On Sat, 25 Oct 2003 21:59:48 GMT, BottleBob
wrote:



Errol Groff wrote:

I am preparing a research assignment for my students on this subject.

Errol:

The history of Machine tools seems like it would be a interesting
subject, BUT... If I were in a limited time machine shop class for the
purpose of increasing my skill level with the hope of becoming an
employable entry level machinist, I think *I'd* (and probably
prospective shop owners might also) be more interested in just HOW to
edge find or indicator sweep my parts rather than knowing WHO designed
the first edge finder, or indicator, or CNC.
Don't take this wrong, I don't mean to be overly critical here, I'm
just giving you a view from a job-shop productivity standpoint. If I
were interviewing two prospective entry level apprentices I'd be more
inclined to hire the one that showed a knowledge of the practical
application of theory over one that had historical knowledge.

Though I agree with the value of learning how to use the tools
effectively I also feel that anyone who doesn't wonder about those who
came up with the tools is sadly lacking, and would benefit greatly
from a study of the self discipline that those great men operated
under. Any really well rounded machinist must hold men like Whitworth,
Maudslay and Colt in awe, and their workmanship improves as they
realize they are following in the footsteps of such great human
beings.

Also;
Wilkinson, (HBM) Whitney (Milling machine), and many others. I believe
we become a little like our heros when we study their lives, and those
who discovered how to turn tool paths into data a machine can follow
automatically are certainly worthy of the same study.
The "drones" are the ones who don't care about such things, in my
opinion.