Thomas A. Edison Patent Award

The Thomas A. Edison Patent Award recognizes eminent creative achievement in the form of a patented invention, which is broadly recognized as significantly enhancing some aspect of the practice of mechanical engineering. This award consists of a certificate, bronze plaque, and a $1,000 honorarium.

Nominations for this award are expected to demonstrate the significant impact of the nominee's invention to the practice of mechanical engineering or the significant impact that the invention had on at least one industrial/commercial sector. Such an impact might include: (a) creating a new business or industry, (b) substantially improving the efficiency, method of operation, or productivity of an existing machine or process, (c) dramatically reducing the size, weight, or energy requirements of an existing machine or device, (d) improving the quality of life for a definable segment, or all, of humanity, and (e) financially impacting an existing business or industry.

The nomination should focus on a single patent rather than the inventor's entire body of work.

The deadline for submission of the nomination materials is February 1. Self nominations are not permitted. To obtain a nomination form for this prestigious award, please click here; the reference form may be found by clicking here. Alternatively, please contact the CRTD (johnstonn@asme.org).

THOMAS A. EDISON PATENT AWARD RECIPIENTS

2000 Herman H. Viegas
2001 Alexander M. Gorlov
2002 Hooshang Heshmat
2003 John N. Basic, Sr.
2004 Faydor L. Litvin
2005 Ching-Pan Lee
2006 Charles A. Garris, Jr.
2007 Norman R. McCombs