product design center uses elliptical ring in train handle for japanese railways

product design center uses elliptical ring in train handle for japanese railways
(above) its minimalist form is elegant and safe to use

in pursuit for an easier grip, tokyo-based product design center has created an improved ‘train strap’ for the japanese sagami railway. by combining the improved functionality of the elliptical ring with a unity of color and ingenuity in the details, the strap has resulted in a minimalist tool. the aim of the project is to generate a feeling of safety and comfort even in the most crowded trains going to the city center.

the strap can be used by two people at the same time

by using the elliptical form, product design center has made the ring the most significant feature of the strap, giving a feeling of comfort no matter where it is gripped. the cross section of the design encapsulates a triangular form with rounded edges, born from numerous test models. by achieving a ring that requires the least grip, the strap allows for prolonged use. an user-friendly case hides the metal fitting that secures the belt around the ring. with a greater roundness than conventional models, it makes riders aware that it is a shape that can be also gripped, resulting in an extra point for the hand.

by achieving a ring that requires the least grip, the strap allows for prolonged use

giving consideration to cleanness, a glossy finish coat has been applied to the surface, allowing dirt to be wiped away easily. gray was selected as the main color in order to hide both white and black dirt. it provides a muted contrast to the train carriage interiors as the belts serve to soften the visual complexity caused by the large numbers of visible straps, contributing to an improved aesthetic. the darkened color of the ring, which heightens the contrast, intentionally states its presence in comparison to the belt, making passengers conscious of the graspable place for the hand.

a glossy finish coat has been applied to the surface

user-friendly case

in the train

detail

process

project info:

client: sagami railway
design: keita suzuki
project assistant: sayaka hiromura 

designboom has received this project from our ‘DIY submissions‘ feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: juliana neira | designboom