Naoki Kuno

Title: The Innovative Journey of Naoki Kuno

Introduction

Naoki Kuno, an accomplished inventor based in Wako, Japan, has made significant contributions to the field of turbine technology through his inventive prowess. With a total of five patents to his name, Kuno has carved a niche for himself in the realms of engineering and mechanical design, particularly focusing on enhancing the efficiency and performance of radial turbines.

Latest Patents

Among his latest innovations is the patented design of a radial turbine impeller. This advanced design includes full blades and splitter blades arranged alternately in the rotational direction. Notably, the splitter blades feature a shorter length in the fluid flow direction compared to the full blades. The design is meticulously engineered with a throat positioned between each pair of adjacent full blades and unique placements of the downstream edges of the splitter blades, enabling enhanced fluid dynamics and efficiency.

Kuno has also developed a sophisticated turbine that incorporates a turbine impeller chamber with a tubular outflow portion, allowing exhaust gases to flow in a direction aligned with the turbine impeller's axis. The design encompasses a bypass flow passage and an expanding outer duct, fostering improved flow characteristics. An inner duct extends forward from the turbine's outflow portion, while a diffuser flow passage efficiently increases in diameter along this path. Additionally, a waste gate valve is strategically positioned on the inner peripheral surface of the turbine, adding a layer of control over the exhaust flow.

Career Highlights

Kuno's professional journey includes significant employment with Honda Motor Co., Ltd. and Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha, where he honed his expertise in turbine technology. His innovative approaches have contributed to various advancements within these renowned companies, showcasing his ability to translate visionary ideas into practical engineering solutions.

Collaborations

Throughout his career, Kuno has had the privilege of collaborating with notable colleagues, including Shuichi Honda and Naoki Itoh. These partnerships have enabled him to exchange ideas and insights, further enhancing the innovative capacity of his projects and contributing to the overall growth of turbine technology.

Conclusion

In summary, Naoki Kuno stands out as a pivotal figure in the world of turbine innovation. With his advanced designs focused on radial turbine impellers and turbines, he continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in mechanical engineering. His career, marked by significant patents and collaborations with influential figures, illustrates the impact of dedicated inventors in shaping technological advancements.