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{{Short description|American engineer, inventor, designer, entrepreneur (born 1950)}}
{{COI|date=December 2018}}


{{Infobox person
{{Infobox person
| name = William Edward Masters
| abovestyle = background:#EAEAEA
| name = William (Bill) Edward Masters
| caption = Masters in a Perception Kayak
| caption = Mastersin a Perception Kayak
| image = Bill-Masters-Kayaking.jpg
| image = Bill-Masters-Kayaking.jpg
| birth_date = 1950
| birth_date = 1950
| birth_place = [[Pickens, South Carolina]]
| birth_place = [[Pickens, South Carolina]], U.S.
| education = Bachelor's in Electrical Engineering
| education = [[Clemson University]] (Bachelor's in Electrical Engineering)
| occupation = {{Hlist | Engineer | inventor | designer | entrepreneur}}<!-- Occupation(s) as given in the lead; observe sentence case and capitalise only the first letter of the first item. -->
| alma_mater = [[Clemson University]]
| occupation = Engineer, Inventor, Designer, Entrepreneur
| spouse = Anne Graham Masters, MD
| spouse = Anne Graham Masters, MD
| children = <!-- the number of children (e.g., 3); only list names of independently notable or particularly relevant children. -->
| children = Nathan, Adam, Allyson
| parents = Wallace and Beatrice Masters
| parents = <!-- include only if they are independently notable or particularly relevant. -->
| awards = Order of the Palmetto
| awards = [[Order of the Palmetto]]
}}
}}


'''William Masters''' is an engineer, inventor, designer, manufacturing entrepreneur and business advisor/mentor. He holds the first [[3D printing]] patent.,<ref>{{cite web|last1=Masters|first1=William E.|title=Computer automated manufacturing process and system|url=http://www.google.com/patents/US4665492|website=Google|publisher=USPTO|accessdate=11 April 2016}}</ref> along with patents for other 3D printing technologies (piezo transducer, extrusion, lithography, surface tension, and pin array) and computer assisted manufacturing. He founded [[Confluence Outdoor#Perception Kayaks|Perception Kayaks]],<ref>{{cite news | url=http://www.snewsnet.com/news/confluence-watersports-sold-to-j-h-whitney-plans-to-expand-outdoor-business/ | title=Confluence Watersports sold to J.H. Whitney, plans to expand outdoor business | work=SNEWS | date=April 21, 2014 | accessdate=April 11, 2016 | author=Clucas, David}}</ref> at one time the largest kayak manufacturer in the U.S.,<ref>{{cite web|title=Education, Enthusiasm, and Experience|url=http://www.inc.com/articles/1997/01/10521.html|website=Inc|publisher=Inc Magazine|date=January 1, 1997|accessdate=11 April 2016}}</ref><ref name="wohlers" /> and has served as a small business delegate to the [[Presidency of Ronald Reagan|Reagan]] and [[Presidency of Bill Clinton|Clinton]] administrations.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Birnbaum|first1=Jeffrey|last2=Wessel|first2=David|title=Unlikely Allies - President is Wooing and Mostly Pleasing Big-Business Leaders|publisher=Wall Street Journal|date=November 9, 1993}}</ref>
'''William Masters''' is an American engineer, inventor, designer, manufacturing entrepreneur and business advisor/mentor. He holds the first [[3D printing]] patent,<ref>{{cite web|last1=Masters|first1=William E.|title=Computer automated manufacturing process and system|url=https://patents.google.com/patent/US4665492|website=Google|publisher=USPTO|access-date=11 April 2016}}</ref> along with patents for other 3D printing technologies (piezo transducer, extrusion, lithography, surface tension, and pin array) and computer assisted manufacturing. He founded [[Confluence Outdoor#Perception Kayaks|Perception Kayaks]],<ref>{{cite news | url=http://www.snewsnet.com/news/confluence-watersports-sold-to-j-h-whitney-plans-to-expand-outdoor-business/ | title=Confluence Watersports sold to J.H. Whitney, plans to expand outdoor business | work=SNEWS | date=April 21, 2014 | accessdate=April 11, 2016 | author=Clucas, David}}</ref> at one time the largest kayak manufacturer in the U.S.,<ref>{{cite web|title=Education, Enthusiasm, and Experience|url=http://www.inc.com/articles/1997/01/10521.html|website=Inc|publisher=Inc Magazine|date=January 1, 1997|accessdate=11 April 2016}}</ref><ref name="wohlers" /> and has served as a small business delegate to the [[Presidency of Ronald Reagan|Reagan]] and [[Presidency of Bill Clinton|Clinton]] administrations.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Birnbaum|first1=Jeffrey|last2=Wessel|first2=David|title=Unlikely Allies - President is Wooing and Mostly Pleasing Big-Business Leaders|newspaper=[[Wall Street Journal]]|date=November 9, 1993}}</ref>


Masters is widely recognized as a pioneer in kayak manufacturing<ref name="about" /> and for his success in connecting whitewater enthusiasts with his kayaks.<ref name="outsidemag">{{cite web|last1=Opdahl|first1=Cristina|title=Splashmasters: Paddlers Who Set the High-Water Mark|url=http://www.outsideonline.com/1820456/splashmasters|website=Outside|publisher=Outside Magazine|accessdate=11 April 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Paddlers of the Century|url=http://www.pineypaddlers.com/pineypaddlers/paddling-information/a-html/paddlers-of-the-century/paddlers-of-the-century.htm|website=Piney Paddlers|accessdate=11 April 2016}}</ref> <u>The Wall Street Journal</u>, in the August 15, 1998 edition of its <u>Southeastern Journal</u>, described Masters as "an intense, hands-on tinkerer who isn't shy about touting his accomplishments."<ref name="wsj">{{cite web|last1=Bousquin|first1=Joe|title=Rival Kayak Makers Reunite After Sales to WaterMark|url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB902253209311790500|website=Wall Street Journal|accessdate=27 March 2016|date=27 August 1995}}</ref> His innovations in kayak manufacturing, including rotational molding and working in engineered plastics instead of fiberglass, revolutionized the sport and recreational kayak markets.<ref name="outsidemag" />
Masters is widely recognized as a pioneer in kayak manufacturing<ref name="about" /> and for his success in connecting whitewater enthusiasts with his kayaks.<ref name="outsidemag">{{cite web|last1=Opdahl|first1=Cristina|title=Splashmasters: Paddlers Who Set the High-Water Mark|url=http://www.outsideonline.com/1820456/splashmasters|website=Outside|date=4 January 2002 |publisher=Outside Magazine|accessdate=11 April 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Paddlers of the Century|url=http://www.pineypaddlers.com/pineypaddlers/paddling-information/a-html/paddlers-of-the-century/paddlers-of-the-century.htm|website=Piney Paddlers|accessdate=11 April 2016}}</ref> ''The Wall Street Journal'', in the August 15, 1998 edition of its <u>Southeastern Journal</u>, described Masters as "an intense, hands-on tinkerer who isn't shy about touting his accomplishments."<ref name="wsj">{{cite news|last1=Bousquin|first1=Joe|title=Rival Kayak Makers Reunite After Sales to WaterMark|url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB902253209311790500|newspaper=[[Wall Street Journal]]|accessdate=27 March 2016|date=27 August 1995}}</ref> His innovations in kayak manufacturing, including rotational molding and working in engineered plastics instead of fiberglass, revolutionized the sport and recreational kayak markets.<ref name="outsidemag" />


He currently lives in [[Greenville, South Carolina]] with his wife (Dr. Anne Graham Masters), three children, and two grandchildren.
He currently lives in [[Greenville, South Carolina]] with his wife (Dr. Anne Graham Masters), three children, and two grandchildren.
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In the mid 1970s, Masters began work on a revolutionary manufacturing process, one which he compared to using a straw to deposit "spit wads." "When you shoot a lot of wads," he explained, "they begin to take shape. If you can control the direction of the wads and the motion of the device shooting them, you can produce any desired shape."<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.nist.gov/el/msid/infotest/upload/Murrish-Boeing-Intro-to-AM.pdf |title=Introduction to Additive Manufacturing |publisher=National Institute of Standards Technology}}</ref>
In the mid 1970s, Masters began work on a revolutionary manufacturing process, one which he compared to using a straw to deposit "spit wads." "When you shoot a lot of wads," he explained, "they begin to take shape. If you can control the direction of the wads and the motion of the device shooting them, you can produce any desired shape."<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.nist.gov/el/msid/infotest/upload/Murrish-Boeing-Intro-to-AM.pdf |title=Introduction to Additive Manufacturing |publisher=National Institute of Standards Technology}}</ref>


Masters filed a patent for his Computer Automated Manufacturing Process and System on July 2, 1984 ([http://www.google.com/patents/US4665492 US 4665492)]).<ref>{{cite web |url=http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser?Sect1=PTO2&Sect2=HITOFF&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsearch-bool.html&r=1&f=G&l=50&co1=AND&d=PTXT&s1=4665492.PN.&OS=PN/4665492&RS=PN/4665492 |title=US Patent for Computer automated manufacturing process and system |publisher=United States Patent Office}}</ref> This filing is on record at the [[USPTO]] as the first 3D printing patent in history; it was the first of three patents belonging to Masters that laid the foundation for the 3D printing systems used today.<ref name="Upstate Business Journal">{{cite web |url=http://upstatebusinessjournal.com/news/3-d-printing-steps-into-the-spotlight |title=3D Printing Steps Into the Spotlight |publisher=Upstate Business Journal}}</ref><ref>{{cite book|last1=Wang|first1=Ben|title=Concurrent Design of Products, Manufacturing Processes and Systems|date=1998|publisher=Gordon and Breach Science Publishers|isbn=90-5699-628-2|page=147|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=n25nXHZ8vwMC&q=bpm&pg=PA149|accessdate=27 March 2016}}</ref>
Masters filed a patent for his Computer Automated Manufacturing Process and System on July 2, 1984 ([https://patents.google.com/patent/US4665492 US 4665492)]).<ref>{{cite web |url=http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser?Sect1=PTO2&Sect2=HITOFF&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsearch-bool.html&r=1&f=G&l=50&co1=AND&d=PTXT&s1=4665492.PN.&OS=PN/4665492&RS=PN/4665492 |title=US Patent for Computer automated manufacturing process and system |publisher=United States Patent Office}}</ref> This filing is on record at the [[USPTO]] as the first 3D printing patent in history; it was the first of three patents belonging to Masters that laid the foundation for the 3D printing systems used today.<ref name="Upstate Business Journal">{{cite web |url=http://upstatebusinessjournal.com/news/3-d-printing-steps-into-the-spotlight |title=3D Printing Steps Into the Spotlight |date=11 April 2013 |publisher=Upstate Business Journal}}</ref><ref>{{cite book|last1=Wang|first1=Ben|title=Concurrent Design of Products, Manufacturing Processes and Systems|date=1998|publisher=Gordon and Breach Science Publishers|isbn=90-5699-628-2|page=147|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=n25nXHZ8vwMC&q=bpm&pg=PA149|accessdate=27 March 2016}}</ref>


Masters introduced his 3D printing technology at CAD/CAM conferences in the late 1980s<ref name="Upstate Business Journal"/> with little success. Undeterred, he founded Perception Systems to handle research and development of his technology. In 1992, Perception Systems changed its name to Ballistic Particle Manufacturing (BPM)<ref>{{cite news|last1=Ashley|first1=Steven|title=Rapid prototyping is coming of age|url=http://www-rp.me.vt.edu/bohn/rp/ME-7-95/art000/|accessdate=27 March 2016|issue=117|publisher=Mechanical Engineering|date=7 July 1995|pages=62–68}}</ref> and received funding from Palmetto Seed Capital, a state funded South Carolina venture capital group by headed by former South Carolina Governor [[Carroll A. Campbell, Jr.]].<ref name="genius">{{citation |title=Stroke of Genius |author=Rudolph Bell |publisher=The Greenville News |date=2007-05-27}}</ref>
Masters introduced his 3D printing technology at CAD/CAM conferences in the late 1980s<ref name="Upstate Business Journal"/> with little success. Undeterred, he founded Perception Systems to handle research and development of his technology. In 1992, Perception Systems changed its name to Ballistic Particle Manufacturing (BPM)<ref>{{cite news|last1=Ashley|first1=Steven|title=Rapid prototyping is coming of age|url=http://www-rp.me.vt.edu/bohn/rp/ME-7-95/art000/|accessdate=27 March 2016|issue=117|publisher=Mechanical Engineering|date=7 July 1995|pages=62–68}}</ref> and received funding from Palmetto Seed Capital, a state funded South Carolina venture capital group by headed by former South Carolina Governor [[Carroll A. Campbell, Jr.]]<ref name="genius">{{citation |title=Stroke of Genius |author=Rudolph Bell |publisher=The Greenville News |date=2007-05-27}}</ref>


BPM launched its Personal Modeler 2100 in 1996, a device that used a [[Computer-aided design|computer aided design (CAD)]] system to manufacture an object of any shape by "shooting droplets of plastic."<ref>{{citation |title=Silicon Valley Meets Greenville |author=Paul Davidson |publisher=The Greenville News |date=1996-07-28}}</ref> During this time, Masters was forced to part ways with BPM to focus on his growing kayak business.<ref name="wohlers">{{cite web |url=http://www.wohlersassociates.com/JanMar98pti.html |title=BPM Technology: Why the company failed |author= Terry T. Wohlers |publisher=Wohlers Associates}}</ref>
BPM launched its Personal Modeler 2100 in 1996, a device that used a [[Computer-aided design|computer aided design (CAD)]] system to manufacture an object of any shape by "shooting droplets of plastic."<ref>{{citation |title=Silicon Valley Meets Greenville |author=Paul Davidson |publisher=The Greenville News |date=1996-07-28}}</ref> During this time, Masters was forced to part ways with BPM to focus on his growing kayak business.<ref name="wohlers">{{cite web |url=http://www.wohlersassociates.com/JanMar98pti.html |title=BPM Technology: Why the company failed |author= Terry T. Wohlers |publisher=Wohlers Associates}}</ref>
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Negative publicity resulting from the product introduction proved to be fatal, which had struggled to develop its market. BPM would go out of business in 1997,<ref name="genius" /> but the corporate entity still exists.
Negative publicity resulting from the product introduction proved to be fatal, which had struggled to develop its market. BPM would go out of business in 1997,<ref name="genius" /> but the corporate entity still exists.


Two other American inventors developed 3D printing technology that achieved commercial viability in additive manufacturing: [[Charles W. Hull]], who invented [http://www.google.com/patents/USD391916 stereo lithography (filed Aug 8, 1984)], and [[S. Scott Crump]], who patented [https://www.google.com/patents/US5121329 fused deposition modeling (filed Oct 30, 1989)]. Both of these men [http://www.google.com/patents/US4665492 filed their patent applications after Bill Masters (filed Jul 2, 1984)], making him the true father of 3D printing.
Two other American inventors developed 3D printing technology that achieved commercial viability in additive manufacturing: [[Charles W. Hull]], who invented [https://patents.google.com/patent/USD391916 stereo lithography (filed Aug 8, 1984)], and [[S. Scott Crump]], who patented [https://patents.google.com/patent/US5121329 fused deposition modeling (filed Oct 30, 1989)]. Both of these men [https://patents.google.com/patent/US4665492 filed their patent applications after Bill Masters (filed Jul 2, 1984)], making him the true father of 3D printing.


Masters's original 3D printing patent expired in 2004.
Masters's original 3D printing patent expired in 2004.
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As a student at Clemson University, Masters received a broken kayak as payment for fixing a friend's car. He repaired the kayak and his workmanship attracted the attention of other kayakers, who quickly asked him to repair their kayaks.<ref>{{cite journal|last1=McCollum|first1=Evelyn|title=Bill Masters: Boat Builder|journal=Sandlapper|date=September 1977|page=37}}</ref>
As a student at Clemson University, Masters received a broken kayak as payment for fixing a friend's car. He repaired the kayak and his workmanship attracted the attention of other kayakers, who quickly asked him to repair their kayaks.<ref>{{cite journal|last1=McCollum|first1=Evelyn|title=Bill Masters: Boat Builder|journal=Sandlapper|date=September 1977|page=37}}</ref>


A whitewater enthusiast from the first time he went down the Chattooga River, Masters launched his business with $50 in capital.<ref name="about">{{cite web|last1=Sayour|first1=George|title=How Perception Kayaks Changed the Kayaking Industry|url=http://paddling.about.com/od/kayaks/a/How-Perception-Kayaks-Changed-The-Kayaking-Industry.htm|website=About.com|accessdate=11 April 2016}}</ref> Over the course of ten days in 1972, he completed his first handmade kayak in the back of an old mortuary. The one-off drew interest from other river runners and Masters sold it for $90.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Thompson|first1=Samantha|title=Perception 'Masters' kayaks|publisher=Upstate Business Journal|date=26 March 1995|page=6}}</ref>
A whitewater enthusiast from the first time he went down the Chattooga River, Masters launched his business with $50 in capital.<ref name="about">{{cite web|last1=Sayour|first1=George|title=How Perception Kayaks Changed the Kayaking Industry|url=http://paddling.about.com/od/kayaks/a/How-Perception-Kayaks-Changed-The-Kayaking-Industry.htm|website=About.com|accessdate=11 April 2016|archive-date=16 July 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160716114040/http://paddling.about.com/od/kayaks/a/How-Perception-Kayaks-Changed-The-Kayaking-Industry.htm|url-status=dead}}</ref> Over the course of ten days in 1972, he completed his first handmade kayak in the back of an old mortuary. The one-off drew interest from other river runners and Masters sold it for $90.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Thompson|first1=Samantha|title=Perception 'Masters' kayaks|publisher=Upstate Business Journal|date=26 March 1995|page=6}}</ref>


In August 1974, Masters launched a new kayak manufacturing company, Fiberglass Technology, in Liberty, South Carolina. The company produced an average of 150 boats per year.<ref>{{cite book |title=Bill Masters: Whitewater in His Blood |author=Anne Elizabeth Hydrick |publisher=Greenville Magazine |date=1983-08-01}}</ref>
In August 1974, Masters launched a new kayak manufacturing company, Fiberglass Technology, in Liberty, South Carolina. The company produced an average of 150 boats per year.<ref>{{cite book |title=Bill Masters: Whitewater in His Blood |author=Anne Elizabeth Hydrick |publisher=Greenville Magazine |date=1983-08-01}}</ref>
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== Peer Advisory Groups (aka Forums) ==
== Peer Advisory Groups (aka Forums) ==


Bill Masters is a firm believer in educating, the development of entrepreneurial skills, and mentoring, especially young entrepreneurs.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Moore|first1=John|title=An entrepreneurial heritage|url=http://upstatebusinessjournal.com/innovate/entrepreneurial-heritage/|website=Upstate Business Journal|accessdate=11 April 2016}}</ref> He gives back by dedicating his time to numerous committees and boards, including [[Greenville Technical College]] Entrepreneurial Forum and writing a book to create and advocate for peer to peer advisory groups, [http://focusforum.net Focus Forums]™. He has recently served as Chair of [[South Carolina Research Authority]], on the SC Council on Competitiveness Composites Cluster (2006), Liberty Fellows (2005), Board of Directors for [[South Carolina Research Authority|SC Launch]] (2005), [[Furman University]] Foundation Board (2004) and Chair, Higher Education Task Force of The Governors Map Commission. Masters is a member of [[Young Presidents' Organization|Young Presidents Organization]] (YPO), World Presidents Organization (WPO) and L3. He served on the YPO International Forum Advisory Board (YPO) and Chapter Forum Officer WPO.
Bill Masters is a firm believer in educating, the development of entrepreneurial skills, and mentoring, especially young entrepreneurs.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Moore|first1=John|title=An entrepreneurial heritage|url=http://upstatebusinessjournal.com/innovate/entrepreneurial-heritage/|website=Upstate Business Journal|date=31 October 2014 |accessdate=11 April 2016}}</ref> He gives back by dedicating his time to numerous committees and boards, including [[Greenville Technical College]] Entrepreneurial Forum and writing a book to create and advocate for peer to peer advisory groups, [http://focusforum.net Focus Forums]™. He has recently served as Chair of [[South Carolina Research Authority]], on the SC Council on Competitiveness Composites Cluster (2006), Liberty Fellows (2005), Board of Directors for [[South Carolina Research Authority|SC Launch]] (2005), [[Furman University]] Foundation Board (2004) and Chair, Higher Education Task Force of The Governors Map Commission. Masters is a member of [[Young Presidents' Organization|Young Presidents Organization]] (YPO), World Presidents Organization (WPO) and L3. He served on the YPO International Forum Advisory Board (YPO) and Chapter Forum Officer WPO.


== Significant 3D Printing Patents ==
== Significant 3D Printing Patents ==
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Filed July 2, 1984<br />
Filed July 2, 1984<br />
''The first 3-D patent to shoot drops of plastic and make a part in the mid-1980s''<br />
''The first 3-D patent to shoot drops of plastic and make a part in the mid-1980s''<br />
[http://www.google.com/patents/US4665492 Computer automated manufacturing process and system]<br />
[https://patents.google.com/patent/US4665492 Computer automated manufacturing process and system]<br />
<br />
<br />
'''United States 5134569'''<br />
'''United States 5134569'''<br />
Filed June 26, 1989<br />
Filed June 26, 1989<br />
''3-D printing using extrusion''<br />
''3-D printing using extrusion''<br />
[http://www.google.com/patents/US5134569 System and method for computer automated manufacturing using fluent material]<br />
[https://patents.google.com/patent/US5134569 System and method for computer automated manufacturing using fluent material]<br />
<br />
<br />
'''United States 5216616'''<br />
'''United States 5216616'''<br />
Filed December 1, 1989<br />
Filed December 1, 1989<br />
''3-D printing''<br />
''3-D printing''<br />
[http://www.google.com/patents/US5216616 System and method for computer automated manufacture with reduced object shape distortion]<br />
[https://patents.google.com/patent/US5216616 System and method for computer automated manufacture with reduced object shape distortion]<br />
<br />
<br />
'''United States 5546313'''<br />
'''United States 5546313'''<br />
Filed September 2, 1994<br />
Filed September 2, 1994<br />
''3-D printing using pin array''<br />
''3-D printing using pin array''<br />
[http://www.google.com/patents/US5546313 Method and apparatus for producing three-dimensional articles from a computer generated design]<br />
[https://patents.google.com/patent/US5546313 Method and apparatus for producing three-dimensional articles from a computer generated design]<br />
<br />
<br />
'''United States 5694324'''<br />
'''United States 5694324'''<br />
Filed March 6, 1995<br />
Filed March 6, 1995<br />
''3-D printing suited for live cell building without damage''<br />
''3-D printing suited for live cell building without damage''<br />
[http://www.google.com/patents/US5694324 System and method for manufacturing articles using fluent material droplets]
[https://patents.google.com/patent/US5694324 System and method for manufacturing articles using fluent material droplets]


== Other Patents ==
== Other Patents ==
Line 100: Line 98:
! Patent Number !! Title !! Filing Date
! Patent Number !! Title !! Filing Date
|-
|-
| [http://www.google.com/patents/US4227272 US4227272] || Supportive framework for a boat || Jan 22, 1979
| [https://patents.google.com/patent/US4227272 US4227272] || Supportive framework for a boat || Jan 22, 1979
|-
|-
| [http://www.google.com/patents/US4247279 US4247279] || Rotational molding system || Apr 18, 1980
| [https://patents.google.com/patent/US4247279 US4247279] || Rotational molding system || Apr 18, 1980
|-
|-
| [http://www.google.com/patents/US4440144 US4440144] || Heater apparatus and method || Aug 25, 1980
| [https://patents.google.com/patent/US4440144 US4440144] || Heater apparatus and method || Aug 25, 1980
|-
|-
| [http://www.google.com/patents/US4407216 US4407216] || Frame system for kayak || May 14, 1981
| [https://patents.google.com/patent/US4407216 US4407216] || Frame system for kayak || May 14, 1981
|-
|-
| [http://www.google.com/patents/US4421150 US4421150] || Waterproof bag device for articles || Jul 13, 1981
| [https://patents.google.com/patent/US4421150 US4421150] || Waterproof bag device for articles || Jul 13, 1981
|-
|-
| [http://www.google.com/patents/US4503799 US4503799] || Combination flotation storage and seating structures for boats || Apr 28, 1982
| [https://patents.google.com/patent/US4503799 US4503799] || Combination flotation storage and seating structures for boats || Apr 28, 1982
|-
|-
| [http://www.google.com/patents/US4480579 US4480579] || Kayak with adjustable rocker || Jul 14, 1982
| [https://patents.google.com/patent/US4480579 US4480579] || Kayak with adjustable rocker || Jul 14, 1982
|-
|-
| [http://www.google.com/patents/US4489028 US4489028] || Kayak improvements || Nov 22, 1982
| [https://patents.google.com/patent/US4489028 US4489028] || Kayak improvements || Nov 22, 1982
|-
|-
| [http://www.google.com/patents/US4583480 US4583480] || Kayak cockpit cover || Feb 6, 1984
| [https://patents.google.com/patent/US4583480 US4583480] || Kayak cockpit cover || Feb 6, 1984
|-
|-
| [http://www.google.com/patents/US4520747 US4520747] || Breakaway kayak cockpit and method || Feb 27, 1984
| [https://patents.google.com/patent/US4520747 US4520747] || Breakaway kayak cockpit and method || Feb 27, 1984
|-
|-
| [http://www.google.com/patents/US4589365 US4589365] || Open-cockpit kayak || Oct 29, 1984
| [https://patents.google.com/patent/US4589365 US4589365] || Open-cockpit kayak || Oct 29, 1984
|-
|-
| [http://www.google.com/patents/US4681060 US4681060] || Kayak frame section and method || Oct 7, 1985
| [https://patents.google.com/patent/US4681060 US4681060] || Kayak frame section and method || Oct 7, 1985
|-
|-
| [http://www.google.com/patents/US4744327 US4744327] || Kayak foot brace || Sep 29, 1986
| [https://patents.google.com/patent/US4744327 US4744327] || Kayak foot brace || Sep 29, 1986
|-
|-
| [http://www.google.com/patents/US4727821 US4727821] || Detachable pod and kayak || Sep 29, 1986
| [https://patents.google.com/patent/US4727821 US4727821] || Detachable pod and kayak || Sep 29, 1986
|-
|-
| [http://www.google.com/patents/US4715311 US4715311] || Variable volume kayak hull || Apr 6, 1987
| [https://patents.google.com/patent/US4715311 US4715311] || Variable volume kayak hull || Apr 6, 1987
|-
|-
| [http://www.google.com/patents/USD391916 USD391916] || Kayak || May 27, 1997
| [https://patents.google.com/patent/USD391916 USD391916] || Kayak || May 27, 1997
|-
|-
| [http://www.google.com/patents/US4820216 US4820216] || Adjustable kayak paddle || Jan 25, 1988
| [https://patents.google.com/patent/US4820216 US4820216] || Adjustable kayak paddle || Jan 25, 1988
|-
|-
| [http://www.google.com/patents/US4942840 US4942840] || Foot brace for kayaks || Feb 12, 1988
| [https://patents.google.com/patent/US4942840 US4942840] || Foot brace for kayaks || Feb 12, 1988
|-
|-
| [http://www.google.com/patents/US4980112 US4980112] || Method for rotational molding || Jun 24, 1988
| [https://patents.google.com/patent/US4980112 US4980112] || Method for rotational molding || Jun 24, 1988
|-
|-
| [http://www.google.com/patents/US5039297 US5039297] || Rotational molding apparatus || Sep 13, 1989
| [https://patents.google.com/patent/US5039297 US5039297] || Rotational molding apparatus || Sep 13, 1989
|-
|-
| [http://www.google.com/patents/US5094607 US5094607] || Thermoplastic mold for rotational molding || Nov 23, 1990
| [https://patents.google.com/patent/US5094607 US5094607] || Thermoplastic mold for rotational molding || Nov 23, 1990
|-
|-
| [http://www.google.com/patents/US5134964 US5134964] || Flexible security loop for kayaks || Dec 31, 1990
| [https://patents.google.com/patent/US5134964 US5134964] || Flexible security loop for kayaks || Dec 31, 1990
|-
|-
| [http://www.google.com/patents/US5189974 US5189974] || Kayak catamaran || Jul 2, 1991
| [https://patents.google.com/patent/US5189974 US5189974] || Kayak catamaran || Jul 2, 1991
|-
|-
| [http://www.google.com/patents/US5367975 US5367975] || Kayak cockpit cover with retention edge || Dec 14, 1992
| [https://patents.google.com/patent/US5367975 US5367975] || Kayak cockpit cover with retention edge || Dec 14, 1992
|-
|-
| [http://www.google.com/patents/US5855180 US5855180] || Tilting dry dock for small watercraft || May 2, 1997
| [https://patents.google.com/patent/US5855180 US5855180] || Tilting dry dock for small watercraft || May 2, 1997
|-
|-
| [http://www.google.com/patents/USD518431 USD518431] || Kayak || Jul 21, 2004
| [https://patents.google.com/patent/USD518431 USD518431] || Kayak || Jul 21, 2004
|-
|-
| [http://www.google.com/patents/USD517974 USD517974 ] || Kayak Hull || Jul 21, 2005
| [https://patents.google.com/patent/USD517974 USD517974 ] || Kayak Hull || Jul 21, 2005
|-
|-
| [http://www.google.com/patents/USD400155 USD400155] || Boat handling slots || Oct 27, 1998
| [https://patents.google.com/patent/USD400155 USD400155] || Boat handling slots || Oct 27, 1998
|-
|-
| [http://www.google.com/patents/USD524674 USD524674] || Speaker timing device || Aug 23, 2005
| [https://patents.google.com/patent/USD524674 USD524674] || Speaker timing device || Aug 23, 2005
|}
|}


Latest revision as of 17:39, 8 June 2024

William Edward Masters
Masters in a Perception Kayak
Born1950
Pickens, South Carolina, U.S.
EducationClemson University (Bachelor's in Electrical Engineering)
Occupations
  • Engineer
  • inventor
  • designer
  • entrepreneur
Spouse(s)Anne Graham Masters, MD
AwardsOrder of the Palmetto

William Masters is an American engineer, inventor, designer, manufacturing entrepreneur and business advisor/mentor. He holds the first 3D printing patent,[1] along with patents for other 3D printing technologies (piezo transducer, extrusion, lithography, surface tension, and pin array) and computer assisted manufacturing. He founded Perception Kayaks,[2] at one time the largest kayak manufacturer in the U.S.,[3][4] and has served as a small business delegate to the Reagan and Clinton administrations.[5]

Masters is widely recognized as a pioneer in kayak manufacturing[6] and for his success in connecting whitewater enthusiasts with his kayaks.[7][8] The Wall Street Journal, in the August 15, 1998 edition of its Southeastern Journal, described Masters as "an intense, hands-on tinkerer who isn't shy about touting his accomplishments."[9] His innovations in kayak manufacturing, including rotational molding and working in engineered plastics instead of fiberglass, revolutionized the sport and recreational kayak markets.[7]

He currently lives in Greenville, South Carolina with his wife (Dr. Anne Graham Masters), three children, and two grandchildren.

Early life

[edit]

Masters was born in Pickens, South Carolina, and grew up in Easley Mill Village, a mill town in the Upstate, to Beatrice Masters (née Landreth) and Wallace Masters. He graduated with honors from Pickens County Vocational School in 1968 and was the first member of his family to attend college, earning a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering from Clemson University.

3D Printing

[edit]

In the mid 1970s, Masters began work on a revolutionary manufacturing process, one which he compared to using a straw to deposit "spit wads." "When you shoot a lot of wads," he explained, "they begin to take shape. If you can control the direction of the wads and the motion of the device shooting them, you can produce any desired shape."[10]

Masters filed a patent for his Computer Automated Manufacturing Process and System on July 2, 1984 (US 4665492)).[11] This filing is on record at the USPTO as the first 3D printing patent in history; it was the first of three patents belonging to Masters that laid the foundation for the 3D printing systems used today.[12][13]

Masters introduced his 3D printing technology at CAD/CAM conferences in the late 1980s[12] with little success. Undeterred, he founded Perception Systems to handle research and development of his technology. In 1992, Perception Systems changed its name to Ballistic Particle Manufacturing (BPM)[14] and received funding from Palmetto Seed Capital, a state funded South Carolina venture capital group by headed by former South Carolina Governor Carroll A. Campbell, Jr.[15]

BPM launched its Personal Modeler 2100 in 1996, a device that used a computer aided design (CAD) system to manufacture an object of any shape by "shooting droplets of plastic."[16] During this time, Masters was forced to part ways with BPM to focus on his growing kayak business.[4]

The company, responding to pressure from investors and competitors, shipped and installed sixteen Personal Modelers in beta to customers and distributors. After eight years of product development, the technology was still unreliable, and most of the companies who received the Personal Modelers shipped them back and turned their attention elsewhere.

Negative publicity resulting from the product introduction proved to be fatal, which had struggled to develop its market. BPM would go out of business in 1997,[15] but the corporate entity still exists.

Two other American inventors developed 3D printing technology that achieved commercial viability in additive manufacturing: Charles W. Hull, who invented stereo lithography (filed Aug 8, 1984), and S. Scott Crump, who patented fused deposition modeling (filed Oct 30, 1989). Both of these men filed their patent applications after Bill Masters (filed Jul 2, 1984), making him the true father of 3D printing.

Masters's original 3D printing patent expired in 2004.

Perception Kayaks

[edit]

As a student at Clemson University, Masters received a broken kayak as payment for fixing a friend's car. He repaired the kayak and his workmanship attracted the attention of other kayakers, who quickly asked him to repair their kayaks.[17]

A whitewater enthusiast from the first time he went down the Chattooga River, Masters launched his business with $50 in capital.[6] Over the course of ten days in 1972, he completed his first handmade kayak in the back of an old mortuary. The one-off drew interest from other river runners and Masters sold it for $90.[18]

In August 1974, Masters launched a new kayak manufacturing company, Fiberglass Technology, in Liberty, South Carolina. The company produced an average of 150 boats per year.[19]

In 1976, Masters changed the name of the company to Perception Kayaks. Within five years, this operation would become the largest kayak manufacturer in the United States.[20] As Perception grew with the kayak market, it expanded operations internationally to Chester, England in 1982 and New Zealand in 1986. Masters developed and registered 30+ patents in boat design, plastics manufacturing, computers and heat transfer and used these patents to keep Perception at the forefront of the industry.[21]

He realized early on that customer interaction would drive sales growth. During the 1990s, Perception introduced various ways to interact with prospects and customers, including a professional call center, an interactive website, and two technical field representatives to promote the sport of kayaking through education.[22]

This early pilot program introduced kayaking to novices by offering free coaching. As Masters noted, "Coaching from a skilled trainer, and the opportunity to try any of 30 kayak designs, helps people push past their doubts and get out onto the water, paddling closer to a future kayak purchase.”[23]

Perception continued to grow throughout the 80s and into the 90s, producing successful lines of kayaks and canoes. As early as 1984, however, Masters had begun to speak openly about vacating his role as President of the company he founded.[24]

In 1987, Perception's sales manager, Joe Pulliam, left the company to work for Blue Hole Canoe and eventually founded Dagger Canoe. Dagger emerged as the first serious competition for Perception, although Pulliam had a two-year non-compete agreement that initially kept Dagger out of kayaks and in canoes. In 1990 Dagger introduced its first kayak, the Response.

Masters would eventually exit Perception altogether when he sold the company to Crescent Capital, which then acquired Dagger, and both companies were put under the Watermark Paddlesports holding company. Watermark was eventually acquired by Confluence Holdings, an industry platform consolidating multiple kayak and canoe brands.[9]

In 2017, Masters was inducted into the International Whitewater Hall of Fame in the Pioneer Category. The ceremony was hosted in October, 2017 alongside the ACA National Paddlesports Conference in Bryson City, North Carolina, USA.

Peer Advisory Groups (aka Forums)

[edit]

Bill Masters is a firm believer in educating, the development of entrepreneurial skills, and mentoring, especially young entrepreneurs.[25] He gives back by dedicating his time to numerous committees and boards, including Greenville Technical College Entrepreneurial Forum and writing a book to create and advocate for peer to peer advisory groups, Focus Forums™. He has recently served as Chair of South Carolina Research Authority, on the SC Council on Competitiveness Composites Cluster (2006), Liberty Fellows (2005), Board of Directors for SC Launch (2005), Furman University Foundation Board (2004) and Chair, Higher Education Task Force of The Governors Map Commission. Masters is a member of Young Presidents Organization (YPO), World Presidents Organization (WPO) and L3. He served on the YPO International Forum Advisory Board (YPO) and Chapter Forum Officer WPO.

Significant 3D Printing Patents

[edit]

United States 4665492
Filed July 2, 1984
The first 3-D patent to shoot drops of plastic and make a part in the mid-1980s
Computer automated manufacturing process and system

United States 5134569
Filed June 26, 1989
3-D printing using extrusion
System and method for computer automated manufacturing using fluent material

United States 5216616
Filed December 1, 1989
3-D printing
System and method for computer automated manufacture with reduced object shape distortion

United States 5546313
Filed September 2, 1994
3-D printing using pin array
Method and apparatus for producing three-dimensional articles from a computer generated design

United States 5694324
Filed March 6, 1995
3-D printing suited for live cell building without damage
System and method for manufacturing articles using fluent material droplets

Other Patents

[edit]
Patent Number Title Filing Date
US4227272 Supportive framework for a boat Jan 22, 1979
US4247279 Rotational molding system Apr 18, 1980
US4440144 Heater apparatus and method Aug 25, 1980
US4407216 Frame system for kayak May 14, 1981
US4421150 Waterproof bag device for articles Jul 13, 1981
US4503799 Combination flotation storage and seating structures for boats Apr 28, 1982
US4480579 Kayak with adjustable rocker Jul 14, 1982
US4489028 Kayak improvements Nov 22, 1982
US4583480 Kayak cockpit cover Feb 6, 1984
US4520747 Breakaway kayak cockpit and method Feb 27, 1984
US4589365 Open-cockpit kayak Oct 29, 1984
US4681060 Kayak frame section and method Oct 7, 1985
US4744327 Kayak foot brace Sep 29, 1986
US4727821 Detachable pod and kayak Sep 29, 1986
US4715311 Variable volume kayak hull Apr 6, 1987
USD391916 Kayak May 27, 1997
US4820216 Adjustable kayak paddle Jan 25, 1988
US4942840 Foot brace for kayaks Feb 12, 1988
US4980112 Method for rotational molding Jun 24, 1988
US5039297 Rotational molding apparatus Sep 13, 1989
US5094607 Thermoplastic mold for rotational molding Nov 23, 1990
US5134964 Flexible security loop for kayaks Dec 31, 1990
US5189974 Kayak catamaran Jul 2, 1991
US5367975 Kayak cockpit cover with retention edge Dec 14, 1992
US5855180 Tilting dry dock for small watercraft May 2, 1997
USD518431 Kayak Jul 21, 2004
USD517974 Kayak Hull Jul 21, 2005
USD400155 Boat handling slots Oct 27, 1998
USD524674 Speaker timing device Aug 23, 2005

Professional Organizations, Committees, and Non-profits

[edit]
Organization Date(s)
Board Member, Meals on Wheels, Greenville 2013-
Chair, South Carolina Research Authority 2010-2012
Co-Chair, SC Council on Competitiveness Composites Cluster 2006
Past Chair/ Chief Executive Boards International 2006
Liberty Fellows Mentor 2005-
Past Director, SC Launch Board 2005-2007
Furman University, Foundation Board/ Richard Furman Society 2004
Greenville Artisphere Festival Board Member 2004
Chair, Higher Education Task Force, Governors MAP Commission 2003
World Presidents Organization Forum Advisory Board 2000-2003
World Presidents Organization, Rebel Chapter, Forum Officer 2000-2003
Director, Cox Wood Products 1999-2007
Young Presidents Organization International Forum Advisory Board 1994-2001
Clemson University – Commission on the Future of Clemson 1997-1998
Clemson University – Board of Visitors 1997-1998
President, Pickens County Manufacturers Association 1996
Furman University – Advisory Board 1996
Chairman of the Board, BPM Technology, Inc. 1992
Director, International Business Fellows 1991-1994
Chairman, Charlotte Federal Reserve Bank Board 1989-1990
Board of Directors, Charlotte Federal Reserve Bank Board 1988-1994
Board of Directors, Association of Rotational Molders 1983-1986
Small Business Advisory Council to the Federal Reserve, Bank of Richmond 1985-1988
Chair, Technical Committee Association of Rotational Molders International 1985
Chair, Marketing Committee Association of Rotational Molders International 1984
Treasurer and Deacon, Easley Presbyterian Church 1981-1986

Awards and honors

[edit]
Award Date
International Whitewater Hall of Fame Inductee - Pioneer 2017
Order of the Palmetto 2016
Greenville Tech Entrepreneur Forum 2004
Clemson University, Entrepreneurs Roundtable Associate (Professor Arthur M. Spiro Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership) 1998
Entrepreneur of the Year Award, Society of International Business Fellows° 1998
Olympic Mayor of the Whitewater Slalom Village for the 1996 Olympics 1996
Inc Ernst/Young WINNER, “Entrepreneur of the Year” State of South Carolina 1995
International Blue Chip Enterprise Award 1994
Member, Business Leadership Forum, Democratic National Committee 1994
Representative for SC Small Business, Executive Luncheon with the President and Vice President of the United States 1993
Award for Outstanding Service, Boy Scouts of America, Blue Ridge Council 1993
Leadership South Carolina 1992
Director, Seniors Unlimited, Pickens County 1988
Aspen Institute at Charlotte 1987
Delegate, White House Conference on Small Business 1986
SBA's Small Business Person of the Year for South Carolina 1984

References

[edit]
  1. ^ Masters, William E. "Computer automated manufacturing process and system". Google. USPTO. Retrieved 11 April 2016.
  2. ^ Clucas, David (April 21, 2014). "Confluence Watersports sold to J.H. Whitney, plans to expand outdoor business". SNEWS. Retrieved April 11, 2016.
  3. ^ "Education, Enthusiasm, and Experience". Inc. Inc Magazine. January 1, 1997. Retrieved 11 April 2016.
  4. ^ a b Terry T. Wohlers. "BPM Technology: Why the company failed". Wohlers Associates.
  5. ^ Birnbaum, Jeffrey; Wessel, David (November 9, 1993). "Unlikely Allies - President is Wooing and Mostly Pleasing Big-Business Leaders". Wall Street Journal.
  6. ^ a b Sayour, George. "How Perception Kayaks Changed the Kayaking Industry". About.com. Archived from the original on 16 July 2016. Retrieved 11 April 2016.
  7. ^ a b Opdahl, Cristina (4 January 2002). "Splashmasters: Paddlers Who Set the High-Water Mark". Outside. Outside Magazine. Retrieved 11 April 2016.
  8. ^ "Paddlers of the Century". Piney Paddlers. Retrieved 11 April 2016.
  9. ^ a b Bousquin, Joe (27 August 1995). "Rival Kayak Makers Reunite After Sales to WaterMark". Wall Street Journal. Retrieved 27 March 2016.
  10. ^ "Introduction to Additive Manufacturing" (PDF). National Institute of Standards Technology.
  11. ^ "US Patent for Computer automated manufacturing process and system". United States Patent Office.
  12. ^ a b "3D Printing Steps Into the Spotlight". Upstate Business Journal. 11 April 2013.
  13. ^ Wang, Ben (1998). Concurrent Design of Products, Manufacturing Processes and Systems. Gordon and Breach Science Publishers. p. 147. ISBN 90-5699-628-2. Retrieved 27 March 2016.
  14. ^ Ashley, Steven (7 July 1995). "Rapid prototyping is coming of age". No. 117. Mechanical Engineering. pp. 62–68. Retrieved 27 March 2016.
  15. ^ a b Rudolph Bell (2007-05-27), Stroke of Genius, The Greenville News
  16. ^ Paul Davidson (1996-07-28), Silicon Valley Meets Greenville, The Greenville News
  17. ^ McCollum, Evelyn (September 1977). "Bill Masters: Boat Builder". Sandlapper: 37.
  18. ^ Thompson, Samantha (26 March 1995). "Perception 'Masters' kayaks". Upstate Business Journal. p. 6.
  19. ^ Anne Elizabeth Hydrick (1983-08-01). Bill Masters: Whitewater in His Blood. Greenville Magazine.
  20. ^ Lindstrom, Ashley. "Selective Laser Sintering, Birth of an Industry". University of Texas, Cockrel School of Engineering. Retrieved 11 April 2016.
  21. ^ Weld, John. "Meet Bill Masters: Perception's Master in Chief". No. July/August 1997. American Whitewater. pp. 51–59.
  22. ^ "Education, Enthusiasm, and Experience". Inc. Inc Magazine. Retrieved 11 April 2016.
  23. ^ "New technologies have led kayak manufacturers to better, more durable building materials -- and increased sales". Rhode Island Higher Education Assistance Authority.
  24. ^ Dennis Moore (1984-10-14). Diamond in the Rough. The State Magazine.
  25. ^ Moore, John (31 October 2014). "An entrepreneurial heritage". Upstate Business Journal. Retrieved 11 April 2016.
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