The Arnott waterbed, designed in the 19th century to prevent bedsores in invalids, was one of the most notable inventions of Scottish physician Neil Arnott. This medical device utilized a water-filled bath covered by rubber-impregnated canvas, an innovation he chose not to patent, allowing the design to be widely adopted for various uses, including anti-seasickness chairs.
Early Career and Maritime Medicine
Born in Arbroath in 1788 to Alexander Arnott and Ann MacLean, he descended from a line of master bakers. He completed his education at Marischal College, University of Aberdeen, earning an AM in 1805 and an MD in 1814. During his youth, he studied under Sir Everard Home in London. At age eighteen, he secured an appointment as a surgeon on an East Indiaman. Between 1807 and 1811, he undertook two voyages to China while serving the British East India Company.
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After his time at sea, he settled in London, maintaining a private practice from 1811 until 1854. His reputation grew rapidly, leading to appointments as physician to the French and Spanish embassies. In 1837, he was named physician extraordinary to the Queen. Beyond his clinical work, he played a fundamental role in the founding of the University of London in 1836 and was elected a Fellow of the Royal Society in 1838.
Technical Innovations and Scientific Advocacy
His interests extended to physics and mechanical engineering as applied to health. He received the Rumford Medal in 1854 for developing a smokeless fire grate and contributed designs for ventilators and stoves. His seminal publication, Elements of Physics, first appeared in 1827 and saw six editions. He championed a shift toward experimental, practical education in natural philosophy, gifting 2,000 pounds each to the University of London and the four Scottish universities to support this objective.
Theories on Health and Disease
His medical philosophy emphasized environmental control. In his paper on fevers in Edinburgh and Glasgow, he argued that human health depended on four pillars: air, temperature, nutrition, and exercise of mind and body. Conversely, he identified violence and poisons as the primary agents of physical impairment. He held specific views on public health, citing official reports that attributed malaria to the decomposition of organic substances.
Fast facts
- Born: 1788, Arbroath
- Died: 1874, London
- Education: University of Aberdeen
- Awards: Rumford Medal (1854)
- Professional Membership: Fellow of the Royal Society
- Burial Site: Dean Cemetery, Edinburgh
Questions readers ask
Did Neil Arnott patent his waterbed design?
No, he chose not to patent the invention, which allowed the design to be produced and utilized by others without restriction.
What subjects did Neil Arnott cover in his publications?
His writings focused on physical science, ventilation, heating efficiency, warming techniques, and the management of public health.
Achievements
- Fellow of the Royal Society
- Rumford Medal — 1854