Washing Machines
| Tools: | Wrenches |
|---|---|
| Parts: | Frames, Nuts, Bolts, Plates, End caps, Barrels, Bicycle bottom brackets |
| Techniques: | Shelf joints, Tri joints |
Introduction
A washing machine (laundry machine, clothes washer, or washer) is a home appliance used to wash laundry. The term is mostly applied to machines that use water as opposed to dry cleaning (which uses alternative cleaning fluids and is performed by specialist businesses) or ultrasonic cleaners. The user adds laundry detergent, which is sold in liquid or powder form, to the wash water.
Challenges
Many people worldwide wash clothes manually, but the detergents are chemically harmful, and the repetitive motion of scrubbing is straining to the muscles and joints.
Approaches
Build a washing machine based on this inexpensive and durable design for use in rural areas. Use only Replimat components wherever possible. Gently wash clothes using pedal or solar electric power.
Cycle
- first fill
- second fill
- detergent release
- wash
- rinse / sanitize
- spin
Prototype
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Washer gear assembly
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Washer front
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Washer inside
Bottom bracket
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Bicycle bottom bracket adapter CAD
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Bicycle bottom bracket adapter left side
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Bicycle bottom bracket adapter right side
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Cranks installed
Development targets
References
File:The Pedal-Powered Washing Machine - Jenny Hu, Radu Raduta, Jessica Vechakul, Allen Armstrong.pdf
File:Unequal Loads - The Gender Division of Laundry - Claire Kovach.pdf
