Sotomitsu Ikeda

Title: Innovations of Sotomitsu Ikeda: Pioneering Actuators in Yokohama

Introduction

Sotomitsu Ikeda, a prominent inventor based in Yokohama, Japan, has made significant contributions to the field of actuator technology. With an impressive portfolio of 45 patents, Ikeda has been at the forefront of innovation, particularly focusing on the development of advanced actuators that leverage ionic liquids and conductive polymer fibers.

Latest Patents

Among his latest inventions, Ikeda has developed an actuator that incorporates ionic liquid technology. This actuator features a pair of electrodes positioned face-to-face, with an intermediate layer that contains the ionic liquid. When a potential difference greater than the specified potential window of the ionic liquid is applied, both the electrodes and the intermediate layer undergo deformation. Protective insulating layers are strategically placed to prevent direct contact between the ionic liquid ions and the electrodes.

In another notable patent, Ikeda describes a traditional actuator that generates a difference in electric potential between a fixed end and a displacement end of the actuator. This design utilizes a bundle of polymer fibers infused with conductive material, with the longitudinal alignment of the fibers directed from the fixed portion towards the displacement end of the actuator. These innovations reflect Ikeda's commitment to enhancing actuator functionality and efficiency.

Career Highlights

Sotomitsu Ikeda serves at Canon Kabushiki Kaisha, a leading company known for its advancements in technology and imaging solutions. Throughout his career, Ikeda has focused on creating inventive solutions that push the boundaries of what is possible in actuator technology. His dedication to research and development has positioned him as a key player in the field, contributing to both academic progress and practical applications.

Collaborations

Ikeda's work has been further enriched through collaborations with esteemed colleagues, including Masato Yamanobe and Tetsuo Hino. Together, they have shared insights and expertise, fostering an environment of innovation and creativity within their projects. These collaborations not only enhance the quality of their inventions but also showcase the importance of teamwork in the advancement of technology.

Conclusion

Sotomitsu Ikeda's work exemplifies the spirit of innovation in actuator technology. With a robust collection of patents and continuous efforts to push technological boundaries, he has made a profound impact on the industry. The future looks promising as Ikeda and his collaborators continue to explore new possibilities in actuator design and functionality, paving the way for revolutionary advancements in various applications.