Washing machines and dryers have seen little innovation since their introduction in the early 1900’s. As devices that use both electrical energy and water and are typically present in most homes, washing machines are in need of reinvention. This is why I am surprised that recent developments in washing machine technology have not received more press given the rise in environmentally-friendly writing and discussion.
Xeros Ltd. is a company spun off of Leeds University research that has developed a washing machine that uses 2% of the energy and water that conventional washing machines use. The process leaves the clothing practically dry after washing so dryer’s are no longer necessary. And the most impressive fact about the technology is that it is ready to debut in 2009 (pretty soon compared to other promised energy technologies).
Another washing machine concept comes from Harsha Vardan, an industrial design student in India, whose compact pressure washer is perfect for small space living.
These two ideas are beginning to look very promising. Given that Xeros Ltd. has secured a relatively modest investment of around $1 million, if you got some money sitting around, they would probably appreciate it.
At least it looks to be more worthwhile than investing in this which did this (SpaceX).
I wanna know if all this new-fangled technology can REALLY keep my clothes fresh. You know, for the LADIES!!!