MEMBERS

We promote research and development on method of development, design, and maintenance of floating offshore wind power systems, coupled analysis of wind turbines, floating structures, mooring systems, and foundations, resistance design for wind, wave, and seismic, prediction of hydrodynamic forces and floating structure motion using computational fluid dynamics, load reduction for wind turbines and floating structures using various control methods, numerical prediction of meteorological and oceanographic conditions, wind resource assessment, wind power generation forecasting and so on.

We specialize in multiscale, multiphysics analysis of cementitious materials and concrete structures. We are interested in evaluating the long-term performance of concrete floating structures subjected to both mechanical stresses (fatigue) and environmental factors (salt damage) simultaneously.

We investigate the applicability of reinforced concrete structures to floating offshore wind turbines. Using nonlinear finite element analysis for concrete structural behavior and material behavior, we conduct evaluations of long-term material durability, such as prediction of stability and fatigue damage progression of reinforced concrete and prestressed concrete structures used in floating structures and the corrosion resistance of reinforcing bars.

We specialize in fluid mechanics. In particular, we have made significant contributions in the field of dispersed multiphase flows, including bubbly flows and flows containing red blood cells and conducted extensive research on how molecular-level processes significantly influence macroscopic flow structures, focusing on the multiscale nature of these phenomena. We have also made contributions in the field of computational science. In 2011, developing various new computational methods, we successfully performed the world’s fastest fluid-structure interaction simulation using the “K” supercomputer.

The structural components of the towers of offshore wind turbines are primarily steel structures. While these major components account for a significant portion of the total cost and have a major impact on final CAPEX, the establishment of performance requirements suited to actual operating conditions and the optimal material design to achieve them have not yet been fully refined. Furthermore, the latest fracture behavior control techniques have not been incorporated. By integrating these methods with the technical expertise of domestic materials manufacturers and construction companies, we propose timely cost-reduction measures.

We conduct joint research and development on optimal lightweight design using carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) for floating vertical-axis offshore wind turbines, the feasibility of using recycled CFRP while considering life cycle assessment (LCA) and life cycle cost (LCC), etc. with Albatross Technology Inc. and others.

Development of a digital twin for offshore wind power generation systems

Research on energy transmission systems, methods for evaluating project feasibility, and impact assessment on power grids, etc.

To perform precise stress and fatigue analyses on full-scale wind turbine blades using conventional simulation techniques, it takes enormous computational resources and significant processing time. Furthermore, because the design process requires exploring a high-dimensional parameter space, the constraints on computational resources and computation time become even more severe. Therefore, we aim to accelerate and streamline the process by partially replacing large-scale simulations with artificial intelligence technologies, such as neural networks, and support the design of wind turbines.

We develop mathematical models and numerical analysis techniques to reproduce and predict failure and damage phenomena in various structures and materials. In particular, we focus on multiscale modeling, which links microstructures and elementary processes at the nano- to microscale with mechanical responses at the macroscale, and work to develop methods that effectively utilize and integrate the finite element method and its extensions, molecular dynamics simulations, and data-driven modeling. Furthermore, we place a strong emphasis on validating the validity of our models through comparison with experimental observations. And, we aim to advance the reliability assessment and safety design of industrial equipment and infrastructure structures by developing models that accurately reflect real-world phenomena.

As research on ocean engineering, which includes studies of waves (particularly giant waves and nonlinear waves) and the response of ship hulls and floating structures within them (motion, loading, and elastic behavior), we conduct research using approaches that incorporate theoretical analysis, numerical simulations, and model experiments in large-scale tank facilities. In addition, we are also responsible for the maintenance and management of a ship model test tank at the faculty of engineering, the University of Tokyo. At this facility, we conduct wave-generation experiments for nonlinear waves and response experiments using scaled models of ships and floating structures in wave conditions. Furthermore, we are working on the automation of experiments and measurements at the ship model test tank.

About complex mechanical behavior of carbon fiber-reinforced plastics resulting from fiber discontinuity and high-speed molding, we conduct comprehensive and holistic research on molding processes, internal structures, and mechanical properties by integrating cutting-edge technologies such as knowledge of materials mechanics and multiscale structural analysis, statistical modeling analysis and machine learning modeling analysis, and so on. We contribute to solving environmental, energy, and resource issues, and furthermore, to achieve the Green Transformation (GX) and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), we develop methods for evaluating and controlling the properties of advanced composite materials, which can contribute to the lightweighting and mass production of wind turbines, and rapidly implement these solutions in society.

We conduct research on the development of highly reliable insulation and switching technologies for next-generation power systems. To establish design and evaluation methods for highly reliable insulation materials under DC and composite voltage conditions for HVDC (High Voltage DC) and AC/DC conversion equipment designed to support the widespread adoption of renewable energy, we aim to elucidate the correlation between structure and properties using AI-assisted analysis. In addition, for applications in power equipment, we develop also related technologies such as electric field measurement and arc diagnosis. Specifically, we are independently developing non-invasive electric field measurement technology using the DC-SHG (field induced second harmonic generation) method, high-spatial-resolution diagnosis using EO (electro-optic) probes, and electron density measurement base on the Schack-Hartmann method.

In the materials industry, we develop life cycle assessment methodologies that take into account carbon neutrality strategies and material recycle and, for metal smelting, we conduct research on methods for utilizing renewable energy in carbon neutrality strategies.

We focus on the development of original robots with the aim of contributing to society by integrating knowledge across mechanical engineering, electrical and electronic engineering, control engineering and information engineering. In particular, to achieve diversity in robot form and behavior, we focus on realizing the new concept of multi-link flying robots and address comprehensively challenges at every level, from hardware infrastructure to the creation of intelligent behaviors. At UT-FloWIND, we aim to automate aerial inspections and repairs of offshore wind turbines by leveraging our experience in industrial digital transformation (DX) using flying robots.

We conduct large-scale numerical simulations of flow and associated transport phenomena and develop tools for optimization in thermal-fluid engineering using optimization mathematics and machine learning.

As one approach to enabling fishing and aquaculture operations in the vicinity of floating offshore wind turbines, we conduct research on a system that incorporates feeding devices onto the turbines and uses them to support aquaculture in nearby fish cages. In particular, we analyze the interactions between the floating offshore wind turbines and the aquaculture pens and assess the safety of both systems. Additionally, to study the ecosystem, including organisms attached to the turbines and fish congregating in the surrounding area, we research and develop autonomous surface vehicle capable of carrying underwater cameras. We explore also numerical simulations to evaluate the impact on the ecosystem.

We conduct research on technologies for the simple and convenient diagnosis of the structural integrity of various mechanical structures using CFRP (Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastics), which is widely used in wind turbine blades, and composite materials. Specifically, we develop structural health monitoring technology using optical fiber sensors capable of receiving ultrasonic waves, non-destructive testing technology based on the visualization of ultrasonic guided waves using laser ultrasonics, and multifunctional sensors utilizing carbon nanotubes. Furthermore, we develop efficient non-destructive testing methods for underwater structures, which leverage the characteristics of optical fiber sensors and laser ultrasonics.

We conduct research and development on a new underwater seabed exploration system by leveraging cutting-edge robotics and information processing technologies. In particular, by coordinating multiple autonomous platforms including AUVs (Autonomous Underwater Vehicles), we aim to develop systems that facilitate environmental monitoring around floating structures and inspections of the underwater sections of these structures, mooring lines, and subsea cables.

We conduct research on underwater and seafloor information systems and develop observation and data systems. For example, we work on precise sub-surface positioning by acoustic and other methods, the development of technologies for communication, equipment management, and observation of the sea surface using USV (Unmanned Surface Vehicle) and UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle). In particular, monitoring the marine environment from the sea using USV/UAV and other technologies offers potential applications in the management of offshore wind power facilities, the assessment of the surrounding environment, the efficient assurance of safety, and surveillance. Acoustic positioning technology can be applied to the development of methods for monitoring and managing the underwater environment, including the use of USV/UAV and AUV (Autonomous Underwater Vehicle).

Energy system evaluation

The emergence of global environmental issues necessitates the establishment of new values and boundary conditions within human socioeconomic activities. With the goal of achieving sustainability, including the stable supply of resources and energy and long-term responses to global environmental issues, we conduct research on strategies for energy supply and demand in Japan and globally and specific transitions from the present to the future, through technological innovation and reforms of social infrastructure and institution, as part of energy integration.

To achieve sustainable ocean use, collaboration between scientific community and stakeholders in real society is essential. We conduct transdisciplinary research that transcends the boundaries between science and society, based on collaboration with stakeholders (including international organizations, governments, research funding agencies, international cooperation and development aid agencies, industry, civil society, and the media), and promote the co-creation of knowledge.

I specialize in biologging techniques, which involve attaching small recording devices to large marine animals such as seabirds and turtles to collect data on behavior, physiology, and environment in their natural habitats. Furthermore, I work currently to expand the Biologging intelligent Platform (https://www.bip-earth.com/ja) as a database that enables the storage, publication, and secondary use of biologging data.

I conduct research aimed at developing mitigation and adaptation strategies by assessing the current and projecting future impacts of global warming, ocean acidification, and ocean deoxygenation, phenomena considered to be caused by excessive anthropogenic CO2 emissions, on marine ecosystems and society. As part of efforts to support both mitigation and regional adaptation, I am also engaged in initiatives to promote the appropriate promotion of renewable energy, including offshore wind power.

We conduct research on the early life history and interspecific relationships of marine benthic organisms in coastal areas in order to contribute to the sustainable use of marine biological resources and to clarify the impacts of climate change on coastal ecosystems.　We have continued long-term monitoring coastal ecosystems, including important habitats for marine organisms, such as macroalgal beds and coral reefs. Based on these surveys, we can detect changes in the distribution of organisms, interspecific relationships and ecosystem structure.

We specialize in public administration and conduct research on policy of science, technology and public, the policy process theory, and international administration. In UT-FloWIND, we conduct research on the characteristics of renewable energy policies in Japan, consensus-building regarding offshore wind power, international energy governance, and marine policy.

We specialize in international law and environmental law and our primary research interests include legal issues related to international environmental treaties and legal and policy issues concerning climate change and energy. In addition to environmental policy, for over a decade, I have been involved in deliberations on energy policy and, particularly, renewable energy policy and I have served as a member of Basic policy subcommittee, Energy efficiency and renewable energy subcommittee, and as a fellow of Organization for cross-regional coordination of transmission operators, Japan (OCCTO). I also served as a member of Procurement price calculation committee of Feed-in tariff system for renewable energy (March 2015–February 2024; serving as chair from March 2021).