AI-Powered 'Washing Machine' Cleans You in 15 Minutes!

A New Era of Personal Hygiene

The future is here, and it looks like a pod-like shower straight out of a science fiction movie. This innovative device, known as the Mirai Ningen Sentakuki or "human washing machine," is set to revolutionize the way we think about personal hygiene. Developed by Osaka-based company Science Co., this AI-powered bathing device combines convenience with wellness, offering a futuristic approach to cleanliness.

How the Machine Works

The process is simple yet advanced: you step into a capsule-like pod that fills halfway with warm water. High-speed jets release billions of microscopic bubbles that gently burst against the skin, lifting away dirt and bacteria without harsh scrubbing. An AI system monitors vital signs, adjusting water temperature, bubble density, and pressure in real time for maximum comfort. The machine also projects calming visuals inside the pod and analyzes the user’s emotional state to tailor the experience.

For many older adults, something as basic as bathing can become a daily struggle. Research highlights how bathing assistance is one of the most physically and emotionally challenging caregiving tasks, often linked to stress, caregiver burnout, and even accidental injuries. The process is tiring for caregivers and can compromise the dignity of those who need help.

A Solution for Elderly Care

This is where the human washing machine could make a difference. With minimal physical effort required, the device may give elderly people a sense of independence while easing the burden on caregivers. While some social media users laughed at the concept, others saw its life-changing potential. One commenter joked, “Where’s the machine that can eat, drink, poo and pee for us?” Another user, Monishikha Das, said, “This would be welcome for the elderly who may be finding it difficult to take a bath.” That one comment hits at the heart of the invention’s value.

Anyone who has ever cared for a bedridden relative knows the emotional weight of this task. Supporting someone in and out of a bathtub or shower can be physically demanding and potentially hazardous. Falls, slips, and caregiver back injuries are common. By automating the process in a safe, controlled environment, this invention could improve not only hygiene but also safety, dignity, and quality of life.

From Concept to Reality

Interestingly, this is not a completely new concept. Sanyo Electric tried a similar idea in the 1970s, but the technology was not yet advanced enough. Fast forward to today, and Science Co. has reinvented the design with cutting-edge AI and microbubble technologies.

According to a Japanese publication, the machine is set to debut at the 2025 Osaka Expo, where around 1,000 attendees will get to experience it firsthand. Following its trial, the company hopes to launch mass production and even roll out a home-use edition. Reservations for the automated bathtub are already open on the company’s website.

“We’re about 70 percent there,” said Science Co. chairman Yasuaki Aoyama during a lecture last year. “We plan to offer 1,000 general visitors an opportunity to use it during the expo.”

The Future of Caregiving

The world’s populations are rapidly aging. The World Health Organisation (WHO) predicts that by 2030, 1 in 6 people globally will be over 60. Could this change caregiving forever? If successful, the Mirai Ningen Sentakuki could open new possibilities for home care, assisted living facilities, and hospitals. Instead of viewing bathing as a difficult, time-consuming task, caregivers might rely on technology to take over the physical strain, allowing them to focus on companionship and emotional support.

Of course, questions remain. Will it be affordable? Will it be safe for people with sensitive skin or medical conditions? And can a machine truly replicate the gentle human touch that makes care feel personal?

This invention may not replace traditional care, but it could complement it powerfully. For families dealing with the difficulties of bathing a bedridden loved one, the prospect of a machine that restores dignity and comfort is hopeful.