SELF-PARKING SLIPPERS

GUESTS AT A Japanese ‘ryokan’, or traditional inn, are amazed when all the slippers go off and line themselves up carefully, not a millimetre out of place, in their allotted places. It is actually a demonstration by Nissan of the technology at work in the company’s cars. The other self parking objects demonstrated by Nissan include floor cushions that move into their place near the dining table and office chairs that come neatly back to tuck themselves into the edge of the tables. Makes one wonder what it would be like to have everyday objects tidy themselves up some day. The objects, including the slippers, have tiny wheels (and don’t seem to slip) and sensors; while they may not be ready for mainstream use, it’s not hard to imagine them at work in the foreseeable future.

Self parking cars from top car companies such as Mercedes have already been in India for a few years now and can, even in crowded and chaotic conditions, locate an available parking spot, take permission to park and reverse themselves perfectly into place.