Electrolux Design Lab 2009 finalist Zhenpeng Li is the Chinese designer behind Naturewash, the waterless washing machine. He is a student at Zhejiang University in China.
Washing in the great outdoors
“Naturewash” is a waterless washing machine that uses negative ions to wash nano-coated fabrics. Horizontal in shape, the washing machine has three touch screen settings: clean clothes, grass scent and flower scent. A user can lie or sit on Naturewash to clean or refresh the clothes they are wearing. For a more thorough clean, clothes can be placed flat on the washer.
What was the inspiration for your concept?
One day after lunch some of my friends were lying on the lawn to take a break, enjoying the sweet smell from the soil and grass, and that scene inspired me.
How does your concept fit into this year’s competition theme “Designs for the next 90 years”?
Technology will be amazing in 90 years without a doubt. People may be wearing clothes made of nano-coated fabrics and washing clothes without any water. Many things, including peoples’ lifestyles, will change, while some elements will never disappear, such as air, nature and emotion, which are features of my concept.
What are the main consumer benefits of your concept?
Naturewash offers many benefits. It provides consumers with a healthy lifestyle. It brings them close to nature: the soft touch of green grass, the smell of flowers and grass. It provides convenience and transforms work into a rest.
Describe the consumer research behind your concept.
I interviewed people from all walks of life. According to their feedback, no matter how amazing future technology will be, the need to be close to nature will never change.
What kind of materials would you use to build your concept?
I would use Aluminum alloy. All the materials used in Naturewash are recyclable.
Who is your favorite designer?Ying Fangtian, the Chinese designer who believed that a designer should create products with a moral heart, an aesthetic sense, and that respond to the needs of society. In China, he designed many products for disabled people and the elderly.
What are your career goals?
To be a design scientist who engages in strategy research.
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