Innovators Ask - Bla

Barbara Askins

What: While working for NASA, Barbara Askins developed a new method to develop film that included radioactive materials.

When: The process was created by Ms. Askins in 1978. Later that year she received the honor of National Inventor of the year.

How: The new processing techniques allowed researchers at NASA to better see images in astronomical and geological pictures. The pictures were previously of little use to NASA.

Other Contributions: The technique she developed for film processing transferred into medical x-rays, creating clearer images for doctors.

Dr. Patricia Bath

What: Dr. Patricia Bath invented the Cataract Laserphaco and the technique to remove cataracts from eyes.

When: The Cataract Laserphaco Probe was invented by Dr. Bath in 1988.

How: The Laserphaco Probe effectively eliminates the need to use a grinding procedure to remove cataracts, making the procedure more accurate and less invasive.

Other Contributions: Dr. Bath later created an invention that reversed blindness in some people.

RIM Blackberry

What: Research in Motion (RIM) designs, manufactures, and markets wireless solutions for the global mobile communications market.

When: RIM was founded in 1984, and is based in Waterloo, Ontario with offices in North America, Europe, and Asia Pacific.

How: The BlackBerry Pearl 8100 provides a RIM also offers the Ascendent Voice Mobility Suite, SureType Technology, Smart Card Reader, BlackBerry Connect, and wireless devices.