[ksk]

"popularized" and "invented" are two words which would be useful in this situation. Hopefully, we can all agree on the distinct meaning of those words.

>because what use is a technology if it can't be used on a practical level?

I know you meant it in a general sense, but the act of demonstrating something can also be useful. It could be that its not very profitable to manufacture or that it could serve as an inspiration for others to improve upon the idea itself.