CA1262051A - Electronic chronograph, more particularly electronic chronograph-watch - Google Patents

Abstract

: In order to be able to display several timed times in analogical fashion before, as the case may be, be recorded at very short intervals, the watch includes, in a case (1), in addition to current time indication members (2 -4), time indicators counted in hundredths of a second, seconds, minutes and hours (5-8). The watch also includes memories where the timed times are recorded using a push-button (10), each successive time being stored in a successive memory. The call of the contents of the memories for the display is controlled independently by another button (12), so that times can be quickly taken and then read without being pressed. A digital display (13) of the memory rank whose content is displayed by the hands is useful for timekeepers using the chrono-graph watch. This digital electronic chronograph is particularly suitable for timing cases where great flexibility or diversity of functions is sought. (fig. 1)

Description

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Electronic chronograph, in particular analog electronic chronograph watch counter time watches -The present invention relates to a chrono-analog electronic graph time counter timed, in particular chronograph watch analog electronic timed time counter, comprising a display device equipped with a chronograph time minute hand, one stopwatch of timed and means time display of timed duration time units less than the second, electronic means of time counting, a stepping motor to move at minus the so-called chronograph seconds hand measured in synchronism with the counting means and a control device comprising several members manuals capable of controlling at least the start of the 15 chronograph counting, stopping, taking and the display of a split time, as well as the catching up with the display of timed time.
In the field of chronograph counters time and display chronograph watches 20 digital, we have already achieved a very large number of models, with a wide variety of functions.
In the field of chronographs and electronic chronograph watches with display analog by needles, few things on the other hand 25 have been offered so far. We know different parts including several stepper motors not, the timer devices that link two kinematically needles being expensive in what concerns the time setting, as well as the 30 split-second or the reset function for '' ~ 6; ~ S ~
the chronograph hands. A certain number of timekeepers would prefer however to be able work with display chronographs analog by needles, because these give a more intuitive view of the advance of time. The special features and advantages today a chronograph or a watch chronograph are above all they allow a wide variety of functions, while remaining one convenient use, and that they are of practical use for timing competitions or training in competitions. A performance interesting would be the presence of a number of memories allowing to memorize different times, lS combining in different ways, and can be the case be recalled afterwards for re-registration or control. It would be particularly interesting to ability to control, with a single chronograph digital electronics, arrival times of a ten or even several dozen runners who sometimes follow each other very closely. A workable piece in a wristwatch format allowing easy "split" (that is, "take the exact time") from a very rapid succession of passages of runners, then read afterwards successively all these times, under a analog form, would certainly be of interest marked with timekeepers, typically for the c. sports timekeeping, but also for others types of timing.
Among the previous publications cited -all as "technological background" - the most close is publication GB-A-2,005,875. It relates to an electronic chronograph with digital display comprising several motors. However, it does not , no means to memorize different times timed and make them reappear at will under position shape of the different hands. Art previous shows that the problem of nesting different functions of a chronograph, functions which the display must naturally cooperate with, is not the easiest when you want a analog display. The prior art had not planned arrangement of memorization of different times timed in the case of an analog display, it being understood that the bringing up of different needles, in different positions which can be very divergent, cannot be done in one way as instantaneous as changing an indication digital electronic-The aim of the present invention is to provide an analog electronic chronograph, especially in the form of a chronograph watch analog electronics, allowing to realize desirable performance, including performance relating to the memorization of different times timed combined with a display arrangement analog. The invention thus aims to combine a very flexible and diverse way as to the use but remaining very simple as for the manufacturing, the benefits of memorization electronic timed times and display analog of these, reliably and allowing verification reminders. The chronograph or the proposed chronograph watch must be flexibly adaptable to different types of timing may occur.
According to the invention, this object is achieved by the presence of the characters stated in the AT
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, 2a first claim attached.
Dependent claims define particularly advantageous forms of execution, first of all as to the possibilities of function and the handling devices, and then as to the consti-~. .
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tution of diagrams which allow numerous functions often very nuanced, by means of a re-laterally low in elements, achievable in the form of integrated circuits.
The attached drawing illustrates, ~ as an example, an embodiment of the object of the invention; in this drawing :
fig. 1 is a front view of a watch nographer according to the invention under the ~ ormat of a watch ~ bracelet, fig. 2A, 2B, 2C and 2D together form the as illustrated in fig. 2E, the logic diagram and the chronograph watch in question, and the ; fig. 3 and 4 are detailed diagrams respectively of a counter-comparator block represented by a frame in FIG.
2B ~ and memories similarly ~ shown in FIG. 2C.
In fig. 1, we see that, viewed from the outside, the chronograph watch includes a case 1, containing an electronic set for actuating the needles measurement of current time and hands of the different chronograph function variants. The current time is typically displayed by an hour hand

2, central, minute hand 3, also central trale, a 3 minute hand, also central, and a 4 seconds hand, in the "six o'clock" position, as has often been the case. The needles of the chronograph function consists of a hand 8 hours of timed time, a minute hand of timed times 7, located respectively at "twelve hours "and" nine o'clock. However, the hands most important for timing, that is to say GUIDE 6 seconds of timed time and the hand 5 of the hundredths of a second of timed time is also the central needles, the hundredths of seconds of timed time working on ; an entirely external graduation of a circled dial .
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ring on which a unit of a hundredth of a turn can easily be read.
As we will see later, the watch includes a series of timed time memories, and the contents of these memories can be selectively displayed, a digital display field 13, typically LCD, providing indication of that memories including the hands of the chrono function nographer indicate the content. In a way that already has was offered, but only in the case of watches-chronographs, for small hundredths hands of a second, the hundredth of a second hand 5 is moult not permanently but it is brought after hit on the desired value, electronically recorded, once the time to be measured has been learned. In operating, the hundredths of a second hand 5 stay still while time is being account and that we did not call the display of a time stopwatch.
We know that in timing, there are different many types of functions, the simplest being the START-STOP, or "~ ALLYE" function intermediate times are not then to be realized. When-that a certain number of times are to be timed, we knows two functions which are respectively named SPLIT, and LAP (or LAP RESET).
The SPLIT function is the typical function, the more common, which allows inter-mediaries throughout a course or scores of passage of different runners during the same race basic nometrage. ~ the instant required, a pressure on a push button lO started counting the chronograph, and one or more new presses on this button will note interm ~ diai-res, even a time ~ inal. On the other hand, the basic counting of time will continue until there is ~ 2 ~; Z ~ 5 ~
terminated by a STOP function using a button-push button 11. ~ once only a first press on this push button has stopped counting, that is to say ~
stopped the seconds, minutes and hours of timed time and caused the passage of the hundredths of a second hand, in the blink of an eye at a glance, on the desired value, a new pressure on this push button 11 puts back all these needles in the zero position. If during continuous operation of the basic time count having started using push button 10, we want to record inter-use the push button 10 again.
The chronograph hands then stop (the guille hundredths of a second is positioned adequa ) and you can read the split time. If more very few intermediate times are noted interval time, only the first is first displayed, the others, memorized, which must then be peels, this is done using a third button-push-button 12. We will see below the detail of this function.
operation.
Note that on the other hand according to LAP, each pressure by which we take the time of a passage does not interrupt the operation of the basic counter but instantly resets it, so that a new start count. This LAP system is used by example for auto racing circuits when we always want to know the time taken by a cou-to go through a lap. So the moment of chrono-footage from the end of the previous round coincides with the ins-as long as the timing of the next lap starts.
We note that the number of memories that such a watch may contain can be relatively high, relatively simple pieces may have six to eight memories, other pieces, more professional, for-will count twenty, thirty, even fifty or more i ~ X ~
vantage. In the display field 13 of FIG. 1, a two-digit display is foreseen, which at most would match ~ ninety-nine ~ memories.
You may also want to use the watch only to temporarily memorize the times that we could not immediately write and release then the memories as soon as the time is noted on a sheet of paper, for example; we can also use read ~ a watch, especially if it has a large number of memories, to memorize times finish, for example twenty or thirty runners of a sports race.
We also note, ~ fig. l, the presence of a piece 9 having the shape of a winding crown, this allows, after drawing, the reset to the time of hands indicating the current time. At the same time, the pulling of this crown 9 blocks the needle of the condes of current time, either by leaving it where it is or, alternatively, by bringing it back to zero by conventional means.
We will now briefly describe the different annuities ~ or possibilities of operation, of the chronograph part. We admit that at the start the is in reset position (RESET), the guilles 5, 6, 7 and 8 being on zero. We can recognize be the following ~ unctions:
1. START - STOP - RESET function .. _. ...
Pressing the pusher lO starts the time counter, hands 6, 7 and 8 rotate.
Pressing the pusher ll stops the count time, hands 6, 7 and 8 stop, guille 5 receives a number of pulses corresponding to number of hundredths of a second measured.
A second press on the push button ll resets the counter to zero, i.e. the four 7 ~ 262 ~ 5 ~
needles 5, 6, 7 and 8 are brought back to zero. In this ~ anointing-l ~ digital display 13, representative of rank of memory whose content is displayed, remains to zero.
.. .. ... .. .... . ... ...
2. Function S ~ ART-STOP-STA; ~ T-STOP-RESET (RALLYE) The function is the same as before, except the fact that, following the first press on the push-button 11, a new pressure is exerted on the push-button evening lO so that hands 6, 7 and 8 restart, while the hundredths of a second hand remains o ~
she was. Then the next press again on pusher 11 stops the needles, and the process can repeat itself as much as you want. At the end, when ; the pusher 11 was pressed twice in succession, the second press on it brings back all the needles to zero. The digital display 13 also remains at zero in this function.

3. anointing SI ~ ~ SPLI ~ E ~ PANTE_STOP
Pressing the pusher lO starts the counting time, hands 6, 7 and 8 turn. A
pressing the pusher lO again performs a "SPLIT", that is to say that the time counter does not stop, but the first memory memorizes the time of the SPLIT. In same time, the device determining which is the memory which is read, causes the reading of the first memory, so that hands 6, 7 and 8 stop on the time corresponding to the instant o ~ we pressed on the button 10, and at the same time the needle 5, hundredths of a second, joins the memorized value. The af-- 30 digital file then indicates "1", which means that when the contents of the first memory are displayed.
When the pusher 12 is pressed, the ai-guilles 6, 7 and 8 rejoin the value of the time of the comp-time, more precisely they join the value from the next memory, which is itself synchronized , '"-''.
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on the time counter. The needle 5 remains in place;
17 display 13 will mark "2" suggesting that could take a second SPLIT, but we admit here that there is only one. Then, pressing the button 11 stops the time counter, the hands 6, 7 and 8 stop on the measured time, hand 5 joined the position corresponding to the number of cent ~
third measures.
Pressing push-button 11 again all hands at zero, and display field 13 indicates zero again.

4. STA ~ T- function: SPLIT-n SPLIT-RATTRAPANTE
Pressing the pusher lO starts the time counter, hands 6 and 7 rotate.
Then, a first press of SPLIT, ~ again on the push-button 10, causes memorization in a pre-better memory of the time thus detected, but the counter basic time does not stop. On the other hand, the ai-guilles 6, 7 and 8 stop in the correct positions laying the time thus memorized and the needle 5 joins the vale ~ ur memorized. The digital display 13 indicates "1".
Then we can, for example, if a certain number of runners arrive very quickly at the point of tage, press a number of times on the pusher lO. The corresponding time values are successively memorized, each time in a subsequent memory. The digital display shows however always with the value "1", and the hands remain positioned on the indications of the first beat in register. When this has been noted, pressing push-button 12 switches the display to the second memory, digital display 13 indicates "2", and the guilles 5, 6, 7 and 8 are quickly brought to the valley their memorized ~ in the second memory, that is to say that they indicate the time of the second "SP ~ IT". This last-deny may be noted and then further pressure on the ~ L2 ~ 5 ~
push-button 12 does the same in time stored in the third memory, while the digital chage 13 indiaue "3". We can thus continue the call of the times successively stored in the different famous memories. If you happen to be on a memory that has not yet recorded a time, the guilles 6, 7 and 8 start to turn again, because this moire-là is still synchronized on the basic counter.
When the next runner arrives, press again on the pusher lO records the corresponding time ' in the memory in question, needles 6, 7 and 8 stop turning while needle 5, which remains motionless until then, gains the position corresponding to the stored hundredth of a second value. At any time, we can, if we want, perform a function of RATTRAPANTE, or more precisely a function of resyn-chronization of all memories ~ For this, it is necessary first press push-button 12, then, while that it is pressed, also press the push-button evening ll. This has the effect of resynchronizing all the memories on the basic time counter, at the same time that the display of the read memory, in the digital field ; 13, is reset. This "RATTRAPANTE" function, or RESYNCHRONIZATION is useful mainly when, after loading all the memories, it still remains times to take, that is to say that the number of runners is greater than the number of memories. We can then start again to take time (SPLITS) which re-will successively come into memories 1, 2, etc.
To call up the display of the next memory, press this pressing the push-button 12. It is ~ note that, at the time of the first SPLIT while the digital display 13 is still on zero, the passage on "l" is done automatically.
matically, and the needles are positioned on the memorized them in the first memory, without it being necessary to act on the push-button 12. When all the 21) 5i ~
times have been written in memories, that is to say when all the runners have passed, we can stop the counting, by pressing push-button 11, then what we can, if desired, reset the basic counter, at the same time as all the memories are resynchronized on this base counter itself at zero, the counting operation being thus terminated. Before reset all memories to zero However, to call up, using push-button 12, all the con-kept from memorized memories. If you go over a memory-re that has not recorded any time, this memory, yet synchronized on the hase counter, will cause the posi-tction of the needles on the instant when we stopped the counting. Even further pressure on the push evening 12 automatically returns the memory reading to "O", because the cycle of the counting call is automatic.
only limited to one final position beyond the number of memories res having been charged.
Until we have returned the entire counter ~
zero, by two successive presses on the pusher 11, and as long as no function has been performed either RETRAPANT or RESYNCHRONIZATION as before diqué (using pusher 12 and pusher 11), we can if we wish to go back through the cycle of memories so ~ possibly to control that the different times have been noted. The successive call function of contents of memories, using push-button 12, continues indeed to be achievable in the stopped state of the counter, until it has been reset.

5. START-n FUNCTION STORED ARRIVALS
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A first press on the pusher lO
start the counter, hands 6, 7 and 8 ~ turn. In-following, a first time taking press again on the pusher lO displays the first time thus memorized in the first memory, the digital display 11 ~ L2 ~ 5 ~
tal 13 indicates "1". We can then continue with everything process as explained above, under 4, by stopping the counting using push button 11 (stop), when all the times have been apprehended. In these circumstances constants, all times remain in memory and their successive plotting is done using the pusher 12.
To reset the entire chronograph to zero, press the pusher 11 a second time.
It should be noted that when the counter works che, pressing the pusher 11 stops it, and when the counter is stopped, pressing the pusher evening 11 resets the chronograph to zero. He is indifferent that these two pressures, the first of STOP and ~ asecond of RESET ~ were done just one after the other, or on the contrary that a certain number of display calls of memories using push-button 12 intervened between time. The important thing is that the RESET function takes place by pressing push-button 11, when the counter stopped.
It should be noted that depending on whether one has one or the other of two variants which will be explained in conjunction with the diagram, the function RATTRAPANTE, RESYNCHRONISA-; TION may either only be possible when the counter works, or be possible also when the comp-2 ~ tor is stopped. To perform this function, you must always first press pusher 12, which prepares re action, then push button 11, which resynchronizes all the memories on the basic counter. If this one is ar-stopped, all memories will resynchronize on the value at which the base counter is stopped. By against, because the pusher 11 is pressed while push-button 12 is also, this pressure on the push-button 11 does not cause a reset to zero (or RESET).

6. Function S ~ ART-LAP- (RATTRA: PANT ~ iLAP or n LAP, etc.
The different functions that we have just seen .
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~ t which allowed to memorize intermediate times without stopping the counter (SPLITS), can be performed simultaneously as a LAP function (or LAP-RESET).
For this, the times are apprehended using the pusher lO, as seen previously, but beforehand on actuation of the pusher 10, the pusher 12 is pressed which prepares the LAP function or place of the SPLIT function.
In this case, the time is memorized and the counter does not stop not rete but is instantly reset to restart lo from zero. Needles 6, 7 and 8 stop and the needle hundredths of a second is positioned properly;
digital display 13 indicates "1". If one does not perform ~ RATTRAPANTE, RESYNCHRONIZATION meanwhile, a new ~ AP can then be performed in the same way, however the time will be recorded in the second memory.
To do this second reading, you will have to press a times on push-button 12, in order to have the display of the held from the second memory. If we did this before the second LAP, needles 6, 7 and 8 are 20 will turn ~ (pseudo-split-second function), and the hundredths of a second hand 5 will remain fixed. When-that the second LAP will be done using the pusher lO, then that we have previously pressed pusher 12, second time of LAP will be stopped, that is to say that ~; 25 needles 6, 7 and 8 will stop while the needle 5 will gain the desired position. We can for example from this fa ~ we successively time the exact time that a automobile car will have put each time ~ to carry out a lap in a car race. The first memory will take the time for the first round, the second memory will take the time of the second round, the third memory for the time of the third tower, etc. If you have ~ memorize a number of lap times greater than the number of available memories, you can use be the RETURN function, RESYNCHRONIZATION exactly as was previously ~ u; naturally times .
13 ~ 2 ~ 5 ~
of laps memorized prior to RESYNCHRONIZATION
are lost, that is to say that the memories are discharged ~ ees and made free for the next memorizations.
It should be noted that according to the constitution of a SPLIT or LAP 39 input counter, which we consider will proceed further, it is possible to predict that, a the last memory loaded, the next SPLIT or the next LAP reloads the first memory again.
At that point, assuming you have 25 memories and 10 that 27 SPLITS or LAPS have to be memorized, both first memories will memorize times 26 and 27, tan-say that memories 3 to 25 will still memorize the times 3 to 25. This possibility is however only a variant which depends on the constitution of a counter in the circuit cooked electronic.

7. Function of -tem ~ oral date indications During chronograph operation, the digital display field 13 displays the rank of the memory whose content is displayed. When the chronograph is not 20 not used, this display field shows the date. he can happen however that, during a timing, we want quickly check the date, without giving up-the timing status. This can be done by a "long-term" pressure on push-button 12. Indeed, 25 if, while field 13 displays the rank of a memory, the pusher 12 is pressed for more than about 3 seconds ~, a timed circuit means that, after approximately 3 sec, - the command of the display 13 changes and it is the date which appears in this field. This appearance of the sub-30 remains as long as the pusher 12 is pressed; from that it is released, the rank of memory read is ~ new poster. Such pressure on the pusher 12, to make re temporarily appears on the date, does not cause ac-if not usual d pressure on the pusher 12, 3 ~ that is to say the advance of a step of the rank of the memory of which ~ 26 ~ 11 ~ i1 the content is displayed.
Having now considered the various possibilities bilites of possible combinations of functions with the chronograph watch described, we will, in conjunction with fig. 2 (2A, 2B, 2C, 2D), 3 and 4, review the constitution internal of the watch, from an electronic and lo-gic.
It should first be noted that the four figures 2A, 2B, 2C and 2D form a whole, in the way that is illustrated ~ fig. 2E. Fig. 3 is a diagram of the comp-comparison comparator 51 of FIG. 2B, whose structure is fairly particular deserved to be shown in more detail.
Fig. 4 is a detailed diagram of a memory such as memories 66, 67, 681 n of FIG. 2C. We will note in-core that, to find the elements more easily, we took reference signs located between 20 and 39 for fig. 2A, between 40 and 59 for fig. 2B, between 60 and 79 for fig. 2C and between 80 and 110 for fig. 2D.
The reference signs of fig. 3 are between 110 and 120, those of fig. 4 between 130 and 140.
We will first consider the diagram as it appears ral on all of figs. 2A, 2B ~ 2C, 2D. In a way general, we notice that the diagram is in itself rela-"speaking" for an experienced electronics engineer, and that some details that may not have been explained that in the text could very well be understood simply-lying at the sight of the figures.
An oscillator 21, controlled by quartz, provides a high frequency which is divided up to 100 Hz in one frequency divider 22. Since then, we have, for the function-current time display, a second divider of frequency 23 providing a frequency of 1 ~ 3z. This is applied to an ET 24 door, the other entrance of which is apply a level "1", unless a switch SO (second ~ zero) either manipulate and apply a level .
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zero on this other entry. This switch is closed (passing) when operating the crown 9 reset at the mechanical hour of needles 2, 3 and 4 of indications current time ~ In this case, the pulses at Hz can no longer pass through door 24 and the engine does not step which activates the seconds hand of the current time stopped. Alternatively, a device could be provided mechanical or electronic which not only stops you guille seconds but reset it to zero. Normally, pulses at Hz exit from gate 24 and are ap-plicated to a circuit 25 which performs the shaping wanted impulses intended to advance one step every second a motor 36. This motor 36 drives, controls we see it in 37a, a second hand, which, by a classic gear mechanism, drives a needle of minutes which itself drives the hour hand.
A contact H (see fig. 2B below ~ left) is actuated twice a day by the time hour hand current, for counting the date. For delivery to the hour using crown 9, we conventionally have a lanterning device.
This display of current time is classic and does not ask for more detailed explanations.
The output at 100 Hz of the frequency divider 22 is also applied to a door 30 which constitutes the door control of the basic time counter for the function chronograph. When the other entrance to this door 30 carries a level "l", pulses at 100 Hz are emitted through door 30 and operate the chrono counter graph (timed times), on the other hand, when the ni-calf on this other input is "O", the pulse at 100 Hz is not transmitted and the basic function counter chronograph is stopped.
We see that the push button lO acts first on a drive stage 26, whose output signal 05i ~

puts a flip-flop 29 into working state. The Q output of the latter is applied to the second door entrance AND 30, so the basic function counter chronograph works when flip-flop 29 is a working state while stopped when this flip-flop is at rest. By the arrangement, of a ma-known way, two doors OR REVERSE 31 and 32, a second flip-flop, 28, follows flip-flop 29 in its rocking, but with a delay equal to the duration of the impulse which acts on flip-flop 29. Indeed, as soon as the counter chronograph is in operation, i.e. the door 30 is busy, a new actuation of the push button lO causes a SPLIT function. However, avoid that the first actuation of this push button, which makes start the counter, does not cause a SPLIT, reason for which the authorization of the ~ SPLIT unction, does not intervene when the flip-flop 28 is also passed to its working state, i.e. when the pulse delivered by pulse generator 28 has disappeared.
To return the flip-flop 29 to the rest state, 1 ~ push button 11 is activated and its pulse is shaped by a circuit 27 ~ This pulse is applied quee à une porte ET 37 which another entry receives ~
signal from the output Q of the flip-flop 28, and of which another input still receives signal C which is at level "1"
when the push button 12 is not pressed and which passes at level "O", when the latter is pressed. Of this so, if the push button 11 is operated while the push button 12 is pressed, the STOP function cannot not be done. If this is not the case and if the counter is in operation, i.e. the flip flops 28 and 29 are in the working positions, pressing the push button 11 brings a level signal "1" to the output door 37, and the flip-flop 29 is immediately returned to the rest state. Com ~ e the signal leaving the circuit ~ 2 ~ S ~ L

29 is also applied ~ the second door entry OR REVERSE 32, tilting back flip-flop 28 only follows flip-flop 29 until o ~ the push button ll has been released.
Indeed, a second manipulation of the push-button evening it causes a RESET function via an AND gate 38, including an input receives the signal from pulse generator 27 and whose another input receives the signal from the Q output of the flip-flop 28. ~ e this way, resetting to zero requires two manipulations of push-button ll must be carried out, which must first have been released to switch to re-turn the flip-flop ~ 8, before a new manipulation may cause the reset function ~ zero ~ through the gate 38. The latter also receives the signal C, which has the same effect as just explained regarding the door 37.
Depending on the state of the flip-flop 29, the door 30 is therefore on or off, and the basic function counter chronograph is either running or stopped. ~
Considering fig. 2C, we see that the signal exit from door 30, by a CT line, is applied dlabord has an impulse arrester 51 which delivers an im-drive every hundredths of a second. This impulse is applied to the clock input of a memory counter 650 which counts according to a cycle of 100, (preferably two quartetts BCD in series) and which provides information on hundredths of a second chronograph. We will come back more far on the exact constitution of this memory counter. This-The information is provided on a line formed by a rality of conductors, reason why the connection is drawn in thick lines. The driver with the highest weighting switches once per cycle and it is taken from the memory counter 650 output information to be ~ 2 ~; Z ~
applied to a pulse former 62 which delivers a ynal at one pulse per second. Similarly, this signal activates a memory counter 660, which counts to 60 and which provides 11 seconds indication on a line including a plurality of conductors. Again the information from conductor with the highest weighting is taken of this information to be applied ~ e ~ an im trainer pulses 63 which delivers one pulse per minute, which is applied as a clock pulse to a memory counter re 670 which counts the minutes. The latter delivers information minutes on a multi-conductor line, and the highest weight signal is taken to be applied to a pulse-forming stage 64 which delivers a ~
pulse per hour on a 68 memory counter delivering time information on a multi-conductor line.
All of the 650, 660, 670 and 680 constitutes the basic counter of the chrono function graph.
The four multiple outputs of these counters, namely the information of hundredths of a second chronograph, chronograph seconds information, chronograph minute information, and information hours of chronograph, its ~ delivered on lines omnibus which are applied respectively on the entrances for positioning in position E a whole series of memories 65l-for hundredths of a second, 66l-66n for seconds des, 67l-67n for the minutes and 68l-68 for the hours.
Thus, we have groups of four memories, each group being however considered as a memory of information mation of time, going from hundredths of a second to hours.
eg formed of memories (partial 65l, 66l, 671,6al, of the thesis no 2 for the group form ~ partial memories ~) following, e ~ c ... up to memory no n, for the group 19 ~ 2 ~ Z ~ ~
forms (partial) memories 65, 66, 67, 68.
Each memory (partial) represen ~ ee in fig. 2C
can advantageously have the struc ~ ure represented ~ the fig. 4. We see that it consists of a memory element 5 proper 135, whose entry is co ~ nandandé by a multiple door 13 ~, which lets information pass or not multiple located on entry E. Likewise the exit of the memory 135 is applied to an output circuit 136 which includes a multiple AND gate circuit 136a, and a group 10 pe of output stages 136b. Again the information coming out of the memory element 135 can be transmitted or stopped according to the control supplied to the multiple door 136a ~ In FIG. 4, we have represented only one of the output stages, and we see that it is formed by a transistor 137 working on a 15 resistance 138. Such a configuration of output stages makes it easy to parallel the floors output counterparts of all memories of the same weight deration, this direct galvanic connection of all outputs on a conductor automatically establishing a 20 function oU. Note that resistance 138 can be ex-very high, given the fact that there will be one large number in parallel. We can also plan not to have a resistor 138 that for example on the outputs of the last our last memories, of rank n, the others being simply 25 5 U ~ primeeS.
An input Ts controls the multiple exit door 136a, and there is only one memory, the first, the second or n-] ~ th, o ~ year: ~ th, whose output is busy. Indeed, as we will see, there is never 30 that one of the memories (complete ranging from hundredths of a hour) which receives a signal of level "1" on his entry Ts. The Ts entries of the different memories are supplied by the Ao - An lines, which correspond to different outputs of the counter-comparator 51 which are 35 will consider further. ~ n note that the counters-me-~ 6 ~ 0 ~
20 memories 650-680 include the same output circuit 136a, which allows you to order their output exactly as that of simple memories, also by a TS input.
Regarding these memory counters, it should be said 5 again that they include two outputs, one (MC0, MS0, MMO, MHO) to continuously provide the relevant information laying, for the subordinate memories and another output S, controlled by a circuit similar to circuit 136 of the fig. 4, and which delivers an in ~ ormation only when one wants to display the information even contained in the counters-memoixes, i.e. the basic function counter chronograph.
Opening or closing the multiple door 134, ~ the entry of each (partial) memory is controlled 15 dice by a flip-flop 132 which is put in working position upon receipt of a BL pulse (blocking), passing through a shaping stage 130, which is placed in position rest by a pulse on a Sy input (Synchronized tion) via the shaping stage 131.
20 This is the information from the output Q of the flip-flop 132 which controls multiple door 134, however passing through an OR gate 133. Indeed, the blocking pulse, by-coming from stage 130, puts the flip-flop 132 in the state of work and therefore establishes a zero level at exit Q.
25 However, during the very impulse, given the xion between input s of flip-flop 132 and second input from OR gate 133, the level applied to the multiple gate 134 is always level "1". So therefore, if the door was previously busy, the pulse Bl makes it 30 non-passing, but only from the moment of its appearance. If on the other hand, a BL pulse is applied while the flip-flop 132 is already in the working state, that is to say that door 134 is already non-passing, a level "1" appears ~ the entrance to this door 134 only-35 ment during the very short duration of the pulse delivered ~ ILX ~ 5 ~ L
21 by the stage ~ pulse generator 130, which ~ has that, for a short time, the information on the trée E can pass over the memory element 135. Thus, more successive sL pulses have the effect of position memory element 135 on a new locking position. Furthermore, resynchronization takes place by a signal applied ~ the Sy input, which by the stage pulse generator 131, acts on the input r of the flip-flop 132. The latter's output Q then goes to level "1"
and the gate 134 becomes permanently passable, which fact that memory element 135 follows exactly the evolution tion of the corresponding memory counter (65 -68).
Note that the memory counters are provided an az ~ ro delivery entry; memes memes don't are not; to reset them, they are simply resynchronized on the memory counter while this one is itself reset ~ zero. However, both the comp-memory ("basic counter" or "zero counter") that the different memories (memories no 1, memory no 2 ...
memory no n) include the entry Ts which allows deli-provides output information for display.
Returning to fig. 2A, we see that when the comp-teur is in operation (flip-flops 2 ~ and 29 in the state working) and that the pusher 10 is manipulated, a door 35 is turned on and delivers a SPLIT pulse. This-the pulse is applied to the clock input of a comp-tor 39 having n positions, plus one zero position. At the beginning, this counter was reset to zero position by an impulse on its entry r. This is a counter of the type either in line, either in a ring. In the zero position, none of the outputs Bl ~ Bn carries no signal. When a SPLIT pulse is applied, this counter advances by one row and its output Bl has a level "l" ~ As can be seen in fig. 2C, this level is applied ~ the BL input of the partial memories-those of m ~ molre no l. This memory is blocked aloxs ~; ~ 62l015g 22 on the position that the basic counter has just ~ this mo-lie there. Therefore memory no 1 is loaded with an in-time formation, that of the first SPLIT. When in-retains a second press of push button 10, the 5 counter 39 advances by one row and similarly memory no 2 which hangs on the state that the counter basis of the f ~ nction chronograph present ~ at that time.
The same process continues and, whenever the push-evening 10 is handled, a new memory takes care of 10 the information that the time counter just presents to that time. At the ~ ig. 2A, we see that the exit of the gate 35 is applied to an input of an AND gate 36, the other entry of which receives a signal from the button-pusher 12 (fig. 2s). This has the effect that when the 15 pusher 10 is manipulated while pusher 12 is press, the function of SPLIT becomes a function LAP-RESET, i.e. the impulse which then appears at the exit of door 36, via a OR gate 34, instantly resets the counters-20 memories 650 to 68, i.e. the basic counter of the memory, but even the counting of time is not stopped, it simply starts from scratch. We then have the LAP function, which was previously explained.
We have already seen what were, through 25 of gates AND 37 and 38, the effects of pressure on the pusher 11, that is to say first of all the stopping of the tor, then resetting it, through the te 38 and door 34.
~ fig. 2B, we have a counter-comparator 51 30, the detail of which is represented in FIG. 3 and will be considered further. This counter has n positions, plus one position zero. He steps forward each time he receives, on his clock input, an impulse that comes from a trainer of pulses 44. The latter is controlled by the pusher 35 12, in a way that we must now consider.
'126Z ~

The pusher 12 can have either its intrinsic function sèque, which ~ e advance the counter 51 by one step, an auxiliary function, which is to modify the effects pressing buttons 10 or 11. In this case, its intrinsic function inhibited e3t ~ For this, after ~ s not-wise in a pulse-forming stage 41, the pusher 12 puts a flip-flop 50 in the working position.
the latter is applied to an input of an AND gate 43 whose other input receives the output of an inverter 42, 10 itself also co ~ nandé by the push button 12. Thus, gate 43 does not pass through when output Q
flip-flop 50 goes to level "1". It is only when pressure will be released on pusher 12 as the level "1" will return to the output of inverter 42 and that, if the 15 flip-flop 50 is still in working condition, door 43 will output a signal to the pulse trainer 44, supplying the clock input of counter 51. If, however, in the meantime, an impulse has been applied to the input of reset flip-flop 50 r, gate 43 will only become 20 in no way busy and no signal will be delivered by circuit 44. This reset input r of the flip-flop 50 is connected to the output of an OR gate 45, four starters. Two of these inputs are the signals respectively A and B from the pulse forming stages 26 and 25 27, themselves controlled by pushbuttons 10 and 11.
If therefore, in the meantime, one of these two push buttons has been handled, the intrinsic function of the push button 12 does not happen. On the other hand, if switch 12 is released without one of the switches 10 or 11 in the meantime 30 has been activated, the signal emitted by circuit 44, also applied ~ OR gate 45, resets flip-flop 50 to zero, whereupon this signal stops automatically, its duration is therefore weak, but in no way too weak.
we also notice that the output Q ~ u flip-flcp 50 ac-35 uses a uni-vibrator which establishes between its entry and ~ 26 ~ 15 ~

exit, a delay of approximately 3 sec for the passage ~ the state "l ', the transmission of the passage ~ the state "O" being instant. In this case, if switch 12 is pressed for more than 3 sec, a signal appears at the output 5 of this uni-vibrator 52, and a flip-flop 53 is set working position. ~ at exit Q goes to level "O", and blocks a door ~ T 47, which controls a selector 57 of analog display. In one position, this selector causes display in field 13 of the chrono-watch 10 graph, represented at 59 in FIG. 2B, of the rank of memory-re whose content is displayed, in the other position of this selector, this display indicates the date. So a pressing switch C for more than 3 seconds causes, during all the time o ~ it remains pressed beyond these 3 sec, temporary switching of selector 57, which shows the date indication instead of the information indication of the rank of the memory whose content is affected che, this can ~ be useful to timekeepers. Same time, the output Q of the flip-flop 53 is applied to a entry of OR gate 45, so that it returns 20 the flip-flop 50 in the quiescent state before the switch 1 ~ is released, which results in the intrinsic function sèque of the latter (one step ahead of the counter-compa-rator 51) is inhibited.
This counter 51 is shown in more detail in the 25 fig 3. We can see in particular that it includes a converter "on / BCD" 120 which delivers information to the selector 57 mentioned above, which activates the digital display 59 by via a "BCD / 7 SEGM" converter 58. In passing, we notice that the other input of selector 57 30 receives a BCD signal from a cycle counter of '~ 55, itself receiving a signal from a divider by two 54 which receives, by a switch H, a pulse at each turn of the hour hand of current time (in 37 fig. 2A).
~ L26 ~
We also note that the s ~ ilec ~ eur 57 is permanently controlled by a flip-flop 56 which is put in the working position whenever the switch lO works (ST ~ RT or SPLIT) or each time 5 that the switch 12 functions so as to perform its intrinsic function (output from circuit 44). By the way ~, the flip-flop 56 is returned to the rest state either by RESET function, resetting all circuits of the chronograph, either by the STOP function, provided 10 that at this time the counter-comparator 51 be in posi-tion zero, i.e. controls the display of the counter basic time of the chronograph function and not the display of one of the memories. This discount function at zero of flip-flop 56 is achieved through 15 of an AND gate 40 and an OR gate 4Oa.
In fig. 2B, we see that the counter-comparator 51 also receives pulses from SPLIT, as does receives reset pulses (RESET) or the RESYNCHRONIZATION pulses from memory, 20 of gate AND 46. In addition, this counter receives the information mation of the state of counter 39, previously considered and used to direct the SPLITS to the various moires.
The n + 1 outputs of the counter-comparator 51 are applied to n + 1 groups of TS inputs of counters-basic memories (zero memories) and different memories res 1, 2, ... nl, n It is therefore this counter 51 which end of which counter - memory or memory i. the display-ge will display the content.
It is time to examine, ~ fig. 3, the consti-tution of this counter-comparator 51.
We see that it includes an input register 111 which simply stores the information received from the counter 39. It also includes an exit register 112, which provides the outputs Ao ... An of the counter 51. The input c ~
~ ~ 2 Z ~ 51 of clock pulses each step this counter 112, while the reset input (RZ), as well as the resynchronization input (RM) pro-evoke through a door OR 113, the delivery to 5 zero of this counter 112. The latter includes a position zero plus n positions, from 1 to n. The entry register 111 also includes n positions p ~ read a zero position, what-that its zero position is only rarely used.
Apart from the converter circuit 120, already mentioned-10 born, the counter-comparator 51 of FIG. 3 includes dif-different doors with different functions. First of all, an AND gate 119 receives the SPLIT pulses, similarly that it receives, delayed by a timer stage 118, the output signal from the zero support of counter 112.
So therefore, when the latter is in its zero position, if a SPLIT appears, a signal of level "l" appears at the exit of gate 119. This one, through a series of doors 1140 to 114n has the effect of causing setting the counter register 112 to the position where 20 ve the entry counter 111. As the latter always includes the information of the rank of the memory having received the last information, if the counter 112 is on zero, a SPLIT pulse does this automatically not-be on the position which corresponds ~ the memory where just-25 this SPLIT has just entered a timed time. So from zero, the passage from counter 51 to position 1 is done automatically without requiring any pulses on the clock input c ~. The same is true, after having read for example four or five memories, already 30 recorded, the counter 51 returns to its zero position and if, for example, a sixth SPLIT occurs at this time-the ~ This sixth SPLIT, which will be included in the sixth memo-re, will not make ~ er the counter 112 on its position 6, which will automatically display information 35 contained in memory no 6, at the same time as the display ~ LZ62 ~ 5 ~

digital (13, 59) will ~ show the number "re".
The counter 51 makes it possible to repeat a cycle in order to ~ check recorded timed time values.
Its cycle is ~ en ~ 1. Tout ~ ois, Si sPulement un pe ~ it 5 number of splits are registered, its key is shortcut so that to review, for example, six or seven timed times, you shouldn't go each time by twenty-five positions including nearly twenty would be empty. This is why we have doors 10 ET 115 115 3, ... 115n 3 nl ~ 11Sn-2, n-of all these doors are connected by an OR gate 116, which, via a timer 117, acts on the zero reset OR gate 113. ~ so so if we have already memorized a certain number of timed times 15 very, we want to pass a memory further, we can, we will simply have the walking of the needles according to the position of the next memory, still synchronized with the basic counter of the chronograph function. We can stay in this position, to wait for the next 20 SPLIT which will position the needles in correspondence with its ~ mps, we can also try to pass another row further in the memory row counter 51 ~ slues, but then we will have one of the doors 115 ~ which will not become-health, and the level signal "1" at the exit of the door 25 116, extends, to avoid trouble, some very brief instants by timer 117, will cause delivery at zero of the counter register 112. This is how the cycle of the counter 51 is automatically adapted to the number of splits already saved, but leaving a reserve 30 upwards, and providing for a return to the position zero where this is always the basic counter information of the stopwatch function that is displayed.
Now it is time to talk about the function re-synchronization of memories. This function 35 would be somehow dangerous if it came inter-28fer with other functions, for example the function memorization of n arxivates and if it resulted from a simple manipulation of the switch 12. In fact, this ~ te ~ anointing ef ~ ace the contents of memories. However, it is r ~ llsée here in a way that eliminates this danger.
~ the condition that the switch 12 is previously pressed and switch 11 is pressed next, the door 46 can ~ even pass by, provided that the output of a comparator 48 which will be studied later provide a level "1". In addition, in a variant called QV, an entrance to gate 46 still receives the signal Q, coming from the output Q of the flip-flop 28, which means that the function of 'resync ~ ronisation memoi-res "can only take place if the counter is working.
In the other variant, if the QV connection, drawn in is not made, the corresponding entry of the gate 46 is considered to be ~ state "1", and the "memory resynchronization is also possible when the counter is at rest. This ~ resynchronization memory res "resynchronizes all memories 1 to n on the comp-basic chronograph function (zero counter) but on the other hand, against the "reset zero "(or RESET), this resynchronization function of memories ~ does not reset the base counter to zero.
As can be seen by following the figures, the output from gate 46, then passing through OR gate 35, reset, by RS link all memories in ~ as many syn-chronization, by applying a pulse on their entry Sy.
Comparator 48 compares the state of counter 51 memory display control and counter status 39 for controlling the entry of SPLITS in the memories (or addressing despLITs in the memories). If the state of counter 51 is at least as high as the state of counter 39, this means that all the information memorized have been read at least once and you can -lZ6Z ~

therefore allow resynchronization of memories ~ If 1l ~ -state of counter 51 is lower than state of counter 39 (if for example we stored six SPLITS while only four memories have been read), comparator 48 does not delivers no signal of level "1" ~ its output, which prevents the operation of door 46 and prohibits therefore the ~ anointing of "resynchronization memories". This warns of the risk that timed times may be registered and be lost before being read.
It remains to be seen, considering fig. 2D, how the different motors driving the hundredths hands seconds, seconds, minutes and hours of the chronograph function are controlled. At the top of fig.
2D, we see that the respective information entries of hundredths of a second (TC), seconds (TS), minutes (TM), and hours (TH). The three information of the second-, minutes and hours are directly applied respectively to each of three comparators, 82, 83, 84.
On the other hand, the information of hundredths of a second is from a-edge applied to an inhibitor circuit 106, at the same time that it is applied, by a differentiator 108, to a delay circuit, of the uni-vibrator type, which, for the return to rest state, is at least delayed 0.04 sec from the output relative to the input. That means trust that as long as the information of hundredths of a secondTC is "in motion", that is to say will change at its own pace of one pulse per hundredth of a second, the output of the delay circuit 105 will be permanently at level "1", and this level, applied to inhibitor circuit 106, will that the information of the hundredths of a second will not be transmitted to the corresponding comparator 81. From then on tre, that the information of hundredths of a second will be at rest (reading from a blocked memory or from the counter circuit stopped), circuit 105 will return to the idle state after 0.04 sec, and the inhibitor circuit lO ~ will cease to act, Q5 ~
so that the information of the hundredths of a second is will be applied to comparator 81, So therefore, in during counting, comparator 81 does not receive signal, while it receives the signal from the hundredths of second when the latter is permanent, P.
in the desired position of each needle, the comparisons teurs 82, 83, 84 compare the setpoint information that i ~ srec, oendent (TS, TM, TH) with information of if-real tuation they receive from a respective counter-ment 93, 94, 95. This counter receives a pulse of reset when the corresponding needle passes through zero, by mechanical means, by means of contacts R2, R3, R4. They then receive as many pulses as the engine, which means that their condition will be representative the position of the corresponding needle. If an im drive failed to reach its goal and didn't spin the rotor of the motor, this fault would be quickly eliminated, at next turn, by the zero crossing contact. The com-parators thus compare the actual position of the needle the with the position that the needle should take, since there is no identity, they give a signal of level "1" on their exit Q, which makes pass a door respectively 85, 86, 87, also receiving on a other input a clocked signal from a cable divider timing 33 powered by the frequency divider 22. The frequency of the timing divider will be adapted to motor possibilities, also taking into account the inertia tie needles; a frequency of the order of 30 to 50 Hz should agree. In normal operation, the information of setpoint advance only one unit at a time, i.e.
say that only one impulse is sent through the door correspondent, 85, 86, 87, then what the comparison Teur already notes the reestablishment of the coincidence.
On the other hand, when it comes to gaining a distant position doors, 85, 86, 87 send a series of pulses 31sions, We see ~ alement in the figure that the circuits shaping 97, 98 and 99 me ~ tent the signals in the desired shape for actuating motors, respectively 102, for seconds, 103 for minutes and 104 for hours, This is practically analogous to the motor actuating the hundredths of a second hand, by 1'intermediate of a motor 101 controlled by a trainer pulse position 96, The position of the second hand is also recognized by a circuit 92 operating, in cooperation with a zero crossing contact Rl, exact-like the previously mentioned circuits 93, 95,97.
The only difference in the case of the hundredth counter second is that, in normal operation, the comparator 81 Receive a signal "0000", If he acted like the others comparators, so he would put the needle back each time hundredths of a second at the zero position. This mania-re to do could have its charm and can be expected as an interesting variant, especially if we assume that the hundredths of a second hand is somewhat bulky, depending on where it is ~ blocked.
For this variant, the dotted connection ZV must be deleted. However, depending on the planned execution, applies, by an inverter 107, the inverse of the output signal tie of timer 105 to a third input of gate 88 which receives the signal from output Q of comparator 81 of centi ~ my second (conne ~ dotted ion Z ~ in circuit).
In this case, even when this comparator in itself at ~
toriser the impulses to cross the door ET 88 ~
the level signal "O" leaving the inverter 107 in-prevents sending these pulses, so that the needle hundredths of a second always remains stationary when hundredths of a second die at a rate of 100 Hz.
The motor does not move and the comparator always finds non-coincidence between the signal delivered by the circuit 92 and the signal "0000" delivered by the inhibition circuit ~ Z6 ~ [) 5 ~
~ 2 10 ~, but, door 88 remaining blogged ~, this non-colnci-dence remains without effect. It is only when the time-gatekeeper 105 ceases to act, that the inhibitor circuit 106 transmits the desired information and the inverter 107 stops blocking the door 88. At this time, the setting in the position of the hundredths of a second needle product exactly like that of other needles.
Note that if the TC information of the hundredths of second is given by two cascaded BCD circuits, it it will suffice to take, for the timer circuit 105, the signal of the lowest weighted stage of the first BCD group, which will switch twice per cent tenth of a second. However, when the information is stopped, this signal is at the high level 1 ~ (if the number of hundredths of a second is odd). This is the reason why we planned the circuit again differentiator 108 on the input of the ternporiser 105, this circuit 108 transmitting only the jump pulses po-sitifs, so that as soon as the signal these ~ to perform jumps, level "O" reappears at the entrance of the circuit 105 and thus even the odd hundredths of a second does not ris ~ uent not to keep the circuit 105 blocked.
Regarding the SPLITS addressing counter 39 - (or LAPS) in the memories, we notice that two exe-cutions are possible. This counter 39 can be a "online" counter which, starting from zero, goes step by step to its last position "n", then stops again new pulses on its input c ~ then remaining without effect. In another embodiment, this counter for-would be of the "ring" type, in the sense that a new impulse appearing on the input c ~ while the comp-is already in its last position "n" causes the return of the counter ~ to position "1" (but in no case on position "O").
lX ~

With the aforementioned first form of execution of counter 39, you can store a number of SPLITS
equal to the capacity "n" of the meter, then what SPLITS (or LAPS) are no longer registered, unless that in the meantime a "resyn-chronization of memories, erase the contents of all memories and bringing back the counter ~ "O". In the second form of execution of this counter, saves it ment of a number of SPLITS (or LAPS) greater than ~
the capacity of the counter (corresponding to the number of memories res) is possible; admitting for example that we have twenty-five memories and the 25th memory is already loaded, the next SPLIT (or LAP) will return to the memory no 1, the old content of which will be erased. So therefore, the chronometer times n + 1, nf 2, n + 3, etc, will automatically take the place of old content timed 1, 2, 3, etc, without the need to carry out in the meantime a manipulation of "resynchroni-station ".
Both variants have their advantages and their disadvantages, the choice between them will be a question opportunity.
An arrangement which is not shown in the drawing but which, being classic, can very well be imagined, could also equip the chronograph or the watch-chronograph according to the invention. It is an arrangement of "end of life approach detection". A
such an arrangement includes a circuit which measures with accuracy titudes the remaining voltage of the battery powering the chronograph or watch chronograph, this tension experiencing a slight decline as it nears the end of life. To signal this end-of-life approach, means that it is not necessary to describe in a way more detailed, because they are known to people in the profession ~
will bring the digital display in field 13 (display -..
bone ~

of the date or row of memory read) to flash instead to be supplied on a permanent basis.
Although shown in fig. 1 as bracelet-format chronograph watch, the chronograph or the ~ ontre ~ chronograph according to the proposed design can also advantageously be produced in the format a pocket watch. In this case, the dial is more large and different small interior dials, on which work the second time hand current 4, the timed time minute hand 7 and the hour hand of timed time, would have advantage to be further from the center than they are only in the wristwatch format piece re-shown in fig. 1. To this end, provision has been made for 1 ~ the entrainment of the needles in question, we will use a modular arrangement, comprising the stepping motor, the required reduction gears and the axis of the needle, constructively forming a sub-separate set. This modular arrangement will allow without great difficulty in arranging the small dials above mentioned at a greater or lesser distance from the center depending on whether it will be a wristwatch-sized piece or a pocket watch size piece.
This is how the chronograph watch works, outer shape is shown in fig. 1. The concept However, it is not limited to what has been describes, and in particular, other embodiments would be thinkable, especially with other means to display hundredths of a second. We could very well have the series of seconds, minutes, and hours of the chronograph function operated ~ esde the way described or in a similar way, and have the hundredths seconds appearing for example in digital form.
It should also be said that many functions which have been described could possibly ~ be deleted ~ L2 E; 2 ~
35mees, we could for example do without the needle of hours of the chronograph function. We could also dispense with the date display or the possibility obtain the temporary date display based on-chronograph.
It should also be noted that the watch could very well be made in the format of a watch of pocket or another format.
Finally, concerning electronics and in particular the counters, registers, and memories, it is quite clear that many methods are available to achieve serve similar functions, and that it is above all the combination of functions that allows operation convenient, efficient and flexible exterior of the chrono ~ raphe which particularizes the proposed design. A form of execution with no indication of the current time, i.e. a simple chronograph or time counter would also correspond to the design proposed by the invention.

Claims (19)

THE ACHIEVEMENTS OF THE INVENTION, ABOUT WHICH A RIGHT
EXCLUSIVE OF OWNERSHIP OR PRIVILEGE IS CLAIMED, ARE
DEFINED AS FOLLOWS: 1. Electronic chronograph watch which includes electronic time counters (21, 22, 61-64,65-68), drive means with stepping motors (102, 101), analog indicator means, with needles including hands respectively indicating the minutes, the seconds and hundredths of a second, time periods timed, control means with a plurality manual organs (10,11), these control means allowing to time periods of time and stop hands on positions to read these times, characterized in that storage means (65-68) are associated with the counting means, the drive means and to the control means such that maneuvers successive of one of the said manual organs, performed after a counting start operation memorizes the different times corresponding to these maneuvers and that a subsequent operation of said control means leads to at least part of said needles in successive positions which correspond to the contents of the memories. 2. Chronograph according to claim 1 characterized in what it includes means of displaying time units timed duration less than one second by a hand (5) hundredths of a second of timed times, including, in addition to the said stepper motor (102) to move the needle seconds of timed time, another step motor step (101) to move the needle-hundredths of seconds of timed time, the so-called manual organs (10,11) being arranged to control the start of the chronograph function, from which the seconds of timed time is driven by the motor step by step which devolves to it, and to order timed timings, so that from their actuation as a time-taking device, the stopwatch seconds hand either stopped and the hand of hundredths of a second of time timed is driven by the stepper motor which is devolved to reach a position indicative of counting state at the time of plug actuation of time, characterized in that said memories (651-681, 652-682, ... 65n-68n) are able to memorize each succeed a timed time corresponding respectively to each of the states of counting of timed times, at times actuation of the time-taking organ, an organ manual (12) for controlling the timing memorized allowing successively to provoke the positioning of the needles (6, 5,7) of indications of timed times on positions indicating each timed timers thus memorized. 3. Chronograph according to claim 1, characterized in that it includes a counter memory comparator (51) which activates a display digital (59) indicating what is the rank of the memory which is read and therefore that of timed time correspondent which is displayed. 4. Chronograph according to claim 2, characterized in that it comprises a third motor step by step (103) to move the minute hand (7) timed times. 5. Chronograph according to claim 4, characterized in that it comprises a needle (8) of hours of timed times. 6. Chronograph according to claim 5, characterized in that it comprises a fourth motor step by step (104) to move the hour hand (8) timed times. 7. Chronograph according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that it constitutes a chronograph watch and also includes hands (2, 3, 9) indicators of current time, driven by a stepper motor (36) particular to this function. 8. Chronograph according to claim 3, characterized in that the digital display (13, 59) of the rank of read memory provides a function date indicator when the chronograph function is not used. 9. Chronograph according to claim 2, characterized in that said manual member (12) of timed time call control activates a memory row counter (51) indicating what is the rank of the memory which is read and therefore that of time timed corresponding which is displayed, this manual call control member (12) also being arranged to modify the function of the manual organ (10) start and time control, way that the function of this controller starting and taking time (10) is a function SPLIT if at that time the manual organ (12) of call command is not pressed and a LAP function RESET if at this time the control member (12) is pressed, the intrinsic function of the call control member (12) also being inhibited if the LAP RESET function was performed by the start and time control device (10) while this call control switch (12) was activated. 10. Chronograph according to claim 9, in which one of the said manual organs, commanding the timed timings (11), performs a function STOP which stops counting when it was in function, then, if it is handled a second time, ef-performs a RESET function, resetting the counter to zero if he was already arrested, characterized in that the said manual call control member (12) also conditions the operation of the manual gripping device time (11), in the sense that if the control member call (12) is not in a hurry, the said manual time taking (11) performs its aforementioned functions, while, if the said manual call control member (12) is pressed while said manual gripping member time (11) is manipulated, the function of the latter becomes a memory resynchronization function, that is to say catch-up for all memories, including the whole then resynchronizes with the counter of basic time the intrinsic function of the switch call control (12), which normally acts on the memory row counter (51), being then inhibited. 11. Chronograph according to claim 9, characterized in that it comprises a counter (39) of addressing count of successive splits in memories, said memory rank counter (51) comprising a register (112) advancing step by step under the action of the switching control member (12) and determining each time what is the memory which is read, at the same time as it provides, by information converter (120) display of the rank of the memory whose content is displayed. 12. Chronograph according to claim 11, characterized in that the said row counter of memories (51) is connected to said counter (39) addressing splits in the memories, so that the cycle of the memory command counter either reduced to a maximum value of two units greater than the number of memories already loaded, stored in the splits addressing counter (39). 13 Chronograph according to claim 11 or the claim 12, characterized in that said counter memory rank (51) includes a zero position in which it causes the display of the counter of basis and from which the arrival of an impulse SPLIT automatically passes its said register (112) and therefore its output information (B1- Bn) on the memory in which this SPLIT impulse comes from memorize a time, so that this time is found automatically displayed without special handling of the appeal control unit (12) for calling the good memory. 14. Chronograph according to claim 10, characterized in that it includes door means (46) which do not authorize the so-called resynchronization of all memories only if the state of the counter (51) of rank of read memories is equal or higher than the state of the splits counter (39) saved, i.e. from loaded memories, a comparator (48) being therefore arranged between the two aforementioned counters (51, 39) and acting on said means with doors (46). Chronograph according to claims 8, 9 and 10, characterized in that the display is of the date is of the memory rank read in the field display (13, 59), is selected by a selector (57) controlled by a rocker (56), this latter step health in the state where it causes the date to be displayed when a pressure on the manual time-taking device (11) involves a STOP function, or a function RESET, this on condition however that simultaneously the row counter of read memories (51) is in zero position, this rocker (56) being placed in the position where it causes the storage rank to be displayed.
res during a START function by means of the first organ control manual (10) or also during handling lation of the call unit (12) acting on the meter of memory rank (51). 16. Chronograph according to claim 15, characterized in that, using timed means (52) and a rocker (53), the temporary display of the date can also be applied in the case of a pressure on the manual call control member (12) during a period longer than at least 3 seconds, the date then appearing from this delay as long as this manual switch member remains pressed, then enough to display the memory rank reappears, without this manipulation of the organ call control manual (12) has advanced the memory counter (51). 17. Chronograph according to claim 1, constituting a chronograph watch, characterized in that it has the format of a wristwatch. 18. Chronograph according to claim 17, characterized in that the two needles respectively timed seconds of time (6) and hundredths seconds of timed times (5) are hands central relative to a large circular dial, these needles both providing their indications on respective graduations located near the periphery of this large circular dial. 19. Chronograph according to claim 1, characterized in that the elements which form driving needles, mainly hands that move in a small dial interior, are made in a modular form which includes, as a modular subset, the stepper motor, reduction gears necessary, and the axis intended to carry the needle.