Strong, consistent IP protections throughout U.S. history enabled the creation of innovative and useful technologies that we use regularly today. From cooking to climate control, every aspect of our lives has benefited greatly from IP, as shown by these historical examples from the month of January:
- 1950: On January 24, Percy Spencer received a patent for the microwave oven. Today, nine in 10 U.S. households own a microwave. More than 80 million microwaves are sold each year, and the global market for them is estimated at over $12 billion.
- 1906: On January 2, Willis Carrier received a patent for the first air conditioner. Thanks to Carrier’s innovation, nearly 90% of U.S. households have air conditioning today. Meanwhile, Carrier’s company remains a global leader in air conditioning services and employs over 50,000 people across more than 160 countries.
- 1895: On January 29, Charles Steinmetz received a patent for an electrical system using alternating current. This allowed for more efficient energy transmission, and today, virtually all homes and other buildings are wired to use alternating current. Widespread use of electricity in buildings also helps save money, create jobs, and reduce pollution.