Abstract A vibrator suitable for use in a timepiece is provided which includes a crystal having a torsional vibrational mode, a pair of discrete electrode tracks deposited thereon, a continuous runner defining the discrete electrode tracks and a sole conductive support member for supporting the crystal and conductively mounting the crystal, as desired. The conductive support is connected to the crystal and the material of which the conductive support is fabricated is substantially identical with the material of the crystal. The crystal and support are preferably integrally connected and most preferably, they are integrally connected along a transverse, rigid channel which extends into a thickened, elongated body member. According to a second aspect of the invention, the crystal may be mounted on an oscillator terminal tag with opposed contacts fixedly connected thereto, each contact being connected to one of the respective discrete electrode tracks deposited on the crystal. The fixed connection between the contacts and conductive support may be a solder bond which secures the vibrator to the case. This mounting provides high Q value and shock-resistance.
A mounted vibrator for use in a timepiece comprising a crystal having a torsional vibrational mode, a pair of discrete electrode tracks deposited thereon, a continuous runner defining said discrete electrode tracks, a sole conductive support member for supporting said crystal and for conductively mounting said crystal, said conductive support being connected to said crystal and said crystal and said conductive support being of substantially identical material, a terminal tag, said conductive support being mounted thereon, and a pair of contact pins mounted in said terminal tag, said conductive support being mounted on said terminal tag between said contact pins, said contact pins being fixedly connected to said conductive support.
Claim 2
Dependent Claim
110 words
A mounted vibrator for use in a timepiece comprising a crystal having a torsional vibrational mode, a pair of discrete electrode tracks deposited thereon, a continuous runner defining said discrete electrode tracks, a sole conductive support member for supporting said crystal and for conductively mounting said crystal, said conductive support being connected to said crystal and said crystal and said conductive support being of substantially identical material, a terminal tag, said conductive support being mounted thereon, and a pair of contact pins mounted in said terminal tag, said conductive support being mounted on said terminal tag between said contact pins, said contact pins being fixedly connected to said conductive support.
Claim 3
Dependent Claim
19 words
The mounted vibrator as claimed in claim 1 wherein said mounted crystal is substantially parallel to said terminal tag.
Claim 4
Dependent Claim
19 words
The mounted vibrator as claimed in claim 1 wherein said conductive support is substantially perpendicular to said terminal tag.