dekuNukem/bob_cassette_rewinder
FreeRenew and Refill Bob Cassettes for 98% Cost Saving!
FreeFree tier
About dekuNukem/bob_cassette_rewinder
Bob Cassette Rewinder is an open-source hardware and software project that reverse-engineers the DRM on Bob dishwasher detergent cassettes, enabling users to refill them at 98% cost savings (approximately 1/60th of the original cost). The project includes a custom PCB, firmware, PC application, and instructions for building a rewinder device. It supports both Pop Cassettes (washing detergent + rinse aid, 30 washes) and Rock'n'roll Cassettes (deep clean/limescale remover, 1 wash). The goal is to eliminate the recurring expense and dependency on proprietary cartridges, avoiding the subscription model that Daan Tech employs.
Key Features
Refills Bob Pop Cassettes (detergent + rinse aid, 30 washes) and Rock'n'roll Cassettes (deep clean, 1 wash)
Custom-designed PCB and firmware for the rewinder device
PC application for controlling and managing the rewinder
Open-source hardware and software (GitHub repository)
Estimated 98% cost savings vs. buying new cassettes (1/60th of the cost)
Includes bin dumps, firmware history, and user manual for DIY assembly
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Dramatic cost savings: reduces per-wash cost from ~67c to ~1c
- Fully open-source: hardware, firmware, and software are freely available
- Extensive documentation: includes user manual, firmware history, and technical details
- Active community support via official Discord server
- Customizable: users can modify the design to suit their needs
Cons
- Requires technical skills to build the rewinder (soldering, 3D printing, programming)
- May void the dishwasher warranty
- Not a commercial product; no official support or pre-built units
- Only works with Bob dishwasher cassettes; limited applicability
Best For
Reducing ongoing costs for Bob dishwasher users by refilling instead of buying new cassettesAvoiding vendor lock-in and subscription DRM for home appliancesDIY project for electronics enthusiasts interested in hardware hacking and reverse engineeringSustainable reuse of plastic cartridges to reduce waste
FAQ
How much money can I save by using Bob Cassette Rewinder?
The project claims up to 98% cost savings, reducing the per-wash cost from approximately 67 cents (for new cassettes) to about 1 cent (for refilling).
Does this project work with all Bob cassettes?
It supports both Pop Cassettes (washing detergent and rinse aid, lasts 30 washes) and Rock'n'roll Cassettes (cleaning agent and limescale remover, lasts 1 wash).
Is the Bob Cassette Rewinder a pre-built product?
No, it is an open-source DIY project. Users must source components (PCB, 3D printed parts, etc.) and assemble the rewinder themselves.