In an unusual move, Hisense has decided to release sixty-six of its patents for washing machines openly to the world so that anyone can use them.
The patents cover areas such as zoned laundry care, high-efficiency drying, and modular design.
These multi-zone machines are more of a “thing” in Asian markets than they are in Europe due to wash habits. In many Asian countries, people want to wash smalls (underwear, etc) separately from most normal clothing whereas in Europe and other Western countries this tends not to be a thing that people will generally ask for or do.
As an industry-first technological open-source initiative, Hisense hopes that the move will reshape the landscape of the global laundry industry by fostering a “technology sharing ecosystem,”.
In 2024, Hisense washing machines achieved global shipments of over 6.26 million units, ranking among the top three Chinese brands in export volume and recording the fastest growth in the industry. Sold in more than 140 countries, the brand holds top-three market shares in multiple regions,
In Europe, Hisense has achieved the feat of “five European households choosing Hisense every minute.” Hisense has also been awarded certification by Which? and has been listed in the UK’s “Best Buy” ranking, making it a top choice for consumers.
Hisense’s open-source patent system is eight years worth of technological research: launching the world’s first triple-drum washing machine “Master” series in 2017, enabling classified garment care through independent washing drum; in 2019, pioneering the design of integrating the upper two small drums with a unified outer drum, which optimized space layout, increased washing capacity, and significantly reduced operational vibration noise. The latest “Marshmallow Ultra Family Tub” series this year is equipped with Hisense’s self-developed Zeus Integrated Heat Pump Drying System, becoming the world’s first 4 in 1 Heat Pump washer-dryer supporting independent washing and drying for three drums. Its split modular design adapts to various installation scenarios such as stacking, separation, and embedding, integrating home aesthetics with functionality through perfectly flush-fitted technology and seamless design.
The purpose of patent open-sourcing is to shift the industry from technological barriers to ecosystem collaboration. As the Global Head of Hisense Washing Machines stated, technological innovation in the home appliance industry should not be a solo show by a single brand. If the entire industry participates in the innovation of triple-drum or even multi-drum washing machine technology, it will rapidly drive high-quality development across the sector, enabling more users to experience how zoned washing machines can transform their lives with greater refinement, health, convenience, and efficiency.
Hisense triple-drum washing machine will make its debut at this year’s IFA exhibition.
