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Extruded Lenticular Lens - How it Works

 

Manufacturing Extruded Lenticular Lens


One side of an extruded plastic sheet is embossed with columns of tiny corrugations called lenticules, hence the name "lenticular" in lenticular extruded lens. The lenticules are all the same size and are spaced equally across the sheet. The other side of the sheet remains smooth in order to be printed upon.

For more information regarding lenticular plastic, visit www.pacur.com.

 

Get more information on Lenticular Lens

The frequency of lenticules is called lines-per-inch or LPI, and can vary from 10 to 200. Just as no one eyeglass prescription works for everyone, no single LPI works best for all project effects.

wide angle and narrow angle lensThe curvature or angle of the lenticule is important to keep in mind when selecting the proper lens. For an optimal 3D effect, a narrow-angle lenticular lens with a viewing angle between 15 to 44 degrees works best. When working to achieve a good animation effect, a wide-angle lenticular lens with a viewing angle between 44 to 65 degrees works best. These variances will help to determine which lens works best for your project.

Interlaced Design and Lenticular Plastic coming together

Lenticular Lens Dimensions

Lenticular sheets range in thickness from 0.008 to 0.385 of an inch. What you choose is determined by the desired effect your looking to accomplish and how your project will ultimately be used. Sheets come in a number of sizes, with 20"x 28" and 28"x 40" being two of the most commonly used in offset printing. Roll lenticular is also available for the flexo and web printing markets. Ultimately—whatever dimensions being used—it's the clarity of the lenticular sheet that plays a huge role in the quality of the product.


Lenticular Lens Options

There are so many variables involved in putting together a great lenticular piece. Selecting the correct lens is ultimately one of the most important decisions to make. Below is a simplified chart system to aide in finding the best lens options for your planned effect.

How to Use the Chart Below:
In the top chart, select the print process you are planning to use and cross-reference the planned effect your art will be designed for. This will highlight the recommended lens type(s), as well as the lens properties in the bottom chart.

* Please note that the charts below are a point-of-reference ONLY. Every lenticular piece will have different variables. Be sure to consult with your printer or "ask Lenny" to help you find the best lens for your job.

Print Processes Planned Effects
* This print process requires an optically clear adhesive to laminate the lens to the print (increasing the distance between the print and the lens, thereby, changing the focal point.) It is suggested that the lens gage or thickness be adjusted by the manufacturer to allow for the thickness of the adhesive.

  Lens Types
Properties

* Lenstar VLF

 

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