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EP3641584B1 - Bracelet clasp comprising a device for adjusting the length of the bracelet - Google Patents

Bracelet clasp comprising a device for adjusting the length of the bracelet Download PDF

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Publication number
EP3641584B1
EP3641584B1 EP18740109.6A EP18740109A EP3641584B1 EP 3641584 B1 EP3641584 B1 EP 3641584B1 EP 18740109 A EP18740109 A EP 18740109A EP 3641584 B1 EP3641584 B1 EP 3641584B1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
clasp
blade
bracelet
length
longitudinal
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
EP18740109.6A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP3641584A1 (en
Inventor
Elio Granito
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.)
Dexel SA
Original Assignee
Dexel 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
Priority claimed from EP17177222.1A external-priority patent/EP3417735A1/en
Priority claimed from EP17177218.9A external-priority patent/EP3417734B1/en
Application filed by Dexel SA filed Critical Dexel SA
Publication of EP3641584A1 publication Critical patent/EP3641584A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP3641584B1 publication Critical patent/EP3641584B1/en
Active legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

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Classifications

    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A44HABERDASHERY; JEWELLERY
    • A44CPERSONAL ADORNMENTS, e.g. JEWELLERY; COINS
    • A44C5/00Bracelets; Wrist-watch straps; Fastenings for bracelets or wrist-watch straps
    • A44C5/18Fasteners for straps, chains or the like
    • A44C5/22Fasteners for straps, chains or the like for closed straps
    • A44C5/24Fasteners for straps, chains or the like for closed straps with folding devices
    • A44C5/246Fasteners for straps, chains or the like for closed straps with folding devices having size adjusting means

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to the field of bracelets, in particular for watches. It concerns a clasp for a bracelet allowing the length of the bracelet to be adjusted.
  • the invention also relates to a length adjustment device and a wristwatch, not claimed, comprising the clasp and/or the length adjustment device.
  • a wristwatch clasp generally comprises two fastening members for attaching the free ends of the bracelet, and a locking or closing mechanism for locking the two fastening members, and thus the free ends of the bracelet, in a stable closed position or locking. This position also constitutes the service position, since it allows the wristwatch to be worn on the wrist.
  • clasps for example the pin buckle or the folding clasps, whose aesthetics are well appreciated.
  • Clasps and bracelets for wristwatches generally include means for adjusting the length of the bracelet.
  • the free end of one of the two strands of the bracelet comprises a series of holes distributed in the longitudinal direction of the bracelet.
  • the free end of the other strand of the bracelet is provided with a connection device, for example a pin buckle, making it possible to join the two strands by inserting the pin into the hole corresponding to the desired length.
  • a connection device for example a pin buckle
  • Wrist size varies greatly from wearer to wearer.
  • the size of a wearer's wrist may vary with changes in temperature. The same wearer may therefore wish to regularly finely adjust the length of the bracelet to be perfectly comfortable.
  • the state of the art knows clasps for wristwatches which allow fine adjustment of the length of the bracelet. This is a mechanism arranged to allow modification of the circumference defined by the case of the watch, the bracelet, and the clasp, when the clasp is closed, in order to adapt this circumference to the size of the wrist of an individual wearer. This modification takes place on a smaller scale than that defined by the spacing of the holes in a strand of leather bracelet or by the links of a metal bracelet, for example. Fine adjustment is desirable to precisely adapt the aforementioned circumference to the wrist of each wearer.
  • the fine adjustment device of a clasp for a bracelet comprises a moving part arranged on a part of the clasp and carrying one of the two fixing members, the other fixing member being attached to another part of the clasp .
  • the fine adjustment can be made by moving the moving part relative to the clasp assembly, and locking it in the position corresponding to the desired bracelet length.
  • the fine adjustment device includes a notch or toothing, which defines the discrete length positions of the fine adjustment.
  • the notching can also be part of the device making it possible to block the moving part in a position of desired length.
  • the document CH 704 335 discloses a folding clasp, in which a fastening member is attached to a carriage arranged to slide in a housing arranged on a blade of the clasp.
  • the clasp comprises a pull tab arranged to cooperate with the carriage and capable of occupying two axial positions so that the carriage is locked and unlocked when the pull tab is respectively in one or the other of the two axial positions.
  • a disadvantage of this mechanism is the fact that at least one of the two opposite pushers of the pull tab is projecting relative to the side walls of the blade of the clasp. The projecting pusher is likely to catch on an external object, for example on a piece of clothing.
  • the bracelet length can be adjusted independently of the state - closed or open - of the clasp.
  • an objective of the present invention is to reduce the thickness, that is to say the extension of the clasp in the radial direction with respect to the axis of the wrist of a wearer.
  • Another object of the invention is to reduce the weight of the clasp, for example to reduce the quantity of metal used in the manufacture and to make the clasp easier to wear.
  • the fine adjustment device is arranged in a yoke or an upper cover, which contributes to the increase in thickness and to the overall size of the clasp.
  • the document EP2740381A1 discloses a folding clasp.
  • the movable part is arranged at one end of a blade of the clasp so as to extend beyond the end of the blade when the bracelet is lengthened. In this case, the movable part becomes visible as an extension of the clasp.
  • An object of the invention is to provide a clasp making it possible to adjust the length without this changing the appearance of the clasp from the outside.
  • a clasp whose adjustment mechanism remains discreet and integrates into the general shape of the clasp may be desirable.
  • one objective is to avoid the presence of notches visible from the outside or else of longitudinal openings arranged along a side wall of a clevis of a clasp with a folding clasp.
  • An object of the present invention is to present a clasp making it possible to activate the length adjustment when the clasp is closed, and this preferably without a dedicated and separate actuating member, such as a pusher, a pull tab or yet a slider is visible from the outside when the clasp is closed.
  • the present invention relates to a clasp for bracelets of the type comprising first and second free ends, the clasp comprising first and second bracelet attachment members intended to be secured respectively to said first and second free ends of the bracelet.
  • the subject of the present invention is a clasp with a folding clasp for a bracelet allowing adjustment of the length of the bracelet, said clasp comprising at least two blades hinged with respect to each other.
  • the subject of the description is a clasp comprising: a first blade and at least one second blade, articulated with respect to one another, the second blade comprising two side rails; a first fixing member connected to the first blade and intended to be secured to a first free end of the strap; a second fixing member intended to be secured to a second free end of the bracelet; a locking mechanism arranged to immobilize said first and second blades in the closed position of the clasp when said first and second blades are brought together and folded towards each other; a device for adjusting the length of the bracelet comprising: a movable part to which one of the two of said first and/or second fixing member is attached (preferably said first fixing member), said movable part being arranged so as to be able to moving longitudinally relative to the longitudinal direction of the strap to effect length adjustment; and a blocking device arranged to block the movement of the movable part in at least one direction of longitudinal movement.
  • the subject of the present invention is a clasp with a folding clasp for a bracelet allowing adjustment of the length of the bracelet, said clasp comprising: a first blade and a second blade, articulated with respect to each other, the second blade comprising two side rails, a first fixing member connected to the first blade and intended to be secured to a first free end of the strap; a second fixing member, intended to be secured to a second free end of the strap; a locking mechanism for holding said first and second slats in the closed hard clasp position when said slats are brought together and folded over one another, said locking mechanism comprising a manipulation member intended to be activated by a user to unlock the locking mechanism and to open the clasp; a device for adjusting the length of the bracelet comprising: a movable part to which a of the two of said first and/or second fastening member is attached (preferably said first fastening member), said movable part being arranged so as to be able to move longitudinally with respect to the longitudinal direction of the bracelet when adjusting the length
  • the subject of the description is a folding buckle clasp comprising: at least a first blade and a second blade, hinged relative to each other, a first fixing member connected to the first blade and intended to be secured to a first free end of the bracelet; a second fixing member, intended to be secured to a second free end of the bracelet; a device for adjusting the length of the bracelet comprising: a movable part to which one of the two of said first or second fixing members is attached, said movable part being arranged so as to be able to move longitudinally with respect to the longitudinal direction of the bracelet when of the length adjustment, a blocking device arranged to block the movement of the movable part in at least one direction of longitudinal movement, the clasp comprising a manipulation member, arranged so that an activation of said manipulation member by a user induces the unlocking of said locking device and allows the movement of the movable part in said at least one direction of longitudinal movement, characterized in that said movable part and/or locking device is arranged on said first blade
  • the description relates to a clasp with a folding clasp for a bracelet allowing adjustment of the length of the bracelet, said clasp comprising at least two blades hinged relative to each other, characterized in that that at least one of said blades comprises a part comprising a non-metallic material or the entire blade comprises a non-metallic material.
  • the present invention relates to a clasp, in particular a bracelet clasp.
  • the invention relates to a clasp for a timepiece bracelet, preferably for a wristwatch.
  • the bracelet can be of any type, such as for example in flexible plastic material, in leather, or comprising an assembly of links, metallic for example.
  • the bracelet consists of two longitudinal bracelet portions, respectively in the form of first and second strands (not shown), and each of the strands is such that one of its ends is connected to the case of the watch while that the other is intended to be attached to a fastening member of the clasp.
  • the end of one of the two strands has a series of holes, and the length is roughly adjusted by choosing the hole in which the barb is inserted.
  • the expressions "direction of the length of the bracelet” or “longitudinal direction of the bracelet” are used to designate an axis which is that of the two bracelet strands, assuming that the bracelet is laid out flat and detached from a watch.
  • the “bracelet length direction” refers to the line that follows the circumference of the bracelet.
  • the bracelet length adjusted by fine adjustment using the clasp adjustment device according to the invention is in the direction of the bracelet length.
  • an axis connecting the numerals 6 and 12 on the dial generally follows the direction of the strap length in accordance with this definition.
  • the clasp shown in the figures is substantially symmetrical and therefore comprises a plane which would constitute a plane of symmetry if the clasp is perfectly symmetrical.
  • this plane which extends in the direction of the length of the bracelet and the clasp is considered as "plane of symmetry", even if the symmetry of the clasp is not perfect, for example due to the positioning of the device length adjustment and its locking mechanism.
  • orthogonal refers to an axis which is perpendicular to the "bracelet length direction” and perpendicular to the plane of symmetry of the clasp.
  • an axis connecting the numerals 3 and 9 of the dial has an "orthogonal" direction in accordance with this definition.
  • a “radial” axis is an axis that is radial to the axis of the wrist or forearm of a wristwatch wearer.
  • the radial axis extends in the plane of symmetry or in a plane parallel to the plane of symmetry.
  • the "radial" axis is a substantially “vertical” axis, and the two terms are used interchangeably herein.
  • bottom and top generally refer respectively to the bottom and top of the clasp as shown in Figure 3B .
  • the expressions “below” and “above” are to be understood analogously, the structural elements close to the wrist being below the more distant elements.
  • the clasp of the invention is a clasp of the folding type, a folding clasp or a folding clasp.
  • This type of clasp is known, for example, from patent documents EP 0913106 , CH700230 , EP2452583 , EP2361523 and CH704335 .
  • the clasp has at least two longitudinal clasp segments. In the present description, these longitudinal segments are also called “the blades" of the clasp.
  • a clasp comprises two or three longitudinal segments. Clasps shown in the figures are clasps with two blades 1, 2. Of course, it would be entirely possible to produce the clasp of the invention with a folding clasp with three blades or even with a clasp of the pin buckle type only.
  • the present invention also contemplates clasps which combine the characteristics of a folding clasp with a strap strand attachment known from the pin buckle.
  • a clasp of the pin buckle type in the absence of a folding clasp corresponds to one embodiment of the invention.
  • the device for fine adjustment of the length of the bracelet according to the invention can be adapted to any type of clasp and is not limited to a particular type of clasp.
  • the clasp shown in the figures 1-12 comprises a first blade 1 and a second blade 2, hinged relative to each other at a first end.
  • the blades 1, 2 are brought together and folded over one another as shown in figures 1, 2, 3B , 11A, 11B .
  • the blades 1, 2 are elongated in the longitudinal direction of the bracelet and slightly curved to better match the shape of the wrist of a wearer.
  • the first blade 1 comprises a lower surface 44 ( picture 2 ), intended to be in front of the wrist of the wearer, and an upper surface 21 ( figure 4 ).
  • the clasp of the invention comprises a locking mechanism 3 making it possible to lock the clasp in the closed position, and to unlock the clasp in order to pass into the open position ( figure 3A , 4 , 5 , 6A, 6B ) to remove the watch from the wrist.
  • Locking means for folding clasps are known per se.
  • the locking mechanism is based on the presence of a snap mechanism, for example formed by extra thicknesses and possibly by recesses, respectively, on the first and second blade.
  • a snap mechanism for example formed by extra thicknesses and possibly by recesses, respectively, on the first and second blade.
  • a user acts directly on a slat in order to exert the force necessary to separate the slats or to lock them by interlocking them, for example.
  • the disadvantage of this mechanism is that wear can make the ratcheting less effective. On the other hand, there is always the risk of accidental opening with this type of closure.
  • the clasp of the invention comprises a locking mechanism comprising a manipulation member arranged in such a way that an activation of this member is necessary to open the clasp.
  • the advantage of this type of mechanism is that accidental opening is excluded.
  • the mechanical principle of the locking mechanism 3 of the clasp shown in the figures is similar to that disclosed in the European patent EP0913106B .
  • the locking mechanism 3 preferably comprises two lateral manipulation members, a first manipulation member 7 and a second manipulation member 7'.
  • a wearer simultaneously activates the two members 7, 7'.
  • These manipulation members 7, 7' protrude from each side of the frame 20, in which they are guided and/or housed.
  • This frame is preferably arranged at the second end of the first blade 1.
  • the second fixing member is preferably attached to the frame 20. It may be a spring bar held, for example, between two side walls of the frame or of the yoke.
  • a hole 45 is visible on the inner face of a side wall of the frame 20, allowing the spring bar to be housed together with a corresponding hole arranged on the opposite wall (not visible).
  • the frame 20 of the clasp shown in the figures comprises a recess 46, provided to insert the manufacturer's logo, for example.
  • Each of the manipulation members 7, 7' is connected to one of the two side beams, 14, 14' of the second blade 2.
  • the connection (not visible) between the beams and their respective manipulation members is located at the second end of the second blade, in the frame 20.
  • each of the two manipulation members 7, 7′ can be made in one piece with one of the two side rails.
  • the side rails 14, 14' are not rigidly connected to each other, but are engaged in the frame 20 so as to be able to move slightly in the general plane of the clasp, in an orthogonal direction. This freedom of movement can come from the flexibility of the beams, or at least from the second end thereof.
  • the two spars 14, 14' are two separate pieces, joined together with the articulation of the second blade, towards the first end.
  • the two spars 14, 14' are rigidly connected to a common base, generally close to the first end, but they have free ends, which can move relative to each other due to the flexibility of the spars .
  • the frame 20 further comprises return means, for example a spring, which urge the manipulation members 7, 7' as well as the side rails 14, 14' towards the locking position, generally the outer lateral positions of the rails.
  • the return means are not visible in the drawings, because they are integrated into the frame 20. The return means are thus arranged so as to hold the members 7, 7' in a position remote from each other. .
  • the manipulation members 7, 7' are made in the form of pushers 7, 7'.
  • a wearer brings the pushers and the side rails 14, 14' closer together.
  • the locking mechanism 3 comprises at least two attachment members or complementary attachment members 22, 23, a first stop shape 22 arranged on the first blade 1 and a second stop shape 23 disposed on the second blade 2, said stop forms 22, 23 being arranged to lock the clasp in the closed position when the stop forms 22, 23 are engaged.
  • the activation of the manipulation member 7, 7' causes the disengagement of said complementary stop shapes 22, 23 in order to unlock the locking mechanism 3.
  • the first stop shape 23 is arranged on the side member 14 , and the latter is arranged to act on the actuating member 9 when the clasp is closed and when the manipulation member 7 is activated by a user, as will be described below.
  • Each spar 14, 14' has, on its outer side, a protruding member in the form of a hook 23 ( figure 4 , 6A ).
  • a recess or corresponding stopping surface 22 ( figures 4, 5 ) is formed in the inner side of each spar 15, 15 'of the first blade 1, for receive the hook 23 when the second blade 2 is completely folded over the first blade 1.
  • the hooks 23 have rounded shapes below and flattened retention surfaces extending in a plane perpendicular to the plane of symmetry of the clasp.
  • the surfaces of the recesses 22 in contact with the retention surfaces of the hooks 23 are also flattened and perpendicular to the plane of symmetry of the clasp.
  • the hooks 23 ensure automatic locking with positive engagement, when the second blade 2 is pressed towards the first blade 1, even if the pushers 7, 7' are not depressed.
  • Accidental opening of the clasp is prevented thanks to the complementary flattened surfaces, as long as the longerons 14, 14' of the second blade 2 have not been brought closer by activating the pushers 7, 7'.
  • the longerons 14, 14' of the second strip 2 are not inserted between the sides of the longerons 15, 15' of the first strip 1.
  • the longerons 14, 14' are placed at the least partially above the longitudinal members 15, 15' of the first blade when the clasp is closed.
  • Each of the hooks 23 is arranged laterally on a bulge 24 located on the underside of the spar 14, so that the hook is at a lowered level relative to the general plane of the spar 14 ( Figure 6A ).
  • the first blade 1 comprises, at its second end, an extension forming a frame 18 provided to accommodate and/or guide the end of a bracelet strand.
  • This frame comprises two lateral extensions 28 connected towards their ends by a transverse plate 29 ( figure 4 and 8 ).
  • the side extensions 28 comprise a structure 31 in elevation with respect to the upper surface of the first blade.
  • the surfaces of the recess 22 are arranged on the inner face of the structure 31 in elevation, so as to be arranged above the general plane of the first blade.
  • the support surfaces of the hooks 23 are in the same plane as the lower surfaces of the beams 14, 14'.
  • the bearing surfaces in the recesses 23 are in the same plane as the upper surfaces 21 of the first blade 1. It will emerge from the rest of the description that these characteristics contribute to the implementation of a particularly light and little clasp. bulky.
  • the present invention also covers a variant of the locking mechanism 4, according to which the side rails 14, 14' are arranged so as to move away or to move apart when the manipulation member 7, 7' is activated. , to unlock the locking mechanism.
  • one or both manipulation members 7, 7' are arranged in such a way as to be pulled, instead of being pushed in, in order to allow movement of the beams 14, 14' and thus the unlocking of the locking mechanism .
  • the manipulation member(s) is/are then preferably made in the form of a pull tab rather than a pair of pushers. In this case, it can also be a separation movement or an approximation of the beams 14, 14 'causing the unlocking.
  • the presence of return means such as a spring, is preferred, in order to bias the clasp into the locked position in the absence of activation of the manipulation member 7, 7'.
  • the parts containing the beams 14, 14' as well as the manipulation members 7, 7' intersect inside the frame 20, so that each beam is connected to the manipulator on the opposite lateral side ( figure 13 ).
  • the spar 14 is preferably connected to the manipulation member 7', and the spar 14' to the member 7.
  • the manipulation member and the corresponding spar are preferably made of also a room.
  • the manipulation members 7, 7' can be made in the form of pushers, and the activation of these manipulation members can cause the beams 14, 14' to move apart.
  • the clasp of the invention comprises a device for adjusting the length 4 of the bracelet. It is preferably a device allowing fine adjustment of the length.
  • length adjustment or “fine length adjustment” is meant a device making it possible to adjust the circumference defined by the case of a watch, the two bracelet strands and the clasp. The aim is to allow a wearer to adjust this circumference so that the wearer is most comfortable when wearing the wristwatch comprising the clasp on his wrist.
  • the fine adjustment of the length results in a tightening or a loosening of the bracelet on the wrist, depending on whether the length is shortened or lengthened. This latter adjustment can be made on a smaller and more precise scale than adjustment by adding or removing a link from a metal bracelet or by inserting the barb or lug into another. hole in the case of a pin buckle, for example.
  • the expression “adjusting the useful length of the bracelet” is also used.
  • the adjustment device 4 is integrated into a central support structure 6 of the clasp.
  • the central support structure 6 is integral with the first blade 1, but could also be formed in one piece with the first blade 1.
  • the support structure 6 constitutes the first blade 1.
  • the adjustment device 4 comprises a moving part or part 5 to which the first fixing member 11 is attached. This member is intended to be secured to a first free end of the bracelet.
  • the first fixing member comprises two tenons 11, intended to be inserted into the holes provided in the free end of a bracelet strand.
  • the movable part 5 is made in the form of a slide, housed in a channel 32 made in the central structure 6.
  • the inner side walls of the channel 32 are formed in such a way as to retain and guide the slide so that it can move in the longitudinal direction.
  • each of the side walls of the channel 32 comprises a groove, arranged to receive the side flanges present on the slide 5, so as to allow sliding in the longitudinal direction of the movable part 5.
  • the movable part 5 is housed in a free end 8 of the central structure 6 to emerge from the end 8.
  • the movable part 5 is arranged on the support structure 6 so as to be able to move longitudinally with respect to the longitudinal direction of the strap to adjust the length.
  • the movement in the longitudinal direction causes the movable part 5 to emerge more from the end 8 of the central support structure 6, and during a shortening, the movable part 5 moves in the opposite direction longitudinal direction, so as to fit further into the support 6.
  • the clasp includes a blocking device arranged to block the movement of the movable part 5 in at least one direction of longitudinal movement.
  • This blocking device is illustrated in figures 9A, 9B and 9C .
  • the locking device comprises a notch or a toothing 33, preferably a ratchet toothing, arranged on the movable part 5, a jaw or an antagonist tooth 34 connected to an actuating member 9, and a means of reminder 37, arranged to urge the blocking device into the blocked position, so as to prevent movement of the movable part 5 in at least one direction along the longitudinal direction of the bracelet.
  • the actuating member 9 is a pusher, connected to the jaw 34.
  • the movable part 5 comprises a detent 33, and the jaw 34 is arranged to cooperate with this detent 33 and to block the movement of the movable part 5 in the absence of an actuation of the actuating member 9.
  • the blocking device further comprises a rod or bar 12 ( figure 9C and 12 ) connecting the jaw or tooth 34 to said actuating member 9.
  • This rod is preferably housed in a housing 36 made in the central support 6, and this housing 36 is arranged so as to position the rod above or below of the mobile part 5 in the central support structure 6.
  • the actuating member 9 is preferably connected by the rod or bar 12 to the jaw 34 so as to form a pawl.
  • the notch 33 is arranged on a side face of the slide 5, so as to cooperate with the jaw 34.
  • the actuating member 9, the bar and the jaw 34 are preferably formed from a single piece 19, housed in housing 36 ( figures 7A and 7B ) provided in the central structure 6.
  • the return means, in particular springs 37 act on the pusher in order to urge the jaw 34 in the direction of the notching, thereby blocking the movement of the slide 5 in the absence of a activation by a user.
  • said length adjustment device 4 comprises a rack, a toothing and/or a toothing 33.
  • the rack, toothing and/or the toothing 33 is arranged on the mobile part.
  • the notch 33 defines at least three indexing positions, preferably in order to determine at least three discrete and stable values of the length of the bracelet. The advantage of notching is that it makes it possible to define more indexing positions and thus to adjust the length of the bracelet more finely. For example, the notch defines 4, 5, 6, 7 or more indexing positions.
  • the shapes of the notching and the jaw are such that movement in a first of the two longitudinal directions is completely blocked by the blocking device in the rest position, while movement in the other direction can be made when a force acts on the slide in this other direction.
  • This is accomplished by the asymmetrical ("anti-recoil") shape of the cogging and jaw teeth.
  • anti-recoil asymmetrical shape of the cogging and jaw teeth.
  • this configuration allows a user to shorten the bracelet by exerting a force on the strand attached to the mobile part 5, by pushing the strand in the direction of the clasp. This force is transmitted to the jaw which, in this case, is forced to disengage from the space between two teeth in which it is located.
  • the actuating member 9 comprises or is connected to a pull tab, that is to say a member intended to be pulled to activate the blocking device. From what has been described above, it follows that the unlocking of the locking mechanism of the clasp shown in the figures is effected by a movement in the orthogonal direction of the part 19 comprising the pusher 9, the bar 12 and the jaw 34. This same movement can, in principle, be performed by pulling on part 19, as described later below with respect to a second embodiment shown in figures 13 and 14 .
  • the return means 37 are made in the form of two springs 37, housed on the one hand in a pair of hollows present in the pusher 9 and on the other hand in a pair of hollows made in the housing 36 of the part 9, 34, 12. These latter hollows are made on either side of a channel in which the bar 12 is guided.
  • an actuating member comprising a pull tab 141 ( figure 13 )
  • the locking device including its actuating member 9, in a relatively centered position, along the central axis of the direction of the length of the bracelet.
  • the blocking device is centered in the radial/vertical direction, between the first and second blades 1, 2.
  • the upper surface of the central structure 6 is raised with respect to to the upper surface 21 of the beams 15, 15'.
  • the central support structure 6 is centered with respect to the direction of the bracelet length so that, when the clasp is closed, the longerons 14, 14' of the second blade 2 are located on either side of the central support structure 6.
  • said side rails 14, 14' of the second slat 2 are arranged laterally with respect to the central support structure 6 when the clasp is closed, preferably so as to frame at least partially the central support structure 6 when the clasp is closed.
  • This outer lateral arrangement of the beams 14, 14' represents a major difference with respect to clasps of the type EP0913106 , in which the flexible beams of the locking mechanism are centered and integrated between uprights of a first blade, the latter forming the frame.
  • the longitudinal members 14, 14' of the locking mechanism 3 comprising the flexible ends connected to a manipulation member 7, 7' are preferably arranged externally with respect to a central structure or blade 6, carrying the fine length adjustment blocking device.
  • the actuating member 9 is arranged at least partially in a space 16 made between the two side rails 14, 14' of the second blade when the clasp is closed.
  • the adjustment device 4 is arranged so that, when the clasp is closed, at least a part of the adjustment device 4 extends, in the vertical direction, into a space 16 arranged by the second blade 2 ( Figure 6A ).
  • this space 16 is provided between the two side rails 14, 14' of the second strip 2.
  • the length adjustment device 4 is integrated and/or mounted in the central structure 6 so that the actuating member 9 emerges vertically at least partially into the space 16 formed in the second blade 2.
  • the clasp comprises a frame or a clevis 20 arranged at a second end of the second blade 2.
  • the frame or the clevis 20 supports the second fixing member, and comprises, on its lower side, a space and/or a recess 17 to allow the mobile part 5 to move in the space 17.
  • the second blade 2 extends beyond the free end 8 of the central support structure 6 so that the frame or the yoke 20 is located in front of the free end 8. In this way, the frame 20 does not obstruct the central support structure 6, but is positioned in front the free end of the central structure 6.
  • the space 17 is provided, for example created by a recess, allowing the movable part 5 to emerge from the end of the central structure 6.
  • the frame and/or the yoke 20 preferably supports at least one manipulation member 7, 7'.
  • the first strip 1 comprises upper side surfaces 21 arranged so that, when the clasp is closed, said side surfaces 21 and said longerons 14, 14' are at least partially superimposed.
  • the integration of the length adjustment device 4 and in particular of the locking device in the central structure 6 makes it possible to reduce the size of the clasp in the radial direction, that is to say, the thickness of the clasp.
  • the length adjustment device 4 comprises an actuating member 9 arranged to allow the locking mechanism to be released, the actuating member 9 being separate, distinct and/or different from the activation 7, 7'.
  • the first fixing member 11 is arranged on an underside of the mobile part 5, so as to face the wrist of a user wearing a wristwatch comprising the clasp. It will be noted that the tenons 11 of the fastening member for the bracelet strand are oriented downwards, that is to say that they point from the slide 5 in the direction of the user's wrist. This also saves space and makes the clasp more compact. When the clasp is closed, the two fasteners 11, 12 are located one above the other in the radial/vertical direction ( Figure 3B ). In one embodiment, the first fixing member 11 is arranged so that the free end of the bracelet (not shown) is attached below a lower general surface 44 of the first blade ( figure 2 ).
  • the mobile part 5 is arranged at least partially below the second blade 2.
  • the frame or the yoke 20 is arranged above the first fixing member 11 when the clasp is closed.
  • the second fixing member which is supported by the frame or the yoke 20 is arranged above the first fixing member 11 when the clasp is closed.
  • the activation of at least one manipulation member 7 of the locking mechanism 3 causes the displacement of a part 19 of the locking device and causes the unlocking of the adjustment device 4 and/or of the locking device. blockage.
  • the activation of a manipulation member 7 causes the movement of a spar 14 which, during this movement, acts on a part 19 of the fine adjustment mechanism and causes the release of the latter, thus making it possible to adjust the length.
  • the locking mechanism 3 and the length adjustment device 4 are arranged so that the activation of the manipulation member 7, 7' by a user induces the unlocking of the locking device 25 only when the clasp is closed.
  • the actuating member 9 is directly accessible or activatable by a user only when the clasp is open and/or when said first and second blades 1, 2 are unfolded. In the embodiment shown, the actuating member 9 is not directly accessible from outside the clasp when the clasp is closed. In order to be able to press the pusher 9 directly, the user opens the clasp, in order to be able to press the pusher. This is the result of the central integration of the adjustment device. Nevertheless, the clasp is designed in such a way that the length adjustment (in both directions along the longitudinal direction) can also be carried out when the clasp is closed. According to one embodiment, the adjustment device 4 and in particular the actuating member 9 can be activated indirectly, preferably when the clasp is closed.
  • the locking mechanism 3 comprises at least one manipulation member 7 arranged to be activated by a user to unlock the locking mechanism. lock 3 in order to allow the opening of the clasp 10.
  • the locking mechanism 3 is arranged in such a way that the activation of at least one of the two manipulation members 7, 7' generates the unlocking of the locking device 19 , 33, 34, 37.
  • said movable part 5 and/or said blocking device 33, 34, 37 is arranged on first blade 1 and said manipulation member 7 is arranged on said second blade 2.
  • the pusher 9 protrudes with respect to a lateral surface of the central support structure 6.
  • the pusher 9 thus faces the spar 14, more precisely an inner lateral surface of the spar 14, when the clasp is closed.
  • this spar 14 moves in a direction orthogonal to the bracelet length direction when the locking mechanism 3 is activated.
  • the Figures 11A, 11B , and 11C show that, when a user presses the push-buttons 7, 7' of the locking mechanism 3, the movement of the beam 14 causes pressure on the manipulation member 9, causing the unlocking of the adjustment device.
  • the spar 14' which does not cooperate with the length adjustment device when the clasp is closed, has been omitted.
  • the arrow shown in black in the figure 11A and 11C indicates the contact between the spar 14 and the pusher 9 during the activation of the member 7.
  • said beams 14, 14' are arranged with respect to said manipulation member 7, 7' so as to move when the manipulation member 7, 7' is activated by a user.
  • the movement of at least one of the beams 14 causes unlocking of the locking mechanism 3.
  • the spar 14 is caused to move in a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the bracelet when the manipulation member 7 is activated. During this displacement of the spar 14 in the orthogonal direction, the spar 14 acts on the actuating member 9 of the length adjustment device 4, in order to unlock the locking mechanism 2.
  • the activation of the manipulation member 7, 7' by a user makes it possible both to unlock the locking mechanism 3 and to unlock the device blockage.
  • the pressure exerted on the pushers 7, 7' causes the unlocking of the locking mechanism 3, but not necessarily the opening of the clasp.
  • it is in fact necessary not only to unlock the locking mechanism 3, but also to actively lift the second blade 2 in order to deploy the blades of the clasp.
  • the clasp remains closed and a length adjustment can be made.
  • the user can release the pressure on the push-button(s) 7, 7' and the locking mechanism 3 again goes into the locked position (rest position), without the clasp having been open.
  • the manipulation member 7 is arranged to be able to act either directly or via a mechanism or an intermediate structure 14 on the actuating member 9 when the clasp is closed.
  • this mechanism or this intermediate structure corresponds to the spar 14 of the second blade 2.
  • each spar is integral with one of the two manipulation members, for example formed in a part with one of the two manipulation devices.
  • one of the side rails 14 is not formed in a single piece with the manipulation member 7, 7', but both are made in two or more pieces, which may or may not be integral with each other. one from the other.
  • the two parts can be in direct contact or can cooperate via a mechanism and/or by one or more separate parts. In all these cases, it is preferred that the activation of the manipulation members 7, 7' results in the displacement of the beams, preferably in an orthogonal direction.
  • the clasp of the invention allows length adjustment when the clasp is open and also when the clasp is closed.
  • the blocking device can be activated whether the clasp is open or closed.
  • the user can press directly on the actuating member 9.
  • the length adjustment device is activated via the first manipulation member 7.
  • the first blade 1 is shown separately at figure 10 .
  • the slat 1 comprises two parts, for example two semi-slats or two partial slats, a frame slat 30, shown in figure 8 , and the central blade 35, shown in figures 7A and 7B .
  • the first blade 1 comprises two separate parts 30, 35, made integral with each other, a first part 35 comprising the central support structure 6 and a second part 30 comprising two side beams 15, 15', between which the central support structure 6 is framed and/or attached.
  • this assembly when assembling the two partial blades 30, 35, this assembly becomes unremovable.
  • the two partial blades are thus rigidly connected so as to behave as a single piece.
  • the frame blade 30 ( figure 8 ) comprises the two lateral longitudinal beams 15, 15', essentially parallel, a transverse upright 43 rigidly connecting the longitudinal beams, and, at the second end, a frame 18 comprising two lateral extensions 28 of the longitudinal beams 15, 15' and a transverse plate 29.
  • the frame 18 forms an opening in the first blade 1, making it possible to thread and frame the end of the bracelet strand which will be attached to the first fastening member 11.
  • the clasp is connected to bracelet strands, the bracelet strand bracelet connected to the first fastening member 11 will pass over the transverse plate 29 and will be below the blades of the clasp, in contact with the user's wrist.
  • recesses or housings 38 are arranged in the inner faces of the side members 15, 15', intended to accommodate protrusions 39 arranged on the central blade 35, in order to form a retaining or attachment structure to allow the two blades to be connected partial 30 and 35.
  • protrusions and recesses all another connection or interaction structure can be provided to allow attachment between the two partial blades.
  • the central blade 35 ( figures 7A and 7B ) comprises the central support structure 6, carrying the length adjustment device 4.
  • the recesses forming the channel 32 and the housing 36 are created in the central blade 35.
  • the latter further comprises two lateral fins 41, intended to be in contact with the longitudinal members 15, 15' when the two partial blades 30, 35 are assembled, and forming a common upper surface 21.
  • a transverse recess 42 is made in the underside of the central strip 35 ( figure 7B ), to clear a space in which the transverse upright 43 of the frame slat 30 comes to rest when the two partial slats are assembled ( Figure 6A ).
  • the central blade 35 Towards its first end, the central blade 35 also has a transverse hole to allow articulation with respect to the second blade and to contribute to the assembly between the partial blades 30, 35.
  • the parts of the clasp of the invention can be manufactured, independently, from any suitable material.
  • clasps and/or their parts are made of metal.
  • the blades and the functional parts are typically made of metal, for example steel, stainless steel, titanium, gold, silver, or any other metal or metal alloy.
  • the first blade 1, the first part or the partial blade 35, and/or the part carrying the length adjustment device 4 can comprise a non-metallic material.
  • the first blade or the first part 1 of the first blade is made of a material comprising a non-metallic material.
  • the material comprising a non-metallic material is chosen from the following: a material other than metal, a composite material, a plastic material (polymer) and/or carbon fiber.
  • a material other than metal a material other than metal
  • a composite material a material other than metal
  • a plastic material polymer
  • carbon fiber a material comprising carbon fiber and, optionally, plastic material.
  • the first blade 1, the first part 35, the first partial blade 35, and/or the blade carrying the length adjustment device is manufactured by injection and/or by injection molding. This applies to a part made of a material comprising a non-metallic material.
  • the fact of manufacturing a blade or a part of the latter by molding brings several advantages.
  • the part comprises a material other than metallic materials
  • the weight of the part, compared to a metal part, is reduced.
  • the manufacturing costs are significantly lower.
  • the whole of the first blade 1 is made of the same material other than metal, for example one of the aforementioned materials, preferably a plastic material comprising carbon fiber.
  • the clasp of the invention comprises a length adjustment device 4 housed in the part 35 or the blade 1 comprising the non-metallic material.
  • part 35 or blade 1 comprising (or made of) non-metallic material comprises one or more recesses 32, 36 intended to house one or more parts 5, 9, 34 which form part of the length adjustment 4.
  • Said parts 5, 9, 34 which form part of the length adjustment device 4 are chosen from among the movable part 5, a part 9, 12, 34 comprising a jaw or a tooth 34, intended to cooperate with the mobile 5, and an actuating member 9 arranged to allow the unlocking of the mobile part 5.
  • one or more of the parts 5, 9, 12, 34 of the length adjustment device 4 are made of metal.
  • the clasp has parts made of a material comprising a non-metallic material and other parts made of metal.
  • the first slat may comprise a first partial slat 35 made of a material comprising a non-metallic material, and a second partial slat or frame slat 30 made of metal.
  • a complete blade 1 is made of a material comprising non-metallic components, and another blade 2 is made of metal.
  • a blade or partial-blade made of a material comprising a non-metallic material can house and/or cooperate with metal parts.
  • the invention also covers the possibility that two, several or all of the blades of the clasp are made of a material comprising a non-metallic material, and the parts housed in these blades can be metallic or comprise non-metallic materials. , for example.
  • a material comprising non-metallic material may be made entirely of non-metallic material, such as plastic and/or carbon fiber, or may comprise a mixture of one or more metals and one or more non-metallic materials .
  • the figure 13 shows a clasp 100 according to a second embodiment.
  • the clasp 100 comprises a first blade 101 comprising a central structure 106, the first blade being hinged to a second blade 102 comprising two side rails 114, 114' at a first end of the blades.
  • the mobile part, which emerges at the free end of the structure 106, is not visible, but the manipulation member 109 is arranged projecting in a lateral side of the structure 106 (shown on the left side of the structure 106 at the figure 13 ).
  • the two longerons 114, 114' are arranged laterally with respect to the central structure 106 of the first blade 101.
  • a peculiarity of the clasp of the figure 13 is that the spars 114, 114' are connected to pushers 107, 107', respectively, arranged at opposite lateral sides with respect to the lateral side of the respective spar.
  • the spar 114 is preferably connected to the manipulation member 107, and the spar 114' to the member 107'.
  • the two parts or entities comprising the beams 114, 114' and the members 107, 107' intersect, preferably at the second end of the beams.
  • manipulation members 107, 107' and/or the structure connecting these members to the respective beams are preferably partially superimposed and/or overlap at one place, preferably towards said second end.
  • a spar and the member to which it is connected can form an element reminiscent of the letter L.
  • This element can be formed in a single piece or in several pieces made integral with one another. Due to the crossing of these elements, pressure exerted by a wearer by pushing the members 107, 107' generates a separation of the beams 114, 114'. This spacing effects the unlocking of the locking mechanism.
  • the attachment members or complementary stop forms 22, 23 are arranged on the central structure 106 on the one hand and the longerons 114, 114', on the other hand.
  • attachment devices are not visible figure 13 , but their operation is exactly the same in that the displacement of the beams 114, 114' generates a separation of the complementary attachment members, which allows a separation of the first and second blades 101, 102 by pivoting, and thus the opening of the clasp.
  • the part 119 comprising the pusher 109, the transverse bar 112, the jaw or the opposing tooth 134 also comprises an extension 140, extending the bar 112 in the orthogonal direction.
  • the extension 140 emerges from the lateral flank opposite that of the pusher 109 on the central structure 106.
  • a pin 141, arranged on the extension 140 functions as a pull tab or hooking member, making it possible to exert a pulling force on the part 119.
  • a hole 142 is made in the spar 114', arranged to receive the pin 141 when the second blade 102 is folded on the first blade 101.
  • the spar 114' is connected to the pull tab 141 so that the actuation of the member 107' pulls on the pull tab, allowing the release of the release device upon activation of the actuating member.
  • the return means are arranged to hold the blocking device in the blocked position. These return means can be arranged between the pusher 109 and the structure 106, as shown in figures 9A and 9B .
  • a second actuating member 141 may be present instead of the pusher 109 or may exist in addition to the pusher 109.
  • the presence of an actuating member in the form of a pull tab 141 is particularly preferred when the locking mechanism described above is based on a separation instead of the bringing together of the spars of the second blade 102.
  • the invention envisages means of connection, for example a pair of hooks or a connection by a pin and a hole, arranged in such a way that when at least one of the two beams 114, 114' is moved apart, a pull is performed on the part 119, allowing the unlocking of the locking device release upon activation of the actuator.
  • the element 119 can be produced in several separate parts, preferably made integral.
  • the blocking device comprises both a pusher 109 and a pull tab 141.
  • the activation of each of the two allows the blocking device to be unlocked.
  • the pusher can preferably be actuated by a wearer having opened the clasp, for example by pressure with a finger on the pusher, whereas the pull tab is preferably activated indirectly, by the displacement of at least one spar during activation of the locking mechanism.
  • the figures 15 and 16 show a clasp 200 according to a third embodiment.
  • a first blade 201 is hinged to a second blade 202 at a first end of the blades.
  • the first blade 201 comprises a central support structure 206.
  • a movable part 205 is housed, arranged so as to emerge from the end of the structure 106
  • the structure 206 contains recesses or recesses similar to those described above, making it possible to accommodate the movable part 205 and the part 219 comprising the actuating member 209.
  • a first fixing member 211 produced for example in the form of a 'a crossbar, is connected to the moving part 205.
  • the second blade 202 comprises two side rails 214, 214', articulated at the first end and stabilized towards the second end by a transverse tube not shown.
  • a difference of the clasp 200 compared to the previous clasps is that the actuating member 209 emerges on the right side of the central structure 206, as shown in figure 14 and 15 . In previous clasps, the locking device had an opposite orientation.
  • the beams 214, 214' are arranged laterally with respect to the structure 206 when the clasp is closed.
  • Each spar is connected to a respective manipulation member, 207, 207' by a rod 247 with an orthogonal orientation having a diameter reduced in relation to the diameter of the members 207, 207.
  • the clasp 200 comprises a loop 220 in the shape of a U, whose two free ends have holes in which the rods 247 are threaded.
  • the loop 220 can pivot around the axis defined by the rods 247, while stabilizing the ends of the spars 214, 214'.
  • a second fastener is connected to buckle 220.
  • the activation of the manipulation members 207, 207', by pressure causes the beams 214, 214' to come together.
  • the spar 214' is arranged to act on the actuating member 209 and unlock the locking mechanism, when it moves, according to the same principle described above.
  • the first blade 214 comprises, on its underside, side plates or fins 215, on which the longerons 214, 214' come to rest when the clasp is closed.
  • Each of the plates 215 has an elevated edge or structure 231, intended to contain the respective spar.
  • a hooking member On the inner face of the edge 231 is a hooking member, arranged to cooperate with a complementary member arranged on the outer side of the respective spar.
  • the pair of hooking members lock the clasp in the closed position, when the two blades are folded towards each other, as described with respect to the embodiment shown in figures 1-12 .
  • Simultaneous activation of the two pushers 207, 207' by pressure causes the side members to come together and the complementary attachment members to separate, allowing the blades 201, 202 to be unfolded to open the clasp.
  • one aspect of the invention resides in the arrangement of the length adjustment device on a support structure of a first blade and in the possibility of the activation of the adjustment device by a mechanism locking based on spars of a second blade whose ends can move apart or approaching preferably along an orthogonal axis or in an orthogonal plane.
  • the beams come together when unlocking, at least one of them preferably acts on a pusher.
  • the beams move apart during unlocking at least one of them preferably acts on a pull tab.
  • a particularity of some aspects of the invention lies in the fact that the moving part 5 as well as the blocking device 33, 34, 37, arranged to block the movement of the moving part in at least one direction of movement, is located on a first blade 1, while the manipulation member 7 arranged to allow a user to unlock the blocking device 33, 34, 37 and thus to lengthen and/or shorten the useful length of the bracelet is on another, for example a second blade 2.
  • the invention covers this aspect also in the case where the manipulation member 7 is not used to unlock and open the clasp (as shown in the drawings), but only serves to activate the blocking device.
  • the figures 17A to 20 show a clasp 300 according to a fourth embodiment.
  • the clasp 300 comprises first and second blades 301, 302, the second of which comprises two side rails 314, 314'.
  • Each of the two side rails is connected to a manipulation member 307, 307', housed in or arranged with respect to a frame 320 in a manner similar to what is described above with respect to the clasp shown in figures 15 and 16 .
  • the loop 320 has a general U-shape and includes an orthogonal hole arranged in each of the two free ends of the U, to house the handling elements 307, 307'.
  • a tenon (not visible) is arranged on the underside of the loop 320, to form the second fixing member.
  • Buckle 320 could also have a barb instead of the tang, or it could have both (tang and barb) to form a fastener, as disclosed in WO2017/144704 (eg. figure 4 ). This type of fastener is well known in the state of the art.
  • a difference of the fourth embodiment from the previous embodiments is that a central support structure (6, 106, 206) is absent.
  • the mobile part 305 emerges from the free end (or from the second end) of the first blade 301 and is arranged, housed and/or stabilized in a transverse 343 arranged at said second end, as described below. Due to the absence of the central support structure, the space 306 between the two side rails 315, 315' of the first blade 301 is free and serves to house the second blade 302 when the clasp is closed.
  • the clasp 400 has a reduced thickness (extension in a radial direction), as can be seen in figure 17A , 19A and 20 , for example, and the release device as well as the length adjuster as a whole remain invisible from the outside.
  • the rest of this description makes it possible to understand how such a discreet and space-saving design can be achieved thanks to the present invention.
  • the figure 18 and 19A to 20 make it possible to understand the arrangement of the movable part 305 and of the locking device 303.
  • the movable part 305 comprises a U-shape and/or a stirrup shape, the two lateral arms 351 and 352 of which are guided and/or housed in two apartments longitudinal and lateral 332, arranged in the crossbar 343.
  • a part or a wall of these housings is formed by the extension of the longerons 315, 315' of the first blade 301 towards the second end.
  • the movable U-shaped part 305 also comprises the base or the transverse 354 of the U, to which is attached the first fixing member 311, produced for example in the form of a transverse rod.
  • At least one of the two lateral arms 351 of the mobile part 305 comprises a rack 333, arranged on the inner side face of the arm.
  • the blocking device in particular a jaw or antagonist tooth 334 as well as return means 337 are also arranged in a housing in the transverse 343, so that the jaw 334 is urged in the direction of a hollow of the rack 333.
  • the tooth 334 is part of an L-shaped part 319.
  • the housing of this part in the transverse 337 comprises an opening or a hole 338 in the direction of the "rear", it is ie opening towards the first end of the first blade.
  • an arm 309 of the L-shaped piece passes through the opening 338 and emerges in the space 306 between the two longerons 315, 315' of the first blade 301.
  • the arm 309 in the longitudinal direction of the piece 319 forms a body of actuation, which can be activated to unlock the locking mechanism 303 and thus allow length adjustment.
  • Tooth 334 is formed by or at the end of one of the two arms of the L, while actuating member 309 is formed by the end of the other arm.
  • the clasp When the clasp is open ( fig. 17E ), the organ 309 becomes visible and accessible, as can be seen in figure 18 . A user can then slide it against the force of the spring 337, in an orthogonal direction, in order to disengage the tooth 334 from the rack 333 and allow adjustment of the length.
  • the locking device 303 is activated indirectly, by the activation of at least one of the two actuating members 307, 307', here the member 307, preferably when the clasp 300 is closed.
  • at least one of the two side rails 314, 314' comprises a recess 356 in the lower part, in particular towards the second end of the second blade 302, so as to provide a space for the organ actuation 309, but also so as to create an inner lateral bearing surface 357 ( fig. 19C ).
  • the support surface 357 arranged on the beam 314 acts on the actuating member 309 by moving it along the orthogonal direction, in order to unlock the blocking device 303 and in particular allow the extension of the length of the bracelet.
  • the solution represented by the fourth embodiment makes it possible to implement a clasp of particularly reduced thickness while comprising a length adjustment device. This is achieved in particular thanks to an activation mechanism using the movement of the side rails 314, 314' of the clasp locking device.
  • the arrangement of the housing of the stop structure 334 in a transverse 343, arranged below the second fixing member and/or in the continuation of the general plane of the side beams 314, 3014' of the second blade 302 (when the clasp is closed), contributes to this advantageous arrangement.
  • the movable part 305 extends beyond the second end of the first blade 301 when the bracelet is extended, which makes it possible to see the U-shape or stirrup of the movable part in these figures.
  • the mobile part For aesthetic reasons, it is not desired for the mobile part to become visible to the wearer when the length adjustment device is in its most elongated position.
  • the clasp 300 this is not the case: When a bracelet is attached to the two fasteners, a free end of one of the two bracelet strands covers the moving part 305, in such a way that it does not is not visible to the wearer of a wristwatch comprising the clasp.
  • this bracelet strand passes between the loop 320 and the tube 348 comprising the housing of the bracelet. 'handling member 307, 307', and extends exactly above the moving part 305.
  • the end of this wristband strand also covers the first fastening member 311 as well as the end of the wristband strand attached to this last.
  • each of the clasps described above can be made with movable stringers as shown in figure 13 , i.e. stringers connected to handling devices arranged on the opposite side of the spar.
  • the parts comprising the beams for example in the general shape of an L, preferably intersect at the second end of the beams, therefore at the end opposite to the end where the beams are articulated, for example at the first blade.
  • the invention covers in particular a clasp according to the fourth embodiment, as illustrated in Figures 17A-20 , in which the manipulation member 307 and/or 307' is arranged in such a way that the activation of the member generates a separation (instead of a rimpedement) of the beams and/or a pull on a pull tab which unlocks the blocking device to allow movement of the moving part and adjustment of the length.
  • the clasps of this description have the particularity of having a length adjustment device, which can be activated, when the clasp is closed, by activating a manipulation member 7, 107 ', 207 ', 207 intended to allow the opening of the clasp.
  • the clasps of this description have the particularity of having a length adjustment device, which can be activated, when the clasp is closed, by activating a manipulation member which is located on a blade other than the blade carrying the device. length adjustment, the locking device and/or in particular the moving part.
  • the two blades are preferably hinged relative to each other, directly or via another structural element, preferably longitudinal, for example a third blade.
  • the clasps of this description have the particularity of having a length adjustment device, which can be activated, when the clasp is closed, by performing a flexible displacement, in a general plane of the clasp, of at least one of the longerons of a blade of the clasp.
  • a length adjustment device which can be activated, when the clasp is closed, by performing a flexible displacement, in a general plane of the clasp, of at least one of the longerons of a blade of the clasp.

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  • Buckles (AREA)

Description

Domaine techniqueTechnical area

La présente invention se rapporte au domaine des bracelets, notamment pour montres. Elle concerne un fermoir pour bracelet permettant de régler la longueur du bracelet. L'invention concerne également un dispositif de réglage de longueur et une montre-bracelet, non revendiquée, comportant le fermoir et/ou le dispositif de réglage de longueur.The present invention relates to the field of bracelets, in particular for watches. It concerns a clasp for a bracelet allowing the length of the bracelet to be adjusted. The invention also relates to a length adjustment device and a wristwatch, not claimed, comprising the clasp and/or the length adjustment device.

Etat de la technique et problèmes à l'origine de l'inventionState of the art and problems at the origin of the invention

Un fermoir de montre-bracelet comprend généralement deux organes de fixation pour attacher les extrémités libres du bracelet, et un mécanisme de verrouillage ou de fermeture pour bloquer les deux organes de fixation, et ainsi les extrémités libres du bracelet, dans une position stable de fermeture ou de verrouillage. Cette position constitue également la position de service, car elle permet de porter la montre-bracelet au poignet. Il existe une multitude de types de fermoirs, par exemple la boucle à ardillon ou encore les fermoirs à boucle déployante, dont l'esthétique est bien appréciée.A wristwatch clasp generally comprises two fastening members for attaching the free ends of the bracelet, and a locking or closing mechanism for locking the two fastening members, and thus the free ends of the bracelet, in a stable closed position or locking. This position also constitutes the service position, since it allows the wristwatch to be worn on the wrist. There are a multitude of types of clasps, for example the pin buckle or the folding clasps, whose aesthetics are well appreciated.

Les fermoirs et les bracelets pour montres-bracelets comportent généralement des moyens pour régler la longueur du bracelet. Typiquement dans le cas de bracelets en cuir ou en plastique, l'extrémité libre d'un des deux brins du bracelet comporte une série de trous distribués en direction longitudinale du bracelet. L'extrémité libre de l'autre brin du bracelet est munie d'un dispositif de connexion, par exemple une boucle à ardillon, permettant de joindre les deux brins en insérant l'ardillon dans le trou correspondant à la longueur souhaitée. Dans le cas de bracelets à maillons métalliques, la longueur du bracelet est ajustée en enlevant ou ajoutant un maillon dans un ou dans les deux brins du bracelet.Clasps and bracelets for wristwatches generally include means for adjusting the length of the bracelet. Typically in the case of leather or plastic bracelets, the free end of one of the two strands of the bracelet comprises a series of holes distributed in the longitudinal direction of the bracelet. The free end of the other strand of the bracelet is provided with a connection device, for example a pin buckle, making it possible to join the two strands by inserting the pin into the hole corresponding to the desired length. In the case of bracelets with metal links, the length of the bracelet is adjusted by removing or adding a link in one or in both strands of the bracelet.

La taille du poignet varie considérablement d'un porteur à un autre. D'autre part, comme soulevé dans les documents CH 704 335 et CH 705149 , la taille du poignet d'un porteur peut varier avec les changements de température. Un même porteur peut donc souhaiter régulièrement ajuster finement la longueur du bracelet pour être parfaitement à l'aise. L'état de la technique connaît des fermoirs pour montres-bracelets qui permettent un réglage fin de la longueur du bracelet. Il s'agit d'un mécanisme agencé pour permettre une modification de la circonférence définie par le boîtier de la montre, le bracelet, et le fermoir, lorsque le fermoir est fermé, afin d'adapter cette circonférence à la taille du poignet d'un porteur individuel. Cette modification a lieu sur une échelle plus petite que celle définie par l'espacement des trous dans un brin de bracelet en cuir ou par les maillons d'un bracelet métallique, par exemple. Le réglage fin est souhaitable pour adapter de manière précise la circonférence susmentionnée au poignet de chaque porteur.Wrist size varies greatly from wearer to wearer. On the other hand, as raised in the documents CH 704 335 and CH 705149 , the size of a wearer's wrist may vary with changes in temperature. The same wearer may therefore wish to regularly finely adjust the length of the bracelet to be perfectly comfortable. The state of the art knows clasps for wristwatches which allow fine adjustment of the length of the bracelet. This is a mechanism arranged to allow modification of the circumference defined by the case of the watch, the bracelet, and the clasp, when the clasp is closed, in order to adapt this circumference to the size of the wrist of an individual wearer. This modification takes place on a smaller scale than that defined by the spacing of the holes in a strand of leather bracelet or by the links of a metal bracelet, for example. Fine adjustment is desirable to precisely adapt the aforementioned circumference to the wrist of each wearer.

Dans certains cas, le dispositif de réglage fin d'un fermoir pour bracelet comporte une pièce mobile agencée sur une partie du fermoir et portant l'un des deux organes de fixation, l'autre organe de fixation étant attaché à une autre partie du fermoir. Le réglage fin peut s'effectuer en déplaçant la pièce mobile par rapport à l'ensemble du fermoir, et en la bloquant à la position correspondant à la longueur de bracelet souhaitée. Souvent, le dispositif de réglage fin comporte un crantage ou une denture, qui définit les positions discrètes de longueur du réglage fin. Le crantage peut aussi faire partie du dispositif permettant de bloquer la pièce mobile dans une position de longueur souhaitée.In some cases, the fine adjustment device of a clasp for a bracelet comprises a moving part arranged on a part of the clasp and carrying one of the two fixing members, the other fixing member being attached to another part of the clasp . The fine adjustment can be made by moving the moving part relative to the clasp assembly, and locking it in the position corresponding to the desired bracelet length. Often, the fine adjustment device includes a notch or toothing, which defines the discrete length positions of the fine adjustment. The notching can also be part of the device making it possible to block the moving part in a position of desired length.

Le document CH 704 335 divulgue un fermoir à boucle déployante, dans lequel un organe de fixation est attaché à un chariot disposé pour coulisser dans un logement agencé sur une lame du fermoir. Le fermoir comporte une tirette agencée pour coopérer avec le chariot et susceptible d'occuper deux positions axiales afin que le chariot soit bloqué et débloqué lorsque la tirette se trouve respectivement dans l'une et l'autre des deux positions axiales. Un inconvénient de ce mécanisme est le fait qu'au moins un des deux poussoirs opposés de la tirette se trouve en saillie par rapport aux parois latérales de la lame du fermoir. Le poussoir en saillie est susceptible de s'accrocher à un objet extérieur, par exemple à un vêtement.The document CH 704 335 discloses a folding clasp, in which a fastening member is attached to a carriage arranged to slide in a housing arranged on a blade of the clasp. The clasp comprises a pull tab arranged to cooperate with the carriage and capable of occupying two axial positions so that the carriage is locked and unlocked when the pull tab is respectively in one or the other of the two axial positions. A disadvantage of this mechanism is the fact that at least one of the two opposite pushers of the pull tab is projecting relative to the side walls of the blade of the clasp. The projecting pusher is likely to catch on an external object, for example on a piece of clothing.

Comme mentionné dans les documents CH 704 335 , EP2452583 et CH700230 , il peut être souhaitable que la longueur de bracelet puisse être réglée indépendamment de l'état - fermé ou ouvert - du fermoir.As mentioned in the documents CH 704 335 , EP2452583 and CH700230 , it may be desirable that the bracelet length can be adjusted independently of the state - closed or open - of the clasp.

D'autres objectifs relèvent de l'aspect esthétique du fermoir. Par exemple, un objectif de la présente invention est de réduire l'épaisseur, c'est-à-dire l'extension du fermoir en direction radiale par rapport à l'axe du poignet d'un porteur. Plus l'épaisseur est importante, plus le fermoir devient encombrant. Ce problème s'accentue lors du choix du positionnement de mécanisme de réglage de longueur par rapport à l'ensemble du fermoir, ce mécanisme nécessitant généralement un accès depuis l'extérieur pour permettre à un utilisateur d'activer le réglage. Dans beaucoup de cas, la présence d'un mécanisme de réglage de longueur augmente les dimensions du bracelet.Other objectives relate to the aesthetic aspect of the clasp. For example, an objective of the present invention is to reduce the thickness, that is to say the extension of the clasp in the radial direction with respect to the axis of the wrist of a wearer. The greater the thickness, the more cumbersome the clasp becomes. This problem is accentuated when choosing the positioning of the length adjustment mechanism with respect to the assembly of the clasp, this mechanism generally requiring access from the outside to allow a user to activate the setting. In many cases, the presence of a length adjustment mechanism increases the dimensions of the bracelet.

Un autre objectif de l'invention est de réduire le poids du fermoir, par exemple pour réduire la quantité de métal utilisé dans la fabrication et pour rendre le fermoir plus facile à porter.Another object of the invention is to reduce the weight of the clasp, for example to reduce the quantity of metal used in the manufacture and to make the clasp easier to wear.

Dans plusieurs fermoirs de l'état de la technique, par exemple ceux décrits dans les documents EP2452583 et CH 698981 , le dispositif de réglage fin est agencé dans une chape ou un capot supérieur, qui contribue à l'augmentation de l'épaisseur et à l'encombrement général du fermoir. Le document EP2740381A1 divulgue un fermoir à boucle déployante.In several clasps of the state of the art, for example those described in the documents EP2452583 and CH 698981 , the fine adjustment device is arranged in a yoke or an upper cover, which contributes to the increase in thickness and to the overall size of the clasp. The document EP2740381A1 discloses a folding clasp.

Dans le contexte de l'esthétique, il serait également souhaitable de réduire la visibilité du dispositif de réglage de longueur. Par exemple, dans le document CH704 335 , mentionné ci-dessus, la partie mobile est agencée à une extrémité d'une lame du fermoir de façon à se prolonger au-delà de l'extrémité de la lame lorsque le bracelet est rallongé. Dans ce cas, la partie mobile devient visible en tant qu'extension du fermoir. Un objectif de l'invention est de fournir un fermoir permettant de régler la longueur sans que ceci ne change l'aspect du fermoir depuis l'extérieur.In the context of aesthetics, it would also be desirable to reduce the visibility of the length adjuster. For example, in the document CH704 335 , mentioned above, the movable part is arranged at one end of a blade of the clasp so as to extend beyond the end of the blade when the bracelet is lengthened. In this case, the movable part becomes visible as an extension of the clasp. An object of the invention is to provide a clasp making it possible to adjust the length without this changing the appearance of the clasp from the outside.

Toujours du point de vue de l'esthétique, un fermoir dont le mécanisme de réglage reste discret et s'intègre dans la forme générale du fermoir peut être souhaitable. Par exemple un objectif est d'éviter la présence de crantages visibles de l'extérieur ou encore d'ouvertures longitudinales disposées le long d'une paroi latérale d'une chape d'un fermoir à boucle déployante.Still from the point of view of aesthetics, a clasp whose adjustment mechanism remains discreet and integrates into the general shape of the clasp may be desirable. For example, one objective is to avoid the presence of notches visible from the outside or else of longitudinal openings arranged along a side wall of a clevis of a clasp with a folding clasp.

Un objectif de la présente invention est de présenter un fermoir permettant d'activer le réglage de longueur lorsque le fermoir est fermé, et ceci de préférence sans qu'un organe d'actionnement dédié et distinct, tel qu'un poussoir, une tirette ou encore un coulisseau soit visible depuis l'extérieur lorsque le fermoir est fermé.An object of the present invention is to present a clasp making it possible to activate the length adjustment when the clasp is closed, and this preferably without a dedicated and separate actuating member, such as a pusher, a pull tab or yet a slider is visible from the outside when the clasp is closed.

Résumé de l'inventionSummary of the invention

Selon un aspect, la présente invention a pour objet un fermoir pour bracelets du type comprenant des première et seconde extrémités libres, le fermoir comportant des premier et second organes de fixation du bracelet destinés à être rendus respectivement solidaires desdites première et seconde extrémités libres du bracelet.According to one aspect, the present invention relates to a clasp for bracelets of the type comprising first and second free ends, the clasp comprising first and second bracelet attachment members intended to be secured respectively to said first and second free ends of the bracelet.

Selon un aspect, la présente invention a pour objet un fermoir à boucle déployante pour bracelet permettant un réglage de la longueur de bracelet, ledit fermoir comportant au moins deux lames articulées l'une par rapport à l'autre.According to one aspect, the subject of the present invention is a clasp with a folding clasp for a bracelet allowing adjustment of the length of the bracelet, said clasp comprising at least two blades hinged with respect to each other.

Selon un mode de réalisation non revendiqué, la description a pour objet un fermoir comportant: une première lame et au moins une deuxième lame, articulées l'une par rapport à l'autre, la deuxième lame comportant deux longerons latéraux; un premier organe de fixation connecté à la première lame et destiné à être rendu solidaire d'une première extrémité libre du bracelet; un second organe de fixation destiné à être rendu solidaire d'une seconde extrémité libre du bracelet; un mécanisme de verrouillage agencé pour immobiliser lesdites première et deuxième lames en position fermée du fermoir lorsque lesdites première et deuxième lames sont rapprochées et pliées l'une vers l'autre; un dispositif de réglage de la longueur du bracelet comportant: une partie mobile à laquelle un des deux desdits premier et/ou second organe de fixation est attaché (de préférence ledit premier organe de fixation), ladite partie mobile étant agencée de façon à pouvoir se déplacer longitudinalement par rapport à la direction longitudinale du bracelet pour effectuer un réglage de longueur; et un dispositif de blocage agencé pour bloquer le déplacement de la partie mobile dans au moins une direction de déplacement longitudinal.According to a non-claimed embodiment, the subject of the description is a clasp comprising: a first blade and at least one second blade, articulated with respect to one another, the second blade comprising two side rails; a first fixing member connected to the first blade and intended to be secured to a first free end of the strap; a second fixing member intended to be secured to a second free end of the bracelet; a locking mechanism arranged to immobilize said first and second blades in the closed position of the clasp when said first and second blades are brought together and folded towards each other; a device for adjusting the length of the bracelet comprising: a movable part to which one of the two of said first and/or second fixing member is attached (preferably said first fixing member), said movable part being arranged so as to be able to moving longitudinally relative to the longitudinal direction of the strap to effect length adjustment; and a blocking device arranged to block the movement of the movable part in at least one direction of longitudinal movement.

La présente invention a pour objet un fermoir à boucle déployant pour bracelet permettant un réglage de la longueur de bracelet, ledit fermoir comportant: une première lame et une deuxième lame, articulées l'une par rapport à l'autre, la deuxième lame comportant deux longerons latéraux, un premier organe de fixation connecté à la première lame et destiné à être rendu solidaire d'une première extrémité libre du bracelet; un second organe de fixation, destiné à être rendu solidaire d'une seconde extrémité libre du bracelet; un mécanisme de verrouillage pour maintenir lesdites première et deuxième lames en position fermée dur fermoir lorsque lesdites lames sont rapprochées et rabattues l'une sur l'autre, ledit mécanisme de verrouillage comportant un organe de manipulation prévu pour être activé par un utilisateur pour déverrouiller le mécanisme de verrouillage et pour ouvrir le fermoir; un dispositif de réglage de la longueur du bracelet comportant: une partie mobile à laquelle un des deux desdits premier et/ou second organe de fixation est attaché (de préférence ledit premier organe de fixation), ladite partie mobile étant agencée de façon à pouvoir se déplacer longitudinalement par rapport à la direction longitudinale du bracelet lors du réglage de la longueur, un dispositif de blocage agencé pour bloquer le déplacement de la partie mobile dans au moins un sens de déplacement longitudinal, caractérisé en ce que ledit mécanisme de verrouillage et ledit dispositif de réglage de la longueur sont agencés de façon qu'une activation dudit organe de manipulation par un utilisateur induit le déblocage dudit dispositif de blocage et permet le déplacement de la partie mobile dans ladite au moins une direction de déplacement longitudinal.The subject of the present invention is a clasp with a folding clasp for a bracelet allowing adjustment of the length of the bracelet, said clasp comprising: a first blade and a second blade, articulated with respect to each other, the second blade comprising two side rails, a first fixing member connected to the first blade and intended to be secured to a first free end of the strap; a second fixing member, intended to be secured to a second free end of the strap; a locking mechanism for holding said first and second slats in the closed hard clasp position when said slats are brought together and folded over one another, said locking mechanism comprising a manipulation member intended to be activated by a user to unlock the locking mechanism and to open the clasp; a device for adjusting the length of the bracelet comprising: a movable part to which a of the two of said first and/or second fastening member is attached (preferably said first fastening member), said movable part being arranged so as to be able to move longitudinally with respect to the longitudinal direction of the bracelet when adjusting the length, a blocking device arranged to block the movement of the movable part in at least one direction of longitudinal movement, characterized in that said locking mechanism and said length adjustment device are arranged so that an activation of said manipulation member by a user induces the release of said blocking device and allows the movement of the movable part in said at least one direction of longitudinal movement.

Selon un mode de réalisation non revendiqué, la description a pour objet un fermoir à boucle déployant comportant: au moins une première lame et une deuxième lame, articulées l'une par rapport à l'autre, un premier organe de fixation connecté à la première lame et destiné à être rendu solidaire d'une première extrémité libre du bracelet; un second organe de fixation, destiné à être rendu solidaire d'une seconde extrémité libre du bracelet; un dispositif de réglage de la longueur du bracelet comportant: une partie mobile à laquelle un des deux desdits premier ou second organe de fixation est attaché, ladite partie mobile étant agencée de façon à pouvoir se déplacer longitudinalement par rapport à la direction longitudinale du bracelet lors du réglage de la longueur, un dispositif de blocage agencé pour bloquer le déplacement de la partie mobile dans au moins un sens de déplacement longitudinal, le fermoir comportant un organe de manipulation, agencé de façon qu'une activation dudit organe de manipulation par un utilisateur induit le déblocage dudit dispositif de blocage et permet le déplacement de la partie mobile dans ladite au moins une direction de déplacement longitudinal, caractérisé en ce que ladite partie mobile et/ou dispositif de blocage est agencé sur ladite première lame et ledit organe de manipulation est agencé sur ladite deuxième lame.According to a non-claimed embodiment, the subject of the description is a folding buckle clasp comprising: at least a first blade and a second blade, hinged relative to each other, a first fixing member connected to the first blade and intended to be secured to a first free end of the bracelet; a second fixing member, intended to be secured to a second free end of the bracelet; a device for adjusting the length of the bracelet comprising: a movable part to which one of the two of said first or second fixing members is attached, said movable part being arranged so as to be able to move longitudinally with respect to the longitudinal direction of the bracelet when of the length adjustment, a blocking device arranged to block the movement of the movable part in at least one direction of longitudinal movement, the clasp comprising a manipulation member, arranged so that an activation of said manipulation member by a user induces the unlocking of said locking device and allows the movement of the movable part in said at least one direction of longitudinal movement, characterized in that said movable part and/or locking device is arranged on said first blade and said manipulation member is arranged on said second blade.

Selon un mode de réalisation non revendiqué, la description a pour objet un fermoir à boucle déployante pour bracelet permettant un réglage de la longueur de bracelet, ledit fermoir comportant au moins deux lames articulées l'une par rapport à l'autre, caractérisé en ce qu'au moins une desdites lames comporte une pièce comportant un matériau non-métallique ou l'ensemble de la lame comporte un matériau non-métallique.According to a non-claimed embodiment, the description relates to a clasp with a folding clasp for a bracelet allowing adjustment of the length of the bracelet, said clasp comprising at least two blades hinged relative to each other, characterized in that that at least one of said blades comprises a part comprising a non-metallic material or the entire blade comprises a non-metallic material.

L'invention et des modes de réalisation préférés sont définis dans les revendications jointes ci-après.The invention and preferred embodiments are defined in the appended claims below.

Brève description des dessinsBrief description of the drawings

Les caractéristiques et les avantages de l'invention apparaîtront plus clairement à la lecture de la description, données uniquement à titre d'exemples non limitatifs en se référant aux figures dans lesquelles:

  • La figure 1 est une vue en perspective du dessus d'un fermoir de bracelet selon un mode de réalisation de la présente invention. Le fermoir est montré en position fermée.
  • La figure 2 est une vue en perspective du dessous du fermoir de la figure 1 montré en position fermée.
  • Les figures 3A et 3B sont des vues latérales en élévation du fermoir selon la figure 1 en position ouverte et fermée, respectivement.
  • La figure 4 est une vue en perspective du dessus du fermoir de la figure 1 en position ouverte, les lames du fermoir étant complètement déployées.
  • La figure 5 est une vue en perspective-dessous du fermoir de la figure 1 en position ouverte, les lames du fermoir étant complètement déployées.
  • Les figures 6A et 6B sont, respectivement, une vue en perspective en contre plongée (A) et une vue en perspective en plongée (B) du fermoir de la figure 1 montré en position ouverte.
  • Les figures 7A et 7B sont, respectivement, une vue en perspective (A) et une vue de dessous (B), de la structure centrale du fermoir de la figure 1.
  • La figure 8 est une vue en perspective d'une partie d'une lame inférieure du fermoir de la figure 1.
  • Les figures 9A, 9B et 9C sont des vues en coupe longitudinale montrant le dispositif de réglage de longueur du fermoir des figures 1 à 8 respectivement en position de repos (9A) et en position activée (9B).
  • La figure 10 est une vue en perspective d'une lame du fermoir comportant le dispositif de réglage fin.
  • Les figures 11A et 11B sont des vues de dessus (A) et de dessous (B) du fermoir de la figure 1, montrant le dispositif de réglage de longueur en position activée par l'intermédiaire du mécanisme de verrouillage du fermoir. Dans ces figures, quelques éléments du fermoir ont été omis.
  • La figure 11C est une vue partielle agrandie de la partie entourée par un cercle dans la figure 11 B, montrée par le cercle dans cette dernière figure.
  • La figure 12 est une vue en perspective du fermoir, dans laquelle, pour l'amélioration de la compréhension, quelques éléments structuraux sont transparents et d'autres sont colorés en plus foncé.
  • La figure 13 est une vue en perspective d'un fermoir selon un deuxième mode de réalisation
  • La figure 14 est une vue en perspective d'une pièce du fermoir montré à la figure 13.
  • La figure 15 est une vue en perspective d'un fermoir selon un troisième mode de réalisation.
  • La figure 16 est en vue en perspective du fermoir montré à la figure 15, dans lequel quelques éléments ont été omis.
  • Les figures 17A-17E sont des divers vues d'un fermoir selon un quatrième mode de réalisation (A: latérale en élévation, B: de dessus, C: de dessous, D: en perspective du dessous, et E: en perspective du dessus d'un fermoir partiellement ouvert).
  • La figure 18 est une vue en perspective d'une première lame de fermoir montré aux figures 17A-17E.
  • Les figures 19A et 19B sont des vues latérales en élévation et en coupe longitudinale du fermoir montré aux figures 17A-17E. La fig. 19B est une vue en coupe selon la ligne A-A de la fig. 19A. La boucle contenant le second organe de fixation ainsi qu'un des deux longerons latéraux d'une des lames du fermoir a été omis pour la meilleure compréhension.
  • La figure 19C est un extrait de la figure 19B, montrant en agrandi le dispositif de blocage du dispositif de réglage de longueur.
  • La figure 20 correspond à la figure 19B à la différence que le mécanisme de blocage (ou déblocage) est activé dans la figure 20, de façon que, dans la position montrée, un rallongement de la longueur utile est possible.
The characteristics and advantages of the invention will appear more clearly on reading the description, given solely by way of non-limiting examples with reference to the figures in which:
  • The figure 1 is a top perspective view of a bracelet clasp according to one embodiment of the present invention. The clasp is shown in the closed position.
  • The figure 2 is a perspective view of the underside of the clasp of the figure 1 shown in closed position.
  • The figures 3A and 3B are side elevational views of the clasp according to the figure 1 in the open and closed position, respectively.
  • The figure 4 is a perspective view from above of the clasp of the figure 1 in the open position, the blades of the clasp being fully extended.
  • The figure 5 is a perspective view below of the clasp of the figure 1 in the open position, the blades of the clasp being fully extended.
  • The figures 6A and 6B are, respectively, a perspective view from below (A) and a perspective view from above (B) of the clasp of the figure 1 shown in open position.
  • The figures 7A and 7B are, respectively, a perspective view (A) and a bottom view (B), of the central structure of the clasp of the figure 1 .
  • The figure 8 is a perspective view of part of a lower blade of the clasp of the figure 1 .
  • The figures 9A, 9B and 9C are views in longitudinal section showing the device for adjusting the length of the clasp of the figures 1 to 8 respectively in the rest position (9A) and in the activated position (9B).
  • The figure 10 is a perspective view of a blade of the clasp comprising the fine adjustment device.
  • The figures 11A and 11B are top (A) and bottom (B) views of the clasp of the figure 1 , showing the length adjuster in the activated position through the clasp locking mechanism. In these figures, some elements of the clasp have been omitted.
  • The figure 11C is an enlarged partial view of the part enclosed by a circle in the Figure 11B , shown by the circle in this last figure.
  • The figure 12 is a perspective view of the clasp, in which, for better understanding, some structural elements are transparent and others are colored darker.
  • The figure 13 is a perspective view of a clasp according to a second embodiment
  • The figure 14 is a perspective view of one piece of the clasp shown in figure 13 .
  • The figure 15 is a perspective view of a clasp according to a third embodiment.
  • The figure 16 is in perspective view of the clasp shown in figure 15 , in which some elements have been omitted.
  • The Figures 17A-17E are various views of a clasp according to a fourth embodiment (A: side elevation, B: from above, C: from below, D: in perspective from below, and E: in perspective from above of a clasp partially open).
  • The figure 18 is a perspective view of a first clasp blade shown in Figures 17A-17E .
  • The figures 19A and 19B are side elevational and longitudinal sectional views of the clasp shown in Figures 17A-17E . The fig. 19B is a sectional view along line AA of the fig. 19A . The loop containing the second fastener as well as one of the two longerons side of one of the blades of the clasp has been omitted for better understanding.
  • The figure 19C is an excerpt from figure 19B , showing an enlarged view of the locking device of the length adjustment device.
  • The figure 20 corresponds to the figure 19B except that the blocking (or unblocking) mechanism is activated in the figure 20 , so that, in the position shown, an extension of the useful length is possible.

Description des modes de réalisationsDescription of embodiments

La présente invention concerne un fermoir, en particulier un fermoir pour bracelet. Selon un mode de réalisation préféré, l'invention concerne un fermoir pour bracelet de pièce d'horlogerie, de préférence pour montre-bracelet. Le bracelet peut être de tout type, comme par exemple en matière plastique souple, en cuir, ou comprenant un assemblage de maillons, métalliques par exemple.The present invention relates to a clasp, in particular a bracelet clasp. According to a preferred embodiment, the invention relates to a clasp for a timepiece bracelet, preferably for a wristwatch. The bracelet can be of any type, such as for example in flexible plastic material, in leather, or comprising an assembly of links, metallic for example.

De façon générale, le bracelet est constitué de deux portions longitudinales de bracelet, respectivement sous la forme de premier et second brins (non montrés), et chacun des brins est tel que l'une de ses extrémités est reliée au boîtier de la montre tandis que l'autre est destinée à être attachée à un organe de fixation du fermoir. Comme indiqué ci-dessus, dans le cas d'une boucle à ardillon, l'extrémité d'un des deux brins comporte une série de trous, et la longueur est ajustée grossièrement en choisissant le trou dans lequel l'ardillon est inséré.In general, the bracelet consists of two longitudinal bracelet portions, respectively in the form of first and second strands (not shown), and each of the strands is such that one of its ends is connected to the case of the watch while that the other is intended to be attached to a fastening member of the clasp. As indicated above, in the case of a pin buckle, the end of one of the two strands has a series of holes, and the length is roughly adjusted by choosing the hole in which the barb is inserted.

Pour décrire l'invention avec référence aux figures, les expressions "direction de la longueur du bracelet" ou "direction longitudinale du bracelet" sont utilisées pour désigner un axe qui est celui des deux brins de bracelet, supposant que le bracelet soit disposé à plat et détaché d'une montre. Quand le bracelet est fermé, la "direction de la longueur du bracelet" désigne la ligne qui suit le pourtour du bracelet. La longueur de bracelet ajustée par réglage fin à l'aide du dispositif de réglage du fermoir selon l'invention se trouve dans la direction de la longueur du bracelet. Dans le cas d'une montre-bracelet à cadran classique, un axe reliant les chiffres 6 et 12 du cadran suit généralement la direction de la longueur de bracelet conformément à la présente définition.To describe the invention with reference to the figures, the expressions "direction of the length of the bracelet" or "longitudinal direction of the bracelet" are used to designate an axis which is that of the two bracelet strands, assuming that the bracelet is laid out flat and detached from a watch. When the bracelet is closed, the "bracelet length direction" refers to the line that follows the circumference of the bracelet. The bracelet length adjusted by fine adjustment using the clasp adjustment device according to the invention is in the direction of the bracelet length. In the case of a conventional dial wristwatch, an axis connecting the numerals 6 and 12 on the dial generally follows the direction of the strap length in accordance with this definition.

Si l'on ignore le mécanisme de verrouillage du dispositif de réglage de longueur, le fermoir montré dans les figures est sensiblement symétrique et comporte donc un plan qui constituerait un plan de symétrie si le fermoir est parfaitement symétrique. Dans le présent descriptif, ce plan qui s'étend dans la direction de la longueur du bracelet et du fermoir est considéré comme "plan de symétrie", même si la symétrie du fermoir n'est pas parfaite, par exemple dû au positionnement du dispositif de réglage de longueur et de son mécanisme de blocage.If the locking mechanism of the length adjustment device is ignored, the clasp shown in the figures is substantially symmetrical and therefore comprises a plane which would constitute a plane of symmetry if the clasp is perfectly symmetrical. In this description, this plane which extends in the direction of the length of the bracelet and the clasp is considered as "plane of symmetry", even if the symmetry of the clasp is not perfect, for example due to the positioning of the device length adjustment and its locking mechanism.

Le terme "orthogonal" se réfère à un axe qui est perpendiculaire à la "direction de la longueur du bracelet" et perpendiculaire au plan de symétrie du fermoir. Dans le cas d'une montre-bracelet à cadran, un axe reliant les chiffres 3 et 9 du cadran a une direction "orthogonale" conformément à la présente définition.The term "orthogonal" refers to an axis which is perpendicular to the "bracelet length direction" and perpendicular to the plane of symmetry of the clasp. In the case of a wristwatch with a dial, an axis connecting the numerals 3 and 9 of the dial has an "orthogonal" direction in accordance with this definition.

Un axe "radial" est un axe qui est radial par rapport à l'axe du poignet ou de l'avant-bras d'un porteur de montre-bracelet. L'axe radial s'étend dans le plan de symétrie ou dans un plan parallèle au plan de symétrie. Dans la vue de la figure 3 B, l'axe "radial" est un axe sensiblement "vertical", et les deux termes sont utilisés de manière interchangeable dans le présent descriptif.A "radial" axis is an axis that is radial to the axis of the wrist or forearm of a wristwatch wearer. The radial axis extends in the plane of symmetry or in a plane parallel to the plane of symmetry. In the view of the Figure 3B , the "radial" axis is a substantially "vertical" axis, and the two terms are used interchangeably herein.

Les termes "bas" et "haut" se réfèrent généralement respectivement au bas et au haut du fermoir tel que montré à la figure 3 B. Les expressions "au-dessous" et "au-dessus" sont à comprendre de manière analogue, les éléments structurels proches du poignet étant au-dessous des éléments plus éloignés.The terms "bottom" and "top" generally refer respectively to the bottom and top of the clasp as shown in Figure 3B . The expressions "below" and "above" are to be understood analogously, the structural elements close to the wrist being below the more distant elements.

Si les expressions "direction longitudinale du bracelet", "orthogonal" et "radial" se réfèrent à l'orientation d'un élément du fermoir ou d'un axe de cet élément, ces expressions concernent généralement l'orientation de l'élément ou de son axe quand le fermoir est fermé.If the expressions "longitudinal direction of the bracelet", "orthogonal" and "radial" refer to the orientation of an element of the clasp or of an axis of this element, these expressions generally relate to the orientation of the element or of its axis when the clasp is closed.

Selon un mode de réalisation, le fermoir de l'invention est un fermoir du type déployant, un fermoir dépliant ou à boucle déployante. Ce type de fermoir est connu, par exemple, des documents brevets EP 0913106 , CH700230 , EP2452583 , EP2361523 et CH704335 . Le fermoir comporte au moins deux segments de fermoir longitudinaux. Dans la présente description, ces segments longitudinaux sont également appelés "les lames" du fermoir. Généralement, un fermoir comprend deux ou trois segments longitudinaux. Les fermoirs montrés dans les figures sont des fermoirs à deux lames 1, 2. Bien entendu, il serait tout à fait possible de réaliser le fermoir de l'invention avec une boucle déployante à trois lames ou encore avec un fermoir du type boucle à ardillon uniquement. La présente invention envisage également les fermoirs qui combinent les caractéristiques d'un fermoir à boucle déployante avec une attache de brin de bracelet connu de la boucle à ardillon. Un fermoir du type boucle à ardillon en l'absence d'une boucle déployante correspond à un mode de réalisation de l'invention.According to one embodiment, the clasp of the invention is a clasp of the folding type, a folding clasp or a folding clasp. This type of clasp is known, for example, from patent documents EP 0913106 , CH700230 , EP2452583 , EP2361523 and CH704335 . The clasp has at least two longitudinal clasp segments. In the present description, these longitudinal segments are also called "the blades" of the clasp. Generally, a clasp comprises two or three longitudinal segments. Clasps shown in the figures are clasps with two blades 1, 2. Of course, it would be entirely possible to produce the clasp of the invention with a folding clasp with three blades or even with a clasp of the pin buckle type only. The present invention also contemplates clasps which combine the characteristics of a folding clasp with a strap strand attachment known from the pin buckle. A clasp of the pin buckle type in the absence of a folding clasp corresponds to one embodiment of the invention.

En effet, l'homme du métier comprendra que le dispositif de réglage fin de la longueur du bracelet selon l'invention peut être adapté à tout type de fermoir et n'est pas limité à un type de fermoir particulier.Indeed, those skilled in the art will understand that the device for fine adjustment of the length of the bracelet according to the invention can be adapted to any type of clasp and is not limited to a particular type of clasp.

Le fermoir montré dans les figures 1-12 comporte une première lame 1 et une deuxième lame 2, articulées l'une par rapport à l'autre à une première extrémité. Lorsque le fermoir est fermé, les lames 1, 2 sont rapprochées et rabattues l'une sur l'autre comme montré aux figures 1, 2, 3B, 11A, 11B.The clasp shown in the figures 1-12 comprises a first blade 1 and a second blade 2, hinged relative to each other at a first end. When the clasp is closed, the blades 1, 2 are brought together and folded over one another as shown in figures 1, 2, 3B , 11A, 11B .

Les lames 1, 2 sont de forme allongée suivant la direction longitudinale du bracelet et légèrement incurvées pour mieux épouser la forme du poignet d'un porteur. La première lame 1 comprend une surface inférieure 44 (figure 2), destinée à être en face du poignet du porteur, et une surface supérieure 21 (figure 4).The blades 1, 2 are elongated in the longitudinal direction of the bracelet and slightly curved to better match the shape of the wrist of a wearer. The first blade 1 comprises a lower surface 44 ( picture 2 ), intended to be in front of the wrist of the wearer, and an upper surface 21 ( figure 4 ).

Le fermoir de l'invention comporte un mécanisme de verrouillage 3 permettant de verrouiller le fermoir en position fermée, et de déverrouiller le fermoir afin de passer en position ouverte (figures 3A, 4, 5, 6A, 6B) pour enlever la montre du poignet. Des moyens de verrouillage pour des fermoirs à boucle déployante sont connus en soi.The clasp of the invention comprises a locking mechanism 3 making it possible to lock the clasp in the closed position, and to unlock the clasp in order to pass into the open position ( figure 3A , 4 , 5 , 6A, 6B ) to remove the watch from the wrist. Locking means for folding clasps are known per se.

Dans une variante, le mécanisme de verrouillage est basé sur la présence d'un mécanisme d'encliquetage, par exemple formé par des surépaisseurs et éventuellement par des évidements, respectivement, sur la première et deuxième lame. Dans ce cas, un utilisateur agit directement sur une lame afin d'exercer la force nécessaire pour séparer les lames ou pour les verrouiller en les emboîtant, par exemple. L'inconvénient de ce mécanisme est que l'usure peut rendre l'encliquetage moins efficace. D'autre part, il existe toujours le risque d'une ouverture accidentelle avec ce type de fermeture.In a variant, the locking mechanism is based on the presence of a snap mechanism, for example formed by extra thicknesses and possibly by recesses, respectively, on the first and second blade. In this case, a user acts directly on a slat in order to exert the force necessary to separate the slats or to lock them by interlocking them, for example. The disadvantage of this mechanism is that wear can make the ratcheting less effective. On the other hand, there is always the risk of accidental opening with this type of closure.

Dans un mode de réalisation préféré, le fermoir de l'invention comporte un mécanisme de verrouillage comportant un organe de manipulation agencé de façon qu'une activation de cet organe est nécessaire pour ouvrir le fermoir. L'avantage de ce type de mécanisme est qu'une ouverture accidentelle est exclue. Le principe mécanique du mécanisme de verrouillage 3 du fermoir montré dans les figures est similaire à celui divulgué dans le brevet européen EP0913106B .In a preferred embodiment, the clasp of the invention comprises a locking mechanism comprising a manipulation member arranged in such a way that an activation of this member is necessary to open the clasp. The advantage of this type of mechanism is that accidental opening is excluded. The mechanical principle of the locking mechanism 3 of the clasp shown in the figures is similar to that disclosed in the European patent EP0913106B .

Le mécanisme de verrouillage 3 comporte de préférence deux organes de manipulation latéraux, un premier organe de manipulation 7 et un deuxième organe de manipulation 7'. Pour déverrouiller le fermoir, un porteur active simultanément les deux organes 7, 7'. Ces organes de manipulation 7, 7' sont saillants de chaque côté du bâti 20, dans lequel ils sont guidés et/ou logés. Ce bâti est de préférence agencé à la deuxième extrémité de la première lame 1. Au lieu d'un bâti, il est possible de prévoir une chape, une boucle comme montrée à la figure 14, ou un couvercle, comme montré dans le brevet EP0913106B pour engager les poussoirs. Il convient de noter que le second organe de fixation, non montré, est de préférence attaché au bâti 20. Il peut s'agir d'une barrette à ressort maintenue, par exemple, entre deux parois latérales du bâti ou de la chape. Dans les figures 1 et 6B, un trou 45 est visible sur la face intérieure d'une paroi latérale du bâti 20, permettant de loger la barrette à ressort ensemble avec un trou correspondant agencé sur la paroi opposée (non-visible). Sur sa face supérieure, le bâti 20 du fermoir montré aux figures comporte un évidemment 46, prévu pour insérer le logo du fabricant, par exemple.The locking mechanism 3 preferably comprises two lateral manipulation members, a first manipulation member 7 and a second manipulation member 7'. To unlock the clasp, a wearer simultaneously activates the two members 7, 7'. These manipulation members 7, 7' protrude from each side of the frame 20, in which they are guided and/or housed. This frame is preferably arranged at the second end of the first blade 1. Instead of a frame, it is possible to provide a yoke, a loop as shown in figure 14 , or a lid, as shown in the patent EP0913106B to engage the pushers. It should be noted that the second fixing member, not shown, is preferably attached to the frame 20. It may be a spring bar held, for example, between two side walls of the frame or of the yoke. In the figure 1 and 6B , a hole 45 is visible on the inner face of a side wall of the frame 20, allowing the spring bar to be housed together with a corresponding hole arranged on the opposite wall (not visible). On its upper face, the frame 20 of the clasp shown in the figures comprises a recess 46, provided to insert the manufacturer's logo, for example.

En raison de la symétrie générale du fermoir de l'invention, plusieurs éléments sont agencés par paires dans le fermoir, de part et d'autre du plan de symétrie. Le présent descriptif utilise généralement un seul numéro de référence pour designer des éléments présents par paires, à moins que des numéros de référence séparés soient appropriés, par exemple en raison des asymétries du dispositif de blocage ou pour la description plus détaillée de certaines caractéristiques.Due to the general symmetry of the clasp of the invention, several elements are arranged in pairs in the clasp, on either side of the plane of symmetry. This description generally uses a single reference number to designate elements present in pairs, unless separate reference numbers are appropriate, for example because of asymmetries of the locking device or for the more detailed description of certain characteristics.

Chacun des organes de manipulation 7, 7' est relié à un des deux longerons latéraux, 14, 14' de la deuxième lame 2. Dans le mode de réalisation montré, la liaison (non visible) entre les longerons et leurs organes de manipulation respectifs se trouve à la deuxième extrémité de la deuxième lame, dans le bâti 20. En effet, chacun des deux organes de manipulation 7, 7' peut venir de matière avec l'un des deux longerons latéraux. Vers la deuxième extrémité de la première lame 1, les longerons latéraux 14, 14' ne sont pas rigidement connectés l'un à l'autre, mais sont engagés dans le bâti 20 de façon à pouvoir se déplacer légèrement dans le plan général du fermoir, dans une direction orthogonale. Cette liberté de déplacement peut provenir de la flexibilité des longerons, ou au moins de la deuxième extrémité de ceux-ci. Dans le fermoir montré dans les dessins, les deux longerons 14, 14' sont deux pièces séparées, solidarisées avec l'articulation de la deuxième lame, vers la première extrémité. Dans un autre mode de réalisation, illustré dans le document EP0383039 , les deux longerons 14, 14' sont rigidement connectés à une base commune, généralement proche de la première extrémité, mais ils comportent des extrémités libres, qui peuvent se déplacer l'une par rapport à l'autre en raison de la flexibilité des longerons. Le bâti 20 comporte en outre des moyens de rappel, par exemple un ressort, qui sollicitent les organes de manipulation 7, 7' ainsi que les longerons latéraux 14, 14' vers la position de verrouillage, généralement les positions latérales extérieures des longerons. Les moyens de rappel ne sont pas visibles dans les dessins, car ils sont intégrés dans le bâti 20. Les moyens de rappel sont ainsi agencés de façon à tenir les organes 7, 7' en position éloignées l'un par rapport à l'autre.Each of the manipulation members 7, 7' is connected to one of the two side beams, 14, 14' of the second blade 2. In the embodiment shown, the connection (not visible) between the beams and their respective manipulation members is located at the second end of the second blade, in the frame 20. Indeed, each of the two manipulation members 7, 7′ can be made in one piece with one of the two side rails. Towards the second end of the first blade 1, the side rails 14, 14' are not rigidly connected to each other, but are engaged in the frame 20 so as to be able to move slightly in the general plane of the clasp, in an orthogonal direction. This freedom of movement can come from the flexibility of the beams, or at least from the second end thereof. In the clasp shown in the drawings, the two spars 14, 14' are two separate pieces, joined together with the articulation of the second blade, towards the first end. In another embodiment, illustrated in the document EP0383039 , the two spars 14, 14' are rigidly connected to a common base, generally close to the first end, but they have free ends, which can move relative to each other due to the flexibility of the spars . The frame 20 further comprises return means, for example a spring, which urge the manipulation members 7, 7' as well as the side rails 14, 14' towards the locking position, generally the outer lateral positions of the rails. The return means are not visible in the drawings, because they are integrated into the frame 20. The return means are thus arranged so as to hold the members 7, 7' in a position remote from each other. .

Dans le mode de réalisation montré, les organes de manipulation 7, 7' sont réalisés sous forme de poussoirs 7, 7'. En tenant les poussoirs 7, 7' entre le pouce et l'index et en appuyant, un porteur effectue un rapprochement des poussoirs et des longerons latéraux 14, 14'.In the embodiment shown, the manipulation members 7, 7' are made in the form of pushers 7, 7'. By holding the pushers 7, 7' between the thumb and the index finger and by pressing, a wearer brings the pushers and the side rails 14, 14' closer together.

Dans un mode de réalisation, le mécanisme de verrouillage 3 comporte au moins deux organes d'accrochage ou des organes d'accrochage complémentaires 22, 23, une première forme d'arrêt 22 disposée sur la première lame 1 et une deuxième forme d'arrêt 23 disposée sur la deuxième lame 2, lesdites formes d'arrêt 22, 23 étant agencées de façon à verrouiller le fermoir dans la position fermée lorsque les formes d'arrêt 22, 23 sont engagées. L'activation de l'organe de manipulation 7, 7' engendre le désengagement desdites formes d'arrêt complémentaires 22, 23 afin de déverrouiller le mécanisme de verrouillage 3. De préférence, la première forme d'arrêt 23 est disposée sur le longeron 14, et ce dernier est agencé pour agir sur l'organe d'actionnement 9 lorsque le fermoir est fermé et lorsque l'organe de manipulation 7 est activé par un utilisateur, comme sera décrit ci-après.In one embodiment, the locking mechanism 3 comprises at least two attachment members or complementary attachment members 22, 23, a first stop shape 22 arranged on the first blade 1 and a second stop shape 23 disposed on the second blade 2, said stop forms 22, 23 being arranged to lock the clasp in the closed position when the stop forms 22, 23 are engaged. The activation of the manipulation member 7, 7' causes the disengagement of said complementary stop shapes 22, 23 in order to unlock the locking mechanism 3. Preferably, the first stop shape 23 is arranged on the side member 14 , and the latter is arranged to act on the actuating member 9 when the clasp is closed and when the manipulation member 7 is activated by a user, as will be described below.

Chaque longeron 14, 14' présente, sur son flanc extérieur, un organe saillant en forme de crochet 23 (figures 4, 6A). Un évidemment ou une surface d'arrêt correspondante 22 (figures 4, 5) est ménagé dans le côté intérieur de chaque longeron 15, 15' de la première lame 1, pour recevoir le crochet 23 quand la deuxième lame 2 est complètement rabattue sur la première lame 1. Les crochets 23 ont des formes arrondies au-dessous et des surfaces de rétention aplaties s'étendant dans un plan perpendiculaire au plan de symétrie de fermoir. Les surfaces des évidemments 22 en contact avec les surfaces de rétention des crochet 23 sont également aplaties et perpendiculaires au plan de symétrie de fermoir. Grâce au côté inférieur arrondi, les crochets 23 assurent un verrouillage automatique à engagement positif, lorsque la deuxième lame 2 est pressée vers la première lame 1, même si les poussoirs 7, 7' ne sont pas enfoncés. Une ouverture accidentelle du fermoir est empêchée grâce aux surfaces aplaties complémentaires, tant que l'on n'a pas rapproché les longerons 14, 14' de la deuxième lame 2 en activant les poussoirs 7, 7'.Each spar 14, 14' has, on its outer side, a protruding member in the form of a hook 23 ( figure 4 , 6A ). A recess or corresponding stopping surface 22 ( figures 4, 5 ) is formed in the inner side of each spar 15, 15 'of the first blade 1, for receive the hook 23 when the second blade 2 is completely folded over the first blade 1. The hooks 23 have rounded shapes below and flattened retention surfaces extending in a plane perpendicular to the plane of symmetry of the clasp. The surfaces of the recesses 22 in contact with the retention surfaces of the hooks 23 are also flattened and perpendicular to the plane of symmetry of the clasp. Thanks to the rounded lower side, the hooks 23 ensure automatic locking with positive engagement, when the second blade 2 is pressed towards the first blade 1, even if the pushers 7, 7' are not depressed. Accidental opening of the clasp is prevented thanks to the complementary flattened surfaces, as long as the longerons 14, 14' of the second blade 2 have not been brought closer by activating the pushers 7, 7'.

Une des différences du fermoir montré par rapport au fermoir de EP0913106B concerne le fait que les longerons 14, 14' de la deuxième lame 2 ne sont pas insérées entre les flancs des longerons 15, 15' de la première lame 1. Dans le fermoir du présent exemple, les longerons 14, 14' sont posés au moins partiellement au-dessus des longerons 15, 15' de la première lame lorsque le fermoir est fermé. Chacun des crochets 23 est disposé latéralement sur un renflement 24 se trouvant sur la face inférieure du longeron 14, de sorte que le crochet se trouve à un niveau rabaissé par rapport au plan général du longeron 14 (figure 6A). D'autre part, la première lame 1 comporte, à sa deuxième extrémité, une extension formant un cadre 18 prévu pour accueillir et/ou guider l'extrémité d'un brin de bracelet. Ce cadre comporte deux extensions latérales 28 connectées vers leurs extrémités par une plaque transversale 29 (figures 4 et 8). Les extensions latérales 28 comportent une structure 31 en élévation par rapport à la surface supérieure de la première lame. Les surfaces de l'évidemment 22 sont agencées sur la face intérieure de la structure 31 en élévation, de façon à être disposées au-dessus du plan général de la première lame. Au fait, les surfaces d'appui des crochets 23 se trouvent dans le même plan que les surfaces inférieures des longerons 14, 14'. Les surfaces d'appui dans les évidements 23 se trouvent dans le même plan que les surfaces supérieures 21 de la première lame 1. Il ressortira de la suite du descriptif que ces caractéristiques contribuent à la mise en œuvre d'un fermoir particulièrement léger et peu encombrant.One of the differences of the clasp shown compared to the clasp of EP0913106B relates to the fact that the longerons 14, 14' of the second strip 2 are not inserted between the sides of the longerons 15, 15' of the first strip 1. In the clasp of the present example, the longerons 14, 14' are placed at the least partially above the longitudinal members 15, 15' of the first blade when the clasp is closed. Each of the hooks 23 is arranged laterally on a bulge 24 located on the underside of the spar 14, so that the hook is at a lowered level relative to the general plane of the spar 14 ( Figure 6A ). On the other hand, the first blade 1 comprises, at its second end, an extension forming a frame 18 provided to accommodate and/or guide the end of a bracelet strand. This frame comprises two lateral extensions 28 connected towards their ends by a transverse plate 29 ( figure 4 and 8 ). The side extensions 28 comprise a structure 31 in elevation with respect to the upper surface of the first blade. The surfaces of the recess 22 are arranged on the inner face of the structure 31 in elevation, so as to be arranged above the general plane of the first blade. In fact, the support surfaces of the hooks 23 are in the same plane as the lower surfaces of the beams 14, 14'. The bearing surfaces in the recesses 23 are in the same plane as the upper surfaces 21 of the first blade 1. It will emerge from the rest of the description that these characteristics contribute to the implementation of a particularly light and little clasp. bulky.

La présente invention couvre également une variante du mécanisme de verrouillage 4, selon laquelle les longerons latéraux 14, 14' sont agencés de façon à s'éloigner ou à s'écarter lors de l'activation de l'organe de manipulation 7, 7', afin de déverrouiller le mécanisme de verrouillage.The present invention also covers a variant of the locking mechanism 4, according to which the side rails 14, 14' are arranged so as to move away or to move apart when the manipulation member 7, 7' is activated. , to unlock the locking mechanism.

Selon encore une variante, un ou les deux organes de manipulation 7, 7' sont agencés de façon à être tirés, au lieu d'être enfoncés, afin de permettre un déplacement des longerons 14, 14' et ainsi le déverrouillage du mécanisme de verrouillage. Le ou les organes de manipulation est/sont alors de préférence réalisé(s) sous forme d'une tirette plutôt que d'une paire de poussoirs. Dans ce cas, il peut également s'agir d'un déplacement d'écartement ou d'un rapprochement des longerons 14, 14' engendrant le déverrouillage. Dans tous les cas, la présence de moyens de rappel, tels d'un ressort, est préférée, afin de solliciter le fermoir en position verrouillée en absence d'une activation de l'organe de manipulation 7, 7'.According to yet another variant, one or both manipulation members 7, 7' are arranged in such a way as to be pulled, instead of being pushed in, in order to allow movement of the beams 14, 14' and thus the unlocking of the locking mechanism . The manipulation member(s) is/are then preferably made in the form of a pull tab rather than a pair of pushers. In this case, it can also be a separation movement or an approximation of the beams 14, 14 'causing the unlocking. In all cases, the presence of return means, such as a spring, is preferred, in order to bias the clasp into the locked position in the absence of activation of the manipulation member 7, 7'.

Dans un mode de réalisation, il est envisagé que les pièces contenant les longerons 14, 14' ainsi que les organes de manipulation 7, 7', se croisent à l'intérieur du bâti 20, de façon que chaque longeron soit relié à l'organe de manipulation du côté latéral opposé (figure 13). Dans ce cas, le longeron 14 est de préférence relié à l'organe de manipulation 7', et le longeron 14' à l'organe 7. Dans ce mode de réalisation l'organe de manipulation et le longeron correspondant sont de préférence réalisés d'une pièce également. Selon cette variante, les organes de manipulation 7, 7' peuvent être réalisés sous forme de poussoirs, et l'activation de ces organes de manipulation peut engendrer un écartement des longerons 14, 14'.In one embodiment, it is envisaged that the parts containing the beams 14, 14' as well as the manipulation members 7, 7', intersect inside the frame 20, so that each beam is connected to the manipulator on the opposite lateral side ( figure 13 ). In this case, the spar 14 is preferably connected to the manipulation member 7', and the spar 14' to the member 7. In this embodiment, the manipulation member and the corresponding spar are preferably made of also a room. According to this variant, the manipulation members 7, 7' can be made in the form of pushers, and the activation of these manipulation members can cause the beams 14, 14' to move apart.

Le fermoir de l'invention comporte un dispositif de réglage de la longueur 4 du bracelet. Il s'agit de préférence d'un dispositif permettant un réglage fin de la longueur. Par "réglage de la longueur" ou "réglage fin de la longueur", on entend un dispositif permettant d'ajuster la circonférence définie par le boîtier d'une montre, les deux brins de bracelet et le fermoir. Le but est de permettre à un porteur d'ajuster cette circonférence de façon à ce que le porteur soit le plus à l'aise lorsqu'il porte la montre bracelet comportant le fermoir à son poignet. Le réglage fin de la longueur se traduit par un serrement ou un desserrement du bracelet au poignet, selon que la longueur et raccourcie ou rallongée. Ce dernier réglage peut être effectué sur une échelle plus petite et précise que le réglage par l'ajout ou l'enlèvement d'un maillon d'un bracelet métallique ou par l'insertion de l'ardillon ou d'un tenon dans un autre trou dans le cas d'une boucle à ardillon, par exemple. Dans l'état de la technique, l'expression "réglage de longueur utile du bracelet" est également utilisée.The clasp of the invention comprises a device for adjusting the length 4 of the bracelet. It is preferably a device allowing fine adjustment of the length. By "length adjustment" or "fine length adjustment" is meant a device making it possible to adjust the circumference defined by the case of a watch, the two bracelet strands and the clasp. The aim is to allow a wearer to adjust this circumference so that the wearer is most comfortable when wearing the wristwatch comprising the clasp on his wrist. The fine adjustment of the length results in a tightening or a loosening of the bracelet on the wrist, depending on whether the length is shortened or lengthened. This latter adjustment can be made on a smaller and more precise scale than adjustment by adding or removing a link from a metal bracelet or by inserting the barb or lug into another. hole in the case of a pin buckle, for example. In the state of the art, the expression “adjusting the useful length of the bracelet” is also used.

Dans le fermoir montré aux figures, le dispositif de réglage 4 est intégré dans une structure de support centrale 6 du fermoir. La structure de support centrale 6 est solidaire de la première lame 1, mais pourrait également être formée en une pièce avec la première lame 1. Dans un mode de réalisation, la structure de support 6 constitue la première lame 1.In the clasp shown in the figures, the adjustment device 4 is integrated into a central support structure 6 of the clasp. The central support structure 6 is integral with the first blade 1, but could also be formed in one piece with the first blade 1. In a embodiment, the support structure 6 constitutes the first blade 1.

Le dispositif de réglage 4 comporte une pièce ou partie mobile 5 à laquelle est attaché le premier organe de fixation 11. Cet organe est destiné à être rendu solidaire d'une première extrémité libre du bracelet. Dans le mode de réalisation montré, le premier organe de fixation comporte deux tenons 11, destinés à être insérés dans les trous prévus dans l'extrémité libre d'un brin de bracelet. L'homme du métier connaît de nombreux organes de liaisons, y compris des barrettes, et la présente invention n'est pas limitée à un organe de liaison particulier. Comme on peut le voir aux figures 4, 5, 6A, 9A, 9B, et 10, la partie mobile 5 est réalisée sous forme d'une coulisse, logée dans un canal 32 réalisé dans la structure centrale 6. Les parois intérieures latérales du canal 32 sont formées de façon retenir et guider la coulisse pour qu'elle puisse effectuer un déplacement en direction longitudinale. De préférence, chacune des parois latérales du canal 32 comporte une rainure, agencée pour recevoir des rebords latéraux présents sur la coulisse 5, de façon à permettre le coulissement en direction longitudinale de la pièce mobile 5.The adjustment device 4 comprises a moving part or part 5 to which the first fixing member 11 is attached. This member is intended to be secured to a first free end of the bracelet. In the embodiment shown, the first fixing member comprises two tenons 11, intended to be inserted into the holes provided in the free end of a bracelet strand. A person skilled in the art knows many connecting members, including strips, and the present invention is not limited to any particular connecting member. As can be seen at figures 4, 5 , 6A , 9A, 9B , and 10 , the movable part 5 is made in the form of a slide, housed in a channel 32 made in the central structure 6. The inner side walls of the channel 32 are formed in such a way as to retain and guide the slide so that it can move in the longitudinal direction. Preferably, each of the side walls of the channel 32 comprises a groove, arranged to receive the side flanges present on the slide 5, so as to allow sliding in the longitudinal direction of the movable part 5.

La pièce mobile 5 est logée dans une extrémité libre 8 de la structure centrale 6 pour émerger de l'extrémité 8. La partie mobile 5 est agencée sur la structure de support 6 de façon à pouvoir se déplacer longitudinalement par rapport à la direction longitudinale du bracelet pour effectuer un réglage de longueur. Lors d'un rallongement, le déplacement en direction longitudinale fait que la pièce mobile 5 émerge davantage de l'extrémité 8 de la structure de support centrale 6, et lors d'un raccourcissement, la pièce mobile 5 se déplace dans le sens inverse en direction longitudinale, de façon à s'insérer davantage dans le support 6.The movable part 5 is housed in a free end 8 of the central structure 6 to emerge from the end 8. The movable part 5 is arranged on the support structure 6 so as to be able to move longitudinally with respect to the longitudinal direction of the strap to adjust the length. During a lengthening, the movement in the longitudinal direction causes the movable part 5 to emerge more from the end 8 of the central support structure 6, and during a shortening, the movable part 5 moves in the opposite direction longitudinal direction, so as to fit further into the support 6.

Le fermoir comporte un dispositif de blocage agencé pour bloquer le déplacement de la partie mobile 5 dans au moins un sens de déplacement longitudinal. Ce dispositif de blocage est illustré aux figures 9A, 9B et 9C. Dans un mode de réalisation le dispositif de blocage comporte un crantage ou une denture 33, de préférence une denture rochet, agencée sur la partie mobile 5, une mâchoire ou une dent antagoniste 34 reliée à un organe d'actionnement 9, et un moyen de rappel 37, agencé pour solliciter le dispositif de blocage en position bloquée, de façon à empêcher le déplacement de la partie mobile 5 dans au moins un sens le long de la direction longitudinale du bracelet.The clasp includes a blocking device arranged to block the movement of the movable part 5 in at least one direction of longitudinal movement. This blocking device is illustrated in figures 9A, 9B and 9C . In one embodiment, the locking device comprises a notch or a toothing 33, preferably a ratchet toothing, arranged on the movable part 5, a jaw or an antagonist tooth 34 connected to an actuating member 9, and a means of reminder 37, arranged to urge the blocking device into the blocked position, so as to prevent movement of the movable part 5 in at least one direction along the longitudinal direction of the bracelet.

Dans un mode de réalisation, l'organe d'actionnement 9 est un poussoir, relié à la mâchoire 34. La partie mobile 5 comporte un crantage 33, et la mâchoire 34 est agencée pour coopérer avec ce crantage 33 et pour bloquer le déplacement de la partie mobile 5 en absence d'un actionnement de l'organe d'actionnement 9.In one embodiment, the actuating member 9 is a pusher, connected to the jaw 34. The movable part 5 comprises a detent 33, and the jaw 34 is arranged to cooperate with this detent 33 and to block the movement of the movable part 5 in the absence of an actuation of the actuating member 9.

Dans un mode de réalisation, le dispositif de blocage comprend en outre une tige ou une barre 12 (figures 9C et 12) reliant la mâchoire ou dent 34 audit organe d'actionnement 9. Cette tige est de préférence logée dans un logement 36 réalisé dans le support centrale 6, et ce logement 36 est agencé de façon à positionner la tige au-dessus ou au-dessous de la partie mobile 5 dans la structure de support centrale 6.In one embodiment, the blocking device further comprises a rod or bar 12 ( figure 9C and 12 ) connecting the jaw or tooth 34 to said actuating member 9. This rod is preferably housed in a housing 36 made in the central support 6, and this housing 36 is arranged so as to position the rod above or below of the mobile part 5 in the central support structure 6.

L'organe d'actionnement 9 est de préférence relié par la tige ou barre 12 à la mâchoire 34 de façon à former un cliquet. Le crantage 33 est agencé sur une face latérale de la coulisse 5, de façon à coopérer avec la mâchoire 34. L'organe d'actionnement 9, la barre et la mâchoire 34 sont de préférence formées d'une seule pièce 19, logée dans le logement 36 (figures 7A et 7B) prévu dans la structure centrale 6. Les moyens de rappel, en particulier des ressorts 37 agissent sur le poussoir afin de solliciter la mâchoire 34 en direction du crantage, bloquant de cette manière le déplacement de la coulisse 5 en l'absence d'une activation par un utilisateur.The actuating member 9 is preferably connected by the rod or bar 12 to the jaw 34 so as to form a pawl. The notch 33 is arranged on a side face of the slide 5, so as to cooperate with the jaw 34. The actuating member 9, the bar and the jaw 34 are preferably formed from a single piece 19, housed in housing 36 ( figures 7A and 7B ) provided in the central structure 6. The return means, in particular springs 37 act on the pusher in order to urge the jaw 34 in the direction of the notching, thereby blocking the movement of the slide 5 in the absence of a activation by a user.

Dans un mode de réalisation, ledit dispositif de réglage de la longueur 4 comporte une crémaillère, un crantage et/ou une denture 33. De préférence, la crémaillère, denture et/ou le crantage 33 est agencé sur la partie mobile. De préférence, le crantage 33 définit au moins trois positions d'indexation, de préférence afin de déterminer au moins trois valeurs discrètes et stables de la longueur du bracelet. L'avantage d'un crantage est qu'il permet de définir plus de positions d'indexation et ainsi de régler plus finement la longueur du bracelet. Par exemple, le crantage définit 4, 5, 6, 7 ou plus positions d'indexation.In one embodiment, said length adjustment device 4 comprises a rack, a toothing and/or a toothing 33. Preferably, the rack, toothing and/or the toothing 33 is arranged on the mobile part. Preferably, the notch 33 defines at least three indexing positions, preferably in order to determine at least three discrete and stable values of the length of the bracelet. The advantage of notching is that it makes it possible to define more indexing positions and thus to adjust the length of the bracelet more finely. For example, the notch defines 4, 5, 6, 7 or more indexing positions.

Dans le mode de réalisation montré aux figures, les formes du crantage et de la mâchoire sont telles que le déplacement dans un premier des deux sens longitudinaux est complètement bloqué par le dispositif de blocage en position de repos, alors que le déplacement dans l'autre sens peut être effectué lorsqu'une force agit sur la coulisse dans cet autre sens. Ceci est accompli par la forme asymétrique ("anti-recul") des dents du crantage et de la mâchoire. Dans la pratique, cette configuration permet à un utilisateur de raccourcir le bracelet en exerçant une force sur le brin attaché à la partie mobile 5, en enfonçant le brin en direction du fermoir. Cette force est transmise à la mâchoire qui, dans ce cas, est forcée à se désengager de l'espace entre deux dents dans lequel elle se trouve. Le rallongement accidentel ou par une force agissant sur le bracelet du fermoir est empêché par les surfaces orthogonales sur un des deux côtés des dents et de la mâchoire. Pour rallonger le fermoir, il est nécessaire d'activer le dispositif de blocage en pressant sur le poussoir 9, ce qui permet de désengager complètement la mâchoire 34 de la denture du crantage. Dans ce dernier cas, la coulisse 5 peut être déplacée dans les deux sens longitudinaux suivant la longueur du bracelet, permettant le raccourcissement et le rallongement. Comme on peut le déduire de la figure 9C, la coulisse 5 est retenue dans son logement 32 dans la structure 6 par une vis 25, qui est agencée pour buter contre la barre 25 lorsqu'une extension maximale de la longueur du bracelet a été atteinte. La buttée dans l'autre sens est simplement déterminée par la fin du logement 32 à l'intérieur de la structure 6. La figure 9C montre la coulisse 5 dans sa position la plus retirée dans la structure 6, butant contre le bout intérieur du logement.In the embodiment shown in the figures, the shapes of the notching and the jaw are such that movement in a first of the two longitudinal directions is completely blocked by the blocking device in the rest position, while movement in the other direction can be made when a force acts on the slide in this other direction. This is accomplished by the asymmetrical ("anti-recoil") shape of the cogging and jaw teeth. In practice, this configuration allows a user to shorten the bracelet by exerting a force on the strand attached to the mobile part 5, by pushing the strand in the direction of the clasp. This force is transmitted to the jaw which, in this case, is forced to disengage from the space between two teeth in which it is located. The accidental extension or by a force acting on the bracelet of the clasp is prevented by the orthogonal surfaces on one of the two sides of the teeth and the jaw. To lengthen the clasp, it is necessary to activate the blocking device by pressing on the pusher 9, which makes it possible to completely disengage the jaw 34 from the teeth of the notching. In the latter case, the slide 5 can be moved in both longitudinal directions along the length of the bracelet, allowing it to be shortened and lengthened. As can be deduced from the figure 9C , the slide 5 is retained in its housing 32 in the structure 6 by a screw 25, which is arranged to abut against the bar 25 when a maximum extension of the length of the bracelet has been reached. The abutment in the other direction is simply determined by the end of the housing 32 inside the structure 6. The figure 9C shows the slide 5 in its most withdrawn position in the structure 6, abutting against the inner end of the housing.

Dans un autre mode de réalisation, montré aux figures 13 et 14, l'organe d'actionnement 9 comporte ou est relié à une tirette, c'est-à-dire un organe destiné à être tiré pour activer le dispositif de blocage. De ce qui a été décrit ci-dessus, il s'ensuit que le déblocage du mécanisme de blocage du fermoir montré aux figures, s'effectue par un mouvement en direction orthogonale de la pièce 19 comportant le poussoir 9, la barre 12 et la mâchoire 34. Ce même mouvement peut, en principe, être effectué en tirant sur la pièce 19, comme décrit plus loin ci-après par rapport à un deuxième mode de réalisation montré aux figures 13 et 14.In another embodiment, shown in figures 13 and 14 , the actuating member 9 comprises or is connected to a pull tab, that is to say a member intended to be pulled to activate the blocking device. From what has been described above, it follows that the unlocking of the locking mechanism of the clasp shown in the figures is effected by a movement in the orthogonal direction of the part 19 comprising the pusher 9, the bar 12 and the jaw 34. This same movement can, in principle, be performed by pulling on part 19, as described later below with respect to a second embodiment shown in figures 13 and 14 .

Comme montré aux figures 9A et 9B, les moyens de rappel 37 sont réalisés sous forme de deux ressorts 37, logés d'une part dans une paire de creux présents dans le poussoir 9 et d'autre part dans une paire de creux réalisés dans le logement 36 de la pièce 9, 34, 12. Ces derniers creux sont réalisés de part et d'autre d'un canal dans lequel la barre 12 est guidée. Dans le cas d'un organe d'actionnement comportant une tirette 141 (figure 13), il est possible de garder un support pour les ressorts comme celui du poussoir 9, en raison du peu d'espace disponible pour loger les ressorts.As shown at figures 9A and 9B , the return means 37 are made in the form of two springs 37, housed on the one hand in a pair of hollows present in the pusher 9 and on the other hand in a pair of hollows made in the housing 36 of the part 9, 34, 12. These latter hollows are made on either side of a channel in which the bar 12 is guided. In the case of an actuating member comprising a pull tab 141 ( figure 13 ), it is possible to keep a support for the springs like that of the pusher 9, due to the limited space available to house the springs.

Une des particularités du fermoir montré aux figures réside dans l'intégration du dispositif de blocage, y compris de son organe d'actionnement 9, dans une position relativement centrée, suivant l'axe centrale de la direction de la longueur du bracelet. D'autre part, le dispositif de blocage est centré en direction radiale/verticale, entre les première et deuxième lames 1, 2. On notera que la surface supérieure de la structure centrale 6 se trouve en surélévation par rapport à la surface supérieure 21 des longerons 15, 15'. Lorsque le fermoir est fermé (figures 1, 2, 3B), la partie supérieure de la structure centrale 6 se trouve entre les longerons 14, 14'.One of the particularities of the clasp shown in the figures resides in the integration of the locking device, including its actuating member 9, in a relatively centered position, along the central axis of the direction of the length of the bracelet. On the other hand, the blocking device is centered in the radial/vertical direction, between the first and second blades 1, 2. It will be noted that the upper surface of the central structure 6 is raised with respect to to the upper surface 21 of the beams 15, 15'. When the clasp is closed ( figures 1, 2, 3B ), the upper part of the central structure 6 is located between the beams 14, 14'.

De préférence, la structure de support central 6 est centrée par rapport à la direction de la longueur de bracelet de façon que, lorsque le fermoir est fermé, les longerons 14, 14' de la deuxième lame 2 se trouvent de part et d'autre de la structure de support centrale 6. Dans un mode de réalisation, lesdits longerons latéraux 14, 14' de la deuxième lame 2 sont disposés latéralement par rapport à la structure de support centrale 6 lorsque le fermoir est fermé, de préférence de façon à encadrer au moins partiellement la structure de support centrale 6 lorsque le fermoir est fermé. Cet agencement latéral extérieur des longerons 14, 14' représente une différence majeure par rapport à aux fermoirs du type EP0913106 , dans lesquels les longerons flexibles du mécanisme de verrouillage sont centré et intégrés entre des montants d'une première lame, cette dernière formant le cadre.Preferably, the central support structure 6 is centered with respect to the direction of the bracelet length so that, when the clasp is closed, the longerons 14, 14' of the second blade 2 are located on either side of the central support structure 6. In one embodiment, said side rails 14, 14' of the second slat 2 are arranged laterally with respect to the central support structure 6 when the clasp is closed, preferably so as to frame at least partially the central support structure 6 when the clasp is closed. This outer lateral arrangement of the beams 14, 14' represents a major difference with respect to clasps of the type EP0913106 , in which the flexible beams of the locking mechanism are centered and integrated between uprights of a first blade, the latter forming the frame.

Dans le cas du fermoir de l'invention, les longerons 14, 14' du mécanisme de verrouillage 3 comportant les extrémités flexibles liées à un organe de manipulation 7, 7' sont agencés de préférence extérieurement par rapport à une structure ou lame centrale 6, portant le dispositif de blocage du réglage fin de longueur.In the case of the clasp of the invention, the longitudinal members 14, 14' of the locking mechanism 3 comprising the flexible ends connected to a manipulation member 7, 7' are preferably arranged externally with respect to a central structure or blade 6, carrying the fine length adjustment blocking device.

Dans un mode de réalisation, l'organe d'actionnement 9 est agencé au moins partiellement dans un espace 16 ménagé entre les deux longerons latéraux 14, 14' de la deuxième lame lorsque le fermoir est fermé.In one embodiment, the actuating member 9 is arranged at least partially in a space 16 made between the two side rails 14, 14' of the second blade when the clasp is closed.

Dans un mode de réalisation, le dispositif de réglage 4 est agencé de façon que, lorsque le fermoir est fermé, au moins une partie du dispositif de réglage 4 s'étend, en direction verticale, dans un espace 16 agencé par la deuxième lame 2 (figure 6A).In one embodiment, the adjustment device 4 is arranged so that, when the clasp is closed, at least a part of the adjustment device 4 extends, in the vertical direction, into a space 16 arranged by the second blade 2 ( Figure 6A ).

Dans le mode de réalisation montré aux figures, cet espace 16 est ménagé entre les deux longerons latéraux 14, 14' de la deuxième lame 2.In the embodiment shown in the figures, this space 16 is provided between the two side rails 14, 14' of the second strip 2.

Dans un mode de réalisation, le dispositif de réglage de la longueur 4 est intégré et/ou monté dans la structure centrale 6 de façon que l'organe d'actionnement 9 émerge verticalement au moins partiellement dans l'espace 16 ménagé dans la deuxième lame 2.In one embodiment, the length adjustment device 4 is integrated and/or mounted in the central structure 6 so that the actuating member 9 emerges vertically at least partially into the space 16 formed in the second blade 2.

Dans un mode de réalisation, le fermoir comporte un bâti ou une chape 20 agencé à une seconde extrémité de la deuxième lame 2. De préférence, le bâti ou la chape 20 supporte le second organe de fixation, et comporte, sur son côté inférieur, un espace et/ou un évidement 17 pour permettre à la partie mobile 5 de se déplacer dans l'espace 17. Dans un mode de réalisation, lorsque le fermoir est fermé, la deuxième lame 2 se prolonge au-delà de l'extrémité libre 8 de la structure de support centrale 6 de façon que le bâti ou la chape 20 se situe devant l'extrémité libre 8. De cette façon, le bâti 20 ne fait pas obstacle à la structure de support centrale 6, mais vient se positionner devant l'extrémité libre de la structure centrale 6. Sur la face inférieure du bâti, l'espace 17 est prévu, par exemple créé par un évidement, permettant à la pièce mobile 5 d'émerger depuis l'extrémité de la structure centrale 6. Le bâti et/ou la chape 20 supporte de préférence au moins un organe de manipulation 7, 7'.In one embodiment, the clasp comprises a frame or a clevis 20 arranged at a second end of the second blade 2. Preferably, the frame or the clevis 20 supports the second fixing member, and comprises, on its lower side, a space and/or a recess 17 to allow the mobile part 5 to move in the space 17. In one embodiment, when the clasp is closed, the second blade 2 extends beyond the free end 8 of the central support structure 6 so that the frame or the yoke 20 is located in front of the free end 8. In this way, the frame 20 does not obstruct the central support structure 6, but is positioned in front the free end of the central structure 6. On the underside of the frame, the space 17 is provided, for example created by a recess, allowing the movable part 5 to emerge from the end of the central structure 6. The frame and/or the yoke 20 preferably supports at least one manipulation member 7, 7'.

Dans un mode de réalisation, la première lame 1 comporte des surfaces latérales supérieures 21 aménagées de façon que, lorsque le fermoir est fermé, lesdites surfaces latérales 21 et lesdits longerons 14, 14' sont au moins partiellement superposés.In one embodiment, the first strip 1 comprises upper side surfaces 21 arranged so that, when the clasp is closed, said side surfaces 21 and said longerons 14, 14' are at least partially superimposed.

L'intégration du dispositif de réglage de longueur 4 et en particulier du dispositif de blocage dans la structure centrale 6 permet de réduire l'encombrement du fermoir en direction radiale, c'est-à-dire, l'épaisseur du fermoir.The integration of the length adjustment device 4 and in particular of the locking device in the central structure 6 makes it possible to reduce the size of the clasp in the radial direction, that is to say, the thickness of the clasp.

Dans un mode de réalisation, le dispositif de réglage de la longueur 4 comporte un organe d'actionnement 9 agencé pour permettre le déblocage du mécanisme de blocage, l'organe d'actionnement 9 étant séparé, distinct et/ou différent de l'organe d'activation 7, 7'.In one embodiment, the length adjustment device 4 comprises an actuating member 9 arranged to allow the locking mechanism to be released, the actuating member 9 being separate, distinct and/or different from the activation 7, 7'.

Dans un mode de réalisation, le premier organe de fixation 11 est agencé sur une face inférieure de la partie mobile 5, de façon à faire face au poignet d'un utilisateur portant une montre-bracelet comportant le fermoir. On notera que les tenons 11 de l'organe de fixation pour le brin de bracelet sont orientés vers le bas, c'est-à-dire qu'ils pointent à partir de la coulisse 5 en direction du poignet de l'utilisateur. Ceci permet également d'économiser de l'espace et de rendre le fermoir plus compact. Lorsque le fermoir est fermé, les deux organes de fixation 11, 12, sont situés l'un au-dessus de l'autre en direction radiale/verticale (figure 3B). Dans un mode de réalisation, le premier organe de fixation 11 est agencé de façon que l'extrémité libre du bracelet (non montré) est attachée au-dessous d'une surface générale inférieure 44 de la première lame (figure 2).In one embodiment, the first fixing member 11 is arranged on an underside of the mobile part 5, so as to face the wrist of a user wearing a wristwatch comprising the clasp. It will be noted that the tenons 11 of the fastening member for the bracelet strand are oriented downwards, that is to say that they point from the slide 5 in the direction of the user's wrist. This also saves space and makes the clasp more compact. When the clasp is closed, the two fasteners 11, 12 are located one above the other in the radial/vertical direction ( Figure 3B ). In one embodiment, the first fixing member 11 is arranged so that the free end of the bracelet (not shown) is attached below a lower general surface 44 of the first blade ( figure 2 ).

Dans un mode de réalisation, la partie mobile 5 est disposée au moins partiellement au-dessous de la deuxième lame 2.In one embodiment, the mobile part 5 is arranged at least partially below the second blade 2.

Comme on peut le voir à la figure 3B, le bâti ou la chape 20 est disposé au-dessus du premier organe de fixation 11 lorsque le fermoir est fermé. De façon similaire, le second organe de fixation, qui est supporté par le bâti ou la chape 20 est disposé au-dessus du premier organe de fixation 11 lorsque le fermoir est fermé.As can be seen at the Figure 3B , the frame or the yoke 20 is arranged above the first fixing member 11 when the clasp is closed. Similarly, the second fixing member, which is supported by the frame or the yoke 20 is arranged above the first fixing member 11 when the clasp is closed.

Dans un mode de réalisation, l'activation d'au moins un organe de manipulation 7 du mécanisme de verrouillage 3 engendre le déplacement d'une pièce 19 du dispositif de blocage et provoque le déblocage du dispositif de réglage 4 et/ou du dispositif de blocage. De préférence, l'activation de l'un organe de manipulation 7 engendre le déplacement d'un longeron 14 qui, lors de ce déplacement, agit sur une pièce 19 du mécanisme de réglage fin et provoque le déblocage du dernier, permettant ainsi de régler la longueur.In one embodiment, the activation of at least one manipulation member 7 of the locking mechanism 3 causes the displacement of a part 19 of the locking device and causes the unlocking of the adjustment device 4 and/or of the locking device. blockage. Preferably, the activation of a manipulation member 7 causes the movement of a spar 14 which, during this movement, acts on a part 19 of the fine adjustment mechanism and causes the release of the latter, thus making it possible to adjust the length.

Dans un mode de réalisation, le mécanisme de verrouillage 3 et le dispositif de réglage de la longueur 4 sont agencés de façon que l'activation de l'organe de manipulation 7, 7' par un utilisateur induit le déblocage du dispositif de blocage 25 uniquement lorsque le fermoir est fermé.In one embodiment, the locking mechanism 3 and the length adjustment device 4 are arranged so that the activation of the manipulation member 7, 7' by a user induces the unlocking of the locking device 25 only when the clasp is closed.

Dans un mode de réalisation, l'organe d'actionnement 9 est directement accessible ou activable par un utilisateur uniquement lorsque le fermoir est ouvert et/ou lorsque lesdites première et deuxième lames 1, 2 sont dépliées. Dans le mode de réalisation montré, l'organe d'actionnement 9 n'est pas accessible directement depuis l'extérieur du fermoir lorsque le fermoir est fermé. Afin de pouvoir appuyer directement sur le poussoir 9, l'utilisateur ouvre le fermoir, afin de pouvoir appuyer sur le poussoir. Ceci est le résultat de l'intégration du dispositif de réglage de façon centrale. Néanmoins, le fermoir est conçu de façon que le réglage de longueur (dans les deux sens suivant la direction longitudinale) peut également être effectué lorsque le fermoir est fermé. Selon un mode de réalisation, le dispositif de réglage 4 et en particulier l'organe d'actionnement 9 peut être activé indirectement, de préférence quand le fermoir est fermé.In one embodiment, the actuating member 9 is directly accessible or activatable by a user only when the clasp is open and/or when said first and second blades 1, 2 are unfolded. In the embodiment shown, the actuating member 9 is not directly accessible from outside the clasp when the clasp is closed. In order to be able to press the pusher 9 directly, the user opens the clasp, in order to be able to press the pusher. This is the result of the central integration of the adjustment device. Nevertheless, the clasp is designed in such a way that the length adjustment (in both directions along the longitudinal direction) can also be carried out when the clasp is closed. According to one embodiment, the adjustment device 4 and in particular the actuating member 9 can be activated indirectly, preferably when the clasp is closed.

Dans un mode de réalisation, le mécanisme de verrouillage 3 comporte au moins un organe de manipulation 7 agencé pour être activé par un utilisateur pour déverrouiller le mécanisme de verrouillage 3 afin de permettre l'ouverture du fermoir 10. De préférence, le mécanisme de verrouillage 3 est agencé de façon que l'activation d'au moins un des deux organes de manipulation 7, 7' engendre le déblocage du dispositif de blocage 19, 33, 34, 37.In one embodiment, the locking mechanism 3 comprises at least one manipulation member 7 arranged to be activated by a user to unlock the locking mechanism. lock 3 in order to allow the opening of the clasp 10. Preferably, the locking mechanism 3 is arranged in such a way that the activation of at least one of the two manipulation members 7, 7' generates the unlocking of the locking device 19 , 33, 34, 37.

Dans un mode de réalisation, ladite partie mobile 5 et/ou ledit dispositif de blocage 33, 34, 37 est agencé sur la première lame 1 et ledit organe de manipulation 7 est agencé sur ladite deuxième lame 2.In one embodiment, said movable part 5 and/or said blocking device 33, 34, 37 is arranged on first blade 1 and said manipulation member 7 is arranged on said second blade 2.

Comme on peut le voir dans les figures 1, 2, 4 et 5, par exemple, le poussoir 9 fait saillie par rapport à une surface latérale de la structure de support centrale 6. Le poussoir 9 fait ainsi face au longeron 14, plus précisément à une surface latérale intérieure du longeron 14, lorsque le fermoir est fermé. Comme mentionné ci-dessous, ce longeron 14 se déplace dans une direction orthogonale par rapport à la direction de la longueur du bracelet lorsque le mécanisme de verrouillage 3 est activé. Les figures 11A, 11B, et 11C, montrent que, lorsqu'un utilisateur appuie sur les poussoirs 7, 7' du mécanisme de verrouillage 3, le déplacement du longeron 14 provoque une pression sur l'organe de manipulation 9, engendrant le déblocage du dispositif de réglage. Dans ces figures, le longeron 14', qui ne coopère pas avec le dispositif de réglage de longueur lorsque le fermoir est fermé, a été omis. La flèche montrée en noir dans les figures 11A et 11C indique le contact entre le longeron 14 et le poussoir 9 lors de l'activation de l'organe 7.As can be seen in the figures 1, 2 , 4 and 5 , for example, the pusher 9 protrudes with respect to a lateral surface of the central support structure 6. The pusher 9 thus faces the spar 14, more precisely an inner lateral surface of the spar 14, when the clasp is closed. As mentioned below, this spar 14 moves in a direction orthogonal to the bracelet length direction when the locking mechanism 3 is activated. The Figures 11A, 11B , and 11C , show that, when a user presses the push-buttons 7, 7' of the locking mechanism 3, the movement of the beam 14 causes pressure on the manipulation member 9, causing the unlocking of the adjustment device. In these figures, the spar 14', which does not cooperate with the length adjustment device when the clasp is closed, has been omitted. The arrow shown in black in the figure 11A and 11C indicates the contact between the spar 14 and the pusher 9 during the activation of the member 7.

Dans un mode de réalisation, lesdits longerons 14, 14' sont agencés par rapport audit organe de manipulation 7, 7' de façon à se déplacer lorsque l'organe de manipulation 7, 7' est activé par un utilisateur. De préférence, le déplacement d'au moins un des longerons 14 provoque un déverrouillage du mécanisme de verrouillage 3.In one embodiment, said beams 14, 14' are arranged with respect to said manipulation member 7, 7' so as to move when the manipulation member 7, 7' is activated by a user. Preferably, the movement of at least one of the beams 14 causes unlocking of the locking mechanism 3.

Dans un mode de réalisation, le longeron 14 est amené à se déplacer dans une direction orthogonale à la direction longitudinale du bracelet lorsque l'organe de manipulation 7 est activé. Lors de ce déplacement du longeron 14 en direction orthogonale, le longeron 14 agit sur l'organe d'actionnement 9 du dispositif de réglage de longueur 4, afin de débloquer le mécanisme de blocage 2.In one embodiment, the spar 14 is caused to move in a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the bracelet when the manipulation member 7 is activated. During this displacement of the spar 14 in the orthogonal direction, the spar 14 acts on the actuating member 9 of the length adjustment device 4, in order to unlock the locking mechanism 2.

Dans un mode de réalisation, l'activation de l'organe de manipulation 7, 7' par un utilisateur permet à la fois de déverrouiller le mécanisme de verrouillage 3 et de débloquer le dispositif de blocage.In one embodiment, the activation of the manipulation member 7, 7' by a user makes it possible both to unlock the locking mechanism 3 and to unlock the device blockage.

Il convient de noter que la pression exercée sur les poussoirs 7, 7' engendre le déverrouillage du mécanisme de verrouillage 3, mais non pas nécessairement l'ouverture du fermoir. Pour ouvrir le fermoir, il est en fait nécessaire non seulement de déverrouiller le mécanisme de verrouillage 3, mais aussi se soulever activement la deuxième lame 2 afin de déployer les lames du fermoir. Lorsqu'un utilisateur appuie sur les poussoirs 7, 7' sans déployer les lames, le fermoir reste fermé et un réglage de longueur peut être effectué. Lorsque le réglage de longueur est accompli, l'utilisateur peut lâcher la pression sur le ou les poussoirs 7, 7' et le mécanisme de verrouillage 3 passe à nouveau en position verrouillée (position de repos), sans que le fermoir n'ait été ouvert.It should be noted that the pressure exerted on the pushers 7, 7' causes the unlocking of the locking mechanism 3, but not necessarily the opening of the clasp. To open the clasp, it is in fact necessary not only to unlock the locking mechanism 3, but also to actively lift the second blade 2 in order to deploy the blades of the clasp. When a user presses the pushers 7, 7' without deploying the blades, the clasp remains closed and a length adjustment can be made. When the length adjustment is completed, the user can release the pressure on the push-button(s) 7, 7' and the locking mechanism 3 again goes into the locked position (rest position), without the clasp having been open.

Dans le mode de réalisation montré, seul le longeron 14 et non pas le longeron opposé 14' est agencé pour pouvoir agir sur l'organe d'actionnement 9, en raison de l'asymétrie du dispositif de réglage de longueur. Par conséquent, selon un mode de réalisation préféré, il suffit d'activer un des deux organes de manipulation. Un utilisateur peut tenir le fermoir entre le pouce et l'index de façon à appuyer uniquement sur le poussoir 7, par exemple, et de cette façon débloquer le dispositif de blocage sans complètement déverrouiller le mécanisme de verrouillage 4.In the embodiment shown, only the spar 14 and not the opposite spar 14' is arranged to be able to act on the actuating member 9, due to the asymmetry of the length adjustment device. Consequently, according to a preferred embodiment, it suffices to activate one of the two manipulation members. A user can hold the clasp between the thumb and index finger so as to press only on the pusher 7, for example, and in this way unlock the locking device without completely unlocking the locking mechanism 4.

Dans un mode de réalisation, l'organe de manipulation 7 est agencé pour pouvoir agir soit directement soit par un mécanisme ou une structure intermédiaire 14 sur l'organe d'actionnement 9 lorsque le fermoir est fermé. Dans le mode de réalisation montré, ce mécanisme ou cette structure intermédiaire correspond au longeron 14 de la deuxième lame 2. Dans le mode de réalisation montré dans les figures, chaque longeron est solidaire d'un des deux organes de manipulation, par exemple formé en une pièce avec un des deux organes de manipulation. Dans un mode de réalisation, un des longerons latéraux 14 n'est pas formé en une seule pièce avec l'organe de manipulation 7, 7', mais les deux sont réalisés en deux ou plusieurs pièces, qui peuvent ou non être solidaires l'une de l'autre. Les deux pièces peuvent être en contact direct ou peuvent coopérer par l'intermédiaire d'un mécanisme et/ou par une ou plusieurs pièces séparées. Dans tous ces cas, il est préféré que l'activation des organes de manipulation 7, 7' résulte en en déplacement des longerons, de préférence dans une direction orthogonale.In one embodiment, the manipulation member 7 is arranged to be able to act either directly or via a mechanism or an intermediate structure 14 on the actuating member 9 when the clasp is closed. In the embodiment shown, this mechanism or this intermediate structure corresponds to the spar 14 of the second blade 2. In the embodiment shown in the figures, each spar is integral with one of the two manipulation members, for example formed in a part with one of the two manipulation devices. In one embodiment, one of the side rails 14 is not formed in a single piece with the manipulation member 7, 7', but both are made in two or more pieces, which may or may not be integral with each other. one from the other. The two parts can be in direct contact or can cooperate via a mechanism and/or by one or more separate parts. In all these cases, it is preferred that the activation of the manipulation members 7, 7' results in the displacement of the beams, preferably in an orthogonal direction.

De ce qui précède, il devient clair que le fermoir de l'invention permet un réglage de longueur lorsque le fermoir est ouvert et également lorsque le fermoir est fermé. De préférence, le dispositif de blocage peut être activé que le fermoir soit ouvert ou fermé. Lorsque le fermoir est ouvert, l'utilisateur peut appuyer directement sur l'organe d'actionnement 9. Lorsque le fermoir est fermé, l'activation du dispositif de réglage de longueur s'effectue par l'intermédiaire du premier organe de manipulation 7.From the above, it becomes clear that the clasp of the invention allows length adjustment when the clasp is open and also when the clasp is closed. Preferably, the blocking device can be activated whether the clasp is open or closed. When the clasp is open, the user can press directly on the actuating member 9. When the clasp is closed, the length adjustment device is activated via the first manipulation member 7.

La première lame 1 est montrée séparément à la figure 10. Dans le mode de réalisation montré, la lame 1 comprend deux pièces, par exemple deux semi-lames ou deux lames partielles, une lame cadre 30, montrée à la figure 8, et la lame centrale 35, montrée aux figures 7A et 7B.The first blade 1 is shown separately at figure 10 . In the embodiment shown, the slat 1 comprises two parts, for example two semi-slats or two partial slats, a frame slat 30, shown in figure 8 , and the central blade 35, shown in figures 7A and 7B .

Dans un mode de réalisation, la première lame 1 comporte deux pièces distinctes 30, 35, rendues solidaires l'une de l'autre, une première pièce 35 comportant la structure de support centrale 6 et une deuxième pièce 30 comportant deux longerons latéraux 15, 15', entre lesquels la structure de support centrale 6 est encadrée et/ou attachée.In one embodiment, the first blade 1 comprises two separate parts 30, 35, made integral with each other, a first part 35 comprising the central support structure 6 and a second part 30 comprising two side beams 15, 15', between which the central support structure 6 is framed and/or attached.

Selon un mode de réalisation préféré, lors de l'assemblage des deux lames partielles 30, 35, cet assemblage devient indémontable. Les deux lames partielles sont ainsi rigidement connectées de façon à se comporter comme une seule pièce.According to a preferred embodiment, when assembling the two partial blades 30, 35, this assembly becomes unremovable. The two partial blades are thus rigidly connected so as to behave as a single piece.

La lame cadre 30 (figure 8) comporte les deux longerons latéraux 15, 15', essentiellement parallèles, un montant transversal 43 connectant rigidement les longerons, et, à la deuxième extrémité, un cadre 18 comportant deux extensions latérales 28 des longerons 15, 15' et une plaque transversale 29. Le cadre 18 forme une ouverture dans la première lame 1, permettant d'enfiler et de cadrer l'extrémité du brin de bracelet qui sera attaché au premier organe de fixation 11. Lorsque le fermoir est relié à des brins de bracelet, le brin de bracelet connecté au premier organe de fixation 11 passera par-dessus la plaque transversale 29 et se trouvera au-dessous des lames du fermoir, en contact avec le poignet de l'utilisateur.The frame blade 30 ( figure 8 ) comprises the two lateral longitudinal beams 15, 15', essentially parallel, a transverse upright 43 rigidly connecting the longitudinal beams, and, at the second end, a frame 18 comprising two lateral extensions 28 of the longitudinal beams 15, 15' and a transverse plate 29. The frame 18 forms an opening in the first blade 1, making it possible to thread and frame the end of the bracelet strand which will be attached to the first fastening member 11. When the clasp is connected to bracelet strands, the bracelet strand bracelet connected to the first fastening member 11 will pass over the transverse plate 29 and will be below the blades of the clasp, in contact with the user's wrist.

Comme montré à la figure 8, des évidements ou logements 38 sont aménagés dans les faces intérieures des longerons 15, 15', destinés à accueillir des protubérances 39 agencées sur la lame centrale 35, afin de former une structure de retenue ou d'attachement pour permettre de connecter les deux lames partielles 30 et 35. Au lieu des protubérances et des évidements, tout autre structure de connexion ou d'interaction peut être prévue pour permettre un accrochage entre les deux lames partielles.As shown at figure 8 , recesses or housings 38 are arranged in the inner faces of the side members 15, 15', intended to accommodate protrusions 39 arranged on the central blade 35, in order to form a retaining or attachment structure to allow the two blades to be connected partial 30 and 35. Instead of protrusions and recesses, all another connection or interaction structure can be provided to allow attachment between the two partial blades.

La lame centrale 35 (figures 7A et 7B) comporte la structure de support centrale 6, portant le dispositif de réglage de longueur 4. Les évidements formant le canal 32 et le logement 36 sont créés dans la lame centrale 35. Cette dernière comprend en outre deux ailettes latérales 41, destinées à être en contact avec les longerons 15, 15' lorsque les deux lames partielles 30, 35 sont assemblées, et formant une surface supérieure 21 commune. Un évidement transversal 42 est réalisé dans la face inférieure de la lame centrale 35 (figure 7B), pour dégager un espace dans lequel le montant transversal 43 de la lame cadre 30 vient se poser lorsque les deux lames partielles sont assemblées (figure 6A). Vers sa première extrémité, la lame centrale 35 comporte également un trou transversal pour permettre l'articulation par rapport à la deuxième lame et pour contribuer à l'assemblage entre les lames partielles 30, 35.The central blade 35 ( figures 7A and 7B ) comprises the central support structure 6, carrying the length adjustment device 4. The recesses forming the channel 32 and the housing 36 are created in the central blade 35. The latter further comprises two lateral fins 41, intended to be in contact with the longitudinal members 15, 15' when the two partial blades 30, 35 are assembled, and forming a common upper surface 21. A transverse recess 42 is made in the underside of the central strip 35 ( figure 7B ), to clear a space in which the transverse upright 43 of the frame slat 30 comes to rest when the two partial slats are assembled ( Figure 6A ). Towards its first end, the central blade 35 also has a transverse hole to allow articulation with respect to the second blade and to contribute to the assembly between the partial blades 30, 35.

De manière générale, les pièces du fermoir de l'invention peuvent être fabriquées, de façon indépendante, de tout matériau approprié. Typiquement, les fermoirs et/ou leurs pièces sont fabriqués en métal. Par exemple, les lames et les pièces fonctionnelles sont typiquement fabriquée en métal, par exemple en acier, inox, titane, or, argent, ou tout autre métal ou alliage de métaux. Dans un mode de réalisation de l'invention, la première lame 1, la première pièce ou la lame partielle 35, et/ou la pièce portant le dispositif de réglage de longueur 4 peut comporter un matériau non-métallique. Par exemple, la première lame ou la première pièce 1 de la première lame est fabriquée d'un matériau comportant un matériau non-métallique.In general, the parts of the clasp of the invention can be manufactured, independently, from any suitable material. Typically, clasps and/or their parts are made of metal. For example, the blades and the functional parts are typically made of metal, for example steel, stainless steel, titanium, gold, silver, or any other metal or metal alloy. In one embodiment of the invention, the first blade 1, the first part or the partial blade 35, and/or the part carrying the length adjustment device 4 can comprise a non-metallic material. For example, the first blade or the first part 1 of the first blade is made of a material comprising a non-metallic material.

Dans un mode de réalisation, le matériau comportant un matériau non-métallique est choisi parmi les suivants: un matériau autre que le métal, un matériau composite, une matière plastique (polymère) et/ou de fibre de carbone. De préférence, la lame ou pièce en question est fabriquée d'un matériau comportant de la fibre de carbone et, optionnellement, de la matière plastique.In one embodiment, the material comprising a non-metallic material is chosen from the following: a material other than metal, a composite material, a plastic material (polymer) and/or carbon fiber. Preferably, the blade or part in question is made of a material comprising carbon fiber and, optionally, plastic material.

Dans un mode de réalisation, la première lame 1, la première pièce 35, la première lame-partielle 35, et/ou la lame portant le dispositif de réglage de longueur est fabriquée par injection et/ou par moulage par injection. Ceci s'applique à une pièce fabriquée en un matériau comportant un matériau non-métallique.In one embodiment, the first blade 1, the first part 35, the first partial blade 35, and/or the blade carrying the length adjustment device is manufactured by injection and/or by injection molding. This applies to a part made of a material comprising a non-metallic material.

Le fait de fabriquer une lame ou une partie de cette dernière par moulage apporte plusieurs avantages. D'une part, lorsque la pièce comporte un matériau autre que les matériaux métalliques, le poids de la pièce, comparée à une pièce en métal, est diminué. D'autre part, les coûts de fabrication sont nettement inférieurs. Dans un mode de réalisation, l'ensemble de la première lame 1 est fait d'un même matériau autre que du métal, par exemple un des matériaux précités, de préférence une matière plastique comportant de la fibre de carbone.The fact of manufacturing a blade or a part of the latter by molding brings several advantages. On the one hand, when the part comprises a material other than metallic materials, the weight of the part, compared to a metal part, is reduced. On the other hand, the manufacturing costs are significantly lower. In one embodiment, the whole of the first blade 1 is made of the same material other than metal, for example one of the aforementioned materials, preferably a plastic material comprising carbon fiber.

Dans un mode de réalisation, le fermoir de l'invention comporte un dispositif de réglage de longueur 4 logé dans la pièce 35 ou la lame 1 comportant le matériau non-métallique.In one embodiment, the clasp of the invention comprises a length adjustment device 4 housed in the part 35 or the blade 1 comprising the non-metallic material.

Dans un mode de réalisation, la pièce 35 ou la lame 1 comportant le (ou fabriquée en) matériau non-métallique comporte un ou plusieurs évidements 32, 36 destinés à loger une ou plusieurs pièces 5, 9, 34 qui font partie du dispositif de réglage de longueur 4. Lesdites pièces 5, 9, 34 qui font partie du dispositif de réglage de longueur 4 sont choisies parmi la partie mobile 5, une pièce 9, 12, 34 comportant une mâchoire ou une dent 34, destinée à coopérer avec la mobile 5, et un organe d'actionnement 9 agencé pour permettre le déblocage de la partie mobile 5. Dans un mode de réalisation préféré, un ou plusieurs des pièces 5, 9, 12, 34 du dispositif de réglage de longueur 4 sont fabriqués en métal.In one embodiment, part 35 or blade 1 comprising (or made of) non-metallic material comprises one or more recesses 32, 36 intended to house one or more parts 5, 9, 34 which form part of the length adjustment 4. Said parts 5, 9, 34 which form part of the length adjustment device 4 are chosen from among the movable part 5, a part 9, 12, 34 comprising a jaw or a tooth 34, intended to cooperate with the mobile 5, and an actuating member 9 arranged to allow the unlocking of the mobile part 5. In a preferred embodiment, one or more of the parts 5, 9, 12, 34 of the length adjustment device 4 are made of metal.

Dans un mode de réalisation, le fermoir comporte des pièces fabriquées en un matériau comportant un matériau non-métallique et d'autre pièces fabriquées en métal. Par exemple, la première lame peut comporter une première lame-partielle 35 en un matériau comportant un matériau non-métallique, et une deuxième lame partielle ou lame cadre 30 en métal. Dans un mode de réalisation, une lame 1 complète est fabriquée en un matériau comportant des composants non-métalliques, et une autre lame 2 est fabriquée en métal. Une lame ou lame-partielle fabriquée d'un matériau comportant un matériau non-métallique peut loger et/ou coopérer avec des pièces en métal. D'autre part, l'invention couvre également la possibilité que deux, plusieurs ou toutes les lames du fermoir sont fabriquées en un matériau comportant un matériau non métallique, et les pièces logées dans ces lames peuvent être métalliques ou comporter des matières non-métalliques, par exemple.In one embodiment, the clasp has parts made of a material comprising a non-metallic material and other parts made of metal. For example, the first slat may comprise a first partial slat 35 made of a material comprising a non-metallic material, and a second partial slat or frame slat 30 made of metal. In one embodiment, a complete blade 1 is made of a material comprising non-metallic components, and another blade 2 is made of metal. A blade or partial-blade made of a material comprising a non-metallic material can house and/or cooperate with metal parts. On the other hand, the invention also covers the possibility that two, several or all of the blades of the clasp are made of a material comprising a non-metallic material, and the parts housed in these blades can be metallic or comprise non-metallic materials. , for example.

Un matériau comportant du matériau non-métallique peut être fabriqué entièrement d'un matériau non-métallique, par exemple en plastique et/ou en fibre de carbone, ou peut comporter un mélange entre un ou plusieurs métaux et un ou plusieurs matériaux non-métalliques.A material comprising non-metallic material may be made entirely of non-metallic material, such as plastic and/or carbon fiber, or may comprise a mixture of one or more metals and one or more non-metallic materials .

La figure 13 montre un fermoir 100 selon un deuxième mode de réalisation. Le fermoir 100 comporte une première lame 101 comportant une structure centrale 106, la première lame étant articulée à une deuxième lame 102 comportant deux longerons latéraux 114, 114' à une première extrémité des lames. La partie mobile, qui émerge à l'extrémité libre de la structure 106, n'est pas visible, mais l'organe de manipulation 109 est disposé en saillie dans un flanc latéral de la structure 106 (montré sur le flanc gauche de la structure 106 à la figure 13). Les deux longerons 114, 114' sont agencés latéralement par rapport à la structure centrale 106 de la première lame 101.The figure 13 shows a clasp 100 according to a second embodiment. The clasp 100 comprises a first blade 101 comprising a central structure 106, the first blade being hinged to a second blade 102 comprising two side rails 114, 114' at a first end of the blades. The mobile part, which emerges at the free end of the structure 106, is not visible, but the manipulation member 109 is arranged projecting in a lateral side of the structure 106 (shown on the left side of the structure 106 at the figure 13 ). The two longerons 114, 114' are arranged laterally with respect to the central structure 106 of the first blade 101.

Une particularité du fermoir de la figure 13 est que les longerons 114, 114' sont reliés à des poussoirs 107, 107', respectivement, agencés aux côtés latéraux opposés par rapport au côté latéral du longeron respectif. Le longeron 114 est de préférence relié à l'organe de manipulation 107, et le longeron 114' à l'organe 107'. Les deux pièces ou entités comportant les longerons 114, 114' et les organes 107, 107' se croisent, de préférence à la deuxième l'extrémité des longerons.A peculiarity of the clasp of the figure 13 is that the spars 114, 114' are connected to pushers 107, 107', respectively, arranged at opposite lateral sides with respect to the lateral side of the respective spar. The spar 114 is preferably connected to the manipulation member 107, and the spar 114' to the member 107'. The two parts or entities comprising the beams 114, 114' and the members 107, 107' intersect, preferably at the second end of the beams.

Dans ce mode de réalisation, les organes de manipulation 107, 107' et/où la structure reliant ces organes aux longerons respectifs, sont de préférence partiellement superposés et/ou se chevauchent à un endroit, de préférence vers ladite deuxième extrémité.In this embodiment, the manipulation members 107, 107' and/or the structure connecting these members to the respective beams are preferably partially superimposed and/or overlap at one place, preferably towards said second end.

Un longeron et l'organe auquel il est relié peut former un élément rappelant la lettre L. Cet élément peut être formée en une seule pièce ou en plusieurs pièces rendues solidaires l'une de l'autre. En raison du croisement des de ces éléments, une pression exercée par un porteur en poussant les organes 107, 107' engendre un écartement des longerons 114, 114'. Cet écartement effectue le déverrouillage du mécanisme de verrouillage. Dans le cas du fermoir montré à la figure 13, les organes d'accrochage ou des formes d'arrêt complémentaires 22, 23 sont agencés sur la structure centrale 106 d'une part et les longerons 114, 114', d'autre part. Ces organes d'accrochage ne sont pas visibles à la figure 13, mais leur fonctionnement est exactement pareil en ce que le déplacement des longerons 114, 114' engendre une séparation des organes d'accrochage complémentaires, ce qui permet une séparation des premières et deuxième lames 101, 102 par pivotement, et ainsi l'ouverture du fermoir.A spar and the member to which it is connected can form an element reminiscent of the letter L. This element can be formed in a single piece or in several pieces made integral with one another. Due to the crossing of these elements, pressure exerted by a wearer by pushing the members 107, 107' generates a separation of the beams 114, 114'. This spacing effects the unlocking of the locking mechanism. In the case of the clasp shown in figure 13 , the attachment members or complementary stop forms 22, 23 are arranged on the central structure 106 on the one hand and the longerons 114, 114', on the other hand. These attachment devices are not visible figure 13 , but their operation is exactly the same in that the displacement of the beams 114, 114' generates a separation of the complementary attachment members, which allows a separation of the first and second blades 101, 102 by pivoting, and thus the opening of the clasp.

Le fait d'agencer les organes d'accrochage complémentaires 22, 23 sur les flancs extérieurs de la structure centrale 106 et sur les flancs intérieurs de chacun des longerons 114, 114' peut être avantageux. Les extensions 28 ou encore les structures en élévation 31 du mode de réalisation montré aux figure 1-11 ne sont plus nécessaires pour agencer les organes complémentaires du côté de la première lame 1. En effet, dans le fermoir montré à la figure 13, il est possible d'omettre la lame partielle 30 et/ou ses éléments structurels décrites ci-dessus (figure 8). Par exemple, une première lame comportant ou consistant essentiellement en la structure de support centrale 106 pourrait être suffisante.The fact of arranging the complementary attachment members 22, 23 on the outer sides of the central structure 106 and on the inner sides of each of the longerons 114, 114' can be advantageous. The extensions 28 or even the structures in elevation 31 of the embodiment shown in figure 1-11 are no longer necessary to arrange the complementary members on the side of the first blade 1. Indeed, in the clasp shown in figure 13 , it is possible to omit the partial blade 30 and/or its structural elements described above ( figure 8 ). For example, a first blade comprising or consisting essentially of the central support structure 106 could be sufficient.

En raison de l'écartement des longerons lors de l'enfoncement des organes 107, 107', l'activation du mécanisme de verrouillage n'engendre pas une pression sur l'organe d'actionnement 109. Comme on peut le voir à la figure 14, la pièce 119 comportant le poussoir 109, la barre transversale 112, la mâchoire ou la dent antagoniste 134 comporte également une extension 140, prolongeant la barre 112 en direction orthogonale. L'extension 140 émerge du flanc latéral opposé à celui du poussoir 109 sur la structure centrale 106. Une goupille 141, agencée sur l'extension 140 fonctionne comme tirette ou organe d'accrochage, permettant d'effectuer une force de traction sur la pièce 119. A cet effet, un trou 142 est réalisé dans le longeron 114', agencé pour recevoir la goupille 141 lorsque la deuxième lame 102 est pliée sur la première lame 101. Lorsque le fermoir est en position fermé, le longeron 114' est connecté à la tirette 141 de façon que l'actionnement de l'organe 107' effectue une traction sur la tirette, permettant le déblocage du dispositif de déblocage lors de l'activation de l'organe d'actionnement. Bien entendu, il est toujours préféré que les moyens de rappel sont agencés pour maintenir le dispositif de blocage en position bloquée. Ces moyens de rappel peuvent être agencés entre le poussoir 109 et la structure 106, comme montré aux figures 9A et 9B.Due to the separation of the beams during the depression of the members 107, 107 ', the activation of the locking mechanism does not generate pressure on the actuating member 109. As can be seen in figure 14 , the part 119 comprising the pusher 109, the transverse bar 112, the jaw or the opposing tooth 134 also comprises an extension 140, extending the bar 112 in the orthogonal direction. The extension 140 emerges from the lateral flank opposite that of the pusher 109 on the central structure 106. A pin 141, arranged on the extension 140 functions as a pull tab or hooking member, making it possible to exert a pulling force on the part 119. For this purpose, a hole 142 is made in the spar 114', arranged to receive the pin 141 when the second blade 102 is folded on the first blade 101. When the clasp is in the closed position, the spar 114' is connected to the pull tab 141 so that the actuation of the member 107' pulls on the pull tab, allowing the release of the release device upon activation of the actuating member. Of course, it is always preferred that the return means are arranged to hold the blocking device in the blocked position. These return means can be arranged between the pusher 109 and the structure 106, as shown in figures 9A and 9B .

De ce qui précède il s'ensuit qu'un deuxième organe d'actionnement 141 peut être présent au lieu du poussoir 109 ou peut exister en plus du poussoir 109. La présence d'un organe d'actionnement sous forme d'une tirette 141 est particulièrement préférée lorsque le mécanisme de verrouillage décrit ci-dessus est basé sur un écartement au lieu du rapprochement des longerons de la deuxième lame 102. Dans ce cas, l'invention envisage des moyens de connexion, par exemple une paire de crochets ou une connexion par une goupille et un trou, agencés de façon que lors de l'écartement d'au moins un des deux longerons 114, 114', une traction est effectuée sur la pièce 119, permettant le déblocage du dispositif de déblocage lors de l'activation de l'organe d'actionnement. Il convient encore de préciser que l'élément 119 peut être réalisé en plusieurs pièces séparés, rendues de préférence solidaires.From the foregoing it follows that a second actuating member 141 may be present instead of the pusher 109 or may exist in addition to the pusher 109. The presence of an actuating member in the form of a pull tab 141 is particularly preferred when the locking mechanism described above is based on a separation instead of the bringing together of the spars of the second blade 102. In this case, the invention envisages means of connection, for example a pair of hooks or a connection by a pin and a hole, arranged in such a way that when at least one of the two beams 114, 114' is moved apart, a pull is performed on the part 119, allowing the unlocking of the locking device release upon activation of the actuator. It should also be specified that the element 119 can be produced in several separate parts, preferably made integral.

Dans un mode de réalisation, le dispositif de blocage comporte à la fois un poussoir 109 et une tirette 141. De préférence, l'activation de chacun des deux permet un déblocage du dispositif de blocage. Le poussoir peut de préférence être actionné par un porteur ayant ouvert le fermoir, par exemple par pression avec un doigt sur le poussoir, alors que la tirette est de préférence activée indirectement, par le déplacement d'au moins un longeron lors de l'activation du mécanisme de verrouillage.In one embodiment, the blocking device comprises both a pusher 109 and a pull tab 141. Preferably, the activation of each of the two allows the blocking device to be unlocked. The pusher can preferably be actuated by a wearer having opened the clasp, for example by pressure with a finger on the pusher, whereas the pull tab is preferably activated indirectly, by the displacement of at least one spar during activation of the locking mechanism.

Le concept décrit à l'exemple des figures 13 et 14 peut être adapté à toutes les autres fermoirs décrit dans le présent descriptif, ce qui est spécifiquement couvert par la présente invention.The concept described on the example of figures 13 and 14 can be adapted to all other clasps described in this description, which is specifically covered by the present invention.

Les figures 15 et 16 montrent un fermoir 200 selon un troisième mode de réalisation. Une première lame 201 est articulée à une deuxième lame 202 à une première extrémité des lames. La première lame 201 comporte une structure de support central 206. Dans l'extrémité libre de cette structure (la deuxième extrémité de la première lame), une pièce mobile 205 est logée, agencée de façon à émerger de l'extrémité de la structure 106. La structure 206 contient des évidements ou creusures analogues à ceux décrits ci-dessus, permettant de loger la partie mobile 205 et la pièce 219 comportant l'organe d'actionnement 209. Un premier organe de fixation 211, réalisé par exemple sous forme d'une barre transversale, est connecté é la pièce mobile 205. La deuxième lame 202 comporte deux longerons latéraux 214, 214', articulés à la première extrémité et stabilisés vers la deuxième extrémité par un tube transversal non montré. Une différence du fermoir 200 par rapport aux fermoirs précédentes est que l'organe d'actionnement 209 émerge sur le flanc droit de la structure centrale 206, comme montré aux figures 14 et 15. Dans les fermoirs précédents, le dispositif de blocage avait une orientation opposée.The figures 15 and 16 show a clasp 200 according to a third embodiment. A first blade 201 is hinged to a second blade 202 at a first end of the blades. The first blade 201 comprises a central support structure 206. In the free end of this structure (the second end of the first blade), a movable part 205 is housed, arranged so as to emerge from the end of the structure 106 The structure 206 contains recesses or recesses similar to those described above, making it possible to accommodate the movable part 205 and the part 219 comprising the actuating member 209. A first fixing member 211, produced for example in the form of a 'a crossbar, is connected to the moving part 205. The second blade 202 comprises two side rails 214, 214', articulated at the first end and stabilized towards the second end by a transverse tube not shown. A difference of the clasp 200 compared to the previous clasps is that the actuating member 209 emerges on the right side of the central structure 206, as shown in figure 14 and 15 . In previous clasps, the locking device had an opposite orientation.

Les longerons 214, 214' sont agencés latéralement par rapport à la structure 206 lorsque le fermoir est fermé. Chaque longeron est relié à un organe de manipulation respectif, 207, 207' par une tige 247 à orientation orthogonale ayant un diamètre diminué par rapport au diamètre des organes 207, 207. Le fermoir 200 comporte une boucle 220 en forme de U, dont les deux extrémités libres comportent des trous dans lesquels les tiges 247 sont enfilés. La boucle 220 peut pivoter autour de l'axe défini par les tiges 247, toute en stabilisant les extrémités des longerons 214, 214'. Un second organe de fixation, non-montré, est connecté à la boucle 220.The beams 214, 214' are arranged laterally with respect to the structure 206 when the clasp is closed. Each spar is connected to a respective manipulation member, 207, 207' by a rod 247 with an orthogonal orientation having a diameter reduced in relation to the diameter of the members 207, 207. The clasp 200 comprises a loop 220 in the shape of a U, whose two free ends have holes in which the rods 247 are threaded. The loop 220 can pivot around the axis defined by the rods 247, while stabilizing the ends of the spars 214, 214'. A second fastener, not shown, is connected to buckle 220.

Comme dans le fermoir montré aux figures 1-12, l'activation des organes de manipulation 207, 207', par pression engendre un rapprochement des longerons 214, 214'. Un des deux longerons, le longeron 214' est agencé pour agir sur l'organe d'actionnement 209 et débloquer le mécanisme de blocage, lors de son déplacement, selon le même principe décrit ci-dessus. Comme on peut mieux le voir à la figure 16, la première lame 214 comporte, sur sa face inférieure, des plaques ou ailettes latéraux 215, sur lesquels les longerons 214, 214' viennent se poser lorsque le fermoir est fermé. Chacune des plaques 215 comporte un bord ou une structure en élévation 231, destiné à contenir le longeron respectif. Sur la face intérieure du bord 231 se trouve un organe d'accrochage, agencé pour coopérer avec un organe complémentaire agencé sur le flan extérieur du longeron respectif. Ensemble, la paire d'organes d'accrochage verrouillent le fermoir en position fermé, lorsque les deux lames sont pliées l'une vers l'autre, comme décrit par rapport au mode de réalisation montré aux figures 1-12. L'activation simultanée des deux poussoirs 207, 207' par pression engendre un rapprochement des longerons et la séparation des organes d'accrochages complémentaires, permettant de déplier les lames 201, 202 pour ouvrir le fermoir.As in the clasp shown in figures 1-12 , the activation of the manipulation members 207, 207', by pressure causes the beams 214, 214' to come together. One of the two spars, the spar 214' is arranged to act on the actuating member 209 and unlock the locking mechanism, when it moves, according to the same principle described above. As can best be seen at figure 16 , the first blade 214 comprises, on its underside, side plates or fins 215, on which the longerons 214, 214' come to rest when the clasp is closed. Each of the plates 215 has an elevated edge or structure 231, intended to contain the respective spar. On the inner face of the edge 231 is a hooking member, arranged to cooperate with a complementary member arranged on the outer side of the respective spar. Together, the pair of hooking members lock the clasp in the closed position, when the two blades are folded towards each other, as described with respect to the embodiment shown in figures 1-12 . Simultaneous activation of the two pushers 207, 207' by pressure causes the side members to come together and the complementary attachment members to separate, allowing the blades 201, 202 to be unfolded to open the clasp.

L'homme du métier comprendra qu'un aspect de l'invention réside dans l'agencement du dispositif de réglage de longueur sur une structure de support d'une première lame et dans la possibilité de l'activation du dispositif de réglage par un mécanisme de verrouillage basé sur des longerons d'une deuxième lame dont les extrémités peuvent se déplacer en s'écartant ou on se rapprochant de préférence le long d'un axe orthogonal ou dans un plan orthogonal. Dans les modes de réalisation où les longerons se rapprochent lors du déverrouillage, au moins un d'eux agit de préférence sur un poussoir. Dans les modes de réalisation où les longerons s'écartent lors du déverrouillage, au moins un d'eux agit de préférence sur une tirette. Comme mentionné, il peut également y avoir une tirette ainsi qu'un poussoir, ce dernier étant de préférence activé par l'utilisateur directement, lorsque le fermoir est ouvert.Those skilled in the art will understand that one aspect of the invention resides in the arrangement of the length adjustment device on a support structure of a first blade and in the possibility of the activation of the adjustment device by a mechanism locking based on spars of a second blade whose ends can move apart or approaching preferably along an orthogonal axis or in an orthogonal plane. In the embodiments where the beams come together when unlocking, at least one of them preferably acts on a pusher. In the embodiments where the beams move apart during unlocking, at least one of them preferably acts on a pull tab. As mentioned, there may also be a pull tab as well as a pusher, the latter preferably being activated by the user directly, when the clasp is open.

Un particularité de quelques aspects de l'invention réside dans le fait que la pièce mobile 5 ainsi que le dispositif de blocage 33, 34, 37, agencés pour bloquer le déplacement de la partie mobile dans au moins un sens de déplacement, se trouve sur une première lame 1, alors que l'organe de manipulation 7 agencé pour permettre à un utilisateur de débloquer le dispositif de blocage 33, 34, 37 et ainsi de rallonger et/ou raccourcir la longueur utile du bracelet se trouve sur une autre, par exemple une deuxième lame 2. L'invention couvre cet aspect également dans le cas où l'organe de manipulation 7 ne sert pas à déverrouiller et ouvrir le fermoir (comme montré dans les dessins), mais sert uniquement à activer le dispositif de blocage.A particularity of some aspects of the invention lies in the fact that the moving part 5 as well as the blocking device 33, 34, 37, arranged to block the movement of the moving part in at least one direction of movement, is located on a first blade 1, while the manipulation member 7 arranged to allow a user to unlock the blocking device 33, 34, 37 and thus to lengthen and/or shorten the useful length of the bracelet is on another, for example a second blade 2. The invention covers this aspect also in the case where the manipulation member 7 is not used to unlock and open the clasp (as shown in the drawings), but only serves to activate the blocking device.

Les figures 17A à 20 montrent un fermoir 300 selon un quatrième mode de réalisation. Le fermoir 300 comporte des première et seconde lames 301, 302, dont la deuxième comporte deux longerons latéraux 314, 314'. Chacun des deux longerons latéraux est relié à un organe de manipulation 307, 307', logé dans ou agencé par rapport à un bâti 320 de façon similaire à ce qui est décrit ci-dessus par rapport au fermoir montré aux figures 15 et 16. En particulier, la boucle 320 a une forme générale en U et comporte un trou orthogonal agencé dans chacune des deux extrémités libres du U, pour loger les organes de manipulation 307, 307'.The figures 17A to 20 show a clasp 300 according to a fourth embodiment. The clasp 300 comprises first and second blades 301, 302, the second of which comprises two side rails 314, 314'. Each of the two side rails is connected to a manipulation member 307, 307', housed in or arranged with respect to a frame 320 in a manner similar to what is described above with respect to the clasp shown in figures 15 and 16 . In particular, the loop 320 has a general U-shape and includes an orthogonal hole arranged in each of the two free ends of the U, to house the handling elements 307, 307'.

Un tenon (non visible) est agencé sur la face inférieure de la boucle 320, pour former le second organe de fixation. La boucle 320 pourrait également être munie d'un ardillon au lieu du tenon, ou elle pourrait comporter les deux (tenon et ardillon) pour former un organe de fixation, comme divulgué dans le document WO2017/144704 (p.ex. figure 4). Ce type d'organe de fixation est bien connu dans l'état de la technique.A tenon (not visible) is arranged on the underside of the loop 320, to form the second fixing member. Buckle 320 could also have a barb instead of the tang, or it could have both (tang and barb) to form a fastener, as disclosed in WO2017/144704 (eg. figure 4 ). This type of fastener is well known in the state of the art.

Une différence du quatrième mode de réalisation par rapport aux modes de réalisation précédents est qu'une structure de support centrale (6, 106, 206) est absente. La partie mobile 305 émerge de l'extrémité libre (ou de la deuxième extrémité) de la première lame 301 et est agencée, logée et/ou stabilisée dans une transversale 343 agencée à ladite deuxième extrémité, comme cela est décrit ci-après. En raison de l'absence de la structure de support centrale, l'espace 306 entre les deux longerons latéraux 315, 315' de la première lame 301 est libre et sert pour loger la deuxième lame 302 lorsque le fermoir est fermé. Grâce à ceci, le fermoir 400 a une épaisseur réduite (extension dans une direction radiale), comme on peut le voir aux figures 17A, 19A et 20, par exemple, et le dispositif de déblocage ainsi que le dispositif de réglage de longueur dans son ensemble reste invisible depuis l'extérieur. La suite de ce descriptif permet de comprendre comment un design aussi discret et économe en espace peut être réalisé grâce à la présente invention.A difference of the fourth embodiment from the previous embodiments is that a central support structure (6, 106, 206) is absent. The mobile part 305 emerges from the free end (or from the second end) of the first blade 301 and is arranged, housed and/or stabilized in a transverse 343 arranged at said second end, as described below. Due to the absence of the central support structure, the space 306 between the two side rails 315, 315' of the first blade 301 is free and serves to house the second blade 302 when the clasp is closed. Thanks to this, the clasp 400 has a reduced thickness (extension in a radial direction), as can be seen in figure 17A , 19A and 20 , for example, and the release device as well as the length adjuster as a whole remain invisible from the outside. The rest of this description makes it possible to understand how such a discreet and space-saving design can be achieved thanks to the present invention.

Les figures 18 et 19A à 20 permettent de comprendre l'agencement de la partie mobile 305 et du dispositif de blocage 303. La pièce mobile 305 comporte une forme en U et/ou une forme d'étrier, dont les deux bras latéraux 351 et 352 sont guidés et/ou logés dans deux logements longitudinaux et latéraux 332, agencés dans la barre transversale 343. Comme on peut le voir aux figures 19B et 20, une partie ou une paroi de ces logements est formée par la prolongation des longerons 315, 315' de la première lame 301 vers la deuxième extrémité. La partie mobile 305 en U comporte également la base ou la transversale 354 du U, à laquelle est attaché le premier organe de fixation 311, réalisé par exemple sous forme d'une tige transversale.The figure 18 and 19A to 20 make it possible to understand the arrangement of the movable part 305 and of the locking device 303. The movable part 305 comprises a U-shape and/or a stirrup shape, the two lateral arms 351 and 352 of which are guided and/or housed in two apartments longitudinal and lateral 332, arranged in the crossbar 343. As can be seen in figures 19B and 20 , a part or a wall of these housings is formed by the extension of the longerons 315, 315' of the first blade 301 towards the second end. The movable U-shaped part 305 also comprises the base or the transverse 354 of the U, to which is attached the first fixing member 311, produced for example in the form of a transverse rod.

Au moins un des deux bras latéraux 351 de la partie mobile 305 comporte une crémaillère 333, disposée sur la face latérale intérieure du bras. Comme on peut le voir aux figures 19B, 19C et 20, le dispositif de blocage, en particulier une mâchoire ou dent antagoniste 334 ainsi que des moyens de rappel 337 sont également agencés dans un logement dans la transversale 343, de façon à ce que la mâchoire 334 soit sollicitée en direction d'un creux de la crémaillère 333.At least one of the two lateral arms 351 of the mobile part 305 comprises a rack 333, arranged on the inner side face of the arm. As can be seen at Figures 19B, 19C and 20 , the blocking device, in particular a jaw or antagonist tooth 334 as well as return means 337 are also arranged in a housing in the transverse 343, so that the jaw 334 is urged in the direction of a hollow of the rack 333.

Dans le mode de réalisation illustré, la dent 334 fait partie d'une pièce 319 en forme de L. Le logement de cette pièce dans la transversale 337 comporte une ouverture ou un trou 338 en direction de "l'arrière", c'est-à-dire ouvrant vers la première extrémité de la première lame. Comme on peut le voir aux figures 19B, 20 mais également à la figure 18, un bras 309 de la pièce en L passe par l'ouverture 338 et émerge dans l'espace 306 entre les deux longerons 315, 315' de la première lame 301. Le bras 309 en direction longitudinale de la pièce 319 forme un organe d'actionnement, qui peut être activé pour débloquer le mécanisme de blocage 303 et ainsi permettre le réglage de longueur. La dent 334 est formée par ou à l'extrémité d'un des deux bras du L, alors que l'organe d'actionnement 309 est formé par l'extrémité de l'autre bras.In the illustrated embodiment, the tooth 334 is part of an L-shaped part 319. The housing of this part in the transverse 337 comprises an opening or a hole 338 in the direction of the "rear", it is ie opening towards the first end of the first blade. As can be seen at figures 19B , 20 but also at the figure 18 , an arm 309 of the L-shaped piece passes through the opening 338 and emerges in the space 306 between the two longerons 315, 315' of the first blade 301. The arm 309 in the longitudinal direction of the piece 319 forms a body of actuation, which can be activated to unlock the locking mechanism 303 and thus allow length adjustment. Tooth 334 is formed by or at the end of one of the two arms of the L, while actuating member 309 is formed by the end of the other arm.

Lorsque le fermoir est ouvert (fig. 17E), l'organe 309 devient visible et accessible, comme on peut le voir à la figure 18. Un utilisateur peut alors le coulisser à l'encontre de la force du ressort 337, dans une direction orthogonale, afin de dégager la dent 334 de la crémaillère 333 et permettre le réglage de la longueur.When the clasp is open ( fig. 17E ), the organ 309 becomes visible and accessible, as can be seen in figure 18 . A user can then slide it against the force of the spring 337, in an orthogonal direction, in order to disengage the tooth 334 from the rack 333 and allow adjustment of the length.

De préférence, le dispositif de blocage 303 est activé de façon indirecte, par l'activation d'au moins un des deux organes d'actionnement 307, 307', ici l'organe 307, de préférence lorsque le fermoir 300 est fermé. Dans les vues de dessous des figures 17C et 17D, on peut voir qu'au moins un des deux longerons latéraux 314, 314' comporte un évidemment 356 dans la partie inférieure, en particulier vers la deuxième extrémité de la deuxième lame 302, de façon à mettre à disposition un espace pour l'organe d'actionnement 309, mais également de façon à créer une surface d'appui latérale intérieure 357 (fig. 19C). Lorsqu'un utilisateur effectue un rapprochement des longerons 314, 314', en appuyant sur les organes de manipulation 307, 307', ou au moins sur l'organe 307, la surface d'appui 357 agencée sur le longeron 314 agit sur l'organe d'actionnement 309 en le déplaçant le long de la direction orthogonale, afin de débloquer le dispositif de blocage 303 et permettre en particulier le rallongement de la longueur du bracelet.Preferably, the locking device 303 is activated indirectly, by the activation of at least one of the two actuating members 307, 307', here the member 307, preferably when the clasp 300 is closed. In the bottom views of figure 17C and 17D , it can be seen that at least one of the two side rails 314, 314' comprises a recess 356 in the lower part, in particular towards the second end of the second blade 302, so as to provide a space for the organ actuation 309, but also so as to create an inner lateral bearing surface 357 ( fig. 19C ). When a user brings the beams 314, 314' closer, by pressing on the manipulation members 307, 307', or at least on the member 307, the support surface 357 arranged on the beam 314 acts on the actuating member 309 by moving it along the orthogonal direction, in order to unlock the blocking device 303 and in particular allow the extension of the length of the bracelet.

La solution représentée par le quatrième mode de réalisation permet de mettre en œuvre un fermoir d'une épaisseur particulièrement réduite tout en comportant un dispositif de réglage de longueur. Ceci est réalisé en particulier grâce à un mécanisme d'activation utilisant le déplacement des longerons latéraux 314, 314' du dispositif de verrouillage du fermoir. D'autre part, l'agencement du logement de la structure d'arrêt 334 dans une transversale 343, agencée au-dessous du second organe de fixation et/ou dans la continuation du plan général des longerons latéraux 314, 3014' de la deuxième lame 302 (lorsque le fermoir est fermé), contribue à cet agencement avantageux.The solution represented by the fourth embodiment makes it possible to implement a clasp of particularly reduced thickness while comprising a length adjustment device. This is achieved in particular thanks to an activation mechanism using the movement of the side rails 314, 314' of the clasp locking device. On the other hand, the arrangement of the housing of the stop structure 334 in a transverse 343, arranged below the second fixing member and/or in the continuation of the general plane of the side beams 314, 3014' of the second blade 302 (when the clasp is closed), contributes to this advantageous arrangement.

Comme on peut le voir aux figures 18 à 20, la partie mobile 305, se prolonge au-delà de la deuxième extrémité de la première lame 301 lorsque le bracelet est rallongé, ce qui permet de voir la forme en U ou en étrier de la pièce mobile dans ces figures. Pour des raisons esthétiques, il n'est pas souhaité que la pièce mobile devienne visible au porteur lorsque le dispositif de réglage de longueur se trouve dans sa position la plus allongée. Dans le fermoir 300, ce n'est pas le cas : Lorsqu'un bracelet est attaché aux deux organes de fixation, une extrémité libre d'un des deux brins de bracelets couvre la pièce mobile 305, de telle façon qu'elle n'est pas visible au porteur d'une montre-bracelet comportant le fermoir. Plus précisément, lorsque le tenon (non visible) du second organe de fixation est inséré dans un trou d'un brin de bracelet, l'extrémité libre de ce brin de bracelet passe entre la boucle 320 et le tube 348 comportant le logement de l'organe de manipulation 307, 307', et s'étend exactement au-dessus de la pièce mobile 305. L'extrémité de ce brin de bracelet couvre également le premier organe de fixation 311 ainsi que l'extrémité du brin de bracelet attaché à ce dernier.As can be seen at figures 18 to 20 , the movable part 305, extends beyond the second end of the first blade 301 when the bracelet is extended, which makes it possible to see the U-shape or stirrup of the movable part in these figures. For aesthetic reasons, it is not desired for the mobile part to become visible to the wearer when the length adjustment device is in its most elongated position. In the clasp 300, this is not the case: When a bracelet is attached to the two fasteners, a free end of one of the two bracelet strands covers the moving part 305, in such a way that it does not is not visible to the wearer of a wristwatch comprising the clasp. More specifically, when the tenon (not visible) of the second fixing member is inserted into a hole in a bracelet strand, the free end of this bracelet strand passes between the loop 320 and the tube 348 comprising the housing of the bracelet. 'handling member 307, 307', and extends exactly above the moving part 305. The end of this wristband strand also covers the first fastening member 311 as well as the end of the wristband strand attached to this last.

L'invention couvre des combinaisons des caractéristiques des fermoirs illustrés par les dessins. Par exemple, chacun des fermoirs décrit ci-dessus peut être réalisé avec des longerons déplaçables comme montré à la figure 13, c'est-à-dire des longerons reliés à des organes de manipulation agencés sur le côté opposé du longeron. Dans ce cas, les pièces comportant les longerons, par exemple en forme générale de L, se croisent de préférence à la deuxième extrémité des longerons, donc à l'extrémité opposée à l'extrémité où les longerons sont articulés, par exemple à la première lame.The invention covers combinations of the characteristics of the clasps illustrated by the drawings. For example, each of the clasps described above can be made with movable stringers as shown in figure 13 , i.e. stringers connected to handling devices arranged on the opposite side of the spar. In this case, the parts comprising the beams, for example in the general shape of an L, preferably intersect at the second end of the beams, therefore at the end opposite to the end where the beams are articulated, for example at the first blade.

A titre d'exemple, l'invention couvre en particulier un fermoir selon le quatrième mode de réalisation, tel qu'illustré aux figures 17A-20, dans lequel l'organe de manipulation 307 et/ou 307' est agencé de façon que l'activation de l'organe engendre un écartement (au lieu d'un rapprochement) des longerons et/ou une traction sur une tirette qui débloque le dispositif de blocage pour permettre le déplacement de la partie mobile et le réglage de la longueur. Comme l'homme du métier constatera, les fermoirs de ce descriptif ont la particularité de disposer d'un dispositif de réglage de longueur, qui peut être activé, lorsque le fermoir est fermé, en activant un organe de manipulation 7, 107', 207', 207 destiné à permettre l'ouverture du fermoir.By way of example, the invention covers in particular a clasp according to the fourth embodiment, as illustrated in Figures 17A-20 , in which the manipulation member 307 and/or 307' is arranged in such a way that the activation of the member generates a separation (instead of a rapprochement) of the beams and/or a pull on a pull tab which unlocks the blocking device to allow movement of the moving part and adjustment of the length. As those skilled in the art will see, the clasps of this description have the particularity of having a length adjustment device, which can be activated, when the clasp is closed, by activating a manipulation member 7, 107 ', 207 ', 207 intended to allow the opening of the clasp.

Les fermoirs de ce descriptif ont la particularité de disposer d'un dispositif de réglage de longueur, qui peut être activé, lorsque le fermoir est fermé, en activant un organe de manipulation qui se trouve sur une lame autre que la lame portant le dispositif de réglage de longueur, le dispositif de blocage et/ou en particulier la partie mobile. Les deux lames sont de préférences articulées l'une par rapport à l'autre, directement ou par l'intermédiaire d'un autre élément structurel, de préférence longitudinal, par exemple d'une troisième lame.The clasps of this description have the particularity of having a length adjustment device, which can be activated, when the clasp is closed, by activating a manipulation member which is located on a blade other than the blade carrying the device. length adjustment, the locking device and/or in particular the moving part. The two blades are preferably hinged relative to each other, directly or via another structural element, preferably longitudinal, for example a third blade.

Les fermoirs de ce descriptif ont la particularité de disposer d'un dispositif de réglage de longueur, qui peut être activé, lorsque le fermoir est fermé, en effectuant un déplacement flexible, dans un plan général du fermoir, d'au moins un des longerons d'une lame du fermoir. L'homme du métier ne rencontrera pas de difficulté particulière pour adapter le contenu de la présente divulgation à ses propres besoins et mettre en œuvre un fermoir, pour pièce d'horlogerie ou autre, sans sortir du cadre de la présente invention. L'homme du métier pourrait envisager un mécanisme de verrouillage différent de celui montré aux figures, tout en agençant se dernier de façon qu'une activation d'un organe de manipulation engendre le déblocage du dispositif de blocage. Le dispositif de réglage de longueur selon l'invention , comme divulguée dans les revendications, peut être adapté à d'autres types de fermoirs, pour montre-bracelet ou bracelet.The clasps of this description have the particularity of having a length adjustment device, which can be activated, when the clasp is closed, by performing a flexible displacement, in a general plane of the clasp, of at least one of the longerons of a blade of the clasp. Those skilled in the art will not encounter any particular difficulty in adapting the content of the present disclosure to their own needs and implementing a clasp, for a timepiece or other, without departing from the scope of the present invention. A person skilled in the art could envisage a locking mechanism different from that shown in the figures, while arranging the latter so that activation of a manipulation member causes the unlocking of the locking device. The length adjustment device according to the invention, as disclosed in the claims, can be adapted to other types of clasps, for wristwatches or bracelets.

Claims (14)

  1. A folding clasp (10, 100, 200, 300) for a bracelet comprising:
    - a first blade (1, 101, 201, 301) and a second blade (2, 102, 202, 302), hinged to each other, the second blade (2) comprising two longitudinal members (14, 14'),
    - a first fastening member (11) connected to the first blade (1) and intended to be connected with a first free end of the bracelet;
    - a second fastening member, intended to be connected with a second free end of the bracelet;
    - a locking mechanism (3) for holding said first and second blades (1, 2) in the closed position of the clasp when said blades (1, 2) are brought together and folded over each other, said locking mechanism (3) comprising:
    - an operating member (7, 7') provided to be activated by a user to unlock the locking mechanism (3) and to open the clasp;
    - a device to adjust the length (4) of the bracelet comprising:
    - a movable part (5) to which one of said first or second fastening member is attached, said movable part (5) being arranged to be longitudinally movable with respect to the longitudinal direction of the bracelet when adjusting the length,
    - a blocking device (33, 34, 37) arranged to block the movement of the movable part (5) in at least one longitudinal movement direction,
    characterised in that
    said locking mechanism (3) and said length-adjustment device (4) are arranged such that an activation of said operating member (7) by a user induces the unblock of said blocking device (33, 34, 37) and allows the displacement of the movable part (5) in said at least one longitudinal displacement direction.
  2. The clasp according to claim 1, comprising a first and a second operating member (7, 7'), only the first operating member (7) being arranged to induce the unblocking of said blocking device (33, 34, 37).
  3. The clasp according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said device to adjust the length (4) comprises an actuating member (9, 109, 141, 209, 309) arranged to allow the unblock of said blocking device (33, 34, 37), said actuating member (9, 109, 141, 209, 309) being separate and distinct from said activation member (7, 7').
  4. The clasp according to claim 3, characterized in that said actuating member (9, 109, 141, 209, 309) is directly accessible by a user only when the clasp is open and/or when said first and second blades (1, 2) are unfolded.
  5. The clasp according to any one of claims 3 to 4, characterised in that said actuating member (9, 109, 141, 209, 309) is arranged at least partially in a gap (16) arranged between the two longitudinal members (14, 14') of said second blade when the clasp is closed.
  6. The clasp (10) according to any one of claims 3-5, characterised in that said operating member (7) is arranged to be able to act either directly or through an intermediate mechanism or structure (14) on said actuating member (9, 141, 209, 309) when the clasp is closed.
  7. The clasp according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said longitudinal members (14, 14') are arranged with respect to said operating member (7, 7') so as to move when said operating member (7, 7') is activated by a user, and in that the displacement of at least one of said longitudinal members (14, 14') effects an unlocking of said locking mechanism (3).
  8. The clasp (10) according to any one of claims 3-6, characterized in that said longitudinal member (14) is caused to move in a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the bracelet when said operating member (7) is activated, and in that, during said movement of the longitudinal member (14) in the orthogonal direction, the longitudinal member (14) acts on said actuating member (9) of said device to adjust the length (4), in order to unblock the blocking device (33, 34, 37).
  9. The clasp according to any of claims 3-7, characterised in that the longitudinal member (14) is arranged to act on the actuating member (9) when the clasp is closed and when the operating member (7) is activated by a user.
  10. The clasp according to any one of claims 3-9, characterized in that said actuating member (9) is a pusher, connected to a jaw and/or a counter-tooth (34), in that said movable part (5) comprises a notching (33), and in that said jaw and/or counter-tooth (34) is arranged to cooperate with said notching (33) and to block the displacement of said movable part (5) in the absence of an actuation of the actuating member (9).
  11. The clasp according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said locking mechanism (3) and said device to adjust the length (4) are arranged such that said activation of said operating member (7, 7') by a user induces the unblock of said blocking device (33, 34, 37) only when the clasp is closed.
  12. The clasp according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said activation of said operating member (7, 7') by a user allows both to unlock the locking mechanism (3) and to unblock said blocking device (33, 34, 37).
  13. The clasp according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said movable part (5) and/or said blocking device (33, 34, 37) is arranged on the first blade (1, 101, 201, 301) and said operating member (7) is arranged on said second blade (2, 102, 202, 302).
  14. The clasp according to claim 10, characterized in that the blocking device further comprises a rod or bar (12) connecting the jaw (34) to said actuating member (9).
EP18740109.6A 2017-06-21 2018-06-21 Bracelet clasp comprising a device for adjusting the length of the bracelet Active EP3641584B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP17177222.1A EP3417735A1 (en) 2017-06-21 2017-06-21 Bracelet clasp comprising a device for adjusting the length of the bracelet
EP17177218.9A EP3417734B1 (en) 2017-06-21 2017-06-21 Bracelet clasp comprising a device for adjusting the length of the bracelet
PCT/EP2018/066619 WO2018234474A1 (en) 2017-06-21 2018-06-21 Band clasp comprising a device for adjusting band length

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP3641584A1 EP3641584A1 (en) 2020-04-29
EP3641584B1 true EP3641584B1 (en) 2022-03-16

Family

ID=62904406

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP18740109.6A Active EP3641584B1 (en) 2017-06-21 2018-06-21 Bracelet clasp comprising a device for adjusting the length of the bracelet

Country Status (3)

Country Link
EP (1) EP3641584B1 (en)
CN (1) CN110769716B (en)
WO (1) WO2018234474A1 (en)

Families Citing this family (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2019166671A1 (en) 2018-03-02 2019-09-06 Dexel S.A. Band clasp comprising a device for adjusting band length
EP4159079B1 (en) * 2021-10-01 2024-05-29 Omega SA Bracelet clasp with length adjustment

Family Cites Families (12)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CH678002A5 (en) 1989-02-16 1991-07-31 Petitjean Sa
ATE230945T1 (en) 1997-10-30 2003-02-15 Dexel S A FOLDING CLASP FOR BRACELET
CH698981B8 (en) 2005-12-21 2010-06-15 Taramax S A Length adjustment device for a bracelet, bracelet clasp and bracelet provided with such a device.
CH700230B1 (en) 2009-01-09 2014-08-15 Richemont Int Sa bracelet clasp comprising a fine adjustment device of the useful length of the bracelet.
EP2361523B1 (en) 2010-02-23 2014-06-25 Winox Sa Clasp for bracelet
FR2967015B1 (en) 2010-11-10 2013-09-27 Samia Ferrad WATCH STRAP
CH704335B1 (en) 2011-01-13 2015-06-30 Thi Technologies Horlogères Ind S A extensible clasp for a bracelet including a watch.
CH705149B1 (en) 2011-06-30 2016-02-29 Thi Technologies Horlogères Ind S A extensible clasp for a bracelet including a watch.
EP2740381B1 (en) * 2012-12-04 2015-09-16 Omega SA Adjustable bracelet clasp
EP2868222B1 (en) * 2013-11-01 2016-09-14 Dexel S.A. Bracelet clasp comprising a device for adjusting the length of the bracelet
EP2888967B1 (en) * 2013-12-26 2018-05-02 The Swatch Group Management Services AG Bracelet clasp comprising a device for adjusting the useful length of the bracelet
EP3210488B1 (en) 2016-02-25 2018-09-26 Dexel S.A. Bracelet clasp comprising a device for adjusting the length of the bracelet

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
EP3641584A1 (en) 2020-04-29
WO2018234474A1 (en) 2018-12-27
CN110769716A (en) 2020-02-07
CN110769716B (en) 2022-04-19

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