Location History:
- Hyogo, JP (1987 - 1989)
- Kakogawa, JP (1981 - 1992)
Company Filing History:
4 out of 1,100 
1 out of 12 
1 out of 1,886 
Years Active: 1981-1992
Title: **Ichiro Kokubo: Innovator in High-Strength Steel for Automobiles**
Introduction
Ichiro Kokubo, a prominent inventor based in Kakogawa, Japan, has made significant contributions to the field of steel manufacturing, particularly for the automotive industry. With a total of five patents to his name, Kokubo specializes in advanced steel compositions that enhance the strength and durability of automobile components.
Latest Patents
Kokubo's innovative patents include a process for manufacturing high-strength parts of automobiles. This process involves a specific steel composition that includes varying percentages of carbon, silicon, manganese, aluminum, copper, nickel, niobium, and calcium. The steel is heated to a temperature range of 1100°C to 1250°C and subsequently hot rolled, producing a steel sheet with a tensile strength not exceeding 65 kgf/mm². The cold-working phase further elevates the tensile strength to a remarkable minimum of 80 kgf/mm², making this invention particularly suitable for automotive automatic transmission systems. Another notable patent involves a high-strength hot rolled steel sheet designed specifically for wheel rims, which contains precise weight proportions of essential elements alongside strict limitations on phosphorus and sulfur content.
Career Highlights
Throughout his career, Ichiro Kokubo has worked with esteemed companies, including Kobe Steel, Ltd. and Yamakawa Industrial Co. These experiences have provided him with a strong foundation in materials science and engineering, allowing him to excel as an inventor in specialized steel applications for the auto industry.
Collaborations
Kokubo has collaborated with talented individuals, including Kazuhiko Kourida and Shunichi Hashimoto. Their collective expertise in materials and innovation has contributed to the successful development of high-strength materials used in modern automobiles.
Conclusion
Ichiro Kokubo stands out as a key figure in the advancement of high-strength steel manufacturing processes. His patents reflect a deep understanding of material properties and revolutionary approaches to steel production, ensuring the safety and performance of critical automotive components. As the automotive industry continues to evolve, Kokubo's innovative contributions will undoubtedly be influential in the development of future automotive technologies.