The Evolution of Sunglasses
A Brief History
The journey of sunglasses, from their rudimentary beginnings to the advanced polarized versions we see today, is a testament to human ingenuity and the quest for better vision protection. The first known instance of sun protection can be traced back to prehistoric Inuit communities, who fashioned crude goggles from walrus ivory to shield their eyes from the sun’s glare off the snow. Fast forward to the 12th century in China, where judges used smoke-tinted quartz lenses not to filter UV rays but to conceal their expressions in court.
The 18th century marked the advent of science-driven innovations. In 1752, James Ayscough began experimenting with tinting lenses blue or green, under the belief that these colors could correct specific vision impairments. While not true sunglasses, Ayscough’s efforts paved the way for understanding the benefits of colored lenses.
It wasn’t until the early 20th century that sunglasses became widely popular, particularly with the advent of inexpensive mass production by companies like Foster Grant. Hollywood celebrities of the 1930s started wearing them to protect their eyes from the glaring studio lights, inadvertently setting a fashion trend. The real game-changer came in the 1930s when polarized lenses were invented by Edwin H. Land, who later founded Polaroid Corporation. Land’s polarizing filter could significantly reduce glare by blocking certain wavelengths of light, making them especially useful for outdoor activities like fishing and driving.
Today, polarized sunglasses are a commonplace accessory, celebrated not just for their fashion appeal but for their functional benefits. They used in various fields, from sports to driving, and continue to be a focus of innovation in lens technology. Each pair undergoes a meticulous manufacturing process, incorporating advanced materials and sophisticated technology, which we will explore in the next section.
The Anatomy of Sunglasses
Understanding how sunglasses are manufactured begins with dissecting their fundamental components: the lenses, frames, and other vital parts. Each element plays a crucial role in delivering the final product that safeguards our eyes and complements our style.
Lenses
Lenses are arguably the most critical part of any pair of sunglasses. They are primarily responsible for protecting our eyes from harmful UV rays and reducing glare.
Frames
Common materials for frames include plastic, metal, and a combination of both. Plastic frames, often made from acetate, are versatile and come in a wide array of colors and patterns. Metal frames, made from materials like stainless steel, offer a sleek and slim design.
Hinges and Earpieces
Our High-quality hinges, such as spring-loaded ones, allow the earpieces to adapt to different head sizes and shapes, enhancing durability and comfort. Earpieces, often lined with silicone or rubber, provide additional grip to keep the sunglasses in place during various activities.
Nose Pads
Typically made from silicone or rubber, they help distribute the weight of the sunglasses evenly across the nose. Adjustable nose pads allow for a customizable fit, making the sunglasses more comfortable for prolonged wear.
How are polarized sunglasses made?
1.2D or 3D drawing
We need to translate your needs or request about the glasses into 2D and 3D drawings so that the structure and function of the glasses can be displayed more intuitively. This allows us to easily manufacture eyeglasses and make the necessary improvements in the eyeglass manufacturing process.
2. Make a mold
After the design stage is completed, it is necessary to use high-precision CNC tools to cut the steel into predetermined sizes and shapes with the help of a model manufacturer, and convert the 3D model into a physical model of the glasses.
3. Injection
The molten plastic is injected into the mold
Put qualified plastic particles into the frame mold, and the required frame shape is obtained after cooling and forming.
4. Polishing and grinding
Smooth any rough edges
The frames produced by injection molding will be rough, with burrs on the edges, and not smooth enough.
5. Colors Painting
Custom colors for your sunglasses
Make your glasses frame the color you want. The easiest way to paint is with spray. Complex colors require special processes to complete, common water transfer, thermal transfer, etc., these processes can make the color of sunglasses more colorful, showing the effect you want.
6. Logo printing
Add a Logo to the sunglasses
Every entrepreneur with a dream will give their sunglasses a memorable name. As a professional sunglasses customization factory, Somat Sunglasses can print your exclusive brand name in the location you want, which can be on the lens. Or on the frames of glasses or on the packaging
7. Cuting lens
When checking the lens quality is good, we will begin cutting the sunglasses lens as the molding
8. Lens inspection
To ensure that the lens complies with the relevant quality standards
QC the lens including
1) Transmittance
2) UV400
3) Polarization efficiency
10. Assembly: Put all the parts together
This step is to assemble the frame and lens
9. Assembling the lens
Put the lenses into the frame
10. Adjustable The Frame
This is important to ensure comfort and proper functionality. With the necessary adjustments, the frames will adhere securely to the face, providing clear vision without slipping or causing discomfort. This is important to ensure comfort and proper functionality.
11. Packing
Usually we will design high-end packaging for sunglasses to increase the value of the product. we can customized you logo brand on EVA boxes, eyeglass bags and cleaning cloths.
In general, the production process of polarized sunglasses is more complicated. As high end sunglasses manufacturer with more than 10 years of experience in the manufacture of the sunglasses, Somta-top sunglass manufacturers believes that we will offer One-stop service. just click here and sent inquiry to us
