It is 111 years since the American engineer Dr Willis H Carrier invented modern air conditioning.
On 17 July 1902, he developed a design to control the humidity at the Sackett & Wilhelms Lithography and Printing Company in Brooklyn, New York, enabling the paper used in the printing process to remain a constant dimension.

Among the early industrial adopters of the cool innovation was the film industry, using it to stabilise humidity and ultimately advance film making by preventing the iconic white specks, common in classic movies, from developing on film reels. The film industry was forever changed in 1925 when Carrier cooled the Rivoli Theatre in New York, transforming theatres into a haven from the summer heat, vastly increasing ticket sales during a traditionally slow season, and creating the 'summer blockbuster.'

The conveniences of air conditioning spread to homes in 1926 with Carrier's introduction of the first home air conditioner and since then, the application of air conditioning has become widespread.

Geraud Darnis, president and ceo UTC climate, controls & security, said: 'Innovation is an integral part of Carrier's legacy and its future. Willis Carrier's invention forever changed the world and today, Carrier's team of dedicated researchers and engineers apply the same spirit of ingenuity to continually develop new technologies and environmentally responsible solutions that create comfortable, healthy, productive environments around the world.'

For more information about Willis Carrier visit www.williscarrier.com