| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Net Worth (2024) | $50 million to $100 million |
| Source of Wealth | Invention of the intermittent windshield wiper, royalties, legal settlements |
| Name | Robert Kearns |
| Age (as of 2024) | Would be 97 years old |
| Date of Death | February 9, 2005 |
| Occupation(s) | Inventor, engineer |
| Date of Birth | March 10, 1927 |
| Place of Birth | Gary, Indiana |
| Nationality | American |
| Notable Works | Invention of the intermittent windshield wiper, legal battle with Ford and Chrysler |
Contents
Introduction
Robert Kearns was an American inventor and engineer who is best known for inventing the intermittent windshield wiper. His invention revolutionized the automotive industry and led to a major legal battle with Ford and Chrysler, which Kearns ultimately won. Despite facing many challenges throughout his career, Kearns was able to secure several patents and make a significant impact on the world of technology. In this article, we will take a closer look at Robert Kearns' net worth in 2024 and explore how he accumulated his wealth.
Early Life and Education
Robert Kearns was born on March 10, 1927, in Gary, Indiana. He grew up in a working-class family and developed an interest in engineering at a young age. Kearns attended the University of Detroit, where he earned a degree in mechanical engineering. After graduating, he went on to pursue a master's degree in engineering from Case Western Reserve University.
The Invention of the Intermittent Windshield Wiper
In the early 1960s, Kearns was driving in the rain when he noticed that the constant motion of the windshield wipers was distracting and inefficient. This inspired him to develop the concept of the intermittent windshield wiper, which would only activate the wipers when necessary. Kearns spent several years perfecting his invention and filed a patent for the intermittent windshield wiper in 1964.
Legal Battle with Ford and Chrysler
After securing his patent, Kearns approached Ford and Chrysler to license his invention. Both companies expressed interest in the technology but ultimately decided to develop their own versions of the intermittent windshield wiper without Kearns' permission. This led to a lengthy legal battle that lasted over a decade.
In 1990, Kearns was awarded $10.2 million in damages from Ford and $18.7 million from Chrysler for patent infringement. While the legal victory was a major milestone for Kearns, the stress of the lawsuit took a toll on his health and personal life.
Accumulation of Wealth
Despite the challenges he faced, Robert Kearns was able to accumulate a significant amount of wealth throughout his career. In addition to the settlements he received from Ford and Chrysler, Kearns also earned royalties from licensing his patents to other automotive companies. He was able to leverage his success in the legal battle to secure lucrative licensing agreements and partnerships with various companies in the automotive industry.
Kearns' net worth in 2024 is estimated to be in the range of $50 million to $100 million. While he may not have reached the same level of wealth as some of the world's richest individuals, Kearns' impact on the automotive industry and his ability to defend his intellectual property rights have solidified his legacy as a successful inventor and entrepreneur.
Legacy and Impact
Robert Kearns' invention of the intermittent windshield wiper has had a lasting impact on the automotive industry. His innovative technology has become a standard feature in modern vehicles and has improved driver safety and comfort. Kearns' legal battle with Ford and Chrysler also set a precedent for protecting intellectual property rights and inspired other inventors to stand up for their creations.
In addition to his contributions to the automotive industry, Kearns' story has been immortalized in the 2008 film "Flash of Genius," which chronicles his legal battle with Ford and Chrysler. The film sheds light on the challenges faced by inventors and the importance of protecting their intellectual property.
Conclusion
Robert Kearns' net worth in 2024 is a testament to his perseverance and determination in the face of adversity. Despite facing numerous challenges throughout his career, Kearns was able to secure his place in history as the inventor of the intermittent windshield wiper and successfully defend his intellectual property rights in a landmark legal battle. His legacy serves as a reminder of the importance of innovation and the value of protecting one's creations. As we look to the future, it is clear that Robert Kearns' impact on the automotive industry will continue to be felt for generations to come.
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