During an expo in Shanghai focused on areas like elderly care and assistive devices, Yueban unveiled an autonomous new smart toilet.

The self-driving Xiaoban device has been created to help people with mobility issues due to injuries, disabilities or age.

According to IT Home, it's not yet known if it will be made available outside China, but it is expected to sell for ¥28,999 yuan, which is around £3,200.

The technology is similar to advanced robot vacuums, using sensors to plan safe routes through someone's home or facility, while the toilet will be able to avoid obstacles and stairs.

The device comes with a built-in bidet and a warm air drying system, while the bowl self-cleans with waste sealed in an enclosed space.

It also comes with ultraviolet lights to kill bacteria, making it less intrusive or odorous around the home.

When the user has finished on the toilet, if the charging dock is connected to the home's plumbing, the device will take itself there to refill, empty waste, and recharge.

If there isn't any drainage, the Xiaoban knows to stop at a bathroom where waste can be pumped into a regular toilet and flushed away.