Laser-formed features
AssigneeApple Inc.
InventorsPeter N. Russell-Clarke, Michael S. Nashner, Houtan R. Farahani
Life of this patent
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Abstract
Embodiments are directed to laser-based processes for forming features on the surface of a part. The feature may include a geometric element, a color element, and/or a surface finish element. In some cases, the laser-formed features are formed as a pattern of textured features that produce an aesthetic and/or tactile effect on the surface of the part. In some cases, the texture features may be sufficiently small that they may not be discerned by the unaided human eye. Also, in some cases, a multiple laser-based processes are combined to form a single feature or a finished part having a specific aesthetic and/or tactile effect.
Claims15
A device having at least one feature formed into a surface of the device, the feature comprising:
- a geometric element formed into the surface, the geometric element being formed using a first laser-based process;
- and
- a color element formed into the geometric element, the color element being formed using a second laser-based process.
A method for forming a feature on a surface of a part, the method comprising:
- machining an initial shape of the surface of the part;
- polishing the surface of the part;
- anodizing the surface of the part to form an anodized layer;
- forming a texture feature on the part using a first laser-based process;
- and
- forming a color feature on the part using a second laser-based process.
A device having a surface with a pattern of texture features formed into the surface, the surface comprising:
- a pattern of full-shape texture features on the surface of the device, the full-shape surfaces being formed using a laser;
- a pattern of partial-shape texture features on the surface of the device adjacent to the pattern of full-shape features, the partial-shape texture features being formed using the laser and having a partial shape that is less than the full-shape texture feature;
- and
- a non-patterned portion of the surface.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.