The Metropolitan Museum of Manila (MET) currently houses pieces that exemplify Japanese high design in the fields of healthcare, disaster relief and transportation.
Other than the eccentric world of anime and everyday kawaii items, the Japanese are also known for being techies, constantly producing cutting edge gadgets and extensively redesigning existing products. Their passion for technology and innovation, however, is not without direction; Japanese designers always keep their customers in mind, creating products that would make people’s lives better.
Upon observing that thermometers are inaccurate or take minutes to detect an individual’s body temperature, designer Fumie Shibata came up with a sleek thermometer called Omron Basal Thermometer MC-6421 that only takes 10 seconds to project an accurate measurement. What’s more is this kind of thermometer, now being produced by Omron Healthcare, Inc., projects different colors on its screen and can be connected to one’s smart phone, allowing the consumer to easily track changes in his temperature.
Still in the field of healthcare, the company Takano Co., Ltd. addressed the hassle of not being able to carry bags while using a cane to walk. In 2011, the company designed alternative walking aids called the AI-Walk, which apart from having hooks for bags, have a foldable structure and wheels for easier mobility.
Noticing how the bulkiness of a regular helmet could discourage an individual from using it, the Japanese company, Yellow, Inc., released foldable helmets that mimics the shape of a regular house roof. Known as Tatamet BCP, these helmets were especially designed by Norikatsu (Nick) Morita as protective wear in an event of a natural disaster.
And finally, to lessen the time allotted for travelling, Central Japan Railway Company established the Shinkasen network or what is commonly known as bullet trains. Consisting of multiple lines that connect most of Japan’s major cities, this transportation network is also known for its world-class facilities and safety features.
The aforementioned thoughtful inventions are just some of the Japanese designs featured in Metropolitan Museum of Manila’s (MET) ongoing exhibition entitled Japanese Design Today 100. Launched last June 29, this exhibition, aside from capturing the way of life in Japan, is a testament to the country’s permanent stature in the field of technological innovation and global design.
Japanese Design Today 100 is on view until August 19, 2016 at the MET’s Tall Galleries. Aside from high design, the exhibition also features classic Japanese design like the Walkman and the Kikoman bottle, and everyday objects from furniture, houseware, apparel and children’s accessories.
The MET is located at the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Complex, Roxas Boulevard, Malate, Manila. For more information, email [email protected] or call (02)708-7828/29.