Location History:
- Fukushima, JP (1984)
- Iwaki, JP (1986)
Company Filing History:
Years Active: 1984-1986
Title: Akira Funakoshi: Innovator in Ultrasonic Probe Technology
Introduction
Akira Funakoshi is a notable inventor based in Iwaki, Japan. He has made significant contributions to the field of ultrasonic probe technology, holding a total of 3 patents. His work focuses on enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of ultrasonic probes used in medical diagnostics.
Latest Patents
One of Funakoshi's latest patents is a process for producing array-type ultrasonic probes. This innovative method allows for the high-accuracy arrangement of unit transducer elements. The process involves creating an integral processed plate with unit back electrodes that are almost in their final shapes but connected by portions for easier handling. After bonding this plate to a substrate, the connecting portions are removed, leaving the back electrodes separately bonded. This design is crucial for developing array-type ultrasonic probes suitable for medical diagnosis.
Another significant patent is related to the lead structure for a piezoelectric array-type ultrasonic probe. This design features a substrate with parallel stripe-form back electrodes, a polymer piezoelectric film, and a front electrode. The unique structure allows one end of each back electrode to be thin and bent along the substrate's side wall, connecting to a lead wire from the ultrasonic transducer. This arrangement ensures a tight configuration of the back electrodes while preventing contact between them, thus enhancing the resolution of the ultrasonic probe.
Career Highlights
Funakoshi is currently employed at Kureha Kagaku Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha, where he continues to innovate in the field of ultrasonic technology. His work has been instrumental in advancing the capabilities of medical diagnostic tools.
Collaborations
Throughout his career, Funakoshi has collaborated with talented individuals such as Akira Hamada and Keiichi Ohira. These partnerships have contributed to the development of cutting-edge technologies in ultrasonic probes.
Conclusion
Akira Funakoshi's contributions to ultrasonic probe technology have significantly impacted medical diagnostics. His innovative patents and collaborative efforts continue to push the boundaries of what is possible in this field.