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OPTICAL L AB P R O D UC T S PRODUCTS AND IDEAS FOR THE LABORATORY PROFESSIONAL
NOVEMBER 2017 OpticalLabProducts.com
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NOVEMBER 2017 CONTENTS
Contents OPINIONS 02 Rollins on Marketing 03 In the Lab 04 One-to-One with Dan Kelly, COO of IFB Solutions FEATURES 06 3D Printed Lenses Are Here, Now A1 Lab Innovator 2017: Plastic Plus A3 Q&A with Paul and Jason Faibish: Hedging Bets and Taking Chances
07
SLUGfest 2017: Putting Theory into Practice
RUNDOWN 09 Lab News 11 New for the Lab
EDITORIAL STAFF VP, EDITORIAL • John Sailer • JS@VisionCareProducts.com PROFESSIONAL EDITOR • Jim Grootegoed • JG@VisionCareProducts.com VICE PRESIDENT, DESIGN • Jane Kaplan • JK@VisionCareProducts.com ASSISTANT EDITOR • Cara Aidone Huzinec • CH@VisionCareProducts.com ASSISTANT ART DIRECTOR • Bruce Kenselaar • BK@VisionCareProducts.com PRODUCTION AND WEB MANAGER • Anthony Floreno • AF@VisionCareProducts.com
Listen to What You Hear BY JIM GROOTEGOED Have you ever noticed in social
can be easily learned and can be
or business engagements folks
effectively utilized in all conver-
seldom ask you questions? They
sations. Consider Googling
talk about themselves or a
“effective communications” and
particular topic. Have you ever
“active listening.” There are
felt that you’re on the receiving
hundreds of sites worthy of
end of a one-sided conversa-
your attention.
tion? Have you ever walked away thinking of something you
the person, not stare, but in a
wanted to say and didn’t or
friendly, engaging manner. Pay
wishing you’d asked a question
attention, and keep an open
for more understanding? Or,
mind to what’s being said. I had
more frustrating, when that
a sign on my desk, “Communi-
person is just quiet and you
cation is like a parachute. It
have trouble engaging them in a
works best when minds are
conversation?
open.”
“I know you think you understand what you thought I said but I’m not sure you realize that what you heard is not what I meant.” —Alan Greenspan Do any of the above sound
Ask open-ended questions
familiar? Essentially, effective
then listen acutely, working to
communication is blocked
understand what is being said
even though it is critical when
rather than just formulating a
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT • Shawn Mery • SM@VisionCareProducts.com
talking with associates, family,
response.
DIRECTOR OF SALES • Janet Cunningham • JC@VisionCareProducts.com
customers, in meetings and
Summarize what you think
VICE PRESIDENT, MARKETING • Debby Corriveau • DC@VisionCareProducts.com
during employer/employee
you heard and repeat it. Seek
VICE PRESIDENT, OPERATIONS • Sharon O’Hanlon • SO@VisionCareProducts.com
relations. Unless you’re lectur-
solutions and/or next steps.
ing, conversations must be
Practice with family and
CONTRIBUTING WRITER • Eric Rollins • EricRollins@Comcast.net
BUSINESS STAFF PRESIDENT/CEO • Frank Giammanco • FG@VisionCareProducts.com
two-way. One key is to listen.
friends; you’ll be surprised at
FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK https://www.Facebook.com/OpticalLabProducts
Are you a good listener? Most
the results.
FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @OLP_Magazine
are generally more intent on
FOLLOW US ON LINKEDIN https://www.LinkedIn.com/Company/Optical-Lab-Products Throughout this magazine, trademark names are used. Instead of placing a trademark or registration symbol at every occurrence, we are using the names editorially only with no intention of infringement of the trademark.
of us are terrible listeners. We thinking of forming a reply than listening, to really understand what is being said. Though it takes practice to develop, listening is an art that
OpticalLabProducts.com
November OLP.indd 1
A few tips: Look directly at
Jim Grootegoed is professional editor of OLP. November 2017 1
11/17/17 1:44 PM
OPINIONS ROLLINS ON MARKETING
Future Tech BY ERIC ROLLINS
O
ptical laboratories are
of the future,” 3D printing,
justifiably proud of the
which actually has its origins in
custom work they put out
the 1980s. The first 3D printer
every day. With large invest-
was made in 1983 with the first
ments in equipment, staff and
approved patent in 1986 (both
inventory, our labs are on the
by American Chuck Hall). A
cutting edge of mass producing
previous attempt at a patent by
custom medical products with
Hideo Kodama in 1980 failed
tremendous accuracy.
due to not meeting the one-year
Technology keeps changing.
time constraints with his legal
In the last 30 years we’ve gone
paperwork. Needless to say, 3D
from traditional surfacing with
printing has come a long way,
1/8th diopter tooling, to 1/10th
even printing eyeglass frames
diopter tooling, to automated
and lenses.
traditional surfacing making use
Just as other manufacturing
of conveyer belts and numer-
methods have gone through a
ically controlled processing.
process of improving and
From there, we went to digital
becoming more economical,
3D printing has come a long way, even printing eyeglass frames and lenses. surfacing and automated digital
3D printing is also on the path
surfacing with accuracy and
toward “better and cheaper.”
tolerances ten times versus tradi-
Obviously, not every product
tional surfacing (1/10th diopter
that makes an appearance in the
to 1/100th diopter). In addition,
eyecare industry ends up being a
some labs also use lens molding
winner, and it is possible that 3D
equipment to generate lenses.
printed optical lenses might take
Edgers have gone from pat-
a while to reach the quality and
terned to patternless, now with
price points that consumers
automated tracers and produc-
expect.
tion lines. Edgers keep getting better (and more expensive), with some models costing over $500,000 and having an incredible array of processing features. In this issue, you will read about yet another “technology 2 November 2017
November OLP.indd 2
Eric Rollins is a veteran of the optical retail, frame and lab industries. His firm, Rollins Consulting, LLC, consults with the three Os to improve profitability. Email him at EricRollins@Comcast.net. OpticalLabProducts.com
11/17/17 12:39 PM
IN THE LAB OPINIONS
Festive and Informative BY JOHN SAILER
W
e just returned from
day with only nine to 10 people in
SLUGfest in Dallas,
two 10-hour shifts. Satisloh
equally remarkable were those in
businesspeople researching how to
where 220 lab owners
Impressive numbers, yet
multigenerational companies,
planned to have the lab fully
attendance. It felt like the
invest in whatever will give them
and managers witnessed an
operational for three months
international optical lab commu-
that competitive edge, and
astounding 34 new Satisloh
prior, but unforeseen delays
nity in microcosm, almost like a
support staff learning what to
technologies in action (see page
(expected with any new construc-
small version of an old OLA
implement to streamline opera-
7). SLUGfest gathers the SatisLoh
tion) resulted in its being on line
meeting. We met and caught up
tions, all were there to immerse
Users Group whenever there’s
only four days before the event, so
with people from all over,
themselves in information.
enough new equipment to
actual production rates are yet to
Europe, South America, a
introduce to make such a meeting
be determined. However, during
Spanish lens designer, a Japanese
worthwhile. An opportunity to
the four hours that SLUGfesters
lens manufacturer, a Chinese lab
see a best-in-class lab, it did not
toured the lab, 509 jobs were
selling eyeglasses online, and
disappoint.
finished by seven Essilor employ-
many more, everyone willingly
ees (with the Satisloh team
sharing information and learning
producing real jobs at a rate that’s
working behind the scenes
about the newest technologies.
expected to reach 2,500 jobs per
running preventive maintenance).
Attendees toured a real lab
OpticalLabProducts.com
November OLP.indd 3
Fathers and sons representing
We’re already looking forward to the next SLUGfest.
John Sailer is VP, editorial of First Vision Media Group. JS@VisionCareProducts.com.
November 2017 3
11/17/17 12:39 PM
OPINIONS ONE-T0-ONE
OLP interviews Dan Kelly, COO of IFB Solutions.
Tell us a little bit about IFB Solutions. IFB Solutions is a
because of how jobs at IFB
nonprofit corpora-
change lives. For customers who want
tion based in
Our optical contracts with the Department of Veterans Affairs that began 16 years ago
Winston-Salem, NC, that
more than a transaction,
have helped shape our organiza-
provides employment, training
working with IFB Solutions is
tion to what we are today. Our
and services for people who are
an opportunity to change lives.
turnaround time is excellent, we
blind or visually impaired. In
Every new order or contract we
have exceptionally high quality
2000, IFB Solutions began
secure with a customer
standards, and I would stack
producing eyeglasses for the
generates additional jobs for
our IFB customer service team
Department of Veterans
people who are blind or
against any in the industry. Our
visually impaired. This matters
employees have an incredible
when you consider that the
work ethic, and we have deep
unemployment rate for
experience in the industry.
working-age adults who are
We’ve continued to invest in
Affairs, a customer partnership that remains today with IFB supplying eyeglasses to nearly
DAN KELLY is COO of IFB Solutions.
40 VA locations. As the largest employer of people who are
OLP: How do people react
blind is a daunting 70%. When
equipment so that our lab
blind or visually impaired in
when you tell them that
I shake someone’s hand and
remains modern and efficient.
the U.S., IFB Solutions
your workforce is primarily
tell them their order is making
I’m biased, but I think we’re
operates the optical lab and a
individuals who are blind?
a huge difference in the lives of
one of the best at what we do.
people like me who are blind, I
large-scale manufacturing facility in our Winston-Salem
KELLY: When I speak with
location along with manufac-
people in the optical industry,
turing facilities in Asheville,
they are often very surprised to
OLP: What are the capabili-
3D printing technology. How
NC, and Little Rock, AR.
learn that we run an optical lab
ties of the IFB Solutions
did this come about?
Through our operations and
staffed primarily by individuals
optical lab?
community support, we also
who are blind. For us, it’s what
fund community programs for
we know, and we’ve been
KELLY: The IFB optical lab is
adults and children who are
extremely successful with
one of the largest independent
blind or visually impaired such
delivering quality products on
labs in the country. We were
as our Community Low Vision
time to our customers for more
designated an Essilor IDD lab
Centers, SEE Summer Camps
than 16 years. Sometimes, I
two years ago, and our custom-
for school-age children and
need to be reminded that our
er base includes the federal
Focus on Literacy, which puts
organization and our mission
government and major retailers.
assistive technology in the
are unique in this marketplace.
We also have a local dispensary
homes of children who are
I do think, however, that our
here in Winston-Salem and
visually impaired to build their
mission represents an import-
work with a number of eyecare
reading skills.
ant point of differentiation
providers.
4 November 2017
November OLP.indd 4
say that with 100% certainty.
OLP: IFB Solutions is the first U.S. lab to install Luxexcel’s
KELLY: We’ve been following news coverage and industry
OpticalLabProducts.com
11/17/17 12:39 PM
ONE-T0-ONE OPINIONS
comfortable to operate the
developments within the 3D
commercial use in early 2018.
printing arena for more than
The 3D printer at IFB Solu-
equipment. One of the benefits
two years. It’s the wave of the
tions is the only 3D lens printer
of the Luxexcel technology and
future in manufacturing, and I
in the U.S., and outside of the
equipment is the ease of use, so
don’t see a different outcome in
printer used in Belgium by
we are very confident that our
the optical industry. As a
Luxexcel itself, our printer is the
employees will be trained and
company, we need to focus on
only one in the world on the cusp
operating the equipment in very
the future because 3D printing
of commercial use. [After this
short order.
is where the industry is going to
interview, Luxexcel’s 3D lens
go. We found Luxexcel while
printing technology was launched
OLP: What kinds of lenses
looking at new 3D printing
at IFB on Nov. 13, see page 6.]
will be produced with
technology on specialty lenses.
Luxexcel equipment? OLP: How will 3D printing
When I speak with people in the optical
KELLY: We will be focused on
benefit both IFB and its
industry, they are often very surprised to learn
producing lenses for those
customers?
that we run an optical lab staffed primarily by
vision challenges. Some
KELLY: The ability to print
examples are instances where
specialty lenses with this
there is a significant difference
technology will reduce the
individuals who are blind. For us, it’s what we know, and we’ve been extremely successful
individuals with more complex
in prescription for each eye,
delivery time from weeks to
with delivering quality products on time to our
which will require a lens with
hours. For the customer, this
customers for more than 16 years.
“slab off prism,” and situations
means IFB Solutions will be able
where the patient has a large
to produce very complicated
amount of “prescribed prism,”
prescription lenses in a much
technology and ordered a series
OLP: How was the staff
such as 10 diopters and above
shorter time with better
of test lenses. The team then
trained?
in one or both eyes.
prescription accuracy. For the end user, the 3D printing
traveled to our facility to give us a more in-depth demonstration
KELLY: The IFB optical lab has
OLP: How many jobs does
process can also reduce the
of the Luxexcel technology.
an in-depth training process
IFB process a day?
thickness of the lenses which will reduce weight and make
that is used whenever we install OLP: When was Luxexcel’s
new equipment. We are using
KELLY: IFB Solutions operates
them cosmetically more
equipment installed?
this same training process with
a comprehensive, full-service,
appealing.
the 3D lens printer. We first
wholesale optical lab. We
KELLY: We’ve been working
assess both the employees who
process lenses from all
OLP: How does IFB plan to
closely with the team from
will be operating the machine
manufacturers in all lens styles
promote this new capability
Luxexcel on the installation of
and the equipment to determine
and designs. We produce
to customers?
the 3D printer. The equipment
if any machine modifications
about 1,000 to 1,200 pairs per
was delivered earlier this fall,
are needed to make the equip-
day and have free-form
KELLY: Once the new technolo-
and we are now in the process
ment user friendly for our
equipment. Luxexcel’s
gy is integrated into our
of validating and testing the 3D
employees who are blind. After
equipment will yield about 50
operations, we will be sharing
lens printer. In this early phase,
the assessment and any updated
additional pairs of lenses a
the news with our customers,
our focus has been producing
modifications to the equipment
day. Although the volume of
but we have not made any
test lenses for in-house purpos-
or process are put in place, the
the 3D printed lenses is low,
specific marketing plans. I think
es. We’re looking forward to
employees work alongside a
we are focusing our develop-
we will have much more to share
using the 3D lens printer for
sighted trainer until they are
ment efforts with this new
at the beginning of 2018.
OpticalLabProducts.com
November OLP.indd 5
November 2017 5
11/17/17 12:40 PM
TECHNOLOGY LENSES
3D Printed Lenses Are Here, Now IFB Solutions and Luxexcel launch a lens-manufacturing technology that some said couldn’t be done.
(L-R): Luxexcel’s Hans Steng, Winston-Salem Mayor Allen Joines and IFB’s Dan Kelly.
BY JOHN SAILER
company is to “produce jobs in
way,” and then he called attention
the lens materials, known as
T
the short term while thinking 20
to “the amount of people who
Vision Clear, and the Vision
wo companies on a
years down the road,” all in an
can see but are often blind
Master software used to precisely
mission, one to employ
effort to create and maintain
business-wise” and concluded
design the lens. After an optician
the blind and visually
viable employment for the blind
that Luxexcel “had to find
designs a lens using the Vision
and visually impaired.
partners who look at the world in
Master software, the electronic
a different way but in a way that
file is sent to the printer, which
also makes money.”
produces the lens much like an
impaired, the other to transform eyeglass lens manufacturing, have
This goal brought IFB together
proven that optical lenses can be
with Luxexcel, a company that had
produced using 3D-printing
been working on manufacturing
technology with the launch of the
clear products such as lightbulbs
3D LENS TECHNOLOGY
but in three dimensions, using a
Luxexcel Vision Platform on Nov.
using 3D-printing technology.
Rather than attempt to compete
billion droplets of precisely
13, 2017, at the IFB Solutions
After Luxexcel narrowed its focus
by producing lenses with high
placed polymer to create the
plant in Winston-Salem, NC.
to eyeglass lenses, the two
volume but low value, such as
final lens, produced at a rate of
companies found each other.
single vision and standard
four per hour.
IFB’s vision, which started in
old-fashioned dot matrix printer
1936 with six employees, is now
Luxexcel CEO Hans Steng
managed by COO Dan Kelly (see
pointed out, “because you are
its new technology to produce
IFB to reverse its outsourcing of
page 4). Born with retinitis
visually impaired, you are forced
complex specialized lenses such
customized lenses while expand-
pigmentosa, Kelly’s vision for the
to look at things in a different
as slab offs and prisms that are
ing its ability to sell more
low volume but high value.
commercial products. With
progressives, IFB will begin using
Its large customer base of over
The new technology will enable
Luxexcel, “the two companies are
200,000 veterans every year
a fit marketing-wise, culture-wise
serviced through its contract
and ambition-wise,” said Steng,
with the Department of Veterans
and together, starting with IFB
Affairs and 36 optical retail
and its extensive optician network
dispensaries employs 60
and expanding into other labs
opticians throughout the
waiting in the wings, this passion-
southeast. This will provide the
ate partnership plans to bring
network necessary to begin
3D-printed lenses to the world.
educating opticians on how to use the software to design the lenses that will be produced by the 3D printer. The Luxexcel Vision Platform consists of the 3D printer itself referred to as the Vision Engine, WHERE TO FIND IT: IFB Solutions 800-242-7726 • IFBSolutions.org • Luxexcel Luxexcel.com • Info@Luxexcel.com 6 November 2017
November OLP.indd 6
OpticalLabProducts.com
11/17/17 1:44 PM
PL ASTIC PLUS
L A B I N N O VAT O R 20 17 Founded more than 40 years ago and now in its third generation of family management, Plastic Plus of Toronto has navigated four decades of changes in the optical business to become the success it is today. Its investments in new technologies over the years and its continued expansion into new facilities have led OLP to select this optical lab leader as the 2017 Optical Lab Innovator.
November OLP.indd 7
11/17/17 12:41 PM
Congratulations!
LAB INNOVATOR
2017 We recognize your constant pursuit of innovative products and appreciate your support!
CONTINUED SUCCESS FROM YOUR PARTNERS AT
Seiko_PlasticPlus.indd 1
11/8/17 12:51 PM
2017 1990 1985 2000 2016 1988
1974 1980 1983 1992 2014 19891998
TIMELINE LAB INNOVATOR 2017
43 YEARS AND COUNTING
Since its founding in 1974, Plastic Plus continues to adapt and grow.
1974 Company founded in in Canada to process plastic
Plastic Plus,
silent investor.
Company moved to
Sydney’s son Paul takes over
lenses. Sydney Faibish is a
1985
1980
Toronto and is the only lab
2018
current location at 14 Leswyn Road, Toronto.
becoming sole owner and president.
1988
1989
2005
Partners
Switches manufacturing
First lab in North America
with Seiko.
to LOH machinery (now
to process free-form lenses;
Satisloh).
first lab in North America to install several pieces of Satisloh equipment.
FOR PLASTIC PLUS,
FOR PLASTIC PLUS, CHARITY IS NOT OPTIONAL IS NOT OPTIONAL
CHARITY From North America to Africa
(and many places in between), Plastic Plus is dedicated to helping those in need receive quality vision care. “We don’t advertise it, but I will never turn down a mission. We never say ‘no’,” Paul Faibish told OLP. “I always say if we don’t do it, no one is going to do it, and it’s also important to teach the next generation.”
2009 The first MEI Bisphera TBA in the world is installed in lab. (In conjunction with Bisphera, the TBA unit enables lens loading and inspection without a finishing block.) Location expansion doubles lab size. Plastic Plus also introduces AR coating and becomes fully automated.
Whether its pre-making glasses or actually grinding or cutting
2014
stock lenses to prescriptions, Plastic Plus has worked in Toronto’s inner city schools as well as in countries such as Jamaica, Kenya and the Philippines, to name a few. Most recently, the company partnered with The Michael Clemmons “Pinball” Foundation and the University of Waterloo to provide exams and eyewear to local children, as well as with Canadian Vision Care, which conducted a mission trip to help
Introduces Rodenstock and IOT products; Paul’s son Jason joins Plastic Plus as vice president.
children in Malawi. Plastic Plus also sponsors several full scholarships to Hadassah Academic College (HAC), an optometry school in Israel. “Income and geography should not prevent a person from having
2016 2016: Purchases a
2017–2018
access to basic care,” Faibish explained. “We are pleased to work with
30,000-square-foot
so many opticians and optometrists who devote countless volunteer
building next to
facility expected to
hours to providing exams and care.”
current location.
be complete.
OpticalLabProducts.com
1:11 PM
Our expansion will ensure full redundancy, and we’re going to have greater capacity for production and partnerships. —Paul Faibish
November OLP.indd 9
Move to new
November 2017 A3
11/17/17 12:41 PM
LAB INNOVATOR 2017 Q&A WITH PAUL AND JASON FAIBISH
HEDGING BETS AND TAKING CHANCES Plastic Plus’s bold strategy of taking risks took the lab from near bankruptcy to success. Here, owner Paul Faibish along with his son Jason tell OLP how these investments paid off. OLP: Can we start by talking
touched this company as it was
about the roots of your
only doing $600,000 to $700,000
and innovative lens technology.
lean organization. I never
company, when you started,
a year, the debt load was over $1
When free-form came in 2005
envisioned it would get to where
how you started, why you
million, and the interest rate was
we were the first lab in North
it is today.
started?
over 20%. But I understood
America to process digital
which direction we needed to go.
free-form, and that was the main
OLP: So you obviously
PAUL FAIBISH: I grew up in an
I didn’t take any salary for a
turning point in our operation.
invested in the equipment to
optical family. My father was an
number of years, and as we began
A lot of people said it was never
measure to 1/1,000ths of a
optometrist with a very large
to add new technology the
going to work, but we took the
diopter.
practice in Toronto. When Plastic
business quickly began to grow.
chance. We bought the equip-
Plus started in 1974, my father
But we also invested in new
blanks allow labs to run a more
ment, and we’ve been doing
FAIBISH: Yes, we did. We have
was a silent investor, but he was
OLP: You took it over and
free-form for 12 years. Current-
all the A&R equipment. Every-
the main guarantor at the bank.
obviously you changed some
ly, 99% of our progressives are
thing goes on a digital line, even
The company wasn’t doing very
things to become successful.
free-form, and a good chunk of
single vision or flat tops.
well. So in 1980 the management
What did you do differently?
our single vision is free-form.
Everything is processed cut-to-
team said to my father: “Either
We’ve never been afraid to
polish. Our entire surfacing is
take it over or we’ll bankrupt it.”
FAIBISH: We took some chances.
invest in technology. Our lab is
Satisloh and edging is MEI. We
So we took it over and began
Imperial Optical was a dominant
totally automated, and we’re
keep investing: We have more
taking it in the direction the
player in this industry, and when
moving from a 14,000-square-
equipment sitting in a ware-
industry was moving.
they went bankrupt in 1992, our
foot building to a 30,000-square-
house right now waiting to be
business probably grew about
foot building that’s going to be
installed in the new building.
25% overnight.
even more automated. There’s
Our one claim to fame is that
nothing out there that we
any independent lab in the world
haven’t bought or adapted to.
that is processing free-form, all
If we looked at the balance sheet today, we never would have
the protocols, all the standards OLP: What attracted you to
were tested in our building. We
free-form when it was first
were the first lab in the world to
being introduced because it
integrate free-form with our
was a huge financial
LMS. All the VCA standards
investment?
were established in our building.
FAIBISH: The quality of lenses
OLP: So Satisloh came to you
has changed the industry. The
and wanted to make you
technology synergies paired with
kind of a beta site?
the lower production cost, lack of inventory and less expensive A4 November 2017
November OLP.indd 10
FAIBISH: No. We’ve always been OpticalLabProducts.com
11/17/17 12:41 PM
Q&A WITH PAUL AND JASON FAIBISH LAB INNOVATOR 2017
a Seiko distributor, and Seiko
FAIBISH: Both Zeiss and Seiko
branded, some want non-brand-
FAIBISH: Mainly all the major
had free-form and shared their
had similar free-form patents in
ed, some want a combination.
manufacturers up here and the
technology. Satisloh understood
the U.S., and labs there were
For non-branded we deal with
larger independents are virtually
that we were willing to take
reluctant to enter the market
IOT. We’re a big fan of IOT.
all free-form with AR. Any
chances and invest in new
until that was settled. In Canada,
technology. We had a head start
we have the exclusive for Seiko,
lens technology to our lens
adapt to free-form or AR coating
over U.S. labs because of the
so we just dove in. We also now
portfolio, and that will be a
has basically gone away. We run
patent issue. In fact, in that first
have the exclusive for Roden-
Vandelay house brand as well.
75% to 85% AR coatings up here
year, we should have opened up
stock, and then we have our
a hotel as we had people from all
house brand as well.
We have added the Camber
as well. OLP: Is the Canadian market different from the U.S.?
over the world coming to see us and see free-form in action.
OLP: How do you position the
That was one of the risks that
three?
independent lab who couldn’t
OLP: That’s been traditional thanks to Imperial Optical?
FAIBISH: In a couple ways, yes. Not in numbers, but percent-
FAIBISH: Yes, they did a great
FAIBISH: The price is deter-
age-wise, more free-form is sold
job starting that. I think
OLP: Just for the sake of
mined by the cost of the
in Canada than any country in
traditionally we’ve also done
people who haven’t been
substrate and the click fee, so
the world. In addition we do a
much more premium lenses
around for 12 years, can you
obviously the non-branded costs
high percentage of AR coatings.
than other markets. I think
quickly summarize that
a lot less, and we sell it for a lot
patent issue?
less. Some customers want only
paid off for us.
that’s part of the reason we were OLP: Why is that?
also able to adapt much faster to
CONGRATULATIONS CONGRATULATIONS PLASTIC PLUS PL A BL I A N NS O VT A T IO RC O F P T HLE U Y E ASR
L A B I N N O VAT O R O F T H E Y E A R
CONGRATULATIONS www.satisloh.com | 800-866-5640
www.satisloh.com | 800-866-5640
PLASTIC PLUS
OpticalLabProducts.com
November OLP.indd 11
November 2017 A5
11/17/17 12:41 PM
LAB INNOVATOR 2017 Q&A WITH PAUL AND JASON FAIBISH
free-form than the U.S. market.
matching on a 1.67 and as good
dental and eyeglasses.
as an index matching as you’re
produced faster and at a higher level of quality.
OLP: In terms of materials,
going to get on a 1.74. We have
OLP: You’re doubling the size
what’s popular in the
many ECPs who only give us
of your facility. What else is
redundancy, and we’re going to
Canadian market?
their high index work strictly for
the move going to bring you?
have greater capacity for
the index matching we provide. FAIBISH: Definitely higher index.
Our expansion will ensure full
production and partnerships. FAIBISH: Since our last expansion
There’s a place in our market
OLP: Do you contend with
eight years ago we have more than
for an independent lab that does
third party in any way, shape
doubled our workforce and our
all of its production in Canada.
OLP: You don’t do poly
or form? Are eyeglasses
top line has doubled. Once we add
We buy goods and services in
anymore?
covered by your health
the new conveyor system, we’re
Canada. We provide employ-
insurance?
going to install the new equipment
ment in Canada. We’re not
and then gradually bring the old
sending the work offshore, and I
We do tons of 1.74 and 1.67.
FAIBISH: Most of our poly is in the chain segment. The ECPs
FAIBISH: No. The government
equipment over, so we will run
think people are starting to
here generally do the 1.5, 1.6 and
used to pay for eye examina-
parallel for at least a month or two.
embrace the importance of local
1.67. I believe we’re the only lab
tions. Now, the government
in Canada to have an index-
generally only pays for eye exam-
OLP: And what are you going
matching 1.67 lacquer. It’s a
inations for kids and seniors, but
to do to stimulate the
significant added cost, but we get
the norm is most people working
growth that the new building
OLP: What about the growth
an absolutely perfect index
have benefits, which include
will accommodate?
potential in the U.S.? What
work. Our clients realize that we are not their competition.
would be driving that and JASON FAIBISH: It’s going to
how would you execute that?
allow for more opportunities,
CONGRATULATIONS
PLASTIC PLUS
A GREAT HONOR
FOR A GREAT PARTNER. We’re proud to contribute to your focus on quality.
from lens partnerships to different
FAIBISH: We do have FDA
technologies and smartglasses and
approval, and we are selling to a
a lot more innovation.
few people in the U.S. right now. We do have an advantage with
OLP: Well, when you’re
the currency. Our dollar
talking about partnerships
fluctuates to 25%, 35% price
would you partner with
discount, so that gives us a huge
frame companies to create
advantage. We are the perfect
frame/lens packages?
partner for companies looking to expand in Canada.
FAIBISH: Yes, we are presently working on several partnership
OLP: So your export is
opportunities to help give ECPs
favorable?
more options in a competitive
A&R Optical Machinery, Inc.
262-641-8780 arom @ ar.be www.ar.be
A6 November 2017
November OLP.indd 12
marketplace. ECPs not only have to
FAIBISH: About 11% to 12% of
compete with industry players but
our business is export. We do
with online. We can give them the
work in five or six islands in the
tools they need to offer the same
Caribbean, and we even have a
products as their competitors.
couple of accounts in Europe
We have a couple approaches
that we send work to as well. We
to building business, and the key
can grind lenses thinner in
element is service so jobs will be
Canada because there is no FDA OpticalLabProducts.com
11/17/17 12:41 PM
Q&A WITH PAUL AND JASON FAIBISH LAB INNOVATOR 2017
testing, so we appeal to the world
materials. We offer customizable
So think about it, about 60% of
OLP: You’ve already men-
outside the U.S. And I’d like to
P-O-P for our clients, which allow
the market is dominated by
tioned another area where
think our AR coatings are a little
them to present in-depth
chains, mass merchandisers and
you can compete and that’s
bit crisper; a little bit better
information to patients. We take
the internet.
customer service.
index match.
the time to understand our clients
We’re helping ECPs help their
and their patients’ needs. Based on
customers make informed
FAIBISH: We’re responsive and
about 35% growth. A lot of
this we know whether I offer them
decisions because they don’t
can customize lens options to the
people knock on our door, and
a Rodenstock line, a Seiko, or our
really know which lens is best for
needs of our clients. I am
my son Jason works with them.
house brand, Vandelay.
them. We provide our ECPs with
personally on the factory floor
resources and tools to take to
from early in the morning to
their customers.
mid-afternoon every day. You
Last year our top line grew by
We are always looking for new opportunities to grow in Canada
OLP: What’s one of the
and the U.S.
biggest issues or challenges
OLP: Jason, what are you
that your customer base is
OLP: What do you think this
reading reports. It just doesn’t
facing now?
business is going to look like
work. You have to be present and
in the next five years?
a part of the day-to-day opera-
doing to extend yourself into the sales side?
can’t manage a lab from the office
FAIBISH: In 1990, the chains
tions. The optical industry is my
controlled 10% of the market
FAIBISH: The industry is moving
life, and I pride myself on taking
JASON FAIBISH: We’ve upped
and nine out of 10 people went
in many different directions from
a leading role in the products we
our game with a lot of merchan-
to an ECP. Currently, only about
online to 3D print technology to
make and the direction the indus-
dising resources and P-O-P
40% of consumers go to an ECP.
ever changing lens technology.
try is moving in the future.
CONGRATULATIONS TO PLASTIC PLUS ON BEING NAMED LAB INNOVATOR OF 2017
CONTINUED SUCCESS FROM YOUR FRIENDS AT ULTRA OPTICS Ultra_LabInnovator2017.indd 1
OpticalLabProducts.com
November OLP.indd 13
10/30/17 11:47 AM
November 2017 A7
11/17/17 12:41 PM
IS PLE ASED TO HONOR
Congratulations!
LAB INNOVATOR
2017 We recognize your constant pursuit of innovative products and appreciate your support!
CONTINUED SUCCESS FROM YOUR PARTNERS AT
Best wishes for continued success. November OLP.indd 14
Seiko_PlasticPlus.indd 1
10/30/17 1:11 PM
11/17/17 12:41 PM
SLUGFEST EVENTS
SLUGFEST 2017: PUTTING THEORY INTO PRACTICE Satisloh hosted its users group to witness a fully automated lab in action. BY CARA AIDONE HUZINEC
INNOVATION AND AUTOMATION
to get back from the lab,” he
prioritize and expedite orders
Equipment included both the
said. “Express AR is going to
through the lab.”
bout 200 Satisloh users
automated and manual alloy free
expedite the process.”
had the opportunity to
ART blocking systems, three
visit Lab 4.0—Satisloh’s
different lens generators
ogies from other companies,
Larry Clarke, president and
fully automated, functional lab
(VFT-macro-E for small volume
including MEI Systems, Bazell
CTO, said Lab. 4.0 will enable
that can produce 2,500 lenses per
VFT-orbit 2E for mid volume,
Technologies, NCC Automated
labs to become more efficient
day with two shifts of just nine to
and VFT-orbit 2 for high
Systems and A&R Optical
and productive while also
10 employees each—at this year’s
volume), the Multi-FLEX high
Machinery. Software 4 Production
reducing labor costs, decreasing
SLUGFest, Nov. 8-11, in Dallas.
volume polishing system, the
(S4P) developed the MES-360
the use of consumables and
Individual groups toured the
A
Lab 4.0 also integrates technol-
CUSTOMER SERVICE
ART-Glue-Detector for auto-
manufacturing execution system
other parts. Automated systems
lab “round-robin” style to view
mated glue detection on lenses
and MOM-360 manufacturing
allow for faster delivery times
each piece of equipment, from
and blocks and the Express AR
operations management system
and are more energy efficient
swarf management and Express
system, which starts with
that include modules for RFID
and environmentally friendly.
AR to automated inspection and
front-sided AR-coated blanks to
paperless job tracking and GPS,
tray and block handling. A
make the process faster. Its
real-time machine monitoring,
four-year hiatus between
staggering 34 technologies (some
Cobotic loading system inserts
proactive scheduling, quality
SLUGFests (the last event was in
components of larger systems)
blocked lenses into AR sectors
control and more.
2013) was because “the new
produced lenses in real time.
using collaborative robots.
“It’s a real facility with real jobs
Frank Leyva, senior Rx lab
“I wanted to learn more about
Clarke said the reason for a
technologies need to be experi-
4.0 and see the integration of the
enced, not talked about. We
and real customers,” said Andy
technologies manager at
automation,” said Marc Van
wanted to show the real thing...so
Huthoefer, head of marketing and
Younger Optics, said Satisloh’s
Camp, VP of manufacturing and
we designed and built that lab.”
global aftermarket operations at
Express AR was impressive.
supply chain at Spectera/United
Peter Lothes, president and
Satisloh. “It’s not like a trade show.
“Historically, the AR process has
Healthcare. “The MES stood out
CEO of Satisloh North America,
It’s an actual production facility, and
been time consuming and in
because it’s bridging the gap in
stressed the company’s commit-
our customers can relate to that.”
some cases taking up to a week
lab operations in its ability to
ment to not only providing
OpticalLabProducts.com
November OLP.indd 15
November 2017 7
11/17/17 12:42 PM
EVENTS SLUGFEST
customers with technology but
To learn more about the
SATISLOH SLUGFEST EQUIPMENT GUIDE:
also giving them the support
evolution of smart manufactur-
(34 new technologies; some components of larger systems)
required for optimal functionality.
ing and Industry 4.0, download
• Command Center (central control center) • MES-360 Manufacturing Execution System (machine monitoring, breakage tracking, conveyor routing, coat batch-tracking modules; links to automated optical inspection and manual cosmetic inspection) • MOM-360 Manufacturing Operations Management system (proactive scheduling and quality control; incorporates front curve measurement and recalculation) • NCC Automated Systems ISC System (integrated smart conveyor system that can be configured for any lab)
“We are committing over 210 resources now—field technicians and service people—working globally to support you as the
FPOV.com/SK. Steele Young, Satisloh’s VP of business development and key
customer,” he said. “We are all
accounts, told OLP the goal of
committed to our customers and
SLUGFest was to effectively
making quality eyewear.”
educate users on automated technology, which is to actually
• Lens Blank Dispensing Assist (picking 10-tray buffer with hand scanner) • ART-Tray-Pod (automated tray and block storage/retrieval system)
LAB 4.0
• ART-Blocker-A (alloy-free blocking technology)
Industry 4.0 expert Scott Klososky,
• ART-Blocker-M (alloy-free blocking of extreme/unusual lenses)
Klososky’s presentation at www.
have them see a functional lab. “The combined production
author, consultant and former
capacity of the people here is
CEO of three technology startup
somewhere around 200,000
companies, kicked off day two
lenses a day, so these are the
with a keynote address in which
right people to be looking at the
• Bazell Technologies Weima Briquetter (swarf management system)
he urged industry leaders to have
latest in automation and
• Bazell Technologies HC6 (automated coolant cleaning system)
a vision and see it through:
innovation for the optical lab,”
• Multi-FLEX (polisher that incorporates four new polishing pads and processes
“You’re all leaders,” he told the
he said. “In the end if everybody
and features intelligent tool concept, cleaning and drying station for Express AR
crowd. “And leaders have to
gets it and understands the
and tool monitoring system)
make very tough decisions about
concept and sees the new
getting to that vision.”
technologies, then I would say it
• VFT-macro-E (lens generator for small volume labs) • VFT-orbit 2E (lens generator for mid volume labs) • VFT-orbit 2 (high-volume generator with second fast tool and proprietary tool with integrated cooling system)
• Magna-Spin-Auto-2 (hard coating spinning system with dual lacquer system) • Express AR system (single-sided AR; on-the-block box coating) • TO-400 (automated 30-minute degas oven) • Cobotic loading system (collaborative robot loading of blocked lenses into the
Klososky explained Lab 4.0 in
[SLUGFest] is a success.”
context of the larger digital transformation currently taking
Cara Aidone Huzinec is assistant
• 1200-DLX-2 (box coater for both AR and mirror coatings)
place. Calling it a “historically
editor of Optical Lab Products.
• ART-Deblocker-A (automated deblocker that separates block piece, adhesive and
significant change in humanity,”
box coater sectors)
lens by waterjet) • ART-Glue-Detector (detector that automatically dismisses lenses or blocks with glue) • SCL-BC-5 Brush Cleaner (automated lens cleaning system after surfacing/finishing) • A&R Optical Machines Pro Mapper (lens inspection with automated positioning and decision making) • ES-5 Edger (blockless edging system with centering and power measurement)
he said the main difference between Industry 3.0 (automation, robotics and computers) and Industry 4.0 (smart stations and robotics) is the “integration and
• ES-macro/QM-X3 (tabletop edger)
addition of intelligence to the
• MEI Systems 4Racer TBA (edger that combines lens inspection with high speed
automation capabilities,” and Lab
edging in one unit)
4.0 is a prime example of a fully automated manufacturing process.
8 November 2017
November OLP.indd 16
OpticalLabProducts.com
11/17/17 12:42 PM
NEWS RUNDOWN
ISO SPECTACLE LENS STANDARD MEETING The Southbridge Hotel and Conference Center played host to the ISO TC172/SC7/WG3 spectacle lens standards committees, Sept. 2730. Located in Southbridge, MA, the hotel is the site of the former American Optical Main Plant. A total of 31 experts from ten countries attended and were treated to a reception, dinner and special tour of the Zeiss-sponsored Optical Heritage Museum, also located in Southbridge. In addition to Zeiss and the Optical Heritage Museum, PPG and Schneider Optical Machines provided donations to help support this special event.
Left to right: Honorees Jim Goerges, Mark Mattison-Shupnick, John Art, Bill Heffner, Marty Bassett, Lorinda Fraboni, Lawrence Lahr, Drake McLean, Joe Vitale
LAB INDUSTRY HONORS ITS OWN
in numerous positions, including controller and chief operating
Parties were aplenty during Vision Expo West, and the Lab Divi-
officer. He is immediate past chairman of The Vision Council, of
sion’s annual Hall of Fame Banquet, Sept. 13, was no exception as it
which he also served as vice chairman, secretary, treasurer and chair
honored longtime contributors to the wholesale optical industry.
of its Government Relations and Advocacy Committee.
Lab Division liaison Steve Sutherlin and Hoya Vision Care pres-
The Lab Division also inducted eight industry veterans into its
ident Barney Dougher emceed the evening, held at the Treasure
Hall of Fame: John R. Art, president, Interstate Optical; Lorinda
Island Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas.
Fraboni, IS development and operations manager, Walman Op-
Marty Bassett, president and CEO, Walman Optical Co., took
tical Co.; Jim Goerges, president/owner, Precision Tool Technol-
home this year’s Directors’ Choice Award. Established in 1987,
ogies, Inc.; William H. Heffner, III, president, CEO and founder,
the award honors individuals or companies that have made “out-
FEA Industries, Inc.; Lawrence Lahr, vice president emeritus,
standing contributions to the ophthalmic industry.”
Eye-Kraft Optical; Mark Mattison-Shupnick, director of edu-
Bassett started his industry career in finance, accounting and
cation, Jobson Medical Information; Drake McLean, president,
operations, the first six of which were in the equipment and manu-
Dietz-McLean Optical Co., Inc.; and Joe Vitale, technical support
facturing sector. For the last 21 years at Walman, Bassett has served
manager, Essilor of America IDD.
OpticalLabProducts.com
November OLP.indd 17
November 2017 9
11/17/17 12:42 PM
RUNDOWN NEWS
LUXEXCEL RECEIVES FUNDING FOR AR AND VR EYEWEAR Belgium-based Luxexcel has received $4.7 million from venture capital firm Innovative Industries to accelerate development of its 3D printing technology for Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality eyewear. AR/VR headset manufacturers can use Luxexcel’s Vision Platform to provide personalized prescription lenses in the headsets. Luxexcel recently installed the printer at IFB Solutions in Winston-Salem, NC, the first lab to utilize the company’s technology.
LABS GATHER FOR COLA SPRING MEETING
New Beginnings in Lens Polishing
The 2017 COLA Spring Meeting was held April 27-28, 2017, at the Temecula Creek Inn, Temecula, CA, and focused on
the state of optical labs as the association embraces Industry
ASPIRE™ is a high performance plastic lens polish that is ideal for both digital and traditional plastic lens polishing infused with intelligence; more specifically, artificial intelliapplications. It has been engineered to provide incredible gence for the manufacturing optical lab. removal rates and produce superior surface finishes on all types of plastic lenses. ASPIRE™ flows easily, does not cling to machinery or the lens, and features a suspension package that works in both large and small slurry systems. 4.0—the fourth Industrial Revolution—where machines are
CALIFORNIA
NORTH CAROLINA
CANADA
800.445.6339
800.234.1982
844.858.7444
www.salemdist.com
Contact SALEM 10 November 2017
November OLP.indd 18
Vision Today & Discover How ASPIRE™ Can Perfect Your Process OpticalLabProducts.com
11/17/17 12:42 PM
NEW FOR THE LAB RUNDOWN
A&R OPTICAL MACHINERY’S PROMAPPER The tabletop ProMapper from A&R uses automatic positioning and decision making, making it operator independent and easy to use and calibrate. ProMapper inspects lenses for both optical and geometrical properties, including power, prism, addition, thickness, shape and polarization axis, plus free-form surface evaluation with Error Map and Go/No Go. For more information, contact A&R Optical Machinery, Inc. at 262.641.8780 or AR.be. TWO NEW GENERATORS FROM COBURN Coburn’s newest lens generators, the Cobalt NXT & NXT+, succeed its current large-format free-form generator, the Cobalt DS, and represent the company’s next generation platform for lens surfacing. Both can be upgraded to a fully automated machine for labs looking to completely automate their free-form processes. Along with offering superior lens quality, the NXT and NXT + include on-board engraving to save costs, automated calibration for more efficient and faster processing and a higher throughput than the DS. For more information, contact Coburn Technologies at 800.262.8761 or CoburnTechnologies.com.
EYEBRAIN MEDICAL LAUNCHES NEUROLENS This progressive prism lens design works to reduce or eliminate eye misalignment at all distances caused by overcompen-
Stay up-to-date with the latest in lab news and new products— subscribe to LABmail at OpticalLabProducts.com OpticalLabProducts.com LabMail_square.indd 1 November OLP.indd 19
sating during digital use. The neurolens also relieves symptoms associated with digital device overuse with its embedded neuroclear treatment that blocks 94% of high energy blue light in the 400-420nm range. For more information, contact eyeBrain Medical at 949.339.5157 or neurolenses.com.
November 2017 11
4/25/17 11:44 AM 11/17/17 12:43 PM
RUNDOWN NEW FOR THE LAB
FIL-TECH’S CRYSTALS MEASURE THIN FILMS
VISION EASE CLEAR BLUE FILTER IN HOYA MATERIALS
Fil-Tech has introduced new Extreme Temperature Crystals that
The new VISION EASE Clear Blue Filter SV polycarbonate
are stable in the 200˚ C range and are ideal for processes that
lens is now available in HOYA SV, Array, Amplitude BKS
utilize excessive heat, including VD, OVPD and ALD. For mea-
and Amplitude BKS Mini. Clear Blue Filter lenses offer
suring thin films, Extreme Temperature Crystals can be used
100% UV protection and filter “three times more blue light
with standard film monitors and controllers, which are avail-
than standard polycarbonate lenses at 420nm,” according to
able in gold, silver and Stress Relieving Alloy coatings. For more
VISION EASE. For more information, contact VISION EASE
information, contact Fil-Tech at 800.743.1743 or FilTech.com.
at 800.328.3449 or VisionEase.com.
SCHNEIDER INTRODUCES NEW GENERATOR AND POLISHER Schneider’s HSC Modulo XTS incorporates two motors (XS-Tec and RS-Tec) to provide up to 40 times the gravitational acceleration to make this the fastest generator on the market, according to the company. An extra rigid machine base and cross-slide withstand extreme forces, plus a high performance, robust spindle enables heavy duty processing at high speeds. The HSC Modulo XTS also features an encapsulated milling chamber for immediate and clean swarf removal. The CCP Modulo S is a fully automated, two-lens polisher
selection routines and an intelligent pad identification system
featuring the S+ adaptive tool set with a “click-easy” lock system
that monitors wear. For more information, contact Schneider
for shorter polishing time, longer tool life and higher flexibility.
Optical Machines, Inc. at 972.247.4000 or Schneider-OM.com or
An Advanced Polishing System (APS) uses database-driven
Info-US@Schneider-OM.com.
12 November 2017
November OLP.indd 20
OpticalLabProducts.com
11/17/17 12:43 PM
Leybold Optics CCS610T+ Redesigned with a thermal evaporator and more powerful ion source This fourth generation coater has been redesigned - packing more capability into a smaller footprint - while retaining an affordable entry price.
Questions? leyboldoptics.cary@buhlergroup.com 919.657.7100
Innovations for a better world. Untitled-2 1
2/16/17 6:35 PM
The Future is M dulo!
HSC m dulo XT Redefining acceleration With HSC Modulo XTS, SCHNEIDER has accomplished a quantum leap in high-speed cutting, creating the fastest generator in the market. The heart of the machine is the new and extremely powerful XS-motor, redefining acceleration in ophthalmics. The generator’s machine base has been designed to be extra rigid to withstand the extreme forces exerted. Combined with high-frequency drive technology, a new milling spindle, and intelligent algorithms, an ingenious generator is formed. A sophisticated swarf management system efficiently keeps the work space clean. The result: The best lens in the shortest time – Full stop.
SCHNEIDER GmbH & Co. KG Biegenstrasse 8–12 35112 Fronhausen, Germany Phone: +49 (64 26) 96 96-0 www.schneider-om.com
RZ_AZ_HSC_Modulo_XTS_OLP_9x10_875Zoll_4c_engl.indd Untitled-1 1 1
SCHNEIDER Optical Machines Inc. 6644 All Stars Avenue, Suite 100 Frisco, TX 75033, USA Phone: +1 (972) 247-4000 info-us@schneider-om.com
10.10.2017 11/8/17 17:07:05 12:17 PM