معرفی
Koji Kikuhara is an Assistant Professor (non-tenure-track) at Waseda University's Graduate School of Environment and Energy Engineering. He has been in this position since April 2023, following a postdoctoral research associate position at MIT's Department of Mechanical Engineering (2019-2022) and previous faculty positions at Tokyo City University and Waseda University.
Dr. Kikuhara earned his Doctor of Engineering degree from Waseda University in June 2017. His academic journey includes:
- 2023.04 - Now: Waseda University, Graduate School of Environment and Energy Engineering, Assistant Professor
- 2022.04 - 2023.03: Waseda University, Graduate School of Environment and Energy Engineering
- 2019.04 - 2022.03: Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Postdoctoral Research Associate
- 2016.04 - 2019.03: Tokyo City University, Faculty of Engineering Department of Mechanical Engineering
- 2013.04 - 2016.03: Waseda University, Faculty of Science and Engineering
Dr. Kikuhara's research focuses on thermal engineering, machine elements and tribology, and design engineering, with particular emphasis on internal combustion engines. His work centers on understanding lubrication mechanisms in engine components, especially related to oil consumption phenomena. He has made significant contributions to understanding oil film behavior under oil control rings, the effects of cylinder liner microstructures on lubrication, and the impact of piston design features on oil consumption.
His research employs both experimental and numerical approaches, including pressure measurements using fiber optic sensors, laser-induced fluorescence methods for oil film thickness measurement, and computational fluid dynamics modeling of oil film behavior. This multidisciplinary approach has provided valuable insights into the complex lubrication mechanisms within internal combustion engines.
Dr. Kikuhara's publication record shows a consistent focus on engine lubrication and tribology, with recent work expanding into hydrogen-fueled engine applications. His research demonstrates a progression from fundamental studies of oil film behavior to practical applications addressing contemporary challenges in engine technology, including alternative fuels and emissions reduction.
Dr. Kikuhara is an active member of several professional organizations:
- Japanese Society of Tribologists
- American Society of Mechanical Engineers
- Japan Society of Mechanical Engineers
- Society of Automotive Engineers of Japan
Currently, Dr. Kikuhara leads two significant research projects:
- "Research on Oil Film Fluctuation Mechanism at the Sliding Surface of Oil Rings for Overcoming LSPI in Hydrogen Internal Combustion Engines" (2024-2026, Japan Society for the Promotion of Science)
- "Research on Oil Film Flow Mechanism on the Upper Surface of Oil Rings for Overcoming LSPI in Hydrogen Internal Combustion Engines" (2024-2025, Suzuki Foundation)
These projects reflect his ongoing commitment to addressing cutting-edge challenges in engine technology, particularly in the emerging field of hydrogen-fueled internal combustion engines.
Dr. Kikuhara teaches various courses related to science, engineering, and environment and energy at both undergraduate and graduate levels, including Basic Experiments in Science and Engineering, Environment and Energy Practice, and Advanced Seminars on Environment and Energy Engineering.
