The Perfection of the Paper Clip

The Perfection of the Paper Clip

Author: James Ward

Publisher: Atria Books

Published: 2020-04-21

Total Pages: 304

ISBN-13: 1476799873

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Change the way you look at office supplies forever with this wonderfully enlightening and quirky exploration of the fascinating backstories of everyday objects, such as the humble and perfectly designed paper clip and the utilitarian, irreplaceable pencil. How many of humanity’s brightest ideas started out on a scrap of paper or in the margins of a notebook? In a delightfully witty and fresh voice, James Ward—cofounder of the Boring Conference and collector of the arcane—explores the secret histories of deskbound supplies, from pencils to fluorescent ink, and the gleaming reams of white paper we all take for granted, encouraging a deeper appreciation and fascination for the things that surround us each day. In the spirit of The Evolution of Useful Things and A History of the World in 100 Objects, Ward transforms the mundane into remarkable stories of invention, discovery, and even awe. The Perfection of the Paper Clip is “a hugely entertaining experience for the reader…this engaging book is an absolute must” (Booklist).


Technical Innovation in American History [3 volumes]

Technical Innovation in American History [3 volumes]

Author: Rosanne Welch

Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing USA

Published: 2019-02-22

Total Pages: 1155

ISBN-13: 161069094X

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From the invention of eyeglasses to the Internet, this three-volume set examines the pivotal effects of inventions on society, providing a fascinating history of technology and innovations in the United States from the earliest European colonization to the present. Technical Innovation in American History surveys the history of technology, documenting the chronological and thematic connections between specific inventions, technological systems, individuals, and events that have contributed to the history of science and technology in the United States. Covering eras from colonial times to the present day in three chronological volumes, the entries include innovations in fields such as architecture, civil engineering, transportation, energy, mining and oil industries, chemical industries, electronics, computer and information technology, communications (television, radio, and print), agriculture and food technology, and military technology. The A–Z entries address key individuals, events, organizations, and legislation related to themes such as industry, consumer and medical technology, military technology, computer technology, and space science, among others, enabling readers to understand how specific inventions, technological systems, individuals, and events influenced the history, cultural development, and even self-identity of the United States and its people. The information also spotlights how American culture, the U.S. government, and American society have specifically influenced technological development.


Invention Analysis and Claiming

Invention Analysis and Claiming

Author: Ronald D. Slusky

Publisher: American Bar Association

Published: 2007

Total Pages: 314

ISBN-13: 9781590318188

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Invention Analysis and Claiming presents a comprehensive approach to analyzing inventions and capturing them in a sophisticated set of patent claims. A central theme is the importance of using the problem-solution paradigm to identify the "inventive concept" before the claim-drafting begins. The book's teachings are grounded in "old school" principles of patent practice that, before now, have been learned only on the job from supervisors and mentors.


Cut and Fold Paper Spaceships That Fly

Cut and Fold Paper Spaceships That Fly

Author: Michael Grater

Publisher: Courier Corporation

Published: 1981-03-01

Total Pages: 77

ISBN-13: 0486239780

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These colorful, easily assembled spaceships require neither rocket fuel nor dilithium crystals ? just scissors, tape, and paper clips. Best of all, they really fly! Simple instructions and diagrams with numbered folds assure aerodynamic perfection. Sixteen futuristic models include the Star Shuttle, Lunar Freighter, and Orbital Zoom Glider. 16 color illustrations.


The Evolution of Useful Things

The Evolution of Useful Things

Author: Henry Petroski

Publisher: Vintage

Published: 2010-12-01

Total Pages: 306

ISBN-13: 0307773051

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How did the table fork acquire a fourth tine? What advantage does the Phillips-head screw have over its single-grooved predecessor? Why does the paper clip look the way it does? What makes Scotch tape Scotch? In this delightful book Henry, Petroski takes a microscopic look at artifacts that most of us count on but rarely contemplate, including such icons of the everyday as pins, Post-its, and fast-food "clamshell" containers. At the same time, he offers a convincing new theory of technological innovation as a response to the perceived failures of existing products—suggesting that irritation, and not necessity, is the mother of invention.