To broaden international horizons and strengthen international cooperation and exchanges, from March 4th to 8th, seven doctoral students from the Department of Engineering Mechanics participated in a five-day academic exchange in Tokyo, sponsored by the "Japan-Asia Youth Science and Technology Exchange Program (Sakura Science Plan)" . The team was led by Wang Benlong, the Deputy Dean of the School and Head of the Department of Engineering Mechanics, accompanied by Deputy Heads Gong Xiaobo and Yan Zhimiao.

Visits and Exchanges at the University of Tokyo Laboratories

The delegation was warmly welcomed by Professor Takagi  Shu from the Department of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Tokyo, who provided a comprehensive introduction to his team’s cutting-edge research in fluid mechanics, with a particular focus on advancements in microbubble dynamics. The discussions were extended to the critical applications of bubble dynamics in industrial fields such as marine engineering and energy development. Following the presentation, the team engaged in academic exchanges with graduate students from the University of Tokyo’s Fluid Mechanics Laboratory, fostering mutual interest and insightful discussions. Additionally, the team visited both the Fluid Mechanics Laboratory and the Bio-Robotics Laboratory at the University of Tokyo, gaining valuable insights into their research facilities and ongoing projects.

Professor Timothée Mouterde introduced his research on solid-liquid interfaces, highlighting how microstructures affect droplet behavior. He demonstrated that droplets coated with special materials maintain a spherical shape and roll freely due to their hydrophobic properties. Professor Min Hyeok Lee presented his work on combustion phenomena, carbon-neutral technologies, and thermoelectric systems. Professor Yaerim Lee discussed the work in nanotechnology, thermal reflective films, and droplet behavior during phase transitions. Professor Venture Gentiane and his team showcased their advancements in robotics, including robot controller development,facial tracking, and obstacle avoidance with live demonstrations. Professor Arai provided an overview of the automated production line in the biological laboratory, emphasizing its role in enhancing experimental efficiency and minimizing human errors. These interactions fostered lively discussions and mutual learning.

Visits and Exchanges at the RIKEN Institute

The team visited the exhibition hall, the Advanced Optical Center Image Processing Laboratory, and the Neutron Technology Laboratory at the RIKEN Institute in Tokyo. RIKEN leaders introduced the institute’s groundbreaking research, including the discovery of new elements and the contributions of Nobel Prize laureates Hideki Yukawa and Sin-itiro Tomonaga . Researchers from the Advanced Optical Center demonstrated cutting-edge advancements in biological tissue detection, utilizing image processing algorithms to generate 3D models from biological or organ section images. At the Neutron Technology Laboratory, the team learned about applications of the small accelerator neutron source RANS in visualizing coating technologies and detecting internal corrosion water movement in steel materials.

The team also participated in discussions with Japanese alumni, during which Prof. Wang Benlong briefed them on the latest developments at the School of Ocean and Civil Engineering and extended an invitation to visit their alma mater.

Background of the Sakura Science Plan

The "Sakura Science Plan" was initiated by 11 Japanese Nobel Prize laureates in 2014 to promote China-Japan science and technology exchanges. The program is jointly supported by the International Cooperation Department of the Chinese Ministry of Science and Technology and the Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST). It facilitates the exchange opportunities by allowing Chinese and Japanese teams to apply through their respective national agencies.

During this exchange, the visiting team gained a profound understanding of Japanese advancements in technology, culture, and daily life, significantly broadening their academic and research perspectives. This experience provided valuable motivation for exploring innovative ideas and technologies, furthering their commitment to scientific development.

Sources: Department of Engineering Mechanics, Internationalization Working Group of OCE