Toss: A Multifunctional Laundry System for Independent Living

Revolutionizing Laundry for the Elderly

Introducing Toss, a two-in-one washer and dryer integrated into a storage unit for clothing. Designed by the Toss Design Team, this innovative product aims to make doing laundry a simpler and more convenient process, particularly for the elderly.

What sets Toss apart from other laundry systems is its multifunctionality. By combining a washer, dryer, and storage unit with a closet, drawers, and shelves, Toss eliminates the need for separate appliances and furniture. This integration allows for a seamless laundry experience, all within the confines of a bedroom.

The Toss laundry system boasts a sleek and modern design. The laundry machine interface features an OLED touch screen on frosted glass, providing a transparent display when not in use. The exterior of the storage unit is made of wood, complemented by an ABS plastic countertop.

With dimensions of 2235mm in width, 762mm in depth, and 1829mm in height, Toss is designed to fit comfortably in small living spaces without compromising functionality.

The user experience was a key consideration in the design of Toss. The two-in-one washer and dryer features a simple and intuitive user interface, with large touchscreen buttons and high contrast for optimum visibility. Placing the washer/dryer at counter height allows for easy access to clothing in the back of the machine, eliminating the need to bend or reach.

Additionally, Toss incorporates innovative mechanisms to enhance accessibility. The top shelf utilizes a spring-loaded track, allowing it to be pulled down for easy access. The bottom drawers utilize an appliance lift, bringing them up to counter level for effortless retrieval.

Toss was the result of extensive research and collaboration. The Toss Design Team conducted interviews and observations with elderly individuals to understand their needs and challenges in the laundry process. Feedback from the interviewees informed the design decisions, ensuring that the final product caters to the specific requirements of elderly individuals living independently.

One of the main challenges faced during the design process was accommodating users with limited range of motion while maximizing the use of available space. The Toss Design Team overcame this obstacle by incorporating mechanisms that allow the user to bring shelves and drawers to a more accessible height.

Designed as a student group project, the development of Toss took place from October 2016 to December 2016. The dedication and commitment of the Toss Design Team resulted in a practical and innovative solution for elderly individuals.

Toss has garnered recognition for its exceptional design. The product was awarded the Silver A' Design Award in the Home Appliances Design category in 2016. This prestigious accolade is a testament to Toss's outstanding expertise, innovation, and remarkable level of excellence.

With Toss, doing laundry becomes a hassle-free and safe experience for the elderly. This multifunctional laundry system not only simplifies the process but also provides a stylish and integrated storage solution for clothing. Toss is a game-changer in the world of laundry appliances, catering to the unique needs of elderly individuals living independently.