SMART HAND HELD TOOLS
OVERVIEW
Background:
Advances in materials, micro-chip design, pneumatics, and portable
storage battery technologies have led to the development of a new class
of handheld tools which are lighter, more durable, and offer greater
performance and functionality than their predecessors. Today’s handheld
tools find use in a broad range construction related applications—from
the brick layer to the plumber these tools are faster and more efficient
than in years past and offer improvements in productivity and
construction labor cost.
Emerging
Technologies: Micro-chip
technologies not only aid in handheld tools performing more functions,
but also provide to user greater control and utility over each of the
tools functions. For example today’s automatic fasteners can be used to
fasten various types of materials (i.e., wood, cement, steel), perform
multiple functions such as hammer and drilling operations, and give the
user greater control in setting the speed and depth of the fastener
without sacrificing safety.
Weather
the work being performed by the tool is cutting material, turning a
screw, or driving a nail, advances in tool design, drive mechanisms
(i.e., motors, gears, bearings, pneumatic systems), and battery
technologies, permit more power to be transferred to the tool performing
the work. Since less energy is wasted in the form of heat, today’s
handheld tools offer greater performance, efficiency, and reliability.
Today’s
handheld tools use composite materials which are stronger, lighter, and
are less sensitive to changes in weather conditions. Their easy of use
and durability, make them suitable for both indoor an outdoor
construction jobs.
Benefits:
The increased utility offered by this new generation of handheld tools
provides increased productivity, reduced labor cost, and less downtime
due to weather. Other benefits include greater safety in the use of
these tools.
