Tool Management

February 14, 2011

The Level 5™ automated tool control (ATC) system from Snap-on® Industrial features digital imaging technology for added security in applications that extend from standard jobs to highly controlled, mission-critical functions.

In addition to day-to-day issues like inefficient maintenance practices or critical tool breakdown, foreign object damage (FOD) and maintaining strict foreign material exclusion (FME) procedures pose a whole new level of risk.

This ATC system is both a tool storage box with keyless entry and a PC-based database with digital imaging technology for asset management.

Each user is assigned a key card that is embedded with a user-specific code. This allows the unit to recognize who is accessing the system. 

The process starts by scanning the proximity card to log in, enter a work location, and remove or return the tools. Digital cameras located in the top of the unit capture a scan of the drawer and determine which tools have been removed or returned. The user then logs out. After each user logout, the digital imaging devices forward full-drawer images and log files to the PC, where they are stored for later access. 

The system offers an optional administrator’s software package that is used to add and delete users, assign various levels of user access and lock permissions, and track individual tool usage.  The administrator’s system can be synchronized to individual or multiple boxes and can pull data and images from each selected toolbox.

The data logs and audit image files are available for inspection in the administrator’s program following synchronization with the box. Other features in the administrator’s toolbox include creation of various reports, tool searches, alerts for broken tools and tools out for calibration, tool custody transfer, and box setup functions. 

For more information, visit www.snapon.com/industrial.