#Japan #Tokyo #Active Caster #PalGo #iREX2025

NSK and Jinki-1 Initiate Collaboration for Active Caster PalGo™

NSK Ltd., headquartered in Shinagawa, Tokyo, and Jinki-1, based in Kusatsu, Shiga, are embarking on an exciting joint development project for the 'Active Caster PalGo™ High-Capacity Type' aimed at enhancing the transportation of heavy goods while enabling omnidirectional movement. This project kicked off in March 2024 and is a significant step forward for both companies.

At a recent kickoff event, creative communicator and product designer Kota Nezu from Znug Design, which has collaborated on the design of Jinki-1's robotic series 'Zero-Type', joined the project. The collaboration aims to prepare for the showcasing of their innovative creation at the International Robot Exhibition 2025 (iREX2025) scheduled for December 2025 at Tokyo Big Sight.

Background of the Project

The Active Caster PalGo™ is a driving unit designed for robots and mobility solutions developed by NSK. Its main feature is the ability to move freely in all directions, including back, front, sides, and rotation, making it versatile for various applications. Initially unveiled in concept form at the 2022 International Robot Exhibition, the PalGo unit was integrated into NSK's MOOVO™ medical assistant robot in April 2024, marking its debut in the market. The name 'PalGo' combines the words 'pal' (partner) and 'go' (to drive forward), representing the mission of fostering coexistence between humans and robots.

Conversely, Jinki-1 has been searching for solutions that can operate in the confined spaces typical of warehouses while supporting the transport of heavy objects. With aligned interests, both companies began collaborating on the development of a high-capacity version of the Active Caster PalGo™ starting in March 2024.

Implementation of Jinki-1's Design System

To propel the productization and practical application of the PalGo High-Capacity Type, designer Kota Nezu was brought onto the project. He will be responsible for concept sketches and design management. The design system cultivated through collaboration with Nezu is based on the 'Zero-Type' series and emphasizes the 'visualization of force flow' concept. By embodying functional beauty, the design aims to illustrate how heavier loads can be transported with greater ease.

Design Concept Highlights

• - Inside Out: Displaying the beauty of inner mechanics while making the flow of differential forces visible.
• - Differential Design: Utilizing the graphics of bevel gears as symbolic motifs to represent the manipulation of forces.
• - Iconic Character: Ensuring that the aesthetic feels solid and characteristic in its presence.

The PalGo High-Capacity Type integrates two motors capable of producing both driving and rotational functions. The resultant 'force flow' is visually represented by orange lines on its exterior, enhancing the design's function-oriented aesthetic that conveys the control capabilities at a glance.

Kickoff Event Highlights

During the recent kickoff gathering, Nezu presented concept sketches based on Jinki-1's design system. Participants engaged in discussions about the exhibition's setup at iREX2025, including booth design and presentation strategies, fostering a creative environment.

Future Directions: Joint Exhibition at iREX2025

Both companies are gearing up for a joint exhibition at iREX2025, where they will showcase their innovative solution in Hall 7 of Tokyo Big Sight. Further details are expected to be released around November 2025, and more can be found on the iREX2025 website.

Comments from the Partners

• - Daisuke Kondo, NSK Global Development: "By applying our technological expertise in the field of robotics, we aim to address social challenges. We share Jinki-1's mission to eliminate physical burdens and believe this collaboration can significantly contribute to a safer and more secure society."
• - Motoya Nomura, Jinki-1 Intellectual Property Development: "In response to the need for safely transporting heavy objects in confined spaces, we have developed the PalGo High-Capacity Type with NSK. Our design system will visualize the flow of force within the mechanism, ensuring enhanced performance."
• - Kota Nezu, Znug Design: "I am thrilled to be part of this collaboration, which brings together NSK's reliability and trust with Jinki-1's mission to remove physical burdens. The beauty of the mechanical design will be a critical aspect of our project."

Company Overviews

NSK Ltd.

• - CEO: Akitoshi Ichii
• - Location: 1-6-3 Osaki, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo
• - Founded: November 8, 1916
• - Capital: 67.2 billion yen
• - Business Areas: Manufacturing and sales of bearings and precision mechanical products for industrial and automotive markets.
• - Website: NSK Official Site

Jinki-1, Inc.

• - President: Dr. Kanaoka
• - Location: 648-1 Aoji, Kusatsu City, Shiga
• - Established: October 1, 2007
• - Capital: 100 million yen
• - Focus: Providing intellectual property services based on advanced robotics technology.
• - Website: Jinki-1 Official Site

Znug Design Ltd.

• - Director: Kota Nezu
• - Location: 3-22-10 Zenpukuji, Suginami-ku, Tokyo
• - Service: Concept planning and design for industrial products, fostering corporate creative activities.