Connection member, arm, clasp, watch band, watch, and manufacturing method of clasp

JP2025035394APending Publication Date: 2025-03-13CASIO COMPUTER CO LTD
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Patent Information

Application Number
JP2023142408
Authority / Receiving Office
JP · JP
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2023-09-01
Publication Date
2025-03-13

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

【0011】 本発明によれば、高い強度を実現できる、接続部材、アーム、中留、時計バンド、時計及び中留の製造方法を提供することが可能となる。

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Abstract

To provide a connection member, an arm, a clasp, a watch band, a watch, and a manufacturing method of the clasp, capable of achieving high strength.SOLUTION: A connection member (52) according to an aspect of the present invention includes holes (53a, 53b) to which a shaft (55) provided in a member is inserted. The connection member is formed of a fiber layer (61) containing a carbon fiber material (62) and a resin material (63). At least a part of the periphery of the holes (53a, 53b) is covered with the plurality of fiber layers (61).SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 10
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Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a method for manufacturing a connecting member, an arm, a clasp, a watch band, a watch, and a clasp. [Background technology]

[0002] There are known wristwatches in which various parts are made of fiber-reinforced resin containing fiber materials such as carbon. For example, there is a wristwatch in which a watch band is made of multiple band links connected together, and the multiple band links are made of a material made of laminated carbon sheets. A clasp is connected to the ends of the multiple band links, and the length can be adjusted by opening and closing the clasp (see, for example, Patent Document 1). Such a clasp includes a cover part having a recess and multiple arms that are rotatably connected, and the multiple arms are folded or unfolded to adjust the length. The arms are thin and narrow members, and at the same time, holes must be formed through which pins for connecting the arms to each other or to the cover part pass, making it difficult to ensure strength, while high strength is required because a large load is applied when opening and closing, making it difficult to form the arms from fiber-reinforced resin. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2014-30522 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] An object of the present invention is to provide a method for manufacturing a connecting member, an arm, a clasp, a watch band, a watch, and a clasp that can achieve high strength. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] A connecting member according to one embodiment of the present invention has a hole into which an axis provided in a member is inserted, and is formed of a fiber layer containing carbon fiber material and a resin material, and at least a portion of the periphery of the hole is covered by a plurality of the fiber layers.

[0006] An arm according to another embodiment of the present invention has a hole through which an axis provided in a cover portion is inserted, and is formed of fiber layers including carbon fiber material and a resin material, and at least a portion of the periphery of the hole is covered by a plurality of the fiber layers.

[0007] A clasp according to another embodiment of the present invention includes a cover portion, a shaft provided on the cover portion, and an arm formed of a fiber layer containing carbon fiber material and a resin material, the arm having a hole through which the shaft is inserted, and at least a portion of the periphery of the hole of the arm is covered by a plurality of the fiber layers.

[0008] A watchband according to another embodiment of the present invention comprises the clasp and a plurality of band members having a plurality of band links, and the connecting member having the arms comprises a first arm and a second arm as the plurality of arms, the cover portion has the holes formed at both ends in a first direction, and is connected to one of the band members via an axis arranged in one of the holes and connected to the first arm via an axis arranged in the other of the holes, the first arm has the holes formed at both ends in the first direction, and is connected to the cover portion via an axis arranged in one of the holes and connected to the second arm via an axis arranged in the other of the holes, and one of the holes at both ends in the first direction of the second arm is connected to the first arm, and is connected to the other of the band members via an axis arranged in the other of the holes.

[0009] A timepiece according to another aspect of the present invention comprises the watch band, a watch case to which the watch band is attached, and a module disposed in a housing portion within the watch case.

[0010] A method for manufacturing a clasp according to another embodiment of the present invention includes a first step of folding back a prepreg sheet containing carbon fiber material and laminating it into multiple layers, a second step of curing a laminate obtained in the first step, in which the prepreg sheet is laminated into multiple layers, and a third step of forming a hole on the inside of the fold in the laminate obtained in the second step. Effect of the Invention

[0011] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a manufacturing method for a connecting member, an arm, a clasp, a watch band, a watch, and a clasp that can achieve high strength. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a plan view showing the configuration of a timepiece according to a first embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. [Diagram 3] FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. [Diagram 5] FIG. [Figure 6] FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. [Figure 8] FIG. [Figure 9] An explanatory diagram showing part of the clasp of the band of the watch. [Figure 10] A side view showing the clasp arm of the band of the watch. [Figure 11] 5A to 5C are explanatory diagrams showing a manufacturing method of the band of the watch. [Figure 12] FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing a manufacturing method of the clasp on the band of the watch. [Figure 13] FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing a manufacturing method of the clasp on the band of the watch. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0013] Hereinafter, a wristwatch 1, a watch band 40, and a clasp 50 (a part that connects the 12 o'clock side and the 6 o'clock side of the watch band 40, which is tightened or loosened when putting on or taking off the wristwatch 1, and is also called a buckle) according to a first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figs. 1 to 11. Fig. 1 is a plan view showing the configuration of the wristwatch 1, and Fig. 2 is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the wristwatch 1. Figs. 3 to 5 respectively show a plan view, a side view, and a rear view seen from the rear side of the band in a folded state. Figs. 6 to 8 respectively show a plan view, a side view, and a rear view seen from the rear side of the band in an unfolded state. Fig. 9 is an explanatory diagram showing the configuration of a part of the watch band 40. Fig. 10 is a side view showing the arm. Figs. 11 and 12 are explanatory diagrams showing examples of prepreg sheets used in the manufacturing method of the clasp. Fig. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing the configuration of the base material in the manufacturing method of the clasp.

[0014] In each figure, the configuration is shown in a schematic manner, enlarged, reduced, or omitted as appropriate. In this embodiment, for example, the wristwatch 1 will be described with the side facing the outer surface of the windshield member 30 made of transparent glass or the like as the front side, and the side facing the outer surface of the back cover that constitutes the bottom of the watch case 10 as the back side. For example, the wristwatch 1 is worn in a position where the outer surface of the back cover faces the arm on which it is worn.

[0015] As shown in FIG. 1, wristwatch 1 comprises a watch case 10 forming the outer shell, a module 20 provided within watch case 10, a crystal member 30 covering the front side of module 20, and a watch band 40 having a pair of band members respectively connected to two opposing points on the outer periphery of watch case 10.

[0016] The watch case 10 is configured in a circular shape and comprises a center case 11 arranged on the outer periphery of a module 20, a back cover portion arranged on the back side of the module 20, and a bezel 13 arranged on the outer periphery of the center case 11.

[0017] The center case 11 and the back cover of the watch case 10 form a housing section in which the module 20 is disposed. The opening on the front side of the center case 11 is covered by a windshield member 30.

[0018] The center case 11 shown in Fig. 2 is configured in the shape of a circular or polygonal frame. For example, the center case 11 is formed by, for example, injection molding using, for example, fiber-reinforced resin. As one example, the center case 11 is formed from PEEK carbon, which is a composite material in which polyether ether ketone (PEEK) is mixed with carbon fiber. A storage section for storing the watch module 20 and the like is formed inside the center case 11. The center case 11 may be configured by combining multiple case members.

[0019] Center case 11 has band attachment parts 16 at two opposing locations on the outer periphery, for example at the 6 o'clock and 12 o'clock positions, to which band members 41, 42 are attached. For example, band attachment part 16 has a connection structure having connection holes (holes) that are connected to band members 41, 42 by connecting members such as screws, pins, spring rods, etc. Band attachment part 16 may be configured integrally with watch case 10, or may be configured separately from watch case 10 and assembled to watch case 10.

[0020] The bezel 13 is provided on the outer periphery of the center case 11. The bezel 13 is fixed to the center case 11 by a connection such as a screw. The bezel 13 is made of forged carbon, which is a carbon-reinforced resin material in which short carbon fibers cut into short strips are mixed with a resin material and hot-pressed. For example, since the short carbon fibers are mixed in, the bezel 13 is formed into a so-called chopped pattern.

[0021] A cushioning member is provided between the center case 11 and the bezel 13 or on the outer periphery of the center case 11. For example, the cushioning member is made of carbon reinforced resin by injection molding.

[0022] In addition, a decorative piece made of forged carbon is provided on the upper surface of the band attachment portion 16 of the center case 11.

[0023] For example, the windshield member 30 is connected to the center case 11 by a screw via a washer. The washer on the inside of the screw is made of, for example, a resin material, and as an example, is made of carbon reinforced resin by injection molding.

[0024] The module 20 includes various components necessary for the timepiece function, such as a display unit that displays information such as the time and date, a movement that operates the display unit, a circuit board equipped with electronic components such as an IC and an antenna, a battery, etc. For example, the display unit may be a digital display unit having a liquid crystal display panel or the like with a digital display function, or an analog display unit having a dial and hands, etc. Also, the module may include multiple display units.

[0025] The windshield member 30 is a transparent member made of inorganic glass such as SiO2 glass. For example, the windshield member 30 is a transparent, disc-shaped watch glass that is disposed on the front side of the module 20 and covers the module 20. For example, the windshield member 30 is supported on the inner peripheral edge of the opening on the front side of the center case 11. A packing is interposed between the outer periphery of the windshield member 30 and the inner peripheral edge of the center case 11.

[0026] 1 and 3, the watch band 40 includes a first band member 41, a second band member 42, and a clasp 50 which is a connecting mechanism, which are connected to two opposing points on the outer circumference of the watch case 10. For example, one end of each of the band members 41, 42 is connected to the watch case 10, and the other end is connected to each other by the clasp 50.

[0027] The band members 41, 42 are arranged side by side in the longitudinal direction (first direction) of the watch band 40. As shown in Fig. 9, each of the band members 41, 42 includes a plurality of band links 44 rotatably connected to each other, a connecting pin 45, a buffer member 46, a link cover 47, and a fastening portion 48. In each of the band members 41, 42, the plurality of band links 44 are rotatably connected by the connecting pin 45 and arranged side by side in the first direction. The width direction of the watch band 40 that is perpendicular to or intersects with the first direction is defined as a second direction.

[0028] As shown in Fig. 9, each of the band links 44 has a predetermined length in the first direction and the second direction. For example, the band links 44 are formed with a curved surface with an arch-like outer surface. For example, the band links 44 are gently curved to follow the circumference of the wrist when the watch band 40 is worn. For example, the band links 44 may have the same configuration, or some of them may have different shapes. For example, the band links 44 provided at the ends of the band members 41, 42 are connected to the clasp 50 or the band attachment portion 16, and the other band links 44 except for the ends of the band members 41, 42 are connected to the adjacent other band links 44.

[0029] The multiple band links 44 have a connecting structure that connects them to adjacent band links 44, clasps 50, or band attachment parts 16. As an example, the multiple band links 44 have a first protrusion 44a that protrudes toward one end at the center in the second direction of one end in the first direction, and a second protrusion 44b that protrudes toward the other end at both ends in the second direction of the other end in the first direction. The first protrusion 44a and the second protrusion 44b are positioned at different positions from each other in the second direction.

[0030] As an example, multiple band links 44 adjacent in the first direction have the central convex portion 44a on one end side of the adjacent band link 44 positioned in a recess 44c formed between the second convex portions 44b on both ends of the other end side.

[0031] The first convex portion 44a and the second convex portion 44b formed on one end side and the other end side, respectively, have a first pin hole 44d and a second pin hole 44e as holes. The pin holes 44d and 44e are through holes that penetrate the first convex portion 44a and the second convex portion 44b in a second direction, which is a width direction perpendicular to or intersecting with the first direction. For example, the inner diameter of the first pin hole 44d of the first convex portion 44a at the center is configured to be smaller than the inner diameter of the second pin hole 44e of the second convex portions 44b at both ends.

[0032] Further, a fastening hole 44f in which the fastening portion 48 is disposed is formed in a portion between the first protrusion 44a and the second protrusion 44b of the band piece 44. The fastening hole 44f is a through hole that passes through the band piece 44 in the second direction.

[0033] For example, in multiple band links 44 connected in the first direction, the first convex portion 44a is arranged side by side in the second direction with the second convex portion 44b of another band link 44 connected in the first direction. That is, by placing the first convex portion 44a of the other band link 44 in a recess 44c, which is a retreat portion between a pair of second convex portions 44b formed on both sides in the second direction of one band link 44 out of a pair of adjacent band links 44, the second convex portion 44b of one band link and the first convex portion 44a of the other band link 44 are arranged side by side in the second direction.

[0034] The first pin hole 44d of the first protrusion 44a of one pair of band links 44 and the second pin hole 44e of the pair of second protrusions 44b of the other band link 44 are continuous in the second direction. A connecting pin 45 is disposed through the continuous pin holes 44d, 44e, so that the multiple band links 44 are connected to each other rotatably around an axis along the width direction.

[0035] Of the multiple band links 44 provided on each band member 41, 42, for example, in the band link 44 arranged at the end in the first direction, the first convex portion 44a or the second convex portion 44b is connected to the band attachment portion 16 or the clasp 50 by connecting members arranged in pin holes 44d, 44e.

[0036] The buffer member 46 is made of a soft, rigid resin material having elasticity such as silicone rubber and is formed in a tube shape. The buffer member 46 is provided at both ends of the multiple band links 44 in the second direction. That is, the buffer member 46 is interposed on the outer periphery of both ends of one connecting pin 45. The buffer member 46 is formed in a tube shape having a cylindrical hole 46d along the axial direction. The buffer member 46 has a large diameter portion 46a arranged on one side in the axial direction and a small diameter portion 46b arranged on the other side, and a step portion 46c is formed between the large diameter portion 46a and the small diameter portion 46b. The buffer member 46 is arranged in the axial direction along the second direction of the band link 44, the large diameter portion 46a is arranged in the pin hole 44e of the second convex portion 44b on both sides, the small diameter portion 46b is arranged at the end of the pin hole 44d of the central convex portion 44a, and the step portion 46c is engaged with the periphery of the pin hole 44d of the convex portion 44a. That is, the buffer member 46 is interposed between the first protrusion 44a and the second protrusion 44b of a pair of band links 44 adjacent to each other in the second direction, and regulates the positions of the first protrusion 44a and the second protrusion 44b.

[0037] The link covers 47 are provided at both ends in the second direction of the band link 44 connected by inserting the connecting pin 45. The link covers 47 have countersunk portions 47a, which are recesses in which the connecting pin 45 and the buffer member 46 protruding in the second direction from the band link 44 are disposed, and cover the ends of the band link 44 and the connecting pin 45 and the buffer member 46. The link covers 47 also have steps 47c on their outer surfaces at both ends in the second direction for engaging the heads of the fastening portions 48 and cover fastening holes 47b through which the shafts of the fastening portions 48 pass, and the link covers 47 at both ends are fastened to each other by the fastening portions 48, sandwiching the band link 44.

[0038] The fastening portion 48 has a male threaded portion 48a arranged on one side in the second direction and a female threaded portion 48b arranged on the other side in the second direction. For example, the male threaded portion 48a and the female threaded portion 48b each have a shaft portion extending in the second direction and having a screw formed thereon, and a head portion provided at the end of the shaft portion. The shaft portion of the male threaded portion 48a is screwed into the shaft portion of the female threaded portion 48b. The fastening portion 48 fastens the pair of piece covers 47 provided on either side of the band piece 44 by having the heads of the male threaded portion 48a and the female threaded portion 48b engaged with steps 47c formed in the cover fastening holes 47b of the piece covers 47, respectively, and by having the shaft portions screwed into each other.

[0039] 3 to 8, the clasp 50 connects the ends of a pair of band members 41, 42. For example, the clasp 50 includes a cover portion 51 connected to one band member 41, and an opening / closing member 52 (connecting member) connected to the cover portion 51 and the other band member 42.

[0040] The cover portion 51 has a ceiling portion 51a and a pair of side wall portions 51b erected in the thickness direction from side edges of the ceiling portion 51a, and forms an accommodating recess 51c in which the opening / closing member 52 is accommodated.

[0041] The ceiling portion 51a is a rectangular plate having a predetermined dimension in each of the first direction (the length direction of the band) and the second direction (the width direction of the band), and is formed into a curved surface that curves in an arch shape in the first direction with a predetermined curvature that follows the circumference of the wrist when the watch band 40 is worn. An engagement hole portion 51d is formed on the back surface of the ceiling portion 51a, that is, on the surface facing the opening and closing member 52 in the folded state. For example, the engagement hole portion 51d is a recess that fits into an engagement protrusion 52d provided on the opening and closing member 52 and holds the engagement protrusion 52d.

[0042] For example, the cover portion 51 forms an accommodation space behind the ceiling portion 51a between the pair of side wall portions 51b, 51b, and accommodates the opening / closing member 52 in the folded state. That is, the cover portion 51 covers the front surface of the opening / closing member 52 in the folded state with the ceiling portion 51a.

[0043] The cover portion 51 has holes 51e, 51f formed at both ends in the first direction, and is rotatably connected to one of the band members 41 by a pin member 55 arranged in the hole 51e. The cover portion 51 is also connected to the pair of first arms 53 by a pin member 55 (axis) arranged in the other hole 51f.

[0044] The opening / closing member 52 has a plurality of arms 53, 54 that are rotatably connected to each other. For example, the opening / closing member 52 includes a pair of a first arm 53 (first arm) and a second arm 54 (second arm) that are rotatably connected to each other via a pin member 55 around an axis of the pin member 55 that is aligned in the width direction.

[0045] The pair of first arms 53 are elongated members each having a predetermined dimension in the first direction and the second direction. For example, the first arms 53 are configured to be curved at a predetermined curvature following the rear surface of the ceiling portion 51a. The pair of first arms 53 are formed to be shorter in length in the first direction than the second arms 54.

[0046] The space between the pair of first arms 53 has a width that allows the second arm 54 to be disposed in the folded state. That is, in the folded state, the second arm 54 is disposed between the pair of first arms 53, and the second arm 54 and the first arms 53, 53 are disposed side by side in the second direction, so that the opening / closing member 52 is shaped to fit within the accommodation recess 51c of the cover portion 51.

[0047] Holes 53a, 53b are formed at both ends in the first direction of the first arm 53. The holes 53a, 53b extend along the second direction and are through holes through which a pin member 55 passes to connect the first arm 53 to another member. For example, the first arm 53 is connected to the cover part 51 via the pin member 55 arranged in one hole 53a, and is connected to the second arm 54 via the pin member arranged in the other hole 53b. An engaging protrusion 52d that fits into an engaging hole 51d of the accommodating recess 51c is formed on the outer surface of the curved arm 53.

[0048] The second arm 54 is an elongated member having a predetermined dimension in each of the first and second directions and extending along the first direction. For example, the second arm 54 is configured to be curved at a predetermined curvature following the rear surface of the ceiling portion 51a. The second arm 54 is formed to be longer in the first direction than the first arm 53.

[0049] The second arm 54 has a width that enables it to be disposed between the pair of first arms 53 in the folded state.

[0050] Holes 54a, 54b are formed at both ends of the second arm 54 in the first direction. The holes 54a, 54b extend along the second direction and are through-holes through which a pin member 55 passes to connect the second arm 54 to another member. For example, the second arm 54 is connected to the pair of first arms 53 via the pin member 55 arranged in one hole 54a, and is connected to the band link 44 at the end of the second band member 42 via the pin member 55 arranged in the other hole 54b.

[0051] In the opening / closing member 52, a plurality of arms 53, 54 are rotatably connected to each other by a pin member 55. That is, the opening / closing member 52 changes its state between an unfolded state and a folded state as the opening angle around the axis of the pin member 55 changes as the plurality of arms 53, 54 rotate. In the folded state, the opening / closing member 52 is disposed in and engaged with a recess 51c formed in the cover portion 51.

[0052] Each arm 53, 54 is formed from a carbon fiber material 62 and a resin material 63. For example, the arms 53, 54 are formed from a laminated carbon member 60, which is a fiber-reinforced resin material having multiple fiber layers 61 made of carbon fiber material 62. For example, the laminated carbon member 60 constituting the arms 53, 54 has multiple layers of prepreg sheets 64 in which carbon fiber material 62 is impregnated with resin material 63 (resin material). For example, the prepreg sheets 64 are arranged in multiple layers stacked in a stacking direction along the front-to-back direction when the watch band 40 is attached.

[0053] For example, the arms 53 and 54 are formed by impregnating a fiber layer 61 including carbon fiber material 62 that is long in at least one direction with a resin material 63 such as epoxy resin. It is composed of a laminated carbon member 60 in which a plurality of prepreg sheets 64 are laminated. For example, the fiber layer 61 may be composed of a plurality of carbon fiber materials 62 that are long in one direction arranged in the same direction, or may be a sheet base material composed of carbon fiber materials 62 arranged in two directions in a woven fabric form.

[0054] At least in a portion of the arms 53, 54, for example in a central region in the first direction, a plurality of fiber layers 61 are arranged stacked in the stacking direction, and each fiber layer 61 has a plurality of carbon fiber materials 62 extending at least in the first direction. Also, at least in a portion around each of the holes 53a, 53b, 54a, 54b formed at both ends of the arms 53, 54, the fiber layers 61 are arranged curved along at least a portion of the outer periphery.

[0055] That is, in the arms 53 and 54, the carbon fiber material 62 has curled portions 62a that are folded back and curved around the ends of the arms 53 and 54 on the outer periphery of the holes 53a, 53b, 54a, and 54b. That is, the fiber layer 61 and at least a portion of the carbon fiber material 62 that constitutes the fiber layer 61 have curled portions 62a that are folded back around the holes 53a, 53b, 54a, and 54b, and extend from both side ends of the curled portions 62a to the center side of the arms 53 and 54 beyond the holes 53a, 53b, 54a, and 54b. For example, in this embodiment, a prepreg sheet 64 having a plurality of carbon fiber materials 62 extending in at least one direction is wound around a pair of holes 53a, 53b, 54a, 54b a plurality of times to be laminated in a plurality of layers in the central region, and in the region on the end side of the holes 53a, 53b, 54a, 54b, the plurality of fiber layers 61 and the carbon fiber materials 62 are arranged in a curved manner around the outside of the holes 53a, 53b, 54a, 54b, and in the central region in the first direction, the plurality of fiber layers 61 and the carbon fiber materials 62 extend along the first direction. Therefore, the prepreg sheet 64 constituting the arms 53, 54 has a portion arranged along the longitudinal direction and width direction of the arms 53, 54, and a curved portion wound around the pair of holes 53a, 53b, 54a, 54b. The arms 53, 54 may include carbon fiber materials 62 arranged in other directions. The carbon fiber material 62 may include fiber material whose longitudinal direction is aligned along the first direction and fiber material whose longitudinal direction is aligned along the second direction. That is, the carbon fiber material 62 may be aligned in two different directions in the arms 53, 54. For example, in the arms 53, 54, layers of fiber aligned along the first direction and layers of fiber aligned along the second direction are alternately arranged, and a layer of fiber aligned along the second direction is formed on the outermost side.

[0056] The clasp 50 configured as described above is configured to be able to change the connection length between the band members 41, 42 according to the rotation state of the multiple arms 53, 54, and switch between a fastened state and a released state. That is, in the folded state in which the multiple arms 53, 54 are folded and locked, the connection length between the band members 41, 42 is reduced, and the clasp 50 is in a closed state that prevents the band from slipping off the arm to which it is worn. At this time, the first arm 53 and the second arm 54 overlap when viewed from the second direction, and the directions of curvature are the same. In addition, when the multiple arms 53, 54 are unfolded, the connection length between the band members 41, 42 by the opening / closing member 52 is extended, and the clasp 50 is in an open state in which the arm can be inserted and removed. At this time, the opening angle between the first arm 53 and the second arm 54 is large, and the directions of curvature are opposite to each other.

[0057] A method for manufacturing the arms 53, 54 of the clasp 50 in this embodiment will be described below. The method for manufacturing the arms 53, 54 includes a step of forming a plate-shaped base material 50A as a primary processed product before being divided into the multiple arms 53, 54, and a step of dividing the base material 50A into multiple pieces. For example, the base material 50A of the arm 53 is illustrated in FIG. 10.

[0058] The process of forming the base material 50A as a primary processed product includes a step (first step) of forming a laminated material (laminate) by folding back both ends of a region having a predetermined width and winding it multiple times, a step (second step) of hardening the laminated material in which the prepreg sheets 64 are arranged in multiple layers, and a step (third step) of forming holes on the inside of the folded back portions of the prepreg sheets 64 in the hardened laminated material.

[0059] The prepreg sheet 64 is a resin sheet containing carbon fiber material 62. The prepreg sheet 64 is formed by arranging a plurality of carbon fiber materials 62 in the same direction and impregnating them with a resin material 63 such as epoxy resin.

[0060] As an example, as shown in FIG. 11, a plurality of prepreg sheets 64 in which the direction of arrangement of the carbon fiber material 62 is changed by 90 degrees may be used. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 12, a prepreg sheet 64 having carbon fiber material 62 arranged in a plurality of directions may be used. For example, by wrapping two prepreg sheets 64 in a state in which the carbon fiber material 62 is orthogonal to each other, the fiber directions can be arranged alternately. Note that the prepreg sheet 64 having fibers extending along the second direction (short direction, direction of the first band member 41 or the second band member 42) perpendicular to the first direction, which is the longitudinal direction of the first arm 53 or the second arm 54, is wrapped around the fiber layer. In this way, the fiber layer on the front or back side in the stacking direction is made of fibers extending along the second direction, which is the short direction of the first arm 53 or the second arm 54, so that the cross sections of numerous fibers are not visible on the cut surface, improving the appearance of the design.

[0061] In addition, in the step of laminating the prepreg sheets 64, the resin sheet may be wrapped around an area including a core material containing a resin material. As an example, a pair of pin-shaped core materials are placed in advance at positions corresponding to the holes at both ends, and the prepreg sheet 64 is wound around the pair of core materials so as to pass outside the pair in the first direction.

[0062] In the laminate in which multiple layers of prepreg sheets 64 are stacked, the carbon fiber material 62 is arranged along the first direction in at least some of the prepreg sheets 64, so that some of the fibers 62 in the laminate are wrapped around the holes 53a, 53b, 54a, 54b.

[0063] Then, the laminated material in which the multiple layers of prepreg sheets 64 are laminated is placed in a predetermined mold corresponding to the base material 50A, and cured by applying heat and pressure. In this manner, the base material 50A is formed.

[0064] Thereafter, the base material 50A is cut and divided to a predetermined width, and holes 53a, 53b, 54a, and 54b are formed inside the folded portions. If, for example, a core material is arranged in the lamination process, holes are formed in the core material in the hole forming process. If a pair of pin-shaped core materials are arranged at positions corresponding to the holes, holes are formed at the positions of the core materials. If a flat core material is arranged, holes are formed at predetermined positions on both ends of the core material in the first direction.

[0065] According to the clasp 50, watch band 40, and watch 1 configured as described above, the clasp 50 is easily strong because it has an opening and closing member 52 made of a laminated carbon member 60 that is a fiber-reinforced resin having a fiber material 62 that runs around the hole. That is, in a thin or narrow member for which it is relatively difficult to ensure strength, the fiber material 62 of the laminated carbon member 60 is arranged around the hole, so that a practical strength can be ensured for a member that is particularly subject to force, and the tensile strength of the hole can also be improved. Therefore, in a configuration in which multiple prepreg sheets 64 are laminated, breakage due to delamination between layers can be suppressed. For example, while the bending strength of the arms 53, 54 made of forged carbon is about 10 kgf, the bending strength of the arms 53, 54 made of the laminated carbon member 60 can be improved to about 60 kgf. Therefore, in the wristwatch 1, a full carbon structure can be realized in which all main members such as the watch case 10, bezel 13, and watch band 40 are made of carbon material.

[0066] When carbon is used for the first arm 53 and the second arm 54 as in the present application, the thickness needs to be thicker than when metal is used to ensure strength. It is possible to ensure strength by stacking prepreg sheets 64 in which carbon fiber material 62 is impregnated in resin material 63. However, the first arm 53 and the second arm 54 need to have holes 53a, 53b, 54a, and 54b through which pins 55 (shafts) for connecting each other and connecting the cover part 51 pass. If holes 53a, 53b, 54a, and 54b are opened in the stacked prepreg sheets 64, the prepreg sheets 64 with cut cross sections facing the holes 53a, 53b, 54a, and 54b will crack horizontally when pulled, and strength cannot be ensured. Therefore, by wrapping the stacked prepreg sheets 64 around the holes 53a, 53b, 54a, and 54b, it is not necessary to create cut surfaces, and strength can be ensured.

[0067] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, by using a configuration including fiber material 62 extending in a first direction, which is the longitudinal direction of watch band 40, and fiber material 62 extending in a second direction, which is the width direction, even higher strength can be achieved.

[0068] In addition, in the wristwatch according to the above embodiment, by constructing the other components constituting the wristwatch 1 from forged carbon, diamide, etc., it is possible to maintain the characteristics of each component while providing a uniform appearance. That is, components injection molded from PEEK carbon are waterproof, easy to ensure strength, and can be made uniform in strength. There is also a high degree of freedom in shape. On the other hand, by using forged carbon for the bezel, it is possible to improve the design. Furthermore, by constructing the cushioning body and washer by injection molding from carbon reinforced resin, it is possible to ensure freedom in shape and uniformity in strength.

[0069] The above-described embodiments are merely examples and do not limit the scope of the invention.

[0070] The carbon laminate may be formed by sandwiching sheets of tinted fiberglass between layers of the carbon laminate.

[0071] Although an example in which a core material is provided has been shown, a core material may not be provided. Alternatively, instead of a pair of pin-shaped core materials, an integrally connected plate-shaped core material may be provided. In this case, holes are formed at predetermined positions on both ends of the plate-shaped core material in the first direction.

[0072] In addition, although the present embodiment shows an example of a watch arm, the present invention is not limited to this configuration. It is sufficient that the connecting member has a hole into which an axis provided in a certain member is inserted, the connecting member is formed of a fiber layer including carbon fiber material and a resin material, and at least a part of the periphery of the hole is covered with multiple fiber layers. For example, the present invention can be used for the hinge part of a notebook computer, the hinge part of a folding mobile phone, a clip, etc.

[0073] Although several embodiments of the present invention have been described, the present invention is encompassed within the scope of the invention described in the claims and their equivalents. [Explanation of symbols]

[0074] 1. Wristwatch 10. Watch case 11…Center case 13…Bezel 16…Band attachment part 20...Clock module 30…Windshield member 40…Watch band 41…Band member 42…Band member 44...Band piece 45…Connecting pin 46…Cushioning material 47…Piece cover 48…Fastening part 50…Nakadome 50A…Base material 51…Cover part 51a...ceiling part 51b...Side wall part 51c…Housing recess 51d...Engagement hole part 51e…hole 51f…hole 52...Opening and closing member (connecting member) 52d…Engagement protrusion 53…First arm 53a…hole 53b…hole 54…Second arm 54a…hole 54b…hole 55...Pin member (shaft) 60...Laminated carbon material 61...Fiber layer 62…Carbon fiber material 62a…Curl section 63...Resin material 64…Prepreg sheet

Claims

1. In a connecting member having a hole through which a shaft is inserted, The hole is formed of a fiber layer including a carbon fiber material and a resin material, and at least a part of the periphery of the hole is covered by the plurality of fiber layers. Connection parts.

2. In an arm having a hole in a cover portion into which a shaft is inserted, The hole is formed of a fiber layer including a carbon fiber material and a resin material, and at least a part of the periphery of the hole is covered by the plurality of fiber layers. arm.

3. A cover portion; A shaft provided in the cover portion; an arm formed of a fiber layer including a carbon fiber material and a resin material, the arm having a hole into which the shaft is inserted; Equipped with The arm has at least a portion of the periphery of the hole covered by a plurality of the fiber layers.

4. The arm is formed by laminating a plurality of prepreg sheets in which the carbon fiber material is impregnated with the resin material, 4. The clasp according to claim 3, wherein the carbon fiber material has a curled portion folded back around the end side of the arm around the hole, and both ends of the curled portion of the carbon fiber material extend toward a center side of the arm of the hole.

5. The arm has the hole formed on an end side in a first direction which is a longitudinal direction of the arm, At a central portion in the first direction relative to the hole, the carbon fiber material has fiber material arranged along the first direction and fiber material arranged along a second direction intersecting the first direction, 4. The clasp according to claim 3, wherein the carbon fiber material is arranged along the second direction in an outermost layer of the arm in a lamination direction intersecting the first direction and the second direction.

6. The cover portion has a recess on a back surface side, 4. The clasp according to claim 3, wherein the connecting member having arms includes a plurality of arms rotatably connected to each other by an axis passing through the hole, the arms change state between an unfolded state and a folded state by rotation of the plurality of arms, and in the folded state, the clasp is disposed in a recess formed in the cover portion.

7. The buckle according to claim 3, A plurality of band members each having a plurality of band links; Equipped with the connecting member having the arms includes a first arm and a second arm as the plurality of arms, the cover portion has holes formed at both ends in a first direction, the cover portion is connected to one of the band members via a shaft disposed in one of the holes, and is connected to the first arm via a shaft disposed in the other of the holes, the first arm has the holes at both ends in a first direction, is connected to the cover portion via a shaft disposed in one of the holes, and is connected to the second arm via a shaft disposed in the other of the holes; A watch band in which one of the holes at both ends in a first direction of the second arm is connected to the first arm, and the second arm is connected to the other band member via an axis disposed in the other hole.

8. A watch band according to claim 7; a watch case to which the watch band is attached; a module arranged in a receiving portion within the watch case; A watch that is equipped with

9. A first step of laminating a plurality of layers of a prepreg sheet containing a carbon fiber material by folding it back; A second step of curing a laminate obtained by the first step, in which the prepreg sheets are stacked in a plurality of layers; a third step of forming a hole on the inside of the fold in the laminate obtained in the second step; Including, Manufacturing method of the clasp.

10. The first step includes a step of winding and laminating the prepreg sheet around a region including a core material including a resin material, The third step includes a step of forming the hole in a portion where the core material is to be disposed. A method for producing the buckle according to claim 9.

11. Before the first step, the carbon fiber material is impregnated with a resin material to obtain the prepreg sheet. A method for producing the buckle according to claim 9.

Citation Information

Patent Citations

  • Watch band and method for manufacturing band piece

    JP2014030522A