ABOUT
Facility Overview
The Evaluation Laboratory for Next Generation Motors will serve as the main research base of the Joint Research Center for Electric Architecture, which renovated the former Akita Municipal Tanehira Elementary School (closed in 2016) in Yuwa, Akita City and developed it as a testing and research facility. It is located approximately 5 minutes by car from Akita Airport (Access Map). Without changing the exterior of the school, the gymnasium and various classrooms were heavily renovated to transform it into a facility for aircraft electrification research.
The gymnasium has space for the fuselage of a commercial aircraft corresponding to a single-aisle aircraft with 150 to 200 seats, which allows verification tests regardless of the scales of the system. According to the user needs, the system will flexibly arrange the power grid and load based on a full-scale aircraft.
Characteristic Evaluation Tests of
Motors and Generators
In February 2022, we introduced a motor characteristic evaluation system (motor bench manufactured by SINFONIA TEHCNOLOGY CO., LTD.) with a maximum testing capacity of 400 kW and a maximum speed of up to 20,000 r/min. For detailed specifications, click here.
By utilizing this bench, the following tests can be performed:
- Characterization of developed motors and generators
- Performance evaluation tests of a combination of a motor and an inverter
- Durability and reliability tests of motor-driven load
- Verification tests of small/large systems connected to multiple loads via the grid
If you would like to discuss any other considerations regarding the use of this device, please contact us.
Copper Pheasant
A power grid demonstration test rig (nicknamed “Copper Pheasant”) that simulates a full-scale aircraft is installed in the former gymnasium. This facility can perform a verification tests of configurated small/large systems by connecting the motor bench to a DC power supply and motor-driven loads, as well as equipment brought in by users themselves via the power grid.
Origin of the name “Copper Pheasant”
Aircraft system test rigs are generally referred to as “Iron Birds”. Copper is used as a component in power cables, and the name “Copper Bird” was proposed on the basis of the key component. However, it already registered as a trademark for an aircraft power grid test rig overseas. Taking a cue from the word “Bird,” we named it “Copper Pheasant” derived from Akita Prefecture’s prefectural bird — Copper Pheasant.
Copper Pheasant（Photographed by Yusuke Abe, Specially-Appointed Assistant Professor, Joint Research Center for Electric Architecture, Akita University）
Parking
You may use the square in front of the main entrance and the former schoolground. Please let us know in advance so that we can better accommodate you.
Caution
The Joint Research Center for Electric Architecture will not be held responsible for any accidents, thefts, etc. that occur in the parking lot. In addition, we will take appropriate action in the case of unauthorized parking by persons other than users of the Center’s laboratory.
Available Space
The classrooms where children used to take classes have been renovated to provide a place for center users and visitors to have meetings, take a break, etc.
There are two spaces available:
You can also take advantage of the following:
Communication environment and loaner items
- Internet environment (Wi-Fi)
- General tools, safety equipment, measuring instruments, etc. available for loan (upon request)
Water facilities and restrooms
Restrooms (men’s and women’s) and water facilities are available in the building and can be used at your leisure.