I’m not entirely convinced I’d want to step into a human washing machine, even if it’s crafted by some of the brightest minds out there, but it’s intriguing enough that I might give it a try.
In 50 years, such devices might be as common in utility rooms as clothes washing machines and dryers, which is amusing considering I’ve had to specify between the two, alongside irons and ironing boards.
Though this may be the first time you’re hearing about a human washing machine, the concept isn’t new. Over 50 years ago, in 1970s Japan, an egg-shaped pod called the ‘Ultrasonic Bath’ was developed that would fill with warm water when occupied and even provided massages.
The original invention, by Panasonic Holdings Corp (previously Sanyo Electric Co.), was ahead of its time, yet it never caught on widely.
Today, Yasuaki Aoyama, chairman of Science Co., has revisited and modernized the concept using contemporary technology.
The Osaka-based showerhead manufacturer is preparing the updated version for the same exhibition it originally appeared in, inspired by Aoyama’s childhood dream of bringing it to life.
Aoyama plans to showcase the ‘Mirai Ningen Sentakuki’, or the human washing machine of the future, in April, intending to demonstrate its functionalities once it’s completed.
“We’re about 70 percent there,” he mentioned.
“We plan to offer 1,000 general visitors an opportunity to use it during the expo,”
with seven to eight people daily experiencing a complete ‘wash-and-dry’ in the pod.
So, how does this futuristic pod operate?
Similar to its predecessor, once someone enters and sits in the pod, it begins filling with hot water. The seat’s sensors monitor the user’s pulse and other bodily indicators to ensure the water temperature is suitable for them.
An AI system then assesses whether the user is excited or calm, displaying visuals on the transparent cover to enhance their relaxation.
Reflecting on the original washing machine and his company’s interpretation, Aoyama told The Asahi Shimbun: “It made me excited, thinking about what kind of future there would be.”
“We will offer a new human washing machine as a legacy from the 1970 expo.”