Method for producing a watch case middle of reduced weight
US8689446B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 2, 2011 |
| Grant date | Apr 8, 2014 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 7, 2032 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T29/49586
- WIPO fieldOther special machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A method for producing a watch case middle having reduced weight is disclosed. A 3-D data set is generated for the case middle, the model comprising at least one internal cavity within the case middle. The 3-D data set is converted into a plurality of layers, each layer representing a cross-sectional layer of the middle, and then the case middle is formed layer-by-layer from powdered material using an additive manufacturing process such as DMLS in order to provide the case middle with a unitary construction. Loose powder is removed from each cavity via one or more powder evacuation holes formed between the cavity and an external surface of the case middle, and a through hole formed through the middle is machined to a desired finish and/or precision, the through hole being designed to receive a control member stem when a watch movement is mounted inside the middle.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.