Japan's 'Human Washing Machine' Will Have You Clean in 15 Minutes

A showerhead manufacturer in Japan has developed a "human washing machine," a pod that can wash and dry a person in 15 minutes. Though the futuristic machine is still in the prototype stage, the company plans to launch versions for home and hospitals.

To use the machine, a bather steps into the pod like a jet fighter's cockpit. After the bather closes the machine's transparent windowed door, sensors in the seat capture the person's pulse and other vitals, allowing the machine to customize the user experience. (Whether the bather appears to be stressed or calm reportedly affects factors like water temperature, water pressure, and even the images projected onto the machine's inner walls).

The bather is washed and dried within 15 minutes. The device partially fills with hot water when the bather sits in the seat in the centre.

Sensors embedded in the seat measure the person’s pulse and other biological data to ensure the bather is washed at an appropriate temperature.

At the same time, an AI system determines whether the user is calm or excited.

Depending on the final version, though, it could offer a useful alternative to disabled individuals who find it difficult to bathe without another person's assistance. It could also add a touch of novelty and efficiency to hospitality environments such as hostels, where guests share washrooms across multiple reservations.