Collaborations

TopicThe Voice of the Customer

Asics was developing new shoes targeted at casual runners, who run as a part of a healthy lifestyle. Casual runners do not participate in races or care too much about times. These consumers were looking for shoes with comfortable cushioning in which they could have fun and run easily.

SolutionThe Alpha GEL Answer

In a departure from standard cushioning parts, which are used in the insole, we developed a new product that both maintained the cushioning functionality of GEL and increased its durability for outsole use. This new type of large GEL pad, called PAD-GEL, is encased in an outer skin and covers the entire heel.

ProcessDevelopment

During development, we explored different versions of GEL, balancing cushioning and adhesion functionality. We also developed a new adhesive technology for encasing GEL in an outer layer of plastic. We worked extensively with Asics to iron out any issues with PAD-GEL and slowly improved the new product.

ResultThe Final Product

At long last, Asics GEL-KENUN with PAD-GEL went on sale. PAD-GEL played an important role in realizing Asics’ product concept: cushioned shoes that are both comfortable and fun to run in. Since GEL-KENUN went on sale in 2017 as a fall/winter model, it has quickly become a customer favorite within the new Asics running shoes lineup (Easy Running, Town Shoes, Athleisure).

TopicThe Voice of the Customer

Mitsubishi Pencil contacted us looking for the perfect grip. Their requirements were that it be more memorable than any other grip, that it be easy to hold in the hand, that it not tire the hand during continued use, and that would reduce finger strain.

SolutionThe Alpha GEL Answer

To solve this problem, we developed a new version of Alpha GEL that was not only soft but also less elastic, that adequately dispersed finger pressure, and that fit well in the hand. Moreover, while making full use of the natural softness of silicone, we also proposed improving appearance and durability to match stationery industry standards.

ProcessDevelopment

We developed many versions of Alpha GEL with varying levels of softness and resilience. To find the perfect grip, we tested each version for hand strain and ease of use using state-of-the-art electromyography techniques. Finally, by encasing the gel in a silicone rubber container, we were able to mass produce the grips on an automated line.

ResultThe Final Product

Mitsubishi Pencil created a new jointly branded series called uni-αGEL. uni-αGEL become extremely popular among Japanese junior and senior high school students, with many shops repeatedly selling out. It remains a popular series even now, 15 years after the first pens went on sale. Alpha GEL grips are also used in Mitsubishi Pencil’s popular ball pen, Jetstream, and the mechanical pencil, KuruToga

TopicThe Voice of the Customer

One of the most important features of the Casio G-Shock series is its high shock resistance, with centrifugal force resistance added to analog models targeted at aircraft pilots. Casio’s request was to add vibration resistance to an already impressively tough product.

SolutionThe Alpha GEL Answer

Working closely with Casio, we developed a vibration isolation mechanism within the small space of the watch interior. This technique was similar to seismic isolation structures used to earthquake-proof houses in Japan.

ProcessDevelopment

We added vibration resistance to the already highly shock resistant version of Alpha GEL already used in the G-Shock series. We also performed a large number of tests and measurements during development to ensure the end product would have the highest anti-vibration functionality possible.

ResultThe Final Product

The end product, called Triple G Resist, is resistant to shock, vibration, and centrifugal forces. This feature was first included in the Gravity Masters Series, which was lauded in the market as a vast improvement in analog watch reliability. Triple G Resist was also featured in Mud Master, MT-G, and other Casio analog watch series, making a great contribution to the G-Shock brand.

TopicThe Voice of the Customer

The design process at PORTER started with looking at the basic ergonomics of holding a bag and a special focus on tactile comfort. To reduce strain the following questions were pivotal in the development phase. Is the grip easy to hold? Can one hold it for long periods of time without getting tired? Does holding it hurt? The target was to achieve "ultimate grip comfort".

SolutionThe Alpha GEL Answer

While high comfort was important, the hold would also have to be durable enough for long term usage. To solve this challenge we examined various combinations of material flexibility and resilience, eventually finding the exact right configuration that was durable enough, yet maintained Alpha GEL's most famous trait, its softness.

ProcessDevelopment

Special design effort was not only put in getting a soft Alpha GEL, but also in creating the best ergonomic fit. By repeatedly comparing the pressure dispersion of conventional handles with Alpha GEL handles and making many small adjustments, we were able to create a uniquely comfortable feel.

ResultThe Final Product

PORTER's new business bag series 「PORTER αGEL GRIP」launched in April 2019. In this special edition, an Alpha GEL logo is positioned next to the PORTER logo. Infused with Alpha GEL technology we present to you a business bag of unprecedented comfort.