Japanese electronics corporation Panasonic has developed a robotic bed which can transform into a wheelchair – and back to a bed – while occupied.

The robotic bed was designed to help people with limited mobility to maintain an independent lifestyle.

Panasonic says the new concept removes the need for assisted transfers between beds and wheelchairs, along with the associated risks to care givers and recipients.

The robotic bed automatically separates and joins together as it changes between the bed and wheelchair modes.

It incorporates a posture support technology which automatically adjusts the mattress to fit the body shape of the user and helps the user turn over to prevent bedsores.

And when it is in wheelchair mode, the robot is able to detect people and obstacles in its path to help avoid collisions.

The bed also features an overhead information interface, or canopy, which enables the user to view television and check security camera footage while lying down.

The canopy’s display moves according to the user’s position and moves automatically when the robot is converted into the wheelchair mode.

Panasonic will exhibit the robotic bed at an international home care and rehabilitation exhibition in Tokyo which begins later this month.

The corporation is collaborating in a project aimed at developing robots with practical applications in daily life, led by the New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organisation.