Japanese skills in applied research and manufacturing have enabled them to take over markets for many products. More recently, they have begun to excel in targeted areas of basic research. Assessment of such Japanese R & D is necessary to guide management of U.S. research and to ensure that the most advanced technologies are available to the United States. The proposal presents plans and methodologies for a study of Japanese R & D in five emerging engineering technologies (to be determined) where focussed funding could accelerate progress in the United States. The detailed research will be done by five expert panels who will analyze Japanese literature, visit Japanese laboratories and present their findings in workshops and technical reports. Several Federal agencies have agreed to support funding to this phase of the study.
