Lewis H. Latimer’s Incandescent Carbon Apparatus Patent Drawing
Drawing
This is an original technical drawing by Lewis H. Latimer, illustrating an apparatus for producing incandescent carbon filaments, 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.
Lewis H. Latimer, an African American inventor and engineer, was instrumental in improving the incandescent light bulb. While Thomas Edison is often credited with the light bulb’s invention, Latimer developed a longer-lasting carbon filament, making electric lighting more practical and affordable. This document is likely a patent or design sketch related to that advancement, possibly from the 1880s, when Latimer worked with Edison and the U.S. Electric Lighting Company.
The Lewis H. Latimer Papers (1870-1929, 1972) [QPL Subgroup]Latimer Family Papers (1870-1996 ) [QPL Full Collection]
Title or Notes: Incandescent Carbon Apparatus Witnesses: (Partially visible, mentions “Incandescent Carbon” and "Apparatus") Inventor Signature: L. H. Latimer