Glasses
A Vision Hack for Empathy, Focus & Play
How can we design eyewear that goes beyond vision—a tool that helps shift mindsets, spark self-reflection, or adapt perception?
Our challenge: develop a prototype for an adaptable, filter-based lens system using 3D printing.
Project Type:
Reseach and prototyping
Client: Arnd Graf-Beilfuss
Role: 3D CAD Designer
Year: 2023
Team: Juan Fankhauser
Sophie Williner
Role: Concept Development, Prototyping, 3D Modelling, 3D rendering
Research-Driven Design
We began by mapping user frustrations:
Traditional glasses are rigid, visually isolating, or unfriendly to custom needs.
People with visual impairments often struggle with overly mechanical accessories.
Users abandon tools they can’t quickly understand or adapt.
→ Our goal: Make the invisible—visible.
Perspective-shifting, without adding friction.
Sketch & Concept
We used Crazy 8s to rapidly ideate:
Form factors for filters
Interaction methods (click, snap, magnet, screwless)
Comfort mechanisms for different users (e.g. older adults, kids)
Each idea was grounded in real behavioral insights:
“Holding Out for a Hero” → Guidance & simplicity
“A Whole New World” → New sensory input
“A Hug for Eternity?” → Secure comfort
Prototyping in Phases
Phase 1: Idea Refinement
Paper sketches → moodboards → system logic.
Phase 2: CAD & Printing
We tested multiple platforms:
OnShape (success)
FreeCAD (crashes + poor export)
“If it breaks or feels confusing, it won’t be worn.”
Our 3D prototypes used Zotrax printers with FLEX and PLA (recycled) materials. Future iterations plan for Fuse (powder nylon) and Bamboo Lab printers for advanced flexibility and detail.
Design Responses
Double Lenses
A modular system with frame independence.
No screws. No classic hinges. Fully 3D-printed.
Key features:
Flexible printed hinges
Adjustable screwless fit
18–20 mm lens spacing
Mix of round/square curvature
Modular clip-on arms
The Watch (Test Kit)
Minimalist filter add-on for existing glasses.
Focus: easy snap-on, intuitive use for seniors or impaired users.
Critique insights:
“If you can’t do it after 3 tries, you’ll stop trying.”
→ Design must be self-explanatory.
Key Learnings
Prototypes must be physiologically comfortable
Overengineering = friction
Filters must feel natural and look intentional
Flexibility can be misinterpreted as fragility, users need confidence
Lens-Filter Glasses are more than a product, they're an invitation to see differently.
From focus to empathy, they gently ask:
What if changing your mind... was as simple as changing your lens?
