Eighty-six Bridgestone employees were recently
recognized for their innovative work at the 32nd
Annual Bridgestone Americas Inventors Night in
Akron, Ohio.
Their work resulted in 74 U.S. patents being issued
in 2010 and the development of numerous trade
secrets. Bridgestone received more patents last year
than any other major tire and rubber company,
according to division CEO and President Gary
Garfield.
“Inventors by definition are leaders, not
followers,” he says. Such innovations allow the
company “to pursue our goal to be the clear
technological leader in our industries.”
Highlights include Dr. William L. Hergenrother being
recognized for his 179th U.S. patent for the
company, the largest number held by any current
employee. He earned seven patents in 2010 for
technologies ranging from eco-friendly tire polymers
to polymers used to improve the performance of
asphalt for roads and highways.
Seventeen inventors were honored for their first
patent this year, including Dr. Yaohong Chen, who
was recognized for her patent directed to
functionalized polymers, and Al Speyer, executive
director of Bridgestone Americas Motorsports, for
his invention directed to a device for visually
demonstrating stagger, which was highlighted on
ABC’s coverage of the Indianapolis 500. Jon Stuckey,
who was saluted for technology that reduces tire
noise, was also feted for his work with the
MINDDRIVE Program with at-risk students from Kansas
City.
“Innovation requires constant creativity,” says
Garfield. “We pride ourselves in being a technology
company that sells innovative tires, air springs,
building materials and more. And it will take the
combined efforts of both veteran and new inventors
alike to help our company continue to provide
cutting-edge products and technologies to our varied
consumers. But with the team assembled here, I know
we are up to the task.”
For more information, visit www.bridgestone-
firestone.com.
