Existing comment:
"He turns that head of his and these things come out as in a kaleidoscope, in various combinations, most of which are patentable."
-- Edward Dickerson, Western Union attorney, describing Thomas Edison
The Starting Point:
This library, which also served as Edison's office, was a constant resource for experimenters working on a new project. Edison understood that research was essential to innovation, so he filled the shelves with books and journals from around the world on scientific and technical topics. Here the staff could read everything written about the subject at hand, examine related patents, and learn about the latest scientific theories.
What is a Patent?
A patent gives inventors the right to exclude others, for a limited period of time, from using, making, or selling their inventions without permission. In exchange for this right, inventors are required to disclose detailed information about their inventions. To qualify for a patent, the invention must be new and useful. Patent holders can make a profit by making or selling their invention or by letting others use it for a fee. Edison held 1,093 US patents -- more than anyone else to date.
Reginald Fessenden:
Once Edison decided to make the young electrician into a chemist, Fessenden had to refresh his knowledge of chemistry. "I have had lots of chemists," Edison explained, "but none of them can get results." In 1890, Edison promoted the 24-year-old to Chief Chemist over other trained professionals. Fessenden later became an inventor himself, noted as the first person to transmit voices and music over radio waves, in 1906. |