Rise of the Smart Machines
The recent increase in affordable smartphone and tablet technology has led to these handy devices becoming indispensable tools on the jobsite these days, providing everything from communications and project documentation to your favourite Simply Red playlist. Increasingly, tool manufacturers are finding ways to incorporate smart technology into their power tools too; we’ve seen the release of Milwaukee’s One-Key platform and DeWalt’s Bluetooth battery systems, and now Bosch has waded into the fray with the announcement of their new Connected range.
Get Connected
Although a brand new range of tools, the Bosch Connected series is designed for integration with Bosch Toolbox, a free App for Apple and Android devices which many users will already be familiar with. A software upgrade adds the additional functionality needed for this new system and then you’re good to go. The tools themselves interface with your smart device via a user replaceable chip which is installed in the housing, enabling access to additional control functions, monitoring data and asset management facilities.
The Benefits of Connectivity
So what does this mean? I hear you ask. Well, so far Bosch have announced four new drills (the GSR 18 V-85 C, GSB 18 V-85 C, GSR 18 V-60C & GSB 18 V-60 C) two angle grinders (the GWS 18 V-125 ISC & GWS 18 V-115 ISC) and a worklight (the GLI 18 V-1900 C) which will ship with this new technology (the chip will be available either pre-installed or as an optional accessory) and the applications vary depending on the machine. For instance, the new GSB 18 V-85 combi drill is equipped with a kickback control system, a real lifesaver during some applications; however, if you find it kicking in more frequently than you’d like (and Toolbox notifications can inform you when it has been triggered) you can adjust the sensitivity as required. Likewise, if you’re working in especially dark conditions and would prefer your combi drill’s worklight to stay active for a bit longer in between uses, you can adjust that too.
Toolbox also provides data on your tool’s usage such as low battery and overheating warnings, along with information on remaining warranty and any service schedules. As well as providing a convenient location to store serial numbers and images of your machines, Toolbox also enables you to lock tools from within the app, helping to deter theft or prevent unauthorised use – a handy safety feature if you have young children around.
Existing Products
This is not the first foray into smart technology undertaken by the German engineering firm. Knowledgeable readers will no doubt identify the GLM 50C & 100C laser measures and the GIS 1000C thermo detector as precursors to the Connected range in that regard; these tools are designed to work with the Bosch Measuring Master App to make construction documentation quicker, easier and more efficient. Likewise, Bosch are not the only tool manufacturer working in this field. As mentioned earlier, Milwaukee and DeWalt have introduced similar innovations to their product line-ups and we can only expect to see more from other companies in the future as well.
Do you need it?
It is probably fairly unanimously agreed that adding external connectivity to measuring tools can improve mapping & documentation processes considerably. But do we need this technology in power tools?
The question divides opinion currently, and the benefits will vary according to the kind of work you do; however, what is clear is that these are largely unchartered waters so far, and at the rate at which technology advances we can realistically expect to see many more interesting developments and innovations in the near future. What do you think? And what smart features would you like to see added to your power tools?
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