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Olympus is recognized worldwide as a technology leader in imaging systems and opto-electronics, this leadership having been gained over many decades of investment in Research and Development. |
Just a few examples of the results of this investment in the medical field are:
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In 1952, Olympus introduced the world’s first gastrocamera – the forerunner of today’s medical and industrial flexible endoscopes.
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In 1967, Olympus launched the first flexible endoscope with fiberoptic image transmission.
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In 1983, Olympus introduced the Olympus Endoscopy System (OES), the world’s first fully-immersible flexible endoscopes, allowing complete disinfection for additional patient protection.
- In 1984, Olympus introduced the Endoscopic Video Information System (EVIS), the first integrated video system for routine endoscopy.
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In 1985, the first purpose-designed flexible cystoscope, with four-stage flexibility for out-patient use, was launched.
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1997 saw the introduction of the Olympus autoclavable video-laparoscope - another world first.
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In 2000, Olympus introduced the world’s first variable flexibility colonoscope.
- In 2002, the world’s first 3D imaging device was launched by Olympus, to allow real-time, safe visualisation of the shape and orientation of colonoscopes during endoscopy.
- 2003 saw the introduction of Olympus EVIS LUCERA, the first High Definition TV system for endoscopy.
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 Olympus gastrocamera circa 1952  Olympus ScopeGuide 3-D Imaging Device |
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The Olympus medical product range benefits from a huge investment in Research and Development, based at 4 major centres - Utsugi and Ishikawa in Japan, Hamburg in Germany, and Southend-on-Sea, in the UK. These multi-disciplinary teams of engineers and scientists are equipped with the latest computer-aided design (CAD) technology, to assist with the development of new products for medical customers. |
Olympus Research Centre, Utsugi, Japan |
KeyMed Research Centre,
Southend-on-Sea, UK |
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With specialist expertise in optical physics, digital electronics, fine mechanics, software and systems engineering, these teams work in partnership with product specialists, quality and manufacturing engineers, in addition to world opinion leaders in many clinical specialities, to ensure that quality and reliability is both designed and built into every product. Engineers are also encouraged to develop contact with customers, to ensure users’ needs and expectations for the future are fully considered in the development process. |
Design engineers use the latest CAD systems in development |
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With this level of R&D investment, Olympus has established itself as the most innovative manufacturer of endoscopic systems, not just in medicine, but also in industrial applications. | |
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