Electrolux Design Lab 2010 Finalist: Lichen Guo

Published 2010-08-24 in Design Lab 2010 Competition

Lichen Guo, a Chinese industrial design student submitted the ‘Dismount Washer’ for consideration in this year’s Electrolux Design Lab. Having been picked as one of the final eight entries, we take a further look at the concept and get Lichen’s thoughts on design.

Background:
Lichen Guo identifies the conventional washing machine as an unnecessary occupier of space. The Dismount Washer addresses this by combining the cleaning vessel and laundry basket in one. The dirty laundry capsule is placed on a wall mountable motor (or ‘energy stick’) which takes up very little space. The energy stick also dispenses steam to aid the cleansing process.

What was the inspiration for your concept?
My inspiration is from the school public laundry ! And the form of my concept was inspired  IRON MAN. In my school some students are not willing to wash their clothing in the public laundry. Because it maybe not healthy and clean!  The washers waste a lot of space when not working as well!

How does your concept fit into the theme of compact living?
It redefines the conventional washing machine. Consumer can take off the washing vessel from the wall mounted “Energy Stick” when washing is done. After that they can use the vessel as a laundry basket or a clothing storage. It use the space very efficiency.

Why would someone want to own your concept (what are its mainbenefits)?
It is cheap, clean and offers space efficiency! My washer is designed with two parts – the “Washing Box” vessel of the washer, it’s  dismountable and individual,  and “Energy Stick” – the public power for all the “Washing Boxes” it contains the electronic parts required by washer as well. It is mounted on the wall in the public laundry and takes up very little space. Because every “Washing Box” is fit for each “Energy Stick” ,so consumer can just buy a cheap ”Washing Box” and  use “Energy Stick” as the power. And it will be very clean, because we will share the energy!

Describe the consumer research behind your concept?
A shrinking living space in the future will force people to live together (like a school dormitory). So people have to share some big appliances (like a washing machine) to ensure more living space. But shariong a conventional washer may cause serious health issues, and some people would not appreciate mixing their clothes with others nor wish to use a public washing machine.

What kind of materials would you use to build your concept?
I am not real sure about this but something recyclable and environmental.

Who is your favourite designer?
Jonathan Lve.

What are your career goals?
My goals is to own my design company in the future!