Noritaka Morioka

Title: Noritaka Morioka: Innovator in Tire Cord Technology

Introduction

Noritaka Morioka is a notable inventor based in Akashi, Japan. He has made significant contributions to the field of tire technology, particularly with his innovative approach to tire cord design. His work focuses on enhancing the performance and durability of tire cords, which are crucial components in tire manufacturing.

Latest Patents

Morioka holds a patent for a "Flattened Helical Tire Cord." This invention features a tire cord that consists of core filaments arranged in a helical configuration while maintaining a parallel, side-by-side relationship. The core filaments are not twisted or stranded together, which allows for improved structural integrity. Additionally, high tensile strength sheath filaments are also configured in a flattened helical shape, ensuring that they wrap around the core filaments without causing bunching. This design allows rubber to penetrate effectively into the tire cord, enhancing its overall performance. The core filaments can range from three to six, while the sheath filaments can vary from one to seven. The cross-section of the tire cord is flattened and confined within an oval-shaped outer bound, which is characterized by a major and minor axis. The design aims to create an appropriate difference in the bending modulus of the tire cord in both horizontal and vertical directions.

Career Highlights

Morioka is currently employed at Tokusen, U.S.A., Inc., where he continues to innovate in tire technology. His work has garnered attention for its practical applications in the automotive industry, particularly in enhancing tire performance and safety.

Collaborations

Throughout his career, Morioka has collaborated with notable colleagues, including Takanori Kobayashi and William E. Smith. These collaborations have contributed to the advancement of tire technology and the successful implementation of innovative designs.

Conclusion

Noritaka Morioka's contributions to tire cord technology exemplify the importance of innovation in the automotive industry. His patented designs not only improve tire performance but also pave the way for future advancements in tire manufacturing.