Did you know that you use technology on a daily basis - a cruise control designed by a blind engineer?
Cruise control, a device that makes it possible to maintain a constant speed without using gas, is the brainchild of Ralph Teetor. His incredible story shows us how perseverance and innovation can overcome all obstacles.
How did cruise control change motoring?
In the automotive industry, there are constant technological innovations that increase the safety and comfort of driving. Among them, cruise control stands out, a system that allows drivers to set and maintain a certain speed without constantly pressing the gas pedal. This feature is especially useful on long highway journeys where the speed remains constant.
Cruise control. Photo: Caleboquendo / PexelsWhy has cruise control become indispensable?
Cruise control allows drivers to avoid speeding while reducing leg fatigue and fuel consumption. According to manufacturers, using cruise control can reduce fuel consumption by 7 to 14 percent.
But few people know that it is the inventor of this system was a blind engineer named Ralph Teetor, born 1890 in USA.
Ralph Teetor was not born blind. He became blind following an accident in childhood and a subsequent illness that resulted in total loss of sight. Despite his disability, he showed an incredible talent for engineering at a young age. Despite many rejections due to his blindness, he managed to graduate from the University of Pennsylvania with a degree in mechanical engineering.
The creation of cruise control
The idea came while driving with the family lawyer, who was constantly changing speed while driving. These constant fluctuations bothered him so much that he began to think of a solution.
After a decade of research, he created the "Speedostat", a device that allowed the car to maintain a constant speed. He received a patent for this device in 1950.
Quiet and economical driving. Photo: Vahapdmr / PexelsThe first cruise control prototypes used a vacuum valve, which prevented additional pressure on the gas. This system was not perfect as it could not maintain speed on hills. Teetor solved this problem by adding an electromagnetic motor that deactivated when the brake was pressed.
Chrysler was the first car manufacturer, who recognized the benefits of his invention, and in 1958 included cruise control as an option in their luxury models. It was in the sixties General Motors followed this example and installed cruise control in all Cadillac models, giving the device the name "cruise control".
With his invention, Ralph Teetor took a big step towards driving automation
Despite his blindness, his innovation has become a standard in modern cars. His story reminds us that despite the greatest obstacles, we can achieve great things if we have enough perseverance and creativity.
Cruise control is an indispensable part of cars today, which enables drivers to drive more comfortably and economically.
