Case Study: VSP Global achieves rapid prototype validation of fitness-tracking eyewear with Protolabs

Eyewear maker uses rapid injection molding to accelerate design validation

VSP Global’s innovation lab, The Shop, set out to build Project Genesis—a prototype eyeglasses frame with an embedded fitness tracker—but faced a tight timetable and limited experience with electronics in eyewear. To validate the concept quickly and produce 30 identical test pairs, VSP Global partnered with Protolabs for rapid prototyping and design-for-manufacturability feedback during quoting and development.

Protolabs provided fast quotes, interactive DFM guidance and rapid injection-molded ABS parts (about 100 parts total) to produce 30 pairs with a specially designed cavity and modified hinges to house the Bluetooth fitness electronics. The quick turnaround and parts quality enabled VSP Global to run an alpha test with company volunteers; the tracker proved at least as accurate as wrist devices, the electronics remained visually seamless, and the validated concept moved into beta development and toward production.

VSP Global

Adam Oranchak

3D Engineer