IOT develops world’s first progressive lens made with light-based 3D technology
IOT has developed Light-Form Technology, a new manufacturing technology that produces ophthalmic lenses (prescription eyeglass lenses) through a 3D process that meets the precision and optical quality standards required for commercial use. The breakthrough marks a new stage in the evolution of ophthalmic lens manufacturing and an international milestone for technology developed in Spain. The system departs from conventional methods, opening the door to faster, more efficient, more compact, and more sustainable production.
The first application of this technology will now reach consumers in Spain through VisionLab, which brings its expertise in optical retail, distribution, and customer service. The collaboration completes the journey from scientific research and technological development to a lens for consumer use.
Light-Form process
Unlike conventional processes, which rely on grinding and polishing lenses, Light-Form uses a controlled volumetric photopolymerization system to produce a complete progressive lens in seconds, in a single step, with a single flash of light. The technology significantly simplifies the manufacturing process and reduces its environmental impact. Compared with conventional methods, it eliminates water consumption associated with manufacturing, cuts energy use by 90%, and reduces waste by 76%.
“Light-Form Technology™ is the result of years of scientific research and technological development. It represents a milestone for the optical industry by enabling a new way to manufacture progressive lenses with commercial-grade optical quality,” said José Alonso, co-founder of IOT. “It is particularly significant that an innovation of this magnitude was developed in Spain, with the ambition to transform optical manufacturing worldwide. Beyond the technological breakthrough, Light-Form allows us to take a decisive step toward more sustainable processes by eliminating water consumption and significantly reducing energy use and waste generation. It demonstrates how research, innovation, and sustainability can work together to shape the future of the optical industry.”
“Becoming the first retailer in the world to bring this disruptive technology to market is a new challenge for VisionLab, and one that could change the future of the optical industry. Using innovation to enhance sensory well-being is part of our DNA, and we want to bring those benefits to as many customers as possible,” said Anne Delmas, managing director of VisionLab.
Beyond its first commercial application, Light-Form Technology opens up new possibilities for advanced optical solutions. One of the most promising areas is smart glasses and augmented reality, where the industry faces the challenge of incorporating personalized prescriptions into increasingly complex devices without compromising optical performance. Manufacturing these lenses at scale remains one of the sector’s key technological challenges. The flexibility of this new 3D technology creates opportunities to explore new lens geometries, processes, and production models that can adapt to the evolution of these devices and to an increasingly personalized and connected optical industry.
Light-Form Technology™ demonstrates the potential of innovation developed in Spain. Founded in Madrid as a spin-off of Complutense University of Madrid, IOT has translated more than two decades of scientific research and technological development into solutions with a global reach. Today, the company operates in more than 70 countries, and its technologies are incorporated into approximately 35 million lenses manufactured worldwide each year.
About IOT
IOT is a Spanish technology company specializing in innovative solutions for the ophthalmic lens industry. Founded in Madrid in 2005 as a spin-off of Complutense University of Madrid, the company combines scientific expertise, advanced optical design, software, and next-generation manufacturing technologies to drive the industry forward.
With a presence in more than 70 countries and technologies incorporated into approximately 35 million lenses each year, IOT has established itself as an international leader in optical innovation. The company serves as a technology partner to lens laboratories, retailers, and optical groups, helping them develop customized solutions, strengthen their own brands, and maintain their independence in the market.
Innovation is central to IOT’s business. Through breakthrough initiatives such as Light-Form Technology™ and its work in artificial intelligence, optical personalization, photochromic lenses, and smart glasses solutions, IOT is at the forefront of the industry, redefining how the lenses of the future are designed, manufactured, and experienced.