The inception of the Dr. Cut Bonsai was born out of a visit to an orange farm on the coast of Japan. The designers observed that many of the harvesters suffered from tendonitis due to the long hours spent cutting with conventional gardening shears. This observation led to the development of a gardening tool that reduces the burden on the user's fingers by 75% through the application of ergonomic principles.
What sets the Dr. Cut Bonsai apart from other gardening shears is its unique properties. The blade is expertly crafted by traditional blade forgers, ensuring durability and precision. The shears are also coated with soft silicon grips, designed to minimize pain and fatigue. This combination of traditional craftsmanship and innovative design makes the Dr. Cut Bonsai a standout product in its category.
The creation of the Dr. Cut Bonsai involved the development of a custom injection molding technique. This technique was used to give the silicon a marbling effect, adding an aesthetic touch to the functional design. The shears measure 64mmx207mmx30mm and weigh 241g, making them compact and lightweight for easy handling.
The effectiveness of the Dr. Cut Bonsai was confirmed through rigorous testing. Pain scores were measured between test subjects using the Dr. Cut and typical shears. The results showed a significant 75% reduction in pain when using the Dr. Cut, validating the design's primary objective of reducing user discomfort.
The Dr. Cut Bonsai project began in Hiroshima, Japan in 2010 and was released to the market in 2018. The design has since been applied to various other shears, demonstrating its versatility and effectiveness. The design's success culminated in it being awarded the Golden A' Agricultural Tools, Farming Equipment and Machinery Design Award in 2021, a testament to its outstanding design and impact on the world of gardening tools.
In conclusion, the Dr. Cut Bonsai represents a significant advancement in the design of gardening tools. By prioritizing user comfort and efficiency, Hiroshi Udo and Ben Branlund have created a product that not only meets the needs of its users but also pushes the boundaries of design in this field. The Dr. Cut Bonsai is a shining example of how thoughtful design can transform everyday tools into extraordinary products.
Project Designers: Hiroshi Udo
Image Credits: Hiroshi Udo
Project Team Members: Hiroshi Udo
Ben Branlund
Project Name: Dr. Cut Bonsai
Project Client: Hiroshi Udo