Hiroki Imai

Title: Hiroki Imai: Innovator in V-Ribbed Belt Technology

Introduction

Hiroki Imai is a prominent inventor based in Hyogo, Japan, known for his contributions to the field of mechanical engineering, particularly in the development of advanced V-ribbed belts. With a total of five patents to his name, Imai has significantly impacted the efficiency and performance of drive systems in various automotive applications.

Latest Patents

Hiroki Imai's most recent patents focus on innovations in V-ribbed belt technology. One notable invention is a V-ribbed belt in which a friction transmission surface of a compression rubber layer is coated with a knit fabric. This invention involves a compression rubber layer that is made from a rubber composition comprising an ethylene-α-olefin elastomer and carbon black. The unique formulation includes soft carbon with a primary particle diameter of at least 40 nm and hard carbon with a primary particle diameter of less than 40 nm, with a carefully adjusted particle ratio for optimal performance.

Another significant patent addresses a V-ribbed belt equipped with a compressed rubber layer that features parallel V-ribbed portions. This innovation includes a friction transmission surface that can effectively contact the V-ribbed groove portion of a pulley. The design is intricately engineered to maintain specific radius curvatures that enhance the belt's interaction with pulleys, achieving precise tolerances to improve mechanical efficiency.

Career Highlights

Hiroki Imai is currently employed at Mitsuboshi Belting Ltd., a company renowned for its production of high-quality rubber belts. His innovative work has helped the company maintain its competitive edge in the marketplace, especially in the automotive industry. Imai's technological advancements contribute to producing belts that offer greater durability and performance.

Collaborations

In his career, Imai has collaborated with notable coworkers such as Yuji Maruyama and Arata Hasegawa, both of whom have also made substantial contributions to the field of automotive components. Their joint efforts have been instrumental in advancing the technology and enhancing the product offerings of Mitsuboshi Belting Ltd.

Conclusion

Hiroki Imai stands out as an influential inventor in the development of V-ribbed belt technology. His innovative patents reflect a deep understanding of materials and engineering principles, demonstrating a commitment to enhancing mechanical efficiency and performance. With a promising career at Mitsuboshi Belting Ltd. and collaborations with esteemed coworkers, the future holds great potential for further advancements from Imai.