As engineers, we love learning about the world around us and drawing inspiration from other people and inventions throughout history. And, we love sharing our favorite stories with you! Who knows? Maybe they’ll help spark your next big idea too.
In the early 19th century, the invention of the seismograph, a device that records ground movements caused by seismic waves, marked a pivotal moment in earthquake detection. However, the idea for the instrument was not all that new.
Chances are, if you look in that drawer in your kitchen (you know, the “junk” one), there’s a good chance you’ll find a tube of super glue. While it has become an extremely valuable tool for a variety of uses, this seemingly magical adhesive was actually discovered by accident during
Daily, we encounter automatic doors almost everywhere we go – from supermarkets to office buildings, airports, and even our favorite coffee shops. They have become integral to modern architecture, making our lives more convenient and efficient. But have you ever wondered about the origins of this remarkable invention? (Hint: The
Have you ever used the expression “going to the John” and wondered who John is and why his name is synonymous with toilets?? Well, the man in question is, in fact, Sir John Harington – the inventor who created flush toilets nearly 500 years ago! The invention of toilets that
Since their discovery in 1895, X-rays have revolutionized medicine and significantly contributed to various industries. Wilhelm Conrad Roentgen, a German physicist, accidentally stumbled upon X-rays one day while conducting experiments with cathode rays, which opened up a new world of possibilities for imaging and diagnosing medical conditions. X-rays, also known
Since their introduction in 1980, Post-it® Notes have become indispensable for communication, collaboration, and creativity. But did you know they resulted from a “failure” and the ingenuity of one scientist combined with the innovation and persistence of another? Post-it® Notes, those small sticky pieces of paper now ubiquitous in offices
While vending machines are sometimes seen as an example of modern conveniences and consumerism, they are not recent inventions. The very first iteration was designed over TWO THOUSAND years ago! Vending machines have become a common fixture outside stores, schools, office buildings, and many other places, dispensing everything from snacks
Quick! What’s the first brand name that comes to mind when you think of ketchup? If you said anything other than Heinz, we’d be surprised. Heinz has been a beloved condiment brand for over 150 years, largely thanks to its continuous innovative use of efficient energy sources. Heinz is a
What do you get when you put a motor on a bicycle? Well, a motorcycle, of course! Today, these vehicles are commonly used as a recreational form of transportation, but did you know they were invented in 1885 – one whole year before the automobile? The invention of motorcycles was a
Naval officer, teacher, and one of the most celebrated computer scientists in United States history, Grace Hopper, invented groundbreaking technologies that forever changed how we interact with computers and process information. Grace Hopper was an American computer scientist and United States Navy officer who revolutionized computer technology with her ground-breaking
Did you know that the world’s largest drum is nearly 20 feet tall and weighs over 15,000 pounds?! At CPS, we love learning about impressive feats of human ingenuity and sharing what we know with you! Read on to find out more about this incredible Korean instrument and other record-setting
What do you think it takes to build an island? How about one that is very specifically shaped like a tree? The engineers behind Palm Island in Dubai had to take a lot of things into consideration while constructing the incredible vacation spot. Off the coast of Dubai, you will
WARNING: Reading this article may incite a ravenous craving for potato chips. Viewer discretion is advised. The crunchy, salty, irresistible snack that you know and love was first created nearly two centuries ago. Potato chips are said to have originated from an interaction between a picky restaurant patron and an
If you’ve got a memory foam mattress you love dearly, you’ve got NASA to thank for that. Temper foam, cochlear implants, and portable computers are just a few of NASA’s incredible inventions that were used for space exploration long before they became everyday items in society. It’s no secret that
Did you know that “The Most Beautiful Woman in Film” was also responsible for the ideas behind what we now know as WiFi, GPS, and Bluetooth technology? Here are some insights into the incredible mind and talent of Hedy Lamarr. It is hard to find a better example of “Beauty
It’s a bird! It’s a plane! It’s… an ornithopter! Leonardo da Vinci was one of the world’s most imaginative inventors, and many of his most creative creations inspired some of the machines we use today. Here are seven of da Vinci’s most fascinating inventions. Leonardo da Vinci was an artist,
Today, lithium-ion batteries are one of the most common sources of power for everyday devices from cell phones to cars. As these products continue to improve, so does the need for a more efficient energy source. The up-and-coming technology of Solid-State Batteries may just be the solution. As technology develops
Utilizing the abilities of additive manufacturing (AKA 3D printing) with metal powders is unlocking the ability to build new parts and tools for aerospace, automotive, communications, and medicine that were previously not feasible. However, we must also consider and address the serious safety and handling implications. Working with new technologies
Simple. Squishable. Moldable. Silly Putty has been a popular children’s toy for over 80 years. But did you know it wasn’t created for kids? Silly Putty’s origin story begins with an accidental discovery during the rubber shortage during World War II. During WWII, many of the countries that produced rubber
Inventor and businesswoman Martha Coston knew how to draw attention to herself… By using a Coston flare. This essential tool for signaling at sea can be credited to the hard work of one incredibly dedicated mother. Martha Coston did not let being a young, widowed, single mother in the mid-nineteenth