Remote Control
It is interesting to note that remote controls were brought about by
war. The first country to use remote-controlled motorboats was Germany
during World War I. These remote-controlled motorboats were used to
wreck enemy ships. World War II saw a rise of remote-controlled weapons.
Scientists are always intrigued by a new invention, and the remote
control was no exception. After the wars ended, American Scientists
went about looking for ways to bring the remote control into everyday
life. Automatic garage door openers were the first such invention, followed
by television remote controls.
Zenith Electronics Corporation developed the first
television remote control in 1950. It wasn't a remote control as we
know one to be today. This remote control, called "Lazy Bones" had
a cord which ran from it to the television. So, while it was classified
a remote control--because you did not have to get up to change the
channel--we had a while to go before television remote controls went
wireless.
Many complained about the cable which ran between the television and
the remote control device. It seemed that mothers of small children
were especially frustrated with the latest invention. Small children
seemed to trip over the cord and babies wanted to chew on them. But,
it wasn't only children who tripped over the remote control cord, adults
did also.
Lazy Bones did have one feature which those in the 21st
century would appreciate. You never had to go on a manhunt
for this remote control. Lazy Bones would not get kicked under
the couch or left in the kitchen. It was always hooked
to the television. Who knows, maybe the next invention will be a way
to keep our modern remote controls from being lost? |
