Vuzix Shield (partly) 3D printed smart safety glasses go on sale
Leveraging a 3D printed titanium bridge created in partnership with Materialise to blend fashion, function, and fit
Vuzix Corporation (NASDAQ: VUZI), a leading supplier of smart glasses and Augmented Reality (AR) technology and products, released the Vuzix Shield smart safety glasses to the general public via www.Vuzix.com. Vuzix Shield initially launched against a limited fulfillment strategy, focused on developers and researchers. The Vuzix Shield smart eyewear leverages a 3D printed titanium bridge, created in partnership with Materialise and showcasing the company’s commitment to blending fashion, function, and fit in wearable technology.
Vuzix Shield represents the company’s most revolutionary pair of prescription-ready AR smart safety glasses, boasting enhanced 3D optics made possible by its stereoscopic microLED (µLED) waveguide-based displays. Its high-efficiency projectors deliver a crisp, ultrabright image indoors or outside. ANSI Z87.1 safety glasses certified, with self-contained batteries, stereo HD cameras and a Qualcomm processor under the hood, Vuzix Shield is optimized for multi-hour untethered use, with stereo over-the-ear speakers for personalized audio, and noise-canceling microphones for clear voice interactions in even harsh work environments.
Because most use cases demand heads-up, hands-free use, Vuzix Shield can support voice input in 29 languages. It also comes equipped with dual swipe/tap touchpads for ultimate versatility without the need for voice commands. Using Vuzix Shield, workers can stream their view to remote experts, connect to AI workflow optimization tools, take photos, scan barcodes, and get work instructions and notifications, all with a lightweight, ergonomic form factor that’s comfortable for extended wear.
Balancing strength and style via AM
Vuzix has long been recognized for its expertise in waveguide optics and advanced manufacturing techniques. With the introduction of the Vuzix Shield, the company continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible in the enterprise smart glasses sector.
One of the key challenges in designing the Vuzix Shield was achieving the perfect balance between strength, stability, and style. The device incorporates a binocular display system, requiring precise alignment to ensure optimal performance. Shane Porzio, VP of Engineering at Vuzix, highlighted the importance of maintaining pixel-perfect alignment across various user scenarios, emphasizing the need for a stable support structure.
Initially exploring injection molding for the frame, Vuzix encountered issues with rigidity, particularly when subjected to external forces like connecting cables. Recognizing the limitations of traditional manufacturing methods, Vuzix opted to explore alternative solutions.
Collaborating with Materialise since 2023, Vuzix embarked on a journey to find the ideal material and manufacturing process for the Shield’s frame. The decision to use 3D printed titanium was driven by its exceptional strength-to-weight ratio and aesthetic appeal. Titanium is renowned for its durability and lightweight properties, making it a natural choice for high-end eyewear applications.
The partnership between Vuzix and Materialise yielded impressive results, with the Shield’s frame design optimized for both functionality and comfort. By leveraging the capabilities of 3D printing, Vuzix was able to iterate rapidly on prototype designs, fine-tuning the product to meet the exacting standards of its target audience.
Jan-Willem Billiet, Head of Smart Eyewear at Materialise, emphasized the importance of finding the right balance between weight, design, and form factor. The collaborative effort between the two companies culminated in a hybrid frame design that not only provided the necessary rigidity but also enhanced wearability through reduced weight.
Customized Vuzix Shield for multiple uses
Other features of the Vuzix Shield include a pair of autofocus HD cameras that can double as a barcode scanner, supporting AI-enabled environmental awareness, real-time inputs, and feedback both on tasks and ambient workplace hazards. The device also enables remote support, providing experts with a see-what-I-see view leveraging most common teleconferencing apps.
Current deployments span a range of use cases, including medical and first responder, logistics and transport, and field service and inspection. Xander, one of the Company’s most notable early clients serving the deaf and hard-of-hearing community through collaborations with the Veterans Association, has already placed follow-on orders due to significant demand for their smart captioning solution.
In addition to its material properties, the use of 3D printing by Vuzix via Materialise offered numerous advantages in terms of flexibility and customization. Vuzix recognized the potential to offer a range of color options, shapes, and materials to cater to diverse consumer preferences. This flexibility is essential in an industry where personalization and choice are increasingly valued by consumers.
The launch of the Vuzix Shield marks a significant milestone in the evolution of smart eyewear technology. Beyond its applications in the enterprise sector, the Shield holds promise in various other fields, including healthcare, remote assistance, and accessibility for the hearing impaired.
Looking ahead, Vuzix envisions a future where customizable smart glasses become the norm, with 3D printing playing a central role in meeting the demands of discerning consumers. As the industry continues to evolve, Vuzix remains at the forefront of innovation, driving forward the adoption of wearable technology in everyday life.
