The Robertson screw, also known as the “square screw,” is a staple in many Canadian households and industries. Invented by P.L. Robertson in 1908, this innovative fastening system quickly gained popularity north of the border. However, if you’re an American, chances are you’ve never even heard of it, let alone used one. So, what’s behind the absence of Robertson screws in America? In this article, we’ll delve into the fascinating history and explore the reasons behind this transcontinental anomaly.
A Brief History of the Robertson Screw
P.L. Robertson, a Canadian inventor and entrepreneur, created the Robertson screw in response to the frustrations he experienced with conventional screws. The traditional screws of the time were prone to camming out, stripping, and damaging surrounding materials. Robertson’s innovative design featured a square-shaped socket that provided a more secure and reliable connection. The new screw quickly gained popularity in Canada, particularly in the construction and manufacturing industries.
The Rise of the Robertson Screw in Canada
As the Robertson screw gained widespread acceptance in Canada, it became an integral part of the country’s industrial and economic growth. Canadian manufacturers, such as the Ontario-based Gypsum Lime and Alabastine company, began to adopt the screw as their standard fastening system. The screw’s popularity extended beyond industry, with many Canadian households using it for DIY projects and repairs.
The American Screw Scene
Meanwhile, in the United States, a different screw was gaining popularity – the Phillips head screw. Invented by Henry F. Phillips in the 1930s, the Phillips head screw was designed to provide a more efficient and cost-effective fastening system. The screw’s cruciform shape allowed for faster assembly and disassembly, making it an attractive option for American manufacturers.
The Rise of the Phillips Head Screw in America
The Phillips head screw quickly became the standard in American industries, from automotive to aerospace. Its widespread adoption was largely driven by its efficiency and cost-effectiveness. American manufacturers, such as Ford and General Motors, began to use the Phillips head screw in their production lines, further solidifying its position in the market.
Why the Robertson Screw Never Took Off in America
So, why did the Robertson screw fail to gain traction in America, while the Phillips head screw became the standard? Several factors contributed to this phenomenon:
Licensing and Patent Issues
One major obstacle was the licensing and patent agreement between P.L. Robertson and the American Screw Company. The agreement restricted the production and sale of Robertson screws in the United States, effectively limiting their availability.
American Screw Company’s Monopoly
The American Screw Company, founded in 1899, held a significant market share in the screw industry. The company’s patent on the flat-head screw gave them a stronghold on the market, making it difficult for competitors, including the Robertson screw, to enter the scene.
Industry Resistance and Loyalty
Another significant factor was the existing industry infrastructure and loyalty to the Phillips head screw. American manufacturers had already invested heavily in equipment and training for the Phillips head screw. Switching to the Robertson screw would have required significant investments in new machinery and retraining of personnel.
Marketing and Distribution
The Robertson screw’s limited availability and lack of marketing efforts in the United States also contributed to its absence. P.L. Robertson’s company focused primarily on the Canadian market, leaving the American market underserved.
The Consequences of the Robertson Screw’s Absence
The lack of Robertson screws in America has had significant consequences for industries and individuals alike:
Reduced Efficiency and Productivity
The Phillips head screw, although efficient in its time, has been surpassed by the Robertson screw in terms of reliability and ease of use. The absence of Robertson screws has resulted in reduced efficiency and productivity in certain industries.
Increased Costs and Inconvenience
The limited availability of Robertson screws has led to increased costs and inconvenience for American companies that require them. This has resulted in additional expenses for inventory management, logistics, and tooling.
A Glimmer of Hope: The Rise of Importation and Online Retail
In recent years, online retail and importation have made it easier for Americans to access Robertson screws. Online marketplaces, such as Amazon and eBay, have bridged the gap, allowing consumers to purchase Robertson screws directly from Canadian suppliers or online retailers.
The Future of the Robertson Screw in America
As the global market continues to evolve, it’s possible that the Robertson screw will gain more traction in America. The increasing availability of online marketplaces and importation channels may lead to a shift in the screw market, potentially paving the way for the Robertson screw to become a more prominent player.
Conclusion
The absence of Robertson screws in America is a fascinating tale of innovation, industry, and circumstance. While the Phillips head screw has remained the standard in America, the Robertson screw has maintained its popularity in Canada. As the market continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see if the Robertson screw will eventually gain a foothold in the United States.
| Screw Type | Invented By | Year Invented | Country of Origin |
|---|---|---|---|
| Robertson Screw | P.L. Robertson | 1908 | Canada |
| Phillips Head Screw | Henry F. Phillips | 1930s | United States |
In conclusion, the story of the missing Robertson screw in America serves as a reminder of the complex interplay between innovation, industry, and circumstance. As we look to the future, it will be exciting to see how the screw market continues to evolve and whether the Robertson screw will finally find its place in the American landscape.
What is a Robertson screw and why is it important?
A Robertson screw is a type of screw with a square-shaped socket in the head, invented by P.L. Robertson in the early 20th century. It was widely used in Canada and other parts of the world for its ease of use and versatility. The Robertson screw is important because of its unique design, which allows for a more secure and efficient fastening process.
In North America, the Robertson screw was particularly popular in Canada, where it became the standard for construction and DIY projects. Its popularity was due in part to its ability to provide a strong and reliable hold, making it an essential tool for many industries. Despite its widespread use, however, the Robertson screw remains relatively unknown in the United States, leading to the mystery of its disappearance.
Why did the Robertson screw disappear in America?
The Robertson screw disappeared in America due to a combination of factors, including licensing agreements, marketing strategies, and industry preferences. In the early 20th century, the Robertson screw was licensed to the American Screw Company, which failed to promote it effectively in the US market. Meanwhile, other screw companies, such as the Phillips Screw Company, aggressively marketed their own products, leading to a shift in consumer preferences.
Additionally, the American Screw Company’s decision to focus on the production of other screw types, such as the flathead screw, further contributed to the decline of the Robertson screw. As a result, the Robertson screw gradually fell out of favor, and its use became largely limited to Canada and other parts of the world.
Is the Robertson screw still used today?
Yes, the Robertson screw is still used today, primarily in Canada and other parts of the world where it remains a popular choice. In Canada, the Robertson screw is widely available in hardware stores and is commonly used in construction, DIY projects, and other industries.
Although the Robertson screw has largely disappeared from the US market, there has been a recent resurgence of interest in its use. Some American companies have begun to manufacture and market Robertson screws, and online retailers have made them more accessible to consumers.
What are the advantages of the Robertson screw?
The Robertson screw has several advantages that make it a preferred choice for many users. One of the main benefits is its ability to provide a strong and reliable hold, thanks to its square-shaped socket. This design allows for a more secure fit, reducing the risk of stripping or camming out.
Another advantage of the Robertson screw is its ease of use. The square-shaped socket allows for a more comfortable grip, making it easier to drive the screw into place. Additionally, the Robertson screw is less prone to damage, as the square shape provides more surface area for the screwdriver to engage with.
Can I still find Robertson screws in the US?
Yes, it is still possible to find Robertson screws in the US, although they may be more difficult to come by. Some specialty hardware stores, online retailers, and Canadian import stores may carry Robertson screws or be able to order them for you.
You can also try searching online for “Robertson screw” or “square screw” to find retailers that sell them. However, be prepared to pay a premium price, as Robertson screws are no longer widely available in the US market.
Is there a conspiracy behind the disappearance of the Robertson screw?
While the disappearance of the Robertson screw is often attributed to a conspiracy, there is no concrete evidence to support this claim. The decline of the Robertson screw can be traced back to a combination of business decisions, marketing strategies, and industry preferences.
However, the lack of awareness and availability of Robertson screws in the US has led to speculation about the role of competing screw companies and industry interests in suppressing its use. Regardless of the reasons, the mysterious disappearance of the Robertson screw has sparked a sense of curiosity and intrigue.
Will the Robertson screw make a comeback in America?
It is difficult to predict whether the Robertson screw will make a comeback in America. However, with the growing interest in DIY projects and the increasing popularity of online shopping, there is a possibility that demand for Robertson screws may increase.
Additionally, the recent resurgence of interest in the Robertson screw has led some companies to begin manufacturing and marketing them. As awareness and availability increase, it is possible that the Robertson screw may regain its popularity in the US market. However, only time will tell if the Robertson screw will make a full-fledged comeback in America.