Developing digitization and networking technologies while promptly responding to diversifying market needs
Digitization is rapidly advancing on a global scale throughout
the electronics industry, and a new market is being formed from the convergence of the AV market and IT market. In advance of the eventual full-scale arrival of the new era of digitization and networking, we are working to develop highly competitive technologies.
Technologies Currently Under Development
DVD Technologies
We have captured an overwhelming share of the market for existing DVD-related products incorporating red lasers by adopting a vertically integrated business model that encompasses everything from basic components such as pickups to hard disk drive equipment and application software.
For the next-generation blue laser devices, we intend to maintain the same business model of adding significant value. For our Blu-ray Disc players, we took the global initiative by achieving commercialization of players compatible with Profile 1.1 (Final Standard Profile).
LCD Module Technology
We have long remained committed to the development and production of LCD modules for use as displays in printers, digital cameras, and LCD TVs. Moreover, we are working to differentiate our technologies by developing high-performance LCD modules associated with display processors as well as modules optimized for application-specific systems.
Tecchnology Compatible with Digital Broadcasting
In the television broadcasting industry, the transition to digital broadcasting is now progressing globally, with the complete transition is expected to be completed around 2010. Digital tuners are required for such digitization; however, standard specificatitons for digital tuners differ among the key regions of North America, Europe, and Japan. Funai has positioned digital tuners as a mainstay device for LCD TVs for the global market and has been developing them as one of our current priority projects.
Audiovisual Processing Technology
Image and sound processing technologies are important aspects of the development of advanced LCD TVs. In response, Funai has instituted development projects specialized for earch of these technologies and is committed to developing new technologies that are differentiated from subsequent new entrant manufactures through their basic performance.
For example, we developed and commercialized the Clear Pix ENGINE, our unique high-quality picture technology, and our own semiconductors. The development of our second generation has already resulted in high-definition images offered at low prices.
Dye Sublimation Printing
Audiovisual equipment is being used for a variety of purposes in addition to digitization. By employing original technologies, Funai is now commercializing dye sublimation printers for photo printing. In the wake of the enrichment of digital broadcasting, the ways in which viewers watch TV is becoming more varied. By offering a combination TV and dye sublimation printer that enables users to manage and print a variety of broadcasting content themselves, we are introducing services and uses that mark a departure from the current approach to photo printing.
R & D Supported by Collaboration between Industry and Academia
Technical Development of High-Performance LCD Modules
Funai is taking the lead in the LCD module development sector. In order to maintain our predominance in high-resolution and thin compact modules, we undertook basic development in 2007.
Moreover, we intend to make strides in device and system development in order to realize more efficient backlights, lower power consumption, and higher contrast.
Optical Pickup Technology
Working in collaboration with Kyoto University, we developed the technology for optical pickups, a key device for the next generation of DVD players capable of playing Blu-ray Discs.
The development of optical pickups and aberration correction devices incorporating MEMS technology has made possible the design of economical high-performance DVD players. Interestingly, our optical pickup technology also exhibits features suitable for applications that extend beyond its use in pickups alone.
The Compound-Eye Lens Optical Sensor
By combining a CMOS optical sensor with multiple compact lenses, Funai is developing subminiature and high-angle-compatible lens units. Each unit has the characteristic of time-series images in one capturing process. We anticipate a wide range of applications for this innnovation in devices such as security cameras and onboard cameras. We undertook research and development of this sensor as part of our collaboration with Osaka University.
Smart Antenna
DX ANTENNA CO., LTD., a member of the Funai Group, has developed the "smart" (omnidirectional) antenna; Funai is developing technologies and applications to control the antenna via a TV or set-top box. This technology has won high praise from the Federal Communications Commission of the U.S.A., which is promoting terrestrial digital broadcasting in that country; this acknowledgment has resulted in the adoption of our technology in the standard specifications for FCC-certified set-top boxes.
Applied technology and applications resulting from this research have been identified as areas of research through our collaboration with The University of Electro-Communications. We are also conducting joint research with the university in such areas as IP base home networking and IPTV.
Development of Applied GPS Technology
GNSS TECHNOLOGIES INC., a member of the Funai Group, holds state-of-the-art technology for the infrastructure facilities for GPS signal retransmission. This company is engaged in establishing a system architecture and conducting research for advanced satellite positioning technology in collaboration with Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology. We expect to use this technology in the development of future mobile network home appliances.
Development of IP Technology
In concert with UFNET CO.,LTD. and DIGION, INC., Funai is pursuing the development and growth of network home appliances for the future. UFNET develops cutting-edge systems for VoIP technology and Internet applications utilizing protocols applicable to VoIP technology. DIGION, meanwhile, holds the top market share in Japan for the service software used to develop multimedia content for home networks and the Internet.
FUNAI ELECTRIC ADVANCED APPLIED TECHNOLOGY RESEARCH INSTITUTE INC.
Conducting Advanced Research Focused Squarely on the Future
FUNAI ELECTRIC ADVANCED APPLIED TECHNOLOGY RESEARCH INSTITUTE INC. was founded to undertake research and development for industrial technologies that combine components, materials, and basic theories developed through cutting-edge technologies such as nanotechnology, a technology that will form the industrial infrastructure of the future. Building on our long-term vision, we will steadily develop our technologies; apply such technologies to our new products and production methods; and seek to create new businesses. According to Funai's vision, broadly classified into display and storage, we are now undertaking research into the development of elemental technology and establishing a foundation for device development.