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EP2904458B1 - Illuminated timpiece display - Google Patents

Illuminated timpiece display Download PDF

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Publication number
EP2904458B1
EP2904458B1 EP13770423.5A EP13770423A EP2904458B1 EP 2904458 B1 EP2904458 B1 EP 2904458B1 EP 13770423 A EP13770423 A EP 13770423A EP 2904458 B1 EP2904458 B1 EP 2904458B1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
watch
light
spring
mobile component
component
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
EP13770423.5A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP2904458A1 (en
Inventor
Thierry Hessler
Jean-Claude Martin
Michel Willemin
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.)
Swatch Group Research and Development SA
Original Assignee
Swatch Group Research and Development SA
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 Swatch Group Research and Development SA filed Critical Swatch Group Research and Development SA
Publication of EP2904458A1 publication Critical patent/EP2904458A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP2904458B1 publication Critical patent/EP2904458B1/en
Active legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

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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
    • G04B1/00—Driving mechanisms
    • G04B1/10—Driving mechanisms with mainspring
    • G04B1/14—Mainsprings; Bridles therefor
    • G04B1/145—Composition and manufacture of the springs
    • 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
    • G04B19/30—Illumination of dials or hands
    • G04B19/32—Illumination of dials or hands by luminescent substances
    • 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
    • G04B17/00—Mechanisms for stabilising frequency
    • G04B17/04—Oscillators acting by spring tension
    • G04B17/06—Oscillators with hairsprings, e.g. balance
    • G04B17/066—Manufacture of the spiral spring
    • 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
    • G04B19/30—Illumination of dials or hands

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a watch comprising a clockwork mechanical movement which comprises at least one watchmaker display which comprises at least one watchmaking or timepiece mobile watch component, said mobile unit being deformed due to its function during the operation of said movement, said mobile being an elongated and elastic component whose function is related to its elastic nature.
  • the invention relates to the field of mechanical watchmaking.
  • the display of different watch functions is often complex on mechanical timepieces with complications.
  • the outputs of these mechanisms of complications have spatial distributions that often make it inconvenient direct display by needles or disks, and require the use of references, which complicate the timepiece, make it more expensive, and increase its value. thickness.
  • Any display consumes energy, and the accumulation of energy consumption is a chronic problem of mechanical watchmaking.
  • the document EP 1 319 998 A1 in the name of ASULAB discloses a light source constituted by LEDs under a dial, with a cylindrical light guide in the central orifice of the dial, near luminous needle heads which comprise dihedral reflectors.
  • the document FR 2,957,688 in the name of RHUL & ALLANO describes the transmission of light in a watch, with an optical fiber, from a light source external to the watch.
  • the invention proposes to provide a space-saving and energy-saving solution to the problem of the visualization of certain watch displays of a mechanical watch, or, more generally, of a mechanical timepiece.
  • the invention relates to a watch comprising a mechanical watchmaking movement which comprises at least one watchmaker display which comprises at least one watchmaking or timepiece mobile watch component, said mobile unit being deformed due to its function during the operation of said movement according to claim 1.
  • the invention relates to the field of mechanical watchmaking.
  • the invention provides a new visualization of a clock display of a movement of a mechanical watch, or, more generally, a mechanical timepiece.
  • this watch display light by using, for the manufacture of at least one of its constituents called “watchmaking component", a particular material allowing the diffusion of light, and to enable it to visualize information on its state, either by highlighting mechanical constraints in its internal structure, or by highlighting its relative position relative to its environment, for example the arming or disarming of a particular function .
  • watchmaking component a particular material allowing the diffusion of light, and to enable it to visualize information on its state, either by highlighting mechanical constraints in its internal structure, or by highlighting its relative position relative to its environment, for example the arming or disarming of a particular function .
  • silica, quartz, monocrystalline quartz, sapphire and glass can be used as light guides.
  • the light coming from an active or passive light source, injected into a part of the watch component, is distributed in a distributed manner over at least a part of the watch component, or throughout this watch component, this which makes it possible to see him in the dim light.
  • the component watchmaker drives and diffuses this light.
  • the injection of light can be made more easily at one end of the watch component, and in particular at an outer end, preferably remote from the center of the watch movement, by a light source such as an electroluminescent diode, or a component coated with a passive phosphorescent layer, these light sources not being limiting.
  • the watch component is, if necessary, coated with a layer allowing the diffusion of only a portion of the light to the outside, while guiding most of the light along the watch component, such a surface layer can also be phosphorescent or fluorescent.
  • the material of the watchmaking component silica, quartz, monocrystalline quartz, glass, sapphire, photo-structured glass, or the like, can be designed to include phosphorescence or fluorescence, either in the bulk of the material or by implantation.
  • the watch component according to the invention behaves like an optical fiber, for guiding and / or diffusing the light.
  • the invention relates to such a timepiece display 4 comprising at least one mobile watch component 1 of a watch movement or timepiece 100.
  • this clockwork mobile component 1 transmits and diffuses light emitted by at least one light energy source 5 that this watchmaker display 4 comprises.
  • mobile a watch component that, or changes position or location because of its function, as a mobile pivoting between two pivots, or a rocker, or other, or that is deformed because of its function during the operation of the watch movement 10, such as a mainspring or a spiral spring governor, these examples being in no way limiting.
  • the present description is illustrated for a particular non-limiting case, which is that of a mainspring, for viewing its power reserve.
  • a mainspring for viewing its power reserve.
  • the invention is particularly applicable to elongate and elastic components, their function being precisely linked to their elastic nature, and to their change of state in time, linked to a change in the state of internal and external stresses.
  • the watch or timepiece mobile watch component 1 is here represented by a barrel spring 1, mounted between a shaft 2 and a structure 3, which may be here a drum, or a bridge, or the like.
  • the invention is here described, without limitation, in the case of a substantially planar clock component, that is to say which extends entirely, in all the extreme and intermediate positions of the watch component 1, between two parallel planes P1 and P2.
  • a substantially planar clock component that is to say which extends entirely, in all the extreme and intermediate positions of the watch component 1, between two parallel planes P1 and P2.
  • Only, in the particular case of a spring, an inner turn at the inner end 7 of the watch component 1, and an outer turn, at the outer end 6 of the watch component 1, can, in known manner, be deployed in the space outside the gap between these two planes, for the attachment of this spring to other elements, here a shaft 2 and a drum 3.
  • the at least one watch component transmits and diffuses light emitted by at least one light energy source 5.
  • this at least one watch component is made of silica, or quartz, or monocrystalline quartz, or glass, or ceramic, such as sapphire, or partially transparent material at visible or ultraviolet wavelengths. violet or transparent or translucent at least partially amorphous material.
  • This source of light energy 5 can be a primary source, which stores energy, then restores it by light emission, or a secondary source, here called light relay 50, connected by an optical path constituted by a guide of light 51 or an optical fiber or the like, to such a primary source 5.
  • the watch component 1 is then either in contact with or in the immediate vicinity, or of a primary source, or of a light relay 50, the choice being made according to the space available in the watch and the volume of the source 5 or the relay 50.
  • the drum 3 carries the source of light energy 5 near an outer end 6 of the watch component 1. It is understood that the drum 3 is indifferently primary source 5, or such a light relay 50, the choice being made again according to the space available in the watch and the volume of the source 5 or the relay 50.
  • the shaft 2 carries the source of light energy 5, or a light relay 50, near an inner end 7 of the watch component 1.
  • a a one-piece watch-making tree-component assembly made of silica, quartz, monocrystalline quartz, or glass or ceramic, such as sapphire, or of at least partially amorphous transparent or translucent material, and the light can be collected and brought back into a zone of convergence, for example at the tree level or the like.
  • the light source 5 or the relay 50 is close to the watch component 1, above or below the turns of this component watchmaker.
  • several such sources are arranged near the watch component 1.
  • the figure 7 thus shows two light sources 5A and 5B, arranged under the watch component 1, one near the fastener of the watch component to the shaft 2, and the other near the fastening system of the watch component 1 to the 3.
  • the fastener is a ferrule
  • the fastening system is a stud 31.
  • the attachment to the shaft is a hook of the shaft 2 cooperating with a shell lumen
  • the fastening system is a sliding flange or the like.
  • Their arrangement is such that the first source 5A comes in close proximity to at least one outer turn 86, and preferably several consecutive outer turns 84, 85, 86, during the maximum elongation of the watch component 1 and transmits the at the same time to these three turns 84, 85, 86 together only in this elongation configuration, whereas this source 5A transmits light only to one of the turns 86 in contraction configuration of the watch component.
  • a second source 5B comes in close proximity to at least one internal turn 87 and preferably several consecutive internal turns 87, 82, 83, during the maximum contraction of the watch component 1 and transmits light to the times to these three turns 87, 81, 82 together only in this contraction configuration, while this source 5B transmits light only to one of the turns 87 in contraction configuration of the watch component.
  • the watch component 1 when it is flat as in the case in point, is preferably made in clusters on the same substrate.
  • Each watch component 1 has a relatively extended fastener, the dimensions of which are large in front of the section S of the turns 8 of the watch component 1.
  • This fastener constitutes a receiving surface that is well adapted for the light emanating from the source 5 or the relay 50, at the same time as it allows a good mechanical fixing of the watch component 1 on the drum 3.
  • the at least one watch component 1 diffuses light over at least a portion of its largest dimension called length and / or over at least a portion of its section orthogonal to this length.
  • this watchmaking component 1 comprises, so-called lateral, upper 41, lower 42, transverse inner 46, transverse external 47 faces, which develop according to its. The light is then diffused at at least one of its lateral faces.
  • the component also comprises two outer end 43 and inner end faces 43A, generally limited to its sections, and corresponding to at least one attachment zone of the component 1.
  • this non-visible face may advantageously comprise a thin layer 40 superficial metallization to form a reflective mirror surface and prevent light diffusion by the non-visible face considered. This may especially be the case of the lower face 42, and / or the transverse faces 46, 47.
  • the local coating of all of the lateral surfaces by such a reflective layer 40 allows light to be channeled into the watch component over a certain distance without significant loss. It is thus possible to choose, over the length of the watch component 1, the zones through which it is desired to have a light diffusion, and the orientation of the faces concerned, in general the upper face 41 and one or / and the other of the transverse faces 46, 47.
  • the at least one watch component 1 diffuses light over its entire length between the drum 3 and the shaft 2.
  • the at least one watch component 1 is of rectangular section and is composed of a single material, for example silica, or quartz, or monocrystalline quartz, or glass, or sapphire, or ceramic or a partially transparent material at visible or ultraviolet wavelengths or at least partially amorphous transparent or translucent material, according to the figure 2 .
  • the at least one watch component 1 is of rectangular section and is composed of at least two materials: firstly by a first material which is silica, or quartz, or monocrystalline quartz, or glass, or sapphire, or ceramic or a partially transparent material at visible or ultraviolet wavelengths or an at least partially amorphous transparent or translucent material, and secondly by a phosphorescent or fluorescent dopant, this dopant being incorporated in the mass of the first material.
  • the material, quartz or glass or the like may be doped in the mass, for example by implantation, with at least one such phosphorescent or fluorescent dopant.
  • the at least one watch component 1 is of rectangular section and is composed firstly of a first material which is silica, or quartz, or monocrystalline quartz, or glass, or sapphire, or ceramics or a partially transparent material at visible or ultraviolet wavelengths or an at least partially amorphous transparent or translucent material, and secondly by at least a second phosphorescent or fluorescent material applied in a thin layer 40 on at least one of the side surfaces of the watch component 1.
  • a first material which is silica, or quartz, or monocrystalline quartz, or glass, or sapphire, or ceramics or a partially transparent material at visible or ultraviolet wavelengths or an at least partially amorphous transparent or translucent material
  • the second phosphorescent or fluorescent material is applied in a thin layer 40 on the four lateral surfaces of the watch component 1.
  • the at least one watch component 1 comprises, on its upper 41 and lower 42 faces defining two parallel planes P1, P2, a surface roughness Rt of between 10 nanometers and 20 nm. micrometers, and preferably close to one micrometer or slightly greater than this value.
  • This slight roughness giving a frosted appearance to the watch component 1 can be obtained during the manufacture of a quartz watch component 1, for example, the process control parameters for obtaining a more or less smooth surface state.
  • the presence, at certain angles, of an overhang along the transverse faces 46, 47, may confer a similar effect.
  • the watch component 1 can also be reworked, in particular by chemical etching, so as to include micro-cells giving it locally the desired roughness.
  • thin film deposits 40 makes it possible to increase or attenuate the diffusion or the guiding of the light in the watch component 1, the case of a fluorescent or phosphorescent layer 40 makes it possible either to modify the emission spectrum (for example if an electroluminescent UV diode is used as light source 5), either to store and emit light in the layer.
  • a fluorescent or phosphorescent layer 40 makes it possible either to modify the emission spectrum (for example if an electroluminescent UV diode is used as light source 5), either to store and emit light in the layer.
  • strontium aluminate SrAl2O4 doped with europium a variety of which is known as "Super-LumiNova".
  • Such a thin film deposition 40 may be used to color at least one side face during light re-emission by diffusion through at least one turn of the watch component 1.
  • the layer deposition can also ensure the desired surface roughness for good diffusion.
  • the thickness of such a layer 40 is preferably between 10 nanometers and 1 micrometer, and preferably close to 100 nanometers.
  • layers 40 of different kinds metals, oxides, for example TiO, TiO 2 Ta 2 O 5 , SiO 2 Si 3 Na, Al 2 O 3 , or alternates based on aluminum and aluminum.
  • metals for example TiO, TiO 2 Ta 2 O 5 , SiO 2 Si 3 Na, Al 2 O 3 , or alternates based on aluminum and aluminum.
  • this list is in no way limiting.
  • a layer 40 may be colored at a particular wavelength.
  • the interaction with the light from the source 5 produces a particular effect, especially if the source 5 or the relay 50 has a monochromatic filter, or is pulsed over a single wavelength.
  • the structuring of the lateral faces of the watchmaking component 1 is feasible, in particular in photolithography.
  • the path of the light within the watch component 1 can be modified by the presence of particular obstacles or changes of light environment, for example by the presence of notches, holes, chamfers, or the like.
  • Structuring at the level of the masks, during the production of the watch component 1, makes it possible to produce particular transverse surfaces 46, 47 for two neighboring turns of the watch component 1 when it is a spring like this, especially a complementarity. , notches or optical polarization for example, so that an inner transverse surface 46 of the outermost of two turns cooperates in a particular way in its greatest proximity to the outer transverse surface 47 of the innermost of the two contraction turns of the watch component 1, and that the optical effect produced during this greater proximity is different from the otic effect that, together, these two neighboring turns exhibit when they are at the greatest distance one of the Another elongation of the watch component 1.
  • these two transverse surfaces antagonists can receive a different monochrome treatment, for example blue on one, yellow on the other, these two colors being distinctly visible in elongation, whereas the diffusion is done in green in contraction position.
  • At least one of the ends 6, 7 of the watch component 1 comprises an end face 43 receiving directly light from the light source 5 or a light relay 50 thereof.
  • the figure 4 illustrates such an embodiment, where all the turns of the watch component 1 are parallel.
  • this end comprises at least one bevel 44 for receiving light in a direction D substantially perpendicular to a plane parallel to two parallel planes P1, P2, defined by the upper 41 and lower 42 faces of the watch component 1.
  • the direction D is advantageously parallel to the axis A of pivoting of the shaft 2.
  • the invention makes it possible to produce the watch component 1 as a light guide with controlled losses throughout the watch component.
  • the illumination of the watch component 1 is not necessarily in a preferred direction, in fact, it can be done by an upper face 41 (plane P1 of the figures), and / or by the transverse faces 46 and 47 of the watch component 1 .
  • the coupling between the light source 5, or the relay 50, and the watch component 1, may result from their proximity: the source 5 or the relay 50 emits light with a sufficient energy level so that the watch component 1 can capture this light, before re-broadcasting it.
  • the coupling may also be advantageously and preferably carried out by direct contact, surface-to-surface contact, or by plug-in, or by any known technology in the light guides and in the optical fibers.
  • the light is concentrated upstream of its sending to the watch component, or when entering the watch component 1, at a concentrator.
  • the concentrator is integrated with the watch component 1 during its manufacture.
  • the distribution of the stresses in the watch component 1 varies during the contraction or elongation of this watch component for a given adjustment. It also varies during a change in characteristics of the mobile watch component: In the case of a spiral spring of a regulator, in particular, as a function of the amplitude of oscillation of the shaft 2; a variation of the illumination of the component watchmaker 1 can, thus, allow to highlight a change in amplitude.
  • the watch component 1 according to the invention may not be homogeneous, which then makes it possible to create special technical features, and differentiated light scattering zones.
  • Amorphize is used here to mean changing the structure so as to modify the refractive index.
  • a coil can be locally amorphized, in particular by laser treatment.
  • the watch component 1 may be, at least locally, polished.
  • a particular mechanical structuring makes it possible to create chosen light leakage surfaces with particular orientations on certain faces and in particular locations.
  • the problem of guiding and diffusing light over the entire length of a watch component 1 which may have a large developed length may cause some turns to be neutralized, or certain portions of turns, by preventing the light from escaping from them. for example by reflective layer deposits or savings of similar functionality. This then allows a saving of light, and the light guide to the ends 6 and 7 of the watch component 1.
  • the mobile watch component 1 comprises at least one elastic and deformable part, and the light diffusion through this mobile watch component 1 is variable according to the constraints in this elastic and deformable part.
  • the watchmaking mobile component 1 is an energy storage spring or a mainspring or a striking spring, and its illumination mode displays its remaining power reserve.
  • the mobile watch component 1 is a game recovery spring. More particularly, it constitutes a game recovery spring for an altimeter watch.
  • the clockwise mobile component 1 is a split-spring.
  • the clockwise mobile component 1 is a jumper or a jumper spring
  • the component 1 may, again, be a spiral spring of the same material that would have other functions than that in a regulating member.
  • the component 1 may, again, be a quartz spiral spring intended to be used as a return spring to eliminate the play of a needle, or the like.
  • the light source 5 can take various forms. Preferably, this source 5 is an electroluminescent diode or a phosphorescent or fluorescent component.
  • the source 5 is phosphorescent and / or fluorescent, preferably phosphorescent due to the longer duration of remanence, which can reach several hours, and is compatible with a possibility of illumination of the watch component at any time during the period of time. a night.
  • the source of light will be "phosphorescent" in the rest of the presentation.
  • a phosphorescent source advantageously comprises rare earth aluminates, which are well known to physicists, for example europium doped strontium aluminate SrAl2O4, a variety of which is known under the name “Super-LumiNova”, or rare earth silicates, or a mixture of aluminates and rare earth silicates.
  • Other trading materials such as “Lumibrite” are also suitable.
  • Materials such as tritium 3H, promethium 147, or radium 226 have excellent phosphorescent properties, but their high radioactivity beta and / or gamma strongly limits their use, and they can be used only in minute amounts, preferably in conjunction with rare earth aluminates, for some very specific applications, military, astronautics, use at great depths, or the like, and with a protection significantly increasing the volume of the timepiece, it is called radioluminescence or autoluminescence when using these materials.
  • Borosilicate glass capsules containing gases called “GTLS” from the company “MB Microtech”, containing tritium 3H, and which, like radium, do not require any external excitation to emit light, are still known, such capsules are used especially for the visualization of needles or appliques of watches, essentially military.
  • the excitation light comes from the user's environment, solar light, ambient light.
  • the light source is housed in the interior volume of the timepiece box or the watch.
  • Ambient energy can be collected at a partially or completely transparent, or translucent middle part or / and at a partially or completely transparent, or translucent dial, or / and still at a display window, particularly for a date or similar.
  • the ambient energy may, again, be collected by an adjoining accessory to the timepiece, such as a watchband, and be transmitted by a waveguide or an optical fiber, or the like. In the same way, the capture of ambient energy can be performed at the level of other elements of dressing such as the bottom, the telescope, the flange, or others.
  • the light source 5 can emit pulsed monochromatic light.
  • One of the preferred applications of the invention is the visualization of the internal stresses within the watch component, revealed by the light coming from the light source 5, transmitted and diffused by the component 1.
  • the invention relates to a watchmaking mechanical movement comprising at least one such timepiece display 4.
  • the light source 5 is located at this timepiece display 4.
  • the light source 5 is offset from this clock display 4 and inside the movement 10 in which case it is connected by at least one light guide 51 or an optical fiber to a light relay. 50 which is located at the timepiece display 4 in the immediate vicinity of the mobile watch component 1 or in contact therewith.
  • the invention also concerns a timepiece 100 comprising such a mechanical movement 10, and / or at least one such timepiece display 4.
  • the light source 5 is either located at the timepiece display 4.
  • the light source 5 is offset from the watchmaker display 4 and inside the movement 10 in which case it is connected by at least one light guide 51 or an optical fiber to a relay light 50 which is located at the timepiece display 4 in the immediate vicinity of the mobile watch component 1 or in its contact, or is deported out of the movement 10 and inside the timepiece 100 in which case it is connected by at least one light guide 51 or an optical fiber to a light relay 50 which is located at the timepiece display 4 in the immediate vicinity of the clockwise mobile component 1 or in contact therewith.
  • this timepiece 100 is a watch, and the watch component 1 is of the so-called "flat" type described above.
  • the invention can be coupled with a stroboscopic device interposed on the light path between the light source and the watch component, so as to perform particular lighting.
  • Structuring with stroboscopic effect according to the frequency and the wavelength of the light diffused by the source 5 or the relay 50, makes it possible to carry out an anti-counterfeiting marking or a secret signature, by structuration or masking, and which n is revealed only under certain lighting conditions.
  • the slowing down of the light because of the variation of the refractive index which is linked to the variation of the core stresses during the contraction or the elongation of the watch component, also allows a particular authentication.
  • the diffusion by a watch component 1 treated and colored at a first wavelength, with a monochrome pulsed light of another wavelength, allows a particular visualization.
  • a variant of the invention rather applicable to the clocks and timepieces static, consists in its application mobile watch component, which is not a substantially flat spring as above, but which is a helical spring.
  • the display device of the watch component offered by the invention is compact and low energy consumption. It attracts the eye of the user on the visible heart of his watch or his timepiece, and highlights the particularly lively character of a mechanical timepiece, saving mechanical display elements of the watch. status of a watchmaking function.

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  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Metallurgy (AREA)
  • Electric Clocks (AREA)
  • Illuminated Signs And Luminous Advertising (AREA)

Description

Domaine de l'inventionField of the invention

L'invention concerne une montre comportant un mouvement mécanique horloger lequel comporte au moins un afficheur horloger lequel comporte au moins un composant mobile horloger de montre ou de pièce d'horlogerie, ledit mobile se déformant du fait de sa fonction pendant le fonctionnement dudit mouvement, ledit mobile étant un composant longiligne et élastique dont la fonction est liée à son caractère élastique.The invention relates to a watch comprising a clockwork mechanical movement which comprises at least one watchmaker display which comprises at least one watchmaking or timepiece mobile watch component, said mobile unit being deformed due to its function during the operation of said movement, said mobile being an elongated and elastic component whose function is related to its elastic nature.

L'invention concerne le domaine de l'horlogerie mécanique.The invention relates to the field of mechanical watchmaking.

Arrière-plan de l'inventionBackground of the invention

L'affichage des différentes fonctions horlogères est souvent complexe sur les pièces d'horlogerie mécaniques comportant des complications. Les sorties de ces mécanismes de complications ont des répartitions dans l'espace qui rendent souvent malcommode l'affichage direct par aiguilles ou disques, et imposent l'utilisation de renvois, qui compliquent encore la pièce d'horlogerie, la renchérissent, et augmentent son épaisseur.The display of different watch functions is often complex on mechanical timepieces with complications. The outputs of these mechanisms of complications have spatial distributions that often make it inconvenient direct display by needles or disks, and require the use of references, which complicate the timepiece, make it more expensive, and increase its value. thickness.

D'autres fonctions nécessitent la fourniture à l'utilisateur d'une information rapide et approximative, c'est notamment le cas des affichages de réserve de marche, où il s'agit de signaler à l'utilisateur quand des rechargements en énergie sont souhaitables.Other functions require the user to provide a fast and approximate information, this is particularly the case of power reserve displays, where it is necessary to inform the user when energy recharges are desirable. .

Tout affichage est consommateur d'énergie, et le cumul des consommations d'énergie est un problème chronique de l'horlogerie mécanique.Any display consumes energy, and the accumulation of energy consumption is a chronic problem of mechanical watchmaking.

Le document EP 1 319 998 A1 au nom de ASULAB décrit une source de lumière constituée par des LED sous un cadran, avec un guide de lumière cylindrique dans l'orifice central du cadran, à proximité de têtes d'aiguilles lumineuses qui comportent des réflecteurs en dièdre.The document EP 1 319 998 A1 in the name of ASULAB discloses a light source constituted by LEDs under a dial, with a cylindrical light guide in the central orifice of the dial, near luminous needle heads which comprise dihedral reflectors.

Le document DE 837 070 C au nom de EBERHARD décrit également des aiguilles lumineuses, et des appliques diffusantes éclairées par l'arrière.The document DE 837 070 C in the name of EBERHARD also discloses light needles, and diffused sconces illuminated from behind.

Le document WO 2014/001659 A2 au nom de RHUL & ALLANO décrit la fabrication d'un spiral d'horlogerie en fibre optique.The document WO 2014/001659 A2 in the name of RHUL & ALLANO describes the manufacture of an optical fiber hairspring.

Le document DE 10 2008 029429 A1 au nom de DAMASKO décrit la fabrication de spiraux dont certains sont transparents, notamment en verre.The document DE 10 2008 029429 A1 in the name of DAMASKO describes the manufacture of spirals some of which are transparent, especially glass.

Le document WO 95/24002 A1 au nom de CORNET décrit une montre à composants transparents laissant passer la lumière.The document WO 95/24002 A1 in the name of CORNET describes a watch with transparent components allowing light to pass through.

Le document FR 2 957 688 au nom de RHUL & ALLANO décrit la transmission de lumière dans une montre, avec une fibre optique, à partir d'une source de lumière externe à la montre.The document FR 2,957,688 in the name of RHUL & ALLANO describes the transmission of light in a watch, with an optical fiber, from a light source external to the watch.

Résumé de l'inventionSummary of the invention

L'invention se propose de fournir une solution peu encombrante, et peu consommatrice d'énergie, au problème de la visualisation de certains afficheurs horloger d'une montre mécanique, ou, plus généralement, d'une pièce d'horlogerie mécanique.The invention proposes to provide a space-saving and energy-saving solution to the problem of the visualization of certain watch displays of a mechanical watch, or, more generally, of a mechanical timepiece.

A cet effet, l'invention concerne une montre comportant un mouvement mécanique horloger lequel comporte au moins un afficheur horloger lequel comporte au moins un composant mobile horloger de montre ou de pièce d'horlogerie, ledit mobile se déformant du fait de sa fonction pendant le fonctionnement dudit mouvement, selon la revendication 1.For this purpose, the invention relates to a watch comprising a mechanical watchmaking movement which comprises at least one watchmaker display which comprises at least one watchmaking or timepiece mobile watch component, said mobile unit being deformed due to its function during the operation of said movement according to claim 1.

Rescription sommaire des dessinsSummary summary of drawings

D'autres caractéristiques et avantages de l'invention apparaîtront à la lecture de la description détaillée qui va suivre, en référence aux dessins annexés, où :

  • la figure 1 représente schématiquement une pièce d'horlogerie, en l'occurrence une montre, avec un mouvement comportant un afficheur horloger selon l'invention, comportant au moins un composant mobile horloger, dans une application particulière à l'affichage de la réserve de marche de ce composant horloger qui est un ressort de barillet ;
  • la figure 2 représente, de façon schématisée, une section transversale courante d'un composant horloger selon un premier mode d'exécution où ce composant horloger est de section rectangulaire, et est nu ;
  • la figure 3 représente, de façon schématisée, une section transversale courante d'un composant horloger selon un deuxième mode d'exécution où ce composant horloger est de section rectangulaire, et comporte un revêtement mince sur ses quatre faces longues;
  • la figure 4 représente, de façon schématisée, partielle, et en perspective, l'extrémité d'un composant horloger en forme de ressort de barillet avec une spire externe dont la section est parallèle aux autres spires, cette extrémité faisant face à un relais lumineux ;
  • la figure 5 représente, de façon schématisée, partielle, et en perspective, l'extrémité d'un composant horloger en forme de ressort de barillet avec une spire externe vrillée dont la section est perpendiculaire aux autres spires, cette extrémité comportant un biseau pour la collecte de lumière provenant sensiblement perpendiculairement au plan de ce biseau ;
  • la figure 6 représente, de façon schématisée, partielle, et en coupe passant par l'axe de pivotement de l'arbre de barillet, l'afficheur horloger de la figure 1, où une source de lumière située à l'intérieur d'une montre, et qui n'est pas à proximité immédiate de l'afficheur horloger, est reliée par un guide de lumière à un relais lumineux positionné sur un pont à proximité de l'afficheur horloger ou du composant horloger ;
  • la figure 7 représente, de façon partielle et en vue en plan, deux sources de lumière disposées sous un ressort de barillet, l'une à proximité de l'arbre de barillet, et l'autre à proximité d'une bride glissante d'accrochage du ressort à un tambour, dans deux positions du ressort, en contraction maximale figure 7A et en élongation maximale figure 7B.
Other features and advantages of the invention will appear on reading the detailed description which follows, with reference to the appended drawings, in which:
  • the figure 1 schematically represents a timepiece, in this case a watch, with a movement comprising a watchmaker display according to the invention, comprising at least one watchmaking mobile component, in a particular application to the display of the power reserve of this watch. clock component which is a mainspring;
  • the figure 2 schematically represents a current cross section of a watch component according to a first embodiment in which the watch component is of rectangular section, and is bare;
  • the figure 3 schematically represents a current cross section of a watch component according to a second embodiment in which the watch component is of rectangular section, and has a thin coating on its four long faces;
  • the figure 4 represents, schematically, partially, and in perspective, the end of a watchmaking component in the form of a mainspring with an outer turn whose section is parallel to the other turns, this end facing a light relay;
  • the figure 5 represents, schematically, partially, and in perspective, the end of a watchmaking component in the form of a mainspring with an external twisted turn whose section is perpendicular to the other turns, this end comprising a bevel for the collection of light coming substantially perpendicular to the plane of this bevel;
  • the figure 6 represents, schematically, partially, and in section passing through the axis of pivoting of the barrel shaft, the clock display of the figure 1 , where a light source located inside a watch, and which is not in the immediate vicinity of the watch display, is connected by a light guide to a light relay positioned on a bridge near the clock display or watch component;
  • the figure 7 is partially and in plan view, two light sources arranged under a mainspring, one near the barrel shaft, and the other near a sliding snap-fastening spring to a drum, in two positions of the spring, in maximum contraction Figure 7A and in maximum elongation Figure 7B .

Description détaillée des modes de réalisation préférésDetailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments

L'invention concerne le domaine de l'horlogerie mécanique.The invention relates to the field of mechanical watchmaking.

L'invention fournit une visualisation nouvelle d'un afficheur horloger d'un mouvement d'une montre mécanique, ou, plus généralement, d'une pièce d'horlogerie mécanique.The invention provides a new visualization of a clock display of a movement of a mechanical watch, or, more generally, a mechanical timepiece.

Tout particulièrement, il s'agit de rendre lumineux cet afficheur horloger, en utilisant, pour la confection d'au moins un de ses constituants appelé « composant horloger », un matériau particulier permettant la diffusion de la lumière, et pour lui permettre de visualiser une information sur son état, soit par la mise en évidence de contraintes mécaniques dans sa structure interne, soit par la mise en évidence de sa position particulière relative par rapport à son environnement, par exemple l'armement ou le désarmement d'une fonction particulière. Notamment et non limitativement la silice, le quartz, le quartz monocristallin, le saphir et le verre peuvent être employés comme guides de lumière.In particular, it is a question of making this watch display light, by using, for the manufacture of at least one of its constituents called "watchmaking component", a particular material allowing the diffusion of light, and to enable it to visualize information on its state, either by highlighting mechanical constraints in its internal structure, or by highlighting its relative position relative to its environment, for example the arming or disarming of a particular function . In particular, and without limitation, silica, quartz, monocrystalline quartz, sapphire and glass can be used as light guides.

Selon l'invention, la lumière, en provenance d'une source lumineuse active ou passive, injectée dans une partie du composant horloger, ressort de manière distribuée sur au moins une partie du composant horloger, ou tout au long de ce composant horloger, ce qui permet de le voir dans la pénombre. Le composant horloger conduit et diffuse cette lumière. L'injection de lumière peut être faite plus facilement à une des extrémités du composant horloger, et en particulier à une extrémité externe de préférence éloignée du centre du mouvement d'horlogerie, par une source lumineuse telle qu'une diode électro-luminescente, ou un composant revêtu d'une couche phosphorescente passive, ces sources lumineuses n'étant pas limitatives.According to the invention, the light, coming from an active or passive light source, injected into a part of the watch component, is distributed in a distributed manner over at least a part of the watch component, or throughout this watch component, this which makes it possible to see him in the dim light. The component watchmaker drives and diffuses this light. The injection of light can be made more easily at one end of the watch component, and in particular at an outer end, preferably remote from the center of the watch movement, by a light source such as an electroluminescent diode, or a component coated with a passive phosphorescent layer, these light sources not being limiting.

Le composant horloger est, si nécessaire, revêtu d'une couche permettant la diffusion d'une partie seulement de la lumière vers l'extérieur, tout en guidant la plupart de la lumière le long du composant horloger, une telle couche superficielle peut être aussi phosphorescente ou fluorescente. Le matériau du composant horloger, silice, quartz, quartz monocristallin, verre, saphir, verre photo-structurable, ou similaire, peut être élaboré de façon à inclure une phosphorescence ou une fluorescence, soit dans la masse du matériau, soit par implantation. Le composant horloger selon l'invention se comporte comme une fibre optique, pour guider et/ou diffuser la lumière.The watch component is, if necessary, coated with a layer allowing the diffusion of only a portion of the light to the outside, while guiding most of the light along the watch component, such a surface layer can also be phosphorescent or fluorescent. The material of the watchmaking component, silica, quartz, monocrystalline quartz, glass, sapphire, photo-structured glass, or the like, can be designed to include phosphorescence or fluorescence, either in the bulk of the material or by implantation. The watch component according to the invention behaves like an optical fiber, for guiding and / or diffusing the light.

On comprend que, non seulement la présence ou l'absence de lumière, mais aussi la modulation de cette lumière, ou/et son changement de longueur d'onde, fournissent des informations à l'utilisateur.It is understood that not only the presence or absence of light, but also the modulation of this light, and / or its change of wavelength, provide information to the user.

Ainsi l'invention concerne un tel afficheur horloger 4 comportant au moins un composant mobile horloger 1 d'un mouvement de montre ou de pièce d'horlogerie 100.Thus the invention relates to such a timepiece display 4 comprising at least one mobile watch component 1 of a watch movement or timepiece 100.

Si l'invention est décrite ici dans le cas avantageux d'un mouvement mécanique 10, l'invention est, bien sûr, également applicable aux mécanismes d'un mouvement électronique ou hybride mécanique-électronique.If the invention is described here in the advantageous case of a mechanical movement 10, the invention is, of course, also applicable to the mechanisms of an electronic or hybrid mechanical-electronic movement.

Selon l'invention, ce composant mobile horloger 1 transmet et diffuse de la lumière émise par au moins une source d'énergie lumineuse 5 que comporte cet afficheur horloger 4.According to the invention, this clockwork mobile component 1 transmits and diffuses light emitted by at least one light energy source 5 that this watchmaker display 4 comprises.

On appelle ici « mobile » un composant horloger qui, ou bien change de position ou d'emplacement du fait de sa fonction, comme un mobile pivotant entre deux pivots, ou une bascule, ou autre, ou bien qui se déforme du fait de sa fonction pendant le fonctionnement du mouvement d'horlogerie 10, comme un ressort de barillet ou un ressort-spiral de régulateur, ces exemples n'étant nullement limitatifs.Here is called "mobile" a watch component that, or changes position or location because of its function, as a mobile pivoting between two pivots, or a rocker, or other, or that is deformed because of its function during the operation of the watch movement 10, such as a mainspring or a spiral spring governor, these examples being in no way limiting.

La présente description est illustrée pour un cas particulier non limitatif, qui est celui d'un ressort de barillet, pour la visualisation de sa réserve de marche. L'homme du métier saura transposer cet exemple à d'autres composants et d'autres fonctions d'une montre. L'invention s'applique particulièrement bien à des composants longilignes, et élastiques, leur fonction étant précisément liée à leur caractère élastique, et à leur changement d'état dans le temps, liée à un changement d'état de contraintes internes et externes.The present description is illustrated for a particular non-limiting case, which is that of a mainspring, for viewing its power reserve. Those skilled in the art will be able to translate this example to other components and other functions of a watch. The invention is particularly applicable to elongate and elastic components, their function being precisely linked to their elastic nature, and to their change of state in time, linked to a change in the state of internal and external stresses.

Le composant mobile horloger 1 de montre ou de pièce d'horlogerie est ici représenté par un ressort de barillet 1, monté entre un arbre 2 et une structure 3, qui peut être ici un tambour, ou un pont, ou similaire.The watch or timepiece mobile watch component 1 is here represented by a barrel spring 1, mounted between a shaft 2 and a structure 3, which may be here a drum, or a bridge, or the like.

L'invention est ici décrite, non limitativement, dans le cas d'un composant horloger sensiblement plan, c'est-à-dire qui s'étend entièrement, dans toutes les positions extrêmes et intermédiaires du composant horloger 1, entre deux plans parallèles P1 et P2. Seules, dans le cas particulier d'un ressort, une spire interne à l'extrémité interne 7 du composant horloger 1, et une spire externe, à l'extrémité externe 6 du composant horloger 1, peuvent, de façon connue, se déployer dans l'espace hors de l'intervalle entre ces deux plans, pour l'attache de ce ressort à d'autres éléments, ici un arbre 2 et un tambour 3.The invention is here described, without limitation, in the case of a substantially planar clock component, that is to say which extends entirely, in all the extreme and intermediate positions of the watch component 1, between two parallel planes P1 and P2. Only, in the particular case of a spring, an inner turn at the inner end 7 of the watch component 1, and an outer turn, at the outer end 6 of the watch component 1, can, in known manner, be deployed in the space outside the gap between these two planes, for the attachment of this spring to other elements, here a shaft 2 and a drum 3.

Selon l'invention, le au moins un composant horloger transmet et diffuse de la lumière émise par au moins une source d'énergie lumineuse 5.According to the invention, the at least one watch component transmits and diffuses light emitted by at least one light energy source 5.

Dans une réalisation préférée, cet au moins un composant horloger est en silice, ou en quartz, ou en quartz monocristallin, ou en verre, ou en céramique, comme le saphir, ou en matériau partiellement transparent aux longueurs d'onde visibles ou ultra-violettes ou en matériau transparent ou translucide au moins partiellement amorphe.In a preferred embodiment, this at least one watch component is made of silica, or quartz, or monocrystalline quartz, or glass, or ceramic, such as sapphire, or partially transparent material at visible or ultraviolet wavelengths. violet or transparent or translucent at least partially amorphous material.

Cette source d'énergie lumineuse 5 peut être une source primaire, qui emmagasine de l'énergie, puis la restitue par émission lumineuse, ou une source secondaire, qu'on appelle ici relais lumineux 50, reliée par un chemin optique constitué par un guide de lumière 51 ou une fibre optique ou similaire, à une telle source primaire 5. Le composant horloger 1 est alors, soit en contact, soit à proximité immédiate, ou bien d'une source primaire, ou bien d'un relais lumineux 50, le choix se faisant selon l'espace disponible dans la montre et le volume de la source 5 ou du relais 50.This source of light energy 5 can be a primary source, which stores energy, then restores it by light emission, or a secondary source, here called light relay 50, connected by an optical path constituted by a guide of light 51 or an optical fiber or the like, to such a primary source 5. The watch component 1 is then either in contact with or in the immediate vicinity, or of a primary source, or of a light relay 50, the choice being made according to the space available in the watch and the volume of the source 5 or the relay 50.

Dans une réalisation particulière illustrée par les figures 1 et 6, le tambour 3 porte la source d'énergie lumineuse 5 à proximité d'une extrémité externe 6 du composant horloger 1. On comprend que le tambour 3 porte indifféremment une source primaire 5, ou un tel relais lumineux 50, le choix se faisant là encore selon l'espace disponible dans la montre et le volume de la source 5 ou du relais 50.In a particular embodiment illustrated by the Figures 1 and 6 , the drum 3 carries the source of light energy 5 near an outer end 6 of the watch component 1. It is understood that the drum 3 is indifferently primary source 5, or such a light relay 50, the choice being made again according to the space available in the watch and the volume of the source 5 or the relay 50.

Dans une autre variante non illustrée par les figures, l'arbre 2 porte la source d'énergie lumineuse 5, ou un relais lumineux 50, à proximité d'une extrémité interne 7 du composant horloger 1. Ce peut notamment être le cas avec un ensemble arbre-composant horloger monobloc en silice, en quartz, en quartz monocristallin, ou en verre ou en céramique, comme le saphir, ou en matériau transparent ou translucide au moins partiellement amorphe, et la lumière peut être collectée et ramenée en une zone de convergence, par exemple au niveau de l'arbre ou similaire.In another variant not illustrated in the figures, the shaft 2 carries the source of light energy 5, or a light relay 50, near an inner end 7 of the watch component 1. This may especially be the case with a a one-piece watch-making tree-component assembly made of silica, quartz, monocrystalline quartz, or glass or ceramic, such as sapphire, or of at least partially amorphous transparent or translucent material, and the light can be collected and brought back into a zone of convergence, for example at the tree level or the like.

Dans une autre variante encore, pour cet exemple particulier de composant 1 constitué d'un ressort enroulé en spirale, la source lumineuse 5 ou le relais 50 est à proximité du composant horloger 1, au-dessus ou au-dessous des spires de ce composant horloger. Dans une exécution particulière de cette variante, plusieurs telles sources sont disposées à proximité du composant horloger 1. La figure 7 montre ainsi deux sources de lumière 5A et 5B, disposées sous le composant horloger 1, l'une à proximité de l'attache du composant horloger à l'arbre 2, et l'autre à proximité du système de fixation du composant horloger 1 au tambour 3. Dans le cas d'un ressort-spiral de régulateur, l'attache est une virole, et le système de fixation est un piton 31. Dans le cas d'un ressort de barillet, l'attache à l'arbre est un crochet de l'arbre 2 coopérant avec une lumière du coquillon, et le système de fixation est une bride glissante ou similaire. Leur disposition est telle que la première source 5A vienne à proximité immédiate d'au moins une spire externe 86, et de préférence de plusieurs spires externes consécutives 84, 85, 86, lors de l'élongation maximale du composant horloger 1 et transmette de la lumière à la fois à ces trois spires 84, 85, 86 ensemble, uniquement dans cette configuration d'élongation, alors que cette source 5A ne transmet de la lumière qu'à une seule des spires 86 en configuration de contraction du composant horloger. De façon analogue, une deuxième source 5B vient à proximité immédiate d'au moins une spire interne 87 et de préférence de plusieurs spires internes consécutives 87, 82, 83, lors de la contraction maximale du composant horloger 1 et transmette de la lumière à la fois à ces trois spires 87, 81, 82 ensemble, uniquement dans cette configuration de contraction, alors que cette source 5B ne transmet de la lumière qu'à une seule des spires 87 en configuration de contraction du composant horloger. Il est alors possible de visualiser la contraction ou l'élongation du composant horloger 1, soit par l'emploi de filtres colorés différents sur la première source 5A et la deuxième source 5B, soit en colorant différemment le composant horloger 1 au niveau de sa spire externe 86 (et des spires voisines 84 et 85) et de sa spire interne 87 (et des spires voisines 81 et 82), soit dans la masse du matériau composant le composant horloger, soit plus simplement par une couche superficielle 40 sur une au moins des surfaces latérales, ici aussi dites faces, du composant horloger 1.In yet another variant, for this particular example of component 1 consisting of a spirally wound spring, the light source 5 or the relay 50 is close to the watch component 1, above or below the turns of this component watchmaker. In a particular embodiment of this variant, several such sources are arranged near the watch component 1. The figure 7 thus shows two light sources 5A and 5B, arranged under the watch component 1, one near the fastener of the watch component to the shaft 2, and the other near the fastening system of the watch component 1 to the 3. In the case of a spiral spring regulator, the fastener is a ferrule, and the fastening system is a stud 31. In the case of a mainspring, the attachment to the shaft is a hook of the shaft 2 cooperating with a shell lumen, and the fastening system is a sliding flange or the like. Their arrangement is such that the first source 5A comes in close proximity to at least one outer turn 86, and preferably several consecutive outer turns 84, 85, 86, during the maximum elongation of the watch component 1 and transmits the at the same time to these three turns 84, 85, 86 together only in this elongation configuration, whereas this source 5A transmits light only to one of the turns 86 in contraction configuration of the watch component. Similarly, a second source 5B comes in close proximity to at least one internal turn 87 and preferably several consecutive internal turns 87, 82, 83, during the maximum contraction of the watch component 1 and transmits light to the times to these three turns 87, 81, 82 together only in this contraction configuration, while this source 5B transmits light only to one of the turns 87 in contraction configuration of the watch component. It is then possible to visualize the contraction or elongation of the watch component 1, either by the use different colored filters on the first source 5A and the second source 5B, either by differently dyeing the watch component 1 at its outer turn 86 (and neighboring turns 84 and 85) and its inner coil 87 (and neighboring turns 81 and 82), either in the mass of the material constituting the watch component, or more simply by a surface layer 40 on at least one of the lateral surfaces, here also referred to as faces, of the watch component 1.

Du fait du choix des matériaux particuliers pour sa réalisation, le composant horloger 1, quand il est plat comme dans le cas d'espèce, est de préférence confectionné en grappes sur un même substrat. Chaque composant horloger 1 comporte une attache relativement étendue, et dont les dimensions sont importantes devant la section S des spires 8 du composant horloger 1. Cette attache constitue une surface de réception bien adaptée pour la lumière émanant de la source 5 ou du relais 50, en même temps qu'elle autorise une bonne fixation mécanique du composant horloger 1 sur le tambour 3.Due to the choice of particular materials for its realization, the watch component 1, when it is flat as in the case in point, is preferably made in clusters on the same substrate. Each watch component 1 has a relatively extended fastener, the dimensions of which are large in front of the section S of the turns 8 of the watch component 1. This fastener constitutes a receiving surface that is well adapted for the light emanating from the source 5 or the relay 50, at the same time as it allows a good mechanical fixing of the watch component 1 on the drum 3.

Le au moins un composant horloger 1 diffuse de la lumière sur au moins une partie de sa plus grande dimension appelée longueur ou/et sur au moins une partie de sa section orthogonale à cette longueur.The at least one watch component 1 diffuses light over at least a portion of its largest dimension called length and / or over at least a portion of its section orthogonal to this length.

De préférence mais non limitativement, ce composant horloger 1 comporte, des faces dites latérales, supérieure 41, inférieure 42, transversale interne 46, transversale externe 47, qui se développent selon sa. La lumière est alors diffusée au niveau d'au moins une de ses faces latérales. Le composant comporte encore deux faces d'extrémité externe 43 et interne 43A, généralement limitées à ses sections, et correspondant à au moins une zone de fixation du composant 1.Preferably, but not exclusively, this watchmaking component 1 comprises, so-called lateral, upper 41, lower 42, transverse inner 46, transverse external 47 faces, which develop according to its. The light is then diffused at at least one of its lateral faces. The component also comprises two outer end 43 and inner end faces 43A, generally limited to its sections, and corresponding to at least one attachment zone of the component 1.

Dans le cas fréquent où l'une des faces latérales n'est pas visible par l'utilisateur, car faisant face à un composant non transparent, platine, ou pont, d'un mouvement, cette face non visible peut avantageusement comporter une couche mince 40 superficielle de métallisation pour constituer une surface miroir réflectrice et empêcher la diffusion lumineuse par la face non visible considérée. Ce peut notamment être le cas de la face inférieure 42, ou/et des faces transversales 46, 47. Le revêtement local de la totalité des surfaces latérales par une telle couche 40 réflectrice permet de canaliser la lumière dans le composant horloger sur une certaine distance sans déperdition notable. Il est ainsi possible de choisir, sur la longueur du composant horloger 1, les zones par lesquelles on souhaite avoir une diffusion de lumière, et l'orientation des faces concernées, en général la face supérieure 41 et l'une ou/et l'autre des faces transversales 46, 47.In the frequent case where one of the lateral faces is not visible to the user, because facing a non-transparent component, platinum or bridge, of a movement, this non-visible face may advantageously comprise a thin layer 40 superficial metallization to form a reflective mirror surface and prevent light diffusion by the non-visible face considered. This may especially be the case of the lower face 42, and / or the transverse faces 46, 47. The local coating of all of the lateral surfaces by such a reflective layer 40 allows light to be channeled into the watch component over a certain distance without significant loss. It is thus possible to choose, over the length of the watch component 1, the zones through which it is desired to have a light diffusion, and the orientation of the faces concerned, in general the upper face 41 and one or / and the other of the transverse faces 46, 47.

Dans une réalisation particulière, le au moins un composant horloger 1 diffuse de la lumière sur la totalité de sa longueur entre le tambour 3 et l'arbre 2.In a particular embodiment, the at least one watch component 1 diffuses light over its entire length between the drum 3 and the shaft 2.

De préférence, le au moins un composant horloger 1 est de section rectangulaire et est composé d'un seul matériau, par exemple de la silice, ou du quartz, ou de quartz monocristallin, ou du verre, ou du saphir, ou de la céramique ou un matériau partiellement transparent aux longueurs d'onde visibles ou ultra-violettes ou un matériau transparent ou translucide au moins partiellement amorphe, selon la figure 2.Preferably, the at least one watch component 1 is of rectangular section and is composed of a single material, for example silica, or quartz, or monocrystalline quartz, or glass, or sapphire, or ceramic or a partially transparent material at visible or ultraviolet wavelengths or at least partially amorphous transparent or translucent material, according to the figure 2 .

Dans une variante, le au moins un composant horloger 1 est de section rectangulaire et est composé d'au moins deux matériaux : d'une part par un premier matériau qui est de la silice, ou du quartz, ou de quartz monocristallin, ou du verre, ou du saphir, ou de la céramique ou un matériau partiellement transparent aux longueurs d'onde visibles ou ultra-violettes ou un matériau transparent ou translucide au moins partiellement amorphe, et d'autre part par un dopant phosphorescent ou fluorescent, ce dopant étant incorporé dans la masse du premier matériau. On peut doper dans la masse le matériau, quartz ou verre ou similaire, par exemple par implantation, avec au moins un tel dopant phosphorescent ou fluorescent.In a variant, the at least one watch component 1 is of rectangular section and is composed of at least two materials: firstly by a first material which is silica, or quartz, or monocrystalline quartz, or glass, or sapphire, or ceramic or a partially transparent material at visible or ultraviolet wavelengths or an at least partially amorphous transparent or translucent material, and secondly by a phosphorescent or fluorescent dopant, this dopant being incorporated in the mass of the first material. The material, quartz or glass or the like may be doped in the mass, for example by implantation, with at least one such phosphorescent or fluorescent dopant.

Selon l'invention, le au moins un composant horloger 1 est de section rectangulaire et est composé d'une part par un premier matériau qui est de la silice, ou du quartz, ou de quartz monocristallin, ou du verre, ou du saphir, ou de la céramique ou un matériau partiellement transparent aux longueurs d'onde visibles ou ultra-violettes ou un matériau transparent ou translucide au moins partiellement amorphe, et d'autre part par au moins un deuxième matériau phosphorescent ou fluorescent appliqué en couche mince 40 sur au moins une des surfaces latérales du composant horloger 1.According to the invention, the at least one watch component 1 is of rectangular section and is composed firstly of a first material which is silica, or quartz, or monocrystalline quartz, or glass, or sapphire, or ceramics or a partially transparent material at visible or ultraviolet wavelengths or an at least partially amorphous transparent or translucent material, and secondly by at least a second phosphorescent or fluorescent material applied in a thin layer 40 on at least one of the side surfaces of the watch component 1.

Dans la variante visible sur la figure 3, le deuxième matériau phosphorescent ou fluorescent est appliqué en couche mince 40 sur les quatre surfaces latérales du composant horloger 1.In the variant visible on the figure 3 , the second phosphorescent or fluorescent material is applied in a thin layer 40 on the four lateral surfaces of the watch component 1.

Dans une variante avantageuse, le au moins un composant horloger 1 comporte, sur ses faces supérieure 41 et inférieure 42 définissant deux plans parallèles P1, P2, une rugosité de surface Rt comprise entre 10 nanomètres et 20 micromètres, et de préférence voisine de un micromètre ou légèrement supérieure à cette valeur. Cette légère rugosité conférant un aspect dépoli au composant horloger 1 peut être obtenue lors de la fabrication d'un composant horloger 1 en quartz, par exemple, les paramètres de pilotage du procédé permettant d'obtenir un état de surface plus ou moins lisse. La présence, selon certains angles, d'un surplomb le long des faces transversales 46, 47, peut conférer un effet analogue. Le composant horloger 1 peut aussi être retravaillé, notamment par attaque chimique, de façon à comporter de micro-alvéoles lui conférant localement la rugosité recherchée.In an advantageous variant, the at least one watch component 1 comprises, on its upper 41 and lower 42 faces defining two parallel planes P1, P2, a surface roughness Rt of between 10 nanometers and 20 nm. micrometers, and preferably close to one micrometer or slightly greater than this value. This slight roughness giving a frosted appearance to the watch component 1 can be obtained during the manufacture of a quartz watch component 1, for example, the process control parameters for obtaining a more or less smooth surface state. The presence, at certain angles, of an overhang along the transverse faces 46, 47, may confer a similar effect. The watch component 1 can also be reworked, in particular by chemical etching, so as to include micro-cells giving it locally the desired roughness.

L'ajout de dépôts en couches minces 40 selon la figure 3, par exemple, permet d'augmenter ou d'atténuer la diffusion ou le guidage de la lumière dans le composant horloger 1, le cas d'une couche 40 fluorescente ou phosphorescente permet, soit de modifier le spectre d'émission (par exemple si on utilise une diode électro-luminescente UV comme source lumineuse 5), soit pour stocker et émettre de la lumière dans la couche. On connaît notamment l'aluminate de strontium SrAl2O4 dopé par de l'europium, dont une variété est connue sous le nom de « Super-LumiNova ».The addition of thin film deposits 40 according to the figure 3 for example, makes it possible to increase or attenuate the diffusion or the guiding of the light in the watch component 1, the case of a fluorescent or phosphorescent layer 40 makes it possible either to modify the emission spectrum (for example if an electroluminescent UV diode is used as light source 5), either to store and emit light in the layer. Especially known is strontium aluminate SrAl2O4 doped with europium, a variety of which is known as "Super-LumiNova".

Un tel dépôt en couches minces 40 peut être utilisé pour colorer au moins une face latérale lors de la réémission de lumière par diffusion à travers au moins une spire du composant horloger 1.Such a thin film deposition 40 may be used to color at least one side face during light re-emission by diffusion through at least one turn of the watch component 1.

Le dépôt de couche peut aussi, assurer la rugosité superficielle recherchée pour une bonne diffusion.The layer deposition can also ensure the desired surface roughness for good diffusion.

L'épaisseur d'une telle couche 40 est, de préférence, comprise entre 10 nanomètres et 1 micromètre, et, de préférence, voisine de 100 nanomètres.The thickness of such a layer 40 is preferably between 10 nanometers and 1 micrometer, and preferably close to 100 nanometers.

Il est possible d'utiliser des couches 40 de différentes natures : métaux, oxydes, par exemple TiO, TiO2 Ta2O5, SiO2 Si3Na, Al2O3, ou encore des intermétalliques à base d'aluminium et d'or, cette liste n'étant nullement limitative. Et aussi de revêtir les différentes faces latérales de couches 40 de nature différente.It is possible to use layers 40 of different kinds: metals, oxides, for example TiO, TiO 2 Ta 2 O 5 , SiO 2 Si 3 Na, Al 2 O 3 , or alternates based on aluminum and aluminum. However, this list is in no way limiting. And also to coat the different lateral faces of layers 40 of different nature.

Une couche 40 peut être colorée selon une longueur d'onde particulière. L'interaction avec la lumière issue de la source 5 produit un effet particulier, surtout si la source 5 ou le relais 50 comporte un filtre monochromatique, ou est pulsée sur une longueur d'onde unique.A layer 40 may be colored at a particular wavelength. The interaction with the light from the source 5 produces a particular effect, especially if the source 5 or the relay 50 has a monochromatic filter, or is pulsed over a single wavelength.

La structuration des faces latérales du composant horloger 1 est réalisable, notamment en photolithographie.The structuring of the lateral faces of the watchmaking component 1 is feasible, in particular in photolithography.

Le cheminement de la lumière au sein du composant horloger 1 peut être modifié par la présence d'obstacles particuliers ou de changements de milieux lumineux, par exemple par la présence d'encoches, de perçages, de chanfreins, ou similaire.The path of the light within the watch component 1 can be modified by the presence of particular obstacles or changes of light environment, for example by the presence of notches, holes, chamfers, or the like.

Une structuration au niveau des masques, lors de la réalisation du composant horloger 1, permet de réaliser des surfaces transversales 46, 47 particulières, pour deux spires voisines du composant horloger 1 quand il s'agit comme ici d'un ressort, notamment une complémentarité, de crans ou de polarisation optique par exemple, de façon à ce qu'une surface transversale interne 46 de la plus externe de deux spires coopère de façon particulière lors de sa plus grande proximité avec la surface transversale externe 47 de la plus interne des deux spires en contraction du composant horloger 1, et que l'effet optique produit lors de cette plus grande proximité soit différent de l'effet otique que présentent, ensemble, ces deux spires voisines quand elles sont à la plus grande distance l'une de l'autre en élongation du composant horloger 1. Notamment ces deux surfaces transversales antagonistes peuvent recevoir un traitement monochrome différent, par exemple bleu sur l'une, jaune sur l'autre, ces deux couleurs étant distinctement visibles en élongation, alors que la diffusion se fait en vert en position de contraction.Structuring at the level of the masks, during the production of the watch component 1, makes it possible to produce particular transverse surfaces 46, 47 for two neighboring turns of the watch component 1 when it is a spring like this, especially a complementarity. , notches or optical polarization for example, so that an inner transverse surface 46 of the outermost of two turns cooperates in a particular way in its greatest proximity to the outer transverse surface 47 of the innermost of the two contraction turns of the watch component 1, and that the optical effect produced during this greater proximity is different from the otic effect that, together, these two neighboring turns exhibit when they are at the greatest distance one of the Another elongation of the watch component 1. In particular these two transverse surfaces antagonists can receive a different monochrome treatment, for example blue on one, yellow on the other, these two colors being distinctly visible in elongation, whereas the diffusion is done in green in contraction position.

Dans une exécution particulière, au moins une des extrémités 6, 7, du composant horloger 1 comporte une face de bout 43 recevant directement de la lumière de la source lumineuse 5 ou d'un relais lumineux 50 de cette dernière. La figure 4 illustre une telle réalisation, où toutes les spires du composant horloger 1 sont parallèles.In a particular embodiment, at least one of the ends 6, 7 of the watch component 1 comprises an end face 43 receiving directly light from the light source 5 or a light relay 50 thereof. The figure 4 illustrates such an embodiment, where all the turns of the watch component 1 are parallel.

Dans une autre exécution particulière visible sur la figure 5, et notamment dans le cas où le composant horloger 1 comporte un vrillage 45 proche d'une de ses extrémités 6, 7, cette extrémité comporte au moins un biseau 44 pour la réception de lumière selon une direction D sensiblement perpendiculaire à un plan parallèle à deux plans parallèles P1, P2, que définissent les faces supérieure 41 et inférieure 42 du composant horloger 1. La direction D est avantageusement parallèle à l'axe A de pivotement de l'arbre 2. Cette disposition permet de disposer une source lumineuse 5 ou un relais lumineux 50 au-dessus ou en-dessous du composant horloger 1, juste au-dessus ou en-dessous du tambour 3, ce qui peut être avantageux en termes d'encombrement.In another particular embodiment visible on the figure 5 , and especially in the case where the watch component 1 comprises a twisting 45 close to one of its ends 6, 7, this end comprises at least one bevel 44 for receiving light in a direction D substantially perpendicular to a plane parallel to two parallel planes P1, P2, defined by the upper 41 and lower 42 faces of the watch component 1. The direction D is advantageously parallel to the axis A of pivoting of the shaft 2. This arrangement makes it possible to have a light source 5 or a light relay 50 above or below the watch component 1, just above or below the drum 3, which can be advantageous in terms of size.

L'invention permet de réaliser le composant horloger 1 comme guide de lumière avec des pertes contrôlées tout au long du composant horloger.The invention makes it possible to produce the watch component 1 as a light guide with controlled losses throughout the watch component.

L'illumination du composant horloger 1 ne se fait pas nécessairement selon une direction privilégiée, en effet, elle peut se faire par une face supérieure 41 (plan P1 des figures), ou/et par les faces transversales 46 et 47 du composant horloger 1.The illumination of the watch component 1 is not necessarily in a preferred direction, in fact, it can be done by an upper face 41 (plane P1 of the figures), and / or by the transverse faces 46 and 47 of the watch component 1 .

Selon la conception de la source lumineuse 5 et celle du composant horloger 1, on peut obtenir plusieurs types d'illumination. On citera notamment :

  • une illumination constante, malgré le mouvement du composant horloger ;
  • une illumination variable, selon le mouvement du composant horloger, par exemple pour simuler le battement d'un coeur humain : notamment on peut illuminer le composant horloger sur toute sa longueur lorsque les spires sont proches les unes des autres, et réduire cette illumination au minimum (effet d'extinction) lorsque les spires sont éloignées les unes des autres ; ou encore l'inverse. Le contrôle des pertes se fait alors selon la position des spires ;
  • une illumination colorée, avec des couleurs différentes aux deux extrémités du composant horloger, ce qui peut être obtenu avec un composant horloger 1 revêtu de couches minces 40 ad hoc.
According to the design of the light source 5 and that of the watch component 1, several types of illumination can be obtained. These include:
  • constant illumination, despite the movement of the watch component;
  • a variable illumination, according to the movement of the watch component, for example to simulate the beat of a human heart: in particular we can illuminate the watch component over its entire length when the turns are close to each other, and reduce this illumination to a minimum (extinction effect) when the turns are distant from each other; or the opposite. Loss control is then done according to the position of the turns;
  • a colored illumination, with different colors at both ends of the watch component, which can be obtained with a timepiece component 1 coated with thin layers 40 ad hoc.

Le couplage entre la source lumineuse 5, ou le relais 50, et le composant horloger 1, peut résulter de leur proximité : la source 5 ou le relais 50 émet de la lumière avec un niveau énergétique suffisant pour que le composant horloger 1 puisse capter cette lumière, avant de la réémettre par diffusion.The coupling between the light source 5, or the relay 50, and the watch component 1, may result from their proximity: the source 5 or the relay 50 emits light with a sufficient energy level so that the watch component 1 can capture this light, before re-broadcasting it.

Le couplage peut aussi être avantageusement et préférentiellement réalisé par contact direct, surface contre surface, ou par enfichage, ou par toute technologie connue dans les guides de lumière et dans les fibres optiques.The coupling may also be advantageously and preferably carried out by direct contact, surface-to-surface contact, or by plug-in, or by any known technology in the light guides and in the optical fibers.

De façon préférée, la lumière est concentrée en amont de son envoi au composant horloger, ou lors de l'entrée dans le composant horloger 1, au niveau d'un concentrateur. Dans une réalisation particulière et avantageuse, le concentrateur est intégré au composant horloger 1 lors de sa fabrication.Preferably, the light is concentrated upstream of its sending to the watch component, or when entering the watch component 1, at a concentrator. In a particular and advantageous embodiment, the concentrator is integrated with the watch component 1 during its manufacture.

La répartition des contraintes dans le composant horloger 1 varie, lors de la contraction ou de l'élongation de ce composant horloger pour un réglage donné. Elle varie, aussi, lors d'un changement de caractéristiques du composant mobile horloger : Notamment, dans le cas d'un ressort-spiral de régulateur, en fonction de l'amplitude d'oscillation de l'arbre 2 ; une variation de l'illumination du composant horloger 1 peut, ainsi, permettre de mettre en évidence une modification de l'amplitude.The distribution of the stresses in the watch component 1 varies during the contraction or elongation of this watch component for a given adjustment. It also varies during a change in characteristics of the mobile watch component: In the case of a spiral spring of a regulator, in particular, as a function of the amplitude of oscillation of the shaft 2; a variation of the illumination of the component watchmaker 1 can, thus, allow to highlight a change in amplitude.

Le composant horloger 1 selon l'invention peut ne pas être homogène, ce qui permet alors de créer des fonctionnalités techniques particulières, et des zones de diffusion lumineuse différenciées.The watch component 1 according to the invention may not be homogeneous, which then makes it possible to create special technical features, and differentiated light scattering zones.

On entend ici par « amorphiser » le fait de changer la structure de façon à modifier l'indice de réfraction. On peut amorphiser localement une spire, notamment grâce à un traitement laser.The term "amorphize" is used here to mean changing the structure so as to modify the refractive index. A coil can be locally amorphized, in particular by laser treatment.

Le composant horloger 1 peut être, au moins localement, poli. Une structuration mécanique particulière permet de créer des surfaces de fuite de lumière choisies avec des orientations particulières sur certaines faces et en des localisations particulières.The watch component 1 may be, at least locally, polished. A particular mechanical structuring makes it possible to create chosen light leakage surfaces with particular orientations on certain faces and in particular locations.

La problématique du guidage et de la diffusion de lumière sur toute la longueur d'un composant horloger 1 qui peut avoir une longueur développée importante peut amener à neutraliser certaines spires, ou certaines portions de spires, en empêchant la lumière de s'en échapper, par exemple par des dépôts de couches réflectrices ou des épargnes de fonctionnalité similaire. Ceci permet alors une économie de lumière, et le guidage de lumière jusqu'aux extrémités 6 et 7 du composant horloger 1.The problem of guiding and diffusing light over the entire length of a watch component 1 which may have a large developed length may cause some turns to be neutralized, or certain portions of turns, by preventing the light from escaping from them. for example by reflective layer deposits or savings of similar functionality. This then allows a saving of light, and the light guide to the ends 6 and 7 of the watch component 1.

Dans une réalisation particulière et préférée, le composant mobile horloger 1 comporte au moins une partie élastique et déformable, et la diffusion de la lumière au travers de ce composant mobile horloger 1 est variable selon les contraintes dans cette partie élastique et déformable.In a particular and preferred embodiment, the mobile watch component 1 comprises at least one elastic and deformable part, and the light diffusion through this mobile watch component 1 is variable according to the constraints in this elastic and deformable part.

Dans une réalisation particulière, le composant mobile horloger 1 est un ressort de stockage d'énergie ou un ressort de barillet ou un ressort de sonnerie, et son mode d'illumination visualise sa réserve de marche restante.In a particular embodiment, the watchmaking mobile component 1 is an energy storage spring or a mainspring or a striking spring, and its illumination mode displays its remaining power reserve.

Dans une autre réalisation particulière, le composant mobile horloger 1 est un ressort de récupération de jeu. Plus particulièrement encore, il constitue un ressort de récupération de jeu pour montre altimètre.In another particular embodiment, the mobile watch component 1 is a game recovery spring. More particularly, it constitutes a game recovery spring for an altimeter watch.

Dans une autre réalisation particulière, le composant mobile horloger 1 est un ressort de rattrapante.In another particular embodiment, the clockwise mobile component 1 is a split-spring.

Dans une autre réalisation particulière encore, le composant mobile horloger 1 est un sautoir ou un ressort de sautoirIn yet another particular embodiment, the clockwise mobile component 1 is a jumper or a jumper spring

Le composant 1 peut, encore, être un ressort-spiral de même matériau qui aurait d'autres fonctions que celle dans un organe réglant.The component 1 may, again, be a spiral spring of the same material that would have other functions than that in a regulating member.

Le composant 1 peut, encore, être un ressort spiral en quartz prévu pour être utilisé comme ressort de rappel pour éliminer le jeu d'une aiguille, ou similaire.The component 1 may, again, be a quartz spiral spring intended to be used as a return spring to eliminate the play of a needle, or the like.

La source lumineuse 5 peut prendre diverses formes. De préférence, cette source 5 est une diode électro-luminescente ou un composant phosphorescent ou fluorescent.The light source 5 can take various forms. Preferably, this source 5 is an electroluminescent diode or a phosphorescent or fluorescent component.

Avantageusement la source 5 est phosphorescente ou/et fluorescente, de préférence phosphorescente en raison de la plus longue durée de rémanence, qui peut atteindre plusieurs heures, et est compatible avec une possibilité d'illumination du composant horloger à tout moment pendant la durée d'une nuit.Advantageously, the source 5 is phosphorescent and / or fluorescent, preferably phosphorescent due to the longer duration of remanence, which can reach several hours, and is compatible with a possibility of illumination of the watch component at any time during the period of time. a night.

On qualifiera, par simplification, de « phosphorescente » la source de lumière dans la suite de l'exposé. Une telle source phosphorescente comporte avantageusement des aluminates de terres rares, bien connues des physiciens, par exemple de l'aluminate de strontium SrAl2O4 dopé par de l'europium, dont une variété est connue sous le nom de « Super-LumiNova », ou encore des silicates de terres rares, ou un mélange d'aluminates et de silicates de terres rares. D'autres matériaux du négoce tels que le « Lumibrite » conviennent également. Des matériaux comme le tritium 3H, le prométhium 147, ou le radium 226, présentent d'excellentes propriétés phosphorescentes, mais leur forte radioactivité bêta ou/et gamma limite fortement leur emploi, et ils ne peuvent être utilisés qu'en quantités infimes, de préférence en conjugaison avec des aluminates de terres rares, pour certaines applications très particulières, militaires, astronautiques, utilisation aux grandes profondeurs, ou similaire, et avec une protection augmentant notablement le volume de la pièce d'horlogerie, on parle alors de radioluminescence ou d'autoluminescence en cas d'emploi de ces matériaux. On connaît encore des capsules en verre borosilicate contenant des gaz dites « GTLS » de la société « MB Microtech », contenant du tritium 3H, et qui, comme le radium, ne nécessitent aucune excitation externe pour émettre de la lumière, de telles capsules sont utilisées notamment pour la visualisation d'aiguilles ou d'appliques de montres, essentiellement militaires.For the sake of simplicity, the source of light will be "phosphorescent" in the rest of the presentation. Such a phosphorescent source advantageously comprises rare earth aluminates, which are well known to physicists, for example europium doped strontium aluminate SrAl2O4, a variety of which is known under the name "Super-LumiNova", or rare earth silicates, or a mixture of aluminates and rare earth silicates. Other trading materials such as "Lumibrite" are also suitable. Materials such as tritium 3H, promethium 147, or radium 226 have excellent phosphorescent properties, but their high radioactivity beta and / or gamma strongly limits their use, and they can be used only in minute amounts, preferably in conjunction with rare earth aluminates, for some very specific applications, military, astronautics, use at great depths, or the like, and with a protection significantly increasing the volume of the timepiece, it is called radioluminescence or autoluminescence when using these materials. Borosilicate glass capsules containing gases called "GTLS" from the company "MB Microtech", containing tritium 3H, and which, like radium, do not require any external excitation to emit light, are still known, such capsules are used especially for the visualization of needles or appliques of watches, essentially military.

La lumière d'excitation provient de l'environnement de l'utilisateur, lumière solaire, lumière ambiante. La source lumineuse est logée dans le volume intérieur de la boîte de la pièce d'horlogerie ou de la montre. L'énergie ambiante peut être collectée au niveau d'une carrure partiellement ou totalement transparente, ou translucide ou/et au niveau d'un cadran partiellement ou totalement transparent, ou translucide, ou/et encore au niveau d'un guichet d'affichage, notamment pour un quantième ou similaire. L'énergie ambiante peut, encore, être collectée par un accessoire contigu à la pièce d'horlogerie, tel un bracelet de montre, et être transmise par un guide d'onde ou une fibre optique, ou similaire. De la même façon, la captation d'énergie ambiante peut être exécutée au niveau d'autres éléments d'habillage tels que le fond, la lunette, le rehaut, ou autres.The excitation light comes from the user's environment, solar light, ambient light. The light source is housed in the interior volume of the timepiece box or the watch. Ambient energy can be collected at a partially or completely transparent, or translucent middle part or / and at a partially or completely transparent, or translucent dial, or / and still at a display window, particularly for a date or similar. The ambient energy may, again, be collected by an adjoining accessory to the timepiece, such as a watchband, and be transmitted by a waveguide or an optical fiber, or the like. In the same way, the capture of ambient energy can be performed at the level of other elements of dressing such as the bottom, the telescope, the flange, or others.

La source lumineuse 5 peut émettre une lumière pulsée monochromatique.The light source 5 can emit pulsed monochromatic light.

Une des applications préférées de l'invention est la visualisation des contraintes internes au sein du composant horloger, révélées par la lumière issue de la source lumineuse 5, transmise et diffusée par le composant 1.One of the preferred applications of the invention is the visualization of the internal stresses within the watch component, revealed by the light coming from the light source 5, transmitted and diffused by the component 1.

L'invention concerne un mouvement mécanique 10 horloger comportant au moins un tel afficheur horloger 4. La source de lumière 5 est située au niveau de cet afficheur horloger 4.The invention relates to a watchmaking mechanical movement comprising at least one such timepiece display 4. The light source 5 is located at this timepiece display 4.

Dans une variante voisine de l'invention la source de lumière 5 est déportée hors de cet afficheur horloger 4 et à l'intérieur du mouvement 10 auquel cas elle est reliée par au moins un guide de lumière 51 ou une fibre optique à un relais lumineux 50 lequel est situé au niveau de l'afficheur horloger 4 à proximité immédiate du composant mobile horloger 1 ou à son contact.In a similar variant of the invention, the light source 5 is offset from this clock display 4 and inside the movement 10 in which case it is connected by at least one light guide 51 or an optical fiber to a light relay. 50 which is located at the timepiece display 4 in the immediate vicinity of the mobile watch component 1 or in contact therewith.

L'invention concerne encore une pièce d'horlogerie 100 comportant un tel mouvement mécanique 10, ou/et au moins un tel afficheur horloger 4. La source de lumière 5 est, ou bien située au niveau de l'afficheur horloger 4.The invention also concerns a timepiece 100 comprising such a mechanical movement 10, and / or at least one such timepiece display 4. The light source 5 is either located at the timepiece display 4.

Dans une variante voisine de l'invention la source de lumière 5 est déportée hors de l'afficheur horloger 4 et à l'intérieur du mouvement 10 auquel cas elle est reliée par au moins un guide de lumière 51 ou une fibre optique à un relais lumineux 50 lequel est situé au niveau de l'afficheur horloger 4 à proximité immédiate du composant mobile horloger 1 ou à son contact, ou bien est déportée hors du mouvement 10 et à l'intérieur de la pièce d'horlogerie 100 auquel cas elle est reliée par au moins un guide de lumière 51 ou une fibre optique à un relais lumineux 50 lequel est situé au niveau de l'afficheur horloger 4 à proximité immédiate du composant mobile horloger 1 ou à son contact.In a similar variant of the invention the light source 5 is offset from the watchmaker display 4 and inside the movement 10 in which case it is connected by at least one light guide 51 or an optical fiber to a relay light 50 which is located at the timepiece display 4 in the immediate vicinity of the mobile watch component 1 or in its contact, or is deported out of the movement 10 and inside the timepiece 100 in which case it is connected by at least one light guide 51 or an optical fiber to a light relay 50 which is located at the timepiece display 4 in the immediate vicinity of the clockwise mobile component 1 or in contact therewith.

De préférence, cette pièce d'horlogerie 100 est une montre, et le composant horloger 1 est du type dit « plat » décrit ci-dessus.Preferably, this timepiece 100 is a watch, and the watch component 1 is of the so-called "flat" type described above.

Dans une variante non illustrée par les figures, si le composant 1 est mobile avec une fréquence d'oscillation élevée, l'invention peut être couplée avec un dispositif stroboscopique intercalé sur la trajectoire lumineuse entre la source lumineuse et le composant horloger, de façon à effectuer des éclairages particuliers.In a variant not illustrated in the figures, if the component 1 is mobile with a high oscillation frequency, the invention can be coupled with a stroboscopic device interposed on the light path between the light source and the watch component, so as to perform particular lighting.

Une structuration avec effet stroboscopique, selon la fréquence et la longueur d'onde de la lumière diffusée par la source 5 ou le relais 50, permet d'effectuer un marquage anti-contrefaçon ou une signature secrète, par structuration ou masquage, et qui n'est révélée que sous certaines conditions d'éclairage.Structuring with stroboscopic effect, according to the frequency and the wavelength of the light diffused by the source 5 or the relay 50, makes it possible to carry out an anti-counterfeiting marking or a secret signature, by structuration or masking, and which n is revealed only under certain lighting conditions.

Le ralentissement de la lumière, du fait de la variation de l'indice de réfraction qui est liée à la variation des contraintes à coeur lors de la contraction ou l'élongation du composant horloger, permet aussi une authentification particulière.The slowing down of the light, because of the variation of the refractive index which is linked to the variation of the core stresses during the contraction or the elongation of the watch component, also allows a particular authentication.

La diffusion, par un composant horloger 1 traité et coloré selon une première longueur d'onde, d'une lumière pulsée monochrome d'une autre longueur d'onde, permet une visualisation particulière.The diffusion, by a watch component 1 treated and colored at a first wavelength, with a monochrome pulsed light of another wavelength, allows a particular visualization.

Une variante de l'invention, plutôt applicable aux pendules et pièces d'horlogerie statiques, consiste dans son application à composant mobile horloger, qui n'est pas un ressort sensiblement plat comme ci-dessus, mais qui est un ressort hélicoïdal.A variant of the invention, rather applicable to the clocks and timepieces static, consists in its application mobile watch component, which is not a substantially flat spring as above, but which is a helical spring.

En somme, le dispositif de visualisation du composant horloger offert par l'invention est peu encombrant, et peu consommateur d'énergie. Il attire le regard de l'utilisateur sur le coeur visible de sa montre ou de sa pièce d'horlogerie, et met en évidence le caractère particulièrement vivant d'une pièce d'horlogerie mécanique, en économisant des éléments mécaniques d'affichage de l'état d'une fonction horlogère.In short, the display device of the watch component offered by the invention is compact and low energy consumption. It attracts the eye of the user on the visible heart of his watch or his timepiece, and highlights the particularly lively character of a mechanical timepiece, saving mechanical display elements of the watch. status of a watchmaking function.

Claims (22)

  1. Watch (100) including a mechanical timepiece movement (10) which includes at least one timepiece display device (4), said display device (4) including at least one mobile component (1) that deforms due to its function during operation of said mechanical movement (10), said mobile component (1) being a slender, elastic component whose function is related to its elastic nature, characterized in that said mobile component (1) transmits and diffuses the light emitted by at least one light energy source (5) comprised in said timepiece display device (4), and characterized in that said mobile component (1) includes at least one elastic and deformable portion, and in that the diffusion of light through said mobile component (1) varies with the stresses in said elastic and deformable portion, and characterized in that said mobile component (1) is of rectangular cross-section and is formed, on the one hand, of a first material which is silica, or quartz, or single crystal quartz, or glass, or sapphire, or ceramic or a material partially transparent to visible or ultraviolet wavelengths or a transparent or translucent at least partially amorphous material, and on the other hand, of at least a second phosphorescent or fluorescent material applied in a thin layer (40) to at least one of the surfaces of said mobile component (1), and in that said active or passive light source (5) is arranged to inject light into one portion of said mobile component (1) which conveys and diffuses said light over at least one portion of said mobile component (1), or throughout said entire mobile component (1), to make said component visible in the half-light.
  2. Watch (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that said mobile component (1) is formed of a spiral wound spring, said light source (5) is in proximity to said spring, above or below the coils of said spring.
  3. Watch (100) according to claim 2, characterized in that two said light sources (5A, 5B) are disposed underneath said spring, one in proximity to the member attaching said spring to an arbor (2), and the other in proximity to a system for securing said spring to a drum (3) or to a balance spring stud (31).
  4. Watch (100) according to claim 3, characterized in that said mobile component (1) is a regulating balance spring, said member attaching said spring to an arbor (2) is a collet, and said securing system is a balance spring stud (31).
  5. Watch (100) according to claim 3, characterized in that said mobile component is a mainspring, said member for attachment to the arbor is a hook of an arbor (2) cooperating with a hole in the eye of said spring, and said securing system is a slip-spring.
  6. Watch (100) according to any of claims 3 to 5, characterized in that the arrangement of said light sources (5A; 5B) is such that a first source (5A) comes into immediate proximity to several consecutive outer coils (84, 85, 86), during the maximum elongation of said spring and transmits light at the same time to all three of said outer coils (84, 85, 86) only in this elongated configuration, whereas said first source (5A) only transmits light to one of said outer coils in the contracted configuration of said spring, and such that a second source (5B) comes into immediate proximity to several consecutive inner coils (87, 82, 83) during the maximum contraction of said spring and transmits light at the same time to all three of said inner coils (87, 81, 82) only in this contracted configuration, whereas said second source (5B) only transmits light to one of said inner coils in the elongated configuration of said spring.
  7. Watch (100) according to claim 6, characterized in that the contraction or elongation of said spring is visually displayed, either through the use of different coloured filters on said first source (5A) and said second source (5B), or by colouring said spring differently on said outer coils (84, 85, 86) and said inner coils (87, 82, 83) in a thin layer (40) on at least one of the lateral surfaces of said spring.
  8. Watch (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that said source (5) is at one of the ends of said mobile component (1).
  9. Watch (100) according to claim 2, characterized in that said source (5) is at one of the ends of said mobile component (1) remote from the centre of said movement (10).
  10. Watch (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that said source (5) is a light emitting diode.
  11. Watch (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that said source (5) is a component coated with a passive phosphorescent layer.
  12. Watch (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that said mobile component (1) diffuses light over at least one portion of its largest dimension called the length and/or over at least one portion of the section thereof orthogonal to said length.
  13. Watch (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that said mobile component (1) diffuses light throughout its largest dimension called the length.
  14. Watch (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that said mobile component (1) is of rectangular cross-section and includes at least a second phosphorescent or fluorescent material applied in a thin layer (40) to the four lateral surfaces of said mobile component (1).
  15. Watch (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that said mobile component (1) includes, on its upper (41) and lower (42) faces defining two parallel planes (P1; P2), a surface roughness Rt comprised between 10 nanometres et 20 micrometres.
  16. Watch (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that at least one of the ends (6; 7) of said mobile component (1) includes an end face (43) directly receiving light from said light source (5).
  17. Watch (100) according to claim 16, characterized in that said end (6; 7) includes at least one bevel (44) for receiving light in a direction substantially perpendicular to a plane parallel to two parallel planes (P1; P2) defined by the upper (41) and lower (42) faces of said mobile component (1).
  18. Watch (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that said mobile component (1) is an energy storage spring or a mainspring or a striking spring, and in that its mode of illumination visually displays the remaining power reserve.
  19. Watch (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that said mobile component (1) is a play take-up spring.
  20. Watch (100) according to claim 19, characterized in that said mobile component (1) is a play take-up spring for an altimeter watch.
  21. Watch (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that said mobile component (1) is a split-time counter spring.
  22. Watch (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that said mobile component (1) is a jumper or jumper spring.
EP13770423.5A 2012-10-04 2013-09-20 Illuminated timpiece display Active EP2904458B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
CH01857/12A CH707060B1 (en) 2012-10-04 2012-10-04 Luminous watch display.
PCT/EP2013/069568 WO2014053338A1 (en) 2012-10-04 2013-09-20 Illuminated timpiece display

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP2904458A1 EP2904458A1 (en) 2015-08-12
EP2904458B1 true EP2904458B1 (en) 2018-06-27

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Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP13770423.5A Active EP2904458B1 (en) 2012-10-04 2013-09-20 Illuminated timpiece display

Country Status (8)

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US (1) US9342050B2 (en)
EP (1) EP2904458B1 (en)
JP (1) JP5977457B2 (en)
CN (1) CN104813240B (en)
CH (1) CH707060B1 (en)
HK (1) HK1212785A1 (en)
RU (1) RU2624716C2 (en)
WO (1) WO2014053338A1 (en)

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Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
JP2015530596A (en) 2015-10-15
CH707060B1 (en) 2017-05-31
WO2014053338A1 (en) 2014-04-10
CN104813240B (en) 2017-06-16
HK1212785A1 (en) 2016-06-17
EP2904458A1 (en) 2015-08-12
RU2015116594A (en) 2016-11-27
US9342050B2 (en) 2016-05-17
CN104813240A (en) 2015-07-29
JP5977457B2 (en) 2016-08-24
US20150261188A1 (en) 2015-09-17
RU2624716C2 (en) 2017-07-05
CH707060A2 (en) 2014-04-15

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