Autopilot

Researchers at M.I.T. are developing a voice-controlled wheelchair that also has navigation capabilities. For example, a person sitting in his or her kitchen could simply say “bedroom” and the chair would guide itself to the bedroom. G.P.S. systems could enable wheelchairs to navigate the outdoors as well (assuming they can be taught to distinguish between traffic signals). The researchers also envision installing mechanical arms on future versions of the wheelchair.

In the not-too-distant future, my chair will be able to pour me a glass of pinot noir and give me a footrub when I get home from work. I’m going to be one spoiled cripple.