An Osaka-based company will showcase an innovative “human washing machine” called the Mirai Ningen Sentakuki at the Osaka Kansai Expo in April 2024. This futuristic device aims to enhance personal hygiene by incorporating advanced technology to measure users’ biological data during the wash process. Developed by Science Co., a renowned showerhead manufacturer, the machine has been designed to cater to mind and body wellness.
The machine resembles a jet fighter cockpit and operates by partially filling with warm water when a user takes a seat at its center. Embedded sensors collect the person’s pulse and other biological data, helping to adjust the water temperature for optimal comfort. Additionally, an AI system analyzes the user’s emotional state to project soothing images inside its transparent cover, creating a relaxing atmosphere. A wash-and-dry cycle lasts approximately 15 minutes, allowing for a quick yet rejuvenating experience.
Will this futuristic hygiene machine transform personal care forever?
For now, the company’s plans for the Mirai Ningen Sentakuki are limited to the Osaka expo, where only a select number of participants can utilize the machine daily. Yasuaki Aoyama, chairman of Science Co., indicated during a presentation that about 1,000 general visitors would have the chance to experience the machine at the event, with reservations managed through a dedicated page on the company’s website. Despite its engaging design and high-tech capabilities, whether a commercial version will be available beyond this event remains uncertain.
Aoyama has expressed optimism about creating a home-use edition of the device, aiming to replicate the expo experience for personal use. The company has reportedly made progress, with Aoyama estimating they are “about 70 percent there” in development. He recalled his childhood experience with a similar device, the Ultrasonic Bath, exhibited during the 1970 Japan World Exposition. Although it did not lead to commercial success then, Aoyama hopes this updated version will resonate more strongly with modern consumers.
The original Ultrasonic Bath, created by Sanyo Electric (now Panasonic Holdings Corp.), operated on ultrasound waves and also included plastic balls to provide massage. Aoyama’s childhood fascination drove him to explore this innovative technological avenue, linking the nostalgic vision of the past with contemporary advancements in hygiene and relaxation.
As spring approaches, attention is focused on how the Mirai Ningen Sentakuki will perform at the expo. The intersection of technology, health, and self-care remains a lively discussion, and the success of this demonstration could pave the way for new hygiene products in personal care. With plans for an interactive experience at the expo and a potential future in home health technology, developments are poised to unfold as the company prepares for the event.
Science Co. anticipates that the Mirai Ningen Sentakuki may offer physical and mental refreshment, addressing holistic wellness. Amid ongoing disclosures surrounding the device, industry observers keenly monitor its reception among early users at the expo, especially given its unique blend of traditional bathing concepts with cutting-edge technology.
Image credit: Science Co.
