Electronic watch

Abstract

The present application provides an electronic watch, comprising: a bezel having a first region formed by discontinuously evaporating a metal material on a base material containing a resin material.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to electronic watches. Background Technology

[0002] As disclosed in JP Patent Application Publication No. 2018-72059, portable electronic devices (such as electronic watches) have been known in the past to have annular packaging members installed in the device housing that houses electronic components.

[0003] As an electronic component housed in a device housing, such as an antenna for GPS reception, if a component that blocks radio waves from the outside (such as a metal bezel or other packaging component) is placed on the outside of the antenna, it becomes difficult to receive radio waves.

[0004] Therefore, it is also considered to set up a metal packaging component, so that the packaging component itself can function as an antenna.

[0005] However, if the structure exposes the metal components, i.e., the antenna (antenna element), to the outside air as a packaging component (such as the bezel in the table), there are concerns about oxidation and corrosion. Furthermore, it is not preferable from the viewpoint of impact resistance.

[0006] Furthermore, when packaging components (such as the bezel in the table) function as antennas, the weight and size of the packaging components increase. For example, electronic devices such as electronic watches are envisioned for use when worn on the upper arm or other parts of the body. Therefore, to improve usability, miniaturization is generally preferred, and increased weight / larger size of packaging components is not desirable.

[0007] Therefore, the antenna is preferably miniaturized / lightweight as much as possible, and preferably configured to be housed inside an electronic device (such as an electronic watch).

[0008] However, if the antenna is housed inside an electronic device (such as an electronic watch), then as mentioned above, there is a constraint that makes it impossible to use metal bezels or other materials that shield radio waves in the packaging, which results in a design problem where it is difficult to present a high-end appearance. Summary of the Invention

[0009] An embodiment of the present invention relates to an electronic watch, characterized in that it comprises: a bezel having a first region formed by discontinuously depositing a metal material onto a substrate containing a resin material. Attached Figure Description

[0010] Figure 1 This is an exploded perspective view of the main parts of the table in the implementation method.

[0011] Figure 2 This is the main view of the table in the implementation method.

[0012] Figure 3 It is a cross-sectional view along line AA of the table in the embodiment.

[0013] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 Enlarged cross-sectional view of the main part of section IV.

[0014] Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view along the BB line of the table in the embodiment.

[0015] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 Enlarged cross-sectional view of the main part of section VI.

[0016] Figure 7A yes Figure 2 Enlarged 3D view of the main part of section VII. Figure 7B yes Figure 7A A schematic cross-sectional view along line CC.

[0017] Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional view of the main part of the state where the bezel is removed from the watch in the implementation method.

[0018] Figure 9 This is a top view of the solar panel in this embodiment.

[0019] Figure 10 This is a side view showing the main part of the structure of the connection between the solar panel and the circuit board in this embodiment.

[0020] Figure 11A This is a top view of the antenna in this embodiment. Figure 11B yes Figure 11A The diagram shows a three-dimensional view of the antenna. Figure 11C yes Figure 11A The antenna shown is a side view.

[0021] Figure 12A This is a top view showing the main parts of the fixed structure of the antenna inside the table in the embodiment. Figure 12B yes Figure 12A An enlarged view of part B in the image. Figure 12C yes Figure 12A An enlarged view of part C in the image.

[0022] Figure 13 This is an illustrative diagram illustrating the shortening of the antenna's wavelength.

[0023] Figure 14 This diagram shows the structure of the connection between the antenna and the circuit board in this embodiment. It is a side view of the main part obtained by taking a partial cross-section.

[0024] Figure 15A This is a perspective view of the antenna in this embodiment. Figure 15B This is a three-dimensional view of the antenna in Comparative Example 1. Figure 15C This is a three-dimensional view of the antenna in Comparative Example 2.

[0025] Figure 16 This is a top view showing the main parts of the internal structure of the table in the implementation method. Detailed Implementation

[0026] Reference Figures 1 to 16 This paper will describe one embodiment of the electronic watch according to the present invention. In this embodiment, the case where the electronic watch has an antenna will be illustrated.

[0027] Furthermore, in the embodiments described below, no technically preferred limitations are imposed for the purpose of implementing the present invention, and the scope of the present invention is not limited to the following embodiments and illustrated examples.

[0028] [structure]

[0029] Figure 1 This is an exploded perspective view of the main parts of the electronic watch (hereinafter simply referred to as "watch") as an electronic device in this embodiment. Figure 2 yes Figure 1 The main view of the table shown. Figure 3 It is along Figure 2 A schematic cross-sectional view of the main part of line AA. Figure 4 yes Figure 3 An enlarged view of section IV, enclosed by a dashed line. Furthermore, Figure 5 It is along Figure 2 A schematic cross-sectional view of the main part of the BB line. Figure 6 yes Figure 5 An enlarged view of section VI, which is surrounded by a dashed line.

[0030] like Figures 1 to 6 As shown, Table 100 in this embodiment has a device housing 1.

[0031] In this embodiment, the device housing 1 is formed into a hollow short column shape with openings at the top and bottom, and the hollow part inside constitutes a storage space for storing various components.

[0032] The device housing 1 is formed, for example, from a relatively rigid synthetic resin such as bioplastic, engineering plastic, or super engineering plastic. Furthermore, the material forming the device housing 1 is not limited to the materials exemplified herein, and more preferably, various resin materials with high relative permittivity, as described later.

[0033] On the outer side of the device housing 1 Figure 2A pair of watch strap mounting parts 11 (not shown) are provided at the top and bottom positions (12 o'clock and 6 o'clock positions in the analog watch) for mounting a watch strap. Figure 1 ).

[0034] In addition, in the device housing 1 Figure 2 The left and right sides of the device are equipped with various operation buttons 12 (press buttons, handles, etc.) for users to perform various input operations.

[0035] In addition, such as Figure 3 as well as Figure 5 As shown, the opening on the back side (the non-visually identifiable side in the table) of the device housing 1 is closed by the rear cover member 13. Alternatively, the rear cover member 13 may be integrally formed with the device housing 1.

[0036] A bezel 2, serving as a packaging component, is provided on the surface side of the device housing 1 (the visual identification side in the table) surrounding the opening. The bezel 2 is secured to the device housing 1, for example, by screws 8, with one end 224 and the other end 225.

[0037] The ring 2 is a generally annular component formed when the table 100 is viewed from the direction of visual recognition (hereinafter referred to as "first direction I"). The ring 2 has: a first region α having at least one surface having a surface obtained by discontinuously depositing metal onto a substrate containing resin material; and a second region β formed of resin material (without discontinuous metal deposition).

[0038] In this embodiment, the bezel 2 includes, for example, a first bezel 21 formed of a resin material such as polyurethane; and a second bezel 22 having at least one surface having a surface obtained by discontinuously vapor-depositing metal onto a substrate containing a resin material such as polyurethane. The portion of the second bezel 22 exposed on the surface (the surface on the visual recognition side) is called a first region α, and the portion of the second bezel 22 covered by the first bezel 21 and not appearing on the surface (the surface on the visual recognition side) is called a second region β.

[0039] Specifically, the first bezel 21 Figure 1 As shown, along the circumference of the bezel 2, at the 3 o'clock, 6 o'clock, 9 o'clock, and 12 o'clock positions on the simulated table, there are protruding portions 211 that are more prominent than the other parts (the main body 212 of the first bezel 21). The protruding portions 211 extend at least in the thickness direction of the table 100. Figure 3 The outer radial side of the bezel 2 is more prominent than the main body 212 (in the upward direction).

[0040] All or part of the protruding part 211 can be detached from the main body 212 of the first bezel 21.

[0041] In this embodiment, for example, the second bezel 22 is disposed on the main body 212 with all or part of the protruding portion 211 removed from the main body 212. Then, by attaching the removed protruding portion 211 to the main body 212, a bezel 2 is formed that integrates the second bezel 22 between the main body 212 and the protruding portion 211, thus sandwiching the first bezel 21.

[0042] By forming the bezel 2 with a resin material such as polyurethane, the bezel 2 can be made lightweight, and the degree of freedom in shape is increased compared to metal processing. In addition, by using the resin material bezel 2 as a packaging component of the watch 100, the impact resistance of the watch 100 is also improved compared to the case where the bezel 2 is formed with a metal material.

[0043] On the surface of the second bezel 22, a metal such as In (indium) is discontinuously vapor-deposited. Discontinuous vapor deposition here refers to the deposition of a non-conductive metal thin film on the resin surface, which is a decorative treatment to create spots (stripes) on the vapor deposition to give it a deep luster. By discontinuously vapor-depositing (thin film deposition) of indium, a metallic appearance is achieved, and space is created between the metal particles, for example, even in antenna 6 (see reference). Figure 1 The bezel 2, including the second bezel 22, positioned above the bezel (etc.) allows for unobstructed radio waves. A transparent film such as resin can be further formed on the discontinuously deposited metal layer, further enhancing its gloss and making it less prone to damage. Furthermore, In (indium) alloys can sometimes peel off upon impact or friction with objects. By forming a transparent film such as resin on the surface, even if the second bezel 22 comes into contact with surrounding objects during use, peeling of the discontinuously deposited In (indium) alloy metal layer can be prevented. This allows the aesthetically pleasing metallic appearance to be maintained for a longer period.

[0044] Furthermore, the metal that can be discontinuously vapor-deposited is not limited to In (indium); for example, various alloys such as Sn (tin) can be used.

[0045] The portion where the discontinuous vapor-deposited metallic layer is formed can be the entire surface of the second bezel 22, or only the portion that may be exposed on the outside.

[0046] The parts that might be exposed on the outside are the upper surface 221 and the side surface 222 of the second bezel 22. Furthermore, although discontinuous metal deposition can be performed on the entire upper surface 221 and side surface 222, even the portion of the upper surface 221 and side surface 222 of the second bezel 22 that is sandwiched between the main body 212 and the protruding portion 211 of the first bezel 21 will not be exposed externally in the assembled state. Therefore, discontinuous metal deposition can be omitted in such areas.

[0047] For example, Figure 3 As shown, along Figure 2 The cross-sectional portion of the AA line is the part that forms the second region β by covering the protruding forming portion 211 of the first bezel 21 on the second bezel 22. For example... Figure 3 as well as Figure 4 As shown, in the second region β, the protruding portion 211 of the first bezel 21 is positioned on the outside, as described above, so that the second bezel 22 is sandwiched between the main body 212 of the first bezel 21 and the protruding portion 211 and is not exposed externally. Therefore, in this part, discontinuous metal deposition may not be performed not only on the back surface 223 of the second bezel 22, but also on the upper surface 221 (surface) and the side surface 222.

[0048] In this way, by not performing discontinuous vapor deposition on areas that are not visually discernible, the amount of metal material used for vapor deposition can be saved. Furthermore, without performing discontinuous vapor deposition on areas that are not visually discernible (such as the back surface 223), the vapor deposition operation can be performed with the back surface 223 or the like facing downwards and the second bezel 22 positioned on the table, thus simplifying the operation process.

[0049] In contrast, Figure 5 As shown along Figure 2 The cross-section of the BB line is the part of the first region α exposed on the visual recognition side of the upper surface 221 (surface) and side surface 222 that form the second bezel 22.

[0050] The first region α and the second region β are arranged alternately along the circumference of the ring 2.

[0051] Specifically, such as Figure 2 As shown, in this embodiment, the protruding portions 211 constituting the second region β are arranged at approximately equal intervals along the circumference of the bezel 2, and the first region α is disposed between the protruding portions 211 constituting the second region β. Furthermore, the protruding portions 211 constituting the second region β are formed such that the height of their upper surfaces is higher than the height of the upper surface of the exposed portion of the second bezel 22, which constitutes the first region α. ​​Therefore, the exposed second bezel 22 can be protected from external impacts, etc., and damage to the metallic-looking portion can be prevented.

[0052] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the upper surface 221 and side surface 222 of the second bezel 22, which may be exposed to the outside, are subjected to V-groove processing (cutting mark processing (clip texture), hairline processing, etc.) to form grooves 22a in a concentric circle shape. As a result, even with discontinuous metal deposition, a more metallic texture can be achieved.

[0053] Figure 7A yes Figure 2 The enlarged view of part VII, enclosed by a dotted line, is... Figure 7A A cross-sectional view at the CC line. Additionally, Figure 7B It is a schematic diagram illustrating the cross-sectional state at the CC line. The shape, number, and depth of the groove 22a are not accurately shown.

[0054] If V-grooving is performed on bezel 2 (second bezel 22), the radial cross-section of bezel 2 will become uneven, reducing its aesthetic appeal and tactile feel. Therefore, in this embodiment, as... Figure 7A as well as Figure 7B As shown, a thickened edge 225 is provided around the cross-section to prevent the cross-section of the portion where the V-groove machining is performed (such as the side surface 222 where the groove 22a is formed) from being exposed externally, thus preventing unevenness in the cross-section. The method of forming the V-groove of the groove 22a and the method of forming the edge 225 are not particularly limited. For example, it is advisable to use a mold with a shape corresponding to the groove 22a and the edge 225 for molding.

[0055] In addition, Figure 7B The example shown illustrates a case where the edge 225 is thickened to a height that conceals half of the V-groove of the groove 22a; however, the height of the edge 225 is not limited to this. For example, it can be thickened to a height that conceals the entire cross-section of the V-groove.

[0056] Furthermore, the second bezel 22 is composed of a first component 22A positioned at the 3 o'clock position in the analog bezel and a second component 22B positioned at the 9 o'clock position.

[0057] Furthermore, in this embodiment, although as Figure 1 The second bezel 22 is divided into two components, but the second bezel 22 only needs to be able to fit between the main body 212 and the protruding part 211 of the first bezel 21. Alternatively, it can be set to be positioned from the first direction I (refer to...). Figure 1 , Figure 3 When observed, it is a generally ring-shaped, C-shaped, U-shaped, or other integral component. Furthermore, the second ring 22 can be further subdivided into 4 sections, etc.

[0058] Furthermore, the location of the protruding portions 211 is not limited to the location illustrated here, but in order to reliably protect the exposed portion (first region α) of the second bezel 22 with its metallic appearance, it is preferable to arrange them at approximately equal intervals along the circumference. The protruding portions 211 can be distributed at multiple locations along the circumference of the bezel 2, for example, at three locations. Furthermore, the protruding portions 211 do not necessarily need to be detachable from the main body 212. Moreover, the protruding portions 211 are not individually detachable but are connected so that they can be detached from the main body 212 at once.

[0059] In addition, in this embodiment, the bezel 2 has a first bezel 21 that is not discontinuously deposited with metal, in addition to the second bezel 22 which has a metallic appearance. The exposed portion (first region α) of the part with a metallic appearance is protected by the first bezel 21. However, as long as the structure can be designed to improve the adhesion of the discontinuously deposited metal layer such as In alloy, making it difficult for peeling to occur, the bezel 2 can be designed to not have the first bezel 21.

[0060] In this embodiment, since the bezel 2, which surrounds the opening on the surface side of the device housing 1, is formed of a resin material 2 such as polyurethane, the bezel 2 absorbs the impact even when subjected to external impact, and can effectively prevent damage to the device housing 1, the watch movement housed inside it (such as the circuit board 5, the liquid crystal panel assembly 7, various motors not shown, etc., described later).

[0061] In addition, in this embodiment, the component constituting the second region β (the first bezel 21 with a protruding forming portion 211) and the component constituting the first region α (the second bezel 22 with a metallic finish applied at least in the exposed portion) are shown as different components. However, it is also possible to form the bezel having the second region β and the first region α as a single piece, and to address the metallic finish portion by partially applying the finish.

[0062] Furthermore, the opening on the surface side (visual identification side in the table) of the equipment housing 1 is closed by a windproof member 3. The windproof member 3 is a transparent member made of, for example, glass or transparent resin. The windproof member 3 is preferably installed on the equipment housing 1 through a resin waterproof ring or the like. This ensures the waterproofness (airtightness) of the equipment housing 1.

[0063] Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional view of the table with bezel 2 removed.

[0064] In this embodiment, such as Figure 8 As shown, the solar panel 4 is attached to the back side of the windproof component 3 (i.e., the side disposed inside the equipment housing 1).

[0065] The solar panel 4 is a solar cell that generates electricity by receiving light. The electricity generated by the solar panel 4 is stored in a secondary battery housed in the device housing 1, becoming the power source for each part of Table 100.

[0066] In this embodiment, along the first direction I (a direction approximately orthogonal to the surface of the circuit board 5), the solar panel 4, the antenna 6 (described later), and the circuit board 5 are sequentially arranged in the thickness direction (first direction I) of Table 100. When viewed from above in the first direction I, the solar panel 4 is located at least partially overlapping with the antenna 6.

[0067] Figure 9 This is a top view of the solar panel in this embodiment.

[0068] like Figure 9 As shown, the solar panel 4 of this embodiment, when viewed from a top view in the first direction I, is formed as a hollow ring-shaped panel having at least an outer periphery 40a and an inner periphery 40b.

[0069] In this embodiment, dividing lines 44 are arranged at approximately equal intervals radially along the circular solar panel 4, dividing the solar panel 4 into a plurality of approximately fan-shaped units 43 by these dividing lines 44. In the example shown, the solar panel 4 is divided into eight units 43, but the number of units 43 is not particularly limited. Furthermore, the plurality of units 43 constituting the solar panel 4 are connected in series, and as described later, they are connected to the circuit board 5 (see reference 5) at the contact portion 45. Figure 8 , Figure 10 (etc.) connection.

[0070] Figure 10 This is an explanatory diagram illustrating the connection between the solar panel and the circuit board.

[0071] like Figure 10 As shown, the solar panel 4 and the circuit board 5 are connected by providing at least one substrate-panel contact member 46 (panel contact member) between the contact portion 45 of the solar panel 4 and the solar panel connection terminal (pad) (not shown) of the circuit board 5. In this embodiment, two substrate-panel contact members 46 are provided as shown in the figure.

[0072] The substrate-panel contact member 46 is, for example, a helical spring, with both ends electrically connected to the solar panel 4 and the circuit board 5, respectively.

[0073] like Figure 8 As shown, in this embodiment, an antenna 6 is disposed between the solar panel 4 and the circuit board 5, and the board-panel contact member 46 is configured to overlap with the solar panel 4, the antenna 6, and the circuit board 5 when viewed from the first direction I.

[0074] Specifically, such as Figure 10As shown schematically, a through-hole 15 is formed in the device housing 1 corresponding to the location where the substrate-panel contact member 46 is disposed. The substrate-panel contact member 46 is positioned by being inserted into this hole 15, and its posture is maintained so that each end contacts the solar panel 4 and the circuit board 5. Furthermore, as described later, a cutout 67 is formed in the antenna 6, avoiding the location where the substrate-panel contact member 46 is disposed.

[0075] In this embodiment, antenna 6 is, for example, a GPS antenna capable of receiving GNSS (GPS / GLONASS / QZSS / SBAS) signals transmitted from GPS or other satellites (in addition to GPS, it includes multiple types such as GLONASS, but hereinafter it is simply referred to as "GPS") satellites.

[0076] GPS satellites are equipped with atomic clocks and transmit data containing time information based on these atomic clocks. By receiving GNSS (GPS) signals transmitted from GPS satellites via antenna 6, extremely high-precision time information can be obtained at any receiving location on the ground.

[0077] In addition, the GPS antenna that receives GNSS (GPS) signals, namely antenna 6, needs to correspond to the right-hand circularly polarized wave in the circularly polarized wave.

[0078] Furthermore, GPS satellites transmit GNSS (GPS) signals at frequencies such as the L1 band (around 1.6 GHz) and the L5 band (around 1.2 GHz). Therefore, in GPS antennas that receive GNSS (GPS) signals, the desired frequency bands are the L1 and L5 bands, and in antenna 6, it is desirable for the antenna performance (especially the antenna gain corresponding to right-hand polarized waves) to be high in these frequency bands.

[0079] Figure 11A This is a top view of the antenna of this embodiment as viewed from the first direction. Figure 11B It is a 3D diagram of the antenna. Figure 11C This is a side view of the antenna when viewed from a second direction different from the first direction.

[0080] like Figure 11AAs shown, the antenna 6 (the antenna element portion of the antenna 6) is formed into a ring shape with at least an outer periphery 60a and an inner periphery 60b when viewed from the first direction I. The material of the antenna 6 is not particularly limited, but as a metallic material used to form a high-frequency antenna element, a lower volume resistivity is preferred. Furthermore, considering the mounting of a geomagnetic sensor in electronic devices such as Table 100 (electronic watches, etc.), a non-magnetic material is more preferred, taking into account its impact on geomagnetic measurements. From this perspective, phosphor bronze is preferably used as the material for the antenna 6 (the antenna element portion of the antenna 6). The antenna function is achieved by flowing a high-frequency current through the ring-shaped antenna 6 (the antenna element portion of the antenna 6) and the circuit board 5 (GND board).

[0081] like Figures 11A to 11C As shown, the antenna 6 (the antenna element portion of the antenna 6) of this embodiment has: a top surface portion 61 that is visually identifiable when viewed from above in a first direction I; and a side surface portion 62 that is connected to at least a portion of the top surface portion 61 and extends along the first direction I. In the side surface portion 62, at least a portion extends substantially from the outer periphery of the top surface portion 61 in the first direction I, and the main surface is visually identifiable from a second direction II (in this embodiment, the second direction II is a direction from the side portion of Table 100 that is substantially orthogonal to the first direction I) different from the first direction I. Specifically, the antenna 6 includes: an annular top surface portion 61; and a side surface portion 62 that extends vertically from the outer periphery of the top surface portion 61 and is visually identifiable from a second direction II (in this embodiment, the second direction II is a direction from the side portion of Table 100 that is substantially orthogonal to the first direction I) different from the first direction I.

[0082] From the viewpoint of radio wave radiation, the larger the surface area of ​​antenna 6 (the surface area of ​​the antenna element of antenna 6), the more advantageous it is.

[0083] In this respect, as in this embodiment, by including a top portion 61 and a side portion 62 in the antenna 6, compared to the case of only a flat portion on the top surface (top portion 61) or only a ring (side portion 62), the overall diameter of the antenna 6 can be increased to ensure the surface area, which is preferred from the point of view of radio wave radiation.

[0084] Furthermore, as will be described later, a circuit board 5 is disposed below the antenna 6. If the antenna 6 (the antenna element portion of the antenna 6) is disposed parallel to the circuit board 5, capacitive coupling is likely to occur, which will have a negative impact on radio wave radiation. In this regard, since the side portion 62 is disposed in a state that is approximately orthogonal to the circuit board 5, capacitive coupling is difficult to occur. Therefore, it is possible to obtain the surface area of ​​the antenna 6 (the antenna element portion of the antenna 6) while avoiding capacitive coupling as much as possible.

[0085] However, on the other hand, the length of the inner diameter side (circumference) of antenna 6 (the antenna element part of antenna 6) is shorter when the top part 61 is included compared to the case where only the side part 62 is included (i.e., the inner diameter is smaller). Therefore, it becomes the direction in which the electrical distance (electrical length) is shortened.

[0086] The resonant frequency of antenna 6 has a property that is inversely proportional to the size and length (length of the inner diameter side, length of the circumference) of antenna 6 (the antenna element part of antenna 6). If the electrical length is shortened, the frequencies that are easy to receive and easy to radiate by antenna 6 tend to become higher than the desired frequency bands that are desired to be received by antenna 6 in this embodiment (i.e., as mentioned above, the L1 band (around 1.6 GHz), L5 band (around 1.2 GHz), etc., for transmitting GNSS (GPS) signals).

[0087] Therefore, in this embodiment, the following structure is adopted: by making the shape of the element on the inner diameter side of the antenna 6 not a perfect circle but an irregular shape, the length of the inner diameter side of the antenna 6 (the antenna element (antenna element part) of the antenna 6) is obtained, thereby increasing the electrical length. Specifically, the distance of the inner periphery 60b from the approximate center of the ring (denoted as "ring center cp") when viewed from the first direction I becomes uneven depending on the circumferential position.

[0088] Specifically, the antenna 6 in this embodiment is as follows: Figure 11A As shown, it has: at least one locking portion 63 disposed on the inner periphery 60b; and a protruding edge 65 protruding further inward from the inner periphery 60b than the locking portion 63.

[0089] like Figure 8 As shown, the LCD panel assembly 7 constituting the display section of the table is housed in the device housing 1 of Table 100. The shape of the inner diameter side of the antenna 6 is based on the shape of the glass of the LCD panel assembly 7 (in addition, the position of the inner diameter side edge in this basic shape is set as the "reference position").

[0090] Thus, the basic shape of the inner diameter side of antenna 6 (the antenna element (antenna feature) portion of antenna 6) becomes as follows: it matches the shape of the glass of the liquid crystal panel assembly 7, and extends inward ( Figure 11A The area is maximized by maximizing the area of ​​the annular center (cp side).

[0091] A "first cutout 64" is provided in the inner periphery 60b of the antenna 6, which is cut away from the annular center cp relative to the "reference position". A locking part 63 is provided in the "first cutout 64" (e.g., the edge of the "first cutout 64" on the depth side).

[0092] The protruding edge 65 is positioned inwards by placing the locking part 63 within the "first cutout 64". Figure 11A The protruding part of the annular center (cp side).

[0093] The protruding edge 65 may stop at the same position as the "reference position" along the glass shape of the liquid crystal panel assembly 7, or it may protrude inward to a direction closer to the annular center cp than the "reference position".

[0094] Figure 11A The distance d1 from the annular center cp to the protruding edge 65 (e.g., the shortest distance from the annular center cp) is shorter than the distance d2 from the annular center cp to the edge on the depth side of the first cut 64.

[0095] In this way, by providing a first cutout 64 and a protruding edge 65 on the inner periphery 60b to create a concave-convex shape at different distances from the annular center cp, the length of the inner diameter side of the antenna 6 (the antenna element part of the antenna 6) can be obtained, thereby increasing the electrical length. Thus, while reducing the diameter of the antenna 6 as a whole to achieve miniaturization, it is also possible to construct an antenna 6 that is easy to receive radio waves in the desired frequency band.

[0096] The locking part 63, located on the inner periphery 60b of the antenna 6, locks the antenna 6 to the device housing 1.

[0097] like Figures 11A to 11C As shown, in this embodiment, the locking portion 63 is disposed at position 3 with a circumferential gap along the inner periphery 60b of the antenna 6 (the antenna element (antenna element) portion of the antenna 6).

[0098] like Figure 11B As shown in the figure, the locking portion 63 is a tongue formed by bending the end of the first cut portion 64 formed on the top portion 61 downward in the first direction I, and a locking hole 63a is formed thereon. With the size of the locking portion 63 and the locking hole 63a, it is also desirable to obtain the length of the inner diameter side of the antenna 6, thereby increasing the electrical length.

[0099] Figure 12A This is a top view, taken from a first direction, showing the antenna of this embodiment assembled inside the device housing. Figure 12B It is Figure 12A A magnified 3D view of the main part of section B, which is enclosed by a dotted line. Figure 12C It is Figure 12A A magnified 3D view of the main part of section C, which is surrounded by a dotted line.

[0100] like Figure 12A as well as Figure 12BAs shown, the device housing 1 has a locking portion at a position extending inward from the device housing 1 and corresponding to the locking portion 63 of the antenna 6. By setting the locking portion at the position extending inward from the device housing 1, at least the wall thickness of the device housing 1 can be obtained in this part, thus maintaining the strength of the device housing 1.

[0101] In this embodiment, the locking portion of the device housing 1 includes: a recess 16 for receiving a tongue-shaped locking portion 63; and a locking claw 17 protruding from the recess 16, which locks into the locking hole 63a of the locking portion 63 when the locking portion 63 is inserted into the recess 16. The locking claw 17 has some springiness and is configured such that the antenna 6 is positioned above the device housing 1 (above in the first direction I), and it bends slightly when the locking portion 63 is inserted into the recess 16 to avoid the inserted locking portion 63, and is not easily pulled out when embedded in the locking hole 63a.

[0102] The antenna 6 is fixed to the device housing 1 by engaging the locking part on the device housing 1 side and the locking part 63 on the antenna 6. However, the structure of the locking part 63 on the antenna 6 and the locking part on the device housing 1 side is not limited to the structure shown here.

[0103] Furthermore, as mentioned above, such as Figure 10 , Figure 12A as well as Figure 12C As shown, the portion of the substrate-panel contact member 46 that connects the solar panel 4 and the circuit board 5 within the device housing 1 forms a through hole 15. In this embodiment, two substrate-panel contact members 46 are provided, and correspondingly, two holes 15 are provided on the device housing 1 side.

[0104] Furthermore, in the portion where the hole 15 is formed, a cutout 67 is formed in a part of the inner periphery 60b of the antenna 6, avoiding the area where the substrate-panel contact member 46 is disposed. This cutout 67 also has irregularities formed in the inner periphery 60b of the antenna 6, and has the function of obtaining the length of the inner diameter side of the antenna 6 (the antenna element (antenna element part) of the antenna 6) to increase the electrical length.

[0105] Furthermore, as mentioned above, in this embodiment, the antenna 6 is miniaturized in order to house it within the device housing 1. However, if miniaturization results in a configuration where the antenna 6 and the substrate-panel contact member 46 are easily accessible, electrical coupling can easily occur between the members, leading to a problem where losses occur due to the resistive components (antenna gain decreases).

[0106] In this embodiment, to avoid the location where the substrate-panel contact member 46 is disposed, a cutout 67 is formed in the antenna 6, and the substrate-panel contact member 46, which serves as a helical spring, is disposed at the location where the cutout 67 is provided to connect the solar panel 4 and the circuit board 5. As a result, electrical coupling between the components can be suppressed, and losses (reduction in antenna gain) due to each resistive component can be suppressed.

[0107] In addition, by forming a loop from the solar panel 4 to the circuit board 5 (the solar panel connection terminal of the circuit board 5) via a substrate-panel contact member 46 and from the circuit board 5 to the solar panel 4 via another substrate-panel contact member 46, electrical coupling can easily occur. However, by forming a cutout 67 in the antenna 6, avoiding the location where the substrate-panel contact member 46 is arranged, and arranging the substrate-panel contact member 46 as a helical spring in this part to connect the solar panel 4 and the circuit board 5, coupling caused by such a loop can also be suppressed.

[0108] In addition, such as Figure 12A As shown, in the device housing 1, at a position corresponding to the side portion 62 when the antenna 6 (the antenna element portion of the antenna 6) is disposed inside the device housing 1, at least a groove 14 for receiving (accommodating) the side portion 62 is formed. As a result, at least a portion of the side portion 62 (i.e., at least a portion of the inner surface, the outer surface, and the bottom surface of the side portion 62) is in contact with the device housing 1.

[0109] In this embodiment, the slot 14 is shaped approximately along the side portion 62 of the antenna 6. If the side portion 62 of the antenna 6 is embedded in the slot 14, the slot 14 of the device housing 1 and the side portion 62 of the antenna 6 will be in close contact (tightly attached).

[0110] If the antenna 6 (the antenna element part of the antenna 6) is miniaturized, the electrical distance (electrical length) will become shorter (smaller), thereby weakening the radiation effect of the antenna 6 and causing the antenna 6 to fail to function properly. This can be addressed by embedding the side portion 62 of the antenna 6 into the slot 14 of the device housing 1, making the antenna 6 and the resin-made device housing 1, which serves as the dielectric, in close contact (tightly adhered), thereby suppressing the reduction in the radiation effect of the antenna 6.

[0111] In addition, generally speaking, the more the length and size of an antenna match the frequency and wavelength of the radio waves, the better its efficiency (the better the antenna performance).

[0112] However, as mentioned above, if the size and length of the antenna 6 (the antenna element part of the antenna 6) are reduced in order to house it inside the device housing 1, the electrical distance (electrical length) will become shorter, and the frequency that is easy to receive and easy to radiate with the antenna 6 will become higher than the desired frequency band (i.e., the L1 band (around 1.6 GHz), L5 band (around 1.2 GHz), etc., for transmitting GNSS (GPS) signals as mentioned above).

[0113] This was confirmed when antenna 6 (the antenna element of antenna 6) was in the air and when it was surrounded by a dielectric material such as resin. It was found that when surrounded by a dielectric material, the wavelength of the radio wave became shorter according to its relative permittivity.

[0114] That is, such as Figure 13 As shown in the diagram, the "wavelength shortening" effect can be seen in the dielectric, where the length of the original one-cycle length (the length of 1 wavelength) of the wavelength itself is shortened.

[0115] The device housing 1 in this embodiment is a shell formed of resin material. More specifically, it is preferable to use a resin shell in which a substance is incorporated into a portion of the material to increase the relative permittivity.

[0116] Therefore, if the antenna 6 (the antenna element part of the antenna 6) is made as close as possible to the device housing 1, the effect of "wavelength reduction of radio waves" can be effectively obtained, and even if the antenna 6 (the antenna element part of the antenna 6) is miniaturized, it can resonate in a low frequency band (the desired frequency bands such as the L1 band and L5 band mentioned above).

[0117] Therefore, the shape (width, depth, etc.) of the slot 14 of the device housing 1 is preferably matched as closely as possible to the shape of the side portion 62 of the antenna 6, so that the antenna 6 (the antenna element part of the antenna 6) and the device housing 1 are in close contact (tightly attached) by inserting the side portion 62 into the slot 14. That is, when the side portion 62 is inserted into the slot 14, the inner side, outer side, and lower end face of the side portion 62 are preferably in proper contact with the inner side of the slot 14.

[0118] Furthermore, if the antenna 6 is disposed inside the device housing 1, then at least a portion of the lower surface of the top part 61 will also be in contact with the device housing 1. Here, by matching the depth of the slot 14 with the height of the side part 62, if the side part 62 is embedded in the slot 14, the top part 61 will also be disposed in contact with the upper surface of the device housing 1 without floating up. In this way, the effect of "wavelength reduction of radio waves" can also be obtained.

[0119] Furthermore, for the same reason, it is preferable that the aforementioned locking portion 63 and the locking portion of the device housing 1 are also made to be in close contact (tightly attached) with as little gap as possible.

[0120] Furthermore, if these structures are adopted such that the antenna 6 (the antenna element part of the antenna 6) is in close contact with the device housing 1, then based on the multiplicative effect of the antenna 6 and the device housing 1 as a dielectric, it is also expected that the reduction in the radiation effect of the antenna 6 can be suppressed.

[0121] Furthermore, regarding the method of filling the area around the antenna 6 with a dielectric (resin material), even if the antenna 6 (the antenna element (antenna element part) of the antenna 6) is miniaturized, it can resonate in a low frequency band. Based on this viewpoint, for example, it is preferable to also place a dielectric such as resin material on the lower surface side of the windproof member 3 (the back side, the side facing the inside of the device housing 1, and the side on which the solar panel 4 is attached in this embodiment) so as to fill the gap between it and the antenna 6 (the antenna element (antenna element part) of the antenna 6).

[0122] By filling the gaps around the antenna 6 with a dielectric (resin material), a further wavelength reduction effect can be expected, and the antenna performance in low frequency bands (desired bands such as L1 band and L5 band) can be improved when using a small antenna 6.

[0123] In addition, the antenna 6 (the antenna element part of the antenna 6) is connected to the circuit board 5 via the substrate-antenna contact member 56 (antenna contact member).

[0124] Figure 14 This is a schematic side view of the main part showing the connection between the antenna and the circuit board.

[0125] The substrate-antenna contact member 56 is, for example, a helical spring or a spring pin with a spring inside. One end of the substrate-antenna contact member 56 is pressed against the top surface 61 of the antenna 6 (the antenna element part of the antenna 6), and the other end is in contact with the GPS circuit (not shown) of the circuit board 5.

[0126] By bearing the substrate-antenna contact member 56 for connection with the circuit board 5 on the top surface 61 of the antenna 6, the connection between the antenna 6 and the circuit board 5 can be set as a contact in the thickness direction (vertical direction) of the table 100, which can sufficiently ensure the contact pressure at the contact portion of the antenna 6 and the circuit board 5.

[0127] Furthermore, the substrate-antenna contact member 56 connecting the antenna 6 to the circuit board 5 can be one or more, or three or more. Figure 14In the example diagram, the case where the substrate-antenna contact member 56 is provided at location 2 is illustrated.

[0128] Furthermore, at the location where the substrate-antenna contact member 56 containing the spring collidees, the top surface 61 of the antenna 6 may be pushed upward by the substrate-antenna contact member 56. Therefore, as Figure 12A As shown, the preferred position of the substrate-antenna contact member 56 is near the locking position of the locking part 63 that locks the antenna 6 and the device housing 1.

[0129] Furthermore, it can also be confirmed that if the shape of antenna 6 (the antenna element part of antenna 6) is changed, the gain (gain characteristics) of antenna 6 will change.

[0130] Figures 15A to 15C In the context of antenna 6 (the antenna element part of antenna 6), with the 3-9 o'clock direction set as the x-axis and the 6-12 o'clock direction set as the y-axis, the position approximately between the 9 o'clock and 12 o'clock positions (i.e., such as...) Figure 11A As shown, when the power supply point is envisioned at approximately 45 degrees between the x-axis and y-axis, for example, when the y-axis side of antenna 6 (the antenna element (antenna element part) of antenna 6) is removed, the gain (gain characteristics) of antenna 6 varies depending on the degree of removal.

[0131] For example in Figure 15A In this process, a portion of the side portion 62 on the 12 o'clock side of the y-axis of the antenna 6 is removed to form a cutout portion 601, and a portion of the side portion 62 on the 6 o'clock side is removed to form a cutout portion 602. Furthermore, the cutout portions 601 and 602 formed on the side portion 62 are designated as "third cutout portions".

[0132] In contrast, Figure 15B In this process, a portion of the side portion 62 on the 12 o'clock side of the y-axis of antenna 6 is removed to form a cutout portion 601, while the side portion 62 not on the 6 o'clock side also has a cutout portion. Figure 15B The antenna (antenna element) shown is designated as "Comparative Example 1".

[0133] In addition, for example in Figure 15C In this process, a portion of the side portion 62 on the 6 o'clock side of the y-axis of the antenna 6 is removed to form a cutout portion 602 (third cutout portion), and a portion of the top portion 61 on the 12 o'clock side is removed to form a cutout portion 603. Furthermore, the cutout portion 603 formed on the top portion 61 is designated as the "second cutout portion". Figure 15C The antenna (antenna element) shown is designated as "Comparative Example 2".

[0134] In this embodiment, cutouts 601 and 602, serving as "third cutouts," are formed on the side portion 62 at the 12 o'clock position and the side portion 62 at the 6 o'clock position on the y-axis of the antenna 6. Figure 15A Antenna 6, as shown in the diagram.

[0135] In the case where only a portion of the side portion 62 at the 6 o'clock position in the y-axis direction of the antenna 6 (the antenna element (antenna element part) of the antenna 6) is cut to form a cut-out portion 601, ( Figure 15B In the case of the antenna shape shown, cutouts 601 and 602 are formed by cutting a portion of the side portion 62 at the 6 o'clock and 12 o'clock positions along the y-axis of the antenna 6 (the antenna element portion of the antenna 6). Figure 15A Compared to the antenna shape shown in the embodiment, the antenna gain is reduced in both the L5 and L1 bands (average value).

[0136] Furthermore, in the case where a portion of the side portion 62 at the 6 o'clock position in the y-axis direction of the antenna 6 (the antenna element (antenna element part) of the antenna 6) is cut to form a cutout portion 601, and a portion of the top portion 61 at the 12 o'clock position in the y-axis direction is cut to form a cutout portion 603 ( Figure 15C In the case of the antenna shape shown, with Figure 15A Compared to the antenna shape of the illustrated embodiment, there is almost no difference in the L5 band, but in the L1 band (average), compared to... Figure 15B Compared to the previous situation, the antenna gain is reduced.

[0137] In this way, by making the shape of antenna 6 (the antenna element part of antenna 6) not a perfect circle, but by cutting off and shortening the end on the x-axis side, or increasing the end on the y-axis side, or changing the amount of metal (metal volume) at a position of ±45 degrees relative to the power supply point (power supply position), it is possible to adjust it to obtain the right gain for the desired frequency band of radio waves.

[0138] Furthermore, the extent to which a change in a particular part can achieve better gain relative to the desired frequency band can be adjusted by various surrounding conditions, such as what kind of metal parts are arranged around the antenna 6 (the antenna element part of the antenna 6).

[0139] In addition, the amount of metal (metal volume) of antenna 6 can be adjusted not only by providing a cutout in at least a part of antenna 6 (antenna element part of antenna 6), but also by providing a cavity.

[0140] Furthermore, the gain of the antenna 6 is affected by various conditions such as the metal parts arranged around the antenna 6. As described above, a substrate-panel contact member 46 (coil spring) is arranged in the part corresponding to the cutout 67 formed in the inner periphery 60b of the antenna 6 to connect the solar panel 4 to the circuit board 5.

[0141] The shape and structure of the substrate-panel contact member 46 are not particularly limited, but the structure of the substrate-panel contact member 46 will affect the gain of the antenna 6. Specifically, the gain of the antenna 6 is set based on any one of the wire diameter, effective number of turns, and length of the telescopic portion of the helical spring (substrate-panel contact member 46).

[0142] That is, if the inductance (calculated inductance) of the helical spring (spring) that serves as the substrate-panel contact member 46 is increased, it can be confirmed that the gain of the antenna 6 is improved.

[0143] Therefore, in this embodiment, the inductance of the helical spring (spring) as the substrate-panel contact member 46 is increased as much as possible in the design of the specifications (shape, etc.) of the helical spring (spring).

[0144] Generally, when the effective number of turns [N] and the length of the extension section [mm] of a helical spring are the same, the smaller the wire diameter [mm] of the spring, the smaller the calculated value of the inductance (calculated value L). Using this characteristic, it can be seen that if the calculated value of the inductance (calculated value L) decreases, the antenna gain of the right-handed polarized wave in the L5 band, used as a GPS antenna, will decrease, and the antenna gain of the right-handed polarized wave in the L1 band (average value), used as a GPS antenna, will also decrease.

[0145] Accordingly, it can be confirmed that if the calculated value (L calculated value) of the inductance of the helical spring (spring) serving as the substrate-panel contact member 46 is large, the gain of the antenna 6 is improved in both the L5 and L1 frequency bands. This is believed to be because a large inductance of the helical spring (spring) serving as the substrate-panel contact member 46 can prevent the flow of high-frequency current and improve the reduction of the gain of the antenna 6.

[0146] Furthermore, the power generation current of the solar panel 4 is low-frequency (alternating current at a given frequency) or direct current. Therefore, even if the inductance of the helical spring (spring) that serves as the substrate-panel contact member 46 is large, the power generation current of the solar panel 4 will not be blocked from being supplied to the circuit board 5, and the charging function of the solar panel 4 will not be hindered.

[0147] In addition, when designing the actual helical spring (spring) as the substrate-panel contact member 46, it is preferable to consider the balance of stress, tension, etc. of the spring when it actually contacts the solar panel 4 and the circuit board 5, so as to design it in a way that satisfies various conditions.

[0148] Furthermore, on the circuit board 5 in this embodiment, such as Figure 8 As shown, a shielding member 51 is provided as a protective member. The shielding member 51 is mounted as a protective member covering at least a portion of the circuit elements (electronic components, not shown) on the circuit board 5. The shielding member 51 is, for example, formed into a box shape from a metal plate and fixed to the circuit board 5 on its sides.

[0149] The structure for fixing the shielding member 51 to the circuit board 5 is not particularly limited. For example, it can be directly soldered or fixed to the circuit board 5 via other metal components. In either case, the shielding member 51 is in side contact (directly or indirectly) with the circuit board 5, which is grounded (GND), and is at the same potential as ground.

[0150] In this embodiment, as described above, the antenna 6 (the antenna element portion of the antenna 6) has a top portion 61 and a side portion 62. However, increasing the surface area of ​​the antenna 6 (the antenna element portion of the antenna 6) is advantageous from the viewpoint of electromagnetic radiation. Therefore, especially when viewed from above in the first direction I, the annular top portion 61 is made as wide as possible toward the annular center cp. Therefore, especially if the top portion 61 is approximately parallel to and close to the circuit board 5, capacitive coupling is easily achieved, just like a "parallel parallel plate capacitor".

[0151] In this respect, the shielding member 51 positions its surface (upper surface) at a position that covers the circuit elements by a greater amount than the surface (upper surface) of the circuit board 5, and is closer to the antenna 6 (the antenna element (antenna feature) portion of the antenna 6) than the surface (upper surface) of the circuit board 5 itself.

[0152] If the shielding member 51, which is at the same potential as the ground, is close to the antenna 6 (especially the top part 61) in a positional relationship that is roughly parallel to it, it is easy for capacitive coupling to occur, such as in the case of a "parallel plate capacitor". If the capacitive coupling increases, the performance (antenna efficiency) of the antenna 6 will be significantly degraded, so it is not preferred.

[0153] Therefore, in this embodiment, when viewed from a first direction I orthogonal to the plane of the circuit board 5, the antenna 6 and the shielding member 51 are arranged in positions that do not overlap. This avoids the antenna 6 and the shielding member 51 being in a substantially parallel positional relationship.

[0154] Figure 16This is a top view showing an example of the internal structure of the table (an example of the arrangement of shielding components, etc.) when viewed from above in a first direction. Additionally, in Figure 16 In the middle, the bezel 2, windproof component 3, etc. are removed to show the configuration status on the circuit board 5.

[0155] exist Figure 16 As shown by the dashed lines, the shielding members 51 disposed on the circuit board 5 are all configured not to coincide with the antenna 6 when viewed from the first direction I. More specifically, as described above, the antenna 6 has at least an outer periphery 60a and an inner periphery 60b when viewed from the first direction I, but the shielding members 51 are disposed inside the inner periphery 60b when viewed from the first direction I.

[0156] It was confirmed that by configuring the shielding member 51 in this way, even if the shielding member 51 is mounted on the circuit board 5, the antenna efficiency is almost not degraded compared to the state without the shielding member 51.

[0157] In addition, by configuring the shielding member 51 in Figure 16 In the position shown, the shielding member 51 does not coincide with the equipment housing 1 when viewed from the first direction I.

[0158] This allows for more reliable prevention of capacitive coupling between the antenna 6 and the shielding component 51.

[0159] In addition, the upper surface of the shielding member 51, which serves as a protective member, may be inclined relative to at least a portion of the circuit board 5.

[0160] For example, when viewed from above in the first direction I, the height of the upper surface of the shielding member 51 becomes lower the further away from the center (annular center cp) of the antenna 6 (the antenna element (antenna element part) of the antenna 6), thus making it difficult for the antenna 6 and the shielding member 51 to cause capacitive coupling.

[0161] Therefore, when a shielding member 51 is provided on the circuit board 5, it is preferable that during the design stage, the shape of the shielding member 51 does not fall on the antenna 6, or adjustments are made such that, at the location where the shielding member 51 must be placed due to reasons such as the existence of circuit components that need to be protected, the antenna 6 is cut in a shape that avoids the placement position of the shielding member 51 (for example, a cut that overlaps with the shielding member 51 when viewed from the first direction I).

[0162] [effect]

[0163] As described above, in the electronic watch 100 of this embodiment, the antenna 6, solar panel 4, etc. are housed in the device housing 1, and the bezel 2, which includes a first bezel 21 and a second bezel 22 formed of a resin material such as polyurethane, is provided as a packaging component on the visual identification side of the device housing 1.

[0164] Therefore, it will not hinder the function of the antenna 6 and other components housed inside the device housing 1, and it can improve the overall impact resistance of Table 100.

[0165] Furthermore, since the resin bezel 2 is much lighter than metal parts, it will not burden the user in wearable devices such as sports watches.

[0166] Furthermore, it is easy to process in various ways, thus increasing the degree of freedom in shaping.

[0167] Furthermore, the bezel 2 of this embodiment has a first region α on the surface where the discontinuously vapor-deposited metal surface is exposed. Therefore, by using this bezel 2 in the packaging of the watch 100, a high-end appearance with a metallic style can be achieved.

[0168] [Effect]

[0169] As described above, the electronic watch in this embodiment, i.e., watch 100, includes a bezel 2, which has a first region α, at least on the surface of which a metal is discontinuously vapor-deposited onto a substrate containing a resin material.

[0170] As a result, the device can present a high-end, metallic-style appearance without compromising the performance of electronic components such as the antenna 6 housed inside the device housing 1.

[0171] Furthermore, the bezel 2 is lightweight, so it won't burden users who wear electronic watches such as the Watch 100 with bezel 2 on their upper arm, making it highly usable.

[0172] Furthermore, the bezel 2 of Table 100 has a second region β formed by including resin material, the height of the upper surface of the second region β being formed at a position higher than the height of the upper surface of the first region α exposed by the surface with the metallic finish.

[0173] Therefore, parts where discontinuous metal deposition or similar processes are performed are less prone to damage or peeling, suppressing external physical damage to items such as Table 100. This allows the aesthetically pleasing metallic finish to be maintained for a longer period.

[0174] Furthermore, in this embodiment, an antenna 6 is disposed on the lower side of the bezel 2, which includes the first region α.

[0175] The bezel 2 has a metallic appearance and is made of resin, so it will not affect the performance of electronic components such as the antenna 6 housed in the device housing 1.

[0176] Therefore, it is able to maintain the quality of electronic watches such as the Watch 100 with its internal antenna 6, while exhibiting a high-end appearance.

[0177] Furthermore, if the second region β is distributed along, for example, the bezel 2, at multiple locations such as the 3 o'clock, 6 o'clock, 9 o'clock, and 12 o'clock positions on the analog watch, the bezel 2 of the electronic watch such as the watch 100 can achieve a natural appearance.

[0178] Furthermore, if the height and width of the second region β are made to be equal to the height and width of the first region α, then the first region α, which has undergone metallic processing, can be effectively protected from external impacts.

[0179] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the first bezel 21, which constitutes the second region β, and the second bezel 22, which constitutes the first region α, are set as different components.

[0180] Therefore, when forming the bezel 2, it is relatively easy to manufacture by performing a metallic-style machining only on the second bezel 22 and assembling it onto the first bezel 21.

[0181] Furthermore, in the first region α, if discontinuous metal evaporation is not performed on the back surface 223, which is covered by the first bezel 21 and not exposed on the outside (the part that cannot be visually identified), the metal material to be evaporated can be saved.

[0182] Furthermore, by setting a surface such as the back side 223 where discontinuous vapor deposition is not performed, vapor deposition can be performed with the back side 223 or the like set as the ground and the second bezel 22 placed on the table, thus simplifying the operation process.

[0183] Furthermore, the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, but the present invention is not limited to such embodiments, and various modifications can be made without departing from its spirit.

[0184] For example, this embodiment illustrates the case where the electronic watch is watch 100, but the electronic watch is not limited to this.

[0185] Any device that uses an antenna 6 can be widely used, such as various smartwatches and sports watches, as well as electronic watches that record various data at any time, such as heart rate monitors and blood pressure monitors.

[0186] The above describes several embodiments of the present invention, but the scope of the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, but includes the scope of the invention as set forth in the claims and its equivalents.

Claims

1. An electronic watch, characterized in that, have: The bezel has: a first region formed by discontinuously depositing a metal material onto a substrate containing a resin material, and a second region formed without discontinuously depositing the metal material but containing the resin material. The second region is formed such that the height of the upper surface of the second region is higher than the height of the upper surface of the first region.

2. The electronic watch according to claim 1, characterized in that, An antenna is disposed on the lower side of the bezel that includes the first region.

3. The electronic watch according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first region and the second region are arranged alternately along the circumference of the bezel.

4. The electronic watch according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second region is respectively positioned at the 3 o'clock, 6 o'clock, 9 o'clock and 12 o'clock positions along the circumference of the bezel in the electronic watch.

5. The electronic watch according to claim 1, characterized in that, The components constituting the first region and the components constituting the second region are different components.

6. The electronic watch according to claim 1, characterized in that, Discontinuous metal deposition is not performed on the surfaces of the first region that are not exposed on the outside.

7. The electronic watch according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first region has a groove that has been machined with a V-groove.

8. The electronic watch according to claim 7, characterized in that, In the radial section of the first region, the edge is thickened to a given height in order to conceal the unevenness.

9. The electronic watch according to claim 5, characterized in that, The components constituting the first region include a first component positioned at the 3 o'clock position and a second component positioned at the 9 o'clock position in the electronic watch.

10. The electronic watch according to claim 5 or 9, characterized in that, The components constituting the first region are secured to the housing by screws at one end and the other end.

11. The electronic watch according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that, The metallic material is indium.

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