Second Rig
The Innovation Voucher with C-Tech Innovation proved that non-rotational washing of clothes was not only feasible, but effective.
This was used for a further UK Government R&D Grant Application, this time for a total value of £160k.
It targeted the washer towards wheelchair users, people with limited mobility, and those in the supported living sector, about 20% of the population.
Brompton Washscape would continue to work with C-Tech Innovation, and this partnership reflected their involvement in our product lifecycle development strategy.
Following the excellent initial efforts with Echo Brand Design, it was logical to expand their role on the design and functionality.
Technology
The majority of the parts used on this Rig were off-the-shelf items, to allow flexibility during the development phase, minimising the number of custom items.
The control system chosen to integrate the components was a programmable Simatic system from Siemens.
The C-Tech Engineers and Technicians had a wealth of experience with their usage and methodology, reducing risk and development time.
The use of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) allowed Engineers to analyse the airflows and temperature gradients within the drying cabinet.
Airflow management is crucial for the efficient and effective drying of clothes and the CFD analysis allowed for the iterative optimisation of airflow conditions.
The most effective drying is a result of chaotic motion from turbulent airflows within the cabinet.
Dimensions
The Rig was sized to mimic the approximate footprint of a conventional washing machine, while optimising hanger spacing.
Optimal soaking was achieved through knowledge of conventional spray heads, and their water distribution characteristics.
This was achieved through practical analysis, CFD modelling, and likely water pressure and target drying times.
We want to make a positive impact, we can't without your support and help.
People take their independence very seriously. Brompton Washscape’s washing machine gives users such as Joe, the ability to choose when and how to carry out personal care tasks without relying on a carer or their family or friends.
Having clean and smart clothes that fit is a great way of maintaining independence and identity
Exterior design
Echo Brand Design had free rein, with an open brief, to give a face to the product, and start to establish the brand through leading edge design, with access as key, using shades, tones and colours to provide visual impacts.
They produced stunning visualisations, as seen in these ‘in-room’ limations. A washing machine in a bedroom?
Wood, glass and polished metal all contributed to delineate from the conventional, Brompton Washscape had a defined image.
IPR
The washing machine US Patent was granted after nine years. This was the second Patent to be granted for the washing machine; the Japanese had been first.
Echo Brand were tasked with creating conceptual designs for new hangers, based on agreed principles and dimensions, all truly original.
A number of these were considered worthy of IPR protection, including the ‘Pedal’ hanger. This prompted further Patent Applications for these concepts.
Testing
The Unilever Standardised Test Procedures were continued to be used when the Second Rig was commissioned and operational.
This ensured continuity of internal testing and benchmarking against external independent testing.
The prescribed stains and locations were repeated for many scenarios, with variations in cycle durations, water temperatures, and quantities of anti-microbial cleansers.
The Unilever Standardised Test Procedures were continued to be used when the Second Rig was commissioned and operational.
This ensured continuity of internal testing and benchmarking against external independent testing.
The prescribed stains and locations were repeated for many scenarios, with variations in cycle durations, water temperatures, and quantities of anti-microbial cleansers.
How your pledge could impact our research:
Any contribution, big or small, is greatly appreciated however if you cannot contribute today please consider sharing our campaign so that we can bring a washscape revolution to market and give back independence to wheelchair and limited mobility users such as Joe.
