Database: The Franklin stove

Also known as the Pennsylvania fireplace, this device was designed by Benjamin Franklin himself. Based on a clever system of a baffle and "inverted siphon", it was supposed to produce more heat and less fumes. However, it worked poorly and achieved very few sales until it was finally enhanced by famous scientist David Rittenhouse. Nevertheless, the flawed device is still mentioned among Franklin's great inventions such as the lightning rod and bifocals!