Since the development of 3D printing, 3D printing glasses have been one of the consumer product applications of major startups. Based on the characteristics of customization, on-demand, originality, innovation, and sustainable development, 3D printing glasses can do many things that standard glasses cannot. At the recent MIDO 2023 exhibition in Milan, the world's leading event for the eyewear industry, let's see how far 3D printing eyewear has come!
Arkema and materialise, the two companies leading the revolution in 3D printed eyewear, are taking MIDO 2023 very seriously, with the fair showcasing Arkema's innovative polymer portfolio tailored for injection molding and additive manufacturing (3D printing) of lightweight frames. Arkema's materials are well-suited for traditional eyewear manufacturing.
Several new bio-based and recycled materials were highlighted at the booth, as well as a transparent polyamide 11 material aimed at opening possibilities for creative and stylish eyewear designs. The low-density Rilsan polyamide 11, which enables the glasses to float in water, and the unique Pebax Rnew elastomer, which is up to 97% bio-based, provide the flexibility to produce strong and durable children's frames.
Arkema's polyamide 11 material is 100% derived from renewable castor beans. These advanced polymers significantly reduce the product's carbon footprint, which is now even lower thanks to Arkema's recent announcement to invest in renewable energy across its global polyamide 11 production network. Arkema's partner Materialize, a leader in 3D printed eyewear, was also present at the booth, showing how polyamide 11 can be used to create beautiful premium eyewear solutions in a variety of stylish styles. The translucency of the material renders beautiful pastel tones and intense dark tones. The company also showed off its new Custom Fit Eyewear Suite, which takes personalized eyewear and customer experience to the next level.
3D printing business model on glasses
The PA11 material in MJF 3D printing is self-renewable castor beans. First of all, it is not harmful to the wearer. Compared with other materials, it is relatively safe. Secondly, the material density of PA11 is low, and the 3D printed glasses frame has a smooth surface and lighter weight, so it is more comfortable and more beautiful.
Over the past few years, more than 30 companies and startups have entered the 3D printed eyewear market, and Hoet, the company that pioneered 3D printed eyewear, continues to introduce new designs, including (currently the only company to do so) titanium 3D printed frames. Metal 3D printing titanium can reduce the weight of eyeglass frames and improve the comfort of the wearer.
The demand for 3D printing eyewear is growing and it is refreshing to see a number of companies showcasing many original designs utilizing 3D printing in different ways. Among them, the 3D printing custom frame is more robust and durable through unique integration and patented technology.
The French company presented at MIDO 2023 several original and stylish designs with geometries that cannot be produced by traditional manufacturing. In addition to using 3D printing, the designs feature a unique patented insertion system: the LINOTEC Insert Holder. This approach offers the possibility of a morphological, tailor-made fit, maximizing nasal comfort.
Advantages brought by 3D printing
With 3D printing, manufacturers print on demand, thereby avoiding overproduction, reducing carbon emissions, and drastically reducing waste. 3D printing can realize free design, print out any complex structure, and highlight personalized design so that designers' ideas can be realized more quickly and cheaply. The global eyewear industry wants to innovate and become more sustainable, and from the relatively slow pace of innovation in traditional high-end eyewear, the eyewear industry could really benefit from additive manufacturing in the coming years.