Chihiro Kikuchi

Title: Chihiro Kikuchi: Innovator in Image Forming Technology

Introduction

Chihiro Kikuchi is a notable inventor based in Kanagawa, Japan. She has made significant contributions to the field of image forming technology, holding a total of 2 patents. Her work focuses on enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of image forming apparatuses.

Latest Patents

Kikuchi's latest patents include an innovative image forming apparatus. This apparatus features a photoconductor, charging unit, exposing unit, developing unit containing toner, transfer unit, and fixing unit. The toner used in this apparatus includes external additives and base particles that consist of binder resin, colorant, and release agent. The toner has a melt viscosity at 100°C ranging from 500 Pa·s to 8,000 Pa·s, while the release agent has a melt viscosity at 100°C between 20 mPa·s and 30 mPa·s. The fixing unit is designed with a fixing member that can take the shape of a roller or belt, which contacts the toner image transferred onto the recording medium. Additionally, the fixing member includes a release layer on its surface that interacts with the toner image, satisfying specific expressions for optimal performance.

Another patent by Kikuchi is for a toner housing container. This container includes a body that houses toner, a conveying portion, a pipe receiving port, and an uplifting portion. The flow rate index of the toner, measured by a powder rheometer, is defined by the formula 'flow rate index=(total energy at a rotation speed of 10 mm/s)/(total energy at a rotation speed of 100 mm/s)', and it falls within the range of '1.8≤flow rate index≤6.5'. The container body features a protruding portion that extends from the interior side of the container opening toward one end of the body, enhancing its functionality.

Career Highlights

Chihiro Kikuchi is currently employed at Ricoh Company, Ltd., where she continues to innovate in the field of imaging technology. Her work has been instrumental in developing advanced solutions that improve the quality and efficiency of image production.

Collaborations

Kikuchi collaborates with talented coworkers, including Shingo Sakashita and Tomoki Murayama. Their combined expertise contributes to the success of their projects and the advancement of technology at Ricoh.