1860-1930

American electrical engineer who invented the gyrostabilizer, used to control ships, airplanes, and torpedoes, and developed other gyroscopic compasses and devices such as autopilots. Sperry was a prolific inventor with more than 400 patents to his name. He formed numerous companies to manufacture and sell his diverse inventions, including an electric generator, mining machinery, electric streetcars, precision instruments, farm machinery, and hydraulic equipment.