LINIMO: Design for exterior and interior of linear motor magnetic levitation train

The design of linear motor magnetic levitation train, 'LINIMO' exterior and interior, was a multidisciplinary design project involving industrial and graphic designers, engineers, and ergonomists. The design team was made up by a transportation designer from Germany, industrial designers, ergonomists and graphic designers from Japan. Ohtani was the creative director of the team. The design solution was produced: 1) specifically for the Aichi Expo 2005 to show the possibilities of the new technologies and, subsequently, 2) to go into service in the local area. LINIMO is one of only two trains in the world developed and commercially operating that uses the linear motor magnetic levitation train technology. The exterior design development for the train required the design and engineering processes to progress simultaneously. The front and the back of the train unit was glass panelled from ceiling to the floor making this an original and novel design solution in the world of train design. This unique design was achieved with support of innovative engineering which moved the bulkhead in from its usual location at the very front and very back of the train.