Universal Design & The Japanese Market
Universal Design
Toppan is actively involved in universal package design.* To this end, Toppan Japan has developed a unique consulting service for assisting customers in the design of universal packaging. The heart of this service is a data-collection network linking healthcare centers, home-care providers, universities, and welfare organizations for the mentally and physically challenged. Based on this data and results from the testing of prototypes, we have created a vast database of package-related information. At the same time, we have been studying age-related differences in color identification and discrimination in order to determine which colors are subject to misinterpretation. Drawing on such reserves of knowledge, we have produced an array of universal package designs that have received high acclaim in the market.
* The theory of universal design is advocated by the U.S.-based researcher, Ronald L. Mace. Universal design refers to the design of products, elements, or spaces that can be used with equal effectiveness by anyone, from the elderly or physically-challenged to children or pregnant women, irrespective of the user's abilities or degree of dexterity.
Features of Universal Package Design Development
Specifically, a product package is analysed and examined at each stage of the product cycle, both from the standpoint of its physical characteristics and in terms of its psychological and sensory appeal. Items for diagnosis are selected according to parameters ranging from consumption (purchase) to storage, use, and disposal. The product package is then diagnosed using Toppan's package evaluation database, which contains information on existing products. Key issues are then identified in order to propose an optimal package from the perspective of the user or consumer.
Toppan's creative staff follows the universal design manual in the development and design of new packages, as well as in the refinement of existing ones.
Our Japanese Market
In Japan, not only do we supply materials such as GL film, but we offer a total packaging solution encompassing planning, design, development and manufacturing of packaging materials (flexible packaging, molded plastic products, paper containers, cardboard containers, etc.), development and manufacturing of filling and packaging systems machinery, contract filling services, and product consulting.
In pursuing the growth of these businesses, we draw on advanced technical development capabilities and outstanding product planning capabilities to make proposals aimed at the creation of future hit products. These capabilities are based on a rich base of expertise in everything from packaging material and content preservation R&D to material, shape, and design proposals.
Our product range in Japan is extremely broad, and as well as all of the traditional types of packaging such as cans, jars and bottles, our newer products reflect our dedication to both universal design and the environment. Here are a selection from our range:
Cartocan
- a drinks can made from paper and lined with barrier film
- microwavable (to heat up drinks such as coffee)
- made from recycled paper
- fully recyclable
- long life
- the contents is kept fresh and taste unaffected
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Standing pouches
- Often used for refills of shampoo or washing liquid – made from GL film so more environmentally friendly than regular plastic containers.
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Bottle pouches
- Used for drinks (especially sport drinks)
- Easy to hold and drink from
- Made from GL film so environmentally friendly
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TL Packs
- Cardboard boxes with plastic bags inside
- Reduce plastic waste
- Can be separated to recycle
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Double Packs
- For coffee/tea etc,
- Fully printable paper packet
- Outer layer of film for freshness
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Paper Tray Containers
- Shallow boxes made of paper
- Used for frozen food and food that needs to be microwaved
- Fully printable
- Can be made from recycled paper and recycled itself
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U-Cups
 Manufactured from a paper cup and heat-treated embossed paper, utilizing the air trapped between them as a heat insulation layer- Paper cups used for anything from yogurt to noodles
- Excellent heat insulation and retention. (The entire cup surface is wrapped with embossed paper to achieve uniform heat insulation in whatever position the cup is held. Even a child can handle the cup safely.
- Fully printable, and inks that change color according to temperature are also available. (Able to accommodate both offset printing and gravure printing specifications)
- Recyclable
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TT Paper Containers
- Paper containers lined with GL film and a plastic lid
- Excellent barrier properties therefore used for contents which is affected by humidity (eg bath salts)
- Easy to separate for recycling,
- Fully printable
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EP Pack
- Cartons for drinks,
- Fully printable paper with aluminium or GL lining
- Nothing will penetrate through the barrier into the carton or leak out from it
- Used in place of bottles therefore lightening the package
- Often used in Japan for sake.
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Plastics
Toppan is applying its wide-ranging elemental technologies to various sorts of projects, to produce all sorts of plastic products. Toppan can complete the entire plastic construction process from start to finish including product design, mould manufacture, coating etc. to produce and supply a wide range of plastic products such as mobile phone mock-ups for shops.
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