Hey Explorers!
The inventor of cruise control, Ralph Teetor, was blind and never drove a car himself.DID YOU KNOW?
We all know how important and convenient cruise control is for long drives. It not only makes long-distance driving more comfortable but also improves fuel efficiency. Ralph Teetor's innovation came from his frustration with his driver’s inconsistent speeds, which inspired him to create the technology that allows for smooth and steady driving.
In case you're not familiar with the technology, cruise control allows drivers to maintain a steady speed without constantly pressing the accelerator. The system is a servomechanism that takes over the car's throttle to maintain a steady speed set by the driver.What is Cruise Control?
More Information:
- Ralph Teetor, born in 1890, lost his sight at the age of five due to a tragic accident.
- Teetor's sharp mind and keen sense of problem-solving led him to pursue mechanical engineering. He graduated from the University of Pennsylvania and went on to become a successful inventor and engineer.
- The idea for cruise control reportedly came to Teetor during car rides with his lawyer.
- He was frustrated by the inconsistency in the lawyer’s driving—speeding up and then slowing down.
- He began working on a device that would keep cars moving at a constant speed, regardless of how much pressure was applied to the accelerator.
- In 1945, Teetor patented his invention, which he originally called the "Speedostat."
- Cruise control was first offered commercially in 1958 by Chrysler under the name "Auto-Pilot," and by the 1960s, it became a popular feature in many American cars.
Thanks for taking the precious time to engage in this thread.
Signing Off
