"Kids Design" is a group of ideas and activities about using the power of design to create a social environment that will contribute to the sound growth and development of children (who will be the next generation's adults).
The Kids Design Awards (organized by an NPO called the Kids Design Association) is a program aimed at recognizing outstanding products, spaces, services, activities, and academic programs in terms of three design missions: [i] designs that contribute to the safety and security of children; [ii] designs that develop children’s creativity and shape their future; and [iii] designs that contribute to comfortably raising children.
(From the METI website)
Award-winning Products / Kids Design Award 2022
Slim Frame Hinge / HES1F-140
The HES1F is designed to prevent children's fingers from injury when opening and closing the door. The hinge has a minimal gap on the hinge side. It is less than 5 mm at any angle reducing the risk of finger pinching. The hinge has been slimmed down to fit within an 8mm thin frame.
Sliding Door System / FD Series
This top-hung soft-close sliding door hardware is easy to use for small children and the elderly, and can be opened gently with light force for safety reasons.
The length of the self and soft close range is long which reduces the risk of finger pinching.
Products Awarded: FD25SP, FD30EX and FD35EV Two-way Damper Recessed Upper Roller (Wood)
Silicone Rubber Hooks & Handles Series
This series of hooks and handles combines gentleness and strength, ideal for kindergartens, nurseries and medical facilities. A soft silicone rubber covers the durable inner core, making it safe and strong to use.
Silicone Hook / Mini Flowers
This series of hooks combines gentleness and strength, ideal for kindergartens, nurseries and medical facilities. They come in bright, fun colours in rounded flower shapes making it easy for children to see.
Nordic Rubber Hook Series
This hook series combines gentleness and strength, ideal for kindergartens and homes. The hooks come in calm muted colours with a simple shape that can be easily adapted to changing tastes of maturing children and are easy to use for both parents and children.
Award-winning Products / Kids Design Award 2021
Concealed Hinge / HES Series
The hinge is designed to prevent children's fingers from injury when the door is opened or closed. The hinge moves in a unique trajectory when the door is moved, keeping the gap on the hinge side less than 5 mm.
Products Awarded: HES3D-70/90/120/H120-36/120-A100