WP5. Flexible Manufacturing Frames


The objective of this work package is to examine requirements and adapt current laser sintering techniques and consumables in the automatic production of personalized frames via a Rapid Manufacturing process. Specifically, we shall:

  • Research the capabilities of the laser-sintering processes compared to the requirements defined
    • All detailed product specifications arriving from the Automatic Design Package (WP3) will be translated into process requirements. Then, a mapping with the process characteristics, capabilities and weaknesses will follow, after which it will become clear what aspects of the sintering process need to be adapted/improved.

  • Adapt the laser-sintering processes to fulfill product requirements
  • Research different finishing and decoration technologies available to meet the design requirements

    • Personalized frames not only require an adaptation to the end-users' physical conditions but also are very demanding in surface treatment and finish. A laser-sintered part surface does not always fulfill requirements emerging from practical day-to-day usage of spectacles. Additional post-treatment technologies however are available to improve the surface to any desired quality. They will have to be adapted to the challenging geometry of frames depending on the LS technology used and the material processed. The different post-processing technologies shall be investigated regarding feasibility, optical appearance and compatibility with decoration elements. The processes will have to be adapted to achieve the end-goal of creating good quality frames (aesthetic, personalized, durable, with sufficient resistance to damage, etc...).

  • Adapt and further develop those technologies, mainly with regard to user designP 800 Flexible Manufacturing Printer with laser-sintering

    • Personalized frames are also very demanding in design. Laser-sintered parts colouring, especially in the plastics field, cannot fulfil demands for sintered frames. In order to meet designer and customer expectations several technologies like tinting, painting, coating or water transfer printing shall be examined. Various decoration technologies shall be investigated regarding feasibility, optical appearance, wearing comfort, durability and compatibility. These processes will have to be adapted to the needs of personalized frame production.

In terms of advancing the State of the Art it is expected that this Work Package will advance materials and processes to enable rapid manufacturing of durable personalized frames for spectacles (EOS), including:

  • Improved metal and polymer materials.
  • Design of internal structures and external forms to enhance mechanical resistance.
  • Identification of characteristics that impact efficiency, quality and reliability.