Kenji Funai

Title: **Kenji Funai: A Pioneer in Fuel Injection Technology**

Introduction

Kenji Funai, an innovative inventor based in Kariya, Japan, has made significant strides in the field of fuel injection technology with a total of five patents to his name. His work emphasizes the integration of liquid and gaseous fuels, aimed at enhancing engine efficiency and performance.

Latest Patents

Funai's latest inventions include two groundbreaking patents focused on improving fuel injectors. The first patent describes a **Gaseous fuel injector using liquid fuel as lubricant and pressure-transmitting medium**. This innovative fuel injector design allows the direct injection of high-pressure gaseous fuel into an engine cylinder, using a small amount of liquid fuel to lubricate the injector's moving parts while also acting as a medium for transmitting driving force. The injector features a nozzle member equipped with injection holes at its tip and a needle that slides within the nozzle's center hole. The needle's movement, controlled by the pressure of the liquid fuel, allows it to open or close the injection holes efficiently. This dynamic is managed by a switching valve driven by an actuator, such as an electromagnetic or piezoelectric device.

The second patent, titled **Injector having structure for controlling nozzle needle**, introduces a valve back pressure chamber that applies back pressure to a first valve needle. Additionally, it incorporates a hydraulic pressure passage that runs through this chamber. The second valve needle connects and disconnects the hydraulic pressure passage to a fuel tank, thus driving the first valve needle. This ingenious design is actuated by hydraulic pressure generated by an actuator, improving the overall control of the fuel injection process.

Career Highlights

Throughout his career, Kenji Funai has contributed to reputable companies, including Denso Corporation and Nippondenso Co., Ltd. His work has played a crucial role in advancing fuel injection systems, demonstrating his deep understanding of mechanical engineering and innovative design principles.

Collaborations

Funai has collaborated with other talented engineers, including Ryo Katsura and Masatoshi Kuroyanagi, fostering a spirit of innovation and teamwork that has fueled the development of his cutting-edge patents. Together, they have explored new frontiers in fuel technology and helped shape more efficient and reliable fuel injection systems.

Conclusion

Kenji Funai's contributions to fuel injection technology are noteworthy and reflect his passion for innovation. Through his patents, he has not only improved the efficiency of fuel injectors but also paved the way for future advancements in automotive engineering. His enduring legacy leaves an indelible mark on the industry and inspires the next generation of inventors.