We had the opportunity to interview Ms. Taeko Inoue from Aochi Life Create, where they utilize the GCC LaserPro SPIRIT laser engraving machine. She shared insights into what motivated them to adopt this technology, its various applications, and the benefits they have gained since its installation.
Company Name: Aochi Life Create Co., Ltd.
Major Business Items: Woodworking and the planning and sales of original products and everyday goods.
Location: Shiga, Japan
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GCC Products: GCC LaserPro Spirit 40W Laser Engraver
What issues did you have before introducing the laser machine?
Our company, originally founded in 1946 as "Aochi Joinery Factory," later renamed "Aochi Interior Construction," has been engaged in woodworking for over 40 years. Primarily focusing on the processing of residential components using panel saws and NC routers, we have consistently supplied high-quality products as a partner factory for major housing manufacturers.
Each year, approximately 25 tons of scrap material are generated through our woodworking processes. While these scraps may be considered byproducts, they remain valuable resources. Thus, we sought ways to utilize them effectively. Additionally, we were driven by a desire to explore new opportunities in industries beyond our traditional field.
Why introduce the GCC LaserPro laser machine?
We first learned about laser engraving machines at the woodworking machinery exhibition held in 2018.
The ability to process a variety of materials such as wood, acrylic, and paper fascinated us, sparking our interest. It felt like a perfect way to unlock new potential in our woodworking domain.
Given our desire to utilize scrap materials from woodworking, we needed a machine with sufficient output to cut materials with a certain thickness. We decided to introduce a 40W laser engraving machine, which conveniently allows us to cut materials up to 5mm thick.
We initially considered the GCC LaserPro laser machine through COMNET based on the recommendation of our long-time, trusted distributor. What ultimately convinced us was COMNET's excellent sales and support, which gave us great confidence in our choice.
A popular, self-assembly helmet ornament that can be personalized with a name or message
What results follow laser machine installation?
In 2019, we renamed our company to "Aochi Life Create Co., Ltd." and launched the "Create Business" initiative under the philosophy of "breathing new life into limited resources." By utilizing scrap materials generated from woodworking, we plan and sell original products and everyday goods.
Combining the woodworking techniques we've honed over the years with laser engraving, we now explore a wide range of materials, including acrylic, aluminum, fabric, cork, and plastic. The Spirit laser engraver is not only essential for production but also serves as a versatile tool for prototyping new products with ease, greatly contributing to product development.
While our traditional woodworking business mainly revolved around partnerships with major housing manufacturers, this shift has opened the door to collaborations with industries we had never engaged with before—a significant transformation for our company.
A custom feeding station with your pet's name
Laser engraving products by Aochi Life Create
We repurpose scrap materials from woodworking to design and sell original products and everyday goods. By combining our expertise in woodworking with laser engraving, we have expanded into working with a diverse range of materials, including acrylic, aluminum, fabric, cork, and plastic.
Alphabet objects made from acrylic and MDF are popular choices for wedding decorations and interior décor.
Acrylic 3D puzzle: Laser engraved acrylic sheets are layered to create a 3D object
What are your prospects for the laser business?
We are continually exploring the possibilities of laser engraving. The depth of laser engraving alone is remarkable, and we are also experimenting with ways to combine it with other woodworking machinery. Even after several years since its introduction, new product ideas and innovations continue to emerge. Looking ahead, we hope to collaborate with various companies through laser engraving and beyond.
Regional guide maps created upon request
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Introduced laser engraving machine:
We are happy to answer your questions about any laser products and processing. If you want to learn and do more with GCC LaserPro lasers, we invite you to see our laser engraving and cutting applications videos where you will find out how they physically work and are done.
Further reading:➤ Discover the Power of Laser Engraving
➤ Making Money with a Laser Engraver: 6 Profitable Product Ideas
➤ Frequently Asked Questions About Laser Engraving Machines