Mechanical Engineering

On May 30, 1950, Opal A. Barber of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, obtained a patent an improved rooftop ventilator that used wind to help pull stale air out of buildings. Her design featured a rotating hood and a “bullet nose” that boosted suction for better airflow.

On May 25, 1926, Opal E. Kline of Glidden, Iowa, was granted a patent for a novel light reflector. The device was designed to provide high-quality illumination, feature a cost-effective construction, and have a uniquely shaped reflector capable of evenly lighting any circular area.

On June 24, 1941, Opal W. Chase of Little Rock, Arkansas, was granted a patent for a novel awning fan. The design aimed to create a device that was easy to attach and store while maintaining a simple yet effective construction.

On April 18, 1912, Rosa Chamberlin of London, UK, was granted a patent for inventing a novel air-cooling machine. Intended for use in industrial settings, the invention featured multiple pistons and cylinders to compress air and lower the external temperature.

On November 25, 1893, Sarah Anne Kingman Blundell of Chesterfield patented an innovative and low-cost economiser designed to reduce coal consumption and minimize the production of noxious smoke. Her invention focused on affordability and efficiency, offering a practical solution to industrial fuel waste and air pollution.

On March 30, 1920, Sofia Haag of Fort Sheridan, Illinois, obtained a patent for a lightweight, portable hand-loom designed to let inexperienced or bedridden users weave fabric by hand. Her system allowed the warp threads to shift and form different sheds, making it possible to create patterned weaves (e.

On October 7, 1947, Ula Lee Courson of Remerton, Georgia, patented a wind and water motor designed to harness natural energy for mechanical power. Her invention featured pivoted blades that automatically adjusted to wind or water flow, reducing resistance and eliminating the need for complex mechanisms.

On October 31, 1901, Witwe Anna Elisabetha Kunz-Marti of Biberist, Switzerland, patented a tub-mounted wringer with adjustable rollers to squeeze floor cloths, even while attached to scrub brushes. Its foldable design and guiding plates made cleaning easier and more hygienic.