Location History:
- Toyota, JP (1980 - 1984)
- Aichi, JP (1987 - 1988)
- Niwa, JP (1990)
Company Filing History:
11 out of 2,005 
6 out of 1,838 
2 out of 36,721 
Years Active: 1980-1990
Title: Mitsuaki Katsuno: Innovator in Vehicle Safety Technologies
Introduction
Mitsuaki Katsuno is a prominent inventor based in Toyota, Japan. He has made significant contributions to the field of vehicle safety, holding a total of 13 patents. His innovative designs focus on enhancing the safety and functionality of webbing systems used in vehicles.
Latest Patents
One of his latest inventions is the "Webbing Support Apparatus." This apparatus is designed to change the support height of a webbing that secures an occupant in a vehicle. It features a slider that supports the webbing and is movably supported in a vertical direction within a guide rail. The slider is equipped with a restricting member that engages with the guide rail during its downward movement, preventing excessive downward motion. This allows the slider to be lowered in a controlled, step-by-step manner.
Another notable patent is the "Locking Apparatus for Webbing Retractor." This mechanism is applied to a retractor that winds up webbing to secure an occupant. It is engineered to prevent the unwinding of the webbing during sudden vehicle deceleration. The design includes a lock wheel that follows the rotation of the take-up shaft, maintaining movable lock members in a position that separates them from fixed lock members. Upon sudden deceleration, the lock wheel creates a rotational lag, engaging the lock plates with the fixed members and preventing unwinding. Additionally, the movable lock members are pressed by an elastic body, eliminating clatter caused by vehicle vibrations.
Career Highlights
Mitsuaki Katsuno has worked with notable companies such as Tokai Rika Co., Ltd. and Toyota Motor Corporation. His experience in these organizations has allowed him to develop and refine his innovative ideas in vehicle safety technologies.
Collaborations
Throughout his career, Katsuno has collaborated with talented individuals, including Tatsushi Kubota and Noritada Yoshitsugu. These partnerships have contributed to the advancement of his inventions and the overall safety of vehicle occupants.
Conclusion
Mitsuaki Katsuno's work in vehicle safety technologies has made a significant impact on the industry. His innovative patents demonstrate a commitment to enhancing occupant safety in vehicles. His contributions continue to influence the design and functionality of safety systems in modern automobiles.