Listen closely. Ever stopped to consider the genius that could emerge from a humble basement workshop? That’s the story of the Robert Pauli Scherer Plaque. This plaque commemorates Robert Pauli Scherer, a Detroit native. He revolutionized the pharmaceutical industry.
Robert Pauli Scherer was born in Detroit in 1906. He attended the University of Michigan. He earned degrees in both arts and chemical engineering. After graduation, Scherer briefly worked for a pharmaceutical company. This short job gave him an idea. He saw a better way to deliver medications.
Scherer envisioned soft gelatin capsules. These capsules would be easier to swallow. They could also mask the taste of unpleasant drugs. Scherer began working in his parents’ basement. His father, an eye specialist, had set up a metal workshop there. For three years, Scherer toiled. He developed the rotary die encapsulation machine. This machine allowed for mass production of these capsules.
In 1931, Scherer applied for a patent. In 1933, he founded the Gelatin Products Company. Later, it became the R.P. Scherer Corporation. Scherer’s invention improved health standards worldwide. Liquid or powder medicines became easier to ingest.
One setback happened early on. Scherer’s machine broke down during a demonstration. But Scherer didn’t give up. He created a film showcasing his machine. Pharmaceutical companies were impressed. Soon, orders began to pour in. One morning, his brother excitedly shared news of an order for five million capsules.
Scherer rejected a large offer from Parke Davis Co. He didn’t want to give up his invention. He wanted to retain control. By 1947, his company dominated the market. It expanded internationally. Scherer’s original machine is now in the Smithsonian Institution. The Robert Pauli Scherer Plaque marks his birthplace. It stands as a testament to his ingenuity.
Robert Pauli Scherer died in 1960. His son, Robert P. Scherer, Jr., took over the company. The company eventually became part of Catalent Pharma Solutions. Scherer was granted 52 patents in his lifetime. He even invented a needleless injection device.
The Robert Pauli Scherer Plaque honors a true innovator. His work continues to impact healthcare today. It all began in a Detroit basement.