tronnovate design lab crafts adjustable + interchangeable takumi pen

tronnovate design lab crafts adjustable + interchangeable takumi pen
all images courtesy of tronnovate design laboratory

the pen is one of the most ubiquitous communication tools in human history. not long ago, people didn’t have as many methods for conveying ideas as we do now (computers, smart phones, text messaging, the internet, etc.). for centuries, the utensil has played a crucial role in helping people visualize their thoughts and document information. in the present-day, even though we have more options and products, it is still an irreplaceable item in our pockets, purses, or on our desks. it is tiny, but cannot be ignored; people always need one at just the right moment. providing this immediate need, tronnovate design laboratory has designed ‘takumi’, a length-adjustable pen that can be refilled an infinite number of times.

in developing their mindset for the project, the lab explains: ‘although the current stationary market provides numerous choices, there seem to be some things that are missing: missing taste; missing ergonomics; missing thoughtfulness; and above all, most of today’s pens lack quality and reliability. therefore, we decided to make the most adaptable and stylish pen in the world that allows you to choose your refill and still keep the style and ergonomics you love.’

the pen is available in different colors and finishes

different people hold their pens in many ways and positions. the problem is, it isn’t always easy to find a writing instrument that will fit all of the various hands and holding techniques. therefore, the key feature of the design that solves this problem is its ability to expand and contract to fit anyones’s grip, writing position, and usage — from note-taking to manuscripts, technical drawing to sketching and shading.

an architecture drawing with the utensil

using the pen in a notebook

the approach to the overall form was to create a minimal and functional tool, free of any unnecessary ornamentation. thus, the decision to use a simple cylindrical shape establishes a comfortable and ergonomic experience. the studio tested multiple of pens on the market for their weight, feel, and texture, before and arriving at the fact that perfect balance was essential to the instrument. in addition, the device is modular – allowing you to interchange the body and cap, which are available in black, grey, gold, green, blue, and red. 

the project is currently being funded on kickstarter here.

full set of takumi

perspective view

detail of an inserted pen tip

mixing the different versions

the weight is evenly distributed throughout the pen for balance

the pen clipped onto a backpack

first and final prototypes

designboom has received this project from our ‘DIY submissions‘ feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.