Design and construction of aquaculture research facility with membrane structure

Taiyo Kogyo Corporation

Taiyo Kogyo Corporation (Tokyo headquarters: Setagaya-ku, Tokyo; Osaka headquarters: Yodogawa-ku, Osaka; President: Yumi Nomura), a company involved in large-scale membrane surface structures (tent structures) and civil engineering and logistics materials, has received an order from Maruha Nichiro Corporation, a major seafood and food manufacturer, to design and construct an experimental aquaculture research building, and has now completed construction.

With the food crisis, which is now seen as a problem due to climate change discussed on a global scale, and the emphasis on food production for a stable food supply from the perspective of the SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals), efforts in land-based aquaculture in Japan have been gaining momentum. The aquaculture research facility ordered this time features two different spaces: a bright and clean work space that allows sunlight to penetrate, and a shaded space that shuts out sunlight and allows artificial control of illumination. The facility’s thermal insulation allows for appropriate temperature control, and the painted floor and interior gutters improve drainage and inhibit the formation of algae and moss.

(1) Space design with emphasis on workability
The bright and comfortable work space with sunlight encourages improved work efficiency.
*The highly translucent nature of the membrane reduces energy consumption by eliminating the need for lighting during the day.

(2) Space design that enables testing and research
By creating a shaded space and controlling illumination, we have made it possible to control the breeding environment.

(3) Effective use of limited space
No intermediate pillars allow for maximum utilization of the facility.
We provide drainage systems with a high degree of flexibility to match the design of aquarium facilities.

Interior view of the facility (shaded space)

Facility interior (work space)

This facility uses our proprietary “Flex System,” a construction method that shortens the construction period and lowers costs as a membrane structure construction method. Based on our long-standing technology and expertise in membrane structural construction, we manufacture the components at our own factory, resulting in high quality and a shortened construction period. The quality of the building boasts excellent earthquake resistance, as well as stable strength and durability even in the harsh natural environment of coastal areas where wind and rain are a major concern.

The membrane structure of this facility is lightweight and uses less steel frame, greatly reducing the environmental impact of transportation and contributing to a reduction in environmental impact compared to conventional buildings that use many metal components and concrete.

Location: Futagaura, Kushi Aza, Kushi, Bozu-cho, Minami-Satsuma City, Kagoshima Prefecture
Structure: Frame and membrane structure, 1 story
Dimensions: 20m (width) x 15m (depth) x 8m (height)
Area: Total floor space: 300 square meters
Specifications: Roof: CMX220 (noncombustible)
Owner: Maruha Nichiro Corporation
Design: Taiyo Kogyo Corporation
Application: Aquaculture research facility

Taiyo Kogyo is a “leading company of membrane structures” that aims to support the safety and security of society and contribute to the realization of affluent lifestyles for people. Taking advantage of the characteristics of light and strong materials, Taiyo Kogyo is expanding its products into various construction businesses symbolized by the roofs of giant domes, as well as into civil engineering, logistics, and even the environmental field. In recent years, in particular, the company has been attracting public attention for its emergency response to the many disasters that have occurred in various regions, as well as for its medical tents used to combat the new type of coronas.

Official website: https://www.taiyokogyo.co.jp/

Press photos can be downloaded here.