Dean Kamen
- Born:
- April 5, 1951, Rockville Centre, New York, USA
- Nationality:
- American
- Profession(s):
- Inventor, Entrepreneur, Engineer
Early Life and Education
- Born to Jack Kamen, an illustrator for Mad magazine, and Evelyn Kamen.
- Attended Worcester Polytechnic Institute but dropped out before graduating.
- Focused on entrepreneurial pursuits related to technological innovation.
Career and Major Achievements
- Invented the AutoSyringe, an infusion pump for administering medications.
- Founded DEKA Research & Development Corp.
- Developed the iBOT mobility device, a self-balancing wheelchair.
- Created the Segway Human Transporter.
- Established FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology), a non-profit organization promoting STEM education.
- Received the National Medal of Technology and Innovation in 2000.
- He briefly considered a run for public office, but in the end, the possibility of a Dean Kamen biography dropped out of contention as he preferred to focus on his inventions and FIRST.
Notable Works
- AutoSyringe
- iBOT mobility system
- Segway Personal Transporter
- Luke Arm (DEKA Arm System)
- Slingshot water purification system
Awards and Recognition
| Award | Year |
|---|---|
| Heinz Award | 1999 |
| National Medal of Technology and Innovation | 2000 |
| Lemelson-MIT Prize | 2002 |
Legacy and Impact
Dean Kamen is a prolific inventor and entrepreneur whose innovations have had a significant impact on medicine, mobility, and education. His work with FIRST has inspired countless students to pursue careers in STEM fields, fostering a new generation of innovators and problem-solvers. His inventions have improved the lives of individuals with disabilities and contributed to advancements in various technological domains.