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.

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.

Abstract: A riser topping gathering system and method are disclosed. The system and method are used in gathering riser topping material from the riser cavities of the cope portion of a mold. A capture hood includes high-pressure air outlets and is connected to a duct system, collector and air moving mechanism. The capture hood is moved into contact with the top of the cope mold portion. The air moving mechanism pulls a stream of ambient air over the top of the cope mold portion while high pressure air is pulsed into the riser cavities through the high air pressure outlets. The pulses of high-pressure air activate the riser topping materials and raise them out of the riser cavities and into the path of the ambient air in the capture hood. The moving ambient air carries the riser topping material out of the capture hood and into the duct system. The air and riser topping material is moved to the collector where the riser topping material is separated from the air.