International Conference and Doctoral Summer School, “Geometric Aspects of Architecture and Mechanical Engineering,” at the Institute of Mathematics, University of Granada (IMAG)

Business Trip Report: Granada (May 17–25, 2025) From: Tokyo

To: Granada (via Dubai & Madrid)

Date: May 28, 2025

Masaaki Miki, Assistant Professor, The University of Tokyo

I departed Tokyo Narita on May 17, 2025, transited through Dubai and Madrid, and arrived in Granada on May 19. From May 20 to 23, I attended the International Conference and Doctoral Summer School, “Geometric Aspects of Architecture and Mechanical Engineering,” at the Institute of Mathematics, University of Granada (IMAG). The program featured expert tutorials, poster sessions, and plenary talks.

I delivered an invited lecture titled “Variable Projection (VarPro) Method and Form-ﬁnding of Tension-compression Mixed Shells,” and the poster session yielded particularly productive discussions with researchers in mathematics, engineering, and architecture.

The Alhambra Palace—famous for its intricate geometric patterns—is located nearby. Following the organizers’ strong recommendation, I visited the palace and explored its remarkable designs.

Key Outcomes

Invited Lecture: Demonstrated the VarPro method for solving challenging tension–compression form-ﬁnding problems, receiving valuable feedback on both architectural applications and theoretical mathematics.

Poster Session: Engaged with peers on shell form-ﬁnding and geometry processing, with an emphasis on integrating discrete differential geometry into architectural design.

Networking: Established connections with researchers from KAUST, Cambridge, ETH Zürich, and other European institutions.

I extend my sincere gratitude to FUTI for their ﬁnancial support of this trip. Photos taken during the event are attached at the end of this document.

Regards, Masaaki Miki