Micromechanical Part Assembly Using Support Structure and Pin Securing
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Solution Overview
Problem
The watch industry faces challenges in assembling micro-machined and electroformed parts with high precision, as traditional methods like laser welding can deform parts and make it difficult to achieve precise alignment between components, such as pivot axes.
Innovation Solution
A method involving forming plates with frames and bridges, stacking them on a support with alignment means, securing with pins, and releasing the final part while maintaining precision, allowing for precise assembly without handling individual parts before assembly, using processes like micromachining or electroforming.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If laser welding is used to assemble electroformed parts, then the parts can be joined together, but the precision of the electrodeposition process is lost due to deformation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by performing the assembly of multiple parts on the support structure before the electrodeposition process is completed. The parts are stacked and secured with pins while still attached to the support, allowing assembly to occur in a controlled state before final release, thus avoiding deformation during subsequent handling and welding operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure serves as an intermediary element that holds multiple parts in their precise electrodeposition positions during assembly. The pins act as intermediaries to secure the stacked parts together without requiring laser welding. This intermediary approach allows assembly to occur without directly manipulating the precision-critical parts, preserving the electrodeposition precision.
2Ease of manufacture
If traditional assembly methods are used to join multiple parts, then the parts can be connected, but assembly precision between parts and pivot axes is very difficult to obtain
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the assembly operation with the existing support structure. Multiple parts are stacked and assembled together while remaining attached to the support, which maintains their precise relative positions. The pin insertion operation simultaneously secures multiple stacked parts in one action, achieving both assembly capability and high assembly precision without requiring separate alignment operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure provides self-service by automatically maintaining the precise positions of stacked parts during assembly. The pins inserted through aligned holes in the stacked parts automatically secure them together without requiring external alignment tools or complex positioning mechanisms. The system uses its own structure to ensure assembly precision.
3Ease of operation
If individual parts are handled before assembly, then assembly can be performed, but the precision of the manufacturing process is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs the assembly operation preliminarily while parts are still attached to the support structure, before any handling or manipulation is required. The stacking and pin insertion occur in this protected state, eliminating the need for subsequent handling of individual precision-critical parts that would compromise manufacturing precision.
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
This method enables the precise assembly of micromechanical parts without compromising the precision of the initial manufacturing process, allowing for high-quality, multi-level parts with improved precision and flexibility in using various manufacturing processes.
Implementation Method 1
step c) securing the same pin in a hole in each of said at least two stacked parts in order to form the part with a single pin projecting from at least one of the stacked plates
Implementation Method 2
each of said alignment means comprises at least one bevelled ring mounted as an extension of said at least one axis of the support and intended to cooperate with a recess made in each of said at least two plates
Implementation Method 3
sliding said plate against at least one shaft integral with the support until it abuts against a shoulder of said shaft in order to place said plate reliably with respect to the support
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method for making (1) a micromechanical part, that comprises the following step: a) forming (3) at least one plate including a frame connected by at least one bridge of a material to a portion of said part, each portion including a hole. The method (1) further includes the following steps: b) stacking (5) said at least one plate against a holder; c) securing (7) a pin in the hole of said at least one tacked portion in order to form the part using a griping means; d) releasing (9) the part thus formed from each plate. The method pertains to the field of parts for timepieces.