Innovation

In 1933, a group of young engineers in Japan founded Precision Optical. In 1935, they unveiled their first 35mm camera called the "Kwanon," named in honor of the Buddhist goddess of mercy. Over the course of time, the name evolved to Canon, meaning standard or rule, which reflected Precision Optical's ambitions as a leader in quality innovation and corporate behavior. Canon realized this dream in 1936 when it released the Hansa Canon, Japan's first 35mm focal-plane shutter camera. Since that time, our technological strengths have helped us to also become a leading digital imaging and networking company and a dominant force in consumer and office printers, copiers, and fax machines. We also have applied our innovative skills in environmental technologies, as well as medical, semiconductor, and broadcasting equipment. We will continue to develop innovative technologies and strive to better the world we live in - redefining the workplace and enhancing lifestyles.

Innovation has been a key ingredient in Canon's success throughout our history. We are one of the most prolific inventors of consumer and professional imaging solutions. Canon Inc., a top patent holder of technology, ranked fourth overall in the U.S. in 2010*.
 
This culture and history of innovation is now being applied to the field of medical diagnostics and Canon U.S. Life Sciences is forging ahead and striving to develop cutting edge solutions for molecular diagnostics.

*Based on weekly patent counts issues by the United States Patent and Trademark Office