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EP0848842B2 - Timepiece movement - Google Patents
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EP0848842B2 - Timepiece movement - Google Patents

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Publication number
EP0848842B2
EP0848842B2 EP96923940A EP96923940A EP0848842B2 EP 0848842 B2 EP0848842 B2 EP 0848842B2 EP 96923940 A EP96923940 A EP 96923940A EP 96923940 A EP96923940 A EP 96923940A EP 0848842 B2 EP0848842 B2 EP 0848842B2
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
circuit
generator
capacitive component
timepiece movement
voltage
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Expired - Lifetime
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EP96923940A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP0848842A1 (en
EP0848842B1 (en
Inventor
International S.A. Richemont
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Richemont International SA
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Richemont International SA
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    • G—PHYSICS
    • G04—HOROLOGY
    • G04C—ELECTROMECHANICAL CLOCKS OR WATCHES
    • G04C10/00—Arrangements of electric power supplies in time-pieces
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G04—HOROLOGY
    • G04C—ELECTROMECHANICAL CLOCKS OR WATCHES
    • G04C11/00—Synchronisation of independently-driven clocks

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a movement according to the preamble of patent claim 1.
  • the spring via a gear train a time display and a generator supplying an AC voltage.
  • the generator feeds a voltage converter circuit
  • the voltage converter circuit feeds a capacitive component
  • the capacitive component feeds a reference electronic circuit having a stable oscillator and an electronic control circuit.
  • the electronic control circuit comprises a comparator logic circuit and an energy dissipation circuit connected to an output of the comparator logic circuit and controllable by the comparator logic circuit in its power consumption.
  • One input of the comparator logic shaft is connected to the electronic reference circuit and another input of the comparator logic circuit is connected to the generator via a comparator stage and an auto-coincidence circuit.
  • the comparator logic circuit is adapted to compare a clock signal from the electronic reference circuit with a clock signal from the generator, and controls the magnitude of the power consumption of the electronic control circuit over the amount of power consumption of the energy dissipation circuit, depending on the result of this comparison this way, via the control of the control circuit power consumption regulates the gear of the generator and thus the course of the time display.
  • the power consumption of the Energy dissipationsscnies in the known from CH-597 636 clockwork is controlled by the comparator logic circuit according to CH-597 636, however, only in two stages. Namely, the power consumption of the energy dissipation circuit according to CH-597 636 is either maximum or zero. This means that the generator can either be braked only with maximum strength or not at all. This results in considerable control oscillations in the gear regulation of the movement. On this catfish results in a relatively poor energetic efficiency of the movement.
  • the voltage converter circuit according to CH-597 636 is a rectifier.
  • Diodes are commonly used in the watch-making technique for rectification, for example, as disclosed in GB-A-2,158,274, EP-A-0,326,312, US-A-4,653,931, EP-A-0,467,667, EP-A-0,326,313, EP-A -0,309,164, EP-A-0,241,219 and EP-A-0,679,968.
  • Diodes are passive components. The use of diodes as a rectifier during the entire life of a clockwork affected due to the diode threshold voltage, the energetic efficiency of the movement. Fermer is referred to EP-A-0,695,978.
  • General technical background, which is not relevant in the present context, is given by JP-A-58-179379. Of relevance in the present context, however, is EP-B-0,157,789.
  • the required drive power consists of the mechanical drive power for the movement, the friction power and the electrical power of the generator.
  • the electric power output of the generator is determined by the power consumption of an energy-consuming electronic circuit connected to the generator. It should also be noted that the frictional loss of the generator is directly related to the voltage induced by the generator. As a rough estimate is that the mass of a rotor of the generator must be higher, the higher the induced voltage should be.
  • the invention has for its object to provide a clock, the spring via a gear train a time display and a generator supplying an AC voltage and can be operated in energetically particularly favorable manner.
  • control oscillations can be reduced and in this way energy losses associated with the control oscillations can be reduced.
  • the power consumption of the electronic control circuit in a predetermined size range is even substantially steplessly controlled. This is a comparison with the clockwork according to the CH-597 636 significant reduction in the control vibrations and related significant improvement in the energy efficiency of the movement given.
  • FIG. 1 an electronic part of a movement according to the invention is shown as a block diagram.
  • a generator 1 supplying an alternating voltage is connected via an unillustrated gear train to a spring, also not shown.
  • the spring drives the generator 1 and a time display, not shown.
  • the nominal frequency of the AC voltage of the generator 1 is advantageously 2 n Hz, where n is a non-zero natural number.
  • the mechanical part of the movement according to the invention is state of the art. Reference is made in this regard to CH-597 636.
  • the voltage source circuit 2 feeds a first capacitive component 10.
  • the first capacitive component 10 supplies an electronic reference circuit 3, 4, 5 with a stable oscillator 3, 4 and an electronic control circuit 6, 7, 8, 9
  • the stable oscillator 3, 4 has a quartz crystal 4 whose oscillation defines a reference frequency.
  • the voltage converter circuit 2, the electronic control circuit 6, 7, 8, 9 and the electronic reference circuit 3, 5 with the exception of the quartz crystal 4 and with the exception of all the capacitive components present in said circuits are constructed as an IC 11. In another embodiment, even the capacitive components are integrated into the IC 11.
  • the electronic control circuit 6, 7, 8, 9 has a comparator logic circuit 6, whose one input to the electronic reference circuit 3, 4, 5 and the other input via a zero crossing of the AC voltage detecting comparator stage 7 and an anti-coincidence circuit 8 with connected to the generator 1.
  • the anti-coincidence circuit 8 is essentially a latch which prevents simultaneous input of pulses on both inputs of the comparator logic circuit 6.
  • the electronic control circuit 6, 7, 8, 9 has a connected to an output of the comparator logic circuit 6 and controllable by the comparator logic circuit 6 in their power consumption Energydissipationsscrien 9.
  • the energy dissipation circuit 9 is made up of a large number of identical ohmic resistors.
  • the size of an ohmic resistor is small in comparison with the magnitude of the resistance that results when all the ohmic resistances in series are connected in series.
  • the comparator logic circuit 6 controls the power consumption of the energy dissipation circuit 9 by counting a number of changed in the current path connected ohmic resistors. In this way, the power consumption of the electronic control circuit 6, 7, 8, 9 in a predetermined by the number of resistors size range is controlled substantially continuously.
  • the energy dissipation circuit 9 is also possible to construct the energy dissipation circuit 9 as a controllable current source.
  • the comparator logic circuit 6 compares a coming from the electronic reference circuit 3, 4, 5 clock signal with a derived from the generator 1 clock signal. Depending on the result of this comparison, the comparator logic circuit 6 controls the amount of power consumption of the electronic control circuit 6, 7, 8, 9 over the amount of power consumption of the Energydissipationsscrien 9. In this way, via the control of the control circuit power consumption of the gear of the generator 1 and thus the course of the time display regulated.
  • the control is designed so that the gear of the time display is synchronized in the desired manner with the reference frequency supplied by the quartz crystal 4.
  • the comparator logic circuit 6 has a counter whose count corresponds to a gear difference between the generator 1 and the electronic reference circuit 3, 4, 5.
  • the power consumption of the Energydissipationsscnies 9 is controlled in dependence on the count of the counter. Depending on the state of the counter 9 more or less energy is dissipated in the Energydissipationsscnies and thus the generator 1 more or less charged. Each count is associated with a predetermined effective resistance combination in the Energydissipationsscnies 9.
  • the comparator logic circuit 6, depending on the count can switch on or off the active current path, the ohmic resistances present in the energy dissipation circuit 9 individually and in various combinations in the active current path. In this case, of course, the case is provided that is switched at one or more counter readings none of said ohmic resistors in the active current path.
  • the control is limited by the fact that on reaching a certain maximum level of the counter counting of generator pulses is interrupted. This is particularly necessary to ensure trouble-free starting of all electronic components of the movement in the event that the spring is first re-opened after a complete stop of the movement.
  • a similar effect is achieved if the comparator logic circuit 6 and the Energydissipationsschaftung 9 so coordinated that the power consumption of the Energydissipationsscaria 9 for a predetermined Zahlerstands Scheme (eg 0 to 16) is kept minimal and linear when exceeding the predetermined meter reading range changes proportionally to the meter reading.
  • control can be interrupted at a certain low level of the counter and a counting of pulses.
  • the movement also has a device, not shown, for displaying the power reserve as a function of the count.
  • the power reserve is displayed by means of an LCD.
  • the electronic reference circuit 3, 4, 5 has a frequency divider circuit 5 connected between the stable oscillator 3, 4 and the connection to the electronic control circuit 6, 7, 8, 9. This divides the supplied from the quartz crystal 4 reference frequency in a defined manner to allow easier synchronization of the time display.
  • the voltage converter circuit 2 fulfills both a rectifier function and a voltage tripler function.
  • a first diode 14 is connected in series with the generator 1 and with the first capacitive component 10.
  • a first switch 19 is connected in parallel with the first diode 14, but in series with the generator 1 and in series with the first capacitive component 10. The first switch 19 is actively controlled by a first comparator 21.
  • the voltage converter circuit further comprises a voltage tripler circuit 12, 13, 15, 16, 17, 18, 20, 23, the input side to the generator 1 and the load side to the first capacitive element 10 and to the parallel connection of the first diode 14 and the first switch 19th is coupled.
  • a load-side connection of the voltage tripler circuit 12, 13, 15, 16, 17, 18, 20, 23 opens together with the terminal of the first capacitive component 10 facing away from the first diode 14 into a ground node 22.
  • the first comparator 21 compares the electrical potential at the terminal of the first capacitive component 10, which is not at ground potential, with the electrical potential of the non-ground potential load-side terminal of the voltage tripler circuit 12, 13, 15, 16, 17, 18, 20, 23.
  • the first switch 19 is closed by the first comparator 21 only when the voltage of the first capacitive element 10 for operating the first comparator 21 is sufficient and the electric potential the ground-free load-side terminal of the voltage trip circuit 12, 13, 15, 16, 17, 18, 20, 23 is high enough for further charging of the first capacitive element 10.
  • the first switch 19 is a first field-effect transistor and connected so that in its locked state, a part of its structure acts as a first diode 14.
  • the spring, the gear train, the generator 1, the voltage converter circuit 2 and the electronic control circuit 6, 7, 8, 9 are designed so that the generator 1 immediately after a start of the movement until the time of charging of the first capacitive element 10 on the predetermined value operates at a speed which is greater than the target speed of the generator 1. In this case, charging of the first capacitive component 10 takes place via the first diode 14.
  • the voltage value of the first capacitive component 10 which is sufficient for operating the first comparator 21 and for operating a second comparator 20 present in the voltage tripler circuit 12, 13, 15, 16, 17, 18, 20, 23 and explained in more detail below is shown in FIG 0.6 V.
  • the voltage drop across the first diode 14 is 400 mV.
  • the first comparator 21 closes, as soon as the voltage supplied by the voltage tripler circuit 12, 13, 15, 16, 17, 18, 20, 23 is higher than the voltage of the first capacitive element 10, the first switch 19, i. he opens the first field effect transistor.
  • the voltage drop across the channel of the first field effect transistor is only 10 mV. The voltage loss is thus significantly reduced.
  • the first comparator 21 closes the first field effect transistor. If the voltage supplied by the voltage tripler circuit 12, 13, 15, 16, 17, 18, 20, 23 again increases to a sufficiently large value, the first comparator 21 opens the first field-effect transistor again and so on. The charging of the first capacitive element 10 thus takes place only in the start-up phase of the movement on the afflicted with a highchrosveriust first diode 14.
  • the voltage converter circuit 2 in addition to its rectifier function must also fulfill aaasvervielfacherfunktion, including the already mentioned,tosvervielfacherscaria 12, 13, 15, 16, 17, 18, 20, 23 is used.
  • the voltage multiplier circuit 12, 13, 15, 16, 17, 18, 20, 23 is a voltage tripler circuit. Two different embodiments of the voltage tripler circuit are shown in FIGS.
  • a first embodiment of the voltage tripler circuit (see FIG. 2) further comprises a parallel connection of a second diode 12 and a second switch 17 and a parallel connection of a third diode 23 and a third switch 18.
  • the parallel connection of the second diode 12 and the second switch 17 is connected in series between the generator-side terminal of the second capacitive component 15 and the load-side terminal of the third capacitive component 16.
  • the parallel connection of the third diode 23 and the third switch 18 is connected in series between the generator-side terminal of the third capacitive element 16 and the load-side terminal of the second capacitive element 15.
  • the first embodiment of the voltage tripler circuit also has a fourth diode 13 connected in series between the load-side terminals of the second and third capacitive components 15, 16 ,
  • the second, the third and the fourth diode 12, 23, 13 are connected in the same forward direction, and the first diode 14 is connected in the opposite direction of passage.
  • the second comparator 20 compares the electrical potential at the connected to the second capacitive element 15 terminal of the generator 1 with the electrical potential at the load-side terminal of the third capacitive element 16.
  • the second and / or the third switch 17, 18 is through the second comparator 20 closed only when the voltage of the first capacitive Component 10 is sufficient for operating the second comparator 20 and provided by the generator 1 available electrical potential for charging the second and the third capacitive element 15, 16 is high enough.
  • the second switch 17 is a second field effect transistor
  • the third switch 18 is a third field effect transistor.
  • the second field effect transistor is connected so that in its locked state, part of its structure acts as a second diode 12.
  • the third field effect transistor is switched so that in its locked state, a part of its structure acts as a third diode 23.
  • the second field effect transistor and the third field effect transistor are initially blocked.
  • the charging of the second capacitive component 15 and of the third capacitive component 16 takes place via the second, third and fourth diode 12, 23, 13.
  • the second comparator 20 opens the second field effect transistor and the third field effect transistor.
  • the charging of the second and the third capacitive component 15, 16 now takes place via the second field effect transistor and the third field effect transistor.
  • the reduction of the voltage losses is analogous to the above-described reduction of the voltage loss during the transition from the first diode 14 to the first field effect transistor.
  • the opening and closing of the second and the third field effect transistor by the second comparator 20 In an analogous manner, the opening and closing of the second and the third field effect transistor by the second comparator 20. If the voltage supplied by the generator 1 falls below the voltage of the third capacitive element 16, the second comparator 20 blocks the second and the third field effect transistor , As the voltage supplied by the generator 1 increases above the voltage of the third capacitive device 16, the second and third field effect transistors are opened, i. the second and third switches 17, 18 are closed. Compared to pure diode use thus results in the dosesverdreifachersciens a more economical use of the energy reserve of the movement, whereby the power reserve is increased.
  • FIG. 3 shows a second embodiment of the voltage tripler circuit in which, unlike the first embodiment of the voltage tripler circuit, the circuit branch containing the fourth diode 13 is missing. Since the fourth diode 13 is not absolutely necessary for the operation of the voltage tripler circuit, the second embodiment of the voltage tripler circuit also ensures reliable operation of the voltage converter circuit 2. Of course, the respective existing diodes always have to be suitably adapted to the current circuit environment in their dimensioning. The same applies to the third embodiment of the voltage tripler circuit shown in FIG. 4, which has only the circuit branch with the fourth diode 13, but not the circuit branches with the second diode 12 and the third diode 23.
  • the second switch 17 occurs alone or in the fourth embodiment of the voltage tripler circuit third switch 18 alone.
  • the voltage converter circuit 2 and the electronic control circuit 6, 7, 8, 9 are tuned such that the power consumption of the Energydissipationsscrien 9 assumes a minimum value while any of the capacitive devices 10, 15, 16 is charged.
  • the voltage converter circuit 2 and the electronic control circuit 6, 7, 8, 9 are designed so that the power consumption of the Energydissipationsscrien 9 at intervals of 3 x 10 -2 s regularly for 5 x 10 -4 s assumes a minimum value to the comparators 20th , 21 to allow a potential comparison according to their function. If the potential comparison were carried out at a generator load that is above the minimum load of the generator 1, then the comparators 20, 21 with respect to the charging possibilities of the capacitive components 10, 15, 16 would come to wrong conclusions, because they would be compared to the generator voltage at minimum load detect reduced generator voltage.

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  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Power Engineering (AREA)
  • Electromechanical Clocks (AREA)
  • Electric Clocks (AREA)
  • Lubrication Of Internal Combustion Engines (AREA)
  • Control Of Eletrric Generators (AREA)
  • Magnetic Heads (AREA)

Abstract

PCT No. PCT/EP96/02791 Sec. 371 Date Feb. 24, 1998 Sec. 102(e) Date Feb. 24, 1998 PCT Filed Jun. 26, 1996 PCT Pub. No. WO97/09657 PCT Pub. Date Mar. 13, 1997The timepiece movement proposed has a spring which drives, via gearing, a time display and a generator (1) supplying an a.c. voltage. The generator (1) powers, via a voltage-transformer circuit (2), a first capacitative component (10). The first capacitative component (10) powers an electronic reference circuit (3, 4, 5) with a stable oscillator (3, 4) and an electronic control circuit (6, 7, 8, 9). The first capacitative component (10) is charged immediately after the movement is started for the first time by one or more passive components. The one or more passive components are replaced, or supplemented in parallel, by one or more active units as soon as the voltage of the first capacitative component (10) is sufficient to operate the one or more active units, the one or more active units having a lower electrical resistance in the pass direction then the one or more passive components.

Description

Die Erfindung betrifft ein Uhrwerk nach dem Oberbegriff des Patentanspruchs 1.The invention relates to a movement according to the preamble of patent claim 1.

Aus der CH-597 636 ist ein Uhrwerk bekannt, dessen Feder über ein Räderwerk eine Zeitanzeige und einen eine Wechselspannung liefernden Generator antreibt. Der Generator speist eine Spannungswandlerschaltung, die Spannungswandlerschaltung speist ein kapazitives Bauelement, und das kapazitive Bauelement speist eine elektronische Referenzschaltung mit einem stabilen Oszillator sowie eine elektronische Regelschaltung. Die elektronische Regelschaltung weist eine Komparator-Logik-Schaltung und eine mit einem Ausgang der Komparator-Logik-Schaltung verbundene und durch die Komparator-Logik-Schaltung In Ihrer Leistungsaufnahme steuerbare Energiedissipationsschaltung auf. Ein Eingang der Komparator-Logik-Schaftung ist mit der elektronischen Referenzschaltung und ein anderer Eingang der Komparator-Logik-Schaltung mit dem Generator über eine Komparatorstufe und eine Autikoinzidenz-Schaltung verbunden. Die Komparator-Logik-Schaltung ist so ausgelegt, daß sie ein von der elektronischen Referenzschaltung kommendes Taktsignal mit einem vom Generator stammenden Taktsignal vergleicht, in Abhängigkeit vom Ergebnis dieses Vergleichs die Größe der Leistungsaufnahme der elektronischen Regelschaltung über die Größe der Leistungsaufnahme der Energiedissipationsschaltung steuert und auf diese Weise über die Steuerung der Regelschaltungsleistungsaufnahme den Gang des Generators und damit den Gang der Zeitanzeige regelt.From CH-597 636 a movement is known, the spring via a gear train a time display and a generator supplying an AC voltage. The generator feeds a voltage converter circuit, the voltage converter circuit feeds a capacitive component, and the capacitive component feeds a reference electronic circuit having a stable oscillator and an electronic control circuit. The electronic control circuit comprises a comparator logic circuit and an energy dissipation circuit connected to an output of the comparator logic circuit and controllable by the comparator logic circuit in its power consumption. One input of the comparator logic shaft is connected to the electronic reference circuit and another input of the comparator logic circuit is connected to the generator via a comparator stage and an auto-coincidence circuit. The comparator logic circuit is adapted to compare a clock signal from the electronic reference circuit with a clock signal from the generator, and controls the magnitude of the power consumption of the electronic control circuit over the amount of power consumption of the energy dissipation circuit, depending on the result of this comparison this way, via the control of the control circuit power consumption regulates the gear of the generator and thus the course of the time display.

Die Leistungsaufnahme der Energiedissipationsschaltung in dem aus der CH-597 636 bekannten Uhrwerk Ist durch die Komparator-Logik-Schaltung nach der CH-597 636 allerdings nur in zwei Stufen steuerbar. Die Leistungsaufnahme der Energiedissipationsschaltung gemäß der CH-597 636 ist nämlich entweder maximal oder null. Das bedeutet, daß der Generator entweder nur mit maximaler Stärke oder überhaupt nicht gebremst werden kann. Daraus resultieren erhebliche Regelschwingungen bei der Gangregelung des Uhrwerks. Auf diese Welse ergibt sich ein relativ schlechter energetischer Wirkungsgrad des Uhrwerks.The power consumption of the Energiedissipationsschaltung in the known from CH-597 636 clockwork is controlled by the comparator logic circuit according to CH-597 636, however, only in two stages. Namely, the power consumption of the energy dissipation circuit according to CH-597 636 is either maximum or zero. This means that the generator can either be braked only with maximum strength or not at all. This results in considerable control oscillations in the gear regulation of the movement. On this catfish results in a relatively poor energetic efficiency of the movement.

Die Spannungswandlerschaltung gemäß der CH-597 636 ist ein Gleichrichter. Gewöhnlich verwendet man in der Uhrentechnik zur Gleichrichtung Dioden, wie es zum Beispiel aus den Druckschriften GB-A-2,158,274, EP-A-0,326,312, US-A-4,653,931, EP-A-0,467,667, EP-A-0,326,313, EP-A-0,309,164, EP-A-0,241,219 und EP-A-0,679,968 bekannt ist. Dioden sind passive Bauelemente. Die Verwendung von Dioden als Gleichrichter während der gesamten Laufzeit eines Uhrwerks beeinträchtigt wegen der Diodenschwellspannung den energetischen Wirkungsgrad des Uhrwerks. Fermer sei auf die EP-A-0,695,978 verwiesen. Allgemeiner technischer Hintergrund, der jedoch im vorliegenden Zusammenhang nicht relevant ist, wird durch JP-A-58-179379 gegeben. Von Relevanz im vorliegenden Zusammenhang ist jedoch die EP-B-0,157,789.The voltage converter circuit according to CH-597 636 is a rectifier. Diodes are commonly used in the watch-making technique for rectification, for example, as disclosed in GB-A-2,158,274, EP-A-0,326,312, US-A-4,653,931, EP-A-0,467,667, EP-A-0,326,313, EP-A -0,309,164, EP-A-0,241,219 and EP-A-0,679,968. Diodes are passive components. The use of diodes as a rectifier during the entire life of a clockwork affected due to the diode threshold voltage, the energetic efficiency of the movement. Fermer is referred to EP-A-0,695,978. General technical background, which is not relevant in the present context, is given by JP-A-58-179379. Of relevance in the present context, however, is EP-B-0,157,789.

Bei einem Uhrwerk, dessen Fader über ein Räderwerk eine Zeitanzeige und einen Generator antreibt, besteht ein Problem darin, daß in der Feder nur eine begrenzte Energie gespeichert werden kann. Je mehr Leistung für den Antrieb des Uhrwerks gebraucht wird, umso kürzer wird die Gangreserve des Uhrwerks. Die benörtige Antriebsleistung setzt sich zusammen aus der mechanischen Antriebsleistung für das Uhrwerk, der Reibleistung und der elektrischen Leistung des Generators. Die elektrische Leistungsabgabe des Generators wird bestimmt durch die Leistungsaufnahme einer mit dem Generator verbundenen Energie verbrauchenden elektronischen Schaltung. Ferner ist zu berücksichtigen, daß die Reibleistung des Generators in einem direkten Zusammenhang mit der durch den Generator induzierten Spannung steht. Als grobe Abschätzung gilt, daß die Masse eines Rotors des Generators umso höher sein muß, je höher die induzierte Spannung sein soll. Mit der Masse des Rotors wächst jedoch auch die Reibleistung sowie das Massenträgheitsmoment des Rotors. Ein relativ hohes Massenträgheltsmoment des Rotors ist jedoch gegenüber einem relativ kleinen Massenträgheitsmoment nachteilig. Wird der Rotor z.B. durch einen Schlag gestoppt, so läuft er bei einem relativ großen Massenträgheitsmomani langsamer wieder an als bei einem relativ kleinen Massenträgheitsmoment. Hat der Rotor ein relativ großes Massenträgheitsmoment, dauert es also länger, bis er seine Nenndrehzahl wieder erreicht. Dadurch ist die Gefahr, daß das kapazitive Bauelement während der Anlaufphase des Rotors unter einen zum Betreiben der Uhrwerkelektronik notwendigen Spannungspegel entladen wird, natürlich größer als bei einem Rotor mit relativ kleinem Massenträgheitsmoment, der stärker beschleunigt und so die Nenndrehzahl schneller wieder erreicht.In a movement whose fader drives a time display and a generator via a gear train, there is a problem that only a limited amount of energy can be stored in the spring. The more power is needed to drive the movement, the shorter the power reserve of the movement. The required drive power consists of the mechanical drive power for the movement, the friction power and the electrical power of the generator. The electric power output of the generator is determined by the power consumption of an energy-consuming electronic circuit connected to the generator. It should also be noted that the frictional loss of the generator is directly related to the voltage induced by the generator. As a rough estimate is that the mass of a rotor of the generator must be higher, the higher the induced voltage should be. With the mass of the rotor, however, the friction and the moment of inertia of the rotor grows. However, a relatively high mass moment of inertia of the rotor is disadvantageous compared to a relatively small mass moment of inertia. If the rotor is e.g. stopped by a blow, it starts slower at a relatively large moment of inertia again than at a relatively low mass moment of inertia. If the rotor has a relatively large mass moment of inertia, it will take longer for it to reach its rated speed again. As a result, the risk that the capacitive device is discharged during the start-up phase of the rotor under a voltage required to operate the clockwork voltage level, of course, greater than a rotor with a relatively small moment of inertia, which accelerates more and so faster reaches the rated speed again.

Große elektrische und mechanische Energieverluste führen jedoch zwangsläufig zu einer kleinen Gangreserve oder zur Herstellung eines Uhrwerks mit einer großen Feder, wodurch das Uhrwerk insgesamt ein großes Volumen erhält.However, large electrical and mechanical energy losses inevitably lead to a small power reserve or to produce a movement with a large spring, whereby the movement receives a large volume in total.

Der Erfindung liegt die Aufgabe zugrunde, ein Uhrwerk bereitzustellen, dessen Feder über ein Räderwerk eine Zeitanzeige und einen eine Wechselspannung liefernden Generator antreibt und das in energetisch besonders günstiger Weise betrieben werden kann.The invention has for its object to provide a clock, the spring via a gear train a time display and a generator supplying an AC voltage and can be operated in energetically particularly favorable manner.

Diese Aufgabe wird erfindungsgemäß durch ein Uhrwerk mit den Merkmalen des Patentanspruchs 1 gelöst. Durch die erfindungsgemäße Lösung können die Regelschwingungen verkleinert und auf diese Weise mit den Regelschwingungen verbundene Energieverluste verringert werden.This object is achieved by a movement with the features of claim 1. By means of the solution according to the invention, the control oscillations can be reduced and in this way energy losses associated with the control oscillations can be reduced.

Die Aufgabe wird weiterhin gelöst durch ein erfindungsgemäßes Uhrwerk mit den Merkmalen des Patentanspruchs 2 und durch ein erfindungsgemäßes Worwesk mit dem Merkmalen des Patentanspruchs 3.The object is further achieved by an inventive movement with the features of claim 2 and by an inventive Worwesk with the features of claim 3.

Bei dem erfindungsgemäßen Uhrwerk nach Patentanspruch 3 ist die Leistungsaufnahme der elektronischen Regelschaltung in einem vorbestimmten Größenbereich sogar im wesentlichen stufenlos steuerbar. Damit ist eine gegenüber dem Uhrwerk gemäß der CH-597 636 deutliche Verringerung der Regelschwingungen und damit zusammenhängend deutliche Verbesserung des energetischen Wirkungsgrads des Uhrwerks gegeben.In the movement of the invention according to claim 3, the power consumption of the electronic control circuit in a predetermined size range is even substantially steplessly controlled. This is a comparison with the clockwork according to the CH-597 636 significant reduction in the control vibrations and related significant improvement in the energy efficiency of the movement given.

Vorteilhalte Ausgestaltungen erfindungsgemäßer Uhrwerke sind gegenstand der Unteransprüche 4 bis 37.Advantageous embodiments of inventive movements are subject of the dependent claims 4 to 37.

Ausführungsbeispiele der Erfindung werden nachstehend anhand von Zeichnungen näher erläutert. Es zeigt

Flg. 1
ein Blockschaltbild eines elektronischen Teils eines erfindungsgemäßen Uhrwerks,
Fig. 2
schematisch eine Spannungswandlerschaltung mit einer ersten Ausführungsform einer Spannungsverdreifacherschaltung,
Fig. 3
schematisch die Spannungswandlerschaltung mit einer zweiten Ausführungsform der Spannungsverdreifacherschaltung und
Fig. 4
schematisch die Spannungswandlerschaltung mit einer dritten Ausführungsform der Spannunssverdreitacherschaltung.
Embodiments of the invention are explained below with reference to drawings. It shows
Flg. 1
a block diagram of an electronic part of a movement according to the invention,
Fig. 2
1 schematically shows a voltage converter circuit with a first embodiment of a voltage tripler circuit,
Fig. 3
schematically the voltage converter circuit with a second embodiment of the voltage tripler circuit and
Fig. 4
schematically the voltage converter circuit with a third embodiment of Spannunssverdrechacherschaltung.

In Fig. 1 ist ein elektronischer Teil eines erfindungsgemäßen Uhrwerks als Blockschaltbild dargestellt. Ein eine Wechselspannung liefernder Generator 1 ist über ein nicht dargestelltes Räderwerk mit einer ebenfalls nicht dargestellten Feder verbunden. Die Feder treibt den Generator 1 und eine nicht dargestellte Zeitanzeige an. Die Sollfrequenz der Wechselspannung des Generators 1 beträgt vorteilhafterweise 2n Hz, wobei n eine von Nullverschiedene natürliche Zahl ist. Der mechanische Teil des erfindungsgemäßen Uhrwerks ist Stand der Technik. Es wird diesbezüglich auf die CH-597 636 verwiesen.In Fig. 1, an electronic part of a movement according to the invention is shown as a block diagram. A generator 1 supplying an alternating voltage is connected via an unillustrated gear train to a spring, also not shown. The spring drives the generator 1 and a time display, not shown. The nominal frequency of the AC voltage of the generator 1 is advantageously 2 n Hz, where n is a non-zero natural number. The mechanical part of the movement according to the invention is state of the art. Reference is made in this regard to CH-597 636.

Der Generator 1 speist eine Spannungswandlerschaltung 2. Die Spannungswandlerschaltung 2 speist ein erstes kapazitives Bauelement 10. Das erste kapazitive Bauelement 10 speist eine elektronische Referenzschaltung 3, 4, 5 mit einem stabilen Oszillator 3, 4 und eine elektronische Regelschaltung 6, 7, 8, 9. Der stabile Oszillator 3, 4 weist einen Schwingquarz 4 auf, dessen Schwingung eine Referenzfrequenz definiert. Die Spannungswandlerschaltung 2, die elektronische Regelschaltung 6, 7, 8, 9 und die elektronischen Referenzschaltung 3, 5 mit Ausnahme des Schwingquarzes 4 und mit Ausnahme sämtlicher in den genannten Schaltungen vorhandener kapazitiver Bauelemente sind als ein IC 11 aufgebaut. Bei einer anderen Ausführungsform sind sogar auch die kapazitiven Bauelemente in den IC 11 integriert.The voltage source circuit 2 feeds a first capacitive component 10. The first capacitive component 10 supplies an electronic reference circuit 3, 4, 5 with a stable oscillator 3, 4 and an electronic control circuit 6, 7, 8, 9 The stable oscillator 3, 4 has a quartz crystal 4 whose oscillation defines a reference frequency. The voltage converter circuit 2, the electronic control circuit 6, 7, 8, 9 and the electronic reference circuit 3, 5 with the exception of the quartz crystal 4 and with the exception of all the capacitive components present in said circuits are constructed as an IC 11. In another embodiment, even the capacitive components are integrated into the IC 11.

Die elektronische Regelschaltung 6, 7, 8, 9 weist eine Komparator-Logik-Schaltung 6 auf, deren einer Eingang mit der elektronischen Referenzschaltung 3, 4, 5 und deren anderer Eingang über eine den Nulldurchgang der Wechselspannung erfassende Komparatorstufe 7 und eine Antikoinzidenzschaltung 8 mit dem Generator 1 verbunden ist. Die Antikoinzidenzschaltung 8 ist Im wesentlichen ein Zwischenspeicher, der ein gleichzeitiges Einlaufen von Impulsen auf beiden Eingängen der Komparator-Logik-Schaltung 6 verhindert. Ferner weist die elektronische Regelschaltung 6, 7, 8, 9 eine mit einem Ausgang der Komparator-Logik-Schaltung 6 verbundene und durch die Komparator-Logik-Schaltung 6 in ihrer Leistungsaufnahme steuerbare Energiedissipationsschaltung 9 auf.The electronic control circuit 6, 7, 8, 9 has a comparator logic circuit 6, whose one input to the electronic reference circuit 3, 4, 5 and the other input via a zero crossing of the AC voltage detecting comparator stage 7 and an anti-coincidence circuit 8 with connected to the generator 1. The anti-coincidence circuit 8 is essentially a latch which prevents simultaneous input of pulses on both inputs of the comparator logic circuit 6. Furthermore, the electronic control circuit 6, 7, 8, 9 has a connected to an output of the comparator logic circuit 6 and controllable by the comparator logic circuit 6 in their power consumption Energiedissipationsschaltung 9.

Die Energiedissipationsschaltung 9 ist aus einer Vielzahl gleicher ohmscher Widerstände aufgebaut Die Größe eines ohmschen Widerstandes ist im Vergleich zur Größe des Widerstandes, der sich ergibt, wenn alle vorhandenen ohmschen Widerstände in Reihe geschaltet werden, klein. Die Komparator-Logik-Schaltung 6 steuert die Leistungsaufnahme der Energiedissipationsschaltung 9, indem sie eine Anzahl von in den Strompfad geschalteten ohmschen Widerständen verändert. Auf diese Weise ist die Leistungsaufnahme der elektronischen Regelschaltung 6, 7, 8, 9 in einem durch die Anzahl der Widerstände vorbestimmten Größenbereich im wesentlichen stufenlos steuerbar.The energy dissipation circuit 9 is made up of a large number of identical ohmic resistors. The size of an ohmic resistor is small in comparison with the magnitude of the resistance that results when all the ohmic resistances in series are connected in series. The comparator logic circuit 6 controls the power consumption of the energy dissipation circuit 9 by counting a number of changed in the current path connected ohmic resistors. In this way, the power consumption of the electronic control circuit 6, 7, 8, 9 in a predetermined by the number of resistors size range is controlled substantially continuously.

Es ist auch möglich, die Energiedissipationsschaltung 9 als regelbare Stromquelle aufzubauen.It is also possible to construct the energy dissipation circuit 9 as a controllable current source.

Die Komparator-Logik-Schaltung 6 vergleicht ein von der elektronischen Referenzschaltung 3, 4, 5 kommendes Taktsignal mit einem vom Generator 1 stammenden Taktsignal. In Abhängigkeit vom Ergebnis dieses Vergleichs steuert die Komparator-Logik-Schaltung 6 die Größe der Leistungsaufnahme der elektronischen Regelschaltung 6, 7, 8, 9 über die Größe der Leistungsaufnahme der Energiedissipationsschaltung 9. Auf diese Weise wird über die Steuerung der Regelschaltungsleistungsaufnahme der Gang des Generators 1 und damit der Gang der Zeitanzeige geregelt. Die Steuerung ist so ausgelegt, daß der Gang der Zeitanzeige in gewünschter Weise mit der vom Schwingquarz 4 gelieferten Referenzfrequenz synchronisiert wird.The comparator logic circuit 6 compares a coming from the electronic reference circuit 3, 4, 5 clock signal with a derived from the generator 1 clock signal. Depending on the result of this comparison, the comparator logic circuit 6 controls the amount of power consumption of the electronic control circuit 6, 7, 8, 9 over the amount of power consumption of the Energiedissipationsschaltung 9. In this way, via the control of the control circuit power consumption of the gear of the generator 1 and thus the course of the time display regulated. The control is designed so that the gear of the time display is synchronized in the desired manner with the reference frequency supplied by the quartz crystal 4.

Die Komparator-Logik-Schaltung 6 weist einen Zähler auf, dessen Zählerstand einer Gangdifferenz zwischen dem Generator 1 und der elektronischen Referenzschaltung 3, 4, 5 entspricht. Die Leistungsaufnahme der Energiedissipationsschaltung 9 wird in Abhängigkeit vom Zählerstand der Zählers gesteuert. Je nach dem Stand des Zählers wird in der Energiedissipationsschaltung 9 mehr oder weniger Energie dissipiert und damit der Generator 1 mehr oder weniger belastet. Jedem Zählerstand ist eine vorbestimmte wirksame Widerstandskombination in der Energiedissipationsschaltung 9 zugeordnet. Das bedeutet, daß die Komparator-Logik-Schaltung 6 in Abhängigkeit vom Zählerstand die in der Energiedissipationsschaltung 9 vorhandenen ohmschen Widerstände einzeln und in verschiedenen Kombinationen in den aktiven Strompfad einschalten oder aus dem aktiven Strompfad herausschalten kann. Dabei ist selbstverständlich auch der Fall vorgesehen, daß bei einem oder mehreren Zählerständen überhaupt keiner der genannten ohmschen Widerstände in den aktiven Strompfad geschaltet wird.The comparator logic circuit 6 has a counter whose count corresponds to a gear difference between the generator 1 and the electronic reference circuit 3, 4, 5. The power consumption of the Energiedissipationsschaltung 9 is controlled in dependence on the count of the counter. Depending on the state of the counter 9 more or less energy is dissipated in the Energiedissipationsschaltung and thus the generator 1 more or less charged. Each count is associated with a predetermined effective resistance combination in the Energiedissipationsschaltung 9. This means that the comparator logic circuit 6, depending on the count, can switch on or off the active current path, the ohmic resistances present in the energy dissipation circuit 9 individually and in various combinations in the active current path. In this case, of course, the case is provided that is switched at one or more counter readings none of said ohmic resistors in the active current path.

Die Steuerung wird jedoch dadurch eingeschränkt, daß beim Erreichen eines bestimmten Höchststandes des Zählers ein Einzählen von Generatorimpulsen unterbrochen wird. Dies ist insbesondere notwendig, um ein problemloses Anlaufen aller elektronischen Komponenten des Uhrwerks für den Fall zu gewährleisten, daß die Feder nach einem vollständigen Stillstand des Uhrwerks erstmalig wieder aufgezogen wird. Eine ähnliche Wirkung erzielt man, wenn man die Komparator-Logik-Schaltung 6 und die Energiedissipationsschaftung 9 so aufeinander abstimmt, daß die Leistungsaufnahme der Energiedissipationsschaltung 9 für einen vorbestimmten Zahlerstandsbereich (z.B. 0 bis 16) minimal gehalten wird und sich bei Überschreitung des vorbestimmten Zählerstandsbereichs linear proportional zum Zählerstand ändert. Für das angeführte Beispiel würde das folglich bedeuten, daß sich bei Zählerständen über 16 die Leistungsaufnahme der Energiedissipationsschaltung 9 mit wachsendem Zählerstand linear proportional zum Zählerstand vergrößert und mit sinkendem Zählerstand linear proportional zum Zählerstand verkleinert. Das Minimieren der Leistungsaufnahme der Energiedissipationsschaltung 9 in dem genannten Zählerstandsbereich hat zur Folge, das ein Rotor des Generators 1 zunächst ungehindert wieder beschleunigen kann, falls er z.B. durch die Wirkung eines Schlags angehalten wurde. Eine solche möglichst ungehinderte und schnelle Beschleunigung auf die Nenndrehzahl ist aus den schon weiter oben im Zusammenhang mit den Erläuterungen zum Massenträgheitsmoment des Rotors ausführlich diskutierten Gründen erwünscht.However, the control is limited by the fact that on reaching a certain maximum level of the counter counting of generator pulses is interrupted. This is particularly necessary to ensure trouble-free starting of all electronic components of the movement in the event that the spring is first re-opened after a complete stop of the movement. A similar effect is achieved if the comparator logic circuit 6 and the Energiedissipationsschaftung 9 so coordinated that the power consumption of the Energiedissipationsschaltung 9 for a predetermined Zahlerstandsbereich (eg 0 to 16) is kept minimal and linear when exceeding the predetermined meter reading range changes proportionally to the meter reading. For the example given, this would therefore mean that in counter readings above 16, the power consumption of the Energiedissipationsschaltung 9 increases with increasing count linearly proportional to the count and decreases with decreasing count linearly proportional to the count. Minimizing the power consumption of the Energiedissipationsschaltung 9 in the said meter reading range has the consequence that a rotor of the generator 1 can initially accelerate unhindered again, if he e.g. was stopped by the action of a stroke. Such as unhindered and rapid acceleration to the rated speed is desirable from the reasons discussed in detail above in connection with the explanations of the moment of inertia of the rotor.

Zur Weiteren Stabilisierung der Steuerung kann bei einem bestimmten Tiefststand des Zählers auch ein Auszählen von Impulsen unterbrochen werden.To further stabilize the control can be interrupted at a certain low level of the counter and a counting of pulses.

Das Uhrwerk weist ferner eine nicht dargestellte Einrichtung zur Anzeige der Gangreserve in Abhängigkeit vom Zählerstand auf. Die Anzeige der Gangreserve erfolgt mittels eines LCD.The movement also has a device, not shown, for displaying the power reserve as a function of the count. The power reserve is displayed by means of an LCD.

Die elektronische Referenzschaltung 3, 4, 5 weist eine zwischen den stabilen Oszillator 3, 4 und den Anschluß an die elektronische Regelschaltung 6, 7, 8, 9 geschaltete Frequenzteilerschaltung 5 auf. Diese teilt die vom Schwingquarz 4 gelieferte Referenzfrequenz in definierter Weise, um eine einfachere Synchronisation der Zeitanzeige zu ermöglichen.The electronic reference circuit 3, 4, 5 has a frequency divider circuit 5 connected between the stable oscillator 3, 4 and the connection to the electronic control circuit 6, 7, 8, 9. This divides the supplied from the quartz crystal 4 reference frequency in a defined manner to allow easier synchronization of the time display.

Wie Fig. 2 bis 4 entnommen werden kann, erfüllt die Spannungswandlerschaltung 2 sowohl eine Gleichrichterfunktion als auch eine Spannungsverdreifacherfunktion.As can be seen in FIGS. 2 to 4, the voltage converter circuit 2 fulfills both a rectifier function and a voltage tripler function.

Mit dem Generator 1 und mit dem ersten kapazitiven Bauelement 10 in Reihe geschaltet ist eine erste Diode 14. Ein erster Schalter 19 ist parallel zur ersten Diode 14, jedoch in Reihe mit dem Generator 1 und in Reihe mit dem ersten kapazitiven Bauelement 10 geschaltet. Der erste Schalter 19 wird durch einen ersten Komparator 21 aktiv gesteuert.A first diode 14 is connected in series with the generator 1 and with the first capacitive component 10. A first switch 19 is connected in parallel with the first diode 14, but in series with the generator 1 and in series with the first capacitive component 10. The first switch 19 is actively controlled by a first comparator 21.

Die Spannungswandlerschaltung weist ferner eine Spannungsverdreifacherschaltung 12, 13, 15, 16, 17, 18, 20, 23 auf, die eingangsseitig an den Generator 1 und lastseitig an das erste kapazitive Bauelement 10 und an die Parallelschaltung der ersten Diode 14 und des ersten Schalters 19 gekoppelt ist. Ein lastseitiger Anschluß der Spannungsverdreifacherschaltung 12, 13, 15, 16, 17, 18, 20, 23 mündet zusammen mit dem von der ersten Diode 14 abgewandten Anschluß des ersten kapazitiven Bauelements 10 in einen Masseknoten 22.The voltage converter circuit further comprises a voltage tripler circuit 12, 13, 15, 16, 17, 18, 20, 23, the input side to the generator 1 and the load side to the first capacitive element 10 and to the parallel connection of the first diode 14 and the first switch 19th is coupled. A load-side connection of the voltage tripler circuit 12, 13, 15, 16, 17, 18, 20, 23 opens together with the terminal of the first capacitive component 10 facing away from the first diode 14 into a ground node 22.

Der erste Komparator 21 vergleicht das elektrische Potential an dem nicht auf Massepotential liegenden Anschluß des ersten kapazitiven Bauelements 10 mit dem elektrischen Potential des nicht auf Massepotential liegenden lastseitigen Anschlusses der Spannungsverdreifacherschaltung 12, 13, 15, 16, 17, 18, 20, 23. Der erste Schalter 19 wird durch den ersten Komparator 21 nur dann geschlossen, wenn die Spannung des ersten kapazitiven Bauelements 10 zum Betreiben des ersten Komparators 21 ausreicht und das elektrische Potential an dem massefreien lastseitigen Anschluß der Spannungsverdreifacherschaltung 12, 13, 15, 16, 17, 18, 20, 23 zum weiteren Aufladen des ersten kapazitiven Bauelements 10 hoch genug ist.The first comparator 21 compares the electrical potential at the terminal of the first capacitive component 10, which is not at ground potential, with the electrical potential of the non-ground potential load-side terminal of the voltage tripler circuit 12, 13, 15, 16, 17, 18, 20, 23. The first switch 19 is closed by the first comparator 21 only when the voltage of the first capacitive element 10 for operating the first comparator 21 is sufficient and the electric potential the ground-free load-side terminal of the voltage trip circuit 12, 13, 15, 16, 17, 18, 20, 23 is high enough for further charging of the first capacitive element 10.

Der erste Schalter 19 ist ein erster Feldeffekttransistor und so geschaltet, daß in seinem gesperrten Zustand ein Teil seiner Struktur als erste Diode 14 wirkt.The first switch 19 is a first field-effect transistor and connected so that in its locked state, a part of its structure acts as a first diode 14.

Die Feder, das Räderwerk, der Generator 1, die Spannungswandlerschaltung 2 und die elektronische Regelschaltung 6, 7, 8, 9 sind so ausgelegt, daß der Generator 1 unmittelbar nach einem Anlaufen des Uhrwerks bis zum Zeitpunkt des Aufladens des ersten kapazitiven Bauelements 10 auf den vorbestimmten Wert mit einer Drehzahl arbeitet, die größer als die Solldrehzahl des Generators 1 ist. Dabei erfolgt zunächst das Aufladen des ersten kapazitiven Bauelements 10 über die erste Diode 14.The spring, the gear train, the generator 1, the voltage converter circuit 2 and the electronic control circuit 6, 7, 8, 9 are designed so that the generator 1 immediately after a start of the movement until the time of charging of the first capacitive element 10 on the predetermined value operates at a speed which is greater than the target speed of the generator 1. In this case, charging of the first capacitive component 10 takes place via the first diode 14.

Der Spannungswert des ersten kapazitiven Bauelements 10, der zum Betreiben des ersten Komparators 21 und zum Betreiben eines in der Spannungsverdreifacherschaltung 12, 13, 15, 16, 17, 18, 20, 23 vorhandenen und weiter unten genauer erläuterten zweiten Komparators 20 ausreicht, ist in diesem Ausführungsbeispiel 0,6 V. Der Spannungsabfall über der ersten Diode 14 beträgt 400 mV. Sobald das erste kapazitive Bauelement 10 auf mindestens 0,8 V aufgeladen ist, ist auch ein problemloses Funktionieren der elektronischen Referenzschaltung 3, 4, 5 und der elektronischen Regelschaltung 6, 7, 8, 9 gewährleistet. Der erste Komparator 21 schließt, sobald die von der Spannungsverdreifacherschaltung 12, 13, 15, 16, 17, 18, 20, 23 gelieferte Spannung höher ist als die Spannung des ersten kapazitiven Bauelements 10, den ersten Schalter 19, d.h. er öffnet den ersten Feldeffekttransistor. Der Spannungsabfall über dem Kanal des ersten Feldeffekttransistors beträgt jedoch nur 10 mV. Der Spannungsverlust wird also erheblich herabgesetzt. Sobald die von der Spannungsverdreifacherschaltung 12, 13, 15, 16, 17, 18, 20, 23 gelieferte Spannung wieder unter die Spannung des ersten kapazitiven Bauelements 10 absinkt, schließt der erste Komparator 21 den ersten Feldeffekttransistor. Steigt die von der Spannungsverdreifacherschaltung 12, 13, 15, 16, 17, 18, 20, 23 gelieferte Spannung abermals auf einen genügend großen Wert, so öffnet der erste Komparator 21 den ersten Feldeffekttransistor wieder und so weiter. Das Aufladen des ersten kapazitiven Bauelements 10 erfolgt also nur in der Anlaufphase des Uhrwerks über die mit einem hohen Spannungsveriust behaftete erste Diode 14. Im weiteren Gangverlauf wird dann das erste kapazitive Bauelement 10 nur noch über den Kanal des ersten Feldeffekttransistors geladen, was energetisch wesentlich günstiger als ein Laden über die erste Diode 14 ist. Auf diese Weise wird die Energiereserve des Uhrwerks sparsamer genutzt und die Gangreserve erhöht.The voltage value of the first capacitive component 10 which is sufficient for operating the first comparator 21 and for operating a second comparator 20 present in the voltage tripler circuit 12, 13, 15, 16, 17, 18, 20, 23 and explained in more detail below is shown in FIG 0.6 V. The voltage drop across the first diode 14 is 400 mV. As soon as the first capacitive component 10 is charged to at least 0.8 V, a trouble-free functioning of the electronic reference circuit 3, 4, 5 and the electronic control circuit 6, 7, 8, 9 is ensured. The first comparator 21 closes, as soon as the voltage supplied by the voltage tripler circuit 12, 13, 15, 16, 17, 18, 20, 23 is higher than the voltage of the first capacitive element 10, the first switch 19, i. he opens the first field effect transistor. However, the voltage drop across the channel of the first field effect transistor is only 10 mV. The voltage loss is thus significantly reduced. As soon as the voltage supplied by the voltage tripler circuit 12, 13, 15, 16, 17, 18, 20, 23 drops again below the voltage of the first capacitive component 10, the first comparator 21 closes the first field effect transistor. If the voltage supplied by the voltage tripler circuit 12, 13, 15, 16, 17, 18, 20, 23 again increases to a sufficiently large value, the first comparator 21 opens the first field-effect transistor again and so on. The charging of the first capacitive element 10 thus takes place only in the start-up phase of the movement on the afflicted with a high Spannungsveriust first diode 14. In the further course of the first passage capacitive element 10 is then charged only via the channel of the first field effect transistor, which is much cheaper energetically as a charge via the first diode 14. In this way, the energy reserve of the movement is used more economically and increases the power reserve.

Nach dem heutigen Stand der Technik ist es nicht möglich, einen Mikrogenerator zu bauen, der eine induzierte Spannung von mehr als 1,6 V hat. Das bedeutet, daß die Spannungswandlerschaltung 2 neben ihrer Gleichrichterfunktion auch eine Spannungsvervielfacherfunktion erfüllen muß, wozu die schon genannte Spannungsvervielfacherschaltung 12, 13, 15, 16, 17, 18, 20, 23 dient. Im vorliegenden Ausführungsbeispiel ist die Spannungsvervielfacherschaltung 12, 13, 15, 16, 17, 18, 20, 23 eine Spannungsverdreifacherschaltung. In den Fig. 2 bis 4 sind drei verschiedene Ausführungsformen der Spannungsverdreifacherschaltung gezeigt.In the current state of the art, it is not possible to build a microgenerator having an induced voltage of more than 1.6V. This means that the voltage converter circuit 2 in addition to its rectifier function must also fulfill a Spannungsvervielfacherfunktion, including the already mentioned Spannungsvervielfacherschaltung 12, 13, 15, 16, 17, 18, 20, 23 is used. In the present embodiment, the voltage multiplier circuit 12, 13, 15, 16, 17, 18, 20, 23 is a voltage tripler circuit. Two different embodiments of the voltage tripler circuit are shown in FIGS.

Bei einer solchen Spannungsvervielfacherschaltung ergibt sich allerdings stets auch das schon erläuterte Problem des Spannungsabfalls über den darin notwendigerweise vorhandenen Dioden. Bei den in Fig. 2 bis 4 dargestellten Ausführungsformen der Spannungsvervielfacherschaltung ist dieses Problem auf ähnliche Weise gelöst wie das Problem des Spannungsabfalls über der ersten Diode 14. Ein zweites und ein drittes kapazitives Bauelement 15, 16 sind in Reihe mit dem Generator 1 geschaltet, wobei der Generator 1 zwischem dem zweiten kapazitiven Bauelement 15 und dem dritten kapazitiven Bauelement 16 angeordnet ist. Eine erste Ausführungsform der Spannungsverdreifacherschaltung (siehe Fig. 2) weist ferner eine Parallelschaltung einer zweiten Diode 12 und eines zweiten Schalters 17 sowie eine Parallelschaltung einer dritten Diode 23 und eines dritten Schalters 18 auf. Die Parallelschaltung der zweiten Diode 12 und des zweiten Schalters 17 ist in Reihe zwischen den generatorseitigen Anschluß des zweiten kapazitiven Bauelements 15 und den lastseitigen Anschluß des dritten kapazitiven Bauelements 16 geschaltet. Die Parallelschaltung der dritten Diode 23 und des dritten Schalters 18 ist in Reihe zwischen den generatorseitigen Anschluß des dritten kapazitiven Bauelements 16 und den lastseitigen Anschluß des zweiten kapazitiven Bauelements 15 geschaltet. Der schon weiter oben kurz erwähnte zweite Komparator 20 steuert sowohl den zweiten als auch den dritten Schalter 17, 18. Die erste Ausführungsform der Spannungsverdreifacherschaltung weist ferner eine in Reihe zwischen die lastseitigen Anschlüsse des zweiten und dritten kapazitiven Bauelements 15, 16 geschaltete vierte Diode 13 auf.In such a voltage multiplier circuit, however, the already explained problem of the voltage drop always occurs over the diodes necessarily present therein. In the embodiments of the voltage multiplier circuit shown in Figs. 2 to 4, this problem is solved in a similar manner as the problem of voltage drop across the first diode 14. A second and a third capacitive device 15, 16 are connected in series with the generator 1, the generator 1 is arranged between the second capacitive component 15 and the third capacitive component 16. A first embodiment of the voltage tripler circuit (see FIG. 2) further comprises a parallel connection of a second diode 12 and a second switch 17 and a parallel connection of a third diode 23 and a third switch 18. The parallel connection of the second diode 12 and the second switch 17 is connected in series between the generator-side terminal of the second capacitive component 15 and the load-side terminal of the third capacitive component 16. The parallel connection of the third diode 23 and the third switch 18 is connected in series between the generator-side terminal of the third capacitive element 16 and the load-side terminal of the second capacitive element 15. The second comparator 20, which has already been briefly mentioned above, controls both the second and third switches 17, 18. The first embodiment of the voltage tripler circuit also has a fourth diode 13 connected in series between the load-side terminals of the second and third capacitive components 15, 16 ,

Die zweite, die dritte und die vierte Diode 12, 23, 13 sind in gleicher Durchlaßrichtung geschaltet, und die erste Diode 14 ist in dazu entgegengesetzter Durchlaßrichtung geschaltet. Der zweite Komparator 20 vergleicht das elektrische Potential an dem mit dem zweiten kapazitiven Bauelement 15 verbundenen Anschluß des Generators 1 mit dem elektrischen Potential am lastseitigen Anschluß des dritten kapazitiven Bauelements 16. Der zweite und/oder der dritte Schalter 17, 18 wird durch den zweiten Komparator 20 nur dann geschlossen, wenn die Spannung des ersten kapazitiven Bauelements 10 zum Betreiben des zweiten Komparators 20 ausreicht und das vom Generator 1 zur Verfügung gestellte elektrische Potential zum Aufladen des zweiten bzw. des dritten kapazitiven Bauelements 15, 16 hoch genug ist.The second, the third and the fourth diode 12, 23, 13 are connected in the same forward direction, and the first diode 14 is connected in the opposite direction of passage. The second comparator 20 compares the electrical potential at the connected to the second capacitive element 15 terminal of the generator 1 with the electrical potential at the load-side terminal of the third capacitive element 16. The second and / or the third switch 17, 18 is through the second comparator 20 closed only when the voltage of the first capacitive Component 10 is sufficient for operating the second comparator 20 and provided by the generator 1 available electrical potential for charging the second and the third capacitive element 15, 16 is high enough.

Der zweite Schalter 17 ist ein zweiter Feldeffekttransistor, und der dritte Schalter 18 ist ein dritter Feldeffekttransistor. Der zweite Feldeffekttransistor ist so geschaltet, daß in seinem gesperrten Zustand ein Teil seiner Struktur als zweite Diode 12 wirkt. Der dritte Feldeffekttransistor ist so geschaltet, daß in seinem gesperrten Zustand ein Teil seiner Struktur als dritte Diode 23 wirkt.The second switch 17 is a second field effect transistor, and the third switch 18 is a third field effect transistor. The second field effect transistor is connected so that in its locked state, part of its structure acts as a second diode 12. The third field effect transistor is switched so that in its locked state, a part of its structure acts as a third diode 23.

Nach einem Anlaufen des Uhrwerks sind der zweite Feldeffekttransistor und der dritte Feldeffekttransistor zunächst gesperrt. Das Aufladen des zweiten kapazitiven Bauelements 15 und des dritten kapazitiven Bauelements 16 erfolgt über die zweite, dritte und vierte Diode 12, 23, 13. Sobald die Spannung des ersten kapazitiven Bauelements 10 einen Minimalwert von 0,8 V erreicht hat und die vom Generator 1 gelieferte Spannung höher ist als die Spannung des dritten kapazitiven Bauelements 16, öffnet der zweite Komparator 20 den zweiten Feldeffekttransistor und den dritten Feldeffekttransistor. Das Aufladen des zweiten und des dritten kapazitiven Bauelements 15, 16 erfolgt jetzt über den zweiten Feldeffekttransistor und den dritten Feldeffekttransistor. Die Verringerung der Spannungsverluste ist analog zur oben erläuterten Verringerung des Spannungsverlustes beim Übergang von der ersten Diode 14 zum ersten Feldeffekttransistor. In analoger Weise erfolgt auch das Öffnen und Schließen des zweiten und des dritten Feldeffekttransistors durch den zweiten Komparator 20. Fällt die vom Generator 1 gelieferte Spannung unter die Spannung des dritten kapazitiven Bauelements 16 ab, so sperrt der zweite Komparator 20 den zweiten und den dritten Feldeffekttransistor. Steigt die vom Generator 1 gelieferte Spannung über die Spannung des dritten kapazitiven Bauelements 16 an, werden der zweite und der dritte Feldeffekttransistor geöffnet, d.h. der zweite und der dritte Schalter 17, 18 werden geschlossen. Im Vergleich zum reinen Diodeneinsatz ergibt sich somit auch in der Spannungsverdreifacherschaltung eine sparsamere Verwendung der Energiereserve des Uhrwerks, wodurch die Gangreserve erhöht wird.After a start of the movement, the second field effect transistor and the third field effect transistor are initially blocked. The charging of the second capacitive component 15 and of the third capacitive component 16 takes place via the second, third and fourth diode 12, 23, 13. As soon as the voltage of the first capacitive component 10 has reached a minimum value of 0.8 V and that of the generator 1 supplied voltage is higher than the voltage of the third capacitive element 16, the second comparator 20 opens the second field effect transistor and the third field effect transistor. The charging of the second and the third capacitive component 15, 16 now takes place via the second field effect transistor and the third field effect transistor. The reduction of the voltage losses is analogous to the above-described reduction of the voltage loss during the transition from the first diode 14 to the first field effect transistor. In an analogous manner, the opening and closing of the second and the third field effect transistor by the second comparator 20. If the voltage supplied by the generator 1 falls below the voltage of the third capacitive element 16, the second comparator 20 blocks the second and the third field effect transistor , As the voltage supplied by the generator 1 increases above the voltage of the third capacitive device 16, the second and third field effect transistors are opened, i. the second and third switches 17, 18 are closed. Compared to pure diode use thus results in the Spannungsverdreifacherschaltung a more economical use of the energy reserve of the movement, whereby the power reserve is increased.

In Fig. 3 ist eine zweite Ausführungsform der Spannungsverdreifacherschaltung dargestellt, bei der im Unterschied zur ersten Ausführungsform der Spannungsverdreifacherschaltung der die vierte Diode 13 enthaltene Schaltungszweig fehlt. Da die vierte Diode 13 zum Funktionieren der Spannungsverdreifacherschaltung nicht unbedingt notwendig ist, gewährleistet auch die zweite Ausführungsform der Spannungsverdreifacherschaltung einen zuverlässigen Betrieb der Spannungswandlerschaltung 2. Selbstverständlich müssen dazu die jeweils vorhandenen Dioden in ihrer Dimensionierung stets der aktuellen Schaltungsumgebung geeignet angepaßt sein. Gleiches gilt auch für die in Fig. 4 dargestellte dritte Ausführungsform der Spannungsverdreifacherschaltung, die nur den Schaltungszweig mit der vierten Diode 13, nicht aber die Schaltungszweige mit der zweiten Diode 12 und der dritten Diode 23 aufweist. An die Stelle der in der ersten Ausführungsform der Spannungsverdreifacherschaltung vorhandenen Parallelschaltung der zweiten Diode 12 und des zweiten Schalters 17 bzw. der Parallelschaltung der dritten Diode 23 und des dritten Schalters 18 tritt also in der vierten Ausführungsform der Spannungsverdreifacherschaltung der zweite Schalter 17 allein bzw. der dritte Schalter 18 allein.FIG. 3 shows a second embodiment of the voltage tripler circuit in which, unlike the first embodiment of the voltage tripler circuit, the circuit branch containing the fourth diode 13 is missing. Since the fourth diode 13 is not absolutely necessary for the operation of the voltage tripler circuit, the second embodiment of the voltage tripler circuit also ensures reliable operation of the voltage converter circuit 2. Of course, the respective existing diodes always have to be suitably adapted to the current circuit environment in their dimensioning. The same applies to the third embodiment of the voltage tripler circuit shown in FIG. 4, which has only the circuit branch with the fourth diode 13, but not the circuit branches with the second diode 12 and the third diode 23. Instead of the parallel connection of the second diode 12 and the second switch 17 or the parallel circuit of the third diode 23 and the third switch 18, which is present in the first embodiment of the tripartite voltage circuit, the second switch 17 occurs alone or in the fourth embodiment of the voltage tripler circuit third switch 18 alone.

Denkbar ist auch, anstelle der beschriebenen Spannungsverdreifacherschaltung eine Spannungsverdoppelungsschaltung einzusetzen. Durch die Auswahl entsprechender elektronischer Bauelemente müßte in diesem Fall sichergestellt werden, daß die Spannungswandlerschaltung 2 ab einer minimalen Peakspannung des Generators von 0,5 V funktioniert.It is also conceivable to use a voltage doubling circuit instead of the described voltage tripler circuit. By selecting appropriate electronic components would have to be ensured in this case that the voltage converter circuit 2 works from a minimum peak voltage of the generator of 0.5 V.

Es ist auch möglich, anstelle einer Spannungsvervielfacherschaltung, die die Ausgangsspannung des Generators 1 um einen fest vorgegebenen Wert vergrößert, eine regelbare Spannungsvervielfacherschaltung einzusetzen.It is also possible, instead of a voltage multiplier circuit which increases the output voltage of the generator 1 by a fixed predetermined value, to use a controllable voltage multiplier circuit.

Die Spannungswandlerschaltung 2 und die elektronische Regelschaltung 6, 7, 8, 9 sind derart abgestimmt, daß die Leistungsaufnahme der Energiedissipationsschaltung 9 einen Minimalwert annimmt, während irgendeines der kapazitiven Bauelemente 10, 15, 16 geladen wird.The voltage converter circuit 2 and the electronic control circuit 6, 7, 8, 9 are tuned such that the power consumption of the Energiedissipationsschaltung 9 assumes a minimum value while any of the capacitive devices 10, 15, 16 is charged.

Außerdem sind die Spannungswandlerschaltung 2 und die elektronische Regelschaltung 6, 7, 8, 9 so ausgelegt, daß die Leistungsaufnahme der Energiedissipationsschaltung 9 in Abständen von 3 x 10-2 s regelmäßig für 5 x 10-4 s einen Minimalwert annimmt, um den Komparatoren 20, 21 einen Potentialvergleich entsprechend ihrer Funktion zu ermöglichen. Würde nämlich der Potentialvergleich bei einer Generatorbelastung durchgeführt werden, die über der Minimalbelastung des Generators 1 liegt, so kämen die Komparatoren 20, 21 hinsichtlich der Lademöglichkeiten der kapazitiven Bauelemente 10, 15, 16 zu falschen Schlußfolgerungen, denn sie würden eine gegenüber der Generatorspannung bei Minimalbelastung verminderte Generatorspannung detektieren.In addition, the voltage converter circuit 2 and the electronic control circuit 6, 7, 8, 9 are designed so that the power consumption of the Energiedissipationsschaltung 9 at intervals of 3 x 10 -2 s regularly for 5 x 10 -4 s assumes a minimum value to the comparators 20th , 21 to allow a potential comparison according to their function. If the potential comparison were carried out at a generator load that is above the minimum load of the generator 1, then the comparators 20, 21 with respect to the charging possibilities of the capacitive components 10, 15, 16 would come to wrong conclusions, because they would be compared to the generator voltage at minimum load detect reduced generator voltage.

Claims (37)

  1. A timepiece movement, whose spring drives, via a geartrain, a time indicator and a generator (1) which supplies an AC voltage, in which
    - the generator (1) supplies a voltage converter circuit (2),
    - the voltage converter circuit (2) supplies a first capacitive component (10),
    - the first capacitive component (10) supplies an electronic reference circuit (3, 4, 5), having a stable oscillator (3, 4), and an electronic control circuit (6, 7, 8, 9),
    - the electronic control circuit (6, 7, 8, 9) has
    - a comparator logic circuit (6) one of whose inputs is connected to the electronic reference circuit (3, 4, 5) and whose other input is connected to the generator (1) via a comparator stage (7) and an anticoincidence circuit (8), as well as
    - an energy dissipation circuit (9) which is connected to one input of the comparator logic circuit (6) and whose power consumption can be controlled by the comparator logic circuit (6),
    - the comparator logic circuit (6) is designed such that it
    - compares a clock signal coming from the electronic reference circuit (3, 4, 5) with a clock signal originating from the generator (1),
    - as a function of the result of this comparison, controls the level of the power consumption of the electronic control circuit (6, 7, 8, 9) via the level of the power consumption of the energy dissipation circuit (9), and
    - in this way, via the control of the control circuit power consumption, controls the operation of the generator (1) and thus the operation of the time indication,
    characterized in that
    - the first capacitive component (10) is charged, at least immediately after the timepiece movement first starts, via a passive component or via passive components,
    - the passive component or the passive components is or are replaced or is or are supplemented in parallel circuit by an active unit or a plurality of active units as soon as the voltage of the first capacitive component (10) is sufficient to operate the active unit or the active units, in which case the active unit or the active units has or have a lower electrical resistance in the forward direction than the passive component or the passive components,
    - the comparator logic circuit (6) has a counter whose count corresponds to an operation difference between the generator (1) and the electronic reference circuit (3, 4, 5),
    - the power consumption of the energy dissipation circuit (9) is controlled as a function of the count of the counter, and
    - the comparator logic circuit (6) and the energy dissipation circuit (9) are matched to one another such that the power consumption of the energy dissipation circuit (9) is kept minimal for a predetermined count range and varies in linear proportion to the count when the predetermined count range is exceeded.
  2. A timepiece movement, whose spring drives, via a geartrain, a time indicator and a generator (1) which supplies an AC voltage, in which
    - the generator (1) supplies a voltage converter circuit (2),
    - the voltage converter circuit (2) supplies a first capacitive component (10),
    - the first capacitive component (10) supplies an electronic reference circuit (3, 4, 5), having a stable oscillator (3, 4), and an electronic control circuit (6, 7, 8, 9),
    - the electronic control circuit (6, 7, 8, 9) has a comparator logic circuit (6) one of whose inputs is connected to the electronic reference circuit (3, 4, 5) and whose other input is connected to the generator (1) via a comparator stage (7) and an anticoincidence circuit (8), as well as
    - an energy dissipation circuit (9) which is connected to one output of the comparator logic circuit (6) and whose power consumption can be controlled by the comparator logic circuit (6),
    - the comparator logic circuit (6) is designed such that it
    - compares a clock signal coming from the electronic reference circuit (3, 4, 5) with a clock signal originating from the generator (1),
    - as a function of the result of this comparison, controls the level of the power consumption of the electronic control circuit (6, 7, 8, 9) via the level of the power consumption of the energy dissipation circuit (9), and
    - in this way, via the control of the control circuit power consumption, controls the operation of the generator (1) and thus the operation of the time indication,
    characterized in that
    - the power consumption of the electronic control circuit (6, 7, 8, 9) is controllable in at least three steps,
    - the comparator logic circuit (6) has a counter whose count corresponds to an operation difference between the generator (1) and the electronic reference circuit (3, 4, 5),
    - the power consumption of the energy dissipation circuit (9) is controlled as a function of the count of the counter, and
    - the comparator logic circuit (6) and the energy dissipation circuit (9) are matched to one another such that the power consumption of the energy dissipation circuit (9) is kept minimal for a predetermined count range and varies in linear proportion to the count when the predetermined count range is exceeded.
  3. A timepiece movement, whose spring drives, via a geartrain, a time indicator and a generator (1) which supplies an AC voltage, in which
    - the generator (1) supplies a voltage converter circuit (2),
    - the voltage converter circuit (2) supplies a first capacitive component (10),
    - the first capacitive component (10) supplies an electronic reference circuit (3, 4, 5) having a stable oscillator (3, 4), and an electronic control circuit (6, 7, 8,9),
    - the electronic control circuit (6, 7, 8, 9) has
    - a comparator logic circuit (6) one of whose inputs is connected to the electronic reference circuit (3, 4, 5) and whose other input is connected to the generator (1) via a comparator stage (7) and an anticoincidence circuit (8), as well as
    - an energy dissipation circuit (9) which is connected to one output of the comparator logic circuit (6) and whose power consumption can be controlled by the comparator logic circuit (6),
    - the comparator logic circuit (6) is designed such that it
    - compares a clock signal coming from the electronic reference circuit (3, 4, 5) with a clock signal originating from the generator (1),
    - as a function of the result of this comparison, controls the level of the power consumption of the electronic control circuit (b, 7, 8, 9) via the level of the power consumption of the energy dissipation circuit (9), and
    - in this way, via the control of the control circuit power consumption, controls the operation of the generator (1) and thus the operation of the time indication,
    characterized in that
    - the power consumption of the electronic control circuit (6, 7, 8, 9) can be essentially continuously variably controlled over a predetermined magnitude range,
    - the comparator logic circuit (6) has a counter whose count corresponds to an operation difference between the generator (1) and the electronic reference circuit (3, 4, 5),
    - the power consumption of the energy dissipation circuit (9) is controlled as a function of the count of the counter, and
    - the comparator logic circuit (6) and the energy dissipation circuit (9) are matched to one another such that the power consumption of the energy dissipation circuit (9) is kept minimal for a predetermined count range and varies in linear proportion to the count when the predetermined count range is exceeded.
  4. A timepiece movement according to claim 1, characterized in that the voltage converter circuit (2) and the electronic control circuit (6,7,8,9) are matched in such a manner that the power consumption of the energy dissipation circuit (9) assumes a minimum value for a short time at predetermined time intervals, in order to allow potential comparisons of the active unit or the active units.
  5. A timepiece unit according to claim 1, characterized in that the power consumption of the electronic control circuit (6, 7, 8, 9) is controllable in at least three steps.
  6. A timepiece movement according to claim 1, characterized in that the power consumption of the electronic control circuit (6, 7, 8, 9) can be essentially continuously variably controlled over a predetermined magnitude range.
  7. A timepiece movement according to either of claims 2 or 3, characterized in that
    - the first capacitive component (10) is charged, at least immediately after the timepiece movement first starts, via a passive component or via passive components, and
    - the passive component or the passive components is or are replaced or is or are supplemented in parallel circuit by an active unit or a plurality of active units as soon as the voltage of the first capacitive component (10) is sufficient to operate the active unit or the active units, in which case the active unit or the active units has or have a lower electrical resistance in the forward direction than the passive component or the passive components.
  8. A timepiece movement according to either of claims 1 or 7,
    characterized in that
    - the voltage converter circuit (2) has
    - a first diode (14) which is connected in series with the generator (1) and with the first capacitive component (10),
    - a first switch (19) which is connected in parallel with the first diode (14), in series with the generator (1) and in series with the first capacitive component (10),
    - a first comparator (21) which controls the first switch (19), and
    - a voltage multiplier circuit (12, 13, 15, 16, 17, 18, 20, 23) which is coupled on the input side to the generator (1) and on the load side to the first capacitive component (10) and to the parallel circuit formed by the first diode (14) and the first switch (19),
    - the first comparator (21) compares the electrical potential at a connection (which is not at earth potential) of the first capacitive component (10) with the electrical potential at a connection (which is not at earth potential) on the load side of the voltage multiplier circuit (12, 13, 15, 16, 17, 18, 20, 23),
    - the first switch (19) is closed by the first comparator (21), thus allowing the first capacitive component (10) to be charged via the first switch (19) only when
    - the voltage of the first capacitive component (10) is sufficient to operate the first comparator (21), and
    - the electrical potential at the unearthed connection on the load side of the voltage multiplier circuit (12, 13, 15, 16, 17, 18, 20, 23) is sufficiently high to charge the first capacitive component (10) further.
  9. A timepiece movement according to claim 1, characterized in that the spring, the geartrain, the generator (1), the voltage converter circuit (2) and the electronic control circuit (6, 7, 8, 9) are designed such that, immediately after the timepiece movement starts, and until the time when the first capacitive component (10) is charged, the generator (1) operates at a voltage level which is sufficiently high to ensure that all the electronic components which are part of the timepiece movement operate, and at a rotation speed which is greater than the nominal rotation speed of the generator (1).
  10. A timepiece movement according to claim 2 or claim 3, characterized in that the spring, the geartrain, the generator (1), the voltage converter circuit (2) and the electronic control circuit (6, 7, 8, 9) are designed such that, immediately after the timepiece movement starts, the generator (1) operates at a rotation speed which is greater than the nominal rotation speed of the generator (1), in order to allow the electronic reference circuit (3, 4, 5) and the electronic control circuit (6, 7, 8, 9) to start.
  11. A timepiece movement according to claim 8, characterized in that the first switch (19) is a first transistor.
  12. A timepiece movement according to claim 11, characterized in that the first transistor is connected such that, when it is switched off, a part of its structure acts as a first diode (14).
  13. A timepiece movement according to any of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the energy dissipation circuit (9) is formed from one or more non-reactive resistors.
  14. A timepiece movement according to any of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that
    - the energy dissipation circuit (9) is formed from one or more non-reactive resistors, and
    - a predetermined effective resistance combination, which may also be the resistance zero, in the energy dissipation circuit (9) is associated with each count.
  15. A timepiece movement according to any of claims 1 to 3, characterized by a switching device which interrupts the counting in of pulses at a predetermined maximum counter level, and interrupts the counting out of pulses at a predetermined minimum counter level.
  16. A timepiece movement according to claim 8, characterized in that the voltage multiplier circuit (12, 13, 15, 16, 17, 18, 20, 23) is a controllable voltage multiplier circuit.
  17. A timepiece movement according to claim 8, characterized in that the voltage multiplier circuit (12, 13, 15, 16, 17, 18, 20, 23) essentially doubles the output voltage of the generator (I).
  18. A timepiece movement according to claim 17, characterized in that the voltage converter circuit (2) operates above a minimum peak voltage of the generator of 0.5 V.
  19. A timepiece movement according to claim 8, characterized in that the voltage multiplier circuit (12, 13, 15, 16, 17, 18, 20, 23) essentially triples the output voltage of the generator (1).
  20. A timepiece movement according to claim 19, characterized in that the voltage converter circuit (2) operates above a minimum peak voltage of the generator of 0.3 V.
  21. A timepiece movement according to claim 19, characterized in that the voltage multiplier circuit (12,13,15,16,17,18, 20,23) has
    - a second and a third capacitive component (15, 16), which are connected in series with the generator (1), in which case the generator (1) is arranged between the second capacitive component (15) and the third capacitive component (16),
    - a parallel circuit formed by a second diode (12) and a second switch (17), in which case the parallel circuit formed by the second diode (12) and the second switch (17) is connected in series between the connection on the generator side of the second capacitive component (15) and the connection on the load side of the third capacitive component (16),
    - a parallel circuit formed by a third diode (23) and a third switch (18), in which case the parallel circuit formed by the third diode (23) and the third switch (18) is connected in series between the connection on the generator side of the third capacitive component (16) and the connection on the load side of the second capacitive component (15), and
    - a second comparator (20) which controls the second and the third switch (17, 18),
    in which case
    - the second and the third diode (12, 23) are connected with the same forward direction, and the first diode (14) is connected in the forward direction opposite this,
    - the second comparator (20) compares the electrical potential at that connection of the generator (1) which is connected to the second capacitive component (15) with the electrical potential at the connection on the load side of the third capacitive component (16), and
    - the second and/or the third switch (17, 18) are/is closed by the second comparator (20), thus allowing the second and the third capacitive component (15, 16), respectively, to be charged via the third and the second switch (18, 17), respectively, only when
    - the voltage of the first capacitive component (10) is sufficient to operate the second comparator (20), and
    - the electrical potential available from the generator (1) is sufficiently high to charge the second and the third capacitive component (15, 16).
  22. A timepiece movement according to claim 21, characterized in that the voltage multiplier circuit (12, 13, 15, 16, 17, 18, 20, 23) has a fourth diode (13) which is connected in series between the connections on the load side of the second and of the third capacitive component (15, 16), in which case the fourth diode (13) is arranged with the opposite forward direction to the first diode (14).
  23. A timepiece movement according to claim 19, characterized in that the voltage multiplier circuit (12, 13, 15, 16, 17, 18, 20, 23) has
    - a second and third capacitive component (15, 16), which are connected in series with the generator (1), in which case the generator (1) is arranged between the second capacitive component (15) and the third capacitive component (16),
    - a second switch (17) which is connected in series between the connection on the generator side of the second capacitive component (15) and the connection on the load side of the third capacitive component (16),
    - a third switch (18) which is connected in series between the connection on the generator side of the third capacitive component (16) and the connection on the load side of the second capacitive component (15),
    - a second comparator (20) which controls the second and the third switch (17, 18), and
    - a fourth diode (13) which is connected in series between the connections on the load side of the second and of the third capacitive component (15, 16),
    in which case
    - the fourth diode (13) is connected with the opposite forward direction to the first diode (14),
    - the second comparator (20) compares the electrical potential at that connection of the generator (1) which is connected to the second capacitive component (15) with the electrical potential at the connection on the load side of the third capacitive component (16), and
    - the second and/or the third switch (17, 18) are/is closed by the second comparator (20), thus allowing the second and the third capacitive component (15, 16), respectively, to be charged via the third and the second switch (18, 17), respectively, only when
    - the voltage of the first capacitive component (10) is sufficient to operate the second comparator (20), and
    - the electrical potential available from the generator (1) is sufficiently high to charge the second and the third capacitive component (15, 16).
  24. A timepiece movement according to claim 21 or claim 23, characterized in that the second switch (17) is a second transistor, and the third switch (18) is a third transistor.
  25. A timepiece movement according to claim 24, characterized in that the second transistor is connected such that, when it is switched off, a part of its structure acts as a second diode (12).
  26. A timepiece movement according to claim 24, characterized in that the third transistor is connected such that, when it is switched off, a part of its structure acts as a third diode (23).
  27. A timepiece movement according to any of claims 1 to 3, characterized by a device for indicating the operating reserve as a function of the count.
  28. A timepiece movement according to claim 27, characterized in that the operating reserve is indicated by means of an LCD.
  29. A timepiece movement according to any of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the stable oscillator (3, 4) has an oscillating crystal (4).
  30. A timepiece movement according to claim 29, characterized in that the voltage converter circuit (2), the electronic control circuit (6, 7, 8, 9) and the electronic reference circuit (3, 5), with the exception of the oscillating crystal (4), are configured as an IC (11).
  31. A timepiece movement according to claim 29, characterized in that the voltage converter circuit (2), the electronic control circuit (6, 7, 8, 9) and the electronic reference circuit (3, 5), with the exception of the oscillating crystal (4), and with the exception of all the capacitive components which are present in the said circuits, are configured as an IC (11).
  32. A timepiece movement according to claim 8, characterized in that the voltage converter circuit (2) and the electronic control circuit (6, 7, 8, 9) are matched in such a manner that the power consumption of the energy dissipation circuit (9) assumes a minimum value for a short time at predetermined time intervals, in order to allow potential comparison by the first comparator (21).
  33. A timepiece movement according to any of claims 1, 2, 3 or 32, characterized in that the voltage converter circuit (2) and the electronic control circuit (6, 7, 8, 9) are matched in such a manner that the power consumption of the energy dissipation circuit (9) assumes a minimum value while the first capacitive component (10) is being charged.
  34. A timepiece movement according to claim 21 or claim 23, characterized in that the voltage converter circuit (2) and the electronic control circuit (6, 7, 8, 9) are matched in such a manner that the power consumption of the energy dissipation circuit (9) assumes a minimum value while the first capacitive component (10) and/or the second capacitive component (15) and/or the third capacitive component (16) are/is being charged.
  35. A timepiece movement according to any of claims 21, 23 or 34, characterized in that the voltage converter circuit (2) and the electronic control circuit (6, 7, 8, 9) are matched in such a manner that the power consumption of the energy dissipation circuit (9) assumes a minimum value for a short time at predetermined time intervals, in order to allow potential comparison both by the first comparator (21) and by the second comparator (20).
  36. A timepiece movement according to any of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, in the electronic reference circuit (3, 4, 5), a frequency divider circuit (5) is connected between the stable oscillator (3, 4) and the connection to the electronic control circuit (6, 7, 8, 9).
  37. A timepiece movement according to any of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the energy dissipation circuit (9) is a controllable current source.
EP96923940A 1995-09-07 1996-06-26 Timepiece movement Expired - Lifetime EP0848842B2 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
CH2545/95 1995-09-07
CH254595 1995-09-07
PCT/EP1996/002791 WO1997009657A1 (en) 1995-09-07 1996-06-26 Timepiece movement

Publications (3)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP0848842A1 EP0848842A1 (en) 1998-06-24
EP0848842B1 EP0848842B1 (en) 1999-04-28
EP0848842B2 true EP0848842B2 (en) 2006-04-19

Family

ID=4236210

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP96923940A Expired - Lifetime EP0848842B2 (en) 1995-09-07 1996-06-26 Timepiece movement

Country Status (9)

Country Link
US (1) US5881027A (en)
EP (1) EP0848842B2 (en)
JP (2) JPH11502024A (en)
CN (3) CN1246743C (en)
AT (1) ATE179529T1 (en)
DE (1) DE59601785D1 (en)
ES (1) ES2132931T5 (en)
GR (1) GR3030192T3 (en)
WO (1) WO1997009657A1 (en)

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US6169709B1 (en) * 1995-09-07 2001-01-02 Konrad Schafroth Watch movement
DK0848842T3 (en) * 1996-06-26 1999-11-08 Konrad Schafroth Movement
JP3632209B2 (en) 1996-11-13 2005-03-23 セイコーエプソン株式会社 Power supply device and portable electronic device
EP0942340B1 (en) * 1997-09-30 2006-09-20 Seiko Epson Corporation Rotation control apparatus and rotation control method
JP3472877B2 (en) * 1997-09-30 2003-12-02 セイコーエプソン株式会社 Electronically controlled mechanical timepiece and control method thereof
US6314059B1 (en) * 1997-09-30 2001-11-06 Seiko Epson Corporation Electronically controlled, mechanical timepiece and control method for the same
US6795378B2 (en) 1997-09-30 2004-09-21 Seiko Epson Corporation Electronic device, electronically controlled mechanical timepiece, and control method therefor
CN100399217C (en) 1999-03-03 2008-07-02 精工爱普生株式会社 Electronic device and control method thereof
CH694621A5 (en) * 2001-07-02 2005-04-29 Richemont Int Sa Control method and control electronics module for clockwork mechanical assembly.
US7252679B2 (en) * 2001-09-13 2007-08-07 Cordis Corporation Stent with angulated struts
EP2561409B1 (en) * 2010-04-21 2019-08-28 Team Smartfish GmbH Element of regulation for a timepiece and a corresponding process
JP6232705B2 (en) * 2013-02-04 2017-11-22 セイコーエプソン株式会社 Electronically controlled mechanical clock

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DE2402603A1 (en) † 1974-01-19 1975-07-24 Hubert Kalinowski Voltage multiplier with chain of four diodes - has capacitors converting AC input into doubled and quadrupled outputs
US3937001A (en) † 1972-11-21 1976-02-10 Berney Jean Claude Watch movement driven by a spring and regulated by an electronic circuit
JPS5482039A (en) † 1977-12-12 1979-06-29 Seiko Instr & Electronics Circuit for charging solar cell and secondary cell
WO1985001161A1 (en) † 1983-09-02 1985-03-14 American Telephone & Telegraph Company Improvements in or relating to rectifier circuits
JPS63190562A (en) † 1987-01-29 1988-08-08 Nec Corp Voltage multiplying rectifier
DE3906861A1 (en) † 1988-03-04 1989-09-14 Fraunhofer Ges Forschung POWER SUPPLY UNIT
DE3834867C1 (en) † 1988-10-13 1990-01-25 Telenorma Telefonbau Und Normalzeit Gmbh, 6000 Frankfurt, De Circuit arrangement for the parallel connection of power supply devices
JPH0345158A (en) † 1989-07-12 1991-02-26 Seiko Epson Corp Rotational power governor
US5001685A (en) † 1988-01-25 1991-03-19 Seiko Epson Corporation Electronic wristwatch with generator
JPH0365057A (en) † 1989-08-02 1991-03-20 Nec Corp Triple voltage rectifying circuit
JPH077928A (en) † 1993-06-15 1995-01-10 Fuji Electric Co Ltd Control device for power MOSFET for synchronous rectification
EP0665634A1 (en) † 1994-01-31 1995-08-02 Siemens Aktiengesellschaft Circuit arrangement with a field effect transistor
EP0870357A1 (en) † 1995-12-29 1998-10-14 EM Microelectronic-Marin SA Active rectifier having minimal energy losses

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JPS5367826A (en) * 1976-11-29 1978-06-16 Seiko Epson Corp Boosting circuit
CH665082GA3 (en) * 1986-03-26 1988-04-29
CH686332B5 (en) * 1994-04-25 1996-09-13 Asulab Sa timepiece driven by a mechanical energy source and controlled by an electronic circuit.
CH688879B5 (en) * 1995-08-10 1998-11-13 Asulab Sa Timepiece with indication of the power reserve.
FR2748583B1 (en) * 1996-05-07 1998-06-26 Asulab Sa STABILIZATION OF AN ELECTRONIC CIRCUIT FOR REGULATING THE MECHANICAL MOVEMENT OF A WATCHMAKING PART
FR2752070B1 (en) * 1996-08-01 1998-09-18 Asulab Sa ELECTRONIC WATCHMAKING PIECE COMPRISING A GENERATOR DRIVEN BY A SPRING BARREL

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3937001A (en) † 1972-11-21 1976-02-10 Berney Jean Claude Watch movement driven by a spring and regulated by an electronic circuit
DE2402603A1 (en) † 1974-01-19 1975-07-24 Hubert Kalinowski Voltage multiplier with chain of four diodes - has capacitors converting AC input into doubled and quadrupled outputs
JPS5482039A (en) † 1977-12-12 1979-06-29 Seiko Instr & Electronics Circuit for charging solar cell and secondary cell
WO1985001161A1 (en) † 1983-09-02 1985-03-14 American Telephone & Telegraph Company Improvements in or relating to rectifier circuits
JPS63190562A (en) † 1987-01-29 1988-08-08 Nec Corp Voltage multiplying rectifier
US5001685A (en) † 1988-01-25 1991-03-19 Seiko Epson Corporation Electronic wristwatch with generator
DE3906861A1 (en) † 1988-03-04 1989-09-14 Fraunhofer Ges Forschung POWER SUPPLY UNIT
DE3834867C1 (en) † 1988-10-13 1990-01-25 Telenorma Telefonbau Und Normalzeit Gmbh, 6000 Frankfurt, De Circuit arrangement for the parallel connection of power supply devices
JPH0345158A (en) † 1989-07-12 1991-02-26 Seiko Epson Corp Rotational power governor
JPH0365057A (en) † 1989-08-02 1991-03-20 Nec Corp Triple voltage rectifying circuit
JPH077928A (en) † 1993-06-15 1995-01-10 Fuji Electric Co Ltd Control device for power MOSFET for synchronous rectification
EP0665634A1 (en) † 1994-01-31 1995-08-02 Siemens Aktiengesellschaft Circuit arrangement with a field effect transistor
EP0870357A1 (en) † 1995-12-29 1998-10-14 EM Microelectronic-Marin SA Active rectifier having minimal energy losses

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
ES2132931T5 (en) 2006-11-16
HK1012204A1 (en) 1999-07-30
JP3485557B2 (en) 2004-01-13
CN1195408A (en) 1998-10-07
CN1119720C (en) 2003-08-27
ES2132931T3 (en) 1999-08-16
JP2003028970A (en) 2003-01-29
EP0848842A1 (en) 1998-06-24
CN1441331A (en) 2003-09-10
ATE179529T1 (en) 1999-05-15
GR3030192T3 (en) 1999-08-31
CN1235100C (en) 2006-01-04
CN1441332A (en) 2003-09-10
JPH11502024A (en) 1999-02-16
DE59601785D1 (en) 1999-06-02
WO1997009657A1 (en) 1997-03-13
US5881027A (en) 1999-03-09
CN1246743C (en) 2006-03-22
EP0848842B1 (en) 1999-04-28

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