Focus on Innovation: AI-Powered Quality in Lens Manufacturing

My role primarily involves the continuous development of technologies, processes, and strategies. This includes capacity management, investment management, and cost optimization in lens manufacturing. It also involves converting market requirements into technical solutions. We’re involved in product development, such as new lens coatings and laser engravings—always with the highest quality standards in mind. Collaborating with external partners is also part of my responsibilities.

I’m very solution-oriented, straightforward, and always focused on continuous improvement. The strategic development of the Lens Lab goes hand in hand with a strong team spirit. Supporting colleagues and driving innovation are a given for me.

I’ve always worked in the optical industry and am very curious. After graduating from high school, I began my career in the traditional way with an apprenticeship as an optician. In the industry, I earned my master's degree and later completed an MBA in Analytics and Business Process Optimization. At the Silhouette Group, I first worked in research and development for the lenses division, then moved to Portugal to work for a lens manufacturer, and I’ve been back since 2019. I initially took over technical product management, and since 2022 I’ve been leading the Lens Lab. Both areas are now united under the Lens Competence Center.

Innovation is our key growth driver. In recent years, the Lens Lab has been restructured under my leadership. Processes were optimized, the layout was adapted, and new technologies and a new work schedule were introduced. Today, this enables the production of up to 700 lenses daily in a two-shift operation. Since the Lens Lab launched in 2017, we have continuously expanded our product portfolio. For example, we’ve added new prescription and sunglass lenses, as well as optical lenses for the evil eye brand. Since early 2026, we’ve also been using AI in lens production.

With the introduction of the AI-powered CSI (Cosmetic Surface Inspection) machine, we are taking quality control to a new level. The system is based on deep learning and neural networks that have been trained using company-specific data to detect even the smallest irregularities on the lens surface. Since early 2026, the machine has been fully integrated into production and performs cosmetic and optical inspections automatically, continuously, and objectively. This combines two process steps into one, ensures consistently high premium quality, and significantly reduces turnaround time.

The introduction of AI-powered inspection is an important step toward more efficient, scalable, and future-oriented production. It demonstrates how quality control can be ensured and teams supported in their daily work. For us, this is another milestone in setting the benchmark in the premium eyewear sector—through innovation, precision, and a clear vision for the future.