Method for the library storage of a workpiece program for numerically controlled machine tools

A method for recording and storing workpiece programs for use with a numerically controlled machine tool having a manual input keyboard comprising:

• (a) providing the machine tool control with a working memory in the form of a transportable semiconductor memory capable of storing a complete workpiece program, the working memory adapted to be plugged into and unplugged from the numerically controlled machine tool;
• (b) each time that a new workpiece is to be prepared by the numerically controlled machine tool, programming the associated machining steps by means of the manual input keyboard and storing the workpiece program so generated in the working memory:
• (c) unplugging the working memory;
• (d) moving the working memory to a library storage room separate from the room in which the machine tool is located;
• (e) plugging the working memory into the input/output control of a recording/playback instrument;
• and
• (f) recording the contents of the working memory onto an external data carrier.