Problem: Eyeglass wearers often struggle with smears, watermarks, and dirt on their lenses, leading to frequent cleaning inconveniences. This would lead to cleaning methods that could cause accidental len scratching.
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Solution: Premium anti-smear glasses will solve common problems of glasses wearers. These specialized glasses could be customized to accommodate various visual requirements, including prescription lenses, reading glasses, and sunglasses.
The core part of the glasses would be the anti-smear coating. The glasses would feature an oil-repellent and hydrophobic coating on the lenses, forming an invisible shield and preventing water and oil from sticking to the lenses.
With these anit-smear glasses, wearers can enjoy crystal clear vision without constantly reaching for the cleaning cloth, which is particularly valuable when on the go or engaging in outdoor activities. The anti-smear coating eliminates the need for frequent cleaning and protects the lenses from scratches by improper cleaning methods.
When designing the surface chemistry of the coating, hydrophobicity (Water-Repellent) and Oleophobicity (Oil-Repellent) must be considered. The surface chemistry should have low surface energy, meaning water molecules find it difficult to spread out and stick to the surface, causing them to roll off and catch any dirt. It would also prevent oils from sticking and spreading across the lens, as oils from fingerprints and skin can create smudges and blur vision.
Water drop on hydrophobic coated glass surface - Photo by John Michael Walls (Testing of an Anti-Soiling Coating for PV Module Cover Glass)
Lenses should be thoroughly cleaned to apply the coating. Then, techniques like chemical vapor deposition, dip coating, or spin coating can be used for precise thickness and uniform layers. UV light, heat, or energy would cure the coating, and thorough testing would ensure its effectiveness without affecting optical quality. Creating these would involve a combination of scientific expertise, research, and testing to provide the best result and eye safety.
Monetization: There are several ways that anti-smear glasses could be monetized. One way could be through direct sales. The glasses could be offered for immediate purchase through an e-commerce website. Before selecting, customers can browse different frame styles, lens options, and coatings. Additionally, there could be collaborations with optical retailers and optometrists to feature the anti-smear glasses in their physical stores and offices. Wholesale agreements that allow retailers to purchase glasses at a discounted rate and sell them at a retail price could be established. Furthermore, limited-edition frames with collaborations with well-known designers, brands, or influencers could attract a premium price and generate customer excitement. The right monetization strategies depend on the target market, brand positioning, and business goals.
Competitors: Some competitors would include lens technology companies. Some established eyewear brands, optical retailers, or manufacturers might have developed anti-smear coatings and had the resources and expertise to introduce these innovations. Others include eyewear startups who have entered the market with similar ideas and technologies.
Contributed by: Kenneth Pham (Billion Dollar Startup Ideas Intern)