Analog Computing Component - Limit Stop Rotary
Analog Computing Component - Limit Stop Rotary
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- 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.
- The precise date of the object is unknown but one might guess the 1930s or later.
- 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
- date made
- ca 1920-1955
- 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
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