#Japan #Tokyo #Good Design #MEDIAID #Assist Gear

MEDIAID's Recognition in Design

In 2023, the MEDIAID Assist Gear 2 developed by Nihon Sigmax Co., Ltd., won the sought-after 2025 Good Design Award, organized by the Japan Design Promotion Association. This innovative piece of assistive technology aims to alleviate the burdens placed on workers' lower backs during various job functions.

Design Features and Enhancements

The MEDIAID Assist Gear 2 is an assistive suit integrated with a back support mechanism specifically designed to reduce stress on the lumbar region during labor-intensive activities. It incorporates feedback from users of its predecessor to enhance comfort and functionality. Key enhancements include a direct connection stretching from the thigh belt to the shoulder straps and strategic alterations in the arrangement of its components, resulting in both increased comfort and significant reduction in pressure on the back in various postures, whether bending, standing, or in motion.

Designer Kazuki Naito from Nihon Sigmax notes that this new design not only retains effectiveness during heavy lifting but also prioritizes ergonomic comfort, ensuring that users won’t shy away from using enhancements due to discomfort. The Assist Gear 2's structure activates support only during movements that exert pressure on the back, thus providing protection while enhancing comfort during typical tasks.

Acknowledgment from the Judges

In their evaluations, the judges highlighted modern lifestyle trends that involve long periods of sitting and reduced physical activity, resulting in heightened occurrences of back pain. They appreciated how the MEDIAID Assist Gear 2 serves as a vital tool to protect users while lifting heavy items over 10kg, particularly for professionals frequently transporting both objects and individuals. The judges commended the product not just for its protective attributes but also for its improved user-friendliness, enhancing utility for those tasked with physically demanding jobs.

Upcoming Exhibition

The MEDIAID Assist Gear 2, along with other winning designs, will be showcased at the Good Design Exhibition 2025 from November 1 to 5 at Tokyo Midtown, Roppongi. Attendees can explore this innovative assistive technology firsthand. The event promises insights into the creative process behind the award-winning designs.

Exhibition Details:

• - Location: Tokyo Midtown, Roppongi
• - Dates: November 1 (Saturday) to November 5 (Wednesday)
• - Hours: November 1 (1 PM - 7 PM), November 2 - 4 (11 AM - 7 PM), November 5 (11 AM - 6 PM)

For those unable to attend, the MEDIAID Assist Gear 2 will also be featured at the Assist Suit EXPO in Osaka on November 20 and 21, where attendees can experience the product's features directly without prior registration.

About MEDIAID

MEDIAID, as a dedicated supporter brand from Nihon Sigmax, has garnered a reputation for creating high-quality orthopedic supports and medical devices for over 50 years. Their commitment to comfort and effectiveness in real-world applications has established them as the leading supplier in Japan for lumbar support products. The company's ethos embraces the concept of enhancing the lives and work experiences of individuals through innovative design.

To learn more about MEDIAID and its products, visit MEDIAID's official website.