Next Big Thing: Smart inventory
DeWalt is getting more ambitious in its efforts to boost jobsite connectivity.
The toolmaker announced the impending launch of a fully connected system over the coming months that will include a WiFi mesh network and Internet of Things platform to help boost asset management and data sharing, allowing contractors to collaborate in real-time across large-scale jobsites.
“DeWalt understands how vital the building and construction industries are to local and global economies,” said Tony Nicolaidis, VP marketing for Connected Systems. “Leveraging technology, our goal is to provide solutions for gathering in-depth jobsite data for better decision-making by general contractors and trade contractors, thus enhancing productivity and safety.”
The initial offering from the platform will come in the form of DeWalt's Tool Connect inventory management system, which the company is updating to include a three-part inventory management solution.
“Entering the connectivity space is a great move for DeWalt and a promising opportunity for the industry. They bring a wealth of expertise to the industry as the first company to truly focus on creating a platform to support the Internet of Things. In tackling connectivity, we see huge potential and opportunity for DeWalt and the wider construction community,” said Taylor Cupp, Technologist for Mortenson Construction.
Tool Connect was originally launched in 2015, using Bluetooth technology to manage batteries on the jobsite. Now, it includes the Tool Connect Inventory Manager web portal, the updated Tool Connect mobile app, and connected products.
The system works by pairing connected tools, equipment, and materials with the Tool Connect app. The same data is also stored online, accessed by logging into the web portal. This allows the user to track the last seen location of paired assets as well as manage and assign tools and equipment to different jobsites. The system also streamlines tracking, check-in, and check-out processes of tools thereby eliminating wasted time spent searching for such tools. This helps to save costs and increase productivity as well as efficiency.
The app also has customization and diagnostic features. The user can adjust the speed and torque for applications that require consistency and limited variability. The brightness and delay setting of each tool’s LED light is also customizable, among other features.
Tool Connect will allow tools to become disabled when they’re out of range, as well as make jobsite reporting more convenient and accurate.
