Hiroki Ichihara

Title: Hiroki Ichihara: Innovator in Hybrid Vehicle Technology

Introduction

Hiroki Ichihara is a notable inventor based in Kanagawa, Japan. He has made significant contributions to the field of hybrid vehicle technology, holding a total of 3 patents. His work focuses on enhancing the efficiency and performance of hybrid vehicles through innovative control methods and mechanical designs.

Latest Patents

Ichihara's latest patents include a control method and control device for hybrid vehicles. This invention involves a hybrid vehicle that integrates an internal combustion engine and a motor generator. The internal combustion engine features a variable compression ratio mechanism that adjusts the mechanical compression ratio based on the position of a compression ratio control member, which is driven by an electric actuator. The control method measures the state of charge of a battery connected to the motor generator. In response to the regenerative operation of the motor generator, when the battery's state of charge is at or above a predetermined level, the generated electric power is utilized to drive the electric actuator of the variable compression ratio mechanism.

Another significant patent by Ichihara involves a lower link of the internal combustion engine. This design includes an oil hole in the crank pin bearing portion, which supplies a jet of oil to the connecting portion between an upper pin and an upper link. The oil hole consists of a first oil hole that extends linearly from the inner peripheral surface of the crank pin bearing portion outwardly and a second oil hole that intersects the first oil hole. The inclination angle of the first oil hole is designed to minimize stress concentration at the oil inlet, thereby enhancing the durability of the component.

Career Highlights

Hiroki Ichihara has worked with prominent companies in the automotive industry, including Nissan Motor Company Limited and Renault S.a.s. His experience in these organizations has allowed him to develop and refine his innovative ideas in hybrid vehicle technology.

Collaborations

Ichihara has collaborated with talented individuals such as Tomoya Tojo and Kensuke Ikehara. These partnerships have contributed to the advancement of his projects and the successful development of his patents.

Conclusion

Hiroki Ichihara is a distinguished inventor whose work in hybrid vehicle technology has led to several important patents. His innovative approaches to control methods and mechanical designs continue to influence the automotive industry.