We’ve covered LUXeXceL quite a few times on 3DPI, as they’ve developed a unique method for 3D printing optical components. The award winning company has additively manufactured both parts for LED lighting and royal eyewear. Until recently, however, LUXeXceL’s Printoptical Technology has been relegated to individual projects, used to prove the capability of their 3D printing process. Now, Printoptical is ready to go into full production, as the company is in the process of launching its first 3D printing factory.
LUXeXceL’s one step “CAD-to-Optic” process is able to 3D print smooth optical components that do not require post processing, reducing time and cost. The new digital production line currently being established will allow the company to provide this process to larger numbers of clients. The new digital production line of LED lighting optics, set to be operational by mid-2014, can be used for small volume production and prototyping, but can also be scaled up to medium volume manufacturing.
Richard van de Vrie, the company’s CEO, said of the 1,000 sqm 3D printing factory: “We are excited to open this new facility. We are changing the way optics are designed, produced, and now digitally stored. Our new printers will enable us to print very precise LED lighting optics and will allow us to jet new optical materials. This increases the design capabilities we offer to optical designers and enables the LED Industry to customize per application, project or even single product.”
Joris Biskop, LUXeXceL’s CTO, added, “I am proud our team has developed a specific printer that will deliver both speed and precision in the manufacturing of optics. This is a foundation for further innovation in the 3D printing of optics. I am confident that with the support we get from our customers, partners and universities, our capabilities will further improve rapidly.”
News that the company has increased its production capability will set LUXeXceL as the first 3D printing company in the commercial world that is devoted exclusively to 3D printed optical components. We are slowly witnessing more additive manufacturing companies focusing on specific material production capabilities, such as Fripp Design and Research working on a soft tissue prostheses printer. As more such processes develop, 3D printing technology will mature even further and we’re here to inform you every step of the way.
Source: LUXeXeL
