US Technology Research 10-24-24

Application of new technology to improve product quality has been active since the 1960s. It can take 30 years to improve manufacturing systems and another 30 years to perfect these systems. 

Engineers are scrambling to redesign EV Batteries to remove the dangers and limitations of Lithium-Ion Batteries. Software Developers continue to research “Hack-Proof” electronics systems. Software Developers are also researching Artificial Intelligence (AI) to assist in “machine learning”. Many companies are using Automation to  produce their products.

Robotic welding procedures have come a long way since the first spot welding robot in 1962. Now implemented across varied industries, manufacturers recognize the benefits of robotic welding to keep them competitive in an ever expanding and highly competitive global marketplace.

The history of 3D laser measuring systems can be traced back to the 1960s, when researchers began experimenting with laser technology to measure distances and create 3D models of objects: The Coordinate Measuring Machine first appears in the early 60s and is made of 3D tracing devices with a simple digital readout (DRO) displaying the XYZ position. The initial CMM was developed by the Ferranti Company in Scotland during the 50s. This unit, however, had only two axis.

Computer-integrated manufacturing (CIM) is the idea of using integrated systems and data communication to improve organizational and personnel efficiency in manufacturing. The history of CIM includes the development of technologies such as Numerical Control (NC), Computer Numerical Control (CNC), and Computer-aided design (CAD) and Computer-aided manufacturing (CAM): 

Numerical Control (NC) In the 1950s, MIT developed NC systems that used paper tapes for programming. 

Computer Numerical Control (CNC) In the 1970s and 1980s, CNC systems used microprocessors to control machine tools more efficiently and flexibly. 

Computer-aided design (CAD) and Computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) CAD systems were developed to model geometries for industries like automotive and aeronautics. CAM systems used computers to assist with production planning, control, and management. 

Digital manufacturing The idea of "digital manufacturing" became prominent in the early 1970s with the publication of Dr. Joseph Harrington's book, Computer Integrated Manufacturing. 

CIM development CIM began to be developed and promoted in 1984 by machine tool manufacturers and the Computer and Automated Systems Association and Society of Manufacturing Engineers (CASA/SME).  CIM requires advancements in hardware and software to facilitate data transfer and communication across functional modules. Evolution of Computer Integrated Manufacturing: Initially developed to meet the demands of aerospace industries post-World War ...

Six Sigma Development Solutions, Inc.

Generative AI is experimental. John McCarthy coined the term "artificial intelligence" in 1956 and drove the development of the first AI programming language, LISP, in the 1960s. Early AI systems were rule-centric, which led to the development of more complex systems in the 1970s and 1980s, along with a boost in funding.

Comments

In the 1980s at EMS, 3D Modeling allowed us to laser-read 3D parts and run our milling machines directly from the CAD Machines. We also bought a Coordinate Measuring Machine to use 3D Laser measuring to test all piece parts. In the 1980s, I recommended “Object Oriented Software Design at FATS. This allowed the software to be upgraded by module and interact with databases. AI will allow further improvements in product software and business operations.

In the 1970s, the quality of the cars produced by GM, Ford and Chrysler was suffering and miles per gallon averaged 10mpg. In 1973. I bought a Triumph Spitfire 2-seater convertible as my commuter car and got 30mpg.

In the 1980s the quality of cars produced by Toyota and Honda was improving and miles per gallon averaged 20mpg.

In 2014, Chrysler was sold to Fiat.

In 2002, I bought a 2000 Cadillac Deville, it got 20MPG and I drove it until 2005. Gasoline prices were $3/gal. We sold our Cadillacs and bought 2005 Toyota Prius Hybrids to get 60MPG.  In 2012, we bought a 2012 Prius Hybrid and it is still running.

Norb Leahy, Dunwoody GA Tea Party Leader