The AL-1 relay calculator for science- and technology-related calculations featured a special program function for performing calculation commands. Users set their own programs with a program unit consisting of six plastic 60-tooth gears to perform automatic calculations with preset calculation sequences. The AL-1 was sold for 995,000 yen and was in wide use by universities and research organizations. The National Museum of Nature and Science has designated the AL-1 as one of the Essential Historical Materials for Science and Technology.
(Photos, left: A plastic gear used for preset calculation sequences Right: AL-1)