Transformer Robo-Bed from Japan
While this Transformer Bed has a noble cause, both the bed and transformed electric wheelchair would not fit in 99% of Japanese dwellings. Even if the device could fit, the wheelchair could not maneuver over the numerous doorway thresholds and changes in floor height of crappy Japanese construction.

Panasonic Develops Bed-Shaped Robot Transformable into Wheelchair;
Supports People with Limited Mobility to Lead Independent Life
Osaka, Sept 18, 2009 – (JCN Newswire) – Panasonic Corporation, a leader of electronics technology and innovation, today announced the development of a bed-shaped robot which can be transformable between a bed and a wheelchair with the user staying in bed or wheelchair. The Robotic Bed is designed to help people with limited mobility maintain an independent lifestyle, reducing the need for assistance...more…


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September 21st, 2009 at 5:45 pm
I agree with you on that, Taro. Narrow doorways and hallways. Narrow and steep staircases. Genkans. No way. I would guess some people who have relatives in wheelchairs have to remodel their houses or just have a very uncomofortable lifestyle.
Oh, and I forgot to mention low doorways that my head seems to catch every now and then.
September 21st, 2009 at 5:50 pm
Remodeling of a mega-crappy Japanese dwelling for a wheelchair is rather hopeless.
Most Japanese just put granny in the largest ground floor room and bring everything to her.
October 12th, 2009 at 6:51 pm
Berry cute, neh :-)))),