阅读说明：本技术 钟表设置机械及设置方法 (Timepiece setting machine and setting method ) 是由 D·克勒特内 P·巴索洛 J·巴洛西 于 2021-03-26 设计创作，主要内容包括：用于对附接到容器(10)的组件(1)进行设置和/或调节的设置机械(1000),包括定位模块(100),以根据来自控制装置(3000)的命令移动该容器(10)以将其传送到采集模块(200)下方的设置和/或调节位置,采集模块包括用于确定容器(10)的空间位置的测量和/或测试装置,并且包括设置和/或调节模块(400),设置和/或调节模块用于利用机动化轴进行设置和/或调节,用于在垂直于夹具旋转方向(DF、DG)的夹具平面中移动、打开和闭合夹具(600),夹具被布置成驱动由容器(10)承载的这种组件(1)中所包括的移动部件或部件或者使其变形,以及使用这种设置机械来设置和/或调节至少一个钟表部件的方法。(Setting machine (1000) for setting and/or adjusting an assembly (1) attached to a container (10), comprising a positioning module (100) to move the container (10) to convey it to a setting and/or adjusting position under an acquisition module (200) according to commands from a control device (3000), the acquisition module comprising measuring and/or testing means for determining the spatial position of the container (10), and comprising a setting and/or adjusting module (400) for setting and/or adjusting with a motorized shaft for moving, opening and closing a clamp (600) in a clamp plane perpendicular to a clamp rotation direction (DF, DG), the clamp being arranged to drive or deform moving parts or components comprised in such an assembly (1) carried by the container (10), and to a method for setting and/or adjusting at least one timepiece component using such a setting machine.)

1. A timepiece setting machine (1000) for at least one setting and/or adjustment of at least one timepiece component (1) attached to a container (10), the setting machine (1000) comprising a control device (3000) for coordinating in an automated manner the movement and/or operation of at least one positioning module (100) comprising processing means arranged to spatially move the container (10) according to commands from the control device (3000) to transfer it under at least one acquisition module (200) comprising measuring and/or testing means arranged to identify and determine the container (10) and/or the at least one timepiece component (1) attached to the container (10) in a setting and/or adjustment position relative to a frame (2000) comprised in the setting machine (1000), the acquisition module comprising measuring and/or testing means arranged to identify and determine the container (10) and/or the at least one timepiece component attached to the container (10) -a plurality of timepiece components (1) in a spatial position with respect to said frame (2000), and-transmitting to said control means (3000) information for controlling and/or correcting the position of said positioning module (100), said setting machine (1000) comprising at least one setting and/or adjusting module (400) comprising setting and/or adjusting means arranged to set and/or adjust at least one of said components (1) carried by said container (10) and/or at least one component or moving part comprised in said component (1) according to a command from said control means (3000), characterized in that said setting machine (1000) comprises at least one of said setting and/or adjusting module (400) comprising a plurality of motorized axes, the plurality of motorized axes are arranged to move, open and close a clamp (600) in a clamp plane perpendicular to a clamp rotation direction (DF, DG), the clamp being arranged to drive or deform moving parts or components comprised in the assembly (1) carried by the container (10).

2. The setting machine (1000) according to claim 1, wherein the setting and/or adjusting module (400) comprises a clamp holder body (401) arranged to support the clamp (600) and rotatable about a clamp rotation axis (DH) along a rotary clamp axis θ 2 relative to a clamp carriage (403) movable relative to a structure (404) along a vertical direction Z parallel to the vertical direction of the position, the structure being either attached to the frame (2000) or freely movable relative to a clamp base (405) attached to the frame (2000) along a horizontal direction X perpendicular to the vertical direction of the position or along a vertical direction Z parallel to the vertical direction of the position.

3. The setting machine (1000) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the setting and/or adjusting module (400) comprises a clamp control body (406) comprising a spindle (407) arranged to exert a force on the surface of the clamp (600) and to deform it in an opening or closing movement, the clamp control body (406) being free to rotate with respect to a clamp carriage (403) along a rotary clamp opening/closing control axis θ 1 or about a clamp rotation axis (DH) or about a spindle axis (DF) parallel to a clamp rotation axis (DH), the clamp carriage being movable with respect to a structure (404) along a vertical direction Z parallel to the vertical direction of the position, the structure being either attached to the frame (2000) or with respect to a clamp base (405) attached to the frame (2000) along a horizontal direction X perpendicular to the vertical direction of the position ) And (4) free movement.

4. The setting machine (1000) according to claims 2 and 3, characterized in that the clamp control body (406) is arranged to move the spindle (407) over 360 ° for the opening or closing control of the clamp (600).

5. The setting machine (1000) according to claims 2 and 3, characterized in that the clamp control body (406) is rotatable about the clamp rotation axis (DH) so as to be able to apply an offset pressure in certain angular positions with respect to a symmetry plane PS comprised in the clamp (600).

6. The setting machine (1000) according to any of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the setting machine (1000) comprises at least one drive module (300) comprising a drive device (301) arranged to drive at least one component or moving component comprised in the assembly (1) carried by the container (10) according to a command from the control device (3000).

7. The setting machine (1000) according to claim 6, characterized in that said at least one drive module (300) comprises a body (310) movable at least along a vertical direction Z parallel to the vertical direction of the position, and in that a rotary motorized drive (301) is movable in an articulated manner with respect to said body about a drive axis (DC) parallel to the vertical direction Z.

8. The setting machine (1000) according to claim 7, characterized in that the main body (310) comprises a positioning device (340) arranged to rotationally position at least one return arm (303, 304) about an axis (DN) parallel to the vertical direction Z, with respect to which return arm a drive arm (302) supporting the drive (301) is pivotally mounted about an intermediate axis (DB) parallel to the drive axis (DC), and in that the main body (310) supports a drive device (330) for rotating the drive (301) by means of a belt, chain, gear or cardan joint transmission (320).

9. The setting machine (1000) according to claim 8, characterised in that the positioning device (340) is arranged to angularly position at least one return arm (303, 304) to which the driver arm (302) is connected or to which the driver arm (302) is connected.

10. The setting machine (1000) according to any of claims 7 to 9, characterized in that the main body (340) is carried by a crossed XZ movement table in a vertical plane passing through the vertical direction of the position, said movement table comprising a carriage (350) carried by a carriage (360) movable with respect to a table base (370) attached to the frame (2000).

11. The setting machine (1000) according to any of claims 1 to 10, the setting machine (1000) comprises at least one holding and/or supporting module (500), the holding and/or supporting module comprises a holding and/or supporting device (501), said holding and/or supporting means being arranged to exert a substantially axial pressure on a moving part or parts of said assembly (1) during or after setting and/or adjustment of said assembly (1) by said setting and/or adjusting module (400), or indeed to keep said moving parts or parts out of contact by the action of a magnetic or electrostatic field, along a Direction (DE) parallel to the vertical direction of said position or along a direction forming an angle of less than 10 ° with said vertical direction of said position.

12. The setting machine (1000) according to claim 11, characterized in that the at least one holding and/or supporting module (500) is supported by the at least one positioning module (100).

13. The setting machine (1000) according to claim 11 or 12, characterized in that said at least one holding and/or supporting module (500) comprises a rotating body (520) with respect to a vertical direction (DD) parallel to the vertical direction of the position, which drives a carriage arm (502) that supports the holding and/or supporting means (501) in a fixed or articulated manner.

14. The setting machine (1000) according to claim 13, characterised in that the holding and/or supporting means (501) comprise a mass body held by elastic guiding means (503) attached to the carriage arm (502) and arranged to hold the mass body supported on the moving part or parts by applying a substantially vertical force.

15. The setting machine (1000) according to any one of claims 6 to 10 and any one of claims 11 to 14, characterized in that the holding and/or supporting module (500) is arranged to hold the moving part or part of the assembly (1) in a substantially axial position along the vertical direction Z or along a direction forming an angle of less than 10 ° with the vertical direction Z during or after driving of the moving part or part by the drive means of at least one drive module (300).

16. The setting machine (1000) according to any of claims 1 to 15, characterised in that the setting machine (1000) comprises a frequency analyzer and/or a clock testing device coupled with the control device (3000) and programmed to trigger a setting repetition of the setting mechanism until a desired frequency and/or rate tolerance is entered.

17. Method for setting and/or adjusting at least one timepiece component using a setting machine (1000) according to any one of claims 1 to 16, characterised in that at least the container (10) is equipped with at least one said assembly (1) which is a timepiece movement or a watch of an axial direction a, wherein the axial direction a is aligned with the vertical direction of position, and wherein it is attempted to set and/or adjust at least one moving component or component, in that the acquisition module (200), the setting and/or adjusting module (400) are cleared at the end of a stroke in order to make a working area for measurement, setting and/or adjustment, in that the container is loaded on the positioning module (100) and in that it is transferred into the working area, in that the acquisition module (200) is transferred over the positioning module (100), -in that a target setting value of at least one parameter is determined, -in that the value of the at least one parameter measured on the at least one component (1) is sent to the control means, -in that the value of the at least one parameter of the acquisition module (200) is sent to the control means of the vertical direction (200) of the moving part, -in that a programmed cycle of the acquisition module (200) is selected to measure at least the position of the top surface of the moving part or part along the vertical direction of said position, -in that the position and any measurements made according to the programmed cycle are sent to the control means (3000), -which generate a positioning movement of the positioning module (100) according to the selected programmed cycle to place the component (1) in a setting position, and/or generate the setting and/or adjusting module (400) and/or based on a programmed sequence at the working area Or movement and operation commands of at least one setup module (300, 500).

18. Method according to claim 17, characterized in that the setting machine (1000) according to any one of claims 11 to 14 is used, and that the setting machine (1000) is equipped with at least one of the holding and/or supporting means (500) arranged to exert a pressure on the moving parts or components of the assembly (1) during or after setting and/or adjustment of the assembly (1) by the setting and/or adjusting module (400) and/or the holding and/or supporting module (500) and/or at least another of the setting modules (400), or to keep them out of contact in a vertical Direction (DE) parallel to the position by the action of a magnetic or electrostatic field.

19. Method according to claim 17 or 18, characterized in that the setting machine (1000) according to any of claims 6 to 10 is used, and that the setting machine (1000) is equipped with at least one drive module (300) comprising a rotary motorized drive (301) around a drive axis (DC) parallel to the vertical direction Z for driving the moving part or parts.

20. Method according to any of claims 17 to 19, characterized in that a setting machine (1000) according to any of claims 1 to 9 is used, and that the at least one setting and/or adjusting module (400) is equipped with the clamp (600) to drive or deform the moving part or part, and in that the parameters are set by actuating the clamp (600) on at least one moving part or part of the assembly (1).

21. Method according to any one of claims 17 to 20, characterized in that the setting machine (1000) is used for setting a setting screw, which is a balance inertia block or balance plate setting screw or balance spring stud setting screw, or an indexing setting screw, or an alignment setting screw, or for setting an index.

22. Method according to any one of claims 17 to 21, characterized in that the setting machine (1000) is used for local deformation of a balance-cock or a balance spring or an arm or a rim.

Technical Field

The invention relates to a timepiece setting machine for at least one setting and/or adjustment of at least one timepiece component attached to a container, the setting machine comprising control means for coordinating in an automated manner the movement and/or operation of at least one positioning module comprising processing means arranged to move the container in space, upon command from the control means, to transfer the container to a setting and/or adjustment position relative to a frame comprised in the setting machine, under at least one acquisition module comprising measuring and/or testing means arranged to identify and determine the spatial position of the container and/or of the at least one timepiece component attached to the container relative to the frame, and to transmit information for controlling and/or correcting the position of the positioning module to the control device.

The invention also relates to a method for setting and/or adjusting at least one timepiece component using such a setting machine.

The present invention relates to the field of timepiece setting machines.

Background

In watchmaking, some fine settings, in particular the frequency setting of the oscillator or the rate setting of the watch, are hardly subject to automation, are entrusted to highly qualified staff, and usually require a plurality of successive basic settings.

Obtaining high timepiece quality is therefore an expensive operation.

The article published on the Internet XP055733993, filed on 09/16/2015 by Thierry CONUS, "watch SISTEM 51," describes the rate setting of a watch by a laser ablation method on the machine used to set or adjust the resonator components.

Documents EP3572887a1 and EP3422119a2, both held by swach GROUP RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT Ltd, describe setting machines for performing time setting, and a rotary actuation module for successively setting each watch carried by the machine opposite a viewing system or microphone.

Disclosure of Invention

The invention proposes an automatic fine setting of a timepiece movement or of a completely assembled watch head or "WH", and the automatic setting is carried out at a compact workstation, which can be arranged, for example, on a watch manufacturer's workstation.

The device used is envisaged to ensure the cleanliness of the station, which is important due to the handling of the finished gauge head or finished movement.

Such an installation should guarantee the desired performance in terms of setting sensitivity, accuracy, digitization, flexibility and reproducibility. Its digitization will help to guarantee short cycle times and achieve high precision with an ergonomic and easy-to-use workstation.

Although the invention may find many applications in the field of horology, it is particularly suitable for fine setting of oscillators, in particular by actuating the setting screw directly in the movement or in the watch head.

The aim is to make the setting reliable during a single operation.

To this end, the invention relates to a setting machine according to claim 1.

The invention also relates to a setting and/or adjusting method according to claim 18 using such a setting machine.

Drawings

Other features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent upon reading the following detailed description and upon reference to the drawings in which:

fig. 1 schematically shows in perspective view a setting machine according to the invention, without a casing, comprising various modules on a frame, which are shown independently of one another in the following figures, and in which a positioning module is directly attached to the frame and comprises a carriage with transverse movement, which carries a work table, which in turn carries a container of a timepiece assembly, and in which an acquisition module is movable with respect to a vertical member, not shown, in the form of a suspension column, and comprises viewing means and laser means for determining the position of the container and its contents; the frame directly supports a setting and/or adjusting module comprising a clamp arranged to move a moving part or parts of an assembly arranged on the container; the drive module comprises a driver arranged to drive the moving part or parts; the holding and/or supporting module comprises supporting fingers arranged to support on the moving part or parts;

figure 2 shows, similarly to figure 1, a setting and/or adjustment module arranged to set and/or adjust the moving parts or components of the assembly carried by the containers arranged on the worktable of the positioning module, comprising a clamp, here a monolithic clamp, the opening and closing of which is motorized and which can move in a rotary and/or translational manner;

figure 3 schematically shows the clamp of figure 2 in plan view;

fig. 4 shows, similarly to fig. 2, a drive module arranged to at least rotationally drive such a component or moving component by means of a rotary drive;

figure 5 shows, similarly to figure 2, a holding and/or supporting module comprising supporting fingers arranged to exert a substantially axial pressure on the moving part or parts;

fig. 6 schematically shows in perspective view a container as a support in which a gauge head arranged in position for setting the gauge head on a setting machine is supported;

fig. 7 shows, schematically, partially and in perspective, as a support, a further container in which a timepiece movement arranged in position is supported for setting the timepiece movement on a setting machine;

fig. 8 to 10 schematically show in perspective view in succession:

in fig. 8 is shown the support in fig. 6 prepared to receive the watch head, the support having two clamps or locking wedges, which are forks arranged to bear on the corners of the watch head;

in fig. 9 it is shown that the gauge head is placed on the spring mechanism and supported on the support surface in an angular position in which the angle is outside the arms of the fork;

in fig. 10, the attachment of the watch head on its container is shown after the rotation of the watch head to the angular stop support position of one of the corners on the pin;

fig. 11 schematically shows in perspective view the cooperation of the drive module of fig. 4 and the holding and/or supporting module of fig. 5 with a balance wheel comprised in the watch mounted on the container according to fig. 10;

fig. 12 is a view similar to fig. 11, in which only the supporting fingers cooperate to support the balance when the driver is in the release position with respect to the watch head;

fig. 13 is a view similar to fig. 11, in which the clamp is introduced into the movement, cooperating with the setting screw of the balance, and in which the supporting finger holds the balance;

fig. 14 is a schematic view in elevation of an alternative embodiment of the setting machine of fig. 1, housed and mounted on a table of a timepiece manufacturer and comprising a plurality of optical modules;

fig. 15 is a schematic view in elevation of a detail of an alternative embodiment of the setting machine in fig. 1 or 14, comprising a palletizer for replacing the containers between, on the one hand, the work table of the positioning module and, on the other hand, a frequency analyzer or means for testing the velocity, not shown;

fig. 16 is a logic diagram of the step of setting the setting screw of the balance comprised in the sprung balance oscillator on the setting machine according to the invention in a first alternative embodiment of the open loop;

fig. 17 is a logic diagram of the step of setting the set screw of the balance comprised in the sprung balance oscillator on the setting machine according to the invention, which includes the frequency analyzer and/or the device for testing the rate, in an alternative embodiment of the closed loop.

Detailed Description

The invention relates to a timepiece setting machine 1000 designed to perform at least one setting and/or adjustment of at least one timepiece component 1 attached to a container 10.

The setup machine 1000 comprises a control device 3000 for coordinating the movements and/or operations of at least one module, in particular at least one positioning module 100, in an automated manner.

The present invention will be described more specifically as follows: the setting machine 1000 is used to set a mechanical watch oscillator of the sprung balance type by actuating a setting screw conventionally included in the balance of the oscillator. These setting screws are usually stepped to compensate for play; so that once set they remain in place. The present application is in no way limiting.

The figures show specific non-limiting embodiments in which the axis is conventionally defined by an orthogonal system: the Z-axis is a vertical direction of position, the X-axis corresponds to a longitudinal direction, and the Y-axis corresponds to a transverse direction, as shown in fig. 1, which shows a setting machine 1000 equipped with all base modules and all setting modules described later according to the present invention.

The positioning module 100 comprises processing means arranged to spatially move the container 10, according to commands from the control means 3000, to convey it to a setting and/or adjustment position with respect to the frame 2000 comprised in the setting machine 1000 and to convey it under at least one acquisition module 200 or under another module of the setting machine 1000, in particular under a setting and/or adjustment module 400 to be described below. This frame 2000 may be a base belonging to the setting machine 1000, which is then easily movable, or consist of a work-table 4000 of a timepiece manufacturer, which is then integrated in the setting machine 1000.

The frame 2000 carries, directly or indirectly, at least one setup module, and the control device 3000 is arranged to coordinate the movement and/or operation of each setup module included in the setup machine 1000 in an automated manner.

The setup machine 1000 preferably includes a housing 5000 that encloses all of its component modules, and which may be placed under negative or positive pressure to ensure cleanliness of the equipment. The housing 5000 in particular carries a control device 3000, which is typically included in a user interface 3001, such as a screen/keyboard or the like, and a link to a production management system and/or a quality management system. More specifically, when the setup machine 1000 includes an optical module 700 equipped with a digital microscope or the like, the user interface 3001 may be used for high magnification visualization of the working area during intervention of the various modules, which facilitates setup and verification.

Studies have shown that the working steps and movements in the assisted manual protocol require at least 29 functional steps, 37 movements and 9 axes. The choice of all-digital machines makes it possible to ensure perfect control of the process, with reproducible operation and easily constructable settings; in addition, the digital scheme can only reduce cycle time; in the non-limiting alternative embodiment shown in the figures, these control means 3000 control 13 digital axes, which makes it possible to reduce the number of functional steps and movements.

Naturally, the number and arrangement of the axes depends on the configuration chosen for the machine, which here comprises a suspension column movable along Z; however, the mobility along Z may also be at the height of the positioning module 100. Vertical movement may also be associated with the gantry rather than the column. The advantage of suspending the column is that it relatively frees up space in front of the column for various drives and grippers and facilitates the observation or passage of the laser beam.

More specifically, the positioning module 100 is movable relative to the frame 2000 at least along the longitudinal direction X. The movement of the table 109 carrying the containers 10 in the longitudinal direction X is carried out in at least three distinct positions: rest position, laser measurement position, set screw correction position. The positioning module 100 advantageously comprises an axis of rotation Θ 0 for rotating the table 109. In the alternative embodiment shown, the positioning module 100 is movable relative to the frame 2000 both in the longitudinal direction X and in the transverse direction Y, which makes it possible to exceed the eccentric travel allowed by the axis of rotation Θ 0.

The acquisition module 200 comprises measuring and/or testing means arranged to identify and determine the spatial position of the container 10 and/or of at least one timepiece assembly 1 attached to the container 10 with respect to the frame 2000, and to transmit information for controlling and/or correcting the position of the positioning module 100 to the control means 3000.

The acquisition module 200 comprises in particular a carriage 209 movable in the vertical direction Z. The carriage 209 carries the viewing device and the laser beam which is here directed in the vertical direction Z. This module is designed for automatically adjusting the viewing and laser focus position of the movement or watch head carried by the container 10 with respect to the various assemblies 1. This focus adjustment of the viewing system and the laser measurement system is performed according to a set-up cycle comprising: balance wheel centering position, clear zone position, laser measurement position along Z, set screw orientation position.

The acquisition module 200 may also carry a second carriage, which may also move in the vertical direction Z and is carried by the carriage 209 in order to separate the movements of the viewing system and the laser system for some specific applications. In a particular alternative embodiment not shown, the acquisition module 200 may comprise another laser source which, instead of contributing to the measurement, contributes to the ablation operations on the balance and on the balance spring.

In applying the setting machine 1000 to the setting of a sprung balance oscillator, the acquisition module 200 is mainly used to detect the centre of the balance, to ensure the reliability of the setting screw correction process and to ensure the correct centering of the setting jig 600 disclosed below on the balance setting screw axis.

According to the present invention, the setup machine 1000 includes at least one setup module, which is a setup and/or adjustment mechanism 400. The setting and/or adjusting mechanism comprises a setting and/or adjusting module 400 comprising setting and/or adjusting means arranged to set and/or adjust at least one assembly 1 carried by the container 10 and/or at least one component or moving part comprised in the assembly 1, according to commands from the control means 3000.

More specifically, this setting and/or adjusting device 400 is an angle correction module comprising a plurality of motorized shafts arranged to move, open and close the clamp 600 in a clamp plane, preferably but not limited to a vertical plane of the vertical direction of the transit position, perpendicular to the clamp rotation directions DF, DG, said clamp being arranged to actuate or deform moving parts or components comprised in the assembly 1 carried by the container 10.

More specifically, the clamp 600 is arranged to enable clamping/unclamping of any type of screw head profile: "Torx ″, hexagonal, slotted, headless," Imbus ", conical, shouldered or otherwise.

More specifically, the setup and/or adjustment module 400 may be movable relative to the frame 2000 of the setup machine 1000 at least along the vertical direction Z.

More specifically, in the non-limiting arrangement shown in particular by fig. 2, the setting and/or adjusting module 400 comprises a clamp holder body 401 which is arranged to support the clamp 600 and which is rotatable relative to the clamp carriage 403 along a rotary clamp setting axis Θ 2 about a clamp rotation axis DH which is parallel to the clamp rotation directions DF, DG. The clamp carriage 403 is movable relative to a structure 404, either attached to the frame 2000, in a vertical direction Z parallel to the vertical direction of the position, or freely movable in a horizontal direction X perpendicular to the vertical direction of the position, or freely movable relative to a clamp base 405 attached to the frame 2000 in a vertical direction Z parallel to the vertical direction of the position.

In particular and advantageously, the clamp 600 is an integral component of elastic material. More specifically, the clamp 600 is made of silicon and/or silicon oxide, spring steel, or the like. In fact, in its preferred application, the clamp 600 is of very small dimensions, its bulk is similar to that of the movement, and this constraint is hardly compatible with the repeated values of the articulation for play-free operation and of the low-intensity stresses for protecting said components.

More specifically, the setting and/or adjusting module 400 comprises a clamp control body 406 comprising a spindle 407, in particular a cam-forming spindle 407, arranged to exert a force on the surface of the clamp 600 and to deform the clamp in an opening or closing movement. The clamp control body 406 is in particular free to move in rotation along a rotary clamp opening/closing control axis Θ 1 or about a clamp rotation axis DH or about a spindle axis DF parallel to the clamp rotation axis DH, with respect to a clamp carriage 403 which can move in a vertical direction Z parallel to the vertical direction with respect to the position of a structure 404, which is either attached to the frame 2000 or is free to move in a horizontal direction X perpendicular to the vertical direction of the position, with respect to a clamp base 405 attached to the frame 2000.

More specifically, the clamp control body 406 is arranged to move the spindle 407 over 360 ° for opening or closing control of the clamp 600.

More specifically, the clamp control body 406 is rotatable about a clamp rotation axis DH so as to be able to apply an offset pressure relative to the symmetry plane PS of the clamp 600 at certain angular positions.

The clamp 600 comprises a clamp arm 601 for handling components or moving components of the assembly 1, in particular a balance setting screw. In the non-limiting method of use shown in the figures, each gripper arm 601 is movable in a gripper plane, in particular in a vertical plane in the vertical direction of the pass-through position, perpendicular to the gripper rotation axis DH or to the spindle axis DF parallel to the gripper rotation axis DH. Obviously, for other applications, the common plane of the gripper arms 601 may be spatially displaced.

The clamp arm 601 is designed to clamp the outer diameter, even the smallest, of all balance-type set screws.

More specifically, the clamp 600 is elastic and comprises at least one bearing portion 602 which is acted upon by an actuator or spindle 407 or an eccentric and/or a pusher comprised in the setting and/or adjusting module 400, and wherein any deformation of the at least one bearing portion 602 changes the relative mutual position of the arms 601 and deforms the clamp 600, which enables the use of the clamp 600 as a tool for setting.

More specifically, the clamp 600 is symmetrical with respect to the symmetry plane PS and comprises a first resilient arm 607 and/or a second resilient arm 604.

More specifically, the clamp 600 comprises a more rigid attachment area 603 than the resilient arms and the second resilient arms 604 for attaching the clamp 600 to the clamp holder body 401 comprised in the setup and/or adjustment module 400; this attachment may be achieved by a combination of at least one dowel pin driven into the pin hole 6030 shown in fig. 3 and at least one screw or the like attached at the height of the mount 608.

And more particularly, the clamp 600 includes at least one support portion 602 that is more rigid than the first and second resilient arms 607, 604.

Advantageously, the first resilient arm 607 is substantially aligned with the gripper arm 601.

The system may operate without abutting a complementary surface. Where applicable, the design of the spindle 407, particularly the cam, enables the clamp 600 to be rotated 360 ° without risk.

In a specific alternative embodiment, the attachment zone 603 comprises a limiting surface 605 arranged to cooperate under abutment pressure with a complementary limiting surface 606 comprised in the support portion 602 in order to limit the deformation of the clamp 600.

In the embodiment corresponding to fig. 1 to 3, the clamp 600 is held as a reference by two pins and a clamping screw. The shape of the clamp 600 is optimized so as not to exceed the maximum of the proof stress of the material and the force exerted by the spindle 407, in particular the cam. In the particular application of the adjustment mechanism, in particular in the action on the set screw of the balance, the profile (thickness, angular position) of the arms 601 and 604 is defined to be adapted to the space available in the balance for clamping the set screw, so as to enable the angular pivoting of the clamp 600 to perform its setting process without touching the watch case, and in a particular and non-limiting embodiment, to make it possible to have a clamping force of up to 40N per arm at the end of the cam stroke (about 0.6 mm).

In summary, the vertical axis Z enables to manage the lowering of the position of the clamp 600 at the height of the set screw, the control of the rotating clamp opening/closing axis Θ 1 triggering the opening of the clamp 600 to clamp the set screw, around which the clamp 600 is then closed. The process of rotating the clamp setting axis Θ 2 actuates the tightening or loosening of the setting screw, as would be done by the clockmaker.

For applications other than setting screws, the clamp 600 may be used as both a rotational positioning tool and a linearly moving tool, such as a rivet head, a nail, a pin punch, a chisel, a mandrel, or others. The fixture 600 may then be used as a deformation or engraving tool.

More specifically, the setup machine 1000 also includes at least one additional setup module, which is a drive module 300. The drive module 300 comprises drive means 301 arranged to drive at least one component or moving part, included in such a timepiece assembly 1 carried by the container 10, at least in rotation according to a command from the control means 3000.

More specifically, the drive module 300 is a balance drive module, as shown in fig. 4. The drive module 300 comprises a body 310 which is movable at least in a vertical direction Z parallel to the vertical direction of the position, and relative to which the motorized drive 301 is movable in an articulated manner, the drive rotating about a drive axis DC parallel to the vertical direction Z or substantially parallel to the vertical direction Z.

More specifically, in the non-limiting arrangement shown in fig. 4, the body 310 comprises positioning means 340 arranged to rotationally position at least one return arm 303, 304, with respect to which the actuator arm 302 supporting the actuator 301 is pivotally mounted about an intermediate axis DB parallel to the actuator axis DC, about an axis DN parallel to the vertical direction Z.

And the body 310 carries a drive means 330 for driving the drive 301 in rotation by means of a belt, or a chain, or a gear, or a cardan drive 320 or the like.

More specifically, the positioning device 340 is arranged to angularly position at least one return arm 304, to which is connected the actuator arm 302, or a front arm 303, which is connected to the actuator arm 302.

Fig. 4 therefore shows, on the one hand, a first motor 310 which rotates a belt 320, which drives the driver shaft 301 in rotation, and, on the other hand, a second motor 340 which rotates the entire assembly 310, 304, 303, 301, 320, 330 about its axis DN.

The arm can be retracted about its motor axis by means of the body. The arm is manually adjustable about 2 axes DA and DB. The setting is defined in terms of the aperture to be set.

More specifically, the main body 340 is carried by a crossed XZ moving table in a vertical plane passing through the vertical direction of the position, which moving table comprises a carriage 350 carried by a carriage 360 movable with respect to a table base 370 attached to the frame 2000.

The drive module 300 advantageously comprises an axis of rotation Θ 40 for the rotary drive 320, and the drive 301 is rotatable along the axis of rotation Θ 4.

This arrangement achieves optimal positioning of the rotary driver finger 301 relative to the balance.

More specifically, the setup machine 1000 further comprises at least one further setup module, which is a holding and/or support module 500, in particular a support finger module, and which comprises a holding and/or support device 501.

The holding and/or supporting means 501 are arranged to exert a substantially axial pressure on the moving parts or components of the assembly 1 during or after the setting and/or adjustment of the assembly 1 by the setting and/or adjusting module 400, or indeed to keep the moving parts or components out of contact by the action of a magnetic or electrostatic field, in a direction DE which, in certain applications, is parallel to the vertical direction of the position, or forms an angle of less than 10 ° with the vertical direction of the position.

In particular, in the particularly compact alternative embodiment shown in fig. 1, the at least one holding and/or supporting module 500 (in particular the supporting finger module) is supported by at least one positioning module 100. However, it may be independent and attached directly to the frame 2000 of the setup machine 1000, or attached to a movable carriage included in the setup machine 1000.

More specifically, in the non-limiting arrangement shown in fig. 5, the at least one holding and/or supporting module 500 comprises a main body 520 which rotates along a rotation axis Θ 3 to rotate with respect to a vertical direction DD parallel to the vertical direction of the position and which drives a carriage arm 502 which supports in a fixed or articulated manner the holding and/or supporting device 501.

This pressure design uses a similar principle as the setting jig 600, i.e., uses material elasticity. In applications where setting machine 1000 according to the invention is used to set a sprung balance oscillator, it is important to apply the lowest and most controllable possible pressure in order to prevent stresses on the balance shock mounts.

A first alternative embodiment of the pressure consists of a arbour with a bronze rest shoe guide, which by its own weight presses on the balance to lock it in rotation, and the guide play needs to be set precisely to ensure that the arbour falls down by its own weight, while preventing any locking of the balance or harmful axial stresses on the balance.

An alternative embodiment corresponding to the figures applies the supporting principle by means of elastic guides that fulfil these requirements. Preferably, the support system is slightly inclined so as not to create a shadow zone on the balance wheel which would interfere with the detection of the setting screws by the optical means included in the setting machine 1000, which explains the benefit of the slightly inclined direction DE.

In an alternative embodiment, the holding and/or supporting means 501 comprises a supporting finger which is a mass attached to the carriage arm 502 held guided by elastic guiding means 503 and arranged to hold the mass supported on the moving part or parts by applying a substantially vertical force. As shown in fig. 5, these elastic guide means 503 may in particular consist of two flexible strips, substantially parallel to each other and slightly inclined with respect to the horizontal, and forming with the support finger 501 and the structure supporting it a deformable parallelogram.

In a further alternative embodiment, not shown, the holding and/or supporting means 501 comprise a supporting finger, which is a mass guided in the housing of the carriage arm 502 and arranged to hold the moving part or parts by its own weight.

Advantageously, during the use of the measuring and/or testing means (which are optical means) of the acquisition module 200, the holding and/or supporting module 500 is arranged to orient said holding and/or supporting means 501 along a direction DE slightly inclined with respect to the vertical, in order to clear the field of view of these apparatuses.

More specifically, the body 520 is rotatable relative to the body 510, the body being movable along a vertical direction Z parallel to the vertical direction of the site relative to a structure 590 attached either to the frame 2000 or to a carriage 530, 570 movable relative to a base 580 attached to the frame 2000.

In alternative embodiments, the body 510 may be moved in a vertical direction Z relative to a carriage carried by the base carriage 570, a horizontal movement Y or X relative to a base 580 attached to the frame 2000 or a cross movement XY in a horizontal plane perpendicular to the vertical direction of the position.

In another alternative embodiment shown in fig. 5, the body 510 is movable relative to a structure 590, either attached to the frame 2000 or attached to carriages 530, 570 movable relative to a base 580 attached to the frame 2000, under the combined action of a rolling spindle 560 carried by the body 510 and a ramp 550 included in a ramp carriage 540, which is movable relative to the base carriage 570 in a horizontal plane perpendicular to the vertical direction of the location along the horizontal direction X.

In summary, the holding and/or supporting module 500 is arranged to hold a moving part or component of the assembly 1 in a substantially axial position in the vertical direction Z or in the direction DE during or after driving of the moving part or component by the driving means of the at least one driving module 300. Such a maintenance of the axial position is suitable at the end of the driving of the moving part or the part.

The holding and/or supporting module 500 provides a safe alternative to conventional dead second type mechanisms, the straps of which are prone to damage to the balance. Axis Z enables the lowering of the support finger 501 and axis Θ 3 enables the rotation of the arm 502.

More specifically, the acquisition module 200 includes a viewing device for scanning the work area. In particular, in applying setting machine 1000 to setting a sprung balance oscillator, the observation device is arranged to detect the entire surface of the balance, or any area required for setting the set screws. These observation means are also able to detect the number or type of set screws or to read the engravings made on the felloe of the balance to determine the number and type of set screws.

More specifically, the acquisition module 200 is movable at least along a vertical direction Z parallel to the vertical direction of the position and comprises observation means arranged to determine the position of the moving part or the surface of the part and/or to determine the nature and position of at least one positioning mechanism comprised in the assembly 1, such as a setting screw, an inertial mass, a balance spring peg, an index or the like.

More specifically, the acquisition module 200 is movable along a vertical direction Z parallel to the vertical direction of the position and comprises observation means and laser measurement means, as well as automatic adjustment means of the observation and laser focus position with respect to the moving part or part of the assembly 1 carried by the container 10, for the precise determination of the position of the top surface of the moving part or part along the vertical direction.

More specifically, the setup machine 1000 includes at least one optical module 700 carried directly or indirectly by the frame 2000, or by the positioning module 100, or the acquisition module 200, or one of the setup modules 300, 400, 500 included in the setup machine 1000. The optical module 700 interfaces with a control device 3000 for optically testing a component or moving part during its setup or during the oscillations to which it is subjected.

More specifically, the positioning module 100 and/or the acquisition module 200 comprise identification means for identifying the container 10, advantageously comprising a container identification mark or index or component, and for identifying each assembly 1 carried by the container 10, said assembly 1 advantageously comprising a product identification mark or index or component.

More specifically, the setting machine 1000 comprises at least one such optical module 700 carried directly or indirectly by the frame 2000 and interfaced with the control means 3000 for optically testing the mobile parts or components during their setting or during the oscillations to which they are subjected and/or forming means for identifying the container 10 and for identifying each assembly 1 carried by the container 10.

More specifically, each container 10 comprises a substantially planar support surface 190 for receiving the assembly 1, which, in a specific horizontal operating position, extends in a substantially planar manner along a horizontal plane perpendicular to a vertical direction Z parallel to the vertical direction of the position.

Of course, the setting machine 1000 may comprise a manipulator to move such a container 10 in space, which makes it possible, in the case of an assembly 1 comprising an oscillator intended to test a timepiece characteristic, to present the assembly 1 in a standard timepiece test position, in a static position at different angles, or to carry out a dynamic test through a standard position and orientation, as described in particular in document EP3486734 held by montes BREGUET.

The container 10 includes a positioning and orienting device relative to the table 109 of the positioning module 100.

More specifically, container 10 is a support that includes a spring mechanism 180 below its support surface 190 for receiving assembly 1 and a locking wedge 102 of assembly 1 above support surface 190. The container 10 further comprises angular orientation means 103 between the support surface and the locking wedge 102 for angular orientation of the edge of the assembly 1 in the abutment pressure on the support.

Fig. 8 to 10 show in sequence: preparing a support for receiving the watch head, the support having two clamps or locking wedges 102, which are forks arranged to bear on the corners 101 of the watch head; placing the watch head 1 on the spring mechanism 180 and supported on the support surface 190 and in an angular position in which the angle 101 is outside the arms of the fork of the locking wedge 102; finally, the watch head 1 is then rotated into an angular abutment pressure position in which one of the corners 101 rests on the pin 103, the pin 103 forming an angular orientation means guided in the pin housing 105, the spring mechanism 180 ensuring good retention in the abutment pressure position. The watch head is held in the vertical direction Z by a locking wedge 102, the bottom surface 104 of which bears on the corner 101 of the watch head. The head is supported on the glass and is centered at the level of the bezel or the case. The spring mechanism 180 ensures a controlled bearing force. More specifically, the container 10 comprises an interchangeable unit 110 which carries the locking wedge 102 and the pin housing 105, and which are both adapted to a specific type of movement or watch head.

It will be appreciated that such containers may then be handled like machining center pallets and moved between input stations, optional storage and output stations via set up and/or adjustment locations on the set up machine 1000. To this end, in an alternative embodiment not shown in the drawings, the container 10 may comprise, in particular on its bottom face, gripping means (jaw or ISO or SA cones, T-shaped grooves, dovetails or the like) and similar positioning means (holes, pins, grooves or others) similar to those comprised in machining centre trays.

More specifically, the setup machine 1000 includes a palletizing mechanism for automatically replacing the containers 10 on the positioning module 100.

In an alternative embodiment, after replacing the container 10 on the table of the station whose position has not been changed, a simple palletization is performed, for example the palletizer 900 transfers the container 10 to the frequency analyzer 800 without changing the position of the positioning module and optionally returns the container 10 to fine tune the correction of the balance.

In another alternative embodiment, the setup machine 1000 is directly equipped with a means for initiating oscillation and includes an optical device 700 with a camera and a watch for optical testing of frequency.

Advantageously, the setup machine 1000 is equipped with means for testing the velocity after setup. Such a palletizer 900 may also be used to transport containers 10 to such a device.

More specifically, and when the assembly 1 comprises an oscillator, the setting machine 1000 comprises a frequency analyzer 800 and/or a clock testing device coupled with the control means 3000, programmed to trigger the setting on the setting mechanism to repeat until the desired frequency and/or rate tolerance is entered.

It is simple to set the balance set screw using the setting machine 1000, which simply requires that any oscillating masses be cleared from the work area in advance. The container 10 is positioned under a viewing device of the acquisition module 200 that defines the position of the balance axis along XY and, if desired, controls XY movement of the container 10 or, in alternative embodiments, controls angular movement of the container, or more complex movements combining rotation and translation. The search for the set screw is performed by rubbing the felloe driving the balance by the driver 301. And then descends along Z. Once the set screw is in the adjustment position in the plane, its vertical position is measured: laser position measurement in the Z-direction of the set screw may be performed on the shoulder or flat area of the set screw, the geometric parameters of which are known and managed by the control device 3000. This in fact involves positioning the arms 601 of the clamp 600 precisely symmetrically with respect to the axis in which the screws are set, so that no further torque is generated on the screws other than the tightening or loosening torque. The balance is then locked into place with support fingers 501 to hold the balance in place and a slight strain is created on the balance when the clamp is closed, which results in a maximum movement of about 30 microns in the Z direction; the actuator 301 is then released. Adjustment is then made by tightening or loosening the set screw.

The invention also relates to a method for setting and/or adjusting at least one timepiece component using such a setting machine 1000. The method includes relative movement between the different modules of the setting machine 1000, described herein with respect to the setting machine shown in the drawings, and those skilled in the art will be able to push this to similar configurations depending on the mobility or non-mobility of each module and the arrangement of the working axes of the different units. Thus, all of these movements are relative movements.

According to the method:

at least one container 10 is equipped with at least one assembly 1, which is a timepiece movement or a watch in axial direction a, and for which it is intended to set and/or adjust at least one moving part or component of this assembly 1;

its axial direction a is aligned with the vertical direction of the position,

the acquisition module 200, the setting and/or adjustment module 400 and each setting module 300, 500 comprised in the setting machine 1000 are cleared at the end of the stroke in order to free the work area for measurement, setting and/or adjustment;

the container 10 is loaded onto the positioning module 100;

the position of the container 10 is brought into correspondence with the position of the work area and, to do so, depending on the configuration of the setting machine 1000, either the container 10 is conveyed into the work area or all or some of the modules forming the setting machine 1000 are conveyed above the container 10;

the positioning module 100 is conveyed below the acquisition module 200;

-determining a target setting value for at least one parameter;

the values of at least the parameters measured on the at least one assembly 1 are sent to the control means 3000;

-selecting a programmed cycle of the acquisition module 200 to measure at least the position of the top surface of the moving part or part along the vertical direction of said position;

the positions and any measurements taken according to the programming cycle are sent to the control means 3000 which generate the positioning movements of the positioning module 100 to place the assembly 1 in the setting position according to the selected programming cycle and/or generate the movement and operating commands to each setting module 300, 400, 500 included in the setting machine 1000 according to the programmed sequence at the work area.

More specifically, the setting machine 1000 is equipped with at least one holding and/or supporting module 500 arranged to exert a pressure on the moving parts or components of the assembly 1 during or after setting and/or adjustment of the assembly 1 by means of another setting module 300, 400, 500, or indeed to keep the moving parts or components out of contact by the action of a magnetic or electrostatic field, in particular along a vertical direction DE parallel to the vertical direction of the position. This pressure remains suitable at the end of the actuation of the moving part or the part.

More specifically, the setting machine 1000 is equipped with at least one drive module 300 comprising a motorized drive 301 for driving the moving part or parts, rotating about a drive axis DC parallel to the vertical direction Z.

More specifically, the setup machine 1000 is equipped with at least one setup and/or adjustment module 400, which comprises a clamp 600 for driving or deforming a moving part or component, and the parameters are set by actuating the clamp 600 on at least one moving part or component of the assembly 1.

More specifically, the setup machine 1000 is equipped with at least one optical module 700 for optically testing the moving part or parts during their setup or during the oscillations to which they are subjected.

More specifically, the setup machine 1000 is equipped with at least one device for measuring parameters that interfaces with the control device 3000, and the setup cycle is repeated until a parameter value compatible with the target value is obtained.

More specifically, the setting machine 1000 is equipped with at least one palletizer 900 to remove the containers 10 from the setting machine 1000 into an output position stored in a storage section, the palletizer being intended to subject the containers 10 to means for measuring parameters and then to return the containers 10 to the output position to restart the setting and/or conditioning cycle of the assembly 1.

More specifically, the setting machine 1000 is equipped with at least one device for measuring a parameter, in order to measure the value of the parameter before restarting the setting and/or adjustment cycle of the assembly 1.

In applications where a sprung balance oscillator is provided, the simplest implementation of the method is an open loop: receiving the previously measured assembly 1, knowing the values of the corrections to be made, inputting the target and actual values of the watch or movement; then, the calibration of the set screws is performed mechanically and the assembly 1 is returned without testing.

For example, the following sequence describes the operations performed on a watch 1 comprising a balance equipped with two setting screws in an application in which only the balance and its setting screws are actuated:

step a 1: loading the watch head 1 in the support of the container 10;

step a2 (station 01): detecting the center of a balance wheel shaft, and carrying out position correction to obtain a mechanical origin;

step a3 (station 01): a rotating balance wheel;

step a4 (station 01): detecting, by a camera system, a first set screw;

step a5 (station 01): locking the balance in place;

step a6 (station 02): moving under the laser sensor, and measuring the position of the balance wheel along the Z direction;

step a7 (station 03): tightening and setting the screw;

step A8 (station 01): returning to the set screw detection position;

step a9 (station 01): performing, by a camera system, a rotation of a balance for setting the screw detection;

step a10 (station 01): locking the balance in place;

step a11 (station 02): moving under the laser sensor, and measuring the position of the balance wheel along the Z direction;

step a12 (station 03): tightening and setting the screw;

step a 13: -unloading the gauge head from the support,

of course, the order is set according to the number of set screws.

In the above example, the clamp 600 acts only on the set screws: the screw is tightened or loosened to change the inertia of the balance. Since the clamp 600 is preferably a unitary member, the opening/closing clamp 600 utilizes elasticity of a material. A spindle 407 (in particular with a cam profile) controlled by a motor opens/closes the clamp 600.

The acquisition module 200 includes a laser that detects the block in which the set screw is placed. The laser makes it possible to define the position of the balance along Z, so as to transmit the clamp 600 on the same axis as the set screws, since the aim is to tighten/loosen the screws on the axis so as not to exert parasitic torques. The target value (e.g., 2.5 seconds/day) is processed on the level of the control device 3000. The current rate value is entered by the software. This system allows a reduced overall cycle time of about 50 to 70 seconds, depending on the number of screws to be set.

The use in a closed loop requires that the setting machine be equipped with an analyzer, which makes it complex and requires more space, but makes it possible to check the acquisition of the target values on the station.

The following loop may then be performed:

phase B1: inputting a target value and an actual value of the watch;

phase B2: correcting the set screws on the machine according to steps a1 to a 12;

phase B3: releasing the movement/gauge head after the set screw has been corrected;

phase B4: carrying out speed test on the movement or the gauge head on analysis equipment;

phase B5: checking for deviations between the target value and the actual value;

phase B6:

-if the deviation is zero, verification of the correction is made, unloading according to a 13;

-if the deviation is positive, then an additional correction is required, and then the process is repeated:

phase B7: inputting a target value and a measured value of the watch;

phase B8: set screws on the calibration machine;

phase B9: releasing the movement/gauge head after the set screw has been corrected;

phase B10: carrying out speed test on the machine core or the gauge head on an analyzer;

phase B11: checking for deviations between the target value and the actual value;

phase B12:

-if the deviation is zero, verifying the correction made and the component 1, unloaded according to a 13;

-if the deviation is positive, removing the assembly 1 without verification at test station B13.

In addition, the setup machine 1000 may be equipped with a camera coupled to a clock for optical frequency testing.

The setting machine according to the invention can be used for various horological applications.

More specifically, the setting machine 1000 is used to set a setting screw, which is a balance inertia mass or balance plate setting screw or balance spring stud setting screw, or an indexing setting screw, or an alignment setting screw, or for setting an index.

More specifically, the machine 1000 is configured for indexing, or alignment, or positional setting in a slot, or otherwise, by adjusting and actuating a screw or center punch along the Z.

More specifically, machine 1000 is provided for the local deformation of a plate or a balance spring or an arm or a felloe of a balance.

In summary, the present invention provides various advantages:

-the fastening of the set screw using a movable clamp is performed with a play-free clamp, since it consists of a one-piece clamp, operating in the elastic region of the material, which ensures the precision of the set values; the clamp shown is able to withstand a clamping force of 40N, in practice 20N is sufficient to handle the set screw safely without risk of breaking it;

-there is no limit to the correction value and a plurality of tightening and loosening cycles of the set screw can be performed without loss of accuracy;

the digital control system of the setting screw setting process ensures the precision of the setting values, has a certain cycle to compensate for play, and setting flexibility, since the setting screw to be corrected can be selected;

-performing said setting once and making it possible to obtain values of the order of +/-1 second per day, independently of the caliber;

the detection of the position of the set screw is automatic and in the usual case two or four set screws can be set at a time;

no stress is exerted on the movement due to the digital arbour and the automatic process for detecting the centre of the balance, the position along balance Z and the position of the set screw;

no manual tools are used, which ensures that the components of the watch do not deteriorate or break;

-there is no stress on the balance during the setting due to the supporting fingers;

the all-digital process avoids any need to compare with a standard balance;

the machine is compatible with all calibers, even the smallest ones, since the clamp allows operations that cannot be performed correctly with tweezers, keys or dedicated setting tools in full safety.

A workstation equipped with such a highly compact setting machine is easy to use and has good ergonomics. In fact, the limited size of the setting machine 1000 facilitates its integration with the worktop 4000 of a traditional clockmaker, in which the setting machine 1000 occupies only about half the length.