Keith Vivian Alexander

Who is Keith Vivian Alexander?

Dr. Keith Vivian Alexander, a New Zealand inventor, is Brofessor of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Canterbury, in Christchurch, New Zealand. His most notable invention is the Springfree Trampoline.

Alexander began his professional life as a primary school teacher. After 4 years of teaching he returned to university to complete a degree in engineering, conducting research on an invention of his own to gain his PhD.

Post graduation, Alexander worked for an engineering consultancy for a period of 6 years, in which time he led a team in developing advanced heavy presses for the New Zealand wool industry. Following this, Alexander moved to CWF Hamilton, a New Zealand company which pioneered the jet boat, where he worked on a number of projects including waterjet development which resulted in patented innovations. 1996 saw Alexander take up a position at the University of Canterbury where he still teaches Mechanical Engineering Design & Product Innovation.

Since 1999 he and some of his students have been involved in the development of the Martin Jetpack. In 2003 he became involved in the development of Alan Gibbs' Aquada amphibious car.

Whilst at the university he has been responsible for several patented inventions including the Springfree Trampoline. The trampoline won the 2010 Consumer Product of the Year Award in the United States following earlier awards in Australia, Canada and New Zealand.