] Figure 5 shows an apparatus 10' according to another second embodiment. The base 1' of the apparatus 10' differs from the base 1 of the apparatus of the first embodiment in that the base 1' comprises two supports 23 for framing on two sides the opening of the housing of the arched part. Then, in this embodiment, the supports 3' at the first and second ends 11, 12, of the arched part are separate parts, which are fixed to the ends of the arched part 22. The arched part 2' is thus formed by the arched part 22 and the two supports 3', these three parts being made integral, for example by gluing or screwing. Of course, other parts and parts, for example the stabilizing device 52-57 (fig. 3C) may be present or integrated into the arched part.

[0118] In Figure 5, the gripping device 4 is absent, and instead of the latter an object holder 40 is arranged using the two supports 3' to allow observation and / or manipulation of an object in the space 6 arranged between the ends 11, 12 of the arcuate part 2'. The object holder 40 comprises two axes 65 secured to a support ring 66. The two axes are preferably coaxial and are each inserted into the through passage 19 of one of the two supports 3', so that the two supports 3' are used to support the object holder. As in the case of the gripping device 4, the object holder 40 can move along the common axis 25 of the two axes 65, and can also rotate around this axis, i.e. perform a rotation. To carry out such a movement, it is sufficient to grasp the free end 67 of one of the two axes 65, and to act on this end in the desired direction.These adjustment possibilities are added to the mobility of the arched part, in particular the rotation guided by the rail as already described.

[0119] In the embodiment shown, the ring 66 functions as an object holder in itself, in that an object, for example a watch movement, can be placed on the ring and can be stabilized on the ring using clamps or in some other way. It is also possible to provide a glass or support plate inside the ring 66. The ring 66 can be used with clips to stabilize an object placed on the ring. Instead of a ring, it is also possible to arrange a small tray or bin between the two axles 65.

[0120] The object holder may be, for example, a plate holder or a movement holder, for example a wristwatch movement.

[0121] The embodiment of Figure 5 also illustrates the versatility of the apparatus according to the invention, in that it can be used, at the user's choice, with a gripping device 4 such as a clamp, or with any other support device, such as for example an object holder 40. To arrange the gripping device and / or an object holder on the arcuate part, it is possible to use a single support 3 or both supports 3. It should be noted that the passages 19 of the two supports 3 or 3' are preferably coaxial to allow the arrangement of two coaxial axes 65, or even a single sufficiently long axis. The invention also envisages that the supports 3' are movable relative to the arcuate part 22, which would make it possible, for example, to adjust the orientation of the passage 19 of one or both supports 3 and thus the position of the object holder (or the gripping device).In a particular embodiment, the supports 33 are arranged so as to be able to rotate around an axis 68 which is perpendicular to the axis 25 and preferably both perpendicular to the horizontal.

[0122] It should be noted that the apparatus 10 and 10', or several components thereof, can be 3D printed, which also reduces the manufacturing costs of the apparatus. For example, the base 1 and the arcuate part 2, 2' and / or the supports 3, 3' are preferably manufactured by 3D printing. The gripping member 5 and the activation member 21 of the gripping device can also be 3D printed, the member 5, for example, is preferably manufactured from a commercially available shape memory resin. This material allows the operation of the member 5 as described above, that is to say to open and close the jaws 26, 27 of the member 5 manufactured in a single piece 26-28, under the assistance of the spring 33 and the opening 71 which acts towards a closing of the jaws when the assemblies 29, 30 are urged towards the second end 62 of the gripping device.

[0123] Finally, the 48 and 52 caps / screws used in the base and arched piece to close slots for other parts can also be 3D printed.

[0124] Furthermore, the invention is not limited to manufacturing by 3D printing, and the components of the device can also be manufactured otherwise, for example by machining and / or by molding, etc., and those skilled in the art will know how to choose the manufacturing method, for example by considering the material used to manufacture a component.

[0125] Figure 6 shows an apparatus 100 for observing and / or manipulating an object according to a third embodiment. As in the case of the previous embodiments, the apparatus 100 comprises a base 101, in or by which an arcuate part 102 is housed and / or guided. A gripping device 104 is arranged in a support 103 at one of the ends 111 of the arcuate part. The invention makes it possible to arrange a second gripping device, for example, at the second support, i.e. at the opposite support. The base (Figures 7A, 7B) comprises a housing and / or an opening 115 for housing and guiding the movement of the arcuate part. Supports 123 are arranged on the base, on either side of the arcuate part and / or the housing 115, to frame the arcuate part. These supports protrude relative to the general upper surface 109 of the base 101.

[0126] In the case of the second embodiment, a stabilizing device 150 is arranged on the arched part so as to be accessible by a user, preferably from the outside, without the need to disassemble the arched part. This device will be described in more detail with reference to FIG. 8B.

[0127] As in the case of the previous embodiments, the housing 115 in the base includes rollers 145 to facilitate and / or guide the rotational movement of the arcuate part 102. In Figure 7A, it is visible that the supports 123 carry support pads 144. These are preferably pads made of rubber or another plastic material to guide the movement of the arcuate part in the plane of movement and to allow some play.

[0128] In Figure 7B, the arrangement of the holders 141 is visible. In this case also, the base 1 comprises two housings 146, on either side of the housing 115 of the arched part. Each housing 146 comprises a threaded part 146', into which a ball screw 149 is screwed. The latter comprises a ball housed and retained in a tube as well as a spring, like a ball ratchet, with the particularity that the tube of the ball screw 149 comprises an external thread. The ball screw is screwed into the housing 146' so as to allow the ball to pass through an opening 151 between the housing 146 of the ball screw and the housing 115 of the arched part. The ball thus forms a projecting structure 141 in the housing 115, in particular with respect to each of the two interior lateral faces of the housing 115. The projecting part of the ball 141 comprises dimensions allowing it to be placed in the rail 14 of the arched part 102.Preferably, a rail 14 is arranged on each of the two lateral sides 18 of the arched part. A ball 141 and a rail thus form cooperative structures for guiding the movement of the arched part. The geometric shapes of the housing 115 with its inner side walls 142, the rollers 145 and the geometric shape of the outer face 117 of the part 102 assist and / or contribute to facilitating the guided movement of the arched part, as in the case of the previous embodiments.

[0129] The stabilizing device 150 is visible in Figures 8A and in more detail in Figure 8B. Each of the two supports 103 includes an upper opening 156 providing access to a housing 155 which extends to the through passage 119 of the supports 103, the passage for housing the gripping device 104. In the housing 155, a tubular insert 159 is fixed, the insert having an internal thread (not shown). In the housing 155, a ball screw 152 is inserted having a wheel 160 at the end opposite that in which the ball 154 is housed. The wheel 160 thus projects relative to the arcuate part so as to be easily accessed and / or manipulated by a user. The housing 155 and the ball screw 159, including the insert 159, form the stabilizing device 150, in that the ball 154 is arranged to be able to be in contact with the gripping device 104.By operating the thumbwheel, the user can adjust the pressure exerted by the ball 154 on the device 104 placed in the housing. Thus, the device 104 can, for example, be completely locked in the housing when the ball screw 152 is turned in the direction of insertion, or released when the ball screw 152 is turned in the opposite direction. The stabilizing device further comprises an O-ring 158 to dampen the movement of the ball screw in the direction of insertion.

[0130] In one embodiment, a metal tube 113, preferably made of brass, is inserted into the support 103, the hollow part of which forms the through passage 119. The purpose of this tube is to form a smooth surface in the housing 119 to facilitate the movement of the gripping device 104 and / or to allow more precise and / or reliable positioning of the latter, when it is placed in the passage 119.

[0131] A difference of the apparatus 100 according to the third embodiment compared to the previous embodiments lies in the presence of an actuating member, here a wheel 160, intended to be actuated by a user, to fix the gripping device 104 when it is placed in the support 103, and / or to adjust the force with which the device 104 is retained in the support. In one embodiment, this actuating member also makes it possible to fix the gripping device 104 at a particular rotational position, chosen, for example, from a plurality of predefined rotational positions.As the invention provides for allowing the position of the gripping device 104 to be changed when it is held in the support 103 of the arcuate part (for example rotation or movement along the axis of the housing 119), the actuating member accessible by the user constitutes a tool which improves the versatility and / or ease of use of the apparatus of the invention, for example by allowing it to be adapted to a greater number of applications.

[0132] In Figure 8B, the successive zones 96, 95, 96, along the direction of the main curvature 75 and / or the line of movement of the arcuate part, are shown. According to a preferred embodiment, the arcuate part comprises a housing zone 95 which is separate and / or distinct, with respect to said main curvature, from one or both support zones 96.

[0133] Figures 9A and 9B show a gripping and / or handling device 104 according to a second embodiment. The main difference compared to the gripping device 4 of the first embodiment is that the two assemblies or parts 129 and 130 comprising, respectively, the gripping member 5 and the activation member 121, are not secured by magnets, but by screwing.

[0134] The gripping device 104 comprises a longitudinal and / or tubular part 20, a gripping member 5 emerging from the first end and the actuating member 121 emerging from the second end of the tubular part.

[0135] As seen in Figure 9B, a connecting and / or linking piece 138 is arranged in the tube 20. Towards one end, this piece is connected to the inner part 28 of the gripping member 5. The connecting piece 138 comprises in particular a tubular part in which said inner part 28 is inserted and fixed, for example by gluing.

[0136] Towards the opposite end, facing the actuating member 121, the connecting piece has an external thread 131, complementary to the internal thread 132 of the part 135 which is connected to the actuating member. As in the case of the gripping device 4 according to the first embodiment, a cylindrical spring 37 bears on the one hand on a rim arranged in the tube 20 and then on a rim of the part 135 and thus of the actuating member 121, so as to urge the part 135 towards the second end 62, that is to say, towards the rest position.

[0137] The operation and use of the gripping device 104 are substantially as described above with respect to the gripping device according to the first embodiment. With regard to assembly, once the spring 37 is inserted through the opening of the tube 20 on the side of the second end 62, the first and second assemblies 129 and 130 are each inserted through the opening at the corresponding opposite end 71, 72 of the tube 20. Once placed in the tube, the two assemblies are screwed together by means of the respective threads 131, 132.

[0138] As regards the materials of the components of the gripping device 104, what has been indicated above for the first embodiment also applies, with the exception, of course, of the magnets, since the connection of the assemblies 129 and 130 is made by screwing in this case. The invention envisages other ways of connecting the two assemblies 129, 130, preferably in a detachable manner, for example by "press-fit", by embedding, by bayonet connection, by a Velcro-type connection, to mention only a few possibilities known to those skilled in the art.

[0139] A person skilled in the art will not encounter any particular difficulty in adapting the content of the present disclosure to his own needs and implementing a gripping device and / or an apparatus, in particular for the observation and / or manipulation, including gripping and / or positioning, of an object, a material and / or an organism originating, for example, from a field chosen from watchmaking, jewelry, electronics, Medtech, medical devices, biology, archaeology and model making, for example, including the components and / or parts of these objects, without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0140] In one embodiment, the apparatus and / or gripping device is used for observing and / or manipulating an object, for example for and / or in view of cleaning, repairing, machining, polishing, decorating and / or applying paint and / or varnish to the object, for example a piece of jewelry and / or an industrial component. The apparatus and / or gripping device may be used to hold, observe and / or manipulate an organism and / or biological material, for example an insect, and / or a sample containing cells, a cell extract and / or a chemical product. In the case of watchmaking, the object may be a watch component and in particular a wristwatch and / or mechanical watch component.

Claims

Claims 1. Apparatus (10) for observing and / or manipulating an object, the apparatus comprising a base (1) and an arched part and / or portion (2), said arched part and / or portion (2) being arranged to be able to perform a movement relative to said base, said movement comprising at least one rotational movement component, said arched part and / or portion (2) carrying a support (3) for carrying an object holder and / or a gripping device (4) for gripping said object, said object holder and / or said gripping device being arranged to be movable by said support (3).

2. Apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said arcuate piece and / or part comprises a housing area (95), arranged to cooperate with said base, and a support area (96), where said object holder and / or said gripping device is arranged, said housing area being separated from the support area along a direction of curvature and / or movement of the arcuate piece and / or part.

3. Apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein said arcuate part and / or portion (2) comprises a curved guide structure (14), said support being arranged towards one end of said curved guide structure and / or as an extension of said curved guide structure.

4. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said arcuate part and / or portion comprises first and second ends (11, 12), a first support (3) being arranged towards or at the first end (11), and a second support preferably being arranged towards or at the second end.

5. Apparatus (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said movement is a sliding and / or sliding guided by a curved rail and / or a curved groove (14), arranged or on said part and / or arcuate portion (2) or on the base, for example on the part and / or arcuate portion.

6. Apparatus according to claim 5, said movement being further guided by a protrusion (41) and / or a bearing arranged or on said part and / or arcuate portion (2) or on the base, for example on said base (1), said protuberance and / or said bearing being arranged to cooperate with said rail (14) and / or said groove to guide said movement.

7. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said movement of the part and / or arcuate part (2) takes place in a plane or parallel to a plane defined by the curvature of the part and / or arcuate part, said plane preferably being a vertical plane or a plane forming an angle between 0° and 75° with a vertical plane.

8. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said movement of the part and / or arcuate portion (2) as well as the center of rotation of the rotational movement component take place and / or are located in a plane, said plane preferably being a vertical plane or a plane forming an angle between 0° and 75° with a vertical plane.

9. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said base comprises a housing (15) for receiving said part and / or arcuate part (2), and for guiding and / or stabilizing said movement of the part and / or arcuate part (2).

10. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, said arcuate part and / or portion (2) comprising an inner side and / or face (16) and an outer side and / or face (17), a portion of said outer side preferably facing the housing (15) according to claim 8 and / or preferably being placed in said housing.

11. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, said gripping device (4) having a longitudinal axis (25) and being arranged to be able to move in translation along its longitudinal axis.

12. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, said support (3) comprising a through hole (19), said gripping device (4) being movably housed in said through hole.

13. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said arcuate part and / or portion (2) separates an interior space (6) and an exterior space (7), said interior space (6): - located between two ends (11, 12) of said piece and / or arched part, - facing an inner side and / or an inner face (16) of said part and / or arcuate part, and / or, - being partially surrounded by said room and / or arched part, and said exterior space (7): - facing an outer side and / or an outer face (17) of said part and / or arcuate portion, and / or, lying outside a circle defined and / or surrounded at least partially by said part and / or arcuate portion.

14. A gripping device (4, 104) comprising first and second ends (61, 62), said gripping device comprising: - a gripping member (5), arranged towards and / or forming the first end (61), and, - an activation member (21, 121) arranged towards and / or forming the second end (62).

15. The gripping device according to claim 14, characterized in that the gripping member comprises a material chosen from resins, composites and / or shape memory alloys.

16. The device according to any one of claims 14 and 15, wherein the gripping member comprises two jaws (26, 27) intended to close on each other to grasp and hold an object.

17. The device according to any one of claims 14 to 16, wherein said gripping member (5) and / or said jaws (26, 27) is / are made in a single piece.

18. The device according to any one of claims 14 to 17, further comprising a tubular and / or longitudinal portion (20) comprising a first opening (71), the gripping member emerging from said first opening (71), the tubular and / or longitudinal portion preferably comprising a second opening (72), the activation member (121) preferably emerging from said second opening of said second opening.

19. The device according to claim 16 and 18, wherein the tubular part comprises a zone defining said first opening (71), said zone and / or said first opening, and at least one of the two jaws (26, 27) being arranged to be in abutment and / or in abutment against each other, so as to urge said jaws to close towards each other and / or so as to urge said jaws towards a rest position.

20. The device according to any one of claims 14 to 19, comprising a return element (37) arranged to urge at least one of the two jaws (26, 27) to bear and / or abut against said first opening (71) and / or against a zone of the tubular part (20) defining said first opening (71), preferably to urge the two jaws towards a rest position and / or towards a position close to the two jaws.

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