GB410129A - Improvements in or relating to calculating and like apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

410,129. Calculating - apparatus. VALTAT, R. L. A., 30, Place Denfert Rochereau, Paris. Sept. 9, 1932, No. 25205. Convention date, Sept. 12, 1931. [Class 106 (i).] Calculations are performed by first converting the items, factors, &c. from the decimal system into the binary (or ternary) notation, performing the calculation in this system and then translating the result into the decimal system. The calculating devices may consequently be of a simplified character, the counting elements consisting only of parts occupying an operative position or a non- operative position to represent unity or nought respectively. Fig. 1 shows electrical or other connections from a decimal keyboard A to a binary counter B which therefore receives as binary quantities the decimal numbers set up at A. In another form the keys set up the items in setting devices allotted respectively to the several decimal denominations and means are provided for summing the binary values standing on these devices. The means for responding to the settings may be wheels of the Odhner type, the teeth being projected or not according as the denomination concerned contains unity or nothing. Thus Fig. 3 shows diagrammatically a system of nine such setting means over which toothed wheels such as b1, b2 &c. may be caused to travel to sum the values, by columns, in the counter C, consequent transfers being allowed for by arranging the wheels b1, b2, &c. in echelon. For re-converting the binary results, each binary denomination may control a corresponding plate constructed with columns of teeth as in Fig. 5 (representing the decimal equivalent of 2<20>) and over which a summing counter may be drawn to take off the decimal values. Alternatively the binary denominational elements may directly control the elements of an ordinary counter. The processes of multiplication, division and extraction of square roots are described as regards their particular application to the binary calculating-means. Fig. 6 shows diagrammatically the manner in which multiplication may be performed. The two factors are set up in binary counters at A and B and by electrical or other means the significant digits at A prepare the raising of teeth in oblique lines extending therefrom while the digits at B render the raising effective in the horizontal lines. The product at C is obtained by summing the raised teeth as in Fig. 3. The invention may also be utilized in statistical apparatus the cards being punched in holes allotted respectively to the various powers of 2 as shown on the right in Fig. 7. The Specification as open to inspection under Sect. 91 also includes extension of the invention to the ternary system, 2 being represented as the base minus unity thus enabling unity to signify both values 1 and 2 according as it is positive or negative. This subject-matter does not appear in the Specification as accepted.