The Internet of Things also includes manufacturing. A Durham firm is proving that. And kickstarter campaigns aren’t limited to some SWAG about the next big thing for web content. The same Durham firm is demonstrating that fact, too.

Think a 3D printer that cuts wood – and a lot of other things – to specific requirements.

You may not have heard of ShopBot Tools or its forthcoming Handibot “smart power tool,” but apparently a lot of people looking for cutting-edge technology in construction and manufacturing have. The Durham company launched a kickstarter program to fund production of its new tool on Thursday – and the results were nothing short of amazing.

In the first day, ShopBot raised $86,641 from 67 “backers.” The entire goal is $125,000 – and the campaign still has 33 days to go.

Digital and mobile technology (as well as apps to run high-tech devices) is not limited to tablets, smartphones, smart TVs and all other kinds of smart devices. It’s also not confined in manufacturing to robotic assembly of cars and trucks on those big factory lines.

ShopBot has been in the high-tech tool business since 1996, and given the response to its Handibot the firm led by company President Ted Hall could be poised for a big breakout.

Handibot earned an award at MAKE Magazine’s “Hardware Innovation Workshop” last month based on several factors – one being mobility. Owners can take Handibot TO materials, not the other way around.

“It is a portable robotic power tool designed to enhance creativity and productivity at construction and remodeling jobsites, in rapid prototyping, and in countless DIY [do it yourself] projects,” ShopBot says.

Get these tech features:

  • App-driven, one-button “Start”
  • Can be run from a smartphone or tablet or PCs

“If you’ve heard of 3D printers, then think of the Handibot as a ‘3D Cutter’ — you can use the Handibot to cut, drill, and carve in wood, plastic, and aluminum with computer-controlled precision,” the company says.

But in launching the campaign, ShopBot warned that the Handibot would be manufactured only if the $125,000 is raised. So far, customers are lining up.

“Backers” in the campaign receive a variety of rewards for providing cash, including the chance to get a device several weeks before others – assuming general production starts.

For example, all 10 of the $1.995 packages were taken in the opening hours.

Here’s what those “backers” were promised:

“HANDIBOT-EARLYBIRD: Your own Handibot tool, shipped 6 weeks after the end of the campaign. Fully assembled and tested tool with 2 bits, ready to connect to your windows PC* and go to work. Various accessories are optionally available from ShopBot. Cost of shipping and tax not included. *Windows PC is not included at this pledge level. See HANDIBOT- INNER CIRCLE if you are interested in a reward that includes a PC.”

Another 12 backers signed up for $2,700 packages, and 10 signed on at $2,400.

So far, one $5,000 and one $3,000 commitment have been made.

The Handibots are expected to begin being delivered in September.

You can read about the Handibot kickstarter campaign online.