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Innovation hiding in plain sight
We often take the functionality of everyday items for granted, but many seemingly ordinary products have surprising patents behind them. Here are few examples that showcase the ingenuity hidden in plain sight:
The Velcro Closure: This ubiquitous fastener, invented by a Swiss engineer in 1941 after noticing how burrs attached themselves to his dog's fur, holds a surprising patent. The simple yet effective design of interlocking hooks and loops continues to be a staple in clothing, shoes, and countless other applications.
The Breathable Umbrella: Imagine an umbrella that does not turn inside out in a strong gust of wind. The breathable umbrella, with a vented canopy design allowing wind to pass through, is covered by patents. This seemingly minor innovation improves the functionality of a common household item, showcasing how patents can lead to practical solutions for everyday problems.
The Self-Cleaning Oven: Gone are the days of scrubbing greasy ovens. Modern self-cleaning ovens, with a special coating that breaks down food residue at high temperatures, are a marvel of convenience. This technology, patented in the 1960s, exemplifies how patents can lead to products that improve our daily lives.
The Touchscreen: While touchscreens seem commonplace today, the technology behind them is a result of decades of innovation. The first touchscreen patent was filed in the 1960s, and the technology has since revolutionized how we interact with devices, from smartphones to ATMs. This patent serves as a reminder of the continuous advancements leading to the user-friendly interfaces we enjoy today.

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