Toyota Unveils Walk Me Robotic Chair for Enhanced Mobility
- tech360.tv
- 1 hour ago
- 3 min read
Toyota introduced Walk Me, a four-legged robotic chair, at the Japan Mobility Show. The grey seat with lime green robolimbs can kneel, climb stairs, and fold into a compact size. This innovative design addresses common mobility challenges.
The chair's legs function as soft-skinned tentacles, each loaded with motors and sensors. These limbs move independently, allowing for stable navigation. One leg raises while another establishes a foothold, and a third bends to determine the next movement.
On flat surfaces, the chair glides easily in a four-step pace. For stairs, the front legs climb first, testing the height before the entire unit ascends. The back legs then push the chair's weight, mimicking the movement of goats on rocks.
The Walk Me chair adapts its shape to fit the user, featuring a curved backrest that supports the spine. Small handles on the side arms allow users to twist left or right for manual steering. Alternatively, voice commands or a button press can map a course, such as to the "kitchen."
The system incorporates camera and LiDAR sensors to scan rooms for obstructions. It redirects if objects like a rug edge or a stray toy are in the path. For traditional Japanese tatami mats, the legs can squat, lowering the seat close to the floor.
The chair also assists with car entry by lifting itself on tiptoes and aligning with the door. It then tilts the user forward, allowing for a seamless transfer into the footwell without assistance or a transfer board.
To fold the chair, a button press initiates a 30-second process where the legs telescope inward, the knees bend, and the ankles tuck under. This transforms it into a carry-on size suitable for a car boot or storage beside a sofa. Tapping the button again causes the legs to snap back out, lock into place, and perform a brief balance check.
A small battery, concealed behind the seat, provides power for a full day of activities, though specific figures were not disclosed. The chair can be charged by plugging it into a wall overnight. Sensors continuously monitor all joints, and if a motor overheats, the chair will shut down and send a text notification to the user.
Weight sensors ensure the user is centred before any major movement. Collision radars stop the chair if a child runs in front of it. The legs are covered with velvety material that cushions bumps and protects the moving parts. If the chair tips, the base widens and the seat tilts back to maintain the user's centre of gravity over their feet.
Controls are straightforward, offering handles for manual users and voice commands for others. Saying "slow" shortens the stride into a shuffle, while "faster" lengthens the legs for a quick march. A small screen on the armrest displays battery life, distance travelled, and a cartoon map of the house.
Toyota designed Walk Me to overcome daily challenges faced by traditional wheelchairs, such as steps, gravel paths, and small elevators. In Japan, where residences often feature high floors and sunken genkan entrances, the chair can drop or climb on demand. In denser urban areas, it can thread through narrow entrances before unfolding in a hallway.
Toyota's Walk Me is a four-legged robotic chair designed for enhanced mobility.
It can kneel, climb stairs, adapt to various terrains, and assist with car transfers.
The chair features independent leg movement, user-friendly controls, and advanced sensors for navigation and safety.
Source: TECHEBLOG