Ufp Technologies, Inc.

Foam Cutting Engineers, Inc.

Philip L Allen

To track a large number of tools, the tools are kept in sets with each set having a container. A silhouette of each tool stored in the container is printed at the point of storage along with a dat matrix code that has stored in binary code a description of the tool, the part number, and an identification of the kit of which it is a part. The associated tool has etched into the surface thereof a data matrix code containing the same information as the code printed at the point of storage. The data matrix codes are readable by a scanner and a record of all the tools is maintained on a computer.

Method of tracking tools

To track a large number of tools, the tools are kept in sets with each set having a container. A silhouette of each tool stored in the container is printed at the point of storage along with a data matrix code that has stored in binary code a description of the too, the part number, and an identification of the kit of which it is a part. The associated tool has etched into the surface thereof a data matrix code containing the same information as the code printed at the point of storage. The data matrix codes are readable by a scanner and a record of all the tools is maintained on a computer.

Method of tracking a large number of tools

To track a large number of tools, the tools are kept in sets with each set having a container. A silhouette of each tool stored in the container is printed at the point of storage along with a data matrix symbology that has stored in binary code a description of the tool, the part number, and an identification of the kit of which it is a part. The associated tool has etched into the surface thereof a data matrix symbology containing the same information as the code printed at the point of storage. The data matrix symbology is readable by a scanner and a record of all the tools is maintained on a computer. Metal tools, may have a chrome, black oxide or stainless steel surface. To prepare the surface of a metal tool for receiving a data matrix symbology applied by a laser, the surface is sand blasted and coated with an suitable epoxy to inhance contrast.

Method of tracking and marking tools

An insert for a tool box drawer or the like has a first lower layer of compressible material such as foam above which is a second upper layer of compressible material. The second upper layer of compressible material has a plurality of cut outs therein, each cut out being in the shape of the silhouette of the item or tool to be retained therein. A film of material is bonded between the first layer of compressible material and the second layer of compressible material such that the cut out portions become pockets. Labels are provided at the bottom of each pocket by printing information on either the first layer of compressible material or on the film with the printing positioned so as to be visible through the cut out portions of the upper second layer of compressible material. Where the lower layer of compressible material is non-porous, the film is not required.

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Palatine, IL, United States of America

Philip L Allen