Japan’s Innovative “Human Washing Machine” Cleans and Dries an Individual in 15 Minutes
In 1970, an unusual invention caused a stir at the Japan World Exposition, a global fair themed around “Progress and Harmony for Mankind.” The Ultrasonic Bath, developed by Sanyo Electric Co.—now known as Panasonic Holdings Corp—was referred to as a “human washing machine,” and represented the future of cleanliness. Though it didn’t gain commercial traction, the idea stayed with a fourth-grader named Yasuaki Aoyama. Fast forward more than fifty years, and the business he currently oversees has revisited this idea.
Called Mirai Ningen Sentakuki (which translates to “human washing machine of the future” in Japanese), it was introduced at the 2025 Osaka Kansai Expo. Brought to life by Science Co., a manufacturer of bathtubs and shower heads, it builds on that initial bathing device concept from the 1970s while integrating advanced technology that could transform it into an essential cleaning device for caregivers, seniors, and individuals with limited mobility.
Resembling a pod and predominantly transparent, the device fills halfway with warm water as the user sits reclined. Driven by AI, the “human washing machine” assesses the comfort level of the bather and ensures the water temperature is appropriate by monitoring their pulse. The appliance can also sense if the individual is feeling anxious or relaxed, and in case of anxiety, it presents calming visuals at eye level to help them transition into the experience.
The company states that a full wash and dry takes only 15 minutes, utilizing cutting-edge technology in water jets and tiny air bubbles to provide an optimal cleaning experience. The machine also recognizes the deep-rooted Japanese bathing tradition, viewing the act of bathing as a means to purify the spirit and maintain health.
Aoyama, who described his first experience with The Ultrasonic Bath as a pivotal moment that sparked his imagination, considers this new creation to be his dream machine. “It inspired me, envisioning what kind of future lay ahead,” he remarked to The Asahi Shimbun. While in the 1970s, most individuals lacked a bathtub at home and depended on public bathhouses, today’s challenges differ. Amid an “aging crisis,” this apparatus could very well serve as a dependable solution for caring for elderly patients with dignity and convenience. “We aim to provide a new human washing machine as a legacy from the 1970 expo,” Aoyama states.
For updates on this innovation, check the Science Co. website.
Science Co., a Japanese firm manufacturing bathtubs and shower heads, has introduced the “human washing machine of the future.”
Japan has launched an AI-driven ‘human washing machine’ called ‘Mirai Ningen Sentakuki.’ Created by Osaka-based Science Co., this revolutionary device evaluates your body and delivers a tailored wash-and-dry cycle, finishing in just 15 minutes.
Drawing inspiration from a related bathing device from the 1970s, it features cutting-edge technology that has the potential to be a transformative tool for caregivers, seniors, and individuals with limited mobility.
As per the company, a complete wash and dry requires only 15 minutes, and the machine can ascertain whether the bather feels comfortable and if the water temperature is suitable.
Japan Unveils ‘Human Washing Machine’ That Can Clean And Dry Your Body In 15 Minutes, promising to innovate personal hygiene and relaxation.
Science Co.: [Website](https://www.science.co.jp/en/)
Sources: ‘Human washing machine’ set to make a splash at Osaka Expo; Japan Unveils ‘Human Washing Machine’ That Can Clean And Dry Your Body In 15 Minutes
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