Application of composite materials in sports optics

Abstract

CFRP (Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymers) are often used when designing parts that need to be stiff, light and thermally stable. These benefits are a big motivation to use CFRP in many applications, one of them could be sports optics. However, optical devices require precise dimensions with tight tolerances for the optical assembly to work correctly. In order to determine if CFRP could be a suitable material of choice for sports optics a simplified body of binoculars was designed. The tubular body was manufactured by prepreg lay-up into a 3D printed mold, followed by curing in an autoclave. After the prototype was manufactured 3D measurements of the tube using 3D scanner GOM ATOS were made. As expected, shrinkage of the mold and the epoxy resin in the matrix of CFRP caused minor deformations. However, if the shape of the cured part remains unchanged during conditions similar to the general use of binoculars, then the initial deformations happening during manufacturing could be accounted for when designing the part.

Wood-Poly(furfuryl Alcohol) Prepreg: A Novel, Ecofriendly Laminate Composite

“…This attribute contributes to enhanced strength and stiffness characteristics. Furthermore, prepregs exhibit superior handling and processing properties, rendering them well suited for a diverse range of applications across industries, including the aerospace, automotive, sports equipment, and marine sectors [ 2 , 3 , 4 ].…”

“…While these materials provide exceptional performance in composites, they are not commonly sustainable materials. In fact, the most commonly used resin systems for this application (e.g., epoxy resin) have manufacturing processes involving the use of non-renewable petrochemicals and require high energy consumption [ 4 ]. Thereafter, the synthetic fibers used as reinforcement also involve a complex process that requires high temperatures and large amounts of energy, which contribute to significant greenhouse gas emissions [ 5 ].…”

Precision and Dimensional Stability of Bonded Joints of Carbon-Fibre-Reinforced Polymers Parts

“…Despite the aforementioned benefits, the application of CFRPs in the production of sports optics or other optical instruments remains relatively rare. One of the primary obstacles hindering the adoption of composite materials in optical devices is the limited manufacturing precision of composite parts [6]. In some cases, limited impact resistance and the absence of plastic deformation are the main limitations [7].…”

“…Manufacturing precision and deformation elimination are key requirements for CFRP applications in optics. Kupčák et al [6] address the evaluation of deformation during the production of a composite tubular part made by curing prepregs in an autoclave with a prototype mold. There are several strategies to eliminate deformation during composite manufacturing [10].…”

Experimental Investigations Towards Hole Accuracy in Micro-drilling of Carbon Fibre Reinforced Polymer Material

“…In airframe structural applications, carbon fibre reinforced plastics (CFRP) are commonly used for their excellent material composition; they are corrosion resistant, lightweight and possess high material strength [1], [2]. Besides, CFRP material also provided benefit to sports optics as it has high stiffness and thermally stable [3]. Over time, a few machines have been developed to perform drilling processes such as laser beam machining, ultrasonic machining, electro discharge machining (EDM) and electrochemical machining (ECM) [4], [5].…”