Yoshinobu Kondoh

Title: Yoshinobu Kondoh: Innovator in Seat Belt Technology

Introduction

Yoshinobu Kondoh is a notable inventor based in Shizuoka, Japan. He has made significant contributions to automotive safety through his innovative designs. His work primarily focuses on enhancing the functionality and reliability of seat belt retractors.

Latest Patents

Kondoh holds a patent for a seat belt retractor that features both an emergency locking mode and an auto-locking mode. The retractor includes a take-up shaft on which webbing is wound. A ratchet wheel is connected to the take-up shaft, allowing it to rotate together. Additionally, an annular cam member is linked to the take-up shaft through a speed reduction mechanism. This cam member has a first group of projections formed on it, while a switching arm is pivotally arranged to engage a second group of projections with the first. A toggle spring biases the switching arm in a specific direction, and a pivotal tooth member, actuated by the switching arm, engages with the ratchet wheel. This pivotal tooth member is also biased by a spring away from the ratchet wheel.

Career Highlights

Kondoh is currently employed at Fuji-Autolib Company, Limited, where he continues to innovate in the field of automotive safety. His work has been instrumental in developing technologies that enhance passenger protection in vehicles.

Collaborations

He has collaborated with notable colleagues such as Shuichi Sugano and Shogo Hayashi, contributing to advancements in seat belt technology and automotive safety features.

Conclusion

Yoshinobu Kondoh's contributions to seat belt retractor technology exemplify his commitment to improving automotive safety. His innovative designs and patents play a crucial role in protecting passengers on the road.