In the book, Serendipity: accidental discoveries in science (Roberts, 1989, Wiley), accidental discoveries in science such as vulcanization of rubber, velcro, corn flakes, and penicillin are discussed. One common theme is that the scientists and inventors had an open mind and were able to detect the importance of the accidental discovery. Google "serendipity" and read about a few other discoveries. What other characteristic is common to the discoveries or the scientists' and inventors' that experienced the serendipitous event.