Location History:
- Tokyo, JP (1985 - 1988)
- Kanagawa, JP (1996 - 2003)
- Minami-Ashigara, JP (2004 - 2006)
Company Filing History:
Years Active: 1985-2006
Title: Hirokazu Yokoo: Innovator in Photo Film Technology
Introduction
Hirokazu Yokoo is a prominent inventor based in Minami-ashigara, Japan. He has made significant contributions to the field of photography, particularly in the development of lens-fitted photo film units and associated technologies. With a total of 10 patents to his name, Yokoo's innovations have had a lasting impact on the industry.
Latest Patents
Yokoo's latest patents include a lens-fitted photo film unit, a flash device, and a lens-fitted photo film system. The flash device is designed for a lens-fitted photo film unit that is pre-loaded with unexposed photo film. It features a main capacitor that stores charge and a flash emitter that emits flash light. The flash circuit board is responsible for charging the main capacitor and driving the flash emitter by discharging the main capacitor in response to an exposing operation. A tightly closed flash case is secured to the lens-fitted photo film unit, containing the main capacitor, flash emitter, and flash circuit board. Additionally, the lens-fitted photo film unit includes a sync switch that generates a trigger signal during the exposing operation. Two switch contact points are located outside the flash case to receive the trigger signal from the sync switch. These contact points disable the discharge of the main capacitor while the flash case is detached from the lens-fitted photo film unit and allow for discharge upon receiving the trigger signal when the flash case is secured.
Career Highlights
Yokoo is currently employed at Fuji Photo Film Company, Limited, where he continues to innovate and develop new technologies in photography. His work has been instrumental in advancing the capabilities of lens-fitted photo film units, making them more efficient and user-friendly.
Collaborations
Throughout his career, Yokoo has collaborated with notable colleagues such as Nobuyuki Kameyama and Takashi Imamura. These collaborations have fostered a creative environment that has led to the development of groundbreaking technologies in the field.
Conclusion
Hirokazu Yokoo's contributions to the photography industry through his innovative patents and collaborations have established him as a key figure in the field. His work continues to influence the way photography is approached and experienced today.