Case study

Innovating Hydraulic Torque Control with Torq-Comm

The Torq-Comm’s Commander AT1000 is the most innovative hydraulic torque collection and control tool. Equipped with a high-resolution camera, GPS, advanced barcode scanning (1D, 2D, and RFID), Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and 3G/4G cellular connectivity, these tools make virtually any data collection scenario possible.

Background

With over 30 years of industry experience, Torq-Comm is a revolutionary company specializing in the collection and control of critical data to ensure precise assembly processes. Their expertise includes delivering industry-standard or customized work instructions to operators, with advanced features like remote pump control, automated data acquisition, and one-touch report generation.

At the heart of their innovation is a patented, rugged handheld production control system, purpose-built to support assembly operations while capturing critical hydraulic bolting data with unmatched accuracy.

Challenges

Torq-Comm faced the following obstacles:

Web application code that demanded deep refactoring.
Outdated versions of Firebase and Angular libraries limit functionality and performance.
Restricted web application features that didn’t fully meet business needs.
An outdated mobile app, developed for Windows phones, that no longer aligned with modern user requirements.

Mobile Application Enhancements

Deliverables

Deliverable 1: New Android Mobile App

A new Android app was developed to replace the outdated Windows phone version. This app comprehensively supports job processing, including:

Job creation and processing.
Connecting to the hydraulic wrench via Bluetooth.
Capturing and storing bolt data locally.
Transferring data to the Firebase database.

Impact

Faster performance with an intuitive, Android-based user experience.
Foremen can now create jobs directly on the device, eliminating the need for office visits.
Enhanced functionality simplifies torque recording and tracking.

Deliverable 2: Offline Mode

The app now supports offline operations, allowing data to be stored locally when there’s no internet. Once reconnected, the app syncs seamlessly with Firebase.

Impact

Reliable functionality in remote locations without internet connectivity.

Deliverable 3: Manual Mode

A "manual" mode was introduced to simulate Bluetooth connections with the wrench. This feature allows potential buyers to test the app without purchasing physical tools.

Technologies and services

Impact

Empowered prospective buyers to explore and test the app's full functionality without the need to purchase a physical one.
Increased user interest by providing a hands-on demo experience.

Web Application Enhancements

Deliverable 4: Subscription and License Management

A flexible subscription and license management system was introduced.

Impact

Expanded business opportunities with customized subscription plans.
30-day trial licensing with self-initiation and auto-shutdown is an excellent feature. It eliminates “cheating” the system while allowing us to track user activity effectively.
Real-time remote analysis via the cloud enables live worldwide supervision.
Enhanced security through robust license management.

Deliverable 5: Front-End Refactor & Feature Expansion

The web application’s front-end was refactored and updated with new features, including user and license management.

Impact

Improved code readability and maintainability.
Enhanced performance and scalability.
Reduced technical debt, unlocking new business opportunities.

Deliverable 6: Firebase and Angular Library Updates

Both Firebase and Angular were updated to their latest versions, delivering numerous benefits:

Performance gains with faster app performance and optimized builds.
Enhanced security through updated patches and vulnerability fixes.
Access to new Angular features for smoother development.
Improved stability with fewer bugs and better debugging tools.
Better compatibility with third-party libraries and frame

Technologies and services

Future Prospects

We are committed to continuing our partnership with Torq-Comm, enhancing the feature set for both their mobile and web applications to maintain their competitive edge in hydraulic torque control.

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