Robot nurse? Toyota unveils 4 new models
Toyota unveiled some shiny new models on Tuesday - but don't look for them on the road. They're robots designed to make things easier for disabled people and their caregivers. The bots - expected to go on sale in 2013 - include the clunky-looking "Patient Transfer Assist" unit shown at left, which is designed to make it easier for disabled people to get where they need to go. Keep clicking to see more...
Maybe it doesn't look much like a robot, but Toyota says the Patient Transfer Assist "provides gentle transport similar to being carried by a person."
For people hobbled by leg paralysis, Toyota's "Independent Walk Assist" is designed to do just what its name suggests. In addition to providing support, it helps push the leg forward with each step.
The Independent Walk Assist has sensors so that the device is activated only when the user wants to take a step.
Rehabilitating following an injury or stroke can be long and arduous. But the "Walk Training Assist" is designed to make things easier. It adjusts the level of support according to the patient's own strength.
This two-wheeled robot, called the "Balance Training Assist," is designed to help people with impaired balance. It even helps motivate patients by letting them play simulated games of tennis, soccer and basketball.