OPTI-SHOPPER

buyer’s guide

THE LATEST IN TECH ADVANCES

{EQUIPMENT}
A CLOSER LOOK
COMPACT SURFACING

The SGX Pro is the latest-generation surface generator from Coburn Technologies, equipped with new electronics operating on a Windows 7 platform. Perfect for compact work areas such as a small wholesale lab or retail in-office lab, the touch screen interface and USB capabilities on this user-friendly generator makes lens processing easier.

Like its predecessor, SGX Plus, the SGX Pro generator delivers high performance and dry-cut milling technology for processing Trivex, CR-39, polycarbonate, and high-index lenses.

“The SGX has always been a terrific compact generator and the latest model, SGX PRO, is even better. It makes lens processing simple and cost effective; perfect for the small wholesale or retail lab.”

— CHARLIE SEIDEL, director, Coburn Technologies’ Lab Works Group

Known for its reliability and impressive performance, SGX Pro has one of the widest curve ranges on the market and has been proven to provide the same dependability and accuracy of earlier SGX models, according to the company.

Coburn has discontinued production of its SGX Plus generator at its world headquarters assembly plant. The company will continue to provide support and service to existing SGX Plus generators and, in addition, offer an SGX Pro Upgrade kit for users looking to update that equipment.

INFO: 800-COBURN-1, coburntechnologies.com

{SPECTACLE LENSES}
EDGE THINNING

New from Wiley X is WX digital edge thinning, a process that reduces the thickness of a lens edge from the optical zone to the periphery of the lens with a gradual change in curvature that concentrates the optics centrally. This results in a reduction of volume and weight and overall lens thickness.

Using digital generators and CAD-operated edgers, WX can produce much higher powers in extreme wraps with outstanding optical clarity. Controlled peripheral aberrations and controlled centralized optics allow for a thinner edge and more pleasing aesthetics, according to the company, and greatly expands the Rx ranges in both single vision and multifocal lens designs for Wiley X frames.

INFO: wileyx.com

{SPECTACLE LENSES}
DURA AR

ZEISS has launched the first three lens coatings in its new DuraVision anti-reflection line: DuraVision Platinum, DuraVision BlueProtect, and DuraVision Silver.

The new flagship coating, DuraVision Platinum, offers an unprecedented level of clarity through outstanding performance in anti-reflection, scratch resistance, and being oil-resistant and easy to clean.

DuraVision BlueProtect extends the capability of AR by offering significant protection against high-energy blue light, which has been linked to retinal damage and AMD. It significantly reduces harmful blue light while allowing nearly all beneficial light to pass through, and has high scratch resistance and cleanability.

DuraVision Silver gives ECPs an additional option to meet patients’ AR needs.

INFO: zeiss.com/vision

{DISPENSING AIDS}
A NEW SPARK

Shamir Insight, Inc., has released updates to SPARK (Single-shot Panorameter Augmented Reality Kit), its digital measurement device. The 3D measuring tool utilizes an iPad camera and automatically calculates all frame measurements based on one picture.

SPARK takes all “as worn” measurements (panoramic angle, pantoscopic tilt, and vertex distance) as well as the fitting height, mono PD, HBOX, VBOX, and DBL with just one picture. The “as-worn” measurements are necessary to customize several of Shamir’s Freeform products and offer patients a more precise fit.

The upgrades to the SPARK include a single calibration: users calibrate after installation and no longer need to calibrate at the start of each use. Shamir has rearranged the fitting height and PD measurements to display in the first stage of measurements. Near PD and effective diameter have been added to the provided measurements. SPARK has a new Archive design, which allows easy access to a range of new features, as well as a new home screen, which is more user-friendly, attractive, and intuitive.

It is compatible with iPad 3, 4, or iPad Air (Generation 1) and requires that users download Shamir’s app onto their iPad.

INFO: 877-514-8330, shamirlens.com

{SPECTACLE LENSES}
TEMPLE OPTIONS GROW

Hoya Vision Care has added several temple options to its Hoya DF Distortion-Free Optics rimless line. The line’s award-winning Avantek mounting system does not use drill holes, so the mounting does not cause any stress or pressure on the lens, resulting in distortion-free vision.

First released with titanium alloy temples and bridges, the line has expanded to include temples made of lightweight TR90 and temples made of carbon fiber.

Each line is available in a variety of colors. Wearers can choose from eight lens shapes, each available in two sizes.

INFO: thehoyafreeformcompany.com

{SPECTACLE LENSES}
GO GRADIENT

Just in time for summer travel, KBco lenses are now available in a new gray gradient polycarbonate polarized lens with a digitally optimized base curve design. The 76mm diameter lenses combine a high polar efficiency of 95% with UV protection.

The new gradient polarized lenses have a lighter near zone for ease of reading smartphones and tablets. The lenses also provide a more comfortable driving experience as they shield the eyes from the overhead sun while allowing more light at the bottom to enable clear vision of the dashboard.

According to the company, having a gray gradient polycarbonate option added to its polarized line offers patients a new choice when selecting proper lens protection for the outdoors. Additionally, it states that the left and right lens consistently match and the color of the lens will not fade.

A brown option is expected to be available later this year.

KBco supplies retail chains and ECPs through an extensive distribution network of wholesale laboratories.

INFO: kbco.net