Wild human washing machine promises to rinse you clean in 15 minutes

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In context: Back in 1970, a futuristic “human washing machine” called the Ultrasonic Bath caused a sensation at the Japan World Exposition. The egg-shaped pod was developed and exhibited by Sanyo Electric Co., now known as Panasonic Holdings Corp. When someone climbed inside, it would automatically fill with hot water, blast them with ultrasound waves, and release massage balls to knead their body. Over 50 years later, this peculiar invention is making a comeback with a high-tech upgrade.

While it never really took off commercially after 1970, the human washing machine concept clearly made an impression on at least one young visitor from Osaka – Yasuaki Aoyama. Japanese publication Asahi Shimbun reports that as a fourth-grader, he was entranced watching the baths in action. Over 50 years later, Aoyama is now the chairman of Science Co., a showerhead manufacturing firm.

Aoyama is determined to finally make his childhood dream a reality with an all-new “Mirai Ningen Sentakuki” (human washing machine of the future). It’s set to be shown off at the Osaka Kansai Expo taking place in April next year.

This modern remake ditches the egg shape for something that resembles a jet fighter (or a massive helmet), with a transparent canopy that opens from the back. Once you settle into the central seat, sensors monitor your vitals to ensure the perfect wash temperature. There’s even an AI system that analyzes if you’re feeling calm or excited, then projects custom visuals on the inside of the transparent cover to help the person feel refreshed. The whole wash and dry process takes 15 minutes.

Aoyama says they’re about 70% of the way through development. The plan is to offer up to 1,000 expo visitors a chance to try the novel bathing experience each day. If you want to sign up, Science Co. is taking reservations through their website.

While they’re officially just showcasing it at the Osaka expo for now, Science Co. isn’t ruling out some kind of home model down the road. Previous materials mentioned the goal of “washing the mind” along with the body.

Image credit: Asahi Shimbun