Vuzix Defend (partly) 3D printed sensible security glasses go on sale | VoxelMatters
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Vuzix Company (NASDAQ: VUZI), a number one provider of sensible glasses and Augmented Actuality (AR) know-how and merchandise, launched the Vuzix Defend sensible security glasses to most of the people by way of www.Vuzix.com. Vuzix Defend initially launched in opposition to a restricted success technique, centered on builders and researchers. The Vuzix Defend sensible eyewear leverages a 3D printed titanium bridge, created in partnership with Materialise and showcasing the corporate’s dedication to mixing vogue, perform, and slot in wearable know-how.
Vuzix Defend represents the corporate’s most revolutionary pair of prescription-ready AR sensible security glasses, boasting enhanced 3D optics made attainable by its stereoscopic microLED (µLED) waveguide-based shows. Its high-efficiency projectors ship a crisp, ultrabright picture indoors or exterior. ANSI Z87.1 security glasses licensed, with self-contained batteries, stereo HD cameras and a Qualcomm processor underneath the hood, Vuzix Defend is optimized for multi-hour untethered use, with stereo over-the-ear audio system for customized audio, and noise-canceling microphones for clear voice interactions in even harsh work environments.
As a result of most use circumstances demand heads-up, hands-free use, Vuzix Defend can help voice enter in 29 languages. It additionally comes outfitted with twin swipe/faucet touchpads for final versatility with out the necessity for voice instructions. Utilizing Vuzix Defend, employees can stream their view to distant consultants, hook up with AI workflow optimization instruments, take pictures, scan barcodes, and get work directions and notifications, all with a light-weight, ergonomic kind issue that’s comfy for prolonged put on.
Balancing energy and magnificence by way of AM
Vuzix has lengthy been acknowledged for its experience in waveguide optics and superior manufacturing methods. With the introduction of the Vuzix Defend, the corporate continues to push the boundaries of what’s attainable within the enterprise sensible glasses sector.
One of many key challenges in designing the Vuzix Defend was attaining the proper steadiness between energy, stability, and magnificence. The gadget incorporates a binocular show system, requiring exact alignment to make sure optimum efficiency. Shane Porzio, VP of Engineering at Vuzix, highlighted the significance of sustaining pixel-perfect alignment throughout numerous person eventualities, emphasizing the necessity for a secure help construction.
Initially exploring injection molding for the body, Vuzix encountered points with rigidity, notably when subjected to exterior forces like connecting cables. Recognizing the constraints of conventional manufacturing strategies, Vuzix opted to discover different options.
Collaborating with Materialise since 2023, Vuzix launched into a journey to seek out the best materials and manufacturing course of for the Defend’s body. The choice to make use of 3D printed titanium was pushed by its distinctive strength-to-weight ratio and aesthetic enchantment. Titanium is famend for its sturdiness and light-weight properties, making it a pure alternative for high-end eyewear purposes.
The partnership between Vuzix and Materialise yielded spectacular outcomes, with the Defend’s body design optimized for each performance and luxury. By leveraging the capabilities of 3D printing, Vuzix was capable of iterate quickly on prototype designs, fine-tuning the product to fulfill the exacting requirements of its audience.
Jan-Willem Billiet, Head of Sensible Eyewear at Materialise, emphasised the significance of discovering the fitting steadiness between weight, design, and kind issue. The collaborative effort between the 2 firms culminated in a hybrid body design that not solely supplied the required rigidity but additionally enhanced wearability by diminished weight.
Custom-made Vuzix Defend for a number of makes use of
Different options of the Vuzix Defend embody a pair of autofocus HD cameras that may double as a barcode scanner, supporting AI-enabled environmental consciousness, real-time inputs, and suggestions each on duties and ambient office hazards. The gadget additionally permits distant help, offering consultants with a see-what-I-see view leveraging commonest teleconferencing apps.
Present deployments span a variety of use circumstances, together with medical and first responder, logistics and transport, and subject service and inspection. Xander, one of many Firm’s most notable early shoppers serving the deaf and hard-of-hearing neighborhood by collaborations with the Veterans Affiliation, has already positioned follow-on orders because of important demand for his or her sensible captioning resolution.
Along with its materials properties, using 3D printing by Vuzix by way of Materialise supplied quite a few benefits when it comes to flexibility and customization. Vuzix acknowledged the potential to supply a variety of colour choices, shapes, and supplies to cater to numerous shopper preferences. This flexibility is crucial in an business the place personalization and selection are more and more valued by shoppers.
The launch of the Vuzix Defend marks a big milestone within the evolution of sensible eyewear know-how. Past its purposes within the enterprise sector, the Defend holds promise in numerous different fields, together with healthcare, distant help, and accessibility for the listening to impaired.
Trying forward, Vuzix envisions a future the place customizable sensible glasses turn into the norm, with 3D printing taking part in a central function in assembly the calls for of discerning shoppers. Because the business continues to evolve, Vuzix stays on the forefront of innovation, driving ahead the adoption of wearable know-how in on a regular basis life.
