"We began to use industrial robots in our factories in the 1980s that have been perfected over time to be capable of working on several car models or carrying out different tasks," said Toyota chief executive Katsuaki Watanabe.

"Now we want to accelerate the development of robots that make a contribution to society, drawing on our knowledge and innovation in the field of automobiles.

"Technologies used to enrich the abilities of robots can also be used to improve the functionality of automobiles."

Watanabe said that robotics will be a core business for the Toyota in the future.

The company plans to deploy robots at hospitals and some Toyota corporate from next year.

They hope to put what they call 'partner robots' to real use by 2010.

Japan represents a huge potential market for robots, especially for applications such as caring for the elderly.

The country strictly controls immigration, causing labour shortages at a time when the the elderly are a growing section of society.

Toyota also unveiled a two-wheeled, single-seat 'mobility robot.'

This new class of device could be used to transport an elderly or disabled person over uneven ground and around obstacles.

"We want to create robots that are useful for people in everyday life," said Watanabe.