The word ‘overengineering’ in this case does not imply any negative connotation, instead it expresses an appreciation for the precision and thought put into the designs of Japanese stationery. Celebrated internationally for its exceptional quality, the engineering behind Japanese stationery is something worth exploring.
Grip Mechanisms
The engineering principles behind Japanese stationery ensures user comfort and minimises fatigue during writing or drawing. This is achieved through the analysis of hand anatomy, which influences the size and shape of the stationery’s grip area, often contoured to match finger curvature for an ergonomic and natural position.
Grip mechanics are also taken into account when designing pen grips and barrels. Manufacturers analyse how the fingers and thumb interact with stationery when creating shapes and surfaces for a stable hold. Rubber grips or textured materials are often incorporated to enhance grip friction and minimise slippage.
Mathematical Modelling
Moving on from writing utensils to erasers, this sort of Japanese stationery places emphasis on precision. The primary function of erasers is to remove pencil markings, however the absence of defined edges can hinder efficacy, especially with small and specific areas. To address this, mathematical modelling techniques such as recursive algorithms and fractal geometry have been employed to create a zigzag-shaped eraser. This innovative design ensures continuous edges, thereby enhancing precision during erasing. Additionally, its shape and arrangement guarantees structural integrity for a durable design.
Ink Flow and Delivery Systems
The engineering of pens and writing utensils covers various mechanisms that regulate the flow of ink from the reservoir to the writing nib. The most common system is the capillary action-based ink delivery, which relies on the properties of liquid surface tension and the tiny diameter of the pen tip. Ink is drawn through the ink cartridge, which defies the force of gravity through the surface tension and capillary action to ensure a controlled and steady flow without excessive pressure.
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Works Cited
Japan Trend Shop. (2023). ZigZag Mini Polygon Eraser. [online] Available at: https://www.japantrendshop.com/IT-zigzag-mini-polygon-eraser-p-6835.html [Accessed 30 Sep. 2023].
JetPens (2022). More Overengineered JAPANESE Mechanical Pencils You NEED to See! 🤯. YouTube. Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wGU9cyIyeFw&t=60s&ab_channel=JetPens [Accessed 30 Sep. 2023].
JetPens. (2023). Pilot Dr. Grip Play Border Shaker Mechanical Pencil - 0.5 mm - Aqua Blue Body. [online] Available at: https://www.jetpens.com/Pilot-Dr.-Grip-Play-Border-Shaker-Mechanical-Pencil-0.5-mm-Aqua-Blue-Body/pd/8619 [Accessed 30 Sep. 2023].
Ravens March Fountain Pens. (2011). Physics. [online] Available at: http://dirck.delint.ca/beta/?page_id=20 [Accessed 30 Sep. 2023].
ZenPop (2023). The 10 Best Japanese Mechanical Pencils. [online] ZenPop. Available at: https://zenpop.jp/en/blog/post/5636/best-japanese-mechanical-pencils [Accessed 30 Sep. 2023].
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