Overview
Most people probably don't consider scientists to be creative types. Mad perhaps, but not creative. The thing is, the process of developing new products, new theories, new substances and new uses for items that no one has ever thought of or attempted before, is by its very nature, creative. In this hands-on gallery featuring inventions and inventors from Connecticut, you'll get to explore and demonstrate for yourself the process of invention.
Chain Reactions
Here's a real test for your problem-solving skills. Figure out how to cause a chain reaction of events on these wildly fun machines (think Rube Goldberg). Place your golf balls strategically along the course, set up different triggers so the energy from one event causes another to happen. You've set it all up correctly, release the first ball and revel in your ingenuity.
Idea Generator
Here's your chance to play inventor and create your own unique personal transportation vehicle. We'll provide a little help, too. Photos of unusual vehicles and historic manned-flight inventions will help inspire you. Just choose drawings of the components you want to use and trace them together on our light tables to invent the world's next great method of transportation.
Wall of Inventions
The Polaroid SX-70 camera. Ovation guitars. The sewing machine. Cannondale bikes. Timex watches. The RL 10 engine. Super Glue. Sikorsky helicopters. Erector sets. These are just a handful of the amazing inventions created by individuals and companies from Connecticut. The Nutmeg State? Maybe that should be The Invention Capitol.
Invention Convention
Come get an up close look at the next generation of creative thinkers and great inventors. This display showcases a variety of inventions built and interpreted by elementary and middle school students for the annual Connecticut Invention Convention. Move over, Mr. Edison.