MEASURING DEVICES
Bosch has released a mobile app that enables the measurements made with measuring devices to be sent and used directly on the app for accuracy and on-site quoting
Photo by: Duane Daws
Industrial tools manufacturer Bosch has increased the compatibility of many batteries in its range of blue industrial power tools and has released mobile-device applications (apps) for users of the tools, says Bosch South Africa training manager Peter du Bruyn.
Many of the cordless tools can already share battery packs, and the new induction-charge battery packs can also be used across the range of these tools.
“These induction-charged hand-held tools are well suited to original-equipment manufacturing and general manufacturing, as the tool sits on the charging plate, making it neat and immediately available for use in a structured environment.
“Another battery can be placed on the charger if the tool is in use, and the battery will deliver 80% of its power after only 20 minutes of charging. A full charge requires 40 minutes,” Du Bruyn explains.
Ferrous metallic objects on the induction-charge plate interfere with charging, but the charger will detect interference and alert users to remove the object on the plate.
Meanwhile, the 36 V, 3 J heavy-duty cordless hammer, also powered by induction-charged batteries, automatically switches off within split seconds as a safety precaution when it detects a sudden change in the drill’s orient- ation, such as being jerked out of an operator’s hands.
The cordless drill also has preset functions for drilling into drywall, brick or reinforced concrete walls. The precision control function slowly speeds up the drill to 70% power to enable the user to position the tip and initial hole accurately. Once the hole is deep enough, the user can switch off the function and drill at full power, he says.
“Our battery technology and rotary planetary gears enable cordless tools that are as strong those that draw electricity from a power cable. This is partly a result of the rare-earth magnets used in the induction coil motor, which allow for significant torque to be generated.”
Further, Bosch has launched a mobile app that uses data from its do-it-yourself and professional measuring tool ranges. The small Class 2 laser tools have a variety of built-in measuring functions, including measuring angles and, as a result, can measure vertical heights using the horizontal distance and the distance to the top of the structure.
All data captured on the devices can be sent to a mobile device app to provide values on a floor plan. Further, if users do not have a floor plan, taking a series of measurements of the structure will generate a floor plan on the device, including wall thickness.
Users can also take a photo and sketch the measurements directly onto the photo on the device, which is useful for remodelling; the project information can be emailed, providing accurate information for off-site engineers or quotes for clients from site.
The measuring devices also share rechargeable battery packs and penlight batteries can also be used to power the devices.
“Bosch provides training for retail chains, hardware stores and our clients’ employees on how to use the tools. This enables users to be aware of, and use, the many functions of the tools, improving the accuracy and efficiency of their work,” he concludes.