Timepiece setting mechanism comprising an epicyclic gearing

Abstract

The present invention relates to a setting mechanism for a timepiece movement comprising a hand (1), a crown (2), and an epicyclic gearing (3, 13), wherein the epicyclic gearing (3, 13) comprises at least one first shaft, at least one second shaft, and at least one third shaft, wherein the hand (1) is indirectly connected to the first shaft and can be driven via the first shaft, or is indirectly connected to the second shaft and can be driven via the second shaft, or is connected to the third shaft and can be driven via the third shaft.

Description

[0001] Clock mechanism with planetary gear drive

[0002] The present invention lies in the technical field of watchmaking, in particular in the technical field of gears for watches, and relates to a clock mechanism comprising a planetary gear drive.

[0003] Clock mechanisms are known from the prior art in which a hand can be set using a crown. The hand is typically connected to a minute hand tube, which is frictionally engaged with a minute hand shaft via a slip clutch. The minute hand shaft is connected to the rest of the clockwork, for example, a mainspring that drives the clockwork, and via various gears to the escape wheel, which is connected to the balance wheel via the pallet fork. The time on a clock can be set by turning the crown when it is in a setting position. When setting the clock, the friction between the minute hand tube and the minute hand shaft must be overcome with a torque, causing the minute hand tube to slip around the minute hand shaft. The minute hand shaft is held in position by the mainspring, so that only the minute hand tube moves.

[0004] A disadvantage of such known signal boxes is that, in the case of an unwound clock with a relaxed spring, the torque required to hold the minute shaft in position is provided by the rest of the clockwork.

[0005] When setting the watch, all components of the gear train between the hand and the escape wheel move until the frictional torque is applied and the minute hand slides around the slip clutch. The escape wheel typically has a star-shaped geometry with teeth that taper to a point and are machined at a specific angle. The teeth of the escape wheel are designed to engage the lifting surfaces of the pallet stones of the escapement. These pallet stones, typically made of ruby ​​or another hard material, sit on the pallet fork, which alternately stops and releases the escape wheel. The shape of the teeth is crucial, as their flanks are angled so that, upon contact with the pallet stones, they perform a sliding motion that transfers energy from the escape wheel to the balance wheel.At the same time, this design ensures that the escape wheel is securely locked by the flat resting surface of the pallet stones when the anchor is in its rest position. The escape wheel is designed to rotate only in one direction, corresponding to the clockwise movement of the hands.

[0006] If the hands are turned backwards according to the setting mode, the movement of the gear is transmitted to the escape wheel, which then rotates in the opposite direction. The escape wheel should not be turned in the wrong direction, as this can cause significant damage, especially to the pallet stones of the escapement. These pallet stones are precisely engineered and positioned to ensure optimal power transmission and minimal wear. If the escape wheel is turned in the wrong direction, the normal power flow in the gear train is reversed, placing unusual stress on the pallet stones. The teeth of the escape wheel are designed to slide with the pallet stones in the intended direction of rotation without causing excessive wear. However, in the opposite direction, the sharp edges of the teeth strike the pallet surfaces or even the delicate lifting surfaces.

[0007] This leads to abrasion and micro-scratches, as the uneven load causes wear on the polished surfaces of the pallet stones, reducing their efficiency in force transmission. Furthermore, material chipping can occur, as the pallet stones can be damaged or even broken by direct mechanical impact under particularly high force or frequent incorrect rotation.

[0008] Inaccurate timekeeping can also result, as wear or damage disrupts the precise interaction between the pallet fork and escape wheel, negatively impacting the balance wheel's amplitude and thus the accuracy of timekeeping. Furthermore, improper loading can damage the escape wheel's teeth themselves. Such damage affects the entire escapement mechanism and can only be repaired through costly and time-consuming procedures. Therefore, it is essential that the escape wheel rotates only in its intended direction.

[0009] Against this background, the present invention aims to provide a control mechanism for a clock which avoids the aforementioned disadvantages.

[0010] According to the invention, this problem is solved by a control mechanism for a clockwork comprising a pointer, a crown and an epicyclic gear train, wherein the epicyclic gear train comprises at least a first shaft, at least a second shaft and at least a third shaft, wherein the pointer is indirectly connected to the first shaft and can be driven via the first shaft, or the pointer is indirectly connected to the second shaft and can be driven via the second shaft, or the pointer is indirectly connected to the third shaft and can be driven via the third shaft.

[0011] A clock mechanism is a component responsible for setting and fine-tuning the clock hands and enables precise control of time measurement by transferring the user's intervention to the clock mechanism.

[0012] The crown can be a mechanical, external control element of the watch. It can be used to wind the movement and / or set the time by transferring mechanical energy to the setting mechanism. Winding the watch usually means tensioning the mainspring. The hand can be a part of the dial that indicates the time. The hand can be mechanically connected to the movement and move due to the movement's power. In a mechanical movement, the spring refers to the mainspring, which can be wound manually via the crown. It can store mechanical potential energy and release it to the movement when it relaxes.

[0013] The escape wheel is part of a watch's escapement mechanism. It works in conjunction with the pallet fork to release the mainspring's energy in controlled increments. This regulates the movement of the gears and, consequently, the movement of the hands, ensuring consistent timekeeping. A change wheel in a mechanical watch movement is a gear that connects different gears. It ensures that torque and rotational motion are transferred from one part of the movement to another.

[0014] An epicyclic gear transmission is a special type of gear transmission in which one or more gears are arranged on a circular path.

[0015] In this way, the solution according to the invention makes it possible for the clockwork to do without a slip clutch, so that when setting the hand only a negligible torque is transferred to the clockwork and thus to the escape wheel, which minimizes the wear of the escape wheel and the anchor.

[0016] In a preferred embodiment, the planetary gear system comprises a first bevel gear, a second bevel gear and a planet carrier with a gear and with a third bevel gear, wherein the pointer is indirectly connected to the first bevel gear and can be driven via the first bevel gear, or indirectly connected to the second bevel gear and can be driven via the second bevel gear, or connected to the planet carrier and can be driven via the planet carrier.

[0017] A bevel gear is a gear with a conical profile, commonly used in gearboxes to transmit torque and rotary motion at an angle. The tooth flanks are arranged along a truncated cone, so the axes of the bevel gears are at an angle to each other. Bevel gears can have various tooth configurations, such as straight, spiral, or hypoid teeth, depending on the desired kinematics and application.

[0018] All gears can alternatively be designed as gears with straight flanks and angled axes.

[0019] The planetary carrier is a central component of a planetary gear system and serves as a holder for the planetary gears. In the context of a bevel gear system, the planetary carrier can be either rotatable or fixed. It transmits forces and movements from the gears mounted on it to the next component in the gear system and allows the gears to rotate relative to other elements of the system.

[0020] In another preferred embodiment, the planetary gear set is a Wolfrom gear set. A Wolfrom gear set is a special type of planetary gear set that has two coupled sets of planet gears with a common planet carrier. The inner and outer planet sets are kinematically coupled and typically operate with different gear ratios. Wolfrom gear sets can achieve very high gear ratios because the combination of the two planet sets allows for a multiplication of the gear ratios.

[0021] In a further preferred embodiment, the planetary gear system comprises a ring gear, a sun gear and at least one planet gear, wherein the pointer is indirectly connected to the ring gear and can be driven via the ring gear, or indirectly connected to the sun gear and can be driven via the sun gear, or indirectly connected to a planet carrier of the at least one planet gear and can be driven via the at least one planet gear.

[0022] In this configuration, the epicyclic gear system corresponds to a planetary gear system. A planetary gear system is a special type of epicyclic gear system in which one or more planet gears can rotate around a central sun gear. A ring gear is a gear that surrounds the planet gears and provides them with an outer boundary. Together with the sun gear and the at least one planet gear, it forms the planetary gear system. The sun gear is the central gear in a planetary gear system. It can be stationary or driven and mesh with the planet gear(s) that can orbit it. Planet gears are gears that rotate around the central sun gear and simultaneously mesh with the ring gear.

[0023] Preferably, the crown of the movement is designed to switch between a first and a second gear path of the planetary gear train. The crown can be moved into different positions by pulling or pushing it. These movements perform various functions within the movement. For example, pulling the crown allows the time to be set, while pushing it restores the normal operating mode. In this case, pulling or pushing the crown alters the mechanical connection within the movement.

[0024] In this context, the term "switching" means that pulling or pushing the crown mechanically changes the drive of the planetary gear system. The drive, in this case, refers to the transmission of power from the energy source (e.g., the wound spring) to the gears responsible for moving the clock hands. The drive of the planetary gear system can also refer to the mechanical transfer of energy to the planetary gear system, which has already been described as a specific type of gear mechanism. This drive sets the planetary gear system in motion, which can then direct the rotational force into different gear paths.

[0025] A gear path describes the route that power or motion takes through the clockwork mechanism after being transferred from the drive to the gears. Different gear paths allow the energy to be directed through various gears or mechanical links to enable different movements or functions of the clockwork. For example, a first gear path might enable the normal time display, while another gear path allows the time to be set.

[0026] In a preferred embodiment, the first gear path enables the movement of the hand by means of the crown drive, and the second gear path enables the movement of the hand by means of a spring drive. In this way, the watch user can switch between a setting mode, in which the hand is adjusted by turning the crown, and a normal mode, in which turning the crown winds the spring. The second gear path is the original or standard path by which energy from the drive can be transmitted through the planetary gear train. This path can, for example, enable the normal operation of the watch, in which the hand is driven by the energy of the spring. The first gear path connects the crown to the hand. This can be used for other functions, such as setting the time.

[0027] In a further preferred embodiment, pulling the crown to a specific position can release a first brake. Pushing the crown to a normal position can actuate the first brake. The term "brake" refers to an element that can be used to control the movement of certain components, for example, to stop them completely. A brake can act on a component to inhibit or block its movement. In mechanical systems, it is often used to ensure that movements only occur when desired and can otherwise be stopped in a controlled manner. When a brake is activated, it can exert a controlled inhibition or blockage on a specific gear or shaft. This prevents the corresponding component from continuing to rotate or moving in an undesired way.When a brake is released, the impediment or blockage can be lifted, allowing the corresponding component to move freely again. This function can be used to restore the normal operation of the clockwork after an adjustment, for example, by setting the hand back into motion. In a further preferred embodiment, the first shaft of the planetary gear train can be braked by actuating the first brake, or the second shaft of the planetary gear train, or the third shaft of the planetary gear train.

[0028] In another preferred embodiment, the first brake is designed as a pawl. The pawl is a movable part that engages with the teeth of the gear.

[0029] In a further preferred embodiment, the first and / or second brake is designed as a friction brake. This allows for stepless and finely metered control of the braking process, thereby achieving precise control of the clockwork's movements. A friction brake utilizes the resistance created by the rubbing of two surfaces to control or slow down the movement. In a mechanical clockwork, a friction brake is used to dampen movements smoothly and continuously, or to completely block them. The braking torque is determined by the degree of friction. The greater the friction, the stronger the braking effect. This type of brake enables a smooth and even deceleration of the movement, which is necessary for precise control of the mechanism.

[0030] In a further preferred embodiment, the first and / or second brake is designed as a magnetic brake. This enables a contactless braking process, which reduces component wear and ensures a long service life for the clockwork. A magnetic brake is a braking system that uses magnetic fields to control, slow down, or stop the movement of a component without establishing physical contact between the moving parts. Unlike mechanical brakes, which generate friction between two surfaces, the magnetic brake uses the interaction between magnetic fields and conductive materials to achieve a controlled braking effect. This results in a low-wear and often very smooth braking process.

[0031] In a further preferred embodiment, the first and / or second brake is designed as a clamping brake. This enables a high holding force in a small installation space, ensuring stable fixation of the moving parts of the clockwork. A clamping brake is a mechanical braking system that blocks or slows down the movement of a moving part, such as a shaft or gear, by compressing or clamping it. The braking effect is created by the pressure exerted on the moving component, which allows it to be fixed or controlled.

[0032] In another preferred embodiment, the first and / or second brake is designed as a lever brake. This allows for simple and quick operation of the brake, minimizing maintenance and improving the operability of the clockwork. A lever brake is a mechanical braking system in which pressure is applied to a component, such as a shaft or gear, by actuating a lever to slow down or stop its movement. The lever acts as a force amplifier, achieving a precise and controlled braking effect by converting a small force into a larger braking force.

[0033] In a further preferred embodiment, a second planetary gear set is provided, comprising at least a fourth shaft, at least a fifth shaft, and at least a sixth shaft, wherein the first shaft of the planetary gear set and the fourth shaft of the second planetary gear set are connected to each other by at least a first coupling shaft, or wherein the second shaft of the planetary gear set and the fifth shaft of the second planetary gear set are connected to each other by at least a second coupling shaft. This eliminates the need to decouple gears to adjust the pointer. The term "decoupling" in a mechanical context can refer to the separation or interruption of an existing mechanical connection between two or more components that previously worked together to transmit motion or force.The second planetary gear train has two output shafts and one input shaft. The input shaft is connected to the crown. The first output shaft is connected to the shaft of the planetary gear train, which is connected to the watch hand. The second output shaft is connected to the mainspring.

[0034] In a further preferred embodiment, pulling the crown to a set position releases the first brake and activates a second brake, and pushing the crown to a normal position activates the first brake and releases the second brake.

[0035] In a further preferred embodiment, the fourth shaft of the second planetary gear set can be braked by actuating the second brake, or the fifth shaft of the second planetary gear set can be braked, or the sixth shaft of the second planetary gear set can be braked. When the output shaft connected to the spring is braked and the output shaft connected to the shaft of the planetary gear set, which is connected to the clock hand, is released, the time can be set by turning the crown.

[0036] In a further preferred embodiment, the two planetary gear sets are connected to each other by coupling shafts, wherein the at least one first coupling shaft or the at least one second coupling shaft is coupled to a transmission shaft of the clockwork. The term "coupling shafts" refers to special mechanical connecting shafts that enable the transmission of force or motion between different components of a system. In a clockwork or a mechanical system, coupling shafts can typically connect two rotating components, such as gears or transmissions, so that the motion or torque is transmitted from one component to the other. Since the coupling shafts are advantageously also connected to the crown and the transmission shaft, these shafts play a central role in transmitting the motion from the crown to the clockwork.Turning the crown transmits the movement via the coupling shafts to the transmission shaft and the two planetary gear trains, thus controlling the desired functions of the movement, such as setting the time or driving the hands with the mainspring. A further advantage of this design is that the hands are driven by the combined movement of the mainspring and the crown, according to a given setting position. In this way, the user does not "lose" any time when setting the hands, because the hands are always driven at least by the mainspring and can also be driven by turning the crown.

[0037] In a further preferred embodiment, the first and / or second brake is designed as a friction brake, a magnetic brake, a clamping brake, or a lever brake.

[0038] Further details, features and advantages of the invention will be explained in more detail with reference to the following exemplary embodiments.

[0039] This shows:

[0040] Fig. 1 shows a conventional clockwork mechanism according to the state of the art in a perspective exploded view;

[0041] Fig. 2a in a perspective view of an epicyclic gear unit according to the invention in the form of a planetary gear unit with ring gear, sun gear and planet gears as well as pointer;

[0042] Fig. 2b shows a perspective view of a planetary gear transmission according to the invention, designed as a differential transmission;

[0043] Fig. 3 schematically shows the first gear path and the second gear path;

[0044] Fig. 4a in a perspective view a second planetary gear comprising ring gear, sun gear and planet gears, which is connected to the first planetary gear;

[0045] Fig. 4b shows a side view of the second planetary gear comprising ring gear, sun gear and planet gears, which is connected to the first planetary gear; and

[0046] Fig. 5 shows a side view of the first brake, which is designed as a pawl. Fig. 1 shows a perspective exploded view of a conventional clockwork mechanism according to the prior art. In normal mode, the crown 2 is indirectly connected to the spring 23. The spring 23 can also be referred to as the mainspring barrel. In normal mode, the spring 23 can be wound by turning the crown. In normal mode, the potential energy of the spring 23 is transferred to the hands 1 via the gear 39 (the gear 39 can be an auxiliary gear), which is connected via the slip clutch 40 to the gear 41 (the slip clutch 40 can be an auxiliary gear shaft and the gear 41 can be a hand friction mechanism). The potential energy of the spring 23 is released only incrementally. The gear 39 is connected via the intermediate gear.

[0047] The 38 (gear 38 can be an intermediate wheel), the 37 (gear 37 can be a seconds wheel), the escape wheel 36, and the pallet 35 are connected to the balance wheel 34. The balance wheel 34 oscillates in its normal mode, causing the pallet 35 to swing back and forth. The pallet 35, in turn, stops the movement of the escape wheel 36 and then releases it again. This stopping and releasing of the escape wheel occurs in rhythm with the oscillation of the balance wheel 34 and is also known as the "ticking" of the watch.

[0048] The rhythm of the balance wheel 34's oscillation is transmitted via the seconds wheel 37 and the intermediate wheel 38 to the gear 39 and thus also to the hands 1. In setting mode, the crown 2 is connected to the first setting wheel 43, which in turn is connected to the hands 1 via gears 44 and 45 (gear 43 can be the first setting wheel, gear 44 can be the second setting wheel, and gear 45 can be an intermediate wheel 45). When the crown 2 is turned in setting mode, the hands 1 also rotate. Therefore, when the hand 1 is moved by turning the crown 2, the gear 41, which is connected to the intermediate wheel 45, slips over the slip clutch 40. This requires overcoming a frictional torque. If the spring 23 is wound, it provides the necessary torque. However, if the spring 23 is relaxed, the torque must be applied by the gear path between the balance wheel 34 and the gear 39.A rotation of gear 39 is then transmitted via the gear path between the gears.

[0049] 39 and the balance wheel 34 up to the anchor 35, where the rotation is blocked.

[0050] In watches with a hacking seconds function, the hacking seconds stop the movement of the balance wheel 34. Thus, when setting the watch, all components of the gear train between gear 39 and escape wheel 36 move until the frictional torque is applied and gear 41 slips around the slip clutch 40. The escape wheel 36 can have a star-shaped geometry with teeth that taper to a point and are machined at a specific angle. The teeth of the escape wheel 36 are designed to engage the lifting surfaces of the pallet stones 42 of the pallet fork 35. These pallet stones 42, typically made of ruby ​​or another hard material, sit on the pallet fork 35, which alternately stops and releases the escape wheel. The shape of the teeth is crucial, as the flanks of the teeth are inclined so that, upon contact with the pallet stones 42, they perform a sliding motion that transfers energy from the escape wheel to the balance wheel.At the same time, this design ensures that the anchor wheel is securely blocked by the flat resting surface of the pallet stones 42 when the anchor 35 is in its rest position.

[0051] The escape wheel 36 is designed to rotate only in one direction, corresponding to the forward movement of the hands in a clockwise direction. If the hands 1 are turned backward according to the setting mode, the movement of the gear 41 is transmitted to the escape wheel 36, which then rotates in the wrong direction. The escape wheel 36 should not be turned in the wrong direction, as this can lead to significant damage, especially to the pallet stones 42 of the pallet 35. These stones, usually made of a hard material such as ruby, are precisely engineered and positioned to ensure optimal power transmission and minimal wear. If the escape wheel 36 is turned in the wrong direction, the normal power flow in the gear train is reversed, placing unusual stress on the pallet stones 42. The tooth flanks of the escape wheel 36 are designed to slide with the pallet stones 42 in the intended direction of rotation without causing excessive stress on them.In the opposite direction, however, the sharp tooth edges come into direct contact with the pallet surfaces or even the sensitive lifting surfaces.

[0052] This leads to abrasion and micro-scratches, as the uneven load causes wear on the polished surfaces of the pallet stones 42, reducing their efficiency in power transmission. Furthermore, material chipping can occur, as the pallet stones 42 can be damaged or even broken off by direct mechanical impact under particularly high force or frequent incorrect rotation. Inaccurate timekeeping can also result, as the resulting wear or damage disrupts the precise interaction between the anchor 35 and the escape wheel 36, negatively affecting the balance wheel's amplitude and thus the accuracy of timekeeping. Moreover, incorrect loading can also damage the teeth of the escape wheel 36 itself. Such damage affects the entire escapement and can only be repaired through costly and time-consuming procedures. Therefore, it is essential that the escape wheel 36 is rotated exclusively in its intended direction.

[0053] Fig. 2a shows a perspective view of an epicyclic gear unit according to the invention in the form of a planetary gear unit 3 with ring gear 4, sun gear 5, and planet gears 6. In this embodiment, the pointer 1 is indirectly connected to the planet gears 6 via the planet carrier 20 and can be driven by the planet gears 6. The drive can be effected either by the crown 2 or by the spring 23. In this embodiment, the crown 2 is connected to the sun gear 5, and the sun gear 5 can be driven by the crown 2 in setting mode. In this embodiment, the spring 23 is connected to the ring gear 4, and the ring gear 4 can be driven by the spring 23 in normal mode. In this embodiment, the sun gear 5 is stationary in normal mode, and the ring gear 4 is driven by the spring 23. This causes the planet gears 6 to rotate around the sun gear 5. The ring gear 4 thus drives the planet carrier 20.The planet carrier 20 is indirectly connected to the pointer 1 via the gear 45 and in turn drives it. Thus, in normal mode, the pointer 1 can be driven by the spring 23.

[0054] In setting mode, the ring gear 4 can remain stationary. In setting mode, the sun gear 5 can be driven by the crown 2. This sets the planet gears 6 in motion, causing them to rotate within the stationary ring gear 4. Thus, in setting mode, the pointer 1, which is indirectly connected to the planet carrier 20, can be driven via the crown 2.

[0055] Alternatively, the crown 2 can also be connected to the ring gear 4, so that the ring gear 4 can be driven by the crown 2. Likewise, the spring 23 can be connected to the sun gear 5, so that the sun gear 5 is driven by the spring 23. Both the crown 2 and the spring 23 can alternatively be connected to the planet carrier 20. In further embodiments, the pointer 1 can also be indirectly connected to the ring gear 4 or indirectly to the sun gear 5.

[0056] Fig. 2b shows a perspective view of an epicyclic gear unit according to the invention, implemented as a differential gear unit. In this embodiment, the pointer 1 is indirectly connected to the planet gears 6 via the planet carrier 20. Two planet gears 6 are shown in this embodiment. Alternatively, more than two or fewer than two planet gears 6 can be used. The axles on which the two planet gears 6 run are, in this example, joined in a further axle and together form the planet carrier 20. The third axle passes through the ring gear 4 and is indirectly connected to the pointer 1. In this embodiment, the planet gears 6, the sun gear 5, and the ring gear 4 are designed as bevel gears. Alternatively, the ring gear 4 and / or the sun gear 5 and / or the planet gears 6 can be designed as spur gears.

[0057] The ring gear 4 is positively connected to the planet gears 6. The ring gear 4 is not positively connected to the third axle. It is conceivable that, in an alternative embodiment, the axles of the planet gears 6 are guided externally around the ring gear 4, thus forming a planet cage around the ring gear 4. In this embodiment, the sun gear 5 is positively connected to the planet gears 6. In this embodiment, the spring 23 is connected to the ring gear 4. This connection of the ring gear 4 to the spring 23 is not shown. In this embodiment, the crown 2 is connected to the sun gear 5.

[0058] In normal mode, the sun gear 5 is stationary, while the ring gear 4 is driven by the spring 23. This causes the planet gears 6 to rotate around the stationary sun gear 5. The ring gear 4 transmits this motion to the planet carrier 20, which in turn is indirectly connected to and drives the pointer 1. Thus, in normal mode, the pointer 1 is driven by the spring 23.

[0059] In setting mode, the ring gear 4 remains stationary. In this operating state, the sun gear 5 can be driven by the crown 2, causing the planet gears 6 to rotate within the stationary ring gear 4. This moves the pointer 1, which is indirectly connected to the planet carrier 20, via the crown 2 in setting mode.

[0060] Alternatively, the crown 2 can be connected to the ring gear 4, so that the latter can be driven by the crown 2. Likewise, the spring 23 can be connected to the sun gear 5, so that the sun gear 5 is driven by the spring 23. Furthermore, it is possible to connect both the crown 2 and the spring 23 directly to the planet carrier 20. In other variations, the hand 1 can be indirectly coupled to the ring gear 4 or the sun gear 5.

[0061] Fig. 3 shows a schematic representation of the first gear path 7 and the second gear path 8, which enable different operating modes of the clockwork. Depending on the selected mode, the crown 2 can be coupled either to the planetary gear 3 via the first gear path 7 or to the spring 9 via the second gear path 8. The first brake 11 is also shown.

[0062] In setting mode, which is realized by the first gear path 7, the crown 2 is indirectly connected to the planetary gear. By turning the crown 2, the hand 1, which is indirectly driven via the planetary gear 3, can be moved. In this mode, the spring 9 is stationary, and the movement of the hand 1 is achieved solely by manually operating the crown 2. In setting mode, the first brake 11 is released. The planetary gear 3 serves as a transmission element that converts the rotational movement of the crown 2 into a precise movement of the hand 1.

[0063] In normal mode, described by the second gear path 8, the crown 2 is connected to the spring 9. In this mode, the crown 2 can be used to wind the spring 9. Once wound, the spring 9 releases its stored energy to the hand 1 via the planetary gear, thus driving it. The hand 1 is therefore moved indirectly by the spring 9, which transmits its force to the hand 1 via the planetary gear 3. In normal mode, the first brake 11 is engaged. In this mode, the planetary gear 3 serves to transmit the consistent force output of the spring 9 to the hand 1, thereby continuously driving the hand 1. The spring 9 is also indirectly connected to the escapement 31 via the gear train 30. The gear train 30 transmits the movement of the spring 9 to the escapement 31, which ensures that the stored energy of the spring 9 is transmitted to the hand 1 evenly and in a controlled manner.The escapement 31 regulates the movement of the gear train 30, thus ensuring a precise and even movement of the hand 1.

[0064] Figure 3 shows that the crown 2 can be used in two different modes. In setting mode, where the first gear path 7 is activated, it allows the direct setting of the pointer 1 via the planetary gear 3, while in normal mode, where the second gear path 8 is activated, it winds the spring 9, which drives the pointer 1 via the gear train 30 and the planetary gear 3.

[0065] The different modes can be set by pushing or pulling the crown. In the first gear path 7, there is a clutch 32. In the second gear path 8, there is a clutch 33. Pushing the crown 2 opens clutch 32 and closes clutch 33. Pulling the crown opens clutch 33 and closes clutch 32.

[0066] Fig. 4a shows a perspective view of the second planetary gear set 13, comprising ring gear 14, sun gear 15, and planet gears 16, which is connected to the first planetary gear set 3. In this embodiment, the two sun gears 5 and 15 of the planetary gear sets 3 and 13 are connected to each other by means of a first coupling shaft 17.

[0067] In this embodiment, the two ring gears 4 and 14 are connected to the transmission shaft 19, which is connected to the spring (not shown). The second brake 10 brakes the second gear path, and the first brake 11 is released, depending on the operating mode. Not shown is the fact that the crown is indirectly connected to the planet carrier 20 of the first planetary gear set, and the pointer is indirectly connected to the planet carrier 21 of the second gear set. In normal mode, the second brake 10 is released, and the first brake 11 brakes the first gear path. In another embodiment, not shown, the two ring gears 4 and 14 are connected to each other by a second coupling shaft 18. The position and type of brakes are explained in more detail below.

[0068] Fig. 4b shows the second planetary gear, comprising the ring gear, sun gear, and planet gears, which is connected to the first planetary gear, now in a side view. It shows—according to the setting mode—how the second brake 10 brakes the second gear path and the first brake 11 releases the first gear path. In this way, the pointer, which is at least indirectly connected to the planet carrier 20 of the first planetary gear 3 (not shown), can be driven by the crown, which is indirectly connected to the planet carrier 21 of the second planetary gear 13. In normal mode, the second brake 10 is released and the first brake 11 is actuated, so that the pointer is driven via the spring, which is connected to the transmission shaft 19.

[0069] Fig. 5 shows a side view of the first brake 11, which is designed as a pawl. In this embodiment, the pawl 12 engages the teeth of an exemplary gear 22 and is pressed towards the gear 22 by a spring 23. The spring 23 pushes the pawl 12 into detent positions, with detent positions located between the teeth of the gear 22. The pawl 12 is positioned near any gear of the second transmission path. The pawl 12 is attached to a non-moving part of the clock and engages the teeth of the gear 22. The spring 23, which is attached to the clock, can press the pawl 12 onto the gear 22.

[0070] The spring 23 can be mounted on a non-moving part of the clock. The spring pushes the pawl towards the gear 22. The spring 23 can be a compression spring, tension spring, torsion spring, leaf spring, spiral spring, gas spring, or rubber spring. It can be located above or below the pawl 12. Alternatively, the spring 23 can be positioned as a torsion spring on the pivot of the pawl 12. In the figure, the latch 46 is in the blocking position. The pawl 12 cannot be moved upwards and thus, by engaging the teeth of the gear 22, blocks its rotation. If the latch 46 is moved to the left, the pawl 12 can be moved upwards, so that only the spring force of the spring 23 needs to be overcome to rotate the gear 22.

[0071] Gear 22 represents any gear in the first gear path. In its released state (normal mode), the pawl 12 can slide along the teeth of gear 22 as gear 22 rotates, overcoming a restoring force from spring 23. During this process, gear 22 rotates, pawl 12 slides along its teeth, and spring 23 presses it into the next detent position between two teeth of gear 22. In its engaged state (normal mode), pawl 12 blocks the rotation of gear 22, thus braking the first gear path.

[0072] In one embodiment, the first brake 11 and / or the second brake 10 can be designed as a detent lever (e.g., in the form of a spring-loaded locking mechanism), in particular as a lockable spring-loaded detent lever, or as a lockable mechanical detent lock. This enables a positive engagement with the gear 22 and a discretized, stepwise adjustment.

[0073] The figures described above and the embodiments explained in connection with them serve only to illustrate the invention and are not limiting to it. List of reference numerals:

[0074] 1 pointer

[0075] 2 crowns

[0076] 3 planetary gears

[0077] 4. Ring gear

[0078] 5 sun wheel

[0079] 6 planetary gear

[0080] 7 First gear path

[0081] 8 Second gear path

[0082] 9 spring

[0083] 10 Second brake

[0084] 11 First brake

[0085] 12 jack

[0086] 13 Second planetary gear

[0087] 14 Second ring gear

[0088] 15 Second sun wheel

[0089] 16 Second planetary gear

[0090] 17 First coupling shaft

[0091] 18 Second coupling shaft

[0092] 19 transmission wave

[0093] 20 planetary carriers

[0094] 21 Second planetary carrier

[0095] 22 gear

[0096] 23 spring

[0097] 30 gears

[0098] 31 Inhibition

[0099] 32 First clutch

[0100] 33 Second clutch

[0101] 34 Unruhe Anker

[0102] anchor wheel

[0103] Second wheel

[0104] intermediate gear

[0105] Gear (e.g. auxiliary gear)

[0106] Slip clutch

[0107] Gear (e.g. pointer friction)

[0108] pallet stones

[0109] Gear (e.g., first hand-setting wheel)

[0110] Gear (e.g., second pointer setting wheel)

[0111] Gear (e.g. change gear)

[0112] bar

Claims

Claims:

1. Control mechanism for a clockwork comprising a pointer (1), a crown (2), a planetary gear set (3, 13) and a second planetary gear set (3, 13), wherein the planetary gear set (3, 13) comprises at least a first shaft, at least a second shaft and at least a third shaft, wherein the pointer (1) - is indirectly connected to the first wave and can be driven via the first wave, or - is indirectly connected to the second shaft and can be driven via the second shaft, or - is connected to the third shaft and can be driven via the third shaft, wherein the second planetary gear set (3, 13) comprises at least a fourth shaft, at least a fifth shaft and at least a sixth shaft, - wherein the first shaft of the planetary gear set (3, 13) and the fourth shaft of the second planetary gear set (3, 13) are connected to each other by at least one first coupling shaft (17), or - wherein the second shaft of the planetary gear set (3, 13) and the fifth shaft of the second planetary gear set (3, 13) are connected to each other by at least one second coupling shaft (18).

2. Signal box according to claim 1, wherein the planetary gear set (3, 13) comprises a first bevel gear, a second bevel gear and a planetary gear carrier with a third bevel gear, wherein the pointer (1) - is indirectly connected to the first bevel gear and can be driven via the first bevel gear, - or is indirectly connected to the second bevel gear and can be driven via the second bevel gear, - or is connected to the rotating carrier and can be driven via the rotating carrier.

3. Signal box according to claim 1, wherein the planetary gear set (3, 13) comprises a ring gear (4), a sun gear (5) and at least one planet gear (6), wherein the pointer (1) - is indirectly connected to the ring gear (4) and can be driven via the ring gear (4), - or is indirectly connected to the sun wheel (5) and can be driven via the sun wheel (5), - or is connected to a planet carrier (20) of which at least one planet gear (6) is driven by at least one planet gear (6).

4. Signaling device according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the crown of the clockwork is provided for switching between a first gear path (7) and a second gear path (8) of a planetary gear.

5. Signaling device according to claim 4, wherein the first gear path (7) is provided for the movement of the pointer (1) by the crown (2) and the second gear path (8) is provided for the movement of the pointer (1) by a spring (9).

6. Interlocking device according to one of claims 4 or 5, wherein pulling the crown (2) according to a position provides for actuation of a second brake (10) and pushing the crown (2) according to a normal position provides for release of the second brake (10).

7. Signal box according to claim 6, wherein the first shaft of the planetary gear set (3, 13) can be braked by actuating a first brake (11), or the second shaft of the planetary gear set (3, 13) can be braked, or the third shaft of the planetary gear set (3, 13) can be braked.

8. Interlocking device according to claim 6 or claim 7, wherein the first brake (11) is designed as a pawl (12) which, in an actuated state, can block the rotation of a gear of the second transmission path (8), and which, in a released state, is designed as a detent.

9. Interlocking system according to claim 6 or claim 7, wherein the first brake (11) and / or the second brake (10) is designed as a locking lever.

10. Interlocking device according to one of claims 7 to 9, wherein pulling the crown (2) according to a position provides for the release of the first brake (11) and the actuation of a second brake (10), and pushing the crown (2) according to a normal position provides for the actuation of the first brake (11) and the release of the second brake (10).

11. Signal box according to claim 10, wherein the fourth shaft of the second planetary gear set (3, 13) can be braked by actuating the second brake (10), or the fifth shaft of the second planetary gear set (3, 13) can be braked, or the sixth shaft of the second planetary gear set (3, 13) can be braked.

12. Signal box according to one of claims 10 to 11, wherein the at least one first coupling shaft (17) or the at least one second coupling shaft (18) is coupled to a transmission shaft (19) of the clockwork.

Images