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EP1921516B1 - Assembly component comprising two series of elastic structures and timepiece incorporating this component - Google Patents

Assembly component comprising two series of elastic structures and timepiece incorporating this component Download PDF

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Publication number
EP1921516B1
EP1921516B1 EP06123781A EP06123781A EP1921516B1 EP 1921516 B1 EP1921516 B1 EP 1921516B1 EP 06123781 A EP06123781 A EP 06123781A EP 06123781 A EP06123781 A EP 06123781A EP 1921516 B1 EP1921516 B1 EP 1921516B1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
elastic
series
structures
assembly element
elastic structures
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Active
Application number
EP06123781A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP1921516A1 (en
Inventor
Roland Bitterli
Wilfried Noell
Fabien Blondeau
Lionel Paratte
Toralf Scharf
Pierre-André Meister
André Zanetta
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
ETA SA Manufacture Horlogere Suisse
Original Assignee
ETA SA Manufacture Horlogere Suisse
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by ETA SA Manufacture Horlogere Suisse filed Critical ETA SA Manufacture Horlogere Suisse
Priority to AT06123781T priority Critical patent/ATE455319T1/en
Priority to DE602006011760T priority patent/DE602006011760D1/en
Priority to EP06123781A priority patent/EP1921516B1/en
Priority to SG200717406-3A priority patent/SG143140A1/en
Priority to KR1020070112990A priority patent/KR101326963B1/en
Priority to CN2007101695120A priority patent/CN101178577B/en
Priority to JP2007291850A priority patent/JP5175522B2/en
Priority to US11/937,789 priority patent/US7575369B2/en
Publication of EP1921516A1 publication Critical patent/EP1921516A1/en
Priority to HK08111834.9A priority patent/HK1119789A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP1921516B1 publication Critical patent/EP1921516B1/en
Active legal-status Critical Current
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Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G04—HOROLOGY
    • G04B—MECHANICALLY-DRIVEN CLOCKS OR WATCHES; MECHANICAL PARTS OF CLOCKS OR WATCHES IN GENERAL; TIME PIECES USING THE POSITION OF THE SUN, MOON OR STARS
    • G04B13/00—Gearwork
    • G04B13/02—Wheels; Pinions; Spindles; Pivots
    • G04B13/021—Wheels; Pinions; Spindles; Pivots elastic fitting with a spindle, axis or shaft
    • G04B13/022—Wheels; Pinions; Spindles; Pivots elastic fitting with a spindle, axis or shaft with parts made of hard material, e.g. silicon, diamond, sapphire, quartz and the like
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G04—HOROLOGY
    • G04C—ELECTROMECHANICAL CLOCKS OR WATCHES
    • G04C3/00—Electromechanical clocks or watches independent of other time-pieces and in which the movement is maintained by electric means
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G04—HOROLOGY
    • G04B—MECHANICALLY-DRIVEN CLOCKS OR WATCHES; MECHANICAL PARTS OF CLOCKS OR WATCHES IN GENERAL; TIME PIECES USING THE POSITION OF THE SUN, MOON OR STARS
    • G04B19/00—Indicating the time by visual means
    • G04B19/04—Hands; Discs with a single mark or the like
    • G04B19/042—Construction and manufacture of the hands; arrangements for increasing reading accuracy
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G04—HOROLOGY
    • G04D—APPARATUS OR TOOLS SPECIALLY DESIGNED FOR MAKING OR MAINTAINING CLOCKS OR WATCHES
    • G04D3/00—Watchmakers' or watch-repairers' machines or tools for working materials
    • G04D3/0002—Watchmakers' or watch-repairers' machines or tools for working materials for mechanical working other than with a lathe
    • G04D3/0043—Watchmakers' or watch-repairers' machines or tools for working materials for mechanical working other than with a lathe for components of the time-indicating mechanisms
    • G04D3/0046—Watchmakers' or watch-repairers' machines or tools for working materials for mechanical working other than with a lathe for components of the time-indicating mechanisms for hands

Definitions

  • the invention relates to an assembly element and a timepiece comprising such an element.
  • the invention more particularly relates to an assembly element made in a plate of brittle material such as silicon, in particular for a timepiece, having an opening provided for the axial insertion of a shaft, the inner wall of the opening comprising elastic structures which are etched in the plate and which each comprise at least one bearing surface for radially clamping the shaft in order to secure the fastening element with respect to the shaft, wherein each elastic structure comprises a first straight elastic blade which extends in a direction tangential to the shaft, the bearing surface being arranged on the inner face of the first elastic blade.
  • the assembly elements such as the watch hands and the gears are fixed on their rotary shaft by driving, that is to say that a hollow cylinder is forced on an axis. having a diameter slightly greater than the inside diameter of the cylinder.
  • the elastic and plastic properties of the material used generally a metal, are used for this hunting.
  • a hollow cylinder on a conventional rotating shaft such as those used in mechanical watchmaking , with a diameter tolerance of the order of +/- 5 microns.
  • the fixing solution of the connecting element such as a needle must provide sufficient force to hold the element in place during shocks.
  • the force required for a conventional watchmaking needle is for example of the order of a Newton.
  • the document EP 1 659 460 discloses a needle with a barrel capable of deforming elastically to settle around a tree.
  • the invention aims to provide improvements to these solutions, in particular to allow the use of this assembly element as a rotary element in a clockwork mechanism, in particular as a watchmaker's hand.
  • the invention proposes an assembly element according to claim 1.
  • the assembly element according to the invention makes it possible to improve the clamping force against the shaft, to allow a better distribution of the forces related to the elastic deformation in the material constituting the connecting element, and to allow a better control of the clamping force obtained on the shaft, while remaining away from the breaking point of the material.
  • the production of elastic structures in two layers of the plate makes it possible to maximize the number of elastic structures relative to the volume of space.
  • the elastic structures of the first series are of different types of the elastic structures of the second series.
  • the combination of elastic structures of different types between the upper layer and the lower layer makes it possible to combine the technical advantages of the two types of structures, for example in order to optimize the resistance to linear accelerations, along the axis of rotation, and to the angular accelerations, relative to the axis of rotation.
  • the invention also proposes a timepiece characterized in that it comprises at least one connecting element according to one of the preceding characteristics.
  • FIG 1 schematically shows a timepiece 10 which is made in accordance with the teachings of the invention.
  • the timepiece 10 comprises a movement 12 mounted inside a casing 14 closed by a lens 16.
  • the movement 12 drives in rotation, about an axis A1, analog display means constituted here by a hour hand 18, a minute hand 20, and a second hand 22, these hands extending above a dial 24.
  • the needles 18, 20, 22 are fixed on shafts 26, 28, 30 of coaxial rotation by elastic clamping, in the manner of a hunting, as will be seen later.
  • the shafts 26, 28, 30 are conventional shafts commonly used in watch movements, for example cylindrical shafts made of metal or plastic material.
  • the needles 18, 20, 22 constitute connecting elements, each needle 18, 20, 22 being made in a plate of brittle material, preferably of crystalline material based on silicon.
  • Each needle 18, 20, 22 here comprises a fixing ring 31 which delimits an opening 32 provided for allow attachment of the needle 18, 20, 22 to the shaft 26, 28, 30 associated by axial insertion in the opening 32.
  • the inner wall 33 of the opening 32 comprises elastic structures 34 which are etched in the plate forming the fixing ring 31 and which each comprise at least one bearing surface 36 for radially clamping the associated shaft 26, 28, 30 in order to axially and radially retain the needle 18, 20, 22 on the shaft 26, 28, 30, and in order to make the shaft and the associated needle integral with rotation.
  • each needle 18, 20, 22 comprises a first series S1 of elastic structures 34 which are etched in an upper layer 39 of the plate and a second series S2 of elastic structures 34 which are etched in a layer lower 41 of the plate, as illustrated by the sectional view of the figure 15 .
  • each needle 18, 20, 22 is made in an asymmetric silicon SOI (Silicon On Insulator) type plate which comprises a thin upper layer 39 of silicon and a lower layer 41 of silicon separated by an intermediate layer 43 of silicon. silicon oxide.
  • SOI Silicon On Insulator
  • This type of plate has the advantage of facilitating the production of distinct structures by two etching steps, for example by etching on the side of the upper layer 39 and by another chemical etching on the lower layer 41, the intermediate layer 43 for stopping the attack adequately to limit etching respectively in each of the layers 39, 41.
  • another attack is implemented to eliminate the intermediate layer 43 in areas determined to release the elastic structures 34 to allow their elastic deformation.
  • each needle 18, 20, 22 After the etching of each needle 18, 20, 22, the upper layer 39 and the lower layer 41 remain bound by portions of the intermediate layer 43 which have not been etched. These connecting portions are located here in the ring 31, around the periphery of the opening 32.
  • the lower layer 41 of silicon is kept exclusively under the fixing ring 31 of each needle 18, 20, 22 and it forms a lower axial extension, relative to the rest of the body of the needle 18, 20, 22 which is formed in the upper layer 39 thin, as can be seen on the figure 15 .
  • the elastic structures 34 of the first S1 and the second S2 series are of similar types, here of the radial stack type of linear strips L n rectilinear and parallel, of substantially constant radial thickness.
  • the elastic blades L n each extend in a tangential direction relative to the associated shaft 26.
  • the bearing surface 36 of each elastic structure 34 is arranged on the inner face 38 of the first elastic blade L 1 of the stack, on the side of the shaft 26.
  • each elastic blade L n is radially of the elastic blade spaced L n + 1, L n-1 adjacent a separator hole I n rectilinear in two parts I na, I nb, both parts I na, I nb of the separator hole I n being separated by a material bridge P n which connects the two adjacent elastic strips L n and which is substantially radially aligned with the bearing surface 36.
  • the continuous sequence of material bridges P n between the elastic strips L n thus forms a radial connecting beam 40.
  • each intermediate light I n has a rounded profile, for example in a semicircle, so as to avoid an accumulation of mechanical stresses at the ends which could lead to breakouts during the bending of the elastic blades L n .
  • each elastic structure 34 comprises three resilient blades L 1 , L 2 , L 3 and two intermediate lights I 1 , I 2 .
  • the radial thicknesses of the intermediate lights In are here substantially constant and identical.
  • the last elastic blade L 3 of the stack which is located on the opposite side to the first blade L 1 , is radially spaced from the remainder of the plate forming the needle 18 by a light 42 in one part
  • the radial thickness of the deflection lumen 42 determines the maximum radial deflection of the elastic structure 34.
  • the radial thickness of the deflection lumen 42 is substantially constant and greater than or equal to 1 radial thickness of the intermediate lights I n .
  • the number of elastic blades L n forming each elastic structure 34 of the lower layer 41 thick is lower than the number of elastic blades L n forming each elastic structure 34 of the upper layer 39 thin.
  • the connecting beam 40 makes it possible to bind all the elastic strips L n between them, so that they can all be deformed simultaneously when a radial force is applied to the bearing surface 36, and in such a way as to distribute mechanical stresses in several places to minimize the risk of breakage.
  • the length of the elastic blades L n decreases progressively from the first elastic blade L 1 to the last elastic blade L 3 of the stack, which makes it possible to follow globally the curvature of the wall outer cylindrical 44 of the fixing ring 31.
  • the radial thickness of each intermediate light I n is substantially constant over its entire length and the radial thickness of all the intermediate lights I n is substantially equal. To obtain a maximum clamping force on the shaft 26, in a given volume of material of the fixing ring 31, the radial thickness of each intermediate light I n is minimized.
  • the number of elastic structures 34 arranged around the opening 32, in each series S1, S2 of elastic structures 34 is chosen as a function of the diameter of the shaft 26, 28, Associated and depending on the radial space available between the inner wall 33 of the opening 32 and the outer wall 44 of the fastening ring 31 of the needle 18, 20, 22.
  • the diameter of the shaft 26, 28, 30 is important and the smaller the radial space mentioned above, the greater the number of elastic structures 34 is important.
  • the diameter of the shaft 26 associated with the hour hand 18 is much larger than the diameter of the shaft associated with the second hand 22, and as the outer diameter of the fixing ring 31 does not evolve proportionally, it has been selected a number of elastic structures 34 equal to four in each of the series S1, S2 of the hour hand 18, while the number of elastic structures 34 is equal to two in each series S1, S2 of the seconds hand 22.
  • the number of elastic structures 34 in each series S1, S2 of the minute hand 20 is here equal to three.
  • the elastic structures 34 are distributed evenly about the axis A1, so that the inner contour of the opening 32 has, in each series S1, S2, generally a square shape and a triangular shape respectively.
  • the number of elastic structures 34 is the same in the two series S1, S2 but the elastic structures 34 of the first series S1 are angularly offset with respect to the elastic structures 34 of the second series S2. So, by considering the hour hand 18 on the figure 5 the elastic structures 34 of the two series S1, S2 are shifted by ⁇ / 4. This angular offset allows the elastic clamping force to be well distributed around the periphery of the shaft 26 by angularly shifting the bearing surfaces 36 of the elastic structures 34 of the first series S1 with respect to the bearing surfaces 36 of the second series. S2. This angular offset also has manufacturing advantages during the etching steps, since it makes it possible to minimize the intermediate layer surface 43 which is disengaged on its two transverse faces, after plasma etching (RIE) on both sides of the film. SOI plate.
  • RIE plasma etching
  • the elastic structures 34 of each series S1, S2 are angularly offset by ⁇ / 3 in the minute hand 20 and ⁇ in the second hand 22.
  • the number of elastic blades L n is different between the elastic structures 34 of the first S1 and the second S2 series, which makes it possible to adjust more finely the value of the elastic clamping force on the 26.
  • This also makes it possible to adjust the value of the clamping force as a function of the axial thickness of the elastic strips L n , the elastic strips L n of the lower layer 41 being thicker axially than those of the upper layer 39 due to the axial thickness difference between the two layers 39,41.
  • each series S1, S2 comprises only two elastic structures 34 and a fixed bearing surface 46.
  • the first elastic blades L 1 of the two elastic structures 34 of each series S1, S2 defines between them an acute angle ⁇ and they are substantially joined to one of their fixed ends.
  • the angle ⁇ for example has a value of about thirty degrees.
  • the two layers 39, 41 and the series S1, S2 of elastic structures 34 associated with the needle 22 have been represented side by side on the figure 6 .
  • the fixed bearing surface 46 extends in a tangential direction, relative to the associated shaft 30, and forms the base of an isosceles triangle whose two other sides are formed by the inner face 38 of the first elastic blades. L 1 of the two elastic structures 34.
  • the fixed bearing surface 46 is here arranged at the free end of a cutout 48, generally trapezium-shaped, projecting inside the opening 32.
  • the cut 48 is engraved in the plate forming the needle 22 and here it comprises two side walls 50, 52 which each extend parallel to the first blade L 1 of the elastic structure 34 vis-à-vis.
  • the shaft 30 associated with the seconds hand 22 is designed to bear against the fixed bearing surface 46 and against the bearing surfaces 36 of the elastic structures 34.
  • contour of the inner wall 33 of the opening 32 has, for each of the layers 39, 41 generally the shape of an isosceles triangle.
  • each elastic structure 34 the radial thickness of each elastic blade L n is substantially constant over its entire length, and the radial thickness of the elastic blades L n decreases progressively from the first elastic blade L 1 to the last blade elastic L n of the stack, each elastic structure 34 of the first series S1 here comprising twenty-one elastic blades L n and each elastic structure 34 of the second series S2 here comprising nine elastic blades L n , of decreasing lengths, inside to the outside.
  • the radial thickness of the elastic blades L 1 is adapted to their length, which allows a substantially homogeneous flexibility of all the elastic blades L n , despite their differences in length.
  • the mechanical stresses are also homogenized throughout the volume of material used for fixing, that is to say here in the entire fixing ring 31.
  • the number of elastic blades L n forming each stack can be adapted according to various parameters, in particular according to the available radial space, depending on the desired clamping force on the shaft associated, depending on the type of material used to manufacture the needle 18, 20, 22 associated.
  • the number of blades L n is lower in the lower layer 41 thick than in the upper layer 39 thin.
  • each bearing surface 36 is provided with discrete elements in relief 54 which increase the friction between the shaft 26 and the bearing surface 36 so as to improve the rotational connection between the shaft 26 and the needle 18.
  • These discrete elements in relief 54 are constituted here by teeth of triangular profile etched in the first blade L 1 .
  • this embodiment variant is applicable to the bearing surfaces 36, 46 arranged in the openings 32 of minute hands 20 and seconds 22 described in connection with the Figures 3 and 4 .
  • the two series S1, S2 of elastic structures 34 arranged on each needle 18, 20, 22 are of different types. More specifically, the first series S1 of resilient structures 34 is of the type L n stacked elastic blades, as described and shown with reference to the first embodiment, and the second series S2 of elastic structures is of the type with resilient structures 34 shaped fork.
  • Each elastic structure 34 of the second series S2 is constituted by a fork which is connected to the inner wall 33 of the opening 32 by a material bridge 56 and which comprises two branches 58, 60 extending, on both sides. other material bridge 56, generally to the shaft 26, 28, 30.
  • each branch 58, 60 has a bearing surface 62, 64 adjacent its free end 66, 68.
  • the two branches 58, 60 of each elastic structure 34 are curved towards each other forming an almost closed "C".
  • Each branch 58, 60 of each elastic structure 34 is in the form of a substantially parabolic curve of which a fixed first end 70, 72 is arranged on the associated material bridge 56 and a second free end 66, 68 faces the free end 66, 68 of the other leg 58, 60 of the elastic structure 34.
  • the free ends 66, 68 of the branches 58, 60 of each elastic structure 34 are sufficiently close so that the inner face of each leg 58, 60 is substantially tangential to the axial surface of the shaft 26, in the vicinity of the ends.
  • free 66, 68, the bearing surface 62, 64 of each leg 58, 60 thus being located on the inner face of its free end section, vis-à-vis the shaft 26.
  • the elastic structures 34 are evenly distributed around the axis A1.
  • a third embodiment of the invention is shown on the Figures 12 to 14 .
  • This third embodiment is similar to the second embodiment in that the elastic structures 34 of the first series S1 consist of stacked elastic lamellae L n and that the elastic structures 34 of the second series S 2 are formed of forks two branches 58, 60.
  • the third embodiment differs from the second mainly in that each elastic structure 34 comprises a main section 74 which extends on either side of the material bridge 56.
  • Each branch 58, 60 s extends from the end of the main section 74 opposite the material bridge 56 in a rectilinear direction.
  • Each branch 58, 60 is inclined towards the branch 58, 60 associated, with respect to a radial direction.
  • the bearing surface 62, 64 of each leg 58, 60 is arranged at the free end 66, 68 of the leg 58, 60.
  • each elastic structure 34 extends in a substantially circumferential direction, parallel to the cylindrical inner wall 33 of the opening 32, which makes it possible to maximize the length of the main section 74 and the branches 58, 60 straight to distribute the stresses related to the elastic deformation of the branches 58, 60 in a larger volume.
  • the third embodiment has the advantage of producing a self-locking effect, when the shaft 26, 28, 30 and the associated needle 18, 20, 22 are assembled together. Indeed, the inclination of the branches 58, 60 makes it possible to dynamically react to an acceleration in rotation, which makes this embodiment particularly suitable for fastening assembly elements supporting high angular accelerations or in the case where the rotating element has a significant imbalance in the distribution of masses, which is the case for the needles of a timepiece.
  • each elastic structure 34 exert thrust forces in opposite directions, so that each leg 58, 60 opposes the relative rotation of the needle 18, 20, 22 relative to the shaft 26, 28, 30 associated in a preferred direction of rotation.
  • first limb 58 of each elastic structure 34 opposes the relative rotation of the needle 18 in the counter-clockwise direction and the second limb 60 of each elastic structure 34 opposes the relative rotation of the needle 18 clockwise.
  • the elastic structures 34 of the third embodiment thus provide a particularly effective rotational connection between the needles 18, 20, 22 and the associated shafts 26, 28, 30.
  • fork-shaped elastic structures 34 comprising a tangentially or circumferentially oriented section (the section 56) and a rectilinear section (the branch 58, 60) oriented towards the associated shaft 26, 28, 30 makes it possible to reduce the stiffness of the elastic structure 34 which allows a radial clearance of sufficient value to allow attachment to the shaft 26, 28, 30, in particular to compensate for the diameter tolerances of the shaft.
  • Each elastic structure 34 must have sufficient flexibility to allow attachment both to a shaft having a diameter smaller than the nominal value and to a shaft having a diameter greater than the nominal value.
  • each elastic structure 34 has an axial plane of symmetry P which extends along a radius passing through the middle of the material bridge 40.
  • the combinations of elastic structures of different types used in the second and third embodiments are particularly advantageous when the elastic structures 34 with a stack of elastic blades L n are arranged in the upper thin layer 39 and the elastic structures 34 in the form of forks. are arranged in the lower layer 41 thick. Indeed, for questions of manufacturing process and engraving, obtaining the most small openings possible in a silicon layer depends on the thickness of the layer. However, the elastic clamping force of each elastic structure 34 is proportional to the cube of the axial thickness of the elastic structure 34, which means that a layer having a relatively small number of elastic blades, as is the case with the fork-shaped structures will hardly develop a sufficient clamping force.
  • the resilient structures 34 which are most suitable for the thin top layer 39 are the laminated structures of elastic lamellae L n because they employ a large number of elastic blades.
  • the arrangement of this type of resilient structure 34 with blades stacked in the thin upper layer 39 makes it possible to minimize the radial spaces between the elastic strips L n and thus to increase the number of elastic blades L n to compensate for the force lower elastic return due to the small axial thickness of these elastic blades L n .
  • the elastic structures 34 could be of different types, for example be made according to the teachings of the document EP 1 655 642 .
  • the type of elastic structures 34 chosen for each layer 39, 41 may also be inverted, with respect to the described embodiments, in particular the resilient structures 34 of the laminated elastic blade type L n could be arranged in the lower layer 41 and the Fork-shaped elastic structures 34 could be arranged in the upper layer 39.
  • the needles 18, 20, 22 could be made in a SOI plate of the symmetrical type, that is to say a plate in which the upper 39 and lower 41 layers have the same thickness .
  • the connecting element may be constituted by another type of rotary element, for example by a toothed wheel used in a clockwork movement.
  • the connecting element may also be constituted by a non-rotating element, for example a plate of brittle material intended to be assembled on another element comprising a fixing shaft, or tenon, of metal.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
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Abstract

The element e.g. hour hand (18), has an opening (32) for axial insertion of a rod (26) and comprising an inner wall (33) with elastic structures (34) arranged in two rows (S1, S2). Each structure comprises a support surface (36) for radially locking the rod to fix the assembling element with respect to the rod. The rows (S1, S2) of the elastic structures are etched in a thin upper silicon layer (39) and a thick lower silicon layer (41) of a silicon on insulator type plate, respectively. The upper and lower layers are separated by an intermediate layer formed of silicon oxide.

Description

L'invention concerne un élément d'assemblage et une pièce d'horlogerie comportant un tel élément.The invention relates to an assembly element and a timepiece comprising such an element.

L'invention concerne plus particulièrement un élément d'assemblage réalisé dans une plaque en matériau cassant tel que du silicium, notamment pour une pièce d'horlogerie, comportant une ouverture prévue pour l'insertion axiale d'un arbre, la paroi intérieure de l'ouverture comportant des structures élastiques qui sont gravées dans la plaque et qui comportent chacune au moins une surface d'appui pour serrer radialement l'arbre en vue d'assurer la fixation de l'élément d'assemblage par rapport à l'arbre, dans lequel chaque structure élastique comporte une première lame élastique rectiligne qui s'étend suivant une direction tangentielle par rapport à l'arbre, la surface d'appui étant agencée sur la face interne de la première lame élastique.The invention more particularly relates to an assembly element made in a plate of brittle material such as silicon, in particular for a timepiece, having an opening provided for the axial insertion of a shaft, the inner wall of the opening comprising elastic structures which are etched in the plate and which each comprise at least one bearing surface for radially clamping the shaft in order to secure the fastening element with respect to the shaft, wherein each elastic structure comprises a first straight elastic blade which extends in a direction tangential to the shaft, the bearing surface being arranged on the inner face of the first elastic blade.

Généralement, dans les pièces d'horlogerie, les éléments d'assemblage tels que les aiguilles horlogéres et les roues dentées sont fixées sur leur arbre de rotation par chassage, c'est-à-dire qu'un cylindre creux est forcé sur un axe possédant un diamètre légèrement supérieur au diamètre intérieur du cylindre. Les propriétés élastiques et plastiques du matériau employé, généralement un métal, sont utilisées pour ce chassage. Pour des composants réalisés en matériau cassant tel que du silicium, matériau qui ne possède pas de domaine plastique utilisable, il n'est pas possible de chasser un cylindre creux sur un arbre de rotation conventionnel tels que ceux qui sont utilisés dans l'horlogerie mécanique, avec une tolérance de diamètre de l'ordre de +/- 5 microns.Generally, in timepieces, the assembly elements such as the watch hands and the gears are fixed on their rotary shaft by driving, that is to say that a hollow cylinder is forced on an axis. having a diameter slightly greater than the inside diameter of the cylinder. The elastic and plastic properties of the material used, generally a metal, are used for this hunting. For components made of brittle material such as silicon, which material does not have a usable plastic field, it is not possible to drive a hollow cylinder on a conventional rotating shaft such as those used in mechanical watchmaking , with a diameter tolerance of the order of +/- 5 microns.

De plus, la solution de fixation de l'élément d'assemblage tel qu'une aiguille doit fournir une force suffisante pour maintenir en place l'élément lors de chocs. La force nécessaire pour une aiguille horlogère conventionnelle est par exemple de l'ordre de un Newton.In addition, the fixing solution of the connecting element such as a needle must provide sufficient force to hold the element in place during shocks. The force required for a conventional watchmaking needle is for example of the order of a Newton.

Pour résoudre ces problèmes, il a déjà été proposé de réaliser, dans un élément d'assemblage tel qu'une virole de ressort à spiral en silicium, des structures élastiques en forme de lames flexibles agencées sur le pourtour de l'ouverture, de manière à permettre la fixation de la virole sur un arbre à la manière d'un chassage, en utilisant la déformation élastique des lames pour serrer l'arbre et retenir la virole sur l'arbre. Un tel exemple de fixation est décrit notamment dans le document EP 1 655 642 .To solve these problems, it has already been proposed to produce, in an assembly element such as a silicon spiral spring ferrule, elastic structures in the form of flexible blades arranged around the periphery of the opening, in such a way that to allow the attachment of the ferrule on a shaft in the manner of a hunting, using the elastic deformation of the blades to tighten the shaft and retain the ferrule on the shaft. Such an example of attachment is described in particular in the document EP 1 655 642 .

Le document EP 1 659 460 divulgue une aiguille dotée d'un canon capable de se déformer élastiquement afin de se fixer autour d'un arbre.The document EP 1 659 460 discloses a needle with a barrel capable of deforming elastically to settle around a tree.

L'invention vise à apporter des perfectionnements à ces solutions, notamment pour permettre l'utilisation de cet élément d'assemblage comme élément rotatif dans un mécanisme d'horlogerie, en particulier comme aiguille horlogère.The invention aims to provide improvements to these solutions, in particular to allow the use of this assembly element as a rotary element in a clockwork mechanism, in particular as a watchmaker's hand.

Dans ce but, l'invention propose un élément d'assemblage selon la revendication 1.For this purpose, the invention proposes an assembly element according to claim 1.

L'élément d'assemblage selon l'invention permet d'améliorer la force de serrage contre l'arbre, pour permettre une meilleure répartition des efforts liés à la déformation élastique dans le matériau constituant l'élément d'assemblage, et pour permettre un meilleur contrôle de la force de serrage obtenue sur l'arbre, tout en restant éloigné de la zone de rupture du matériau. De plus, la réalisation de structures élastiques dans deux couches de la plaque permet de maximiser le nombre de structures élastiques relativement au volume d'encombrement.The assembly element according to the invention makes it possible to improve the clamping force against the shaft, to allow a better distribution of the forces related to the elastic deformation in the material constituting the connecting element, and to allow a better control of the clamping force obtained on the shaft, while remaining away from the breaking point of the material. In addition, the production of elastic structures in two layers of the plate makes it possible to maximize the number of elastic structures relative to the volume of space.

Selon une autre caractéristique de l'invention, les structures élastiques de la première série sont de types différents des structures élastiques de la seconde série.According to another characteristic of the invention, the elastic structures of the first series are of different types of the elastic structures of the second series.

La combinaison de structures élastiques de types différents entre la couche supérieure et la couche inférieure permet de combiner les avantages techniques des deux types de structures, par exemple en vue d'optimiser la résistance aux accélérations linéaires, suivant l'axe de rotation, et aux accélérations angulaires, par rapport à l'axe de rotation.The combination of elastic structures of different types between the upper layer and the lower layer makes it possible to combine the technical advantages of the two types of structures, for example in order to optimize the resistance to linear accelerations, along the axis of rotation, and to the angular accelerations, relative to the axis of rotation.

Selon d'autres caractéristiques de l'invention :

  • les deux séries de structures élastiques sont décalées angulairement l'une par rapport à l'autre, de manière qu'au moins une partie de leurs surfaces d'appui soient décalées angulairement les unes par rapport aux autres;
  • la plaque est du type Silicon On Insulator avec une couche supérieure et une couche inférieure de silicium séparées par une couche intermédiaire d'oxyde de silicium;
  • la plaque est du type Silicon On Insulator assymétrique avec une couche supérieure mince et une couche inférieure épaisse, et la première série de structures élastiques est réalisée dans la couche supérieure et la seconde série de structures élastiques est réalisée dans la couche inférieure;
  • l'élément d'assemblage est constitué par un élément rotatif prévu pour être monté solidaire à rotation sur l'arbre, le corps principal de l'élément rotatif s'étend dans la couche supérieure, et la seconde série de structures élastiques est réalisée dans une extension axiale du corps principal située dans la couche inférieure;
  • l'élément d'assemblage est constitué par une aiguille d'horlogerie;
  • au moins une série de structures élastiques est du type dans lequel chaque structure élastique est constituée par un empilement radial de plusieurs lames élastiques parallèles, chaque lame élastique étant espacée radialement de la lame élastique adjacente par une lumière intercalaire rectiligne en deux parties, les deux parties de la lumière intercalaire étant séparées par un pont de matière qui relie les deux lames élastiques adjacentes et qui est sensiblement aligné radialement avec la surface d'appui, la dernière lame élastique de l'empilement, qui est située du côté opposé à la première lame, étant espacée radialement du reste de la plaque par une lumière en une seule partie, dite lumière de débattement, qui définit un espace de débattement radial pour la structure élastique;
  • au moins une série de structures élastiques est du type dans lequel chaque structure élastique est constituée par une fourche qui est liée à la paroi intérieure de l'ouverture par un pont de matière et qui comporte deux branches s'étendant, de part et d'autre du pont de matière, globalement vers l'arbre, chaque branche comportant une surface d'appui au voisinage de son extrémité libre.
According to other features of the invention:
  • the two sets of elastic structures are angularly offset relative to each other, so that at least a portion of their bearing surfaces are angularly offset relative to each other;
  • the plate is of the Silicon On Insulator type with an upper layer and a lower silicon layer separated by an intermediate layer of silicon oxide;
  • the plate is of the asymmetric Silicon On Insulator type with a thin upper layer and a thick lower layer, and the first series of elastic structures is made in the upper layer and the second series of elastic structures is made in the lower layer;
  • the connecting element is constituted by a rotary element designed to be mounted to rotate with the shaft, the main body of the rotary element extends in the upper layer, and the second series of elastic structures is formed in an axial extension of the main body located in the lower layer;
  • the assembly element is constituted by a watchmaking needle;
  • at least one series of elastic structures is of the type in which each elastic structure is constituted by a radial stack of several blades parallel elastic members, each elastic blade being spaced radially from the adjacent elastic blade by a rectilinear intermediate light in two parts, the two parts of the intermediate light being separated by a material bridge which connects the two adjacent elastic blades and which is substantially radially aligned; with the bearing surface, the last elastic blade of the stack, which is located on the opposite side to the first blade, being spaced radially from the remainder of the plate by a single-piece light, called the deflection light, which defines a radial clearance space for the elastic structure;
  • at least one series of resilient structures is of the type in which each elastic structure is constituted by a fork which is connected to the inner wall of the opening by a material bridge and which has two branches extending, on both sides, other of the material bridge, generally to the shaft, each branch having a bearing surface near its free end.

L'invention propose aussi une pièce d'horlogerie caractérisée en ce qu'elle comporte au moins un élément d'assemblage selon l'une des caractéristiques précédentes.The invention also proposes a timepiece characterized in that it comprises at least one connecting element according to one of the preceding characteristics.

D'autres caractéristiques et avantages de la présente invention apparaîtront plus clairement à la lecture de la description détaillée qui suit, faite en référence aux dessins annexés donnés à titre d'exemple non limitatifs et dans lesquels :

  • la figure 1 est une vue en coupe axiale qui représente schématiquement une pièce d'horlogerie équipée d'éléments d'assemblage constitués par des aiguilles horlogères réalisées à partir d'une plaque en matériau cassant conformément aux enseignements de l'invention;
  • les figures 2 à 4 sont des vues de dessus qui représentent schématiquement respectivement l'aiguille des heures, l'aiguille des minutes, et l'aiguille des secondes équipant la pièce d'horlogerie de la figure 1 et qui sont pourvues de structures élastiques à lames superposées gravées dans une couche supérieure et dans une couche inférieure de chaque aiguille;
  • la figure 5 et la figure 6 sont des vues partielles agrandies de la bague de fixation de l'aiguille des heures de la figure 2 et de l'aiguille des secondes de la figure 4;
  • la figure 7 est une vue partielle en perspective qui représente la bague de fixation de l'aiguille des secondes de la figure 4;
  • la figure 8 est une vue similaire à celle de la figure 2 qui représente une variante de réalisation des structures élastiques de l'aiguille des heures comportant des éléments en relief sur les surfaces d'appui;
  • les figures 9 à 11 sont des vues similaires à celle de la figure 5 qui représentent un deuxième mode de réalisation respectivement de l'aiguille des heures, de l'aiguille des minutes et de l'aiguille des secondes dans lesquelles la couche inférieure et la couche supérieure comportent des structures élastiques de types différents;
  • les figures 12 à 14 sont des vues similaires à celles des figures 9 à 11 qui représentent un troisième mode de réalisation respectivement de l'aiguille des heures, de l'aiguille des minutes et de l'aiguille des secondes dans lesquelles la couche inférieure et la couche supérieure comportent des structures élastiques de types différents;
  • la figure 15 est une vue en coupe axiale selon le plan 15-15 qui représente la bague de fixation de l'aiguille des heures de la figure 2.
Other features and advantages of the present invention will appear more clearly on reading the detailed description which follows, made with reference to the accompanying drawings given by way of non-limiting example and in which:
  • the figure 1 is an axial sectional view which schematically shows a timepiece equipped with assembly elements constituted by watch hands made from a plate of brittle material according to the teachings of the invention;
  • the Figures 2 to 4 are views from above which schematically represent respectively the hour hand, the minute hand, and the second hand equipping the timepiece of the figure 1 and which are provided with elastic structures with superimposed blades etched in an upper layer and in a lower layer of each needle;
  • the figure 5 and the figure 6 are enlarged partial views of the hour hand fixing ring of the figure 2 and the second hand of the figure 4 ;
  • the figure 7 is a partial perspective view which represents the fixing ring of the second hand of the figure 4 ;
  • the figure 8 is a view similar to that of the figure 2 which represents an alternative embodiment of the elastic structures of the hour hand comprising elements in relief on the bearing surfaces;
  • the Figures 9 to 11 are views similar to that of the figure 5 which represent a second embodiment respectively of the hour hand, the minute hand and the second hand in which the lower layer and the upper layer comprise elastic structures of different types;
  • the Figures 12 to 14 are views similar to those of Figures 9 to 11 which represent a third embodiment respectively of the hour hand, the minute hand and the second hand in which the lower layer and the upper layer comprise elastic structures of different types;
  • the figure 15 is an axial sectional view along the plane 15-15 which represents the fixing ring of the hour hand of the figure 2 .

Dans la suite de la description, des éléments identiques ou similaires seront désignés par les mêmes références.In the remainder of the description, identical or similar elements will be designated by the same references.

Sur la figure 1, on a représenté schématiquement une pièce d'horlogerie 10 qui est réalisée conformément aux enseignements de l'invention.On the figure 1 schematically shows a timepiece 10 which is made in accordance with the teachings of the invention.

La pièce d'horlogerie 10 comporte un mouvement 12 monté à l'intérieur d'un boîtier 14 fermé par une glace 16. Le mouvement 12 entraîne en rotation, autour d'un axe A1, des moyens d'affichage analogique constitués ici par une aiguille des heures 18, une aiguille des minutes 20, et une aiguille des secondes 22, ces aiguilles s'étendant au-dessus d'un cadran 24. Les aiguilles 18, 20, 22 sont fixées sur des arbres 26, 28, 30 de rotation coaxiaux par serrage élastique, à la manière d'un chassage, comme on le verra par la suite.The timepiece 10 comprises a movement 12 mounted inside a casing 14 closed by a lens 16. The movement 12 drives in rotation, about an axis A1, analog display means constituted here by a hour hand 18, a minute hand 20, and a second hand 22, these hands extending above a dial 24. The needles 18, 20, 22 are fixed on shafts 26, 28, 30 of coaxial rotation by elastic clamping, in the manner of a hunting, as will be seen later.

De préférence, les arbres 26, 28, 30 sont des arbres conventionnels couramment utilisés dans les mouvements d'horlogerie, par exemple des arbres cylindriques en métal ou en matériau plastique.Preferably, the shafts 26, 28, 30 are conventional shafts commonly used in watch movements, for example cylindrical shafts made of metal or plastic material.

Dans la suite de la description, on utilisera à titre non limitatif une orientation axiale suivant l'axe de rotation A1 des aiguilles 18, 20, 22 et une orientation radiale relativement à cet axe A1. De plus, des éléments seront qualifiés d'intérieur ou d'extérieur, suivant l'orientation radiale, par rapport à l'axe A1.In the remainder of the description, non-limiting use will be made of an axial orientation along the axis of rotation A1 of the needles 18, 20, 22 and a radial orientation relative to this axis A1. In addition, elements will be qualified interior or exterior, in the radial orientation, with respect to the axis A1.

Les aiguilles 18, 20, 22 constituent des éléments d'assemblage, chaque aiguille 18, 20, 22 étant réalisée dans une plaque en matériau cassant, de préférence en matériau cristallin à base de silicium.The needles 18, 20, 22 constitute connecting elements, each needle 18, 20, 22 being made in a plate of brittle material, preferably of crystalline material based on silicon.

Les figures 2, 3 et 4 représentent un premier mode de réalisation avantageux pour chacune des trois aiguilles, respectivement pour l'aiguille des heures 18, l'aiguille des minutes 20, et l'aiguille des secondes 22. Chaque aiguille 18, 20, 22 comporte ici une bague de fixation 31 qui délimite une ouverture 32 prévue pour permettre la fixation de l'aiguille 18, 20, 22 sur l'arbre 26, 28, 30 associé par insertion axiale dans l'ouverture 32. La paroi intérieure 33 de l'ouverture 32 comporte des structures élastiques 34 qui sont gravées dans la plaque formant la bague de fixation 31 et qui comportent chacune au moins une surface d'appui 36 pour serrer radialement l'arbre 26, 28, 30 associé en vue de retenir axialement et radialement l'aiguille 18, 20, 22 sur l'arbre 26, 28, 30, et en vue de rendre l'arbre et l'aiguille associée solidaires à rotation.The Figures 2, 3 and 4 represent a first advantageous embodiment for each of the three needles, respectively for the hour hand 18, the minute hand 20, and the second hand 22. Each needle 18, 20, 22 here comprises a fixing ring 31 which delimits an opening 32 provided for allow attachment of the needle 18, 20, 22 to the shaft 26, 28, 30 associated by axial insertion in the opening 32. The inner wall 33 of the opening 32 comprises elastic structures 34 which are etched in the plate forming the fixing ring 31 and which each comprise at least one bearing surface 36 for radially clamping the associated shaft 26, 28, 30 in order to axially and radially retain the needle 18, 20, 22 on the shaft 26, 28, 30, and in order to make the shaft and the associated needle integral with rotation.

Conformément aux enseignements de l'invention, chaque aiguille 18, 20, 22 comporte une première série S1 de structures élastiques 34 qui sont gravées dans une couche supérieure 39 de la plaque et une seconde série S2 de structures élastiques 34 qui sont gravées dans une couche inférieure 41 de la plaque, comme illustré par la vue en coupe de la figure 15.According to the teachings of the invention, each needle 18, 20, 22 comprises a first series S1 of elastic structures 34 which are etched in an upper layer 39 of the plate and a second series S2 of elastic structures 34 which are etched in a layer lower 41 of the plate, as illustrated by the sectional view of the figure 15 .

Avantageusement, chaque aiguille 18, 20, 22 est réalisée dans une plaque de silicium du type SOI (Silicon On Insulator) asymétrique qui comprend une couche supérieure 39 mince de silicium et une couche inférieure 41 épaisse de silicium séparées par une couche intermédiaire 43 d'oxyde de silicium. Ce type de plaque présente notamment l'avantage de faciliter la réalisation de structures distinctes par deux étapes de gravure, par exemple par une attaque chimique du côté de la couche supérieure 39 et par une autre attaque chimique du côté de la couche inférieure 41, la couche intermédiaire 43 permettant de stopper l'attaque de manière adéquate pour limiter la gravure respectivement dans chacune des couches 39, 41. Après gravure dans les couches supérieure 39 et inférieure 41, une autre attaque est mise en oeuvre pour éliminer la couche intermédiaire 43 dans des zones déterminées de manière à libérer les structures élastiques 34 pour permettre leur déformation élastique.Advantageously, each needle 18, 20, 22 is made in an asymmetric silicon SOI (Silicon On Insulator) type plate which comprises a thin upper layer 39 of silicon and a lower layer 41 of silicon separated by an intermediate layer 43 of silicon. silicon oxide. This type of plate has the advantage of facilitating the production of distinct structures by two etching steps, for example by etching on the side of the upper layer 39 and by another chemical etching on the lower layer 41, the intermediate layer 43 for stopping the attack adequately to limit etching respectively in each of the layers 39, 41. After etching in the upper layers 39 and lower 41, another attack is implemented to eliminate the intermediate layer 43 in areas determined to release the elastic structures 34 to allow their elastic deformation.

Après la gravure de chaque aiguille 18, 20, 22, la couche supérieure 39 et la couche inférieure 41 restent liées par des portions de la couche intermédiaire 43 qui n'ont pas été attaquées. Ces portions de liaison sont situées ici dans la bague 31, sur le pourtour de l'ouverture 32.After the etching of each needle 18, 20, 22, the upper layer 39 and the lower layer 41 remain bound by portions of the intermediate layer 43 which have not been etched. These connecting portions are located here in the ring 31, around the periphery of the opening 32.

Selon les modes de réalisation représentés, la couche inférieure 41 de silicium est conservée exclusivement sous la bague de fixation 31 de chaque aiguille 18, 20, 22 et elle forme une extension axiale inférieure, par rapport au reste du corps de l'aiguille 18, 20, 22 qui est formé dans la couche supérieure 39 mince, comme on peut le voir sur la figure 15.According to the embodiments shown, the lower layer 41 of silicon is kept exclusively under the fixing ring 31 of each needle 18, 20, 22 and it forms a lower axial extension, relative to the rest of the body of the needle 18, 20, 22 which is formed in the upper layer 39 thin, as can be seen on the figure 15 .

On décrit maintenant un premier mode de réalisation avantageux des structures élastiques 34 selon l'invention en considérant l'aiguille des heures 18 telle que représentée sur la figure 2 et telle que représentée de manière agrandie sur la figure 5 et en coupe sur la figure 15. On note que les structures élastiques 34 sont ici représentées au repos, c'est-à-dire avant d'être déformées par l'insertion de l'arbre 26, 28, 30 associé.We now describe a first advantageous embodiment of the elastic structures 34 according to the invention by considering the hour hand 18 as shown in FIG. figure 2 and as shown enlarged on the figure 5 and in section on the figure 15 . Note that the elastic structures 34 are here represented at rest, that is to say before being deformed by the insertion of the shaft 26, 28, 30 associated.

Selon le premier mode de réalisation, les structures élastiques 34 de la première S1 et de la seconde S2 séries sont de types similaires, ici du type à empilement radial de lames élastiques Ln rectilignes et parallèles, d'épaisseur radiale sensiblement constante. Les lames élastiques Ln s'étendent chacune suivant une direction tangentielle par rapport à l'arbre 26 associé. La surface d'appui 36 de chaque structure élastique 34 est agencée sur la face interne 38 de la première lame élastique L1 de l'empilement, du côté de l'arbre 26. Dans chaque structure élastique 34, chaque lame élastique Ln est espacée radialement de la lame élastique Ln+1, Ln-1 adjacente par une lumière intercalaire In rectiligne en deux parties Ina, Inb, les deux parties Ina, Inb de la lumière intercalaire In étant séparées par un pont de matière Pn qui relie les deux lames élastiques Ln adjacentes et qui est sensiblement aligné radialement avec la surface d'appui 36. La suite continue de ponts de matière Pn entre les lames élastiques Ln forme ainsi une poutre radiale de liaison 40.According to the first embodiment, the elastic structures 34 of the first S1 and the second S2 series are of similar types, here of the radial stack type of linear strips L n rectilinear and parallel, of substantially constant radial thickness. The elastic blades L n each extend in a tangential direction relative to the associated shaft 26. The bearing surface 36 of each elastic structure 34 is arranged on the inner face 38 of the first elastic blade L 1 of the stack, on the side of the shaft 26. In each elastic structure 34, each elastic blade L n is radially of the elastic blade spaced L n + 1, L n-1 adjacent a separator hole I n rectilinear in two parts I na, I nb, both parts I na, I nb of the separator hole I n being separated by a material bridge P n which connects the two adjacent elastic strips L n and which is substantially radially aligned with the bearing surface 36. The continuous sequence of material bridges P n between the elastic strips L n thus forms a radial connecting beam 40.

Avantageusement, l'extrémité de chaque lumière intercalaire In présente un profil arrondi, par exemple en demi-cercle, de manière à éviter une accumulation des contraintes mécaniques aux extrémités ce qui pourrait conduire à des amorces de ruptures lors de la flexion des lames élastiques Ln.Advantageously, the end of each intermediate light I n has a rounded profile, for example in a semicircle, so as to avoid an accumulation of mechanical stresses at the ends which could lead to breakouts during the bending of the elastic blades L n .

Dans l'exemple représenté, en considérant la seconde série S2 de structures élastiques 34, l'empilement formant chaque structure élastique 34 comporte trois lames élastiques L1, L2, L3 et deux lumières intercalaires I1, I2. Les épaisseurs radiales des lumières intercalaires In sont ici sensiblement constantes et identiques.In the example shown, considering the second series S2 of elastic structures 34, the stack forming each elastic structure 34 comprises three resilient blades L 1 , L 2 , L 3 and two intermediate lights I 1 , I 2 . The radial thicknesses of the intermediate lights In are here substantially constant and identical.

Selon une autre caractéristique, la dernière lame élastique L3 de l'empilement, qui est située du côté opposé à la première lame L1, est espacée radialement du reste de la plaque formant l'aiguille 18 par une lumière 42 en une seule partie, dite lumière de débattement 42. L'épaisseur radiale de la lumière de débattement 42 détermine le débattement radial maximal de la structure élastique 34. De préférence, l'épaisseur radiale de la lumière de débattement 42 est sensiblement constante et supérieure ou égale à l'épaisseur radiale des lumières intercalaires In.According to another feature, the last elastic blade L 3 of the stack, which is located on the opposite side to the first blade L 1 , is radially spaced from the remainder of the plate forming the needle 18 by a light 42 in one part The radial thickness of the deflection lumen 42 determines the maximum radial deflection of the elastic structure 34. Preferably, the radial thickness of the deflection lumen 42 is substantially constant and greater than or equal to 1 radial thickness of the intermediate lights I n .

De préférence, le nombre de lames élastiques Ln formant chaque structure élastique 34 de la couche inférieure 41 épaisse est plus faible que le nombre de lames élastiques Ln formant chaque structure élastique 34 de la couche supérieure 39 mince.Preferably, the number of elastic blades L n forming each elastic structure 34 of the lower layer 41 thick is lower than the number of elastic blades L n forming each elastic structure 34 of the upper layer 39 thin.

Lorsque l'arbre 26 est inséré dans l'ouverture 32, l'effort exercé sur la surface d'appui 36 provoque une déformation élastique de toutes les lames élastiques Ln de chaque structure élastique 34 de sorte que la partie centrale de ces lames Ln se déplace radialement vers l'extérieur, en réduisant l'épaisseur radiale de la lumière de débattement 42 au droit de la poutre 40. Cette déformation élastique produit un serrage élastique radial sur l'arbre 26 à la manière d'un chassage.When the shaft 26 is inserted into the opening 32, the force exerted on the bearing surface 36 causes elastic deformation of all the elastic blades L n of each elastic structure 34 so that the central portion of these blades L n moves radially outward, reducing the radial thickness of the deflection lumen 42 to the right of the beam 40. This elastic deformation produces a radial elastic clamping on the shaft 26 in the manner of a chase.

On note que la poutre de liaison 40 permet de lier toutes les lames élastiques Ln entre elles, de manière qu'elles puissent toutes se déformer simultanément lorsqu'un effort radial est appliqué sur la surface d'appui 36, et de manière à répartir les contraintes mécaniques en plusieurs endroits pour minimiser les risques de rupture.It is noted that the connecting beam 40 makes it possible to bind all the elastic strips L n between them, so that they can all be deformed simultaneously when a radial force is applied to the bearing surface 36, and in such a way as to distribute mechanical stresses in several places to minimize the risk of breakage.

De préférence, dans chaque structure élastique 34, la longueur des lames élastiques Ln diminue progressivement depuis la première lame élastique L1 jusqu'à la dernière lame élastique L3 de l'empilement, ce qui permet de suivre globalement la courbure de la paroi extérieure cylindrique 44 de la bague de fixation 31.Preferably, in each elastic structure 34, the length of the elastic blades L n decreases progressively from the first elastic blade L 1 to the last elastic blade L 3 of the stack, which makes it possible to follow globally the curvature of the wall outer cylindrical 44 of the fixing ring 31.

Selon le mode de réalisation représenté sur la figure 5, l'épaisseur radiale de chaque lumière intercalaire In est sensiblement constante sur toute sa longueur et l'épaisseur radiale de toutes les lumières intercalaires In est sensiblement égale. Pour obtenir une force de serrage maximale sur l'arbre 26, dans un volume donné de matériau de la bague de fixation 31, l'épaisseur radiale de chaque lumière intercalaire In est minimisée.According to the embodiment shown on the figure 5 , the radial thickness of each intermediate light I n is substantially constant over its entire length and the radial thickness of all the intermediate lights I n is substantially equal. To obtain a maximum clamping force on the shaft 26, in a given volume of material of the fixing ring 31, the radial thickness of each intermediate light I n is minimized.

Avantageusement, pour chaque aiguille 18, 20, 22, le nombre de structures élastiques 34 agencées autour de l'ouverture 32, dans chaque série S1, S2 de structures élastiques 34, est choisi en fonction du diamètre de l'arbre 26, 28, 30 associé et en fonction de l'espace radial disponible entre la paroi intérieure 33 de l'ouverture 32 et la paroi extérieure 44 de la bague de fixation 31 de l'aiguille 18, 20, 22. Ainsi, plus le diamètre de l'arbre 26, 28, 30 est important et plus l'espace radial mentionné ci-dessus est faible, plus le nombre de structures élastiques 34 est important.Advantageously, for each needle 18, 20, 22, the number of elastic structures 34 arranged around the opening 32, in each series S1, S2 of elastic structures 34, is chosen as a function of the diameter of the shaft 26, 28, Associated and depending on the radial space available between the inner wall 33 of the opening 32 and the outer wall 44 of the fastening ring 31 of the needle 18, 20, 22. Thus, plus the diameter of the shaft 26, 28, 30 is important and the smaller the radial space mentioned above, the greater the number of elastic structures 34 is important.

Dans le présent mode de réalisation, comme le diamètre de l'arbre 26 associé à l'aiguille des heures 18 est beaucoup plus important que le diamètre de l'arbre 30 associé à l'aiguille des secondes 22, et comme le diamètre extérieur de la bague de fixation 31 n'évolue pas proportionnellement, il a été sélectionné un nombre de structures élastiques 34 égal à quatre dans chacune des séries S1, S2 de l'aiguille des heures 18, alors que le nombre de structures élastiques 34 est égal à deux dans chaque série S1, S2 de l'aiguille des secondes 22. De manière intermédiaire, le nombre de structures élastiques 34 dans chaque série S1, S2 de l'aiguille des minutes 20 est ici égal à trois.In the present embodiment, since the diameter of the shaft 26 associated with the hour hand 18 is much larger than the diameter of the shaft associated with the second hand 22, and as the outer diameter of the fixing ring 31 does not evolve proportionally, it has been selected a number of elastic structures 34 equal to four in each of the series S1, S2 of the hour hand 18, while the number of elastic structures 34 is equal to two in each series S1, S2 of the seconds hand 22. In an intermediate manner, the number of elastic structures 34 in each series S1, S2 of the minute hand 20 is here equal to three.

On note que, pour l'aiguille des heures 18 et l'aiguille des minutes 20, les structures élastiques 34 sont réparties de manière régulière autour de l'axe A1, de sorte que le contour intérieur de l'ouverture 32 a, dans chaque série S1, S2, globalement une forme carrée et une forme triangulaire respectivement.Note that for the hour hand 18 and the minute hand 20, the elastic structures 34 are distributed evenly about the axis A1, so that the inner contour of the opening 32 has, in each series S1, S2, generally a square shape and a triangular shape respectively.

On note que la réalisation du système de fixation avec au moins trois structures élastiques 34 permet de faciliter le centrage de la bague de fixation 31 par rapport à l'arbre 26, 28, 30 associé.Note that the realization of the fastening system with at least three elastic structures 34 facilitates the centering of the fixing ring 31 relative to the shaft 26, 28, 30 associated.

Avantageusement, le nombre de structures élastiques 34 est le même dans les deux séries S1, S2 mais les structures élastiques 34 de la première série S1 sont décalées angulairement par rapport aux structures élastiques 34 de la seconde série S2. Ainsi, en considérant l'aiguille des heures 18 sur la figure 5, les structures élastiques 34 des deux séries S1, S2 sont décalées de π/4. Ce décalage angulaire permet de bien répartir la force de serrage élastique sur le pourtour de l'arbre 26 en décalant angulairement les surfaces d'appui 36 des structures élastiques 34 de la première série S1 par rapport aux surfaces d'appui 36 de la seconde série S2. Ce décalage angulaire présente aussi des avantages au niveau de la fabrication, lors des étapes de gravure, car il permet de minimiser la surface de couche intermédiaire 43 qui est dégagée sur ses deux faces transversales, après attaque plasma (RIE) des deux côtés de la plaque SOI.Advantageously, the number of elastic structures 34 is the same in the two series S1, S2 but the elastic structures 34 of the first series S1 are angularly offset with respect to the elastic structures 34 of the second series S2. So, by considering the hour hand 18 on the figure 5 the elastic structures 34 of the two series S1, S2 are shifted by π / 4. This angular offset allows the elastic clamping force to be well distributed around the periphery of the shaft 26 by angularly shifting the bearing surfaces 36 of the elastic structures 34 of the first series S1 with respect to the bearing surfaces 36 of the second series. S2. This angular offset also has manufacturing advantages during the etching steps, since it makes it possible to minimize the intermediate layer surface 43 which is disengaged on its two transverse faces, after plasma etching (RIE) on both sides of the film. SOI plate.

Selon les modes de réalisation représentés, les structures élastiques 34 de chaque série S1, S2 sont décalées angulairement de π/3 dans l'aiguille des minutes 20 et de π dans l'aiguille des secondes 22.According to the embodiments shown, the elastic structures 34 of each series S1, S2 are angularly offset by π / 3 in the minute hand 20 and π in the second hand 22.

Selon une autre caractéristique avantageuse, le nombre de lames élastiques Ln est différent entre les structures élastiques 34 de la première S1 et de la seconde S2 séries, ce qui permet d'ajuster plus finement la valeur de la force de serrage élastique sur l'arbre 26. Cela permet aussi d'ajuster la valeur de la force de serrage en fonction de l'épaisseur axiale des lames élastiques Ln, les lames élastiques Ln de la couche inférieure 41 étant plus épaisses axialement que celles de la couche supérieure 39, en raison de la différence d'épaisseur axiale entre les deux couches 39,41.According to another advantageous characteristic, the number of elastic blades L n is different between the elastic structures 34 of the first S1 and the second S2 series, which makes it possible to adjust more finely the value of the elastic clamping force on the 26. This also makes it possible to adjust the value of the clamping force as a function of the axial thickness of the elastic strips L n , the elastic strips L n of the lower layer 41 being thicker axially than those of the upper layer 39 due to the axial thickness difference between the two layers 39,41.

On décrit maintenant, en considérant notamment les figures 6 et 7, la structure spécifique de l'aiguille des secondes 22 dont chaque série S1, S2 comporte seulement deux structures élastiques 34 et une surface d'appui fixe 46. Selon ce mode de réalisation, les premières lames élastiques L1 des deux structures élastiques 34 de chaque série S1, S2 définissent entre elles un angle aigu β et elles sont sensiblement jointes à l'une de leurs extrémités fixes. L'angle β a par exemple une valeur d'environ trente degrés.We now describe, considering in particular the figures 6 and 7 , the specific structure of the second hand 22 of which each series S1, S2 comprises only two elastic structures 34 and a fixed bearing surface 46. According to this embodiment, the first elastic blades L 1 of the two elastic structures 34 of each series S1, S2 defines between them an acute angle β and they are substantially joined to one of their fixed ends. The angle β for example has a value of about thirty degrees.

Pour simplifier la représentation et faciliter la description, les deux couches 39, 41 et les séries S1, S2 de structures élastiques 34 associées de l'aiguille 22 ont été représentées côte à côte sur la figure 6.To simplify the representation and to facilitate the description, the two layers 39, 41 and the series S1, S2 of elastic structures 34 associated with the needle 22 have been represented side by side on the figure 6 .

On décrit maintenant la structure de la couche supérieure 39 et les structures élastiques 34 associées (S1), compte tenu du fait que la structure de la couche inférieure 41 est similaire mais décalée d'un demi tour.We now describe the structure of the upper layer 39 and the associated elastic structures 34 (S1), given that the structure of the lower layer 41 is similar but shifted by half a turn.

La surface d'appui fixe 46 s'étend suivant une direction tangentielle, par rapport à l'arbre 30 associé, et elle forme la base d'un triangle isocèle dont les deux autres côtés sont formés par la face interne 38 des premières lames élastiques L1 des deux structures élastiques 34. La surface d'appui fixe 46 est ici agencée à l'extrémité libre d'une découpe 48, globalement en forme de trapèze, en saillie à l'intérieur de l'ouverture 32. La découpe 48 est gravée dans la plaque formant l'aiguille 22 et elle comporte ici deux parois latérales 50, 52 qui s'étendent chacune parallèlement à la première lame L1 de la structure élastique 34 en vis-à-vis.The fixed bearing surface 46 extends in a tangential direction, relative to the associated shaft 30, and forms the base of an isosceles triangle whose two other sides are formed by the inner face 38 of the first elastic blades. L 1 of the two elastic structures 34. The fixed bearing surface 46 is here arranged at the free end of a cutout 48, generally trapezium-shaped, projecting inside the opening 32. The cut 48 is engraved in the plate forming the needle 22 and here it comprises two side walls 50, 52 which each extend parallel to the first blade L 1 of the elastic structure 34 vis-à-vis.

L'arbre 30 associé à l'aiguille des secondes 22 est prévu pour être en appui contre la surface d'appui fixe 46 et contre les surfaces d'appui 36 des structures élastiques 34.The shaft 30 associated with the seconds hand 22 is designed to bear against the fixed bearing surface 46 and against the bearing surfaces 36 of the elastic structures 34.

On note que le contour de la paroi intérieure 33 de l'ouverture 32 a, pour chacune des couches 39, 41 globalement la forme d'un triangle isocèle.Note that the contour of the inner wall 33 of the opening 32 has, for each of the layers 39, 41 generally the shape of an isosceles triangle.

Selon un mode de réalisation avantageux représenté sur la figure 6, dans chaque structure élastique 34, l'épaisseur radiale de chaque lame élastique Ln est sensiblement constante sur toute sa longueur, et l'épaisseur radiale des lames élastiques Ln diminue progressivement depuis la première lame élastique L1 jusqu'à la dernière lame élastique Ln de l'empilement, chaque structure élastique 34 de la première série S1 comportant ici vingt et une lames élastiques Ln et chaque structure élastique 34 de la seconde série S2 comportant ici neuf lames élastiques Ln, de longueurs décroissantes, de l'intérieur vers l'extérieur. Ainsi, l'épaisseur radiale des lames élastiques L1 est adaptée à leur longueur, ce qui permet d'obtenir une flexibilité sensiblement homogène de toutes les lames élastiques Ln, malgré leurs différences de longueur. On homogénéise aussi les contraintes mécaniques dans tout le volume de matière servant à la fixation, c'est-à-dire ici dans toute la bague de fixation 31.According to an advantageous embodiment represented on the figure 6 in each elastic structure 34, the radial thickness of each elastic blade L n is substantially constant over its entire length, and the radial thickness of the elastic blades L n decreases progressively from the first elastic blade L 1 to the last blade elastic L n of the stack, each elastic structure 34 of the first series S1 here comprising twenty-one elastic blades L n and each elastic structure 34 of the second series S2 here comprising nine elastic blades L n , of decreasing lengths, inside to the outside. Thus, the radial thickness of the elastic blades L 1 is adapted to their length, which allows a substantially homogeneous flexibility of all the elastic blades L n , despite their differences in length. The mechanical stresses are also homogenized throughout the volume of material used for fixing, that is to say here in the entire fixing ring 31.

Bien entendu, cette différence d'épaisseur entre les lames élastiques Ln peut être appliquée aux autres modes de réalisation d'aiguilles 18, 20, 22.Of course, this difference in thickness between the elastic blades L n can be applied to the other embodiments of needles 18, 20, 22.

On note que le nombre de lames élastiques Ln formant chaque empilement peut être adapté en fonction de divers paramètres, notamment en fonction de l'espace radial disponible, en fonction de la force de serrage désirée sur l'arbre associé, en fonction du type de matériau utilisé pour fabriquer l'aiguille 18, 20, 22 associée. De préférence, le nombre de lames Ln est plus faible dans la couche inférieure 41 épaisse que dans la couche supérieure 39 mince.Note that the number of elastic blades L n forming each stack can be adapted according to various parameters, in particular according to the available radial space, depending on the desired clamping force on the shaft associated, depending on the type of material used to manufacture the needle 18, 20, 22 associated. Preferably, the number of blades L n is lower in the lower layer 41 thick than in the upper layer 39 thin.

Sur la figure 8, on a représenté une variante de réalisation de l'aiguille des heures 18 qui se différencie du précédent mode de réalisation par le fait que chaque surface d'appui 36 est pourvue d'éléments discrets en relief 54 qui augmentent les frottements entre l'arbre 26 et la surface d'appui 36 de manière à améliorer la solidarisation en rotation entre l'arbre 26 et l'aiguille 18. Ces éléments discrets en relief 54 sont constitués ici par des dents de profil triangulaire gravées dans la première lame L1.On the figure 8 , there is shown an alternative embodiment of the hour hand 18 which differs from the previous embodiment in that each bearing surface 36 is provided with discrete elements in relief 54 which increase the friction between the shaft 26 and the bearing surface 36 so as to improve the rotational connection between the shaft 26 and the needle 18. These discrete elements in relief 54 are constituted here by teeth of triangular profile etched in the first blade L 1 .

Bien entendu, cette variante de réalisation est applicable aux surfaces d'appui 36, 46 agencées dans les ouvertures 32 des aiguilles des minutes 20 et des secondes 22 décrites en relation avec les figures 3 et 4.Of course, this embodiment variant is applicable to the bearing surfaces 36, 46 arranged in the openings 32 of minute hands 20 and seconds 22 described in connection with the Figures 3 and 4 .

Selon un deuxième mode de réalisation, qui est représenté sur les figures 9 à 11, les deux séries S1, S2 de structures élastiques 34 agencées sur chaque aiguille 18, 20, 22 sont de types différents. Plus précisément, la première série S1 de structures élastiques 34 est du type à lames élastiques Ln empilées, comme décrit et représenté en référence au premier mode de réalisation, et la seconde série S2 de structures élastiques est du type à structures élastiques 34 en forme de fourche.According to a second embodiment, which is represented on the Figures 9 to 11 the two series S1, S2 of elastic structures 34 arranged on each needle 18, 20, 22 are of different types. More specifically, the first series S1 of resilient structures 34 is of the type L n stacked elastic blades, as described and shown with reference to the first embodiment, and the second series S2 of elastic structures is of the type with resilient structures 34 shaped fork.

Chaque structure élastique 34 de la seconde série S2 est constituée par une fourche qui est liée à la paroi intérieure 33 de l'ouverture 32 par un pont de matière 56 et qui comporte deux branches 58, 60 s'étendant, de part et d'autre du pont de matière 56, globalement vers l'arbre 26, 28, 30. En outre, chaque branche 58, 60 comporte une surface d'appui 62, 64 au voisinage de son extrémité libre 66, 68.Each elastic structure 34 of the second series S2 is constituted by a fork which is connected to the inner wall 33 of the opening 32 by a material bridge 56 and which comprises two branches 58, 60 extending, on both sides. other material bridge 56, generally to the shaft 26, 28, 30. In addition, each branch 58, 60 has a bearing surface 62, 64 adjacent its free end 66, 68.

Selon le deuxième mode de réalisation, les deux branches 58, 60 de chaque structure élastique 34 sont recourbées l'une vers l'autre en formant un "C" presque fermé.According to the second embodiment, the two branches 58, 60 of each elastic structure 34 are curved towards each other forming an almost closed "C".

On décrit maintenant ce deuxième mode de réalisation en considérant l'aiguille des heures 18 telle que représentée sur la figure 9. On note que les structures élastiques 34 sont ici représentées au repos, c'est-à-dire avant d'être déformées par l'insertion de l'arbre 26, 28, 30 associé.This second embodiment is now described by considering the hour hand 18 as shown in FIG. figure 9 . Note that the elastic structures 34 are here represented at rest, that is to say before being deformed by the insertion of the shaft 26, 28, 30 associated.

Chaque branche 58, 60 de chaque structure élastique 34 a la forme d'une courbe sensiblement parabolique dont une première extrémité fixe 70, 72 est agencée sur le pont de matière 56 associé et dont une seconde extrémité libre 66, 68 fait face à l'extrémité libre 66, 68 de l'autre branche 58, 60 de la structure élastique 34.Each branch 58, 60 of each elastic structure 34 is in the form of a substantially parabolic curve of which a fixed first end 70, 72 is arranged on the associated material bridge 56 and a second free end 66, 68 faces the free end 66, 68 of the other leg 58, 60 of the elastic structure 34.

De préférence, les extrémités libres 66, 68 des branches 58, 60 de chaque structure élastique 34 sont suffisamment proches pour que la face intérieure de chaque branche 58, 60 soit sensiblement tangente à la surface axiale de l'arbre 26, au voisinage des extrémités libres 66, 68, la surface d'appui 62, 64 de chaque branche 58, 60 étant ainsi située sur la face intérieure de son tronçon d'extrémité libre, en vis-à-vis de l'arbre 26.Preferably, the free ends 66, 68 of the branches 58, 60 of each elastic structure 34 are sufficiently close so that the inner face of each leg 58, 60 is substantially tangential to the axial surface of the shaft 26, in the vicinity of the ends. free 66, 68, the bearing surface 62, 64 of each leg 58, 60 thus being located on the inner face of its free end section, vis-à-vis the shaft 26.

Lorsque l'arbre 26 est inséré dans l'ouverture 32, l'effort radial exercé sur les surface d'appui 62, 64 provoque une déformation élastique des deux branches 58, 60 de la structure élastique 34 de sorte que les extrémités libres 66, 68 des branches 58, 60 se déplace radialement vers l'extérieur. Cette déformation élastique produit un serrage élastique radial sur l'arbre 26 à la manière d'un chassage.When the shaft 26 is inserted into the opening 32, the radial force exerted on the bearing surfaces 62, 64 causes elastic deformation of the two branches 58, 60 of the elastic structure 34 so that the free ends 66, 68 of the branches 58, 60 moves radially outward. This elastic deformation produces a radial elastic clamping on the shaft 26 in the manner of a driving.

De préférence, les structures élastiques 34 sont réparties de manière régulière autour de l'axe A1.Preferably, the elastic structures 34 are evenly distributed around the axis A1.

Un troisième mode de réalisation de l'invention est représenté sur les figures 12 à 14. Ce troisième mode de réalisation est similaire au deuxième mode de réalisation en ce que les structures élastiques 34 de la première série S1 sont constituées de lames élastiques Ln empilées et en ce que les structures élastiques 34 de la seconde série S2 sont constituées de fourches à deux branches 58, 60. Le troisième mode de réalisation se distingue du deuxième principalement en ce que chaque structure élastique 34 comporte un tronçon principal 74 qui s'étend de part et d'autre du pont de matière 56. Chaque branche 58, 60 s'étend, depuis l'extrémité du tronçon principal 74 opposée au pont de matière 56, suivant une direction rectiligne. Chaque branche 58, 60 est inclinée vers la branche 58, 60 associée, par rapport à une direction radiale. La surface d'appui 62, 64 de chaque branche 58, 60 est agencée à l'extrémité libre 66, 68 de la branche 58, 60.A third embodiment of the invention is shown on the Figures 12 to 14 . This third embodiment is similar to the second embodiment in that the elastic structures 34 of the first series S1 consist of stacked elastic lamellae L n and that the elastic structures 34 of the second series S 2 are formed of forks two branches 58, 60. The third embodiment differs from the second mainly in that each elastic structure 34 comprises a main section 74 which extends on either side of the material bridge 56. Each branch 58, 60 s extends from the end of the main section 74 opposite the material bridge 56 in a rectilinear direction. Each branch 58, 60 is inclined towards the branch 58, 60 associated, with respect to a radial direction. The bearing surface 62, 64 of each leg 58, 60 is arranged at the free end 66, 68 of the leg 58, 60.

De préférence, le tronçon principal 74 de chaque structure élastique 34 s'étend suivant une direction sensiblement circonférentielle, parallèlement à la paroi intérieure 33 cylindrique de l'ouverture 32, ce qui permet de maximiser la longueur du tronçon principal 74 et des branches 58, 60 rectilignes en vue de répartir les contraintes liées à la déformation élastique des branches 58, 60 dans un plus grand volume.Preferably, the main section 74 of each elastic structure 34 extends in a substantially circumferential direction, parallel to the cylindrical inner wall 33 of the opening 32, which makes it possible to maximize the length of the main section 74 and the branches 58, 60 straight to distribute the stresses related to the elastic deformation of the branches 58, 60 in a larger volume.

Le troisième mode de réalisation présente l'avantage de produire un effet autobloquant, lorsque l'arbre 26, 28, 30 et l'aiguille 18, 20, 22 associée sont assemblés ensemble. En effet, l'inclinaison des branches 58, 60 permet une réaction dynamique à une accélération en rotation ce qui rend ce mode de réalisation particulièrement adapté à la fixation d'éléments d'assemblage supportant des accélérations angulaires élevées ou dans le cas ou l'élément rotatif possède un déséquilibre important dans la répartition des masses, ce qui est le cas pour les aiguilles d'une pièce d'horlogerie.The third embodiment has the advantage of producing a self-locking effect, when the shaft 26, 28, 30 and the associated needle 18, 20, 22 are assembled together. Indeed, the inclination of the branches 58, 60 makes it possible to dynamically react to an acceleration in rotation, which makes this embodiment particularly suitable for fastening assembly elements supporting high angular accelerations or in the case where the rotating element has a significant imbalance in the distribution of masses, which is the case for the needles of a timepiece.

Dans le troisième mode de réalisation, les deux branches 58, 60 de chaque structure élastique 34 exercent des efforts de poussée de sens opposés, de sorte que chaque branche 58, 60 s'oppose à la rotation relative de l'aiguille 18, 20, 22 par rapport à l'arbre 26, 28, 30 associé dans un sens de rotation privilégié. Dans l'exemple représenté sur la figure 12, la première branche 58 de chaque structure élastique 34 s'oppose à la rotation relative de l'aiguille 18 dans le sens anti-horaire et la seconde branche 60 de chaque structure élastique 34 s'oppose à la rotation relative de l'aiguille 18 dans le sens horaire. Les structures élastiques 34 du troisième mode de réalisation assurent donc une solidarisation en rotation particulièrement efficace entre les aiguilles 18, 20, 22 et les arbres 26, 28, 30 associés.In the third embodiment, the two branches 58, 60 of each elastic structure 34 exert thrust forces in opposite directions, so that each leg 58, 60 opposes the relative rotation of the needle 18, 20, 22 relative to the shaft 26, 28, 30 associated in a preferred direction of rotation. In the example shown on the figure 12 the first limb 58 of each elastic structure 34 opposes the relative rotation of the needle 18 in the counter-clockwise direction and the second limb 60 of each elastic structure 34 opposes the relative rotation of the needle 18 clockwise. The elastic structures 34 of the third embodiment thus provide a particularly effective rotational connection between the needles 18, 20, 22 and the associated shafts 26, 28, 30.

La réalisation de structures élastiques 34 en forme de fourches comportant un tronçon orienté tangentiellement ou circonférentiellement (le tronçon 56) et un tronçon rectiligne (la branche 58, 60) orienté vers l'arbre 26, 28, 30 associé permet de réduire la raideur de la structure élastique 34 ce qui permet un débattement radial de valeur suffisante pour permettre la fixation sur l'arbre 26, 28, 30, en particulier pour compenser les tolérances de diamètre de l'arbre. Chaque structure élastique 34 doit avoir une flexibilité suffisante pour permettre la fixation à la fois sur un arbre ayant un diamètre inférieur à la valeur nominale et sur un arbre ayant un diamètre supérieur à la valeur nominale.The production of fork-shaped elastic structures 34 comprising a tangentially or circumferentially oriented section (the section 56) and a rectilinear section (the branch 58, 60) oriented towards the associated shaft 26, 28, 30 makes it possible to reduce the stiffness of the elastic structure 34 which allows a radial clearance of sufficient value to allow attachment to the shaft 26, 28, 30, in particular to compensate for the diameter tolerances of the shaft. Each elastic structure 34 must have sufficient flexibility to allow attachment both to a shaft having a diameter smaller than the nominal value and to a shaft having a diameter greater than the nominal value.

Les avantages mentionnés ici en référence au troisième mode de réalisation s'appliquent en partie au deuxième mode de réalisation, la réalisation de structures élastiques comportant deux branches 58, 60 offrant l'avantage d'une réaction dynamique à une accélération angulaire. De plus, les branches 58, 60 courbes du deuxième mode de réalisation permettent aussi d'obtenir une diminution de la raideur de la structure élastique 34 et un débattement radial adéquat pour la fixation sur l'arbre.The advantages mentioned here with reference to the third embodiment apply in part to the second embodiment, the production of elastic structures comprising two branches 58, 60 with the advantage of a dynamic reaction to an angular acceleration. In addition, the branches 58, 60 curves of the second embodiment also make it possible to obtain a decrease in the stiffness of the elastic structure 34 and an adequate radial displacement for attachment to the shaft.

On note que, dans le premier et le second modes de réalisation, chaque structure élastique 34 possède un plan axial de symétrie P qui s'étend suivant un rayon passant par le milieu du pont de matière 40.It should be noted that, in the first and second embodiments, each elastic structure 34 has an axial plane of symmetry P which extends along a radius passing through the middle of the material bridge 40.

Les combinaisons de structures élastiques de types différents utilisées dans les deuxième et troisième modes de réalisation sont particulièrement avantageux lorsque les structures élastiques 34 à empilement de lames élastiques Ln sont agencées dans la couche supérieure 39 mince et que les structures élastiques 34 en forme de fourches sont agencées dans la couche inférieure 41 épaisse. En effet, pour des questions de procédé de fabrication et de gravure, l'obtention des plus petites ouvertures possibles dans une couche de silicium dépend de l'épaisseur de la couche. Or, la force de serrage élastique de chaque structure élastique 34 est proportionnelle au cube de l'épaisseur axiale de la structure élastique 34, ce qui signifie qu'une couche comportant un nombre relativement réduit de lames élastiques, comme c'est le cas avec les structures en forme de fourches, développera difficilement une force de serrage suffisante. Par conséquent, les structures élastiques 34 qui sont les plus adaptées à la couche supérieure 39 mince sont les structures à empilement de lames élastiques Ln car elles mettent en oeuvre un grand nombre de lames élastiques. De plus, l'agencement de ce type de structure élastique 34 à lames empilées dans la couche supérieure 39 mince permet de minimiser les espaces radiaux entre les lames élastiques Ln et donc d'augmenter le nombre de lames élastiques Ln pour compenser la force de rappel élastique plus faible dûe à la faible épaisseur axiale de ces lames élastiques Ln.The combinations of elastic structures of different types used in the second and third embodiments are particularly advantageous when the elastic structures 34 with a stack of elastic blades L n are arranged in the upper thin layer 39 and the elastic structures 34 in the form of forks. are arranged in the lower layer 41 thick. Indeed, for questions of manufacturing process and engraving, obtaining the most small openings possible in a silicon layer depends on the thickness of the layer. However, the elastic clamping force of each elastic structure 34 is proportional to the cube of the axial thickness of the elastic structure 34, which means that a layer having a relatively small number of elastic blades, as is the case with the fork-shaped structures will hardly develop a sufficient clamping force. Therefore, the resilient structures 34 which are most suitable for the thin top layer 39 are the laminated structures of elastic lamellae L n because they employ a large number of elastic blades. In addition, the arrangement of this type of resilient structure 34 with blades stacked in the thin upper layer 39 makes it possible to minimize the radial spaces between the elastic strips L n and thus to increase the number of elastic blades L n to compensate for the force lower elastic return due to the small axial thickness of these elastic blades L n .

Bien entendu, les modes de réalisation décrits précédemment peuvent être combinés ensemble ou avec d'autres modes de réalisation. En particulier, les structures élastiques 34 pourraient être de types différents, par exemple être réalisés selon les enseignements du document EP 1 655 642 . Le type de structures élastiques 34 choisi pour chaque couche 39, 41 peut aussi être inversé, par rapport aux modes de réalisation décrits, en particulier les structures élastiques 34 du type à lames élastiques Ln empilées pourraient être agencées dans la couche inférieure 41 et les structures élastiques 34 en forme de fourches pourraient être agencées dans la couche supérieure 39.Of course, the embodiments described above can be combined together or with other embodiments. In particular, the elastic structures 34 could be of different types, for example be made according to the teachings of the document EP 1 655 642 . The type of elastic structures 34 chosen for each layer 39, 41 may also be inverted, with respect to the described embodiments, in particular the resilient structures 34 of the laminated elastic blade type L n could be arranged in the lower layer 41 and the Fork-shaped elastic structures 34 could be arranged in the upper layer 39.

Selon une variante de réalisation (non représentée), les aiguilles 18, 20, 22 pourraient être réalisées dans une plaque SOI du type symétrique, c'est-à-dire une plaque dans laquelle les couches supérieure 39 et inférieure 41 ont la même épaisseur.According to an alternative embodiment (not shown), the needles 18, 20, 22 could be made in a SOI plate of the symmetrical type, that is to say a plate in which the upper 39 and lower 41 layers have the same thickness .

Bien que la présente invention ait été décrite en relation avec des éléments d'assemblage constitués par des aiguilles 18, 20, 22, elle ne se limite pas à ces modes de réalisation. Ainsi, l'élément d'assemblage peut être constitué par un autre type d'élément rotatif, par exemple par une roue dentée utilisée dans un mouvement d'horlogerie. L'élément d'assemblage peut aussi être constitué par un élément non rotatif, par exemple une plaque en matériau cassant prévue pour être assemblée sur un autre élément comportant un arbre de fixation, ou tenon, en métal.Although the present invention has been described in connection with assembly elements constituted by needles 18, 20, 22, it is not limited to these embodiments. Thus, the connecting element may be constituted by another type of rotary element, for example by a toothed wheel used in a clockwork movement. The connecting element may also be constituted by a non-rotating element, for example a plate of brittle material intended to be assembled on another element comprising a fixing shaft, or tenon, of metal.

Claims (12)

  1. Assembly element (18, 20, 22) made in a plate of material which does not have a usable plastic range, including an aperture (32) provided for the axial insertion of an arbour (26, 28, 30), the inner wall (33) of the aperture (32) including elastic structures (34) which are etched into the plate and which each include at least one support surface (36, 62, 64) for gripping the arbour (26, 28, 30) radially in order to secure the assembly element (18, 20, 22) relative to the arbour (26, 28, 30), characterized in that the assembly element (18, 20, 22) includes a first series (S1) of elastic structures (34) etched in a top layer (39) of the plate and a second series (S2) of elastic structures (34) etched in the bottom layer (41) of the plate.
  2. Assembly element (18, 20, 22) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the elastic structures (34) of the two series (S1, S2) are of the same type.
  3. Assembly element (18, 20, 22) according to claim 1, characterized in that the elastic structures (34) of the first series (S1) are of different types to the elastic structures (34) of the second series (S2).
  4. Assembly element (18, 20, 22) according to the preceding claims, characterized in that the two series (S1, S2) of elastic structures (34) are shifted angularly in relation to each other, such that at least one part of the support surfaces (36) thereof are angularly shifted in relation to each other.
  5. Assembly element (18, 20, 22) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that said plate is made of silicon.
  6. Assembly element (18, 20, 22) according to any of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the plate is of the asymmetrical silicon on insulator type with a top layer (39) and a bottom layer (41) of silicon separated by an intermediate layer (43) of silicon oxide.
  7. Assembly element (18, 20, 22) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that plate is of the asymmetrical silicon on insulator type with a thin top layer (39) and a thick bottom layer (41), and in that the first series (S1) of elastic structures (34) is made in the top layer (39) and the second series (S2) of elastic structures (34) is made in the bottom layer (41).
  8. Assembly element (18, 20, 22) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that it is formed by a rotating element (18, 20, 22) that is fixedly mounted in rotation to the arbour (26, 28, 30), in that the main body of the rotating element (18, 20, 22) extends into the top layer (39), in that the second series (S2) of elastic structures (34) is made in an axial extension of the main body located in the bottom layer (41).
  9. Assembly element (18, 20, 22) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that it is formed by a timepiece hand.
  10. Assembly element (18, 20, 22) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one series (S1, S2) of elastic structures (34) is of the type wherein each elastic structure (34) is formed by a radial stack of several parallel elastic strips (Ln), each elastic strip (Ln) being separated radially from the adjacent elastic strip (Ln) by a rectilinear separator hole (In) in two parts (Ina, Inb), the two parts of the separator hole (In) being separated by a bridge of material (Pn) which connects the two adjacent elastic strips (Ln) and which is substantially aligned radially with the support surface (36), and in that the last elastic strip (Ln) of the stack, which is located on the opposite side to the first strip (L1) is separated radially from the rest of the plate by a hole in a single part, called the clearance hole (42), which defines a radial clearance space for the elastic structure (34).
  11. Assembly element (18, 20, 22) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one series (S2) of elastic structures (34) is of the type wherein each elastic structure (34) is formed by a fork which is connected to the inner wall of the aperture by a bridge of material (56) and which includes two branches (58, 60) extending, on either side of the bridge of material (56), generally towards the arbour (26, 28, 30),each branch (58, 60) including a support surface (62, 64) in proximity to the free end (66, 68) thereof.
  12. Timepiece (10) characterized in that it includes an assembly element (18, 20, 22) according to any of the preceding claims.
EP06123781A 2006-11-09 2006-11-09 Assembly component comprising two series of elastic structures and timepiece incorporating this component Active EP1921516B1 (en)

Priority Applications (9)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
AT06123781T ATE455319T1 (en) 2006-11-09 2006-11-09 MOUNTING ELEMENT COMPRISING TWO ROWS OF EXTENSIBLE STRUCTURES AND CLOCK COMPRISING THIS ELEMENT
DE602006011760T DE602006011760D1 (en) 2006-11-09 2006-11-09 Mounting element comprising two rows of expandable structures, and clock comprising this element
EP06123781A EP1921516B1 (en) 2006-11-09 2006-11-09 Assembly component comprising two series of elastic structures and timepiece incorporating this component
SG200717406-3A SG143140A1 (en) 2006-11-09 2007-11-01 Assembly element including two series of elastic structures and timepiece fitted with the same
KR1020070112990A KR101326963B1 (en) 2006-11-09 2007-11-07 Assembly element including two series of elastic structures and timepiece fitted with the same
CN2007101695120A CN101178577B (en) 2006-11-09 2007-11-08 Assembly component comprising two series of elastic structures and timepiece incorporating this component
JP2007291850A JP5175522B2 (en) 2006-11-09 2007-11-09 Assembly element including two series of elastic structures and watch with the same
US11/937,789 US7575369B2 (en) 2006-11-09 2007-11-09 Assembly element including two series of elastic structures and timepiece fitted with the same
HK08111834.9A HK1119789A1 (en) 2006-11-09 2008-10-28 Assembly element including superposed strip shaped elastic structures and timepiece fitted with the same

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP06123781A EP1921516B1 (en) 2006-11-09 2006-11-09 Assembly component comprising two series of elastic structures and timepiece incorporating this component

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP1921516A1 EP1921516A1 (en) 2008-05-14
EP1921516B1 true EP1921516B1 (en) 2010-01-13

Family

ID=38279843

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP06123781A Active EP1921516B1 (en) 2006-11-09 2006-11-09 Assembly component comprising two series of elastic structures and timepiece incorporating this component

Country Status (9)

Country Link
US (1) US7575369B2 (en)
EP (1) EP1921516B1 (en)
JP (1) JP5175522B2 (en)
KR (1) KR101326963B1 (en)
CN (1) CN101178577B (en)
AT (1) ATE455319T1 (en)
DE (1) DE602006011760D1 (en)
HK (1) HK1119789A1 (en)
SG (1) SG143140A1 (en)

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EP2796940A3 (en) * 2013-04-23 2016-05-04 Rolex Sa Clock component for receiving an organ by insertion
CH709905A2 (en) * 2014-07-21 2016-01-29 Dominique Renaud Sa Pivot blade.
EP2988177A1 (en) * 2014-08-21 2016-02-24 Universo S.A. Hand of a watch
US9678477B2 (en) * 2014-09-12 2017-06-13 Seiko Instruments Inc. Mechanical component, mechanical component manufacturing method, movement, and timepiece
EP3430480B1 (en) * 2016-03-15 2020-04-29 The Swatch Group Research and Development Ltd Method for assembling a device comprising at least two parts
JP6772790B2 (en) * 2016-11-29 2020-10-21 セイコーエプソン株式会社 How to make watch parts and how to make watches
FR3065542B1 (en) * 2017-04-25 2019-07-12 Lvmh Swiss Manufactures Sa METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING A MECHANISM
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EP3671364A1 (en) * 2018-12-17 2020-06-24 Nivarox-FAR S.A. Elastic holding member for fixing a timepiece component on a support element

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Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
EP1921516A1 (en) 2008-05-14
CN101178577A (en) 2008-05-14
ATE455319T1 (en) 2010-01-15
JP2008122383A (en) 2008-05-29
US20080112276A1 (en) 2008-05-15
US7575369B2 (en) 2009-08-18
DE602006011760D1 (en) 2010-03-04
KR20080042699A (en) 2008-05-15
SG143140A1 (en) 2008-06-27
KR101326963B1 (en) 2013-11-13
CN101178577B (en) 2012-06-20
HK1119789A1 (en) 2009-03-13
JP5175522B2 (en) 2013-04-03

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