Theia Technologies, founded in 2006, has consistently pushed the boundaries of lens technology, bringing high-resolution, high-performance lenses to a variety of markets. From its origins in ultra-thin rear projection television technology to its current focus on advanced machine vision applications, Theia has established itself as a leader in optical innovation.
The story of Theia begins with the development of Linear Optical Technology® at InFocus Corporation in 2002. Jeff Gohman and Mark Peterson, then leading InFocus's Advanced Technology group, were tasked with creating a wide-angle, distortion-free lens for an ultra-thin rear projection TV. This innovation, launched in partnership with RCA in 2004, garnered significant acclaim, including Popular Science magazine’s “Best of What’s New” award. However, the market shifted dramatically with the rapid decline in plasma TV prices, leading InFocus and RCA to exit the market. Recognizing the potential of their lens technology beyond television applications, Gohman and Peterson secured an exclusive license from InFocus in 2006, founding Theia Technologies.
Theia initially targeted the security and military markets, forging a crucial partnership with Japanese lens manufacturer Nittoh Inc. This collaboration proved instrumental in refining the lens designs for manufacturability and cost-effectiveness. Theia's lenses are designed in the US and then further engineered and manufactured at Nittoh’s ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 certified plant in Indonesia. This commitment to quality is further reflected in Theia's own ISO 9001 certifications, achieved in 2014 and updated to the 2015 standard in 2017. The company's leadership team, consisting of Jeff Gohman (President), Mark Peterson (VP Advanced Technology), Andrea Van Landingham (VP Business Development), and Lisa Gohman (VP Finance), has guided Theia's growth and innovation.
A key differentiator for Theia is its patented Linear Optical Technology®, which allows for the creation of ultra-wide-angle lenses (up to 135° HFOV) while minimizing barrel distortion. This optical correction, achieved within the lens itself, eliminates the need for de-warping software, making the lenses compatible with a wide range of camera formats. In 2007, Theia introduced the world’s first ultra-wide rectilinear lens for the security and machine vision markets, marking a significant milestone. This innovation was quickly recognized by the industry, receiving accolades such as “show stealer” at the ISC East show from Security Sales and Integration magazine in 2007 and the “Special Achievement in Innovation” award from the Security Industry Association (SIA) in 2008.
Theia has continued to expand its product line and garner industry recognition. Notable achievements include the introduction of an IR corrected version in 2009, a varifocal version in 2010, and the SL940 telephoto lens for ITS/ANPR/LPR applications in 2011. The same year, Theia's innovative online Lens Calculator and Resolution Simulator received a SIA New Product Showcase award. The company has consistently pursued advancements in lens technology, with achievements such as the ML610M 4K resolution varifocal lens (2018), compact 4K resolution lenses for 1/1.7” sensors (2016), and the ruggedized MY23F lens for larger 1/1.8” sensors (2022), all of which have received prestigious industry awards. In 2023, Theia introduced individually Calibrated Motorized Lenses, providing lens-specific optical performance data for enhanced image processing and simplified camera setup, which also earned industry recognition.
Most recently, Theia announced that its IQ Lens™ System received Security Today’s New Product of the Year award in the Video Surveillance Hardware and Accessories category. This system, comprising a motorized lens, motor control board, calibration data, and software with a graphical user interface (GUI), streamlines lens integration and setup. The IQ Lens™ line provides precise data on zoom/focus tracking, focal length, distortion, aperture, and relative illumination, simplifying field of view setup and focus optimization. The accompanying software and GUI translate engineering units into motor steps, simplifying operation for users. The MCR IQ™ Motor Control Board further enhances control and communication.
Today, Theia Technologies offers high-performance 4K and megapixel lenses for diverse applications in security, automation, robotics, broadcast, and other markets. The company supplies its products to OEMs, distributors, and resellers worldwide, while also providing custom optics development services. With a robust portfolio of patents and a commitment to innovation, Theia Technologies is poised to remain at the forefront of lens technology, providing cutting-edge solutions for the evolving needs of its customers.
