Innovation in eyewear finishing through edge coloring
In 2026, the Cologne-based company Shape Engineering will be presenting shape.line edge coloring. shape.line is an innovation that enhances and individualizes eyewear by applying a coloured coating to the edge of the lens after the edge has been edged.
With shape.line edge coloring, the inevitable reflections (myopic rings, bright reflective rings) on the edge of the lens can be color-matched to the frame, greatly improving aesthetics, especially for short-sightedness. Fashion-oriented spectacle wearers can be inspired by colour accentuation and individualization. Highly absorbent, dark coatings can eliminate stray light at the edges and thus improve contrast vision in the dark - users report a significant increase in visual comfort.
The high-quality, durable coating is applied precisely to the edge of the lens using a patented process. It is very durable and can withstand the usual cleaning agents and stresses without any problems. The edged lenses are coated at Shape Engineering in Cologne, so there is no need to procure your own equipment, technology and facilities. The sales model makes it possible to simply use the coating service on an order-related basis - no contractual commitment is required.
Why edge coloring?
Everyone is familiar with the reflections that can make the edge of the lens visible to the observer in the form of bright rings or myopia rings and can have a more or less negative effect on the aesthetics, depending on the lens power. Previously accepted as unavoidable by opticians and spectacle wearers, shape.line edge coloring now offers a solution to this problem.
The starting point for the development of shape.line was the goal of achieving a perfect transition between lens and frame - the lens should be “invisible”, the conspicuousness of the myopia rings reduced by a colour match and fashionable individualization made possible at the customer's request.
Through the experience and suggestions of test customers, another important advantage became significant in the course of work: absorbent edge coatings lead to sharper, clearer vision and more intense contrast perception. Especially at work, when driving at night or at the cinema.
With Shape.line edge coloring, opticians can now not only offer their customers considerable added value, but their individual consulting services are also immediately recognizable in terms of optimal design for the wearer.
Color portfolio for better vision and appearance
A number of good reasons to develop a portfolio of colors for aesthetic and functional edge coating. At OPTI, shape.line edge coloring will be presented in 24 colors. Dark coatings make the bright lens-edge disappear and work perfectly with dark frames. They absorb the stray light that occurs at the edge of the lens and lead to clearer vision and a more intense perception of contrast, particularly at the workplace or when driving at night. Chromatic colors are eye-catching and individual, while the skin color tones appear serious and calm.
At OPTI you will have the opportunity to get an impression of this innovation for yourself: Hall 4 Booth C4.161. If you can't make it to Munich, you find more information online.