EP3761123A1 - Micromechanical component allowing containment of a lubricating substance - Google Patents

Micromechanical component allowing containment of a lubricating substance Download PDF

Info

Publication number
EP3761123A1
EP3761123A1 EP19184822.5A EP19184822A EP3761123A1 EP 3761123 A1 EP3761123 A1 EP 3761123A1 EP 19184822 A EP19184822 A EP 19184822A EP 3761123 A1 EP3761123 A1 EP 3761123A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
microstructured
micro
component according
zone
pillars
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Pending
Application number
EP19184822.5A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Inventor
Fabienne Marquis Weible
Evelyne Vallat
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
ASSOCIATION SUISSE POUR LA RECHERCHE HORLOGERE
Original Assignee
ASSOCIATION SUISSE POUR LA RECHERCHE HORLOGERE
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by ASSOCIATION SUISSE POUR LA RECHERCHE HORLOGERE filed Critical ASSOCIATION SUISSE POUR LA RECHERCHE HORLOGERE
Priority to EP19184822.5A priority Critical patent/EP3761123A1/en
Priority to JP2021577901A priority patent/JP7316391B2/en
Priority to CN202080048923.8A priority patent/CN114026504B/en
Priority to US17/624,172 priority patent/US20220357706A1/en
Priority to PCT/IB2020/052901 priority patent/WO2021005423A1/en
Publication of EP3761123A1 publication Critical patent/EP3761123A1/en
Pending legal-status Critical Current

Links

Images

Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G04—HOROLOGY
    • G04B—MECHANICALLY-DRIVEN CLOCKS OR WATCHES; MECHANICAL PARTS OF CLOCKS OR WATCHES IN GENERAL; TIME PIECES USING THE POSITION OF THE SUN, MOON OR STARS
    • G04B31/00—Bearings; Point suspensions or counter-point suspensions; Pivot bearings; Single parts therefor
    • G04B31/08—Lubrication
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G04—HOROLOGY
    • G04B—MECHANICALLY-DRIVEN CLOCKS OR WATCHES; MECHANICAL PARTS OF CLOCKS OR WATCHES IN GENERAL; TIME PIECES USING THE POSITION OF THE SUN, MOON OR STARS
    • G04B13/00—Gearwork
    • G04B13/02—Wheels; Pinions; Spindles; Pivots
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G04—HOROLOGY
    • G04B—MECHANICALLY-DRIVEN CLOCKS OR WATCHES; MECHANICAL PARTS OF CLOCKS OR WATCHES IN GENERAL; TIME PIECES USING THE POSITION OF THE SUN, MOON OR STARS
    • G04B15/00—Escapements
    • G04B15/14—Component parts or constructional details, e.g. construction of the lever or the escape wheel
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G04—HOROLOGY
    • G04B—MECHANICALLY-DRIVEN CLOCKS OR WATCHES; MECHANICAL PARTS OF CLOCKS OR WATCHES IN GENERAL; TIME PIECES USING THE POSITION OF THE SUN, MOON OR STARS
    • G04B31/00—Bearings; Point suspensions or counter-point suspensions; Pivot bearings; Single parts therefor
    • G04B31/004—Bearings; Point suspensions or counter-point suspensions; Pivot bearings; Single parts therefor characterised by the material used
    • G04B31/008—Jewel bearings

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a micromechanical component intended for clockwork mechanisms, in particular a component which has to be lubricated.
  • this lubricant can escape from the area where it was deposited.
  • the movement of the parts tends to displace the lubricant from the contact area to an area not subjected to friction.
  • a small size mechanical component such as a timepiece component, it is difficult to form a lubricating film only at a specific region.
  • the sliding portion In order for the sliding portion to retain lubricant to reduce the wear due to the friction caused by the sliding during rotation or the like, it is customary to chemically treat the surface.
  • the chemical state of the surface is obtained by different types of cleaning, optionally followed by coating the part with a film of nanometric thickness, comprising a fluorinated active agent.
  • a fluorinated active agent Different active agents fluorinated compounds are known in the watch industry under the name epilame.
  • the coating of the components with this type of product, outside the contact zone allows the lubricant to be retained in the contact zone thanks to the reduction of the surface energy of the treated part.
  • the ability of the mechanical component to sustainably retain the lubricant after a surface treatment and / or the addition of a film of controlled chemical nature can be improved, with the objective of reducing the wear suffered by the mechanical component of the lubricant. due to insufficient lubricating oil.
  • the document CH713426 describes a first mechanical component having a first surface area, a second component having a second surface area over which the first surface area can slide.
  • An oil retaining film is formed on at least one reception area selected from the first and second surface areas, this oil retaining film being more oleophilic than the reception area.
  • the oil retaining film is a chemical compound comprising one of the elements Si, Ti, and Zr and a hydrocarbon radical.
  • the present disclosure relates to a micromechanical component intended for clockwork mechanisms, at least part of the component being made of a crystalline mineral material based on carbon or alumina comprising at least one contact surface intended to come into sliding contact. and / or in pivoting; the contact surface locally comprising at least one microstructured zone exhibiting a three-dimensional texture; the three-dimensional texture being formed of microcavities, making the microstructured zone more oleophobic than the non-microstructured contact surface, and / or formed of micro-pillars making the microstructured zone more oleophilic than the non-microstructured contact surface; the microstructured zone is configured for locally confining a lubricating substance to a lubricated portion of the contact surface.
  • the component described here improves the containment of the lubricating substance in a portion of the contact surface.
  • different arrangements of oleophilic and oleophobic zones can be provided near or on the contact surface.
  • the microstructured zone therefore makes it possible to control the spatial localization of the lubricating substance in a portion of the contact surface according to the different lubrication applications.
  • the component described here can also improve the supply of the lubricating substance to the contact surface portion.
  • the fig. 1 schematically represents a component 10 of micromechanics intended for clockwork mechanisms, according to one embodiment.
  • the component 10 comprising at least one contact surface 100, at least a portion of the contact surface 100 being intended to come into sliding and / or pivoting contact, for example with another component of a clockwork mechanism.
  • Component 10 is manufactured wholly or in part consisting of a crystalline mineral material based on carbon or alumina (Al 2 O 3 ).
  • the crystalline mineral material is ruby, sapphire or diamond, natural or synthetic.
  • Other materials can also be envisaged, such as polymers, metals or metal alloys, ceramics, silica, glass, silicon, etc.
  • Component 10 made entirely or in part made of a crystalline mineral material, comprises a contact surface 100 locally comprising at least one microstructured zone 110.
  • the microstructured zone 110 can be made more oleophobic than the non-microstructured contact surface 100.
  • the microstructured area 110 can be made more oleophilic than the non-microstructured contact surface 100.
  • the microstructured zone 110 has a three-dimensional texture formed of microcavities 20.
  • the microcavities 20 typically have an essentially frustoconical shape tapering towards the bottom of the cavity 20.
  • the lateral dimension L of the microcavity 20 at the surface level is between 5 ⁇ m and 150 ⁇ m and preferably between 10 ⁇ m and 60 ⁇ m.
  • the ratio of the height H to the lateral dimension L of the microcavity 20 is between 0.01 and 1.
  • the microcavities 20 are non-communicating, that is to say that the cavities 20 do not communicate fluidly with each other.
  • the fig. 3 shows a micrograph (for two magnifications) of a three-dimensional texture comprising microcavities 20 formed in a monocrystalline pellet of traditional watchmaking rubies (Verneuil Al 2 O 3 Cr ruby, cleaved, chopped and polished).
  • the microcavities have a lateral dimension L of approximately 25 ⁇ m.
  • the microstructured area 110 has a three-dimensional texture formed of micro-pillars 30.
  • the micro-pillars 30 typically have an essentially frustoconical shape tapering towards the top of the micro-pillar 30.
  • the lateral dimension L of the micro-pillar 30 at the level of its base is between 5 ⁇ m and 150 ⁇ m and preferably between 10 ⁇ m and 60 ⁇ m.
  • the ratio of the height H to the lateral dimension L of the micro-pillar 30 is between 0.01 and 1.
  • the lateral dimension L of the microcavities 20 and of the micro-pillars 30 of between 10 ⁇ m and 60 ⁇ m is more favorable for watchmaking applications, given the dimensions of the watchmaking components coming into contact.
  • the fig. 5 shows a SEM micrograph (for two magnifications) of a three-dimensional texture comprising 20 micro-pillars formed in the same single crystal ruby pellet as at fig. 3 .
  • the micro-pillars 30 have a lateral dimension L of approximately 25 ⁇ m.
  • the microstructured zone 110 comprises a wavy microstructure 40.
  • the fig. 6 shows a SEM micrograph of the ripple microstructure 40 formed in the same ruby monocrystalline pellet as at fig. 3 .
  • the waving microstructure 40 typically has a double texture consisting of parallel grooves with a typical width between 7 and 12 ⁇ m and a depth of less than 1 ⁇ m (typically 0.2 to 0.9 ⁇ m). Along a groove, the depth is modulated by an oscillation with a micrometric period (typically 1 ⁇ m) and an amplitude of less than 0.2 ⁇ m.
  • the microstructured zone 110 comprises the texture formed of micro-pillars 30 on which the corrugation microstructure 40 is superimposed.
  • fig. 7 shows an SEM micrograph of such a texture produced in the same monocrystalline ruby pellet as in the fig. 3 .
  • microcavities 20 and micro-pillars 30 can be arranged in a regular pattern, for example hexagonal or square, or else in an irregular pattern.
  • the density of the microcavities 20 or of the micro-pillars 30 in the microstructured zone 110 may be between 0.1 and 0.9, and preferably between 0.4 and 0.8.
  • the textures including the corrugation microstructure, the microcavities 20, the micro-pillars 30 and the micro-pillars 30 with the superimposed corrugation microstructure, were made using a femtosecond laser.
  • Other methods of fabricating textures are however conceivable, such as microfabrication, mechanical machining, diamond wire or others.
  • the wettability and the more or less oleophilic or oleophobic nature of the contact surface 100 with respect to a liquid were evaluated by measuring the contact angle on dynamic shots during advancement ( ⁇ CA ) of a drop of liquid injected continuously by a micro-cannula above the contact surface 100 in the absence of the microstructured zone 110 and above the contact surface 100 comprising the microstructured zone 110, for example as shown in fig. 8 .
  • the measurement of the contact angle ⁇ CA was carried out with the Synth-A-lube 9010 watch oil manufactured by the Moebius division of The Swatch Group Research and Development Ltd.
  • the crystalline mineral material is ruby.
  • the contact angle measurements were carried out on the contact surface 100 in the natural state (without preparation), as well as after chemical treatment consisting in this embodiment of a combination of a solvent cleaning followed by an oxygen plasma treatment.
  • This preparation makes it possible to reduce the carbon contamination of the surface to a threshold lower than 10% at. In the natural state (carbon contamination greater than 10% at.)
  • the contact angles are less than 30 °.
  • the contact angle measurements were taken on the contact surface 100 having undergone the above preparation, followed by an epilamage treatment.
  • the contact surface 100 is covered with a very thin film of fluoropolymer.
  • the hair removal treatment is carried out with the standard watchmaker Fixodrop® from Moebius.
  • Table 1 reports the contact angles ⁇ CA measured on the non-microstructured contact surface 100 and on the contact surface 100 including a microstructured zone 110 having a texture formed of microcavities 20, formed of micro-pillars 30 and formed only of the ripple microstructure.
  • the contact angles ⁇ CA were also measured on the contact surface 100 exhibiting a texture formed of micro-pillars 30 on which the corrugation microstructure is superimposed.
  • microcavities 20 having a lateral dimension L of 25.6 ⁇ 0.6 ⁇ m and a depth of 13.8 ⁇ 0.2 ⁇ m, micro-pillars 30 having a lateral dimension L of 15 ⁇ 1 ⁇ m and a height of 8 to 9 ⁇ m, and a ripple microstructure with a valley-top height of 6 ⁇ 0.5 ⁇ m and with a space between the vertices of 0.2 to 0.9 ⁇ m.
  • the microcavities 20 are arranged in a hexagonal pattern and the micro-pillars are arranged in a square pattern.
  • the ripple microstructure is arranged in bands of 10 ⁇ m periodicity.
  • Table 1 Texture Surface condition ⁇ CA non microstructured plasma 29 epilamage 57 microcavities plasma 62 epilamage 125 micro-pillars plasma 21 micro-pillars with corrugation microstructure plasma 19 ripple microstructure plasma 30
  • Table 1 shows that the texture formed of microcavities 20 makes it possible to obtain a contact angle ⁇ CA during advancement of about 62 °, markedly higher than that measured on the non-microstructured contact surface 100 ( ⁇ CA ⁇ 29 °).
  • the contact angle ⁇ CA measured during advancement for the texture formed of microcavities 20 is similar to that measured ( ⁇ CA ⁇ 57 °) for the non-microstructured contact surface 100 comprising an epilame film (epilamage).
  • the texture formed of microcavities 20 comprising the epilame film makes it possible to obtain a contact angle ⁇ CA of approximately 125 °, i.e. double that measured in the absence of the epilame film.
  • the oleophobic character of the texture formed of microcavities comprising the epilame film is particularly remarkable.
  • the oil drop shows pinning effects and as soon as the oil drop comes out of the textured surface, it tends to roll and attach to the non-microstructured surface. adjacent to the microstructured zone 110.
  • the texture formed of micro-pillars 30 results in a contact angle ⁇ CA of about 21 °, therefore significantly lower than those obtained for the texture formed of microcavities 20.
  • the texture formed of micro-pillars 30 comprising the microstructure of superimposed corrugation results in a contact angle ⁇ CA of about 19 °, also significantly lower than those obtained for the texture formed of microcavities 20.
  • the texture formed of micro-pillars 30 with or without superimposed corrugation microstructure is more oleophilic than the non-microstructured contact surface 100.
  • a contact angle ⁇ CA of about 30 ° is measured.
  • the waviness microstructure has very little influence on the contact angle and therefore the oleophilic / oleophobic character of the contact surface 100.
  • the microstructured zone 110 therefore makes it possible to influence the wettability of a watch oil.
  • the texture formed of micro-pillars 30 makes the surface more oleophilic than the non-microstructured contact surface 100 and the texture formed of microcavities 20 makes the surface more oleophobic than the non-microstructured contact surface 100.
  • the microstructured zone 110 comprises a film of a substance making it possible to modify the surface energy.
  • the film may comprise a film of nanometric thickness, comprising a fluorinated active agent.
  • the film may include a film epilame. The addition of such a film on the microstructured zone 110 comprising the texture formed of microcavities 20 makes it possible to further increase by cumulative effect the oleophobic character of the microstructured zone 110.
  • the contact surface 100 comprising the microstructured zone 110 can receive an oxygen plasma treatment, possibly after solvent cleaning.
  • an oxygen plasma treatment increases the oleophobic character of the microstructured zone 110 comprising the texture formed of microcavities 20 and increases the oleophilic character of the microstructured zone 110 comprising the texture formed of micro-pillars 30.
  • microcavities 20 or micro-pillars 30 having a lateral dimension L between 5 ⁇ m and 150 ⁇ m, as well as for microcavities 20 or micro-pillars 30 whose height ratio H on the lateral dimension L of the microcavity 20 is between 0.01 and 1.
  • a density of the microcavities 20 or of the micro-pillars 30 in the microstructured zone 110 comprising the microcavities 20 or of the micro-pillars 30, between 0.1 and 0.9.
  • the contact surface 100 comprises a lubricated portion 120, that is to say a portion of the contact surface 100 intended to receive a lubricating substance (for example a watch oil or others).
  • the lubricated portion 120 may correspond to said at least a portion of the contact surface 100 intended to come into sliding and / or pivoting contact.
  • the microstructured zone 110 extends to the periphery of the lubricated portion 120. In the case where the microstructured zone 110 is more oleophobic than the lubricated portion 120, the microstructured zone 110 will confine the lubricating substance in the lubricated portion 120.
  • the area microstructured 110 may comprise the texture formed of microcavities 20.
  • the lubricated portion 120 of the contact surface 100 is non-microstructured and therefore more oleophilic than the microstructured zone 110.
  • the microstructured zone 110 extends into the lubricated portion 120 and the rest of the contact surface 100 is non-microstructured.
  • the microstructured zone 110 is made more oleophilic than the rest of the contact surface 100 by comprising the texture formed of micro-pillars 30, or possibly of micro-pillars 30 comprising the superimposed corrugation microstructure.
  • the contact surface 100 comprises a first microstructured zone 111 extending to the periphery of the lubricated portion 120 and a second microstructured zone 112 extending into the lubricated portion 120.
  • the first microstructured zone 111 is preferably more oleophobic than the second microstructured zone 112 so as to confine the lubricating substance in the lubricated portion 120.
  • the first microstructured zone 111 can have a texture formed of microcavities 20 and the second microstructured zone 112 can have a texture formed of micro-pillars 30.
  • An advantage of this configuration is that the oleophilic character of the second microstructured zone 112 retains the lubricating substance already in the lubricated portion 120, this confinement being reinforced by the first oleophobic microstructured zone 111 at the periphery of the lubricated portion 120.
  • the microstructured zone 110 which may include the first microstructured zone 111, can extend over the entire remainder of the contact surface 100, that is to say the entire contact surface 100 outside the lubricated portion 120.
  • microstructured zone 110 including the first and second microstructured zones 111, 112 are also possible so that the microstructured zone 110 extends over a portion of the contact surface 100 or over the entire surface. contact area 100.
  • the cavities 20 of the texture formed of microcavities 20 can also serve as reservoirs for the lubricating substance.
  • the lubricating substance can then become trapped in the microcavities 20.
  • the microcavities 20 ensure the supply of lubricant to the contact surface 100.
  • microstructured zone 110 on the contact surface 100 are also possible so as to obtain arrangements of more or less oleophobic and / or oleophilic zones on the contact surface 100.
  • the different space combinations of the microstructured zone 110 can be combined with a film of a substance making it possible to modify the surface energy and / or an oxygen plasma treatment in order to modify the oleophobic and / or oleophilic character of the microstructured zone 110. It is thus possible to d 'optimizing the confinement of the lubricating substance near and / or in the lubricated portion 120 in order to guarantee a durable localization of the lubricant in this zone.
  • the fig. 10 schematically represents the component according to another embodiment, in which the contact surface 100 comprises two microstructured zones 110 in strip bounding the lubricated portion 120 between the two microstructured zones 110.
  • Such an arrangement can be advantageous in the case of a contact. linear (in the direction of the bands of the microstructured zone 110).
  • the microstructured zone 110 can be included on a watch component 10, in particular a watch component in sliding and pivoting, for example against another fixed or moving watch component.
  • the microstructured area 110 can be included on a pivot or bearing stone, an escape vane, a plate peg, a tooth, or other functional or decorative parts.

Abstract

Composant (10) de micromécanique destiné aux mécanismes d'horlogerie, au moins une partie du composant étant constituée dans un matériau minéral cristallin à base de carbone ou d'alumine comprenant au moins une surface de contact (100) destinée à venir en contact en glissement et/ou en pivotement; la surface de contact (100) comprenant localement au moins une zone microstructurée (101) présentant une texture tridimensionnelle; la texture tridimensionnelle étant formée de microcavités (20), rendant la zone microstructurée (110) plus oléophobe que la surface de contact (100) non microstructurée, et/ou formée de micro-piliers (30) rendant la zone microstructurée (110) plus oléophile que la surface de contact (100) non microstructurée; la zone microstructurée (110) est configurée pour confiner localement une substance lubrifiante sur une portion lubrifiée (120) de la surface de contact (100).Micromechanical component (10) intended for clockwork mechanisms, at least part of the component being made of a crystalline mineral material based on carbon or alumina comprising at least one contact surface (100) intended to come into contact with one another. sliding and / or pivoting; the contact surface (100) locally comprising at least one microstructured zone (101) exhibiting a three-dimensional texture; the three-dimensional texture being formed of microcavities (20), making the microstructured area (110) more oleophobic than the non-microstructured contact surface (100), and / or formed of micro-pillars (30) making the microstructured area (110) more oleophilic than the non-microstructured contact surface (100); the microstructured zone (110) is configured to locally confine a lubricating substance on a lubricated portion (120) of the contact surface (100).

Description

Domaine techniqueTechnical area

La présente invention concerne un composant de micromécanique destiné aux mécanismes d'horlogerie, notamment un composant amené à être lubrifié.The present invention relates to a micromechanical component intended for clockwork mechanisms, in particular a component which has to be lubricated.

Etat de la techniqueState of the art

Il est connu que dans les mécanismes d'horlogerie, nombreuses sont les pièces en mouvement et en contact avec frottement les unes avec les autres. Ces frottements doivent être réduits le plus possible car ils peuvent affecter la précision et/ou l'autonomie du mécanisme. Pour réduire ces frottements il est donc connu d'utiliser un lubrifiant liquide ou visqueux. Ce lubrifiant est utilisé parcimonieusement sur des zones bien définies et en quantités adaptées.It is known that in clockwork mechanisms, there are many parts in motion and in frictional contact with one another. This friction must be reduced as much as possible because it can affect the precision and / or the autonomy of the mechanism. To reduce this friction, it is therefore known to use a liquid or viscous lubricant. This lubricant is used sparingly on well-defined areas and in suitable quantities.

Cependant, ce lubrifiant peut s'échapper de la zone où il a été déposé. En particulier, dans l'état chimique naturel des surfaces résultant de l'exposition aux conditions ambiantes, le mouvement des pièces tend à déplacer le lubrifiant de la zone de contact vers une zone non soumise à frottement. De plus, sur un composant mécanique de petite taille tel qu'un composant de pièce d'horlogerie, il est difficile de former un film lubrifiant seulement au niveau d'une région spécifique.However, this lubricant can escape from the area where it was deposited. In particular, in the natural chemical state of the surfaces resulting from exposure to ambient conditions, the movement of the parts tends to displace the lubricant from the contact area to an area not subjected to friction. In addition, on a small size mechanical component such as a timepiece component, it is difficult to form a lubricating film only at a specific region.

Afin que la partie prévue pour glisser retienne le lubrifiant pour que soit réduite l'usure due à la friction causée par le glissement durant une rotation ou analogue, il est usuel de traiter chimiquement la surface. L'état chimique de la surface est obtenu par différents types de nettoyages, suivis éventuellement du revêtement de la pièce par un film d'épaisseur nanométrique, comprenant un agent actif fluoré. Différents agents actifs fluorés sont connus dans le secteur horloger sous la dénomination d'épilame. Le revêtement des composants avec ce type de produit, hors zone de contact, permet de retenir le lubrifiant dans la zone de contact grâce à la réduction de l'énergie de surface de la pièce traitée.In order for the sliding portion to retain lubricant to reduce the wear due to the friction caused by the sliding during rotation or the like, it is customary to chemically treat the surface. The chemical state of the surface is obtained by different types of cleaning, optionally followed by coating the part with a film of nanometric thickness, comprising a fluorinated active agent. Different active agents fluorinated compounds are known in the watch industry under the name epilame. The coating of the components with this type of product, outside the contact zone, allows the lubricant to be retained in the contact zone thanks to the reduction of the surface energy of the treated part.

Cependant, la capacité du composant mécanique à retenir durablement le lubrifiant après un traitement de surface et/ou l'adjonction d'un film de nature chimique contrôlé peut être améliorée, avec l'objectif de réduire l'usure subie par le composant mécanique du fait d'une insuffisance d'huile lubrifiante.However, the ability of the mechanical component to sustainably retain the lubricant after a surface treatment and / or the addition of a film of controlled chemical nature can be improved, with the objective of reducing the wear suffered by the mechanical component of the lubricant. due to insufficient lubricating oil.

Le document CH713426 décrit un premier composant mécanique ayant une première zone en surface, un deuxième composant ayant une deuxième zone en surface sur laquelle la première zone en surface peut glisser. Un film de retenue d'huile est formé sur au moins une zone de réception choisie parmi les première et deuxième zones en surface, ce film de retenue d'huile étant plus oléophile que la zone de réception. Le film de retenue d'huile est un composé chimique comprenant l'un des éléments Si, Ti, et Zr et un radical hydrocarbure.The document CH713426 describes a first mechanical component having a first surface area, a second component having a second surface area over which the first surface area can slide. An oil retaining film is formed on at least one reception area selected from the first and second surface areas, this oil retaining film being more oleophilic than the reception area. The oil retaining film is a chemical compound comprising one of the elements Si, Ti, and Zr and a hydrocarbon radical.

Résumé de l'inventionSummary of the invention

La présente divulgation concerne un composant de micromécanique destiné aux mécanismes d'horlogerie, au moins une partie du composant étant constituée dans un matériau minéral cristallin à base de carbone ou d'alumine comprenant au moins une surface de contact destinée à venir en contact en glissement et/ou en pivotement; la surface de contact comprenant localement au moins une zone microstructurée présentant une texture tridimensionnelle; la texture tridimensionnelle étant formée de microcavités, rendant la zone microstructurée plus oléophobe que la surface de contact non microstructurée, et/ou formée de micro-piliers rendant la zone microstructurée plus oléophile que la surface de contact non microstructurée; la zone microstructurée est configurée pour confiner localement une substance lubrifiante sur une portion lubrifiée de la surface de contact.The present disclosure relates to a micromechanical component intended for clockwork mechanisms, at least part of the component being made of a crystalline mineral material based on carbon or alumina comprising at least one contact surface intended to come into sliding contact. and / or in pivoting; the contact surface locally comprising at least one microstructured zone exhibiting a three-dimensional texture; the three-dimensional texture being formed of microcavities, making the microstructured zone more oleophobic than the non-microstructured contact surface, and / or formed of micro-pillars making the microstructured zone more oleophilic than the non-microstructured contact surface; the microstructured zone is configured for locally confining a lubricating substance to a lubricated portion of the contact surface.

Le composant décrit ici améliore le confinement de la substance lubrifiante dans une portion de la surface de contact. Selon la configuration de la zone microstructurée, différents arrangements de zones oléophiles et oléophobes peuvent être pourvus à proximité ou sur la surface de contact. La zone microstructurée permet donc de maîtriser la localisation spatiale de la substance lubrifiante dans une portion de la surface de contact selon les différentes applications de lubrification. Le composant décrit ici peut également améliorer l'approvisionnement de la substance lubrifiante dans la portion de la surface de contact.The component described here improves the containment of the lubricating substance in a portion of the contact surface. Depending on the configuration of the microstructured zone, different arrangements of oleophilic and oleophobic zones can be provided near or on the contact surface. The microstructured zone therefore makes it possible to control the spatial localization of the lubricating substance in a portion of the contact surface according to the different lubrication applications. The component described here can also improve the supply of the lubricating substance to the contact surface portion.

Brève description des figuresBrief description of the figures

Des exemples de mise en oeuvre de l'invention sont indiqués dans la description illustrée par les figures annexées dans lesquelles :

  • la figure 1 représente schématiquement un composant de micromécanique comportant une surface de contact ayant une zone microstructurée, selon un mode de réalisation;
  • la figure 2 illustre la zone microstructurée présentant une texture tridimensionnelle formée de microcavités, selon un mode de réalisation;
  • la figure 3 montre une micrographie MEB de la texture comprenant des microcavités;
  • la figure 4 illustre la zone microstructurée présentant une texture tridimensionnelle formée de micro-piliers, selon un mode de réalisation;
  • la figure 5 montre une micrographie MEB de la texture comprenant des micro-piliers;
  • la figure 6 montre micrographie MEB d'une microstructure d'ondulation, selon un mode de réalisation;
  • la figure 7 montre une micrographie MEB d'une texture formée de micro-piliers sur laquelle est superposée la microstructure d'ondulation;
  • la figure 8 représente schématiquement le composant comportant une surface de contact ayant une zone microstructurée, selon un autre mode de réalisation;
  • la figure 9 représente schématiquement le composant comportant une surface de contact ayant une première zone microstructurée et une seconde zone microstructurée, selon un mode de réalisation; et
  • la figure 10 représente schématiquement le composant comportant une surface de contact avec une zone microstructurée à proximité de la zone de contact, selon un mode de réalisation.
Examples of implementation of the invention are indicated in the description illustrated by the appended figures in which:
  • the figure 1 schematically represents a micromechanical component comprising a contact surface having a microstructured zone, according to one embodiment;
  • the figure 2 illustrates the microstructured zone having a three-dimensional texture formed of microcavities, according to one embodiment;
  • the figure 3 shows an SEM micrograph of the texture comprising microcavities;
  • the figure 4 illustrates the microstructured zone exhibiting a three-dimensional texture formed of micro-pillars, according to one embodiment;
  • the figure 5 shows a SEM micrograph of the texture including micro-pillars;
  • the figure 6 shows SEM micrograph of a ripple microstructure, according to one embodiment;
  • the figure 7 shows a SEM micrograph of a texture formed by micro-pillars on which the corrugation microstructure is superimposed;
  • the figure 8 schematically represents the component comprising a contact surface having a microstructured zone, according to another embodiment;
  • the figure 9 schematically represents the component comprising a contact surface having a first microstructured zone and a second microstructured zone, according to one embodiment; and
  • the figure 10 schematically represents the component comprising a contact surface with a microstructured zone close to the contact zone, according to one embodiment.

Exemple(s) de mode de réalisationExample (s) of embodiment

La fig. 1 représente schématiquement un composant 10 de micromécanique destiné aux mécanismes d'horlogerie, selon un mode de réalisation. Le composant 10 comprenant au moins une surface de contact 100, au moins une portion de la surface de contact 100 étant destinée à venir en contact en glissement et/ou en pivotement, par exemple avec un autre composant d'un mécanisme d'horlogerie.The fig. 1 schematically represents a component 10 of micromechanics intended for clockwork mechanisms, according to one embodiment. The component 10 comprising at least one contact surface 100, at least a portion of the contact surface 100 being intended to come into sliding and / or pivoting contact, for example with another component of a clockwork mechanism.

Le composant 10 est fabriqué entièrement ou en partie constitué dans un matériau minéral cristallin à base de carbone ou d'alumine (Al2O3). De manière préférée, le matériau minéral cristallin est le rubis, le saphir ou le diamant, naturel ou synthétique. D'autres matériaux sont également envisageables, comme des polymères, des métaux ou alliages métalliques, des céramiques, de la silice, du verre, du silicium, etc...Component 10 is manufactured wholly or in part consisting of a crystalline mineral material based on carbon or alumina (Al 2 O 3 ). Preferably, the crystalline mineral material is ruby, sapphire or diamond, natural or synthetic. Other materials can also be envisaged, such as polymers, metals or metal alloys, ceramics, silica, glass, silicon, etc.

Le composant 10, fabriqué entièrement ou en partie constitué dans un matériau minéral cristallin, comporte une surface de contact 100 comprenant localement au moins une zone microstructurée 110. La zone microstructurée 110 peut être rendue plus oléophobe que la surface de contact 100 non microstructurée. Alternativement, la zone microstructurée 110 peut être rendue plus oléophile que la surface de contact 100 non microstructurée.Component 10, made entirely or in part made of a crystalline mineral material, comprises a contact surface 100 locally comprising at least one microstructured zone 110. The microstructured zone 110 can be made more oleophobic than the non-microstructured contact surface 100. Alternatively, the microstructured area 110 can be made more oleophilic than the non-microstructured contact surface 100.

Selon une forme d'exécution illustrée à la fig. 2, la zone microstructurée 110 présente une texture tridimensionnelle formée de microcavités 20. Les microcavités 20 ont typiquement une forme essentiellement tronconique allant en rétrécissant vers le fond de la cavité 20. La dimension latérale L de la microcavité 20 au niveau de la surface est comprise entre 5 µm et 150 µm et de préférence entre 10 µm et 60 µm. Le rapport de la hauteur H sur la dimension latérale L de la microcavité 20 est compris entre 0.01 et 1. Les microcavités 20 sont non-communicantes, c'est-à-dire que les cavités 20 ne communiques pas fluidiquement entre elles.According to an embodiment illustrated in fig. 2 , the microstructured zone 110 has a three-dimensional texture formed of microcavities 20. The microcavities 20 typically have an essentially frustoconical shape tapering towards the bottom of the cavity 20. The lateral dimension L of the microcavity 20 at the surface level is between 5 µm and 150 µm and preferably between 10 µm and 60 µm. The ratio of the height H to the lateral dimension L of the microcavity 20 is between 0.01 and 1. The microcavities 20 are non-communicating, that is to say that the cavities 20 do not communicate fluidly with each other.

La fig. 3 montre une micrographie (pour deux grossissements) d'une texture tridimensionnelle comprenant des microcavités 20 formées dans une pastille monocristalline de rubis horloger traditionnel (rubis Verneuil Al2O3Cr, clivé, tronçonné et poli). Les microcavités ont une dimension latérale L d'environ 25 µm.The fig. 3 shows a micrograph (for two magnifications) of a three-dimensional texture comprising microcavities 20 formed in a monocrystalline pellet of traditional watchmaking rubies (Verneuil Al 2 O 3 Cr ruby, cleaved, chopped and polished). The microcavities have a lateral dimension L of approximately 25 μm.

Selon une autre forme d'exécution illustrée à la fig. 4, la zone microstructurée 110 présente une texture tridimensionnelle formée de micro-piliers 30. Les micro-piliers 30 ont typiquement une forme essentiellement tronconique allant en rétrécissant vers le sommet du micro-pilier 30. La dimension latérale L du micro-pilier 30 au niveau de sa base est comprise entre 5 µm et 150 µm et de préférence entre 10 µm et 60 µm. Le rapport de la hauteur H sur la dimension latérale L du micro-pilier 30 est compris entre 0.01 et 1.According to another embodiment illustrated on fig. 4 , the microstructured area 110 has a three-dimensional texture formed of micro-pillars 30. The micro-pillars 30 typically have an essentially frustoconical shape tapering towards the top of the micro-pillar 30. The lateral dimension L of the micro-pillar 30 at the level of its base is between 5 μm and 150 μm and preferably between 10 μm and 60 μm. The ratio of the height H to the lateral dimension L of the micro-pillar 30 is between 0.01 and 1.

La dimension latérale L des microcavités 20 et des micro-piliers 30 comprise entre 10 µm et 60 µm est plus favorable pour les applications horlogères, étant donné les dimensions des composants horlogers venant en contact.The lateral dimension L of the microcavities 20 and of the micro-pillars 30 of between 10 μm and 60 μm is more favorable for watchmaking applications, given the dimensions of the watchmaking components coming into contact.

La fig. 5 montre une micrographie MEB (pour deux grossissements) d'une texture tridimensionnelle comprenant des micro-piliers 20 formées dans la même pastille monocristalline de rubis qu'à la fig. 3. Les micro-piliers 30 ont une dimension latérale L d'environ 25 µm.The fig. 5 shows a SEM micrograph (for two magnifications) of a three-dimensional texture comprising 20 micro-pillars formed in the same single crystal ruby pellet as at fig. 3 . The micro-pillars 30 have a lateral dimension L of approximately 25 μm.

Encore selon une autre forme d'exécution, la zone microstructurée 110 comprend une microstructure d'ondulation 40. La fig. 6 montre une micrographie MEB de la microstructure d'ondulation 40 formée dans la même pastille monocristalline de rubis qu'à la fig. 3. La microstructure d'ondulation 40 présente typiquement une double texture constituée de sillons parallèles de largeur typique entre 7 et 12 µm et de profondeur inférieure à 1 µm (typiquement 0.2 à 0.9 µm). Le long d'un sillon, la profondeur est modulée d'une oscillation de période micrométrique (typiquement 1 µm) et d'amplitude inférieure à 0.2 µm.Still according to another embodiment, the microstructured zone 110 comprises a wavy microstructure 40. The fig. 6 shows a SEM micrograph of the ripple microstructure 40 formed in the same ruby monocrystalline pellet as at fig. 3 . The waving microstructure 40 typically has a double texture consisting of parallel grooves with a typical width between 7 and 12 μm and a depth of less than 1 μm (typically 0.2 to 0.9 μm). Along a groove, the depth is modulated by an oscillation with a micrometric period (typically 1 µm) and an amplitude of less than 0.2 µm.

Encore selon une autre forme d'exécution, la zone microstructurée 110 comprend la texture formée de micro-piliers 30 sur laquelle est superposée la microstructure d'ondulation 40. La fig. 7 montre une micrographie MEB d'une telle texture réalisée dans la même pastille monocristalline de rubis qu'à la fig. 3.Still according to another embodiment, the microstructured zone 110 comprises the texture formed of micro-pillars 30 on which the corrugation microstructure 40 is superimposed. fig. 7 shows an SEM micrograph of such a texture produced in the same monocrystalline ruby pellet as in the fig. 3 .

La texture de microcavités 20 et de micro-piliers 30 peut être arrangée selon un motif régulier, par exemple hexagonal ou carré, ou encore selon un motif irrégulier. La densité des microcavités 20 ou des micro-piliers 30 dans la zone microstructurée 110 peut être comprise entre 0.1 et 0.9, et de préférence entre 0.4 et 0.8.The texture of microcavities 20 and micro-pillars 30 can be arranged in a regular pattern, for example hexagonal or square, or else in an irregular pattern. The density of the microcavities 20 or of the micro-pillars 30 in the microstructured zone 110 may be between 0.1 and 0.9, and preferably between 0.4 and 0.8.

Dans ces formes d'exécution, les textures, comprenant la microstructure d'ondulation, les microcavités 20, les micro-piliers 30 et les micro-piliers 30 avec la microstructure d'ondulation superposée, ont été réalisées à l'aide d'un laser femtoseconde. D'autres méthode de fabrication des textures sont cependant envisageable, telles que la microfabrication, l'usinage mécanique, fil diamant ou autres.In these embodiments, the textures, including the corrugation microstructure, the microcavities 20, the micro-pillars 30 and the micro-pillars 30 with the superimposed corrugation microstructure, were made using a femtosecond laser. Other methods of fabricating textures are however conceivable, such as microfabrication, mechanical machining, diamond wire or others.

La mouillabilité et le caractère plus ou moins oléophile ou oléophobe de la surface de contact 100 vis-à-vis d'un liquide ont été évalués par une mesure de l'angle de contact sur des prises de vue dynamiques lors de l'avancement (θCA) d'une goutte de liquide injectée de manière continue par une micro-canule au-dessus de la surface de contact 100 en absence de la zone microstructurée 110 et au-dessus de la surface de contact 100 comprenant la zone microstructurée 110, par exemple telle que représentée à la fig. 8. En particulier, la mesure de l'angle de contact θCA a été réalisée avec l'huile horlogère Synth-A-lube 9010 fabriquée par la division Moebius de The Swatch Group Research and Development Ltd. Le matériau minéral cristallin est le rubis.The wettability and the more or less oleophilic or oleophobic nature of the contact surface 100 with respect to a liquid were evaluated by measuring the contact angle on dynamic shots during advancement ( θ CA ) of a drop of liquid injected continuously by a micro-cannula above the contact surface 100 in the absence of the microstructured zone 110 and above the contact surface 100 comprising the microstructured zone 110, for example as shown in fig. 8 . In particular, the measurement of the contact angle θ CA was carried out with the Synth-A-lube 9010 watch oil manufactured by the Moebius division of The Swatch Group Research and Development Ltd. The crystalline mineral material is ruby.

Les mesures d'angle de contact ont été effectuées sur la surface de contact 100 à l'état naturel (sans préparation), ainsi qu'après traitement chimique constitué dans ce mode de réalisation d'une combinaison d'un nettoyage solvant suivi d'un traitement par plasma d'oxygène. Cette préparation permet de réduire la contamination au carbone de la surface à un seuil inférieur à 10%at. A l'état naturel (contamination au carbone supérieure à 10%at.) pour tous les échantillons testés, les angles de contact sont inférieurs à 30°.The contact angle measurements were carried out on the contact surface 100 in the natural state (without preparation), as well as after chemical treatment consisting in this embodiment of a combination of a solvent cleaning followed by an oxygen plasma treatment. This preparation makes it possible to reduce the carbon contamination of the surface to a threshold lower than 10% at. In the natural state (carbon contamination greater than 10% at.) For all the samples tested, the contact angles are less than 30 °.

Les mesures d'angle de contact ont été effectuées sur la surface de contact 100 ayant subi la préparation ci-dessus, suivie d'un traitement d'épilamage. Lors du traitement d'épilamage, la surface de contact 100 est recouverte d'un film très mince de polymère fluoré. En particulier, le traitement d'épilamage est réalisé avec le produit standard horloger Fixodrop® de Moebius.The contact angle measurements were taken on the contact surface 100 having undergone the above preparation, followed by an epilamage treatment. During the epilamage treatment, the contact surface 100 is covered with a very thin film of fluoropolymer. In particular, the hair removal treatment is carried out with the standard watchmaker Fixodrop® from Moebius.

La table 1 rapporte les angles de contact θCA mesurés sur la surface de contact 100 non microstructurée et sur la surface de contact 100 comportant une zone microstructurée 110 présentant une texture formée de microcavités 20, formée de micro-piliers 30 et formée seulement de la microstructure d'ondulation. Les angles de contact θCA ont également été mesurés sur la surface de contact 100 présentant une texture formée de micro-piliers 30 sur laquelle est superposée la microstructure d'ondulation. Les mesures ont été réalisées sur des textures ayant les dimensions suivantes: des microcavités 20 ayant une dimension latérale L de 25.6±0.6 µm et une profondeur de 13.8 ±0.2 µm, des micro-piliers 30 ayant une dimension latérale L de 15±1 µm et une hauteur de 8 à 9 µm, et une microstructure d'ondulation d'une hauteur vallée - sommet de 6±0.5 µm et avec un espace entre les sommets de 0.2 à 0.9 µm. Les microcavités 20 sont arrangées selon un motif hexagonal et les micro-piliers sont arrangés selon un motif carré. La microstructure d'ondulation est arrangée en bandes de périodicité 10 µm. Table 1 Texture État de surface θCA non microstructurée plasma 29 épilamage 57 microcavités plasma 62 épilamage 125 micro-piliers plasma 21 micro-piliers avec microstructure d'ondulation plasma 19 microstructure d'ondulation plasma 30 Table 1 reports the contact angles θ CA measured on the non-microstructured contact surface 100 and on the contact surface 100 including a microstructured zone 110 having a texture formed of microcavities 20, formed of micro-pillars 30 and formed only of the ripple microstructure. The contact angles θ CA were also measured on the contact surface 100 exhibiting a texture formed of micro-pillars 30 on which the corrugation microstructure is superimposed. The measurements were carried out on textures having the following dimensions: microcavities 20 having a lateral dimension L of 25.6 ± 0.6 µm and a depth of 13.8 ± 0.2 µm, micro-pillars 30 having a lateral dimension L of 15 ± 1 µm and a height of 8 to 9 µm, and a ripple microstructure with a valley-top height of 6 ± 0.5 µm and with a space between the vertices of 0.2 to 0.9 µm. The microcavities 20 are arranged in a hexagonal pattern and the micro-pillars are arranged in a square pattern. The ripple microstructure is arranged in bands of 10 µm periodicity. Table 1 Texture Surface condition θ CA non microstructured plasma 29 epilamage 57 microcavities plasma 62 epilamage 125 micro-pillars plasma 21 micro-pillars with corrugation microstructure plasma 19 ripple microstructure plasma 30

La table 1 montre que la texture formée de microcavités 20 permet d'obtenir un angle de contact θCA lors de l'avancement d'environ 62°, nettement plus élevé que celui mesuré sur la surface de contact 100 non microstructurée (θCA ≈ 29°). L'angle de contact θCA mesuré lors de l'avancement pour la texture formée de microcavités 20 est similaire à celui mesuré (θCA ≈ 57°) pour la surface de contact 100 non microstructurée comprenant un film d'épilame (épilamage). La texture formée de microcavités 20 comprenant le film d'épilame permet d'obtenir un angle de contact θCA d'environ 125°, soit le double de celui mesuré en absence du film d'épilame. Le caractère oléophobe de la texture formée de microcavités 20 comprenant le film d'épilame est particulièrement remarquable. En présence du film d'épilame, la goutte d'huile montre des effets d'accrochage (pinning) et dès que la goutte d'huile sort de la surface texturée, elle a tendance à rouler et à se fixer sur la surface non microstructurée adjacente à la zone microstructurée 110.Table 1 shows that the texture formed of microcavities 20 makes it possible to obtain a contact angle θ CA during advancement of about 62 °, markedly higher than that measured on the non-microstructured contact surface 100 (θ CA ≈ 29 °). The contact angle θ CA measured during advancement for the texture formed of microcavities 20 is similar to that measured (θ CA ≈ 57 °) for the non-microstructured contact surface 100 comprising an epilame film (epilamage). The texture formed of microcavities 20 comprising the epilame film makes it possible to obtain a contact angle θ CA of approximately 125 °, i.e. double that measured in the absence of the epilame film. The oleophobic character of the texture formed of microcavities comprising the epilame film is particularly remarkable. In the presence of the epilame film, the oil drop shows pinning effects and as soon as the oil drop comes out of the textured surface, it tends to roll and attach to the non-microstructured surface. adjacent to the microstructured zone 110.

La texture formée de micro-piliers 30 résulte dans un angle de contact θCA d'environ 21°, donc nettement plus faible que ceux obtenus pour la texture formée de microcavités 20. La texture formée de micro-piliers 30 comprenant la microstructure d'ondulation superposée résulte dans un angle de contact θCA d'environ 19°, également nettement plus faible que ceux obtenus pour la texture formée de microcavités 20. La texture formée de micro-piliers 30 avec ou sans microstructure d'ondulation superposée est plus oléophile que la surface de contact 100 non microstructurée.The texture formed of micro-pillars 30 results in a contact angle θ CA of about 21 °, therefore significantly lower than those obtained for the texture formed of microcavities 20. The texture formed of micro-pillars 30 comprising the microstructure of superimposed corrugation results in a contact angle θ CA of about 19 °, also significantly lower than those obtained for the texture formed of microcavities 20. The texture formed of micro-pillars 30 with or without superimposed corrugation microstructure is more oleophilic than the non-microstructured contact surface 100.

Pour la zone microstructurée 110 ne comprenant que la microstructure d'ondulation, un angle de contact θCA d'environ 30° est mesuré. La microstructure d'ondulation n'a que très peu d'influence sur l'angle de contact et donc le caractère oléophile / oléophobe de la surface de contact 100.For the microstructured zone 110 comprising only the corrugation microstructure, a contact angle θ CA of about 30 ° is measured. The waviness microstructure has very little influence on the contact angle and therefore the oleophilic / oleophobic character of the contact surface 100.

La zone microstructurée 110 permet donc d'influencer la mouillabilité d'une huile horlogère. En particulier, la texture formée de micro-piliers 30 permet de rendre la surface plus oléophile que la surface de contact 100 non microstructurée et la texture formée de microcavités 20 permet de rendre la surface plus oléophobe que la surface de contact 100 non microstructurée.The microstructured zone 110 therefore makes it possible to influence the wettability of a watch oil. In particular, the texture formed of micro-pillars 30 makes the surface more oleophilic than the non-microstructured contact surface 100 and the texture formed of microcavities 20 makes the surface more oleophobic than the non-microstructured contact surface 100.

Selon une forme d'exécution, la zone microstructurée 110 comporte un film d'une substance permettant de modifier l'énergie de surface. Le film peut comprendre un film d'épaisseur nanométrique, comprenant un agent actif fluoré. Le film peut comprendre un film d'épilame. L'ajout d'un tel film sur la zone microstructurée 110 comprenant la texture formée de microcavités 20 permet d'augmenter encore par effet cumulatif le caractère oléophobe de la zone microstructurée 110.According to one embodiment, the microstructured zone 110 comprises a film of a substance making it possible to modify the surface energy. The film may comprise a film of nanometric thickness, comprising a fluorinated active agent. The film may include a film epilame. The addition of such a film on the microstructured zone 110 comprising the texture formed of microcavities 20 makes it possible to further increase by cumulative effect the oleophobic character of the microstructured zone 110.

Selon une forme d'exécution, la surface de contact 100 comprenant la zone microstructurée 110, peut recevoir un traitement par plasma d'oxygène, possiblement après un nettoyage solvant. Un tel traitement plasma d'oxygène augmente le caractère oléophobe de la zone microstructurée 110 comprenant la texture formée de microcavités 20 et augmente le caractère oléophile de la zone microstructurée 110 comprenant la texture formée de micro-piliers 30.According to one embodiment, the contact surface 100 comprising the microstructured zone 110 can receive an oxygen plasma treatment, possibly after solvent cleaning. Such an oxygen plasma treatment increases the oleophobic character of the microstructured zone 110 comprising the texture formed of microcavities 20 and increases the oleophilic character of the microstructured zone 110 comprising the texture formed of micro-pillars 30.

Les observations ci-dessus s'appliquent pour des microcavités 20 ou des micro-piliers 30 ayant une dimension latérale L comprise entre 5 µm et 150 µm, ainsi que pour des microcavités 20 ou des micro-piliers 30 dont le rapport de la hauteur H sur la dimension latérale L de la microcavité 20 est compris entre 0.01 et 1.The above observations apply for microcavities 20 or micro-pillars 30 having a lateral dimension L between 5 μm and 150 μm, as well as for microcavities 20 or micro-pillars 30 whose height ratio H on the lateral dimension L of the microcavity 20 is between 0.01 and 1.

Les observations ci-dessus s'appliquent également pour une densité des microcavités 20 ou des micro-piliers 30 dans la zone microstructurée 110, comprenant des microcavités 20 ou des micro-piliers 30, comprise entre 0.1 et 0.9.The above observations also apply for a density of the microcavities 20 or of the micro-pillars 30 in the microstructured zone 110, comprising the microcavities 20 or of the micro-pillars 30, between 0.1 and 0.9.

En faisant référence de nouveau à la fig. 1, la surface de contact 100 comprend une portion lubrifiée 120, c'est-à-dire une portion de la surface de contact 100 destinée à recevoir une substance lubrifiante (par exemple une huile horlogère ou autres). La portion lubrifiée 120 peut correspondre à ladite au moins une portion de la surface de contact 100 destinée à venir en contact en glissement et/ou en pivotement. La zone microstructurée 110 s'étend à la périphérie de la portion lubrifiée 120. Dans le cas où la zone microstructurée 110 est plus oléophobe que la portion lubrifiée 120, la zone microstructurée 110 confinera la substance lubrifiante dans la portion lubrifiée 120. A cette fin, la zone microstructurée 110 peut comprendre la texture formée de microcavités 20. La portion lubrifiée 120 de la surface de contact 100 est non microstructurée et donc plus oléophile que la zone microstructurée 110.Referring again to the fig. 1 , the contact surface 100 comprises a lubricated portion 120, that is to say a portion of the contact surface 100 intended to receive a lubricating substance (for example a watch oil or others). The lubricated portion 120 may correspond to said at least a portion of the contact surface 100 intended to come into sliding and / or pivoting contact. The microstructured zone 110 extends to the periphery of the lubricated portion 120. In the case where the microstructured zone 110 is more oleophobic than the lubricated portion 120, the microstructured zone 110 will confine the lubricating substance in the lubricated portion 120. For this purpose , The area microstructured 110 may comprise the texture formed of microcavities 20. The lubricated portion 120 of the contact surface 100 is non-microstructured and therefore more oleophilic than the microstructured zone 110.

Selon une forme d'exécution alternative représentée à la fig. 8, la zone microstructurée 110 s'étend dans la portion lubrifiée 120 et le reste de la surface de contact 100 est non microstructurée. Dans ce cas, la zone microstructurée 110 est rendu plus oléophile que le reste de la surface de contact 100 en comprenant la texture formée de micro-piliers 30, ou possiblement de micro-piliers 30 comprenant la microstructure d'ondulation superposée.According to an alternative embodiment shown in fig. 8 , the microstructured zone 110 extends into the lubricated portion 120 and the rest of the contact surface 100 is non-microstructured. In this case, the microstructured zone 110 is made more oleophilic than the rest of the contact surface 100 by comprising the texture formed of micro-pillars 30, or possibly of micro-pillars 30 comprising the superimposed corrugation microstructure.

Encore selon une autre forme d'exécution représentée à la fig. 9, la surface de contact 100 comprend une première zone microstructurée 111 s'étendant à la périphérie de la portion lubrifiée 120 et une seconde zone microstructurée 112 s'étendant dans la portion lubrifiée 120. Dans une telle configuration, la première zone microstructurée 111 est préférablement plus oléophobe que la seconde zone microstructurée 112 de manière à confiner la substance lubrifiante dans la portion lubrifiée 120.Still according to another embodiment shown in fig. 9 , the contact surface 100 comprises a first microstructured zone 111 extending to the periphery of the lubricated portion 120 and a second microstructured zone 112 extending into the lubricated portion 120. In such a configuration, the first microstructured zone 111 is preferably more oleophobic than the second microstructured zone 112 so as to confine the lubricating substance in the lubricated portion 120.

Par exemple, la première zone microstructurée 111 peut présenter une texture formée de microcavités 20 et la seconde zone microstructurée 112 peut présenter une texture formée de micro-piliers 30. Un avantage de cette configuration est que le caractère oléophile de la seconde zone microstructurée 112 retient déjà la substance lubrifiante dans la portion lubrifiée 120, ce confinement étant renforcé par la première zone microstructurée 111 oléophobe à la périphérie de la portion lubrifiée 120.For example, the first microstructured zone 111 can have a texture formed of microcavities 20 and the second microstructured zone 112 can have a texture formed of micro-pillars 30. An advantage of this configuration is that the oleophilic character of the second microstructured zone 112 retains the lubricating substance already in the lubricated portion 120, this confinement being reinforced by the first oleophobic microstructured zone 111 at the periphery of the lubricated portion 120.

La zone microstructurée 110, pouvant comprendre la première zone microstructurée 111, peut s'étendre sur toute le reste de la surface de contact 100, c'est-à-dire toute la surface de contact 100 hors de la portion lubrifiée 120.The microstructured zone 110, which may include the first microstructured zone 111, can extend over the entire remainder of the contact surface 100, that is to say the entire contact surface 100 outside the lubricated portion 120.

D'autres arrangements de la zone microstructurée 110, y compris de la première et seconde zones microstructurées 111, 112 sont également possibles de sorte que la zone microstructurée 110 s'étend sur une portion de la surface de contact 100 ou sur la totalité de la surface de contact 100.Other arrangements of the microstructured zone 110, including the first and second microstructured zones 111, 112 are also possible so that the microstructured zone 110 extends over a portion of the contact surface 100 or over the entire surface. contact area 100.

Les cavités 20 de la texture formée de microcavités 20 peuvent également servir de réservoirs pour la substance lubrifiante. La substance lubrifiante peut alors se retrouver piégée dans les microcavités 20. Dans ce cas, les microcavités 20 assurent l'approvisionnement en lubrifiant de la surface de contact 100.The cavities 20 of the texture formed of microcavities 20 can also serve as reservoirs for the lubricating substance. The lubricating substance can then become trapped in the microcavities 20. In this case, the microcavities 20 ensure the supply of lubricant to the contact surface 100.

D'autres combinaisons spatiales de la zone microstructurée 110 sur la surface de contact 100 sont également possibles de manière à obtenir des arrangements de zones plus ou moins oléophobes et/ou oléophiles sur la surface de contact 100. Les différentes combinaisons spatiales de la zone microstructurée 110 peuvent être combinées avec un film d'une substance permettant de modifier l'énergie de surface et/ou un traitement par plasma d'oxygène afin de modifier le caractère oléophobe et/ou oléophile de la zone microstructurée 110. Il est ainsi possible d'optimiser le confinement de la substance lubrifiante à proximité et/ou dans la portion lubrifiée 120afin de garantir une localisation durable du lubrifiant dans cette zone.Other space combinations of the microstructured zone 110 on the contact surface 100 are also possible so as to obtain arrangements of more or less oleophobic and / or oleophilic zones on the contact surface 100. The different space combinations of the microstructured zone 110 can be combined with a film of a substance making it possible to modify the surface energy and / or an oxygen plasma treatment in order to modify the oleophobic and / or oleophilic character of the microstructured zone 110. It is thus possible to d 'optimizing the confinement of the lubricating substance near and / or in the lubricated portion 120 in order to guarantee a durable localization of the lubricant in this zone.

La fig. 10 représente schématiquement le composant selon un autre mode de réalisation, dans lequel la surface de contact 100 comporte deux zones microstructurées 110 en bande bornant la portion lubrifiée 120 entre les deux zones microstructurées 110. Un tel arrangement peut être avantageux dans le cas d'un contact linéaire (dans le sens des bandes de la zone microstructurée 110).The fig. 10 schematically represents the component according to another embodiment, in which the contact surface 100 comprises two microstructured zones 110 in strip bounding the lubricated portion 120 between the two microstructured zones 110. Such an arrangement can be advantageous in the case of a contact. linear (in the direction of the bands of the microstructured zone 110).

La zone microstructurée 110 peut être comprise sur un composant horloger 10, notamment un composant horloger en glissement et en pivotement, par exemple contre un autre composant horloger fixe ou en mouvement.The microstructured zone 110 can be included on a watch component 10, in particular a watch component in sliding and pivoting, for example against another fixed or moving watch component.

Par exemple, la zone microstructurée 110 peut être comprise sur une pierre de pivotement ou de palier, une palette d'échappement, une cheville de plateau, une dent, ou autres pièces fonctionnelles ou décoratives.For example, the microstructured area 110 can be included on a pivot or bearing stone, an escape vane, a plate peg, a tooth, or other functional or decorative parts.

Numéros de référence employés sur les figuresReference numbers used in figures

1010
composantcomponent
100100
surface de contactcontact surface
110110
zone microstructuréemicrostructured zone
111111
première zone microstructuréefirst microstructured zone
112112
seconde zone microstructuréesecond microstructured zone
120120
portion lubrifiéelubricated portion
2020
microcavitésmicrocavities
3030
micro-piliersmicro-pillars
4040
microstructure d'ondulationripple microstructure
θCA θ CA
angle de contact lors de l'avancementcontact angle during advancement
LL
dimension latéraleside dimension
HH
hauteurheight

Claims (17)

Composant (10) de micromécanique destiné aux mécanismes d'horlogerie, au moins une partie du composant étant constituée dans un matériau minéral cristallin à base de carbone ou d'alumine comprenant au moins une surface de contact (100) destinée à venir en contact en glissement et/ou en pivotement;
la surface de contact (100) comprenant localement au moins une zone microstructurée (101) présentant une texture;
caractérisé en ce que
la texture est formée de microcavités (20), rendant la zone microstructurée (110) plus oléophobe que la surface de contact (100) non microstructurée, et/ou formée de micro-piliers (30) rendant la zone microstructurée (110) plus oléophile que la surface de contact (100) non microstructurée;
et en ce que
la zone microstructurée (110) est configurée pour confiner localement une substance lubrifiante sur une portion lubrifiée (120) de la surface de contact (100).Micromechanical component (10) intended for clockwork mechanisms, at least part of the component being made of a crystalline mineral material based on carbon or alumina comprising at least one contact surface (100) intended to come into contact with one another. sliding and / or pivoting;
the contact surface (100) locally comprising at least one microstructured zone (101) exhibiting a texture;
characterized in that
the texture is formed of microcavities (20), making the microstructured zone (110) more oleophobic than the non-microstructured contact surface (100), and / or formed of micro-pillars (30) making the microstructured zone (110) more oleophilic that the non-microstructured contact surface (100);
and in that
the microstructured zone (110) is configured to locally confine a lubricating substance on a lubricated portion (120) of the contact surface (100). Composant selon la revendication 1,
dans lequel le matériau comprend le rubis, le saphir ou le diamant.Component according to Claim 1,
wherein the material includes ruby, sapphire or diamond. Composant selon la revendication 1 ou 2,
dans lequel la texture est formée de microcavités (20); et
dans lequel la zone microstructurée (110) s'étend à la périphérie de la portion lubrifiée (120).Component according to Claim 1 or 2,
wherein the texture is formed of microcavities (20); and
wherein the microstructured area (110) extends to the periphery of the lubricated portion (120). Composant selon la revendication 1 ou 2,
dans lequel la texture est formée de micro-piliers (30); et
dans lequel la zone microstructurée (110) s'étend dans la portion lubrifiée (120).Component according to Claim 1 or 2,
wherein the texture is formed of micro-pillars (30); and
wherein the microstructured area (110) extends into the lubricated portion (120). Composant selon la revendication 1 ou 2,
dans lequel la zone microstructurée (110) comprend une première zone microstructurée (111) s'étendant à la périphérie de la portion lubrifiée (120) et une seconde zone microstructurée (112) s'étendant dans la portion lubrifiée (120).Component according to Claim 1 or 2,
wherein the microstructured zone (110) comprises a first microstructured zone (111) extending around the periphery of the lubricated portion (120) and a second microstructured zone (112) extending into the lubricated portion (120). Composant selon la revendication 5,
dans lequel la première zone microstructurée (111) comprend la texture formée de microcavités (20) et la seconde zone microstructurée (112) comprend la texture étant formée de micro-piliers (30).Component according to Claim 5,
wherein the first microstructured area (111) comprises the texture formed of microcavities (20) and the second microstructured area (112) comprises the texture being formed of micro-pillars (30). Composant selon l'une des revendications 1 à 6,
dans lequel une microstructure d'ondulation (40) est superposée à la texture formée de micro-piliers (30).Component according to one of Claims 1 to 6,
wherein a corrugation microstructure (40) is superimposed on the texture formed of micro-pillars (30). Composant selon l'une des revendications 1 à 7,
dans lequel la zone microstructurée (110, 111) comprend un film d'une substance permettant de modifier l'énergie de surface.Component according to one of Claims 1 to 7,
wherein the microstructured region (110, 111) comprises a film of a substance for modifying the surface energy. Composant selon la revendication 8,
dans lequel la zone microstructurée (110) comprend un film d'épilame.Component according to Claim 8,
wherein the microstructured region (110) comprises an epilame film. Composant selon l'une des revendications 1 à 9,
dans lequel la dimension latérale (L) des microcavités (20) et des micro-piliers (30) est entre 5 µm et 150 µm.Component according to one of Claims 1 to 9,
wherein the lateral dimension (L) of the microcavities (20) and the micro-pillars (30) is between 5 µm and 150 µm. Composant selon l'une des revendications 1 à 9,
dans lequel la dimension latérale (L) des microcavités (20) et des micro-piliers (30) est entre 10 µm et 60 µm.Component according to one of Claims 1 to 9,
wherein the lateral dimension (L) of the microcavities (20) and the micro-pillars (30) is between 10 µm and 60 µm. Composant selon l'une des revendications 1 à 11,
dans lequel le rapport de la hauteur (H) sur la dimension latérale (L) des microcavités (20) et des micro-piliers (30) est entre 0.01 et 1.Component according to one of Claims 1 to 11,
wherein the ratio of the height (H) to the lateral dimension (L) of the microcavities (20) and the micro-pillars (30) is between 0.01 and 1. Composant selon l'une des revendications 7 à 12,
dans lequel la microstructure d'ondulation est constituée de sillons parallèles de largeur entre 7 µm et 12 µm et de profondeur inférieure à 1 µmComponent according to one of Claims 7 to 12,
in which the corrugation microstructure consists of parallel grooves between 7 µm and 12 µm wide and less than 1 µm deep Composant selon la revendication 13,
dans lequel la profondeur est entre 0.2 µm et 0.9 µm.Component according to Claim 13,
where the depth is between 0.2 µm and 0.9 µm. Composant selon l'une des revendications 1 à 14,
dans lequel la densité des microcavités (20) ou des micro-piliers (30) dans la zone microstructurée (110) est entre 0.1 et 0.9.Component according to one of Claims 1 to 14,
wherein the density of the microcavities (20) or the micro-pillars (30) in the microstructured zone (110) is between 0.1 and 0.9. Composant selon l'une des revendications 1 à 14,
dans lequel la densité des microcavités (20) ou des micro-piliers (30) dans la zone microstructurée (110) est entre 0.4 et 0.8.Component according to one of Claims 1 to 14,
wherein the density of the microcavities (20) or the micro-pillars (30) in the microstructured zone (110) is between 0.4 and 0.8. Composant selon l'une des revendications 1 à 16,
comprenant au moins l'un de: une pierre de pivotement ou de palier, une palette d'échappement, ou une cheville de plateau, ou une dent.Component according to one of Claims 1 to 16,
comprising at least one of: a pivot or bearing stone, an escape vane, or a platform pin, or a tooth.
EP19184822.5A 2019-07-05 2019-07-05 Micromechanical component allowing containment of a lubricating substance Pending EP3761123A1 (en)

Priority Applications (5)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP19184822.5A EP3761123A1 (en) 2019-07-05 2019-07-05 Micromechanical component allowing containment of a lubricating substance
JP2021577901A JP7316391B2 (en) 2019-07-05 2020-03-27 Micromechanical parts containing lubricating substances
CN202080048923.8A CN114026504B (en) 2019-07-05 2020-03-27 Micromechanical component allowing confinement of a lubricating substance
US17/624,172 US20220357706A1 (en) 2019-07-05 2020-03-27 Micromechanical component for containing a lubricant substance
PCT/IB2020/052901 WO2021005423A1 (en) 2019-07-05 2020-03-27 Micromechanical component for containing a lubricant substance

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP19184822.5A EP3761123A1 (en) 2019-07-05 2019-07-05 Micromechanical component allowing containment of a lubricating substance

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP3761123A1 true EP3761123A1 (en) 2021-01-06

Family

ID=67184948

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP19184822.5A Pending EP3761123A1 (en) 2019-07-05 2019-07-05 Micromechanical component allowing containment of a lubricating substance

Country Status (5)

Country Link
US (1) US20220357706A1 (en)
EP (1) EP3761123A1 (en)
JP (1) JP7316391B2 (en)
CN (1) CN114026504B (en)
WO (1) WO2021005423A1 (en)

Citations (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2014012039A1 (en) * 2012-07-13 2014-01-16 President And Fellows Of Harvard College Slippery liquid-infused porous surfaces having improved stability
EP3002637A1 (en) * 2014-09-29 2016-04-06 Richemont International S.A. Clock system with improved tribological properties
EP3067757A1 (en) * 2015-03-13 2016-09-14 The Swatch Group Research and Development Ltd. Microstructured tribological tank
EP3141520A1 (en) * 2015-09-08 2017-03-15 Nivarox-FAR S.A. Method for manufacturing a micromechanical timepiece part and said micromechanical timepiece part
CH713426A2 (en) 2017-02-10 2018-08-15 Seiko Instr Inc Mechanical component, mechanism module, movement and timepiece.

Family Cites Families (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CA2739903C (en) * 2008-10-07 2016-12-06 Ross Technology Corporation Highly durable superhydrophobic, oleophobic and anti-icing coatings and methods and compositions for their preparation
CN102226459B (en) * 2011-06-03 2013-03-13 江苏大学 Method for self-lubricating treatment of laser micro-texture of bearing
JP5787744B2 (en) * 2011-12-22 2015-09-30 三菱電機株式会社 Sliding mechanism, rotary compressor and scroll compressor
FR2990433A1 (en) * 2012-05-10 2013-11-15 Surfactis Technologies CATANIONIC SURFACE RECOVERY COMPOSITIONS THROUGH PHOSPHONIC MOLECULES AND AMINES
JP6004355B2 (en) * 2015-01-23 2016-10-05 高知県公立大学法人 Lubricating layer breakage suppressing method and structure having sliding portion
EP3141522B1 (en) * 2015-09-08 2018-05-02 Nivarox-FAR S.A. Micromechanical timepiece part comprising a lubricated surface and method for manufacturing such a micromechanical timepiece part
CN105650443B (en) * 2016-03-29 2018-08-14 武汉科技大学 A kind of surface texture and its application based on hydrldynamic pressure lubrication

Patent Citations (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2014012039A1 (en) * 2012-07-13 2014-01-16 President And Fellows Of Harvard College Slippery liquid-infused porous surfaces having improved stability
EP3002637A1 (en) * 2014-09-29 2016-04-06 Richemont International S.A. Clock system with improved tribological properties
EP3067757A1 (en) * 2015-03-13 2016-09-14 The Swatch Group Research and Development Ltd. Microstructured tribological tank
EP3141520A1 (en) * 2015-09-08 2017-03-15 Nivarox-FAR S.A. Method for manufacturing a micromechanical timepiece part and said micromechanical timepiece part
CH713426A2 (en) 2017-02-10 2018-08-15 Seiko Instr Inc Mechanical component, mechanism module, movement and timepiece.

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
CN114026504B (en) 2022-11-11
CN114026504A (en) 2022-02-08
JP2022538344A (en) 2022-09-01
JP7316391B2 (en) 2023-07-27
US20220357706A1 (en) 2022-11-10
WO2021005423A1 (en) 2021-01-14

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
CH710846B1 (en) Micromechanical part comprising a microstructured tribological reservoir for a lubricating substance.
EP3002637B1 (en) Clock system with improved tribological properties
EP3141520B1 (en) Method for manufacturing a micromechanical timepiece part and said micromechanical timepiece part
FR2934608A1 (en) SUPERFINISHING THIN FILM COATING, PROCESS FOR OBTAINING SAME, AND DEVICE COMPRISING SUCH A COATING.
CH713871B1 (en) Clock component comprising graphic elements of various aspects and method of manufacturing such a component.
WO2016146305A1 (en) Tribological microstructured receptacle
EP3761123A1 (en) Micromechanical component allowing containment of a lubricating substance
EP4071558A1 (en) Method for manufacturing a clock component by surface structuring
EP1840108B1 (en) Process of providing a satin finished surface
EP3002635B1 (en) Method for producing a spring element for a clock movement or another precision instrument
EP3141522B1 (en) Micromechanical timepiece part comprising a lubricated surface and method for manufacturing such a micromechanical timepiece part
CH708453A1 (en) A method of manufacturing a micro-mechanical part and the part produced by using this method.
CH711501A2 (en) A method for manufacturing a micromechanical watchpiece and a micromechanical watchpiece.
Rathmann et al. On the use of LIPSS in single-and multi-scale laser-structured tool surfaces under lubricated conditions
CH708998B1 (en) Clock component and method for reducing the coefficient of friction of a watch component.
EP2878712B1 (en) Aluminium-lithium alloy component including a ceramic coating and method for forming the coating
EP3226082B1 (en) Timepiece movement component
EP3511780A1 (en) Method for lubricating an escapement
EP3548972B1 (en) Method for optimising the tribological properties of a timepiece component
CH718233B1 (en) Wristwatch component, wristwatch and method of manufacturing a wristwatch component.
EP3819713A1 (en) Pallet, wheel, needle or bridge for a clock piece
CH711500A2 (en) A micromechanical watchpiece comprising a lubricated surface and a method for producing such a micromechanical watchpiece.
EP3623877A1 (en) Method for manufacturing a clock component
CH716663A2 (en) Method of manufacturing an epilamated mechanical part.
CH718800A2 (en) Process for the surface treatment of a stone, in particular for watchmaking.

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
PUAI Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: THE APPLICATION HAS BEEN PUBLISHED

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: A1

Designated state(s): AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR

AX Request for extension of the european patent

Extension state: BA ME

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: HK

Ref legal event code: DE

Ref document number: 40038737

Country of ref document: HK

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: REQUEST FOR EXAMINATION WAS MADE

17P Request for examination filed

Effective date: 20210624

RBV Designated contracting states (corrected)

Designated state(s): AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: EXAMINATION IS IN PROGRESS

17Q First examination report despatched

Effective date: 20220919