Innovative Robotic Chair Concept Aids Mobility for Disabled

At the Japan Mobility Show 2025, Toyota unveiled an innovative robotic chair concept known as the Walk Me, designed specifically for individuals with limited mobility. This prototype features four articulated legs that allow it to navigate complex environments, including climbing stairs and crossing obstacles that traditional wheelchairs cannot.

According to Live Science, the Walk Me can also assist users in accessing elevated platforms or vehicles, such as cars, by lifting them into position. The chair is engineered with a focus on supporting proper posture, and its legs are covered in a soft, colorful material to protect its internal components while providing an inviting appearance.

Each of the four legs operates independently, bending and folding to optimize maneuverability. When not in use, the legs can fold neatly beneath the chair, making it portable enough to fit into a car or luggage.

The Walk Me is equipped with advanced technology, including LiDAR systems that create detailed three-dimensional maps of the environment, allowing the chair to detect and navigate obstacles effectively.

The robotic chair mimics the movement patterns of four-legged animals, such as crabs, to enhance its climbing capabilities. When approaching stairs, the Walk Me first assesses the height with its front legs, then uses its rear legs to push upward.

Built-in collision radars help avoid contact with people or objects, and weight sensors ensure users remain stable while seated. Toyota's engineers have incorporated manual control methods, including handles attached to the seat for user guidance, a digital interface for precise control, and voice command functionality for hands-free operation.

The battery, located behind the seat, provides enough power for a full day and can be recharged overnight through a standard wall outlet. This development highlights a significant advancement in assistive robotics, aiming to enhance the quality of life for users by integrating robotics into personal mobility solutions, reflecting a growing trend in healthcare and personal assistance technologies.