Joint Development Partner
Saitama Prefectural University
Graduate School, Department of Physical Therapy
Associate Professor Takanori Kokubun
Saitama Prefectural University is one of few universities with biometric measurement facilities and equipment capable of generating ultra-precise data on human walking and running motion. One example is integrated systems using ground reaction force (GFR) plate embedded treadmills and motion capture systems to visualize the joint movements and the direction of GRF with computer graphics (CG). The development of BAKUSOLE combines scientific data from such biometric measurement devices with a physical therapy approach to improve performance and ensure against any interference with the body’s structure or a child’s growth.
＜ Development Stage ＞
Initially, we created an adult-size prototype and immediately started evaluations and verifications with our in-house staff doing 50 meter runs, standing long jump, and vertical jumps in front of our headquarters. While the data revealed positive results, an in-house analysis showed that it lacked credibility due to variations in physical conditions, moods, and general fitness. After consultation, we joined hands with Saitama Prefectural University, who houses specialized biometrical facilities and equipment, and began an 18-month joint research project to measure and evaluate precise biometric data.
■ Data-driven Development
Development followed a repeated cycle of “prototype production—university testing—data-based prototype design” using data from Saitama Prefectural University’s sophisticated biometric measurement facilities and Professor Kokubun’s expertise in biomechanics and child development.
■ Our Commitment
Our primary focus is on child-tailored insoles that won’t inhibit growth patterns and supports the unique gaits and running styles of children. The HYPER CARBON structure provides growing children, who don’t have the same toe take-off strength as muscular adults or athletes, with comprehensive support from heel placement to kicking off from the toes.
＜ Result Verification ＞
Our data-driven development confirms that carbon insoles reduce the muscle activity of the wearer when running on a treadmill at uniform speed. Our carbon insoles have been scientifically verified to support running.
■ Trial Fitting and Measurement Session
The trial fitting and measurement session was held and filmed as part of our crowdfunding initiative. The initial stiffness of BAKUSOLE may take some getting used to, particularly for first-time wearers of insoles, but rest assure that the benefits will show as you adjust and continue to wear them. The results from the measurement session showed individual variances, but overall, many of children’s times improved and we had many smiling faces.
*Results vary according to the individual.
■ Pre-Release Crowdfunding
As part of our test marketing, we ran a pre-release crowdfunding campaign with “kibidango” and “GREEN FUNDING” from July 26 to September 6, 2023. We reached our target on the first day and ended up raising 1211% of the set target amount.
■ Proprietary Brand: iR9
With the release of BAKUSOLE, we established “iNCEPTION R9 (iR9) as a new company division to oversee new product sales and development and ensure that these new business activities do not affect or inconvenience our existing customers. iR9 heralds a new original brand and our vision to leverage UCHIDA technologies and development expertise to create “functional products for everyday use.”
– New Online Store –
Order the BAKUSOLE at our new online store, opened December 8, 2023. We will adding more great products to our lineup soon.