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Fiber Optics: Scientists at Corning Glass Works
Although first attempts of creating fiber optics began in 1956, it wasn't until the dynamic trio of Peter Schultz, Robert Maurer and Donald Keck, researchers at Corning Glass invented fiber from ultra-pure glass with the ability to transmit light for use in telecommunication. This invention opened a massive gateway for development and advancement in various forms of communication, medical devices/lasers for surgery, SONAR, etc. The use of fiber optics has become a major component in modern life. -
Cellular Device: Martin Cooper
Motorola engineer Martin Cooper, had been inspired by "Star Trek" to create a portable communication device like the ones he had seen on the show. With his vision and assistance from his team, a prototype was completed that Martin would demonstrate to passerby's in New York. A decade later, he commercialized the prototype and it became the first "mobile device" with the ability to communicate over Bell Labs Advanced Mobile Phone System, or AMPS. -
Universal Product Code (UPC) Barcode: George Laurer
Although the concept was birthed in 1948 and passed through many minds, it was not until 1974 and recognition of George Laurer's development of a rectangular code, that it became a reality and changed the retail industry forever. The first item successfully scanned was a pack of Wrigley's gum. This invention revolutionized the ability to track inventory and get costumers in and out of stores in significantly quicker times. -
MRI Scanner: Raymond Damadian
Raymond Damadian, a medical practitioner and physician studied chemical elements in living cells which led him to experiment with NMR technology and found tissues of a tumor and normal tissue can be distinguished with this technology. This led him to invent a machine that could safely scan the human body with accurate results. Because of his achievements, MRI machines are vastly found in medical facilities and gave us the ability to detect an array of serious medical illnesses and damage. -
"The Walkman": Nobutoshi Kihara
Sony, known for creating "miniaturized electronics" had an executive who requested the audio engineer to construct a music player that he could use to listen to songs during his travel. Kihara ended up inventing the Walkman, which was considered so efficient with high quality performance, that the company decided to unveil it to the public for purchase. It hit the shelves in 1979 first in Japan and shortly after, across the world, opening a new pathway for inventions for music.
