Method for manufacturing timekeeping components

Abstract

To provide a method for manufacturing applique for a high-quality timepiece instrument capable of ensuring that a surface state of a visible portion is perfect.SOLUTION: In a method for manufacturing applique 1, the applique 1 has a top surface 2 and a rim 3 intended to be viewed by a user, a lower surface for placing the applique 1 on a dial or timepiece structure; and at least one foot part protruding from the lower surface. With this method, a varnished applique can be obtained.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 10

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to a method of manufacturing a timepiece component, and in particular, using fixing feet to a varnished applique intended to be mounted on the dial of a timepiece It relates to. This replaces all or part of the time-indicating numerals. Moreover, this method can also be used for the manufacture of a dial or a bezel.

BACKGROUND ART

[0002] Appliques arranged on the time-indicating circle or sub-dial often give the impression of being printed and are therefore often manufactured by tracing or silk-screening. Timepiece appli ques, by contributing to imparting specific physical properties, have become important elements of timepieces, particularly porta ble timepieces (e.g., wristwatches, pocket watches). Therefore, when mounting such a timepiece applique, extreme care must be taken, and it must be highly reproducible and free of any surface condition defects. Due to the very small size of these aesthetic compo nents, which are difficult to grip, perfect mounting is difficult. As a re sult, the rejection rate may be high. The manufacture of such timepiece appliques is further complicated when a coating such as varnish or lacquer is applied to achieve a specific aesthetic ef fect. In the case of a varnished applique, it is known to deposit the applique on a support and then apply a var nish layer thereto. In this case, it can be understood that varnish is deposited on both the applique and the support. Then, due to capillary action, a bond is formed between the applique and the support, which makes the appearance unsightly and is unacceptable. ​​​​[Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0003] This invention relates to a high-quality timekeeping device that ensures the surface condition of the visible portion is perfect. By providing a method for manufacturing applicators, all or part of the above-mentioned problems can be overcome. One of the objectives is to do so. [Means for solving the problem]

[0004] For this purpose, the present invention relates to a method for manufacturing applica, and this method is - A step of creating a base with an upper and lower surface from a metal material, - In the base, the upper surface of the applicator and the rim are brought from the upper surface to a predetermined depth The step of processing up to P, - A step of cleaning the processed base, - A varnish layer, a lacquer layer, etc., are applied to the processed upper surface of the base so as to cover the upper surface. The steps include depositing a layer of paint and - A step of drying the deposited varnish layer, - Deposit an adhesive layer on the upper surface of the base over at least the entire machining depth, The steps include drying the adhesive so that the adhesive layer overlaps the varnish layer, - Via the lower surface of the base, [thickness of the base] - [machining depth of the upper surface] The lower surface and foot portion of the applique are processed to a greater depth, and the applique The steps include: ensuring that the adhesive layer holds the adhesive layer, - Place the base into the liquid tank to dissolve the adhesive and release the applicator. Top, - The step of packaging the app with transport in mind and It is equipped with.

[0005] Another preferred embodiment of the present invention has the following features: - The manufacturing method ensures uniform removal of the varnish layer and eliminates sharp edges that make the color stand out. To that end, the upper surface of the applicator and the rim that have been processed on the base It includes a step for polishing. - After buff polishing, the base is electrolytically leached to ensure the cleanliness of the support. Perform the steps. - The varnish layer has a thickness in the range of 20 μm to 100 μm. - The varnish layer is preferably dried at 80°C for 30 minutes, and then at 140°C for 60 minutes. To dry. - The base is made of a metallic material such as brass, aluminum, copper, or precious metals. . - Preferably, the adhesive layer is dried in a furnace at 45°C for 5 hours. - Place the aforementioned base in a basket and then place it in a tank for removing adhesive. - To obtain a reference surface to be used as a dimensional reference during the processing of the lower surface, the bonding The step of performing surface treatment on the agent layer is carried out. - The processing of the applicator via the lower surface of the base is performed using the coating. The process is carried out under at least one covering element, and the depth of the process is the rim of the applicator. It is slightly taller than its height. - Simultaneously with the machining via the lower surface of the base, the lower surface of the applicator is formed. To form at least one foot portion of the applique.

[0006] The present invention further relates to a portable watch comprising at least one applicator according to the present invention. ru.

[0007] Thanks to such features, the method for manufacturing such an applique for timepieces allows the visible portion to quickly obtain an applique with a perfect surface condition.

[0008] A clear understanding of other features and advantages of the present invention will be gained by reading the following description of specific embodiments of the present invention with reference to the accompanying drawings . BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] [Figure 1] This is a diagram showing one of the steps of the manufacturing method according to the present invention. [Figure 2] This is a diagram showing one of the steps of the manufacturing method according to the present invention. [Figure 3] This is a diagram showing one of the steps of the manufacturing method according to the present invention. [Figure 4] This is a diagram showing one of the steps of the manufacturing method according to the present invention. [Figure 5] This is a diagram showing one of the steps of the manufacturing method according to the present invention. [Figure 6] This is a diagram showing one of the steps of the manufacturing method according to the present invention. [Figure 7] This is a top view of a base whose upper surface has been machined. [Figure 8] This is a cross-sectional view of the base machined through the upper surface. [Figure 9] This is a cross-sectional view of the base that has received a varnish layer. [Figure 10] This is a perspective view of the base machined through the upper surface. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0010] The present invention relates to a method of manufacturing an applique 1 for timepieces.

[0011] "Applique" refers to a component arranged on an object, in particular, a dial, a collar, a plate, a bridge, etc. Placed, marks, indices, numbers, logos, monograms, etc., visible to the user. It means an element of display or decoration intended to be used.

[0012] Such app 1 typically has a top surface intended to be seen by the user. It has a rim 3 and a bottom surface 4 for mounting on the dial or the structure of the timer.

[0013] If this lower surface 4 can be directly bonded to such a surface plate or structure, The lower surface 4 generally has at least one foot portion 5. Each foot portion 5 is on this lower surface 4 or It protrudes, and in particular, it protrudes according to a specific orientation relative to the lower surface 4 in space. (but not limited to) fixed to the surface plate or the structure.

[0014] According to the present invention, in order to manufacture such applicator 1, the following steps are taken sequentially To do so. - The base 10, which has an upper surface 11 and a lower surface 12, is made of a metal material. - On the base 10, the upper surface 2 of the applicator 1 and the rim 3 are machined from the upper surface to a predetermined depth P. do. - Clean the processed base 10. - A varnish layer 13 is deposited on the processed upper surface of the base 10 so as to cover the upper surface. - Dry the deposited varnish layer 13. - Deposit an adhesive layer 14 on the upper surface of the base 10, at least over the entire machining depth. The adhesive layer 14 is then made to overlap the varnish layer 13, and the adhesive is allowed to dry. - Through the lower surface 12 of the base 10, [base thickness E] - [machining depth P of the upper surface] The lower surface 4 and foot portion 5 of applicator 1 are processed to a large depth P' and held in place by the adhesive layer. Form an app. - Place base 10 into the tank to dissolve the adhesive and release applicator 1. - Package Applique 1 with transport in mind.

[0015] The machining of the top surface 2 and rim 3 by a CNC machine to create the top surface 2 and rim 3 is, in some cases Accordingly, it can be done using a single tool or multiple tools, each of which is a different tool. Therefore, it can be dedicated to operations for processing a specific surface. Processing methods vary, including milling, grinding, electroerosion, laser, or other technologies. These technologies can be used. These technologies can be used in combination or individually. And this is not limited to these.

[0016] Naturally, the upper surface 2 and rim 3 of applicator 1 can be more complex than described above, and also, It can be simpler than described, for example, having multiple elemental faces such as flat facets. It is possible to move along at least five axes relative to the base, depending on the complexity of the top surface. Using a suitable machining and / or diamond polishing unit, the upper surface 2 is machined and / or die The diamonds are polished.

[0017] Base 10 is made of a metallic material or metallic alloy such as brass, aluminum, or precious metals. It can be done. Also, the base 10 is processed until the bottom surface 4 and foot portion 5 are processed during the manufacturing process. It is also used as a support for Applique 1.

[0018] According to specific features of the present invention, the upper surface 2 and rim 3 of the applicator 1 on the base 10 The machining is performed from the top surface of the base 10 to a predetermined depth P. Preferably, the depth P of this machining is This is greater than the final height H of Applique 1.

[0019] According to a specific feature of the present invention, after the upper surface 2 and rim 3 are formed, processing is performed by ultrasonic cleaning. The prepared base 10 is washed. This removes, for example, all dust and residue from the processing. This removes impurities and prevents any defects in the varnish layer.

[0020] In particular, according to specific features of the present invention, the edges of applicator 1 are polished and the varnish coating is improved. To improve the buffing of the upper surface 2 and rim 3 of the applicator 1 which has been processed on the base 10. Perform polishing.

[0021] After buffing, a new cleaning step is performed, cleaning the base by electrolytic leaching.

[0022] In one embodiment of the present invention, a surface treatment is applied to the base to improve the resistance of the varnish layer. This process can be performed, and such processes include, for example, sanding and plasma operation. Furthermore, it is necessary to perform an additional washing step to remove any existing impurities. There is.

[0023] According to a specific feature of the present invention, a varnish layer 13 is deposited on the processed upper surface of the base 10. Then, the top surface of the base, implicitly covering the top surface 2 and rim 3 of applicator 1, is covered by spray. The operation can deposit a varnish layer and also harden the base. It has sufficient thickness to cover the applicator, and this thickness is typically 20 μm~ It is within the range of 100 μm.

[0024] Then, this varnish layer 13 is heated in a furnace at 80°C for 30 minutes, and then at 140°C for 60 minutes. Dry in this manner. This two-stage drying process allows for homogeneous polymerization over time. This allows for improved uniformity of varnish thickness. Naturally, this drying process The parameters of the top can be changed according to the specific requirements of the manufacturer.

[0025] According to a specific feature of the present invention, an adhesive layer 14 is deposited on the upper surface of the base 10 to bond. The agent layer 14 is overlapped with the varnish layer 13, so as to enclose the top surface 2 and rim 3 of the applicator 1. Preferably, over at least the entire depth of the machining, or even further In many cases, the adhesive layer 14 is deposited so as to extend beyond the plane formed by the upper surface of the base. Preferably, use a water-based adhesive of the Prolaq® type in the later steps. To prevent damage to the varnish during the dissolution of the adhesive.

[0026] The subsequent step involves drying the deposited adhesive layer 14, for this purpose, Place the adhesive-coated base in a 45°C oven for at least 5 hours.

[0027] After the adhesive layer 14 has dried, a step may be taken to optionally adjust the height level. Yes, it is possible. The adhesive layer can be processed, for example, using a surface finish, thereby creating a uniform layer. Furthermore, this method facilitates the release of the applicator at the end, and dimensionally during the machining of the underside To form a flat reference surface for use in [the process].

[0028] According to a specific feature of the present invention, the lower surface 4 of the applicator 1 is connected to the lower surface 12 of the base 10. The foot portion 5 is machined. This machining is performed more than [thickness E of base 10] - [machining depth P of the top surface] The process is carried out to a large depth P', i.e., P' > (EP).

[0029] The machining of Applique 1 through the bottom surface of the base is slightly less than the height of the rim 3 of Applique 1. By going to great depths, this separates the apprehension from the base, thus The formed applicator will no longer be connected to the base 10 and the previously deposited adhesive layer 14 It is held only by [the specified method / system].

[0030] According to certain features of the present invention, the adhesive is dissolved and the applicator is released from the adhesive layer. Add the base to the aqueous solution. Adding base 10 to this solution is released. This is done inside the basket so that the items can be easily collected.

[0031] In the context described here, the liquid used is an alkali that dissolves the adhesive. It is a aqueous solution, and the base 10 is placed in a series of leaching baths at 55°C for 60 minutes to dissolve the adhesive. Ensure good results. Naturally, as with the leaching time, other factors depend on the adhesive selected. A liquid can be used, and the temperature of the aqueous solution will vary depending on the adhesive used.

[0032] Finally, you can wash the applicator again to remove any adhesive residue, and then... It can be dried. Additionally, other decorative treatments can be applied to the applicator. For example, luminescent materials can be deposited.

[0033] Finally, with transportation in mind, the applicators are packaged on storage pallets. can.

[0034] The present invention further relates to a portable watch comprising at least one applicator 1.

[0035] Of course, the present invention is not limited to the illustrated examples, and various alternative examples will be obvious to those skilled in the art. The application form and modifications are possible. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0036] 1 Applique 2 Top side 3 rims 4 Bottom side 5 Foot 10 base 11 Top side 12 Bottom side 13. Varnish layer 14 Adhesive layer E Base Thickness H Applique height P, P' Machining depth

Claims

1. A method for manufacturing applic (1), The applique (1) has a top surface (2) and a rim (3) intended to be seen by the user, a bottom surface (4) for placing the applique (1) on a display board or the structure of a timekeeping device, and at least one foot (5) protruding from the bottom surface (4). The aforementioned method, A step of making a base (10) having an upper surface (11) and a lower surface (12) from a metal material, The steps include machining the upper surface (11) of the base (10) to a machining depth P to form the upper surface (2) and rim (3) of the applique (1), The steps include cleaning the processed base, The steps include depositing a varnish layer on the processed upper surface of the base so as to cover the upper surface (2) and the rim (3) of the applique (1), In order to improve the uniformity of the thickness of the deposited varnish layer, the deposited varnish layer is subjected to a step of homogeneous polymerization by drying in two stages at different temperatures, A step of depositing a water-based adhesive layer (14) on the upper surface of the base (10) over at least the entire processing depth, so that the adhesive layer overlaps the varnish layer, and drying the adhesive, The steps include machining the lower surface (12) of the base (10) to a machining depth P' to form the lower surface (4) and foot portion (5) of the applique (1), The steps include: dissolving the adhesive (14) and placing the base in a tank of alkaline aqueous solution to release the applicator (1); Equipped with, A method characterized in that the machining depth P' of the lower surface (12) is greater than the value obtained by subtracting the machining depth P of the upper surface from the thickness E of the base (10), and the depth of the foot portion (5) is less than the machining depth P' of the lower surface (12).

2. The steps include trimming the upper surface (2) and the rim (3) of the applicator (1) that has been processed on the base (10), The steps include: performing electrolytic leaching of the base (10) The method according to claim 1, characterized by comprising the following:

3. The varnish layer (13) has a thickness in the range of 20 μm to 100 μm. The method according to feature 1.

4. The varnish layer (13) is dried at 80°C for 30 minutes, and then at 140°C for 60 minutes. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized by the features described herein.

5. The metal material of the base (10) is brass, aluminum, or a precious metal. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. The adhesive layer (14) is dried in a 45°C oven for 5 hours. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized by the features described herein.

7. Place the aforementioned base in a basket and then into the tank. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized by the features described herein.

8. The step of performing a surface treatment on the adhesive layer to obtain a uniform thickness is carried out. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized by the features described herein.

9. Simultaneously with the machining of the applique via the lower surface (12) of the base (10), at least one foot portion (5) of the applique (1) is formed to form the lower surface of the applique (1). The method according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized by the features described above.

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