Unveiling the Origins of the Multifocal Lens: From Passion Projects to Visionary Innovations
The latest video from Patents Past 2 Present on YouTube
In this episode of “Patents Past to Present,” host Jason Voiovich delves into the fascinating history of the multifocal lens, commonly known as the bifocal. Learn about the evolution of this crucial optical invention, from modern Alcon contact lenses to the pioneering efforts of William A. Shelton and the legendary Benjamin Franklin. Discover how these inventors’ side projects and passion for problem-solving have significantly improved the quality of life for millions. Stay curious as we travel through the patent time machine, revealing the rich history and impact of multifocal lenses on our lives.
00:00 Introduction to Multifocal Lenses
00:37 Exploring Modern Multifocal Contact Lenses
03:01 The Historical Patent Journey
03:54 William A. Shelton: The Unsung Hero
07:41 Benjamin Franklin: The Polymath Inventor
10:51 Encouragement for Future Inventors
As promised, readers of my Substack get a little more background on the video development process—especially the improvements I’m working into each video.
What I’ve improved from The German, Boozy, Sweet History of the Mixer Paddle:
Snappier introduction: I noticed views dropped off fast after the first few seconds, so I needed to get to the point quickly of what you could expect in the video.
B-roll: I was told that looking at patent drawings for 12 minutes is something only I enjoy doing, so I added some images to help illustrate my points. They’re…okay. They’ll get better.
Time stamps: You should be able to click on these. That way, you can skip around more easily.
What I want to work on for next time:
Citations and further reading: This is an easy one, and as a historian, more than a little important. I’ll go back and edit the descriptions for the first videos later.
Storyboard first: I recorded this video freeform based on how I explored the patent history, but I’d like to think more about the interaction between the audio, patent details, and images to tell a more compelling story. The storyboard is a helpful tool. It will take a little more time up front, but I think I’ll spend less time editing in Descript (and have fewer cuts). Descript is good at making them less noticeable, but I can do better.
Thanks for coming along on this journey with me! I hope you enjoy the latest video.
Oh, and one more thing. If you have an idea for the everyday product you’d like me to tackle next, drop me a line or a comment.
…oh, and please subscribe to my YouTube channel too :-)