K. Tani, Tocalo Co.,Ltd, Akashi, Japan; Y. Namba, Tocalo Co., Ltd., Akashi, Japan; A. Nakahira, Tocalo Co., Ltd., Kobe, Japan

Summary: The thermal spray technology trends in Japan were examined by the patent information. The subjects of research and basic development of the thermal spray and allied coating technologies have been disclosed by the publication papers or documents submitted to national or international conference, symposium or academic journal and so on. However, this kind of information does not always disclose the embodiment in industry. The transition and present status of thermal spray technology in Japan were described by investigating the filled patent information, clam construction, and the industry segments of patent applicant.