A comprehensive guide to designing and printing custom 3D medical glasses. Discover the process from face scanning to material selection and final assembly.

 Creating A Custom 3D Printed Medical Glasses

This guide provides a detailed walk through of the process to help you understand the needed steps to create a custom 3D printed medical glasses tailored to individual needs that we previously discussed in our previous article  https://master3dp.com/3d-printed-medical-glasses.

1. Initial Assessment and Measurements:

The process begins with a thorough assessment of the patient’s needs and precise measurements of their facial features.

Face Scanning and Measurement: Advanced 3D scanning technology can capture the exact dimensions of a patient’s face, including the distance between the eyes, bridge width, and temple length. 

Prescription and Lens Requirements: Understanding the patient’s prescription and any specific lens requirements is essential. This information will guide the design process, ensuring that the frames accommodate the lenses correctly and provide optimal vision correction.

2. Designing the Frames:

Using 3D modeling software, the frames are designed to fit the patient’s facial features and accommodate their prescription lenses.

Choosing a Design Software: Software like Blender, Rhino, or TinkerCAD can be used to design the frames. These programs allow for precise control over the shape and dimensions of the glasses, ensuring a perfect fit.

Incorporating Functional Features: The design should include functional elements like adjustable nose pads, flexible hinges, and secure temple tips. These features enhance comfort and ensure the glasses stay in place during daily activities.

3. Selecting the Right Material:

The choice of material affects both the comfort and durability of the glasses. Selecting the appropriate material is crucial to the success of the final product.

Material Considerations: Common materials for 3D printed glasses include nylon (for flexibility and comfort), polycarbonate (for durability), and titanium (for a lightweight yet strong frame). The choice of material depends on the patient’s lifestyle and specific needs.

Material Properties: It’s important to consider properties like weight, strength, and hypoallergenic qualities. For example, patients with sensitive skin may benefit from hypoallergenic materials to avoid irritation.

4. Printing and Post-Processing:

Once the design is finalized, the frames are printed and undergo post-processing to ensure a smooth finish and proper assembly.

Printing the Frames: The frames are printed using a 3D printer, with settings optimized for the chosen material. This includes layer height, print speed, and temperature settings to ensure a high-quality finish.

Post-Processing Techniques: After printing, the frames are cleaned and smoothed to remove any rough edges. This may involve sanding, polishing, or applying a coating to enhance the appearance and durability of the frames.

Lens Insertion and Final Assembly: The final step involves inserting the prescription lenses into the frames and performing a fit check to ensure comfort and proper alignment.

All in all, the steps to creating a custom 3D printed medical glasses is a precise and detailed process that requires careful planning and execution. By following these steps, you can produce eyewear that is tailored to the individual’s needs, offering enhanced comfort, durability, and visual performance. This approach not only improves the patient’s experience but also represents a significant advancement in the field of medical eyewear.