Document Solutions

Kyocera's Document Solutions business has expanded both through M&A and by integrating internally-developed technologies. In 1982, we obtained a printer business through M&A from an information equipment manufacturer, and in 2000, we obtained a multifunction peripheral (MFP) business by acquiring the former Mita Corp. (now Kyocera Document Solutions, Inc.) as a wholly owned subsidiary. Initially, the printer business faced challenges in developing high-speed printing technology, while the MFP business was challenged to adopt full-color imaging and digitization. By integrating their respective technologies, we succeeded in overcoming both major challenges. Later, by combining Kyocera's image-processing and paper-feed technologies with our deep expertise in functional devices, Kyocera introduced commercial-grade inkjet printers in 2019. In response to environmental issues, Kyocera created new value by developing an inkjet textile printer in 2023 that integrates printhead technologies developed by our Printing Devices Division with ink and device technologies from Kyocera Document Solutions. This innovative solution reduces water requirements in textile printing to virtually zero, making print location independent of water supply; and, its highly compact design fills only a small fraction of the floor space needed by conventional equipment. Best of all, Kyocera's technology overcomes a traditional barrier of conventional printing by making even small-quantity print runs economically feasible, solving the long-standing problem of waste in textile production by eliminating the need for large inventories that often become unsold scrap as fashions change.

5G millimeter-wave technology

As 5G services expand worldwide, millimeter-wave technology is attracting new attention in the push for higher network speeds and capacity. Leveraging a diverse IP portfolio accumulated through decades in the communications industry, Kyocera is conducting research and development on millimeter-wave devices, including refraction boards, reflectors, and customer-premises equipment (CPE) as we accelerate our approaches to realize more a convenient and comfortable communication environment.

Wi-Fi ^® is a registered trademark of the Wi-Fi Alliance.

FIR camera

"FIR camera" have an important role in road-traffic cooperating systems. It captures the "heat" emitted by objects, can image cars and pedestrians even under conditions such as bad weather or at night. Kyocera is developing the FIR camera with Adasky, a joint venture company based in Israel of which Kyocera is also an investor. We are also developing the technology for automotive applications usage.

Automotive Camera Module

Applying optical design expertise accumulated through its former camera unit to new automotive camera applications, Kyocera is conducting research and development on imaging technologies with software that performs highly reliable human- and vehicle- recognition functions. We see strong potential for this business as ADAS systems expand, with excellent potential to improve traffic safety.

High-efficiency GaN Laser

Gallium nitride (hereafter, GaN) has attracted attention as a promising material in the quest to achieve carbon neutrality. Kyocera acquired 100% ownership of U.S.-based Soraa Laser Diode, Inc., which manufactures high-efficiency, high-output lasers, and brought it into the group as KYOCERA SLD Laser, Inc. (KSLD). By combining KSLD's technologies with in-vehicle modules from KYOCERA AVX Components Corporation (which acquired the former AB Elektronik), Kyocera is developing next-generation EV laser modules, including smart headlights. GaN lasers have become very useful in creating new products for a wide range of other markets as well.