This inventor holds 13 USPTO granted patents, plus 1 CIPO patent. Top assignees: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha, Tokyo Seat Corp., Ltd.. Active years: 1993-2002.
Location History:
- Utsunomiya, JP (1993)
- Saitama, JP (2001)
- Wako, JP (1995 - 2002)
Company Filing History:

Years Active: 1993-2002
Title: Innovations by Hidetsugu Okazaki
Introduction
Hidetsugu Okazaki is a notable inventor based in Wako, Japan. He has made significant contributions to the field of automotive safety with a total of 13 patents to his name. His work primarily focuses on enhancing the safety features of vehicles, particularly in relation to seat-occupant restraint systems.
Latest Patents
One of Okazaki's latest innovations is the seat-occupant restraining apparatus. This apparatus includes a bag that is accommodated in a shoulder belt, designed to restrain a seat occupant during a vehicle collision. The bag expands using a high-pressure gas produced by an inflator. A relief valve is integrated into the gas passage, which opens as the internal pressure of the bag increases. This design allows for the controlled discharge of excess gas, ensuring that the internal pressure remains stable without the need for a vent hole.
Another significant invention is the air belt apparatus. This apparatus features a portion of the shoulder belt that touches the occupant's breast, composed of an inflatable rubber bag shaped like a tube. The design includes a webbing that covers the bag, creating tension during a collision, and a three-layer pad that enhances comfort. The pad consists of a raised cloth outer layer, an elastic urethane sheet in the middle, and a protective base cloth layer. When the bag inflates during a collision, the entire shoulder belt inflates, improving the overall comfort and safety for the occupant.
Career Highlights
Throughout his career, Okazaki has worked with prominent companies in the automotive industry, including Honda and Tokyo Seat Corporation. His experience in these organizations has allowed him to develop and refine his innovative ideas, contributing to advancements in vehicle safety.
Collaborations
Okazaki has collaborated with notable individuals in the field, including Hidetoshi Utsumi and Hiroshi Akaba. These collaborations have further enriched his work and led to the development of groundbreaking safety technologies.
Conclusion
Hidetsugu Okazaki's contributions to automotive safety through his innovative patents have significantly impacted the industry. His inventions, particularly in seat-occupant restraint systems, demonstrate his commitment to enhancing vehicle safety for all occupants.