Abstract
The research of crustal deformations based on observations in vaults (hereafter RCDV) for earthquake prediction comes to a deadlock. The one of the most important reasons may be the lack of research plans on the basis of the strategic viewpoints. This program started with out enough knowledge of its targets, precursory deformations to earthquakes in spite of the inflexibility of the system. It is not to be accused considering the state of earthquake science in those days. However it should be criticized that the observation or research system could not follow and digest the development of earthquake science afterward. The enclosure of in formation is also a major problem. In this paper, I review the brief history of the RCDV and point out some intrinsic difficulties. On the basis of this review, I would like to propose that the RCDV should shift their target to crustal dynamics research and borehole type observa tions be given more importance on research of earthquake related strain or tilt changes.
