Article published Christian Bovet (Essilor):
“We seek the know-how to improve our expertise”
In 2006, Essilor opened a joint laboratory with the CEA dedicated to the application of microtechnology research into the field of optics. Included in this is, the development of a new generation of digital lenses.
The world leader in opthalmic lenses, Essilor is continuously seeking new innovations and bringing ever improved products to the market. The latest project to date is digital lenses for which the optical and physical properties are encapsulated in independent micro-cuvettes, in order to incorporate a range of properties into the lenses. This is a revolution in the world of optics which has been made possible through close collaboration with the CEA. This collaboration was cemented by creation of a joint laboratory within Minatec, a major innovation cluster in micro and nanotechnology, set up in Grenoble.
Essilor came seeking the developments made by the CEA in the fabrication of LCD screens. These had enabled liquid crystals screens to exhibit significantly larger viewing angles and improved image quality, particularly in terms of contrast. “This unique and promising technology made it possible for us to infinitely multiple the personalisation of our lenses. Up until now the accumulation of optical, mechanical, anti-reflective and stain and scratch resistant properties, was achieved by deposition of successive layers. Today, thanks to the results of microtechnology, each factor is achieved by a so called photolithography technique”, explains Jean-Paul Cano, technical director of the project at Essilor, who is supported by a team of around ten researchers, developing intelligent, flexible and electronically controllable components which are capable of adapting to their environment in real time.
“This cross-over, which is part of the group's R&D policy, aims to seal partnerships with public research", continued Christian Bovet, director of digital lens technology development. "We will go where the know-how is, and where the resources are best, to gain competitive advantage and to advance as rapidly as possible. These partnerships are also a means to mobilise additional human and financial resources”.
The first products to come out of this collaboration should be on the market soon. They will strengthen Essilor's position as the world leader.
