Airboat: The airboat was invented in Florida by Everglades guide Glenn Curtis. It is a type of flat-bottomed boat propelled by an aircraft propeller. Airboats are particularly suited for navigating the shallow and often vegetated waters of the Florida Everglades.
Insect Repellent: The concept of using DEET (N,N-Diethyl-meta-toluamide) as an insect repellent was initially pioneered by the United States Army during World War II. However, it was in 1954 that scientists at the Orlando Research Laboratory of the United States Department of Agriculture fine-tuned the use of DEET and made significant improvements to its effectiveness and formulation, leading to its widespread use as a personal insect repellent.
Electric Skateboard: The electric skateboard, also known as the "skateboard with a motor," was invented by Kyle Rich, an Orlando-based entrepreneur, and his team. The skateboard gained a lot of attention for its innovative design and capabilities, combining traditional skateboarding with motorized assistance.
Spray-On Skin: In 2014, researchers at the University of South Florida developed a spray-on skin that could help heal burns and skin wounds. The spray consisted of a mixture of collagen, hyaluronic acid, and other essential proteins, and was designed to promote faster healing and reduce scarring.
Hurricane Tracking: While not an invention per se, Florida's role in hurricane research and tracking has been substantial. The National Hurricane Center (NHC), located in Miami, is a global leader in hurricane forecasting and tracking. The NHC monitors and issues warnings for hurricanes and tropical storms affecting the United States, the Caribbean Sea, the Gulf of Mexico, and the eastern Pacific Ocean.
These inventions and innovations have had significant impacts in various fields, from outdoor recreation and pest control to healthcare and meteorology. Florida's unique environment, diverse talent pool, and emphasis on innovation have contributed to these noteworthy achievements.