Control device for a timepiece, intended to actuate at least two functions of the timepiece

Abstract

The invention relates to a control device (1) for actuating at least two functions of a timepiece, comprising: a first actuating member, of main axis X1, intended to move in translation along its main axis X1 in order to actuate a first function, a control member (2) superposed on the first actuating member, and a second actuating member intended to move along at least one axis X2 distinct from the main axis X1 in order to actuate a second function in response to a suitable movement of at least part of the control member (2), the second actuating member being secured to the control member (2).

Description

Description CONTROL DEVICE FOR A WATCH PART, INTENDED TO ACTIVATE AT LEAST TWO FUNCTIONS OF THE WATCH PART technical field

[0001] The present invention relates to a control device, intended to be assembled to a case of a timepiece to actuate at least two functions of the timepiece, comprising: - a first actuation element, having a predefined main axis X1, intended to be arranged so as to be able to move in translation with reference to the box along the main axis X1, in order to actuate a first function, - a control element at least partially superimposed on the first actuation element with reference to the gearbox.

[0002] The present invention also relates to a timepiece comprising a box housing such a control device. State of the art

[0003] Various types of control devices enabling the operation of at least two different functions of a watch movement, in response to two different predefined actions of a user, are already known in the prior art, in particular for operating various watch mechanisms in a timepiece, for example to be able to wind a mainspring and / or set the time by rotating a crown, and to operate a chronograph or striking mechanism by pressing a pusher housed inside the crown so as to be able to move it in translation in reference to the latter.

[0004] One such control device, known as a crown-pushbutton, is a known example. In this device, a conventional crown has an axial hole defining a housing for a pushbutton arranged coaxially with the crown. The corresponding designs are often complex and can present sealing problems because they involve nesting two control devices that are ultimately independent of each other.

[0005] As part of its research, the Applicant has already succeeded in developing other control devices meeting the characteristics stated above but with an alternative construction to what has just been described, as illustrated for example in publication CH718356A1.

[0006] This publication concerns a control device for a timepiece, comprising a crown that defines a control element which a user can use to actuate several functions of the associated watch movement. The crown is connected to a control rod, arranged through the case of the timepiece to be connected to at least one mechanism of the watch movement, so as to be able to move it in translation along its axial direction in response to pressure from the user, and to rotate it on its own axis in response to rotation of the crown by the user.

[0007] Thus, the construction described and illustrated in this publication allows the implementation of a "simple" crown, that is to say, one not including a specific coaxial pusher, presenting functionalities equivalent to those of a crown-pusher without presenting the disadvantages mentioned previously.

[0008] It should be noted that most of the time, multi-function control devices are of the crown type, which in itself is not a problem since a crown can be located in various places on a timepiece, particularly a wristwatch, and a wristwatch may even have several crowns distributed around its case. However, it seems worthwhile to propose a control device that meets the general characteristics outlined above, but which would have an alternative construction and operating mode compared to the prior art control devices just described, while also meeting certain specific aesthetic criteria that are alternative to those of known control devices. Disclosure of the invention

[0009] A main objective of the present invention is to propose a control device of the type mentioned above, having an alternative construction and mode of operation in reference to those of known control devices, in particular offering the possibility that this control device may have a different appearance from that of conventional multi-function control devices.

[0010] To this end, the present invention relates more particularly to a control device of the type indicated above, characterized by the fact that it comprises a second actuating member intended to be arranged to be able to move in reference to the box along at least one axis X2, distinct from the main axis X1, to actuate at least a second function in response to an adapted displacement of at least a part of the control member, the second actuating member being integral with the control member.

[0011] Thanks to these characteristics, a control device is obtained that can simultaneously exhibit the behavior of two different control devices, for example, both the behavior of a crown, or something resembling a crown, and that of a push button, while also having a unique appearance since the implementation of two distinct axes of movement implies a different spatial distribution of the components within the volume of the control device. Preferably, the control element can be designed to have a generally elongated shape along a direction substantially perpendicular to the X1 axis, for example, a shape resembling an elongated push button (as opposed to a push button with a cylindrical head).Such a multi-function control device can be implemented in relation to different types of functions of the associated watch movement, in a manner similar to that described in publication CH718356A1. Thus, by way of illustrative but non-limiting example, the pusher function could be used to operate a chronograph or countdown timer mechanism, while the function of displacement along the additional axis could be used to operate a... timekeeping mechanism for correcting indications. As an alternative, non-limiting example, it could be envisaged that the control device is associated with a striking and / or animation mechanism, in which case the movement of the second actuation member along the X2 axis could be associated with the selection of an operating mode (silence, small ring or large ring, for example, or even the selection of a ring from several possible rings) while the pusher function, along the main X1 axis, could allow the corresponding mechanism to be activated (triggering the ring for example).

[0012] It is understood that the functions associated with the various predefined user actions can be linked to the same mechanism of the corresponding watch movement or, alternatively, to different, or even independent, mechanisms of the watch movement, without departing from the scope of the present invention as defined by the attached claims. It is even possible to foresee that one or more functions associated with the control device according to the invention are linked to the casing of the timepiece, that is to say, for example, that they have an impact on the operation of the case itself.

[0013] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the control element may be provided to comprise: - a base intended to be assembled to the case of the timepiece, and - an actuation lever attached to the second actuation member and arranged on the base so as to be able to present a displacement along the X2 axis in reference to the base, between a neutral position and at least one actuated position.

[0014] According to a preferred embodiment, the base can be intended to be assembled to the case of the timepiece in such a way as to be able to move exclusively in translation along the main axis X1, in order to drive the first actuation member in translation.

[0015] Thanks to these features, the user can interact with the control unit in different ways to operate the various functions associated with the control device, in particular to implement the movement of the first actuating member along the main axis X1 by simply pressing on the control member in the same direction, or by acting on the actuating lever of the control member so as to cause the movement of the second actuating member along the axis X2.

[0016] Preferably, it can also be provided that the first actuation member comprises a substantially cylindrical control rod having the main axis X1 as its axis of symmetry.

[0017] Furthermore, it can also be foreseen that the control device includes a kinematic link between the first actuating member and the second actuating member, arranged in such a way that a displacement of the second actuating member along the X2 axis can cause a rotation of the control rod along the main X1 axis.

[0018] It can also be advantageously provided that the second actuation member comprises a first toothed member capable of engaging with a second toothed member fixed in rotation to the control rod.

[0019] According to one embodiment, the first and second toothed elements can be dimensioned in such a way that the second toothed element has an angular velocity greater than that of the first toothed element when the actuating lever is moved with reference to the base.

[0020] According to a preferred embodiment, the actuation lever can be arranged on the base so as to be able to pivot with reference to the latter, the actuated position being a pivoted position in this case.

[0021] It can then be advantageously provided that the control device includes a shaft with axis X2, substantially parallel to the main axis X1 and at a distance from the latter, arranged so as to define a pivot type link with axis X2 between the base and the actuation lever.

[0022] According to a preferred embodiment, the shaft can also be provided to be integral with the actuation lever by being arranged in a bearing provided in the base.

[0023] In this case, it is advantageous to provide that the base carries at least one stop capable of cooperating with a limiting surface attached to the shaft to limit the amplitude of rotation of the latter with reference to the base.

[0024] According to a preferred embodiment, the control device may be provided to include an assembly tube intended to be made integral with the watch part case so as to define a passage for the first actuation member.

[0025] In this case, it is advantageous to provide that the control member is connected to the assembly tube in such a way that it can move in translation along the main axis X1 in the direction of the assembly tube, from a rest position to a pushed position, in response to pressure from the user on the control member, the control device including an elastic return member arranged to act on the control member and push it back towards its rest position, and that the assembly tube includes a stop surface arranged to be able to define the maximum possible distance between the control member and the assembly tube, corresponding to the rest position of the control member.

[0026] Furthermore, it can then be foreseen that the first actuating member has an internal end, intended to be located inside the case of the timepiece, the internal end carrying a linking member intended to cooperate with at least one timekeeping mechanism and preferably defining a stop arranged to cooperate with the stop surface of the assembly tube to define the rest position of the control member.

[0027] Generally speaking, it can be expected that the control device will include a first safety device arranged to prevent a movement of the actuating lever when the control member is in its pushed position.

[0028] In this case, it is advantageous to provide that the shaft carries a locking flange with a cutout positioned opposite a locking portion of complementary shape carried by the assembly tube in the pushed position of the control member, so that the locking flange is locked in rotation.

[0029] Furthermore, it is advantageous to provide that the control device includes a second safety device arranged to prevent translation of the control element towards its pushed position when the actuating lever is in its actuated position.

[0030] In this case, it is advantageous to provide for the assembly tube to include a portion defining a stop: - opposite which the cutout in the locking flange is located in the neutral position of the actuating lever, so as to allow translational movement of the control member when the actuating lever is in its neutral position, but - located on the path of the locking flange when the actuating lever is out of its neutral position, so as to prevent translation of the control member towards the assembly tube when the actuating lever is out of its neutral position.

[0031] Furthermore, it can generally be expected that the control device will have at least one indexing device, arranged between the actuating lever and the base, to hold the actuating lever in its neutral position, by default, while allowing its movement in reference to the base towards at least one actuated position.

[0032] In this case, it is advantageous to provide that the indexing device includes a concavity of variable depth, formed in one of the elements (the base and the actuating lever), in which a protrusion, carried by the other element (the base and the actuating lever), is capable of moving when the actuating lever pivots between its neutral position and at least one other position. activated, the protrusion being in contact with the portion of maximum depth of the concavity in the neutral position.

[0033] According to a preferred embodiment, it can further be provided that the protrusion is fixed on the element which carries it, and that the actuating lever is assembled to the base so as to be able to move away from the latter in a direction substantially parallel to the X2 axis when it moves to leave its neutral position.

[0034] It can also be provided, in addition, that the protrusion is defined on the base, by the arrangement of the first actuation member protruding from a face of the base facing the actuation lever, the concavity being provided in a face of the actuation lever facing the base.

[0035] In this case, when the actuating lever is fixed to a pivoting shaft in the base and carrying a locking flange, it may also be provided that a return spring is interposed between the locking flange and the base so as to act on the actuating lever to bring it closer to the base.

[0036] The present invention also relates to a case for a timepiece comprising a control device according to the preceding characteristics, as well as a timepiece comprising such a case.

[0037] According to a preferred embodiment, when the first actuation member includes a control rod, it can be provided that the case houses a watch movement comprising at least one mechanism having a kinematic link with the control rod and arranged in such a way that it actuates a first function of the watch movement in response to a translation of the control rod along the main axis X1, and that it actuates a second function, typically of the watch movement, possibly of the case, in response to a rotation of the control rod along its axis X1. Brief description of the drawings

[0038] Other features and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent upon reading the detailed description of a preferred embodiment that follows, made with reference to the accompanying drawings given by way of non-limiting example and in which:

[0039] - Figures 1a, 1b and 1c represent the same simplified perspective overview of a control device according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, in three different configurations; - Figures 2a, 2b and 2c represent the same simplified cross-sectional view of the control device of Figures 1a to 1c, respectively in the same three configurations as in Figures 1a, 1b and 1c; - Figures 3a and 3b represent the same simplified cross-sectional view of the control device of Figures 2a to 2c, with sections made along a cutting plane perpendicular to that of Figures 2a to 2c, respectively in the configurations of Figures 2a and 2c; - Figures 4a and 4b represent the same simplified cross-sectional view of the control device of Figures 2a to 2c, with sections taken along a cutting plane perpendicular to those of Figures 2a to 2c, respectively in the configurations of Figures 2a and 2c, and - Figures 5a and 5b represent the same simplified cross-sectional view of the control device of Figures 2a to 2c, with sections taken along a cutting plane parallel to that of Figures 4a and 4b but with an opposite viewing angle, and in the respective configurations of Figures 2a and 2c. Method(s) of embodiment of the invention

[0040] Figures 1a, 1b and 1c represent the same simplified perspective overview of a control device 1 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, in three different configurations which will be presented later.

[0041] Generally, the control device 1 comprises a control element 2, intended to be arranged at least partially outside a watch case so that it can be manipulated by a user. The control element 2 here has the general shape of an elongated, roughly parallelepiped-shaped pusher and is associated with a control rod 4, with main axis X1, intended to be connected to at least one mechanism of a watch movement housed in the watch case, in a known manner. Due to its general shape, which is clearly distinct from that of a crown, the control device 1 makes a different aesthetic contribution to the corresponding watch case than a crown, and is particularly well suited, for example, to its implementation in the case of a watch whose movement has a chronograph function.

[0042] By way of illustrative but not limiting example, the inner end of the control rod 4 here carries a connecting member 6, screwed into the control rod 4, defining a female socket with a substantially square cross-section (one face of which is open) intended to receive a male end (not shown) of a shape substantially complementary to a mechanism of the watch movement. A coupling method of this type is already described in the earlier publication CH718356A1, and those skilled in the art will not encounter any particular difficulty in implementing it or in implementing any other known and suitable coupling method as an alternative.

[0043] The control device 1 also includes an assembly tube 8 intended to be made integral with the watch part case, so as to define a passage for the control rod 4. The assembly tube 8 can typically be driven into a suitable hole in the watch part case, or possibly welded or brazed to the case.

[0044] It is understood that an objective of the present invention, according to a preferred embodiment, is the implementation of a control device 1 in which the control rod 4 can be driven in two modes of movement to allow the actuation of at least two different functions of the associated clockwork movement.

[0045] Figure 1a illustrates the control device 1 in its resting configuration.

[0046] A comparative examination of figures 1a and 1b shows that in order to go from the configuration of figure 1a to that of figure 1b, the control member 2 had to undergo a first predefined action by a user, in this case a pressure in the direction of the assembly tube 8. We thus observe not only that the control member 2 moved in the direction of the assembly tube 8, going from a rest position to a pushed position, but that the control rod 4 moved in the same way, which is clearly shown by the distance separating the connecting member 6 from the inner end of the assembly tube 8.

[0047] A comparative examination of figures 1a and 1c shows that in order to go from the configuration of figure 1a to that of figure 1c, the control rod 4 was driven in rotation around its axis X1, which is evident from the change in orientation of the linking member 6, which appears to have pivoted about a quarter turn counterclockwise to go from the configuration of figure 1a to that of figure 1c.

[0048] At the same time, Figure 1c shows that only a part of the control element 2 has undergone a rotation when moving from the configuration of Figure 1a to that of Figure 1c. Indeed, it appears that the control element 2 comprises two main portions, a base 10 and an actuating lever 12. While the entire control element 2 seems to be able to move in translation along axis X1, in response to pressure from a user in this same direction, it is clear from Figure 1c that only a part of the control element 2, namely the actuating lever 12, is capable of pivoting about an axis X2, substantially parallel to and distant from axis X1, to move between a neutral position (Figures 1a and 1b) and a pivoted position (Figure 1c) in response to a second predefined action by the user.Clearly, the second predefined action of the user must allow the actuating lever 12 to rotate around its axis X2, and must therefore include a force applied to the actuating lever 12 including a component located in a plane perpendicular to the axis X2 but whose direction does not intersect the axis X2. In this case, the preferred elongated shape of the control member 2 is... This proves particularly advantageous from an ergonomic point of view, as it facilitates the user's action of rotating the actuating lever 12 with reference to the base 10. Indeed, the user must use two fingers to apply torque to a cylindrical (crown-type) button to rotate it, whereas applying pressure with a single finger is sufficient here to rotate the actuating lever 12.

[0049] As further illustrated in Figures 1a to 1c, the base 10 of the control element 2 has a skirt 14, generally cylindrical in shape and advantageously designed to cooperate with a guide surface (not shown) of a shape substantially complementary to the watch case when the control element 2 moves in translation in response to the first predefined action of the user. The skirt 14 has an axial protrusion 16 also designed to cooperate with a locking surface (not shown) adapted to the watch case to ensure rotational locking of the base 10. Of course, it would be possible, as an alternative, for the skirt 14 to have a different general shape that lacks axial symmetry, which would potentially eliminate the need for the axial protrusion 16.

[0050] Furthermore, the base 10 also carries fairing and guide elements 17 which, in addition to a guiding function similar to that of the skirt 14, define a cylindrical housing for a locking flange 18, which will be described in more detail later. A comparative examination of Figures 1a to 1c already reveals that the locking flange 18 pivots when the actuating lever 12 pivots.

[0051] Figures 2a, 2b and 2c represent the same simplified cross-sectional view of the control device 1, the section plane containing the two axes X1 and X2. The configurations respectively illustrated in figures 2a, 2b and 2c correspond to those of figures 1a, 1b and 1c.

[0052] The relative arrangement between the control rod 4 and the assembly tube 8 is more clearly visible in this cross-sectional view. In particular, it can be seen that the connecting member 6 cooperates with a stop surface 20 of the assembly tube 8 to limit the translation of the control rod 4 towards the outside of the watch part box (i.e. downwards in the view of figures 2a to 2c).

[0053] Furthermore, it appears that the external end 22 of the control rod 4, having a diameter slightly greater than the rest of the control rod 4, is housed in a suitable hole 24, provided in the base 10 of the control member 2. More precisely, the external end 22 of the control rod 4 is arranged to protrude from the face 26 of the base 10 located opposite the actuation lever 12, so as to define a protrusion.

[0054] An O-ring 28 is housed inside the assembly tube 8, bearing simultaneously against the tube and against the control rod 4, so as to ensure a seal at the interface between these two components. A washer 30 is further arranged around the control rod 4, positioned inside the assembly tube 8, to retain the O-ring 28 in place. At the same time, the washer 30 defines a stopping surface for one end of a helical spring 32, the other end of which is indirectly supported against the outer end 22 of the control rod 4. Thus, the helical spring 32 acts as an elastic return element on the outer end 22 of the control rod 4, so as to push the latter outwards from the watch case until it reaches the position illustrated in Figure 2a, associated with the rest position of the control element 2.

[0055] The actuating lever 12 has an internal face 34, arranged opposite the face 26 of the base 10 and having a general shape that is complementary to that of the latter. In particular, it should be noted that the face 34 has a concavity 36 defining a recess for the external end 22 of the control rod 4, which will be described in more detail later.

[0056] Furthermore, the actuating lever 12 has a bore 38 in which one end 40 of a shaft 42 is engaged, the shaft 42 defining the pivot joint with axis X2 between the base 10 and the actuating lever 12. The shaft 42 is thus fixed to the lever actuation 12, for example by being driven, screwed or welded into the actuation lever 12. By "solid" it is more generally understood here that the shaft 42 and the actuation lever 12 can be fitted into one another or fixed to one another, for example by means of an elastic element or a joint, or that they can be rigidly linked to one another in such a way that the shaft 42 follows all the movements of the actuation lever 12, exactly as if it were made of one piece with it, or even that the shaft 42 and the actuation lever 12 are actually made of one piece.

[0057] The shaft 42 is arranged through a suitable hole in the base 10, being free to rotate with reference to the base 10, and having its other end 44 fixed to the locking flange 18. A return spring 46 is interposed between the locking flange 18 and the base 10 so as to act on the actuating lever 12 and bring it closer to the base 10, as illustrated in figures 2a and 2b, in which it can be seen that the face 26 of the base 10 and the face 34 of the actuating lever 12 are partially in contact with each other.

[0058] It also appears from figures 2a to 2c that the shaft 42 carries a first toothed member 48, fixed in rotation to the shaft 42, arranged in permanent contact with a second toothed member 50 fixed in rotation to the control rod 4. It should be noted that the helical spring 32 acts on the external end 22 of the control rod 4 via the second toothed member 50.

[0059] The first toothed element 48 is advantageously guided in rotation by various guiding surfaces of the base 10, and is held in place along the direction of the axis X2 by a collar 52 integral with the base 10, by way of non-limiting illustration. The collar 52 also carries a bushing 54 intended to contribute to guiding the actuating lever 12 on the base 10 when it pivots with respect to the latter.

[0060] From an operational point of view, a comparative examination of Figures 2a and 2b helps to understand how the control device 1 behaves when a user applies a first predefined action to the control element 2, namely, in this case, pressure on the control element 2 (more specifically on the actuating lever 12) substantially along the direction of the axis X1. In this case, the base 10 and all the components it carries move in translation as a single unit towards the watch case (or towards the assembly tube 8, i.e., here in the direction of the top of Figures 2a and 2b), following the direction of the axis X1. Indeed, the displacement undergone by the actuating lever 12 in this situation is directly transmitted to the base 10 due to the contact between the faces 26 and 34 and, preferably, due to the contact between the outer end 22 of the control rod 4 and the concavity 36 of the face 34.

[0061] During this movement, the helical spring 32 is compressed, as illustrated in Figure 2b. It is understood that the helical spring 32 fulfills the role of an elastic return element arranged to act on the control element 2 and push it back to its rest position when the user releases it.

[0062] It should be noted that a stop can preferably be provided to limit the movement of the control element 2 towards the watch case. In the present case, a portion 56 of the base 10 can be designed to abut directly against the assembly tube 8 as illustrated in Figure 2b. Alternatively, such a stop could be provided against an element of the watch case, without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the attached claims.

[0063] During the movement of the control member 2 from its rest position to its pushed position, the shaft 42 exhibits the same displacement as the actuating lever 12 and therefore remains stationary with reference to the base 10.

[0064] However, the shaft 42, and therefore the locking flange 18 it carries, moves relative to the assembly tube 8, such that the locking flange 18 is positioned opposite a locking portion 58 of the assembly tube 8. Indeed, the locking flange 18 has a cutout (reference number 60 in Figures 5a and 5b) with a shape complementary to that of the locking portion 58, such that the cutout 60 and the locking portion 58 are positioned in close proximity to each other to prevent any rotation of the locking flange 18 in the configuration of figure 2b, i.e. in the pushed position of the control member 2. Thus, the cooperation between the locking portion 58 of the assembly tube 8 and the cutout 60 of the locking flange 18 makes it possible to define an optional safety device of the control device 1.

[0065] We will now examine the behavior of the control device 1 when a user applies a second predefined action to the control element 2, which rotates the actuating lever 12 about the X2 axis with reference to the base 10, in one direction or the other, between a neutral position (Figures 2a and 2b) and a rotated position (Figure 2c). Thus, the second predefined action must result in the application of a force to the actuating lever 12, including a component located in a plane perpendicular to the X2 axis but whose direction does not intersect the X2 axis, as previously mentioned.

[0066] The configuration of the control device 1 resulting from the implementation of such a second predefined action is visible in Figure 2c, and will also be shown in relation to Figures 3a (neutral position of the actuating lever 12) and 3b (pivoted position of the actuating lever 12) representing the same cross-sectional view of the control device 1 along a cutting plane perpendicular to the cutting plane of Figures 2a to 2c and containing the axis X1.

[0067] It is clear from Figures 2c, 3a and 3b that the concavity 36 formed in the face 34 of the actuating lever 12 gives a variable depth to the profile of the actuating lever 12 along this face 34. More precisely, the central portion of the concavity 36, which is located opposite the outer end 22 of the control rod 4 in the neutral position, has a maximum depth, the depth that the concavity 36 then presents opposite the outer end 22 of the control rod 4 decreasing progressively with the increase in the angle of rotation of the actuating lever 12. The curvature of the concavity 36 is particularly visible in Figure 3a since the cross-section illustrated in this figure intersects the concavity 36 at its midpoint, along its longitudinal direction.

[0068] Figures 2c and 3b represent the control device 1 when the actuating lever 12 is in its pivoted position, having here reached a maximum angle of rotation as will be shown from the rest of the description.

[0069] Recalling that the base 10, in this embodiment, is intended to be fixed to the watch case in such a way that it can only move in translation along the direction of the axis X1, it is understood that the implementation of the second predefined action on the actuating lever 12 can only cause the latter to rotate with respect to the base 10, with axis X2. The contact maintained between the outer end 22 of the control rod 4 and the concavity 36, under the effect of the return spring 46 between the base 10 and the locking flange 18, contributes to assigning to the concavity 36 the role of a cam forcing the actuating lever 12 to move away from the base 10 when it is itself rotated.Thus, the illustrations in figures 2c and 3b show the actuating lever 12 in its pivoted position, in which it is located at maximum distance from the base 10 because the concavity 36 presents its shallowest depth opposite the outer end 22 of the control rod 4.

[0070] It is advantageous to provide that the contact surfaces between the actuating lever 12 and the outer end 22 of the control rod 4, as well as the force of the return spring 46, are designed so that the actuating lever 12 is automatically returned to its neutral position as soon as the user ceases to perform the second predefined action. Thus, the assembly just described defines a device for indexing the position of the actuating lever 12 with reference to the base 10, preferably even allowing the implementation of a tactile feedback for the user when applying the second predefined action to the control member 2.

[0071] The rotation of the control rod 4 when the actuating lever 12 moves from its neutral position to its pivoted position is also visible in figures 3a and 3b due to the change in orientation of the linking member 6 when moving from one figure to the other.

[0072] The consequences of rotating the actuating lever 12 will be described in more detail with reference to Figures 4a, 4b, 5a and 5b. The respective section planes for the representations of Figures 4a, 4b and for the representations of Figures 5a, 5b are schematically represented by lines IV-IV and VV referenced in Figure 2a.

[0073] It appears from Figures 4a and 4b that the first toothed element 48 is shaped like a plate with a toothed sector extending over slightly less than 180 degrees. The plate has a central, non-circular hole engaged with a portion of complementary shape on the shaft 42, thus being rotationally fixed to it. The second toothed element 50 is a pinion, also with a central, non-circular hole engaged with a portion of complementary shape on the control rod 4, to be rotationally fixed to it. Alternatively, the second toothed element 50 could, of course, have a shape similar to that of the first toothed element 48.

[0074] Base 10 has a shape such that the first and second toothed organs 48, 50 can be in permanent contact with each other.

[0075] It also appears from Figures 4a and 4b that the collar 52 preferably also provides peripheral guidance for the first toothed element 48. Similarly, the base 10 includes a partially cylindrical stop 62 which also contributes to the rotational guidance of the first toothed element 48. Furthermore, the stop 62 is designed to cooperate with the end portions of the toothed sector of the first toothed element 48, these end portions thus defining limiting surfaces integral with the shaft 42, to limit the amplitude of rotation of the latter with respect to the base 10, as can be seen from the view in Figure 4b, the shaft 42 having pivoted in the counterclockwise direction when passing from the configuration of Figure 4a (neutral position of the actuating lever 12) to the configuration of Figure 4b (pivoted position of the actuating lever 12).

[0076] It is clear here that the actuating lever 12 can pivot in both directions, the stop 62 defining a limitation on its angle of rotation in both directions. Of course, a person skilled in the art will not encounter any particular difficulty in defining a different direction for one or the other. stops to limit the rotation of the actuating lever 12, or even to provide a construction in which the actuating lever 12 could only pivot in one direction of rotation, without going out of the scope of the invention as defined by the attached claims.

[0077] Finally, Figures 4a and 4b show that the connection between the first and second toothed elements 48, 50 involves a gear ratio other than 1, preferably to achieve an angular velocity of the control rod 4 greater than that of the shaft 42 when the actuating lever 12 is rotated by a user. Of course, a person skilled in the art may implement any gear ratio suited to their own needs, whether less than, equal to, or greater than 1, or even provide for the use of an intermediate linkage ensuring the connection between the first and second toothed elements 48, 50, without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the attached claims.

[0078] Figures 5a and 5b highlight an additional safety device included in the control device 1 according to the preferred embodiment, optionally, to prevent a translation of the control member 2 towards the watch part box when the actuating lever 12 is in its pivoted position or, preferably, as soon as it is no longer in its neutral position.

[0079] Indeed, it appears from Figure 5a that in the neutral position of the actuating lever 12, the cutout 60 of the locking flange 18 is positioned opposite the assembly tube 8, more precisely aligned with its locking portion 58, as was more clearly seen from a comparative examination of the views in Figures 2a and 2b, and as already mentioned previously. In other words, the projections of the cutout 60 and the locking portion 58 in a plane, along the direction of the axis X1, would be arranged adjacent to each other.

[0080] When the actuating lever 12 is moved from its neutral position, as illustrated in Figure 5b, the locking flange 18 also pivots and its cutout 60 shifts from its position associated with the neutral position of the actuating lever 12, as can be seen from an examination compared to Figures 5a and 5b. In this case, applying pressure to the control element 2 would have no effect since the locking flange 18 would abut directly against the assembly tube 8, before it could move axially in any significant way, as was more clearly shown in Figure 2c. Indeed, it appears from the latter that the cutout 60 is no longer located in the corresponding cutting plane and that a portion of the maximum radius of the locking flange 18 is then positioned opposite a portion of the assembly tube 8, defining a stop along the direction of the axis X1.

[0081] Thanks to the features just described, we obtain a control device that allows two separate clockwork mechanisms to be operated by two different manipulations: translation and rotation. However, its construction is simplified compared to existing control devices that performed similar functions. As previously mentioned, the control device according to the present invention can be combined with various types of mechanisms, such as a chronograph or countdown timer, a striking and / or animation mechanism, or a correction mechanism for the corresponding timepiece. Those skilled in the art will not encounter any particular difficulty in adapting this instruction to their own specific needs.

[0082] It can of course be envisaged that the control device according to the invention may allow the actuating of more than two functions of the associated watch movement, without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims. Thus, by way of illustrative but non-limiting example, it can be envisaged that pressing on the control member actuates a first function, that a rotation in one direction actuates a second function, and that a rotation in the other direction actuates a third function.

[0083] Furthermore, the particular construction of the control device according to the present invention, giving it an appearance of an elongated pusher, allows for a more discreet implantation in a watch case than crown-pusher type control devices.

[0084] The implementation of the present invention is not limited to certain specific features as illustrated and described. Indeed, a person skilled in the art will encounter no particular difficulty in adapting this teaching to their own needs and implementing a control device incorporating only some of these features without departing from the scope of the present invention as defined by the claims. Thus, for example, we recall various embodiments that have already been mentioned, such as the possibility of limiting the rotation of the actuating lever to a single direction of rotation, as well as the possibility of choosing the gear ratio between the first and second toothed elements ensuring the transmission of the user's second predefined action to the control rod, or the optional implementation of one or both of the safety devices.

[0085] In general, it will be understood that the present teaching can be considered more broadly than simply limited to the preferred embodiment described above. Indeed, according to a more general approach, the control device according to the invention may comprise a first actuating member movable in translation along the principal axis X1, without this first actuating member necessarily exhibiting rotational symmetry that would also allow it to rotate on its own axis, as is the case with the control rod 4. The principal axis X1 may in all cases be defined unambiguously based on geometric and / or functional considerations.Thus, for example, it can be predicted that the principal axis X1 corresponds approximately to the median axis of the first actuating member, or to the intersection of two median planes of the first actuating member that are perpendicular to each other, or at least to a portion of the first actuating member that would be guided in translation along the axis X1 (even if another portion of the first actuating member is not "centered" on the axis X1, for example, by having a shape designed to receive pressure or to interact with another component). Furthermore, it can be predicted that the... the first actuation member can be operated either directly by a user or via the control member, without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the attached claims.

[0086] Similarly, the control device according to the invention can generally be provided with a second actuating member attached to the control member and movable along the second axis X2, following a rotational movement about axis X2 as described in relation to the preferred embodiment illustrated, but optionally following a translational movement about axis X2, as an alternative. The control member could also be made in a single part, limited to the actuating lever, as an alternative to the two-part structure described, and assembled to the housing either directly or via an assembly element similar to the assembly tube described.Whether assembled to the box directly or via a base, as described above, the actuating lever could move in rotation or translation with reference to the box to drive the second actuating member in a similar manner.

[0087] It is clear that to ensure the proper functioning of the control device according to the present invention, it is necessary that the second actuating member move with the control member, in other words that it be fixed to it, that is to say that these two members are fitted together or fixed to each other, for example by means of an elastic member or a joint, or that they can be rigidly linked to each other in such a way that the second actuating member follows all the movements of the control member, exactly as if it were made in one piece with it, or even that the second actuating member and the control member are actually made in one piece, in any case at least with the actuating lever when the control member comprises two parts.Indeed, it is understood that it is important that the second actuation member be connected to the part of the control member which allows it to be actuation when the control member is made in several parts. parts. It appears in any case that, even in the case of the preferred embodiment illustrated and described above, the base of the control member is moved by pressure on the actuating lever to actuate the first actuating member, and the second actuating member which is integral with the actuating lever also moves with the base in this case, the two parts of the control member moving together.

[0088] As an alternative to the toothed element described and illustrated, the second actuating element could, for example, consist of a simple actuating tooth or a rack. The second actuating element preferably remains outside the case, thus advantageously limiting the case's sealing problems. Furthermore, the second actuating element could cooperate directly with a mechanism of the case or the associated watch movement, independently of the role played by the first actuating element, as an alternative to the implementation of the kinematic link between the first and second actuating elements described above, which is the preferred embodiment.

[0089] It is understood that the variants of the embodiment of the present invention are so numerous that it is not possible to mention them all here, but a person skilled in the art will not encounter any particular difficulty in implementing any variant which will meet his own needs and which will result from an adaptation of this teaching, without going out of the scope of the invention as defined by the attached claims.

Claims

Demands 1. Control device (1), intended to be assembled to a case of a timepiece to actuate at least two functions of the timepiece, comprising: - a first actuating element, having a predefined main axis X1, intended to be arranged so as to be able to move in translation with reference to the box along said main axis X1, in order to actuate a first function, - a control member (2) at least partially superimposed on said first actuating member with reference to the box, characterized in that it comprises a second actuating member intended to be arranged to be able to move with reference to the box along at least one axis X2, distinct from said main axis X1, to actuate at least a second function in response to an adapted displacement of at least a part of said control member (2), said second actuating member being integral with said control member (2).

2. Control device (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that said control member (2) comprises: - a base (10) intended to be assembled to the case of the timepiece, and - an actuating lever (12) integral with said second actuating member and arranged on said base (10) so as to be able to present a displacement along said axis X2 in reference to said base (10), between a neutral position and at least one actuated position.

3. Control device (1) according to claim 2, characterized in that said base (10) is intended to be assembled to the case of the timepiece so as to be able to move exclusively in translation along said main axis X1, in order to be able to drive said first actuation member in translation.

4. Control device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that said first actuating member comprises a substantially cylindrical control rod (4) having said principal axis X1 as axis of symmetry.

5. Control device (1) according to claim 4, characterized in that it comprises a kinematic link between said first actuating member and said second actuating member, arranged in such a way that a displacement of said second actuating member along said axis X2 can cause a rotation of said control rod (4) along said main axis X1.

6. Control device (1) according to claims 2 and 5, characterized in that said second actuating member comprises a first toothed member (48) capable of engaging with a second toothed member (50) fixed in rotation to said control rod (4).

7. Control device (1) according to claim 6, characterized in that said first and second toothed members (48, 50) are dimensioned in such a way that said second toothed member (50) has an angular velocity greater than that of said first toothed member (48) when said actuating lever (12) is moved with reference to said base (10).

8. Control device (1) according to any one of claims 2 to 7, characterized in that said actuating lever (12) is arranged on said base (10) so as to be able to pivot with reference to the latter, said actuated position being a pivoted position.

9. Control device (1) according to claim 8, characterized in that it comprises a shaft (42) of axis X2, substantially parallel to said main axis X1 and at a distance from the latter, arranged so as to define a pivot type link of axis X2 between said base (10) and said actuating lever (12).

10. Control device (1) according to claim 9, characterized in that said shaft (42) is integral with said actuating lever (12) by being arranged in a bearing provided in said base (10).

11. Control device (1) according to claim 9 or 10, characterized in that said base (10) carries at least one stop (62) capable of cooperating with a limiting surface integral with said shaft (42) to limit the amplitude of rotation of the latter with reference to said base (10).

12. Control device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises an assembly tube (8) intended to be made attached to the watch part case so as to define a passage for said first actuation member.

13. Control device (1) according to claim 12, characterized in that said control member (2) is connected to said assembly tube (8) in such a way that it can move in translation along said main axis X1 in the direction of said assembly tube (8), from a rest position to a pushed position, in response to pressure from the user on said control member (2), the control device (1) comprising an elastic return member (32) arranged to act on said control member (2) and push it back to its rest position, and in that said assembly tube (8) comprises a stop surface (20) arranged to be able to define the maximum possible distance between said control member (2) and said assembly tube (8), corresponding to the rest position of said control member (2).

14. Control device (1) according to claim 13, characterized in that said first actuating member has an internal end, intended to be located inside the case of the timepiece, said internal end carrying a connecting member (6) intended to cooperate with at least one timekeeping mechanism and preferably defining a stop arranged to cooperate with said stop surface (20) of said assembly tube (8) to define the rest position of said control member (2).

15. Control device (1) according to claim 13 or 14, characterized in that it comprises a first safety device arranged to prevent a displacement of said actuating lever (12) along said axis X2 when said control member (2) is in its pushed position.

16. Control device (1) according to claims 10 and 15, characterized in that said shaft (42) carries a locking flange (18) having a cutout (60) positioned opposite a locking portion (58) of complementary shape carried by said assembly tube (8) in said pushed position of said control member (2), such that said locking flange (18) is locked in rotation.

17. Control device (1) according to any one of claims 13 to 16, characterized in that it comprises a second safety device arranged to prevent a translation of said control member (2) in the direction of its pushed position when said actuating lever (12) is in its actuated position.

18. Control device (1) according to any one of claims 2 to 17, characterized in that it has at least one indexing device, arranged between said actuating lever (12) and said base (10), to retain said actuating lever (12) in its neutral position, by default, while allowing its movement in reference to said base (10) towards said at least one actuated position.

19. Control device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said second actuating member and said control member (2) are nested one inside the other, fixed to one another, rigidly linked to one another in such a way that said second actuating member follows all the movements of said control member (2), or made in one piece.

20. A timepiece comprising a case housing a control device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 19.

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