Advance Medical

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MOST COMMON QUESTIONS

Welcome to the FocalPoints Q&A page. The page is divided into four categories: Popular, covering general inquiries; Hardware & Software, detailing setup requirements; Designing & Licensing, focusing on designing/licensing options; and Company Overview, focusing on how we operate.


POPULAR QUESTIONS

What makes FocalPoints unique?

FocalPoints offers advanced design tools, native integration with precision lathes, and extensive customization options. These features work together to boost manufacturing efficiency and accuracy, delivering outstanding value to specialty contact lens manufacturers.

What are the long-term benefits?

Investing in FocalPoints delivers long-term value through increased production efficiency, fewer errors, improved product quality, and access to secure design licensing opportunities, all contributing to greater profitability. With regular updates driven by industry needs, FocalPoints keeps your lab at the cutting edge of innovation. Most of our partners recover their investment in under three years.

Do you offer any flexible financing?

Yes, we offer the option to split the installation cost into manageable installments. Our annual Maintenance Plan includes free software updates and dedicated support hours depending on the software edition. We also do our best to ensure pricing is transparent right from the start, so you know exactly what to expect.

Is it compatible with other systems?

Yes, FocalPoints is built for seamless integration with a wide range of lathes and equipment commonly used in the industry. For the most up-to-date compatibility details, please visit our integrations page.

Are there hidden costs?

No, our pricing is fully transparent, there are no hidden costs. Any additional fees for optional modules or services outside the Maintenance Plan are clearly communicated in advance. All expenses are quoted upfront to ensure complete clarity. FocalPoints comes with a non-transferable on-premises license, and when you upgrade, the full value of your original purchase is credited. Special features are only charged when used.

Is it difficult to use?

Mastering specialty lens design can be complex as it involves advanced knowledge of mathematics, geometry, and optometry. But using FocalPoints for manufacturing is not. We follow a Designer-First Approach, meaning all the intelligence is embedded in the design definition. Once the design is in place, the rest of the process—production, inspection, and shipping—is made as simple and intuitive as possible. This ensures that manufacturing requires minimal effort and technical knowledge, while still delivering consistent, high-quality results.

What support do you offer?

We provide comprehensive support and training programs for new users, including onboarding assistance, reference documentation, online video tutorials, and dedicated customer support to customers to ensure an effective use. In addition to the initial training, we can provide further training sessions upon request.


HARDWARE & SOFTWARE QUESTIONS

What are the installation requirements?

FocalPoints runs on Windows and performs efficiently on any modern PC. It has been thoroughly tested on systems from Windows 7 through Windows 11. The software uses a centralized database in a client/server architecture, allowing you to connect multiple lathes or instruments within the lab. All FocalPoints modules access this shared database, making it easy to retrieve and manage all information related to any Job Order.

What are the hardware specs?

For optimal performance, we recommend a system with an Intel Core i7 processor, although an Intel Core i5 or equivalent is sufficient. A minimum of 8 GB of RAM is required, with 16 GB recommended for more demanding design and simulation tasks in FocalPoints Designer. At least 500 GB of storage is needed—preferably an SSD for faster performance. A Full HD (1920x1080) monitor is ideal, but lower resolutions such as 1024x768 are supported when working with older equipment.

What barcode format is required?

FocalPoints uses a Single-Barcode input system, allowing most production tasks to be triggered simply by scanning a barcode. To ensure smooth operation, a USB barcode scanner compatible with the standard Code 39 format is required. This setup helps streamline the manufacturing workflow and minimize manual input.

Are modules limited by a license?

FocalPoints is a modular system. Except for FP Designer and Launch in Production, which have limited licenses, all other modules can be installed without restrictions. This flexibility allows labs to scale and adapt the system to their specific workflow needs.

Which Lathes are compatible?

FocalPoints is fully integrated with lathes from AMETEK, DAC, REM VT, and SCHNEIDER OM. To ensure full compatibility, we recommend verifying the exact model of your equipment. In some cases, a software update from the lathe manufacturer may be required.

Is there a limit on the Lathes number?

No, there is no limit to the number of lathes that can be connected to a FocalPoints system. You can connect as many lathes as needed to match your production capacity. Additionally, different lathe brands can seamlessly operate together within the same manufacturing environment, ensuring maximum flexibility and scalability as your lab grows or diversifies its equipment.

Are Autoloaders and Lasers supported?

Yes, FocalPoints supports Autoloaders and Laser Engravers as optional modules. Specifically, we support lathes equipped with Autoloaders and on-board laser systems from AMETEK.DAC and SCHNEIDER OM. Additionally, FocalPoints is compatible with the REM External Laser solution, providing flexibility in automating engraving processes based on your lab’s setup.

Can I add modules to my system?

Yes, FocalPoints is a highly adaptable modular system. Adding specialized modules is straightforward and seamless. Each software edition can be customized to meet your specific needs with modules such as Laser Engraving, Autoloader Management, MFG Live Dashboard, and many others. For a complete list of available modules and their availability per software edition, please refer to the Features & Modules page.

Can I integrate Lens inspection instruments?

Yes, we are now fully integrated the Rotlex Brass 2000, the Rotlex ConTest, the Lambda-X NIMO and the Optimec Systems is830, Optocraft cito-prio and others. The Operator can easily perform both the qualitative and quantitative inspection, by seeing on screen the lens details, the target value for the inspected parameters and their tolerance ranges. If any of the checks fail, the Operator can mark the lens as a reject right away without the need to use other software. Each instrument integration is available a separate option. For the latest information, please refer to our integrations page.

Does FocalPoints manage full traceability?

Yes, starting from the FocalPoints Workshop edition, the system provides Full Traceability of the entire manufacturing process. All relevant data—such as raw materials, machine settings, operators, and production steps—are automatically recorded and linked to each individual Job Order. This ensures complete production records and supports quality control and regulatory compliance.

Can I connect with an external ERP?

Yes, if a lab uses its own ordering system and prefers to rely on FocalPoints solely for manufacturing, the XML Order Import module can be used to import order data directly from the lab’s existing ERP software. Orders are created automatically in FocalPoints within seconds, ensuring a smooth and efficient workflow.

Is a Maintenance plan included?

Yes, the Maintenance Plan is included as an annual subscription when activating the license. It allows us to provide fast and effective support while giving customers access to software updates at a fraction of the standard cost. If a customer chooses not to subscribe, updates and support will be quoted separately on a case-by-case basis. Please note that opting out of the Maintenance Plan may result in it no longer being available for reactivation.

What happens when I upgrade?

Being FocalPoints a modular system the upgrade process is straightforward and generally has little impact on operations. At any time the system can be upgraded and we will discount what originally paid from the new quotation.

Can FocalPoints connect to DOS Lathes?

Yes, connecting to legacy DOS-based lathes is possible, and we’re one of the few software providers that still support these machines, even when their original manufacturers no longer do. However, there are some limitations to keep in mind. These setups may require older operating systems, such as Windows XP or Windows Server 2003, which are no longer officially supported. While this doesn’t pose an immediate issue, long-term compatibility with future innovations cannot be guaranteed.

Is FocalPoints Cloud based?

No, FocalPoints must be installed on-premises and operate on the same network as the lathes. This setup ensures optimal performance and maintains the highest level of security throughout the manufacturing process.

How is data security ensured?

FocalPoints operates entirely on-premises. We do not process, store, or have access to any of your data. Your data is your data. Remote access is only established upon your explicit request, for specific support interventions, and always under your supervision.

Does Advance offers software validation?

Yes, we offer software validation as an additional, paid consultancy service. This includes documentation and support to help you meet regulatory requirements and ensure compliant implementation of FocalPoints within your quality management system. Validation services are designed to align with your specific processes and are quoted based on your lab’s needs.



DESIGNING & LICENSING QUESTIONS

What is FocalPoints Designer?

FocalPoints Designer is the core CAD module of the FocalPoints platform, specifically developed for the design of specialty contact lenses. It provides advanced design tools, simulation capabilities, and full control over all lens parameters to support precision, creativity, and innovation in contact lens design. Featuring industry-leading CAD technology based on ray-tracing, FocalPoints Designer is one of the most powerful design tools available. It offers real-time simulation of the lens geometry as you design, allowing you to make informed decisions, reduce errors, and improve product quality. Additionally, it enables dynamic control of lens geometry through formulas, tables, and reusable links, providing maximum flexibility for lens designers.

Does Designer include pre-loaded designs?

No, FocalPoints does not come with pre-loaded designs. Instead, it gives you the freedom to create your own—whether corneal, scleral, Ortho-K, soft, hybrid, RGP, or custom designs. You can define symmetric, toric, quadrant-specific, in both spherical and aspherical formats. FocalPoints Designer is a full CAD platform specifically built for the design of specialty contact lenses.

Does Designer have simulation tools?

Yes, FocalPoints aims to accelerate lens design development via advanced simulation tools. Previously, designers had to cut many samples to verify lens geometry, leading to high costs due to trial and error. FocalPoints' extensive Simulation Testing tools reduce development times with virtual analysis tools, speeding up research and design cycles and allowing more time for creating real solutions.

What are Special Features?

Special Features are proprietary FocalPoints options and functionalities that are designed to simplify and expedite the work of lens designers. They are exclusive to FocalPoints and offer significant advantages over traditional methods by providing lens designers with powerful tools that speed up their workflow and eliminate the need for complex calculations. A comprehensive list of Special Features can be found here.

Does FocalPoints support HOA correction?

Yes, FocalPoints includes the enVisus® HOA Correction Special Feature, specifically designed to support the creation of lenses that correct Higher-Order Aberrations. This advanced tool enables precise customization based on wavefront data or topographic profiles, allowing labs to manufacture lenses that go beyond standard vision correction and address complex optical imperfections for superior visual performance.

Are Special Features under royalty?

Yes, Special Features in FocalPoints are subject to a royalty. By utilizing these advanced features, lens designers gain access to a set of possibilities that would typically require extensive time and effort to achieve, or may even be impossible to attain without the aid of FocalPoints. These features allow lens designers to achieve outstanding results in a fraction of the time it would take using conventional methods.

Do all lenses incur royalties?

No, royalties apply only to manufactured lenses that make use of FocalPoints Special Features. Standard designs and manufacturing processes are not subject to any royalty fees.

Can I license my designs to other Labs?

FocalPoints enables the secure distribution of contact lens designs to other FocalPoints users through the optional Design Owner Toolkit module. This module allows the Design Owner to set license durations and control access to specific design elements for Licensees. It assigns a unique Owner Code to ensure protection and manages license issuance to the Manufacturing Lab. Additionally, we offer robust reporting tools for enhanced management.

Is a design owner agreement required?

Yes, the manufacturing lab must reach an agreement directly with the design owner to obtain a license for their designs. Advance Medical does not participate in these negotiations, we simply provide the secure technical infrastructure to support and maintain the licensing platform.

Can I manufacture third-party designs?

Yes, starting from the FocalPoints MFG Only edition, labs have the option to produce third-party designs under license. In this case, it is the responsibility of the lab (the licensee) to establish a direct agreement with the contact lens design owner (the licensor).



COMPANY OVERVIEW QUESTIONS

How does Advance Medical operates?

Advance Medical is based in Italy and serves a global clientele. With over 30 years of experience, we operate with an agile and customer-centric approach. Our vertical expertise in specialty contact lenses, combined with our independence, allows us to deliver highly innovative solutions that support the industry worldwide.

Is Advance Medical a trusted partner?

Yes, we are recognized as a trusted partner by leading manufacturers in the specialty contact lens industry. Our 30-year track record, pioneering ray-tracing technology, customer-driven innovation, and close collaboration with major players are reflected in the trust placed in us by the most important labs around the world. See our Voice of the Customer section for real-world feedback.

Is Advance certified?

Yes, Advance Medical is certified according to the UNI EN ISO 13485:2021 standard, demonstrating our commitment to the highest quality and regulatory compliance in medical device software.

Is Advance part of industry associations?

Yes, we are active members of key industry organizations, including the Contact Lens Manufacturers Association (CLMA) and EFCLIN, reinforcing our commitment to professional standards and ongoing industry collaboration.

Is Advance involved in ESG activities?

Yes, we are actively engaged in Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives. We promote sustainable practices, support employee well-being, and are committed to responsible, ethical business operations.

Is FocalPoints a registered trademark?

The FocalPoints® and enVisus® name and logo are trademarks of Advance Medical Srl, and any unauthorized use is strictly prohibited. Advance Medical Srl holds exclusive rights to the FocalPoints and enVisus trademarks, ensuring its protection under applicable trademark laws. Any use of the FocalPoints® and enVisus® trademark without prior written consent from Advance Medical Srl may result in legal action. For permissions or inquiries regarding the use of the FocalPoints trademark, please contact Advance Medical Srl directly.


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