Yutaka Taniguchi

Title: Yutaka Taniguchi and Spark Plug Manufacturing Innovations.

Introduction

Yutaka Taniguchi is an inventor associated with Aichi, Japan, and Ngk Spark Plug Company, Limited. His work focuses on manufacturing spark plugs, particularly improving the welding of noble-metal spark components. He is credited with 2 patents.

Latest Patents

Taniguchi’s listed patents address methods and equipment for attaching noble-metal chips to spark plug center electrodes using laser welding.

“Method for manufacturing spark plug and apparatus for manufacturing spark plug” describes detecting the position of the center electrode’s chip joint face and adjusting the laser’s irradiation position accordingly. This approach is intended to help prevent insufficient weld depth or spark-component thickness, strengthening the weld and extending the spark portion’s service life.

“Method for manufacturing a spark plug, and spark plug” describes forming a full-circled laser weld between a noble-metal chip and a center electrode. The method uses a heat-resistant, iron- or nickel-based alloy at the chip-joint formation portion and a graded-index fiber-optic cable to transmit the laser beam. The disclosed process aims to reduce spatter and the risk of inadequate weld strength caused by insufficient penetration.

Career Highlights

Taniguchi’s patent work reflects a focus on precision in spark plug production. The inventions address laser positioning, weld penetration, and manufacturing conditions that can affect the durability and reliability of the spark portion.

Collaborations

The supplied information identifies Masahide Sumi and Akio Sakura as Taniguchi’s coworkers. It does not specify their roles in the listed patents.

Conclusion

Yutaka Taniguchi’s two listed patents focus on improving laser-welded spark plug components through more controlled positioning and manufacturing methods, with the goal of producing stronger, longer-lasting welds.