Tools manufacturer DeWalt is collaborating with
the Ford Motor Co. to launch Tool Link, a tracking system that will enable
contractors to monitor the tools stored in vehicles.
Available
on the 2009 F-150, F-Series Super Duty trucks, and E-Series vans this fall,
Tool Link by DeWalt is a feature of Ford Work Solutions.
DeWalt
collaborated with Ford and ThinkMagic to create Tool Link. Tool Link allows
contractors to track assets and control inventory, ensuring crews arrive and
leave the jobsite with the right tools and materials for their job. The system
includes labels that allow the truck operators to tag, scan and track expensive
tools, equipment and other assets.
When the vehicle is
running, a pair of antennas, mounted in corrosion and impact-resistant housings
on the inside of the pickup box, scan the box for tagged items on a
pre-programmed inventory list. This data is transmitted to a reader mounted
inside the cab and displayed on the in-dash computer screen, alerting the
driver if any inventoried tools are not loaded on the
truck.
“DeWalt is dedicated to developing new products that
provide professional contractors with innovative solutions to help meet their
needs,” said Chris Allen, vice president of DeWalt’s security business group.
“Working with Ford and ThinkMagic to create Tool Link further demonstrates this
commitment and will enable end users to be more productive on the jobsite.”
DeWalt
reports that Tool Link offers industry-first features such as a pre-loaded menu
with several standard tool lists that are easily edited to reflect specific
types of jobs. The system uses industry standard second-generation electronic
tags that can be fastened to tools or other assets and can scan and organize
hundreds of them in seconds.
“Ford, through Ford Work
Solutions, is focused on offering productivity solutions for our truck owners.
Collaborating with DeWalt is an opportunity to take productivity to a new level
by creating innovative solutions,” said William Frykman, Ford product and
business development manager. “Ford and DeWalt are both leaders in their
industries. With DeWalt’s core knowledge of its end users and expertise in
developing jobsite solutions that meet the needs of professional contractors,
Tool Link will ensure that professional contractors can work smarter.”
DeWalt, Ford Motor Co. partner for tracking system
August 1, 2008
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