OHARA INC.

In order to realize “a secure and healthy life,” “a society that cultivates creativity and aspirations,” and the “sustainable well-being of our planet” as set forth in the Long-Term Vision 2035, we will promote the development of new next-generation products and strengthen existing products by further deepening the technologies we have cultivated and evolving our core technologies.

〇Basic View

The OHARA Group positions material R&D as one of its core organizational capabilities, and has　developed unique optical glass and glass ceramics under an open research culture that “explores the possibilities of glass.” We also recognize the importance of developing seeds that will serve as　the beginnings of future technological innovation, and aim for development that achieves a balance　 between needs and seeds.
Based on the knowledge that we have cultivated through many years of glass materials research and a culture of promoting development based on free thinking, we　develop materials that contribute to various fields, including optics, electronics, the environment, and energy, through value co-creation with our customers, thereby contributing to the business growth of the OHARA Group.

〇Promotion System

Since the company’s founding in 1935, we have had an independent R&D division, and have built a database of tens of thousands of glass materials and a system for swiftly developing new materials, from planning to mass production. In addition, we have set out a wide range of development themes, from glass composition development to manufacturing technology, and our development, sales, and manufacturing technology divisions work together to rapidly propose and supply new glass materials. In recent years, the speed of technological innovation has been remarkable, creating demand for new glass development with a view to the future. To address this issue, we have introduced Materials Informatics (MI) and the digital transformation (DX) of our manufacturing processes, and are also working to develop digital talent.

〇R&D Activities

OHARA is promoting the exploration of development themes with a view to the future, and as part of these activities, we regularly hold “Exploration Theme Exchanges” in which all developers participate. At the Exploration Theme Exchanges, developers share their daily information gathering activities and explore new possibilities of glass development. In addition, in response to social issues such as environmental issues and GHG reductions, we are working jointly with universities and related companies to develop glass recycling technology and low-energy, highly efficient glass melting technology. By presenting the results of our research through academic conferences, co-authored papers, joint patent application filings, and the like, we are contributing to the advancement of glass development and manufacturing technology and returning value to society.