Watch Component Surface Structuring for Layered Optical Finishes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing watchmaking component manufacturing processes face challenges in achieving a precise, attractive, and versatile surface finish that is both durable and free from defects, particularly when combining multiple surface structuring operations which often result in degradation of the initial finish.
Innovation Solution
A process involving two stages of surface structuring, where the second stage modifies the roughness formed by the first without altering its depth, using techniques like femtosecond lasers and malleable layers to create intricate patterns and optical effects on the surface of watchmaking components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple surface structuring operations are combined to create complex patterns, then surface appearance versatility is improved, but surface finish quality deteriorates due to degradation and burrs
Solution Approach 1:
The surface structuring process is divided into multiple sequential operations (first structuring operation, second structuring operation) where each operation creates a specific texture pattern. The first operation creates an initial texture, and the second operation overlays a different texture pattern, allowing complex appearances to be built from simpler steps without degrading the base finish.
Solution Approach 2:
The first surface structuring operation is performed as a preliminary step to create a stable base texture. This preliminary texture serves as the foundation that will not be degraded by subsequent operations, as the second operation is specifically designed to overlay rather than destroy the first texture's characteristics.
2Manufacturing precision
If traditional surface structuring methods are used to create precise finishes, then surface appearance quality is improved, but durability and defect-free performance worsen under shock and aggressive environments
Solution Approach 1:
The surface structure is created as a composite of multiple texture layers, where each layer contributes specific properties. The first structuring creates a base texture with certain mechanical properties, while the second structuring adds a overlay pattern that enhances both appearance and durability, creating a composite surface structure more resilient to shocks and aggressive environments.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple surface structuring steps are applied sequentially, then surface pattern complexity is improved, but process time increases due to multiple operations
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple surface structuring operations that would traditionally be performed separately are merged into a coordinated sequence where the second operation is optimized to work with rather than against the first. This merging allows complex patterns to be achieved through overlaying textures in a streamlined process, reducing total cycle time compared to traditional sequential methods.
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 approach allows for a precise and attractive surface finish with enhanced durability, achieving complex patterns and optical effects while maintaining the initial texture, thus addressing the limitations of traditional methods in combining multiple structuring operations.
Implementation Method 1
using techniques like femtosecond lasers and malleable layers to create intricate patterns and optical effects on the surface of watchmaking components
Data Source
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AI summary
A method for manufacturing a watch component comprising a surface to be treated, this surface being previously prepared by a polishing substep and/or by a substep of adding a top malleable layer (2), characterized in that it comprises the following steps: - First surface structuring (E10) of said surface to be treated of the watch component, then - Second surface structuring (E20) of said surface to be treated structured by the previous first surface structuring step (E10).