National Inventors Hall of Fame announces 2008 inductees

Inventors' work includes LED, the solar cell, acoustics technology

Washington, D.C. (February 14, 2008)—Continuing its commitment to honor invention and innovation, the National Inventors Hall of Fame has recognized the next group of world-class inventors who will be inducted into its ranks. This year’s influential class includes inventors such as Nick Holonyak, Jr., who invented the first visible LED; Calvin Fuller, Gerald Pearson, and Daryl Chapin, who together created the first practical solar cell that converted solar energy into electrical power; and Amar Bose, whose pioneering work in acoustics technology is developed at the company that bears his name.

The 2008 group includes seven living inventors whose accomplishments have had a large impact on us through how they have improved our lives. Medical devices, cell phone use technology, an anti-fungal drug, and textile improvements are just a few of the areas where their influence can be seen.

The 2008 class of inductees:

LIVING

• Ruth Benerito: Wrinkle-free cotton

• Amar Bose: Audio technology

• Nick Holonyak, Jr.: LED (light emitting diode)

• Erna Hoover: Computerized telephone switching

• Amos Joel, Jr.: Switching concept for cellular phones

• William Murphy, Jr.: Medical devices, including blood bag, disposable medical trays

• Kenneth Richardson: Fluconazole (anti-fungal drug)
  
  

POSTHUMOUS RECOGNITION

• Robert Adler: Television remote control

• John Charnley: Hip replacement surgery

• Willem Einthoven: Electrocardiograph

• Calvin Fuller, Gerald Pearson, Daryl Chapin: Silicon Solar Cell

• Clarence “Kelly” Johnson: Aircraft

• Ray McIntire: Styrofoam® brand foam

• Malcom McLean: Containerized shipping

• Harold McMaster: Tempered glass

• David Pall: Filtration technology
  
  

Every year, the National Inventors Hall of Fame honors through induction the individuals whose work has changed society and improved the way we live. Their vision, hard work, and creative drive have led to powerful new tools that shape the future while celebrating invention. The 2008 class will be inducted this year on May 2nd and 3rd at the annual induction ceremonies held in Akron, Ohio.