ANALYSIS OF A 3D PRINTED EYEGLASSES FRAME - EXPERIMENTAL STUDY

Abstract

In this paper is presented a comparative study for an eyeglass frame realized from 3D printed materials (PLA and PETG), as well as from existing eyeglasses frames on the market made of plastic materials, which are the most widespread. For these frames, designed and printed from new materials, made with the help of the Prusa type 3D printer, an optimal weight to strength ratio could be obtained by using a corresponding printed material density. Both the frames that are on the market and the printed ones were subjected to mechanical bending tests, thus having a comparative analysis of the mechanical properties. PLA's benefit as a bio-plastic is its versatility and the fact that it naturally degrades when exposed to the environment. PETG is a material with a unique mixture of qualities, it is readily available and relatively cheap, with a high allowable stress, being easily recycled, transformed into the original resin, and also it is very glossy.