Olympus 2008 Annual Report Download - page 22

RESEARCH
AND DEVELOPMENT
> To leverage and hone its core competencies in Opto-Digital
Technology, the Olympus Group conducts ongoing, proactive
R&D into optical, digital imaging and microprocessing
technologies. In addition, the Group is endeavoring to
develop various cell-related technologies to add another
core competence.
In the fiscal year ended March 31, 2008, R&D expenses
amounted to approximately ¥65.9 billion, a year-on-year
increase of 18.7%. The ratio of R&D expenses to net sales
was 5.8%, which indicates the Group’s intensified focus on
technological R&D activities.
Imaging Systems
Business
1.
Development of E-420 interchangeable-lens-type
digital SLR camera
> Olympus has developed the world’s slimmest and small-
est*1 digital SLR camera, the E-420. This is an upgraded
version of the E-410, which gained popularity for its
excellent portability and high-quality images. In addition
to improved portability, achieved by exploiting the E-410’s
Four Thirds System standard, the new E-420 is equipped
with new technologies, including Auto Focus Live View
and Face Detection and Shadow Adjustment, so that even
beginners can take high-quality, natural-looking pictures.
*1 Of all interchangeable-lens-type digital SLR cameras as of March 5, 2008
(in-house research)
2.
Development of μ[mju:] 1020 compact digital camera
> Thanks to its proprietary lens development technology, with
the slim and stylish μ[mju:] 1020 Olympus has produced
a camera with optical 7x zoom in a body as compact as a
model with 3x zoom. With a high-definition, 10.1-megapixel
CCD*2, Olympus’ unique TruePic III image processing
engine and a lens that can provide precise images, the
μ[mju:] 1020 enables high-quality photography. In addi-
tion, Olympus’ proprietary Face & Back Control function
detects faces (Face Detection function) and automatically
adjusts the focus and exposure, while giving appropriate
exposure control to the background (Shadow Adjustment
Technology). These characteristics realize precise images
with both the subject and background of the photo in focus.
*2 Effective pixels in camera
3.
Development of AF Live View function for
interchangeable-lens-type digital SLR cameras
> Olympus first installed the Full-Time Live View function
in the E-330, making it the first camera in the world to
combine auto-focusing and live view
functions. In the E-420, Olympus succeeded in incorporat-
ing a more compact yet more functional AF Live View func-
tion at lower cost. With the High-Speed Imager AF system,
when the shutter button is pressed down halfway in Live
View mode, the image sensor detects the contrast values
and adjusts the focus to the peak contrast position.
Medical Systems
Business
1.
Development of EVIS LUCERA small intestinal videoscope,
OBCU Balloon Control Unit and ST-SB1 Single-Use
Splinting Tube
> Olympus conducted development of these products in
response to medical facility needs, such as shortened
examination times for tissue diagnoses, treatment by
simple operations that combine accurate diagnosis by
means of flexible endoscopes, and therapeutic devices for
the small intestines. In recent years, capsule endoscopes
have enabled the diagnosis and detection of diseases in the
small intestines. In addition, these products are making a
valuable contribution to highly efficient examinations and
treatments.
2.
Development of OLYMPUS ENF TYPE VT2 VISERA
nasopharyngeal videoscope
> To assist in tissue extraction and the collection of foreign
bodies, Olympus developed an operative videoscope that
incorporates an array of devices for the observation and
treatment of the nasal cavity, pharynx and larynx. Thanks
to its high-resolution CCD (object imaging element) and an
optical system with greater depth of field, this videoscope
produces high-resolution, narrow-band imaging (NBI) at
ranges as close as 2.0mm. Boasting these characteristics,
during endoscopic observation, NBI enhances visualization
of the capillary network morphology, and is expected to
make a contribution to doctor diagnosis of that part of the
malignant tumor in which the capillary concentrates.
3.
Development of disposable guide sheath kit
> Olympus developed the disposable guide sheath kit in
response to the requirement for diagnosis of minute
cancers in the peripheral lung. The development was con-
ducted to enable more accurate extraction of specimens
from the peripheral lung, which is inaccessible with a
bronchoscope. This achievement has contributed greatly
to the field of minimally invasive treatment, which reduces
patient exposure to stress by shortening examination times
and exposure to X-rays.
20 OLYMPUS 2008