Aichi Prefecture

Aichi Prefecture
Ubukata Industries Co.,Ltd.
(Nagoya City)
The company provides “safety” to the world through switches & sensors
Avex Corporation
(Nagoya City)
Manufacturing of components for automobiles through high-precision
cutting and grinding technologies
Tipton Corp.
(Nagoya City)
The company’s responses to demands for the next generation through a
barrel finishing technologies
NARITA MFG., LTD.
(Nagoya City)
Manufacturing of vestibule diaphragms which are automatically
connected for a new type of vehicle based on highly advanced developed
technologies
FUJI KIHAN CO., LTD.
(Nagoya City)
Technologies of finish for metal surfaces regarding ultra-low friction that
can lead a victory of Formula One championship
Barudan Co., Ltd.
(Ichinomiya City)
Manufacturing of embroidering machine for factories, which is always
on the cutting edge of the industry
186
Yamada Dobby Co., Ltd.
(Ichinomiya City)
Manufacturing of a high-speed precision press machine which
manufactures precision components regarding IT industry
Asahi Sunac Corporation
(Owariasahi City)
Manufacturing of a special machine with different technologies (static
electricity, forging, and atomization)
YAMAJU CERAMICS CO.,LTD.
(Owariasahi City)
Manufacturing of oxide single crystal materials necessary for IT industry
Tokai Medical Products Inc.
(Kasugai City)
Auxiliary medical devices for heart which are adjusted to a size of
Japanese and which was produced for the first time in Japan
Suzutora Corporation
(Gamagori City)
Realization of high added value in regards to fibers through metallurgical
coating technologies
YAMAHACHI DENTAL MFG.,CO.
(Gamagori City)
Artificial teeth with aesthetic functions and a world No.1 in hardness
KTX Co., Ltd.
(Konan City)
Manufacturing of ultra-precision perforated mold through porous
electroforming technique
187
SANSYU PRECISION CO., LTD.
(Takahama City)
World-class subcontractor: Provides precision components by using ultra
precision molds and molding technologies
Okajima Pipe Co.,Ltd.
(Tokai City)
A leading manufacturer regarding small diameter and thin wall thickness
steel tube
O-oka Corporation
(Toyota City)
Manufacturing of gears of transmission for automobiles through
ultra-precision forging technologies
Juken Kogyo Co., Ltd.
(Toyohashi City)
Mass-production of a “1/1,000,000 g” gear through the precision
injection molding
Honda Electronics Co., Ltd.
(Toyohashi City)
Specialists of Ultrasound Technology
188
The company provides
“safety” to the world
through switches &
sensors
Ubukata
Industries
Co.,Ltd.
4-30 Hosho-cho, Minami-ku
Nagoya City
Aichi Prefecture
Establishment:1970
TEL +81-52-612-3333
Shinya Ubukata
President & C.E.O.
http://www.ubukata.co.jp/
The company realized the overwhelmingly high-quality products such as a control switch
for air-conditioner, and a seismic detector that stops combustion at the occurrence of
earthquakes. The seismic detector was highly commended as a “silent hero” after Kobe
earthquake.
Quit as a university lecturer and started a business of liquid switch
A founder that quit as a university lecturer to develop a liquid switch using mercury in 1963. Such a switch was
applied to the worlds first hydraulic direction indicator and commenced sales of such product to automobile
manufacturers.
The company “consistently performs the process of development, design, production, sale, and aftercare service
internally”. Since the beginning the company has been committed to their creativity, and “sells their products as their
own brand goods.” The company has kept such attitude.
More than 80% of the domestic share based on a seismic detector found in gas meter
In 1994 when the orientation towards the products that did not use mercury increased, a new type of seismic
detector using steel balls was completed. Due to this, the company realized accurate responses to the user demands.
At present, the high-performance seismic detector that only reacts to the vibration of earthquake is used for a gas
meter and heating appliance. The company has 80% of the domestic share for such product. And at the time of Kobe
earthquake, such seismic detector was highly commended as a “silent hero” through its superior performance that
prevented occurrence of fire. Also, a “fire alarm apparatus with seismic light” using such technologies has been
recently developed.
More than 90% of the domestic share concerning “Internal Motor Protector” that protects
air-conditioners from failure
A bimetal switch that detects heat or excess current and cuts off the current is incorporated into an air-conditioner
compressor. It has a reliable, simple structure, and is of low cost yet high precision. Thus, the company obtains more
than 90% of the domestic share of the internal motor protector market.
Seismic detector
Fire alarm apparatus
with seismic light
189
Bimetal switch
Manufacturing of
components for
automobiles through
high-precision cutting and
grinding technologies
Avex
Corporation
26-3 Uchihamacho, Mizuho-ku,
Nagoya City
Aichi Prefecture
Establishment:1953
TEL +81-52-811-1171
Akihiko Kato
http://www.avex-inc.co.jp/
President
The company manufactures valves for hydraulic control regarding an automatic
transmission of automobiles through the cutting and grinding technologies based on a
micron size. And the company obtains 8% of the world share in regards to its spool
valves.
High precision based on a micron size is necessary for hydraulic components for automatic
transmission of automobiles
High precision based on a micron size is necessary for spool valves used for hydraulic controller of hydraulic
components for automatic transmission of automobiles. And highly advanced cutting and grinding technologies are
required. Since many spool valves of 10 – 20 units per automobile are used, price competition is very severe. And the
company responds to the demands of difficult cost reduction.
“Professional group for cutting and grinding works” established through “creativity and
skillfulness” that the president initiates
The president undertakes initiative to practice “creativity and skillfulness” with the employees, based upon
technologies and know-how that have been nourished in the process of manufacturing of components of sewing
machines, 8 mm movie projectors, and automotive brakes. They constitute a “professional group for cutting and
grinding works” regarding aluminum materials through the precision based on a micron size.
8% of the world share in regards to its spool valves for automatic transmission
At present, the company obtains about 8% of the world share in regards to its spool valves for automatic
transmission of automobiles. This means that they manufacture approximately 250,000 units per day. They consider
the transactions with overseas automobile makers, and progress the technological development that supports electric
vehicles with research institutions such as universities, which will be disseminated in the future in a positive manner.
Enlarged view of spool valve
Spool valve
Valve bodies inside the hydraulic
controller
190
Tipton Corp.
The company’s responses
to demands for the next
generation through a
barrel finishing
technologies
3-19-21 Toyoda, Minami-ku,
Nagoya City
Aichi Prefecture
Establishment: 1939
TEL +81-52-691-5177
Fumiaki Kobayashi
http://www.tipton.co.jp/
President
This is the first company that developed barrel finishing technologies in Japan and that
has achieved the 0.1 micron surface finishing through the barrel finishing. And the
company obtains 50% of the domestic share in regards to its services by satisfying a wide
variety of demands from development to maintenance.
The First company that established barrel finishing technologies after the World War II
“Surface finishing” is essential for manufacturing of a wide variety of products such as cellular phones and digital
cameras as well as automotive parts. This is the first company that established barrel finishing technologies after the
World War II. Such technologies allow a surface of product to be evenly polished through putting work pieces,
abrasive media, and compounds in barrel shaped containers of the machine. And the company responds to the user
demands through know-how to select the combination of machine, abrasive media, and compound, in regards to
every product to be finished under an optimal condition.
Acquisition of 50% of the domestic share based on the high precision and “entire services”
The company provides the entire services of development, supply, and maintenance regarding the items for barrel
finishing. Thus, they have established a supply of high precision finishing technologies that are suitable for
characteristics of products to be finished as a business model. Due to this, they have gain high respect and trust
among their users.
Products to be finished: a sesame grain through a wheel
It is possible for the company to handle the 0.1-10 micron surface finishing concerning the products such as
various metals, ceramics, and plastics, in regards to a sesame grain size of electronic components through automotive
wheels for a short time. They developed a candy coating machine to which the finishing technologies were applied.
And they received the achievement award from THE JAPAN SOCIETY FOR THE ADVANCEMENT OF
INVENTIONS in 2006.
Stationary tub
Abrasive media
Work piece
Spinner
Rotation direction
Principle and structure concerning processing of a
centrifugal barrel finishing machine
191
Centrifugal barrel finishing machine for compact
precision components such as IT related parts
Manufacturing of
vestibule diaphragms
which are automatically
connected for a new type
of vehicle based on highly
advanced developed
technologies
NARITA
MFG., LTD.
20-12 Hanaomotecho, Atsuta-ku,
Nagoya City
Aichi Prefecture
Establishment:1952
TEL +81-52-881-6191
Masatoshi Narita
http://www.narita.co.jp/
President
The company obtains unique technology in the world for vestibule diaphragms which are
automatically connected for a new type of the railway rolling stock, and 100% of the
domestic share in regards to the railway rolling stock for Shinkansen as a main force.
Strong product development capability that was
contributed to development of Shinkansen
The company participated in the development of vestibule
diaphragms for “Shinkansen” that was officially opened in 1964.
Based on the high evaluation regarding their high technical
capacities, their vestibule diaphragms which are automatically
connected were adopted to a new type of railway rolling stock of
subways in Singapore in 1985. Such technical capacities that were
highly evaluated were led to the transactions with the major 3 car
builders (Bombardier, Alstom, and Siemens) in the world.
Vestibule diaphragms which are automatically
connected for railway rolling stock of
subways in Singapore
In the midst of the market regarding railway vehicles that grows at a sluggish pace on a long-term basis, the
company positively developed overseas projects such as opening up a production base in China. The company set a
goal of acquisition of 50% of the world share.
“Human Techno Link” as an entire system of planning of the products through selling
thereof
The company performs the entire process of planning, development, production and sale of the products on its
own. Thus, it established its unique information management system for management and sale. And it created the
system “Human Techno Link” that can give requests from the users to the products promptly, which gains high
confidence from the customers.
Vestibule diaphragms which are
automatically connected for
“Shinkansen”
192
Technologies of finish for
metal surfaces regarding
ultra-low friction that can
lead a victory of Formula
One championship
FUJI KIHAN
CO.,LTD.
471 Marushincho, Kita-ku,
Nagoya City
Aichi Prefecture
Establishment: 1977
TEL +81-52-902-2930
Yoshio Miyasaka
http://www.fujikihan.co.jp/
President
The company realized significant improvements regarding the nature of ultra-low friction
and surface hardness through hammering metallic microparticles on the metallic surface at
high speeds. These are the secret tactics for the environment-friendly creation of products
in Japan, which is adopted by the engine components of F1 racing cars and fuel-efficient
world strategic cars.
Creative technologies that even patent lawyers had difficulty to understand
A minute concave surface is formed on a metallic surface (a puddle of oil) through hammering metallic
microparticles on the metallic surface at high speeds. This realized the ultra-low friction. In the fields of technologies
of finish for surfaces, large particles were hammered and effects were enhanced at that time. This used to be the
common sense around that time. The technologies created based on an extremely abnormal idea “to use
microparticles” gave a difficult time for the patent lawyers to make descriptions of the same for patent application.
Whose technologies will result in a victory of the Formula One championship?
Engine is a heart of the vehicle. As for a car for the Formula One championship, endurance in extreme situations
can be expected. Combined with the nature of ultra-low friction, the surface hardness become extremely improved
through such technologies of finish for surfaces, as if a swordsmith worked a metal by a thick hammer for a Japanese
sword. Worldwide racing teams adopt such technologies. It is said that they cannot win races unless they have such
technologies.
Environment-friendly secret tactics in Japan
Reduction of burdens on the environment is one of the major directions that are expected to the development of
vehicles. The technologies of the company have been adopted by compact strategic cars for a Japanese automobile
maker whose selling point is fuel efficiency, which results in enhancement of international competitiveness of
Japanese cars. It is said that when metallic particles are changed to titanium, a 20% increase concerning gas mileage
for diesel-powered vehicles occurs based on a high effect of oxidation-reduction. Life of industrial tools and
precision metal molds will be prolonged from an increase from several times in the length to dozens of times. This
can also reduce resistance and noise of slide portions. The technologies of the company support the strength of
creation of products in Japan as the secret tactics.
Temperature rise based on WPC processing
The temperature of SK materials reaches
temperature of combustion for a few seconds
193
Manufacturing of
embroidering machine for
factories, which is always
on the cutting edge of the
industry
Barudan
Co., Ltd.
20 Tsukakoshi, Josuiji,
Ichinomiya City
Aichi Prefecture
Establishment: 1969
TEL +81-586-76-6161
http://www.barudan.co.jp/
Daisuke Shibata
President
The company is a leading pioneer for development of a rotary automatic mechanism for changing colors that
automates color changes regarding an embroidering machine and for computer control. The company obtains
35% of the world share based upon such technologies.
“Embroidery products” which necessitated special skills as
the luxurious goods
“Embroidery” requires special skills of a craftsman up to 40 years ago.
However, it is possible to mass-produce embroidery products through the
multi-head embroidery machine developed by the said company.
Development of embroidering machine for factories
adopting the automatic mechanism for changing colors
and computers
Clothes to which embroidery was given
based on the products of the said company
Needles according to the number of colors are lined up in a circumferential manner, and are automatically
selected. And a rotary automatic mechanism for changing colors that automates color changes was developed and
computer controls were adopted. Due to these factors, the initial number of head was 3 units. However, it was
improved to 30 heads. And the number of rotation for an embroidering machine was improved from 200 rotations
per minute to 1,000 rotations per minute. And a scope of embroidery was extended from a palm-size range to a
surface of a sheet. And 15 colors can be selected. Therefore, the company has realized the revolutionary
improvement of production.
Sales network is being spread out in the world, and nuanced aftercare services are
practiced
At present, the apparel manufacturers relocate their bases from Japan to foreign countries. More than 90% of the
orders are made by the overseas customers. The company has production bases in 4 counties in the world, and has a
sales network with 100 locations or more. These factors enable “a system that provides services and supports within
24 hours after placement of an order.” Customers in the industry put a strong faith in the company. And the company
won a “ Japanese Brand Award” in 2005.
Singular-head embroidering
machine that is easy to operate
Multi-head embroidery machine
as a main product
194
Manufacturing of a
high-speed precision
press machine which
manufactures precision
components regarding
IT industry
Yamada
Dobby
Co.,Ltd.
35 Shimoshinden, Tamano,
Ichinomiya City
Aichi Prefecture
Takeo Yamada
Establishment: 1919
TEL +81-586-69-5551
President
http://www.yamadadobby.co.jp/
A high-speed precision press machine is essential for manufacturing of electronic
components. 60% of the domestic factories that manufacture precision components used
for cellular phones adopt such machine. And the company obtains 60% of the world share
based upon such technologies.
A high-speed precision press machine as “a mother machine” essential for products
Many of compact electronic components are used for IT equipment including cellular phones, liquid crystal
televisions, and computers. A high-speed precision press machine produces such components. Due to miniaturization
and multifunction of IT equipment, such electronic components are required to be compact and diversified along with
high precision.
The company offers creation of new technologies and high-quality products according to the
demands of the customers
“Dobby” which constitutes a part of a corporate name is a name of machine that controls warps to make pattern
equipped with loom. And the company has contributed to the textile industry through manufacture and sale of Dobby
machines. The company participated in the filed of high-speed precision press machines for electronic components in
1961. In 1998, the highest speed for such machine was limited to 3,000 spm (the number of strokes per minute) thus
far. However, the company successfully improved the speed up to 4,000 spm, and solidified its position as the
leader in the industry.
World-class original technologies and sprit of engineer
Based on a spirit “Let’s make a product by ourselves if there exists no such product,” the company consistently
handles the processes of marketing, planning, developing, designing, manufacturing, selling, and providing services.
And the company maintains its top position in the industry as a high-speed precision press machine maker, and
develops, manufactures, and sell new products one after another.
Ultra high speed precision press machine
(OMEGA series)
Processed goods that have been pressed
195
ASAHI SUNAC
Corporation
Manufacturing of a
special machine with
different technologies
(static electricity, forging,
and atomization)
5050 Asahimae-Cho,
Owariasahi City
Aichi Prefecture
Establishment: 1942
TEL +81-561-53-1212
http://www.sunac.co.jp
Masahiko Amari
President
The company obtains 60% of the domestic share in regards to a coating equipment for
finishing of an automobile. Additionally, the company maintains the highest share in the
industry in Japan in relation to a forging machine that manufactures bolts and parts and
cleaning equipment for semiconductor manufacturing.
Definite technologies that respond to various demands such as improvement of a coating
efficiency
Coating has main functions to beautifully decorate products, to protect the materials through coating their surfaces,
and to enhance additional values of the products. As for the processes of coating, there exist various demands, such
as improvement of operational efficiency and reduction of burdens on environment. In order to respond to such
functions and demands, the company developed “electrostatic air spray handgun” that used advanced electrostatic
technology, and realized the world’s smallest and the most lightweight coating system that dramatically improved the
coating efficiency.
Forging technologies that produce a component that has complicated shape and where
energy conservation has been enhanced
Forging technologies are to form and shape metallic materials to a form that is requested without heating or cutting
the same. Thousands of high-precision and high-quality components that are manufactured by a forging machine that
enables the aforementioned technologies are used for automobiles. And such components are also broadly utilized for
trains, aircrafts, and items of space stations.
Development of cleaning system of precision components based on atomization technologies
The company applied the atomization technologies that atomize liquids at high pressure to an “ultra-pressure
micro-jet cleaning system” that enables cleaning of minute particles of debris based on a couple of microns for the
first time in the world. The company realized an ideal cleaning process in regards to manufacturing of liquid crystal
panels and semiconductor relevant products.
Forging machine
Cleaning equipment
Coating equipment
196
YAMAJU
CERAMICS
CO., LTD.
Manufacturing of oxide
single crystal materials
necessary for IT industry
1123 Tsunoda Sango Cho
Owariasahi City
Aichi Prefecture
Establishment: 1973
TEL +81-561-53-5111
Michiya Kato
President
http://www.yamajuceramics.co.j
p/index.html
The company obtains 30% of the world share in regards to materials for high-frequency
filter (SAW filter) which constitutes a key component of cellular phone.
Change made from manufacturer of ceramics to a maker in the materials industry that
supports highly-advanced communication technologies
YAMAJU CERAMICS CO.,LTD. started the business on earthen ware manufacturing for exports originally.
However, they were strongly concerned about inexpensive earthen ware products made by developing countries.
Therefore, they paid attention to the industry of optical communications in terms of “demands in 10 years.” And the
company developed the materials for such industry.
Mass-production of piezoelectric single crystal (lithium niobate and lithium tantalate) that
supports highly-advanced communication technologies
SAW (Surface Acoustic Wave) filter for cellular phones is a filter to extract only electric waves of a person that is
desired to be talked to from among many electric waves. And the company has successfully mass-produced
piezoelectric single crystals that are the most suitable for SAW filter, and obtains 30% of the world share.
With the aim of further technological innovations
There are the global demands in cellular phones at present. Further sophisticated functions are requested in regards
to the next generation cellular phones. And the high-quality single crystals would be needed increasingly. The
company has a motto “we value basic technologies and always undertake endeavors to progress the technologies.”
And the company keeps challenging new technical development.
Lithium niobate single crystals (left)and
lithium tantalate single crystals (right),
and their wafers
Pyroelectricity neutralized wafers called
“Black LT” that respond to the demands
of customers apply
197
Auxiliary medical devices
for heart which are
adjusted to a size of
Japanese and which was
produced for the first time
in Japan
Tokai Medical
Products Inc.
1485 Sarayashiki, Taraga-Cho,
Kasugai City
Aichi Prefecture
Establishment: 1981
TEL +81-568-81-7954
http://www.tokaimedpro.co.jp/
Nobumasa Tsutsui
President
IABP balloon catheter is necessary for cardiac medical treatments such as cardiac
infarction. The company successfully developed the first catheter made in Japan that
was suitable for a size of heart and blood vessel for Japanese people. The company saved
about 45,000 Japanese people thus far, in preparation for emergency treatments, without
any thought of profits even for the poor demand in catheters for children.
Medical devices suitable for a size of heart of Japanese that have been desired for long
At present, the nation's second-leading cause of death is cardiac infarction or angina pectoris. IABP balloon
catheter that inserted from aorta and assists the operations of the patient’s heart is necessary for cardiac medical
treatments. However, there existed only imported goods for westerners whose size of heart and blood vessel was
larger than that of Japanese 20 years ago. These imported products did not work well with Japanese patients and
often caused many accidents such as complications and balloon ruptures, etc. at medical institutions. A Japanese size
of medical devices with high reliability was requested.
“I would like to save my beloved daughter”
Nobumasa Tsutsui as the president that managed a polymer production company at that time had his daughter, who
had a congenital heart disease. This was the reason why they decided to penetrate into the cutting edge medical field.
Since he did not have any knowledge about medical field, he established a company and learned the field on his own,
based on his determined soul that he wanted to develop artificial hearts. Based on the research results accumulated,
the first catheter made in Japan that was suitable for a size of Japanese people was created in 1989. Due to this, the
rate of accident became low to several times less at medical institutions.
Mission of a maker of medical devices to save a life rather than gaining profits
The nation’s first IABP balloon catheter developed by its unique technologies responds to the demands in medical
institutions where further safety and operationability are requested in a nuanced manner. At present, there exist more
than 30 types and sizes of such catheters. Only a few products for children may be used a year. However, the
company does not gain profits, and prepares for emergency medical care. They obtain about 30% of the domestic
share. Technical development and supply of the cutting edge medical devices that do not depend on foreign
technologies could save lives of about 45,000 peoples. Due to such achievements, he received the Medal with Yellow
Ribbon in 2002.
Heart
IABP balloon
catheter
198
Kidney
Realization of high added
value in regards to fibers
through metallurgical
coating technologies
Suzutora
Corporation
36 Hamacho, Gamagori City
Aichi Prefecture
Establishment: 1936
TEL +81-533-68-4666
http://www.suzutora.co.jp/
Takahiro Suzuki
President
This is the only corporation that has the technologies to coat nanosized metal thin films on
the fiber sheets. Also, the company obtains about 30% of the domestic share in regards to
the dyeing and finishing and printing processing for curtains. And the company obtains
more than 50% of the domestic share in regards to dyeing and finishing for leather ground
fabrics. This is the highest share in Japan.
Establishment of metallurgical coating technologies, which are the sole technologies in the
world
The company made a success concerning the application of sputtering processing (processing where evaporation
coating regarding metal thin films is applied to the surfaces of the targeted items) to the fibers for the first time in the
world. There existed problems where textures of fabrics are hard or the metallic coating was easily come off, in
regards to the nanosized metal thin films, such as plating or vacuum deposition method previously. Based on the
sputtering processing, coating of metal thin films that have adhesiveness, which enables washing, solved all previous
problems.
Ski and golf wear
Conditions of collection before and
after processing
*Metallic coating enables
production of
multifunctional fibers,
such as ultraviolet [UV]
protection, infrared cut,
and static protection.
Unprocessed metallic Processed goods regarding
nonocoating
metallic nonocoating
A wide range of adoption of the fibers from fashion shows in Paris to big-screen LCD
Fibers to which sputtering processing have advanced and sophisticated features such as cutting the ultraviolet,
thermal insulation, with no change of textures. Thus, such fibers are widely developed in the fields of sports, such as
representative wears for a member of the national team of the Winter Olympics, and the agricultural field. Also, they
are adopted by fashion shows in Paris. Moreover, in addition to the fields of fibers, the metallic coating processing
for the films is adopted regarding electronic information materials such as a large size of LCD, plasma display, and
computer.
Challenge to a new filed
Almost all bioinorganic materials can be coated through the sputtering
processing. Thus, the company has engaged in the joint research projects
relating to the application of such technologies to photocatalytic treatment
and fuel for the next generation (fuel cell), with research institutions of
major companies in a positive manner.
199
YAMAHACHI
DENTAL
Artificial teeth with
MFG., CO.
aesthetic functions and a
54-1 Ochigara, Nishiura-Cho,
world No.1 in hardness
Gamagori City
Aichi Prefecture
Establishment: 1963
TEL +81- 533-57-7121
Kimio Toyama
President
http://www.yamahachi-dental.co.jp/
The company’s expertise offers superior compatibility with biomedical tissues through the
fusion of dentistry and engineering. And the company pursued the functional beauty of the
artificial teeth closer to natural teeth, and which are the hardest in the world. The company
obtains about 30% of the domestic share as a leading company. The company exports its
products to 60 counties or more in the world.
A pioneering enterprise that focuses on artificial teeth
Due to the enjoyment of a rich and varied diet, a rise in health-orientation, and progress of the aging of society, the
demands in artificial teeth have increased. Moreover, the desirable functions for the artificial teeth that should look
natural and beautiful have increased. As for the artificial teeth, the teeth made of ceramics were mainly disseminated
in 1950s. However, the company focused on the acrylate resin artificial teeth and developed the same. As indicated in
the corporate name, the company is a pioneering enterprise that focuses on artificial teeth.
Network and research staff help to master the artificial teeth
Clinical evaluations are essential for development of the artificial teeth. Thus, technical problems occurred through
such evaluations should be resolved based on the engineering approaches. The company repeatedly had joint projects
with dental and engineering colleges. Moreover, the company performs the internal personnel development
equivalent to the university researchers or higher for the research staff of the company. The company manufactures
the manufacturing machines and molds. Due to this, the company promptly responds to the demands from the
research institutions. Through this, high-level artificial teeth are developed one after another.
A mouth glowing naturally with teeth and the teeth help people in 60 countries in the world
to enjoy their food
The world’s hardest artificial teeth have esthetically superior functions of optical transparency and opal effect that
are closer to natural teeth. In the near future, the production ability of our subsidiary in China will be improved up to
about 100,000,000 teeth per year. The company obtains more than 30% of the domestic share, and helps people
living in 60 countries in the world to enjoy food and to smile. The company received an Encouragement Prize from
the Small and Medium Enterprise Agency in regards to performance and manufacturing methods of artificial teeth.
200
Manufacturing of
ultra-precision perforated
mold through porous
electroforming technique
KTX
Co.,Ltd.
51 Jizo Yasuracho, Konan City
Aichi Prefecture
Establishment: 1965
TEL +81-587-54-5131
Yasuyoshi Noda
http://www.ktx.co.jp/
President
The patent of porous electroforming technique is held by the company. And the perforated
molds manufactured by such technique can realize high-level transcriptions grain
retention and energy conservation. Thus, domestic and international makers for
automobiles and automobile parts adopt porous nickel shell tool.
Realization of high-level transcription based on the unique electroforming technique
“Electroforming technique” means the technology to create molds through electroplated coating. And the molds
manufactured through normal electroforming technique do not have air holes. However, the molds manufactured
through “porous electroforming technique” do have micron-size air holes that penetrate the air only. Air aspiration
through using of such air holes can enhance the adhesiveness of plastic materials and molds and high-level
transcriptions can be realized.
Realization of 1/14 of the energy conservation regarding the previous molds and great
contribution given to the environment and cost reduction
As a result of examination by the world’s major automobile makers regarding plastic components for automobiles
whose productivity and design are superior, it was revealed that the components were produced through the “porous
electroforming technique.” Additionally, in regards to the “porous electroforming technique,” 1/4 of the heat amounts
required to produce the components regarding the previous techniques would apply. Thus, such technique greatly
contributes to the environment and cost reduction. Thus, such technique is widely adopted by domestic and
international automobile makers.
Pursuing of the world’s best original products based on its unique technology
Even after development of porous electroforming technique, the company developed many unique technologies
such as molds based on plastic molding (MPM molds) where speed-up of heating and cooling is realized and quick
delivery of the high-quality and low-cost products is possible, and the punching electroforming technique that
enables recycle molds such as a floor mat. And the company achieves definite technologies and competitiveness.
Back side of a mode made through porous
electroforming technique for an automobile
dashboard
Operations of molding regarding an automobile
dashboard
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World-class
subcontractor:
Provides precision
components by using
ultra precision molds and
molding technologies
SANSYU
PRECISION
CO., LTD.
4-1-55 Hieda-Cho,
Takahama City
Aichi Prefecture
Akiji Kamiya
Established: 1963
TEL +81-566-52-3421
Chairman
http://www.sansyu.co.jp/
Sansyu manufacturing technologies for overmolding dissimilar resins and for injection
molding of ultra-precision miniaturized components widely used in printers, cameras,
automobile interiors, etc., are highly appreciated by many large OEMs.
From Top-class maker of wristwatch needles to manufacturer
of precision injection molds and plastic parts
Sansyu started manufacturing molds for plastic injection upon request of one
of its customers, a large manufacturer of electrical appliances. Sansyu had
already accumulated manufacturing technology by making dies for watch
needles, and used that know-how to move from the already ripened watch
manufacturing field to embark upon the plastic injection molding field.
Overmolding of dissimilar resins
Pioneer of ultra-small precision molding, ultra thin-wall molding and overmolding of
dissimilar resins
Sansyu has developed many new technologies towards producing miniature precision components, such as a part
with 80 slits of only 0.1 mm width, or components with less than 0.1 mm thickness, or the overmolding of many
different types of resins. Sansyu is proud of its precision technologies that can not be imitated by others.
World-class subcontractor compliance with High-level, complicated customer needs
Relying on its molding technologies to elaborate small and precision items, Sansyu can manufacture and supply
parts like 0.7 mm gears, or gears for wristwatches with 0.005 mm tolerance, power window knobs for automobiles,
miniature parts for inkjet printers, etc. Sansyu’s denomination of“world-class subcontractor” is well deserved by
complying with diversified high-level customer requirements.
Molded part with miniature
holes
Injection
brush
molded
miniature
Fully automated
molding
202
insertion
A leading manufacturer
regarding small diameter
and thin wall thickness
steel tube
Okajima
Pipe Co.,Ltd.
58 Kamihamada, Ota-machi,
Tokai City
Aichi Prefecture
Establishment: 1952
TEL +81-562-33-2135
http://www.okajima-pipe.co.jp
Akitoyo Okajima
Chairman
The company is confident on its know-how regarding manufacturing of small diameter
and thin wall thickness tubes that has been cultivated since the era of manufacturing of
tubes for bicycle. High-quality level products are widely used for automobile components
and home electric appliances, etc. In particular, the company obtains the domestic large
share in regards to small diameter tubes for automobiles.
Contribution to reduction in weight of automobiles
Making use of the know-how regarding manufacturing that has been cultivated since the era of manufacturing of
tubes for bicycles, the company successfully developed tubes with high strength that can be used for components for
security concerning automobiles. The technologies are used for the headrest stay, the core of steering wheel for
automobiles, and contribute to reduction in weight of automobiles. Such technologies are universally used by the
makers of finished cars and the company receives high reputation.
First priority is quality assurance for customers
Precision tubes apparently look simple, but they require various qualities such as formability, strength, and rust
prevention, in addition to a precise outside diameter, wall thickness, and length, etc. All employees of Okajima Pipe
Co.,Ltd., undertake endeavors to improve the quality of products from a viewpoint of customers through the entire
processes based on the motto “the quality in products is made through the processes.”
Product development that focuses on technological innovation
Okajima Pipe Co.,Ltd. adopted a high-frequency welding apparatus made in the U.S. in 1962 for the first time.
And it first introduced an automatic drawing machine made in Germany in 1969. The company positively adopted
the world’s highest facilities all the time. The company implemented its own improvements in regards to the
production facilities, and built the know-how that does not allow major companies to reach the same level. The
company engages in new materials and new methods of processing, and conducts product development that can
respond to various needs of customers.
Welding process
Application of products (examples)
203
Manufacturing of gears of
transmission for
automobiles through
ultra-precision forging
technologies
O-oka
Corporation
1-1 Akibasan, Takaoka-cho,
Toyota City
Aichi Prefecture
Establishment: 1961
TEL +81-565-52-3441
Mitsushige O-oka
http://www.o-oka.co.jp
President
In regards to the forged gears of manual transmission for automobiles that are
manufactured based on the micron-sized precision through ultra-precision forging
technologies, caused by the skills of a goldsmith that forges a Japanese sword, the
company obtains 70% of the world share.
Forging technologies that innovates a method of manufacturing of gears
In regards to manufacturing of gears of manual transmission for automobiles, gear-cutting (hob) and finishing of
gear tooth surfaces (shaving) were cut and processed. However, the company developed the technologies to
manufacture a complex-shaped gear with high strength and high precision through raw materials (billet) based on
only the general-purpose pressing machines and Dies.
Forging technologies that contribute to compactness and reduction in weight of automobiles
In regards to gears that are manufactured through high-precision and special Dies used for forging, a 30% strength
of teeth applied compared with the teeth made by cutting tools. And the “shift feeling” for drivers has been
remarkably improved due to smoothness of the gear surfaces. Additionally, 2 gears of clutch gear and main gear are
integrated. And it is possible to recess one of the gears. These factors lead to remarkable compactness and reduction
in weight of transmissions for automobiles.
Advance toward the technical development without fear of failure and achievement of 70%
of the world share
With an aim of the world-class “only one technology,” the company started to develop forged gears 30 years ago.
It believed that it had its own technologies which made the impossible come true. Based on such idea, the company
promoted technical development. As a result, the company has performed direct transactions with domestic and
international major automobile makers as a company that can offer a proposal. And the company obtains 70% of the
world share in regards to the forged gears for manual transmission concerning foreign automobile makers.
Flexible chamfer
design
Reverse Idler gear
Forged helical
teeth
Helical gear with
dog teeth
204
Gear with dog
teeth recessed
Recessed
shape that
achieves
compactness
Juken Kogyo
Co., Ltd.
Mass-production of a
“1/1,000,000 g” gear
through the precision
injection molding
140-1 Kita Komukai-cho
Toyohashi City
Aichi Prefecture
Establishment: 1965
TEL +81-532-31-2061
http://www.juken.com
Motoo Matsuura
President
The main product of the company is called “Powder Gear” with 0.147 mm in diameter as
an ultra-compact resin gear. Its weight is “1/1,000,000 g” which can allow such gear to be
placed on a grain of rice due to its lightness. The high-precision injection molding
technologies regarding hyperfine plastics are the world’s leading technologies.
Aim of the world’s smallest components
The development of such hyperfine components that are not apparent to the naked eyes was started through the
expectation of the present President because “ultraslim and light components” would become the future trend.
Therefore, the President started the development of “micro-sized technologies” where he challenged the world’s
smallest components. Miniaturization of such components has contributed to compact size, reduction in weight, and
realization of super-thinness regarding videos and watches manufactured by major companies.
Steady management that does not depend upon drafts and recruitment of new employees
“without exam on a first-come-first-served basis”
The company shifted its previous management to management that does not depend upon drafts, take an occasion
to experience economic difficulty, and enhanced the financial characteristics. Simultaneously, the company invested
in the cutting edge technical development in a positive manner. Additionally, the company adopts a unique method
for recruitment of new employees “without exam on a first-come-first-served basis.” Thought this, young personnel
can sufficiently exercise their own abilities. The company values such working environment, and enhances the
motivations for technical development of the employees.
Anticipation of the future precision processing technologies at any time
The technologies that can manufacture a “1/1,000,000 g” gear are evaluated by domestic and international
companies. And small precision components are used for a wide variety of domestic and international fields, such as
automobiles, watches, and precision devices. Furthermore, the company aims at participation in optical device
industry, and always groups for new technological fields regarding precision microfabrication. Immediate goal is to
accept an order from NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration) in 10 years.
Enlarged view of “1/1,000,000 g” gears
A grain of rice and “1/10,000 g” gears, “1/100,000 g”
gears, and “1/1,000,000 g” gears
Closeup picture
205
Specialists of Ultrasound
Technology
Honda
Electronics
Co., Ltd.
20 Oyamazuka, Oiwa-cho,
Toyohashi City
Aichi Prefecture
Establishment: 1960
TEL +81-532-41-2511
Yosuke Honda
President
http://www.honda-el.co.jp/
The company specializes in technical development and product development regarding
ultrasound technology. The company progresses researches in the fields of environment,
energy, and advanced medicine as the applied technology concerning ultrasound
technology for the next generation.
Development of the world’s first transistorized portable fish
finder
In 1956, the world’s first transistorized portable fish finder was developed.
Additionally, this is a sole company to develop the product as a fish finder
maker that develops “piezoceramic” in-house as a core component so as to
generate ultrasound.
Specializing in “ultrasound” and the development of the
relevant technologies
fish detector (TN-5700C)
The company specializes in development of applied technologies regarding ultrasound since the development of a
fish finder, and accumulates the development and know-how for elemental technology of 400 cases or more. And the
company has exchanges with more than 40 research institutions such as universities, and cultivates new markets
through the joint developments with companies in various industries.
All-round manufacturer of devices using applied technologies concerning ultrasound from a
maker for fish finder
Ultrasound technologies have been applied to various fields. In the IT manufacturing industries such as
semiconductors and flat panel displays, ultrasound cleaners and flowmeters apply. And devices for medical
diagnostics should require safety, such as fetal diagnosis. Atomization devices that create healing spaces also apply.
Thus, the ultrasound characteristics that are friendly to “human beings and environment” are utilized.
Ultrasound cleaners (W-338 Bakusen)
206
Devices for medical diagnostics
(HS-1500, 1500V)