Company Filing History:
4 out of 54 
2 out of 36,721 
2 out of 1,257 
Years Active: 1998-2011
Title: **Hitoshi Yanase: Innovator in Vehicle Seat Technology**
Introduction
Hitoshi Yanase is a prominent inventor based in Toyota, Japan, known for his significant contributions to the automotive industry. With a total of six patents to his name, Yanase has demonstrated a strong commitment to innovation, particularly in the field of vehicle seating systems that enhance occupant comfort and safety.
Latest Patents
Among Yanase's latest inventions are two notable patents related to vehicle seats. The first patent describes a vehicle seat equipped with a seat cushion that features a seating region. This innovation includes a first seating sensor placed at the center of the seating region to detect the initial seating position of an occupant, while a second sensor is positioned at the peripheral area for further detection. This dual-sensor approach allows for a more accurate understanding of occupant positioning.
The second patent details a vehicle seat design that incorporates a deformable cushion pad. As an occupant applies a seating load, the cushion flexes, allowing a seating sensor—configured as a push-in switch—to detect the seating position of the occupant effectively. A fragile region, interleaved between the seating sensor and the cushion pad, is designed with lower rigidity to ensure accurate pressure reception when force is applied.
Career Highlights
Hitoshi Yanase has worked with renowned companies such as Araco Kabushiki Kaisha and Toyota Motor Corporation. His work in these organizations has significantly contributed to advancements in automotive technology, particularly in improving vehicle interior comfort through innovative seat designs.
Collaborations
Throughout his career, Yanase has collaborated with notable coworkers including Hisaaki Kato and Yasunori Hasegawa. Together, they have contributed to developing cutting-edge technologies within the automotive domain, driving innovations that prioritize user experience in vehicle design.
Conclusion
Hitoshi Yanase's work exemplifies the spirit of innovation in the automotive industry. With multiple patents under his belt and a career dedicated to enhancing vehicle seating technology, he continues to influence how manufacturers approach occupant safety and comfort. His inventions not only reflect technological advancement but also a deep understanding of user needs in automotive design.