NK Internship Program

June 30, 2023

Mr. Shinji Kotani of the NK Railway Department (J3) has invited us to undergo an internship program for 30 days in the NK Head Office in Tokyo, Japan, from September to October 2022. The main objective of the program is to get familiarized with the newly developed structural analysis software FrameWeb, a frame analysis software, and WebDan, a member verification software. These structural analysis softwares are proposed to be utilized in the future local and international projects of the department.

1. WORKING IN THE NK OFFICE

The Nippon Koei Head Office is composed of 12 floors with a basement and a roof deck. The structure itself is already an engineering wonder, with structural framing made of concrete – filled steel frame for columns and beams, together with diagonal steel bracing installed on sides of each floor.

The building is also equipped with various set of energy – saving technologies installed in its vicinity.

1. Window sensors are set to automatically close the blinds once it detects too much amount of light and heat entering the office, hence helping in the conservation of air conditioning consumption.
2. Image sensors are installed to distinguish presence of people working in the office which automatically adjusts lights and air-conditioning depending on the presence of people being detected.
3. Solar panel system is utilized in the roof deck which provides additional energy for consumption in the whole building.

Aside from these technologies, NK building also promotes healthy lifestyle among its employees. On the basement floor, there is a health promotion room which allow the employees to use the gym equipment and some recreational sport facilities. Meanwhile on the 12^th floor is the cafeteria, collaboration areas, Japanese traditional spaces and a pocket garden that extends up until the roof deck providing a good view of the city that is perfect for a quick unwinding and relaxation time.

     

2. WORK AND TRAINING

Apart from the usual workload for the design of MMSP Civil and Drainage structures, we have undergone training for the use of new software for frame analysis and member verification program under the supervision of Mr. Shinji Kotani.

a. FrameWeb (Frame Analysis Software)
The program is capable for stress analysis of two – dimensional (2D) and three – dimensional (3D) structures. Support conditions, springs and member connection conditions can be set for each load combination. Results for stress diagram (Axial, Shear and Moment) can be generated based on the basic load case and combination cases. Pick – up file, which contains the result of the analysis can also be generated and can be imported to the member verification software for an automated analysis of the section.

b. WebDan (Member Verification Software)
The program can be used to conduct member performance verification of reinforced – concrete (RC) and steel – reinforced concrete (SRC) structures under the provisions of the Japanese Standards (Design Standards and Commentary for Railway Structures – Concrete Structures). Member section forces can be manually provided or automatically integrated from the pick – up files of the frame software. The software can produce a summary of the sectional forces and a detailed calculation for the member verification under Safety, Durability and Restorability.

 

 

3. RAILWAY MUSEUM VISIT

One of the musts – see places around the area is the Railway Museum located in the Saitama Prefecture, just in the north of Tokyo. The museum showcases the history and detailed evolution of railways in Japan.

Aside from the small and large – scale diorama of all previous train models, there are interactive exhibits and train-driving simulations showing the science and technology behind operation of train systems.

The Railway Museum is an incredible place which is full of historical artifacts showcasing the eagerness of Japanese People to develop the train system in the country. From the oldest steam engine to the newest model of the Shinkansen, you can see and experience the detailed information of how it is developed to provide efficient service to the people all throughout the country.

4. OBSERVATIONS AND LEARNINGS

It is a wonderful and great experience to work in the NK Head Office in Japan. While it is a totally different culture, we are able to take some good observations and learnings from this experience.

1. Our major take-away is learning the new structural software that can be used in the future structures to be designed in the Metro Manila Subway Project. This software is capable of analyzing and designing concrete structures in accordance with the Japanese Standards.
2. Japanese people values time. They want to be productive with their time as much as possible, even the trains are always on schedule.
3. In spite of all technological advances, Japan has consistently found a way to respect its culture and tradition. This can be seen with the numerous temples and shrines built and protected inside the busy city of Tokyo.
4. People are always kind and polite. The country is also considered to be one of the safest places to live.
5. Japan makes effort to create an environmental, comfortable and livable city. Despite the lack of space for urbanization, lots of nature parks are still scattered all over Tokyo.
6. Advancement in technology greatly helps the people to have an efficient way of living.
7. Foods are always fresh and natural. They take pride in serving the best dishes to their customers and this can be attributed on why Japan has one of the highest life expectancies in the world.