Felix Wankel

Dr. Felix Heinrich Wankel (August 13, 1902–October 9, 1988) was the German inventor of the Wankel engine.

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Wankel was born in Lahr, Germany. Since his mother was widowed in World War I, Wankel received no university education or even an apprenticeship. However he was able to teach himself technical subjects and conceived the idea of the rotary engine in 1924. In the 1930s, he had a disagreement with Adolf Hitler, and was imprisoned by the Nazis for some months. During World War II, he developed seals and rotary valves for German air force aircraft and navy torpedoes. After the war, he was imprisoned by the Allies for some months, his laboratory was closed, his work confiscated, and he was prohibited from doing more work. In 1951, He began development of the engine at NSU, leading to the first running prototype in 1957.

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In later years, Wankel was granted an honorary Doctorate of Engineering (Dr-Ing). He was known for his championing of animal rights and opposition to the use of animals in testing. Felix Wankel died in Heidelberg, having never been issued a driver's license.

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August 13: August 13 is the 225th day of the year in the Gregorian Calendar (226th in leap years), with 140 days remaining....

1902: 1902 was a common year starting on Wednesday (see link for calendar)....

October 9: October 9 is the 282nd day of the year (283rd in Leap years). There are 83 days remaining....

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