Short Summary
Mary Van Brittan Brown was an innovative nurse and inventor, renowned for pioneering the first home security system. Her invention laid the groundwork for modern security systems, providing significant contributions to safety in residential areas. She is famous for her work in creating a system that addressed security concerns in her neighborhood and influenced future developments in the security industry.
Early Life & Education
Mary Van Brittan Brown was born on October 30, 1922, in Queens, New York. Growing up in a time when neighborhoods were not as secure, Mary experienced the need for a greater sense of safety at home. Details about her early family life and education are sparse, but she pursued a career in nursing. Her professional experiences and personal life in Queens, particularly the issues of delayed police response, motivated her to address security challenges. Her inventive spirit was supported by her husband Albert Brown, with whom she collaborated on her groundbreaking work.
Career Highlights
While Mary worked as a nurse, her most significant contributions came from her inventive pursuits. In 1966, she and her husband Albert filed a patent for the first home security system, which included a closed-circuit television system, a remote-controlled door lock, microphones, and an alarm button to contact the police. The system was designed to help improve home safety and was the first of its kind to use video surveillance and remote communication. This invention was recognized in 1969 with a patent granted, marking a significant milestone in home security technology.
Major Achievements
- The invention of the first home security system: Introduced in 1966, it featured CCTV and remote communication.
- Patent granted in 1969: Official recognition for her pioneering security system design.
Famous Quotes
- While there are no widely recorded quotes directly from Mary Van Brittan Brown, her work speaks volumes through its impact on home security systems.
Interesting Facts
- The patent for her invention was referenced by 13 other inventors who modernized and improved upon the system.
- Her invention was a precursor to the modern video and audio surveillance systems used globally today.
- Mary's invention was featured in The New York Times, highlighting its significance in societal safety.
Legacy / Influence
Mary Van Brittan Brown's legacy lives on through the security systems in use today. Her innovative approach to home security has saved countless lives and properties, inspiring the development of advanced surveillance and communication technologies used worldwide. Her work paved the way for future inventions in the security industry, leaving a lasting impact on how safety is perceived and managed in residential areas.
FAQ
Q: Why is Mary Van Brittan Brown famous?
A: She is famous for inventing the first home security system in 1966.
Q: What did her security system include?
A: It included a closed-circuit television, remote-controlled door lock, microphones, and an alarm button to contact the police.
Q: When was her patent granted?
A: The patent for her security system was granted in 1969.
