October 26, 2016
Nao Tsushima of the Hiroya Tanaka Laboratory (then a fourth-year student in the Faculty of Environment and Information Studies) received the Research Encouragement Award for a research presentation at the Japan Society for Graphic Science 2015 Autumn Conference (award date: May 14, 2016). The Japan Society for Graphic Science, established in 1967, is a society that brings together experts from diverse fields such as mechanical engineering, information engineering, architecture, art and design, and clothing science for interdisciplinary research presentations and information exchange on graphics, geometry, and related topics. The Research Encouragement Award, presented at the spring and autumn conferences, is given for outstanding research among presentations by young researchers.
Paper Title: Solving Plateau's Problem with Crochet
This research applies crocheting to solve what is known in mathematics as "Plateau's problem"—the challenge of finding a surface of minimal area (a minimal surface) for a given boundary. The study was recognized for its unprecedented and novel approach.
Comment from Nao Tsushima
I am very honored to receive the Research Encouragement Award from the Japan Society for Graphic Science. This research on knitting began with the theme of "Knitting × Mathematics" when I first joined the Tanaka Lab as a first-year student, and I have dedicated most of my undergraduate life to it. Initially, I just started working with my hands and trying various approaches with the idea of "creating something interesting and new with knitting and mathematics."
As I created various pieces, I saw the potential for a scientific systematization of knitting, and as a first step, I attempted to apply it to the problem of minimal surfaces.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank Professor Tanaka for his guidance, as well as the members of the Tanaka Lab and everyone who offered advice as I advanced this research.
I look forward to your continued support.
Source: Shonan Fujisawa Campus (SFC) Office, General Affairs (Public Relations)