Background

Across the world, there are 250 million people with low vision, a condition defined by the World Health Organization as having an eyesight of less than 0.3 but greater than or equal to 0.05, even with the aid of correction tools. QD Laser is a company that developed Visirium, a low-level laser technology that projects images directly onto the retina. Using this technology, the company developed a glasses-like correction device for people with low vision. However, through interviews with the target demographic, the company realized that people with low vision do not necessarily seek to see clearly all the time. Based on this unexpected discovery, the company decided to develop a new device that better suited the needs of people with low vision.

Describe the creative idea (40% of vote)

One answer in particular caught QD Laser's attention: that people with low vision wish they could see clearly only when they want to remember the occasion. Based on this insight, the company developed the Retissa Super Capture, a camera that incorporates Visirium. They then developed a project—With My Eyes—involving people with low vision using the camera to take pictures of the clear scenes they could see with their own eyes. The project captivated the target demographic, as well as investors and other companies. As a result, expectations for the company increased, leading to greater third-party funding and collaboration.

Describe the execution (40% of vote)

QD Laser developed a viewfinder that incorporated Visirium and built it into a standard digital camera. This simple design allowed people with low vision to use it like an ordinary camera—switch it on, look through the viewfinder, and take a picture or film a video. Another feature of this camera is that visually abled people can also use it, allowing the visually abled and people with low vision to share the same camera. To increase the project's visibility, QD Laser also released a short movie documenting the project and invited the media to learn more.

List the results (20% of vote)

Without spending any money on advertising, QD Laser got to enjoy widespread media coverage and statements of support from numerous companies. Intermestic, which operates the international eyeglass store chain Zoff, decided to invest in the company. Airline company J-Air developed an in-flight proof-of-concept exercise involving the camera, while Sony and other companies strengthened their cooperative frameworks with QD Laser. Finally, on Feb. 5, 2021, QD Laser was listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange in the Mothers index for startups. High expectations for the company's Visirium technology helped QD Laser maintain a high share price. The Retissa Super Capture camera is now on its way to becoming a commercial product. Meanwhile, the With My Eyes project continues to gather corporate support, with a follow-up project in the planning.