Insights

IV Remembers Kenichi Fuse

May 9, 2012

This week at the IV Japan office we were saddened to learn that one of the most prolific inventors in our  global inventor network, Mr. Kenichi Fuse, passed away after a brave battle with pancreatic cancer. He was 65 years old.

A multi-talented expert in optics, electronics and packaging, Mr. Fuse first began working with Intellectual Ventures in 2008 and by the end of 2009 he had been named the "Most Valuable Inventor" by the Japanese office. Mr. Fuse's inventions for IV covered a wide range of technologies, reflecting his reputation as a polymath.

After graduating from the prestigious Keio University in 1971 with both a Bsc. and Msc. in mechanical engineering, Mr. Fuse began his career at the Furukawa Electric Company, eventually becoming chief of the optics market development division from 2000 to 2003. He followed this with stints as CTO at FCM Co., Ltd. and Kyowa Densen Co., Ltd., finally establishing his own specialty company in 2007 to support his invention efforts, InterFusion Research & Consulting. 


Over the course of his lifetime, Mr. Fuse filed 263 Japanese patent applications and has been granted 134 Japanese patents, in addition to 21 US patent applications of which he was granted 10. He was a member of a number of optics and packaging related professional societies, and his 1989 paper about solder pre coat technology won the award for best paper at the International SAMPE technical conference.

Mr. Fuse's death is a loss not only for IV but for the entire global innovation community. We extend our sincere condolences to his family, friends and colleagues.

More Buzz From IV

Bloomberg Businessweek’s “Hello World” Meets Nathan Myhrvold

Nathan Myhrvold is the subject of the latest "Hello World" episode.

Read More
Advancing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at IV

Learn more about DEI at IV and meet the council.

Read More
IV Announces New Licensing Agreement to its Invention Investment Fund Portfolio

IIF off to a strong start in 2023.

Read More
We use cookies on this website to enhance your browser experience and to analyze your traffic. To learn more about cookies and how we use them view our cookie policy. By continuing to use our website you consent to the use of cookies.