3D Ceramic Trim Decoration Using Enamel Bonding Layers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing decorative elements on substrates, particularly in watchmaking and jewelry, face challenges in long-term stability due to bonding methods like pressing, gluing, or screwing, and are difficult to position accurately due to their small size.
Innovation Solution
A three-dimensional decoration method involving the deposition of an enamel support layer on a ceramic substrate, followed by firing to melt and adhere a ceramic and/or metallic decorative element, sealed at a temperature below its melting point, ensuring a strong bond.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If decorative elements are fixed to the substrate by pressing, gluing, or screwing, then the assembly process is simple, but the long-term stability of the bond is not controlled
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes the phase transition of the enamel support layer from solid to liquid state during firing. The support layer is deposited in solid form, then fired to melt it, transforming it into a liquid state that can flow and bond with both the substrate and decorative element. Upon cooling, it solidifies to form a strong, stable bond. This phase transition enables controlled, reliable bonding that overcomes the limitations of pressing, gluing, or screwing methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention employs a composite structure consisting of three distinct materials: the substrate, the enamel support layer, and the decorative element. The support layer acts as an intermediate material that bonds the substrate and decorative element together through thermal processing. This composite approach creates a multi-material assembly with controlled bonding characteristics, improving long-term stability while maintaining manufacturing feasibility.
2Shape
If the very small decorative elements are used, then the aesthetic quality is improved, but they become difficult to grasp and position on the substrate
Solution Approach 1:
The enamel support layer serves as an intermediary that facilitates the positioning and bonding of small decorative elements. By providing a melted, viscous medium during firing, it allows small elements to be easily placed and automatically positioned through capillary action and surface tension, eliminating the need for precise manual positioning that would be difficult with very small elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the physical parameters of the support layer during processing. Initially deposited as a solid powder or slurry, the support layer is transformed into a liquid state during firing through temperature increase. This parameter change enables easy positioning of decorative elements in the liquid state, after which cooling solidifies the layer to secure the elements in their final positions.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The method provides a durable and stable bond between the decorative element and substrate, addressing positioning difficulties and enhancing long-term stability.
Implementation Method 1
firing of the substrate including the support layer so as to cause the latter to melt
Implementation Method 2
sealing of the decorative element on the substrate by firing so as to form a covering piece
Data Source
Figure 1a~1f
AI summary
The invention relates to a three-dimensional decoration method for a substrate (11) in order to produce a covering piece (10) comprising the steps of: - deposition of at least one support layer (12) of enamel on a decoration area of a covering surface (110) of a substrate (11) made of ceramic, said decoration area being intended to receive a decorative element (13); - firing of the substrate (11) including the support layer (12) so as to cause the latter to melt; - deposition of a decorative element (13) of ceramic and/or metal in solid form on the support layer (12); - sealing of the decorative element (13) on the substrate (11) by firing so as to form a covering piece (10).