We never stop innovating
Imagination and the desire to invent are ageless! In a recent article we told you about the youngest inventors of the last hundred years, minds sometimes not yet in their twenties who managed to imagine and create a future that others were unable to see.
Today, however, we bring you the inventors who continued to work and create until the last moments of their lives. Passionate people who have never lost the desire to create something new and who have contributed to creating a better future for everyone.
John Goodenough and Lithium Ion Batteries
John Goodenough is perhaps the most striking example of an aging inventor. In 2019, at age 97, he won the Nobel Prize in Chemistry for his work on lithium-ion batteries. Goodenough continued to work and innovate in the field of battery technology until the end of his life, proving that a passion for science is ageless.
Alexander Fleming and Penicillin
Alexander Fleming discovered penicillin in 1928 at the age of 47, but his contribution to medicine was only recognized years later. Even into his 60s, Fleming continued to work in the field of microbiology, contributing significantly to the fight against bacterial infections.
Barbara Beskind and Devices for the Elderly
Barbara Beskind is another example of how age can be an advantage in innovation. At age 91, she was hired by IDEO to develop devices intended to improve the quality of life of seniors. Beskind brought his personal experience to the design of useful and innovative products, continuing to work actively until he was 97 years old.
Shunpei Yamazaki and LCD Technology
Shunpei Yamazaki, with more than 11,000 patents to his name, has continued to innovate in liquid crystal display (LCD) technology well into his 70s. His dedication to research and development has enabled enormous advances in the quality and efficiency of modern displays.
Steve Jobs and the iPad
Steve Jobs, although not considered old in the strict sense, introduced the iPad at the age of 55, an invention that revolutionized the portable device market. Jobs continued to be a driving force in technological innovation until his death in 2011, leaving a lasting legacy.
Elliott Handler and Mattel
Elliott Handler, co-founder of Mattel, was the inventor behind iconic toys such as Barbie and Hot Wheels. Even into his 70s, Handler continued to contribute to the design and development of new toys, keeping his creativity and innovation alive until the final years of his life.
Thomas Edison and the Mature Age
Thomas Edison is one of the most prolific inventors in history, with over 1,000 patents to his name. Even into his 70s, Edison continued to work on new inventions, focusing on projects related to sustainable energy production and improving the quality of life.
Ray Kurzweil and Artificial Intelligence
Ray Kurzweil, a pioneer in the field of artificial intelligence, has continued to innovate and publish groundbreaking work well into his 60s. Kurzweil is known for his bold predictions about the future of technology and has continued to influence the field of AI with his innovative ideas.
Nikola Tesla and His Final Years
Nikola Tesla, one of the most visionary inventors of the 20th century, continued to work on free energy and wireless transmission projects until his death at 86. Tesla has never stopped exploring new concepts and seeking solutions to improve people’s lives.
Stan Lee and Superheroes
As the last character we propose the legendary Stan Lee, although not directly linked to technology and information technology, his work has inspired the minds of engineers and physicists all over the world. Stan Lee continued to invent new characters and develop compelling stories until his death at 95. His ability to adapt to changes in the entertainment industry and remain relevant is a testament to his innovative spirit.
