[in Japanese]

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For solid oxide fuel cells (SOFC) that are expected to be highly-efficient distributed power generation systems, establishing performance evaluation methods and their standardization are important for early market entry and fair trade. For this purpose, we have developed high-precision performance evaluation methods and test apparatuses to measure power generation performance of SOFC cells, stacks, and systems. These methods were achieved by combination of elemental technologies and tools, such as commercial measuring instruments, precise flowmeters and reference materials that are traceable to national standards, and catalysis technology. The performance and usefulness of the test apparatuses developed in cooperation with SOFC manufacturers and others were evaluated. Our activities, mainly on JIS standardization of power generation efficiency test methods, are also presented.

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We constructed a system for detecting preseismic changes in groundwater levels that uses a combination of long-term observation and analysis of groundwater, a poro-elastic theory, and the pre-slip model. This system is now in operation and is contributing to the national project for prediction of the Tokai earthquake. To apply this system to Tonankai and Nankai earthquakes, we constructed an integrated groundwater observation network in and around Shikoku and the Kii Peninsula (Japan). This network is now being used to observe and study groundwater and crustal deformation. Since 2002, we have also been carrying out international cooperative hydrological research for earthquake prediction in Taiwan to help minimize the damage caused by earthquakes in Southeast Asia. We underestimated the magnitude of the 2011 Tohoku earthquake, which was one of the factors that brought about the severe damage in and around the Tohoku area. Therefore, we should examine scientifically the reasons for underestimation, and advance earthquake prediction research.

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Concept, methodology, and dissemination of outcomes for accessible design research are described in this paper, using vision research as an example. Characteristics of accessible design whose standpoint is different from that of assistive technology are explained in terms of methods for problem solving, objects of design, and public usefulness, and the role of standardization is emphasized from the point of public usefulness. As an example, the process of vision research for estimating minimum legible font size for elderly people is described. To develop a general estimation method for minimum legible font size, we collected fundamental data on visual acuity which changes with age and visual distance. Then, we compiled data on legibility of letters used in actual Japanese, derived a general estimating equation of legible font size, and confirmed the practical utility of the method. We have developed this method as a domestic and international standard. In addition, we have also applied this method to international comparative testing and have confirmed the validity of the results of this research. Finally, the entire process has been clarified by separating it into two procedural cycles: one for basic research, and the other for application, and the concept of "Full Research" has been addressed in the process.

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Structural integrity can be examined using methods that evaluate response to vibration, such as hammering tests and ultrasonic inspections. Fiber optic sensors are expected to allow structural health monitoring in harsh environments where conventional electric sensors cannot be used. Recently, detection of vibration with a fiber Bragg grating (FBG) has been intensively investigated, because FBGs have many advantages such as multifunction abilities, multiplexing, and electromagnetic immunity. In using previously proposed systems incorporating FBGs, however, there was a technical difficulty in detecting ultrasound under varying temperatures and strain conditions. We developed a novel system that overcomes this technical barrier. Our system is also capable of detecting vibrations across a broad frequency band from several Hz to around 2 MHz. This paper presents how our compact and economical vibration-detection system with an FBG sensor was developed.

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