Elmer Sperry: Inventor and Engineer

by Thomas P. Hughes

Book Overview

Awarded the Dexter Prize of the Society for the History of Technology

A major Amercan inventor who obtained more than 350 patents during his lifetime, Elmer Sperry contributed greatly to the momentous technological changes that occured between 1880 and 1930. Best known for the Sperry gyrocompass and automatic pilot, his inventions included arc-light systems, mining machinery, electric automobiles and streetcars, and electrochemical processess...

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0801847567
• ISBN13: 9780801847561
• Release Date: October 1993
• Publisher: Johns Hopkins University Press
• Length: 368 Pages
• Weight: 2.00 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.8" x 8.2" x 11.2"

Customer Reviews

History of one of the all time "Great American Inventors"

This is the story of Elmer Sperry, inventor and engineer, who created the company which eventually included such famous names as Sperry Gyroscope, Sperry New Holland, Sperry Vickers, Sperry Marine, Remington and Sperry Rand and the technologically advanced makers of the first commercial computer, Sperry Univac.For students interested in the historical backgrounds of some of the most influential hi tech companies of the 50s to the late 80's then this book is almost required reading.Elmer Sperry was a quiet, understated and insightful genius and inventor whose influence has been felt by all who passed through the Univac school with their eyes wide open.Regards,Martyn R Jones