Introduction
The hammer is a common hand tool in almost every industry, including metalworking, carpentry, construction, and jewelry. It has a lengthy and intriguing past that spans many centuries. The hammer is a multipurpose instrument with a variety of uses. It is frequently employed to drive nails, break things, and shape materials. The hammer has been used in many contemporary industries, including electronics, where it is used to tap components into place in addition to its traditional uses.
Brief History of the Hammer
The first tools that resembled hammers were made of stones and used for hammering and crushing. Hammers changed over time, developing polished, striking faces and grips of wood or bone. The Romans first created iron-headed hammers, and during the Middle Ages, blacksmiths started to specialize in creating hammers for specific uses, such as shaping metal. Theodore H. Gilman received the first patent for the modern hammer in 1875, with a hardwood handle and a metal head (Lanska, 1989). Many modifications and additions to the design have been developed since then, including various types of heads, handles, and grips.
The hammer is one of the most widely used instruments today and is necessary in many sectors. It is most frequently used as a bent claw for removing nails. The hammer will probably continue to change as new materials and manufacturing processes become accessible. For instance, we may see hammers with carbon fiber or advanced polymer heads, which might be more lightweight and robust than conventional metal heads (Lanska, 1989). Moreover, the handles could be constructed from novel materials like composites or high-tech polymers.
Types of Hammers
There are several hammers, each with a special design and purpose. The most popular form features a curved claw on one end that is used for prying out nails. The sledgehammer is used to crush concrete and perform other heavy-duty tasks, whereas the ball-peen hammer has a rounded head and is used to shape metal.
The hammer’s simplicity is one of the main reasons why it is such a commonplace instrument. In contrast to many contemporary instruments, the hammer can be used by virtually anybody with a fundamental comprehension of how it functions. Because of its simplicity, the hammer is a necessary instrument for many do-it-yourself jobs and house repairs.
Traumas
Yet, using a hammer typically entails considerable dangers. Carpal tunnel syndrome, brought on by repeated actions that compress the median nerve in the wrist, is one of the most typical work-related musculoskeletal diseases (WMSDs) that can result from excessive hammer usage. Furthermore, tendinitis and bursitis in the shoulder, elbow, and wrist can result from using a hammer.
Traumas Prevention
Several things can be done to improve the hammer’s usability in the workplace and lower the danger of WMSDs. First, a hammer with an ergonomic handle can lessen the pressure on the hands and wrists. Stretching and taking frequent pauses can also help lower the risk of injury. Employers may further help lower the risk of WMSDs by giving instructions on correct hammer usage and ensuring that employees have access to the necessary tools and equipment.
Future of the Hammer
When new technology becomes available, the hammer may continue to change. The handle of a hammer is one area that is ready for innovation. Conventional hardwood handles can deteriorate quickly and be challenging to hold for long periods. Future hammers could be stronger, lighter, and more comfortable if new materials like carbon fiber, sophisticated polymers, or innovative materials are used.
Another area of advancement may be the striking face of the hammer. Future hammers might employ new metals or coatings to create more effective striking surfaces that generate more force with less effort. By adding sensors or other innovative technologies, hammers might also be utilized for new purposes, such as monitoring striking force or gauging material hardness.
Conclusion
The hammer is a multipurpose instrument with a lengthy and intriguing history. While it has experienced several adjustments and enhancements over the years, it is a straightforward and useful tool crucial in numerous sectors. As new technologies become accessible, the hammer is anticipated to continue to develop and become increasingly more effective, safe, and simple to use. We can continue using the hammer to alter our world and create a better future if we take precautions to reduce the danger of harm and strain.
Reference
Lanska, D. J. (1989). The history of reflex hammers. Neurology, 39(11), 1542–1542. Web.