Watch Component Laser Texturing and Coating Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing watch components with raised parts and coatings lack efficient methods for texturing and achieving durable, aesthetically pleasing appearances with precise execution, failing to provide multisensory reading experiences and resistance to environmental stresses.
Innovation Solution
A manufacturing method involving forming a blank with raised parts, applying a coating, and using laser ablation and texturing to remove and texture the coating simultaneously, allowing for precise control over the appearance and durability of watch components with raised parts and different colors/textures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If traditional coating and texturing methods are used separately, then manufacturing complexity increases and precision decreases, but if laser ablation is used for both coating removal and texturing, then manufacturing precision improves and process efficiency increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines coating removal and texturing operations into a single laser ablation process. The laser beam simultaneously removes the coating layer and creates the desired surface texture in one pass, eliminating the need for separate machining operations and fixtures, thereby improving precision while reducing process complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The laser ablation system performs multiple functions: it removes the coating layer, creates surface textures, and defines geometric boundaries all through a single process. This multi-functional approach replaces traditional specialized equipment for each operation, simplifying the overall manufacturing system while maintaining high precision.
2Productivity
If multiple separate processes are used for coating and texturing, then process time increases and productivity decreases, but if simultaneous laser treatment is used, then productivity increases and process time decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges coating removal and texturing into a single simultaneous laser ablation operation. The laser beam performs both functions during one continuous pass over the workpiece, eliminating the sequential timing of separate operations and significantly reducing total process time while increasing manufacturing efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The laser ablation process maintains continuous useful action by simultaneously removing material and creating texture in an uninterrupted sequence. This eliminates idle time between coating removal and texturing operations, ensuring the laser beam is continuously productive throughout the processing cycle.
3Shape
If coating covers all surfaces uniformly, then aesthetic appearance is limited, but if selective coating removal is used, then aesthetic appearance and haptic sensations improve
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by selectively removing coating from specific regions to create varied surface properties. Different areas of the component have different surface characteristics (smooth coated areas versus textured bare areas), providing both aesthetic variety and differentiated haptic sensations while maintaining manufacturing simplicity through single-process laser ablation.
4Reliability
If traditional manufacturing methods are used, then wear resistance and environmental resistance are insufficient, but if laser-treated coating removal is used, then durability and resistance to environmental stresses improve
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical machining methods with laser ablation technology. The laser beam provides precise material removal and surface treatment without mechanical contact, creating cleaner edges and more consistent surface qualities that enhance durability and environmental resistance while the non-contact process reduces tool wear and maintenance requirements.
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 enables the creation of watch components with high precision, durability, and aesthetically pleasing appearances, providing pleasant haptic sensations and resistance to wear and environmental stresses, while ensuring no transition zones between coated and textured areas.
Implementation Method 1
removing by laser ablation at least part of said at least one coating layer
Implementation Method 2
texturing by laser treatment at least part of the base surface previously covered by said at least one coating layer and/or at least part of the at least one projecting portion previously covered by said at least one coating layer
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3a~3c
Figure 4~6
AI summary
The invention relates to a method for manufacturing a watch component, comprising the steps of: - (10) forming a blank (200E1), in particular by injection, comprising at least one base surface (210) and at least one portion projecting (220) from the base surface (210), - (20) forming at least one coating layer (250) covering at least a part of the base surface (210) and/or on at least a part of the projecting portion (220), - (30) removing by laser ablation at least a part of said at least one coating layer (250), - (40) texturing by laser treatment at least a part of the base surface (210) and/or at least a part of the projecting portion (220), and/or at least a part of the at least one coating layer (250).