Case Study: Point Sur Lighthouse achieves hands-on Fresnel lens demonstrations with Xometry

Volunteer at Historic Lighthouse Reveals the Magic of Optics with Xometry Custom Parts

Point Sur Lighthouse in Big Sur enlisted volunteer docent and retired optics engineer Richard Ruh to create hands-on Fresnel lens demonstrations for visitors, but he lacked workshop space and needed custom mounts that fit a variety of cell phones and flashlights. Ruh turned to Xometry, using their 3D printing (FDM and SLS) and CNC machining services to produce durable, accurately threaded adapter rings, enclosures, hinges and magnetic mounts for portable demos.

Xometry manufactured 3D‑printed enclosures and SLS lens holders plus CNC machined adapter plates and rings that let Ruh securely mount Fresnel lenses to cell phones and flashlights; the demonstrations show how a Fresnel lens captures light across a 120° cone versus about 30° for a plano‑convex lens. The result is cost‑effective, timely production that enabled multiple engaging tour setups, saved Ruh money, improved visitor understanding of lighthouse optics, and positioned Point Sur Lighthouse to expand or scale the demos with Xometry’s help.

Point Sur Lighthouse

Richard Ruh

Former Optics Engineer