The YKK 3D puller has won the prestigious Red Dot Award for Product Design, highlighting a breakthrough in zipper innovation. By combining 3D printing with recyclable bio-based materials, this puller enables full customization while reducing production constraints, offering sustainable and design-driven solutions for modern textile applications.
YKK Corporation (Headquarters: Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo; President: Koichi Matsushima; hereafter, YKK) has received the Red Dot Award in the Product Design category for its 3D Composite Puller. The award is presented by Red Dot GmbH & Co. KG.
Established in 1955, the Red Dot Award is one of the world’s most internationally renowned German design competitions. An international jury of approximately 40 experts evaluates entries in three disciplines: Product Design, Brands & Communication Design, and Design Concept.
Overview of the Award-Winning Product
3D Composite Puller
The 3D Composite Puller combines YKK’s expertise in zipper technology with Variloom’s on-demand 3D printing and molding system. Utilizing Variloom’s recyclable bio-based TPU and 3D printing process, this product eliminates traditional molding requirements and the constraints of high minimum order quantities (MOQs).
It enables customization of shape, texture, attachment style, color, and logo—features that are difficult to achieve with conventional injection molding—offering brands and designers new possibilities in both functionality and aesthetics.
Comment from Yasuhiro Sato, Vice President, Product Strategy Division, Global Sales Headquarters, YKK Corporation
This award is regarded as recognition of YKK’s ongoing efforts to create new value, which have now been highly evaluated from a design perspective. YKK will continue to combine technology with creative thinking to bring new possibilities to people’s lives, while contributing to the sustainable development of the textile industry.
FAQ
What is the YKK 3D puller?
The YKK 3D puller is an innovative zipper component created using 3D printing and bio-based TPU, allowing full customization and sustainable production.
Why did YKK win the Red Dot Award?
YKK received the award for its innovative design, sustainability, and use of advanced 3D printing technology in zipper components.
What makes the 3D Composite Puller unique?
It offers customizable shapes, textures, colors, and logos without requiring traditional molds or high minimum order quantities.
What is Variloom technology?
Variloom is an on-demand 3D printing and molding system that enables flexible, efficient, and eco-friendly production.
How does this innovation support sustainability?
It uses recyclable bio-based TPU and reduces material waste by eliminating traditional molding processes.
Discover YKK Launches YZiP® Light Aluminum Alloy Zipper for Cotton Pants