Patent ID: 8166836

Claim:
A tool for fixing or releasing a fastening element by remote activation, the tool comprising: means for fixing or releasing the fastening element without direct physical contact between the tool and the fastening element; and means for detecting an attribute of the fastening element, wherein the attribute is selected from the group consisting of: location of the fastening element, fixed or released status of the fastening element, identity of the fastening element, one or more environmental factors affecting the fastening element, size of the fastening element, position of the fastening element in a predetermined sequence of activation of fastening elements, history of the fastening element, authorization requirements of the fastening element, and nature of energy required for remote fixing or releasing of the fastening element; and wherein the means for fixing or releasing the fastening element is adapted to cause a locking element to move along a channel to and from a fixed position, wherein the locking element blocks a moveable member.