Research

Observation of lightning attachment processes of natural and rocket-triggered lightning in Florida

Using a super high speed optical imaging system, we capture images of natural and rocket-triggered lightning in Florida. By analyzing the captured data, we reveal details of the discharge processes at the moment of lightning strikes and attempt to improve the efficiency of lightning rod.

Observation of winter lightning with 3D lightning visualization technology

Lightning discharge is a kind of phenomenon with super high development speed (several hundred km per second), and many of its processes are hidden inside clouds, so it is extremely difficult to make 3D mapping of lightning discharges. The purpose of this study is to develop a technology for the visualization of 3D development of lightning discharges, and with this technology, we try to investigate the physical properties of various discharge processes in winter thunderstorms.
Lightning 3D mapping system - FALMA (Fast Antenna Lightning Mapping Array)

Development of lightning triggering technology with Drone

If we could control the discharge of electric charges in thunderclouds as we like, we would be able to prevent all kinds of accidents caused by lightning, such as lightning-related accidents in electric power systems. In this research, we try to develop this kind of lightning triggering/controlling technology.

Development of a simplified method for the measurement of the electric field in thunderclouds

If we could observe the 3D distribution of electric field in thunderclouds, we would be able to predict the time, location and strength of lightning discharges. This study develops the method for the measurement of 3D electric field in thunderclouds and tries to predict the occurrence of lightning discharges.

Lightning Protection of Smart Grid

As the key to solve environmental problems such as lack of fossil fuels and global warming, natural energy systems such as wind power system and solar power system are attracting more and more attentions. The input of natural energy system surely does not have a high density, so in order to gain a high output we have to make the size of the system very large. Meanwhile, in order to connect these scattered natural energy systems and make them work together, smart grid is necessary. For such large and connected systems, the possibility of being struck by lightning is high and the damage will be serious. This research is about the lightning protection of smart grid with the comprehensive observation of lightning discharges related with natural power systems, especially wind turbines.

Development of a simplified diagnostic method for solar power system

Solar power systems have been spreading rapidly. In the near future, it is expected that a variety of malfunctions will appear with the aging of these systems. As a measure for these problems, an efficient diagnostic technology for the installed solar power systems is required. In this study, we are going to develop a method that can diagnose the condition of solar power systems instantaneously.