Joseph Whitworth, 1st baronet (1803–87)

Mechanical engineer and machine-tool manufacturer. Worked as a mechanic in Manchester from 1821. Joined Maudslay and Field, London, 1825; developed a technique for producing highly accurate planes. Set up in business as a toolmaker, Manchester, 1833. Improved or invented several machine tools and a system of measures that opened the way for the production of standardised parts in tools and machinery. Developed the Whitworth rifle, 1857, and made several advances in armaments manufacture. Created baronet, 1869. FRS 1857.