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 Hitachi new tool releases going forward. Hitachi’s “inspire” design was recently recognized by the Industrial Designers Society of America, which sponsors the awards along with Business Week magazine. The award program 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 elastomer material 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 five 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.
