PolyU start-up launches innovative spectacle lens to slow down myopia progression; Deploys two PolyU patented technologies to protect children’s vision health

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) today announced that Vision Science and Technology Co. Ltd. (VST), a PolyU supported start-up, has successfully developed the Nano Multi-rings Defocus Incorporated Lens for controlling the progression of myopia (or short-sightedness). VST collaborated with State Key Laboratory of Ultra-precision Machining Technology (The Hong Kong Polytechnic University) (SKL-UPMT) and the School of Optometry of PolyU to create the new solution by integrating DISC technology and Ultra-precision Nano Multi-rings Machining Technology, offering children and adolescents a convenient, non-invasive and effective option to delay myopia progression.

PolyU holds the patents for both DISC technology and Ultra-precision Nano Multi-rings Machining Technology. The launch of the Nano Multi-rings Defocus Incorporated Lens is a testament to the University’s long-term commitment to driving research and innovation, and its continuous effort in facilitating knowledge transfer and research commercialisation by supporting cutting-edge technology start-ups.

PolyU’s School of Optometry invented the novel DISC technology, which is proven to retard the myopia progression of children by 60%. The method produces a clear image on the retina and a defocused or blurred image in front of the retina simultaneously, enabling children to have clear vision while controlling the development of myopia. Based on this technology, the DISC-SH soft contact lens was introduced in 2018.

Developed by SKL-UPMT, the Ultra-precision Nano Multi-rings Machining Technology blends advanced optics design, ultra-precision machining and ultra-precision measurement technologies, and ultra-precision mould-making to apply DISC technology in spectacle lens production. By implementing ultra-precision process, the new spectacle lens provides added comfort for wearers, while offering more stable vision. The non-invasive design also makes it more suitable for children of different ages.

Prof. TO Chi-ho, Visiting Chair Professor of the School of Optometry of PolyU and Co-founder of VST, said, “It is important to keep myopia progression under control, especially among children, as high myopia could lead to sight-threatening complications. VST is committed to developing and selling products that help improve people’s vision health through technology transfer and commercialisation for the benefit of society. We are pleased to partner with SKL-UPMT and the School of Optometry to launch the new Nano Multi-rings Defocus Incorporated Lens, resulting in a major breakthrough in DISC technology. This initiative helps address the spiralling myopia problem among children, especially in markets with a relatively high ratio of myopes such as Hong Kong, Singapore and mainland China.”

Prof. Benny CHEUNG, Professor of the Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering and Director of SKL-UPMT at PolyU, stated, “Ultra-precision machining technology is a multi-disciplinary advanced manufacturing technology, which is the backbone of crucial industries like optometry, semiconductors, advanced optics, aerospace, energy, biomedical and new materials development. At SKL-UPMT, we put our focus on the development and application of forefront technologies and have a proven track record in designing and implementing new methods, process, systems and facilities in ultra-precision machining and ultra-precision measurement. We are delighted to extend the locally developed Ultra-precision Nano Multi-rings Machining Technology to fine-tune and manufacture optometric products and will continue to create new technologies and solutions for diverse industries to benefit the society. By doing so, we will further Hong Kong and mainland China’s competence and strategic advantages in design and advanced manufacturing.”

VST will soon roll out the Nano Multi-rings Defocus Incorporated Lens in Hong Kong and mainland China. The company will continue collaborating with PolyU to develop new myopia control products based on DISC technology to protect the vision health of children and adolescents.

Founded by PolyU’s professor and alumni, VST has received financial support from the PolyU Micro Fund and the PolyU Tech Launchpad Fund. In 2018, VST secured a licence from PolyU for commercialising DISC technology, which VST manufactures and distributes DISC lenses at its authorised optometric clinics and fitting centres.

PolyU strives to create societal impact through research innovation as well as knowledge and technology transfer. Leveraging its comprehensive entrepreneurship support platform, the University nurtures academic- and student-led start-ups by offering a wide array of training and funding support programmes, connecting these start-ups with various resources of the entrepreneurship ecosystem, as well as providing education, incubation and acceleration programmes.

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