BLINQ

ANNIVERSARY

EDITION

Inspiring

CATWALKS Eye care meets eye fashion

The windows

OF THE SOUL

Human and animal eyes: countless complex miracles every second

Famous

frame designers Artists with a message

Before you put on

your new pair of glasses This is how lenses are made

POWERED BY

DANISH DESIGN 路 CUSTOMIZED 路 COMFORT 路 FA

FASHION 路 LIGHTWEIGHT 路 47 DESIGN AWARDS

A bird’s eye view

He had a good eye

Seeing is believing

BULL’S EYE

SEEING EYE TO EYE Seeing through rose-coloured glasses To keep an eye on something A true eye catcher We hope you will enjoy Blinq Magazine.

HOYA VISION CARE EUROPE

OPTICAL HIGH-QUALITY LENS MANUFACTURER

COLOPHON

CONTENT THE Windows of the soul

6

Human and animal eyes: countless complex miracles every second

Production by: Hoya Lens Supported by: Havana Orange Design: Goedinvorm grafische producties BV Cover

Famous frame designers

9

Artists with a message

Model: Nadia Kloet Photography: Joost van Velsen and Sjoerd van Dijk Frames:

PRESBYOPIA

16

Inspiring catwalks

19

When your arms are getting too short Eye care meets eye fashion

Spectacles from the 1950s (private collection) Framers, coco 101 Kio Yamato, Kp-088U col 04 Illustrations Schwandt Infographics (‘Before you put on a new pair of glasses’)

The sun and uv radiation

24

How they affect your eyes

Victor Feenstra / Zie magazine p.33 (‘Experience new possibilities in 3D’) Jorien Doorn (‘The amazing era of presbyopia’) Krikke Books and Fiestoforo (‘Optical illusions’)

Mirror, mirror on the wall...

Who is the fairest of all?

28

What light does on your lenses

Acknowledgements Globrands Framers (www.framers.com) Fashion Vision (www.fashionvision.be)

Sports & glasses

30

The importance of sharp vision

Prummel Optiversum Groenhof Optiek Roberto Doodkorte

AS SEEN ONLINE

34

Make a lasting impression

36

Tips to enjoy your glasses longer

Luxottica Anna-Karin Karlsson, Slav Nowosad and Tipton Zakariás Transitions Optical Sony Europe Samsung Electronics Dmitry Samal

Contemporary Danish Frame Design

40

Trends according to FLEYE and Ørgreen Optics

Stuart Haygarth Nick Jinkinson www.hoya.eu A N N I V E R S A R Y D I T I O N

E

Liked this part? Turn the magazine to discover more about the amazing world of vision.

4

POW

ERED

BY

1941 20 11

photography: davidbiene

photography: davidbiene

High quality acetate frames Handmade in Germany We are ready for check-in!

Check out! www.framers.de Framers GmbH I Kreuzbergstr. 30 I 10965 Berlin I Tel. 0049 (0)30-322961630 I www.framers.de

THE WINDOWS Human and animal eyes: countless complex miracles every second

6

OF THE SOUL Retina Optic Nerve

Iris

They reflect our mood and our feelings, they work tirelessly every waking moment, and they are a miracle of optical engineering. But how do our eyes exactly work?

W

Cornea Pupil

Lens

e open our eyes in the morning

coloured part of the eye. The iris acts like the

rods can ‘see’ black and white, whilst cones

and they immediately start working.

shutter of a camera, opening up to allow

can ‘see’ colours. Together they turn the

They effortlessly shift focus from far to

more light into the eye in low-light conditions,

received picture into an electrical message.

extreme close-by distance, they distinguish

and closing up to allow less light in when

This message travels from the retina along

the subtlest differences between countless

conditions are bright. The dark area in the

the optic nerve to the brain, which flips the

colours and they work brilliantly in both bright

centre of the iris is the pupil. This is the area

images the right way up and then relays those

conditions and near darkness. So how do

where the controlled amount of light enters

images to other parts of the brain.

our eyes perform these countless complex

the main body of the eye.

Plenty amazing facts

miracles every second of every day? And how do our eyes differ from those in the animal

Messages to the brain

The process of eyesight alone is pretty

kingdom?

Once the light passes through the pupil, it

miraculous when you think about all that

reaches the lens which - acting like a camera -

complexity contained in such a small and

The best place to start when we want to

focuses light onto the retina, which is at the

perfect sphere. But the miraculous facts keep

answer these questions is to consider the

back of the eye. The lens changes shape to

on coming. Both eyes together give you an

mechanics of the human eye. Even though

ensure that the light image on the retina is

amazing 200 degrees of vision. In other words,

our eyes are seen from behind eyelids, giving

as clear and as sharply focused as possible.

you do not simply see in front of you and from

them an almond shape, the eye is actually

When the image arrives on the retina, it is

side to side, you can actually see partially

spherical with a diameter of around 2½

actually upside down, because the light is

behind you. Your eyes can see upwards of ten

centimetres. When the eye looks at an object,

obeying certain laws of physics as it passes

million colours. Plus they have a brilliant back-

light rays enter through the transparent outer

through the eye. That image is later rotated

up system for safety and protection. Eyelids

surface of the eye, which is known as the

by the brain, so that we can perceive what

cover and protect your eyes when you are

cornea. The light then continues its journey

we see the right way up. The retina contains

asleep. They also will shut very fast if they sense

into the eye through the iris, which is the

two types of cells called rods and cones;

that your eye is about to be hit by a foreign

7

THE WINDOWS OF THE SOUL

object. Similarly, your eyelashes are actually

Most of us know that cats see superbly in the

widen at night and can even see colours in

super-sensitive dust traps, whilst your eyebrows

dark, that some bats ‘see’ by using echo-

the dark. To give you an idea of his amazing

act as a further barrier to sweat and dust. And

location techniques and that certain species

night vision, whilst cats and sharks can see

when you blink, the eyelids spread tears over

of spiders have up to eight eyes. But did you

up to ten times better than humans, the leaf-

the surface of the eye, washing specks of dust

know that the ‘colossal’ squid has eyes the

tailed gecko can see up to 350 times better

and other materials into the corner of your eye

size of footballs? With these big eyes he can

than we can in dim light.

next to the nose. Sometimes tears flow over

see in the darkest depths of the ocean. On

your lower eyelid - such as when you cry - but

the other end of the size scale, the compound

However, whilst the eyes of many creatures

mostly the tears flow down a tiny tube at the

eyes of tiny insects can comprise up to 30,000

in the animal kingdom are superior to

edge of your lower eyelid, next to your nose.

individual lenses. Thanks to their spherical

ours, we do have a major advantage over

This tube carries the tears to the back of your

eyes being on stalks, snails can see round

them; we can have ours fixed when our

nose. That is why you get a running nose when

corners. Chameleons’ eyelids are fused and

sight is deteriorating. Thanks to the skills and

you cry excessively.

cover almost the entire eyeball except for a

experience of opticians, optometrists and

small hole to let the pupil see through. Each

ophthalmologists, we can have our eyesight

The miracles of the animal kingdom

eye can be moved independently from the

adjusted and improved, corrected and

Of course we are not the only ones with

other so the chameleon can scan for prey

enhanced, ensuring that our windows of the

miraculous and wonderful eyes. Virtually every

and potential threats at the same time using

soul not only look wonderful, but always work

creature in the animal kingdom is blessed with

a full 360-degree vision. Leaf-tailed geckos

wonderfully as well!

eyesight and some creatures’ eyes are truly

have extraordinary night vision. Their pupils are

remarkable in appearance, size and function.

vertical and have a series of pinholes which

8

FAMOUS FRAME

DESIGNERS

They are not just frame designers, but artists with a message. Anna-Karin Karlsson, Slav Nowosad and Tipton Zakariรกs are young designers whose designs are rapidly conquering the world. Three portraits of the next generation of frame designers.

FAMOUS FRAME

DESIGNERS

Often inspired by fairy tales, her fanciful frames bear names like ‘Alice goes to Cannes’ and ‘When trouble came to town’. Anna-Karin Karlsson from Sweden is an eyewear stylist who designs exclusive glasses, tailored to the image and personality of the individual customer.

Anna-Karin Karlsson A

fter fifteen years of working in the field

are prepared to spend thousands of dollars

“I just worked with one of the world’s most

of eyewear styling for one of the most

for a custom- made frame. Her private

exclusive materials, tortoiseshell,” says Anna-

prominent opticians in London, she

customer list includes big names such as

Karin. Finding material that was obtained

returned to her native Sweden to realize her

Grace Jones, Rihanna and Skye Edwards.

in the period before these animals have

dreams. She is now working from her little

become a protected species - and not to

red cottage in the north of rural Sweden.

Before production starts in a small factory

mention the craftsmen who have the skill

Anna-Karin’s frames have quickly acquired

in France, each tailor- made frame requires

to handle this exclusive material - presents

a reputation since she started her own

elaborate preparations. Anna-Karin travels

quite a challenge. But the customer can rest

business. She is currently working on several

around Europe to find materials, to discuss

assured that he is the only one in the world to

secret projects. Celebrities, musicians and

design options and to plan fittings.

wear a unique Anna-Karin tortoiseshell frame.

fashion trendsetters from all over the world In addition to exclusive tailor-made frames, Anna-Karin also offers a collection of fancy frames made of plastic, intended for more modest budgets. “I am completing a new collection of sunglasses to be launched at fashion shows worldwide this fall and eventually sold in selected shops all over the world.” These successes have further inspired Anna-Karin to design frame cases and handbags - distinguishable by the same uncompromising, yet whimsical touch.

With the nomination of the prestigious Swedish award ‘Guldknappen’ in her own handbag, the world smiles upon Anna-Karin.

And she smiles right back. www.annakarinkarlsson.com

10

photo by Slawomir Trojanowski

FAMOUS FRAME

DESIGNERS

He is young, ambitious and driven to make his dreams come true.

Polish frame designer Slav Nowosad has an increasing group of sophisticated design followers across the world. His designs are where the love of art, the creation of functional forms and optics meet.

Slav Nowosad A

n optician by education, responsible

connoisseurs of sophisticated design across

hard at the same time. It is not easy to process,

for the family run optical shop, Slav

the world.

but it brings great satisfaction once integrated

understands the client’s experience with

in the finished product.”

wearing glasses. During his management

Slav Nowosad is the founder and owner of

studies, the idea of becoming the creator

Nowosad Designworks that manufactures

He has a few renowned clients but prefers to

of the best frames in the world entered his

highly customized products for genuine

keep their names to himself. By his standards,

mind. Comfortable, without any functional

individualists. Eventually, it is the client who

each client is cherished and each client

disadvantages, highlighting the user’s

selects the options which bring out the main

deserves a unique treatment. What is

personality. In 2005 he wrote a business

aspects of their personality and suit their

important is mutual understanding. A person

plan and full of enthusiasm he started

lifestyle best. Although the designs by Slav

that selects his frame is both a spectacle

searching for investors. For two years Slav

Nowosad are indebted to contemporary

wearer and a recipient of Slav Nowosad’s art.

knocked on the doors of multiple institutions.

esthetics, they are not free from classic

”That is why I like to remain a niche artist. I do

Unfortunately, the enthusiastic reactions

analogies. Slav’s favorite material is steel.

not fancy becoming ‘fashionable’. Being ‘en

he had hoped for failed to occur. He then

“I adore steel. The gloss, color, and the texture

vogue’ kills art and the clarity of my message.”

decided to go ahead on his own. It worked.

that absorbs the light. Steel is an outstanding

Now his creations please the eye of the

material. It is flexible, pliable, malleable and

13

www.slavnowosad.com

FAMOUS FRAME

DESIGNERS

Tipton Zakariás Old films and vinyl records integrated in your frame? Everything is possible according to Tipton Zakariás. His frames entirely made of recycled materials are famous around the world.

Extravagant frame lover Elton John even bought two whole collections.

H

e wanted to be an inventor, but, by

known but appreciated by the Tipton brothers.

coincidence, Zachary Tipton, called

The unsold copies are made into frames or

Tipton Zakariás, became well known as

even into frame cases.

a frame creator who has made glasses of several novel materials in recent years.

Tipton Zakariás has created his latest

He started producing spectacle frames when

collections by recycling cultural garbage.

he was only sixteen years old. When he got his

Beside the vinyl records, he has launched

first prescription for glasses, he believed that

cinematic frames which are made of old 16

the designer frames he came across were too

and 35 mm film rolls. So if somebody wants to

expensive. He was confident that he could

have his frames decorated with film scenes,

create something special but much cheaper.

he can choose from a variety of classics.

Due to lack of other materials he began to produce frames from his father’s old vinyl and

The special products of Tipton Eyeworks

bakelite records.

earned several prestigious awards. Although Tipton Eyeworks has achieved international

In the beginning he regarded his frame

success, Zakariás still prefers to live and

production as a hobby. After his study in

create in Hungary. In Budapest - his mother’s

optics he founded, together with his younger

hometown - he wants to continue with his

brother Zoltán his own company: Vinilyze. In

world-conquering, recycling, environmentally

2001 their first collection was a fact. Since

friendly and creative work.

2007 Tipton Eyeworks has launched their own bakelite records with bands that are less

14

www.tipton.hu

Presbyopia when your arms What excuse do you find when you feel that you have more and more trouble reading or working with the computer? Indeed it seems as if the letters are getting smaller and smaller. But in reality it is your eyes that are getting worse. A phenomenon that everybody will face sooner or later: presbyopia.

P

resbyopia is the scientific word for

declines, generally after the age of 40.

‘age-related long-sightedness’. It stems

This causes you to have more and more

from the Greek word ‘presbys’ meaning

difficulty reading and viewing objects within

‘elder’ and ‘opia’ meaning ‘eye’. There is a

a distance of 30 centimetres. Presbyopia

difference between presbyopia and common

is a natural phenomenon, a physiological

long-sightedness. Common long-sightedness

variation in the visual process which sooner

is mostly innate, but can also arise when

or later will affect us all.

certain functions of the eye, such as focusing or detail recognition, are not optimal.

In recent years, the percentage of people

On the other hand, age-related long-

with presbyopia has increased considerably.

sightedness is a natural process during

A recent Italian study*) showed that more

which the elasticity of the lens slowly

than 57% of people over 40 have presbyopia.

16

are getting too short An important reason may be that our society

can become troublesome. This often leads to

performance and results, and reduce eye

has changed from an industrialized into a

incorrect sitting posture, since people tend to

fatigue in those eight to nine hours in front of

computerized environment, so sharp vision

sit too close to the computer screen. Sooner

the computer becomes crucial.

becomes an absolute necessity.

Good vision for better work performance If you are dealing with deteriorating eyesight, simple activities, such as working on your computer,

or later this will cause neck

A working day behind your computer with bad vision means: • refocusing about 30,000 times • probable physical onset • jumpy and blurry images • tiredness • head and back aches

pain, headaches, tiredness

Seeing clearly at all distances

and an overall decrease

Constantly switching from near sight to far

in productivity. Modern life

sight glasses and vice versa is not the most

demands increasingly high

ideal solution. Multifocal lenses are the most

levels of performance from

advanced optical solution, because they

us, especially at work. So

contain several corrective areas. These areas

using specific glasses that

allow the wearer to see clearly at all distances.

increase our work capacity,

17

Presbyopia

Brainpower Near area This area in the lower part of the lenses is dedicated to reading or viewing objects at close distance.

Every time you receive a new pair of glasses your brain has to get used to the new lenses.

Especially when you buy your first multifocal glasses, it could take a while to get accustomed to them.

In this area, the power is the strongest. This guarantees a comfortable, wide vision.

Generally speaking, the adaptation time for multifocal lenses can range from

Distance area

Periphal area

one day to a couple of weeks. Your new

The upper part of the lenses

The so-called peripheral zones

lenses have been especially created to

will provide comfortable

of multifocal lenses are the

make this adaptation period as short

distance vision, for example

unclear visual areas on the

and easy as possible. When you follow

when driving a car, watching tv or a movie in

far sides of the lenses.These areas cannot be

the tips below, your adaptation time will

the cinema, or enjoying the view.

eliminated completely, but they are unlikely to

be the shortest.

be a hindrance if the usage tips are followed Intermediate area

correctly.

• Wear your new glasses as often as

The intermediate area, or

possible. Taking them on and off will

progressive corridor, is the

There are some myths about multifocal lenses

slow down the adaptation process.

middle part of the lenses where

including the saying that they are difficult to

Especially the first couple of weeks it is

the power slowly and softly starts to merge

wear, it takes a long time to adapt to them, they

important to wear them all day long.

from the distance prescription into the near

are expensive, cause headaches and force

prescription. The width of this area depends

you into unnatural, uncomfortable positions.

• Do not switch back to your old pair of

on the specific lens design chosen for each

Nothing could be further from the truth. Yes, it

glasses. Your eyes will constantly have

individual wearer. Although the narrowest

is true that it may take some time - one day

to make the switch back and forth,

part of the lenses, it still enables the wearer

up to three weeks - to become used to your

which can strain your eyes.

to see clearly at intermediate distances, such

new lenses. But the facts speak for themselves:

as a computer screen or the dashboard of

86% of multifocal lens wearers*) say that they

a car.

are fully satisfied with their choice, have no

direction you are looking, do not just

complaints and feel comfortable after just a

move your eyes.

Some wearers find the intermediate area too

• Always try to move your head in the

few days of use.

narrow for particular indoor use. They may

• Visit your optician regularly to check

benefit from a specialized lens solution for

The benefits are considerable: not only

the fitting of your frame, especially after

indoor use, the so-called indoor lenses. These

the convenience of having a single pair

you bumped into something. This will

lenses are especially designed to make

of glasses for all distances, but also the

guarantee you the best vision possible.

switching between near and intermediate

confidence to be master of the environment

Never attempt to adjust your glasses

distances easier and more comfortable.

around you in all its dimensions, both at near

yourself.

They offer a much wider intermediate area,

and far distance. Multifocal lenses offer you

covering a distance up to four metres.

stability when moving and therefore a strong

And always remember to have your eyes

Professionals in particular who strive to

feeling of security and a quick, instinctive

checked on a regular basis.

perform to the best of their abilities and

transition from far to near.

demand the highest resolution, optimal contrast and vision will benefit from these indoor lenses.

*) commissioned by the Consorzio Comunicazione Vista, December 2009

18

nspiring catwalks 19

I

nspiring catwalks

I

n the past years glasses developed from practical and functional

the country and visited by opticians, all the major editors of fashion

tools into real fashion accessories. Opticians anticipated and

magazines, newspapers and television shows. The large amount of

transformed their stores from practices into shopping areas where

publicity contributes to the perception of eyewear changing from

people are invited to try the latest styles and newest collections.

visual support to an important fashion accessory. People are inspired

Even lenses are presented in a more fashionable and attractive way.

to change their glasses, like shoes or bags, more often and have more

Information and inspiration are the keywords. The results can be seen

than just one pair to match their different outfits.

in the streets as more and more people wear the most up-to-date

Opticians focus on both eye care and eye fashion

styles. For example, the recent transformation from more rectangularshaped frames with heavy temples and large logo’s into the current vintage-inspired styles without logos went faster than ever before.

Opticians dare to adapt their collections to the latest trends.

The winter season 2011 eyewear styles match with the fashion trends.

They themselves are informed by half-yearly trend reports and inspired

For the ladies we see a lot of cat eye shape frames, retro-inspired,

by major events like the Amsterdam Fashion Week that always hosts

heavy blacks as well as precious luxuries. The men wear retro, vintage

at least one show fully dedicated to eyewear. This show is presented

and luxury frames. Lenses are mainly transparent but colours are

by Club BRILLANT, a cooperation of the best independent opticians in

gaining popularity with the fashion-conscious spectacle wearer.

Leisure Society

Anne et Valentin

Paul Smith 20

Tom Ford

O

ver the years, Club BRILLANT presented a variety of young Dutch designers as well as famous names at the Amsterdam International Fashion Week catwalk. American

heroes Badgley Mischka and Margaret Maldonado of L’Agence accepted the invitation and showed both their fashion collections and their eyewear. Most recently Italia Independent pleased the crowd with its spectacular Velvet collection. Oliver Peoples, Anne et Valentin, Linda Farrow, Sama Eyewear and many others showed their collections in combination with talented young Dutch designers. All of the shows generated lots of publicity and were recorded to be shown in the stores.

21

www.Silhouette.com

Š Silhouette / valid until 12.2011

THE SUN AND How they affect your eyes

UV RADIATION Five billion years ago, a flashing fireball was born which we know as the centre of our solar system: the sun. For thousands of years, the sun has been idolized and feared as a God. And with a good reason, for the energy from the sun has made life on earth possible.

known effect is tanning, which is caused by UV-A radiation. At the same time, we have to protect our skin from UV-B radiation, that causes skin burn and potentially skin cancer, with clothing, hats and sun block lotions. But we cannot forget that our eyes also require protection. Especially during sunny days our eyes are exposed to high amounts of UV radiation. It is reflected from the sand, snow and water and even from dust particles floating in the air. Long-term and significant exposure may cause permanent problems such as damage to the retina or conditions such as cataract and snow-blindness. But the sun also has positive effects: it is an important source of Vitamin D. This vitamin regulates the calcium and phosphorus levels in your blood and promotes better calcium absorption in your small intestines.

Eye protection Luckily, it is very easy to protect your eyes from radiation and glaring light. There is eye

T

protection on the market for every style and he first thing we will notice is a warm and

height of 20 kilometres. UV-B radiation is also

situation. Most of the quality lens materials

comfortable sensation when sunbeams

almost completely filtered, thereby 95% of the

nowadays filter UV radiation completely or

reach our skin. But there are side effects.

radiation reaching earth is of type UV-A. The

almost completely. Also prescription lenses are

The sun transmits radiation towards earth,

amount of UV radiation varies according to

available for a wide selection of frames. Colour

which consists of visible light and infrared

the geographical location and the time of

options can range from light to dark. Beware

rays. Luckily, the hazardous radiation is

day. In general, the radiation is the highest

that even though lenses are coloured, it does

filtered by the top layers of the atmosphere

when the sun is at its highest point, mostly

not necessarily mean they offer UV protection.

that surrounds the earth. Towards earth a

midday. But also during cloudy days radiation

continuous amount of ultraviolet radiation

can be high.

The vast range of sunglass frames varies from

(UV) is transmitted. This radiation is divided

traditional models to the latest fashion trends.

into UV-A, UV-B and UV-C radiation. UV-C

The effects of UV radiation

When considering the best possible eye

radiation is the most hazardous, but it is

We are quite familiar with the effects UV

protection, the choice of frame is best larger

completely filtered by our ozone layer at a

radiation has to our skin. Probably the best-

and slightly curved, which prevents rays of light

25

THE SUN AND UV-RADIATION Facts and figures In a research lead by Transitions Optical and Ipsos Health in 2010, 8,000 adults across Europe and South Africa were interviewed on their knowledge, risk factors and behaviour associated with eye care and protection.

Surprisingly, nearly 70% of those surveyed are aware that sun exposure can cause serious illnesses, but only 8% knows it can actually harm the eyes.

Europeans spend an average of 29 hours per week outdoors. While outdoor enthusiasts expose their eyes to a potential of more than 1,500 hours of UV damage each year, 20% of the respondents do not protect their eyes against UV rays!

penetrating and reaching the eyes also from

your sunglasses should be at least 70% to

scratch resistant, anti-static, and water- and

the top and the sides. Besides sunglasses, it

75% tinted. In very bright circumstances, for

dirt repellent. An added bonus on the beach

is wise to use extra protection from glare and

example near water and snow, it should be

with sand and sun lotion involved.

wear a cap or sun visor.

up to 85% or even 90%. Brown tinted lenses

People who spend a lot of time on the water

filter blue light best. Blue light is the light that is

or drive on wet roads know how badly the rays

Extra protection for children

known to create the highest feeling of glare.

of light can reflect from the surface and can

The average child receives three times the

Brown also improves contrast on grass and

cause blinding glare. The best possible way

annual UV exposure of an adult. Since a

against blue skies, which makes it a good

to avoid this glare is to use polarized lenses.

child’s pupil is larger, more light will enter the

colour, for example, for driving or golfing. Grey

Polarized lenses block certain light waves,

eye. In addition to that, children’s eyes do

and green-grey tinted lenses do not alter the

thus reducing glare and preventing squinting.

not filter UV radiation as much as the eyes of

colours of your surroundings, which makes it

Polarization also improves contrast. Nowadays

adults do. The lens of an eye of a child under

easier to estimate distances. Yellow and orange

there is a wide selection of polarized lenses

the age of ten years allows more than six times

tinted lenses are generally used for specific

available.

the amount of UV radiation. Therefore, it is very

types of sports glasses such as for shooting or

important to protect children’s eyes from glare

skiing. They improve contrast and accuracy in

Photochromic lenses

and UV radiation. There are many kinds of

low-light conditions or cloudy weather.

There are also automatically darkening lenses

sunglasses available for children. Capped hats

available for glasses. These photochromic

and sun visors are recommended. Especially

Anti-reflection and polarization

lenses react to UV light. Outdoors the lenses

children should have double protection.

An anti-reflective treatment for sunglasses can

darken according to the amount of UV

minimize uncomfortable glare and reflections.

radiation. Correspondingly when the UV

Effect of colours

Often this anti-reflective coating is applied on

radiation decreases, the dark colour of the

In sunglasses, it is good to choose the lens

the back of your lenses to reduce glare falling

lens fades back to almost clear. Indoors the

colour and density according to the purpose

in from the sides of your glasses. This gives

lenses are clear. Photochromic lenses are not

of use. Most sunglasses are purchased to

you a clearer vision. In several modern anti-

sun lenses, but they are suitable for everyday

prevent glare. To be able to get sufficient

reflective coatings also additional treatments

use. They are a good choice for people with

protection from visible light, the lenses in

are included to make your lenses more

eyes that are sensitive to the light.

26

adaptive lenses

95% of customers are satisfied*

Clear indoors

adapt quickly

dark outdoors

for more information visit www.transitions.com transitions and the swirl are registered trademarks of transitions optical, inc. Š 2011 transitions optical, inc. *Source: IpSoS u&A 2009/2010

Light reflecting on your lenses is unpleasant.

Not only for people who want to look into your eyes rather than into a mirror, but also for you, as reflections on your lenses make your own vision less clear. Luckily, there is an effective solution for these problems: an anti-reflection coating.

Mirror, mirror on the wall...

who is the fairest of all?

E

liminating unwanted reflections provides two

This coating makes your lenses easier to clean and it

advantages. The first advantage is that you will

will help you keep them spotless longer.

look better! Your glasses no longer get in the way,

so people can actually see your eyes and discover

But that is not all. One of the most important things a

their full expressive power. The second advantage

coating can do is to protect your lenses from getting

is an optical solution. An anti-reflective coated lens

scratched. This is achieved by applying a hardening

allows around eight percent more light to reach

varnish to both sides of the lens. This basic coating is

the retina, thus improving the quality of your vision.

indispensable for maintaining the optical qualities of

Unwanted reflections are eliminated and no longer

your glasses for use on a daily basis.

hamper your sight. This enables you, for example, to drive more confidently at night or on wet roads.

In addition, some manufacturers have developed a

All in all, anti-reflection coatings make a substantial

new anti-reflective coating that considerably increases

contribution to your safety and comfort.

the scratch-resistance of your lenses, almost matching the hardness of mineral lenses. If you realise how

But a coating on your lenses does not only take

many times a day you clean your lenses, you can

away uncomfortable reflections, it also offers

easily understand that it will greatly

additional qualities. First, it makes your lenses more

improve the durability of your lenses.

transparent and second, it may have a water or dirt repellent top layer. Water turns into droplets will easily

So when you decide to invest in a

slide off the surface, while traces of oil and grease,

new pair of glasses, do not forget

e.g. from fingerprints, simply cannot get a hold.

the finishing touch!

29

Sports &GLASSES

30

Although spectacle wearers are comfortable with most of the activities they are engaged in, a lot of people take their glasses off during sport activities. That will give them a huge disadvantage as it limits the visual performance. And not necessary, because there are good solutions available: sports glasses.

I

mpact proof and flexible materials, curved

depth perception had also considerably

frames, tinted lenses for extra contrast

improved. And that is indispensible in high

and coatings that protect your lenses

jumping.

from getting scratched, perspiration and all weather conditions. Nowadays, glasses and

Tia has several glasses containing shock-

sports are a successful combination.

resistant lenses light as a feather. The lenses are treated with a special, scratch-

Olympic proof

resistant coating. This ensures enhanced

That wearing glasses does not stand in the

transparency while avoiding distracting

way of a successful sporting career has

reflections. As a result, Tia is less bothered

been proven by Olympic high jumper Tia

by flashes and stadium lights during

Hellebaut. She is one of the few professional

competitions. This treatment also ensures

athletes – and the only world-class high

that rain drops will roll off the lenses which,

jumper – who wears glasses. And yet,

in addition, will hardly ever steam up. Simply

they definitely contribute to her sporting

put, Tia’s glasses are worth gold to her.

achievements. More than that, she sees even better with her glasses than with

Choice of materials

contact lenses. The proof? Her gold medal

The requirements for sport glasses differ

at the Beijing Olympic Games in 2008.

from those for everyday glasses. Most sport frames have an ergonomically curved

Sharp vision is critical for professional

shape. This way, the frame is closer to the

sports people. At first, Tia opted for contact

face and protects the eyes better against

lenses but after having suffered a nasty eye

wind, insects and dust.

infection she was forced to wear glasses.

Especially important for outdoor sports is the

Initially against her will. But as soon as she

lens size. The larger the size of the lens and

put on her glasses, she realised that far from

the larger the curvature of the frame, the

being a step backwards, they were precisely

fewer UV rays can reach the eyes from the

a giant leap forwards. Tia immediately felt

top and the sides of the frames.

that she could see clearer and sharper. Her

If you need prescription lenses, they need

31

Sports &GLASSES

Colour for UV protection and contrast For protection against UV and better contrast, it can be wise to choose tinted lenses. The lens colour and density should correspond to the targeted use. For outdoor use, sunglasses can give protection from visible light. The lenses should then be at least 70% to 75% tinted. In very bright circumstances, e.g. near water and snow, it should be up to 85% or even 90%. Brown tinted lenses improve contrast on grass and against blue skies, which makes it a good colour, for example, for golfing. Grey and green-grey tinted lenses do not alter the colours of your surroundings, which makes it easier to estimate distances.

Yellow and orange tinted lenses are generally used for specific types of sports glasses, like

For high jumper Tia excellent depth perception is essential

for shooting or skiing. They improve contrast to be calculated using special methods. The

Wearing comfort is an important factor. The

and accuracy in low-light conditions or

slightly different position of the lenses in front

frame material should be soft and flexible to

cloudy weather.

of the eye should be taken into account.

prevent slipping without exerting pressure. A capping piece at the top of the frame avoids

The requirements for frame and lenses

The most ideal lenses are made of impact

sweat running into the eyes while ventilation

actually depend on the type of sport you are

resistant material to reduce the risk of

holes supply air. Even more comfort is attained

practicing. So before buying sport glasses an

breakage as much as possible. At the same

with soft-pads adaptable to the nose and

intake should be performed by an eye care

time, the material needs to be lightweight, so

height adjustable earpieces made of anti-

specialist. Just like when you buy running

it will not hinder the wearer when exercising.

slippery material for a secure fit of the frame.

shoes, not every sport shoe will do!

32

©2011 Oakley Icon ©2011 Oakley Icon

MARKCAVENDISH CAVENDISH MARK MARK CAVENDISH cycling cycling cycling

DESIGN FOR FOR AA REASON DESIGN REASON DESIGN FOR A REASON

‘Eyewears library’

T

he cabinet ‘Eyewears library’ by designer Dzmitry Samal is inspired by the shape of aviator sunglasses. This desk has two closing

compartments and makes a striking statement to Illustration by Dmitry SAMAL

your office or house. www.samaldesign.com

As seen online…

Subtitle glasses

S

ony is developing a prototype of subtitle

Sony has developed a prototype see-through

glasses that will deliver a new cinema

eyewear display to superimpose subtitles

experience for those with hearing

on a cinema screen. The eyewear can be

disorders. With these glasses wearers will

worn over normal glasses, too. And for a full

see subtitles directly in front of their eyes,

experience we are investigating solutions

giving them the same freedom as hearing

with clip on 3D filters, so that both 2D and 3D

people. Josh Honda, Sony Europe Digital

movies can be watched.”

Cinema marketing, explains what this new technology is about.

Does it support other languages and

When will this technology become

activities?

available?

Why did Sony develop this technology?

“We are planning to support six different

“The subtitle glasses are still in a prototype

“Since the transformation from analogue

language channels. And not only in

state. In the spring of 2012, we will start the

to digital screening in cinemas, their visitors

cinemas, Sony aims at supporting a variety

discussion with cinema exhibitors to launch

have received an even greater viewing

of productions such as opera, theatre and

this technology. There is no plan to sell it

experience. However, to date people who

musicals. Productions in which narratives

directly to consumers at this stage, it all

are deaf or hard hearing have not been

in the native language will enhance the

depends on how widely this technology will

supported well in this experience. Therefore,

entertainment experience of the viewer.”

be accepted.”

34

‘Spectacle’ on your ceiling

T

he chandelier ‘Spectacle’ is created by artist Stuart Haygarth. Over a thousand pairs of prescription glasses are linked together to resemble a traditional tiered chandelier. By using used prescription glasses, an

interesting analogy is drawn between their old and new purpose. The chandelier creates a mirror ball effect as the light is refracted beautifully through the several layers of lenses. A true eye catcher!

Photo by Stuart Haygarth / Haunch of Venison

www.stuarthaygarth.com

T

raditional photochromic eyewear is based on one typology: normal glasses or sunglasses. The Opus Design Award winning concept ‘Switch’ from industrial designer Nick Jinkinson addresses this by

making a more complete transformation between the two states. Not only do the lenses react to light, the entire frame changes colour, thus creating a whole new look.

Photo by Aurelien Godet

Switch

Pixel frames

T

he futuristic glasses ‘6dpi’ and ‘5dpi’ by designer Dmitry Samal have been designed with a pixelated effect. The designs refer to the late eighties when

computerized graphics and video games such as Tetris were popular. www.dzmitrysamal.com

35

MAKETips A LASTING IMPRESSION to enjoy your glasses longer

36

Congratulations, you have purchased a new pair of glasses. Not only did you choose a beautiful frame that fits your personality, the lenses were also created for your eyes only.

B

Handling tips

Cleaning tips

• Always use both hands to put on your

• When cleaning your glasses, do not only

glasses or to take them off.

• When you hold your glasses in your hand, hold them by the bridge, not the temples.

• Keep your glasses in the special hard case provided by your optician.

• Do not place your glasses with the front on hard surfaces, to protect your lenses from getting scratched.

• Be careful with heat. Do not put your

clean the lenses, but clean the frame as well.

• First remove any hard dust particles by rinsing your glasses with lukewarm water.

Then clean them with lukewarm water and a mild soap.

• Dry your lenses with a soft, clean towel.

Make sure the towel has not been washed with fabric softener, as this can leave a

ut just like most of the products you

glasses on heat sources like ovens or

buy, you can only keep your glasses in

central heating and do not leave them in

optimal condition if you take good care

the car when it is extremely hot outside.

contain wood fibres that may cause

of them. Although your glasses have been

• Aggressive substances can damage your

permanent damage to your lenses.

created with utmost care and your lenses

lenses and frame permanently. So keep

• You can also use a microfibre cloth like the

are protected by a coating layer, they are

your glasses away from glue, perfume,

cloth you have received with your glasses

still vulnerable. It is important to handle and

hairspray, acetone, domestic cleaning

or a special cleaning agent.

clean them carefully.

agents and insect repellents.

37

misty shade on your lenses.

• Do not use paper towels! These often

People People are the scope of our activities.

Let’s never forget they form our very right to exist.

Therefore we see every customer as an individual who deserves our sincere and personal attention.

Eye for detail

Model erna 568

To Find your nearesT dealer, Call +45 4647 0000. www.fleye.dK

Contemporary Danish Frame Design

Danish design is known all over the world and it is characterized by a strong tradition of simplicity and high standards. This is also significant in relation to frames, to which designers apply high standards. To the choice of materials as well as the interaction between form and function. Internationally, Danish frame designers have gained respect for their innovative designs. They frequently receive international awards and acknowledgement.

A

ccording to three contemporary Danish frame

buildings and their architectural details, and the

designers – Annette Saust Estø from FLEYE

city’s buzz and energy. Trends and inspiration

and Henrik Ørgreen and Tobias Wandrup from

for details can be spotted and found in almost

Ørgreen Optics – materials such as beta titanium,

everything. Annette Saust as well as Tobias Wandrup

acetate and carbon fibre are future trends. Materials

emphasize that they are trying to create uniqueness

that are both durable and light weight for the most

in their designs in order to ensure new and exclusive

comfortable wearing experience. Preference is

products while new technical solutions are being

given to allergy safe materials since the number of

developed and tested. Close attention is paid to

allergies seems to rise. Another focus is the increase

the precision of the production process, which will

in the use of colours, which suits the pure and

guarantee an overall homogenous high quality and

simple lines of the frames very well. Colour lends the

robustness of even the lightest and finest of designs.

designs a fresh and contemporary look.

Modern Danish frame design has been building on a The designers are inspired by a number of factors.

long and well-established tradition of craftsmanship

FLEYE is located in a beautiful manor house

and innovation which started in the ‘Golden Age’ of

surrounded by a large garden, green fields and

Danish design in the fifties. And nowadays completed

nature, whereas Ørgreen Optics is located in a

thanks to the invention of techniques and materials

former warehouse in the centre of Copenhagen.

available today. A recipe that has led to international

The three designers derive inspiration from their

demand for the exceptional and exclusive Danish

surroundings: the landscape, the history of the

frame designs.

41

ANNIVERSARY

POWERED BY

EDITION

1941 2011

ANNIVERSARY

POWERED BY

EDITION

1941 2011

2011 Marchon Eyewear, Inc.

CONTENT

70 YEARS OF PASSION

THE EVOLUTION OF GLASSES THROUGHOUT THE CENTURIES

T

700 years of visual support

his year Hoya has reached an important mile stone. We are

4

celebrating our 70th anniversary. Since 1941, it has been our passion to enrich people’s lives with the invention, innovation

and application of the highest quality optical technologies.

THE STORY OF HOYA

How a little Japanese factory became a world player

WHEN WE MAKE GLASSES WE TAKE FULL RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE SIDE EFFECTS

10

We did not want to allow this memorable moment to pass silently.

We want to celebrate it with our customers. To thank you for your trust in us over the past decades. The trust which enables us to excel

in producing the best optical solutions possible.

We are proud to present Blinq magazine to you. A one-time edition

16

that Hoya has developed for you and your customers to enjoy. This entertaining and informative magazine will offer your customers a glimpse behind the scenes. Because it is not only about the simple act of choosing a fashionable frame. Insights in the way in which

BEFORE YOU PUT ON YOUR NEW PAIR OF GLASSES 19 This is how lenses are made

THE PERFECT VISION STARTS WITH… YOUR OPTICIAN

Key figure in the choice of the right eyewear

REMARKABLE SPECTACLE WEARERS

Virginie Claes, Mike Haysman, Mark Lawrence and Raymond Ceulemans

lenses are made and glasses have developed over the centuries.

Fashion trends in eyewear and the fascinating way our eyes work, only to mention some topics.

Each page will provide you and your customers with the possibility

26

to taste the passion that we feel ourselves every day in realising our final mission: to improve the quality of sight, quality of life and comfort of people who need and use our corrective eyewear every day.

29

We hope that Blinq can be found on your table and that it will offer you and your customers much reading pleasure!

Gerald W. Bottero President and CEO Hoya Vision Care

EXPERIENCE NEW POSSIBILITIES IN 3D

32

OPTICAL ILLUSIONS

34

The unstoppable rise of 3D technology

Your eyes can play tricks on you

Y A R E R S N N I V A N I O I T E D

Liked this part? Turn the magazine to discover more about the amazing world of vision.

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3

The evolution of glasses Glasses: in their many forms, colours, shapes and sizes they can no longer be overlooked in our society. They support and protect our eyes in many ways. But it has ‘only’ been 700 years since glasses were invented.

4

throughout the centuries History books tell us that people living in ancient times knew nothing about visual aids at all… A great opportunity to make a leap backwards in time! From necessary support to fashion statement: let us take you back to the era where it all started.

Rivet glasses

T

he Greeks and the Romans were not

to read the magnified text. But soon, flatter

familiar with glasses, for nothing was

reading stones were developed which could

written on the objects in their respective

be held in front of the eyes. The invention of

books and documents. Cicero, a Roman

glasses was on the verge of a breakthrough.

statesman who lived 50 AD, wrote in one of his letters that he had a slave read various

The first glasses…

documents to him, for his own eyes had failed

The use of glasses was first evidenced in

him by then. After the collapse of the Roman

Italy around 1286. This is based on early

Empire, the available scientific knowledge

14th century records. In 1306, Alessandro

of optics was further broadened by Aboe Ali

della Spina and Giordano da Rivalto, two

al-Hazin ibn al-Haitham (‘Alhazen’), an Arab

Venetian monks, documented that ‘it has

scientist. He lived in the 11th and 12th century

not yet been twenty years since the art of

and is now regarded by many as the father of

making eyeglasses was found’. Alessandro

modern optics. He wrote that a round shaped

della Spina copied a model and distributed

element could be used in order to make

it generously amongst his fellow monks

objects look larger than they really are. In

struggling with visual restrictions. It was not

the mid-13th century, his work was translated

rocket science that Alessandro was able

into Latin and distributed amongst scientists

to copy the model, as it consisted of two

in Europe. It did not take long before these

reading lenses that were connected by a

elements were manufactured: the reading

simple rivet.

stone was born. Finally, after so many years,

The true inventor of these rivet glasses will

scientists with poor eyesight had an optical

always be unknown to us; it is quite likely that

aid at their disposal that would be of great

was the work of a Venetian craftsman, for the

help to them. The idea of the first reading

city was renowned for its outstanding glass

stone was to slide it over a document in order

production techniques and methods.

5

The evolution of glasses throughout the centuries

Reading stone

The best lenses therefore came from Venice.

15th century. But also this model did not meet

someone’s head. These were exclusively worn

Craftsmen from this Italian city were the only

the comfort expectations. Contrary to rivet

by women and highly ranked citizens. It was

ones who had the capacity for manufacturing

glasses that consisted of two individual parts,

not easy to take these glasses off.

clear, uncoloured glass. The details of this

bridge glasses were crafted of one piece, the

production procedure were one of the world’s

lenses being held together by an inflexible

Taking them to the next level

best kept secrets. Highly skilled glassblowers

frame. The materials for such frames were

In the 17th century, the glasses

felt constrained to stay in Venice for the rest of

considered exotic and consisted of leather,

manufacturing business shifted to England.

their lives. If they decided to leave the city, their

horn, whalebone, iron, bronze and silver.

Thanks to the invention of a new type of glass

family members would be thrown in the city’s

But like rivet glasses, bridge glasses proved

as well as lens grinding machines, the quality

dungeons, only to be freed once the fugitive

unable to deliver the desired level of comfort.

of glasses improved significantly. The English

was tracked down (and killed)!

Therefore, people started searching for

spectacle guild, which dates back to 1629,

alternatives as early as the 16th century.

was not very impressed with the quality of the

… and later models

Not always attractive but definitely functional

glass that was imported from Venice. This was

As it was a nightmare to try to keep rivet

were the extended forehead glasses. These

the reason why, in 1670, glass manufacturer

glasses from sliding down the nose, bridge

glasses were attached to a long curved

George Ravenscroft was commissioned to

glasses were invented at the beginning of the

arm that could easily be placed on top of

search for a manufacturing methodology

Reading stone 1000

Rivet glasses 1287

Bridge glasses

Wig glasses

1400

1700 6

Temple glasses 1727

The evolution of lenses

From single to multifocal ’s

1950

that would lead to the production of high quality

Benjamin Franklin, an American scientist and statesman is said to have invented bifocal

uncoloured glass. Four years later, Ravenscroft

glasses in 1784. As Franklin was getting older, his near and far sight were increasingly

applied for a patent for flint glass consisting of flint

troubling him. In order to avoid switching between two types of glasses all the time, he

as well as lead. This new type of glass was as clear

thought of a way of fitting two types of lenses into one frame, resulting in the bifocal

as mountain crystal and much stronger than the

glasses coming into being. A half-moon shaped lens for near sight was moulded into

colourless Venetian glass.

the lower part of a far sight base lens.

Because flint glass was so strong, new processing

When, in the 1950s, Bernard Maitenaz tried his father’s bifocal glasses on, he strongly felt

techniques became possible. John Marshall, a

that he should take the concept back to the drawing board. Due to the hard transition

London based optician, developed a revolutionary

between the two powers, the eyes have to accommodate to the new distance time and

grinding machine that allowed multiple lenses to

again. Also the middle distance of approximately 50 to 150 centimetres was still an issue

be grinded simultaneously. Not only did it speed up

with bifocal glasses. To solve this issue, trifocal lenses were developed in a similar way as

production, but it also enhanced the quality of the

bifocals. A third part was integrated above the reading section. But the issue remained

lenses. Marshall’s manufacturing technique was

that constant re-accommodation of the eyes could be experienced as unpleasant.

so sophisticated that it was applied until the 20th century.

Maitenaz, a 25-year-old French engineer, had one dream: to invent and manufacture a lens that would enable users to see clearly from any distance with smooth

Despite progress being made in lens manufacturing,

transitions between the different areas in the lens. And he succeeded; in 1953, he

it was still a massive challenge to attach glasses to

patented his concept of multifocal glasses. Six years later, his patent was introduced

the face in a comfortable fashion. In 1717, Edward

by the Société de Lunetiers.

Scarlett, a colleague of Marshall’s, made a move

Multifocal lenses have gradually improved since. The emergence of freeform

in the right direction by inventing temple glasses.

technology has created new possibilities in multifocal lens design. This cutting

It was a two-arm frame that would push against

technique makes it possible to cut each lens along multiple axes, bringing more

the temples. Although the invention was a great

customized or even personalized lenses within reach. The main benefit of freeform

success throughout Europe, the pressure on the

surfacing is that the lens surface can be seen as a series of individual points and

temples could be irritating or painful. To balance

then cut along multiple axes instead of just two. The lens can now be cut very

the pressure on the temples, glasses with extra

precisely, so each lens can be optimized for every prescription, even allowing frame,

long temple arms were developed that could be

fitting and personal parameters to be included. The result is an entirely custom-made

connected at the back of the head.

lens that offers optimal vision in all circumstances.

Scissor glasses 1750

Bifocal glasses Lorgnette glasses 1784

1785

Monocle 1800 7

Pince-nez 1840

Multifocal glasses 1959

The evolution of glasses throughout the centuries Emerging industries

Twenties and the Second World War, we arrive

lenses. Glasses became an irreplaceable

In the late 18th and early 19th century, the

in the sixties of the 20th century. Economically,

part of society.

Industrial Revolution took hold of Europe;

Europe was doing well, but there were some

manufacturers became acquainted with the

social disturbances. These disturbances were

Glasses nowadays

phenomenon of assembly line production.

reflected in the variety of armatures that were

It has been seven centuries since the

In 1796, the first factory specialized in the

designed during this era. The self-confident

invention of lenses and glasses, but

manufacture of frames opened its doors

man wore a horn frame representing wealth,

nowadays billions of people use this

in France. Five years later, the first lens-

success and persistence. Women were

multifunctional aid on a daily basis. Once

grinding factory was established in Prussia.

wearing elegant frames, indicating that

used to magnify lines in religious books

In the mid-19th century, the United States of

emancipation was around the corner.

and manuscripts, the reading stone has

America experienced the mushrooming of

developed into a piece of technique that

factories. This all led to a major turnaround

In the seventies, the size of the lenses was

people depend upon every day. Whether

in the optical industry: opticians used to

enlarged. These lenses tried to attain another

they use it to read the newspaper, to protect

manufacture all the lenses and frames

objective, namely to disguise wrinkles and

their eyes from bright sunlight or make a

themselves, but now they were in the position

other signs of ageing. Besides, the consumer

fashion statement, this versatile instrument

to order separate parts and components and

had developed greater brand awareness.

has influenced our daily ‘view’ on things.

start from there. Opticians could then focus on

On frames of any standard, the brand name

Not only to visibly support people, but also

refraction, mounting and dispensing.

was found at the back or side of the frame. In

to visibly distinguish one person from the

those days, plastic models as well as plastic

other. In other words: ‘to see and to be

Glasses in the sixties and seventies

lenses became very popular, because they

seen with’…

Taking a giant leap by skipping the Roaring

were much lighter than the traditional mineral

Glasses in daily use Art is the best way to show the evolution of glasses and their daily use.

In the 18th century, the French painter Jean-Baptiste Siméon Chardin immortalised himself by painting a self-portrait wearing glasses typical for that time: completely round, with an arched bridge.

8

The 20th century Spanish artist Pablo Picasso painted a cubist portrait of his secretary Jaume Sabartés. With round spectacles, Picasso gives Sabartés the look of a poet, reminding of poet Francisco de Quevedo.

Francisco de Quevedo - one of the most prominent Spanish poets of the 14th century - was painted by the Italian artist Tommaso da Modena. In this painting a pair of bridge glasses is shown.

In the 17th century, the Spanish painter Bartolomé Esteban Murillo painted ’Four figures on a step’, where the character on the right wears glasses that appear similar to the 70’s style in the 20th century.

9

How a little Japanese factory became a world player

THE STORY OF HOYA It all started in a little town called Hoya City (now called Nishitokyo) in 1941. Two brothers, Shoichi and Shigeru Yamanaka, had the ambitious plan to manufacture optical glass. On 1 November 1941, Toyo Optical Glass Manufacturing, later Hoya Corporation, was founded.

Shoichi and Shigeru Yamanaka

O

ptical glass requires highly sophisticated

Today, Hoya consists of four different divisions:

that you will leave the shop with high quality

manufacturing technology compared to

Eye Care, Information Technology, Imaging

lenses from Hoya.

other types of glass, and in those days

and Medical. This global presence enables

it was the most technologically advanced

Hoya to exchange technological insights and

Passion for optical glass

industry in Japan. Therefore, after the

innovative ideas companywide and across

Despite the diversity of its products, Hoya’s

founding of Hoya, the company went through

borders.

passion for optical glass remains its driving

a long trial-and-error process prior to the

force. This same passion can still be sensed

actual manufacturing of optical glass. Hoya’s

Hoya products are not always visible, but

within Hoya Vision Care today. Combined with

story is that of a company that had a modest

can be found in many places. For example,

the on-going search for innovation it has led

start as a small manufacturing operation and

did you know that there is a good chance

to many revolutionary results.

utilized its technological and managerial

that the hard disk in your computer or Blu-ray

excellence to become a global player 70

player was made by Hoya? The same goes

In the field of anti-reflective coatings Hoya

years later.

for the lens your digital camera is equipped

has built up a worldwide reputation and

with. Next to this, Hoya also manufactures

has booked results that appeal to the

They did not stick to lenses alone...

so-called photo masks for the production of

imagination. Results that go back to the

At the end of World War II the orders from the

semiconductors, medical endoscopes and

year 1963, the year that Hoya was the first to

military, which formed a considerable part

even ceramic bone craft and fillers. And if

successfully apply an anti-reflective coating

of the turnover of Hoya, stopped. Because of

you visit your optician, there is a big chance

on mineral lenses. In 1980 Hoya repeated this

this Hoya experienced a sharp decrease in the demand for optical glass. To overcome this relapse, Hoya decided to manufacture crystal for household purposes, by using its glass melting technology and the substantial inventory of materials left over from their optical glass production.

In the years following, Hoya took up the production of lenses for cameras, memory disks, photo masks for LCD panels and medical applications. From the small Toyo Optical Glass Manufacturing of those days Hoya has developed into the world player it is now: an enterprise with nearly 35,000 employees and active in over hundred countries across the globe.

11

achievement on plastic lenses. More recent

eyeball rotation.

rewarded with the Silmo d’Or, multiple Good

achievements include Hoya’s premium Hi-

Another technological breakthrough was

Design Awards, and the Optical Product

Vision LongLife anti-reflective coating, which

reached with freeform technology for

of the Year award. Hoyalux iD MyStyle, the

won the prestigious iF Material Award, as

progressive lenses. By integrating both the

product that won this last award, is an

did its predecessor Super Hi-Vision five years

front and the back of the lens, in 2004, Hoya

excellent example of taking personalisation

earlier.

created a completely new lens definition,

to a new level. By combining freeform technology with a special in

Because they are exceptionally strong, Hoya’s lenses are ideal for grooving and drilling, while the end user benefits from their minimal weight and highest transparency.

Hoya’s single vision and progressive lens

store consultation software for

Corporate mission Hoya: to pursue the creation of and innovation in business in Information Technology and Lifestyle Refinement, and continue to a truly enriched society while promoting harmony for mankind, society and nature.

individual optimisation, Hoya can offer a truly personalised progressive lens for all wearers.

Next to innovative products, Hoya strives to offer its customers a wide range of choices, with a variety of materials, designs and

designs reflect the very

treatment combinations, such

latest developments in

as anti-reflective coatings,

science and technology. Nulux EP, launched

ensuring sharp and natural vision with a

photochromic, tinted and sun lenses. All with

in 2001, was the first single vision lens to use

minimum of distortion. Not surprisingly, this

the number one priority of making the lives of

calculations based on visual acuity and

technology and its associated designs were

its clients more comfortable.

Milestones

Listing of Hoya on the Tokyo Stock Exchange

Establishment of Hoya Corporation

1941

1961

The first single layer anti-reflective coating on mineral lenses

1963

The first single layer anti-reflective coating on plastic lenses

1980 12

Multilayer coatings for plastic and mineral (Hoya starts its reputation of producing the best AR coatings)

1984

advertisement Hoyalux Summit 1994

Hoya Laboratory Thailand

Service: part of the DNA

offering a wide choice of in store tools as

Hoya’s Education and Experience Centre

Through the years Hoya’s attention for

well as the latest company news, product

In a market where new products are

individual needs has also been reflected in

information and marketing support. Further,

constantly being introduced, the majority of

the way Hoya listens to the personal wishes

opticians can count on the support from

these developments demands up-to-date

of its clients. That is why service is in the

HoyaiLink, a smart service

DNA of the entire Hoya organisation. Hoya is

concept that enables

an optician’s practice:

H

knowledge. This

Since then it has been one of the fastest

European Education

HoyaiLog, Hoya’s online

growing regions within the Hoya Vision Care

and Experience

these requirements, Hoya has achieved a

ordering system, MyStyle

Division. It now comprises of 12 laboratories

Centre. This initiative

service level that is considered among the

iDentifier, Hoya’s interactive

and 19 sales offices in 14 countries. While

offers eye care

highest in the market.

selection program,

only 7.2% of the employees and 9.4% of the

professionals from

visuReal, the digital video

production is located in Europe, 20.4% of

all over Europe the

A prior condition to achieving this goal is fast

measurement system

Hoya’s total sales is generated here.*)

chance to identify

delivery, which is why many Hoya factories are

and Hoya Vision Care

operational 24/7, 365 days a year, offering

Centre, Hoya’s in store lens

a wide range of services: from finished stock

consultation tool. And even the shop’s practice

and benefit from them, taking advanced

to cut & edge and mounting. Opticians can

management system. All make the entire

technologies and reliable quality as a starting

also benefit from Hoya’s personal customer

process from entering data to ordering lenses

point. Hoya’s Faculty is based in Budapest

services and the extranet platform Hoyanet,

much quicker, easier and more efficient.

and opened its doors in 2010.

in 30 countries worldwide. In Europe,

convinced that genuine added value can

easy communication

be created by being open to its partners and

between all the tools in

clients, and remembering that Hoya’s success depends on that of its clients. By addressing

Introduction of the first 3 Hoya progressive lens

The first progressive design, taking eyeball rotation calculations into account

1987

1994

SPIRIO

07-09-11 18:25

oya Vision Care has 52 laboratories

Hoya Vision Care started in 1980.

the latest market opportunities

The first single vision design produced with freeform technology, and taking eyeball rotation into account

14

available at Hoya Faculty, Hoya’s

*) results fiscal year 2010

2001

optical expertise is

The first integrated double surface design with Hoya’s patented iD FreeForm Design Technology

2004

Hoya at A glance

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

Eye Care

ELECTRO OPTICS

Vision Care

• Mask Blanks and Photomasks

• Eye glass lenses

for semiconductors • Photomasks for LCD panels • Glass Discs for HHD • Optical Glass Lenses

Health Care • Retail store chain of contact lenses • Intraocular lenses

Medical

• Medical endoscopes

Photonics

• Surgical instruments

• UV & eximer light sources

• Bone prosthesis

• Laser oscillator

Imaging

• Electro-optical glasses

• Lens Modules • Micro lenses

The first ultra scratch resistant anti-reflective coating

2004

Integration of Pentax Corporations

2007

The first 100% personalised progressive lens design that is truly tailored to the individual

2008

The hardest and most durable anti-reflective coating on the market

2009 15

Full freeform progressive

2011

When we make glasses we take full responsibility for the side effects

16

‘Bearing responsibility for the environment and society’, these are not just words as far as Hoya is concerned. On the contrary, they form a key focal point for our business. More than that, this ambition is part of the role that every enterprise should play according to Hiroshi Suzuki, CEO of Hoya Corporations: adding value to society continuously.

I

n the early seventies, committees

around 74 percent more waste since 2009.

In order to respond to amendments to

responsible for reducing, and, where

Another example concerns nitrates used in

Japanese law concerning the rational use

possible, preventing pollution were

processing. Engineers investigated whether

of energy, Hoya is aiming to reduce CO2

established in all Hoya branches. In 1993,

these chemical compounds could be reused.

emissions.

Hoya formulated its first official environmental

They proved to be a useful ground product for

philosophy and a set of fundamental

certain metal heat-processing agents.

A certified environmental management system

environmental principles that are still relevant today. In 2008, all activities to protect the

An eye for the environment

In 1996, Hoya started working in accordance

environment were put together in one

Over the years, the use of harmful chemical

with an environmental management system,

comprehensive system which also included

substances has been reduced considerably.

which resulted in ISO 14001 certifications of all

written regulations on labour conditions and

For instance, a silicone gel that checks the

Hoya Vision Care laboratories.

health. This has resulted in a multiplicity of

moisture level in packaging has been replaced

measures that Hoya is taking to minimise the

by a different, environmentally friendly substance.

An environmental management system

impact of its actions on the environment.

Also isopropyl alcohol, which was used in rinsing

conducts structural checks on emissions,

processes, became a product of the past.

waste streams, the use of raw materials,

Reducing waste, increasing recycling

energy and other environmental aspects,

Much attention is paid to the reduction

Additionally, to prevent possible leakage of

allowing results achieved thus far to become

of wastewater by means of evaporation,

hazardous substances, tanks and all parts

concrete and transparent. They can be taken

separating water from liquids used in various

of the production process are systematically

into consideration in decision processes

production processes. Hoya’s Thailand-

checked. Underground distribution lines are

and motivate individual employees to

based factories have managed to reduce

being replaced by aboveground lines to

contribute to Hoya’s overall environmental

their wastewater by no less than 27 percent

facilitate inspections and act quickly in case

accomplishments.

compared to previous years and have recycled

of any malfunctions.

17

Working conditions and safety

Hoya Hill Optics in South Africa recently

Hoya sets high standards for working

supplied lenses for approximately 400 adults

conditions and safety as well. In 1995 for

and children in seven underprivileged

instance, Hoya’s Occupational Safety and

communities in Namaqualand. With this

Health Principles were introduced and

donation Hoya supports the mission of the

implemented. In this document, measures to

non-profit organisation Reach4Sight to bring

improve the general health conditions and

free eye care to the poor in rural and remote

the physical and mental well-being of all Hoya

communities in South Africa.

employees have been laid down.

Also in developed countries there is a need for One of the examples of the safety measures

in their country. These organisations were

support. Therefore, Hoya Lens United Kingdom

taken by Hoya is the Hoya Corporation

chosen, as their purpose is similar to Hoya’s,

provides a regular supply of glasses for the

Machinery Safety Standard, which was

namely to help people with vision problems.

Homeless People’s Birmingham Centre.

implemented in April 2005. This standard aims

Both countries ‘adopted’ a yellow Labrador

to prevent accidents resulting from working

retriever called Ivó and Conny. Their training

In times of natural disasters, the majority of

with machines. Already on the drawing

to become guide dogs is being followed

the Hoya subsidiaries and employees will

table, during the process of designing new

carefully. The training centre informs Hoya

also make contributions. A disaster that hit

machinery, this is taken into account.

about their progresses and sends pictures on

a lot ‘closer to home’ was the devastating

a regular basis.

earthquake and ensuing tsunami in Hoya’s

Think global, act local

home country Japan in March 2011. The entire

But it is not only the corporate headquarters

Hoya Lens Sweden supports Vision Far All

Hoya Corporation donated generously to the

that concern themselves with corporate

(VFA). This non-profit organisation focuses on

Japanese Red Cross, which resulted in support

responsibility, also Hoya’s individual

making opticians and optometrists aware of

for those who suffered most.

subsidiaries are taking initiatives for a better

the importance of making contributions in

society and environment.

developing countries. Opticians perform free

Ultimately, Hoya’s actions are concentrated on

For example, Hoya Lens Hungary and Hoya

eye tests as volunteers while collected glasses

people and their environment; now and for

Lens Czech Republic both decided to support

are being checked and adjusted by Hoya and

future generations.

a training centre for guide dogs for the blind

donated to the ones in need of visual support.

Before

After

photo’s by John Godoy

18

The production of lenses is high precision work. This is not very surprising, considering the fact that glass or plastic must be polished and processed precisely up to a tenth of a millimetre in order to correct each and every eye condition. But also in an earlier stage, on visiting the eye care professional, there is eye for detail.

D

o you have impaired vision, for example problems with reading, switching between near and far distances or do you often have a headache? Then the eye care

professional is the right person to find a solution. During the first interview the eye care professional will ask you a number of detailed questions about the exact nature of your complaints. But also about your history of wearing glasses, eye conditions or diseases in your family.

This is how lenses are made

BEFORE YOU PUT ON YOUR NEW PAIR OF GLASSES W

hile this is best done after the

It is important for you to choose the right

eye tests, the process will often

lenses with the correct power.

start by searching for a suitable

frame in the optical shop. Do you go for

Do you already wear glasses? Then the

function, fashion or both? Would you

optician will measure the power of your

like your appearance to be sportive, or

present glasses before testing your eyes.

do you prefer a classic look? For every

This is done using a so-called focimetre.

type of person, there is a wide variety

The result will be compared to the results

of frames available: from budget up to

of your eye test, showing any possible

very exclusive. After the frame has been

changes in your eye condition.

chosen, the lenses should be considered.

19

BEFORE YOU PUT ON YOUR NEW PAIR OF GLASSES

T

he eye care professional will perform several tests to check your near and far vision. The tests will give a good indication of the power required, but for a complete eye test additional information is needed. For the next step the eye

care professional will examine what you can see with your current prescription,

this is called sharpness of vision or visus. The sharpness of vision is determined for each eye separately and for both eyes together. Cylinder power and how your eyes work together will also be checked. All data gathered will eventually result in your definite prescription, indicating how powerful your lenses need to be and which specific corrections should be cut into the lenses.

T

his information will be sent to the laboratory electronically, where your lenses will be produced exactly according to the collected data. A worksheet

will be printed out. This sheet indicates the suitable, semifinished lenses. A semi-finished lens is a few-centimetrethick plastic disc which has already been cut on the front in a base curvature and sometimes power.

20

T

he lenses are placed in a production line. First, the exact optical centre of the lens, the point that will be centred onto your pupil later, is determined and the proper cutting tools are found.

Subsequently, a machine glues a block to the front of the lens using metal alloy. This block makes sure that the lens stays in its proper place during the process of cutting and polishing.

T

he lenses are placed in a generator that will cut the lens with three different tools. These tools will cut the prescription and other features into the back of your lenses. It was only possible to cut your

prescription in a horizontal and vertical direction into the back of the lens until fairly recently. With the latest freeform technology, the surface can be regarded as a collection of individual points that can be cut and polished at pixel level. A considerable improvement in respect to the conventional lens. This manner of cutting makes it even possible to take personal details into account such as your lifestyle, wearing history and the way you wear your frame. And so to create a unique lens.

21

BEFORE YOU PUT ON YOUR NEW PAIR OF GLASSES

A

fter cutting, the lenses are no longer entirely

lens. At the same time, water flows over the lens to

transparent, because tiny abrasive particles

achieve a perfectly clear and transparent result. This

and scratches on the lenses can still be found.

technique differs from conventional polishing in the

Therefore the lenses are polished. This process is done

manoeuvrability of the polishing head, which makes it

fully automatically. The polishing material makes

possible to follow the curve of the lens even better. The

rotating movements while it is pressed against the

result is a crystal-clear lens surface in all directions.

M

uch attention is paid to the reduction of waste water.

The polish liquids are therefore collected and recycled.

After a thorough check of the power, diameter and

thickness of the lenses performed in an advanced machine, the lenses are ready for the next step.

D

uring a multiple step cleaning process, the lenses are prepared to receive a hardening varnish. This varnish gives the lens extra strength. After almost four hours of baking in

the oven with a maximum temperature of 128 degrees Celsius, the lenses are ready to withstand the odd knock.

22

T

o protect the unique lens features, various anti-

is repeated for scratch resistant and water and dirt

reflective coatings are available. The lenses are

repellent coatings to enhance overall wearing comfort

put in a coating dome and placed in a machine

and ease of use.

where a vacuum is created. The coating material is evaporated and the material attaches to the backside

After the back of the lenses has been treated, the

of the lenses. This process will be repeated eight times

lenses are washed, dried and the process will be

for a full anti-reflective treatment. After this, the process

repeated for the front side of the lenses.

B

efore the lenses are sent to the optical shop, another thorough check will be carried out. For instance, the power for near and far sight will

be verified and the whole surface is checked. The manufacturer will put markings on the lenses, so the lenses can easily be edged and mounted.

23

BEFORE YOU PUT ON YOUR NEW PAIR OF GLASSES

A

fter the final check for irregularities the lenses are packed and sent to the optical shop.

W

hen the lenses arrive at the optical shop, the

to an exact cut. During this process heat is being

optician will first check whether the ordered

produced. Water is added to make sure that the lenses

prescription matches with the lenses supplied.

are ‘chilled’ to prevent deformation. Many opticians

The lenses will still have their original, round shape. These

have such a machine in their workshop. They can also

will not fit into the frame that you have chosen. The last

choose for cutting and mounting performed by the lens

step in the process therefore consists of cutting the lens

manufacturer. Then the optician will receive a complete

into the right size. A computer controlled machine traces

frame with ready mounted lenses or completely cut

the shape of the frame and transfers this information

lenses that only need to be mounted into the frame.

24

N

ow your lenses are almost ready.

You will receive a telephone call that your glasses are ready.

At your final check, the optician will make several small adjustments for optimal wearing comfort. When you leave the shop you can enjoy life even better thanks to a sharp and clear vision.

25

The perfect vision starts with‌

YOUR OPTICIAN

When you walk into your optician’s shop, the first thing you will notice is the large amount of frames you can choose from. A frame is an important part of your physical appearance, it expresses your style in the same way that your clothes and your hairstyle do. But the search for the perfect vision actually starts before you choose your frame. With lenses that will fit you and your lifestyle best.

T

hanks to the latest technology it has

your measurement results, prescription, and

The optician’s workplace is equipped with

become possible to manufacture

chosen frame.

high-tech edging machines and precision

completely custom-made lenses. Today,

Your optician might use consultation

tools with which the optician can modify

not only the required power, cylinder and

software. With such software you and your

your lenses to the exact size your chosen

prism determine the choice of lenses, but

optician can choose the best lenses for you:

frame requires. After mounting your lenses

also your personal lifestyle and the way

from material to coating.

in your new frame, he will invite you to the

you wear your glasses can be inputs for a

shop for a fitting session. He will make sure

- literally - unique end result. A highly careful

An ordering and demonstration system can

that the frame and lenses fully meet your

measuring of your eyes is necessary to

visualise the thickness of your new lenses and

expectations. After some minor adjustments

achieve such a result. Therefore your optician

give you a preview of your vision with the new

and a few quick checks, you can leave the

forms a key figure in the choice of the right

lenses. So you can already see how they will

shop satisfied with your brand new sharp

lenses. But he is not alone when it comes to

look. But no matter the methods your optician

vision.

reaching this result.

chooses to utilise, you can rest assured that

Get introduced to your new glasses before

the outcome will be

they are made!

exactly the lenses

Nowadays, opticians have a variety of

and treatments that

modern tools at their disposal to make sure

suit you best.

you get the perfect lenses, tailor-made down to the finest details. A video centration system

After the optician

can be used for precise measurement of

receives your

your frame fitting parameters up to one tenth

lenses from the lens

of a millimetre. The system takes a digital

manufacturer, he

photo of you that is transferred directly to the

will verify that the

lens manufacturer. The manufacturer uses this

lenses match the

information to produce the lenses based on

prescription ordered.

27

A double success story 70th anniversary of Hoya 5th anniversary of cooperation between Hoya and Ollendorf Mess-Systeme To be continued!

Visit our booth at the opti 2012 to enjoy a glimpse of the new chapter in visuReal®’s success story!

Advantages of visuReal® video centration: Quick detection of all centration parameters in 20 seconds Pixel-accurate measurements Easy operation Large lens catalogue visuMovie® video consultation for frames and lens colours That´s why more than 2,000 eye care professionals trust in visuReal® video centration – for perfectly fitted spectacles and a special dispensing experience.

www.ollendorf.biz

Remarkable

SPECTACLE WEARERS

Virginie Claes, Mike Haysman, Mark Lawrence and Raymond Ceulemans; four known spectacle wearers who all agree that their lives have changed since they received their first pair of glasses.

They wear them with pride.

Remarkable

SPECTACLE WEARERS Miss Belgium 2006, top model and TV presenter Virginie Claes has eyes you can drown in. She calls her blue eyes her trademark. This is why she has entrusted them to a good, professional eye care specialist for years.

Virginie Claes “I first experienced problems with my eyes

she is less troubled by annoying reflections and

at school. I had to pinch my eyes at the

flashes on stage and enjoys perfectly clear

blackboard to be able to see what was written

vision. The lenses are water and dust repellent

on it, resulting in regular headaches.

and therefore very easy to clean. The coating

A visit to my optician was all it took to discover

also ensures longer lens durability. Moreover,

that I was near sighted. As soon as I started

according to Virginie, her glasses perfectly

wearing glasses my life became a whole lot

match her personality.“They are a part of me.

easier, both behind and in front of the camera.”

They fit me and I fit them.”

Virginie Claes wears feather-light, super-thin plastic lenses that are treated with a scratchresistant and anti-reflective coating. As a result,

Raymond Ceulemans Belgium billiards player Raymond Ceulemans was at the top of his

sport for several years and known worldwide. He won a total of 100 titles, earning the nickname ‘Mister 100’ and he was even given a knighthood

by King Albert II of Belgium in 2002.

Later in life, Raymond Ceulemans was still

wearing glasses containing the latest generation

a feared opponent. But like everyone else,

multifocal lenses. In billiards, it is essential to be

professional sportsmen cannot prevent their

able to see clear at all distances. And switching

eyesight from deteriorating.

from near to far vision must be easy and comfortable.”

“I started wearing glasses at the age of 50, in the middle of my career. My far vision began

“To this day I am still a competitive team player.

to fail me. For billiards, both near and far vision

I will never refuse a friendly game at home with

must be absolutely perfect. My optician made a

family or friends. My story shows how a brilliant,

number of customised glasses, including a pair

sharp vision of the ball can truly prolong a

especially designed for billiards. I am currently

sporting career.”

30

Mike Haysman Mike Haysman is a popular Australian cricket commentator. He worked for SuperSport in South Africa for over ten years, hosting cricket show Extra Cover and making regular appearances on Super Saturday. He represented Leicestershire, Northern Transvaal, South Australia and Transvaal domestic sides as a first-class cricketer. He also represented the Australian XI in the South African tours from 1985 to 1987.

“The first time I ever put on glasses,

all the studio lights that are part of my job, the

I remember immediately thinking: ‘If only

lenses must have an anti-reflective coating.”

I had this vision when I was batting!’ I use my glasses for everything. From the moment

“As a cricket commentator I also spend

I pick up the paper in the morning until that

a great deal of my time either outdoors

relaxing glass of Shiraz at night.”

in the sun or in glaring light at live play in a commentator’s booth. Therefore an

“My requirements for my glasses are very

essential part of my working attire is a

simple. They must work and look good.

quality, comfortable pair of sunglasses with

Because of my continuous presence on

prescription lenses that offer my eyes some

television, I always need to look my best (red.

welcome relief and rest where possible.”

in his own words ‘a tough call’). Another essential element of my glasses is that, due to

Mark Lawrence Mark Lawrence is an international rugby union referee from South Africa. He refereed his first international test match in 2000 and was chosen to officiate at both the 2003 Rugby World Cup and 2007 Rugby World Cup acting as a tough judge.

“I strated wearing glasses when I was still in

most part of the day and a pair of single vision

school, because I experienced problems with

with extended near prescription for the days I

my far sight. My late father was an optometrist

need to read more than 700 rugby union laws.

and gave me a pair of glasses for schoolwork. I

On the rugby field I do not were my glasses, since

stopped wearing them after college for my eyes

the game can be a bit too rough. I wear contact

had improved. However, age has slowly forced

lenses instead.”

me back to them, as reading became more difficult.”

Mark qualified as an optometrist in 1987 and took over his father’s practice in Standerton

“My glasses are not only functional, but

in Mpumalanga in South Africa.“Being an

promotional too. I meet a lot of people who

optometrist and referee is a very unusual

have problems with their near sight and who

combination. As an optometrist during the week,

need reading prescriptions. I have two pairs of

I tell people how badly they see. As a referee over

glasses. One pair of single vision which I wear

the weekends, people tell me how badly I see!”

31

3D is well on its way to becoming the new standard in the entertainment industry.

Especially after the success of the blockbuster Avatar, the first film to pass the two billion dollar barrier, the rise of this new technology appears unstoppable. And television will soon follow in the 3D footsteps of the cinema.

Experience new possibilities in 3D 3

D is depth of vision caused by the fact

These lenses, that are a couple of centimetres

contain lenses that are small LCD screens

that our left and right eye see the world

apart from each other, are actually filming

with shutters. These shutters open and close

from its own unique perspective, and

two perspectives, just like our own two eyes do

alternately between the eyes at a speed of 8.3

each projects a different image onto our retina.

(illustration 1).

milliseconds. At the same speed, the left eye

Our brain is able to take these projections

In order to see depth in a movie or television

receives the shots that are filmed with the left

and combine them in a single depth image,

screen, you need 3D glasses to ensure that two

film lens, while the right eye receives the right

a process often called depth perception or

separate images are projected into each of

film shots (illustration 2 + 3).

stereovision. 3D movies are filmed with a special

our eyes. One of the newest types of 3D glasses

In combination with 3D televisions, this offers

camera that contains two recording lenses.

- based on so-called shutter technology -

a revolutionary visual experience. The benefit

32

1

2

3

4

of this technology as opposed to others is the clear and high-contrast image it produces (illustration 4).

Nowadays,TV manufacturers offer special 3D televisions for home entertainment purposes, while the offer of 3D television programs supplied by the cable companies is quickly rising. A full cinema 3D experience now becomes available

U

ntil recently, spectacle wearers were challenged to enjoy 3D to the fullest.

They had to switch to contact lenses in order to watch a 3D movie properly.

Nowadays, the shape of the shutter glasses is adapted to wear prescription

glasses underneath. This results in a sharp and comfortable 3D experience.

Technology is moving fast, so 3D prescription glasses will probably enter the market soon. But it is not unthinkable that in the near future 3D can be experienced even without wearing shutter glasses. That would give an even greater freedom of watching, whether you wear prescription glasses or not.

for everybody in their own living room.

33

illusions Optical D illusions Your eyes can play a lot of tricks on you. Sometimes we see things different than they actually are.

ue to the arrangement of images, the effect of colours or other variables, a wide range of misleading visual effects can occur. This is caused by

the fact that we do not see with our eyes only. Our brain processes the

information that is gathered through our eyes. Optical illusions are fun and interesting and tell us a lot about the way our eyes and brain work.

Motion This optical illusion is a static image that seems to be moving due to the cognitive effects of colour contrasts and shape position interacting with each other.

Contrast In these illusions the misleading effect of contrast becomes noticeable. Our brain perceives grey dots on the angular points of the white and black lines. This is because in certain cases our retina reinforces the colours we are receiving.

34

Recognition Sometimes, just a few details can tell us what kind of object we are looking at. In this illusion you will see a white triangle, even though it is not actually there. The effect is caused by the recognition of contours.

If one detail changes, the effect will disappear, as is shown in the second illustration.

Colour You may have noticed that if you stare at a bright light and then look away, you will see a dark spot for a few seconds. This is because the colour cells in the retina become oversaturated and so we will see the reverse colour when the object is gone.

Try it yourself! Stare at this image for about thirty seconds and then look at a blank piece of paper or wall. A movie star from the 20th century will appear.

Geometry Our brain has the tendency to overestimate sharp angles. That is the reason why straight lines crossing these sharp angles seem to change direction.

The two horizontal lines in this illustration seem curved, but actually they are straight.

The horizontal lines in the tile wall image seem to be sloping, but actually they are parallel to one another. Because the grey line between a white and a black tile is harder to see, your brain will see it as a part of either the white or the black tile. Therefore it makes the tiles look wedge-shaped, which creates the illusion of slanting lines.

35