Nikon develops optical equipment, including cameras and lenses.
If hearing the brand-name Nikon conjures up an image of a camera or photography equipment, representatives of the optics company would smile. But, Nikon has researched and developed many more optics-based products including microscopes, scanners and technology-related software since the company's foundation in 1917. Nikon creates products used in the medical, life sciences, Internet technologies and communications fields.
Products
All of Nikon's products center on optics. This includes the company's vast assortment of photography products, ranging from camera bodies and flash accessories to lenses and mechanisms that reduce the optical effects of image vibration during image capture. The company also makes laser rangefinders and binoculars for sports enthusiasts. In the medial sciences, Nikon has researched and developed optics-based scanners, microscopes and Immersion Lithography Technology.
Technology
In addition to creating optics-based instruments, Nikon researches and develops software and systems. Two areas of focus for the company are simulation and processing. Nikon develops optical simulation software to help people learn a hands-on task in a controlled, safe environment. With relation to photography, the company creates image processing techniques and camera components unique to Nikon equipment.
Advancing Research
Nikon has aided in technological and research advancements. For example, the company has developed Adaptive Optics to allow scientists to clearly see and study volcanic activity on the surface of Io, a moon of Jupiter, from Earth. Before implementing the Nikon technology, scientists saw blurry and less detailed imagery.
The company also developed a super-strength microscope used to analyze and identify particles of asbestos in Japan. The country used the building material to construct residential and business buildings before realizing the adverse health problems associated with asbestos. With use of Nikon's 400x magnification tools, scientist in Japan can analyze the smallest of particles to help identify asbestos-tainted buildings. (See Reference 3, link on left to Jupiter's Turbulent Moon and Measuring Asbestos)
Company
The Nikon Corporation has headquarters in Tokyo, and five manufacturing and research plants located in Japan. The philosophy of the more than 30,000 employees is "an unwavering commitment to the study of light" through creativity and trustworthiness. In 2007, the company re-evaluated its presence and implemented a new "Our Aspirations - Meeting Needs. Exceeding Expectations" philosophy, with a focus on communications and integrity.
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