Toshihiko Hiraoka

Title: Innovator Toshihiko Hiraoka: Pioneering Polyester Film Technology

Introduction

Toshihiko Hiraoka, a prominent inventor based in Otsu, Japan, has made significant contributions to the field of materials science, particularly in the development of advanced polyester films. With a total of four patents to his name, Hiraoka's work has garnered attention for its innovative approaches and practical applications.

Latest Patents

Among Hiraoka's latest inventions are two key patents focused on polyester films. The first patent describes a white polyester film and reflection sheet that incorporates voids within its structure. This film features a layer formed from a polyester resin combined with a cyclic olefin copolymerized resin. Notably, the void ratio in the cross-section of the layer is between 25% and 75%, and the average particle size of the cyclic olefin copolymerized resin ranges from 0.1 μm to 3 μm.

The second patent pertains to a polyester film with specific surface properties tailored for optical recording media. This polyester film boasts a modulus of photoelasticity not exceeding 0.9 × 10^-3 mm²/kgf, a maximum surface roughness (Rt) of less than 100 nm, and a mean interval (Sm) between adjacent surface projections of at least 20 μm. These characteristics ensure that light scattering, interference, and optical strain are minimized, even under thermal stress or external force, making it suitable for use as a supporting or cover layer in optical recording media such as optical cards, disks, and tapes.

Career Highlights

Toshihiko Hiraoka is associated with Toray Industries, Inc., a leading company in advanced materials and technology. His research and innovations at Toray have significantly advanced the company's offerings in the polyester film domain, showcasing his ability to blend technical expertise with industry needs.

Collaborations

Throughout his career, Hiraoka has collaborated with esteemed colleagues such as Kenji Tsunashima and Masaru Suzuki. These partnerships have fostered a creative environment that has led to groundbreaking advancements in polyester film technology.

Conclusion

In summary, Toshihiko Hiraoka stands out as a notable inventor whose contributions to polyester film technology are shaping the industry. With an impressive portfolio of patents and collaboration with skilled professionals, Hiraoka continues to drive innovation in materials science, enhancing the functionality and versatility of polyester films for modern applications.