Canon 2010 Annual Report Download - page 24

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CANON ANNUAL REPORT 201022
Canon is advancing materials R&D with the aim of eliminating hazardous substances from its products through the adoption of a voluntary standard stricter than laws and regulations.
While strengthening R&D in fundamental technologies necessary for
enhancing product competitiveness, Canon is promoting a diversifi cation
strategy and nurturing new businesses in medical and other fi elds.
R&D Expenses and Patents
Canon continues to bolster R&D activities to remain the leader
in the imaging fi eld. R&D expenses totaled ¥315.8 billion, up
¥11.2 billion, or 3.7%, from 2009. The ratio to net sales was
8.5%. By segment, ¥96.2 billion, or 30.4% of the total expenses,
was allocated to the Offi ce Business Unit; ¥82.8 billion, or 26.2%,
to the Consumer Business Unit; ¥21.1 billion, or 6.7%, to the
Industry and Others Business Unit; and ¥115.8 billion, or 36.7%,
to basic R&D, which cannot be classifi ed by segment. During
2010, Canon was granted 2,543* patents in the United States.
* Source: U.S. Patent and Trademark Offi ce. Calculated based upon publicly
disclosed weekly totals
Reinforcing Core Technologies
Canon continues to strengthen R&D for key components and
devices. In CMOS sensors—a key component of digital cam-
eras—Canon successfully developed a sensor that delivers
image resolution of approximately 120 megapixels. Canon also
developed a large CMOS sensor with ultra-high sensitivity. With
a chip size of 202 mm x 205 mm, this sensor provides greater
light-gathering capability, with potential applications including
the video recording of night skies and nocturnal animal behav-
ior as well as nighttime surveillance cameras. Canon will
advance its R&D efforts, undertaking projects even in pre-
competitive fi elds.
RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT