Charles S. Hutchins

Charles S. Hutchins is a pioneering figure in the field of computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) and numerical control (NC) technology. Here's a brief overview of his significant contributions and career:

Early Life and Education

Charles S. Hutchins developed an early fascination with machine tools and manufacturing. As a young boy, he learned to operate lathes in his uncle's shop, which sparked his interest in the field.1 He graduated from the University of Michigan, College of Engineering, with a BSE in mechanical engineering and applied mechanics in 1957.1

Career Highlights

Father of CAM:: Hutchins is widely recognized as the father of Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM).1

Pioneering Work::

• In 1967, he began the software project that became the first MDSI Compact II, which used computers for programming machine tools.1
• He co-founded Manufacturing Data Systems Inc. (MDSI) in 1969, which is considered the pioneer of computer-aided manufacturing.1

Innovation in NC Technology:: Hutchins invented the part programming system that gave birth to CAM and has been a driving force behind the open-architecture control movement.1

OpenCNC:: After retiring at 45, Hutchins pursued the idea of an open-architecture machine control, which led to the development of MDSI's OpenCNC.1

Current Role

Charles S. Hutchins is currently associated with the University of Michigan Solar Car team as a Sponsor & Cheerleader.2 This role likely involves supporting and promoting the university's solar car project, drawing on his extensive experience in engineering and manufacturing.

Author

Hutchins has written a book titled "Hot Tech Cold Steel," which was published on Amazon in 2021. The book tells the story of Manufacturing Data Systems, Inc.3

Throughout his career, Charles S. Hutchins has been at the forefront of innovation in machine tool and NC technology for over 35 years, making significant contributions to the field of manufacturing and computer-aided design.