The Structural Systems Laboratory (Ishikawa Lab) conducts research on cutting‑edge structural systems that form the foundation
of architecture, cities, and the environment. In earthquake‑prone Japan, the laboratory focuses on developing next‑generation
resilient reinforced concrete (RC) systems, including high‑strength steel fiber reinforced concrete (SFRC) structures, high‑strength
concrete‑filled steel tube (CFT) structures, and timber–RC hybrid structural systems (patent application filed in 2023) to
enable the realization of super high‑rise buildings. In addition, the laboratory is advancing the research and development
of timber–RC hybrid structural systems that contribute to a resource‑circulating society. Through engagement in these leading‑edge
research activities, the laboratory aims to cultivate the next generation of professionals who will shape the future of the
field.
- Students will be able to identify the structural engineering challenges that Japan and the rest of the world must address today, understand their current conditions, and propose new research topics based on this understanding.
- Students will be able to understand the properties of advanced structural materials—such as steel fibers developed in Belgium and LVL/CLT products widely used in New Zealand—and propose appropriate methods for their application in architectural and structural engineering.
- Students will be able to formulate research plans and carry out both experimental and analytical studies on advanced research topics in structural engineering.
- Students will be able to submit research papers to academic conferences in Japan and abroad and present their work effectively.
- Students will enhance their fundamental professional competencies by taking responsibility for portions of multiple collaborative research projects conducted in partnership with industry, including companies such as Bekaert (Belgium), Haseko Corporation, Shimizu Corporation, Sato Kogyo, Nihon Sekkei, and Mori Building.
1. Research on the Practical Application of High‑Strength SFRC Structures
a) Clarify the structural performance of high‑strength SFRC columns and propose design equations that contribute to their practical implementation.
b) Clarify the structural performance of timber–high‑strength SFRC composite columns and develop design equations that support their practical use.
c) Conduct analytical studies using FEM to investigate and clarify the behavior of high‑strength SFRC columns.
2. Investigation of the Structural Performance of RC Beam–Column Joints
a) Clarify the yielding and failure mechanisms of cruciform and T‑shaped beam–column joints through experimental studies.
b) Clarify the structural characteristics of precast beam–column joints.
3. Research on Timber Vibration‑Control Structures and Next‑Generation Timber–RC Hybrid Structures
Clarify the structural characteristics of timber vibration‑control systems and next‑generation timber–RC hybrid structures, and contribute to their practical application.
4. Research on the Practical Implementation of Non‑Contact Measurement Systems Using Digital Image Correlation (DIC)
Advance research aimed at implementing non‑contact structural measurement systems based on Digital Image Correlation.
5. Analysis of Super High‑Rise RC and CFT Buildings
Explore technological trends and develop future projections through data analysis of super high‑rise RC and CFT buildings.
a) Clarify the structural performance of high‑strength SFRC columns and propose design equations that contribute to their practical implementation.
b) Clarify the structural performance of timber–high‑strength SFRC composite columns and develop design equations that support their practical use.
c) Conduct analytical studies using FEM to investigate and clarify the behavior of high‑strength SFRC columns.
2. Investigation of the Structural Performance of RC Beam–Column Joints
a) Clarify the yielding and failure mechanisms of cruciform and T‑shaped beam–column joints through experimental studies.
b) Clarify the structural characteristics of precast beam–column joints.
3. Research on Timber Vibration‑Control Structures and Next‑Generation Timber–RC Hybrid Structures
Clarify the structural characteristics of timber vibration‑control systems and next‑generation timber–RC hybrid structures, and contribute to their practical application.
4. Research on the Practical Implementation of Non‑Contact Measurement Systems Using Digital Image Correlation (DIC)
Advance research aimed at implementing non‑contact structural measurement systems based on Digital Image Correlation.
5. Analysis of Super High‑Rise RC and CFT Buildings
Explore technological trends and develop future projections through data analysis of super high‑rise RC and CFT buildings.
Assessment Criteria
1. Research performance based on reports and outputs from various research activities and seminars — 50%
2. Active participation in research activities and seminars — 30%
3. Communication skills and presentation ability related to research outcomes — 20%
1. Research performance based on reports and outputs from various research activities and seminars — 50%
2. Active participation in research activities and seminars — 30%
3. Communication skills and presentation ability related to research outcomes — 20%
| ways of feedback | specific contents about "Other" |
|---|---|
| Feedback in the class |
1. Research papers and materials related to each research topic
2. N. J. N. Priestley: Seismic Design of Reinforced Concrete and Masonry Buildings
3. Jack Moehle: Seismic Design of Reinforced Concrete Buildings
4. Hiroyuki Aoyama: Ultimate Strength Seismic Design Method for Reinforced Concrete Buildings
(Original title: Aoyama Hiroyuki, “Tekkotsu Konkurīto Kenchiku no Shūkyoku Kyōdo-gata Taishin Sekkei-hō”)
5. Architectural Institute of Japan (AIJ): Design Guidelines for the Lateral Load-Carrying Capacity of Reinforced Concrete Buildings (with Commentary)
2. N. J. N. Priestley: Seismic Design of Reinforced Concrete and Masonry Buildings
3. Jack Moehle: Seismic Design of Reinforced Concrete Buildings
4. Hiroyuki Aoyama: Ultimate Strength Seismic Design Method for Reinforced Concrete Buildings
(Original title: Aoyama Hiroyuki, “Tekkotsu Konkurīto Kenchiku no Shūkyoku Kyōdo-gata Taishin Sekkei-hō”)
5. Architectural Institute of Japan (AIJ): Design Guidelines for the Lateral Load-Carrying Capacity of Reinforced Concrete Buildings (with Commentary)
Completion of coursework related to structural engineering and structural materials
Literature review and investigation of reference materials relevant to the research topics
Literature review and investigation of reference materials relevant to the research topics
- When in the laboratory, otherwise it is possible on line tools.
- Course that cultivates an ability for utilizing knowledge
- Course that cultivates a basic interpersonal skills
- Course that cultivates a basic self-management skills
- Course that cultivates a basic problem-solving skills
| Work experience | Work experience and relevance to the course content if applicable |
|---|---|
| Applicable | The course is taught by a faculty member with 20 years of experience as a researcher at a major general contractor’s technical
research institute, 2 years as a structural designer in the design department, and 1 year in construction‑related site operations.
The instructor has been involved in the full spectrum of architectural practice, from urban redevelopment planning to design
and construction. Drawing on this extensive professional background, the instructor provides lectures on the fundamentals
of structural mechanics. In addition, the instructor is a licensed First‑Class Architect and has substantial experience as a developer of advanced structural technologies. This enables the instructor to deliver lectures grounded in real‑world practice and closely connected to the needs of the construction industry. |
- 9.INDUSTRY, INNOVATION AND INFRASTRUCTURE
- 11.SUSTAINABLE CITIES AND COMMUNITIES
- 12.RESPONSIBLE CONSUMPTION & PRODUCTION
- 13.CLIMATE ACTION
- 15.LIFE ON LAND
- 17.PARTNERSHIPS FOR THE GOALS
Last modified : Sat Mar 14 14:40:34 JST 2026