Laboratories – Electrical and Electronic Engineering

Information Science and Technology

Electrical and Electronic Engineering

Devices and Systems for Information

Electronic Devices

Kansei Nano-Biosensor Research Laboratory

Kansei Nano-Biosensor Research LaboratoryMembers : Prof. Kiyoshi Toko / Assoc.Prof. Takeshi Onodera / Assoc.Prof. Rui Yatabe

keywords : Taste sensor, Odor sensor, Electronic tongue, E-nose, Foods, Biomarker, Antigen-antibody interaction, Sensing, Taste map

Kansei Nano-Biosensor Research Laboratory developed Taste Sensor for the first time in the world. The Laboratory is headed by Professor Kiyoshi Toko, who is also in charge of Research and Development Center for Taste and Odor Sensing, and covers the following researches:

  • Hyper functionalization of taste sensor developed by bio and electronics unified science technologies.
  • Development and application of artificial olfactory system.
  • Development of biosensor which detects odorants such as explosives and fragrances with ultra-high sensitivity using antigen-antibody interaction.
  • Odor and gas sensing using inverse opal photonic crystals.
  • Development of biosensors targeting low-molecular weight substances in bodily fluids such as blood, urine, sweat, saliva, and plant.

Furthermore, the laboratory is doing research to expand the technologies to multilateral applications.

Integrated magnetic device laboratory

Integrated magnetic device laboratoryMembers : Assoc.Prof. Terumitsu Tanaka

Our laboratory focus on the study of novel magnetic phenomena and the development of magnetic devices forming three dimensional fine structures using nanometer sized microfabrication technologies. The numerical and experimental advanced researches are being implemented for realizing future ultra-high density recording devices such as hard disk drives and magnetic random access memories, and novel functional logic devices.

Plasma Engineering Laboratory

Plasma Engineering LaboratoryMembers : Prof. Masaharu Shiratani / Prof. Kazunori Koga / Asst.Prof. Kunihiro Kamataki / Asst.Prof. Takamasa Okumura

Plasma Engineering Laboratory (PEL) is nationally and internationally renowned for our research regarding plasma science. Principal research challenges in PEL are as follows:

  1. Development of high quality and high throughput processes by controlling reactions in plasma,
  2. Plasma synthesis of functional nanoblocks and their application,
  3. Elucidation of interaction between plasma and interface of materials,
  4. Establish of plasma agriculture.

Present research topics are as follows:

  • Development of novel solar cells,
  • Third generation solar cells using nanoparticles,
  • Deposition profile control in fine structure using anisotropic plasma chemical vapor deposition,
  • Nanoparticle composite films for ultra low-k film in ULSI,
  • Fabrication of nanosystems using plasmas,
  • Mechanism of dust particle formation and transport in fusion devices,
  • Plasma growth enhancement of plants.

Organic Electronic Device Laboratory

Organic Electronic Device LaboratoryMembers : Prof. Kenshi Hayashi / Asst.Prof. Fumihiro Sassa

keywords : Odor sensor, Odor imaging, Imaging device, Sensor robot, IoT, Digital olfaction, Molecular parameter analysis

We are researching and developing electronic devices based on organic materials. Chemical sensor devices such as odor sensor, imaging devices for chemical world, nano-scale organic electronic devices for high functional electronic systems are our research target. Information processing of sensor output, odor matching, and odor database are also our aims. Research on Materials, Devices, and Systems are our tasks.

Spintronic Device Laboratory

Spintronic Device LaboratoryMembers : Prof. Hiromi Yuasa / Asst.Prof. Yuichiro Kurokawa

keywords : Hard disk drive, MRAM, Data storage, Race track memory

Our purpose is to create new devices by utilizing Spintornics of the magnetic materials.
The Internet of things (IoT) society is ready to spread in the world, which connects not only electric information but also the things and people. Because the both quality and quantity for IoT electronic devices become required higher than ever before, the more innovative technologies are needed and studied in various science fields.
Spintronics of magnetic materials is one of candidates. In spintronics the spin plays an important role as well as electron. This is why Spintronics has the potential realizing the green devices without Joule energy loss.
Now is the favorite time to study Spintronics toward the future electronic devices in order to contribute the future society.

Nanoelectronics Laboratory

Nanoelectronics LaboratoryMembers : Assoc.Prof. Taizoh Sadoh

keywords : Advanced LSI, Novel functional device, Semiconductor hetero-structure, Crystal growth, Flexible electronics

Further improvement of performance of large-scale integrated circuits (LSIs) is essential to realize the next-generation of electronics. Improvement of LSI performance has been achieved by scaling the Si transistors in LSIs. However, this approach is facing the physical limit. Moreover, in the next generation of electronics, advanced LSIs should be merged with various human-machine interfaces on flexible sheets, and novel devices, such as flexible electronics, should be developed. For this purpose, employment of novel functional materials is essential.
In line with this, we are developing various growth techniques of novel functional materials, such as group-IV-based semiconductors, and investigating application to advanced devices.

Electronic Materials & Devices Laboratory

Electronic Materials & Devices LaboratoryMembers : Prof. Naho Itagaki / Assoc.Prof. Tamiko Oshima / Asst.Prof. Naoto Yamashita

keywords : sputtering, oxide semiconductor, zinc oxide, crystal growth, heteroepitaxy, inverse SK mode, In2O3:Sn, amorphous transparent conducting oxides

An exciton, which is an electrically neutral quasiparticle, is a bound state of an electron-hole pair attracted by the electrostatic Coulomb force. The most interesting feature of an exciton is that it can be generated by and converted back into a photon within a short time (<nsec). Thus, excitonic devices potentially bring great improvements to the speed of electronic–optical (E/O) conversion along with significant miniaturizations of E/O converters. The major challenges for excitonic devices are finite exciton binding energy (Eex) and finite exciton lifetime. The small exciton binding energy of typical excitonic materials, such as GaAs, limits the device operation temperature below 125K. While, the exciton lifetime in such materials is less than a nanosecond, allowing excitons to travel only a small distance before it recombines. In this laboratory, we have developed an excitonic device with a new semiconducting material, (ZnO)x(InN)1-x (abbreviated as ZION), which has large Eex as well as large piezoelectric constant. The large Eex potentially enables excitonic devices that are operational at room temperature. Another advantage is the long exciton lifetime, allowing excitons to travel long distance before it recombines. The aforementioned excellent properties of ZION films and its QWs open a new avenue for studies toward the practical use of excitonic devices.

Constructive Electronics Laboratory

Constructive Electronics LaboratoryMembers : Assoc.Prof. Takeaki Yajima

keywords : Semiconductor, Oxide thin film, Phase transition, Low-power circuits, Recurrent neural network

The 21st century is the age of information. However, as information technology accelerates, the hardware that supports it will consume infinite amount of power and communication bandwidth. A completely new hardware technology is required to create a sustainable society for the next 100 years. The operating principles of biological neural circuits are now attracting attention as a potential source of such technology. Their resilience and energy-saving properties, which have been refined through long evolution, are exactly what is required to build a sustainable society. In our laboratory, we are extracting useful technologies from neural circuits and applying them to the next generation of information processing hardware. We utilize highly versatile circuit technology and material technology to create a variety of functions.

Computer System Architecture Laboratory

Computer System Architecture LaboratoryMembers : Assoc.Prof. Satoshi Kawakami

keywords : Computer Architecture, Circuit design, Optical Computing, Superconducting Single Flux Quantum Computing, Machine Learning, Neuromorphic

Processors, the core of our information processing society, are reaching their limits in terms of high performance and low power consumption. On the other hand, advanced and complex applications such as big data and AI processing are exploding in popularity. In particular, we aim to realize dedicated computers for AI applications using innovative devices (optical/superconducting). We are also working on the invention of a "zero-energy" computer that overturns the conventional wisdom of computers. In collaboration with researchers from inside and outside the university, you will acquire cutting-edge knowledge across each technical layer (algorithm, architecture, circuit, and device), so those who are intersted in pioneering innovative computing are welcome to join.

Quantum Device Engineering Laboratory

Quantum Device Engineering LaboratoryMembers : Assoc.Prof. Haruki Kiyama

keywords : Semiconductor, Quantum Device, Nanotechnology, Quantum Computer, Spin, Quantum Information, Nanofabrication, Cryogenic Technology

In Quantum Device Engineering Laboratory, we study quantum transport phenomena in semiconductor quantum structures such as quantum dots. We fabricate nanometer-scale quantum devices using state-of-the-art technologies, and measure its transport properties at extremely low temperatures (typically below one Kelvin). Furthermore, single electron spins in quantum dots are promising candidates of qubits for quantum computers. We also study spin manipulation, spin readout and other fundamental technologies for large-scale integration of spin qubits.

Integrated Electronics

Radio-Frequency Integrated Circuits (RFIC) & Microwave Communication Device Laboratory

Radio-Frequency Integrated Circuits (RFIC) & Microwave Communication Device LaboratoryMembers : Prof. Haruichi Kanaya
Cooperating chair : Prof. Kuniaki Yoshitomi

keywords : IoT, Radio wireless communication, CMOS circuit, Antenna, Implant, Endoscope, Energy harvesting circuit, Power amplifier

In this laboratory, we are now focusing our researches on the following areas:

  1. High speed, high linearity and low noise system LSI components for wireless communications systems.
  2. Wideband RF front-end components for ultra-wideband (UWB) applications.
  3. Digital Radio or Digital RF Processor and its system components i.e. Digitally assisted RF/Analog circuits such as ADPLL (All-digital phase locked loop), DCO (digitally-controlled oscillators), sampling mixers, digital controlled PA and LNA etc. for Software defined radio or other reconfigurable applications.
  4. Electrically small antennas for narrow band and UWB applications.
  5. Interconnection and packaging technology of a chip to an antenna to reduce parasitic components.
  6. RF micro energy harvesting circuit for medical application

Optoelectronics integration system Laboratory

Optoelectronics integration system LaboratoryMembers : Prof. Kazutoshi Kato / asst.Prof. Yuya Mikami

keywords : Semiconductor laser, High-speed wireless transmission, High frequency, Optical communication, Optical fiber communication

One of the most important role of communication networks is to suport operation of internet. For this purpose, data of great volume is transmitted through communication networks. Data volume has increased explosively beyond comparison, from voice, picture, movie and high resolution motion pictures. Data volume will grow at an accelerated pace, and networks must process these data smoothly. For data processing in future networks, novel high speed devices with new function and low power consumption are required. Photo-electronic devices and photo-electronic integrated systems are powerful candidates for this purpose. In this system, electronics and photonics technologied are merged to fabricate novel devices utilizing each strength. Purpose of our laboratory is to create devices of new concept based on reserch on electronics and photonics technologies. It is our pleasure if our research plays important roll to solve the problems which human society faces.

Microdevice Laboratory

Microdevice LaboratoryMembers : Assoc.Prof. Ryo Takigawa

keywords : semiconductor, transistor, integrated circuit, three-dimensional integrated circuit, image sensor, terahertz, SiC, power device

The transistor possesses the function that controls the output current by the input voltage. This simple function has been producing tremendous impact on the human society. For example, there are billions of transistors in a computer to memorize and process information. Information communication is also realized by using the function of transistor. On the other hand, transistors enable us to sense physical information in the real space which we live. Thus transistors provide driving force to create infrastructure for human life in the era of Society 5.0 where cyber-physical space technology is designed for humanity.
The Microdevice Laboratory caries out research on semiconductor transistors. We are anxious to create new function with the transistor physics. We are also interested in processing technology to produce transistors. One of our research subject is to produce imaging devices which can extract information using invisible light or radio waves. The other research interest is to produce high efficiency power controlling devices which will contribute to sustainable growth of the society.

Laboratory of Applied Nano-photonic Information Engineering

Laboratory of Applied Nano-photonic Information EngineeringMembers : Prof. Naoya Tate

keywords : Nanophotonics, Optical computing, Optical security, Optical neural network, Laser, Quantum dot, Photon counting

In recent years, research related to optical computers has entered a new phase in collaboration with nanotechnology on the hardware aspect, and big data applications on the software aspect. Our laboratory team is progressing in innovative research on nano-optical information devices and systems to achieve advanced practical functionalities based on the utilization and application of nano-optical technology. Information application with new traits achieved using “light,” which has various physical quantities, such as intensity, wavelength, polarization, and phase, reflects the minute size, high speed, and energy efficiency that meets society’s needs. Furthermore, it serves as a new development for building a next-generation information society. Our main research themes are listed below, and the contents of specific experiments cover a wide range from proposals and demonstrations of the basic principles of optical devices and systems and their design, construction, and functional evaluation.
○Advanced nano-optical security systems for secure IoT devices
○Next-generation optical architecture for physical AI

Micro / Nano Laser Device Laboratory

Micro / Nano Laser Device LaboratoryMembers : Prof. Yuji Oki / Asst.Prof. Hiroaki Yoshioka

keywords : Optical waveguide, Optical microcavities, 3D printer, Ink-jet technology, Optical organic materials, Silicone Optical Technology (SoT), Dye lasers, Diode-pumped solid-state lasers, Excimer laser processing

In the micro / nano laser device group, we are conducting research on laser engineering and organic optoelectronics. At the center of the research is research and development of printable optical devices such as organic lasers using organic materials and organic / nanostructures, optical fiber sensors, solar cells, photodetectors, etc. In addition, we are also conducting research on semiconductor lasers, diode-pumped solid-state lasers, excimer laser processing, ultraviolet light organic material process, etc. We are also working on research on advanced measurement using these optical technologies.

High-Frequency Integrated Circuits and Systems Laboratory

High-Frequency Integrated Circuits and Systems Laboratory
Members : Prof. Ramesh Kumar Pokharel

keywords : CMOS technology, RFIC, High Frequency Integrated circuits, Analog circuits, 5G Wireless Communications, Battery-free systems, Wire-free power supply system

We are investigating the possibility of a paradigm shift from a battery-dependent to a battery-free/less dependent wireless and embedded sensor systems. The fundamental techniques include the development of the ultra-low power and low voltage analog/high frequency integrated circuits in CMOS technology on the one hand, and on the other hand, efforts are going to apply 5G carrier frequency to transfer not only the signal/data but also the power to realize a wire/battery-free and self-powered system to replace the conventional batteries in the future wireless and embedded sensor systems.

Devices and Systems for Energy

Measurement and Control Engineering

System Design Laboratory

System Design LaboratoryMembers : Prof. Taketoshi Kawabe / Prof. Junichi Murata / Asst.Prof. Ryohei Funaki / Asst.Prof. Tsuyoshi Yuno

System Design Laboratory mainly conducts two kinds of studies. One is the motion and vibration control of automobiles. For realizing the ecological and safe automotive control, we aim at developing (1) a driver assistance system that compensates the work of driving control systems or human drivers by using the information of vehicle and road conditions, and (2) a driving control system that can effectively exploit the work of driver assistance system. In particular, we address these issues on the basis of control engineering. Moreover, we aim at establishing the algebraic nonlinear-control theory and applying it to engine control.
The other addresses design and operation of large-scale complex systems. A typical example is the system covering from electrical power generation to its consumption, which is a large-scale system with many machines and devices and has high complexity resulting from involvement of various human decisions. Learning systems that support analysis and design of these systems are being developed, together with optimization techniques that make the systems and their operations best. As their applications, research is being done on electrical energy management systems. Moreover, we study optimization systems that find the most suitable thing such as a graphic art and a fashion design for a person, where suitability depends on the person-specific preference or sensibility.

Superconductivity Laboratory

超伝導研究室Members : Prof. Takanobu Kiss / Assoc.Prof. Kohei Higashikawa / Asst.Prof. Takumi Suzuki

keywords : Superconductivity, Critical current properties, Advanced measurement technology, Electrical and electronic materials, Power and energy applications, Advanced medical system

Our studies focus on understanding and resolving key performance issues of forefront superconducting materials and their power applications. We have been developing high performance superconducting materials which can carry high current more than 100 of times larger than that of conventional copper conductors with almost no dissipation. Perspectives of these studies are to lead breakthrough to such fields as power grid, alternative energy, transportation and advanced medical systems. We educate young researchers, graduate-, and under-graduate-students through the research projects in collaboration with national- and international counter parts.

Mathematical Systems Theory Laboratory

mathematical systems theory laboratoryMembers : Prof. Yoshio Ebihara

keywords : Dynamical systems, Control systems theory, Optimization theory, AI and machine learning

In this laboratory we conduct analysis and synthesis of dynamical systems using control systems theory and optimization theory. In particular, recently we focus on algorithms and neural networks used in AI and machine learning fields and try to establish their reliability and stability from rigorous mathematical point of view. We promote these studies in close collaboration with the members from LAAS-CNRS, Toulouse, France.

Applied Energy Engineering

Applied Electrostatics Laboratory

Applied ElectrostaticsMembers : Prof. Junya Suehiro / Assoc.Prof. Michihiko Nakano

keywords : Aligned nanocomposite, Bacteria detection, Carbon nanotube, CNT gas sensor, DEPIM, Dielectrophoresis, Dielectrophoretic impedance measurement, DNA detection

Despite the long history, electrostatics is still challenging and exciting research subjects. Thus far, applications of electrostatics have been found in various technologies including high voltage apparatus, ink jet printer, xerography, electrostatic precipitator, exhaust gas treatment and so on. Recently, electrokinetic phenomena such as electrophoresis and dielectrophoresis have found useful applications in biotechnology and nanotechnology. Besides benefits from the industrial applications, electrostatics still provides new insights about fundamental relationship between substance and electrical charges. In our lab, we are involved in research subjects based on applied electrostatics for the cross-disciplinary area such as bio and nanotechnology. Especially, we currently focus on electrokinetic manipulation of micro and nano-scaled materials and its application for fabrication of Bio-MEMS devices and chemical sensors. We are always looking for an opportunity to collaborate with outstanding researchers and ambitious young students, who want to share the same academic interests and passion for science.

Green Power Electronics Circuits Laboratory

Green Power Electronics Circuits LaboratoryMembers : Prof. Masahito Shoyama

keywords : Power Electronics, Switching Power Supply, Energy Saving, Renewable Energy, Sustainable Society, Environmental Problems, Current Mode DC-DC Converter, DC/DC Converter for Vehicle

In modern society, we got the convenient and advanced life from electric energy. And it will be expected that the demand of electric power increase more and more from now on. Therefore, the energy saving and the promotion of utilization of renewable energy are strongly required into our society from environmental problems, such as global warming and depletion of fossil fuel. Our laboratory is tackling about these subjects from the system and the circuit of switching power supplies. The switching power supply is the saved-energy type electric power converter which controls the flow of energy by switching the power semiconductor device with high frequency (- several MHz). Recently, the switching power supply is used for almost electric equipment. We study on the high-efficiency circuit and high-performance system of switching power supplies. And we contribute to realization the environmentally friendly society of the future by promoting energy-saving society.

Applied Superconductivity Laboratory

Applied SuperconductivityMembers : Prof. Masataka Iwakuma

keywords : Environment, Energy, State of the art, Coil, Electric magnet

The advantages of superconductivity are “zero electrical resistivity” and “high current density”. The critical temperature of high-temperature superconductors(HTS) exceeds liquid nitrogen temperature of -196℃. HTS should bring about electric machines and devices with light weight, compactness and high efficiency. We aim to apply the superconductor technology to a variety of industrial field.

  1. Development of superconducting electric power machines and devices: Superconducting transformers and cables with a current limiting function have been developed and demonstrated in a real power-grid scale. Superconducting rotating machines with compactness, light weight and high efficiency are developed for electric aircrafts and ships, and also industrial uses.
  2. Investigation of the electromagnetic properties of HTS wires and coils: Electromagnetic properties of HTS wires with anisotropy are quantitatively investigated by using a saddle-shaped pickup coil which were studied out in our laboratory. On the basis of observed properties, new configuration of wires and windings are proposed for AC loss reduction and current-capacity enhancement and the performance is demonstrated by making a small model.

Systems and Control Laboratory

Systems and Control Laboratory
Members : Assoc.Prof. Kaoru Yamamoto

A system is a group of interacting elements and the aim of “control” is to achieve the desired system behaviour. From physical systems such as robots, drones and vehicles to signal processing such as musical signals and images, anything that has dynamics can be a candidate for the systems to be controlled. Our laboratory studies Systems and Control theory and various applications in this area. In particular, we work on networked systems and multi-agent systems such as vehicle platooning and cooperative drones. Each agent in such a system can only collect some partial information in the network such as the position and/or speed of the neighbouring agents, and our task is to control the behaviour of the whole network under such constraints. We also work on vibration control such as vibration suppression for multi-storey building subjected to an earthquake, and digital signal processing.

Inorganic Functional Materials Laboratory

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keywords : Inorganic semiconductor, ferroelectric material, functional oxide material, laser-doping, laser-annealing

The electronic devices that you hold in your hands today use not only traditional materials (e.g., silicon for semiconductors), but also many newly discovered materials and materials that exhibit functions previously unknown to you. Oxide materials like glass are used in smartphones and tablet PCs as semiconductors for transistors instead of silicon. Our research is aimed at finding new inorganic materials or adding new functions and properties to already known inorganic materials. As a tool for this research, we use excimer lasers, which generate powerful ultraviolet beams, to synthesize new materials and process them to produce new functions. We are working daily to ensure that these new materials and functions will be applied to the next generation devices.

Superconductive Systems Engineering

Laboratory of Advanced Magnetic Sensing System

Laboratory of Advanced Magnetic Sensing SystemMembers : Prof. Keiji Enpuku / Assoc.Prof. Teruyoshi Sasayama

We can obtain information inside samples in non-contact and non-destructive manners by using magnetic fields. Utilizing this property, we can develop advanced magnetic sensing systems in various fields, such as medical, bio, material, and environment. In our laboratory, we are developing ultrasensitive magnetic sensors and systems for biosensing and non-destructive testing. Specifically, we are developing biosensing systems utilizing magnetic markers, such as magnetic immunoassay to detect biological materials and magnetic particle imaging for in-vivo diagnosis. We are also developing low frequency eddy current testing to evaluate iron materials which are used in many infrastructures.