1827 - patented a method of printing yarn before weaving. 1832 - patents an increasing pitch screw propeller. 1838 - patented improved tappets for looms. 1844 - patents a variable pitch propeller, based on his earlier increasing pitch screw propeller. 1843 - makes the propeller for HMS 'Rattler': the first warship to be powered by screw propeller. 1847 - appointed professor of machinery at University College, London. 1852 - appointed assistant to the commissioner of patents. 1859 - elected a fellow of the Royal Society.