Yoshino Solid-State Portable Battery Power Solution

Our initial strategic research revealed that today’s typical power products available for sale - from AA batteries to large power generators - are very much masculine and technical in appearance and tone. To differentiate ourselves, we began with the goal of building a family of power stations that are more than mere batteries; they’re versatile companions for indoor and outdoor lifestyles. By providing a reliable energy source in a range of situations - at family getaways, on commercial job sites, during times of emergency - Yoshino does more than just provide power. It enables users to live richer, fuller, more sustainable lives.

Guided by these insights, we set out to create a scalable design language which would be clearly identifiable throughout Yoshino’s entire product family. In the process, we evaluated numerous approaches with the singular goal of building a product that is top-class in both form and function, one which offers both iconic style and is also safe, reliable, simple to use and store, company, ergonomic and which distributes weight evenly.

The development of the Yoshino brand represents a strategic effort to position the company as a green energy pioneer, particularly within the portable power category. The core of the brand identity revolves around the bee symbol, which embodies qualities like nature, hard work, and nonstop energy. This symbol is reimagined in the form of a hexagon, symbolizing modularity and power, and it is prominently integrated into various aspects of the product, including venting ports, carrying strap attachments, base pads, and the user interface (UI) design.

The brand's choice of bold geometry and a vibrant color palette serves to convey a message of energy, confidence, and preparedness. This not only differentiates Yoshino's products but also signals its commitment to offering reliable and sustainable energy solutions.

The collaboration with Yoshino is a testament to how cutting-edge portable power technology, offered in a smaller, lighter, and elegantly-designed form, can empower individuals to work and play safely and more sustainably. This approach highlights the fusion of innovative technology and design aesthetics, making eco-friendly and efficient portable power more accessible to consumers.

Fuseproject's approach to designing Yoshino's power stations is a departure from the typical technical and masculine appearance commonly associated with power products. Instead, we have created a design that embodies the concept of a lifestyle product, aiming to seamlessly integrate into various contexts and serve as a trusted companion for everyday activities, be it during family getaways, outdoor adventures, commercial job sites, or emergency situations.

To maintain a cohesive design language across Yoshino's product family, fuseproject established a unique design signature: a sleek and strong metal handle that can wrap vertically or horizontally around the shell. This iconic and ergonomic handle runs the length of each unit, making it easy to handle and move. The angular geometry adds a sense of power and stability to the design.

The compact and rugged design features reinforced casing to protect the internal components from various environmental elements and impacts during transport, ensuring the product's durability. Additionally, a shatterproof and water-resistant interface is integrated into the product, maintaining a cohesive aesthetic within Yoshino's product range.

This interface is thoughtfully protected by the trim of the faceplate or the handlebars.
In terms of color, the CMF (Color, Material, Finish) design approach draws inspiration from both outdoor recreation and lifestyle categories. Yoshino's design features sophisticated matte and muted green and gray tones. This deliberate choice sets it apart from the bright, technical primary color palettes commonly found in the battery and power tool category, giving Yoshino a distinctive and more refined appearance.

Furthermore, the emphasis on using high-quality materials, such as the metal handle in contrast to the painted finishes of competitive products, communicates a sense of durability and premium quality. This combination of thoughtful design elements and materials enhances Yoshino's appeal as a reliable and aesthetically pleasing power solution for a wide range of users and scenarios.

We took a comprehensive approach to ensure the durability of the UI interface for Yoshino's power station across its product family. Designing the digital UI interfaces to be both shatterproof and water-resistant taking into consideration the diverse environments and conditions the power stations might be exposed to.

The additional protective features, such as the trim of the face plate for the 330 and 660 models and the positioning of the interface underneath the handlebars for the 2000 and 4000 models, demonstrate a thoughtful consideration of the specific needs and potential risks associated with each model. These design choices not only enhance the overall durability of the UI but also show a user-centric approach by adapting to the unique characteristics of each product in the family.

By integrating such protective measures, you not only enhance the longevity of the UI interfaces but also contribute to the overall reliability and robustness of Yoshino's power stations. It's crucial to communicate these features effectively to users, highlighting the commitment to both functionality and durability in the design of the product family.