What is a screwdriver, who invented it?

When it comes to working with threaded fasteners, a screwdriver is an essential tool. Whether you’re at work, in your cottage, or at home, this clever device proves to be useful in every situation. Both professionals and amateurs use screwdrivers.

While a powerful screwdriver can make necessary manipulations easier and faster, it may not always be the most practical option. Its large dimensions can complicate construction activities in tight spaces. For smaller installation or repair work, a regular screwdriver is more convenient. It occupies less space and is easier to use in hard-to-reach areas.

In order to ensure the most comfortable working experience, it’s important to choose the right tool. But first, let’s explore the origins of the screwdriver.

Screwdriver: what is this tool, a little history

The invention of structures equipped with screws gave rise to the demand for a tool known as a screwdriver. Its first documented reference can be traced back to the 16th century. During this period, wrenches were initially employed for the installation of screws due to the hexagonal shape of screw heads.

However, achieving the desired purpose was not an easy task. For the sake of convenience, a small groove was incorporated into the design, allowing for the insertion of the flat part of the tool. This modification resulted in the tool being referred to as a chisel. In modern times, another name that has gained more popularity is the screwdriver.

Historical evidence suggests that the familiar design of the screwdriver emerged in the 17th century. During this time, it was widely utilized in the manufacturing and maintenance of military equipment and weapons. A supporting argument to this theory is the fact that muskets and pistols were equipped with screws featuring a straight slot. Other variations of the slot were not commonly used until the early 20th century, which solidified the flat model of the screwdriver as the most prevalent version.

The development of the tool was made possible by an incident involving a Canadian traveling salesman, Mr. Peter Robinson. While carrying out his usual work, the tool slipped from its designated groove, causing severe damage to Mr. Robinson’s hand. Upon reflection, he suggested a safer design for the capstan, replacing the straight slot with a square-shaped recess.

This led to the creation of the "Robertson flathead," which required modifications to the fastening tool’s design. Since then, the working part of the screwdriver has adopted a square shape. This variation found wide use in the automotive industry, including in Henry Ford’s factories.

The model gained popularity until the 1930s, when American Phillips introduced a cross-shaped version of the product. During that time, it saw active usage in aircraft construction.

The advancement of technology has resulted in the emergence of various devices. Consequently, new methods of fastening have emerged as well, each of which necessitates a different type of screwdriver. As a result, there are now over ten different types of repair tools available.

The device of the screwdriver and the characteristics of the tool

Even though there are several different models, they all share three fundamental components:

1. The handle of the tool serves primarily to ensure comfortable use. However, some models have handles that offer additional functions, such as indication capabilities. There is a wide variety of handle designs available, allowing users to choose the most convenient option for their needs. For example, there are screwdrivers with round, hexagonal, short, long, wide, or narrow handles. The handles themselves can be made from various materials, including plastic, wood, and rubber. Additionally, there are models with T-shaped handles or ones that resemble a gun shape.
2. The rod of the tool helps users select the appropriate product for specific purposes. The length of the rod determines the maximum depth at which the fastening hardware can be accessed.
3. Tip. The configuration of the tool can be varied. The choice of an appropriate one will rely on the type of hardware – self-tapping screw, regular screw, etc. To ensure that the rod does not slip off the surface during work, the tip is coated with a special substance. Additionally, magnetized versions are also available for purchase.

Reference. A rod that is too long can limit your ability to work effectively in tight and difficult-to-reach areas. Therefore, in certain situations, the length can be a disadvantage of the tool.

Types of screwdrivers, their features

Imagine you have some furniture that needs to be put together. In order to find the correct screwdriver, examine the shape of the fasteners. If you choose the wrong type, you could potentially damage the screw slot. In that case, you would need to resort to more drastic measures, such as using an extractor tool.

There are several types of screwdrivers that are commonly used:

1. A flat-tip screwdriver typically has a spatula-shaped tip and is commonly used for simple tasks such as installing sockets, assembling furniture, and installing lock hinges.
2. A cross-tip screwdriver has a section with four edges, creating a larger contact area. This allows for a tighter grip on the hardware, making it ideal for assembling and repairing cars, electrical equipment, and other machinery.
3. A star-shaped screwdriver features a tip with six facets, similar to a star. It is primarily used for assembling smartphones and other specialized equipment, making it suitable for specialized repair shops and warranty service centers.
4. A hexagonal shape is used to create the cross-section, which allows for a high torque to be achieved. This design is commonly utilized for repairing electrical appliances and maintaining objects that are under voltage.

The number of tools needed for comfortable work depends on the type of fastening hardware being used. It is recommended by experts to either purchase multiple options or buy a tool with replaceable tips. Additionally, it is important to ensure that the chosen product is not only comfortable, but also of high quality.