| clutch |
A coupling found inside a motorized device that engages or disengages parts to drive the mechanism. |
| ergonomics |
The study of designing devices to decrease operator discomfort or fatigue and increase productivity. |
| force |
The push or pull that gives energy to an object. Assemblers exerting excessive force is an ergonomic concern. |
| forklift |
A small powered industrial vehicle that has two prongs on the front for lifting material. Forklifts are used to transport heavy loads. |
| grip |
The way in which an object, such as a screwdriving tool, is grasped. Tools are designed with different grips to accommodate specific tasks. |
| hard joint |
A joint in which less than a 30° turn will take the fastener from fitting snugly to reaching torque. |
| impact wrench |
A screwdriving tool that uses a discontinuous drive clutch and compressed air to achieve torque. Impact wrenches are often used to tighten lug nuts on cars when changing a tire. |
| pallet jack |
A small vehicle used in manufacturing that contains a platform for lifting and transporting heavy loads. |
| parts bin |
A device used to hold parts or supplies. Parts bins are usually on wheels so they can be easily transported around a shop. |
| personal protection equipment |
Any of various articles of clothing or safeguarding devices that assemblers or operators are required to wear. Personal protection equipment (PPE) varies from shop to shop. |
| pistol-grip tool |
A tool that has a grip shaped to fit the hand. Pistol-grip tools are typically recommended for vertical projects. |
| power-to-weight ratio |
The power the tool generates divided by the weight of the tool. |
| pulse tool |
A screwdriving tool that uses a discontinuous drive clutch and hydraulics to generate torque. Pulse tools are common for applications that use large bolts. |
| push-start screwdriver |
A screwdriving tool that is powered when it is pushed against a joint. |
| screwdriving tool |
A tool that assembles a screw into a joint. Screwdriving tools can be manual or powered by compressed air, electricity, or batteries. |
| sitting workstation |
A workplace in which assemblers perform their tasks sitting down. |
| standing workstation |
A workplace in which assemblers perform their tasks standing up. |
| straight-grip tool |
A tool that has a barrel-like grip. Straight-grip tools are typically recommended for horizontal projects. |
| tool balancer |
A device that suspends a tool above the workstation using a retractable cord. Tool balancers are ergonomic and reduce clutter. |
| tool positioner |
A device that suspends a tool just above the components using an adjustable bar or rod. |
| torque |
The amount of force applied to tighten a threaded fastener. |
| torque reaction |
The jerk an assembler can feel in the hand and/or arm when a fastening tool reaches torque. Torque reaction is an ergonomic concern. |
| torque-absorbing arm |
An attachment used with a fastening tool that absorbs torque reaction so the assembler can avoid injury. |