Through Perfecting the Air, Daikin strives to make the world’s spaces happier and more comfortable.
Daikin leverages its experience and technology to deliver air conditioning solutions that meet the demands of any setting.
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R&D
Recognized as one of the world’s 100 most innovative companies for the 11th time
OSAKA, Japan, January 22, 2026 - Daikin Industries, Ltd. announces its selection among the Clarivate Top 100 Global Innovators 2026 as determined by Clarivate Plc, a global information service company headquartered in London, United Kingdom. Since 2012, Clarivate has been analyzing patent data to identify the world’s top 100 innovative companies and research institutions and has honored these outstanding organizations with this award for the past 15 years. This prestigious recognition marks the 11th time Daikin has received this honor.
To contribute to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions across the industry, Daikin has allowed other companies to use a number of its patents. In December 2019, the company began participating with WIPO GREEN*, the clearinghouse arm of the UN agency specializing in intellectual property, and it registered a total of 419 patents relating to air conditioners that use the low global warming potential refrigerant R32. WIPO GREEN is an online platform that introduces sustainable technologies to the world and encourages the sharing and mutual utilization of them. Daikin has joined forces with WIPO GREEN to promote the widespread use of R32 air conditioners worldwide and reduce the environmental impact of refrigerants around the world.
Moreover, in collaborative creation between startups and industry, government, and academia, Daikin is focused on creating new intellectual property by forming mechanisms that provide incentives for inventions on both sides. These efforts have facilitated the development of beneficial collaborative relationships with multiple universities and research institutes, and the number of patent applications based on active technological development through external collaboration has increased significantly both in Japan and internationally.
Going forward, Daikin will continue to protect and leverage intellectual property that drives business growth on a global scale, while contributing to the realization of a sustainable society.
“Daikin has been working to strengthen research and development on a global scale to achieve the growth strategy themes that it set out in its strategic management plan ‘Fusion 25.’ These include ‘Challenge to achieve carbon neutrality,’ ‘Promotion of Solutions business connected with customers,’ and ‘Creating value with air,’” explains Takeo Abe, General Manager, Intellectual Property Department of Daikin Industries, Ltd. “In addition to acquiring IP intellectual property rights and avoiding IP infringement with other companies, Daikin will continue to promote IP activities that contribute to its business by focusing on creating intellectual property through industry-industry and industry-academia collaborations and building relationships through free access to patents.”
https://clarivate.com/top-100-innovators/
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