Air tool monitoring apparatus, air tool incorporating same, system for monitoring multiple air tools equipped with same, and methods of using same

摘要

An air tool monitoring apparatus includes a housing having a hollow chamber formed therein, and also having an inlet and an outlet formed therein, each of the inlet and an outlet in communication with the chamber. The apparatus also includes first and second sensors for sensing condition indicative of tool usage and wear, a battery disposed in the housing, a generator for recharging the battery, and a microprocessor operatively connected to the housing and including a timer, a memory storage module, and a unique identifier. The apparatus may include a baffle for guiding air past the generator. The apparatus further includes a switch for starting and stopping the timer, and a communication device for sending data from the microprocessor to a data collection device. Methods of using the apparatus, along with systems for monitoring and reporting on usage of multiple air tools equipped with the apparatus, are also described.