When a visitor comes within 5 meters of the machine, a sensor detects him/her, and the “eyes” on the LED panel blink to indicate its presence. The second prototype of the “Personal Bottle Washer” for the Expo was completed. Its width is 35 cm, depth is 46 cm, and height is 110 cm. The Yoshino cedar used for the side panels creates a gentle atmosphere. Although the appearance is not much different from the first prototype, the functionality has been greatly improved.

Kotani, who oversaw the design, focused on a mechanism that would not only make it stress-free to use even for first-time users, but also interesting. It attracts people with its “eyes,” making them wonder, “What is this?”. When they get closer, the LCD panel on the front is activated. It not only guides users through the processes from putting in the bottle to washing and taking it out in about 20 seconds, but also creates an enjoyable experience. There are two types of videos available: a standard type that is easy for visitors from foreign countries to understand and a character type in which “avatars” dressed as caps and bottles show comical actions and conversations. It is also designed to display the number of washes and the amount of CO₂ reduced when finished.

Meanwhile, the internal mechanical components were also significantly improved. Seiji Yoshimura of STUFF Co., Ltd., who is cooperating in product development, reviewed the design from scratch, aiming for something that could withstand the harsh conditions of outdoor, long-term use. While space was limited, they made many improvements and refined the product to a level where it could withstand rain and wind.

Many people will visit the Expo, which is a long six-month event. There are still concerns about how to handle the unprecedented summer heat. Kumagai, who has provided support as a veteran engineer, plans to closely observe the Personal Bottle Washer once the Expo starts and make adjustments as needed. Having experienced the 1970 Osaka Expo and knowing the excitement of that time, Kumagai is thrilled and looks forward to the impact of the Expo this time.

　Since 2006, Zojirushi has been promoting “Life with a Personal Bottle,” and the campaign titled “Zero Plastic Bottles” has taken root within the company. The times have also brought about a growing understanding and momentum toward the realization of a disposable-free society. Iwamoto, who is in charge of the initiative, says, “We want people to experience the convenience of having a Personal Bottle Washer close at hand early.”

The outdoor-type Personal Bottle Washer will be unveiled at the Expo. With personal bottles, we can change the future by reducing plastic waste. “This is just the beginning, but our work at the Expo will be a lasting legacy for Zojirushi,” says Iwamoto. As the company looks ahead to its next 100 years, the torch has been passed to a new generation.

After cleaning, the reduced amount of CO₂ and other information are displayed on the LCD monitor.

Mr. Kotani, Mr. Kumagai, Mr. Yoshimura, and Mr. Iwamoto in front of the Personal Bottle Washer (from left to right)