Dec
The new buzz word in the world of optical spectacle lenses is “Freeform“. The term “Freeform” in relation to lenses is often misinterpreted as just a new design concept for progressive added lenses. This is actually not so. Strictly speaking, the term relates to an exciting new manufacturing process for spectacle lenses that allows to create optimised and individualised lens designs taking into consideration not only the actually required prescription of the wearer (say distance and/or near power), but also, amongst others, the frame parameters and, most importantly, the user’s lifestyle and work requirements.
With the help of this technology we can now create individualised, high-definition-like lenses for wearers of single vision, bifocal and/or progressive addition lenses – it doesn’t really matter.
One of the reasons why the freeform manufacturing process has been so enthusiastically received by optical professionals and their clients (in particular progressive lens wearers) is because for the first time we can now provide clients with truly individualised lenses.
The actual consultation process is more involved and requires consideration in terms of lifestyle and work requirements. For customers wanting to benefit from this new technology we are using the “MyStyle iDentifier” program to create a Personal Vision Profile to map your past experiences, your expectations, wishes and personal characteristics to design a lens that fits you perfectly.
If one had to categorise progressive addition lenses made with freeform technology, there are three different basic design groups. These are:
- The main focus is on Near- and Intermediate distances
- A balanced field of view is required
- The main focus on Far distances
Once the main requirements of the lenses have been identified, the answers during the mapping process, together with specific facial and frame measurements will then result in a completely individualised lens design.
The days of old style “one-size-fits-all” progressive lenses are numbered.
