From Tire Review
AKRON, Ohio — Eighty-six Bridgestone Americas researchers were recently recognized for their innovative work.
The 32nd annual Bridgestone Americas Inventors Night, held in Akron, Ohio, honored those who contributed to 74 U.S. patents issued in 2010 and the development of numerous trade secrets.
The 74 patents originating from Bridgestone Americas would rank the company in the top 300 organizations in the world to be granted U.S. patents, the company pointed out. Globally, Bridgestone Corp. said it received more patents in 2010 than any other major tire and rubber company.
“Inventors by definition are leaders, not followers,” said Gary Garfield, CEO and president of Bridgestone Americas. “And it is with the leadership and creative drive of the people present in this room this evening that we will continue to pursue our goal to be the clear technological leader in our industries.”
Highlighting the event was Dr. William 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.