A Malaysia-Japan International Institute of Technology (MJIIT), Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) student, Yan Ryu Sei, completed an industrial training programme at NOK Corporation’s Shonan R&D Centre in Fujisawa, Japan, gaining exposure to industrial research and development (R&D), Computer-Aided Engineering (CAE), and experimental material characterisation.
Held from 13 July to 2 October 2026, the programme enabled him to apply engineering knowledge acquired at MJIIT to practical industrial challenges. Through computational simulations, laboratory experiments and technical discussions, he gained insight into Japanese engineering practices, multidisciplinary collaboration and systematic approaches to industrial R&D.
Yan was attached to the Engineering Research Department of NOK’s R&D Group, working under the Mechanics Research Section. The training covered tribology, mechanics, materials, adhesion, computational fluid dynamics (CFD), Fluid-Structure Interaction (FSI) and rubber moulding analysis. This multidisciplinary exposure demonstrated how different engineering specialisations contribute to the development, evaluation and improvement of industrial products and manufacturing processes.
A major component of the programme involved assessing the feasibility of newly adopted CFD software. Benchmark simulations using the Standard k–ε and SST k–ω turbulence models were conducted to evaluate its numerical performance and suitability for engineering applications. The investigation considered computational mesh configuration, inlet boundary conditions, boundary-layer y+ distribution and other pre-processing factors that could affect simulation accuracy. By comparing numerical results with theoretical predictions and reference data, Yan developed a deeper understanding of how simulation settings and computational requirements influence the reliability of numerical results.
The training also included an FSI analysis of a pressure relief valve designed for an electric vehicle battery pack. The study examined solver configurations, particularly pseudo-timestep relaxation methods and Courant Number settings, to identify parameters for stable and efficient simulations. This work highlighted the need to balance convergence behaviour, numerical stability and computational performance when analysing systems involving interactions between fluid flow and structural components.
Yan also gained laboratory experience characterizing unvulcanised Acrylic Rubber (ACM) using a capillary rheometer. Tests under different conditions were used to investigate the material’s flow behaviour. The measurements were processed and prepared as material inputs for rubber moulding simulations. This activity demonstrated the connection between experimental characterisation and computational modelling, and the importance of reliable material data in producing meaningful simulation results.
Alongside these technical assignments, Yan joined discussions with engineers and mentors, attended software and technical lectures, and exchanged ideas with fellow interns. These activities encouraged knowledge sharing and exposed him to different perspectives on engineering challenges.
One notable activity was a technology exchange session with interns from Eagle Industry (EKK) at Shinjuku QWS. Participants presented their internship themes and discussed technical experiences, daily life, cultural observations and future career aspirations. The session also enabled them to compare Malaysian and Japanese working cultures, broadening their understanding of professional expectations and communication in international engineering environments.
As part of the programme, Yan visited NOK’s Fukushima Plant to observe manufacturing operations, including compounding, mixing, kneading, garter spring manufacturing, metal stamping, coating and rubber moulding. Seeing these processes offered a practical view of how materials and components move through manufacturing stages, from preparation to product formation. The visit also connected the research conducted at the R&D Centre with production operations, process control and quality considerations.
Reflecting on the experience, Yan highlighted the importance of approaching engineering challenges systematically rather than focusing solely on obtaining a numerical or experimental result. Effective analysis requires consideration of accuracy, computational resources, data reliability, software limitations and practical implementation. The programme strengthened his skills in simulation preparation, solver configuration, experimental testing, data interpretation and technical communication, while reinforcing the value of critical thinking and continuous learning.
The experience also broadened his understanding of the role of R&D in industrial innovation. Exposure to computational and experimental methods showed how engineering tools can support product development, performance assessment and manufacturing improvement. Independent technical assignments, guidance from experienced engineers and collaboration with other interns provided opportunities to develop professional competence.
The completion of the training demonstrates how international industry exposure can complement classroom-based engineering education. By engaging with industrial projects and professionals, students can strengthen their technical foundations and better understand how engineering principles are translated into practical solutions.
The programme also supports MJIIT’s commitment to integrating Japanese-oriented engineering education with international industrial experience. Through initiatives such as the Industrial Training in Japan programme, students can engage with established engineering organisations, experience different professional environments and develop adaptability for an increasingly interconnected engineering industry.
Yan Ryu Sei’s placement at NOK Corporation marks a meaningful step in his engineering development, strengthening the connection between academic learning and industrial R&D while providing perspectives for his future career.
