Location History:
- Kusatsu, JP (2006)
- Kyoto, JP (2006 - 2010)
Company Filing History:
Years Active: 2006-2010
Title: Kazuyuki Hirai: Innovator in Toner Technology
Introduction
Kazuyuki Hirai is a notable inventor based in Kyoto, Japan. He has made significant contributions to the field of toner technology, holding a total of four patents. His work focuses on the development of advanced toner formulations and image forming methods.
Latest Patents
Hirai's latest patents include innovations in toner and developer formulations, toner containers, process cartridges, image forming apparatuses, and image forming methods. One of his key inventions provides a toner that contains both an ethyl acetate-soluble polyester component and an ethyl acetate-insoluble polyester component. This toner is granulated in an aqueous medium, and the ethyl acetate-insoluble polyester component is derived from a modified polyester resin that undergoes elongation and/or cross-linking during or after the granulation process. The modified polyester resin is produced through condensation polymerization of an acid component and at least one type of diol compound, selected from aliphatic and alicyclic diols, in the presence of a catalyst. The mass average molecular weight of the modified polyester resin ranges from 10,000 to 100,000.
Career Highlights
Throughout his career, Kazuyuki Hirai has worked with prominent companies such as Sanyo Chemical Industries, Ltd. and Ricoh Company, Ltd. His experience in these organizations has contributed to his expertise in toner technology and image processing.
Collaborations
Hirai has collaborated with notable coworkers, including Toshihiko Kinsho and Masahide Yamada, further enhancing his contributions to the field.
Conclusion
Kazuyuki Hirai's innovative work in toner technology has led to significant advancements in the industry. His patents reflect a deep understanding of material science and engineering, making him a key figure in the development of modern imaging solutions.