Tomori Aid: A Lantern Kit for Disaster Preparedness

Lighting the Way in Times of Crisis

Inspired by personal experiences during a typhoon evacuation in Japan, Yanagisawa recognized the disparity between imagination and reality when seeking refuge in a shelter. Motivated to address this issue through design, he developed Tomori Aid as a solution to the challenges faced during natural disasters.

What sets Tomori Aid apart is its ability to convert the harsh light of a flashlight into the gentle glow of a lantern. The collapsible lighting kit, made from cardboard, is easy to assemble with simple structures and fixing methods. By fitting any flashlight of the right size, it ensures that lighting is always available, even if one flashlight fails.

Portability is a key feature of Tomori Aid. When folded, it measures H260mm x W180mm, making it compact enough to fit into an A4-sized bag. This ensures that individuals can easily carry it during evacuation, providing a reliable light source when needed most.

Tomori Aid not only excels in functionality but also in design. Its sleek and modern aesthetic allows it to seamlessly blend into daily life, making it suitable for use as a regular lighting fixture in living rooms or bedrooms. It serves as a testament to the designer's commitment to creating products that are both practical and visually appealing.

Recognizing the urgent need for indirect lighting during power outages in evacuation shelters, Yanagisawa's research led him to develop Tomori Aid. The design was refined through a meticulous process, overcoming challenges such as ensuring both portability and an attractive design. The project, which began in November 2019 in Tokyo, was completed in February 2021.

Tomori Aid has received recognition for its innovative design. It was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Lighting Products and Fixtures Design category in 2022. This prestigious accolade is bestowed upon designs that demonstrate outstanding creativity and resourcefulness, incorporating best practices in art, science, design, and technology. Tomori Aid's technical and creative excellence contributes to improving the quality of life and making the world a better place.

Tomori Aid is more than just a disaster prevention supply; it is a symbol of resilience and preparedness. With its ability to provide reliable lighting during emergencies and its versatile design for everyday use, Tomori Aid is a testament to the power of design in enhancing our lives and ensuring our safety.