This summer I had a fun time exploring the possibilities and limitations of 3D printing. One of the products I designed as part of this exploration were the Melon Shades.

Customizable Sunglasses

The Melon Shades are special in that you are able to get custom fit sunglasses at a low price. When you download the 3D files (available for free here) you get a number of different sizes for the temples, the nose ridge and the overall width of the frame. You can mix and match these parts as you like in order to create your perfect sunglasses.

High Quality Lenses

The lenses that the sunglasses have been designed around are polarized. This means that they are more effective at removing harmful rays than regular darkened glass. They are also scratch resistant and come in some juicy colours…

The Assembly

All you need to assemble the Melon Shades is some plastic glue. Please make sure the glue also holds when heated as you will likely be using these in hot place like the beach.

Choosing the Size

When you download the files you will get several versions of the sunglasses that vary in nose width, overall width and temple-piece length. To find which version fits you the best I recommend either measuring the model in a 3D-modelling software, or printing the version you believe will fit best based on the name of the file (eg. “Frame-wide_nose_medium_head.stl”).

Printing the Parts

The following parts need to be printed before the assembly can begin. The suggested infill levels are based on PLA. If you are using a stronger material such as ABS, it possible to use less infill.

Print Orientation

For easy removal of support the model should be positioned as in the image below.



Removing the Supports

To remove the supports after printing you can use a knife or other sharp object. Be extra careful to remove all material from the inside of the frames since even a little residue could result in the lenses not fitting properly.



Attaching the Lenses

To attach the lenses simply insert them into the track on the inside of the frame, and close the frame around the temple piece. To keep the frame shut you will need to use the plastic glue.



You’re done!

Now hit the park or the beach and enjoy your custom fit sunglasses!

