Eighty-six Bridgestone Americas Inc. (BSAM) teammates were recently recognized for their innovative work at the 32nd Annual Bridgestone Americas Inventors Night in Akron, Ohio.
The work of the teammates honored resulted in 74 U.S. patents being issued in 2010 and the development of numerous trade secrets.
Highlights of the event included 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 honored 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 television channel ABC’s coverage of the Indianapolis 500. Jon Stuckey, who was honored for technology that reduces tire noise, was also recognized for his work with the MINDDRIVE Program with at-risk students from Kansas City.
