Lightweight, decorated timepiece component

Abstract

Timepiece component (1) for a timepiece, characterized in that it comprises a porous structure (2) made of a first material (11), having pores (4) and / or grooves (5), said porous structure (2) extending at least to the vicinity of at least a portion of a second surface (19) of the timepiece component, and in that it comprises a second material (12) filling all or part of the pores (4) and / or grooves (5) of the porous structure (2), the second material (12) extending at least to a portion of the second surface (19) of the timepiece component.

Description

[0001] Lightweight and decorated watch component

[0002] The present invention relates to a watch component, in particular a case component, or more generally any other component. It also relates to a timepiece, in particular a wristwatch, comprising at least one such watch component. It also relates to a method for manufacturing such a watch component.

[0003] A watch component, and more specifically a case component, must achieve numerous, sometimes conflicting, mechanical properties. Among these desired properties, we can mention:

[0004] - Lightness, which makes wearing a timepiece comfortable;

[0005] - A very attractive appearance, free from defects, compatible with the aesthetic requirements of luxury watchmaking;

[0006] - Robustness, to withstand the external stresses experienced by a watch part, so that the watch component retains the same appearance in a lasting way, and more generally all of its mechanical properties in a lasting way.

[0007] In practice, existing solutions represent compromises between these properties. Generally, watch components are mass-produced from a material that can be both lightweight and hard, and surface treatments are applied to improve mechanical performance and / or create aesthetic effects. However, these existing solutions have limitations, and there is a need to identify new solutions that optimize the properties and / or appearance of watch components.

[0008] An object of the present invention is therefore to propose a solution for obtaining a watch component, in particular a watch case component, that is light and robust and has an attractive appearance, in an improved manner compared to the prior art.

[0009] To this end, the invention is based on a watch component for a watch part, characterized in that it comprises a porous structure in a first material, comprising pores and / or channels, this porous structure extending at least to the vicinity of at least a part of a second surface of the watch component, and in that it comprises a second material filling all or part of the pores and / or channels of the porous structure, the second material extending at least to the level of a part of the second surface of the watch component.

[0010] The invention also relies on a method for manufacturing a watch component for a watch part, characterized in that it comprises a first step of manufacturing a porous structure in a first material, comprising pores or channels, this porous structure being intended to extend at least to the vicinity of at least a part of a second surface of the watch component, and in that it comprises a second step consisting of infiltrating the porous structure with a second material, so as to reach at least a part of the second surface of the watch component and so as to infiltrate by said second material all or part of the pores or channels of the porous structure.

[0011] The invention is more precisely defined by the claims.

[0012] These objects, features and advantages of the present invention will be described in detail in the following description of a particular embodiment, given by way of non-limiting example, with reference to the accompanying figures, among which:

[0013] Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a case according to one embodiment of the invention. Figure 2 shows a perspective view of a case blank according to the embodiment of the invention.

[0014] Figure 3 represents a perspective view of a structure obtained from a second material according to the embodiment of the invention.

[0015] Figure 4 represents a cross-sectional view through a radial plane of the blank case according to the embodiment of the invention.

[0016] Figure 5 schematically represents a cross-sectional view of the porous structure of the case blank according to the embodiment of the invention.

[0017] Figure 6 schematically represents a second step in a manufacturing process for a watch component according to the embodiment of the invention.

[0018] Figure 7 schematically represents a third step in a manufacturing process for a watch component according to the embodiment of the invention.

[0019] Figure 8 shows a partial perspective view of a blank case according to a variant of the embodiment of the invention.

[0020] Figure 9 represents an enlarged perspective view of details of the porous structure of a blank case according to the variant of the embodiment of the invention.

[0021] Figure 10 represents a perspective view of a portion of a reinforcement structure of a porous structure according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0022] Figure 11 shows a horizontal cross-sectional view of a case according to one embodiment of the invention. Figure 12 shows a horizontal cross-sectional view of a case according to one embodiment of the invention.

[0023] The invention relates to a watch component, particularly a casing component, which can be positioned on the periphery of a timepiece or constitute the periphery of a timepiece, such as a case. Such a watch component thus comprises a first part having a first surface, advantageously a first surface that can be oriented towards the interior of the timepiece, particularly towards the volume containing the watch movement, and a second part having a second surface, advantageously a second surface that can be oriented towards the exterior, particularly intended to be visible from the outside of the timepiece.We will subsequently use the adjectives "interior" and "exterior," as defined above, to designate orientations toward the center of a timepiece and, conversely, toward the center, even for a timepiece component considered independently of a timepiece, in reference to its intended positioning within a timepiece. The terms "first surface" and "second surface" will be considered, without limitation, as two distinct surfaces between which extends a porous structure filled at least partially by a second material. The first and second surfaces together can define all the surfaces of the timepiece component, between which lies the total volume of the component, or alternatively, only a portion of this overall surface area.

[0024] Furthermore, we will conventionally use the adjective "horizontal" for any direction positioned in a horizontal plane, considering the definition of a horizontal plane as the plane of the case back and / or crystal of a timepiece, or even the plane tangent to the case back and / or crystal in cases where these elements are not perfectly flat. This horizontal plane thus corresponds to the plane of a timepiece. The adjective "vertical" will be used to designate a direction perpendicular to a horizontal plane. These two adjectives, "horizontal" and "vertical," will also be used for a timepiece component considered outside of a timepiece, in reference to its predetermined positioning within a timepiece. The "height" of a component will be considered relative to the vertical direction.The internal and external surfaces of a component may be considered in particular in any horizontal or vertical plane, the external surfaces comprising the portions, in particular the edges, of horizontal or vertical sections furthest outside the component, as opposed to the internal surfaces comprising the portions, in particular the edges, of horizontal or vertical sections which are furthest inside.

[0025] We will also use the terms "apparent" and "non-apparent" to refer to surfaces of the watch component. Apparent surfaces are those that are visible, as opposed to non-apparent surfaces. In most cases, the external surfaces of the component will be apparent, while at least some of the internal surfaces of the component will be non-apparent, particularly when the timepiece containing the component is assembled and / or when the timepiece is worn on a wearer's wrist or displayed on a stand.

[0026] In addition, the adjectives "lower" and "upper" will be used in reference to the vertical direction, with the case back of a timepiece being located at the lower end of the timepiece and the crystal at the upper end. These two adjectives, "lower" and "upper," will also be used for a timepiece component considered outside of a timepiece, in reference to its predetermined positioning within that timepiece.

[0027] As a note, we will use the expression "based on a material" to designate a product comprised primarily of said material, specifically at least 50% by weight of said material. In all cases, when a particular material is mentioned, it will be possible to use an alternative embodiment with a different material, based on said particular material, which will not be explicitly stated. Furthermore, we will sometimes use the simplified term "component" to refer to a watch component, or even, somewhat loosely, to a nearly finalized watch component prototype. The invention will be described specifically in the context of a watch case component, but it can be implemented for any other watch component, such as a component of a watch movement.The component can thus be in the form of a case, as will be described below, but can also be in the form of a bezel disc, a bezel, a case back, a flange, a link of a bracelet, or even a plate or a bridge of a watch movement.

[0028] The concept of the invention consists of a watch component comprising a porous structure in the form of a first material, combined with a second material extending within all or part of the pores and / or channels of said porous structure. Furthermore, the first and second materials advantageously extend over at least part of a second surface, which may in particular be an external or visible surface of the watch component, such that the two materials are preferentially visible or apparent from the outside, and together form all or part of the external or visible surface of the watch component, thus enabling attractive and varied aesthetic effects and / or the creation of markings. Alternatively, it is possible that only the second material forms said second surface of the watch component, in particular all or part of the external or visible surface of the watch component.Specifically, only the second material would be visible. In such cases, the porous structure would extend near this second surface and be entirely covered by the second material at this point. The combination of these two materials also allows for achieving the expected mechanical performance, particularly within the volume of the watch component, specifically at this second surface, and especially for a second surface corresponding to all or part of the component's external or visible surface. This porosity is therefore open to the second surface, particularly the external or visible surface of the watch component blank, especially before the second material infiltrates the pores and / or channels.

[0029] By way of example, Figure 1 represents a watch component 1, which is a case. In this figure, a second surface 19 of the watch component 1 is visible; this is an exterior surface of the watch component in this embodiment, as opposed to a first surface 9, which is an interior surface in this embodiment. The first material 11 of the porous structure 2, as well as the second material 12, are visible on the second surface 19. In these figures, a zebra-like pattern is formed on the second surface 19, the two materials 11 and 12 forming substantially vertical bands, alternating with each other. Naturally, the invention does not relate to the precise pattern obtained, and any other pattern could be formed by combining the two materials present on the second surface without departing from the scope of the invention.The case includes lugs 14, in which bar holes 14a are formed for the accommodation of a bar for fixing a strap strand or a bar for fixing any component connected to the strap.

[0030] Figure 2 illustrates a rough draft 1a of the case 1 of Figure 1, before the infiltration of the pores and / or channels by the second material 12. The porous structure 2 includes reliefs 7 delimiting housings 6 within which the second material 12 is intended to be housed so as to be visible at the level of the second surface 19 of the watch component.

[0031] Figure 3 represents different views of isolated portions of the second material 12 as present within the porous structure 2 of Figure 1.

[0032] Figure 4 shows a vertical cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of the sketch 1a of Figure 2. The housings 6 are in the form of portions hollowed out in the surface of the porous structure at the level of the second surface 19 of the watch component, which is an external surface of the porous structure 2, between surfaces 7 which appear in relief or protrusion relative to these housings 6. As a note, these housings 6 are positioned at the end of channels 5, passing through all or part of the porous structure 2.

[0033] The porous structure can appear in many different architectural forms.

[0034] The porous structure 2 can, for example, take the form of a lattice or trellis network extending throughout most, or even almost all, of the volume of the frame. It can thus form a skeleton composed of alternating voids and partitions, creating a regular or irregular porous network, such as TPMS (Triply Periodic Minimal Surfaces), gyroid, Schwartz, alveolar, cellular, or spherical. The lattice network may include partitions that intersect randomly or according to a well-defined periodicity. It may consist of the repetition of one or more juxtaposed elementary elements, particularly those in contact with each other to form a continuous porous structure. It advantageously forms a completely open porous structure, with the pores 4 or interstices communicating with each other, or at least a partially open one, with some of the pores or interstices communicating with each other.The porous structure can thus comprise a multitude of closely spaced partitions defining an overall porous structure through small interstices positioned between these partitions. These partitions are in contact with each other and extend throughout the entire volume of the hollowed-out portion. These interstices form pores 4, which in turn form channels 5, particularly shown in the cross-section of Figure 5, extending throughout the porous structure. Alternatively, these interstices can form channels 5 whose walls are continuous or substantially continuous, as shown in Figure 4.

[0035] The porous structure 2 can exhibit any other architecture. More generally, the porous structure 2 comprises openings, pores, or interstices that communicate with each other and thus form channels, or can be considered as such, according to an open porous structure, in whole or in part. In particular, these channels extend substantially in a direction oriented from the inside out, horizontally or otherwise, opening at the second surface of the watch component blank or the watch component itself, in particular at the outer surface of the watch component blank or the watch component, and possibly opening at the first surface 9, in particular at the inner surface 9 of the watch component blank or the watch component itself.

[0036] Furthermore, according to an advantageous embodiment, the porous structure includes a non-homogeneous porosity, comprising a zone opening onto the second surface 19 of the watch component, or even near this second surface 19, with greater porosity than a zone opening onto the first surface 9 of the watch component, or even near this first surface 9, and / or than any other zone. In one embodiment, the porosity increases from the first surface 9 to the second surface 19, notably along a gradient of the size of the pores 4 and / or the channels 5, to facilitate the insertion of the second material 12 from the first surface, as illustrated in particular in Figure 5 and as will be detailed thereafter.

[0037] In one embodiment, the porous structure 2 forms reliefs 7 on at least part of its outer surface. These reliefs 7 delineate recesses 6 intended to be filled with the second material, as shown in particular in Figure 5, so as to ultimately form a second continuous surface 19 of the watch component. This second surface 19 comprises both the first and second materials. In other words, the porous structure 2 includes reliefs that form partitions, defining at least one partitioned area that delimits one or more recesses 6. Note that the outer surface of the watch component blank forms all or part of this second surface of the watch component, and we will use the term "second surface" or "outer surface" loosely to refer to the second surface or the outer surface of both the component blank and the watch component. The same applies to the first surface 9.Furthermore, in this embodiment, the outer surface of the watch component blank or the watch component itself forms or includes the visible surface of the watch component, particularly when the latter is integrated within a timepiece. The first surface or the inner surface of the watch component blank or the watch component itself forms or includes the non-visible surface of the watch component, particularly when the latter is integrated within a timepiece. According to one embodiment, the second surface of the watch component blank formed by the porous structure may only come close to the second surface of the watch component, at the level of this second surface, being intended to be completely covered by the second material that alone forms the second surface of the watch component.

[0038] The basic watch component includes, in particular, the porous structure.

[0039] The porous structure 2 consists of a first material. This first material may consist of, or be based on, at least one metal or metallic alloy, in particular a precious alloy or a metallic superalloy, or a stainless steel or a titanium alloy, including one or more elements from Fe, Mg, Al, Ti, Au, Pd, Pt, Ni, Si, and / or Co. Alternatively, this first material may consist of, or be based on, at least one amorphous or partially amorphous alloy, in particular at least one amorphous or partially amorphous metallic alloy. As a further alternative, this first material may consist of, or be based on, at least one ceramic, in particular one based on alumina or zirconia.

[0040] According to one embodiment, the porous structure 2 can comprise several different materials; that is, the first material mentioned above is made up of several different materials. For example, the watch component can comprise different materials arranged in layers, for example, superimposed in the vertical and / or horizontal direction, or even in a diagonal direction, and some layers can be formed of different materials.

[0041] The porous structure 2 advantageously comprises a density less than or equal to 80%, or even less than or equal to 60%, or even less than or equal to 50%, of the density of the first solid material.

[0042] The porous structure 2 can therefore have many different shapes and configurations, as mentioned previously. Figures 8 and 9 illustrate, by way of example, another embodiment of the porous structure 2, which comprises a shell 22 with a three-dimensional shape delimiting a hollow portion 23. This shell 22 can, for example, have a porosity rate of 0.5% or less, or even 0.1% or less, or 0.05% or less, or even 0.01% or less. This shell is not closed, so that its hollow portion 23 is wholly or partially open, oriented towards the interior of the timepiece. It also includes one or more open openings 24 acting as channels 5 and / or housings 6 on its second surface.The shell thus forms both a rigid structure and a porous structure in the sense that it is openly traversed from the inside out by one or more openings, pores, or channels. The porous structure 2 further comprises a reinforcing structure 10, which extends into all or part of the hollowed portion 23 of the shell 22. According to a preferred embodiment, the reinforcing structure 10 and the shell 22 form a single, monolithic structure, obtained, for example, by a three-dimensional printing process. Moreover, this reinforcing structure 10 and the shell 22 therefore form a porous structure 2 within the meaning of the invention, the porosity extending, in particular, to the second surface.

[0043] In the construction of Figures 8 and 9, the reinforcement structure 10 forms a lattice network (or truss network), specifically a network comprising an alternation of voids and partitions or reinforcements, in particular partitions or reinforcements that meet or intersect and / or are in contact with each other. In particular, the reinforcement structure may comprise a multitude of closely spaced partitions defining an overall porous structure through small gaps positioned between these partitions, these partitions being in contact with each other and extending throughout the volume of the hollowed-out portion, in particular coming into contact with at least three distinct zones of the inner surface of the hull in the same plane section and / or three zones in distinct planes when considering the three-dimensional shape of the hull.Specifically, partitions may come into contact with the upper and lower surfaces of the case, and with at least one intermediate surface between these upper and lower surfaces. The case forms at least a part, particularly a significant part, of the second surface of the watch component and delimits a hollowed-out portion 23 opening inwards. The reinforcing structure 10 is housed within the hollowed-out portion of the case. The reinforcing structure 10 is thus porous and lightweight, yet possesses sufficient mechanical properties to allow the watch component to withstand the mechanical stresses exerted during its use. The case 22 provides the necessary strength while simultaneously achieving a high-quality aesthetic appearance.

[0044] On the other hand, the case according to these embodiments has a generally traditional annular shape, which defines a central volume 110, intended to house a watch movement. The structure of the case is particularly visible in Figure 9. It comprises a three-dimensional shell 22 forming, in particular, the outer peripheral contour of the case. This shell 22 includes a substantially vertical, slightly curved outer wall, open in its central part by the through opening 24 which extends horizontally around the perimeter of the shell 22, extended inwards at its two ends, respectively lower and upper, by returns (or rims) in horizontal planes, forming the upper and lower surfaces of the case.Advantageously, these returns extend sufficiently inwards to form, respectively, an upper assembly surface 18, for receiving a glass pane, and a lower assembly surface 17, for receiving a base. The shell 22 thus has a cross-section that is generally in the shape of a horizontal U (or a C). This shape delimits the hollowed portion 23 of the case, which is generally enclosed by the shell 22 and opens inwards, that is, towards the central volume 110. The hollowed portion 23 has a generally annular shape.

[0045] The shell 22 is preferably solid, monolithic, even a single piece, forming a continuous material without boundaries. Alternatively, it may comprise the assembly of several distinct parts, joined together by any mechanical and / or chemical means, such as gluing or welding. For example, the lower assembly surface 17 and / or the upper assembly surface 18 may belong to two separate parts.

[0046] The shell 22 forms or includes part of the second surface 19 of the watch component 1 capable of presenting an attractive appearance, advantageously a continuous appearance, once the second material at least partially fills the through opening 24. As a note, this through opening 24 can take any other form than that shown, any porosity of the shell open on its second surface.

[0047] The case also includes a reinforcing structure 10 positioned within the hollowed portion of the case 22. This reinforcing structure is porous and in contact with various walls of the case 22, thus forming support elements. The reinforcing structure 10 is designed, in particular, to withstand the mechanical stresses exerted on the case 22, notably the stresses during the assembly of the timepiece and / or the stresses during wear of the timepiece, especially any impacts.

[0048] In one embodiment, the shell 22 and the reinforcing structure 10 actually form a single, unified porous structure. Thus, there is no physical boundary, no physical discontinuity, between these two sub-elements, the shell and the reinforcing structure being differentiated abstractly by their distinct form and function. Furthermore, the hollowed-out portion of the shell is an abstract concept defined independently of the reinforcing structure, whereas in reality, there is no hollowed-out portion in the finished watch component due to the presence of the reinforcing structure. The shell and the reinforcing structure cannot be physically separated into two distinct parts.

[0049] In one embodiment, the reinforcement structure 10 comprises juxtaposed elements 13, advantageously arranged in a homogeneous and repeated pattern, forming a three-dimensional lattice network. In the illustrated example, the reinforcement structure 10 comprises first elements 13a having an ellipsoidal, ovoid, or almond-shaped cross-section. In particular, each of the first elements 13a comprises partitions whose ends meet or intersect, advantageously at the upper and lower surfaces of the case. The first elements 13a are load-bearing elements that structurally reinforce the case or the case of the case in the event of stress, for example, during tension on a strap attached to said case, or during the assembly of a component onto said case, particularly during the mounting of a bezel onto said case.The reinforcement structure 10 may further include second elements 13b acting as spacers, whose partitions intersect to form crosses or stars, advantageously arranged inside all or part of the first elements 13a. In this case, each partition may extend from an interior surface of a first element 13a, these partitions intersecting in a central area of ​​said first element 13a. These elements 13b may, in particular, absorb impacts or point and / or highly localized stresses at the level of the case's shell. Such a reinforcement structure 10 is particularly visible in Figure 9.

[0050] Thus, according to an advantageous design, the reinforcement structure 10 can comprise a succession of first elements 13a with the association of a first element 13a and a second element 13b. Such a design will, for example, be preferred at the sides of the frame or at any other surface likely to be subjected to an impact and / or to come into contact with a blunt object external to the frame. Naturally, the reinforcement structure 10 can comprise a succession of first elements 13a each associated with a second element 13b. Alternatively, it can comprise a succession of first elements 13a without a second element 13b. Such a design will, for example, be preferred between two adjacent horns of the frame. The reinforcement structure thus advantageously comprises a regular, non-random, three-dimensional structure, forming a repeating network.

[0051] The reinforcement structure 10 is thus formed of elements 13, which constitute elementary parts defining gaps. Advantageously, in addition to its mechanical function mentioned above, the reinforcement structure 10 also defines gaps, thus contributing to the lightness of the watch component. According to an advantageous embodiment, these gaps are specifically shaped to facilitate powder evacuation during a potential additive manufacturing step and / or material removal during a potential manufacturing step by material removal, which will be specified later. Figure 10 shows a perspective view of a portion of the reinforcement structure 10 according to such an embodiment. The first elements 13a, one of whose cross-sections has an ellipsoidal, ovoid, or almond shape, further facilitate this evacuation. In the case of an ellipsoidal shape, the ellipse could have a minor axis of 1 mm and a major axis of 4 mm.Preferably, the partitions 131a and 132a of the first elements 13a project inwards from the hull, into the hollowed-out portion, by a length of approximately 2 mm. The partitions 131b, 132b, 133b of the second elements 13b project in the same direction by a length between 0.5 mm and 1 mm, which further facilitates powder evacuation.

[0052] The hollowed portion 23 which opens into the central volume 110 thus allows to participate in the evacuation of the powder or material which comes from the interstices of the reinforcement structure 10.

[0053] The structure described above was described for the annular portion of the case. Advantageously, it is used throughout the entire volume of the case, including in the lugs 14 intended for attaching strap links. Advantageously, each lug 14 is therefore also formed of a shell 2 and a reinforcing structure 10 housed in a hollowed portion of the lug. This reinforcing structure comprises repeating gyroid-shaped elements according to this embodiment. This shape is chosen in particular because of its high strength and its ease and speed of manufacture. These elements also form, in particular, a network of channels allowing the powder to be evacuated after the additive manufacturing step. The reinforcing structure 10 also forms gaps within each lug 14 with dimensions ranging from 0.3 mm to 3 mm.

[0054] Naturally, the invention is not limited to the specific geometry of the shell and the reinforcement structure as described above, nor even to this combination of two complementary elements, the porous structure being able to be designed without association with a rigid shell, as described above.

[0055] On the other hand, as mentioned previously, the component includes a second material, which fills all or part of the channels (or pores) of the porous structure, to the point of forming all or part of a second surface of the watch component, which can advantageously be an external surface, preferably visible, of the watch component.

[0056] The second material is preferably based on, or consists of, a resilient material, such as a polymer, in particular an elastomer like a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) or thermosetting elastomer or a fluoroelastomer (FKM, FFKM or FEPM), or a natural (NR) or synthetic (SBR, HNBR, EPDM) rubber, or a vinyl methylsilicone (VMQ) or a fluorosilicone (FVMQ). Advantageously, it is an elastomer with a Shore A hardness greater than or equal to 40.

[0057] Alternatively, the second material can be of any other nature, provided it is compatible with an infiltration step of a second material in liquid or paste phase, according to the process described later. For this purpose, the second material could, for example, be an amorphous or partially amorphous metallic alloy. More generally, the second material could be a metal or metallic alloy with a melting point lower than that of the first material.

[0058] In this design, the second, resilient material, distributed within the porous structure, dissipates impacts on the component, thus optimizing its preservation. The porous structure meets mechanical requirements and provides the necessary rigidity. Additionally, the second material serves a secondary aesthetic and / or marking function through its visible placement on the component's external or exposed surface, either alone or in combination with the first material.

[0059] The invention is particularly suited to any watch component, especially any casing component. This watch component can take various forms. Advantageously, all or part of the watch component 1 extends around a volume intended to house a watch movement or another component of a timepiece, or intended to equip a timepiece, and has, for example, an annular shape. It may, for example, be a case, a bezel, a bezel disc, or a case back or flange. It may, in particular, be a component having a shape defining a central space 110 intended to contain a movement, or a crystal or dial of the timepiece. It may also be a component of the bracelet, such as a link or a strap strand. It may also be a component of a watch movement. The second material can form aesthetic patterns and / or markings, such as the indices on a bezel.

[0060] Advantageously, it is possible to assemble various watch components according to the invention in order to offer, in particular, a lightweight and robust watch case with an attractive appearance, compatible with the aesthetic requirements of luxury watchmaking. For example, such a case could include a case middle according to the invention and / or a bezel and / or a case back and / or a flange according to the invention. The invention also relates to a timepiece, in particular a wristwatch, which includes at least one watch component as described above.

[0061] The invention also relates to a method for manufacturing a watch component for a watch part.

[0062] Advantageously, this process comprises a first step of manufacturing a porous structure 2 from a first material, as described previously. It comprises a second step of infiltrating the porous structure 2 with a second material 12, so as to reach at least a portion of a second surface of the porous structure 2, and to form all or part of the second surface 19 of a watch component, positioned at the level of the second surface of the porous structure, advantageously an exterior surface of the watch component. This second step consists of infiltrating, with a second material 12, all or part of the pores or channels of the porous structure 2, the second material 12 extending to said second surface 19 of the watch component.

[0063] Figure 5 schematically represents a vertical cross-sectional view of the porous structure 2 or the component blank 1a, as described above, obtained by the first step of the manufacturing process according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0064] In the case of a particular porous structure, such as that shown in Figures 8 and 9, the first step may include an additive manufacturing step of a shell 22 comprising a three-dimensional shape delimiting a hollow portion 23 and a porosity opening onto the second surface 19, for example through a through-hole 24, defining a channel 5 and a housing 6. This additive manufacturing step simultaneously fabricates a reinforcing structure 10 extending into all or part of the hollow portion 23, this reinforcing structure 10 forming a lattice network. Preferably, this step is implemented using the laser powder fusion or powder bed fusion ("Power Bed Fusion") technique, which has the advantage of producing a structure with high precision. Advantageously, the hollow portion 23 facilitates this additive manufacturing step by allowing the powder to be evacuated.To this end, it opens onto a first surface 9 of the watch component blank or the watch component itself. Furthermore, preferably, its opening surface is large, extending over a significant proportion of the total internal surface of the watch component and / or over a significant height. For this reason, the hollowed-out portion 23 can extend over at least 80% of the internal surface of the case, or even over at least 90% of the internal surface of the case, and / or can extend over at least 75% of the height of the internal surface of the case, or even over at least 85% of the height of the internal surface of the case, and can open onto all or almost all of its internal surface.

[0065] Figure 6 illustrates the second stage of the manufacturing process. In this embodiment, the second stage consists of injecting a second material 12 from a first surface of the porous structure 2, which is an internal surface designed to coincide with the first surface 9 of the future watch component. This second stage is, for example, an injection molding step of an elastomer, the porous structure 2 having been previously positioned in a mold 30. In such a molding step, the pressure can be between 50 and 200 bar and the temperature between 100°C and 250°C, in order to allow cross-linking of the elastomer in this case. Alternatively, this injection could be carried out from a face other than the internal surface, for example, from a lateral and / or upper and / or lower and / or external surface of the porous structure 2 or of the component blank 1a.In other words, the first surface can be an internal and / or lateral and / or upper and / or lower surface. As shown in Figures 5 and 6, an advantageous embodiment consists of forming a porosity that increases from the first surface to the second surface of the porous structure 2, which are close to or coincide with the first surface 9 and the second surface 19 of the watch component, as detailed previously, or at least partially over this thickness of the porous structure, to facilitate the flow of the second material 12 within the pores 4 or channels of the porous structure 2, and ensure its arrival at the level of the second surface 19 of the final watch component. This increase in porosity can take the form of a gradient in the size of the pores or the size of the channels of the porous structure 2.

[0066] Figure 7 illustrates an optional third step in the manufacturing process, which involves mechanical or laser reworking of the second surface 19 of the watch component. Indeed, after the second infiltration step, the condition of the second surface 19 is not necessarily perfect, does not have the desired appearance, or does not have the targeted dimensions and / or shapes. For example, the second material 12 may be present in excess on this second surface 19, as is intentionally exaggerated in Figure 6. The third reworking step allows for the removal of this excess 29 of the second material 12 on the second surface 19, in order to obtain the desired final surface finish. This reworking step is, for example, carried out using a laser, particularly a femtosecond laser, which makes it possible to obtain a polished surface or one with a predefined roughness.

[0067] The second material 12 mentioned could consist of several different materials, for example, infiltrated simultaneously or successively through separate injection channels, to achieve specific mechanical performance and / or varied aesthetic appearances. For example, materials of different colors could be used. Alternatively, materials of different natures, exhibiting different mechanical properties, could be used. As a side note, the infiltration of a second material into a porous structure within a first material involves guiding the second material, regardless of its shape, through pores and / or channels to the vicinity of at least a portion of a second surface of the watch component, particularly from a first surface.The injection of a second material into a porous structure within a first material involves, in particular, guiding the second material through pores and / or channels under a given pressure and temperature range, bringing it close to at least part of a second surface of the watch component, often from a first surface. This technique may include cross-linking the second material.

[0068] On the other hand, the specific shape of the porous structure can achieve the desired mechanical performance while creating interesting aesthetic effects. For example, the porous structure could include gyroid-shaped elements, which, due to their shape, can be filled with two different materials.

[0069] The manufacturing process may include one or more other optional steps, which may be combined and / or carried out in different orders, according to various implementation options, including:

[0070] - a tribofinishing step which may, for example, include a mechanochemical barreling or trovating step, which may or may not complement the previous step;

[0071] - a step of depositing at least one layer of a surface coating on at least part of the second surface, in particular the outer or visible surface. The various techniques implemented or envisaged are described below. In such a case, the process may implement an optional additional step of reworking the watch component, at least part of which is coated. This step may consist of reworking the coating alone, or of reworking both the second surface of the porous structure and / or the component and the coating. In the latter case, the watch component includes one or more excess thicknesses in different areas, which are then reworked in this reworking step to achieve the correct dimensions for the component;

[0072] - at least one cleaning operation aimed at removing all manufacturing residue from both the external and internal surfaces of the component's outer wall.

[0073] Regarding the step of filling the spaces formed by the porous structure 2 with a filler material, this filler material can be resilient, specifically chosen from the resilient materials listed previously. This step may include a step of filling a lattice network with the filler material. For this purpose, an injection molding step of a filler material, for example an elastomer, can be implemented, with the watch component first positioned in a mold. The pressures and temperatures involved are adapted for maximum infiltration, for example, a pressure between 50 and 200 bar and a temperature between 100°C and 250°C, which also allows for cross-linking in the case of an elastomer. Alternatively, any material compatible with a liquid or paste-like infiltration step can be used, such as a metallic alloy that is at least partially amorphous.For this effective implementation, the porous structure forms an open porous structure, meaning that the interstices it defines are interconnected, allowing the filling material to circulate throughout the entire volume. The porous structure thus includes, for example, channels, or pores connected to each other to form channels.

[0074] The injection (or more generally the infiltration) of the filling material can be carried out through the inner surface of the porous structure.

[0075] Alternatively, this injection can be carried out via at least one injection point positioned on the outer surface of the porous structure. For example, in the case of a case such as that shown in Figure 11, an injection point 16 positioned at the lug width of the case can be used. It is advantageously positioned on the outer surface of the porous structure. Furthermore, to achieve a result such as the one described above, and similar to the representation in Figure 1, the porous structure 2 advantageously defines an internal annular channel, facilitating the flow of the second material 12 from the single injection point 16 around the entire circumference of the case. Complementary channels, such as those described, for example, with reference to Figures 4 and 5, extend regularly radially from this annular channel to the outer surface of the case.In the cross-sectional view of Figure 11, the presence of the second material 12 can be seen in a first internal portion, specifically an annular portion, or a first channel 15, in particular a first annular channel 15, then along substantially radial channels leading to the lateral surface forming the second surface 19, where it is visible in a zebra-like pattern as described in detail previously. Alternatively, several injection points can be arranged at the level of the inter-horn space. As a further alternative, and more generally, one or more injection points could be arranged on the outer surface of the frame.

[0076] Alternatively, the single injection point can be located at a hole in a lug 14, in particular at a bar hole 14a of a lug 14. Alternatively, several injection points can be provided, respectively at several bar holes 14a. As an alternative, several injection points 16 can be located at each of the bar holes 14a, i.e., four injection points 16 in total, as shown in the cross-sectional view of Figure 12. These latter embodiments are advantageous in that they allow the presence of the bar holes 14a at the lugs 14 to be used for the second injection hole function, without requiring the creation of one or more additional holes in the case.

[0077] Naturally, the frame can have any type of geometry. For example, it can have a predominantly cylindrical shape with horns, as shown in Figures 1, 11, and 12. Alternatively, it can have a polygonal shape, for example, a rectangle. Advantageously, the porous structure has non-homogeneous porosity, which varies from the first surface to the second, particularly from the inside out. The porosity can, in particular, increase from the inner to the outer face of the reinforcing structure. This can be achieved by a gradient in pore size, increasing from the inside to the outside. Such a design can thus promote the efficient flow of the filling material from the inside out, ensuring that it advantageously reaches the outer surface of the porous structure.

[0078] In one embodiment, the second material does not completely cover the porous structure, thus exposing its second surface to the second surface of the watch component. When the infiltration step is carried out using a filler material, this material reaches the second surface of the porous structure, infiltrating the pores at this point and becoming visible from the outside of the watch component. This process creates an aesthetic effect on the outer surface of the watch component, with variations between the visible surfaces of the component formed by the outer surface of the porous structure (and its first material) and the visible surfaces formed by the second material.To amplify this effect, materials with very different appearances, such as different colors, can be chosen to particularly differentiate the two materials of the porous structure and the second filling material, respectively, on the second surface of the watch component. Naturally, the terminations of the second surface and those of the second filling material can also differ. In such an embodiment, the second material could, for example, be an elastomer, particularly one with a Shore A hardness greater than 40 to ensure good wear resistance. Of course, it is possible to combine the different embodiments described above.

[0079] Ultimately, the invention makes it possible to combine two major objectives for a component, particularly a watch case component, which had not been achieved until now. It allows for a component that is both lightweight and mechanically robust, while also being aesthetically pleasing.

Claims

26 DEMANDS 1. Watch component (1) for a watch part, characterized in that it comprises a porous structure (2) in a first material (11), comprising pores (4) and / or channels (5), this porous structure (2) extending at least to the vicinity of at least a part of a second surface (19) of the watch component, and in that it comprises a second material (12) filling all or part of the pores (4) and / or channels (5) of the porous structure (2), the second material (12) extending at least to a part of the second surface (19) of the watch component, the porous structure (2) comprising a non-homogeneous porosity increasing from an area opening onto a first surface (9) of the watch component or onto another area of ​​the porous structure (2) to the second surface (19), in particular along a gradient of the size of the pores (4) or channels (5),to promote the infiltration of the second material (12) to the second surface (19) of the watch component, the porous structure (2) forming reliefs (7) at the level of at least a part of the second surface (19) of the watch component, these reliefs delimiting at least one cavity (6) filled by the second material (12) to form a continuous second surface (19) comprising both the first material (11) and the second material (12).

2. Watch component (1) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the second material (12) extends into pores (4) and / or channels (5) of the porous structure (2) from a first surface (9), in particular a first internal and / or non-apparent surface (9), or even a first lateral and / or upper and / or lower surface, of the watch component to the second surface (19) of the watch component.

3. Watch component (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said second surface (19) is an external or apparent surface.

4. Watch component (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the porous structure (2) comprises a density less than or equal to 80%, or even less than or equal to 60%, or even less than or equal to 50%, of the density of the first solid material (11).

5. Watch component (1) for watch part according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the porous structure (2) comprises a regular or irregular porous network, in particular of the lattice, TPMS, alveolar, cellular type.

6. Watch component (1) for a watch part according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first material (11) of the porous structure (2) is based on or consists of a metal or a metallic alloy, in particular a precious alloy or a metallic superalloy, in particular comprising one or more elements among Fe, Mg, Al, Ti, Au, Pd, Pt, Ni, Si, and / or Co, and / or is based on or consists of an amorphous or partially amorphous alloy, and / or is based on or consists of a ceramic, in particular based on alumina or zirconia.

7. Watch component (1) for a watch part according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the second material (12) is based on or consists of a resilient material, such as a polymer, in particular an elastomer such as a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) or thermosetting elastomer or a fluoroelastomer (FKM, FFKM or FEPM), or a natural (NR) or synthetic (SBR, HNBR, EPDM) rubber, or a vinyl methylsilicone (VMQ) or a fluorosilicone (FVMQ) and / or is an elastomer of Shore A hardness greater than or equal to 40, or in that the second material (12) is an amorphous alloy or a partially amorphous alloy.

8. Watch component (1) for a watch part according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the porous structure (2) comprises a shell (22) comprising a three-dimensional shape forming at least in part the second surface (19) of the watch component, and delimiting a hollow portion (23) wholly or partly through-hole in an orientation intended for positioning towards the interior of the watch part and also comprising one or more through-holes (24) acting as channels (5) and / or housings (6) at the level of the second surface (19) of the watch component, and in that the porous structure (2) comprises a reinforcing structure (10) extending in all or part of the hollow portion (23) of the shell (22).

9. Watch component (1) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the reinforcement structure (10) and the shell (22) form a single-piece monobloc structure.

10. Watch component (1) for a watch part according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it is a case, a bezel disc, a bezel, a case back, or a flange, having a shape defining a central space (110) delimited by a first surface (9) and intended to include a movement or a crystal or a dial of the watch part, or in that it is a component of a bracelet, such as a link or a strand of a bracelet, or in that it is a component of a watch movement.

11. Timepiece, characterized in that it comprises at least one timepiece component according to one of the preceding claims. 29 12. A method for manufacturing a watch component for a watch part, characterized in that it comprises a first step of manufacturing a porous structure (2) in a first material (11), comprising pores (4) or channels (5), this porous structure (2) being intended to extend at least to the vicinity of at least a part of a second surface (19) of the watch component, and in that it comprises a second step consisting of infiltrating the porous structure (2) with a second material (12), so as to reach at least a part of the second surface (19) of the watch component (1) and so as to infiltrate by said second material (12) all or part of the pores (4) or channels (5) of the porous structure (2).

13. Method of manufacturing a watch component according to the preceding claim, characterized in that it comprises a third step of mechanical or laser reworking of the second surface (19) of the watch component.

14. Method of manufacturing a watch component according to claim 15 or 16, characterized in that the second step induces the infiltration of the second material (12) through the porous structure (2) until it infiltrates housings (6) formed at the level of the second surface (19) of the watch component (1), forming the second surface (19) comprising the second material (12) and optionally the first material (11).

15. Method for manufacturing a watch component according to any one of claims 12 to 14, characterized in that the second step comprises the injection of the second material from a first surface (9) of the watch component (1), in particular at a temperature between 100°C and 250°C and at a pressure between 50 and 200 bars.

16. A method for manufacturing a watch component according to any one of claims 12 to 15, characterized in that the watch component is a case comprising horns (14), in that the second step comprises the injection of the second material (12) by one or more injection points (16) positioned on an external surface of the case, in particular at the level of the inter-horn or at the level of a bar hole (14a), and in that the porous structure (2) comprises a channel (15), in particular an annular channel (15), extending around the entire circumference inside the case and radial channels extending from said channel (15), in particular said annular channel (15), to said second surface (19).

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