Bill Robinson (scientist)
Bill Robinson | |
|---|---|
| Born | William Henry Robinson 2 October 1938 West Auckland, New Zealand |
| Died | 17 August 2011 (aged 72) Christchurch, New Zealand |
| Known for | Invention of the lead rubber bearing |
| Awards | Rutherford Medal (1999), Companion of the Queen's Service Order (2007) |
| Scientific career | |
| Fields | Seismic engineering, sea ice |
| Institutions | Robinson Seismic Ltd.; Physics & Engineering Laboratory (DSIR) |
William Henry Robinson QSO (2 October 1938 – 17 August 2011) was a New Zealand scientist and seismic engineer who invented the lead rubber bearing seismic isolation device. He grew up in West Auckland, New Zealand. He earned a master's degree at the Ardmore School of Engineering, then a PhD in physical metallurgy at the University of Illinois. Robinson was director of the DSIR's Physics and Engineering Laboratory between 1985 and 1991. He continued to invent and develop seismic isolation devices, travel and lecture until his early 70s.