First the dish washing robot, then an assist cart robot: It was a big day for Panasonic’s robot division. This cart robo, a one-seater, is specifically designed for use in hospitals and nursing homes where it’s supposed to move medical equipment and things like wheelchairs.

Panasonic claims the robo vehicle will even help staff move around hospital beds, as it can carry equipment weighing 200kg. Japan has the oldest society in the world (over 20% of the population are older than 65), and the company said it plans to invest more resources into the health and welfare robot sector in the next years.

The assist cart robo for hospitals is to be commercialized as early as spring next year. Panasonic plans to sell a version for use in other places for about $1,000 in or after 2012.

Via Kaden Watch [JP]