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Patents
The global image of Canon Inc. of Japan is based on
its advances in technology, miniaturisation and optics. As one of the world's most
recognised brands, Canon has built its reputation on its ability to successfully
deliver advanced yet simple-to-use technology to consumers with products such as
cameras, copiers, plain paper facsimile machines and computer peripherals.
The quality and reliability of Canon products are
built around innovative technologies, which have helped the company become a worldwide
patent leader. In fact, Canon is consistently ranked as one of the top three patent
holders worldwide since 1992. Canon is the leader in imaging technology and is the
world's largest computer printer manufacturer. More than 80 percent of all laser
printers use Canon engines. More than 60 percent of the world's professional cameras,
as well as the Canon brand camcoders and office machines, use Canon's precision molded
aspherical glass lenses.
With 1998 sales at $24 billion, Canon Inc. and its
subsidiaries continue to provide technologically sophisticated, yet easy-to-use products
to consumers throughout the world.
Canon believes the future of high-quality, affordable
computer printer output lies in Bubble Jet technology, a unique and versatile printing
process that Canon introduced in the early 1980's. Holding more than 10,000 patents
for Bubble Jet technology alone, Canon's Bubble Jet printers have been the major
contributor to our aggressive growth.
CANON INC. UNITED STATES PATENTS
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YEAR
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NUMBER OF U.S. PATENTS
ISSUED
|
RANKING
|
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1999
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1,795
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3
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1998
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1,928
|
2
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1997
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1,381
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2
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1996
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1,541
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2
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1995
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1,087
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2
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"According to a U.S. patent analysis
by MicroPatent LLC, Canon Inc.
is one of the top ten most innovative companies of the 20th century."
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