Sunday, May 18, 2025

Upgrading Computer Systems 5-18-25

In 1961, the IBM Selectric typewriter was introduced, It was a revolutionary machine that replaced traditional typebars with a spherical "typeball". This design eliminated jamming and allowed for faster typing and easier font changes. The Selectric became a staple in offices worldwide and was a major innovation in the typewriter industry.  

In 1964, the IBM System/360 was introduced and was so named because it was meant to address all possible types of users with one unified software-compatible architecture. This marked a sharp departure from concepts of the past in designing and building computers.

In 1965, the IBM System 3 computers we in use by companies. Adding machines were 30lb mechanical plug-ins.

In 1969 the IBM System/3 was introduced and was a midrange computer intended for smaller businesses. 

Radar's history is marked by its evolution from theoretical concepts to a powerful tool with wide-ranging applications. Early experiments in the late 1800s, including Heinrich Hertz's demonstration of radio wave reflection from metallic objects, laid the groundwork. Christian Hülsmeyer's "Telemobiloskop" in the early 1900s was an early attempt at detecting objects using radio waves, though it didn't measure distance directly. Significant advancements came in the 1930s, with Robert Watson-Watt's development of the first practical radio system for aircraft detection, which was patented in 1935. This system, crucial during World War II, allowed for early warning of enemy aircraft and contributed to the success of Britain's air defenses in the Battle of Britain. Post-war, radar technology expanded into civilian fields, including aviation, marine navigation, and weather forecasting. 

In 1951, the U.S. government first used the UNIVAC I computer on June 14, 1951. The U.S. Census Bureau received the UNIVAC I in March 1951. The UNIVAC I was the first commercial computer to gain widespread attention. The Census Bureau used it to tabulate parts of the 1950 population census and later the 1954 economic census. 

The history of programming dates back to the early 19th century when mathematician Ada Lovelace created an algorithm for Charles Babbage's Analytical Engine, which is considered the first computer. However, the first actual programming language was developed in the 1950s, called FORTRAN (Formula Translation).

IBM mainframes are large computer systems produced by IBM since 1952. During the 1960s and 1970s, IBM dominated the computer market with the 7000 series.

Firmware, a program embedded in hardware, was first coined by Ascher Opler in 1967. It bridges the gap between hardware and software, enabling devices to function. Early firmware often resided in ROM or EPROM, but modern devices utilize flash memory for easier updates. 

The computer tracking of inventory began with manual methods like punch cards in the early 1900s and evolved to barcode and then RFID systems in the mid-20th century. Today, cloud-based systems and mobile apps are used to manage inventory. 

SolidWorks, a 3D CAD and CAE software, was founded by Jon Hirschtick in 1993 and initially released in 1995.

Tesla primarily uses Dassault Systèmes's CATIA for 3D modeling and ICEM Surf for Class A surfaces, as well as PTC Creo for drivetrain design. They also leverage Altair for structure and analysis, and Alias for exploration. In the past, they used SolidWorks for early models. 

Several CAD software packages offer built-in functionality for creating and managing bills of materials (BOMs). Some popular options include AutoCAD Mechanical, Autodesk Inventor, SolidWorks, Creo Parametric, and Onshape. These software solutions allow users to generate BOMs from their CAD models, often with features for customization, export, and integration with other systems. 

The history of coordinate measuring machines (CMMs) and laser 3D reading is marked by significant advancements. Early CMMs, appearing in the 1950s and 1960s, were manually driven and used contact probes. The introduction of the touch-trigger probe in the 1970s and the first 3D measuring probe in 1973 by Zeiss revolutionized the technology. The application of laser technology to 3D scanning emerged in the 1980s, further enhancing the capabilities of CMMs. 

In 1990, EMS developed Computer Integrated Manufacturing using 3D technology. In 1990, EMS added a 3D laser scanning CMM. In 1990.  I wrote the ISO 9000 Quality Manual for AEA.

L3 Harris had out of date CAD software in the 1993. I recommended SolidWorks to add the bill of materials to the design document.  Warner Robins AFB had out of date software in the 2000s. FATS had problems with machined parts. I recommended a 3D Laser scanning CMM to reduce the inspection bottle-neck and it worked. Inspection time was reduced to 30 seconds per part.

Norb Leahy, Dunwoody GA Tea Party Leader

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