Ceramic Watch Component Decoration With Laser-Ablated Relief
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods face challenges in achieving high-definition, tone-on-tone decorative effects on watchmaking and jewelry components, particularly with mechanical structuring affecting light diffraction and appearance.
Innovation Solution
A method involving ceramic-based components with structured decoration, utilizing a combination of laser machining, mechanical machining with diamond tools, and multiple layers of decorative treatments, including metallic and colored materials, to create intricate designs and holographic effects by alternating machining and covering operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If mechanical structuring is applied to create decoration, then decorative patterns are formed, but light diffraction is modified and appearance quality deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical structuring with laser-based surface treatment to create decorative patterns. The laser process avoids the light diffraction issues caused by mechanical structuring while maintaining the ability to form intricate decorative patterns on ceramic surfaces, thereby improving appearance quality without sacrificing manufacturability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical parameters of the decoration process by using controlled laser irradiation instead of mechanical contact. By adjusting laser parameters (power, speed, pulse duration), the process achieves high-precision decorative patterns with controlled surface modification depth, preventing unwanted light diffraction while maintaining ease of manufacture
2Device complexity
If tone-on-tone decoration is applied, then subtle decorative effects are achieved, but optical effects become difficult to control
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses laser surface treatment to create tone-on-tone decorations with precise control over optical effects. The laser process allows for subtle variations in surface morphology and reflectivity that are difficult to achieve mechanically, enabling nuanced decorative effects while maintaining precise control over light interaction
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a new dimension of control by using laser parameters (power density, pulse duration, scanning speed) to create subtle variations in surface properties. This allows for fine-tuned optical effects in tone-on-tone decorations, where small changes in laser processing create nuanced decorative patterns with controlled light reflection and diffraction
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
Enables the creation of high-definition, nuanced, and holographic decorative effects on substrates like ceramic, sapphire, and glass, enhancing the visual appeal of watchmaking and jewelry components while allowing for brand promotion and anti-counterfeiting features.
Implementation Method 1
in a third machining operation 700, laser ablation of the first layer 2 is carried out at the level of pockets 4 at the bottom of which the ceramic material of the base 1 is revealed
Implementation Method 2
in a second machining operation 300 a laser machining and/or a mechanical machining with a diamond tool and/or an abrasive is carried out, to produce a first fine structuring engraving of at least certain structured surfaces comprising a surface relief 20 extending between peaks 21 and hollows 22
Implementation Method 3
a first covering operation 500 is carried out in which at least a portion of the surface relief 20 is covered with a first thickness E of at least a first layer 2 of a first metallic decorative treatment material or/and colored decorative treatment
Data Source
Figure 1~7
Figure 8~12
AI summary
Method for manufacturing a ceramic-based watch or jewelry component with a structured decoration: - a ceramic base (1) is made; - said base (1) is mirror polished; - a surface relief (20) is laser and/or mechanically machined; - at least part of said surface relief (20) is covered with a first layer (2) of a first metallic and/or colored decorative treatment material, and, before or after this covering, a deep engraving is made with a first recessed decoration (3) of depth P greater than the thickness E of said first layer (2), and penetrating said base (1) under its apparent surface (10) and under the recesses (22) of said surface relief (20); - said first layer (2) is laser ablated at the level of pockets (4) at the bottom of which the ceramic material of said base (1) is revealed.