This manual washing machine has a unique design that addresses a particular use case: helping refugees in humanitarian camps or those in most need.
The machine needs to be simple, robust and easy to repair. The capacity needs to be large enough for a whole family. This is different to the compact, flimsy plastic manual washing machines for small loads or for camping which are designed for occasional use.
The inventor, Navjot Sawhney, studied engineering at university i.e. a real engineer, not a 'software engineer'. I'm sure he's well aware of the physical constraints and engineering challenges in designing the machine. He actually spoke to the people who might use the washing machine to refine and update the design based on their feedback.
And the machine does address rinsing (wringing). The drum mimics a front-loading washing machine: a gentle speed for tumbling clothes as they as washed. Then a switch in gear (or crank) to mimic the spin cycle.
This whole thread is an odd mix of negative presumptions, nit-picks and tangents.
We've all seen an inventor of a 'new' hand washing machine before, it's fair to ask, why this time?
> helping refugees in humanitarian camps or those in most need.
There is no fundamental difference between humanitarian camps and the 4 billion people without a washing machine. Maybe the other billion without because of apartment size or being in a RV there is.
There is nothing about this design that couldn't have existed 100 years ago.
There are many different commercial models on Amazon or Aliexpress. Some are flimsy, some not.
Many comments identify the importance of reducing clothing washing time.
Many comment identify the article is missing an important part of the cycle, wringing clothing.
Many comments identify this is currently an unsolved problem.
What more do you want?