Location History:
- Nishinomiya, JP (1996)
- Kobe, JP (1999 - 2014)
Company Filing History:
18 out of 628 
3 out of 4,423 
2 out of 489 
Years Active: 1996-2014
Title: **Tsutomu Hirau: Innovator in Golf Ball Technology**
Introduction
Tsutomu Hirau, an accomplished inventor from Kobe, Japan, has made significant contributions to the field of sports equipment innovation with a focus on golf balls. With a remarkable portfolio of 23 patents, Hirau has established himself as a leading figure in the development of advanced golf ball technologies aimed at improving performance and playability.
Latest Patents
Among his latest patents, Hirau has designed innovative golf balls that feature a complex structure, consisting of a core, a mid-layer, and a cover. The first golf ball patent details a core that includes a center and an envelope layer. The mid-layer incorporates a metal ion source, which has the ability to neutralize an ionomer resin, and demonstrates a melt flow rate of 4 g/10 minutes or greater at 190°C and 2.16 kg. Notably, the difference between the JIS-C hardness of the cover and that of the center is equal to or greater than 45. A second golf ball patent also follows a similar structure but emphasizes the use of high melt viscosity resin and low melt viscosity ionomer resin in the mid-layer. Furthermore, Hirau's designs include features such as a spherical main body with a cover that excludes titanium oxide and consists of a fluorescent colorant.
Career Highlights
Hirau's career includes notable tenures at Sri Sports Limited and Sumitomo Rubber Industries Limited, where his expertise in material science and engineering was critical in shaping the performance parameters of golf balls. His innovative designs have set industry benchmarks, providing golfers with equipment that enhances their game.
Collaborations
Throughout his career, Tsutomu Hirau has collaborated with talented professionals in the field, including colleagues Kazuhiko Isogawa and Keiji Moriyama. These partnerships have fostered a creative environment that has driven the advancement of novel technologies in golf ball design.
Conclusion
Tsutomu Hirau's relentless pursuit of innovation in golf ball technology exemplifies how dedicated inventors can influence sports equipment development. With a strong patent portfolio and a collaborative spirit, Hirau continues to make strides in ensuring that athletes can perform at their best. His work not only enhances the game of golf but also reflects the spirit of innovation that drives the sports industry forward.