Japan is big on robots, and this time round we have the robotic arm known as Rapuda. When mounted onto a wheelchair, it will go out of its way to help the disabled manage certain tasks that they would normally require the help of other people. Thanks to the Intelligent Systems Research Institute [JP] at Japan’s National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), Rapuda allows those with upper limp disabilities to use a joystick to move a glass of water to the mouth, or even pick up after themselves as the robotic arm will reach onto the floor, placing objects on the table instead. Will it be made affordable for the masses? Only time will tell.