MINIM+AID is a minimalist design created by Tokyo-based design firm Nendo. Japan has faced numerous natural disasters in its recent years, and was reminded once again in 2011—the Great East Japan Earthquake—the importance of disaster and emergency preparation. Nendo wanted to create a more versatile solution for emergency preparedness, as opposed to the conventional kits that are limited in their utility.
The designers developed an emergency kit that includes the bare minimum resources necessary for city-dwellers to survive in the event of an earthquake or other disaster. The kit includes a whistle, radio, raincoat, lantern, drinking water, and plastic case – all of which are packaged inside a 5cm wide tube that is both waterproof and capable of floating.
In addition, the radio is equipped with manual charging functionality, allowing users to charge their smartphone, lantern, or other device via USB. The plastic case can be used to store medicine or anything else the user might deem necessary, and the tube in which the drinking water foil pouch is stored can also be used as a cup. The outer tubing is available in silver, white, or black—with each tool available in a selection of three different colors.
Photography by Kenichi Sonehara.