Intellectual Property

Basic Approach

FANUC strives to acquire global intellectual property rights with the aim of protecting the technologies and brands of our own products, while also respecting the intellectual properties of third parties.

Policy

Focusing on our manufacturing and sales locations in Japan and overseas, we aim to obtain global intellectual property rights, including patent and design rights related to the technologies in our own products, as well as trademark rights related to our product brands. Based on this approach, we will build a strong patent network.

Promotion Framework

To promote and support the R&D and sales operations of our three Business Divisions and one Administration Division, the Intellectual Property Department and IP officers in each Business Division and Administration Division work together closely on various intellectual property-related activities, such as creating inventions and filing applications.

Initiatives

Global patent applications

• For patents, in anticipation of the further globalization of our business in the future, we will switch from obtaining international rights with a particular focus on the United States, Germany, and China, and promote global rights acquisition.

Thorough research of other companies' patents

• To prevent infringements on the rights of other companies, the entire company conducts thorough research on other companies’ patents.

Intellectual property education for employees

• Every year, we conduct a range of intellectual property education programs for employees to promote and support research and development that is conscious of the prevention of infringement of other parties’ rights and of technology and brand rights acquisition related to the Company's products.

Invention Reward and Award Program

• For inventions, devices, and designs made by our employees, we ensure that reward payments are made at the time of registration in accordance with our in-house rules for handling inventions, devices, and designs. In addition, we also offer the same rewards for confidential inventions. Furthermore, every year, among inventions, devices, and designs that have been registered for 5, 10, and 15 years, we evaluate those that have made a significant contribution to the Company's business performance, and we offer awards and reward payments at our Company's Anniversary Ceremony. By enhancing this Invention Reward and Award Program, we work to motivate employees involved in research and development.

Awards for Intellectual Property Activities