[walru]

The segway started as technology for wheelchairs (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/IBOT).

Dean Kamen was looking for a way to give those who were chair bound the ability to 'be taller' so they could reach items on shelves. It also allowed the user to go up and down stairs and even the ability to go over sand, if I recall. It seemed like it was on the path to allowing those with disabilities the ability to gain some freedom back. Sadly, and probably due to the cost of the chair, it looks like they are no longer being produced.