This inventor holds 5 USPTO granted patents. Top assignees: Kabushiki Kaisha Tokai Rika Denki Seisakusho, Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha. Active years: 1992-2022.
Location History:
- Aichi, JP (1992 - 1994)
- Aichi-ken, JP (2013 - 2022)
Company Filing History:
5 out of 2,030 
1 out of 38,837 
Years Active: 1992-2022
Title: Shigeru Kotama: Innovator in Vehicle Safety Technology
Introduction
Shigeru Kotama is a notable inventor based in Aichi, Japan. He has made significant contributions to vehicle safety technology, holding a total of 5 patents. His innovative designs focus on enhancing the functionality and safety of seat belt devices and webbing take-up mechanisms.
Latest Patents
One of his latest patents is a seat belt device that includes a buckle positioned on the side of a vehicle seat. This device is designed to allow a tongue plate to be inserted into the buckle. It features a buckle force limiter mechanism that enables the buckle to move in a pulling direction when a predetermined tensile load is applied. Additionally, the device includes a case that covers the connecting member, ensuring safety and functionality.
Another significant patent is a webbing take-up device equipped with a clutch located between a take-up shaft and a motor. This clutch facilitates the coupling and releasing of the take-up shaft to the motor. When the motor rotates a gear wheel in the take-up direction, a friction spring moves a pawl, allowing it to mesh with a ratchet wheel. This design simplifies the mechanism for moving the pawl, enhancing the efficiency of the webbing take-up process.
Career Highlights
Shigeru Kotama has worked with prominent companies in the automotive industry, including 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 technology.
Collaborations
Throughout his career, Shigeru has collaborated with talented individuals such as Yasutaka Watanabe and Fuminori Teraoka. These partnerships have contributed to the advancement of his inventions and the overall improvement of vehicle safety systems.
Conclusion
Shigeru Kotama's contributions to vehicle safety technology through his patents and collaborations highlight his role as an influential inventor in the automotive industry. His innovative designs continue to enhance the safety and functionality of vehicle systems.