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Monday, December 3, 2007 - 3:20 PM
8.5

Superelastic Ti-Ni Optical Frame

Y. Masunaga, K. Murata, Masunaga Optical Mfg.Co.,Ltd, Fukui, Japan

Shape memory alloy, especially Titanium-Nickel (Ti-Ni) alloy, has excellent advantages to apply for optical frames because they are incredibly flexible, extremely corrosion resistant, unbreakable, high stability and lightweight compare with the most common frame materials such as nickel silver or nickel chrome. In 1980s, a lot of eyeglass manufacturers devoted much time to conduct an intensive test and analysis on Ti-Ni alloy. However there had been only few limited design frames, which fit Ti-Ni alloy due to high cost and complication of processing like pressing, cutting, soldering or welding. In 1990, our company eventually discovered a method of welding joints (Ti-Ni alloy to different kinds of metal), and we have obtained worldwide patents for the manufacturing process. Based on this advanced technology, we have introduced KOOKI sports flex frames (superelasitc Ti-Ni alloy frames) to Japan market since 1991. The features of this frame are 1- 8~10 times more elastic than conventional spring steel, 2- Reverts to its original shape even after extreme distortion, 3- Improved durability and 4- Wide range design. Furthermore our welding technology has been utilized for another kind of industry, for example clinical application of SE Ti-Ni Arch wires. Based on its past superior performance, we believe that this superelastic application will continue to inspire creative development for other industry in the future.


Summary: Our company, Masunaga Optical Mfg. Co. Ltd., has defined a method of resistance welding joints (Ti-Ni alloy to different kinds of metal) in 1990. And with this technology we have produced and sold a wide range of superelastic Ti-Ni alloy frames in Japan market since 1991. We are researching to diversify this welding technology into several industries.