Wiss introduces Auto-Retracting Utility Knife
Wiss, a Sparks, Md.-based Apex Tool Group brand, has unveiled its Auto-Retracting Utility Knife, which automatically retracts its blade once it loses contact with the material being cut. This safety feature works even if the blade slider is in the open position.
“The new Auto-Retracting Utility Knife is a breakthrough solution to improve safety throughout the workplace,” said Chris Lance, product manager for Wiss, in a press release. “Unlike standard knives, the new Wiss knife reduces the likelihood of injury and makes every cutting job safer.”
Blade changes are quick and easy, and the tool accepts all standard utility knife blades.
A thermostat for the iPod generation
An article in the New York Times points to a radical new design of an everyday home item: the programmable thermostat.
In an article titled: "A thermostat that’s clever, not clunky," the Nest Learning Thermostat gets a positive review. The product is designed by Tony Fadell, who helped design the Apple iPod.
The programmable thermostat category presents opportunities for improvement, according to Nest, in terms of functionality, style and ease of use.
Unemployment dips to rate of 8.6%
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Friday morning reported the lowest national unemployment rate since March 2009.
The November rate of 8.6% is down 0.4 percentage points from 9.0% in October. A year ago, the unemployment rate stood at 9.8%, according to the bureau.
The employment situation report showed that the private sector added 140,000 jobs, as employment rose in a number of service-providing industries. Government employment continued to trend down.
Since reaching an employment trough in December 2009, retailers have added an average of 14,000 jobs per month. However, construction employment showed little movement in November. Employment in the construction industry has shown little change, on net, since early 2010.
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Dec-02-2011 09:21 pm