Non-Electrical Washing Machine
Client: National Innovation Foundation, India (NIF)
Brief: Create a commercially viable product based on a grass root innovation from the NIF directory. (Human powered washing machine)
We started the project by looking at existing human powered machines that are used to wash clothes and the different kinds of processes involved in washing clothes
The process of washing clothes by hand on a river bank is still practiced all around India. Hand washing of clothes is still considered to be the most effective way. So we started off with a study model that would help us recreate a washing experience that is reminiscent of the hand washing process, using human power. Principles of the same were implemented in the final designs.
Concept 1
We targeted the traveler as the focus of this project. Today the car is an integral part of most journeys. Unfortunately, for those always on the road there is no way of washing clothes while on long journeys. So what if we could use movement in the trunk of the car itself to wash clothes.
Testing
Before creating the final form, we tested our theory by filling a simple container with water, detergent, actuators and a dirty cloth. We suspended the same in the trunk of the car. After about half an hour of driving around, the cloth was noticeably cleaner.
Result
The car washing machine sits in the trunk of a car and washes clothes as you drive along. The uneven and damaged Indian roads are usually a source of annoyance, but this machine relies on those conditions.
Concept 2 - See-Saw Washing Machine
For this concept we looked at rural communities and potential sources of energy that we could harness to power our washing machine. What we came up with was a play ground. Imagine a space where children could enjoy themselves and the parents could use the children's excess energy to do a few chores.
The Sea-Saw washing machine translates the oscillating motion of the arms to rotational motion that can be used to turn turbines that wash clothes.
