If it was I doing the project, I would certainly revert to the manufacturer of the hammer. Companies such as Stanley, Hilti and numerous others. Although they may be leery of divulging too much of their future technology, a devious person will be able to extract enough information to make intelligent assumptions. It is human nature for people to speak about what they are proud of.

Another good source would be magazines (these are things where people actually received information before the age of the computer) that revel in showing off new technology. Popular Mechanics, Woodworkers, etc. Yes I know they all have websites, however they do not go back to ground zero. I am sure your learning institution would have a microfilm file on older magazine articles. If not, then possibly the public ones in Toronto. The last resort would be the piblishers themselves. Generally, they are about a year ahead of mass production, sometimes longer.

I know this is not the windfall that you expected, but, an easier topic could have been chosen. Hope your work pays off.......