MAFO - 06/2024

ISSN 1614-1598 66527 Volume 20

OPHTHALMIC LABS & INDUSTRY Connect, discover, stay up-to-date

6/2024 ▶ Special: Markets Worldwide Ten eyewear markets

REVOLUTIONIZE MANUAL LENS POLISHING

Advances in optics and ophthalmology worldwide | Part 1 Interview: “Optometry and optics can do much more than it does now” ▶ Spotlight MAFO – The Conference program and abstracts Cyber security: “Don´t let the bad guys win!” ▶ Live on Site Visit at A&R: Making the invisible visible

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VEW: New trends in Las Vegas Show highlights Silmo Paris 2024 ▶ Market Survey Laser engraving

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06.11.24 13:05

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MAFO Advert_Rev1.indd 1 !AZ.indd 10

29/05/2020 10:32 19.08.24 17:10

LETTER

About whaling, vigilant employees and good talks

I

Hanna Diewald Chief editor Tell us your opinion, ideas and suggestions: hanna.diewald@mafo-optics.com

t is generally known today that search

Vigilance is a core competence at this time in

results on the world wide web are filtered

order to keep an eye on the market or to protect

by algorithms, depending on our prefer-

your business from criminal activity. Good

ences. But did you know that up to ONE

dialog is another important skill, because it is

in TEN random posts, according to some es-

much harder to manipulate in direct conversa-

timates, may come from foreign governments

tion than online. So keep talking, with your

trying to influence our opinion? Or that every

employees, customers and even competitors.

year, 83% of all companies experience some

Organizations such as The Vision Council or

kind of phishing attack, even if they may never

the European Council of Optometry and Optics,

even be aware of this, thanks to the effectiveness

promoting international cooperation between

of security systems in place?

all interested parties, can be of help here.

Part 2 of our cyber security series in this issue

Without direct dialog, misunderstandings can

focuses on these facts while also drawing at-

occur and these are seldom without conse-

tention to how everyone can protect their data.

quences. Neither when hackers try to manipu-

You will not only learn about whaling and

late our opinions, nor in war, nor in the market.

smishing (which have little to do with whaling

So let us keep the lines of communication

or smiling in real life), but also about how

open, through personal contacts at trade fairs,

important it is for employees to be vigilant, and

conferences and more.

how they can − and should − be trained in this.

And finally, one spoiler on our own behalf: What the huge cybercrime problem shows is

MAFO – The Conference also offers a good

that misleading communication can be a

opportunity for discussions and the best

weapon, contributing to the hardening of fronts

technical presentations. If you are curious, just

at many levels: in politics, between countries

turn to page 12 − it is worth it.

and in industry. The many flashpoints around the world add to these fears, often rendering constructive dialog impossible.

That is why we should focus all the more on good dialog in our industry. Because there are various challenges here too. The market is changing, and − despite the steadily increasing demand for vision correction aids − some companies are experiencing difficulties. In Germany, there were recently two alarming announcements from internationally active lens manufacturers: Rodenstock announced that they were moving their production from Germany to the Czech Republic, while Zeiss reduces the production of oph­thalmic lenses in Aalen, Germany, and laying off employees.

MAFO 6-24

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The optical lab in a smart world www.mafo-optics.com

SAVE E THE rDy 7A, 2T025

Februa y / one da in Milan O ID M before

#MAF CO N 2 5O

3

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16.10.24 15:44

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2024

Content

Topics in this edition MAFO issue

November / December 2024

Page 26

Page 36

Page 22

At a glance

Spotlight

6

10

All about you

Ten eyewear markets

News from

12

the international ophthalmic industry

7 All about markets

Live on site Special Topic

18 Visit at A&R: Making the invisible visible

By Hanna Diewald

MAFO – The Conference

28

Program and abstracts

VEW: New trends in Las Vegas

Data in graphics

22

8

Advances in optics and ­ophthalmology worldwide | Part 1

34

All about products

By David Benet Ferrus

Show highlights Silmo Paris 2024

36

By Daniel Groß

Innovations and products for your lab

Special Topic

By Hanna Diewald

48

“Don´t let the bad guys win!”

Suppliers guide

By Nabil Gharbieh

Survey

Interview

Laser engraving

Overview of companies in the spectacle lens industry

52 Pioneers in ophthalmic optics Ernst Abbe

53

26

40 Special Topic

“Optometry and optics can do much more than it does now” Interview with Gabriëlle Janssen

Outlook Closing with good news and preview on MAFO 01/2025

MAFO 6-24

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06.11.24 13:10

INTERNATIONAL NEWS

All about you News from the international ophthalmic industry Zeiss Vision Care Aalen: Reduction in production volume announced

synergies in their collaboration and optimally pool their shared resources.

In October, Zeiss has announced its

significant foundation for joint development projects in early 2024 by

intention to adjust production vol-

collaborating on SMYLE, a special lens designed to slow down the progres-

umes for prescription lenses and

sion of myopia. Moving forward, both companies will work together on

photochromic lenses at the Aalen

further innovative technologies, particularly on progressive lenses.

As experts in the latest lens technologies, IOT and Optiswiss laid a

site in Germany in line with falling also results in job cuts. The company

Spectaris supports the European Parliament's calls for a rapid revision of the MDR/IVDR regulations

is confronted with the situation that high-quality spectacle lenses are

The European Parliament adopted a

in high demand among consumers but are being purchased less fre-

groundbreaking resolution on the

quently. “With continued global growth, local adjustments are necessary

urgently needed revision of the EU

due to regional trends,” says the company's Vision Care division. Al-

regulations on medical devices

though growth in the ophthalmic optics sector continues unabated,

(MDR) and in vitro diagnostics

it is currently not foreseeable in individual regional markets that order

(IVDR). Spectaris supports the Par-

order volumes. The volume reduction

liament's clear signals to the Euro-

and therefore production volumes will increase again in the medium to long term. This also applies to the European market.

pean Commission to implement improvements in a timely manner in order to meet the challenges facing the industry.

Rodenstock relocates lens production from Germany to the Czech Republic

The resolution adopted is supported by all major political groups in the

In September 2024, Rodenstock

and implementing acts by the end of the first quarter of 2025 to address

announced the relocation of the

the main obstacles to the implementation of the MDR and IVDR. Among

production site from Germany to

other things, the aim is to ease the burden on medical technology

the Klattau site in the Czech Repub-

companies, especially small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs),

lic. Almost half of the jobs in Ger-

which have so far suffered greatly from the bureaucratic burden and

many will be cut. The concentration

lengthy certification processes.

Parliament, calls on the European Commission to present delegated

of the Regen plant on the Engineering Center is part of a major reorganization as part of a comprehensive

28th annual Transitions academy

strategic transformation process. The changes are justified against the

Transitions Academy 2025 will be held from February 2 to 5, 2025 at

background of changing market conditions. The aim is to remain

the JW Marriott Grande Lakes in Orlando, Florida. Attendees will have

competitive in the long term.

the opportunity to expand their knowledge through expert presentations, inspiring guest speakers, and Transitions product and professional

IOT and Optiswiss announce strategic partnership

development workshops.

Optiswiss AG, an independent lens manufacturer from Basel, formalized

The event is an opportunity for attendees to expand their knowledge

its development partnership with Indizen Optical Technologies (IOT),

with the latest trends, technologies, and best practices in the optical

a company specializing in the research and development of lens technolo-

industry. Each year, hundreds of industry professionals from across the

gies. Through this partnership, IOT and Optiswiss aim to fully leverage

globe attend this event.

You have news for the ophthalmic industry? Submit your press releases to: hanna.diewald@mafo-optics.com

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06_All_About_Products.indd 6

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06.11.24 15:59

INTERNATIONAL NEWS

All about markets Graphical data There are 1.1 billion people with visual impairments worldwide. For at least 1 billion people, the visual impairment could have been prevented or could be treated.

Around

90% The spectacle lenses market is projected to witness a significant growth in the year 2024 globally, with a ­revenue of

US$ 60.74 billion The market is estimated to grow annually by 2.98% (CAGR 2024-2029) on a global scale.

Source: Statista

of people with visual impairments live in the world's ­poorest countries.

Source: Woche des Sehens

The main reason for poor vision care is poverty and the associated lack of medical care, including in the field of ophthalmology. Statistically speaking, one ­ophthalmologist is responsible for

500,000 people

in sub-Saharan Africa and around 11,000 in Germany.

Made in China, sold on Amazon Share of items sold on Amazon, by country of origin*

Source: Woche des Sehens

* 1,064 first- and third-party sellers surveyed who have at least one product listed on Amazon; 2024. Source: Jungle Scout via ECDB

MAFO 6-24

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06.11.24 15:59

INTERNATIONAL NEWS Advertisement

All about products Innovations and working materials for your lab SCHNEIDER’S reveals unprecedented deblocking and tape-stripping power Schneider’s new DTS-A Modulo ONE merges two technologies – deblocking and tape stripping – into ONE single machine that offers industrial level yield. The combo, developed in cooperation with Insomec, is cleverly designed and features two deblocking and two tapestripping stations. It follows a unique concept for a streamlined process flow that runs several steps simultaneously. As a result, the combo easily does the work of two DBA Modulo and TSA Modulo pairs – four machines. In a matter of seconds, DTS-A Modulo ONE gently removes the alloy to separate the lenses from the block pieces damage-free, and strips the tape in no time. It relies on proven technology components known for highest process robustness and stability, based on extensive experience in the field. www.schneider-om.com

Vision Expo announced new brand identity Vision Expo, organized by co-owners RX and The Vision Council have announced the upcoming launch of its new brand identity, which will officially debut in mid-November, accompanied by a comprehensive resource guide with new brand assets and details to update all relevant marketing materials. The rebrand includes a refreshed logo, enhanced branding, streamlined and simplified event navigation, improved programming and a host of new features. The Vision Expo rebrand is not just a change in appearance but a renewed commitment to the optical industry, reflecting the future of fashion and innovation while reinforcing a commitment to building community, the announcement said. https://east.visionexpo.com/

Notice of Patent Allowance on Modular Smart Eyewear Technology Innovative Eyewear, the developer of smart eyewear under the Lucyd, Nautica, Eddie Bauer and Reebok brands, received on October 23rd, a notice of allowance for its utility patent application U.S. Patent Application No. 17/104,849, entitled "Wireless Smartglasses with Quick Connect Front Frames". After paying the required issue fee, the Company anticipates that a patent will issue in due course. The patent is directed to smartglasses that pair or connect with other mobile devices and have removable front frames connected with a quickdisconnect hinge, which allows end users to customize their glasses after purchase with a variety of lens types and frontplate styles. Innovative Eyewear has yet to announce a product with this feature. The Company believes that with the success of a separate interchangeable front technology seen in other product lines, modular eyewear represents a new category of products that will also benefit from the addition of Lucyd smart features.

8

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MAFO 6-24

06.11.24 15:59

tes delega 3 k o o B ,y € 333 for onl rson! per pe

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Highlights automated cosmetic inspection | artificial intelligence | smart glasses | autofocus spectacle lenses | sustainable waste management | and much more

Stay tuned and follow us on LinkedIn or subscribe to our newsletter, to get all the news about MAFO – The Conference. For all questions and suggestions about the ­conference please write an email to: hanna.diewald@mafo-optics.com www.linkedin.com/showcase/mafo

#MAFO CO N 2 5 ticket.mafo-optics.com

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06.11.24 11:01

Special: Markets Worldwide SPOTLIGHT

Ten eyewear markets Ophthalmic optics worldwide Experts are forecasting solid growth for the ophthalmic optics market worldwide. There are many reasons for this. They include, for example, the aging population in highly developed countries, which is accompanied by many progressive lens sales, but also the increasing number of myopic children. According to Statista Market Insights, sales in the global eyewear market are expected to reach around € 135.60 billion in 2024. The market includes frames, spectacle lenses, sunglasses and contact lenses. According to the forecast, an annual sales growth of 3.61% (CAGR 20242029) is expected. However, a detailed look at different countries reveals some serious differences. In terms of growth, but also in terms of per capita sales and the proportion of online sales. Here you can find a brief overview of selected countries from the Statista Market Insights report 2024.

South Africa In 2024, revenue in the eyewear market in South Africa is expected to

India

amount to around €479.60 million. According to the forecast, annual

In India, which has recently become the world's most populous country,

revenue growth of 4.80% (CAGR 2024-2029) will be achieved by 2029,

sales in the ophthalmic optics market are expected to reach around

resulting in a market volume of €606.20 million. Online sales are expected

€5.47 billion in 2024. The forecast predicts that the market volume will

to account for 4% of total sales in 2024. The average per capita consumption

reach €7.18 billion in 2029, which corresponds to annual sales growth

in the eyewear market is expected to be 0.41 units in 2024.

of 5.59% (CAGR 2024-2029). Online sales do not seem to be famous

G Sales per capita: €7,86

here, as they are expected to generate only 2.1% of total sales in the

O Trends: South Africa is an up-and-coming market for eyewear,

ophthalmic optics market.

characterized by a growing awareness of eye care and fashionable

G Sales per capita: €3.80

eyewear.

O Trends: India has a growing demand for affordable eyewear, with a focus on stylish frames and prescription lenses.

China In 2024, the revenue of the eyewear market in China is expected to reach

Algeria

€14,18 billion. The market is projected to witness an annual growth

The market volume for the eyewear market in Algeria is estimated at

rate of 3.09% (CAGR 2024-2029). Eyewear frames make up the biggest

around €266.90 million in 2024. The market volume is forecast to increase

segment of the market, with a market volume of €5.7 billion in 2024.

to €373.70 million in 2029, which corresponds to annual sales growth

China's eyewear market is experiencing a shift towards premium and

of 6.96% (CAGR 2024-2029).

personalized products, driven by rising disposable income and a desire

G Sales per capita: €5,77

for individuality.

O Trends: Algeria is one of the few markets where frames, rather than

G Sales per capita: €9.90

spectacle lenses, represent the largest market segment, with a market volume of around €86.68 million in value terms in 2024.

10

10_ten markets worldwide.indd 10

O Trends: Frameless glasses and blue light-blocking lenses are currently the most popular optical trends.

MAFO 6-24

06.11.24 11:07

Special: Markets Worldwide SPOTLIGHT

Italy The Eyewear market in Italy is projected to generate a revenue of €3.07 billion in 2024, and it is expected to grow annually by 1.82% (CAGR 2024-2029). Online purchases are expected to account for 11.6% of total sales in the ophthalmic optics market in Italy in 2024.

G Sales per capita: €52,38 O Trends: Italy's eyewear market is dominated by luxury brands such as Luxottica and Safilo, with a strong emphasis on high-quality craftsmanship and design.

United Kingdom In 2024, the revenue in the eyewear market in the United Kingdom is forecast to reach €5.3 billion. Over the period of 2024 to 2029, the market is projected to grow annually by 2.51% (CAGR). Online sales are expected to account for 23.5% of total sales in the optical market in 2024.

G Sales per capita: €77,99 O Trends: The United Kingdom's eyewear market is experiencing a surge in demand for sustainable and eco-friendly products.

USA The USA is the largest market for eyewear. In 2024, the market for

Brazil

ophthalmic optics in the USA will generate sales of around €32.65 billion.

In 2024, sales in the eyewear market in Brazil are expected to be around

The largest market segment is spectacle lenses, with a market volume of

€4.69 billion. According to the forecast, the market volume will increase

around €12.75 billion in 2024.

to €5.33 billion in 2029, which corresponds to annual sales growth of

G Sales per capita: €95.53

2.59% (CAGR 2024-2029).

O Trends: Online sales are forecast to account for 26.1% of total sales

G Sales per capita: €21,57

in the ophthalmic optics market in 2024.

O Trends: In Brazil, the demand for high-quality spectacles and contact lenses has increased due to the growing awareness of eye health and aesthetics.

Australia In Australia, the market for eyewear is expected to generate sales of around €2.59 billion in 2024. According to the forecast, the market

Japan

volume will increase to €3.04 billion in 2029, which corresponds to

In Japan, sales in the eyewear market are estimated at around €6.73 billion

annual sales growth of 3.26% (CAGR 2024-2029). Average per capita

in 2024. Contact lenses are particularly important here. Japan is the only

consumption in the ophthalmic optics market is expected to be 1.88

country in our comparison where contact lenses are the largest market

units in 2024.

segment, with a market volume of around €2.50 billion in value terms

G Sales per capita: €97.12

in 2024.

O Trends: Sunglasses with polarized lenses are an important trend in

G Sales per capita: €54,87 O Trends: In Japan, the optical industry is strongly focused on innovative

eyewear due to the high level of sunlight and the active outdoor lifestyle of the population. ◆

technologies to meet the needs of an aging population.

MAFO 6-24

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11

06.11.24 11:07

The optical lab in a smart world Diamond Sponsor

Gold Sponsor

Silver Sponsor

12_Abstracts.indd 12

06.11.24 15:22

Date: Friday, February 7, 2025 (one day before Mido) Location: Fiera Milano Rho (Italy) Chairman: Peter Baumbach

Tomas Sluka

CREAL

Dr. François Van Lishout & Eduardo Pascual

Automation & Robotics and IOT

Dr. Hua Qi

Hoya Vision Care

Light-field technology: blending vision care with smart eyewear Automated cosmetic inspection: enhancing lens quality control How to evaluate the optical performance of a spectacle lense with micro lens array

Koji Abe & Miho Uechi

Digitalization and automation of lens tinting processes with an environmentally friendly method

Joanna Zhang & Xavier Bultez

E-ticket system: a digital job ticket that improves production workflow

Nidek

Satisloh

Dr. Bruno Berge & Dr. Jessica Jarosz Laclarée

Pau Artús

Horizons Optical

André Durow brillenstudio N

Dr. Marcel Mahner

Schneider

Jamal El-Hindy Filtertech

Mo Jalie

Only digitally available

Advances on presbyopia compensation with autofocus spectacle lenses Next generation centering devices. AI is taking over.

High-end progressive lenses neither comparable nor comprehensible The first AI-based on-block power measurement and cosmetic inspection within a holistic system A smart investment: filtration & waste management

Development of the modern spectacle lens

Panel discussion: The optical lab in a smart world

www.mafo-optics.com

12_Abstracts.indd 13

06.11.24 15:22

SPOTLIGHT

Dr. Hua Qi Hoya Vision Care

How to evaluate the optical performance of a spectacle lens with micro lens array

Tomas Sluka CREAL

Light-field technology: blending vision care with smart eyewear

Dr. François Van Lishout & Eduardo Pascual Automation & Robotics and IOT

The traditional eyewear industry relies on conventional lenses for both fitting and vision correction, often limiting precision and customer experience.

Light-field technology is poised to transform this process into a fully digital solution. During the fitting phase, light-field displays enable more efficient and automated refraction tests, including immersive lens demonstrations in tailored virtual environments, offering a more accurate, personalized, and enjoyable experience. The same technology powers smart eyewear, uniquely delivering natural focus depth and uncompromised prescription correction, seamlessly merging digital and physical worlds. By integrating vision care directly into the eyewear, light-field technology bridges the gap between traditional methods and the future of smart eyewear. This talk will explain how light-field technology works and its practical applications in the eyewear industry.

Automated cosmetic inspection: enhancing lens quality control

A novel spectacle lens with micro lens array on its surface has been reported to have comparable efficacy to other pharmacological treatments for myopia control in children. Besides its myopia control efficacy, its optical performance is another important property. The single value of PSF and MTF are not sufficient

To move toward a smart world, we must

to assess this lens because they may vary

continue to develop smart labs. Auto-

drastically from one position to another

mated cosmetic inspection is a key step

on the lens. When turning the head or

in this evolution for the ophthalmic

rotating the eyes, the wearer may feel

industry. A&R, in collaboration with

unexpected flickers that do not appear

IOT, has developed an innovative solution

wearing other spectacle lenses.

that integrates cosmetic inspection with

At each position on lens, two new indices,

traditional lens quality control, creating

local light intensity (LLI) and local target

a fully comprehensive system.

shift (LTS) seeing through the position,

From theory to practice, we will share

are defined and calculated. Traditional

insights from our pilot projects, illustrat-

MTF is examined under the condition

ing how this solution improves efficiency

that within the pupil there are several

and consistency.

micro lenses. The value of MTF of any

Intelligent methods of image analysis

spatial frequency varies with the azimuth

and data processing are crucial for

angle. The mean MTF (MMTF) and the

enabling precise and automated lens

maximum difference of MTF (DMTF)

inspection, facilitating the transition

among all azimuth angles are used to

to smart manufacturing in optical labs.

represent the situation seeing through the position. All these indices, LLI, LTS, MMTF and DMTF are mapped across the lens. These maps represent the optical performance of the novel spectacle lens.

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SPOTLIGHT

Koji Abe & Miho Uechi Nidek

Digitalization and automation of lens tinting processes with an environmentally friendly method The dipping method has been used as the standard tinting process of ophthalmic lenses for a long time, and even in today's digitalized era, the analog dipping method has remained without any specific changing.

Nidek proposes a totally different type of tinting method (dry tinting technology) that is controlled digitally and automated. By only using little waste liquid to the dry tinting process, it can contribute to reducing a large amount of waste liquid compared to standard dipping methods, which also leads to environmental protection.

Most lens materials that are commonly used are applicable on this dry tinting technology. The method allows tinting in higher density, including gradient patterns. No special skills are required,

Dr. Jessica Jarosz & Dr. Bruno Berge Laclarée

Joanna Zhang & Xavier Bultez Satisloh

E-ticket system: a digital job ticket that improves production workflow The paper job ticket is one item that has never evolved in the ophthalmic industry. It has been practical, easy to manipulate and read, and flexible – adapting to any process. Until now, no other technology was really able to replace it while offering a better solution. Satisloh believes that the e-ticket system provides a solution that not only eliminates the paper job tickets, but it is a new way of

Advances on presbyopia compensation with autofocus spectacle lenses We will present the status of the most recent existing projects and products related to correcting presbyopia with variable lenses. The basic principles of underlying technologies will be discussed, and relative performances will be compared. A particular focus will be made on the fluidic lenses of Laclarée, which can enable a true restauration of natural accommodation, as shown by the results of an exploratory clinical trial and by field tests using personalized adaptive eyeglasses.

working and tackling daily tasks – improving ophthalmic lab workflows and processes.

and anyone can tint the stable color with minimized color deviation by using the digital ink control application on the computer. In addition to gradients, double colors, triple colors, and rainbow colors can be created easily. The technology is well proven in Nidek´s and other labs around the world for 20 years.

MAFO 6-24

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GET YOUR TICKET NOW! 15

06.11.24 15:22

SPOTLIGHT

André Durow brillenstudio N

Pau Artús Horizons Optical

Next generation centering devices. AI is taking over.

High-end progressive lenses - neither comparable nor comprehensible “High-quality spectacle lenses at affordable prices!” Opticians are confronted with this request every day. But what is affordable? Customers often

Centering devices are increasingly

answer with amounts between 400 and

common in optical stores since position

600 euros for a complete pair of glasses.

of wear measurements are important

This is in stark contrast to developments

to ensure the optical quality of ordered

in the industry. Spectacle lenses are

lenses. They provide improved preci-

becoming increasingly individualized.

sion and reliability compared to tra-

There are more and more high-end

ditional marker+ruler hand-based

products. Lenses that cost 1200 or 1700

methods. Many options are already

euros per pair are no longer a rarity.

available in the market that provide

Conversely this means that the ophthal-

fairly good assistance to optometrists.

mic lens industry is only developing

However, some important drawbacks

lenses for the top ten thousand. It is like

are still present, i.e. most of them re-

a car manufacturer only offering cars in

quire annoying gadgets while others

the luxury segment. So how sensible is

make the patient and optometrist go

it to go further and further in this seg-

through a long and uncomfortable

ment? Do consumers in this high-end

process. AI-powered centering devices

segment even notice the difference to the

have the potential to become a game

previous lenses? And how can we deal

changer in terms of precision, opera-

with the fact that the highest quality

tion speed and, for the first time, an

products end up being sold off by large

appealing user experience.

chains? These challenges lead to the important question whether the industry should take responsibility for making high-quality lenses more affordable, preventing the chains from selling them off and creating transparency for the customer so that comparisons can be made. After all, progressive lenses are neither comparable nor comprehensible

Dr. Marcel Mahner Schneider

The first AI-based on-block power measurement and cosmetic inspection within a holistic system While automated manufacturing systems have become the new standard of modern ophthalmic labs, to-date two important elements have not been fully integrated: on-block power measurement and cosmetic inspection. Schneider has closed the loop of its smart and fully automated future lab, by enabling holistic quality control – more integrated and smarter than ever. Two AI-based innovations make this step forward possible: Firstly, an on-block power measurement system, that allows for in-line power measurement right after surfacing, providing immediate feedback for fastest reaction time and facilitating effective trend monitoring.

Secondly, a system that combines final full-map power measurement with AI-based cosmetic inspection. The data is not only collected but directly feeds the system with important and quality defining information, leading to immediate logical actions.

This significantly improves the overall lab efficiency, e.g. by saving production time, reducing tool costs and minimizing breakage. The result is a fully automated process and a most comprehensive quality control.

for customers.

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!AZ.ind

SPOTLIGHT

Mo Jalie Only digitally available

Development of the Modern Spectacle Lens The last 50 years have seen enormous developments in spectacle lenses, in the types available and the method of their Jamal El-Hindy Filtertech

A smart investment: filtration & waste management

manufacture. Via the significant patents, this presentation describes the advantages of aspheric and atoric single vision lenses and how the Minkwitz astigmatism of progressive power lenses has been diminished to enable the progressive lens to become the first choice for the correc-

Filtration and waste management are

tion of presbyopia. The improvements

often overlooked and lower on the priority

made possible by the introduction of

list. Like any manufacturing process,

CNC (freeform) surfacing methods are

maintaining equipment is key to keeping

explained and how the use of aspherical

production running smoothly and un-

surfaces allows thinner, flatter lens forms

interrupted. When filtration and waste

to be employed than those made with

management are a priority, production

simple spherical and toroidal surfaces.

is more efficient.

The inf luence of corridor length on

Panel discussion Panellists: TBA

The optical lab in a smart world

Minkwitz astigmatism is discussed and how this has been combatted in the modern optimized and personalized progressive power lens.

Advertisement

!AZ.indd 6 12_Abstracts.indd 17

21.10.24 15:22 10:22 06.11.24

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A&R CEO Laurent Provost. Photos: Hanna Diewald

Making the invisible visible About precise surfaces and big dreams Almost every optical lab in the world has at least one inspection machine from Automation & Robotics (A&R). Every day, 1,500,000 spectacle lenses worldwide are inspected by the manufacturer's machines and just recently they included one innovative feature more: the automatic cosmetic inspection of lenses. However, in order to stay one step ahead in the future, the manufacturer is also focusing on further strategies: the power of data, an innovative corporate concept and keeping a close eye on the development of smart glasses. During our visit to Belgium MAFO also spoke to the CEO about his big dreams and why the current market situation is not just producing winners. By Hanna Diewald

“A

t A&R, we have a dream: to leave behind a world

We arrive at the company premises at 10.00 a.m. and are greeted by

in good health, driven by a collective quest in which

Sandra Fonticoli (Sales Director) and Aurélie Moray (Sales & Marketing).

everyone gives their best”, is the first prominent

We make our way past the offices for the administrative departments

sentence on the company website. That made us

to the bright meeting room, where we immediately meet Laurent

curious. We have planned to visit the machine manufacturer A&R in

Provost, the company's CEO.

Verviers (Belgium) at the end of September and already had high ex-

He is the one who drives the company's big dreams and who is com-

pectations of the engineering skills on show there. After all, the Belgians

mitted to making a difference on the planet ‒ and not just in terms of

are experts in process automation in ophthalmic optics. One particular

business figures. He also strives to motivate every employee to give

focus is the development of measuring devices for lens inspection. But

their best. But before we get to the big visions, the CEO first tells us

big dreams? A healthy world? We are curious to see what awaits us.

how it all began.

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“It is good to pack, but wouldn't it be better to control first?”

A circular organization but still no democracy

41 years ago, in 1983, A&R was founded by two engineers, Christian

think that there are no hierarchies in the company. But it is not quite

Closset and Michel Montulet. Initially, the entrepreneurs focused on

that simple, Provost explains: “In one way you are right, it's not anymore,

automation in general and produced products for the food industry,

a hierarchical organization, with different departments, hierarchical

for example.

levels and so on. It is more a circular organization, but it is still not a

The pioneers only dared to take the first step in the direction of ophthalmic

democracy!”

optics following an inquiry from what is today, Hoya Belgium. The lens

This means that not every shareholder automatically has a say. Many

manufacturer was looking for a machine to pack stock lenses. “Ok, we

still act as employees, but they receive all the information that board

can do that”, the founders replied spontaneously, but not without giving

members would also receive. Furthermore, the focus of the company

a crucial hint: “It’s good to pack, but wouldn't it be better to control first?

should not be on the CEO, but on the customer. To this end, cross-

To make sure what you pack is what you were expecting?”

divisional teams are formed that cover all areas of expertise.

This was the birth of A&R's current core market: inspection machines

“We say if you need a machine, we need sales people, people from

for the ophthalmic lens industry. Today, they come in all sizes, with a

engineering and from production. Then we build groups of people that

wide variety of functions and are so perfectly designed that they can

take care of this task all together. Those people share a common goal,

be found in almost every lab in the world.

which is to make sure that the customer gets his machine on time with

But how exactly can such a system work? At first glance, one might

all the according training, installation and more that he or she needs,”

All expertise united in Belgium

explains Provost.

Overall, however, the range of machines includes much more. For

People from all areas also sit at the same table when it comes to long-

example, the company produces automation systems, packaging

term plans for corporate strategy, etc. Provost describes the approach

machines, storage systems, equipment for printing spectacle lenses

as a bottom-up approach rather than a top-down approach. “The aim

and systems for laser engraving, and much more.

is to use the strengths of the people who have a lot of contact with

On the way past the offices, we were able to catch a glimpse of the

different customers or on the market”.

various departments. All of the machine manufacturer's competencies

This answers the question of how to keep employees motivated and

are united here in Belgium. From research and development, product

think outside the box. Company shares and the circular organization

design, marketing and sales, administrative tasks, programming, to

should ensure that everyone gives their best and that the focus is always

installation and aftercare, and of course the large assembly depart-

on the customer. This is because employees can participate in decision-

ment ‒ which we will take a closer look at later. The distances here are

making within the scope of their abilities and achieve more than if

short, and all skills are united in one place.

they were only assigned to a closed department.

The company has around 180 employees worldwide, most of them work

That still leaves the question of improving the world. But before we

in Belgium. But the team also maintains worldwide subsidiaries in

delve into this rather philosophical topic, let's take a look at measurable

Thailand, the US and a tooling workshop in China. For other parts of

facts one floor below.

the world, they work with local agents on site.

Like on a carousel Employees hold shares in the company

The stairs lead down to the factory halls. We arrive at lunchtime of all

But now we are interested in what exactly makes the company concept

times and can therefore take our time to look at the machines ‒ and

so unique. CEO Provost is happy to explain this in more detail: “One

what will one day become machines. First, we go through the design

specificity we have is that parts of the company are owned by the em-

department and the tooling workshop. A&R produces most of its

ployees”. The employees hold 34% of the company shares.

machined components in China, but if things need to be done quickly

This is because company founder Closset did not want to hand the

or for prototypes, CNC machines are also running in Belgium.

company over to a financial group. He was convinced that not only

These areas are followed by the warehouse, where just enough com-

his personal work, but that of each individual employee, contributed

ponents are kept ensuring that customers can always get replacements

to the success of the company. The very special mindset in the company

quickly.

should be protected. Closset therefore decided: “Let's go crazy and see

All the individual parts are assembled in the next hall. For once, you

whether we can sell the company to the employees to keep the spirit

can get a glimpse directly into the machines and see components that

of the plan”.

are otherwise hidden by the housing.

Provost makes no secret of the fact that this business handover was a

You can get an idea of the detailed process steps by looking into the

major challenge: “But we did it!” he announces with visible pride. And

MCEVS machine for the controlling and packaging of stock lenses for

the company founder Closset is still Chairman of the Board today,

example. “This type of machines has actually been running reliably

even though he no longer has an operational role in the company.

for more than 30 years, but they have evolved regularly to meet new

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name of the new technology developed by IOT and A&R. Thanks to this collaboration, both companies could combine their specific expertise in the best possible way.

Two prototypes of the ProMapper with integrated cosmetic inspection are already in operation. The well-known and compact table-top inspection device will be equipped with a cosmetic inspection unit as standard in the future, as well as the NeoMapper and the AutoMapper.

The future of inspection therefore offers an all-round package consisting of automatic positioning, contactless thickness measurement, power measurement, mapping inspection and cosmetic inspection (detection of dust, scratches, polishing residues and much more). The machines, combining all functions can be installed at different locations in production.

One challenge at the moment is to define certain standards. Until now, cosmetic control has been carried out entirely by people. It is therefore Sandra Fonticoli (Sales Director) and Aurélie Moray (Sales & Marketing).

necessary to replicate their “standards”, some of which are subjective and often based on decades of experience, to a certain extent. “If you want to define the right technology and the right way to tackle those

market needs. For example, the cosmetic inspection should be integrated

challenges, you need to start with the customer. You need to start from

soon,” Fonticoli explains.

the knowledge they build over time,” explains Fonticoli.

The inside of the machine is set up like a carousel with different stations.

From all these different values, from power mapping to cosmetic inspec-

At each station various aspects of the lens are inspected: diameter,

tion, a lot of data can be derived that enables statistical process control

thickness (contactless) and power. The power is measured using the

and, as a result, preventive maintenance of the production machines.

Focovision, a globally recognized instrument, to ensure compliance

A topic that will become increasingly relevant in the future.

with ISO/ANSI standards.

In the meantime, employees are returning from their well-earned break

There are currently two free stations. One of these is to be equipped

and getting down to work. They are screwing, soldering, measuring and

with cosmetic inspection in the near future. The other station will

checking again and again. Even our questions, the camera and our curious

include a Dual Spectrometer, where the color will be measured using

glances into the machine do not disturb the experienced technicians.

transmission. The type of AR coating will also be identified based

Passing the Research and Development department, we head to the

solely on the reflection.

manufacturing of instruments department. Various ProMappers are

Once all measurements have been completed in these stations, a label is

lined up here. Individual parts for the automatic machines, such as

printed and applied on the envelope, and finally the lens is even packaged

those for thickness measurement, are also produced here.

fully automatically. The envelope is secured thanks to the label.

Finally, we climb the stairs again and catch a bird's eye view of the hustle and bustle in the machine hall before sitting down for lunch

Power mapping thanks to reflection and transmission

and learning more about the market situation and the CEO's dreams.

In the end, it is always about one thing: making the invisible data in the lens visible. In the case of machines for analyzing progressive

“The future is a red ocean, where everyone eats each other”

surfaces, the analysis is even more accurate, so that the distribution

For over 40 years, the machine manufacturer had virtually no competi-

of power becomes visible in the form of mountains and valleys, similar

tion in the lens inspection sector ‒ but that is changing now. Not because

to a topographical map.

new companies are conquering the market, but because many traditional

In step one, a camera is used to find the micro engravings and thereby

machine manufacturers in the ophthalmic optics sector are expanding

determining the exact position of the lens. Then the entire lens surface

their business areas. Automatic cosmetic inspection, in particular, is

is measured in transmission and reflection. From this, an algorithm

currently an absolute trend among machine suppliers.

calculates a comparison of the actual measured power distribution

Clear roles and responsibilities that have existed for years are becoming

compared to the theoretical power distribution that the lens should

increasingly blurred - a situation that, according to Provost, is hardly

have. The result is the so called “Error Map”.

producing any winners: “In the past it was a blue ocean, because all companies were really good at one specific thing. Now everyone wants

The future is here: cosmetic inspection

to offer the complete set. Which means that they are all getting more

The automatic cosmetic inspection appears to be the last missing step

and more into a red ocean. But that means they are eating each other!

in the total lens inspection process proposed by A&R. COSME is the

It's a fight with price to gain market,” analyzes the CEO.

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However, it is clear to him that A&R will not jump on this trend: “We will not say tomorrow we provide an all-in-one solution, you can buy a lab and we do everything. We don't have the knowledge for that, and we are not willing to go there,” Provost adds with conviction.

Instead, the focus here is on other strategies. Apparently, with success, as the company is growing steadily, both in terms of turnover and the number of employees.

Capture the value of data According to Fonticoli, success also comes from new ways of thinking and a different focus. After all, the approach of “only” separating good lenses from bad ones is no longer everything.

Instead, many are concerned with process monitoring and the value of the data: “You can do a lot with the data that the inspection machine provides. That's why we're trying to capture the value of the machines as a source of data, which provides a lot of know-how that can help our customers react before they produce bad lenses. That's a huge change compared to a machine that just sorts the good and the bad parts. It's more about the predictive aspect,” explains Fonticoli.

It becomes clearly: data is the new gold. And data also brings us to the philosophical conclusion of the visit and the dream of a better world that Laurent Provost would like to make a reality.

The dreamer “If I am allowed to dream, I would imagine a place where you can use all the data, from all the machines, from all key players - just put the data on table. That would have a huge impact on the planet. Think about the environmental aspect: all of the lenses that are being thrown away, every day, worldwide. That's a nightmare!”

Assuming that around 5% of lenses are discarded during production due to inadequate quality and taking into account the 1,500,000 lenses that are checked by A&R machines alone every day, this means that over 27,000,000 lenses are thrown away every year. An incredible waste of resources, energy and money.

Theoretically, waste in the lab would be significantly reduced if all the

But Provost himself knows best that many things will probably only

data from the machines were read out and analyzed as a whole. Such

ever remain a dream: “To have the brain, with all the data, would have

a process analysis would be extremely efficient. All problems could be

so much value. But each of us is trying to protect themselves and the

tackled at the root.

value is not in the machine. The value is in the data ‒ in many

If you then look, as Provost does, at the shortage of glasses worldwide,

businesses”.

it becomes clear how urgently glasses are actually needed elsewhere: “There are many people who cannot afford to buy glasses, that they

What is important to stay in the game?

need to get education, to see, to read and for many other things, because

Of course, Provost himself also has tangible goals to keep A&R robust

they are too expensive. But we throw 5% to 10% away. And even if we

and remain at the forefront in the future. Technologies such as smart

buy them: after two months we say, oh ‒ I'd like to have another shape,

glasses are an important topic, for example. This is also about what

another design and we don't use it.”

technology is needed to ensure the quality of future products.

Provost likes to philosophize about what it would be like if all global

“The biggest challenge today is to look beyond what we offer today. To

players joined forces unselfishly. If they shared a vision of a better

see what the trends are and make sure we have the right technology

world in order to solve global problems: eye health and the provision

to support those trends. I think that today we control a lens itself, but

of aids for all people or environmental protection. It is the reason why

tomorrow we need to develop the ability to control a complete product”,

his colleagues and employees like to call Provost the “dreamer”.

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concludes the CEO. ◆

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Special: Markets Worldwide SPOTLIGHT

Advances in optics and ophthalmology worldwide | Part 1 The impact of artificial intelligence (AI), virtual reality (VR), and emerging trends in digital therapeutics (DTx) This article examines the transformative impact of artificial intelligence (AI), virtual reality (VR), and digital therapeutics (DTx) in ophthalmology and optics. By evaluating advancements across the United States and Canada, Europe and UK, the Middle East, Asia-Pacific including Australia and Africa, it provides an indepth analysis of how these technologies revolutionize diagnostics, treatment, patient outcomes, and the design of lenses adjusted to individual gaze dynamics. Additionally, the role of DTx in enhancing patient engagement and treatment efficacy in eye care is explored. The article series integrates technological advancements and their implications for the global improvement of eye care. Here you will find Part 1 of the article. Part 2 will be published in MAFO issue 01/2025. By David Benet Ferrus

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O

phthalmology and optics are experiencing a paradigm shift driven by technological innovations such as new approaches for surgical training, lens design, and patient rehabilitation.

Digital therapeutics (DTx) are clinically validated software solutions designed to treat or manage diseases, often targeting ophthalmic and chronic conditions including specific applications for ophthalmology

like those targeting diabetic retinopathy and age-related macular degeneration, mental health, and neurological disorders.

Delivered via digital platforms like smartphones, they offer personalized, evidence-based interventions and are increasingly integrated into traditional healthcare. With growing demand, advancements in AI, and improving regulatory frameworks, the future of DTx points toward broader adoption, enhanced personalization, and the potential to complement or replace traditional treatments, particularly as healthcare continues to shift toward remote and patient-centric care models.

in 2024, the European Medicines Agency is expected to introduce

This article explores the global impact of these advancements, highlight-

regulatory frameworks aimed at streamlining the approval process

ing how they are being implemented across different regions and their

for DTx and other digital health technologies.

potential to shape the future of eye care. The global digital therapeutics market is projected to reach approximately $32.52 billion by 2030,

Middle East (ME)

growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 27.2% from

The Middle East is increasingly adopting artificial intelligence (AI),

2024 to 2030[1,2]. This growth is driven by factors such as the increasing

virtual reality (VR), and digital therapeutics (DTx) to advance eye

adoption of digital health technologies, rising smartphone penetration,

care. AI is enhancing diagnostic precision and facilitating large-scale

and the demand for patient-centric care[1,2,3]. In the map opposite, you

screening programs, particularly in countries such as the UAE and

can see all the countries and regions analyzed.

Saudi Arabia[5]. VR is being utilized for advanced surgical training and patient education, while DTx applications are emerging as valuable

Integration of artificial intelligence, virtual reality, and digital therapeutics in ophthalmology

tools for patient engagement and therapy management.

Europe (EU)

ments by offering interactive tools designed to improve visual function

In Europe, artificial intelligence (AI), virtual reality (VR), and digital

and help them adapt to daily activities[6]. These digital interventions

therapeutics (DTx) are being integrated into ophthalmology and optics

have the potential to address gaps in care, especially in remote or

to enhance diagnostic accuracy, treatment planning, and patient

underserved areas. However, challenges remain, including limited

engagement.

healthcare infrastructure in conflict-affected regions and the need for

AI is extensively utilized for image analysis and disease prediction,

regulatory frameworks to govern the implementation of DTx[7].

For example, DTx platforms are supporting patients with visual impair-

facilitating the early detection of conditions such as myopia, diabetic

Recent advances highlight the emergence of cloud-based telemedicine

retinopathy, age-related macular degeneration (AMD), and glaucoma[1].

platforms in Saudi Arabia and the UAE, which enhance real-time

Additionally, VR enhances training and rehabilitation by providing

diagnostics, particularly for underserved populations. Additionally,

immersive environments for surgical practice and patient adaptation[2].

drone-assisted delivery of ophthalmic medications is being piloted in

Notably, recent advancements, such as Google’s DeepMind AI for

conflict zones such as Yemen.

retinal screening, have demonstrated capabilities that surpass those of human specialists in 2024.

Africa

DTx is gaining traction in Europe as a complementary approach to

In Africa, the integration of artificial intelligence (AI), virtual reality

traditional therapies. Recent studies indicate that DTx applications

(VR), and digital therapeutics (DTx) is still in its early stages but shows

can effectively manage conditions like amblyopia and strabismus

considerable promise, particularly in addressing the shortage of

through interactive software designed to promote visual acuity improve-

ophthalmologists and improving access to eye care.

ment[3]. These digital interventions offer personalized therapy plans,

AI tools are facilitating the screening and diagnosis of conditions such

thereby increasing patient adherence and engagement.

as cataracts and glaucoma in areas with limited access to specialists[8].

However, challenges remain in the integration of these technologies,

VR is primarily utilized for training healthcare professionals, providing

including the need for standardized regulations, ensuring data privacy,

an innovative approach to skill development in regions where traditional

and addressing the high costs associated with implementation[4]. Finally,

training resources are scarce[9].

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Special: Markets Worldwide SPOTLIGHT

United States (USA)

Digital interventions have the potential to address gaps in care, especially in remote or underserved areas.

In the United States, artificial intelligence (AI), virtual reality (VR), and digital therapeutics (DTx) are leading advancements in ophthalmological research and clinical practice. AI-based diagnostic tools, such as IDx-DR for diabetic retinopathy, have received FDA approval, enhancing early detection and treatment planning[16]. VR is utilized for advanced training simulations and patient rehabilitation, contributing to improved surgical outcomes and enhanced quality of life for patients[17].

Significant advancements in DTx have been observed in the U.S., with numerous applications developed to support various aspects of eye care. A notable example is the use of DTx for managing amblyopia in

DTx presents a novel strategy for delivering therapeutic interventions

children, where gamified applications have demonstrated effectiveness

in regions with limited healthcare resources. Mobile-based DTx ap-

in improving visual acuity and increasing patient engagement[18].

plications are being explored to provide visual training exercises for

Additionally, DTx platforms are being integrated into telemedicine

children with amblyopia, capitalizing on the widespread use of mobile

services, allowing for remote therapy and monitoring of patients with

technology in Africa . These applications offer an accessible, low-cost

chronic eye conditions[19].

solution for managing visual disorders; however, challenges such as

Despite the potential of these technologies, challenges such as high

[10]

inadequate infrastructure and funding persis .

implementation costs, regulatory hurdles, and ensuring equitable

Recent advancements indicate that Google AI's 2023 program for

access remain significant obstacles.

mobile-based cataract screening has demonstrated excellent results in

Recent developments in the U.S. include the expansion of IDx-DR to

rural Kenya and Nigeria. Furthermore, cross-continental partnerships

encompass IDx-AMD, an FDA-approved tool for age-related macular

between African health systems and Asian tech companies are increas-

degeneration (AMD). Additionally, a 2023 study published in JAMA

ingly focused on providing VR-assisted ophthalmic training.

Ophthalmology highlighted that VR-assisted cataract surgery simula-

[11]

tions reduced the error rate in training by 30%.

Asia-Pacific The Asia-Pacific region is at the forefront of integrating artificial intel-

Latam & Brazil

ligence (AI), virtual reality (VR), and digital therapeutics (DTx) in

In Latin America and Brazil, the integration of artificial intelligence

ophthalmology. AI is widely employed for the early detection and

(AI), virtual reality (VR), and digital therapeutics (DTx) is emerging

treatment planning of conditions such as glaucoma and cataracts[12].

as a promising solution to address healthcare disparities, particularly

VR enhances training and rehabilitation by providing immersive

in ophthalmology.

environments for both practitioners and patients.

AI-driven tools are aiding in the diagnosis of common conditions such

DTx is rapidly gaining acceptance in countries like Japan and China,

as glaucoma and cataracts, thereby enhancing early detection and treat-

where digital health solutions are increasingly incorporated into

ment[20]. While VR is being utilized for training and patient education, its

standard care practices. Studies have demonstrated the effectiveness

adoption is still in the early stages compared to more developed regions.

of DTx applications in managing myopia progression in children

DTx presents new opportunities for patient care in Latin America and

through personalized visual exercises and behavior modification

Brazil. Applications focusing on visual therapy for conditions like

programs[13].

amblyopia are being developed in collaboration with local universities

Furthermore, DTx platforms are being utilized to provide post-operative

and international tech companies. These digital interventions offer

care and rehabilitation for patients undergoing cataract surgery, leading

cost-effective and accessible solutions for patients who may not have

to improved recovery outcomes and higher patient satisfaction .

regular access to traditional therapies[21].

However, challenges remain, including ensuring data security, integrat-

The potential for growth is significant, especially as DTx becomes more

ing DTx into existing healthcare systems, and navigating complex

integrated into the healthcare system. However, challenges such as

regulatory environments[15].

regulatory approval and the need for broader improvements in healthcare

Notably, in 2024, the launch of AI-driven myopia control lenses in

infrastructure remain persistent obstacles[22].

Japan and China, which incorporate gaze-tracking DTx platforms to

Recent developments in Latin America and Brazil highlight the success

dynamically adjust lens configurations, represents a significant advance-

of VR-enhanced patient rehabilitation programs launched in Chile in

ment. Additionally, regulatory reforms by the Pharmaceuticals and

2023, which have shown positive outcomes. Additionally, AI-driven

Medical Devices Agency (PMDA) in Japan in 2023 have expedited the

diabetic eye care programs in Brazil have been implemented in col-

approval process for AI-driven ophthalmic diagnostics.

laboration with telemedicine companies and public health agencies.

[14]

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Inn

!AZ.ind

Special: Markets Worldwide SPOTLIGHT

Summary and outlook This article is divided into two parts. Part 1 offered a detailed comparison of how different countries have integrated AI, VR, and digital therapeutics (DTx) into eye healthcare, covering aspects such as in-store sales experiences and lens design. The depth of analysis provides valuable insights into the current state of these technologies across various regions.

Part 2, set to be published in MAFO issue 01/2025, promises to expand on this foundation by discussing the general role of AI, VR, and DTx, their growing potential, and the regulatory framework surrounding digital therapeutics. This continuation is anticipated to enrich the reader’s understanding of the evolving landscape of eye care technology. The well-structured and informative article, should make it a significant resource for professionals and stakeholders in the eye care industry. ◆

References: [1] Global Health Intelligence & Grandviewresearch, 2024. [2] EuroHealthNet, 2023. [3] Morris et al., 2024; Wen & Sun, 2024. [4] European Medicines Agency, 2024.

[5] Baker McKenzie, 2024. [6] El-Mansour et al., 2024. [7] Ophthalmology Middle East, 2024; Al-Jubair et al., 2023. [8] Sambath et al., 2024. [9] Orbis International, 2024. [10] Kariuki & Otieno, 2024. [11] World Health Organization, 2024. [12] IQVIA Healthcare, 2024. [13] Li et al., 2024; Zhang et al., 2023. [14] Digital Health Asia, 2023. [15] Asia-Pacific Journal of Ophthalmology, 2024. [16] Health Systems Observatory, 2024. [17] Smith et al., 2024. [18] Brown & Anderson, 2024; Johnson et al., 2023. [19] American Academy of Ophthalmology, 2024. [20] Costa et al., 2024. [21] Mendes et al., 2024; Souza & Pereira, 2023. [22] Brazilian Journal of Telehealth, 2024

David Benet Ferrus David Benet Ferrus is a C-suite executive serving as the Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) at Horizons Optical. He brings a wealth of experience from the pharmaceutical sector, along with a strong management background characterized by his strategic vision and tactical acumen.

David is adept at fostering high-performance teams and driving innovation, with a particular focus on emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML) and Digital Therapeutics (DTx). As a thought leader, David has contributed extensively to international publications and holds numerous certifications. His academic background includes a bachelor’s degree in Telecommunications Engineering and Information, and master’s degrees in business administration and marketing management.

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Special: Markets Worldwide INTERVIEW

“Optometry and optics can do much more than it does now” An interview with the new ECOO President Gabriëlle Janssen Overall, the provision of visual aids in Europe seems to be relatively good. But at the same time, opticians and optometrists are facing various challenges: for example, the change of professional duties, the large number of the aging population whose care must be ensured, and the use of new technologies. MAFO has talked to Gabriëlle Janssen, the new president of the European Council of Optometry and Optics (ECOO), about those hot topics, the education and competencies of eyecare professionals and the potential of artificial intelligence and screenings. By Hanna Diewald

M

AFO met the current ECOO President Gabriëlle

information about the professions across Europe. We decided that it's

Janssen one day before the official handover of office,

a good time to republish it, because the WHO and the World Council

on October 12 in Hamburg, as part of the ECOO's

of Optometry recently shared new data about eyecare professionals.

autumn conference. Janssen herself studied

optics and optometry and MBA Health in the N ­ etherlands

ECOO aims to ensure a good quality of vision

and she has been Chair of the Optometristen Verenig-

care and eye health in Europe. In your opinion,

ing Nederland (OVN). During her professional

how good is the provision of vision aids and

career, she has worked both as an optometrist

medical care in comparison?

and in project management, and it is this experi-

We are lucky that we live in Europe, as most

ence that will now guide the organization into

people have access to eye care in Europe. If you compare the situation with the less developed

opticians and optometrists in Europe. Their

countries then we are providing eye care of a high

from 25 countries who together represent more than 200,000 opticians and optometrists.

EC

members are national professional associations

O

O

en

the future. ECOO represents the interests of

Pr

e si

d e n t G a b ri ë l l e

J

s an

s

standard, but still, it can always be better. That is why we promote World Sight Day for example, and

we have a focus on healthy eye care for children and healthy aging. For children, we try to make sure that parents

How are you looking forward to your official inauguration?

are aware that their children have to have their eyes tested regularly

I am very much looking forward to it. I was president of the Dutch

and that they should not look at digital screens all day.

association until one year ago and therefore I have had the time to prepare myself to be president for the European Council of Optometry

Where do you see potential for improvement?

and Optics. I think this kind of association is very important to improve

In my opinion it´s good to have the highest standards of eyecare in

eyecare and especially the working environment for optometrists and

primary eyecare and I think the multidisciplinary approach of looking

opticians.

at people who needs eye care can be better. For example, I'm from the Netherlands. We are now in the Netherlands looking for a way where

What would you especially like to achieve as the president

optometrists will be part of the health care system where the eye ex-

of the organization?

amination will be paid by the health insurance, as we know that 25%

A lot of projects are running already and we will continue them, but it

of the patients can be sent from the ophthalmologist to the optometrists.

is my job to continue it in a proper way – and of course with a fantastic

I think also in many other European countries, this can be done better

management and the other executives. We established for example the

than what it is now. I think more recognition of our competences is

I-Screen project (editor´s note: A system established to detect and profile

an important part of this big question: how can we ensure that the

AMD with the help of AI) and for the next two years, we will develop

large group of the ageing population is well cared for and that they

the new Blue Book, a comprehensive data set which provides invaluable

continue to see well for the rest of their lives?

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Special: Markets Worldwide INTERVIEW

ECOO tries to ensure that training standards in Europe are as

eyecare professionals. It is too much work for only the ophthalmologists.

uniform as possible. For example, through the European

In my opinion opticians and optometrists should be part of the whole

­Diploma in Optometry and the Qualification in Optics, what

chain of eyecare. To give eye exams, for prevention, but also to have early

advantages does this bring?

diagnosis of eye diseases. So, every country has its challenges.

The European Diploma in Optometry and the European Qualification in Optics establish a higher standard of eyecare. ECOO wants to promote

AI could change the work of ECPs in the future and we can

the highest standards of training and skills consistently across Europe.

already see the potential of AI around screening. How do you

Another advantage is harmonization, so it's easier for eyecare profes-

personally feel about these changes?

sionals to travel from one country to another to work.

For me personally, it's quite exciting. I think it's interesting to see this

And for the different European countries, it is a chance to evaluate

kind of development. As I said we have more people getting older and

their own standards, and accredited universities and schools can

more treatment opportunities. I guess we can't do it without AI. We

benchmark themselves easier to other countries. We see the success

can't do it only with human resources. The most important thing is

of this all over Europe as educational institutions design their degree

that we implement artificial intelligence without high false positive

programs based on the syllabi of the ECOO qualifications.

rates − and sometimes I´m worried about that. Because false positive rates mean the computer says there is something wrong when there is

Until now only seven universities received the accreditation

nothing wrong. Then people are waiting for a medical appointment

and only very few students have received the diploma so far.

and during this time they are very concerned − and then there is

What good is a diploma that hardly anyone wants?

nothing wrong. And there's also extra costs.

Basically, the European Diploma is set at the highest education level for

I think, most important is that we should implement artificial intel-

optometry, and it is divided in several parts. One part of that is the

ligence devices when it's safe and that the professional can still interpret

portfolio of clinical experience. This is the most challenging part as it

the results. For this reason, you will still need a professional.

raises the question of how to bring the students to practical experience.

And in case your next question is, will eye care be available in the

This is something that is not established in many universities, especially

supermarket tomorrow: I can say that I am sure optometrists and opti-

in those without clinics as part of the usual course − but it is something

cians are still highly important. We still need our profession because

universities are moving towards. Meaning when they redesign their

while low complex care can be handled with screening and artificial

course program, they take the syllabus of the European diploma into

intelligence, we also have the high complex care. Those serious problems

account more and more.

still need to be seen by an optometrist or optician and if the patient

So, we are starting to change the landscape throughout Europe and the

needs a treatment, then we send it to an ophthalmologist.

education towards harmonization – but not unification, just harmonization. This is the reason why we don´t have that many accredited schools

ECOO also deals with the topics of healthy aging, driving and

and students yet but we have a lot of interest and a lot in the pipeline.

vision, the Medical Device Regulation and sustainability. For which of these topics do you currently see the greatest need

In Germany, for example, there exists the dual system in which

to tackle them?

opticians learn their profession at the local optician’s store

They are all connected. If we look at healthy aging, driving, children

and the vocational school. How does this system fit into the

and myopia. Often the first eye test is when kids are four. Adults are

purely school-based education in other countries?

around 40 when they start having presbyopia. And then when they

I'm familiar with that system, as it is similar in the Netherlands. But

are even older, they can have cataract, macular degeneration, etc. A

generally, ECOO is not looking at how the system works in different

person’s whole life is about good vision. We are always there for them

countries. It's about competencies. It doesn't matter for ECOO, if it's

to have their eyes checked. For healthy aging, but also when you drive

like four days working in a practice and one day going to school or the

a car and more. All these projects are connected to each other.

other way around. In the end, we share the idea that it's important to have the same competencies.

Is there anything left, that you want to share?

That's very personal. I'm worried about what's going on in the world as

Are you satisfied with the education system in most ECOO

we are closing the borders. It seems like we are afraid of each other and

countries or is there potential to develop?

not happy as equals. But we, our profession, are one big family. We work

I think every country has potential to develop because I think optometry

together. We care. And that's a different feeling than what's happening

and optics can do much more than it does now. We have a huge number

in the world. And maybe it helps remind us that more people want to

of people getting older and we have developments in technical parts, so

work to provide solutions so that people can live better lives.

the kinds of treatments are expanding. More people can have treatment, for example, for macular degeneration. Therefore, you need also more

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Thank you very much for the interview and your thoughts ◆

27

06.11.24 13:17

LIVE ON SITE

New trends in Las Vegas Vision Expo West 2024 attracted more than 10,000 visitors If you want to see machines for optical labs, you drive or fly to the Vision Expo West in Las Vegas, where you can find almost all the major machine manufacturers and companies involved one way or another in spectacle lens production. Curtain up for the latest technologies: from automatic cosmetic inspection to hearing glasses. By Hanna Diewald

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Satisloh: Andy Huthöfer (left) and Bruno Fischer (right).

DAC Enrico Costa and Sylvia Sadofsky-Saavedra.

Harold Derksen at the GeneralOptics booth.

Ocuco (F.l.t.r.) Patrick Broe, Leo Mac Canna, Stephen Shanbaum.

T

he Vision Expo West, organized by RX Global and The

on “Standardization beyond the Data Communications Standard” to

Vision Council, was held from 18 to 21 September 2024

enhance connectivity and especially communication between manu-

in Las Vegas. According to the organizers, this year more

facturing machines and lab management systems (manufacturing

than 10,000 visitors came to the trade fair and there were

execution systems).

over 350 exhibitors. This was a slightly less than in 2023, when officially

For opticians, optometrists and all other ECPs, there was also a wide-

there were some 400 exhibitors on site.

ranging program of lectures covering all aspects of the professions, thus offering an excellent opportunity for further development.

Technology on all levels However, this difference was hardly noticeable in the lens processing

Current trends

area. Almost all the usual exhibitors and well-known players were

At the exhibition floor this year, there were also other highlights open

there. Among the major exhibitors were Coburn Technologies, Schneider,

to all visitors. For example, the Innovation Stage, where a wide variety

Satisloh, MEI Systems, OptoTech, Zeiss, Hoya Vision and many more.

of presentations and lively discussions took place. As well as a new

The areas of lens designs, lab management software, consumables and

sports area – the so-called Sun & Sport neighbourhood – where visitors

more were also catered for by a variety of exhibitors, so that the lab

were able to try their hand at pickleball and test sports glasses in

representatives among the visitors were able to get an up-to-date picture

action.

about all the latest innovations.

It became clear at the Vision Expo West that technology is increasingly

As in the past, the Vision Council also hosted meetings for members,

finding its way into ever more products. This applies, for example, to

already starting on Wednesday and enabling lively discussions in small

screening, where approaches in combination with artificial intelligence

expert groups. For example, there was a new expert committee focusing

are increasingly being discussed to give added support in diagnosis.

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LIVE ON SITE

Eschenbach Video magnifier Optaro.

Visitors at the Hoya booth.

Schneider Stephan Huttenhuis (left) and Jordi Jurado (right).

MEI displayed the CoreTBA and more ­machines.

Smart glasses are already well known, but additional features are now

percent improvement in productivity along with a new fast tool servo

being incorporated. One example is the new audio glasses by Essilor-

axis, consisting of proprietary voice coil and air-bearing design and a

Luxottica, which can also be used as a replacement for a hearing aid,

larger cutter which allows for faster material removal.

or at least as a step in this direction. Data management was another

In addition to other machines for ophthalmic lens production, the manu-

important topic which concerns both ECPs as well as production in

facturer also presented the most important diagnostic tools for ECPs.

the lab. automatic cosmetic inspection. Several manufacturers now offer inspec-

Cosmetic inspection comes now with power measurement

tion machines for this purpose – even if the features still vary

Schneider is one of the manufacturers driving the trend towards auto-

considerably.

mated cosmetic inspection. For example, the CSI Modulo ONE, a machine

A further machine trend clearly in evidence at Vision Expo West was

for automated cosmetic inspection of spectacle lenses which has already

Dry cut duo

been shown at other trade fairs this year, was also on display here. One

The trade fair was a home game for the machine manufacturer Coburn

particular feature is completely new: full-map power measurement.

Technologies. They were well represented in the middle of the lens process-

Along with other machines from the Modulo series, visitors were also

ing area, with their many machines constantly attracting visitors.

able to see first-hand the Deboxer DBX Modulo ONE which is able to

Their new NEXUS digital surfacing system for lens labs was of particular

unpack two boxes in parallel and is capable of handling both blisters

interest, combining both a generator and a polisher. The particular

and cupless boxes.

highlight here is its extremely low water consumption, thanks to the

The DTS-A Modulo ONE, which combines deblocking and tape

cold mist / dry cut technology of the generator. The system offers a 50

stripping in one machine, was on display for the first time. And the

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LIVE ON SITE

MEI New facettes are possible, thanks to the EasyFit Trend.

The A&R-team at their stand.

LCU Modulo ONE cleaning unit is equipped with a very special feature: it is the only machine on the market that is available with an optional tray changer.

Inspection expert goes one step further Automation & Robotics (A&R) also presented a new solution for the automatic cosmetic inspection of spectacle lenses at Vision Expo West. The technology was developed in cooperation with IOT. The so-called COSME technology will soon be integrated into many of

A machine trend clearly in evidence at VEW was the ­automated cosmetic inspection.

the manufacturer's other inspection devices to provide a comprehensive range of solutions for inspection. Two prototypes of the ProMapper are currently running with the technology. In addition,

Cosmetic inspection is also an important topic for machine manufacturer

the NeoMapper and AutoMapper are also soon to be equipped with

OptoTech. VISTA was first presented at the Mido 2023 and has since

the COSME technology.

been exhibited at many trade fairs, including in Las Vegas.

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29.10.24 13:19 16:01 06.11.24

LIVE ON SITE

Bühler David Cormanick and Andrea Cabrera.

IOT Carolina Gago (left) and Natalia Villaveiran (right).

Stephen Jolly (left) and Matteo Marchini (right) at OptoTech .

The NEXUS digital surfacing system at Coburn Technologies

There were also new developments to do with coating. The redesigned

be easily highlighted thanks to f lashing LEDs, so that they im-

AR coater OAC-90 Veloce offers a number of advantages: for example

mediately stand out in the production f low. The system permits

higher productivity, thanks to a redesigned pumping system and a

updates and inputs from a variety of sources such as LMS, machines

new chamber layout that facilitates maximum throughput. It enables

and operators.

flexible coating processes, such as tinting, and an optional flip-over

UltraOptics presented the latest version of their fully automatic

system which is particularly relevant for the US market. In addition,

spin-coating machine 54R, including significant improvements to

the IQ-Star, an intelligent distribution and storage system, as well as

throughput, that can run on- or off-the-block and enabling full LMS

the Auto Taper 80 CNC-A could also be seen in action.

integration.

A paperless future thanks to e-tickets

A cobot and new decorative edges

This year, the four companies belonging to the EssilorLuxottica Group –

In addition to the first block-free generator CoreTBA, machine manu-

Satisloh, DAC Vision, SCL and UltraOptics – were exhibiting on one stand.

facturer MEI also exhibited EasyBuddy and EasyFit for instance.

As well as the machines for fully automatic surface machining –

EasyBuddy can automatically supply the EasyFit Trend edger with

such as the ART Blocker A, the VFT Orbit 2i generator, the Multi

jobs, thanks to the integrated cobot. To do this, it loads the lenses from

FLEX 2 polisher and the ART Deblocker 2 – Satisloh also exhibited

the tray into the EasyScan for pre-inspection. The lenses are then moved

the new e-ticket system, which enables completely paperless produc-

to the edger and finally back into the tray.

tion. Thanks to electronic ink, the most important information

The edger EasyFit Trend has now been updated to cope with special

can be displayed individually on the digital job ticket. Special

edges. This means that the edger can now handle special decorative

features, such as urgent orders or the search for specific jobs, can

edges automatically.

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The MEI system for automatic cosmetic inspection and brush cleaning of spectacle lenses was not on show at Las Vegas for organizational reasons. However this machine can perform brush cleaning of edged lenses as well as subsequent cosmetic checking of the cleaned lenses.

Lens innovations and new audio glasses Besides the machines there were many more highlights on display to discover: At the IOT stand, visitors also found out that the photochromic Neochrome lenses are now equipped with Camber Techno­logy ‒ Camber is a co-operation between Younger and IOT. Also on display was the new freeform progressive lens Endless Steady EasyFit whose advanced design should ensure excellent visual performance every time. It is specifically engineered to address the challenges of inaccurate fitting and should reduce remakes and boost lab efficiency, even for

The Sun & Sport neighbourhood where visitors were able to try their hand at pickleball. Picture: VEW

labs with high turnover or less experienced staff.

Hoya presented the iD MyStyle 3, a progressive lens that uses Binocular Harmonization Technology to ensure the right correction at each point in the lens for instant clear vision and focus.

Eschenbach presented a very useful tool for the low vision sector: the

General Optics promoted their first 1.74 photochromic semi-finished

first video magnifier specifically designed for a smartphone. This tool

lens. Thanks to a double-casted photochromic layer the lens shows good

can be easily attached to an iPhone and transforms two devices – the

overall performance, and the tinting is uniform over the surface.

video magnifier and the iPhone – into one.

EssilorLuxottica promoted Transitions Gen S – the newest technology that should be ultra-responsive to light and offers a wide-ranging color

All in all, there was plenty for visitors to see in Las Vegas at the exhibition

palette and HD vision at record speed. There was also the opportunity

center as well as in the lively city. And curious professionals do not

to test the latest Ray-Ban | Meta smart glasses at the stand, which enable

have to wait long for the next trade fair.

live streaming, open-ear audio and more.

The Vision Expo East 2025 will take place in Orlando, Florida, at the

And another type of smart glasses is now an integral part of the manu-

Orange County Convention Center from February 19 to 22, 2025,

facturer's portfolio: Nuance Audio. The group presented a final prototype

marking a significant shift from its long-standing New York City loca-

of their latest hearing glasses which are aimed at the over 1.2 billion

tion. The next Vision Expo West will take place from September 17 to

people who suffer from mild to moderate hearing loss.

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LIVE ON SITE

Picture: Frank Sonnenberg

Paris, je t'aime Show highlights at Silmo Paris 2024 From September 20 to 23, the two halls 6 and 7 of the Paris Nord Villepinte exhibition center were once again a kettle of color. A comprehensive tour of the world of international ophthalmic optics was on the agenda and the stage was set for Silmo Paris 2024. By Daniel Groß

A

s a cornerstone in the international trade fair mix of the

module and either a corresponding protective cover or the magnetic

optical industry, Silmo Paris attracts exhibitors from

universal stand are required for use. The user controls the camera

all over the world. Once again this year, the who's who

module via an app.

of the industry came together to store and network.

There was also something new from frame manufacturer Charmant

75,000 m², more than 900 companies, the best late summer weather

with the rebranding of its own brand Ad Lib. Designer Nicolas Berne

for the few breaks outside the halls. These were all excellent conditions

presented the new colors, material mixes and the intention behind the

for four days with a packed program.

new all-round look for the brand, which has grown up together with its customers and should now be seen as an independent brand.

One world premiere chases the next As befits a trade fair like Silmo Paris, companies took the opportunity

Versatile supporting program

to present their product highlights. Eschenbach Optik, for example,

In addition to the exhibitors' stands, visitors were able to discover a

celebrated a world first with its electronic visual aid “Optaro”. The

wide variety of special areas. From established areas such as Silmo

visual aid extends the range of applications of the iPhone with various

Futurology, where the future of optics could be explored with a look

additional functions, allowing people with impaired vision to adjust

ahead to the years 2025 to 2035, the organizers invited visitors on a

the magnification and choose between 14 contrast-enhancing false

journey through the history of eyewear manufacturing. The museums

color modes. In addition to an iPhone (version 12 or higher), a camera

of Oyonnax and Morez had their exhibits on display.

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Advertisement

In a competition based on the Summer Olympics of that year (“OPTympics”), opticians Picture: Frank Sonnenberg

were able to demonstrate their skills just as the top athletes had done just two months earlier. Over 800 people took part in the end, according to the organizers.

The talents of tomorrow were promoted through the competition for optical design. The third edition, open to design students from all over the world, focused on eyewear accessories that not only correct and protect vision, but also offer new functions and uses.

Highly coveted industry award And last but not least the Silmo d'Or celebrated its 30th anniversary − and the awards ceremony took place in a festive setting on Saturday evening. The nominees were hoping to win in eleven categories and rhere was also a special prize from the jury.

The following products and many more were honored:

▶ Technological Innovation: Eyewear OOmade with “OOmade SAV 3D”

▶ Technological Innovation: Eyewear - networked products EssilorLuxottica with “Ray-Ban Meta with AI”

▶ Sport Out Of with “Acuity”

Laser Solutions for Augmented Reality

▶ Vision Transitions Optical with “Transitions Gen S”

Au-revoir - see you next year According to official figures, 32,125 trade visitors (+2.6% compared to 2023) traveled to the trade fair this year, of which 52% were international and 48% French participants who did not want to miss out on the innovations and the spectacle surrounding them. The organizer has chosen the days from 26 to 29 September as the date for Silmo Paris 2025. ◆

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05.11.24 21.10.24 01:29 15:34

SPOTLIGHT

“Don´t let the bad guys win!”

Cyber security series | Part 2 Protecting your business against cyber-attacks is crucial for success in this technology driven times ‒ and it is important that every single person is aware of that. This article focuses on employees, and it will teach them how to be more vigilant. It is about knowing the hacker’s strategies and current trends, about algorithms that suggest a false sense of reality and about practical tips to not letting the bad guys win! It is the second part of the cyber security series, based on The Vision Councils Webinar series. By Nabil Gharbieh

T

he following article gives definitions and statistics; it

Smishing: A combination of the words “SMS” and “phishing,” smishing

answers the question: What´s at stake? And we talk about

involves sending text messages disguised as trustworthy communica-

trends in hacking and what every single employee can do

tions from businesses like Amazon or FedEx.

to protect the infrastructure.

Vishing: In vishing campaigns, attackers in fraudulent call centers

Definitions

attempt to trick people into providing sensitive information over the phone.

Email phishing: Is the most common form of phishing. This type of attack uses tactics like phony hyperlinks to lure email recipients into

Statistics

sharing their personal information. Attackers often masquerade as a

The good news first: 84% of US-based organizations have stated that

large account provider like Microsoft or Google, or even a coworker.

conducting regular security awareness training has helped reduce the

Malware phishing: Is another prevalent phishing approach. This type

rate at which employees fall prey to phishing attacks. Security training

of attack involves planting malware disguised as a trustworthy attach-

and awareness are so important because the cost of a cybersecurity

ment (such as a resume or bank statement) in an email. In some cases,

attack can be enormous. Even though the sum depends on the scale

opening a malware attachment can paralyze entire IT systems.

and impact of the attack. For small businesses, the average cost of a

Spear phishing: Where most phishing attacks cast a wide net, spear

cyber-attack is around $25,6121 ‒ and we have seen that on the very

phishing targets specific individuals by exploiting information gathered

low end.

through research into their jobs and social lives. These attacks are

And anyone who thinks this will not happen to me should keep the

highly customized, making them particularly effective at bypassing

following figures in mind: 8 out 10 of the most exploited software

basic cybersecurity.

vulnerabilities involved Microsoft products in 2019 but shifts are

Whaling: When bad actors target a “big fish” like a business executive

moving from O.S. to browsers with vulnerabilities in software like

or celebrity, it is called whaling.

WinRar and Google Chrome.

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SPOTLIGHT

It is also true that approximately 45% of all emails are spam and that

secrets” or passwords, or mergers, or vulnerabilities, because I wrote a

targeted attacks are increasing with AI, looking for new people or tired

draft for ChatGPT to analyze about a security incident or struggle.

employees or something specific.

Also using AI keyboards for phones and other built-in apps sends your

And finally: each year 83% of all companies experience a phishing attack.

data, again, to less reputable and sometimes nefarious companies. Also

You do not believe that? Then proof the Office 365 login attempt logs.

be aware of using your google id or apple id or Microsoft ID to be your login. Some sites will let you create a username and password or use

What´s at stake?

your google account to login. Doing so opens your data to that company,

The unpleasant truth is that 66% of businesses attacked by hackers

and if the company that you need to login to happens to be a foreign

were not confident they could recover. One challenge is that the service

country, know you are giving them a ton of information for the convince

businesses provide, and their extensions can be negatively affected. As

of logging in. I personally like creating my own login email and

mentioned earlier, the financial loss can be enormous and huge financial

passwords and letting my password app choose the password.

loss is almost always associated with the loss of jobs. The average cost of IT downtime is approximately $5,600 per minute, translating to

Algorithms – a false sense of reality

over $300,000 per hour.

Algorithms on social media give you a false sense of reality. If you open

But also, the reputation damage should not be underestimated. That

a Facebook video, Instagram video or TikTok video and read the

affects not only the company but also the reputation of single employees.

comments, and then send the same video to a friend and let them read

Sometimes it can even have legal consequences. HIPAA for example

the comments, the top comments will be different for you than for him

stands for “Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act”. This

or her as those comments are based on algorithms. If I open a video

US law is designed to protect health data. It requires companies that

on the latest vaccine for something and I run to the comment section

work with such protected data to implement and follow certain physical,

for validation, I will see that the top comments favor vaccinations. If

network and process-related security measures.

I give it to friends who does not trust vaccinations, and THEY go to

And in the end, it is often not just about the company itself, but attacks

the comment section they will find validation by the comments that

also affect others in the supply chain. But despite all these hard facts,

feed them. This drives us all deeper down the Matrix than we would

many organizations still do not know what a ransomware recovery

like. And that can be upsetting because you may look at the comments

would look like or how they would recover. Therefore, we do not know

of a post and say “oh im not worried”, if people read the comments,

what else is at stake. That is the reason you need a plan! And a lot of

and they see that no one agrees, their impression might be different.

security strategies are group culture initiatives.

Estimates say ONE out of TEN random posts could come from a foreign

Trends in Hacking

government trying to influence your opinion or make you resent one

Yes, you read that right. Trends are everywhere ‒ even among hackers.

another. A 2020 study from Carnegie Mellon University found that

Here are the most important ones.

around 45% of accounts discussing COVID-19 on Twitter, now X, were

Multi-stage phishing attacks: Attackers are increasingly using multi-stage

likely bots, but this includes all bots, not just those from foreign govern-

phishing attacks where an initial phishing email is followed by further

ments. NPR reported that a significant number of anti-vaccine posts

interactions to build trust and extract more information over time.

were linked to Russian trolls. In my opinion, we have to make sure

Phishing kits and services: The availability of phishing kits and phishing-

that we make friends and matches on our own. As your feed on social

as-a-service (PhaaS) offerings on the dark web makes it easier for less

media will probably mislead us. Why does it matter? Because we fall

skilled cybercriminals to launch sophisticated phishing campaigns.

into patterns of being tricked and letting the bad guys win.

Exploiting current events: One example of that was the worldwide Crowdstrike incident. Many hackers jumped on taking advantage of

The importance of creating a strong password

people with bluescreened computers.

A survey by Google in 2019 found that 65% of people reuse passwords

ChatGPT: FraudGPT uses chatgpt to help non-technical individuals find

across multiple accounts, significantly increasing the risk of hacking if

a way in. If light bulbs are going off in your head about your ex, do not

one account is compromised. The same survey found that 1 in 4 Americans

open it. You will get into more trouble by logging in then causing it (-;

use passwords that are considered weak and easily guessable. This is not just a phrase but extremely relevant to make sure that hackers do not

Do not underestimate AI

crack your password within seconds.

Using AI itself like ChatGPT or the hundreds of specific AI tools out there is a problem as you are recklessly uploading info to ChatGPT. For

If you use a password like your dogs name, or city, or company, or

example if I go in and ask it to edit these trade secrets for me for an email

something easily attributed to you …

to a CEO and to use a professional tone, it is now part of the world database

1. I can go to ChaptGPT and ask it to give me every iteration of that

so someone can go in and do a search for “The Vision Council trade

word with special characters and capital and lower-case letters.

MAFO 6-24

36_Cyber security_part 2.indd 37

37

06.11.24 13:22

SPOTLIGHT

2. I download a free browser plug-in from the Browser Store that attempts to log in and upload all possible passwords to it.

3. I tell it to use the username FirstName@gmail.com as login and these passwords and try every 1 minute as not to trigger the too many attempts bot.

4. I tell it to email me when you are in. I do this for 10 accounts a day and then refresh my inbox daily and get to work.

▶ Juice jacking – avoid using public charging stations to prevent mobile device compromise.

▶ USB flash drives – only use trusted flash drives. Unknown drives can carry malware.

▶ Verify links – always check if website links look valid before clicking.

Hover over links to see the full URL.

▶ Check email headers – ensure the sender’s email address matches the company’s official domain.

▶ Email purpose – never send sensitive information like passwords or personal details via email.

▶ Double-check requests – confirm money transfer requests with al-

Estimates say ONE out of TEN random posts could come from a foreign government trying to influence your opinion or make you resent one another.

ternative communication methods.

▶ Update passwords regularly – change default passwords and update them frequently.

▶ Use password managers, use tools like 1Password ▶ Protect your devices – do not let others use your computer or mobile devices.

▶ Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) ▶ Beware of social engineering – be cautious of unsolicited requests for information or urgent actions.

▶ Use the “Email Analysis” tool in Outlook or others ▶ Stay informed on scams – keep up to date with the latest scam tactics and cybersecurity news.

▶ Stay in touch with The Vision Council, look out for emails, link with If there is one key takeaway from this article, it is the importance of passwords! This is what can happen when you take passwords lightly.

us if you had or know of an incident to share knowledge, and join us in future efforts to create a team to share security knowledge. ◆

The characteristics of strong passwords are that they have a minimum of 15 characters. A passphrase ‒ consisting of many words and terms – is better than a password. Additionally, the passphrase should be unique per account, and it is safer to use a Multi-factor Authentication (MFA).

One example to create strong passphrases: 1. Write down a random common word 2. Add a second, unrelated word 3. Capitalize one or two letters in your password 4. Insert numbers and special characters to break up words and syllables, then add new capitals 5. Make sure the passphrase is at least 15 characters long sweatshirt, sweatshirttree, SweatshirtTree, Sweatshirt#Tr33

What you can do and organizations can do ▶ Avoid Pop-Ups, unknown emails, and links. Never click on unexpected

Nabil Gharbieh

links or download attachments from unknown sources.

▶ Audio jacking: be aware ‒ unauthorized interception or manipulation

The IT-expert Nabil Gharbieh currently leads The Vision Council´s

of audio signals to eavesdrop or inject malicious content. Audio

webinar series about cyber security strategies. As an Information

jacking ruins code words because a person could be in your computer

Technology Advisor at Dataprise, Nabil provides quality management

capturing a conversation on teams or zoom and can replicate the word using the right voice and with AI it can know when to answer using the code word when asked a question.

▶ Connect to secure Wi-Fi – avoid public Wi-Fi. Instead use your phone as a hotspot or connect to a trusted network or VPN.

38

36_Cyber security_part 2.indd 38

services to clients across various industries and sectors. With over 17 years of experience in IT, he has developed expertise in program management, technical account management, customer success, sales, and technology advisory. Nabil is certified in Microsoft Technologies, AI, Health Care IT Security, ITIL, Google Cloud, and Apple/Mac Integration.

MAFO 6-24

06.11.24 13:22

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See the difference

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15.10.24 11:39

MARKET SURVEYS

Augen

Automation & Robotics

www.augenopticos.com

www.ar.be

Technical data

Application

Laser engraving systems

Laser Engraver

MCEVS

MCVP8

Organic lenses

x

x

x

Mineral lenses

x

/

/

Coated lenses (branding)

x

x

x

Contact lenses

o

/

/

Glass molds

x

/

/

Front side engraving

x

x

x

Excimer Laser (wavelength) [nm]

o

/

/

UV Laser (wavelength) [nm]

o

/

/

CO2 Laser

x

x

x

Feeding mode (manual or auto)

x

auto

auto

Upgradable from manual to auto

x

/

/

Drying station

o

/

/

Productivity (blocked lenses / h.)

600

/

/

Productivity (unblocked lenses / h.)

o

750

240

800 x 500 x 1200 mm

5700 x 2600 x 1900 mm (machine with conveyor)

2050 x 2100 x 2300 mm (machine with conveyor)

80 kg

970 kg

1400 kg

100-240 VAC, 50-60 Hz, 1.3 KVA

230V (50Hz / 60 Hz) Phase+N+PE, 3kVA

230V (50Hz / 60Hz) Phase+N+PE, 3kVA

Marking field (mm x mm)

70x70

Dia 75 mm

Dia 75mm Z adjustment (16mm)

Dot size [µm]

200

110-150

110-150

Accuracy [µm]

20

+/- 200µm

+/- 200µm

Laser system safety [class / safety compliance]

4

Class 4

Class 4

Continues-Pulse

Machine settings

Machine settings

Dimensions (w x d x h) / [ mm / inches] Weight [kg / lbs] Electricity [VAC, A, Hz, phase]

Pulse time Process gas

CO2

/

/

10 years

/

/

Back up laser

o

x

x

System integrated back up laser

o

x

x

Hybrid function option (Excimer & CO2 laser)

o

/

/

Laser power automatic detection

o

x

x

Self orientation of edged lens

o

/

x

Features

Refurbishing period

L

D Sta

Engraving editor

x

x

From LMS

FF semivisible mark recognition

o

/

x

Integrated measuring unit (parameter)

o

x

x

Z-focus calculation

o

/

x

Z-focus measurement

o

x

x

Host connection

x

OMA / VCA / Rx

OMA / VCA / Rx

Legend: Yes = x, No = /, Optional = o

40

40_Survey-Laser-Engraving.indd 40

De m

MAFO 6-24

05.11.24 01:38

100

MARKET SURVEYS

LaserOp www.laserop.com

LensMark V/DT & SA

LensMark V/Auto

LensMark V/Auto-bullet

LensMark UV/DT & SA

LensMark UV/Auto

x

x

x

x

x

/

/

/

x

x

x

x

x

x

x

/

/

/

/

/

x

x

o

o

Deep UV

Deep UV

manual

auto and manual

o

o (manual feeding)

x

x

x

manual

auto and manual

auto and manual

o

o

240

300

x

x

280

x 280

240

Desktop: 530 x 1000 x 930 mm Standalone: 1050 x 1000 x 1520 mm

Without dryer: 1180 x 1360 x 1560. With dryer: 1580 x 1360 x 1560

Desktop: 530 x 1000 x 930 mm Standalone: 1050 x 1000 x 1520 mm

Without dryer: 1180 x 1360 x 1560. With dryer: 1580 x 1360 x 1560

Desktop approx. 150 kg.

Standalone approx. 190 kg

Without dryer approx. 250 kg. With dryer approx. 300 kg

Desktop approx. 150 kg.

Standalone approx. 190 kg

Without dryer approx. 250 kg.

With dryer approx. 300 kg

100 - 240, 6, 50/60, single phase

110 or 220, 10, 50/60, single phase

100 - 240, 6, 50/60, single phase

110 or 220, 10, 50/60, single phase

80 x 80 100-200

80 x 80 100-200

50

+ / - 25

50 + / - 25

Class 1 laser product / CE, CDRH

None None

Expected 18 months or more

No need

o

o

/

/

/

/

No need /

/

/

x

x

x

/

/

/

x

x

x

x

x

/

/

/

/

/

/

/

/

/

/

x

x

x

x

x

/

/

/

/

/

x

x

x

x

x

All information in the survey is provided by the participating companies themselves.

MAFO does not guarantee for the accuracy and completeness of the information provided.

MAFO 6-24

40_Survey-Laser-Engraving.indd 41

41

05.11.24 01:38

MARKET SURVEYS

LaserOp

MEI

www.laserop.com

www.meisystem.com

Application

Laser engraving systems

LensMark UV/Bullet

EZMarker CO2

EZMarker CO2 TBA

Organic lenses

x

x

x

Mineral lenses

x

/

/

Coated lenses (branding)

x

x

x

Contact lenses

/

/

/

Glass molds

x

/

/

Front side engraving

o

x

x

/

/

/

/

x

x

Feeding mode (manual or auto)

auto

auto

Upgradable from manual to auto

/

/

Excimer Laser (wavelength) [nm] UV Laser (wavelength) [nm]

Deep UV

CO2 Laser

Drying station

x

/

/

Productivity (blocked lenses / h.)

300

up to 230

/

/

up to 200

Technical data

Productivity (unblocked lenses / h.)

Dimensions (w x d x h) / [ mm / inches]

Without dryer: 1180 x 1360 x 1560.

With dryer: 1580 x 1360 x 1560

1600 x 1000 x 2100 / 63 x 41 x 81

Weight [kg / lbs]

Without dryer approx. 250 kg.

With dryer approx. 300 kg

456 / 1005

Electricity [VAC, A, Hz, phase]

110 or 220, 10, 50/60, single phase

208 / 400 VAC 50/60 Hz

Marking field (mm x mm)

80 x 80

100 mm circular

Dot size [µm]

50

60

Accuracy [µm]

+ / - 25

+/- 20

Laser system safety [class / safety compliance]

Class 4 / EN 60825-1

Pulse time Process gas

1.0 µs +- 0.2 None

20 liter premix every two years

Refurbishing period Back up laser

10y o

x /

/

/

/

/

/

/

x

x

System integrated back up laser Hybrid function option (Excimer & CO2 laser)

Features

Laser power automatic detection Self orientation of edged lens

/

x

Engraving editor

x

x

x

FF semivisible mark recognition

/

/

/

Integrated measuring unit (parameter)

/

x

x

Z-focus calculation

x

x

x

Z-focus measurement

/

x

x

Host connection

x

OMA/VCA/RX

OMA/VCA/RX

Legend: Yes = x, No = /, Optional = o

42

40_Survey-Laser-Engraving.indd 42

MAFO 6-24

05.11.24 01:38

HUMANS

MAXGALLI + MIXER GROUP_ Ph. ULI WEBER

REFOCUSING

ON

A NEW EYEWEAR PERSPECTIVE.

FEBRUARY 8-10, 2025 | Fiera Milano, Rho

21x29,7 - MIDO 2025 SOGG.2 - MAFO.indd 1 !AZ.indd 3

09/10/24 16:43 15.10.24 08:40

MARKET SURVEYS

MEI

OptoTech

www.meisystem.com

www.optotech.net/en

Application

Laser engraving systems

EZMarker UV

EZMarker UV TBA

Organic lenses

x

x

x

Mineral lenses

x

x

/

Coated lenses (branding)

x

x

x

Contact lenses

/

/

/

Glass molds

/

/

/

Front side engraving

x

x

x

/

/

/

x (355 nm)

x (355 nm)

/

Excimer Laser (wavelength) [nm] UV Laser (wavelength) [nm]

Technical data

CO2 Laser

/

/

10600

Feeding mode (manual or auto)

auto

auto

auto

Upgradable from manual to auto

/

/

/

Drying station

/

/

/

Productivity (blocked lenses / h.)

up to 230

/

350

Productivity (unblocked lenses / h.)

/

up to 200

optional (300)

1600 x 1000 x 2100 / 63 x 41 x 81

1800 x 1000 x 1500 mm 71 x 39 x 59 in

456 / 1005

400 kg / 882 lbs

Electricity [VAC, A, Hz, phase]

208 / 400 VAC 50/60 Hz

220-240V 50/60Hz single phase, Others on request

Marking field (mm x mm)

100 mm circular

70 x 70 mm

25

90 - 110

Dimensions (w x d x h) / [ mm / inches]

Weight [kg / lbs]

Dot size [µm] Accuracy [µm]

+/-5

Laser system safety [class / safety compliance] Pulse time

5

+/- 20

Class 4 / EN 60825-1

I

20 ns

variable

Process gas

CO2 gas

Refurbishing period

Features

OTL 80 CNC-A

> 20000 h

source lifetime 20.000h

Back up laser

x

x

/

System integrated back up laser

/

/

/

Hybrid function option (Excimer & CO2 laser)

/

/

/

Laser power automatic detection

x

x

/

Self orientation of edged lens

x

x

/

Engraving editor

x

x

x

FF semivisible mark recognition

/

/

/

Integrated measuring unit (parameter)

x

x

/

Z-focus calculation

x

x

x

Z-focus measurement

x

x

/

Host connection

OMA/VCA/RX

x

Legend: Yes = x, No = /, Optional = o

44

40_Survey-Laser-Engraving.indd 44

MAFO 6-24

05.11.24 01:38

ase,

MARKET SURVEYS

OptoTech

Satisloh

www.optotech.net/en

www.satisloh.com/ophthalmic

OTL 80 Store

OTL 100 CNC-A

Lens-Engraver EC

Lens-Engraver LC

x

x

x

x

/

x

x

/

x

x

x (backside)

/

/

o

/

/

/

x

x

/

x

x

o

o

/

193

x (193)

/

/

/

/

/

10600

o

/

x

manual

auto

manual & auto

manual & auto

/

/

/

x

/

/

o

o

up to 180 lph (for 1700 shots/job)

up to 250 lph (depending on layout design)

180

300

optional (180)

optional (240)

1000 x 910 x 1600 mm / 39x 36 x 63 in

1087 x 1800 x 2190 mm / 43 x 71 x 86 in

1200 x 800 x 1400 (+conveyor) 47 x 31,5 x 55

Desktop: 515 x 1340 x 827 /20 x 52 x 32 Standalone: 1056 x 1347 x 1322 / 41 x 53 x 52 Automated: 1188 x 1661 x 1387 / 46 x 65 x 54

205 kg / 452 lbs

495 kg / 1092 lbs

350 / 770 (manual) 450 / 990 (automated)

Desktop: 210 / 463 Standalone: 316 / 697 Automated: 400 / 882

110 - 240, 8, 50/60, single phase

Auto: 110 or 220 VAC, 6A single phase Manual: 100-240 VAC, 6A single phase

220-240V 50/60Hz single phase, Others on request 70 x 70 mm

100 x 100 mm

100 mm x 100 mm Focus depth +- 0.5 mm

approx. 100 x 100

90 - 110

10 - 120

10 - 200

/

+/- 20

+ / -10

+ / - 100

/

I

I

1 / CE, CDRH

1 / sealed off CO2

variable

6 to 8 ns

< 6 ns

/

CO2 gas

20 liter premix at 150 bar for 800 mio pulses

20 liter premix every two years

/

source lifetime 20.000h

3 billion pulses

> 3 Mio lenses

/

/

o

/

/

/

/

/

/

/

Hybrid Laser Concept: Additional CO2 Laser unit for maximum marking efficiency

/

/

/

x

x

x

/

/

/

o

x

x

x

x

/

o

/

/

/

/

o

/

x

x

x

x

/

x

x

o

x

x

x

x

All information in the survey is provided by the participating companies themselves.

MAFO does not guarantee for the accuracy and completeness of the information provided.

MAFO 6-24

40_Survey-Laser-Engraving.indd 45

45

05.11.24 01:38

MARKET SURVEYS

Schneider www.schneider-om.com

Application

Laser engraving systems

CCL C*mark

CCL modulo

CCL modulo X

Organic lenses

x

x

x

Mineral lenses

/

/

x

Contact lenses

/

/

/

Glass molds

/

/

/

Front side engraving

/

/

/

Excimer Laser (wavelength) [nm]

/

/

193

UV Laser (wavelength) [nm]

/

/

193

Coated lenses (branding)

CO2 Laser Feeding mode (manual or auto)

manual or auto

Upgradable from manual to auto

/

auto /

/

Drying station

o

o

o

Productivity (blocked lenses / h.)

185

230

400

Productivity (unblocked lenses / h.)

Technical data

10640

Dimensions (w x d x h) / [ mm / inches] Weight [kg / lbs] Electricity [VAC, A, Hz, phase] Marking field (mm x mm)

/

/

/

approx. 340 x 870 x 600 / 13 x 35 x 24

approx. 900 x 1320 x 1715 / 36 x 52 x 68

approx. 1275 x 1450 x 1800 / 51 x 57 x 71

approx 125 / 276

approx. 420 /926

approx. 600 / 1323

200-400 VAC, 1,4 A, 50/60 Hz, 200-400 VAC, 2,9 A, 50/60 Hz, 200-400 VAC, 2,2 A, 50/60 Hz, three phases three phases three phases Diameter 70 mm, Focus depth +- 0.5 mm

100 mm x 100 mm, Focus depth +- 0.5 mm

80 µm

80 or 120 µm

Dot size [µm] Accuracy [µm]

+/- 30

Laser system safety [class / safety compliance]

1/CE, CDRH

Features

Pulse time Process gas

needs no changing

20 l. equals 4 bio. pulses

Refurbishing period

more than 10 years

after 4 bio. pulses

Back up laser

/

/

/

System integrated back up laser

/

/

/

Hybrid function option (Excimer & CO2 laser)

/

/

/

Laser power automatic detection

x

x

x

Self orientation of edged lens

/

/

/

Engraving editor

x

x

x

FF semivisible mark recognition

/

/

/

Integrated measuring unit (parameter)

/

/

/

Z-focus calculation

x

x

x

x

x

x

Z-focus measurement Host connection

OMA/VCA/RX

Legend: Yes = x, No = /, Optional = o

46

40_Survey-Laser-Engraving.indd 46

MAFO 6-24

05.11.24 01:38

Petra Lindner Optometrist M.Sc., Coach

!AZ.indd 9

Jean-Pierre Schwalb Owner of Optik Schwalb in Nidda

21.10.24 15:40

Suppliers Guide Here you will find an overview of various suppliers for ophthalmic optics materials, equipment and machines. ▶ cleaning and hard coating equipment

▶ lenses

▶ coating equipment

▶ machinery – automation, control & packaging

▶ crystals

▶ machinery – lens edging & industrial edging

▶ laser engraving & printing

▶ software

▶ lens surfacing machinery

▶ surfacing and finishing consumables

For further information please contact Pauline Möller: pauline.moeller@mafo-optics.com

Cleaning and hard coating equipment

Cleaning & Hard Coating Automatic Machines

TINTING CONSUMABLES EXPERTISE Cleaning & Hard Coating Automatic Machines

HARD COATING CLEANING

HARD COAT LEADER 271 rue Laszlo Biro Archparc FR-74160 Archamps

See more information scan QR code

optics@fisa.com

info@kanpacific.com www.kanpacific.com www.fisa.com

See more information scan QR code

Phone : +33 (0) 450 820 720 info@kanpacific.com Email : office1@scl-intl.com

www.kanpacific.com

scl-intl.com

Coating equipment Pub FISA - Optical World 88x40.indd 1

14/12/2021 16:49

Cleaning & Hard Coating Automatic Machines See more information scan QR code

info@kanpacific.com www.kanpacific.com Hard coating ad:

Bühler Alzenau GmbH

Cleaning & Hard Coating Automatic Machines

Business Area Leybold Optics See more

Siemensstrasse 88, D-63755 Alzenau information code T + 49 (0) 6023 500-0, F + 49 (0) scan 6023QR500-150 leyboldoptics@buhlergroup.com info@kanpacific.com www.buhlergroup.com www.kanpacific.com

Crystals

World leaders in Lens Hard Coating Machines and process solutions Full range available for any production volume Expert advice on your application

contact us: (+44) 1462 49 16 16 sales@optimal-technologies.com

48

Cleaning ad:

48_SG.indd 48

optimal-technologies.com

UV Curable Hard Coat Adhesion On All Lenses Tintable Non-Solvent Based AR Coating Compatible Sales, Distributors Wanted Shipping Worldwide www.hcoating.com sales@hcoating.com

MAFO 6-24

05.11.24 17:49

Suppliers Guide QUALITY & SAVINGS FROM STOCK • Sensor Heads and Feedthroughs • INFICON Deposition Monitors and Controllers • Quality Crystals® • Vacuum Pump Fluids • Vacuum Measurement Gauges • Electron Beam Gun Parts • Ion Source Parts

www.filtech.com 617-227-1133 • 800-743-1743 paula@filtech.com Optical Machinery. Processing Technology.

OptoTech Optikmaschinen GmbH

Sandusweg 2-4 • 35435 Wettenberg/Germany Tel.: + 49 641 49939-0 eMail: info.de@optotech.net Web: www.optotech.net

Laser engraving & printing

Lens surfacing machinery

Premium-Quality Laser Engraving of Spectacle & Contact Lenses Industry approved since 2004

ing.com

www.ophthalmic-mark

X-Cube Lens Digital Printer

OPTICAL MANUFACTURING SOLUTIONS Satisloh AG Neuhofstrasse 12 CH - 6340 Baar / Switzerland Phone: +41 (0) 41766 16 16 Email: info@satisloh.com satisloh.com

Enjoy: • unlimited designs • digi-speed process

Choose your frame colour

White

www.tecofrance.com

Blue

Cyan

info@tecofrance.com

Phone: +49 (64 26) 96 96-0 · Fax: +49 (64 26) 96 96-100 www.schneider-om.com · info@schneider-om.com Yellow

MAFO 6-24

48_SG.indd 49

SCHNEIDER GmbH & Co. KG Biegenstrasse 8–12 · 35112 Fronhausen · Germany

Red

Purple

Lens surfacing machinery

Lenses

!AZ.indd 1

19.10.21 12:11

!AZ.indd 9

30.11.20 12:42

49

05.11.24 17:49

Suppliers Guide Machinery - Automation, Control & Packaging

Surfacing and finishing consumables

Lens Quality Control Automation Process Control Services & Solutions

BELGIUM - THAILAND - USA - LATIN AMERICA

www.ar.be

GENERATING POLISHING EDGING 20 avenue Reille - 75014 PARIS - FRANCE THl. : +33 (0)1 45 89 84 44 - Fax : +33 (0)1 45 89 66 54 contact@agp-abrasifs.com - www.agp-abrasifs.com

MAFO_AD 88 x 40 mm_Bleed 3mm

Machinery - lens edging & industrial edging

Surfacing and finishing consumables YOUR ULTRA PRECISION Diamond Tools Manufacturer

> Excellent service and quick turnaround

Combination of dynamic ideas and stable performance provides superb Lens Edging

> Compliant with any generator

kydiamond.ca

www.nidek.com info@nidek.co.jp

sales @ kydiamond.ca

Software

Media TECHNOLOGY AT IT’S BEST – FOR OPHTHALMIC LABS & INDUSTRY

Your lens design and innovation experts IOT exists to empower independent labs and ECPs to create the best lenses in the world.

OPHTHALMIC LABS & INDUSTRY

HOME OF YOUR BUSINESS

E L P M

SG_Eyepress.indd 1

The Lab Management System Company LensWare International GmbH Robert-Bosch-Str. 32 63225 Langen - Germany !AZ.indd Phone : +49 61033/ 372 87 87 Email : info@lensware.de Web : www.lensware.de

30.01.20 16:41

incl. presence in the MAFO online ­Suppliers Guide

SA

1 module (88 x 40 mm) per year with company logo 4c = € 990 p.a.

Contact: pauline.moeller@mafo-optics.com

Find out more: !AZ.indd 3

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tes delega 3 k o o B ,y € 333 for onl rson! per pe

The optical lab in a smart world February 7, 2025 in Milan / one day before MIDO Cat Early b ch the ird € 399, dpise count: - r p e rs o n by boo k Decem ing until ber 31, 2 024

Highlights automated cosmetic inspection | artificial intelligence | smart glasses | autofocus spectacle lenses | sustainable waste management | and much more

Stay tuned and follow us on LinkedIn or subscribe to our newsletter, to get all the news about MAFO – The Conference. For all questions and suggestions about the ­conference please write an email to: hanna.diewald@mafo-optics.com www.linkedin.com/showcase/mafo

#MAFO CO N 2 5 ticket.mafo-optics.com

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HISTORY

Pioneers of optometry Ernst Abbe Ernst Abbe was a German physicist, mathematician, entrepreneur, scientist and a pioneer in social responsibility. With his numerous inventions and his fundamental research into the theory of imaging optical systems, Abbe opened all doors to research and industry. By Mareike Alber Ernst Abbe. Picture: Emil Tesch

E

rnst Abbe was born and raised in Eisenach in 1840 as the ordinary

optical glass could optimize production. In 1884, Ernst Abbe, Otto Schott,

son of a working-class family. His extraordinary talent was

Carl Zeiss and his son Roderich founded the Schott & Genossen glass

already evident at an early age, which his teachers and parents

technology laboratory in Jena. Otto Schott developed a process for melting

encouraged so that he received an unusually good education.

small quantities of glass and combining different melts to create a new

This enabled Abbe to study philosophy, mathematics and physics at the

type of glass with novel optical properties. Lithium glass was created,

universities of Jena and Göttingen from 1857 to 1861. Abbe completed his

followed sometime later by borosilicate glass and a total of over 100 new

habilitation in 1863 and was appointed associate professor in 1870.

types of glass. Today, Schott AG is one of the world's leading manufacturers of specialty glass.

Collaboration with Carl Zeiss From 1866, Abbe worked as a scientific employee in microscope technology

Social market economy

at Carl Zeiss. There, Abbe developed the “Theory of Imaging in the

In the late 19th century, many companies began to pursue social policies.

Microscope”, which made him the founder of scientific optics. Ernst

Abbe, for example, founded the Carl Zeiss Foundation in 1889 with the

Abbe thus enabled Carl Zeiss to make significant technological progress

aim of keeping companies independent of personal ownership interests.

in 1872. The technological lead brought the team international recognition

For example, employees were given the right to have a say, paid vacation,

from natural scientists and doctors. Ernst Abbe's work paid off, as Carl

pension payments and sick pay. Abbe saw these measures as employee

Zeiss made his dedicated employee a partner and appointed him as his

rights, not as a benefit like many companies at the time. He expressed his

successor. In 1888, Abbe succeeded Carl Zeiss after his death.

aversion to racism and ensured that no employee at Carl Zeiss was disadvantaged because of their religion, origin or political opinion. In 1889, the

Abbe's successes

foundation even took over the management of Carl Zeiss and, a few years

From the very beginning of his career at Zeiss, Abbe researched the

later, Schott. Abbe was thus the pioneer of the social market economy.

microscope and contributed to its progress, e.g. by inventing the condenser.

Abbe retired in 1903 and died in Jena in 1905. His numerous inventions

Among other things, he invented the focometer, refractometer and

and theories were and continue to be so important that many institutions

spectrometer and the Abbe number, which made it possible to characterize

and facilities were named after him. ◆

the properties of glass more precisely. The Abbe number describes the scattering of light of different wavelengths as a function of the refractive index. It also describes the dispersion of the lens and thus draws conclusions about the image quality. Abbe also modified the roof prism developed

by Giovanni Battista Amici, he developed the Abbe comparator, described the Abbe sine condition as well as the Abbe invariant and more.

Schott special glass and lenses The Carl Zeiss company developed a number of new optical lens types over the years. As Abbe did not want to hinder general scientific progress, he allowed the general use of the products by not applying for a patent. Later, patents for photographic lenses and binoculars began to be taken out due to the high competitive pressure.

The production of microscope lenses went extremely well, and the Zeiss factory grew along with new employees. However, it turned out that special

52

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Mareike Alber Mareike Alber is a trained optician. Her interest in ophthalmic optics led her to study for a bachelor's degree in ophthalmic optics / optical device technology at Brandenburg University of Applied Sciences in 2022. She works at Augenoptik Leue so that she can apply what she has learned directly. As a student representative of the VDCO-Young, she is committed to the future of budding optometrists.

MAFO 6-24

05.11.24 09:42

OUTLOOK

Closing with good news!

Exact measurements of greenhouse gases thanks to an optical color splitter disperser The first airworthy and most important optical assembly for the CO2M space mission has now been fully delivered. The European Space Agency's (ESA´s) space mission aims to find out exactly how many CO₂ -greenhouse gas in Earth's atmosphere is caused by human activity. Therefore, two Earth observation satellites start in 2026. The satellites will work in a constellation and carry out high-resolution spectral measurements of atmospheric CO₂ in order to accurately map emissions from cities, countries and large industrial areas. To do this, the satellites will be equipped with infrared spectrometers.

Researchers from Jena have developed and manufactured what is probably the most important optical assembly for the spectrometers on board the satellites: the disperser. “The disperser is the optical component for the spectrometer,” explains Thomas Höing, project manager at the Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Optics and Precision Engineering IOF. “The disperser consists of two prisms and a grating and acts as a kind of 'color splitter'. This means that it splits the light reflected from Earth very precisely into its spectral colors and thus enables high-precision measurements of the CO₂ content in Earth's atmosphere.”

Special topics in MAFO 2025

MAFO 01

MAFO 03

MAFO 05

Lab Management

Sustainable Environments

Go Green!

Smart Processes

Connected Products

Markets Worldwide

MAFO 02

MAFO 04

MAFO 06

Preview MAFO 01/2025 The upcoming MAFO issue 01/2025, published on January 9, 2025, is about Lab Management. We will dive deep into artificial intelligence trends, cyber security strategies and take a look at blockless generating. Furthermore, you will find out more about the chances of smart technologies: in an interview with CREAL founder Tomas Sluka and in a report about the MAFO visit at the smart glasses company Morrow Optics in Belgium.

MAFO 6-24

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Missed an issue?

No problem, view the latest issues online: app.mafo-optics.com ISSN 1614-1598 66527 Volume 20

ISSN 1614-1598 66527 Volume 20

OPHTHALMIC LABS & INDUSTRY Connect, discover, stay up-to-date

5/2024 ▶ Special: Go Digital!

OPHTHALMIC LABS & INDUSTRY

THE FIRST FULLY-AUTOMATED WAREHOUSING SYSTEM

Five AI myths

4/2024 ▶ Special topic: Go Green!

▶ Market Surveys

AWS m dulo

▶ Market Surveys AR coating machines

Dip hard coating machines

With AWS Modulo ONE, the one-of-a-kind Modulo system is extended by a fully-automated warehouse system for highly efficient and space saving storage and retrieval.

Labs now benefit from full automation all the way from warehousing to surfacing, cleaning, coating and edging – all in one fully integrated system from a single supplier. AWS Modulo ONE intelligently automates everyday production logistics.

Spin hard coating machines

It reliably stores and picks semi-finished or finished lenses, frames and more directly into the job tray. Thanks to the small footprint, fast automation, and 24/7 availability, warehousing is effectively stream-lined and efficiency is increased significantly.

Manual handling is reduced to a minimum, preventing human error.

Eyepress Fachmedien GmbH Saarner Str. 151 45479 Muelheim a. d. Ruhr 66527 Germany

www.schneider-om.com

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Prismatic lenses for visually impaired people ▶ Live on site Smart Glasses: a visit to the open house at Bühler ▶ Interview Mido 2024: “We feel responsible to make culture!”

STEP INTO THE FUTURE WITH DIGITAL JOB TICKETS

▶ Market Surveys Significant cost savings

Highest throughput

15.08.2024 16:00:51 28.08.24 12:58

▶ Business

CCP m dulo

Risk management strategic and structured

Better quality, drastically higher throughput, lower complexity – CCP Modulo ONE follows an entirely new philosophy. It comes with a new spindle design, pad architecture and smarter process technology facilitating lights out polishing. Just a single pad is enough to achieve highest quality results. Its innovative pad design provides the versatility and durability required for longterm uninterrupted polishing.

This paperless and innovative digital solution converts traditional printed job tickets into a reusable and dynamic format allowing labs to update job information on the fly while retaining all the advantages of visual data.

DYNAMIC

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SCALABLE

SUSTAINABLE

Ray-Ban Meta glasses: What can they do, and what not? ▶ Market Survey Cleaning machinery

COST-EFFECTIVE

Instant visibility into real-time job status to make efficient decisions.

Risk-free, step-by-step implementation as your needs grow.

Reusing E-Ticket Tags, significantly reduces paper & ink waste.

$

17.06.2024 07:42:42 05.07.24 13:36

With DBX Modulo ONE, SCHNEIDER debuts a powerful and fully automated new lens deboxer for high throughput, 24/7. The innovative technology unpacks all common kinds of boxes and materials – cardboard, blisters, even sleeves – damage-free with a clean process. It requires a minimum of energy and effort.

DBX Modulo ONE follows SCHNEIDER‘s vision to provide the full solution for ophthalmic labs, from warehousing all the way to inline coating and beyond.

Ophthalmic lens production fully-automated and entirely hands-free.

$

SEE IT LIVE AT MIDO // 03. – 05. February 2024 // Hall 6 // Booth T32 Eyepress Fachmedien GmbH Saarner Str. 151 45479 Muelheim a. d. Ruhr 66527 Germany

satisloh.com

$

01_Titel.indd 1

Environmentally friendly

DBX m dulo

All waste material is separated and collected individually to simplify recycling and further increase sustainability.

Reduces lab operating expenses

Contact us to learn how the E-Ticket System can streamline your operations!

Eyepress Fachmedien GmbH Saarner Str. 151 45479 Muelheim a. d. Ruhr 66527 Germany

Unboxing any kind of box

After swiftly identifying the type of box, DBX Modulo ONE opens it “naturally”: It unfolds, takes out and unwraps, entirely without touching the lens surface.

SCHNEIDER‘s eco-friendly process avoids cutting or burning the material using sharp blades or high energy lasers – no cutting particles or dust and no fumes.

$

www.schneider-om.com

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▶ Spotlight

Industrial edger

Lights out polishing

Fast and highly cost-effective, the robust polisher provides labs with lowest cost per lens!

Visit us at Vision Expo West // September 19 – 21, 2024 // Booth F5035 Eyepress Fachmedien GmbH Saarner Str. 151 45479 Muelheim a. d. Ruhr 66527 Germany

Additive manufactured optical coatings ▶ Technology

Opti - a successful start to the new optical year

CCP Modulo ONE comes with full 4.0 intelligence, smart pad wear monitoring as well as a dedicated cleaning station, cleaning and drying the lens and the block piece.

Take another step towards all-in automation.

Digitalization and the Internet of Things

Mido 2024 ‒ back in force

CCP Modulo ONE works entirely without tool changes, eliminating the risks that come with it. Running all processes simultaneously, unprecedented speed for highest throughput is promoted.

AWS Modulo ONE is freely configurable and can be customized specifically to meet a lab’s facility layout, capacity and throughput. Entirely scalable, it is fit to reflect future demands. Built-in redundancy guarantees there is no single point of failure. RFID technology assures unmistakable identification in job handling.

▶ Special topic: Future Lab

Great atmosphere at this year's MAFO – The Conference

What makes a good pair of golf glasses – and what does not

One holistic system

THE NATURAL WAY OF DEBOXING

1/2024

E-TICKET SYSTEM BETTER THAN PAPER!

▶ Live on site

“Always stretching the limits!” ‒ 20 years of Quest Vision Care Specialty Lab Highest efficiency

▶ Special topic: Smart Technologies

AR and MR devices as the next computing platform

Lens edge coating

Freely configurable

2/2024

Connect, discover, stay up-to-date

Adaptive smart glasses for future?

▶ Spotlight

▶ Spotlight

OPHTHALMIC LABS & INDUSTRY

Connect, discover, stay up-to-date

What labs need to be successful in the future

▶ Technology

Optimize your lab production with a powerful LMS

01_Titel.indd 1

UNMATCHED THROUGHPUT, EXCELLENT QUALITY

Good vision for everyone

Making it possible: automated cosmetic inspection

ISSN 1614-1598 66527 Volume 20

OPHTHALMIC LABS & INDUSTRY

First eyewear sustainability certification program

Security training in the supply chain | Part 1 ▶ Technology

Debunk your marketing platitudes

Connect, discover, stay up-to-date

The A to Z of sustainability

Dive into the world of smart glasses

Artificial intelligence supports transfer in continuing education

ISSN 1614-1598 66527 Volume 20

26.02.24 15:19

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www.schneider-om.com

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14.12.2023 14:29:41 22.12.23 09:53

MASTHEAD PUBLISHERS ADDRESS

Eyepress Fachmedien GmbH Saarner Str. 151, D-45479 Mülheim a. d. Ruhr Tel.: +49-208-306683-00 Fax: +49-208-306683-99 Website: www.mafo-optics.com E-mail: info@mafo-optics.com CEO Petros Sioutis E-mail: p.sioutis@eyepress.de PUBLISHER Silke Sage, Petros Sioutis, Efstathios Efthimiadis FOUNDED 2003 by Jörg Spangemacher

BANK DETAILS

Bank account: Sparkasse Aachen Bank No.: 390 500 00, Acc. No.: 1073 3925 06 IBAN: DE21 3905 0000 1073 3925 06 SWIFT: AACSDE33XXX CHIEF-EDITOR Hanna Diewald E-mail: hanna.diewald@mafo-optics.com EDITORS Rebekka Nurkanovic E-mail: rebekka.nurkanovic@mafo-optics.com Britta Laupichler E-mail: britta@mafo-optics.com TRANSLATIONS John Saniter, Bopfingen

PRODUCTION & LAYOUT Efstathios Efthimiadis, Pascal Bruns E-mail: production@eyepress.de DISTRIBUTION PressUp GmbH, Postbox 70 13 11, D-22013 Hamburg Tel.: +49-40-386666-308, Fax: +49-40-386666-299 MEDIA CONSULTANT Pauline Möller Tel.: +49-208-306683-24 E-mail: pauline.moeller@mafo-optics.com ADVERTISING AGENT GREAT CHINA Beijing FOCUS Optics Culture Communication Co. Ltd. Room 319, Building 2, Nr. 1, Northbank 1292, Nr. 15 Jianguo Eastroad, Beijing 100024 (Chaoyang), P.R. China Mrs. Jian Wang Tel.: +86-10-8537-6529 Email: jennywang_focus@126.com Skype: jennywang611 焦点视光（北京）文化传播有限公司 北京市朝阳区建国东路15号院甲一号北岸1292 二号楼319室 邮编：100024 电话：+86-10-8537-6529 jennywang_focus@126.com 电邮：jennywang_focus@126.com ADVERTISEMENT RATES Price list no. 20, valid from January 01, 2024 Publication schedule 6 issues 2024: January, March, May, July, September, November

SUBSCRIPTION COSTS PER YEAR European Union € 140,00 (plus VAT for German companies) Overseas Seamail € 160,00 Overseas Airmail € 195,00 United States Seamail € 170,00 United States Airmail € 225,00 Single issue € 20,00 (plus mailing costs) The Publisher requires three months written notice on cancellation. Subscribers please note that proof of notice may be required.

PHOTO CREDITS P.6: Scott Graham, P.10: Getty Images, P.29: Earth Pixel LLC., P.36: Roman, P.53: Arsenii Palivoda /stock.adobe.com /unsplash.com /envato.com PRODUCTION & PRINT Kollin Medien GmbH, Neudrossenfeld, Germany The publisher takes no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts. Please note also that photographs submitted for use in MAFO cannot be returned. The publisher’s written permission is required for any reproduction, translation or recording of material published in MAFO, including extracts of such material. Permission will normally be given, subject to the usual acknowledgement. Copies made of published items must be limited in number and for personal use only.

EDITORIAL BOARD Jörg Spangemacher, Peter Baumbach, Mo Jalie

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FIRST FULLY-AUTOMATED COSMETIC INSPECTION DETECTED

Haze

DETECTED

Scratch

DETECTED

Center Dot

NEW

FULL-MAP POWER MEASUREMENT

No Go

Rework

Go

CSI m dulo For the first time, a system sees what only experts see: CSI Modulo ONE reliably detects cosmetic defects fully automatically and absolutely dependably, at the highest level. The optical system screens the surface for irregularities, and characterizes and evaluates them with the help of artificial intelligence (AI).

It detects any common defects such as scratches, pits, center dots, haze, chatter, cutting marks, spiral and fringes. The result is consistent, objective evaluation. Unbiased. 24/7.

The smart system mimics individual decision making patterns to reflect a labs’ unique quality standard.

All labs have to do is teach the system by feeding it decisions. This way, CSI Modulo ONE understands what kind of defects, in which combination, in what intensity and in which zones, is a go or no go.

Labs can implement the same quality routines everywhere. Apart from this, labs can also opt to apply differing standards depending on the demands of the product or brand produced.

The result: A system that makes decisions just like you would make them – because you taught it.

www.schneider-om.com

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16.10.2024 10:12:30 21.10.24 14:16