Name/Title
Lewis H. Latimer’s Incandescent Carbon Apparatus Patent DrawingDescription
This is an original technical drawing by Lewis H. Latimer, illustrating an apparatus for baking carbon rods for the filaments of electric lamps, a crucial component of electric light bulbs. The drawing contains multiple detailed technical schematics depicting the process of creating carbonized filaments, a key innovation that improved the longevity and efficiency of incandescent bulbs. The lower right section bears Latimer’s signature, marking him as the inventor.Context
Lewis H. Latimer, an African American inventor and engineer, worked on improving the incandescent light bulb. The challenge of improving the manufacture of durable, efficient lightbulb filaments engaged Latimer’s mind from all angles. In this unpatented design, he presented a system for baking carbon filaments, using gasoline and an air pump for fueling and possibly cooling the device.Collection
The Lewis H. Latimer Papers (1870-1929, 1972) [QPL Subgroup], Latimer Family Papers (1870-1996 ) [QPL Full Collection]Inscription/Signature/Marks
Transcription
Title or Notes: Incandescent Carbon Apparatus
Witnesses: (Partially visible, mentions “Incandescent Carbon” and "Apparatus")
Inventor Signature: L. H. Latimer