Analog Computing Component - Limit Stop Rotary
Analog Computing Component - Limit Stop Rotary
Previous
Next
Usage conditions apply
- Description
- This mechanism was manufactured by Ford Instrument Company for use in analog computing devices such as range keepers and its computers. Called a “limit stop rotary” it limited the number of revolutions in a gearing line.
- The aluminum base has two shafts mounted on it that both pass through an oval frame piece. Each shaft also carries a gear which has black arm pieces above and below it. One shaft also has a T-shaped aluminum piece atop it. A ring of ball bearings is between the edges of this shaft and this aluminum piece.
- A black mark in ink on the base reads: item 12. A mark on the ball bearing holder reads: FAFNIR USA. A mark on one gear reads: 615430B. A mark on the other gear reads: 615431A. A mark on the edge of the oval frame piece reads: 615661. A mark on the underside of the top frame piece reads: 38-0043 2.
- References:
- A.B. Clymer, "The Mechanical Analog Computers of Hannibal Ford and William Newell," Annals of the History of Computing, 15, #2, 1993, 19-34.
- Accession file.
- Location
- Currently not on view
- Object Name
- analog computing component
- maker
- Ford Instrument Company
- place made
- United States: New York, Queens, Long Island City
- Physical Description
- aluminum (frame material)
- iron (gears, shafts material)
- Measurements
- overall: 9 cm x 5.2 cm x 5 cm; 3 17/32 in x 2 1/16 in x 1 31/32 in
- ID Number
- 1982.0751.11
- catalog number
- 1982.0751.11
- accession number
- 1982.0751
- Credit Line
- Ford Instrument Company, Division of Sperry Rand Corporation
- subject
- Mathematics
- See more items in
- Medicine and Science: Mathematics
- Data Source
- National Museum of American History
Nominate this object for photography.
Our collection database is a work in progress. We may update this record based on further research and review. Learn more about our approach to sharing our collection online.
If you would like to know how you can use content on this page, see the Smithsonian's Terms of Use. If you need to request an image for publication or other use, please visit Rights and Reproductions.
