Function generation on the differential analyzer extended to the analog computer

This paper discusses the technique of “generating” certain analytically-defined mathematical functions by continuously solving a differential equation having the desired function as solution. This principle was first applied to the mechanical differential analyzer, described in the first section. The characteristics of the differential analyzer and the electrical analog computer are compared, and extension of this function generating scheme to the latter machine is discussed. Methods are described for determining a differential equation yielding a given function as its solution. Finally, experimental results obtained on an analog computer are described.