Component and method of manufacturing the same

Abstract

The present invention relates to a member and a manufacturing method thereof, and applies a pattern close to a wire pattern to a small member such as an inner link and an outer link of a watch band. With respect to a member such as a watch band having a decorative region on a surface, laser is sequentially irradiated in a manner that a decorative pattern composed of a plurality of lines is drawn in multiple overlaps with respect to the decorative region.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a component and its manufacturing method. Background Technology

[0002] It is known that various methods are used to decorate decorative components such as inner and outer links of a watch strap. For example, Patent Document 1 describes the application of decorations such as transfer printing, grinding, and engraving using special tools such as embossing tools and lasers to decorative components made of metal, plastic, and ceramic materials.

[0003] Additionally, a brushed finish is known as a pattern where numerous hair-like stripes flow in a single direction. Generally, a brushed finish is applied to decorative components by physically creating fine grooves using tools such as brushes. Decorative components with a brushed finish can emphasize the texture of the metal and create a sophisticated aesthetic. However, when brushing small decorative components such as the inner and outer links of a watch strap, numerous steps are involved, including masking the non-brushed areas, cleaning after brushing, and removing the masking parts. Therefore, manufacturing costs are not easily reduced.

[0004] Patent Document 2 describes a technique for applying a brushed texture to automotive interior components using a laser. In the technique described in Patent Document 2, multiple arc-shaped curves with extremely large radii of curvature and varying curvatures are formed through laser processing, thereby enabling the application of a fine texture that closely resembles the feel of a real brushed finish.

[0005] Existing technical documents

[0006] Patent documents

[0007] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 58-221688

[0008] Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2016-117270 Summary of the Invention

[0009] The technical problem that the invention aims to solve

[0010] In the technology described in Patent Document 2, a fine texture that closely resembles the feel of a real brushed finish can be applied to larger components such as interior car parts. However, for smaller components such as the inner and outer links of a watch strap, the brushed texture formed by the technology described in Patent Document 2 cannot be made finer, making it impossible to achieve the desired appearance design.

[0011] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide a method for manufacturing components that can apply a pattern similar to the feel of a brushed finish to small components such as the inner and outer links of a watch strap.

[0012] Technical means to solve technical problems

[0013] The present invention relates to a method for manufacturing a component having a decorative area on its surface, wherein a decoration formed by laser is applied to the decorative area, and in the method of manufacturing the component, the decorative area is sequentially irradiated with a laser in such a way that a decorative pattern composed of multiple lines is drawn in multiple overlapping manner.

[0014] Multiple decorative patterns can also be all the same pattern, with the laser irradiated in a manner in which the lines extend in different directions between at least two decorative patterns.

[0015] In addition, at least two of the decorative patterns can be depicted in different patterns.

[0016] The last decorative pattern to be depicted among multiple decorative patterns is preferably composed of multiple parallel lines extending from one end of the decorative pattern to the other.

[0017] The angle difference between the extension directions of the lines between decorative patterns should preferably be within ±1°.

[0018] In this case, the angle difference in the direction of line extension is preferably within ±0.1°.

[0019] The spacing between the lines in the final decorative pattern is preferably shorter than the spacing between the lines in other decorative patterns.

[0020] In addition, the number of multiple decorative patterns is preferably more than 6 and less than 20.

[0021] Furthermore, the decorative pattern can also be smaller in area compared to the decorative area. The same decorative pattern can be depicted in a way that multiple side by side in a plane orthogonal to the direction of overlap and covering the decorative area. The adjacent decorative patterns in the plane are offset in a way that the lines constituting the decorative pattern are continuous, and lasers are irradiated sequentially.

[0022] Alternatively, the decorative pattern can be smaller in area than the decorative area. The same decorative pattern can be depicted in a plane orthogonal to the direction of overlap, with multiple patterns side by side covering the decorative area. The boundary lines of adjacent decorative patterns in the plane are offset in different positions in the direction of overlap, while lasers are irradiated sequentially.

[0023] The preferred decorative element is a brushed pattern.

[0024] In addition, the present invention relates to a component that is decorated with multiple lines by laser irradiation, wherein the depth of each of the multiple lines is an integer multiple of a predetermined unit depth.

[0025] In this case, the lines formed on the outermost surface of the decoration are preferably continuous and parallel straight lines.

[0026] Invention Effects

[0027] According to the present invention, it is possible to apply a pattern similar to the feel of a brushed finish to small components such as the inner and outer links of a watch strap. Attached Figure Description

[0028] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a belt having a middle link and an outer link according to an embodiment.

[0029] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A magnified 3D view of a portion of the watch strap shown.

[0030] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 The top view of the first link surface shown.

[0031] Figure 4 (a) is Figure 2 (a) is a partial enlarged view of the first link surface shown, and (b) is a view showing a cross section along line A-B shown in (a).

[0032] Figure 5 It is shown in Figure 2 The diagram shows a laser processing apparatus in which decorative patterns are depicted on the first middle link surface, the second outer link surface, and the third outer link surface.

[0033] Figure 6 It will be with Figure 5 The image shown is an enlarged version of a portion of the decorative pattern corresponding to the decorative pattern data stored in the storage unit.

[0034] Figure 7 It will be with Figure 5 The image shown is an enlarged version of a portion of the decorative pattern corresponding to the decorative pattern data stored in the storage unit.

[0035] Figure 8 It is by Figure 5 The flowchart shown illustrates the decorative pattern drawing process performed by the laser processing apparatus.

[0036] Figure 9 (a) is shown by... Figure 5(a) is a diagram showing a band with a decorative pattern formed at the middle link by a decorative pattern drawing process performed by a laser processing apparatus, and (b) is a diagram showing a band with a brushed pattern formed at the middle link by a brush drawing process.

[0037] Figure 10 This is a diagram used to illustrate the decorative pattern depiction process of the first variation.

[0038] Figure 11 This is a diagram showing a laser processing apparatus for performing the decorative pattern drawing process of the first variation.

[0039] Figure 12 It is by Figure 11 The flowchart shown illustrates the decorative pattern drawing process performed by the laser processing apparatus.

[0040] Figure 13 This is a diagram used to illustrate the decorative pattern depiction process in the second variation. Detailed Implementation

[0041] Hereinafter, a method for manufacturing the component according to the embodiments will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, it should be understood that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described in the drawings or below. In the method for manufacturing the component according to this embodiment, multiple decorative patterns formed by straight lines extending in a predetermined extending direction are superimposed on a decorative area by laser drawing, thereby enabling the application of a pattern with a feel similar to a brushed finish to the inner and outer links of a watch strap.

[0042] Furthermore, this embodiment shows an example of a strap applied to a clock, but it is not limited to this. For example, it can be the case, back cover, dial, rotating component, etc. of the clock, or it can be a decorative component other than a clock.

[0043] (The structure and function of the belt having middle and outer links according to the embodiment)

[0044] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a belt having a middle link and an outer link according to an embodiment.

[0045] The strap 1 has a middle link 2, an outer link 3, a shaft component 4, a buckle 5, and a pair of end pieces 6a and 6b. The middle link 2 and the outer link 3 are metal components such as titanium and stainless steel, and are arranged adjacent to each other such that the middle link 2 is located inside the width direction of the strap 1 and the outer link 3 is located outside the width direction of the strap 1. Alternatively, the middle link 2 and the outer link 3 may also be formed of synthetic resin materials such as polyurethane.

[0046] The shaft component 4, also known as a pin, is inserted into the through holes formed in the middle link 2 and the outer link 3, respectively, connecting adjacent middle links 2 and outer links 3. The buckle 5, also known as a clasp, is a metal component that connects the 12 o'clock side strap to the 6 o'clock side strap. A pair of end pieces 6a and 6b are metal connecting components that connect to the case of the watch body.

[0047] Figure 2 This is a magnified 3D view of a portion of tape 1.

[0048] The middle link 2 has a first middle link surface 2a, a second middle link surface 2b, and a third middle link surface 2c. The first middle link surface 2a is a plane extending approximately parallel to the extension direction of the belt 1 on its surface side, where the extension direction of the belt 1 refers to its length direction. The first middle link surface 2a is a decorative area with overlapping decorative patterns formed by straight lines drawn by laser. The second middle link surface 2b is a mirror-finished surface that extends obliquely relative to the extension direction of the first middle link surface 2a, starting from one edge of the first middle link surface 2a orthogonal to the extension direction of the belt 1. The third middle link surface 2c is a mirror-finished surface that extends obliquely relative to the extension direction of the first middle link surface 2a, starting from another edge of the first middle link surface 2a orthogonal to the extension direction of the belt 1.

[0049] Figure 3 This is a top view of the first link surface 2a. Figure 4 (a) is a magnified view of the first chain segment surface 2a. Figure 4 (b) shows along Figure 4 A cross-section of line A-B shown in (a).

[0050] like Figure 3 As illustrated, the first intermediate link surface 2a is decorated with multiple decorative patterns formed by parallel lines. In one example, the first intermediate link surface 2a is decorated with 10 decorative patterns, from the first decorative pattern 221 to the tenth decorative pattern 230. For example, the lines constituting the first decorative pattern 221 to the tenth decorative pattern 230 extend approximately parallel to each other in the first decorative pattern 221 to the tenth decorative pattern 230. The angle difference between the extension directions of the lines constituting the first decorative pattern 221 to the tenth decorative pattern 230 is preferably all within the range of ±1°, and more preferably within the range of ±0.1°. Regarding this angle difference, even if the decorative patterns are overlapped at 0° so that the lines are parallel, a pattern with a feel similar to a brushed texture can be achieved. However, for the multiple decorative patterns as a whole, by staggering the lines within the above range, a brushed texture feel can be obtained more effectively.

[0051] Furthermore, multiple decorative patterns can all be the same pattern. In this case, they are depicted with lines extending in different directions between at least two decorative patterns. Preferably, the decorative patterns are staggered while the decorative area is filled with lines. This allows for the representation of a pattern with a feel similar to brushed metal textures.

[0052] like Figure 4 As illustrated in (a), in the first intermediate link surface 2a, first straight lines 301 to 4 straight lines 304 extend approximately parallel to each other. The first straight lines 301 to 4 straight lines 304 are formed by simultaneously irradiating the first intermediate link surface 2a with a laser having a circular irradiation surface, which is gradually deflected in one direction. Thus, the first straight lines 301 to 4 straight lines 304 each have a shape with continuously arranged recesses that have a scale-like shape when viewed from above.

[0053] Lines 301 through 304 are formed by overlapping lines that create multiple decorative patterns. Line 301 is formed by overlapping lines that create four decorative patterns, line 302 is formed by overlapping lines that create three decorative patterns, line 303 is formed by overlapping lines that create six decorative patterns, and line 304 is formed by overlapping lines that create eight decorative patterns.

[0054] like Figure 4 As illustrated in (b), the depth of the first line 301 is 4 times the grinding amount d achieved with each laser irradiation, i.e., 4d(3d+d). The depth of the second line 302 is 3 times the grinding amount d achieved with each laser irradiation, i.e., 3d. The depth of the third line 303 is 6 times the grinding amount d achieved with each laser irradiation, i.e., 6d(3d+d+2d). The depth of the fourth line 304 is 8 times the grinding amount d achieved with each laser irradiation, i.e., 8d(3d+d+2d+2d). That is, the depths of the first line 301 to the fourth line 304 are integer multiples of the grinding amount d achieved with each laser irradiation, i.e., a unit depth. In one example, when the thickness of the middle link 2 is approximately 3 mm, the maximum grinding amount achieved by laser irradiation is approximately 10 μm. Furthermore, by further overlapping the laser irradiations, deeper grinding is possible.

[0055] The outer link 3 has a first outer link surface 3a, a second outer link surface 3b, and a third outer link surface 3c. The first outer link surface 3a is a mirror-finished plane that extends approximately parallel to the extension direction of the tape 1 on its surface side. The second outer link surface 3b is a surface that extends obliquely relative to the extension direction of the first outer link surface 3a, starting from one edge of the first outer link surface 3a that is orthogonal to the extension direction of the tape 1. The third outer link surface 3c is a surface that extends obliquely relative to the extension direction of the first outer link surface 3a, starting from another edge of the first outer link surface 3a that is orthogonal to the extension direction of the tape 1. The second outer link surface 3b and the third outer link surface 3c are decorative areas that overlap and are decorated with multiple decorative patterns formed by multiple parallel straight lines.

[0056] The second outer link surface 3b and the third outer link surface 3c are formed by irradiating the first middle link surface 2a with a laser that has a circular irradiation surface slowly shifted in one direction, thereby depicting multiple decorative patterns.

[0057] Figure 5 This is a diagram showing a laser processing apparatus in which decorative patterns are drawn on the first middle link surface 2a, the second outer link surface 3b, and the third outer link surface 3c.

[0058] The laser processing apparatus 100 includes a laser irradiation device 11, a component transfer device 12, a processing table 13, a processing table drive device 14, a LAN 15, and a computing device 16.

[0059] The laser irradiation device 11 includes: a laser oscillator, an optical path such as an optical fiber for transmitting laser light emitted from the laser oscillator, and a focusing section for focusing the laser light transmitted in the optical path and projecting it onto a decorative area such as the first intermediate link surface 2a. The laser oscillator of the laser irradiation device 11 is a solid-state oscillator such as a YAG laser or a gas-type oscillator such as a CO2 laser.

[0060] The component transfer device 12 has arms capable of holding components such as the middle link 2 and the outer link 3, and transfers components according to instructions from the arithmetic device 16. Hereinafter, the embodiment will be described using the middle link 2 as the component to be decorated. The component transfer device 12 places the middle link 2 to be decorated at an irradiation position on the surface of the processing table 13 on the first middle link surface 2a. Then, the component transfer device 12 transfers the middle link 2, whose first middle link surface 2a has been decorated, from the irradiation position on the surface of the processing table 13 to a storage position (not shown). Alternatively, the component can be supplied manually or by an external mechanism, thus omitting the component transfer device 12.

[0061] The processing table 13 is a flat plate-shaped component made of metal or the like. The processing table drive unit 14 supports the processing table 13 in a manner that allows it to move horizontally. Based on instructions from the computing unit 16, the processing table drive unit 14 moves the processing table 13 such that multiple decorative patterns are drawn on the first middle link surface 2a of the middle link 2. Furthermore, in this embodiment, processing is performed by moving the processing table 13, but processing can also be performed simultaneously by moving the laser irradiation device 11.

[0062] LAN15 is a signal transmission line, such as a coaxial cable, connecting the laser irradiation device 11, the component transfer device 12, and the machining table drive device 14 to the computing device 16. LAN15 transmits the indication signals output from the computing device 16 to the laser irradiation device 11, the component transfer device 12, and the machining table drive device 14, respectively.

[0063] The arithmetic unit 16 includes a communication unit 21, a storage unit 22, an input unit 23, an output unit 24, and a processing unit 30. The communication unit 21, the storage unit 22, the input unit 23, the output unit 24, and the processing unit 30 are interconnected via a bus 25.

[0064] The communication unit 21 has a wired communication interface circuit such as Ethernet (registered trademark). The communication unit 21 communicates with the laser irradiation device 11, the component transfer device 12, the processing table drive device 14, and an upper-level control device (not shown) via LAN 15.

[0065] The storage unit 22 may include at least one of a semiconductor storage device, a magnetic tape device, a magnetic disk device, or an optical disk device. The storage unit 22 stores operating system programs, drivers, application programs, data, etc., used in the processing performed by the processing unit 30. For example, as an application program, the storage unit 22 stores a decorative pattern drawing program for performing decorative pattern drawing processing on decorative areas of components such as the middle link 2 and the outer link 3 by laser drawing desired decorative patterns. The decorative pattern drawing program may also be installed to the storage unit 22 from a computer-readable portable recording medium such as a CD-ROM or DVD-ROM using a known installation program. Furthermore, it may be directly stored to the storage unit 22 from outside the computing device 16 via a LAN or the like.

[0066] In addition, the storage unit 22 stores various data used in the decorative pattern drawing process. For example, the storage unit 22 stores decorative pattern data representing multiple decorative patterns drawn by irradiating the decorative areas of components such as the middle link 2 and the outer link 3 with a laser. Furthermore, the storage unit 22 may also temporarily store temporary data related to the prescribed process.

[0067] Figure 6 , Figure 7It corresponds to the decorative pattern data stored in storage unit 22, and will be Figure 3 The image is an enlarged version of a portion of each of the decorative patterns shown in the illustration. Figure 6 (a) shows the first decorative pattern 221. Figure 6 (b) shows the second decorative pattern 222. Figure 6 (c) shows the third decorative pattern 223. Figure 6 (d) shows the fourth decorative pattern 224. Figure 6 (e) shows the fifth decorative pattern 225. Figure 7 (f) shows the sixth decorative pattern 226. Additionally, Figure 7 (g) shows the 7th decorative pattern 227, Figure 7 (h) shows the 8th decorative pattern 228, Figure 7 (i) shows the 9th decorative pattern 229, Figure 7 (j) shows the 10th decorative pattern 230.

[0068] In this embodiment, the first decorative pattern 221 to the tenth decorative pattern 230 are each composed of straight lines extending parallel to each other. In one example, the first decorative pattern 221 to the tenth decorative pattern 230 are square patterns with a side length of 20mm.

[0069] Figure 6 The first decorative pattern 221 shown in (a) is composed of a combination of straight lines extending from one end of the extension direction to the other and straight lines that break in the middle, and the arrangement of the directions orthogonal to the extension direction of these straight lines is uneven.

[0070] Figure 6 The second decorative pattern 222 shown in (b) is formed by combining straight lines that are broken in the middle and deviate in the direction of extension, and the arrangement of the directions orthogonal to the direction of extension of these straight lines is equally spaced.

[0071] Figure 6 The third decorative pattern 223 shown in (c) is formed by a combination of straight lines extending from one end of the extension direction to the other end and straight lines that break in the middle. The three straight lines extending from one end of the extension direction to the other end and the straight lines that break in the middle are arranged at intervals according to the rules.

[0072] Figure 6The fourth decorative pattern 224 shown in (d) is formed by arranging key-shaped unit patterns in an array. The key-shaped unit patterns are formed by a first straight line extending in the extending direction, a second straight line extending from one end of the first straight line in a direction offset by 45° relative to the extending direction, and a third straight line extending from the other end of the first straight line in a direction offset by -45° relative to the extending direction. In the fourth decorative pattern 224, the extending direction of the straight lines is the same as the extending direction of the first straight line.

[0073] Figure 6 The fifth decorative pattern 225 shown in (e) is formed by arranging key-shaped unit patterns, which are larger than the unit patterns forming the fourth decorative pattern 224, in an array. Like the fourth decorative pattern 224, the key-shaped unit patterns are formed by a first straight line extending in the extending direction, a second straight line extending from both ends of the first straight line in a direction offset by ±45° relative to the extending direction, and a third straight line. In the fifth decorative pattern 225, the extending direction of the straight lines is the same as the extending direction of the first straight line.

[0074] Figure 7 The sixth decorative pattern 226 shown in (f) is constituted by a group of unit straight lines arranged at equal intervals in the extension direction in a direction orthogonal to the extension direction. The group of unit straight lines includes a first straight line extending in the extension direction, a second straight line shorter than the first straight line arranged at a first distance from the first straight line in the extension direction, and a third straight line longer than the first straight line arranged at a first distance from the second straight line in the extension direction.

[0075] Figure 7 The seventh decorative pattern 227 shown in (g) is constituted by a group of unit straight lines arranged at equal intervals in the extension direction in a direction orthogonal to the extension direction. The group of unit straight lines includes a first straight line extending in the extension direction, a plurality of second straight lines shorter than the first straight line arranged at a first distance from the first straight line in the extension direction, and a third straight line longer than the first straight line arranged at a first distance from the second straight line in the extension direction.

[0076] Figure 7 The eighth decorative pattern 228 shown in (h) is constructed by alternatingly arranging a first group of straight lines and a second group of straight lines, which are equally spaced apart in a direction orthogonal to the extension direction. The first group of straight lines and the second group of straight lines each comprise multiple straight lines of the same length extending in the extension direction and arranged at equal intervals in the extension direction. One end of the leftmost straight line in the first group of straight lines connects to the left end of the eighth decorative pattern 228, and the other end of the rightmost straight line in the second group of straight lines connects to the right end of the eighth decorative pattern 228.

[0077] Figure 7The ninth decorative pattern 229 shown in (i) is constituted by arranging groups of straight lines, each consisting of three straight lines extending from one end of the extension direction, at equal intervals in a direction orthogonal to the extension direction. The intervals between the three straight lines in the groups of straight lines of the ninth decorative pattern 229 in a direction orthogonal to the extension direction are different in each group of straight lines.

[0078] form Figure 7 The straight lines of the 10th decorative pattern 230 shown in (j) extend from one end to the other in the extending direction. The straight lines forming the 10th decorative pattern 230 are arranged such that the spacing between the lines in the direction orthogonal to the extending direction is shorter than the spacing between the straight lines in the direction orthogonal to the extending direction of any of the first decorative patterns 221 to the 9th decorative patterns 229. By finally processing the 10th decorative pattern 230, the straight lines formed on the outermost surface become continuous and parallel. By laser irradiating the straight lines arranged in such a way that the spacing between the lines in the direction orthogonal to the extending direction is short and that they extend continuously from one end to the other in the extending direction, the realism of the brushed pattern is further increased, and a processing quality comparable to brush processing can be achieved. Furthermore, regarding the 10th decorative pattern applied last, the spacing between the lines in the direction orthogonal to the extending direction does not necessarily have to be shorter than that of the first decorative patterns 221 to the 9th decorative patterns 229; even in this case, a pattern that closely resembles the feel of a brushed pattern can be represented.

[0079] Return to Figure 5 The input unit 23 can be any device, such as a touch panel or keyboard, as long as it can input data. The operator can use the input unit 23 to input text, numbers, symbols, etc. When operated by the operator, the input unit 23 generates a signal corresponding to that operation. Then, the generated signal is supplied to the processing unit 30 as an instruction from the operator.

[0080] The output unit 24 can be any device capable of displaying images, pictures, etc., such as a liquid crystal display or an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display. The output unit 24 displays images corresponding to the image data supplied from the processing unit 30, images corresponding to the image data, etc. In addition, the output unit 24 can also be an output device that prints images, pictures, or text onto a display medium such as paper.

[0081] The processing unit 30 has one or more processors and their peripheral circuitry. The processing unit 30 controls the overall operation of the arithmetic unit 16, such as the CPU. The processing unit 30 performs processing based on programs (drivers, operating system programs, application programs, etc.) stored in the storage unit 22. Furthermore, the processing unit 30 is capable of executing multiple programs (application programs, etc.) in parallel.

[0082] The processing unit 30 includes a component transfer indicator 31, a decorative pattern data acquisition unit 32, a laser irradiation indicator 33, and a pattern quantity counting unit 34. These units are functional modules implemented by a program executed by a processor included in the processing unit 30. Alternatively, these units may be installed as firmware into the computing device 16.

[0083] (Decorative pattern drawing process performed by the laser processing apparatus 100 in the embodiment)

[0084] Figure 8 This is a flowchart of the decorative pattern drawing process performed by the laser processing device 100. Figure 8 The decorative pattern drawing process shown is based on a program pre-stored in the storage unit 22, and is mainly executed by the processing unit 30 and the various elements of the computing device 16 in cooperation. Additionally, Figure 8 The decorative pattern drawing process shown is performed as a step in the manufacturing process of components such as the middle link 2 and the outer link 3.

[0085] First, the component transfer instruction unit 31 outputs a component placement instruction signal to the component transfer device 12 (S101), indicating that a component with a decorative area on its surface to be decorated will be placed at a predetermined irradiation position. The component transfer device 12, in response to the input component placement instruction signal, places the middle link 2 at the irradiation position on the surface of the processing table 13.

[0086] Next, the decorative pattern data acquisition unit 32 acquires decorative pattern data representing the first decorative pattern 221 to the tenth decorative pattern 230 respectively from the storage unit 22 (S102).

[0087] Next, the pattern quantity counting unit 34 sets the parameter "N" to "0" (S103). Next, the pattern quantity counting unit 34 increases the parameter "N" to "1" (S104).

[0088] Next, the laser irradiation indicator 33 outputs a first decorative pattern drawing instruction signal to the laser irradiation device 11 and the processing table drive device 14 (S105). This first decorative pattern drawing instruction signal indicates that a first decorative pattern is drawn in the decorative area located on the first middle link surface 2a using a laser. Corresponding to the input of the first decorative pattern drawing instruction signal, the laser irradiation device 11 outputs a constant laser to the decorative area in a manner that draws the first decorative pattern. Furthermore, corresponding to the input of the first decorative pattern drawing instruction signal, the processing table drive device 14 moves the processing table 13 in a manner that draws the first decorative pattern 221. In this embodiment, processing is performed by moving the processing table 13, but processing can also be performed simultaneously with moving the laser irradiation device 11.

[0089] Next, the pattern count unit 34 determines whether the parameter "N" and "10" are consistent (S106). Here, the parameter "N" is "1", so it is determined that the parameter "N" and "10" are inconsistent (S106 - "No"), and the process returns to S104. The processes of S104 to S106 are repeated until the parameter "N" and "10" are consistent in the pattern count unit 34 (S106 - "Yes"). By repeating the processes of S104 to S106, the laser is sequentially irradiated in such a way that the first decorative pattern 221 to the tenth decorative pattern 230 are drawn overlappingly in the decorative area located on the first intermediate link surface 2a.

[0090] If parameter “N” in pattern quantity counting unit 34 matches “10” (S106 – “Yes”), component transfer indicator unit 31 outputs a component transfer indicator signal indicating that the component to be decorated in the decoration area will be transferred from the irradiation position to the component transfer device 12 (S107). The component transfer device 12, in response to the input component transfer indicator signal, transfers the middle link 2 from the irradiation position on the surface of the processing table 13 to a storage location (not shown).

[0091] (Effects of the manufacturing method of the component in the embodiment)

[0092] The decorative pattern drawing process performed by the laser processing device 100 draws multiple decorative patterns in the decorative area by laser, thereby applying a pattern with a feel similar to that of a brushed pattern to small components such as the inner and outer links of the watch strap.

[0093] Figure 9 (a) is a diagram showing a band with decorative patterns formed at the middle link by a decorative pattern drawing process performed by the laser processing device 100. Figure 9 (b) is a diagram showing a strip with a brushed pattern formed at the middle link by a brushing process.

[0094] like Figure 9 As shown in (a) and (b) of 9, the decorative pattern formed in the middle link by the decorative pattern drawing process performed by the laser processing device 100 can be made into a pattern with a feel similar to the brushed pattern formed by a brush.

[0095] Furthermore, the decorative pattern drawing process performed by the laser processing apparatus 100 forms the decorative pattern using a laser, thus eliminating the need for masking, cleaning, and removal of masked components that are performed using brushes or other tools in wire drawing processes. Because the decorative pattern drawing process performed by the laser processing apparatus 100 eliminates the need for masking, cleaning, and removal of masked components, manufacturing costs can be reduced compared to wire drawing processes using brushes or other tools.

[0096] In addition, the laser processing device 100 improves the uniformity of the decorative pattern formed in the decorative area by using the 10th decorative pattern 230 with the shortest configuration interval of the last drawn straight line, and can apply a pattern that is closer to the feel of a brushed pattern.

[0097] Furthermore, in the laser processing apparatus 100, for the first decorative pattern 221 to the tenth decorative pattern 230, since the angle difference of the extension direction of the lines between the decorative patterns is all set within the range of ±1°, it is possible to apply a pattern that is closer to the feel of a brushed pattern.

[0098] Furthermore, in the laser processing apparatus 100, the laser irradiation device 11 outputs laser at a constant output when drawing decorative patterns, so there is no problem of the laser output becoming unstable due to changes in the laser output.

[0099] (A variation of the method for manufacturing the component according to the embodiment)

[0100] Figure 10 This is a diagram used to illustrate the decorative pattern depiction process of the first variation.

[0101] The decorative pattern drawing process in the first variation is a variation where the area of ​​the decorative area where the decorative pattern drawing process is performed is larger than the area of ​​multiple decorative patterns, i.e., the area that can be irradiated by the laser. Figure 10 In the example shown, the area of ​​the decorative region is approximately four times the area of ​​the decorative pattern.

[0102] In the decorative pattern depiction process of the first variation, the same decorative pattern is repeatedly formed in both the horizontal and vertical directions in such a way that the decorative pattern extends continuously in a straight line between adjacent decorative patterns.

[0103] exist Figure 10 In this design, the straight lines forming the decorative pattern depicted at position 1 251 and the straight lines forming the decorative patterns depicted at positions 252 and 3 253 extend continuously. Furthermore, the straight lines forming the decorative pattern depicted at position 252 and the straight lines forming the decorative patterns depicted at positions 1 251 and 4 254 extend continuously. Additionally, the straight lines forming the decorative pattern depicted at position 3 253 and the straight lines forming the decorative patterns depicted at positions 1 251 and 4 254 extend continuously. Furthermore, the straight lines forming the decorative pattern depicted at position 4 254 and the straight lines forming the decorative patterns depicted at positions 252 and 3 253 extend continuously.

[0104] Figure 11 This is a diagram showing a laser processing apparatus for performing the decorative pattern drawing process of the first variation.

[0105] The laser processing apparatus 200 differs from the laser processing apparatus 100 in that it has a processing unit 17 instead of a processing unit 16. The processing unit 17 also differs from the processing unit 16 in that it has a processing unit 40 with a component transfer indicator 41 instead of a processing unit 30 with a component transfer indicator 31. The structure and function of the structural elements of the laser processing apparatus 200, except for the component transfer indicator 41, are the same as those of the structural elements of the laser processing apparatus 100, which are marked with the same symbols; therefore, detailed descriptions are omitted here.

[0106] (Decorative pattern drawing process performed by the modified laser processing apparatus 200)

[0107] Figure 12 This is a flowchart of the decorative pattern drawing process performed by the laser processing device 200. Figure 12 The decorative pattern drawing process shown is based on a program pre-stored in the storage unit 22, and is mainly executed collaboratively by the processing unit 40 and the various elements of the computing device 17. Furthermore, Figure 12 The decorative pattern drawing process shown is performed as a step in the manufacturing process of components such as the middle link 2 and the outer link 3.

[0108] The processing of S201 to S204 is the same as that of S101 to S104, so detailed descriptions are omitted here. The component transfer indicator 41 sets the parameter "M" to "0" (S205). Next, the component transfer indicator 41 increases the parameter "M" to "1" (S206). Next, the component transfer indicator 41 outputs a first movement indication signal, indicating that the middle link 2 is moved to the first position, to the machining table drive device 14 (S207). The machining table drive device 14 moves the middle link 2 to the first position in response to the input of the first movement indication signal. The first position is the position of the area in the upper left of the decorative area. Next, the laser irradiation indicator 33 outputs a first decorative pattern depiction indication signal to the laser irradiation device 11 and the machining table drive device 14 (S208), which indicates that a first decorative pattern is depicted in the decorative area located on the surface 2a of the first middle link by a laser. Furthermore, in this embodiment, processing is performed by moving the processing table 13, but processing can also be performed while moving the laser irradiation device 11.

[0109] Next, the component transfer instruction unit 41 determines whether parameters "M" and "4" are consistent (S209). Here, parameter "M" is "1", so it is determined that parameters "M" and "4" are inconsistent (S209 - "No"), and the process returns to S206. The processes of S206 to S209 are repeated until parameters "M" and "4" are consistent in the component transfer instruction unit 41 (S209 - "Yes"). The second position is the position where the upper right area of ​​the decorative area is depicted, and it is a position where the straight line of the decorative pattern depicted at the second position and the straight line of the decorative pattern depicted at the first and fourth positions continuously extend. The third position is the position where the lower left area of ​​the decorative area is depicted, and it is a position where the straight line of the decorative pattern depicted at the third position and the straight line of the decorative pattern depicted at the first and fourth positions continuously extend. The fourth position is the area depicted in the lower right of the decorative area, and it is a position where the straight line forming the decorative pattern depicted in the fourth position extends continuously from the straight line forming the decorative pattern depicted in the second and third positions.

[0110] By repeating the processes S206 to S209, the laser processing apparatus 200 is able to shift between adjacent decorative patterns in a manner that continuously extends in a straight line to form the first decorative pattern 221, while sequentially irradiating with laser light. Furthermore, the laser processing apparatus 200 is able to depict a decorative pattern having an area four times that of the first decorative pattern 221 in the decorative region located on the first intermediate link surface 2a. The processes S210 to S211 are the same as those S106 to S107, so detailed descriptions are omitted here.

[0111] In the decorative pattern depiction process of the first variation, the decorative patterns are arranged in a manner that the straight lines forming the decorative patterns extend continuously between adjacent decorative patterns, so that decorative patterns without the boundaries of the decorative patterns are formed in the decorative area that is larger than the decorative patterns.

[0112] Figure 13 This is a diagram used to illustrate the decorative pattern depiction process in the second variation.

[0113] The decorative pattern depiction process in the second variation is similar to that in the first variation, but it is a variation where the area of ​​the decorative area performing the decorative pattern depiction process is larger than the area of ​​multiple decorative patterns. Figure 13 In the example shown, the area of ​​the decorative region is approximately four times the area of ​​the decorative pattern. Furthermore, this embodiment is implemented with 2×2 faces, but there are no restrictions on N and n for N×n faces.

[0114] In the decorative pattern depiction process of the second variation, multiple decorative patterns are repeatedly formed in a manner in which the boundary lines of adjacent decorative patterns are in different positions in the horizontal and vertical directions.

[0115] exist Figure 13 In this example, the boundary lines between the four positions used to depict the first decorative pattern 261 are in positions different from the boundary lines between the four positions used to depict the second decorative pattern 262 to the tenth decorative pattern 270. Similarly, the boundary lines between the four positions used to depict the second decorative pattern 262 to the tenth decorative pattern 270 are in positions different from the boundary lines between the four positions used to depict the other decorative patterns. The laser processing apparatus (not shown) repeats the same process as S206 to S209, thereby enabling the laser to be sequentially irradiated while the boundary lines of adjacent decorative patterns are offset in a manner that they are in mutually different positions among multiple decorative patterns. The decorative pattern depiction process of the second variation is the same as that of the first variation, so detailed descriptions are omitted here.

[0116] In the decorative pattern depiction process of the second variation, multiple decorative patterns are arranged in a manner where their boundary lines are in different positions from those of adjacent decorative patterns. Therefore, the boundary lines of adjacent decorative patterns are overlapped by other decorative patterns and become visually difficult to distinguish. The decorative pattern depiction process of the second variation results in a decorative pattern where the boundary lines of adjacent decorative patterns are difficult to visually distinguish.

[0117] Furthermore, in the described component manufacturing method, ten decorative patterns, from the first decorative pattern 221 to the tenth decorative pattern 230, are used to form the decorative pattern. However, in the component manufacturing method of the embodiment, six or more but less than twenty decorative patterns may also be used. When the number of overlapping decorative patterns is five or less, it is difficult to achieve a decorative pattern with a feel similar to a brushed texture. In addition, when the number of overlapping decorative patterns is 21 or more, the thickness of the oxide film formed by laser irradiation becomes thicker, and the decorative pattern may discolor.

[0118] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the first decorative pattern 221 to the tenth decorative pattern 230 are formed in such a way that the lines forming them extend parallel to each other. However, for each of the multiple decorative patterns, the angle difference between the extension directions of the lines forming them may be ±1° or less.

[0119] Symbol Explanation

[0120] 1. Belt

[0121] 2. Middle Link

[0122] 3. External Links

[0123] 4-axis components

[0124] 5 buckles

[0125] 6a, 6b end pieces

[0126] 11 Laser Irradiation Device

[0127] 12 Component Transfer Device

[0128] 13. Processing table

[0129] 14. Processing table drive unit

[0130] 15 LAN

[0131] 16, 17 Arithmetic Units

[0132] Component transfer indicator (31, 41)

[0133] 32 Decorative Pattern Data Acquisition Department

[0134] 33 Laser Illumination Indicator

[0135] 34. Pattern Quantity Counting Section.

Claims

1. A method for manufacturing a component, the component having a decorative area on its surface, wherein a brushed pattern formed by laser is applied to the decorative area, the method being characterized in that... The process includes the following steps: In the decorative area, a laser is sequentially irradiated to depict a decorative pattern composed of multiple overlapping lines. The plurality of decorative patterns include a first key-shaped decorative pattern and a second key-shaped decorative pattern. The first key-shaped decorative pattern is formed by arranging key-shaped unit patterns in an array. Each key-shaped unit pattern is formed by a first straight line extending in the extending direction, a second straight line extending from one end of the first straight line in a direction offset by 45° relative to the extending direction, and a third straight line extending from the other end of the first straight line in a direction offset by -45° relative to the extending direction. The second key-shaped decorative pattern is formed by arranging key-shaped unit patterns that are larger than the key-shaped unit patterns forming the first key-shaped decorative pattern in an array. The first key-shaped decorative pattern and the second key-shaped decorative pattern are depicted overlappingly. The last decorative pattern depicted among the plurality of decorative patterns is composed of multiple parallel lines extending from one end to the other, and the spacing between these parallel lines is shorter than the spacing between lines in the other decorative patterns. The depth of the lines constituting the multiple decorative patterns varies in multiple levels depending on the number of overlaps of the multiple decorative patterns; the more overlaps, the deeper the depth.

2. The method for manufacturing the component according to claim 1, characterized in that, The angular difference in the extension direction of the lines between the decorative patterns is all within ±1°.

3. The method for manufacturing the component according to claim 2, characterized in that, The angle difference in the extension direction of the line is within ±0.1°.

4. A method for manufacturing a component according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The number of the multiple decorative patterns is more than 6 and less than 20.

5. A method for manufacturing a component according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The decorative pattern is smaller in area than the decorative area. The same decorative pattern is drawn in a plane orthogonal to the overlapping direction, with multiple side-by-side patterns covering the decorative area. Adjacent decorative patterns in the plane are offset in a continuous manner with the lines constituting the decorative pattern, while the laser is irradiated sequentially.

6. A method for manufacturing a component according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The decorative pattern is smaller in area than the decorative area. The same decorative pattern is drawn in a plane orthogonal to the overlapping direction, with multiple patterns side by side covering the decorative area. The boundary lines of adjacent decorative patterns in the plane are offset in different positions in the overlapping direction, while the laser is irradiated sequentially.

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