Structure Technology

The Structures and Mechanisms Group conducts research into spacecraft and aircraft structures that are able to operate in harsh environments, "safety assurance" being the primary goal. In order to realize stronger, lighter, and higher performance structures, the center is researching:

1. Applications of new materials
2. Development of technology for detection, analysis, and control of structural vibration
3. Thermal protection structures that are heat-resistant from sources like friction and combustion
4. The influence that complex aerodynamic forces, such as transonic effect, have on structures
5. Structural soundness and the technology to evaluate damage tolerance

Advanced Composite Technology

The Advanced composite materials are light and strong materials, such as carbon fiber, reinforced with plastic or ceramic. The Advanced Composite Technology Center (ACE TeC) has been building a database of composite materials since 2001 so as to provide aerospace engineers and researchers with data about composite materials with vastly different properties from metal. ACE TeC also plays a leading role in establishing composite material testing standards in ISO and JIS. This activity is important because the reliability of many strength tests of the composite materials is guaranteed through these standards. Moreover, innovative research such as on the improvement of reliability of space components with composite materials and on composite material for the application of carbon nano tubes, which are presently attracting high attention, are being pursued. With these activities, the ACE TeC is evaluated as a core research center of advanced composite materials.