Location History:
- Aichi, JP (1984)
- Toyota, JP (1979 - 1985)
Company Filing History:
12 out of 1,838 
2 out of 36,713 
1 out of 1,139 
Years Active: 1979-1985
Title: Discovering Innovator Toshinobu Furutani
Introduction
Toshinobu Furutani is an inventive mind located in Toyota, Japan, known for his contributions to sensor technology. With a total of 14 patents to his name, he has made significant advancements, particularly in the field of oxygen sensors, which are essential components in modern automotive systems.
Latest Patents
Furutani's latest innovations include two notable patents focused on oxygen sensor elements. The first patent describes an oxygen sensor element featuring a ceramic heater. This design incorporates a cylindrical element body made of an oxygen ion permeable solid electrolyte, with electrodes strategically placed on its surfaces and a protective layer over one of the electrodes. The ceramic heater consists of a bar-like ceramic core, a ceramic covering layer, and a heating member positioned at their interface.
The second patent presents an oxygen sensor element characterized by an oxygen ion-permeable solid electrolyte in either tabular or columnar shapes, with electrode layers formed on the electrolyte. The electrode layers are composed of a fired body that includes a metal structure and glass components, specified by precise molar amounts of various materials, providing enhanced performance and durability.
Career Highlights
Throughout his career, Toshinobu Furutani has worked primarily with Toyota Jidosha Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha, significantly contributing to their research and development efforts in automotive technologies. His work at this notable company has allowed him to innovate and refine sensor technologies that have applications in vehicles worldwide.
Collaborations
Furutani has collaborated closely with distinguished colleagues such as Yasuhiro Otsuka and Shinichi Matsumoto. Their combined expertise has helped drive advancements in automotive sensor technologies, underscoring the importance of teamwork in the field of innovation.
Conclusion
Toshinobu Furutani stands out as a key inventor in the automotive sensor industry, with his patented technologies playing an essential role in the efficiency and functionality of vehicles. His forward-thinking approach and collaborative efforts highlight the crucial role that inventors play in fostering innovation and improving technology.