Olympus 2010 Annual Report Download - page 21

5.4
12.6
24.5
Basic Research
Imaging
Systems
Business
15.8
41.6 Medical
Systems
Business
Others
Life
Science
Business
08 09 10
R&D Expenditure
(Millions of yen)
R&D Expenditure by Segment
(%)
65,928
70,010
61,850
10
1. Development of New Models of Industrial Endoscopes
During the fiscal year under review, Olympus developed the
IPLEX LT and LX, smaller versions of the small, lightweight
IPLEX FX industrial endoscope with a durable body. While
retaining true to the many strengths of the IPLEX FX’s multi-
functionality, operability and durability, the IPLEX LT and
LX boast enhanced portability with a 6.5-inch all-weather
monitor to enable more effective and efficient inspection. In
addition, Olympus developed the IPLEX MX II, the successor
of the IPLEX MX entry-model direct-viewing industrial
endoscope. Featuring a 30% reduction in the predecessor’s
size and weight, the IPLEX MX II is equipped with functions to
enable reliable and flexible inspection.
2. Analysis of Effectiveness of Image Processing through
Brain Activity Measurement
Through functional brain activity imaging, measurement
and psychophysical experimentation on the effectiveness
of image processing, Olympus is studying the mechanism of
emotion in the human brain. The results of these experiments
have been reflected in the development of the i-FINISH sys-
tem used in the E-P2 and E-PL1 to create vivid and realistic
images that easily evoke strong memories by increasing
emphasis on the main subjects of pictures.
3. Efforts to Commercialize bFGF Products
With the aim of further developing the regenerative medicine
business, Olympus embarked on a new approach to healing
wounds. Olympus has already released an artificial dermis
made of collagen onto the market. Now, the Company has
entered into a license agreement with Kaken Pharmaceutical
Co., Ltd. to utilize data and know-how related to the wound
healing applications of such products as Fiblast® Spray
wound healing accelerator in pursuit of commercializing bFGF
products* in Europe and the United States.
* Basic fibroblast growth factors (bFGFs) are proteins that exist in the body and
regulate cell proliferation and differentiation.
Life Science Business
R&D expenditures recorded by the Life Science Business
totaled approximately ¥7.8 billion in fiscal 2010. Achievements
on this investment include the following.
1. Development of BX3 Series, System Biological
Microscopes BX53, BX43, BX63
Representing a full remodeling of the BX series system
biological microscopes , the BX3 series boasts enhanced
accuracy with fly-eye lenses for more precise imaging and
realizes smooth and comfortable operations with newly
developed fully-motorized modules and touch-panel control-
ler to perform entire procedures from observation to digital
image acquisition. In addition, Olympus has developed new
functions, such as a Light Manager that enhances observation
efficiency in the clinical inspection field and thus increases
the number of specimens to be examined per unit of time.
2. Development of cellSens® Dimension/Standard
Imaging Software
For the life science field, Olympus has developed imaging
software which is easily customized for creating a seamless
workflow offering functionality, flexibility, and scalability
to support users’ most demanding image acquisition and
analysis needs. A new, fully customizable interface enables
users to streamline their individual workflows to provide
more efficient imaging and measurement processes. Unique
MyFunctions workflow toolbars make process-oriented
workflows simple and easy to use.
Others
R&D expenditures recorded by the Others business totaled
approximately ¥3.4 billion in fiscal 2010. Achievements on
this investment include the following.
OLYMPUS 2010 19