We have always engaged in empathy-driven manufacturing ever since our founding, having it built into our DNA.
Since 1990, under a group-wide framework, we have continued to connect and expand excellent initiatives from across divisions, further taking on the challenge to embody empathy.
Here, we present the journey of our empathy-driven manufacturing, which we have carefully preserved and nurtured over the years.
We have always engaged in empathy-driven manufacturing ever since our founding, having it built into our DNA.
Since 1990, under a group-wide framework, we have continued to connect and expand excellent initiatives from across divisions, further taking on the challenge to embody empathy.
Here, we present the journey of our empathy-driven manufacturing, which we have carefully preserved and nurtured over the years.
Company Wide Initiative: "Creating People-Friendly Products"
Company Wide Initiative: "Creating People-Friendly Products"
Promoting Barrier-Free : "Easy-to-Use for the Elderly and the Physically-Challenged"
1996
Sit-down Shower
The Sit-down Shower was created to deliver a safe and comfortable bathing experience to people who find it difficult to get into a bathtub.
Its design allows users to bathe their entire body while seated, making it suitable for older people, wheelchair users, pregnant women, and other people in various life stages or physical conditions, helping them enjoy the warmth of bathing with reduced physical strain with effects comparable to soaking in a tub.
- GOOD DESIGN AWARD 1997 UNIVERSAL DESIGN PRIZE
- IAUD Awards 2014 Gold Award
1996
IH Cooktop
While IH cooktops offer high safety by eliminating the use of an open flame, users expressed concerns about not easily knowing when heating was in progress. In response, we equipped the products with red circular indicator lamps that clearly show when heating is active, providing peace of mind in everyday cooking.
- KIDS DESIGN AWARD 2009,2021
1996
Sit-down Shower
The Sit-down Shower was created to deliver a safe and comfortable bathing experience to people who find it difficult to get into a bathtub.
Its design allows users to bathe their entire body while seated, making it suitable for older people, wheelchair users, pregnant women, and other people in various life stages or physical conditions, helping them enjoy the warmth of bathing with reduced physical strain with effects comparable to soaking in a tub.
- GOOD DESIGN AWARD 1997 UNIVERSAL DESIGN PRIZE
- IAUD Awards 2014 Gold Award
1996
IH Cooktop
While IH cooktops offer high safety by eliminating the use of an open flame, users expressed concerns about not easily knowing when heating was in progress. In response, we equipped the products with red circular indicator lamps that clearly show when heating is active, providing peace of mind in everyday cooking.
- KIDS DESIGN AWARD 2009,2021
Promoting "NAIS Age Free Business"
Established Company Wide UD Initiative
2003
Tilted Drum Washer/Dryer
Responding to our users' wish to make loading and unloading laundry easier, we became the first in the industry to adopt the tilted drum design. This is one of our hallmark universal design (UD) products, allowing older people and wheelchair users to use washing machines with less effort. This design, which balances ease of access with water conservation, greatly contributed to the popularization of front-load washers in Japan. At the time of release, the first tilted drum model achieved the highest sales among all other washers, demonstrating its strong reception among customers.
- GOOD DESIGN GRAND AWARD 2003
- iF DESIGN AWARD 2005,2007,2011
2004
Personal Fax
Voice and light guidance for faxing and other operations.
2004
Air Conditioner with Filter Cleaning Robot
After surveying over 1,200 households, we discovered that 92% of them have not been appropriately cleaning the air conditioner filters. Based on this, we thoroughly analyzed the types and accumulation patterns of dust, researched cleaning methods, and developed an industry-first automatic filter-cleaning system, reducing the burden of climbing up to clean filters manually.
- GOOD DESIGN AWARD 2005
2006
Refrigerator
By lowering the bottom of the refrigerator door and incorporating fully open drawers that extend completely for easy access, we created a refrigerator that is easy for everyone to use. Because refrigerators are used daily by the entire household, we designed them with empathy for all family members.
- GOOD DESIGN AWARD 2007
- iF DESIGN AWARD 2011
2006
VIERA Link
Devices compatible with VIERA Link (such as DIGA and home theater systems) can be easily connected with a single cable and operate together automatically, allowing users to record, watch, and listen with one remote.
Established Company Wide UD Initiative
2003
Tilted Drum Washer/Dryer
Responding to our users' wish to make loading and unloading laundry easier, we became the first in the industry to adopt the tilted drum design. This is one of our hallmark universal design (UD) products, allowing older people and wheelchair users to use washing machines with less effort. This design, which balances ease of access with water conservation, greatly contributed to the popularization of front-load washers in Japan. At the time of release, the first tilted drum model achieved the highest sales among all other washers, demonstrating its strong reception among customers.
- GOOD DESIGN GRAND AWARD 2003
- iF DESIGN AWARD 2005,2007,2011
2004
Personal Fax
Voice and light guidance for faxing and other operations.
2004
Air Conditioner with Filter Cleaning Robot
After surveying over 1,200 households, we discovered that 92% of them have not been appropriately cleaning the air conditioner filters. Based on this, we thoroughly analyzed the types and accumulation patterns of dust, researched cleaning methods, and developed an industry-first automatic filter-cleaning system, reducing the burden of climbing up to clean filters manually.
- GOOD DESIGN AWARD 2005
2006
Refrigerator
By lowering the bottom of the refrigerator door and incorporating fully open drawers that extend completely for easy access, we created a refrigerator that is easy for everyone to use. Because refrigerators are used daily by the entire household, we designed them with empathy for all family members.
- GOOD DESIGN AWARD 2007
- iF DESIGN AWARD 2011
2006
VIERA Link
Devices compatible with VIERA Link (such as DIGA and home theater systems) can be easily connected with a single cable and operate together automatically, allowing users to record, watch, and listen with one remote.
Changed the corporate name to Panasonic and unified the brand
2008
LED Neck Light
Wear the flashlight around the neck to brightly illuminate exactly where needed, freeing both hands for tasks or when moving around. Further, when forcefully pulled, it unfastens for safety.
- KIDS DESIGN AWARD 2012 Excellence Award
- iF DESIGN AWARD 2009 Gold
- Universal Design Award 2009
2008
Closet Doors
The doors are designed to prevent children's fingers from getting caught.
- KIDS DESIGN AWARD 2009
2009
Automatic Cleaning Toilet
A new material that repels dirt and a bubble washing feature facilitate a thorough and easier cleaning experience. In addition, it comes equipped with armrests that support sitting down and standing up, reducing the physical burden of these movements.
- Universal Design Award 2008
- IAUD Awards 2014 Silver Award
2008
LED Neck Light
Wear the flashlight around the neck to brightly illuminate exactly where needed, freeing both hands for tasks or when moving around. Further, when forcefully pulled, it unfastens for safety.
- KIDS DESIGN AWARD 2012 Excellence Award
- iF DESIGN AWARD 2009 Gold
- Universal Design Award 2009
2008
Closet Doors
The doors are designed to prevent children's fingers from getting caught.
- KIDS DESIGN AWARD 2009
2009
Automatic Cleaning Toilet
A new material that repels dirt and a bubble washing feature facilitate a thorough and easier cleaning experience. In addition, it comes equipped with armrests that support sitting down and standing up, reducing the physical burden of these movements.
- Universal Design Award 2008
- IAUD Awards 2014 Silver Award
2010
Cordless Steam Iron
Featuring a first-in-the-industry symmetrical tip design, it moves smoothly both forward and backward, helping to eliminate creases and wrinkles without the need to switch hands. The design eases the strain on the shoulders and arms, making ironing more efficient.
- iF DESIGN AWARD 2011
- Universal Design Award 2010
- IAUD Awards 2012 Silver Award
2010
Voice Guidance System for TV
Voice Guidance System calls out the station, title of the show, etc.
when selecting a channel or using the TV program guide.
- Inclusive Design Award The Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB)
- Universal Design Award 2013
- IAUD Awards 2014 Silver Award
2011
LED Clear Light Bulb
We transformed the bulbs with a familiar shape that older people are accustomed to into LED bulbs. Its appearance feels natural, allowing for an easy, seamless replacement from conventional bulbs. Further, its long lifespan reduces the hassle of frequent replacements.
- iF DESIGN AWARD 2012 Gold
- Universal Design Award 2012
- IDEA 2012 Gold
- GOOD DESIGN GOLD AWARD 2011
2013
Any-battery light
This light is compatible with any battery size from AAA to D, and operable with a single battery. Its easy-to-grip handle makes carrying effortless.
- GOOD DESIGN BEST 100 2014
- IAUD Awards 2015 Silver Award
- iF Universal Design Expert Favourite award 2015
2013
A digital high-definition video camera for education
A wireless video camera for educational use that enhances teaching efficiency while stimulating students' curiosity for learning.
The user-friendly magnifying glass design and intuitive operation make it easy for kids to use.
- KIDS DESIGN AWARD 2014 KDA Chairman's Award
2014
Development of Quantification Method of Universal Design and System for In-house Certification
We established a UD product development process for the ongoing creation of high-level UD products, from the initial product planning stage through to post-release promotion. So far, through the ongoing promotion of this initiative, Panasonic has created over 170 UD certified products over a 10 year period.
- IAUD Awards 2014 GRAND Award
2014
Resyone/ResyonePlus
To make transfers from bed safer and less strenuous, ResyonePlus, a rise assisting robot that integrates a bed and wheelchair, was developed. It eases the physical burden on caregivers while delivering a comfortable movement experience for those receiving assistance.
- 2017 Nikkei Superior Products and Services Awards for Excellence
- Kaigo Robot Introduction Case Study Excellence Award 2016 in Manufacturer Division
- IAUD Awards 2014 Silver Award
- GOOD DESIGN BEST 100 2018
2014
Voice Control
Users can easily and quickly switch channels and carry out other basic operations, search for TV programs, surf the Internet, and program recordings by speaking into the remote controller.
- IAUD Awards 2016
2014
J-Concept Series
After surveying a total of 30,000 older people, this new appliance series has been developed around a unifying concept—easy-to-use features and fastidious attention to design. Products such as the world's lightest bag-type vacuum cleaner at the time received tremendous support across generations.
- IAUD Awards 2015 Gold Award
2014
Accessibility improvement efforts toward 2020
By leveraging ICT devices and robotic technology, we combine facility equipment, personal devices such as smartphones, and mobility solutions such as electric wheelchairs to improve accessibility, all without adding to the workload of facility staff.
- IAUD Awards 2016 Gold Award
2016
High-Definition Wide Display System for Vehicles
Wide display and mirrorless camera assist people to drive safely.
- Good Design Special Award [Design for the Future] 2017
- IAUD Awards 2017 Gold Award
2016
Let's remocon
Simple, 6-button remote control designed for the elderly and people with restricted hand movement.
- GOOD DESIGN BEST 100 2017
- IAUD Awards 2017 Gold Award
2017
Panasonic's Universal Design Communication
Since 2006, we have created UD brochures and a UD website to introduce our UD policies and products. These have been reorganized to address key social issues, such as aging populations, declining birthrates, creating a society that embraces diversity, work-style reforms, globalization, and emergency preparedness.
- IAUD Awards 2017 GRAND Award
2017
Rechargeable Receiver-In-Canal Hearing Aid
Hearing aids designed to be discreetly hidden behind the ear. Easily rechargeable by simply placing them in their case.
- GOOD DESIGN GOLD AWARD 2017
- IAUD Awards 2017 Gold Award
2018
Smile Bathtub
The side has been dropped by 5 cm, making it easier to get your legs over into the bathtub. With less difference in level between the floor and the bottom of the tub, it is easier to remain stable and therefore have peace of mind when moving.
- IAUD Awards 2018 Gold Award
2019
Automated Transportation System
Responding to voices from demanding workplaces, where cargo volumes keep increasing and the workforce is insufficient, we have automated the transport of heavy loads, reducing employees' physical burden. By fostering collaboration between people and machines, the risk of accidents is also lessened.
- IAUD Awards 2018 Silver Award
2018
Walk-training robot
With a design that encourages older people to want to train voluntarily and AI technology that ensures safe and optimal resistance, efficient and personalized training is made possible for each individual.
- IAUD Awards 2018 Gold Award
- GOOD DESIGN BEST 100 2018
2019
TV stand anti-toppling mechanism
TVs can easily tip over in an earthquake, or when children touch or play with them.
This product prevents that danger
- KIDS DESIGN AWARD 2019 Special Award
2010
Cordless Steam Iron
Featuring a first-in-the-industry symmetrical tip design, it moves smoothly both forward and backward, helping to eliminate creases and wrinkles without the need to switch hands. The design eases the strain on the shoulders and arms, making ironing more efficient.
- iF DESIGN AWARD 2011
- Universal Design Award 2010
- IAUD Awards 2012 Silver Award
2010
Voice Guidance System for TV
Voice Guidance System calls out the station, title of the show, etc.
when selecting a channel or using the TV program guide.
- Inclusive Design Award The Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB)
- Universal Design Award 2013
- IAUD Awards 2014 Silver Award
2011
LED Clear Light Bulb
We transformed the bulbs with a familiar shape that older people are accustomed to into LED bulbs. Its appearance feels natural, allowing for an easy, seamless replacement from conventional bulbs. Further, its long lifespan reduces the hassle of frequent replacements.
- iF DESIGN AWARD 2012 Gold
- Universal Design Award 2012
- IDEA 2012 Gold
- GOOD DESIGN GOLD AWARD 2011
2013
Any-battery light
This light is compatible with any battery size from AAA to D, and operable with a single battery. Its easy-to-grip handle makes carrying effortless.
- GOOD DESIGN BEST 100 2014
- IAUD Awards 2015 Silver Award
- iF Universal Design Expert Favourite award 2015
2013
A digital high-definition video camera for education
A wireless video camera for educational use that enhances teaching efficiency while stimulating students' curiosity for learning.
The user-friendly magnifying glass design and intuitive operation make it easy for kids to use.
- KIDS DESIGN AWARD 2014 KDA Chairman's Award
2014
Development of Quantification Method of Universal Design and System for In-house Certification
We established a UD product development process for the ongoing creation of high-level UD products, from the initial product planning stage through to post-release promotion. So far, through the ongoing promotion of this initiative, Panasonic has created over 170 UD certified products over a 10 year period.
- IAUD Awards 2014 GRAND Award
2014
Resyone/ResyonePlus
To make transfers from bed safer and less strenuous, ResyonePlus, a rise assisting robot that integrates a bed and wheelchair, was developed. It eases the physical burden on caregivers while delivering a comfortable movement experience for those receiving assistance.
- 2017 Nikkei Superior Products and Services Awards for Excellence
- Kaigo Robot Introduction Case Study Excellence Award 2016 in Manufacturer Division
- IAUD Awards 2014 Silver Award
- GOOD DESIGN BEST 100 2018
2014
Voice Control
Users can easily and quickly switch channels and carry out other basic operations, search for TV programs, surf the Internet, and program recordings by speaking into the remote controller.
- IAUD Awards 2016
2014
J-Concept Series
After surveying a total of 30,000 older people, this new appliance series has been developed around a unifying concept—easy-to-use features and fastidious attention to design. Products such as the world's lightest bag-type vacuum cleaner at the time received tremendous support across generations.
- IAUD Awards 2015 Gold Award
2014
Accessibility improvement efforts toward 2020
By leveraging ICT devices and robotic technology, we combine facility equipment, personal devices such as smartphones, and mobility solutions such as electric wheelchairs to improve accessibility, all without adding to the workload of facility staff.
- IAUD Awards 2016 Gold Award
2016
High-Definition Wide Display System for Vehicles
Wide display and mirrorless camera assist people to drive safely.
- Good Design Special Award [Design for the Future] 2017
- IAUD Awards 2017 Gold Award
2016
Let's remocon
Simple, 6-button remote control designed for the elderly and people with restricted hand movement.
- GOOD DESIGN BEST 100 2017
- IAUD Awards 2017 Gold Award
2017
Panasonic's Universal Design Communication
Since 2006, we have created UD brochures and a UD website to introduce our UD policies and products. These have been reorganized to address key social issues, such as aging populations, declining birthrates, creating a society that embraces diversity, work-style reforms, globalization, and emergency preparedness.
- IAUD Awards 2017 GRAND Award
2017
Rechargeable Receiver-In-Canal Hearing Aid
Hearing aids designed to be discreetly hidden behind the ear. Easily rechargeable by simply placing them in their case.
- GOOD DESIGN GOLD AWARD 2017
- IAUD Awards 2017 Gold Award
2018
Smile Bathtub
The side has been dropped by 5 cm, making it easier to get your legs over into the bathtub. With less difference in level between the floor and the bottom of the tub, it is easier to remain stable and therefore have peace of mind when moving.
- IAUD Awards 2018 Gold Award
2019
Automated Transportation System
Responding to voices from demanding workplaces, where cargo volumes keep increasing and the workforce is insufficient, we have automated the transport of heavy loads, reducing employees' physical burden. By fostering collaboration between people and machines, the risk of accidents is also lessened.
- IAUD Awards 2018 Silver Award
2018
Walk-training robot
With a design that encourages older people to want to train voluntarily and AI technology that ensures safe and optimal resistance, efficient and personalized training is made possible for each individual.
- IAUD Awards 2018 Gold Award
- GOOD DESIGN BEST 100 2018
2019
TV stand anti-toppling mechanism
TVs can easily tip over in an earthquake, or when children touch or play with them.
This product prevents that danger
- KIDS DESIGN AWARD 2019 Special Award
2020
First Shaving Series
Addressing the feelings of teens shaving for the first time, such as embarrassment over body hair removal or fear of razor blades, we developed a design that can be used with peace of mind. Its colorful look and ease of use aim to raise the users' motivation for shaving.
- KIDS DESIGN AWARD 2020 Excellence Award
- IAUD Awards 2020 Bronze Award
- iF DESIGN AWARD 2021 Gold
2021
Facial Recognition Card Reader
The card reader is compatible with facial recognition systems already being introduced in medical institutions and pharmacies. It can detect faces regardless of height, wheelchair use, or whether the user is wearing a mask or glasses, enabling an efficient and accessible reception for all.
- IAUD Awards 2021 Gold Award
2023
Tungsten Cut Resistant Gloves
Cut resistant gloves designed to prevent hand injuries among children. Thin and flexible for fine tasks, while maintaining a level of cut resistance sufficient for typical crafting activities. These gloves support children's creativity and encourage their active participation in crafting, outdoor activities, and other new challenges.
- KIDS DESIGN AWARD 2023 KDA Chairman's Award
2024
Expanding Empathy Panasonic’s Inclusive Design
Aiming to bring about an inclusive world where people respect each other, we are expanding empathy to address mental and social issues, in addition to the physical ones that our UD initiatives have tackled. The ideas and tools to achieve that goal were announced to make them accessible to everyone.
- IAUD Awards 2024 GRAND Award
2020
First Shaving Series
Addressing the feelings of teens shaving for the first time, such as embarrassment over body hair removal or fear of razor blades, we developed a design that can be used with peace of mind. Its colorful look and ease of use aim to raise the users' motivation for shaving.
- KIDS DESIGN AWARD 2020 Excellence Award
- IAUD Awards 2020 Bronze Award
- iF DESIGN AWARD 2021 Gold
2021
Facial Recognition Card Reader
The card reader is compatible with facial recognition systems already being introduced in medical institutions and pharmacies. It can detect faces regardless of height, wheelchair use, or whether the user is wearing a mask or glasses, enabling an efficient and accessible reception for all.
- IAUD Awards 2021 Gold Award
2023
Tungsten Cut Resistant Gloves
Cut resistant gloves designed to prevent hand injuries among children. Thin and flexible for fine tasks, while maintaining a level of cut resistance sufficient for typical crafting activities. These gloves support children's creativity and encourage their active participation in crafting, outdoor activities, and other new challenges.
- KIDS DESIGN AWARD 2023 KDA Chairman's Award
2024
Expanding Empathy Panasonic’s Inclusive Design
Aiming to bring about an inclusive world where people respect each other, we are expanding empathy to address mental and social issues, in addition to the physical ones that our UD initiatives have tackled. The ideas and tools to achieve that goal were announced to make them accessible to everyone.
- IAUD Awards 2024 GRAND Award
