February 11th is National Inventors’ Day. Civilization would never advance without the innovative, creative, and mold-breaking minds of inventors. There have been some truly incredible inventions throughout history, and it’s difficult to imagine life without many of them. Those who work in manufacturing get to marvel at automation technology on a daily basis, but everyone makes use of someone’s invention every day. From the subtle, world-changing inventions like the wheel, to the computers that we carry in our pockets and casually hand to children to keep them occupied, our world is shaped by the product of invention.
Inventions come as a result of an unfortunate accident, and as a result of a fortunate observance. Sometimes inventions come out of sheer will and persistence. Thanks to all of the tinkerers, explorers, and keen observers who have improved the world we live in with their inventions.
Here’s a look at a few of the world’s great inventors to celebrate National Inventors’ Day!
Leonardo da Vinci (1452-1519)
Leonardo da Vinci was the epitome of the “Renaissance Man”. He was an architect, painter, sculptor, musician, engineer, mathematician, cartographer, botanist, writer, geologist, astronomer, and that’s just scratching the surface. He’s also regarded as one of the greatest inventors to have ever lived even though many of his inventions never came to fruition.
James Watt (1736 – 1819)
James Watt developed his steam engine in the same year that the United States became a nation. His engine was a catalyst in the Industrial Revolution, and his name is still used today to measure power.
Alessandro Volta (1745 – 1827)
Batteries aren’t remarkable anymore. We don’t think much of the fact that we have portable electricity, or that we can charge a battery to provide hours of power in a matter of minutes. Alessandro Volta made this possible; he’s credited with inventing the electric battery.
Thomas Edison (1847 – 1931)
Although there may be a bit of controversy surrounding Edison’s legacy today, few inventors had the business savvy and tenacity to ensure that their ideas would end up in history books. Edison brought the world the first practical light bulb, and had significant influence on modern industry.
Nicola Tesla (1856 – 1943)
Telsa has become a mythical figure over the years. This is due in part to his prophetic ideas and remarkable demonstrations with electricity. He’s best known for his work with alternating current (AC), his brooding demeanor, and an often exaggerated rivalry with Edison.
Henry Ford (1863 – 1947)
We can thank Henry Ford for the assembly line and mass production techniques that are standard in modern industry. He didn’t invent the car or the assembly line, but he did invent a new way of manufacturing.
Maintain an inventive spirit and an inquisitive mind. Don’t, however, tinker with or try to innovate when it comes to your Indramat industrial motion control system: some things are better left to the professionals. If you haven’t done so yet, be sure to save 479-422-0390 in your phone so you can get a hold of us for immediate Indramat support.