Creative Commons
Celebrity Invention: Mark Twain's Elastic-Clasp Brassiere Strap
Not only did this Atlantic contributor and Huck Finn author write some of the most enduring prose of his time, but he was also an inventor
Advertisement
Creative Commons
Not only did this Atlantic contributor and Huck Finn author write some of the most enduring prose of his time, but he was also an inventor
Wikimedia Commons
The Ukrainian-born comedian's act fell apart when U.S.-Soviet relations improved, but he'll always have a patent for writing in the shower
Todd English
The charismatic cook has created an improvement on your standard rotisserie, with skewers that rotate in more ways than one
Wikimedia Commons
The patent application contains 13 drawings showcasing the watch from all sides even though it looks the same from every angle
Avon Books
The famous model and ubiquitous romance novel cover hunk tried to patent his hotness in a bottle
Wikimedia Commons
We've all struggled with blinds, but when crooner Bing Crosby couldn't take it anymore, he invented a holder for window sashes
Wikimedia Commons
Beyond clothing, the man once known as Ralph Lifshitz also designs, bedding, towels, cologne and, apparently, furniture
Google Patent
The jocular host of a popular science television show developed a shoe that's built to better support dancers than previous designs
Wikimedia Commons
Known for his theory of relativity, this scientist was also a fashionista, patenting a suit jacket that adjusts with your weight
Google Patents
The starchitect's inspired buildings deserve to be filled with inspired furniture, so he designed (and patented) some himself
YouTube
American Idol's sweetest judge is really a dancer at heart, which is why she invented this apparatus to help her work the stage
Google Patents
When he isn't busy smashing melons, the mallet-wielding comedian must spend his days gambling or playing video games
Interscope
Perhaps playing an educator who teaches a school of kids to read the sheets inspired Mr. Holland's music-related invention
Google Patent
Jim Henson created two twin dolls, happy Wilkins and cranky Wontkins, made from fabric-wrapped foam rubber
Wikimedia Commons
The architect behind Pennsylvania's iconic Fallingwater patented some new techniques necessary to bring his buildings to life
Google Patents
Jacobs designs couture garments and runway-ready looks, but also expensive rings for carrying around your loose ice
Google Patents
It makes sense that the variety show host would patent an accordian-themed design--he started his career as a musician
Google Patents
The former president designed and developed a buoy add-on for a boat so that it doesn't get stuck in shallow waters
Aspen Productions/MASH
The man who gained fame as Radar on the hit show M*A*S*H also invented this handy bathroom device
Google Patent
The lead guitarist of one of the most celebrated heavy metal rock groups from the '70s designed a new way to play
« Previous More Stories »
James Fallows on Jerry Brown's second chance. Plus: the mystery of the second skeleton, how gay couples are getting marriage right, the end of the retail salesperson, and more.
