Since its earliest days, Sharp has had a predisposition for creativity, with our R&D activities concentrating on devising one-of-a-kind products and one-of-a-kind devices. An aggressive patent strategy, meanwhile, helps build strong business foundations.
Sharp views its intellectual property strategy as one of its key management measures, promoting it in a coherent manner with business and R&D strategies. In order to secure a competitive edge with one-of-a-kind products and one-of-a-kind devices for stronger business foundations, Sharp is aggressively promoting patent right obtainment, while keeping certain technologies as “black-box.”
Sharp has clearly delineated the fields that are central to its business and has assigned engineers well-versed in patent matters to each of these core business areas to conduct strategic patent development close to the frontline. As of March 31, 2007, Sharp had approximately 16,500 patents in Japan and 21,000 overseas.
Sharp utilizes these patents to strengthen its strategic businesses. In addition, to make further effective use of patents, a proactive patent strategy is pursued. The products of other companies are scrutinized and if an infringement is discovered, an appropriate warning is issued. In certain cases, more aggressive action is adopted, including filing lawsuits. Sharp is also promoting obtainment of design and trademark registrations based on its brand strategy and aiming to increase the number of applications and registrations globally.
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