CH709758A2 - chronograph mechanism with a multifunction control element, in particular for a back-in-flight ( "flyback"). - Google Patents

Abstract

A watch movement (1) comprising a chronograph mechanism having start, stop and return to zero functions arranged to be controlled by at least one control member, the chronograph mechanism further having an additional function , especially for a flyback (106), characterized in that said additional function is selectable, deselected, and controlled by said controller.

Description

Technical area

The present invention relates to the field of watchmaking. More particularly, it relates to a chronograph mechanism for a timepiece of the type comprising an additional function such as a "flyback" or "flyback" function.

State of the art

[0002] Chronograph watches that include an additional function such as a flyback function, a catch-up, a countdown timer or the like are already known. Such functions are conventionally controlled by means of a control member, such as a push button, which is added to the conventional controls of the chronograph and the basic movement. There may be mentioned, for example, the split-seconds chronograph watch disclosed in document CH253 051, which has a crown and three push buttons in order to control all the functions of the watch, that is to say four control members.

[0003] In order to reduce the number of individual control members of a chronograph, monopusher chronographs are well known. In such mechanisms, successive pressures on a pusher cause a sequence of operation start-stop - reset-to-zero chronograph. Nevertheless, until now, the incorporation of an additional function to the chronograph always requires an additional controller.

The object of the invention is therefore to provide a chronograph clockwork incorporating an additional function, without requiring an additional control member.

Disclosure of the invention

More specifically, the invention relates to a watch movement comprising a chronograph mechanism having start, stop and return to zero functions arranged to be controlled by at least one control member, the chronograph mechanism further having an additional function. According to the invention, the additional function can be selected, deselected, and controlled by said controller.

It is thus proposed a chronograph watch movement requiring a minimum of control members outside the room, which lends itself to pure lines and a small footprint.

Other advantageous features of the invention are set out in the dependent claims.

Brief description of the drawings

Other details of the invention will appear more clearly on reading the description which follows, given with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: <Tb> Fig. 1 <SEP> is a flow diagram showing the principle of the invention; <Tb> Fig. 2a <SEP> is a plan view on the movement side of a clockwork movement according to the invention in a state of rest; <Tb> Fig. 2b <SEP> is a perspective view of a part of the movement of FIG. 2a, movement side; <Tb> Fig. 2c <SEP> is a dial plan view of the movement of FIG. 2a; <Tb> Fig. 2d <SEP> is a perspective view of a part of the movement of FIG. 2c, dial side; <Tb> Fig. 3a - g <SEP> are plan views, on the movement side and on the dial side, of the motion control module of FIGS. 2a and 2c; <Tb> Fig. 4a - g <SEP> are plan views, movement side and dial side, of the clutch module selection / disengagement sliding gear of the movement of FIGS. 2a and 2c; <Tb> Fig. 5a - g <SEP> are plan views, on the movement side and on the dial side, of the selection / motion selection selection module of FIGS. 2a and 2c; <Tb> Fig. 6a - g <SEP> are plan views, movement side and dial side, of the module of the hammers of the movement of fig. 2a and 2c; <Tb> Fig. 7a - g <SEP> are plan views, on the movement side and on the dial side, of the module of other chronograph functions of FIGS. 2a and 2c; <Tb> Fig. 8a - c <SEP> are perspective and plan views of a variant of the clutch selection system; and <Tb> Fig. 9 <SEP> is a perspective view of a variant of the minutes and seconds hammers.

Embodiment of the invention

The principle of the invention will be described later with reference to a monopusher chronograph, wherein the additional function is a return function in flight, that is to say a "flyback", where the needles of the chronograph counter will reset when the chronograph is running. Nevertheless, the same principle also applies to a split-second chronograph, "split", or any other kind of additional functionality. In addition, it also applies to a chronograph with two or more pushers, the additional function being controlled by a pushbutton which also has another feature such as switching on / off, or reset. The modifications of the mechanism described below for these functionalities are within the abilities of those skilled in the art.

FIG. 1 schematically illustrates the operating principle of the chronograph mechanism according to the invention, in the form of a flow diagram.

In the rest position 100, the chronograph is not engaged and remains at rest, the needles remaining stationary, directed towards 12: 00h. Pressing the monopusher triggers the start of the chronograph, which goes into operating mode 102 in the conventional manner. In this mode 102, an additional pressure on the monopusher triggers the stop 104 of the chronograph, and further pressure on the monopusher resets the hands to zero, thus bringing the chronograph to the rest position 100. This sequence of functions takes over the functionality of the chronograph. a conventional monopusher chronograph.

According to the invention, when the chronograph is in operating mode 102, if the user selects flyback mode 106, each additional pressure on the monopusher performs a return flight of the hands.

If the user deselects the flyback mode, the mechanism returns to conventional operating mode 102, and the following pressure on the monopusher stops the chronograph conventionally.

Figs. 2a to 7g illustrate a particular embodiment, which makes it possible to perform the operation illustrated in FIG. 1.

FIG. 2a illustrates the complete mechanism seen from the movement side, and FIG. 2b illustrates in perspective a part of the visible mechanism in FIG. 2a. Figs. 2c and 2d illustrate, analogously, the complete mechanism seen from the dial side. In view of the complexity of fig. 2a - d, several pieces have not been referenced, and these pieces will flow more clearly later.

An identification of the components and their operation follow from the description which follows, with reference to FIGS. 3a - 7g. This description breaks down the mechanism according to the invention into five functional modules, and seven operating states. It should be noted that the functional modules are not completely independent of each other, and that some of the components are involved in several functional modules, as will become clearer later. These functional modules are: 1. Order; 2. clutch selection / disengagement sliding gear; 3. selection / selection indication; 4. Hammers; and 5. Other chronograph functions.

The operating phases are: at. Rest; b. Departure; vs. Flyback ON d. Back to zero in flyback mode; e. Flyback OFF; f. Stop; and boy Wut. Back to zero.

In addition, it should be noted that some components, such as some springs, have not been shown in each figure.

1. Command Module

The functions of this module are based on the operation of the control of a traditional chronograph, with the exception of the control hours which differs slightly. However its operation is similar to that illustrated in the book "The Complicated Watches" by François Lecoultre, page 411. A difference in the control of this mechanism is that it must be disengaged when selecting the flyback mode.

This module, as well as its operation, will be described later with reference to FIGS. 3a - g.

Parts involved: 1) Movement 1a) Selection transmission opening 1b) Selection board guide pins 2) Winding stem 3) Column wheel minutes and seconds 4) Column wheel collar with minutes and seconds 5) Hour column wheel 6) Column wheel choker hours 7) Minute and second command toggle 7a) Minute and seconds control rocker pin 7b) Minute and second control toggle stop 8) Min and second command hook 9) Control spring minutes and seconds 10) Selection board 10a) Selection transmission pin 10b) Control hook release pin 10c) Guiding opening of the selection board 10d) Opening the rake finger 11) Hours control toggle 11a) first hour control toggle pin 11 b) second hour control toggle pin 11c) Hour control toggle stop 12) Hours control spout 12a) Spring of the hour control spout 13) Hours control spring 14) Hammer of the hours 14a) Hammer pin hours

This module is visible in FIG. 3a in its rest position, and comprises a minute and second column wheel 3, pivoted on a frame member of the movement 1, arranged to be pivoted by means of a minute and second control hook 8, and which is positioned by means of a jumper 4 in a conventional manner. The minute and seconds control hook 8 is pivoted on a minute and second control latch 7, which is arranged to be pivoted by axial pressure on a winding stem 2, which acts as a control member, so as to conventional, which acts on a pin latch control minutes and seconds 7a, which is integral in translation with the winding rod 2. In the rest position, the control lever minutes and seconds 7 is in abutment against a stop of control rocker minute and seconds 7b.

[0023] Also visible on the movement side in FIG. 3, a selection board 10 is guided by means of two guide pins of the selection board 1b which are in oblong slots 10c formed in the selection board 10, so that the latter can move between two vertical high positions and low (with reference to the orientation of the figures). The selection board 10 also comprises a release pin of the control hook, arranged to move the control hook of the minutes and seconds 8 of the toothing of the column wheel minutes and seconds 3 when the selection board 10 is located in its high position.

A selection transmission pin 10a integral with the selection board 10 penetrates through a selection transmission aperture 1a made in a frame member of the movement 1, to transmit the selection to the dial side.

On the dial side of the movement 1 is a column wheel hours 5, which controls a hammer 14 hours, is arranged to be rotated by means of a spout 12 hours control and is positioned by a jumper 6 in a conventional manner. The hour control spout 12 is at the end of an hour control flip-flop 11 which pivots on the selector transmission pin 10a and which interacts with a winding stem by means of a first latch pin. control of the hours 11a and a second hour control rocker pin 11b. The hour control lever 11 is further subjected to the action of a control spring hours 13, and in the rest position remains in abutment against a stop control lever hours 11, integral with a frame member . Alternatively, the hour control flip-flop could pivot on an additional selection board provided on the dial side, or on another suitable element.

[0026] 1.1 Rest (Fig. 3a)

In the state of rest, on the movement side, all the components remain stationary. The column wheel minute and seconds 3 remains in position through its jumper 4. The control rocker 7 remains in abutment against its stop 7b through the action of its spring 9 on the control hook 8 which has its axis of pivoting on said rocker.

On the dial side, the hour column wheel 5 remains in position through its jumper 6. The control lever 11 remains in abutment against its abutment 11 c through the action of its spring 13.

1.2 Departure (FIG 3b)

FIG. 3b illustrates the arrangement of the components when starting the chronograph mechanism.

On the movement side, when the user presses on it, the winding stem 2, via a collar and the latch pin of minutes and seconds 7a, actuates the control rocker 7 which rotates on its axis, carrying with it the minute and seconds control hook 8 which will rotate the column wheel minutes and seconds 3 of a tooth of the wolf teeth lying on all its periphery, then said wheel Columns minutes and seconds 3 will be positioned again by its jumper 4. Finally, the minute and seconds control rocker 7 and its hook 8 will be returned to the rest position thanks to the spring 9.

On the dial side, when the user presses the winding stem 2, via a flange and the first hour control rocker pin 11a, the hours control rocker 11 pivots on its axis. The hour control spout 12 will this time push a wolf tooth of the hour column wheel 5. Said spout 12 can pivot in only one direction and is reset by its own spring hour control spout 12a, in order to allow a latching when returning to the rest position under the action of the hour control spring 13 and the maintenance of the hours column wheel 5 by its jumper 6.

[0033] 1.3 Flyback ON (FIG 3c)

In the illustrated embodiment, the Flyback ON mode is started by turning the winding stem 2 when the chronograph mechanism is running.

On the movement side, when switching to flyback mode, the selection board 10, via the release pin of the control hook 10b which is secured thereto, will disengage the control hook 8 so that it no longer causes the column wheel minutes and hours 3, all along that mode is activated, that is pressed on the rod 2 or not. This board carries a selection transmission pin 10a completely traversing the movement through an opening 1a, this being for the purpose of transmitting the information to the dial side.

In addition, the translation of said board is directed by guide pins 1b, integral with a frame member of the movement 1, sliding in guide openings of the selection board 10c formed in the selection board 10 .

On the dial side, the hour control lever 11 to be in relation with the selection transmission pin 10a, either by pivoting directly above or via an additional module as the movement side, when the flyback mode, said rocker 11 will be translated in order to out of the radius of action of the hour column wheel 5 and put it in position so that it can soon operate the hammer hours 14 by the intermediate of its pin 14a.

At the same time, the first hour control rocker pin 11a leaves its position in front of the winding stem 2 and it is the second hour control rocker pin (11b) which then occupies the place in the radius of action of said rod.

[0039] 1.4 Return to zero in flyback mode (FIG.

On the movement side, when the user pushes the winding stem 2, the rod 2 will move the control rocker 7, but the hook 8 being disengaged by the release pin of the control hook 10b, it will undergo a translation due to its support on said pin 10b but will not operate the column wheel minutes and seconds 3. The control rocker 7 is then placed against its abutment 7b by its spring 9.

On the dial side, the control rocker 11 will be pushed by the winding stem 2 via the second pin hours control rocker 11b. The hour control spout 12 can then actuate the hour hammer 14 by means of the hour hammer pin 14a and the control lever 11 will return to rest under the effect of the hour control spring 13.

[0042] 1.5 Flyback OFF (Fig. 3e)

The flyback mode is disengaged by turning the winding stem 2 in the opposite direction to that which engaged.

This is the operation exactly opposite to the flyback ON function. The elements are then in the same position as just after the start, as shown in fig. 3b.

[0045] 1.6 Stopping (FIG 3f)

By pressing the winding stem 2 when the chronograph mechanism is running, that is to say once the flyback mode off, the chronograph is put in stop mode. At the control level, the relationships between the different mechanical elements are identical to the chronograph start function (see Fig. 3b).

[0047] 1.7 Return to zero (FIG.

By pressing again on the winding stem 2, the chronograph mechanism is reset.

For the return to zero, at the command, the relationship between the different mechanical elements are identical to the starting function of the chronograph (see Figure 3b).

2. Clutch module selection / disengagement sliding gear

The clutch of the selection allows the user, when starting his chronograph, to choose between a flyback function, to reset all hands without having to stop the chronograph, or to stay in mode normal of a monopusher chronograph, that is to say to do the functions "on, off, return to zero", and this, always in the same order.

The winding mechanism, meanwhile, is relatively usual, and includes a sliding pinion 22 which has an inner square which slides on a square machined on the winding stem 2, which has the cause that it can be constantly rotated, in solidarity with the winding stem, especially when selecting the flyback mode. This clutch is necessary to avoid that when selecting the flyback mode, we do not go up the spring of the watch, to the point that we would get to its maximum armature, which would prevent any rotation of the winding stem 2 and therefore any selection.

This module, as well as its operation, will be described later with reference to FIGS. 4a - g.

Parts involved: 1) Movement 1a) Selection transmission opening 1b) Guide pins of the selection board 2) Winding stem 3) Column wheel minutes and seconds 4) Column wheel collar with minutes and seconds 5) Hour column wheel 6) Column wheel choker hours 15) Selection pinion 16) Selection rake 16a) Selection Rake Finger 17) Selection rake bridges 18) Selector lever 19) Selection lever 19a) Selection rake clutch spring 19b) Selection rake release spring 19c) Selection lever stop 20) Selection lever spring 21) Winding pinion 22) Floating sprocket 23) Toggle 24) Toggle spring 25) Lever for disengaging the sliding pinion

[0054] 2.1 Rest (FIG 4a)

On the movement side, as for the control module, the elements are immobile, with the exception of a selection gear 15, which is positioned radially and axially relative to the movement 1, and whose rotation is secured. that of the winding stem 2, this thanks to the squares provided on the rod 2 and inside said pinion 15. A selection rake 16 is positioned by means of two selection rake bridges 7 so that the the axis of said rake 16 is substantially parallel to the axis of the rod 2, while allowing it to perform a large axial translation for the clutch function.

At rest, the selection rake 16 is held in a first extreme position out of the gear of the selection gear 15 with a disengagement spring 19b. This spring is part of an integral assembly composed of a selection lever 19 and a selector lever 18. Said spout 18 bears on one of the columns of the column wheel minutes and seconds 3, under the action of its spring 20.

On the dial side, the winding mechanism of the movement 1 keeps a traditional operation. At rest, a rocker spring 24 exerts a pressure on the rocker 23 which keeps the sliding pinion 22 against a winding pinion 21. A release lever of the sliding pinion 25 is in a vacuum of the hour column wheel 5 so as not to impede the operation of the winding mechanism or the time setting function 1.

[0058] 2.2 Departure (FIG 4b)

On the movement side, at the start, the column wheel minutes and seconds 3 has made a jump corresponding to a tooth. Then the selector lever 18 falls into a vacuum of the column wheel minutes and seconds 3 pivoting on its axis under the effect of its spring 20. The selection lever 19 being integral with it, it will take support on its stop 19c and its clutch spring 19a will apply a voltage on the axis of the selection rake 16, which will cause a translation of said rake 16 to a second extreme position. It will then be engaged with the selection gear 15 which itself does not move axially.

On the dial side, the hour column wheel 5 will have also made a jump of a tooth. Then, the release lever of the sliding pinion 25 will be pushed by a column of said wheel. The pivoting of this lever 25 on its axis will cause to turn the rocker 23 on its pivoting, driving with it the sliding pinion 22 to get it out of the field of action of the Breguet toothing connecting it to the winding pinion 21. , the release lever of the sliding pinion 25 must not move the rocker 23 too far so that the sliding pinion 22 does not engrainer with a possible timer return used for setting the time of movement 1.

[0061] 2.3 Flyback ON (FIG 4c)

On the movement side, the winding stem 2 is rotated to be able to select the flyback operation. With it is driven the selection pinion 15, which itself then engraine with the selection rake 16 which will perform a limited rotation. Said rake 16 will remain in this position until the flyback mode is deselected.

On the dial side, the sliding pinion 22 being disengaged, it will be satisfied to turn in the vacuum with the winding stem 2.

[0064] 2.4 Return to zero in flyback mode (Fig. 4d)

When returning to zero in flyback mode, the position of the elements of this module remains the same as in the "flyback ON" mode.

[0066] 2.5 Flyback OFF (Fig. 4e)

On the movement side, when the flyback mode is deselected, again, the winding stem 2 is rotated, but in the opposite direction than previously to be able to deselect. With it, it again drives the selection pinion 15, which itself then engraine still with the rake selection 16. The elements are then in the same position as just after the start.

On the dial side, nothing moves, and the elements remain in the same position as at departure. Only the sliding pinion 22 is content to turn in the vacuum.

[0069] 2.6 Stopping (FIG 4f)

On the movement side, the column wheel 3 is still rotating a tooth. Then one of the columns of the latter again raises the spout 18, and through it, rotate the selection lever 19. The clutch spring 19b which is secured thereto will then push the axis of the selection rake 16 in its seat. extreme original position and therefore out of the gear of the selection pinion 15.

On the dial side, the position of the clutch elements of the sliding pinion 22 remains unchanged despite the rotation of the hour column wheel 5.

2.7 Return to Zero (FIG 4g)

[0073] Movement side: Although the column wheel minutes and seconds 3 rotates again with a tooth, nothing changes at the disengagement mechanism, because the lever selection lever 18 always remains in contact with a column of said hour column wheel 5.

On the dial side, the hour column wheel 5, by pivoting the value of a tooth, allows the release lever 25 to fall into a vacuum. Then the rocker 23 is again free to go to the end of its stroke and to press the sliding pinion 22 against the winding pinion 21.

3. Module: selection / selection indication

The selection mechanism makes it possible to switch between the normal chronograph mode and its complementary function, in this case the flyback mode. When the user has started his chronograph, he can then, through the crown of his watch, select the flyback mode by turning the crown a quarter of a turn, for example.

This mechanism then disengages the control functions to not affect the proper operation of the chronograph and allow the activation of hammers for a return in flight. It also allows to display an indication on the dial so that the user knows at all times in what mode it is. In addition it is expected that for aesthetic reasons, the needle of this indication is aligned with the other needles when the chronograph is stopped and reset, but this feature is not mandatory. In addition, it should be noted that the indication of selection in itself is also not mandatory.

This module, as well as its operation, will be described with reference to FIGS. 5a - g.

Involved parts: 1) Movement 2) Winding stem 5) Hour column wheel 6) Column wheel choker hours 7) Minute and second command toggle 7a) Minute and seconds control rocker pin 10) Selection board 10a) Selection transmission 10d) Opening the rake finger 16) Selection rake 16a) Selection Rake Finger 26) Flyback lever 26a) Flyback lever support 26b) Flyback lever spout 26c) Flyback lever stopper 27) Flyback lever spring 28) Selection board necklace 29) Hammers of minutes and seconds 29a) Hammer pin for minutes and seconds 30) Flyback indication rake 30a) Flyback indication rake pin 30b) Flyback indication rake stopper 31) Flyback indication pinion 32) Flyback indication sprocket return spring 33) Flyback indication needle 34) Selection indication toggle 35) Selection indication toggle spring

[0079] 3.1 Rest (Fig. 5a)

On the movement side, at rest, the selection board 10 is maintained in its lower position with its jumper 28. Through its opening 10d, the selection board 10 also holds the selection rake finger 16a in position so that the selection rake 16 is ready for the clutch. On the selection board 10 is also a pivot point of a flyback lever 26. The latter is supported on its abutment 26c, which too, is secured to the module 10, under the action of its spring 27 , also secured to the selection board 10. A flyback lever support 26a, which is located at one end of the flyback lever 26, is then not in front of the control lever 7, thus not hindering the control function.

On the dial side, when the mechanism is at rest, the indication needle 33 is in the neutral position. That is, it is aligned with the other chronograph hands that are at zero. This indication needle 33 is integral with the flyback indication pinion 31, which itself is under tension, due to its return spring 32. The rotation of the flyback indication pinion 31 is limited by the rake of FIG. indication 30. Indeed, the latter, engrainant with the flyback indication pinion 31, bears against one of the columns of the column wheel hours 5, which blocks all rotations. The indication rocker 34, for its part, abuts against the selection transmission 10a of the selection board 10 under the action of its own spring 35.

3.2 Departure (FIG 5b)

On the movement side, when the user starts his chronograph, the position of the selection board 10 does not change. The only change is at the select rake finger 16a which can slide freely within the opening 10d of said finger.

On the dial side, due to the command, the hour column wheel 5 will have turned a tooth, thus allowing the indication rake 30 to fall into a vacuum, under the action of the return spring 32 pinion 31, and will bear on the flyback indication rake stopper 30b. The flyback indication needle 33 will then be indicated indicating that the flyback mode is not engaged. The rest of the elements of the indication remain motionless.

[0085] 3.3 Flyback ON (Fig. 5c)

On the movement side, thanks to the clutch function, the user will turn the crown of his watch to engage the flyback mode, which has the effect of rotating the selection rake 16 which, by the intermediate its finger 16a resting in the opening of the rake finger 10d, will print a translational movement to the selection board 10 which will then be moved to its upper position (with reference to the orientation of the figures) and maintained by 28. The displacement of the selection board 10 then allows the disengagement of the control function as seen above, but will also cause with it the elements that are integral to it such as the flyback lever 26, its stop 26c and its spring 27. Then the flyback lever stop 26a will be in front of the control lever 7.

On the dial side, with the displacement of the selection board 10 and its selection transmission 10a, the selection indication lever 34 is pivoted about its axis, and via the pin 30a. secured to the rake 30, will rotate the latter. It will then drive the indication pinion 31 in order to point the flyback indication needle 33 to the indication signifying the start of the flyback mode.

3.4 Return to zero in flyback mode (Fig. 5d)

On the movement side, pressing the rod 2, the latter will activate the control rocker 7 as already explained. The latter will then push the flyback lever 26 on the flyback lever support 26a. By pivoting on its axis, then the lever 26 can, via its spout 26b, press the hammer pin minutes and seconds 29a integral hammers minutes and seconds 29, allowing the return to zero in flight. The lever 26 will then return to its rest position thanks to its spring 27.

[0090] On the dial side, at the indication level, nothing moves.

[0091] 3.5 Flyback QFF (Fig. 5e)

On the movement side, it is the operation exactly opposite to that of the mode activation. The selection board 10 returns to its lower position (with reference to the orientation of the figures), again under the effect of the finger of the selection rake 16 resting in the opening 10d. He again carries with him all the elements that are solidary, and comes to be held in position by his jumper 28, releasing all the elements he disengaged. The support of the flyback lever 26a is then no longer in front of the control lever 7.

On the dial side, the selection board 10 having returned to its initial position, the indication rocker 34 does the same under the action of its spring 35. The indication rake 30, meanwhile, under the effect of the return spring 32 and the indication pinion 31, rests on its abutment 30b. The flyback indication needle 33 then points again to the indication signifying the deactivation of the flyback mode.

3.6 Stopping (FIG 5f)

On the movement side, when the user stops his chronograph, nothing happens at the selection, with the exception of the selection rake finger 16a which slides inside the opening of the finger. rake 10d.

On the dial side, the indication does not change. Although the hour column wheel rotates one notch, the indication rake 30 is still not raised by one of the columns. It therefore remains in support of the flyback indication rake stop 30b.

3.7 Back to zero (Fig. 5g)

On the movement side, nothing happens on the side of the selection. The minutes and seconds hammers 29 are activated by another independent mechanism.

On the dial side, the hour column wheel 5 is activated again by its command. In its race, one of its columns will come to lift the spout of the indication rake 30, which will then engrain the indication pinion 31, thus restoring the flyback indication needle 33 in a neutral position. The rest of the elements of the selection do not move.

4. Module: Hammers

In a single-pusher chronograph, the hammers can generally only do the same functions in the same order, that is to say "start, stop, return to zero". The usefulness of the following function and still be able to activate said hammers when they are normally raised by the column wheel for the departure of the chronograph and that in a normal chronograph, it is not possible to reduce them to this moment. In addition, all this must be activated by the same command.

This module, as well as its operation, will be described later with reference to FIGS. 6a - g.

Involved: 1) Movement 2) Winding stem 3) Column wheel minutes and seconds 4) Column wheel collar with minutes and seconds 5) Hour column wheel 6) Column wheel choker hours 7) Minute and second command toggle 7a) Minute and seconds control rocker pin 10) Selection board 10a) Selection transmission 11) Hours control toggle 12) Hours control spout 14) Hammer of the hours 26) Flyback lever 28) Selection board necklace 29) Hammers of minutes and seconds 29a) Hammer pin for minutes and seconds 29b) Hammer beak of the minutes 29c) Hammerbill seconds 29d) Hammer stop of minutes and seconds 36) Minutes counter mobile 36a) Minute meter mobile heart 37) Mobile counter seconds 37a) Seconds mobile heart 38) Hammer feeler for minutes and seconds 38a) Hammer feeler pin for minutes and seconds 39) Spring reminder hammers minutes and seconds 40) Hammer probe spring for minutes and seconds 41) Mobile hour meter 41a) Hour meter mobile heart 42) Hammer feeler hours 42a) Hammer feeler pin hours 43) Hammer return spring hours 44) Hammer feeler spring hours

4.1 Rest (Fig. 6a)

On the movement side, when the mechanism is at rest, a hammer probe minutes and seconds 38 is in a vacuum of the column wheel minutes and seconds 3. On this probe is a feeler pin hammers minutes and seconds 38a which allows on the one hand the hammer probe spring minutes and seconds 40 to exert pressure to ensure the support of said hammer probe minutes and seconds 38, other on the other hand, to make the connection with the hammers of the minutes and the seconds 29. The latter are pivotally arranged on the same axis as the hammer probe of the minutes and seconds 38 and carry the hammer rest spring of the minutes and seconds 39 which comes to rest on the pin of the hammer probe minutes and seconds 38a which will then be clamped between the hammers minutes and seconds 29 and the hammer feeler spring minutes and seconds 40. C eci then makes it possible to do that when the minute and seconds hammer probe 38 will pivot, then the minutes and seconds hammers 29 will follow the movement. The latter, at rest, are in support against their stop 29d. Their function from the point of view of the chronograph is usual. At their end are spouts, one 29b for the minutes, the other 29c for the seconds. The first is in abutment against the heart 36a of the mobile 36 minutes, the second is in abutment against the heart 37a of the mobile seconds 37. The shape of the hearts 36a, 37a is designed so that, at rest, the latter always find themselves in their original position in the manner of a usual chronograph. As shown in fig. 2b, the hammers of minutes and seconds 29 are built in superposition relative to each other, and are arranged to be operated simultaneously.

On the dial side, the architecture of the mechanism for the hammer hours 14 is similar to that of the movement side for the hammers minutes and seconds 29. At rest, the hammer probe hours 42 is in a This hour hammer probe 42 also has an hour hammer feeler pin 42a on which an hour hammer feeler spring 44 bears to provide support for the hammer feeler. hours 42. The hour hammer 14 also pivots on the same axis as the hours hammer probe 42, and also carries a hammer spring 43 hours. The latter presses on the hour hammer pin. 42a and the tablet against the hammer hours 14, allowing a solidarity movement of the two parts. As before, the used function of the chronograph is usual. At the end of the hammer is a spout pressing against the hours meter mobile heart 41a of the mobile hour meter 41, indexing it always in the same position during rest.

[0106] 4.2 Departure (FIG 6b)

On the movement side, at the moment of departure, the column wheel minute and seconds 3 turns a notch, then one of its columns raises the hammer probe minutes and seconds 38. Via the minute and seconds hammer feeler pin 38a and the minute and seconds hammer spring 39, said feeler 38 causes in its movement the minutes and seconds hammers 29 and away from the hearts 37a, 36a of the mobile counter 37 seconds and minutes counter mobile 36, allowing them to rotate freely.

On the dial side, the operating principle is similar to that of the movement side.

The hour column wheel 5 pivots with a tooth. One of its columns lifts the hours 42 hammer feeler. By means of the hours 42a hammer feeler pin and the hour hammer return spring 43, the feeler drives the hour hammer 14 into its slot. movement, away from the heart 41a of the hour meter mobile 41, allowing it to rotate on its axis.

[0110] 4.3 Flyback ON (Fig. 6c)

On the movement side, nothing happens at the hammers minutes and seconds 29 and their probe 38. The only thing that can be noticed is the approximation of the flyback lever 26 of the hammer pin minutes and seconds 29a, due to the selection mechanism.

On the dial side, the hour hammer 14 and its probe 42 remain stationary, only the hour control spout 12 approaches the hammer feeler pin hours 42a when selecting.

4.4 Back to Zero in Flyback Mode (FIG 6d)

On the movement side, to perform the reset flyback mode, the flyback lever 26, which is now in front of the control lever minutes and seconds 7, is pushed by said latch 7 as seen previously. It comes in turn to press the hammer pin minutes and seconds (29a). The minute and second hammers 29 will then come to strike the respective hearts 36a, 37a of the minute meter mobile 36 and the seconds counter mobile 37 in order to return them to their initial position as long as the user holds the winding stem 2 depressed. However, the hammer probe minutes and seconds 38 always being supported on the column wheel minutes and seconds 3, it does not rotate. This has the consequence of energizing the hammer rest spring of the minutes and seconds hammers 39 by means of the hammer feeler pin of minutes and seconds 38a of said feeler 38. Once the user releases the rod, under the action of the minute and second hammer spring 39, the minute and seconds hammers 29 again move away from the hearts 36a, 37a of the minute meters 36 and seconds 37, allowing once more their rotation.

On the dial side, the operation is always similar to that of the movement side. The hour control spout 12 pushes the hammer pin hours 14a. The latter then comes to strike the heart 41a of the hours meter mobile 41 to come to position the latter in its initial position, once again as long as the user keeps the pressure on the winding stem 2. Again, the hammer feeler hours 42 remains resting on the hour column wheel 5 and, via its pin 42a, puts in tension the spring of the hammer hours 43. Once the user releases the winding stem 2 under the action of the hour hammer spring 43, the hour hammer 14 moves away from the heart 41a of the hours counter wheel 41, allowing the latter to pivot.

[0116] 4.5 Flyback OFF (Fig. 6e)

On the movement side, the hammers minutes and seconds 29 and the hammer probe minutes and seconds 38 remain stationary. The flyback lever 26 moves away from the hammer pin minutes and seconds 29a through the selection mechanism.

On the dial side, the hour hammer 14 and its probe 42 remain in place. Only the hour control spout 12 moves away from the hour 14a hammer pin.

4.6 Stopping (Fig. 6f)

On the movement side, the column wheel minutes and seconds 3 turns a step further. The hammer probe minutes and seconds 38 always remains on one of the columns of said column wheel 3, and therefore nothing happens at the hammers minutes and seconds 29.

On the dial side, although the hour column wheel 5 rotates one notch, the hours hammer probe 42 remains resting on one of the columns of said column wheel 5, and therefore the hour hammer. 14 does not fall.

[0122] 4.7 Return to zero (Fig. 6g)

On the movement side, while the column wheel minutes and seconds 3 again turns a step, the hammer probe minutes and seconds 38, under the effect of the hammer feeler spring of the minutes and seconds 40, falls into one of the voids of the column wheel of the minutes and seconds 3. The hammer probe pin of minutes and seconds 38a pressing against the hammers of minutes and seconds 29, these are driven into the fall. They then come to strike the respective hearts 36a, 37a of the minutes counter wheel 36 and the seconds counter 37. Because of their specific shape, the cores then come to rest, allowing the indication of the zero on the dial.

On the dial side, the hour column wheel 5 pivots a step. The hammer probe hours 42 then also falls into a vacuum of said wheel under the action of its spring 44. The hammer feeler pin

Hours 42a then presses on the hour hammer 14, allowing it to fall on the heart 41a of the hours meter mobile 41. The geometry of said core 41a then allows said mobile 41 to return to its initial position, and thus the zero display on the dial.

5. Module: other chrono functions

By "other function", it is understood that these are the other traditional functions of a chronograph, and in this case, a flyback chronograph.

It should be noted that for this particular chronograph mechanism, it is necessary that during the flyback, the hammers must disengage the clutch system of the meter mobiles to avoid any breakage during the rotation of said mobiles.

The structure and operation of this module will be described with reference to FIGS. 7a - g.

[0129] Parts involved: 1) Movement 3) Column wheel minutes and seconds 4) Column wheel collar with minutes and seconds 5) Hour column wheel 6) Column wheel chopper hours 29) Hammers minutes and seconds 29d) Hammer stop of minutes and seconds 37) Mobile counter seconds 38) Hammer feeler for minutes and seconds 40) Hammer probe spring for minutes and seconds 41) Mobile hour meter 45) Chronograph driving wheel 46) Clutch wheel 47) Clutch rocker 47a) Clutch rocker pin 47b) Clutch rocker stop 48) Clutch rocker spring 49) Seconds counter mobile brake 50) Seconds counter mobile brake spring 51) Hours counter mobile brake 52) Hour meter mobile brake spring

[0130] 5.1 Rest (Fig. 7a)

On the movement side, and in addition to the components already described with reference to other modules, the mechanism comprises a clutch system consisting of a chronograph driving wheel 45, permanently driven by the base movement. The chronograph driving wheel 45 meshes permanently with a clutch wheel 46, which is rotatably mounted on a clutch rocker 47, which itself is pivoted about the same axis of rotation as the chronograph driving wheel 45. The free end of the clutch rocker 47 comprises a spout which interacts with the columns of the column wheel of minutes and seconds 3 in a conventional manner. In the rest position, the clutch rocker 47 is raised against a clutch rocker spring 50, which tends to keep the clutch wheel in the engaged position, by a column of the minute column wheel. and seconds 3, so that the clutch wheel 46 does not mesh with the seconds counter wheel 37. The minute and second hammers are held in contact with the minute and second cores 36a, 37a as described. previously, and a seconds counter mobile brake 49 is kept away from the toothing of the seconds counter mobile 37 by a column of the column wheel of minutes and seconds 3.

On the dial side, an hour meter mobile brake 51 is kept away from the toothing of the hour meter mobile 41 by means of a column of the hour column wheel 5, against a spring hour meter mobile brake brake 52, which tends to pivot said brake 51 about its axis of rotation so that the brake comes into contact with the toothing of the hour meter mobile 41.

5.2 Departure (FIG 7b)

On the movement side, during the departure of the chronograph, the column wheel minutes and seconds 3 advance of a wolf tooth, and the free end of the clutch rocker 47 falls into a gap between two columns of the column wheel minutes and seconds 3. The latter rotates the clutch rocker 47 so that the clutch wheel 46 meshes with the seconds counter mobile 37, the clutch rocker 47 in contact with a clutch rocker stop 47b, integral with the movement. At the same time the minute and seconds hammers 29 are also raised by the minute and seconds column wheel 3. The seconds counter mobile brake 49 remains inactive. The count of time is thus engaged.

On the dial side, the hour column wheel 5 advances by one step of its wolf teeth, but the hour meter mobile brake 51 remains in the same position as before, because it remains supported by a column of said column wheel 5.

[0136] 5.3 Flyback ON (FIG 7c)

The module "other chrono functions" is not influenced by the selection of "flyback ON" mode, and therefore the arrangement of the components remains unchanged from that of the "start" mode.

[0138] 5.4 Back to zero Flyback (Fig. 7d)

On the movement side, when pressing on the winding stem 2, the minute and second hammers 29 come into contact with the cores 36a, 37a, as described above, to reset the indications. In doing so, the stop of the minute and second hammers 29d pushes against the pin of the clutch rocker 47a, in order to disengage the seconds counter mobile 37. The indication of the minutes and seconds is thus disengaged and reset to zero. .

On the dial side, the position of the components remains unchanged.

[0141] 5.5 Flyback OFF (Fig. 7e)

As is the case for the mode "flyback ON", the module "other functions of the chronograph" is not influenced by the selection of the mode "Flyback OFF", and therefore the arrangement of the components is the same only for the "departure" mode.

5.6 Stopping (Fig. 7f)

On the dial side, pushing again on the winding stem, the user rotates the column wheel minutes and seconds 3 of a step of its wolf teeth, which actuates the mobile brake counter 49 seconds by means of a column. Said brake 49 thus bears against the toothing of the mobile counter seconds 37, stopping in a known manner. At the same time, a column of the column wheel minutes and seconds 3 raises the clutch rocker 47, thereby disengaging the mobile seconds counter 37 of the clutch wheel 46.

On the dial side, the hour column wheel 5 is also rotated by one step of its wolf teeth, and the hour meter mobile brake 51 is actuated by means of a column of said wheel. columns 5 in a known manner.

[0146] 5.7 Return to zero (Fig. 7g)

When the user presses again on the winding stem 2, the two column wheels 3 and 5 respectively raise the two brakes 49, 51 in known manner, and the reset hammers 29, 14 are actuated as previously described.

variations

6. Variant of the clutch system selection

[0148] FIG. 8a illustrates a variant of the clutch system selection in the disengaged position, and FIG. 8b illustrates the same variant in the engaged position.

In this variant, the winding stem 2 and the selection pinion 15 are identical to those of the previously described mechanism (see section 2 above). The main difference from the mechanism described above is that the selection rake does not move completely when the chronograph is started, but only its toothed portion 16. The latter is freely adjusted on a square on its axis 16a, and can slide on this axis 16a to mesh with the selection gear (see Figure 8b). A finger 16b is fixedly secured to said axis 16a, which interacts with a pin 10a, which is integral with the selection board 10 and extends in its plane (the selection board 10 is cut in the views of Figs 8a and 8b). As best seen in fig. 8c, this pin 10a is driven into an opening 10e of the selection board 10, and allows the translation of the selection board 10. In this variant, the axis 16a remains axially stationary.

7. Variation of hammers minutes and seconds

[0150] FIG. 9 illustrates a variant of the minute and second hammers 29, which differs from the hammers of minutes and seconds 29 described above in that the hammers have been merged with their respective return spring, which allows considerable space saving in the movement. It goes without saying that the same principle applies equally to the hour hammer 14.

Although the invention has been described with reference to a particular embodiment, it is obvious that variations are possible, without departing from the scope defined by the claims.

Claims (15)

A watch movement (1) comprising a chronograph mechanism having start, stop and return to zero functions arranged to be controlled by at least one control member (2), the chronograph mechanism having further an additional function, characterized in that said additional function is selectable, deselected, and controlled by said controller (2). 2. Movement (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein said additional function is selectable and deselected by means of a rotation of said control member (2). 3. Movement (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein said control member (2) is a single rod (2) capable of being displaced axially and being rotated by a user. 4. Movement (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the single rod (2) is a winding stem (2) arranged to be kinematically connected with a motor spring for the winding of the latter when the chronograph mechanism n ' is not running, and to be disengaged from said motor spring when the chronograph mechanism is running. 5. Movement (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein said additional function is selectable exclusively when the chronograph mechanism is running. 6. Movement (1) according to the preceding claim, comprising a selection board (10) having a first position, in which the functions of starting, stopping and resetting the chronograph are engaged and the additional function is disengaged, and a second position in which the functions of starting, stopping and resetting the chronograph are disengaged and the additional function is engaged, said selection board being arranged to move from its first position to its second position following a rotation of the control member (2) in a first direction when the chronograph mechanism is running, and to move from its second position to its first position following a rotation of the organ control (2) in a second direction opposite to said first direction when the chronograph mechanism is in operation. 7. Movement (1) according to the preceding claim, comprising a lever (26) for actuating the additional function, which is arranged to cooperate with the control member (2) when the selection board (10) is located in his second position. 8. Movement (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein said lever (26) for actuating the additional function is pivoted on the selection board (10), an end (26a) of said lever (26) being shaped to selectively cooperate with a member (7a) integral in translation with the control member (2). 9. Movement (1) according to one of claims 6 to 8, wherein the selection board (10) is arranged to be controlled by a selection rake (16) arranged to move in rotation and in translation along an axis substantially parallel to the axis of the control member (2), the selection rake (16) having a first extreme axial position in which the selection rake does not mesh with a selection gear (15) integral in rotation with the control member (2) and a second end position in which the selection rake (17) meshes with said selection gear, a pivoting of the selection rake (17) being arranged to change said selection board (10). ) between its first and second positions, and wherein said selection rake (17) is arranged to move from its first extreme axial position to its second extreme position when said chronograph mechanism is t started up. 10. Movement (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the selection state of said additional function is indicated by means of an indicating member (33), such as a needle or a disc. 11. Movement (1) according to claims 7 and 10, wherein the position of said indicating member (33) is controlled at least partially by the position of said selection board (10). Movement (1) according to claim 11, wherein the position of said indicating member (33) is additionally controlled by means of a column wheel (3, 5), preferably a column wheel of the hours ( 5). 13. Movement (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein said additional function is a return-in-flight function. 14. Movement (1) according to one of claims 1 to 13, comprising a column wheel minutes and seconds (3) located on a first side of the movement, preferably on the movement side, and a column wheel hours located on a second side of the movement, preferably on the dial side, said column wheels (3, 5) being adapted to be pivoted in steps by means of the control member (2). 15. Timepiece comprising a movement (1) according to one of claims 1 to 14.