Traces of paleoearthquakes have been found at many archeological sites in Japan. However, most of them have been neglected to date and not considered to be a subject relevant to archeological research. The author has studied these traces since 1988, naming this new study field "Earthquake Archaeology". The field has become popular both in archeology and paleoseismology and many important and useful results have been gradually obtained. These developments will lead to a deeper understanding of the natural and cultural history of the earthquake-prone country, Japan. Most paleoearthquake phenomena present at archeological sites manifest as liquefaction, lateral spreading and landslides. Detailed geological observations may also contribute to a reduction in damage caused by big earthquakes.

View full abstract

Digital engineering technique has widely been used for speedy and effective manufacturing of industrial products. Coordinate measuring machines (CMM) are being used for measuring three-dimensional shapes of products and taking an important role to keep the quality of the products high. National Metrology Institute of Japan (NMIJ/AIST) has established the traceability system of CMM, that is, measurement results by CMM are traceable to the national standards of length. To achieve this objective, not only calibration techniques have been developed, but industrial standards (ISO and JIS) and guidelines to which accredited laboratories should conform were documented. In addition, to raise the calibration capabilities of prefectural laboratories and to contribute to the local industries, technical supports have been provided by NMIJ.

View full abstract

We propose a secure and reliable next generation smart electric wheelchair system that is equipped with a novel 3D stereo vision system referred to here as a 'stereo omni-directional camera'. The novel vision system is not only intended for use with a new genearation of electric wheelchairs for conventional wheelchair users, but also for use in future advanced personal mobility devices for everyone.

View full abstract

Technological innovation bringing direct energy savings and reductions in carbon-dioxide emissions has been cited as an urgent issue in the field of transportation machinery. To cope with this issue, demand has been growing for structural materials that are lightweight yet offer high functionality because weight reduction of machinery can be immediately beneficial. A new non-combustible magnesium alloy with drastically improved areas of application is sought in which flammability is suppressed ——the worst weakness of magnesium alloys. Developing this new alloy as a basic component for reducing environmental load will contribute greatly to technological innovation for weight reduction in transportation machinery. This paper examines one methodology for industrialization of a new material through the resolution of the various technical issues related to practical application of non-combustible magnesium alloys.

View full abstract

Because of serious global environmental problems, the ceramic industry has been concentrating on the reduction of energy usage during manufacturing. In this project, we have investigated low-energy processing techniques for ceramic components. Our research and development approach was carried out with the goal of realizing new ceramics that can be manufactured using conventional manufacturing processes and equipment at low-cost without significant degradation in material properties. After a careful investigation of possible technologies, we concluded that a decrease in the amount of organic binder is the most effective technique to promote low-energy processing, and have successfully developed a novel binder technology. Our technology and knowledge have contributed to greatly reduce the amount of energy required for ceramic fabrication through a collaborative research project with a private company.

View full abstract

High sensitivity sensors for detection of molecules are aspired in various fields of application, particularly in medical technology, pharmacy and environmental sciences. In the present research, we have developed a high-performance molecular detection sensor for diagnosis, medication, and medical treatments that utilizes waveguide modes as basic technology. We successfully obtained sensors with high sensitivity and stability by applying nano-perforation technology, optical simulation and experiments, and an originally developed sensing-plate fabrication process. In this report, the scenario of the present research, elemental technologies and their synthesis for achieving the scenario and the properties of the realized sensors are described. In addition, a rapid progress in sensing performance obtained by a breakthrough is reported.

View full abstract

We have investigated the processes of invention of PAN (Polyacrylonitrile) carbon fiber and its technology transfer to private companies. From this investigation and analysis, we have found a new R&D management model, named "excited-oscillation model". This model suggests that both the top-down management and the personal motivation should be in phase and synergetic with each other. In this paper, the results and concept of the above model are described in detail.

View full abstract

When Dr. Yoshi Ohno, who engages in the research of photometry standards at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) of the United States, visited AIST in December, 2008, Ono and Tanaka, editors of the Synthesiology Editorial Board, took this opportunity to interview him. We were able to hear the ambitious plans of the United States Government to execute its energy-saving policy in the field of illumination, as well as the great enthusiasm among the standards researchers in meeting the requirements. It was also interesting to see several common points between Dr. Ohno's research at NIST and the Full Research conducted at AIST.

View full abstract