[go: up one dir, main page]

EP3273304B1 - Part for clock movement - Google Patents

Part for clock movement Download PDF

Info

Publication number
EP3273304B1
EP3273304B1 EP16180226.9A EP16180226A EP3273304B1 EP 3273304 B1 EP3273304 B1 EP 3273304B1 EP 16180226 A EP16180226 A EP 16180226A EP 3273304 B1 EP3273304 B1 EP 3273304B1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
pivot
chip removal
timepiece
machined
arbor
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
EP16180226.9A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP3273304A1 (en
Inventor
Christian Charbon
Vincent Fays
Marco Verardo
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.)
Nivarox Far SA
Nivarox SA
Original Assignee
Nivarox Far SA
Nivarox 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 Nivarox Far SA, Nivarox SA filed Critical Nivarox Far SA
Priority to EP16180226.9A priority Critical patent/EP3273304B1/en
Priority to EP16190278.8A priority patent/EP3273306A1/en
Priority to EP17157065.8A priority patent/EP3273307A1/en
Priority to JP2017138777A priority patent/JP6591497B2/en
Priority to CN202110652156.8A priority patent/CN113296382A/en
Priority to CN201710584243.8A priority patent/CN107632507B/en
Priority to CN201710584919.3A priority patent/CN107632508B/en
Priority to JP2017138778A priority patent/JP6591498B2/en
Priority to RU2017125759A priority patent/RU2752467C2/en
Priority to JP2017138776A priority patent/JP6762275B2/en
Priority to US15/652,287 priority patent/US11092932B2/en
Priority to RU2017125734A priority patent/RU2767960C2/en
Priority to US15/652,283 priority patent/US11237520B2/en
Priority to US15/652,288 priority patent/US10761482B2/en
Priority to CN201710584247.6A priority patent/CN107632510B/en
Priority to RU2017125745A priority patent/RU2763382C2/en
Publication of EP3273304A1 publication Critical patent/EP3273304A1/en
Priority to HK18107788.1A priority patent/HK1248327A1/en
Priority to HK18108135.9A priority patent/HK1248836A1/en
Priority to HK18108785.2A priority patent/HK1249200A1/en
Priority to JP2019118340A priority patent/JP2019197061A/en
Priority to JP2019118335A priority patent/JP2019203899A/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP3273304B1 publication Critical patent/EP3273304B1/en
Active legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

Links

Images

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
    • G04B29/00—Frameworks
    • 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
    • G04B1/16—Barrels; Arbors; Barrel axles
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G04—HOROLOGY
    • G04B—MECHANICALLY-DRIVEN CLOCKS OR WATCHES; MECHANICAL PARTS OF CLOCKS OR WATCHES IN GENERAL; TIME PIECES USING THE POSITION OF THE SUN, MOON OR STARS
    • G04B13/00—Gearwork
    • G04B13/02—Wheels; Pinions; Spindles; Pivots
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G04—HOROLOGY
    • G04B—MECHANICALLY-DRIVEN CLOCKS OR WATCHES; MECHANICAL PARTS OF CLOCKS OR WATCHES IN GENERAL; TIME PIECES USING THE POSITION OF THE SUN, MOON OR STARS
    • G04B13/00—Gearwork
    • G04B13/02—Wheels; Pinions; Spindles; Pivots
    • G04B13/021—Wheels; Pinions; Spindles; Pivots elastic fitting with a spindle, axis or shaft
    • G04B13/022—Wheels; Pinions; Spindles; Pivots elastic fitting with a spindle, axis or shaft with parts made of hard material, e.g. silicon, diamond, sapphire, quartz and the like
    • G04B13/026—
    • 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
    • G04B15/00—Escapements
    • G04B15/14—Component parts or constructional details, e.g. construction of the lever or the escape wheel
    • 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
    • G04B17/32—Component parts or constructional details, e.g. collet, stud, virole or piton
    • 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
    • G04B43/00—Protecting clockworks by shields or other means against external influences, e.g. magnetic fields
    • G04B43/007—Antimagnetic alloys

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a part for a timepiece movement and in particular to a non-magnetic watch component for a mechanical timepiece movement and in particular to a balance axis, an anchor rod and a non-magnetic escapement pinion.
  • the manufacture of a watch component comprising at least one part having the shape of a part of revolution, such as a watch pivot axis, consists, from a hardenable steel bar, in carrying out machining operations by removing chips, such as bar turning, to define different active surfaces (bearing, shoulder, pivots, etc.) and then subjecting the machined watch component to heat treatment operations comprising at least one quenching to improve the hardness of said component and a or several incomes to improve tenacity.
  • the heat treatment operations can be followed by an operation of rolling the pins of the pins, an operation consisting in polishing the pins to bring them to the required dimensions.
  • the hardness as well as the roughness of the pivots are further improved. It will be noted that this rolling operation is very difficult or even impossible to carry out with most materials whose hardness is low, that is to say less than 600HV.
  • the pivot axes for example the balance axes, conventionally used in mechanical watch movements are produced in grades of free-cutting steels which are generally steels. Carbon martensitics including lead and manganese sulphides to improve their machinability. A steel of this type designated 20AP is typically used for these applications.
  • This type of material has the advantage of being easily machinable, in particular of being suitable for bar turning and exhibits, after quenching and tempering treatments, high mechanical properties which are very advantageous for the production of horological pivot axes.
  • These steels exhibit in particular high wear resistance and hardness after heat treatment.
  • the hardness of the pivots of an axle made of 20 AP steel can reach a hardness exceeding 700 HV after heat treatment and rolling.
  • this type of material has the drawback of being magnetic and of being able to disturb the operation of a watch after having been subjected to a magnetic field, and this in particular. when this material is used for the production of a balance axis cooperating with a spring balance made of ferromagnetic material. This phenomenon is well known to those skilled in the art. It will also be noted that these martensitic steels are also sensitive to corrosion.
  • austenitic stainless steels which have the particularity of being non-magnetic, that is to say of the paramagnetic or diamagnetic or antiferromagnetic type.
  • these austenitic steels have a crystallographic structure that does not allow them to be quenched and to achieve hardnesses and therefore wear resistance compatible with the requirements required for the production of clockwork pivot axes.
  • One means of increasing the hardness of these steels is work hardening, however this hardening operation does not allow hardness greater than 500 HV to be obtained. Therefore, in the context of parts requiring high resistance to frictional wear and having to have pivots with little or no risk of deformation, the use of this type of steels remains limited.
  • the pivots can be in the same material or in steel. It is also possible to provide for the deposition of an additional layer applied galvanically, chemically, or from the gas phase (for example in Cr, Rh, etc.). This additional layer presents a significant risk of delamination.
  • This document also describes a balance axis made entirely of hardenable bronze. However, no information is given on the manufacturing process of the pivots.
  • a part made of hardenable bronze has a hardness of less than 450 HV. Such a hardness appears to a person skilled in the art as insufficient to carry out a treatment by rolling.
  • Requirement EP 2 860 591 describes an assembly system using a conical elastic locking element having no material ferromagnetic in order to be insensitive to magnetic fields.
  • This locking element is made, for example, from a non-magnetic copper alloy (Pfinodal®).
  • the aim of the present invention is to overcome all or part of the aforementioned drawbacks by proposing a horological pivot axis making it possible both to limit the sensitivity to magnetic fields and to obtain an improved hardness compatible with the requirements of resistance to water. wear and shocks in the watchmaking sector.
  • Another object of the invention is to provide a non-magnetic horological pivot axis having improved corrosion resistance.
  • Another object of the invention is to provide a non-magnetic horological pivot axis which can be manufactured in a simple and economical manner.
  • the invention relates to a watch pivot axis for a watch movement comprising at least one pivot machined by chip removal.
  • said pivot is made of a non-magnetic copper alloy in order to limit its sensitivity to magnetic fields, said copper alloy comprising by weight between 10% and 20% of Ni, between 6% and 12% of Sn, X % additional elements, where X is between 0 and 5%, and the remainder of Cu.
  • Such a horological pivot axis makes it possible to combine advantages such as low sensitivity to magnetic fields, as well as hardness and good corrosion resistance while retaining good general toughness. Furthermore, the use of a non-magnetic copper alloy as defined above is advantageous insofar as the latter has good machinability.
  • At least the machined swivel pivot comprises a hardening layer deposited on an outer surface of said pivot.
  • At least one outer surface of said pivot machined by chip removal is hardened in depth with respect to the heart of the horological pivot axis to a predetermined depth.
  • the horological pivot axis makes it possible, in addition to the advantages indicated above, to present, in the main stress zones, an improved hardness.
  • the invention relates to a timepiece movement comprising a horological pivot axis according to one of the preceding variants.
  • the methods of the invention may comprise, according to a first variant, a step d) of depositing a hardening layer at least on one external surface of said pivot machined by removing shavings.
  • the methods of the invention may comprise a step e) of diffusing atoms to a predetermined depth at least in an external surface of said pivot machined by removal of chips in order to harden in depth the Watchmaking pivot axis at the level of the main stress areas while maintaining high toughness.
  • a surface area or the entire surface of the swivel machined by chip removal is hardened without having to. depositing a second material over said pivot.
  • the hardening is carried out directly in the material of the horological pivot axis which advantageously makes it possible according to the invention to avoid any subsequent delamination as can occur in the case of the deposition of a hard layer on the watch pivot axis.
  • non-magnetic material means a paramagnetic or diamagnetic or antiferromagnetic material, the magnetic permeability of which is less than or equal to 1.01.
  • machining by chip removal designates any shaping operation by removing material intended to give a part dimensions and a surface finish situated within a given tolerance range. Such operations are for example bar turning, milling or any other technique known to those skilled in the art.
  • the invention relates to a part for a timepiece movement and in particular to a non-magnetic watch component, such as a pivot pin, for a mechanical timepiece movement.
  • non-magnetic balance axis 1 The invention will be described below in the context of an application to a non-magnetic balance axis 1.
  • horological pivot axes can be envisaged such as, for example, axes.
  • mobile watchmakers typically escape gears, or even anchor rods.
  • the parts of this type have, at the level of the body, diameters preferably less than 2 mm, and pivots of diameter preferably less than 0.2 mm, with an accuracy of a few microns.
  • a balance axis 1 which comprises a plurality of sections 2 of different diameters, preferably formed by bar turning or any other machining technique by chip removal, and conventionally defining the surfaces 2a and the shoulders 2b arranged between two end portions defining two pivots 3. These pivots are each intended to pivot in a bearing, typically in an orifice of a stone or ruby.
  • the invention enables both problems to be solved at the same time without compromise and providing other advantages.
  • at least part 3 of the watch component 1, formed by machining by chip removal is made in a non-magnetic copper alloy in order to advantageously limit its sensitivity to magnetic fields, said copper alloy comprising by weight between 10% and 20% Ni, between 6% and 12% Sn, X% of additional elements, where X is between 0 and 5, and the rest of Cu.
  • the non-magnetic copper alloy comprises by weight between 11% and 18% of Ni, between 7% and 10% of Sn, X% of additional elements, where X is between 0 and 5, and the remainder of Cu.
  • the non-magnetic copper alloy comprises by weight between 12% and 17% of Ni, between 7% and 9% of Sn, X% of additional elements, where X is between 0 and 5, and the remainder of Cu.
  • the non-magnetic copper alloy comprises by weight between 14.5% and 15.5% of Ni, between 7.5% and 8.5% of Sn, X% of additional elements, where X is between 0 and 5, and the rest of Cu.
  • the proportions of the various elements of the alloys are chosen to give them non-magnetic properties as well as good machinability.
  • the non-magnetic copper alloy used according to the invention can be lead-free or can comprise lead, in an amount less than or equal to 0.02% by weight.
  • the non-magnetic copper alloy can be an alloy having as a mass composition between 14.5% and 15.5% of Ni, between 7.5% and 8.5% of Sn, 0.02% max of Pb and the remainder of Cu.
  • Such an alloy is marketed under the trademark Toughmet® by the company Materion.
  • non-magnetic copper-based alloys corresponding to the definition of the invention can be envisaged provided that the proportion of their constituents gives them non-magnetic properties as well as good machinability.
  • At least part 3 of the watch component 1 has a hardness greater than 350 HV.
  • part 3 made of a copper alloy as defined above can be rolled despite a hardness of less than 600 HV.
  • a hardening layer deposited at least on an external surface of said part 3.
  • Such an additional layer can be a layer of TiN, diamond, DLC, Al 2 O 3 , Cr, Ni, NiP or any other suitable material, deposited by PVD, CVD, ALD, galvanic processes , or any other suitable process.
  • the hardness of at least part 3 machined by chip removal can be improved by providing that at least one external surface 5 of said part 3 ( Figure 2 ) is hardened in depth with respect to the rest of the watch component according to a predetermined depth in order to offer, advantageously according to the invention, a high hardness at the level of said outer surface while keeping a high toughness.
  • the predetermined depth represents between 5% and 40% of the total diameter d of part 3, typically between 5 and 35 microns.
  • the deeply cured outer surface of part 3 thus treated may have a hardness greater than 600 HV.
  • a hardening depth of between 5% and 40% of the total diameter of part 3 is sufficient for application, for example to a balance pin, part 3 then being a pivot.
  • the hardening depth is preferably around 15 ⁇ m all around part 3, such as the pivots.
  • a different cure depth between 5% and 80% of the total diameter d may be provided.
  • the deep hardened outer surface 5 of part 3 comprises diffused atoms of at least one chemical element.
  • Said chemical element is for example a non-metal chemical element such as nitrogen, argon and / or boron.
  • a surface zone 5 is hardened in depth without having to deposit a second material over part 3.
  • the hardening is carried out directly in the material 4 of part 3 this which advantageously makes it possible to avoid any subsequent delamination during use. Therefore, according to this variant of the invention, the external surface 5 of part 3 comprises a hard surface layer but does not have any additional hardening layer deposited directly on said external surface 5.
  • part 3 is hardened, that is to say that the core of part 3 and / or the rest of the watch component 1, can remain little or not modified without noticeable modification of the mechanical properties. of said watch component 1.
  • This selective hardening of the part 3 machined by chip removal of the watch component 1 makes it possible to combine advantages such as low sensitivity to magnetic fields, high hardness and tenacity, in the main stress areas while having good resistance to corrosion and fatigue.
  • the machinable element by chip removal used in the present invention can be used in step a1) or a2) in an intermediate form in which it has only undergone the dissolution steps. and cold deformation.
  • Chip removal machining step c1) or b2) is then performed on a relatively soft chip removal machinable element.
  • the spinodal decomposition hardening heat treatment is then carried out on the machined element.
  • the machinable element by chip removal used in the present invention can be used in step a1) or a2) in its final form in which it has undergone the three stages of treatment, namely dissolving, cold deformation and heat treatment of hardening of spinodal decomposition.
  • Step c1) or b2) of machining by chip removal is then carried out directly on an element which can be machined by hard chip removal, which does not require any heat treatment for hardening of subsequent spinodal decomposition.
  • the method of the invention can advantageously comprise, according to a first variant, a step d) of depositing a hardening layer at least on one external surface 5 of said part. machined by chip removal 3.
  • step d) can consist of deposition by PVD, CVD, ALD, galvanic processes, or any other suitable process, of a layer of TiN, diamond, DLC, Al 2 O 3 , Cr, Ni, NiP or any other suitable material.
  • the method of the invention can advantageously comprise, according to a second variant, a step e) of diffusion of atoms to a predetermined depth at least in an external surface 5 of said part 3 machined by chip removal in order to harden the watch component 1 in depth at the level of the main stress areas while maintaining high toughness.
  • the predetermined depth preferably represents between 5% and 40% of the total diameter d of said part 3 machined by chip removal.
  • step e) can consist of a thermochemical diffusion treatment such as boriding of several watch components and / or of several blanks of watch components. It will be understood that step e) can consist in diffusing interstitially in the non-magnetic copper alloy 4, atoms of at least one chemical element, for example a non-metal such as nitrogen, argon and / or boron.
  • a non-metal such as nitrogen, argon and / or boron.
  • Step e) could also consist of an ion implantation process followed or not by a diffusion heat treatment.
  • This variant has the advantage of not limiting the type of atoms diffused and allowing both interstitial and substitutional diffusion.
  • the depth of hardening of the external surface 5 can advantageously be increased by means of a heat treatment carried out during or after step b) treatment by ion implantation.
  • the method of the invention can also comprise other steps of depositing a layer other than a hardening layer.
  • the method of the invention can comprise a step of depositing a lubricating layer.
  • At least the part 3 machined by chip removal can undergo a rolling / polishing operation after step c1) or b2) when no additional hardening treatment is provided, or after l step d) or e) in the case of additional hardening treatment.
  • a rolling / polishing operation makes it possible to achieve the desired final dimensions and surface condition for the parts 3, in particular in the case of pivots.
  • This rolling operation after treatment makes it possible to obtain watch components exhibiting improved wear and impact resistance compared to watch components whose parts machined by chip removal have only undergone a hardening operation.
  • the timepiece component according to the invention may comprise parts machined by chip removal treated according to the invention and mounted on the body of the timepiece component or be made entirely of a non-magnetic copper alloy as defined above according to one of the processes. of the invention.
  • the hardening treatment according to step d) or e) can be carried out on the surface of the parts machined by chip removal or on all of the surfaces of the watch component.
  • the watch component according to the invention can advantageously be produced by bar turning or any other machining technique by removing chips from bars of non-magnetic copper alloy as defined above, with a diameter preferably less than 3 mm, and preferably less than 2 mm.
  • Such bars do not currently exist on the market and must be prepared specifically, which demonstrates that a person skilled in the art would shy away from the idea of using an alloy based on non-magnetic copper as defined above to form a watch component by bar turning or any other machining technique by chip removal), possibly followed by rolling.
  • Copper alloys are known to those skilled in the art to be too soft to be able to be rolled and for resistance to wear in motion.
  • the method of the invention makes it possible to obtain a watch component including at least the parts formed by bar turning (or any other machining technique by chip removal) and optionally by rolling from a non-magnetic copper alloy as defined above.

Landscapes

  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Metallurgy (AREA)
  • Manufacturing & Machinery (AREA)
  • ing And Chemical Polishing (AREA)
  • Other Surface Treatments For Metallic Materials (AREA)
  • Physical Vapour Deposition (AREA)
  • Electrical Discharge Machining, Electrochemical Machining, And Combined Machining (AREA)
  • Finish Polishing, Edge Sharpening, And Grinding By Specific Grinding Devices (AREA)
  • Heat Treatment Of Articles (AREA)

Description

Domaine de l'inventionField of the invention

L'invention se rapporte à une pièce pour mouvement d'horlogerie et notamment à un composant horloger amagnétique pour un mouvement d'horlogerie mécanique et notamment à un axe de balancier, une tige d'ancre et un pignon d'échappement amagnétiques.The invention relates to a part for a timepiece movement and in particular to a non-magnetic watch component for a mechanical timepiece movement and in particular to a balance axis, an anchor rod and a non-magnetic escapement pinion.

Arrière-plan de l'inventionBackground of the invention

La fabrication d'un composant horloger comprenant au moins une partie présentant la forme d'une pièce de révolution, tel qu'un axe de pivotement horloger, consiste, à partir d'une barre en acier trempable, à réaliser des opérations d'usinage par enlèvement de copeaux, telles que le décolletage, pour définir différentes surfaces actives (portée, épaulement, pivots etc.) puis à soumettre le composant horloger usiné à des opérations de traitement thermique comprenant au moins une trempe pour améliorer la dureté dudit composant et un ou plusieurs revenus pour en améliorer la ténacité. Dans le cas des axes de pivotement, les opérations de traitements thermiques peuvent être suivies d'une opération de roulage des pivots des axes, opération consistant à polir les pivots pour les amener aux dimensions requises. Au cours de l'opération de roulage la dureté ainsi que la rugosité des pivots sont encore améliorées. On notera que cette opération de roulage est très difficile voire impossible à réaliser avec la plupart des matériaux dont la dureté est faible c'est-à-dire inférieure à 600HV.The manufacture of a watch component comprising at least one part having the shape of a part of revolution, such as a watch pivot axis, consists, from a hardenable steel bar, in carrying out machining operations by removing chips, such as bar turning, to define different active surfaces (bearing, shoulder, pivots, etc.) and then subjecting the machined watch component to heat treatment operations comprising at least one quenching to improve the hardness of said component and a or several incomes to improve tenacity. In the case of the pivot pins, the heat treatment operations can be followed by an operation of rolling the pins of the pins, an operation consisting in polishing the pins to bring them to the required dimensions. During the rolling operation the hardness as well as the roughness of the pivots are further improved. It will be noted that this rolling operation is very difficult or even impossible to carry out with most materials whose hardness is low, that is to say less than 600HV.

Les axes de pivotement, par exemple les axes de balancier, utilisés classiquement dans les mouvements d'horlogerie mécaniques sont réalisés dans des nuances d'aciers de décolletage qui sont généralement des aciers martensitiques au carbone incluant du plomb et des sulfures de manganèse pour améliorer leur usinabilité. Un acier de ce type désigné 20AP est typiquement utilisé pour ces applications.The pivot axes, for example the balance axes, conventionally used in mechanical watch movements are produced in grades of free-cutting steels which are generally steels. Carbon martensitics including lead and manganese sulphides to improve their machinability. A steel of this type designated 20AP is typically used for these applications.

Ce type de matériau a l'avantage d'être facilement usinable, en particulier d'être apte au décolletage et présente, après des traitements de trempe et de revenu, des propriétés mécaniques élevées très intéressantes pour la réalisation d'axes de pivotement horlogers. Ces aciers présentent en particulier une résistance à l'usure et une dureté après traitement thermique élevées. Typiquement la dureté des pivots d'un axe réalisé en acier 20 AP peut atteindre une dureté dépassant les 700 HV après traitement thermique et roulage.This type of material has the advantage of being easily machinable, in particular of being suitable for bar turning and exhibits, after quenching and tempering treatments, high mechanical properties which are very advantageous for the production of horological pivot axes. These steels exhibit in particular high wear resistance and hardness after heat treatment. Typically the hardness of the pivots of an axle made of 20 AP steel can reach a hardness exceeding 700 HV after heat treatment and rolling.

Bien que fournissant des propriétés mécaniques satisfaisantes pour les applications horlogères décrites ci-dessus, ce type de matériau présente l'inconvénient d'être magnétique et de pouvoir perturber la marche d'une montre après avoir été soumis à un champ magnétique, et ce notamment lorsque ce matériau est utilisé pour la réalisation d'un axe de balancier coopérant avec un balancier spiral en matériau ferromagnétique. Ce phénomène est bien connu de l'homme du métier. On notera également que ces aciers martensitiques sont également sensibles à la corrosion.Although providing satisfactory mechanical properties for the horological applications described above, this type of material has the drawback of being magnetic and of being able to disturb the operation of a watch after having been subjected to a magnetic field, and this in particular. when this material is used for the production of a balance axis cooperating with a spring balance made of ferromagnetic material. This phenomenon is well known to those skilled in the art. It will also be noted that these martensitic steels are also sensitive to corrosion.

Des essais pour tenter de remédier à ces inconvénients ont été menés avec des aciers inoxydables austénitiques qui présentent la particularité d'être amagnétiques c'est -à-dire du type paramagnétique ou diamagnétique ou antiferromagnétique. Toutefois, ces aciers austénitiques présentent une structure cristallographique ne permettant pas de les tremper et d'atteindre des duretés et donc des résistances à l'usure compatibles avec les exigences requises pour la réalisation d'axes de pivotement horlogers. Un moyen d'augmenter la dureté de ces aciers est l'écrouissage, toutefois cette opération de durcissement ne permet pas d'obtenir des duretés supérieure à 500 HV. Par conséquent, dans le cadre de pièces nécessitant une grande résistance à l'usure par frottement et devant avoir des pivots ne présentant pas ou peu de risque de déformation, l'utilisation de ce type d'aciers reste limitée.Tests to try to remedy these drawbacks have been carried out with austenitic stainless steels which have the particularity of being non-magnetic, that is to say of the paramagnetic or diamagnetic or antiferromagnetic type. However, these austenitic steels have a crystallographic structure that does not allow them to be quenched and to achieve hardnesses and therefore wear resistance compatible with the requirements required for the production of clockwork pivot axes. One means of increasing the hardness of these steels is work hardening, however this hardening operation does not allow hardness greater than 500 HV to be obtained. Therefore, in the context of parts requiring high resistance to frictional wear and having to have pivots with little or no risk of deformation, the use of this type of steels remains limited.

Une autre approche pour tenter de remédier à ces inconvénients a consisté à déposer sur les axes de pivotements des couches dures de matériaux tels que le carbone amorphe connu sous la dénomination anglaise diamond like carbone (DLC). Or, on a constaté des risques importants de délamination de la couche dure et donc la formation de débris qui peuvent circuler à l'intérieur du mouvement horloger et venir perturber le fonctionnement de ce dernier, ce qui n'est pas satisfaisant.Another approach to attempt to remedy these drawbacks has consisted in depositing on the pivot axes of the hard layers of materials such as amorphous carbon known under the English name diamond like carbon (DLC). However, significant risks of delamination of the hard layer have been observed and therefore the formation of debris which can circulate inside the watch movement and disturb the operation of the latter, which is not satisfactory.

Une approche similaire, décrite dans le brevet FR 2 015 873 , prévoit de réaliser un axe de balancier dont au moins la partie principale est réalisé en certains matériaux amagnétiques. Les pivots peuvent être dans ce même matériau ou en acier. Il est également possible de prévoir le dépôt d'une couche supplémentaire appliquée par voie galvanique, chimique, ou à partir de la phase gazeuse (par exemple en Cr, Rh, etc.). Cette couche supplémentaire présente un risque important de délamination. Ce document décrit également un axe de balancier fabriqué entièrement en bronze durcissable. Toutefois, aucune information n'est donnée sur le procédé de fabrication des pivots. De plus, une pièce réalisée en bronze durcissable présente une dureté inférieure à 450 HV. Une telle dureté apparait pour l'homme du métier comme insuffisante pour réaliser un traitement par roulage.A similar approach, described in the patent FR 2 015 873 , plans to produce a balance axis, at least the main part of which is made of certain non-magnetic materials. The pivots can be in the same material or in steel. It is also possible to provide for the deposition of an additional layer applied galvanically, chemically, or from the gas phase (for example in Cr, Rh, etc.). This additional layer presents a significant risk of delamination. This document also describes a balance axis made entirely of hardenable bronze. However, no information is given on the manufacturing process of the pivots. In addition, a part made of hardenable bronze has a hardness of less than 450 HV. Such a hardness appears to a person skilled in the art as insufficient to carry out a treatment by rolling.

On connait également de la demande EP 2 757 423 des axes de pivotements réalisés en alliage de cobalt ou de nickel du type austénitique et présentant une surface externe durcie selon une certaine profondeur. Toutefois, de tels alliages peuvent s'avérer difficiles à usiner par enlèvement de copeaux. De plus, ils sont relativement coûteux en raison du prix élevé du nickel et du cobalt.We also know the demand EP 2 757 423 pivot pins made of a cobalt or nickel alloy of the austenitic type and having an external surface hardened to a certain depth. However, such alloys can be difficult to machine by chip removal. In addition, they are relatively expensive due to the high price of nickel and cobalt.

La demande EP 2 860 591 décrit un système d'assemblage utilisant un élément de blocage élastique conique ne possédant pas de matériau ferromagnétique afin d'être peu sensible aux champs magnétiques. Cet élément de blocage est réalisé par exemple dans un alliage de cuivre amagnétique (Pfinodal®).Requirement EP 2 860 591 describes an assembly system using a conical elastic locking element having no material ferromagnetic in order to be insensitive to magnetic fields. This locking element is made, for example, from a non-magnetic copper alloy (Pfinodal®).

Résumé de l'inventionSummary of the invention

Le but de la présente invention est de pallier tout ou partie des inconvénients cités précédemment en proposant un axe de pivotement horloger permettant à la fois de limiter la sensibilité aux champs magnétiques et d'obtenir une dureté améliorée compatible avec les exigences de résistance à l'usure et aux chocs dans le domaine horloger.The aim of the present invention is to overcome all or part of the aforementioned drawbacks by proposing a horological pivot axis making it possible both to limit the sensitivity to magnetic fields and to obtain an improved hardness compatible with the requirements of resistance to water. wear and shocks in the watchmaking sector.

L'invention a également pour but de fournir un axe de pivotement horloger amagnétique ayant une résistance à la corrosion améliorée.Another object of the invention is to provide a non-magnetic horological pivot axis having improved corrosion resistance.

L'invention a encore pour but de fournir un axe de pivotement horloger amagnétique qui puisse être fabriqué de manière simple et économique.Another object of the invention is to provide a non-magnetic horological pivot axis which can be manufactured in a simple and economical manner.

A cet effet, l'invention se rapporte à un axe de pivotement horloger pour mouvement horloger comprenant au moins un pivot usiné par enlèvement de copeaux.To this end, the invention relates to a watch pivot axis for a watch movement comprising at least one pivot machined by chip removal.

Selon l'invention, ledit pivot est réalisé en un alliage de cuivre amagnétique afin de limiter sa sensibilité aux champs magnétiques, ledit alliage de cuivre comprenant en poids entre 10% et 20% de Ni, entre 6% et 12% de Sn, X% d'éléments additionnels, où X est compris entre 0 et 5%, et le reste de Cu.According to the invention, said pivot is made of a non-magnetic copper alloy in order to limit its sensitivity to magnetic fields, said copper alloy comprising by weight between 10% and 20% of Ni, between 6% and 12% of Sn, X % additional elements, where X is between 0 and 5%, and the remainder of Cu.

Un tel axe de pivotement horloger permet de cumuler les avantages comme la faible sensibilité aux champs magnétiques, ainsi qu'une dureté et une bonne résistance à la corrosion tout en conservant une bonne ténacité générale. Par ailleurs l'utilisation d'un alliage de cuivre amagnétique tel que défini ci-dessus est avantageuse dans la mesure où ce dernier présente une bonne usinabilité.Such a horological pivot axis makes it possible to combine advantages such as low sensitivity to magnetic fields, as well as hardness and good corrosion resistance while retaining good general toughness. Furthermore, the use of a non-magnetic copper alloy as defined above is advantageous insofar as the latter has good machinability.

Il est possible d'améliorer la dureté au moins du pivot usiné par enlèvement de copeaux. Dans ce cas, selon une première variante de réalisation, au moins le pivot usiné par enlèvement de copeaux comprend une couche de durcissement déposée sur une surface externe dudit pivot.It is possible to improve the hardness of at least the machined pivot by chip removal. In this case, according to a first variant of embodiment, at least the machined swivel pivot comprises a hardening layer deposited on an outer surface of said pivot.

Selon une autre variante de réalisation pour améliorer la dureté, au moins une surface externe dudit pivot usiné par enlèvement de copeaux est durcie en profondeur par rapport au cœur de l'axe de pivotement horloger selon une profondeur prédéterminée.According to another variant embodiment for improving the hardness, at least one outer surface of said pivot machined by chip removal is hardened in depth with respect to the heart of the horological pivot axis to a predetermined depth.

Par conséquent, une zone superficielle ou la totalité de la surface de l'axe de pivotement horloger est durcie c'est-à-dire que le cœur de l'axe de pivotement horloger peut rester peu ou pas modifié. Par ce durcissement sélectif de portions de l'axe de pivotement horloger, l'axe de pivotement horloger permet, en plus des avantages indiqués ci-dessus, de présenter, dans les zones de contrainte principales, une dureté améliorée.Consequently, a surface area or the whole of the surface of the horological pivot axis is hardened, that is to say that the core of the horological pivot axis can remain little or not modified. By this selective hardening of portions of the horological pivot axis, the horological pivot axis makes it possible, in addition to the advantages indicated above, to present, in the main stress zones, an improved hardness.

De plus, l'invention se rapporte à un mouvement d'horlogerie comprenant un axe de pivotement horloger selon l'une des variantes précédentes.In addition, the invention relates to a timepiece movement comprising a horological pivot axis according to one of the preceding variants.

Enfin, l'invention se rapporte à un procédé de fabrication d'un axe de pivotement horloger pour mouvement horloger comportant les étapes suivantes :

  • a1) se munir d'un élément usinable par enlèvement de copeaux, ledit élément étant réalisé en un alliage de cuivre amagnétique comprenant en poids entre 10% et 20% de Ni, entre 6% et 12% de Sn, X% d'éléments additionnels, où X est compris entre 0 et 5, et le reste de Cu.
  • b1) former ledit axe de pivotement horloger
  • c1) usiner par enlèvement de copeaux ledit axe de pivotement horloger pour former au moins un pivot dudit axe de pivotement horloger usinée par enlèvement de copeaux et réalisée en ledit alliage de cuivre amagnétique.
Finally, the invention relates to a method of manufacturing a horological pivot axis for a horological movement comprising the following steps:
  • a1) provide an element machinable by chip removal, said element being made of a non-magnetic copper alloy comprising by weight between 10% and 20% of Ni, between 6% and 12% of Sn, X% of elements additional, where X is between 0 and 5, and the remainder of Cu.
  • b1) forming said horological pivot axis
  • c1) machining said clockwork pivot axis by chip removal to form at least one pivot of said clockwork pivot axis machined by chip removal and made of said non-magnetic copper alloy.

L'invention se rapporte également à un procédé de fabrication d'un axe de pivotement horloger pour mouvement horloger comportant les étapes suivantes :

  • a2) se munir d'un élément usinable par enlèvement de copeaux, ledit élément étant réalisé en un alliage de cuivre amagnétique comprenant en poids entre 10% et 20% de Ni, entre 6% et 12% de Sn, X% d'éléments additionnels, où X est compris entre 0 et 5, et le reste de Cu.
  • b2) usiner par enlèvement de copeaux ledit élément pour former au moins un pivot dudit axe de pivotement horloger
  • c2) former l'axe de pivotement horloger comprenant ledit pivot obtenu à l'étape b2).
The invention also relates to a method of manufacturing a horological pivot axis for a horological movement comprising the following steps:
  • a2) provide an element machinable by chip removal, said element being made of a non-magnetic copper alloy comprising by weight between 10% and 20% of Ni, between 6% and 12% of Sn, X% of elements additional, where X is between 0 and 5, and the remainder of Cu.
  • b2) machining said element by chip removal to form at least one pivot of said clockwork pivot axis
  • c2) forming the horological pivot axis comprising said pivot obtained in step b2).

Pour améliorer la dureté au moins du pivot usinée par enlèvement de copeaux, les procédés de l'invention peuvent comprendre selon une première variante une étape d) de dépôt d'une couche de durcissement au moins sur une surface externe dudit pivot usiné par enlèvement de copeaux.To improve the hardness at least of the pivot machined by chip removal, the methods of the invention may comprise, according to a first variant, a step d) of depositing a hardening layer at least on one external surface of said pivot machined by removing shavings.

Selon une autre variante pour améliorer la dureté, les procédés de l'invention peuvent comprendre une étape e) de diffusion d'atomes selon une profondeur prédéterminée au moins dans une surface externe dudit pivot usiné par enlèvement de copeaux afin de durcir en profondeur l'axe de pivotement horloger au niveau des zones de contraintes principales tout en gardant une ténacité élevée.According to another variant for improving the hardness, the methods of the invention may comprise a step e) of diffusing atoms to a predetermined depth at least in an external surface of said pivot machined by removal of chips in order to harden in depth the Watchmaking pivot axis at the level of the main stress areas while maintaining high toughness.

Par conséquent, par diffusion d'atomes dans l'alliage de cuivre utilisé dans la présente invention, une zone superficielle ou la totalité de la surface du pivot usiné par enlèvement de copeaux est durcie sans avoir à déposer un deuxième matériau par-dessus ledit pivot.Therefore, by diffusion of atoms in the copper alloy used in the present invention, a surface area or the entire surface of the swivel machined by chip removal is hardened without having to. depositing a second material over said pivot.

En effet, le durcissement est réalisé directement dans le matériau de l'axe de pivotement horloger ce qui permet avantageusement selon l'invention d'éviter tout délaminage ultérieur comme cela peut se produire dans le cas du dépôt d'une couche dure sur l'axe de pivotement horloger.Indeed, the hardening is carried out directly in the material of the horological pivot axis which advantageously makes it possible according to the invention to avoid any subsequent delamination as can occur in the case of the deposition of a hard layer on the watch pivot axis.

Description sommaire des dessinsBrief description of the drawings

D'autres particularités et avantages ressortiront clairement de la description qui en est faite ci-après, à titre indicatif et nullement limitatif, en référence aux dessins annexés, dans lesquels :

  • la figure 1 est une représentation d'un composant horloger selon l'invention ; et
  • la figure 2 est une coupe partielle d'une partie usinée par enlèvement de copeaux du composant horloger selon une variante de l'invention après une opération de traitement de diffusion et après une opération de roulage ou de polissage.
Other features and advantages will emerge clearly from the description which is given below, by way of indication and in no way limiting, with reference to the appended drawings, in which:
  • the figure 1 is a representation of a horological component according to the invention; and
  • the figure 2 is a partial cross section of a part machined by removing chips from the watch component according to a variant of the invention after a diffusion treatment operation and after a rolling or polishing operation.

Description détaillée des modes de réalisation préférésDetailed description of the preferred embodiments

Dans la présente description, le terme matériau « amagnétique » signifie un matériau paramagnétique ou diamagnétique ou antiferromagnétique, dont la perméabilité magnétique est inférieure ou égale à 1.01.In the present description, the term “non-magnetic” material means a paramagnetic or diamagnetic or antiferromagnetic material, the magnetic permeability of which is less than or equal to 1.01.

Le terme « usinage par enlèvement de copeaux » désigne toute opération de mise en forme par enlèvement de matière destinée à conférer à une pièce des dimensions et un état de surface situés dans une fourchette de tolérance donnée. De telles opérations sont par exemple le décolletage, le fraisage ou toute autre technique connue de l'homme du métier.The term “machining by chip removal” designates any shaping operation by removing material intended to give a part dimensions and a surface finish situated within a given tolerance range. Such operations are for example bar turning, milling or any other technique known to those skilled in the art.

L'invention se rapporte à une pièce pour mouvement d'horlogerie et notamment à un composant horloger amagnétique, tel qu'un axe de pivotement, pour un mouvement d'horlogerie mécanique.The invention relates to a part for a timepiece movement and in particular to a non-magnetic watch component, such as a pivot pin, for a mechanical timepiece movement.

L'invention sera décrite ci-après dans le cadre d'une application à un axe de balancier amagnétique 1. Bien évidemment, d'autres types d'axes de pivotement horlogers sont envisageables comme par exemple des axes de mobiles horlogers, typiquement des pignons d'échappement, ou encore des tiges d'ancre. Les pièces de ce type présentent au niveau du corps des diamètres inférieurs de préférence à 2 mm, et des pivots de diamètre inférieur de préférence à 0.2 mm, avec une précision de quelques microns.The invention will be described below in the context of an application to a non-magnetic balance axis 1. Obviously, other types of horological pivot axes can be envisaged such as, for example, axes. mobile watchmakers, typically escape gears, or even anchor rods. The parts of this type have, at the level of the body, diameters preferably less than 2 mm, and pivots of diameter preferably less than 0.2 mm, with an accuracy of a few microns.

En se référant à la figure 1 on peut voir un axe de balancier 1 selon l'invention qui comporte une pluralité de sections 2 de diamètres différents, formées de préférence par décolletage ou toute autre technique d'usinage par enlèvement de copeaux, et définissant classiquement des portées 2a et des épaulements 2b arrangés entre deux portions d'extrémité définissant deux pivots 3. Ces pivots sont destinés à venir chacun pivoter dans un palier, typiquement dans un orifice d'une pierre ou rubis.With reference to the figure 1 one can see a balance axis 1 according to the invention which comprises a plurality of sections 2 of different diameters, preferably formed by bar turning or any other machining technique by chip removal, and conventionally defining the surfaces 2a and the shoulders 2b arranged between two end portions defining two pivots 3. These pivots are each intended to pivot in a bearing, typically in an orifice of a stone or ruby.

Avec le magnétisme induit par les objets rencontrés au quotidien, il est important de limiter la sensibilité de l'axe de balancier 1 sous peine d'influencer la marche de la pièce d'horlogerie dans laquelle il est incorporé.With the magnetism induced by objects encountered on a daily basis, it is important to limit the sensitivity of the balance axis 1 under penalty of influencing the rate of the timepiece in which it is incorporated.

De manière surprenante, l'invention permet de résoudre les deux problèmes en même temps sans compromis et en apportant d'autres avantages. Ainsi, au moins la partie 3 du composant horloger 1, formée par usinage par enlèvement de copeaux est réalisée dans un alliage de cuivre amagnétique afin de limiter de manière avantageuse sa sensibilité aux champs magnétiques, ledit alliage de cuivre comprenant en poids entre 10% et 20% de Ni, entre 6% et 12% de Sn, X% d'éléments additionnels, où X est compris entre 0 et 5, et le reste de Cu.Surprisingly, the invention enables both problems to be solved at the same time without compromise and providing other advantages. Thus, at least part 3 of the watch component 1, formed by machining by chip removal, is made in a non-magnetic copper alloy in order to advantageously limit its sensitivity to magnetic fields, said copper alloy comprising by weight between 10% and 20% Ni, between 6% and 12% Sn, X% of additional elements, where X is between 0 and 5, and the rest of Cu.

De préférence, l'alliage de cuivre amagnétique comprend en poids entre 11% et 18% de Ni, entre 7% et 10% de Sn, X% d'éléments additionnels, où X est compris entre 0 et 5, et le reste de Cu.Preferably, the non-magnetic copper alloy comprises by weight between 11% and 18% of Ni, between 7% and 10% of Sn, X% of additional elements, where X is between 0 and 5, and the remainder of Cu.

D'une manière particulièrement préférée, l'alliage de cuivre amagnétique comprend en poids entre 12% et 17% de Ni, entre 7% et 9% de Sn, X% d'éléments additionnels, où X est compris entre 0 et 5, et le reste de Cu.In a particularly preferred manner, the non-magnetic copper alloy comprises by weight between 12% and 17% of Ni, between 7% and 9% of Sn, X% of additional elements, where X is between 0 and 5, and the remainder of Cu.

D'une manière particulièrement avantageuse, l'alliage de cuivre amagnétique comprend en poids entre 14.5% et 15.5% de Ni, entre 7.5% et 8.5% de Sn, X% d'éléments additionnels, où X est compris entre 0 et 5, et le reste de Cu.In a particularly advantageous manner, the non-magnetic copper alloy comprises by weight between 14.5% and 15.5% of Ni, between 7.5% and 8.5% of Sn, X% of additional elements, where X is between 0 and 5, and the rest of Cu.

Les proportions des différents éléments des alliages sont choisies pour leur conférer des propriétés amagnétiques ainsi qu'une bonne usinabilité.The proportions of the various elements of the alloys are chosen to give them non-magnetic properties as well as good machinability.

De manière avantageuse, l'alliage de cuivre amagnétique utilisé selon l'invention peut être exempt de plomb ou peut comprendre du plomb, dans une quantité inférieure ou égale à 0.02% en poids.Advantageously, the non-magnetic copper alloy used according to the invention can be lead-free or can comprise lead, in an amount less than or equal to 0.02% by weight.

D'une manière avantageuse, l'alliage de cuivre amagnétique peut être un alliage ayant pour composition massique entre 14.5% et 15.5% de Ni, entre 7.5% et 8.5% de Sn, 0.02% max de Pb et le reste de Cu. Un tel alliage est commercialisé sous la marque Toughmet® par la société Materion.Advantageously, the non-magnetic copper alloy can be an alloy having as a mass composition between 14.5% and 15.5% of Ni, between 7.5% and 8.5% of Sn, 0.02% max of Pb and the remainder of Cu. Such an alloy is marketed under the trademark Toughmet® by the company Materion.

Bien évidemment, d'autres alliages à base de cuivre amagnétiques correspondant à la définition de l'invention sont envisageables dès lors que la proportion de leurs constituants leur confère des propriétés amagnétiques ainsi qu'une bonne usinabilité.Obviously, other non-magnetic copper-based alloys corresponding to the definition of the invention can be envisaged provided that the proportion of their constituents gives them non-magnetic properties as well as good machinability.

Au moins la partie 3 du composant horloger 1 présente une dureté supérieure à 350 HV.At least part 3 of the watch component 1 has a hardness greater than 350 HV.

D'une manière surprenante et inattendue, la partie 3 réalisée dans un alliage de cuivre tel que défini ci-dessus peut être roulée malgré une dureté inférieure à 600 HV.Surprisingly and unexpectedly, part 3 made of a copper alloy as defined above can be rolled despite a hardness of less than 600 HV.

Afin d'améliorer la dureté d'au moins la partie 3 usinée par enlèvement de copeaux, il est possible, selon une première variante de l'invention, de prévoir une couche de durcissement déposée au moins sur une surface externe de ladite partie 3. Une telle couche supplémentaire peut être une couche de TiN, diamant, DLC, Al2O3, Cr, Ni, NiP ou tout autre matériau approprié, déposée par des procédés PVD, CVD, ALD, galvaniques, ou tout autre procédé approprié.In order to improve the hardness of at least the part 3 machined by chip removal, it is possible, according to a first variant of the invention, to provide a hardening layer deposited at least on an external surface of said part 3. Such an additional layer can be a layer of TiN, diamond, DLC, Al 2 O 3 , Cr, Ni, NiP or any other suitable material, deposited by PVD, CVD, ALD, galvanic processes , or any other suitable process.

Selon une autre variante de l'invention, la dureté d'au moins la partie 3 usinée par enlèvement de copeaux peut être améliorée en prévoyant qu'au moins une surface externe 5 de ladite partie 3 (Figure 2) est durcie en profondeur par rapport au reste du composant horloger selon une profondeur prédéterminée afin d'offrir, avantageusement selon l'invention, une dureté élevée au niveau de ladite surface externe tout en gardant une ténacité élevée. La profondeur prédéterminée représente entre 5% et 40% du diamètre d total de la partie 3, typiquement entre 5 et 35 microns.According to another variant of the invention, the hardness of at least part 3 machined by chip removal can be improved by providing that at least one external surface 5 of said part 3 ( Figure 2 ) is hardened in depth with respect to the rest of the watch component according to a predetermined depth in order to offer, advantageously according to the invention, a high hardness at the level of said outer surface while keeping a high toughness. The predetermined depth represents between 5% and 40% of the total diameter d of part 3, typically between 5 and 35 microns.

La surface externe durcie en profondeur de la partie 3 ainsi traitée peut présenter une dureté supérieure à 600 HV.The deeply cured outer surface of part 3 thus treated may have a hardness greater than 600 HV.

Il a été montré empiriquement qu'une profondeur de durcissement comprise entre 5% et 40% de diamètre d total de la partie 3 suffit pour l'application par exemple à un axe de balancier, la partie 3 étant alors un pivot. A titre d'exemple, si le rayon d/2 est de 50 µm, la profondeur de durcissement est préférentiellement autour de 15 µm tout autour de la partie 3, telle que les pivots. Bien évidemment, suivant les applications, une profondeur différente de durcissement comprise entre 5% et 80% du diamètre d total peut être prévue.It has been shown empirically that a hardening depth of between 5% and 40% of the total diameter of part 3 is sufficient for application, for example to a balance pin, part 3 then being a pivot. By way of example, if the radius d / 2 is 50 μm , the hardening depth is preferably around 15 μm all around part 3, such as the pivots. Of course, depending on the application, a different cure depth between 5% and 80% of the total diameter d may be provided.

Préférentiellement, la surface externe durcie en profondeur 5 de la partie 3 comporte des atomes diffusés d'au moins un élément chimique. Ledit élément chimique est par exemple un élément chimique non-métal comme de l'azote, l'argon et/ou le bore. En effet, comme expliqué ci-dessous, par sursaturation interstitielle d'atomes dans l'alliage de cuivre amagnétique 4, une zone superficielle 5 est durcie en profondeur sans avoir à déposer un deuxième matériau par-dessus la partie 3. En effet, le durcissement est réalisé directement dans le matériau 4 de la partie 3 ce qui permet avantageusement d'éviter tout délaminage ultérieur en cours d'utilisation. De ce fait, selon cette variante de l'invention, la surface externe 5 de la partie 3 comprend une couche superficielle dure mais ne présente aucune couche de durcissement supplémentaire déposée directement sur ladite surface externe 5.Preferably, the deep hardened outer surface 5 of part 3 comprises diffused atoms of at least one chemical element. Said chemical element is for example a non-metal chemical element such as nitrogen, argon and / or boron. Indeed, as explained below, by interstitial supersaturation of atoms in the non-magnetic copper alloy 4, a surface zone 5 is hardened in depth without having to deposit a second material over part 3. Indeed, the hardening is carried out directly in the material 4 of part 3 this which advantageously makes it possible to avoid any subsequent delamination during use. Therefore, according to this variant of the invention, the external surface 5 of part 3 comprises a hard surface layer but does not have any additional hardening layer deposited directly on said external surface 5.

Par conséquent, au moins une zone superficielle de la partie 3 est durcie c'est-à-dire que le cœur de la partie 3 et/ou le reste du composant horloger 1, peut rester peu ou pas modifié sans modification notable des propriétés mécaniques dudit composant horloger 1. Ce durcissement sélectif de la partie 3 usinée par enlèvement de copeaux du composant horloger 1 permet de cumuler les avantages comme la faible sensibilité aux champs magnétiques, une dureté et une ténacité élevée, dans les zones de contrainte principales tout en ayant une bonne résistance à la corrosion et à la fatigue.Consequently, at least one surface area of part 3 is hardened, that is to say that the core of part 3 and / or the rest of the watch component 1, can remain little or not modified without noticeable modification of the mechanical properties. of said watch component 1. This selective hardening of the part 3 machined by chip removal of the watch component 1 makes it possible to combine advantages such as low sensitivity to magnetic fields, high hardness and tenacity, in the main stress areas while having good resistance to corrosion and fatigue.

Il est bien évident que d'autres couches que des couches de durcissement peuvent être déposées, par exemple des couches de lubrification.It is obvious that other layers than hardening layers can be deposited, for example lubricating layers.

L'invention se rapporte également à un premier procédé de fabrication d'un composant horloger 1 comme expliqué ci-dessus. Le procédé comporte avantageusement selon l'invention les étapes suivantes :

  • a1) se munir d'un élément, tel qu'une barre, usinable par enlèvement de copeaux, ledit élément étant réalisé en un alliage de cuivre amagnétique comprenant en poids entre 10% et 20% de Ni, entre 6% et 12% de Sn, X% d'éléments additionnels, où X est compris entre 0 et 5, et le reste de Cu
  • b1) former le composant horloger 1
  • c1) usiner par enlèvement de copeaux ledit composant horloger pour former au moins une partie 3 dudit composant horloger 1 usinée par enlèvement de copeaux et réalisée en ledit alliage de cuivre amagnétique.
The invention also relates to a first method of manufacturing a timepiece component 1 as explained above. The method advantageously comprises according to the invention the following steps:
  • a1) provide an element, such as a bar, machinable by chip removal, said element being made of a non-magnetic copper alloy comprising by weight between 10% and 20% of Ni, between 6% and 12% of Sn, X% of additional elements, where X is between 0 and 5, and the rest of Cu
  • b1) form the horological component 1
  • c1) machining said watch component by chip removal to form at least part 3 of said watch component 1 machined by chip removal and made from said non-magnetic copper alloy.

L'invention se rapporte également à un deuxième procédé de fabrication d'un composant horloger 1 comme expliqué ci-dessus. Ce procédé comporte avantageusement selon l'invention les étapes suivantes :

  • a2) se munir d'un élément, tel qu'une barre, usinable par enlèvement de copeaux, ledit élément étant réalisé en un alliage de cuivre amagnétique comprenant en poids entre 10% et 20% de Ni, entre 6% et 12% de Sn, X% d'éléments additionnels, où X est compris entre 0 et 5, et le reste de Cu
  • b2) usiner par enlèvement de copeaux ledit élément pour former au moins une partie 3 dudit composant horloger 1
  • c2) former le composant horloger 1 comprenant ladite partie 3 obtenue à l'étape b2).
The invention also relates to a second method of manufacturing a timepiece component 1 as explained above. This method advantageously comprises according to the invention the following steps:
  • a2) provide an element, such as a bar, machinable by chip removal, said element being made of a non-magnetic copper alloy comprising by weight between 10% and 20% of Ni, between 6% and 12% of Sn, X% of additional elements, where X is between 0 and 5, and the rest of Cu
  • b2) machining said element by chip removal to form at least part 3 of said watch component 1
  • c2) forming the horological component 1 comprising said part 3 obtained in step b2).

Les alliages utilisés dans la présente invention sont durcissables par un traitement thermique dit de décomposition spinodale. Pour cela, l'élément usinable par enlèvement de copeaux doit subir les étapes suivantes de :

  • mise en solution
  • déformation à froid
  • traitement thermique de durcissement de décomposition spinodale (360°C-370°C pendant 2h à 4h.
The alloys used in the present invention are hardenable by a heat treatment called spinodal decomposition. For this, the machinable element by chip removal must undergo the following steps:
  • dissolution
  • cold deformation
  • spinodal decomposition hardening heat treatment (360 ° C-370 ° C for 2h to 4h.

De ce fait, selon une première possibilité, l'élément usinable par enlèvement de copeaux utilisé dans la présente invention peut être utilisé à l'étape a1) ou a2) sous une forme intermédiaire dans laquelle il a seulement subi les étapes de mise en solution et de déformation à froid. L'étape c1) ou b2) d'usinage par enlèvement de copeaux s'effectue alors sur un élément usinable par enlèvement de copeaux relativement mou. Le traitement thermique de durcissement de décomposition spinodale est alors ensuite réalisé sur l'élément usiné.Therefore, according to a first possibility, the machinable element by chip removal used in the present invention can be used in step a1) or a2) in an intermediate form in which it has only undergone the dissolution steps. and cold deformation. Chip removal machining step c1) or b2) is then performed on a relatively soft chip removal machinable element. The spinodal decomposition hardening heat treatment is then carried out on the machined element.

Selon une seconde possibilité, l'élément usinable par enlèvement de copeaux utilisé dans la présente invention peut être utilisé à l'étape a1) ou a2) sous sa forme finale dans laquelle il a subi les trois étapes de traitement, à savoir la mise en solution, la déformation à froid et le traitement thermique de durcissement de décomposition spinodale. L'étape c1) ou b2) d'usinage par enlèvement de copeaux s'effectue alors directement sur un élément usinable par enlèvement de copeaux dur, qui ne nécessite pas de traitement thermique de durcissement de décomposition spinodale ultérieur.According to a second possibility, the machinable element by chip removal used in the present invention can be used in step a1) or a2) in its final form in which it has undergone the three stages of treatment, namely dissolving, cold deformation and heat treatment of hardening of spinodal decomposition. Step c1) or b2) of machining by chip removal is then carried out directly on an element which can be machined by hard chip removal, which does not require any heat treatment for hardening of subsequent spinodal decomposition.

Afin d'améliorer la dureté au moins de la partie 3, le procédé de l'invention peut comprendre avantageusement, selon une première variante, une étape d) de dépôt d'une couche de durcissement au moins sur une surface externe 5 de ladite partie usinée par enlèvement de copeaux 3. De préférence, l'étape d) peut consister en un dépôt par des procédés PVD, CVD, ALD, galvaniques, ou tout autre procédé approprié, d'une couche de TiN, diamant, DLC, Al2O3, Cr, Ni, NiP ou tout autre matériau approprié.In order to improve the hardness of at least part 3, the method of the invention can advantageously comprise, according to a first variant, a step d) of depositing a hardening layer at least on one external surface 5 of said part. machined by chip removal 3. Preferably, step d) can consist of deposition by PVD, CVD, ALD, galvanic processes, or any other suitable process, of a layer of TiN, diamond, DLC, Al 2 O 3 , Cr, Ni, NiP or any other suitable material.

Afin d'améliorer la dureté au moins de la partie 3, le procédé de l'invention peut comprendre avantageusement, selon une deuxième variante, une étape e) de diffusion d'atomes selon une profondeur prédéterminée au moins dans une surface externe 5 de ladite partie 3 usinée par enlèvement de copeaux afin de durcir en profondeur le composant horloger 1 au niveau des zones de contraintes principales tout en gardant une ténacité élevée. La profondeur prédéterminée représente de préférence entre 5% et 40% du diamètre total d de ladite partie 3 usinée par enlèvement de copeaux.In order to improve the hardness of at least part 3, the method of the invention can advantageously comprise, according to a second variant, a step e) of diffusion of atoms to a predetermined depth at least in an external surface 5 of said part 3 machined by chip removal in order to harden the watch component 1 in depth at the level of the main stress areas while maintaining high toughness. The predetermined depth preferably represents between 5% and 40% of the total diameter d of said part 3 machined by chip removal.

Avantageusement selon l'invention, quel que soit le mode de réalisation choisi, le procédé peut être appliqué en vrac. Ainsi, l'étape e) peut consister en un traitement thermochimique de diffusion comme une boruration de plusieurs composants horlogers et/ou de plusieurs ébauches de composants horlogers. On comprend que l'étape e) peut consister à diffuser interstitiellement dans l'alliage de cuivre amagnétique 4, des atomes d'au moins un élément chimique, par exemple un non-métal comme de l'azote, de l'argon et/ou du bore. Enfin, avantageusement, les contraintes compressives du procédé améliorent la résistance à la fatigue et la tenue aux chocs.Advantageously according to the invention, whatever the embodiment chosen, the method can be applied in bulk. Thus, step e) can consist of a thermochemical diffusion treatment such as boriding of several watch components and / or of several blanks of watch components. It will be understood that step e) can consist in diffusing interstitially in the non-magnetic copper alloy 4, atoms of at least one chemical element, for example a non-metal such as nitrogen, argon and / or boron. Finally, advantageously, the compressive stresses of the process improve fatigue resistance and impact resistance.

L'étape e) pourrait également consister en un processus d'implantation ionique suivi ou non d'un traitement thermique de diffusion. Cette variante possède l'avantage de ne pas limiter le type d'atomes diffusés et permettre une diffusion aussi bien interstitielle que substitutionnelle.Step e) could also consist of an ion implantation process followed or not by a diffusion heat treatment. This variant has the advantage of not limiting the type of atoms diffused and allowing both interstitial and substitutional diffusion.

Lorsque le traitement mis en œuvre lors de l'étape e) est un processus d'implantation ionique, la profondeur de durcissement de la surface externe 5 peut avantageusement être augmentée à l'aide d'un traitement thermique effectué pendant ou après l'étape b) de traitement par implantation ionique.When the treatment implemented during step e) is an ion implantation process, the depth of hardening of the external surface 5 can advantageously be increased by means of a heat treatment carried out during or after step b) treatment by ion implantation.

Le procédé de l'invention peut également comprendre d'autres étapes de dépôt d'une couche autre qu'une couche de durcissement. Par exemple, le procédé de l'invention peut comprendre une étape de dépôt d'une couche de lubrification.The method of the invention can also comprise other steps of depositing a layer other than a hardening layer. For example, the method of the invention can comprise a step of depositing a lubricating layer.

D'une manière avantageuse, au moins la partie 3 usinée par enlèvement de copeaux peut subir une opération de roulage/polissage après l'étape c1) ou b2) lorsqu'il n'est pas prévu de traitement complémentaire de durcissement, ou après l'étape d) ou e) en cas de traitement complémentaire de durcissement. De ce fait, au moins la surface externe 5 des parties 3 peut apparaitre roulée. Cette opération de roulage/polissage permet d'atteindre les dimensions et l'état de surface finaux désirés pour les parties 3, notamment dans le cas de pivots. Cette opération de roulage après traitement permet d'obtenir des composants horlogers présentant une résistance à l'usure et aux chocs améliorée par rapport à des composants horlogers dont les parties usinées par enlèvement de copeaux n'ont subi qu'une opération de durcissement.Advantageously, at least the part 3 machined by chip removal can undergo a rolling / polishing operation after step c1) or b2) when no additional hardening treatment is provided, or after l step d) or e) in the case of additional hardening treatment. As a result, at least the outer surface 5 of the parts 3 can appear rolled up. This rolling / polishing operation makes it possible to achieve the desired final dimensions and surface condition for the parts 3, in particular in the case of pivots. This rolling operation after treatment makes it possible to obtain watch components exhibiting improved wear and impact resistance compared to watch components whose parts machined by chip removal have only undergone a hardening operation.

Le composant horloger selon l'invention peut comprendre des parties usinées par enlèvement de copeaux traitées selon l'invention et montées sur le corps du composant horloger ou être réalisé entièrement en alliage de cuivre amagnétique tel que défini ci-dessus selon l'un des procédés de l'invention. De plus, le traitement de durcissement selon l'étape d) ou e) peut être réalisé à la surface des parties usinées par enlèvement de copeaux ou sur la totalité des surfaces du composant horloger.The timepiece component according to the invention may comprise parts machined by chip removal treated according to the invention and mounted on the body of the timepiece component or be made entirely of a non-magnetic copper alloy as defined above according to one of the processes. of the invention. In addition, the hardening treatment according to step d) or e) can be carried out on the surface of the parts machined by chip removal or on all of the surfaces of the watch component.

Le composant horloger selon l'invention peut être réalisé avantageusement par décolletage ou toute autre technique d'usinage par enlèvement de copeaux à partir de barres en alliage de cuivre amagnétique tel que défini ci-dessus, de diamètre de préférence inférieur à 3 mm, et préférentiellement inférieur à 2 mm. De telles barres n'existent pas dans le commerce actuellement et doivent être préparées spécifiquement, ce qui démontre que l'homme du métier se détournerait de l'idée à utiliser un alliage à base de cuivre amagnétique tel que défini ci-dessus pour former un composant horloger par décolletage ou toute autre technique d'usinage par enlèvement de copeaux), suivi éventuellement d'un roulage. Les alliages de cuivre sont connus de l'homme du métier pour être trop mous pour pouvoir être roulés et pour la tenue à l'usure en mouvement. Toutefois, l'utilisation de tels matériaux selon l'invention permet d'une manière surprenante et inattendue de réaliser des axes de pivotement permettant d'effectuer un roulage et d'atteindre une longévité satisfaisante en mouvement. Pour réaliser la présente invention, l'homme du métier a dû vaincre le préjugé à utiliser un alliage à base de cuivre pour réaliser un composant horloger de très faibles dimensions au moyen d'un procédé comprenant une étape de décolletage (ou toute autre technique d'usinage par enlèvement de copeaux) et éventuellement une étape de roulage.The watch component according to the invention can advantageously be produced by bar turning or any other machining technique by removing chips from bars of non-magnetic copper alloy as defined above, with a diameter preferably less than 3 mm, and preferably less than 2 mm. Such bars do not currently exist on the market and must be prepared specifically, which demonstrates that a person skilled in the art would shy away from the idea of using an alloy based on non-magnetic copper as defined above to form a watch component by bar turning or any other machining technique by chip removal), possibly followed by rolling. Copper alloys are known to those skilled in the art to be too soft to be able to be rolled and for resistance to wear in motion. However, the use of such materials according to the invention makes it possible, in a surprising and unexpected manner, to produce pivot axes making it possible to roll and to achieve a satisfactory longevity in motion. To achieve the present invention, those skilled in the art have had to overcome the prejudice of using a copper-based alloy to produce a watch component of very small dimensions by means of a process comprising a turning step (or any other technique of cutting). 'machining by chip removal) and possibly a rolling step.

Contre toute attente, le procédé de l'invention permet d'obtenir un composant horloger dont au moins les parties formées par décolletage (ou toute autre technique d'usinage par enlèvement de copeaux) et éventuellement par roulage à partir d'un alliage de cuivre amagnétique tel que défini ci-dessus.Against all expectations, the method of the invention makes it possible to obtain a watch component including at least the parts formed by bar turning (or any other machining technique by chip removal) and optionally by rolling from a non-magnetic copper alloy as defined above.

Bien entendu, la présente invention ne se limite pas à l'exemple illustré mais est susceptible de diverses variantes et modifications qui apparaîtront à l'homme de l'art, sans sortir du cadre tel que défini par les revendications annexées.Of course, the present invention is not limited to the example illustrated but is susceptible of various variants and modifications which will appear to those skilled in the art, without departing from the scope as defined by the appended claims.

En particulier, il peut être envisagé de totalement ou quasi-totalement traiter les parties 3, c'est-à-dire traiter un pourcentage supérieur à 80% du diamètre d des parties 3 même si cela n'est pas nécessaire pour l'application à des composants horlogers tels que des axes de balanciers horlogers.In particular, it can be envisaged to completely or almost completely treat the parts 3, that is to say treat a percentage greater than 80% of the diameter d of the parts 3 even if this is not necessary for the application. to watch components such as clockwork balance axes.

Claims (16)

  1. Timepiece pivot arbor (1) comprising at least one pivot (3) machined by chip removal, characterized in that said pivot (3) machined by chop removal is made of a non-magnetic copper alloy in order to limit the sensitivity thereof to magnetic fields, said copper alloy containing between 10 wt% and 20 wt% of Ni, between 6 wt% and 12 wt% of Sn, X wt% of additional elements, wherein X is comprised between 0 and 5, and the remainder is Cu.
  2. Timepiece pivot arbor (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that said copper alloy comprises lead, in an amount less than or equal to 0.02 wt%.
  3. Timepiece pivot arbor (1) according to any of claims 1 and 2, characterized in that at least the pivot (3) machined by chip removal comprises a hardening layer deposited on an outer surface of said pivot (3) machined by chop removal.
  4. Timepiece pivot arbor (1) according to any of claims 1 and 2, characterized in that at least an outer surface (5) of said pivot (3) machined by chip removal is deep-hardened with respect to the core of the timepiece pivot arbor (1) to a predetermined depth.
  5. Timepiece pivot arbor (1) according to claim 4, characterized in that the predetermined depth represents between 5% and 40% of the total diameter (d) of said pivot (3) machined by chip removal.
  6. Timepiece pivot arbor (1) according to any of claims 4 and 5, characterized in that the deep-hardened outer surface (5) comprises diffused atoms of at least one chemical element.
  7. Movement for a timepiece, characterized in that the movement comprises a timepiece pivot arbor (1) according to any of the preceding claims.
  8. Method for fabrication of a timepiece pivot arbor (1) according to any of the claims 1 to 6 comprising the following steps:
    a1) taking an element machinable by chip removal, said element being made of a non-magnetic copper alloy containing between 10 wt% and 20 wt% of Ni, between 6 wt% and 12 wt% of Sn, X wt% of additional elements, wherein X is comprised between 0 and 5, and the remainder is Cu
    b1) forming the timepiece pivot arbor (1)
    c1) chip removal machining said timepiece pivot arbor (1) to form at least one pivot (3) machined by chip removal and made of said non-magnetic copper alloy.
  9. Method for fabrication of a timepiece pivot arbor (1) according to any of the claims 1 to 6 comprising the following steps:
    a2) taking an element machinable by chip removal, said element being made of a non-magnetic copper alloy containing between 10 wt% and 20 wt% of Ni, between 6 wt% and 12 wt% of Sn, X wt% of additional elements, wherein X is comprised between 0 and 5, and the remainder is Cu
    b2) chip removal machining said element to form at least one pivot (3) of said timepiece pivot arbor (1)
    c2) forming the timepiece pivot arbor (1) comprising said pivot (3) obtained in step b2).
  10. Method according to any of claims 8 and 9, characterized in that the method comprises a step d) of depositing a hardening layer at least on an outer surface (5) of said pivot (3) machined by chip removal.
  11. Method according to any of claims 8 and 9, characterized in that the method comprises a step e) of diffusing atoms to a predetermined depth in at least an outer surface (5) of said pivot (3) machined by chip removal in order to deep-harden the timepiece pivot arbor (1) in the main stress areas while maintaining high tenacity.
  12. Method according to claim 11, characterized in that the predetermined depth represents between 5% and 40% of the total diameter (d) of said pivot (3) machined by chip removal.
  13. Method according to any of claims 11 or 12, characterized in that the diffusion step comprises the diffusion of atoms of at least one chemical element.
  14. Method according to any of claims 11 to 13, characterized in that step e) consists of a thermochemical diffusion treatment.
  15. Method according to any of claims 11 to 13, characterized in that step e) consists of an ion implantation process which may or may not be followed by a diffusion treatment.
  16. Method according to any of claims 8 to 15, characterized in that said pivot (3) machined by chip removal is subjected to a rolling/polishing step after step c1) or b2) or after step d) or e).
EP16180226.9A 2016-07-19 2016-07-19 Part for clock movement Active EP3273304B1 (en)

Priority Applications (21)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP16180226.9A EP3273304B1 (en) 2016-07-19 2016-07-19 Part for clock movement
EP16190278.8A EP3273306A1 (en) 2016-07-19 2016-09-23 Part for clock movement
EP17157065.8A EP3273307A1 (en) 2016-07-19 2017-02-21 Part for clock movement
CN201710584247.6A CN107632510B (en) 2016-07-19 2017-07-18 Component for a timepiece movement
CN201710584243.8A CN107632507B (en) 2016-07-19 2017-07-18 Component for a timepiece movement
CN201710584919.3A CN107632508B (en) 2016-07-19 2017-07-18 Component for a timepiece movement
JP2017138778A JP6591498B2 (en) 2016-07-19 2017-07-18 Components for watch movement
RU2017125759A RU2752467C2 (en) 2016-07-19 2017-07-18 Clockwork mechanism component
JP2017138776A JP6762275B2 (en) 2016-07-19 2017-07-18 Watch movement components
US15/652,287 US11092932B2 (en) 2016-07-19 2017-07-18 Component for a timepiece movement
JP2017138777A JP6591497B2 (en) 2016-07-19 2017-07-18 Components for watch movement
US15/652,283 US11237520B2 (en) 2016-07-19 2017-07-18 Component for a timepiece movement
US15/652,288 US10761482B2 (en) 2016-07-19 2017-07-18 Component for a timepiece movement
CN202110652156.8A CN113296382A (en) 2016-07-19 2017-07-18 Component for a timepiece movement
RU2017125745A RU2763382C2 (en) 2016-07-19 2017-07-18 Component for clockwork mechanism
RU2017125734A RU2767960C2 (en) 2016-07-19 2017-07-18 Clockwork component
HK18107788.1A HK1248327A1 (en) 2016-07-19 2018-06-15 Component for a timepiece movement
HK18108135.9A HK1248836A1 (en) 2016-07-19 2018-06-25 Component for a timepiece movement
HK18108785.2A HK1249200A1 (en) 2016-07-19 2018-07-06 Component for a timepiece movement
JP2019118340A JP2019197061A (en) 2016-07-19 2019-06-26 Component for timepiece movement
JP2019118335A JP2019203899A (en) 2016-07-19 2019-06-26 Component for timepiece movement

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP16180226.9A EP3273304B1 (en) 2016-07-19 2016-07-19 Part for clock movement

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP3273304A1 EP3273304A1 (en) 2018-01-24
EP3273304B1 true EP3273304B1 (en) 2021-11-10

Family

ID=56464142

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP16180226.9A Active EP3273304B1 (en) 2016-07-19 2016-07-19 Part for clock movement

Country Status (3)

Country Link
US (1) US10761482B2 (en)
EP (1) EP3273304B1 (en)
RU (2) RU2752467C2 (en)

Families Citing this family (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CH714594B1 (en) * 2018-01-26 2024-09-30 Richemont Int Sa Manufacturing methods for a pivot axis of a regulating organ
EP3800511B1 (en) * 2019-10-02 2022-05-18 Nivarox-FAR S.A. Pivoting shaft for a regulating organ
EP3885842B1 (en) 2020-03-26 2024-03-20 Nivarox-FAR S.A. Non-magnetic timepiece component with improved wear resistance

Family Cites Families (17)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3099128A (en) * 1960-09-10 1963-07-30 Straumann Inst Ag Watchwork mechanisms
CH1246668A4 (en) * 1968-08-19 1972-11-30
CH111672A4 (en) * 1972-01-26 1973-09-28
CH681370A5 (en) * 1992-02-25 1993-03-15 Estoppey Reber S A Solid lubricant coating prodn. for reducing friction between soft parts - by applying nickel@-phosphorus@ layer and gold@ layer and then heat treating
US6755566B2 (en) * 2001-02-15 2004-06-29 Konrad Damasko Clockwork
EP1237058A1 (en) * 2001-02-28 2002-09-04 Eta SA Fabriques d'Ebauches Usage of a non-magnetic coating for covering parts in a horological movement
CN100503891C (en) * 2001-09-19 2009-06-24 西铁城控股株式会社 Soft metal and method for preparation thereof, and exterior part of watch and method for preparation thereof
JP2004085434A (en) * 2002-08-28 2004-03-18 Seiko Instruments Inc Timepiece
CH697017A5 (en) * 2003-03-26 2008-03-14 Franck Muller Watchland S A Mobile turning to anti-shock device on an axis.
US9298162B2 (en) * 2010-10-01 2016-03-29 Rolex Sa Timepiece barrel with thin disks
CH704062A2 (en) * 2010-11-09 2012-05-15 Montres Breguet Sa Anti-shock device for protecting balance spring of magnetic pivot of watch movement, has guiding or attraction units guiding or attracting ends, where units are movable along linear direction between abutments
CH705464B1 (en) * 2011-09-05 2016-09-15 Nivarox Far Sa Ferrule for fixing a clock spring.
EP2757423B1 (en) * 2013-01-17 2018-07-11 Omega SA Part for clockwork
RU2650387C2 (en) * 2013-03-14 2018-04-11 Мэтерион Корпорейшн Ultra high strength copper-nickel-tin alloys
EP2860591A1 (en) * 2013-10-09 2015-04-15 Nivarox-FAR S.A. Assembly system using a conical resilient locking member
EP2988177A1 (en) * 2014-08-21 2016-02-24 Universo S.A. Hand of a watch
EP4177677A1 (en) * 2016-06-13 2023-05-10 Rolex Sa Clock axis

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
RU2752467C2 (en) 2021-07-28
US20180024503A1 (en) 2018-01-25
RU2763382C2 (en) 2021-12-28
RU2017125745A (en) 2019-01-18
RU2017125745A3 (en) 2020-11-16
EP3273304A1 (en) 2018-01-24
RU2017125759A3 (en) 2020-11-18
US10761482B2 (en) 2020-09-01
RU2017125759A (en) 2019-01-21

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
EP2757423B1 (en) Part for clockwork
EP2757424B1 (en) Part for clockwork
EP3273303A1 (en) Part for clock movement
EP3273307A1 (en) Part for clock movement
EP3273306A1 (en) Part for clock movement
EP3743538B1 (en) Pivoting pin of a regulator and manufacturing method therefor
CH707504A2 (en) Metal pivoting axle e.g. non-magnetic balance axle, for clockwork movement of watch, has pivot arranged at end, where axle is made of metal e.g. titanium and titanium alloy, in order to limit sensitivity of pivoting axle to magnetic fields
EP3273304B1 (en) Part for clock movement
CH712719B1 (en) Watch component for watch movement.
CH712718A2 (en) Pivot axis for watch movement.
EP3273305B1 (en) Part for clock movement
EP3800511B1 (en) Pivoting shaft for a regulating organ
CH716669A1 (en) Method of manufacturing a pendulum pivot shaft.
EP3339968A1 (en) Part for clock movement
CH707505B1 (en) Metal pivot pin for watch movement and method of manufacturing such a pin.
CH712720A2 (en) Pivot axis for watch movement.
CH716664A2 (en) Non-magnetic and hard watch component, in particular the pivot axis of a regulating organ.
CH718550A2 (en) Watchmaking pivot pin and method of manufacturing such a watchmaking pivot pin.
EP3885842B1 (en) Non-magnetic timepiece component with improved wear resistance
CH718549A2 (en) Watch component and method of manufacturing such a watch component.
EP4258064A1 (en) Non-magnetic swivelling axis
WO2022223478A1 (en) Method for manufacturing a timepiece pivot pin and timepiece pivot pin obtained by said method
WO2022223477A1 (en) Timepiece component and method for manufacturing such a timepiece component
CH719580A2 (en) Non-magnetic watchmaking pivot axis.
CH713264A2 (en) Pivot axis for watch movement.

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
PUAI Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: THE APPLICATION HAS BEEN PUBLISHED

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: A1

Designated state(s): AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR

AX Request for extension of the european patent

Extension state: BA ME

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: REQUEST FOR EXAMINATION WAS MADE

17P Request for examination filed

Effective date: 20180724

RBV Designated contracting states (corrected)

Designated state(s): AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR

RIC1 Information provided on ipc code assigned before grant

Ipc: G04B 1/16 20060101AFI20210606BHEP

Ipc: G04B 13/02 20060101ALI20210606BHEP

Ipc: G04B 15/14 20060101ALI20210606BHEP

Ipc: G04B 17/32 20060101ALI20210606BHEP

Ipc: G04B 43/00 20060101ALI20210606BHEP

GRAP Despatch of communication of intention to grant a patent

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR1

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: GRANT OF PATENT IS INTENDED

INTG Intention to grant announced

Effective date: 20210728

GRAS Grant fee paid

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR3

GRAA (expected) grant

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009210

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: THE PATENT HAS BEEN GRANTED

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: B1

Designated state(s): AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: GB

Ref legal event code: FG4D

Free format text: NOT ENGLISH

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: AT

Ref legal event code: REF

Ref document number: 1446654

Country of ref document: AT

Kind code of ref document: T

Effective date: 20211115

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: EP

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R096

Ref document number: 602016065930

Country of ref document: DE

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: IE

Ref legal event code: FG4D

Free format text: LANGUAGE OF EP DOCUMENT: FRENCH

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: LT

Ref legal event code: MG9D

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: NL

Ref legal event code: MP

Effective date: 20211110

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: AT

Ref legal event code: MK05

Ref document number: 1446654

Country of ref document: AT

Kind code of ref document: T

Effective date: 20211110

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: RS

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20211110

Ref country code: LT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20211110

Ref country code: FI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20211110

Ref country code: BG

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20220210

Ref country code: AT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20211110

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: IS

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20220310

Ref country code: SE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20211110

Ref country code: PT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20220310

Ref country code: PL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20211110

Ref country code: NO

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20220210

Ref country code: NL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20211110

Ref country code: LV

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20211110

Ref country code: HR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20211110

Ref country code: GR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20220211

Ref country code: ES

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20211110

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: SM

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20211110

Ref country code: SK

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20211110

Ref country code: RO

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20211110

Ref country code: EE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20211110

Ref country code: DK

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20211110

Ref country code: CZ

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20211110

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R097

Ref document number: 602016065930

Country of ref document: DE

PLBE No opposition filed within time limit

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009261

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: NO OPPOSITION FILED WITHIN TIME LIMIT

26N No opposition filed

Effective date: 20220811

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: AL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20211110

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: SI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20211110

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: MC

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20211110

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: BE

Ref legal event code: MM

Effective date: 20220731

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: LU

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20220719

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: IT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20211110

Ref country code: BE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20220731

P01 Opt-out of the competence of the unified patent court (upc) registered

Effective date: 20230611

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: IE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20220719

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: CH

Payment date: 20230801

Year of fee payment: 8

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: HU

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT; INVALID AB INITIO

Effective date: 20160719

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: MK

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20211110

Ref country code: CY

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20211110

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: GB

Payment date: 20240620

Year of fee payment: 9

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: FR

Payment date: 20240619

Year of fee payment: 9

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: MT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20211110

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: DE

Payment date: 20240619

Year of fee payment: 9

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: CH

Payment date: 20240801

Year of fee payment: 9