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.
