[R-390] Early 50's CNC and CAD

[Scott, Barry (Clyde B)]

Just to be precise, NC was probably around in the '50s, but CNC didn't come along until later.  NC stands for Numerical Control.  CNC stands for Computer Numerical Control.

As for the second paragraph, there are CNC punch presses today that make the punch/die thing not as much of a factor as it was before.  They can nibble a fairly decent hole using standard size punches thus negating a lot of the need for the specialized tools of yesteryear.

Barry(III) - N4BUQ
(Who used to program a lot of NC and CNC machines)


Michael Young wrote:

>You guys think CNC and CAD was available in the early 50's?

They were sort of available, but little used.  CAD was basically limited to 
solutions of mathematical equations.  CNC had relay and tube logic and was 
programmed on punched paper tape (Vestiges of that remain today; new CNC 
machines specify RAM capacity not in K or meg, but "feet").  Mostly it was 
confined to point-to-point motions for drilling/boring hole patterns; very 
few machines had capability of arc motions as would be needed for curved 
toolpaths such as engraving.

For sheer speed in lower precision operations involving impressions (as 
stamping), shearing or punching (those panel shaft holes) the ancient punch 
press still reigns supreme today.  The large initial investment in punch/die 
tooling tends to relegate punch press use to higher volume production.

Drew