A proposal by Keio University and others has been selected for the FY2024 Aerospace Science and Technology Promotion Fund publicly solicited by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT).
A team led by Professor Seiko Shirasaka of the Graduate School of System Design and Management at Keio University (Keio SDM), serving as the principal implementing institution, along with Professor Hiroaki Akiyama of Wakayama University's Institute of Innovation Initiatives, Professor Nozomu Ogiso of the Graduate School of Engineering at Osaka Metropolitan University, and Specially Appointed Associate Professor Yoshihide Aoyanagi of the University of Fukui's Headquarters for Innovative Society-Academia, has had their proposal, "Space Architect Training Program Utilizing MBSE," selected for the Aerospace Architect Training Program under the FY2024 Aerospace Science and Technology Promotion Fund publicly solicited by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT). Through this proposal, we will develop human resources for space architects who utilize Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE).
◼︎ Background and Objectives of the Proposal
In recent years, the space sector has made rapid advances, and the development of large-scale, complex systems--such as constellations of communication and observation satellites and reusable rockets--has become increasingly active. To ensure the successful development of these large-scale complex systems, digital engineering methodologies are being introduced into system development, and the application of the latest development methodologies like MBSE is progressing worldwide. Additionally, the importance of system technologies utilizing MBSE has been highlighted in the "Space Technology Strategy" formulated by the Japanese government in March 2024. Therefore, in this proposal, by integrating the "educational program for architect human resource development" conducted by Keio SDM with the "practical knowledge and opportunities" in the field of aerospace engineering provided by the co-participating institutions, we aim to develop space architect human resources who utilize MBSE.
■ Keio University Graduate School of System Design and Management
Keio SDM focuses on fostering human resources who are capable of viewing the world as a system, enabling the creation of new value to tackle complex and diverse social challenges. In this program, we will promote the development of training and evaluation methods for space architect personnel, based on Systems Engineering/MBSE--the foundational education of Keio SDM--and in collaboration with co-participating institutions.
◼︎ About the Institute of Innovation Initiatives, Collaborative Education and Research Office, Wakayama University
Established in 2010, the Institute of Space Education has been leading space education in Japan for many years as the Space Education Research Project, even after organizational changes. Practical educational programs using hybrid rockets, model rockets, CanSats, BalloonSats, etc., have been conducted with the participation of many university and high school students in Japan. By applying the MBSE teaching materials promoted by Keio University, we aim to develop a more quantified method of training and evaluating space architects.
◼︎ About the Research Centre for Small Spacecraft Systems, Osaka Metropolitan University
At the Research Centre for Small Spacecraft Systems (https://www.omu.ac.jp/eng/sssrc/), Osaka Metropolitan University, research and development of CubeSats and hybrid rockets are carried out in cooperation with students from first-year undergraduates to graduate students, beyond the boundaries of faculties and departments. First-year undergraduate students conduct CanSat research and development as introductory education. Through the MBSE architect personnel, we aim to nurture human resources who can systematically practice everything from the construction of design goals and design requirements to development and operation.
◼︎ About the University of Fukui's Headquarters for Innovative Society-Academia
The University of Fukui is promoting the research and development of a number of CubeSats in cooperation with local companies. Aiming for further activation of the space industry, the university also focuses on space industry human resource development and provides practical education using CubeSat educational materials to companies and students. By utilizing MBSE, we aim to develop an educational method to improve the technical capability of the entire satellite system.
For more information about the project,
Please visit the website of the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology.
https://www.mext.go.jp/a_menu/kaihatu/space/jigyou/detail/1347482.htm#r06