SHARKLIDS EYEGEAR HISTORY

SharkLids, as a product concept, was conceived in the mid-1990’s by Michael Bleau of Grand Blanc, Michigan as a self-adhesive swim goggle, with the intention of creating a product that would be more comfortable, less apt to leak or slip-off during competition and provide a more hydrodynamic signature.

The first prototype was handmade from waterproof bandages and clear, overhead projection film stock. Future prototypes were produced from a variety of self-adhesive vinyl and clear plastics while a search for medical-grade, hypoallergenic adhesive was conducted over the course of a little more than one-year. And, after many trials, a medical-grade adhesive was identified that was aggressive enough to seal out water, maintain product position on the wearer and offer pain-free removal.

During the course of the swim goggle development, a number of lens materials were tested and proved to be potentially suitable for UV protection. This led to the development of a self-adhesive sports sunglass and the concept of a new easy-on/easy-off body-substance-isolation shield for emergency medical and dental personnel.

Shortly after the initial conception of the swim goggle a patent attorney was retained to initiate the process of seeking intellectual property protection. Following the draft of an initial disclosure, a legal firm in Washington was hired to perform a ‘hand search’ of existing art on file at the US patent and copyright offices. The search turned-up little in the way of competing art and validated the prospect of obtaining patentable claims for the innovation. After the patent filing, the product was introduced on a small scale for testing and refinement while production, fulfillment and distribution relationships were built.

Michael Bleau was introduced to William Martin in April of 2003. From May of 2003 through April of 2004, Martin conducted market research during which time he identified the value of the product in various segments of medical, dental, home improvement, branded promotional and sports and leisure markets. Throughout 2004 and 2005 Bleau and Martin continued to refine the products and to establish a strong relationship with a supply network.

We introduced our first product, MEDshields in 2006 and are looking forward to the introductions of our sunglass and promotional products, such as 3D eyewear and custom branded products in 2007 and 2008.