Carbon fiber watch case and method of making same, smart watch

Abstract

The application relates to a carbon fiber watch shell, a preparation method thereof and a smart watch. The carbon fiber watch shell comprises a main body structure and a conductive structure; the main body structure has an inner surface and an outer surface, and the conductive structure has a first contact point located on the inner surface and a second contact point located on the outer surface to conduct the inner surface and the outer surface of the carbon fiber watch shell; the main body structure comprises a woven body and a polymer body; the woven body comprises carbon fibers, and the woven body has a network structure; the polymer body is filled in at least interspaces of the network structure of the woven body to form an integrated structure of the woven body and the conductive structure. The conductive structure can realize the conductive function of the inner surface and the outer surface of the main body structure, and when the carbon fiber watch shell is applied to an electronic device, the electromagnetic shielding of the carbon fibers can prevent the electromagnetic signal transmission of the electronic product from being affected.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of wearable device technology, and in particular to a carbon fiber watch case and its preparation method, and a smartwatch. Background Technology

[0002] With the rapid development and widespread adoption of wearable devices such as smartwatches, consumers are becoming increasingly reliant on them. Current smartwatches not only offer basic time display functions but also enable health monitoring and internet communication.

[0003] Most current watch cases are made of plastic or metal. Plastic is lightweight but has low strength, while metal is strong but relatively heavy, neither of which meets consumers' wearing needs. How to achieve both high strength and lightweight design while fulfilling the basic functions of a smartwatch is a pressing issue that needs to be addressed in smartwatch case design. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application provides a carbon fiber watch case and its preparation method, as well as a smartwatch, which can meet consumers' demand for smartwatches.

[0005] Firstly, this application provides a carbon fiber watch case that can be applied to electronic devices such as smartwatches capable of transmitting electromagnetic signals. The carbon fiber watch case includes a main structure and a conductive structure, which are tightly integrated with the main structure. The main structure specifically includes a braided body and a polymer body. The braided body is woven from raw materials including carbon fiber using a three-dimensional braiding process, resulting in a network structure. The polymer body fills at least the gaps in the network structure of the braided body to form an integrated structure with the conductive structure. The gaps in the network structure of the braided body are interconnected, thus the polymer body has a continuous structure, allowing the polymer body and the braided body to form a continuously interlocking structure. The main structure has an inner surface and an outer surface. When the conductive structure is integrated with the main structure, the conductive structure has a first contact on the inner surface of the main structure and a second contact on the outer surface of the main structure. The conductive structure itself is conductive, and electromagnetic conduction between the inner and outer surfaces of the main structure can be achieved through the first and second contacts. In other words, an electrical device located on the inner surface of the main structure can be connected to an electrical device located on the outer surface of the main structure via the conductive structure to achieve electromagnetic signal connection.

[0006] In the aforementioned carbon fiber watch case, the continuous interlocking of the braided structure and the polymer body creates a one-piece structure, enhancing the mechanical strength and sealing performance of the carbon fiber watch case and ensuring high reliability. The conductive structure enables conductivity on both the inner and outer surfaces of the main structure, preventing the electromagnetic shielding of the carbon fiber from interfering with the electromagnetic signal transmission of smartwatches and other electronic devices when the carbon fiber watch case is used.

[0007] There are multiple ways to combine the conductive structure with the main structure.

[0008] In one possible embodiment, the conductive structure is columnar and embedded within the main structure. The conductive structure penetrates the main structure, with one end protruding from the inner surface of the main structure to form the first contact, and the other end protruding from the outer surface of the main structure to form the second contact. This conductive structure can be any one or a combination of at least two of conductive metals, conductive adhesives, and conductive ceramics.

[0009] In another possible approach, the conductive structure is in the form of a thin film and formed on the surface of the main structure. This conductive structure extends to the inner surface of the main structure to form a first contact and to the outer surface of the main structure to form a second contact. The conductive structure can be any one or a combination of at least two of the following: a metal plating layer, a conductive ink layer, and a conductive deposition layer.

[0010] In this application, the braided body can be a three-dimensional braided body. The three-dimensional braided body has a more three-dimensional structure, which is conducive to the formation of a continuous interlocking structure between the braided body and the polymer.

[0011] Possibly, the raw materials forming the braided structure may include not only carbon fiber but also colored fibers with a wide range of colors, which can provide the carbon fiber shell with diverse hues. The colored fibers and carbon fiber are woven together using a braiding process to form the braided structure. The colored fibers here can be any one or a combination of at least two of the following: quartz fiber, glass fiber, basalt fiber, aramid fiber, metal fiber, and ceramic fiber.

[0012] To ensure sufficient strength of the braid, the carbon fiber accounts for no less than 40% of the volume of the braid. For a better three-dimensional braided appearance, the volume of the braid in the main structure is 30%-60%. In addition, the braiding angle is limited to 20°-40°.

[0013] Specifically, the polymer can be any one or a combination of two of thermosetting polymers and thermoplastic polymers.

[0014] Secondly, this application also provides a method for preparing a carbon fiber watch case, which can be used to prepare the aforementioned carbon fiber watch case. The preparation method includes:

[0015] The raw material fibers are woven into a braided body using a weaving process; the braided body has a network structure and includes carbon fibers;

[0016] Set a conductive structure;

[0017] Injecting polymers into the braided fabric to form the main structure with the braided fabric;

[0018] The polymer body fills at least the space within the network structure of the braided body to form an integrated structure with the conductive structure. The main structure has an inner surface and an outer surface, and the conductive structure has a first contact on the inner surface and a second contact on the outer surface. Depending on the different bonding methods between the conductive structure and the main structure, the order of the steps of setting the conductive structure and injecting the polymer body into the braided body to form the main structure can be interchanged.

[0019] Before the step of infusing polymer into the braided fabric to form the main structure with the braided fabric, the conductive structure can be columnar and embedded in the main structure. The specific implementation of the above-mentioned conductive structure is as follows:

[0020] The conductive structure is embedded in the gaps of the braid;

[0021] Alternatively, through holes can be reserved during the formation of the braid;

[0022] The above-mentioned conductive structure is specifically implemented by: pouring conductive material into the through hole to form a conductive structure;

[0023] After the step of injecting polymer into the braid to form the main structure with the braid, the conductive structure can be in the form of a thin film and formed on the surface of the main structure. The specific implementation of setting the conductive structure is: forming a conductive structure on the surface of the main structure.

[0024] The fabrication process for forming a conductive structure on the surface of the main structure includes any one or a combination of at least two of water plating, spraying, and physical vapor deposition.

[0025] Thirdly, this application also provides a smartwatch. The smartwatch includes a main body and the aforementioned carbon fiber case. The carbon fiber case has an installation space within which the main body can be disposed; the main body includes a circuit board and an antenna unit disposed on the circuit board. The antenna unit is connected to a first contact of a conductive structure via a spring clip. The conductive structure acts as a feed point for the antenna unit, allowing the antenna unit to transmit electromagnetic signals to external devices. Attached Figure Description

[0026] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a carbon fiber watch case in the prior art;

[0027] Figure 2a This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a smartwatch case provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0028] Figure 2b This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a carbon fiber watch case provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0029] Figure 2c A cross-sectional structural diagram of a carbon fiber watch case provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0030] Figure 3a This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a carbon fiber watch case provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0031] Figure 3b A cross-sectional structural diagram of a carbon fiber watch case provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0032] Figure 4a A cross-sectional structural diagram of the main structure in a carbon fiber watch case is provided as an embodiment of this application;

[0033] Figure 4b This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a braided body in a carbon fiber watch case provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0034] Figure 5a A cross-sectional structural diagram of the main structure in a carbon fiber watch case is provided as an embodiment of this application;

[0035] Figure 5b This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a braided body in a carbon fiber watch case provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0036] Figure 6a A cross-sectional structural diagram of the main structure in a carbon fiber watch case is provided as an embodiment of this application;

[0037] Figure 6b This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a braided body in a carbon fiber watch case provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0038] Figure 7a and Figure 7b A schematic flowchart illustrating a method for preparing a carbon fiber watch case according to an embodiment of this application;

[0039] Figure 8 A schematic flowchart illustrating a method for preparing a carbon fiber watch case according to an embodiment of this application;

[0040] Figure 9 A schematic flowchart illustrating a method for preparing a carbon fiber watch case according to an embodiment of this application;

[0041] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of a method for preparing a carbon fiber watch case according to an embodiment of this application, in which a conductive structure is embedded in the braided body.

[0042] Figure 11 A schematic diagram of the structure of a carbon fiber watch shell obtained in a method for preparing a carbon fiber watch shell according to an embodiment of this application;

[0043] Figure 12A schematic diagram of a method for preparing a carbon fiber watch case according to an embodiment of this application, showing a pre-drilled through hole in the braided body;

[0044] Figure 13 A schematic flowchart illustrating a method for preparing a carbon fiber watch case according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 14 A cross-sectional schematic diagram of a method for preparing a carbon fiber watch case according to an embodiment of this application, showing the casting of a conductive structure in a through hole;

[0045] Figure 15 A schematic diagram of the structure of a carbon fiber watch shell obtained in a method for preparing a carbon fiber watch shell according to an embodiment of this application;

[0046] Figures 16a to 16c This is a schematic diagram of the preparation process for forming the shape of a carbon fiber watch case in a method for preparing a carbon fiber watch case according to an embodiment of this application.

[0047] Figure 17a This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a smartwatch provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0048] Figure 17b An exploded view of a smartwatch provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0049] Figure 18 A top view of a smartwatch provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0050] Figure 19 for Figure 18 A schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure of the MM.

[0051] Figure 20 for Figure 19 Enlarged view of part N in the middle;

[0052] Figure 21 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a smartwatch provided in an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0053] Currently, smartwatches commonly use plastic or metal casings. As living standards improve, consumers are increasingly demanding higher-quality products. Plastic watch casings are weak and appear cheap, leading to their gradual decline in popularity. While metal smartwatch casings are strong, their bulky design results in poor wearing comfort, also a common complaint. Against this backdrop, carbon fiber has gained attention due to its superior physical properties and unique surface texture, making its application in smartwatch casing manufacturing a viable option. Currently, carbon fiber structures are typically two- or multi-layered sheet materials. Figure 1As shown, along the thickness direction, this carbon fiber structure is formed by alternating layers of carbon fiber layers 1' and resin layers 2'. The innermost layer is carbon fiber layer 1', and the outermost layer is resin layer 2'. Between any two adjacent layers, carbon fiber layer 1' and resin layer 2' are pressed together. Due to the poor toughness and low interlayer strength of carbon fiber composites, this carbon fiber structure is difficult to form complex structures (requiring the use of an inner liner or support), and is prone to problems such as fiber floating, delamination, cracking, and poor sealing, naturally failing to meet consumer requirements for smartwatch casings. Furthermore, the electromagnetic shielding properties of carbon fiber itself are also detrimental to the communication functions of smartwatches. Therefore, the current carbon fiber structure limits the application and development of carbon fiber in the manufacture of smartwatch casings.

[0054] Based on this, this application provides a carbon fiber watch case with high strength and reliability, which does not affect the communication function of the smartwatch and can meet consumers' requirements for smartwatch cases.

[0055] The terminology used in the following embodiments is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of this application. As used in the specification and appended claims of this application, the singular expressions “a,” “an,” “the,” “the,” “the,” and “this” are intended to also include expressions such as “one or more” unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0056] References to "one embodiment" or "some embodiments" as described in this specification mean that one or more embodiments of this application include a specific feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment. Therefore, the phrases "in one embodiment," "in some embodiments," "in other embodiments," "in still other embodiments," etc., appearing in different parts of this specification do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, but rather mean "one or more, but not all, embodiments," unless otherwise specifically emphasized. The terms "comprising," "including," "having," and variations thereof mean "including but not limited to," unless otherwise specifically emphasized.

[0057] This application provides a carbon fiber watch case that can be applied to smartwatches. It should be understood that, as... Figure 2a As shown, the carbon fiber case can specifically be a middle frame 101 or a bottom case 102, with the middle frame 101 and the bottom case 102 made of the same material. Furthermore, the middle frame 101 and the bottom case 102 can be... Figure 2a The aforementioned detachable design can also be a single, integrated unit. For example... Figure 2bAs shown, taking the carbon fiber watch case specifically as the middle frame 101 as an example, the carbon fiber watch case includes a main structure 1 and a conductive structure 2. The main structure 1 includes carbon fiber. Carbon fiber can make the main structure 1 lighter, improving wearing comfort. The main structure 1 has an inner surface a1 and an outer surface a2. The conductive structure 2 connects the inner surface a1 and the outer surface a2 of the main structure 1, preventing the electromagnetic shielding function of the carbon fiber from affecting the communication function of the smartwatch. The conductive structure 2 can serve as the feed point of an antenna for receiving and transmitting electromagnetic signals from the smartwatch.

[0058] like Figure 2b As shown, conductive structure 2 is in the form of a film. Combined with... Figure 2c As shown, the conductive structure 2 is formed on the surface of the main structure 1. The conductive structure 2 includes a first extension c1, a second extension c2, and a connecting portion c3 connecting the first extension c1 and the second extension c2. This connecting portion c3 is attached to the side surface between the inner surface a1 and the outer surface a2 of the main structure 1. Figure 2b The structure shown has a main structure 1 in a continuous ring shape, with the inner wall of the ring being the inner surface a1 of the main structure 1 and the outer wall being the outer surface a2 of the main structure 1. The conductive structure 2 can be seen as extending from the inner surface a1 of the main structure 1 across the main structure 1 to the outer surface a2 of the main structure 1. Specifically, the first extension c1 extends to the inner surface a1 of the main structure 1, and the second extension c2 extends to the outer surface a2 of the main structure 1. When the carbon fiber casing needs to transmit electromagnetic signals between the inner surface a1 and the outer surface a2 of the main structure 1, the first extension c1 of the conductive structure 2 can act as the first contact, and the second extension c2 of the conductive structure 2 can act as the second contact. Generally, combined with... Figure 2bThe circuit board and antenna of the smartwatch are located on the inner surface a1 of the main body structure 1. The antenna can be connected to the first extension c1 of the conductive structure 2. The antenna signal can be transmitted through the first extension c1 and the connecting part c3 to the second extension c2 for electromagnetic signal transmission so that external devices can receive it. Conversely, external signals can be transmitted through the second extension c2 and the connecting part c3 to the first extension c1 and the antenna for electromagnetic signal reception. In other words, the presence of the conductive structure 2 allows electromagnetic signals on the inner surface a1 and the outer surface a2 of the main body structure 1 to be transmitted through the conductive structure 2. In this structure, the conductive structure 2 can specifically be any one or a combination of at least two of the following: a metal plating layer, a conductive ink layer, and a conductive deposition layer. For example, when the conductive structure 2 is a metal plating layer, the metal plating layer can be a single metal structure (e.g., a copper layer or a gold layer) or a multi-layer metal structure (inner chromium + outer nickel, inner copper + outer nickel, inner chromium + middle nickel + outer gold). When the conductive structure 2 is a conductive ink layer, the dispersion medium in the conductive ink may include conductive particles such as metal powder, carbon nanotubes, and graphene.

[0059] To further enhance the integration of the conductive structure 2 with the main structure 1 and make the bond between the conductive structure 2 and the main structure 1 tighter, the conductive structure 2 can be embedded into the main structure 1. For example... Figure 3a In the middle, conductive structure 2 is columnar. Combined with... Figure 3b As shown, the conductive structure 2 is integrated with the main structure 1 by penetrating both the inner surface a1 and the outer surface a2. One end b1 of the conductive structure 2 protrudes from the inner surface a1 of the main structure 1, and the other end b2 protrudes from the outer surface a2. When the carbon fiber casing needs to transmit electromagnetic signals between the inner surface a1 and the outer surface a2 of the main structure 1, end b1 of the conductive structure 2 can act as a first contact, and end b2 can act as a second contact, allowing electromagnetic signals on the inner surface a1 side and the outer surface a2 side of the main structure 1 to be transmitted through the conductive structure 2. In this structure, the conductive structure 2 can specifically be any one or a combination of at least two of conductive metal, conductive adhesive, and conductive ceramic.

[0060] Among them, such as Figure 4aAs shown, the main structure 1 specifically includes a braided body 11 and a polymer body 12. The braided body 11 is woven from raw material fibers through a braiding process, possessing a network-like three-dimensional structure. It can be considered that within the space occupied by the braided body 11, different raw material fibers extend, interweave, and entwine together according to the weaving process, forming a three-dimensional structure with multiple voids. Carbon fiber itself has the advantages of high strength and light weight. As a carbon fiber shell, the fibers used to constitute the braided body 11 include carbon fiber, which can provide the braided body 11 with high structural strength and light weight. Weaving carbon fiber into a network-like three-dimensional structure can further improve the strength of the main structure 1 and reduce its weight. The polymer 12 can be a thermosetting polymer (such as epoxy resin, acrylic resin, etc., which can be used alone or in combination), a thermoplastic polymer (such as polycarbonate, polyamide, etc., which can be used alone or in combination), or a combination of thermosetting polymer and thermoplastic polymer (such as a combination of epoxy resin and polycarbonate, or a combination of acrylic resin and polycarbonate, or polyamide, the number and type of materials in the combination are not limited).

[0061] like Figure 4a As shown, the three-dimensional network structure of the braided body 11 forms interconnected voids. When the polymer body 12 is filled into these voids, it forms a network structure that matches the braided body 11. The polymer body 12, filling these voids, can encapsulate the braided body 11. The network structure of the braided body 11 and the network structure of the polymer body 12 achieve continuous interlocking, resulting in high strength for the main structure 1 and increased structural reliability.

[0062] During the molding process of the main structure 1, the conductive structure 2 can be integrated into the main structure 1, making the conductive structure 2, the braided body 11, and the polymer body 12 an integral structure. The conductive structure 2 can overcome the electromagnetic shielding property of carbon fiber, enabling the carbon fiber shell to conduct electricity. In other words, in the manufacturing process of the carbon fiber shell provided in this application embodiment, the main structure 1 and the conductive structure 2 can be manufactured using an integral molding process, thereby integrating the conductive structure 2 with the main structure 1, resulting in an integral structure between the two and ensuring the structural stability of the conductive structure 2.

[0063] The fibers, including carbon fiber 111, can be woven into a braided body 11 using machine weaving or knitting processes, specifically including but not limited to 2.5D machine weaving, 3D machine weaving, and 3D knitting. Different weaving processes can yield, but are not limited to, angle-interlocked braided bodies, triaxial orthogonal braided bodies, and in-plane quasi-isotropic braided bodies. The braided body 11 has a woven texture. During the weaving process, the weaving angle can be adjusted to change the appearance texture of the braided body 11, thereby altering the appearance of the main structure 1. This allows for adjustment and modification of the carbon fiber watch case's appearance to meet consumer preferences. The weaving angle can be selected within the range of 20°-40°. Here, the weaving angle refers to the angle between any two intersecting fibers in the braided body 11. It should be understood that different weaving processes and parameters will result in different appearance textures for the braided body 11. Next, the main structure 1 in this embodiment will be described in detail through a specific braided body structure.

[0064] Figure 4a A main structure 1 is shown, whose braid 11 is a 2.5D woven fabric, specifically a corner-interlocking braid. Combined with... Figure 4b As shown, according to the weaving method, the woven body 11 includes a first fiber body 111 and a second fiber body 112. At least one fiber in the first fiber body 111 and the second fiber body 112 is carbon fiber, and the other fibers may include colored fibers capable of displaying color, which can provide the main structure 1 with a colorful appearance. The first fiber body 111 extends in a serpentine pattern in a plane, while the second fiber body 112 extends along a straight direction perpendicular to the plane containing the first fiber body 111. Two adjacent first fiber bodies 111 can be seen with reference to the first fiber body 111a (shown by solid lines) and the first fiber body 111b (shown by dashed lines) in the diagram. In a direction perpendicular to the plane containing the first fiber body 111, the second fiber body 112 is interwoven within the gaps formed by the alternating weave of the first fiber bodies 111a and 111b. A coordinate system with a first direction X, a second direction Y, and a third direction Z is established as a reference. The second fiber body 112 extends along the third direction Z. The first fiber body 111 is parallel to the plane formed by the first direction X and the second direction Y. Adjacent first fiber bodies 111a and 111b extend in a serpentine manner and are interlaced with each other along the first direction X. The second fiber body 112 is inserted into the gaps formed by the weaving of the first fiber body 111. Finally, a 2.5D woven fabric with corner interlocking is obtained.

[0065] 3D braided structures are also known as three-dimensional braided structures. The fibers may be in three-dimensional four-dimensional, three-dimensional five-dimensional, three-dimensional six-dimensional, three-dimensional seven-dimensional, or other forms. Figure 5aThe braided structure 11 in the main structure 1 shown is a 3D woven fabric, specifically a three-phase orthogonal braid. Combined with... Figure 5b As shown, the braided structure 11 includes a first fiber body 111, a second fiber body 112, and a third fiber body 113. At least one fiber among the first fiber body 111, the second fiber body 112, and the third fiber body 113 is carbon fiber. (See also...) Figure 4a and Figure 4b The first fiber 111 extends along one straight line, and the second fiber 112 extends along another straight line. The extension directions of the first fiber 111 and the second fiber 112 are perpendicular to each other, forming an orthogonally woven pattern. The third fiber 113 extends in a serpentine pattern in a plane that is perpendicular to the first fiber 111 and parallel to the second fiber 112. The planes containing multiple third fibers 113 are parallel to each other. Two adjacent third fibers 113 can be seen with reference to the third fiber 113a (shown as a solid line) and the third fiber 113b (shown as a dashed line) in the figure. In the direction perpendicular to the plane containing the third fiber 113, the third fibers 113a and the third fiber 113b are interlaced within the gaps formed by the orthogonal weaving of the first fiber 111 and the second fiber 112. A coordinate system with a first direction X, a second direction Y, and a third direction Z is established as a reference. The first fiber 111 extends along the first direction X, the second fiber 112 extends along the third direction Z, the first fiber 111 and the second fiber 112 are orthogonally woven, and the third fiber 113 is parallel to the plane formed by the first direction X and the second direction Y and is serpentinely woven between the gaps of the orthogonal weaving of the first fiber 111 and the second fiber 112, and finally a 3D woven fabric with a three-phase orthogonal structure is obtained.

[0066] Figure 6a Another main structure 1 is shown, whose woven body 11 is a three-dimensional four-directional woven body 11. Combined with... Figure 6b As shown, the braided body 11 includes a first fiber body 111, a second fiber body 112, a third fiber body 113, and a fourth fiber body 114. At least one fiber among the first fiber body 111, second fiber body 112, third fiber body 113, and fourth fiber body 114 is carbon fiber. The first fiber body 111 extends along a second direction Y, and the second fiber body 112, third fiber body 113, and fourth fiber body 114 interweave around the first fiber body 111, ultimately forming a three-dimensional four-directional braided body.

[0067] It should be understood that, Figure 4b , Figure 5b as well as Figure 6bIn this illustration, the structure of the braided body 11 is merely an example. To demonstrate that the braided body 11 has a network structure, the polymer body 12 can fill the gaps in these network structures. The gaps in the braided body 11 are interconnected, therefore the structure of the polymer body 12 filling the gaps is continuous. The continuous polymer body 12 and the braided body 11 can form a continuous interlocking structure, realizing an integrated structure of the polymer body 12 and the braided body 11.

[0068] Combination Figure 4a , Figure 5a and Figure 6a The woven body 11 and the polymer body 12 have different appearances. The woven body 11 has a woven textured surface, while the polymer body 12 has a plastic feel. In the carbon fiber watch case, the volume ratio of the woven body 11 and the polymer body 12 has a certain influence on the overall appearance of the carbon fiber watch case. The embodiments of this application do not limit the volume ratio of the woven body 11 in the main structure 1, and the main structure 1 can be adjusted as needed. For example, in order to reflect a certain textured and high-end feel to the carbon fiber watch case, the volume ratio of the woven body 11 in the main structure 1 can be adjusted to 30%-60%. Specifically, the volume ratio of the woven body 11 in the main structure 1 can be 30%, 35%, 40%, 50%, or 60%. It should be understood that the higher the proportion of the woven body 11 in the main structure 1, the stronger the texture of the main structure 1. Among them, when the volume ratio of the woven body 11 in the main structure 1 is 40% or more, the plastic feel of the carbon fiber watch case basically disappears, and a more obvious texture is presented.

[0069] Combination Figure 4b , Figure 5b as well as Figure 6b The braided body 11 can be woven using different fibers. In addition to carbon fiber, the raw materials used to construct the braided body 11 can also include colored fibers with a colored appearance. These colored fibers can be woven together with the carbon fiber using a weaving process to form the braided body 11. Specifically, the colored fibers can be made of glass fiber, metal fiber, ceramic fiber, aramid fiber, basalt fiber, etc. The addition of colored fibers can change the color of the carbon fiber outer shell. Figure 4b , Figure 5b as well as Figure 6b It is known that different woven structures 11 have different texture structures, which can make the carbon fiber case present rich textures and color schemes.

[0070] In summary, the carbon fiber watch case provided in this application embodiment has a continuous interlocking structure formed by the carbon fiber braid 11 and the polymer body 12, which ensures that the carbon fiber watch case has high strength, sealing performance, and high reliability. Besides the continuous interlocking structure of the braid 11 and the polymer body 12, the carbon fiber watch case has no other supporting inner liner or bracket, achieving the goal of lightweight design. By adjusting the ratio of carbon fiber to color-coded limits in the braid 11 and the manufacturing method, the aesthetic appearance of the carbon fiber watch case can be improved to meet consumers' personalized needs. The addition of the conductive structure 2 allows the carbon fiber watch case to overcome the electromagnetic shielding characteristics of carbon fiber, meeting the communication requirements of smartwatches.

[0071] This application also provides a method for preparing a carbon fiber watch case, which can be used to prepare the aforementioned carbon fiber watch case. Based on the structure of the aforementioned carbon fiber watch case, as... Figure 7a and Figure 7b As shown, the preparation method may include the following steps:

[0072] S1: The raw material fibers are woven into a woven body using a weaving process; the woven body has a network structure and includes carbon fibers.

[0073] S2: Set a conductive structure;

[0074] S3: Infuse the braided fabric with polymer to form the main structure of the polymer and the braided fabric.

[0075] The order of steps S2 and S3 is not limited.

[0076] Combination Figure 4a , Figure 5a as well as Figure 6a As shown, the polymer body 12 at least fills the space within the network structure of the braided body 11 so that the braided body 11 and the conductive structure 2 form an integral structure. The main body structure 1 has an inner surface a1 and an outer surface a2, and the conductive structure 2 has a first contact located on the inner surface a1 and a second contact located on the outer surface a2. The conductive structure 2 can be disposed on the main body structure 1 in such a way that it is formed on the surface of the main body structure 1 (see reference). Figure 2b and Figure 2c The conductive structure 2 can also be disposed on the main structure 1 in a manner that penetrates both the inner surface a1 and the outer surface a2 (see reference). Figure 3a and Figure 3b As long as the conductive structure 2 and the braided body 11 can be integrated, it is acceptable. From the appearance, the braided body 11, the conductive structure 2, and the polymer body 12 are an integral structure. Without damaging the carbon fiber shell, the braided body 11, the conductive structure 2, and the polymer body 12 cannot be separated or peeled off.

[0077] Specifically, the raw material fibers may include fibers such as carbon fiber and glass fiber used to improve structural strength, and may also include colored fibers. The colored fibers may be any one or a combination of at least two of the following: quartz fiber, glass fiber, basalt fiber, aramid fiber, metal fiber, and ceramic fiber.

[0078] Reference Figure 4a , Figure 5a as well as Figure 6a The weaving process can be either machine weaving or braiding, specifically including but not limited to 2.5D machine weaving, 3D machine weaving, and 3D braiding. Different weaving processes can yield, but are not limited to, angular interlocking braids, three-dimensional orthogonal braids, and in-plane quasi-isotropic braids. In three-dimensional braids, fibers may exhibit three-dimensional four-dimensional, three-dimensional five-dimensional, three-dimensional six-dimensional, and three-dimensional seven-dimensional morphologies. The braid 11 has a woven texture. During the weaving process, the weaving angle can be adjusted to change the appearance texture of the braid 11, thereby altering the appearance of the main structure 1. This allows for adjustment and modification of the carbon fiber watch case's appearance to meet consumer preferences. The weaving angle during the weaving process can be selected within the range of 20°-40°.

[0079] When injecting polymer into the braided fabric to form the main structure, the braided fabric 11 is first placed in a closed mold, and liquid polymer 12 is injected into the mold through resin transfer molding. The liquid polymer 12 is injected into the gaps of the network structure of the braided fabric 11, filling the gaps completely. This allows the liquid polymer 12 to encapsulate the raw material fibers of the braided fabric 11, ensuring close contact between the polymer 12 and the raw material fibers. Then, the liquid polymer 12 is cured according to the curing process, forming a continuous and interlocking structure with the braided fabric 11, i.e., the main structure 1. The polymer 12 can be a thermosetting polymer (such as epoxy resin, acrylic resin, etc., which can be used alone or in combination), a thermoplastic polymer (such as polycarbonate, polyamide, etc., which can be used alone or in combination), or a combination of thermosetting polymer and thermoplastic polymer (such as a combination of epoxy resin and polycarbonate, or a combination of acrylic resin and polycarbonate, or polyamide, the number and type of materials in the combination are not limited).

[0080] exist Figure 7a In the preparation method shown, the conductive structure 2 is performed after the main structure 1 is formed. Combined with... Figure 8 As shown, step S2 above can be implemented in the following ways:

[0081] S21: A conductive structure is formed on the surface of the main structure.

[0082] Combination Figure 3a The conductive structure 2 is layered (or can be considered a thin film). Specifically, conductive materials can be formed onto the surface of the main structure 1 using methods such as water plating, spraying, or physical vapor deposition, ensuring a tight bond between the conductive structure 2 and the surface of the main structure 1, forming an integrated structure. Taking a metal plating layer as an example, the metal plating layer can be a single layer of metal (e.g., copper, gold), or multiple layers of metal (e.g., inner chromium + outer nickel, inner copper + outer nickel, inner chromium + middle nickel + outer gold). Taking a conductive ink film as an example, the dispersion medium in the conductive ink includes conductive materials such as metal powder, carbon nanotubes, and graphene. Before forming the conductive structure 2, the surface of the main structure 1 can be treated to improve the adhesion between the conductive structure 2 and the surface of the main structure 1, reducing the possibility of the conductive structure 2 peeling off from the surface of the main structure 1. This preparation method can tightly bond the conductive structure 2 to the surface of the main structure 1, while taking into account the compatibility between the polymer 12 and the conductive structure 2, thus broadening the range of materials that can be selected for the polymer 12 and the conductive structure 2, which is beneficial for the promotion of the technology.

[0083] It should be noted that the conductive structure 2 needs to extend to the inner surface a1 and the outer surface a2 of the main structure 1 in order to conduct the inner surface a1 and the outer surface a2 of the conductive structure 2.

[0084] exist Figure 7a In the preparation method shown, the conductive structure 2 is formed before the main structure 1. Combined with... Figure 9 As shown, step S2 above can be implemented in the following ways:

[0085] S22: Embed the conductive structure into the gaps of the braid.

[0086] by Figure 3a and Figure 3b Taking the structure as an example, the braided body 11 has a network structure, and the network structure has gaps. Figure 4b Taking the woven body 11 shown as an example, as Figure 10 As shown, the braided body 11 has a first surface b1 and a second surface b2, which are opposite to each other along the second direction Y. A conductive structure 2 is embedded in the gaps of the braided body 11, with one end of the conductive structure 2 exposed on the first surface b1 and the other end exposed on the second surface b2 (due to viewing angle limitations, ...). Figure 10 (Not shown in the image). The conductive structure 2 here can be made of polymer materials, metal materials, conductive ceramics, etc. Different materials can be selected for the conductive structure 2 according to different conductivity requirements.

[0087] After completing step S22, step S3 is carried out to inject polymer into the braid to form the main structure, and the conductive structure 2 penetrates the inner and outer surfaces of the main structure.

[0088] For example, Figure 10 The example structure is placed in a closed mold, and liquid polymer 12 is injected into the mold via resin transfer molding. The liquid polymer 12 is poured into the gaps of the network structure of the braided body 11, filling the gaps completely. The liquid polymer 12 also partially encapsulates the conductive structure 2. Then, the liquid polymer 12 is cured according to a curing process, allowing it to form a continuous, interlocking structure with the braided body 11, i.e., the main structure 1. Furthermore, the polymer 12 and the conductive structure 2 are tightly bonded. One end of the conductive structure 2 protrudes from the inner surface a1 of the main structure 1, and the other end protrudes from the outer surface a2 of the main structure 1, resulting in the following structure: Figure 11 The structure shown. Combined Figure 10 and Figure 11 The inner surface a1 of the main structure 1 corresponds to the first surface b1 of the braid 11, and the outer surface a2 of the main structure 1 corresponds to the second surface b2 of the braid 11. The polymer 12 is any one or a combination of two of thermosetting polymers and thermoplastic polymers.

[0089] In another embodiment, the conductive structure 2 is also implemented before the main structure 1 is formed. In the braided body 11 formed in step S1, the braided body 11 has through holes extending through it. For example... Figure 12 As shown, the braided body 11 has a through hole T. This through hole T is formed during the weaving process (the weaving structure of the braided body 11 is not shown here). The braided body 11 is configured to have a first surface b1 and a second surface b2, and the through hole T penetrates through the first surface b1 and the second surface b2 of the braided body 11. Figure 13 As shown, step S2 above can be implemented in the following ways:

[0090] S23: Cast conductive material into the through hole to form a conductive structure.

[0091] Combination Figure 12 As shown, a solid conductive structure 2 is obtained by injecting liquid conductive material (such as conductive adhesive, liquid conductive ceramic, etc.) into the through hole T with the aid of a template, followed by curing and imaging. Its structure can be referenced... Figure 14 As shown, the first surface b1 and the second surface b2 are opposite each other along the second direction Y. One end of the conductive structure 2 is exposed on the first surface b1, and the other end is exposed on the second surface b2. The conductive structure 2 here can be made of different materials depending on different conductivity requirements.

[0092] After completing step S22, proceed to step S3, which will... Figure 14 The illustrated structure is placed in a closed mold, and liquid polymer 12 is injected into the mold via resin transfer molding. The liquid polymer 12 fills the gaps in the network structure of the braided body 11, and also partially encapsulates the conductive structure 2. The liquid polymer 12 is then cured according to a curing process, allowing it to form a continuous, interlocking structure with the braided body 11, i.e., the main structure 1. Furthermore, the polymer 12 and the conductive structure 2 are tightly bonded. One end of the conductive structure 2 protrudes from the inner surface a1 of the main structure 1, and the other end protrudes from the outer surface a2 of the main structure 1. This structure can be referenced from [reference needed]. Figure 15 As shown. Combined with Figure 14 and Figure 15 The inner surface a1 of the main structure 1 is coplanar with the first surface b1 of the braid 11, and the outer surface a2 of the main structure is coplanar with the second surface b2 of the braid 11. The polymer 12 is any one or a combination of two of thermosetting polymers and thermoplastic polymers.

[0093] Figure 13 The fabrication process shown adopts a pre-reserved pore-casting encapsulation method to prepare carbon fiber shell. The conductive structure 2 is made of conductive adhesive, conductive ceramic and other materials. These materials have good compatibility with polymer 12. When performing resin transfer molding, polymer 12 has a wider range of material selection, which is conducive to the promotion and use of this technical solution.

[0094] The carbon fiber casing in this embodiment may be... Figure 2a The middle frame 101 in the middle frame may also be... Figure 2a The bottom shell 102 is part of the frame. The structures of the middle frame 101 and the bottom shell 102 are completely different. In the fabrication of the carbon fiber watch case, such as... Figure 16a As shown, during the preparation of the braided body 11, the raw material fibers can be directly woven into a pre-defined shape, which is adapted to the carbon fiber shell to be prepared. Then, a polymer 12 is injected into the braided body 11 and cured to form the main structure 1. When injecting the liquid polymer 12, the closing mold is also pre-defined to fit the shape of the braided body 11. After injecting the liquid polymer 12, the liquid polymer 12 can fill the network gaps of the braided body 11. After the polymer 12 cures, the main structure 1 is completed. Alternatively, as... Figure 16bAs shown, a woven matrix can be formed, which is simply a cube, sheet, or other similar structure. Then, the woven matrix is ​​shaped through bending, stamping, shearing, and other shaping methods to obtain the woven body 11, which has a pre-defined carbon fiber shell shape. Liquid polymer 12 is then injected into the woven body 11 and cured to obtain the main structure 1. The closed mold here is also pre-designed to fit the shape of the woven body 11. Alternatively, as... Figure 16c As shown, a braided matrix can be formed first, which is simply a cube, sheet, or other similar structure. Polymer 12 is then injected into the braided matrix and cured to form the main structural matrix. The main structural matrix is ​​then processed according to the shape of the carbon fiber casing using methods such as stamping and shearing to obtain the main structure 1. During the injection of polymer 12, the closed mold does not need to be perfectly matched to the pre-designed carbon fiber casing; it is sufficient that the polymer 12 can be injected into the gaps of the braided matrix 11. It is important to note that regardless of the method used, in the final carbon fiber casing, the conductive structure 2 must have a first contact point on the inner surface a1 and a second contact point on the outer surface a2 on the main structure 1.

[0095] In conjunction with the above embodiments, the polymer body 12 is filled into the network structure voids of the braided body 11, and can be prepared by resin transfer molding. The solid polymer body 12 and the braided body 11 can achieve continuous interlocking in structure. Both the braided body 11 and the polymer body 12 are three-dimensional network structures, and the structural interlocking of the braided body 11 and the polymer body 12 can avoid reliability problems such as breakage, peeling, delamination, and poor sealing of the carbon fiber shell. Moreover, using the above molding process, there is no need to introduce internal structures such as supports and fixing columns, which is beneficial to achieving lightweight carbon fiber shells.

[0096] The carbon fiber watch case provided in this application embodiment can be applied to smartwatches. For example... Figure 17a and Figure 17b As shown, the smartwatch includes a carbon fiber case 10, a screen assembly 20, and a watch body (not shown), with the watch body disposed within the space between the carbon fiber case 10 and the screen assembly 20. The carbon fiber case 10 may include a bottom case 102 and a mid-frame 101. The mid-frame 101 is annular, with opposing top and bottom openings. The screen assembly 20 is fastened to the top opening of the mid-frame 101, and the bottom case 102 is fastened to the bottom opening of the mid-frame 101, forming a receiving space between the screen assembly 20 and the bottom case 102 for placing the watch body. The carbon fiber case 10 has the advantages of being lightweight, high-strength, and well-sealed, and possesses a stylish appearance and aesthetic appeal.

[0097] like Figure 17bAs shown, the watch body is the main functional component of the smartwatch, featuring functions such as time display and information processing. To achieve electromagnetic signal transmission, the watch body includes a circuit board 301 and an antenna assembly 302 mounted on the circuit board 301. The watch body also has a spring clip 302 attached to the inner side of the mid-frame 101 (which can be considered the inner surface a1 of the main structure 1). The antenna assembly 302 and the spring clip 303 are connected via a trace 304. Here, the antenna assembly 302 is located inside the carbon fiber case 10. Since the mid-frame 101 and bottom case 102 are made of carbon fiber, they have electromagnetic signal shielding capabilities, preventing the antenna assembly 302 from transmitting electromagnetic signals to devices outside the carbon fiber case 10. The conductive structure 2 on the mid-frame 101 can contact the spring clip 303, thereby allowing the signal from the antenna assembly 302 to be output. The conductive structure 2 can be considered as the feed point of the antenna assembly 302. It should be understood that in the specific design and manufacturing of electronic devices, the position and number of the conductive structure 2 can be adjusted as needed, and are not limited here.

[0098] Further reference Figure 18 The top view of the smartwatch shown (screen assembly 20 is hidden) reveals two symmetrically arranged spring contacts 303 on the inner side of the mid-frame 101. Each spring contact 303 is connected to the antenna assembly 302 on the circuit board 301 via a trace 304. The smartwatch is then sectioned along the plane shown in MM to obtain... Figure 19 The diagram shown is a cross-sectional view of a smartwatch. Figure 20 shown Figure 19 In the enlarged view of section N, it can be seen that the antenna assembly 302 is mounted on the circuit board 301, the spring contact 303 is attached to the inner side of the middle frame 101 (equivalent to the inner surface a1 of the main structure 1), and the conductive structure 2 penetrates through the inner and outer sides of the middle frame 101. One end of the conductive structure 2 located on the inner side of the middle frame 101 (i.e., the first contact point) is in contact with the spring contact 303, and the other end of the conductive structure 2 (i.e., the second contact point) protrudes from the outer side of the middle frame 101. The conductive structure 2 is equivalent to a feed point of the antenna assembly 303. The antenna assembly 303 can receive externally transmitted electromagnetic signals through the conductive structure 2, and can also transmit electromagnetic signals from the chip 302 through the conductive structure 2 for external reception.

[0099] For ease of wearing, smartwatches can also be equipped with watch straps. For example... Figure 21 As shown, the carbon fiber case 10 of this smartwatch has two sets of connecting parts, each set having two symmetrically arranged end links 103. Each set of end links 103 is connected to a watch strap 40. The watch strap 40 can also be made of carbon fiber weaving to meet the bending requirements of wearing.

[0100] The above are merely specific embodiments of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A carbon fiber watch case, characterized in that, include: Main structure and conductive structure; The main structure has an inner surface and an outer surface, and the conductive structure has a first contact on the inner surface and a second contact on the outer surface to conduct electricity between the inner surface and the outer surface of the carbon fiber case. The main structure includes a braid and a polymer; the braid includes carbon fibers and has a network structure; the polymer fills at least the gaps in the network structure of the braid so that the braid and the conductive structure form an integral structure.

2. The carbon fiber watch case as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The conductive structure is embedded within the main body structure, with one end of the conductive structure protruding from the inner surface of the main body structure to form the first contact point, and the other end of the conductive structure protruding from the outer surface of the main body structure to form the second contact point.

3. The carbon fiber watch case as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The conductive structure is any one or a combination of at least two of the following: conductive metal, conductive adhesive, and conductive ceramic.

4. The carbon fiber watch case as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The conductive structure is formed on the surface of the main structure, and the conductive structure extends to the inner surface of the main structure to form the first contact point, and extends to the outer surface of the main structure to form the second contact point.

5. The carbon fiber watch case as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The conductive structure is any one or a combination of at least two of the following: a metal plating layer, a conductive ink layer, and a conductive deposition layer.

6. The carbon fiber watch case as described in any one of claims 1-5, characterized in that, The woven body is a three-dimensional woven body, which is woven using a three-dimensional woven process.

7. The carbon fiber watch case as described in any one of claims 1-6, characterized in that, The woven fabric also includes colored fibers.

8. The carbon fiber watch case as described in claim 7, characterized in that, The colored fiber is any one or a combination of at least two of the following: quartz fiber, glass fiber, basalt fiber, aramid fiber, metal fiber, and ceramic fiber.

9. The carbon fiber watch case as described in any one of claims 1-8, characterized in that, The woven fabric accounts for 30%-60% of the volume of the main structure.

10. The carbon fiber watch case as described in any one of claims 1-9, characterized in that, The weaving angle of the braided body is 20°-40°.

11. The carbon fiber watch case as described in any one of claims 1-10, characterized in that, The polymer is any one or a combination of two of thermosetting polymers and thermoplastic polymers.

12. A method for preparing a carbon fiber watch case, characterized in that, include: Raw material fibers are woven into a braided body using a weaving process; the braided body has a network structure and includes carbon fibers; Set a conductive structure; Injecting a polymer into the braided body to form a main structure with the braided body; The polymer body fills at least the space within the network structure of the braided body to form an integral structure between the braided body and the conductive structure; the main structure has an inner surface and an outer surface, and the conductive structure has a first contact point located on the inner surface and a second contact point located on the outer surface.

13. The preparation method according to claim 12, characterized in that, The conductive structure includes: The conductive structure is embedded in the gaps of the braid.

14. The preparation method according to claim 12, characterized in that, The braided body has a through hole that penetrates through it; The conductive structure includes: Conductive material is poured into the through hole to form the conductive structure.

15. The preparation method according to claim 12, characterized in that, The conductive structure includes: The conductive structure is formed on the surface of the main structure.

16. The preparation method according to claim 15, characterized in that, The fabrication process for forming a conductive structure on the surface of the main structure includes any one or a combination of at least two of water plating, spraying, and physical vapor deposition.

17. A smartwatch, characterized in that, The watch body and the carbon fiber watch case as described in any one of claims 1-11; The carbon fiber case has an installation space, and the watch body is disposed within the installation space; the watch body includes a circuit board and an antenna unit disposed on the circuit board, and the antenna unit is connected to the first contact of the conductive structure through a spring.

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