Hiroaki Kioka

Title: Hiroaki Kioka: Innovator in Hybrid Drive Technology

Introduction

Hiroaki Kioka is a notable inventor based in Nishio, Japan. He has made significant contributions to the field of hybrid drive technology, holding a total of 5 patents. His work focuses on enhancing the efficiency and performance of hybrid vehicles.

Latest Patents

One of Kioka's latest patents is a control device for a hybrid drive device. This innovative device includes a speed change mechanism, a motor that is drivingly coupled to an input shaft, and a clutch that is interposed between an engine and the input shaft. Upon engine start during engine traveling, the clutch is engaged, and the rotation of the engine is increased. The control device features start upshift control means that, according to the engagement control of the clutch upon engine start, upshifts the speed change mechanism to output inertia torque. This design allows for a reduction in hesitation upon engine start by outputting torque as the sum of the driving torque of the motor and the inertia torque to the driving wheel.

Another significant patent by Kioka is a control device that manages a hybrid vehicle drive apparatus. This apparatus includes an internal combustion engine, a rotary electric machine that is drivingly connected to a wheel, and a clutch that selectively connects the internal combustion engine with the rotary electric machine. The control device performs operations such that, when a start request for the internal combustion engine is issued while the clutch is released and combustion is stopped, the rotational speed of the internal combustion engine is raised to match that of the rotary electric machine. This is achieved by transmitting driving torque from the rotary electric machine to the internal combustion engine, thereby increasing the torque transfer capacity of the clutch.

Career Highlights

Hiroaki Kioka has worked with prominent companies in the automotive industry, including Aisin Aw Co., Ltd. and Toyota Motor Corporation. His experience in these organizations has allowed him to develop and refine his innovative ideas in hybrid technology.

Collaborations

Kioka has collaborated with talented individuals such as Yomei Hakumura and Masayoshi Suhama. Their combined expertise has contributed to the advancement of hybrid vehicle technologies.

Conclusion

Hiroaki Kioka's contributions to hybrid drive technology have made a significant impact on the automotive industry. His innovative patents and collaborations reflect his dedication to improving vehicle performance and efficiency.