Khaberni - During a recent exhibition in Shanghai, focusing on elderly care, assistive devices, and rehabilitation medicine, a Chinese company called "Yueban" unveiled a smart toilet that offers a unique feature; it comes to you.
The self-driving "Xiaoban" toilet is designed to improve accessibility for people who have mobility issues due to age, injuries, or disabilities.
It is expected to be sold for 28,999 Chinese yuan in China, equivalent to approximately 4,300 US dollars, but its global availability has not yet been confirmed, according to a report by "The Verge" technology news site, which was reviewed by "Al Arabiya Business".
The "Xiaoban" toilet relies on technology similar to that used in the most advanced robotic vacuums, utilizing a variety of sensors, including LiDAR and ultrasonic technology, to autonomously plan safe paths within the home or care facilities, avoiding obstacles and stairs when summoned via remote control or voice commands.
Users may still need assistance sitting on the toilet, but it spares them the trouble of having to go to the bathroom.
According to video clips showing the toilet in action, it appears to be capable of handling most other tasks.
Instead of using toilet paper, the toilet features a built-in bidet and a warm air drying system to clean the user, as well as a self-cleaning system for the toilet bowl and waste disposal in a sealed container.
Ultraviolet light is used to kill bacteria, helping to reduce odors and perhaps lessen the embarrassment associated with using the toilet outside the bathroom.
After use, the toilet heads to one of two locations. If the charging base is connected to plumbing and sewage systems, then "Xiaoban" first goes there to recharge, refill its tanks, and dispose of waste.
If the base is not connected to the drainage, it first heads to the bathroom where it uses an extended arm to pump waste into a conventional toilet for disposal.
