TUVE, Sweden—Every time an assembler uses an electric fastening tool at the Volvo Group truck factory here, the data from the operation is logged and stored. Engineers are now using that data to increase quality.

To draw attention to the breadth and quality of new technologies on display at The ASSEMBLY Show, we’re holding the 2nd annual “Product of the Year” contest at the show, and you—the attendees—will be the judges. We’ve nominated 20 products in five categories that we think are particularly innovative. Among them are four fastening tools.

Aslew of technology is available to ensure threaded fasteners are installed in the correct sequence and at the correct torque and angle.

Power tools collect a wealth of data about the fastening process. With some simple statistical analysis, engineers can obtain valuable insight into the fastening process.

Suppliers of automatic screwdriving equipment talk about their toughest challenges and how they overcame them.

Electric tools have been available for more than a decade. However, until recently, many manufacturers were reluctant to invest in the technology because DC electric screwdrivers and nutrunners traditionally were more expensive than air-powered alternatives.

A growing number of manufacturers are moving from air tools to electric tools and from corded electric tools to cordless tools.