Lab members
Overview of laboratory
The Architecting Lab is a cross-disciplinary laboratory that investigates "architecting" as a methodology for creating system structures. The methodology of architecting is used in both technology systems and social systems. By developing a theory out of the common ideas of architecting, we have a tool that can be used for the architecting of a wide range of systems. We investigate these systems in our Saturday seminars. At the laboratory, most students are doctoral candidates, but we also have new graduates and outside researchers who bring their own themes to the vigorous discussions.
Main research activities in AY2010
Annual theme "System Architecting of the Art"
The theme for AY2010 is "System Architecting of the Art," and we analyze the system of "art" that moves human hearts and minds from the perspective of architecture. Members use this perspective to analyze art that interests them and report on their findings. Presentations to date have included the architecture of film, the architecture of drama, the architecture of musical compositions, the architecture of haiku and the architecture of color. All have been extremely interesting analyses. While the range of topics is broad, we have been able to bring new perspectives to some of the architectural features of art such as the "relationship between tension and resolution" and "the architecture of change over time."
Individual research themes
In addition to the annual theme, lab members also report on architectural perspectives of their own research projects, which gives them an opportunity to actively seek out the opinions of other participants. This year, topics included the methodology for developing ultra-miniature satellites, museums, the social system and institutional design, the design of business models that utilize user requirements, and legal compliance. These discussions are fed back into individual projects and provide new impetus for further development of the topic.
Others
In addition, participants also gather on their own to discuss scholarly papers that interest them and architectural perspectives on social phenomena and other systems. Rather than being taught by professors, participants learn from each other through their discussions and self-driven discoveries; this cycle is what drives our seminars.
Associate Professor Seiko Shirasaka
Worked on space development for Mitsubishi Electric Corp. Participated in the development of the ETS-VII (engineering test satellite) and HTV (H-II transfer vehicle). In particular, was involved with the HTV project from the initial designs until the completion of the first mission. Joined Keio University in systems engineering in AY2004. Appointed to current post in AY2010.
Areas of expertise: Aerospace engineering, systems engineering, computer safety
Professor Takashi Maeno
Worked as a researcher at Canon, Inc. and became a visiting industrial fellow at the University of California, Berkeley, a visiting professor at Harvard University, and a professor at the Faculty of Science and Technology at Keio University. He has been a professor of the Graduate School of System Design and Management since 2008. Areas of expertise: System design and management methodology, robotics, and science and technology studies
