Winchell was the first person to patent a concept for a mechanical, artificial heart. The design was developed
further at the University of Utah and Dr. Robert Jarvik implanted the first permanent and successful artificial heart into a human being in 1982. The device has saved thousands of lives since.
Winchell invented disposable razors which are immensely popular all over the world. The precursors to the disposable were the straight and safety razors. Disposables are much more economical and maintenance free.
Winchell added key components (all of which are standard today) to his ventriloquist dummies so that the dolls could blink, wink and raise their eyebrows. His dummies, such as "Jerry Mahoney" and "Knuckle-head Smith," helped him entertain an entire generation and raised the bar for ventriloquists everywhere.
Winchell created many cartoon voices including Winnie-the-Pooh's friend Tigger, Gargamel from "The Smurfs", the Simanese cat in "Aristocats", and Boomer in "The Fox and the Hound." His was the voice of characters in numerous other shows as well, such as "The Flintstones," "The Jetsons," "Scooby-Do" and "The Banana Splits". He entertained many people with his versatile voice.
During his life Paul Winchell was granted 30 patents, for inventions including a flameless cigarette lighter, a portable blood plasma defroster, battery-heated gloves, a retractable fountain pen and an invisible garter belt.