Invention: A Human Endeavor
The Spark of Innovation
What drives an individual to create something new and groundbreaking? For many inventors, it’s a combination of curiosity and an unwavering determination to improve upon existing solutions. The Jerome and Dorothy Lemelson Center for the Study of Invention and Innovation aims to explore this fascinating process and celebrate the stories of those who have made significant contributions to our world through their inventions.
Invention at Play: Inspiring Young Minds
The Lemelson Center’s “Invention at Play” exhibition is a testament to the belief that innovation is not confined to a select few visionaries but is an inherent part of human nature. It encourages young people to embrace their creativity and learn about the history of invention. The exhibition showcases inspiring creations, such as the sailboard invented by Newman Darby, who was driven by his passion for exploring the Susquehanna River.
Nurturing Innovation
The Lemelson Center recognizes the importance of fostering innovation at all ages. It offers a variety of programs, including fellowships, symposia, and outreach initiatives, to support inventors and cultivate an environment where creativity can flourish. Its mission extends to preserving the legacy of innovation through documentation projects and collaborations with libraries, archives, and museums.
Jerome Lemelson: A Prolific Inventor
Jerome Lemelson embodied the spirit of invention. As a child, he designed an illuminated tongue depressor to assist his father, a physician. Later, his imagination was sparked by a demonstration of automated machinery, leading him to envision a future where robots would revolutionize manufacturing. Lemelson’s 594 patents include groundbreaking contributions to VCRs, ATMs, cordless phones, and a wide range of other technologies.
The Legacy of Innovation
The Lemelson Center’s Innovative Lives program brings inventors to share their experiences with students, inspiring the next generation of innovators. It also recognizes the importance of preserving the stories and artifacts of invention. The center’s comprehensive collection of papers, drawings, and notebooks documents the evolution of innovation throughout history.
The Future of Invention
As the world faces new challenges, the Lemelson Center continues to play a vital role in promoting innovation. Its ongoing research and advocacy efforts aim to ensure that the United States remains a global leader in science and technology. The upcoming permanent exhibition space at the Smithsonian National Museum of American History will provide a dedicated space for visitors to explore the history and future of invention.
Conclusion
The Lemelson Center serves as a beacon of innovation, celebrating the human capacity to create and solve problems. Through its programs and initiatives, the center inspires, nurtures, and preserves the spirit of invention, ensuring that it remains an integral part of our society and a driving force for progress.