Hedy Lamarr invention: Long before Wi-Fi and Bluetooth became part of everyday life, Hollywood actress Hedy Lamarr was working on an invention aimed at making radio-guided torpedoes harder to jam. In 1940, Lamarr began working with composer George Antheil on a system for a radio-guided torpedo. Their idea involved synchronizing a transmitter and receiver so they could change frequencies together, making it more difficult for an enemy to interfere with the signal. The Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History documents their invention work from 1940 to 1942.
Hedy Lamarr and George Antheil Developed a Frequency-Hopping System
Lamarr and Antheil developed a system based on synchronized frequency changes. The transmitter and receiver would move from one frequency to another at the same time.
The two brought different experiences to the project. According to the Smithsonian report, Lamarr provided the basic invention idea, while Antheil contributed to its implementation. His experience with player-piano mechanisms also influenced the development of the system.
Their early ideas and sketches were sent to the National Inventors’ Council toward the end of 1940. They continued developing the system before submitting their patent application.
