New Hall Spotlights Trine Patents

(Image of graduate Dean Schmidt courtesy of Trine University)

Trine University has unveiled its Hall of Innovation. The display showcases discoveries patented by graduates of the school. Nearly 180 patent-holders are represented, including the ground fault circuit interrupter and an inflatable finger for fans at sporting events.

Others include:

• blender components
• a loop for a slot car track
• a rotary fly fishing tackle box
• the basis for cruise control in cars
• various knee and hip replacement component designs
• a surgical bracket to join deteriorating vertebrae

Innovation One Executive Director Jason Blume says "we had known for a while that there were a number of influential alumni who had patents and had invented things throughout their career. We opened up a search and started talking to people, and that’s really how it got started." Most patents are from engineering majors, some came from the business side. Graduates from as early as 1931 and as recent as 2011 are showcased. The university’s business, invention and design incubator says around 920 patents are on display and it is seeking more.

Trine says alumni wishing to be included can email innovation1@trine.edu or call Innovation One at (260) 665-4983.