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Year:1955
Who: Lanny Smoot
Where: Brooklyn, New York
What: Lanny Smoot, born December 13, 1955, in Brooklyn, New York, is one of the Walt Disney Company’s most prolific inventors and one of the most inventive Black engineers in American history. With over 100 patents to his name, Smoot’s groundbreaking work spans theatrical technology, interactive displays, and iconic special effects that bring Disney's magic to life. His contributions, including creating a real-life extendable Star Wars lightsaber and the roaming ghost of Madame Leota in the Haunted Mansion, have redefined immersive storytelling.
Smoot’s journey began at Brooklyn Technical High School and continued at Columbia University, where he earned both his bachelor's and master’s degrees in electrical engineering. He launched his career at Bell Communications Research (Bellcore), where he was an early pioneer in video-on-demand and fiber-optic technology. Mentored by James West, co-inventor of the electret microphone, Smoot developed a vision of a future where anyone could broadcast video—insights that shaped today’s digital age.
Since joining Disney in 2000, Smoot has elevated theme park experiences worldwide. Beyond the famous lightsaber, he developed innovative technologies like the BB-8 droid drive system and interactive water harps inspired by Moana. His glassless 3D displays, interactive zoetropes, and ride technologies showcase his knack for blending engineering with creativity. His work is featured in attractions such as EPCOT’s Journey of Water and Tokyo DisneySea’s Fortress Explorations.
Smoot’s achievements have been recognized with numerous accolades, including the National Inventors Hall of Fame induction in 2024, making him the first Disney inventor inducted after Walt Disney himself. As a champion of diversity, he actively mentors youth, particularly Black students, to pursue STEM careers, embodying his commitment to innovation and equity. Smoot's legacy as a trailblazer in entertainment technology ensures his magical creations will inspire generations to come.
Sources:
Websites:
National Inventors Hall of Fame. (n.d.). Lanny Smoot. https://www.invent.org/inductees/lanny-smoot
U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. (n.d.). Lanny Smoot: Prolific Disney Inventor and Innovator. https://www.uspto.gov/learning-and-resources/journeys-innovation/audio-stories/if-magic
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