Rick Minoru Tanaka

Title: Rick Minoru Tanaka: Innovator in Motion Control Technology

Introduction

Rick Minoru Tanaka is a prolific inventor based in Vancouver, WA, specializing in innovations in motion control systems. With a remarkable portfolio of 15 patents, Tanaka has significantly contributed to enhancing technology in various applications, particularly in the printing industry.

Latest Patents

Among his recent achievements, Tanaka holds patents for groundbreaking systems designed to improve encoder strip performance. One notable patent is for a system that determines encoder strip expansion, which incorporates an encoder strip with markings and two optical encoders. This system can generate signals that help determine the phase difference between the signals from the encoders, ensuring more accurate movement detection along the encoder strip.

Another noteworthy invention from Tanaka addresses thermal and hydroscopic expansion effects in low-cost motion control systems. This patent describes apparatus and methods for compensating for changes in the length of an encoder strip due to environmental factors, including temperature and humidity. By utilizing optical sensors mounted on a substrate with a different thermal expansion coefficient than the encoder strip, his method enables precise positioning of movable components, like printer carriages.

Career Highlights

Rick Minoru Tanaka has worked with reputable companies in the technology sector, including Hewlett-Packard Company and Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. His experience at these leading organizations provided him with valuable insights and tools to innovate in the field of motion control.

Collaborations

Throughout his career, Tanaka has collaborated with talented professionals, including Dan Arquilevich and Christopher M. Lesniak. These partnerships have allowed him to combine expertise and foster innovative solutions in motion control technology.

Conclusion

Rick Minoru Tanaka's contributions to the field of motion control through his patents and collaborations demonstrate his dedication to innovation. His work not only enhances existing technologies but also paves the way for future advancements in the industry. As he continues to develop new solutions, the impact of his inventions is likely to resonate in various applications, contributing significantly to technological progress.