A four-legged autonomous chair that is capable of walking where wheels cannot has been developed by Toyota.
According to the company, the device has been developed to address everyday challenges encountered by people with reduced mobility — such as climbing stairs, moving over uneven ground or climbing into a car — by combining robotics, artificial intelligence (AI) and ergonomic design into one compact, adaptable system.
Source: Toyota
Aptly called Walk Me, the device replaces wheels with four robotic limbs that can bend, lift and adjust independently. The company noted that each leg is covered with soft outer material that hides its mechanical components and sensors, thereby presenting a friendly and safe exterior.
Inspired by how goats and crabs move across uneven terrain, the chair glides smoothly on flat surfaces while maintaining balance and adaptability on slopes, stairs and gravel paths.
As the chair climbs stairs, its front legs first test the height and pull the chair up, as the rear legs push their weight upward. Meanwhile, sensors and lidar systems continuously scan the chair's surroundings, enabling Walk Me to navigate obstacles like rug edges or toys.
Additionally, weight sensors keep the user centered before any significant movement, while collision radars will halt the chair if something crosses its path.
Further, Walk Me’s seat adjusts to the user’s shape while the curved backrest supports the user’s spine and small side handles allow for manual steering. Another feature of Walk Me is its ability to fold with a single button press.
