Jul 28 2005
Hitachi Power Tools 18-Volt cordless drill, the DS18DMR won a 2005 IDEA Award for Industrial Design Excellence.
The unique ergonomic design introduced by Hitachi in September 2004 with the DS18DMR launch, has filtered through to all new Hitachi tool releases going forward. Hitachi’s “inspire” design is now recognized by the IDSA (Industrial Designers Society of America) who sponsors the awards along with Business Week magazine and is dedicated to growing public recognition that design is a critical part of the product innovation process with a strong impact on profit.
The DS18DMR cordless drill was judged on innovation, aesthetics, solution benefit, ecological responsibility and how the design improved business. It was reported that Hitachi’s design addressed ergonomic and safety issues while adding additional functionality and a new aesthetic to the power tool industry. The center of gravity was moved to the handle to improve balance, increase comfort and reduce blistering. The entire surface of the drill is coated in a soft material called elastomer, patented by Hitachi to prevent slipping, accidental damage to work pieces, absorb vibration and improve comfort. The molded handle includes fingerprint patterns on the front as a guide, grooves on the back to prevent sweat build up, and a contrasting pattern reminiscent of high-tech sneakers.
The drill includes a belt hook that can be adjusted in 5 positions with an integrated LED job light to illuminate dark workspaces, along with a side handle that can be attached for heavy-duty operation. Improvements in the motor increased torque, while reducing noise and vibration.
IDSA President Ron Kemnitzer states “design isn’t just about style, it’s about translating the opportunities and constraints of technology, demographics, economics and culture to provide enriching experiences, whether in the operating room, the kitchen or the office.”
Hitachi’s “inspire” design is pioneering a new trend in the power tool industry- tools that incorporate the latest technology with ergonomic design- a look that will modernize the traditional workshop or jobsite.
Please visit www.hitachipowertools.com for more information or http://www.idsa.org/idea/idea2005/
The IDEA awards were selected to run as the cover story for the June 27th issue of Business Week