Field of the Invention This invention relates to an apparatus for arranging and feeding fasteners, which are also known as fastenings. In particular, the present invention relates to an apparatus for arranging and feeding fasteners, such as screws, nails, or bolts. The invention primarily finds utility in the field of portable mechanical fastening tools. Also disclosed are tools comprising the apparatus, uses thereof, and methods for arranging and feeding fasteners.

Background to the Invention

Fasteners, which are also known as fastenings, such as "self drilling wafer head screws" or "self tapping wafer head screws", primarily find utility in the dry-lining trade for fixing materials used to construct metal frame ceilings and stud wall partitions. Metal frame ceilings and stud wall partitions are made from lightweight metal, which is constructed into frameworks. Currently, fasteners must be individually placed adjacent a screw drive by a user for driving the fastener into a material for fixing.

Nails, such as "clout nails", are widely used multi-purpose fasteners. Currently, nails must be manually placed where required by a user prior to striking with a hammer.

Devices currently available for arranging and feeding fasteners are stationary machines, which are used on production lines and in manufacturing situations. The mechanics of these devices are too complex and bulky to be applied directly to a portable tool. Also, they are not capable of functioning when faced with the erratic movement of a portable tool. Portable tools, such as power screwdrivers or hammers, must be individually fed fasteners manually by the user each time a fastener is being applied.

Summary of the Invention

According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided an apparatus for arranging fasteners having a head and a shaft; the apparatus comprising:

(a) a reservoir for retaining loose fasteners;

(b) a repository for retaining arranged fasteners; and

(c) a guide for transferring loose fasteners from the reservoir to the repository; wherein the guide is arranged to orientate the or each fastener such that the head of each fastener is transferred to the repository before the shaft of the fastener.

Optionally, the repository is shaped and dimensioned to receive and retain arranged fasteners. Further optionally, the repository is shaped and dimensioned to receive fasteners oriented such that the head of each fastener is transferred to the repository before the shaft of the fastener. Still further optionally, the repository is shaped and dimensioned to retain fasteners oriented whereby the head of each fastener is transferred to the repository before the shaft of the fastener.

Optionally, the repository comprises a cylindrical body. Further optionally, the repository comprises a hollow cylindrical body. Still further optionally, the repository comprises a hollow cylindrical body having open ends.

Optionally, the repository further comprises a stop to retain the or each arranged fastener. Optionally, the repository is in communication with the reservoir.

Optionally, the guide comprises at least one channel having opposing sidewalls.

Optionally, the at least one channel is arranged to receive the head of a fastener. Further optionally, the at least one channel is arranged to receive the terminal edge of the head of the fastener.

Optionally or additionally, the opposing sidewalls of the at least one channel are arranged such that the head of the fastener cannot pass along the channel. Further optionally or additionally, the opposing sidewalls of the at least one channel are arranged such that the terminal edge of the head of the fastener can pass along the channel.

Optionally, the opposing sidewalls of the at least one channel are spaced apart to define an inlet at a first end and an outlet at a second end. Optionally, the opposing sidewalls of the at least one channel are spaced apart to define an inlet having a dimension greater than the diameter of the head of the fastener.

Optionally or additionally, the opposing sidewalls of the at least one channel are spaced apart to define an outlet having a dimension less than the diameter of the head of the fastener.

Optionally, the inlet is located adjacent the reservoir.

Optionally, the outlet is located adjacent the repository. Further optionally, the outlet is located adjacent an open end of the repository.

Optionally, the reservoir is in communication with the inlet. Optionally or additionally, the inlet is in communication with the outlet. Optionally or additionally, the outlet is in communication with the repository, optionally an open end of the repository. Optionally, the reservoir is in communication with the guide to transfer loose fasteners from the reservoir to the repository. Further optionally, the reservoir is in communication with the guide to transfer the head of each loose fastener from the reservoir to the repository. Still further optionally, the reservoir is in communication with the guide to transfer the head of each loose fastener from the reservoir to the repository, before the shaft of the fastener. Optionally, the reservoir is in communication with the guide, such that the guide can receive the terminal edge of the head of each loose fastener from the reservoir. Further optionally, the reservoir is in communication with the guide, such that the guide can receive the terminal edge of the head of each loose fastener from the reservoir, and transfer the fastener to the repository. Still further optionally, the reservoir is in communication with the guide to transfer the terminal edge of the head of each loose fastener from the reservoir to the repository, before the shaft of the fastener.

Optionally, the depth of the guide is less than the radius of the head of the fastener. Optionally, the depth of each opposing sidewall of the channel is less than the radius of the head of the fastener. Optionally, the depth of the reservoir is less than the longitudinal length of the fastener. Optionally, the reservoir has a base and a top, and the space defined between the base and the top is less than the longitudinal length of the fastener.

Optionally, the guide is located adjacent to the top of the reservoir. Further optionally, the guide is integral with the top of the reservoir. Still further optionally, the guide is integral with the top of the reservoir, wherein each opposing sidewall of the channel extends from the top of the reservoir. Still further optionally, the guide is integral with the top of the reservoir, wherein each opposing sidewall of the channel extends substantially perpendicularly from the top of the reservoir. Still further optionally, the guide is integral with the top of the reservoir, wherein each opposing sidewall of the channel extends substantially perpendicularly from the top of the reservoir and is oriented toward the base of the reservoir.

Optionally, the guide comprises at least one channel having opposing sidewalls and a bottom wall. Further optionally, the guide comprises at least one channel having opposing sidewalls, each sidewall connected by a bottom wall. Still further optionally, the guide comprises at least one channel having opposing sidewalls, each sidewall spaced apart by a bottom wall. Optionally, the guide is located adjacent to the top of the reservoir. Further optionally, the bottom wall of the channel is located adjacent to the top of the reservoir. Further optionally, the guide is integral with the top of the reservoir. Still further optionally, the bottom wall of the channel is integral with the top of the reservoir.

Optionally, each opposing sidewall extends from the bottom wall of the channel. Still further optionally, the bottom wall of the channel is integral with the top of the reservoir, wherein each opposing sidewall of the channel extends from the bottom wall of the channel. Further optionally, each opposing sidewall extends substantially perpendicularly from the bottom wall of the channel. Still further optionally, the guide is integral with the top of the reservoir, wherein each opposing sidewall of the channel extends substantially perpendicularly from the bottom wall of the channel. Further optionally, each opposing sidewall extends substantially perpendicularly from the bottom wall of the channel and is oriented toward the base of the reservoir. Still further optionally, the guide is integral with the top of the reservoir, wherein each opposing sidewall of the channel extends substantially perpendicularly from the top of the reservoir and is oriented toward the base of the reservoir.

Optionally, the two opposing sidewalls of the guide are arranged to receive the terminal edge of the head of a fastener and to allow the head of the fastener to roll along the length of the guide. Further optionally, the two opposing sidewalls of the channel are arranged to receive the terminal edge of the head of a fastener and to allow the head of the fastener to roll along at least part of the length of the guide, optionally the length of the guide. Still further optionally, the two opposing sidewalls of the channel are arranged to receive the terminal edge of the head of a fastener and to allow the head of the fastener to circumferentially roll along the at least part of the length of, optionally the length of, the guide. Still further optionally, the base of the reservoir and the bottom wall of the channel are relatively arranged to receive the terminal edge of the head of a fastener and to allow the head of the fastener to circumferentially roll along at least part of the length of, optionally the length of, the guide, optionally between the base of the reservoir and the bottom wall of the channel. Optionally, the distance between the base of the reservoir and the bottom wall of the channel is less than the longitudinal length of the fastener. Optionally, the distance between the base of the reservoir and the bottom wall of the channel is greater than the diameter of the head of the fastener. Optionally, the distance between the base of the reservoir and the bottom wall of the channel is less than the longitudinal length of the fastener and greater than the diameter of the head of the fastener. Optionally, the distance between the base of the reservoir and the terminal edge of at least one sidewall of the channel is greater than the diameter of the shaft of the fastener. Optionally, the distance between the base of the reservoir and the terminal edge of at least one sidewall of the channel is greater than the diameter of the shaft of the fastener and less than the diameter of the head of the fastener.

Optionally, the guide comprises at least one channel having opposing sidewalls and a bottom wall, and the base of the reservoir; and the space defined between the bottom wall of the channel and the base of the reservoir is less than the longitudinal length of a fastener. Further optionally, the guide comprises at least one channel having opposing sidewalls and a bottom wall, and the base of the reservoir; and the space defined between the bottom wall of the channel and the base of the reservoir corresponds substantially to the diameter of a head of a fastener.

Optionally, the distance between the base of the reservoir and the bottom wall of the channel is less than the longitudinal length of the fastener adjacent or at the inlet at the first end of the at least one channel. Optionally, the guide is arranged to allow the passage of the shaft of the fastener from the reservoir to the repository. Further optionally, the guide is arranged to allow the passage of the shaft of the fastener from the reservoir to the repository, after the head of the fastener. Further optionally, the guide is spaced apart from the base of the reservoir to allow the passage of the shaft of the fastener from the reservoir to the repository.

Optionally, the guide comprises at least one channel, optionally a plurality of channels, arranged as a plurality of contiguous channels. Further optionally, the guide comprises at least one channel, optionally a plurality of channels, arranged as a plurality of radially contiguous channels. Optionally, the sidewalls of the plurality of channels are arranged radially to define an inlet of greater dimension than the outlet with respect to each channel. Further optionally, the sidewalls of the plurality of channels are arranged radially about the repository to define an inlet of greater dimension than the outlet with respect to each channel. According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a device for feeding arranged fasteners to a drive shaft; the device comprising means for transferring a fastener from a repository to the drive shaft.

Optionally, the transferring means comprises a moveable arm arranged to reversibly retain a fastener. Further optionally, the transferring means comprises a rotatable arm arranged to reversibly retain a fastener.

Optionally, the transferring means comprises a moveable arm arranged to receive a fastener from the repository. Further optionally, the transferring means comprises a rotatable arm arranged to receive a fastener from the repository.

Optionally, the transferring means comprises a moveable arm arranged to transfer the fastener to the drive shaft. Further optionally, the transferring means comprises a rotatable arm arranged to transfer the fastener to the drive shaft.

Optionally, the transferring means comprises a moveable arm arranged to transfer the fastener to the terminal end of the drive shaft. Further optionally, the transferring means comprises a rotatable arm arranged to transfer the fastener to the terminal end of the drive shaft. Optionally, the transferring means comprises a moveable arm arranged to transfer the fastener from a repository to the terminal end of the drive shaft. Further optionally, the transferring means comprises a rotatable arm arranged to transfer the fastener from a repository to the terminal end of the drive shaft.

Optionally, the device comprises a housing mountable to the drive shaft. Optionally, the housing is displaceable between a retracted state and an extended state.

Optionally, the housing is biased to the extended state. Optionally or additionally, the housing comprises at least two components. Further optionally or additionally, the housing comprises two components.

Optionally, the at least two components are arranged for relative reciprocal movement. Further optionally, the at least two components are arranged for relative slidable reciprocal movement.

Optionally, the at least two components are operable between a retracted state and an extended state.

Optionally, the at least two components are biased to the extended state.

Optionally, a first component comprises the means for transferring a fastener from a repository to the drive shaft. Further optionally, the first component comprises a moveable arm arranged to reversibly retain a fastener. Still further optionally, the first component comprises a rotatable arm arranged to reversibly retain a fastener.

Optionally, the first component comprises actuating means to actuate the transferring means.

Further optionally, the first component comprises actuating means to move the arm arranged to reversibly retain a fastener. Still further optionally, the first component comprises actuating means to rotate the arm arranged to reversibly retain a fastener.

Optionally, the first component comprises actuating means to actuate the transferring means in response to a movement of the first component relative to a subsequent component. Further optionally, the first component comprises actuating means to move the arm arranged to reversibly retain a fastener in response to a movement of the first component relative to a subsequent component. Still further optionally, the first component comprises actuating means to rotate the arm arranged to reversibly retain a fastener in response to a movement of the first component relative to a subsequent component. Still further optionally, the first component comprises actuating means to rotate the arm arranged to reversibly retain a fastener in response to a movement of the first component relative to a second component.

Optionally, the actuating means comprise a gear. Further optionally, the actuating means comprise a set of teeth.

Optionally, the transferring means comprise a gear. Further optionally, the moveable arm arranged to reversibly retain a fastener comprises a gear. Still further optionally, the rotatable arm arranged to reversibly retain a fastener comprises a gear. Optionally, the transferring means comprise a gear arranged to move in response to the actuating means. Further optionally, the moveable arm arranged to reversibly retain a fastener comprises a gear arranged to move in response to the actuating means. Still further optionally, the rotatable arm arranged to reversibly retain a fastener comprises a gear arranged to rotate in response to the actuating means.

Optionally, the actuating means comprise a rack and the transferring means comprise a

corresponding pinion.

Optionally, in the retracted state, the transferring means are adjacent the repository.

Optionally, displacement of the housing between the retracted state and the extended state actuates the transferring means.

Optionally, in the extended state, the transferring means are adjacent the drive shaft.

Optionally, the housing is arranged to allow the passage of the drive shaft therethrough. Optionally, the housing is operable between a first position and a second position relative to the drive shaft. Optionally, in the first position, the housing occludes the driveshaft. Optionally or additionally, in the second position, the driveshaft projects from the housing.

Optionally, the repository comprises a stop to retain the fasteners. Further optionally, the repository comprises a reversible stop to reversibly retain the fasteners. Still further optionally, the repository comprises a reversible stop to sequentially release the fasteners from the repository.

Optionally, the stop, optionally the reversible stop, is actuated in response to a movement of the first component relative to a subsequent component.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a screwdriver comprising an apparatus for arranging fasteners having a head and a shaft according to a first aspect of the present invention. According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a screwdriver comprising a device for feeding arranged fasteners to a drive shaft according to a second aspect of the present invention.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a screwdriver comprising an apparatus for arranging fasteners having a head and a shaft according to a first aspect of the present invention; and a device for feeding arranged fasteners to a drive shaft according to a second aspect of the present invention.

Optionally, the screwdriver is a motor-driven screwdriver.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for arranging fasteners having a head and a shaft; the method comprising transferring loose fasteners from a reservoir for retaining loose fasteners to a repository for retaining arranged fasteners; and orientating the fastener such that the head of each fastener is transferred to the repository before the shaft of the fastener.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for feeding arranged fasteners to a drive shaft; the method comprising transferring a fastener from a repository to the drive shaft.

Brief Description of the Drawings

Embodiments of the invention will now be described by way of non-limiting example and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figure 1 A is a plan view of an apparatus according to a first embodiment of a first aspect of the present invention;

Figure 1 B is a side view of the apparatus of Figure 1A;

Figure 1C is a perspective view of an apparatus according to a second embodiment of a first aspect of the present invention;

Figure 2A is a side view of a device according to a second aspect of the present invention;

Figure 2B is a sectional schematic diagram of the device of Figure 2A, depicted in the extended state in the first position;

Figure 2C is a sectional schematic diagram of the device of Figure 2A, depicted in the retracted state in the second position;

Figure 2D is a sectional schematic diagram of the device of Figure 2A, depicted being displaced toward the extended state in the first position;

Figure 2E is a sectional schematic diagram of the device of Figure 2A, depicted in the extended state in the first position; Figure 3 is side view of a screwdriver according to a fifth aspect of the present invention; Figure 4A is a section side view of the apparatus of Figure 1 A;

Figure 4B is a section side view of the apparatus of Figure 1 A; and

Figure 5 is a perspective view of a screwdriver according to a further aspect of the present invention. Detailed Description of the Invention

Referring to Figures 1 and 4, there is shown an apparatus 10 for arranging fasteners 12 having a head 14 and a shaft 16 according to a first aspect of the present invention. In this specific embodiment, the apparatus 10 comprises: a reservoir 18 for retaining loose fasteners; a repository 20 for retaining arranged fasteners; and a guide 22 for transferring loose fasteners from the reservoir 18 to the repository 20; wherein the guide 22 is arranged to orientate the or each fastener 12 such that the head 14 of each fastener 12 is transferred to the repository 20 before the shaft 16 of the fastener 12. The repository 20 can be shaped and dimensioned to receive and retain arranged fasteners. The repository 20 can be shaped and dimensioned to receive fasteners 12 from the reservoir 18 such that the head 14 of each fastener 12 is transferred to the repository 20 before the shaft 16 of the fastener 12. The repository 20 can be shaped and dimensioned to retain the arranged fasteners 12, whereby each of which fasteners 12 is oriented such that the head 14 of each fastener 12 is oriented in the same direction as an adjacent fastener 12. Such an orientation is achieved as a result of the head 14 of the fastener 12 having been transferred to the repository 20 before the shaft 16 of the fastener 12. In a specific embodiment, the repository 20 comprises a cylindrical body, which can be a hollow cylindrical body, for example, a hollow cylindrical body having open ends. In certain embodiments, the repository 20 can further comprise a stop to retain the arranged fasteners 12. The repository 20 is in communication with the reservoir 18.

The guide 22 can comprise at least one channel having opposing sidewalls 24. The at least one channel can be arranged to receive the head 14 of a fastener 12. In a specific embodiment, the at least one channel is arranged to receive the terminal edge 26 of the head 14 of the fastener 12. The opposing sidewalls 24 of the at least one channel are arranged such that the head 14 of the fastener 12 cannot pass along the channel, when the shaft 16 of the fastener 12 is oriented co-axially with the longitudinal axis of the channel. For example, when the longitudinal axis of the shaft 16 of the fastener 12 is coaxial with the longitudinal axis of the channel defined between the opposing sidewalls 24; the head 14 of the fastener 12 is impeded from passing along the channel and is retained in or at the reservoir 18. The opposing sidewalls 24 of the at least one channel can be arranged such that the terminal edge 26 of the head 14 of the fastener 12 can pass along the channel. For example, when the longitudinal axis of the shaft 16 of the fastener 12 is not coaxial with, for example is oriented substantially perpendicular to, the longitudinal axis of the channel defined between the opposing sidewalls 24; the terminal edge 26 of the head 14 of the fastener 12 can pass along the channel from the reservoir 18. The fastener 12 may pass laterally along the channel, whereby the terminal edge 26 of the head 14 of the fastener 12 is received within the channel, between the opposing sidewalls 24, and the fastener passes by rolling or sliding movement along the channel.

The opposing sidewalls 24 of the at least one channel are spaced apart to define an inlet 28 at a first end and an outlet 30 at a second end. The inlet 28 can have a dimension, for example, greater than the diameter of the head 14 of the fastener 12. The outlet 30 can have a dimension, for example, less than the diameter of the head of the fastener. Although it will be appreciated that the inlet 28 and/or the outlet 30 can have any dimension, such that the head 14 of the fastener 12 cannot pass along the channel, when the shaft 16 of the fastener 12 is oriented co-axial ly with the longitudinal axis of the channel, and such that the terminal edge 26 of the head 14 of the fastener 12 can pass along the channel.

The inlet 28 can be located adjacent the reservoir 18 to receive loose fasteners from the reservoir 18. The outlet 30 can be located adjacent the repository 20, optionally an open end of the repository 20, to deliver fasteners 12 to the repository 20. Accordingly, the reservoir 18 can be in

communication with the inlet 28; the inlet 28 can be in communication with the outlet 30; and the outlet 30 can be in communication with the repository 20, optionally an open end of the repository 20. In certain embodiments, the reservoir 18 is in communication with the guide 22 to transfer loose fasteners from the reservoir 18 to the repository 20. The reservoir 18 can be in communication with the guide 22 to transfer the head 14 of each loose fastener 12 from the reservoir 18 to the repository 20, before the shaft 16 of the fastener 12. For example, the reservoir 18 is in communication with the guide 22, such that the guide 22 can receive the terminal edge 26 of the head 14 of each loose fastener 12 from the reservoir 18, and transfer the fastener 12 to the repository 20, before the shaft 16 of the fastener 12 is transferred to the repository.

In certain embodiments, the depth of the guide 22 is less than the radius of the head 14 of the fastener 12. For example, the depth of each opposing sidewall 24 of the channel can be less than the radius of the head 14 of the fastener 12. The depth of the reservoir 18 can be less than the longitudinal length of the fastener 12. The reservoir can have a base 32 and a top 34, and the space defined between the base 32 and the top 34 can be less than the longitudinal length of the fastener 12.

The guide 22 can be located adjacent the top 34 of the reservoir 18. In some embodiments, the guide 22 is integral with the reservoir 18, optionally the top 34 of the reservoir 18. For example, the guide 22 can be integral with the top 34 of the reservoir, wherein each opposing sidewall 24 of the channel extends, optionally substantially perpendicularly, from the top 34 of the reservoir 18, and toward the base 32 of the reservoir 18.

The guide 22 can be arranged to allow the passage of the shaft 16 of the fastener 12 from the reservoir 18 to the repository 20, optionally to allow the passage of the shaft 16 from the reservoir 18 to the repository 20 after the head 14. For example, the guide 22 can be spaced apart from the base 32 of the reservoir 18, thereby defining a space through which the shaft 16 of the fastener 12 can pass from the reservoir 18 to the repository 20.

The invention can sort fasteners 12 most effectively when the proportions of the fastener 12 are within certain parameters. The diameter of the head 14 of the fastener 12 is, optimally, at least three times as wide as the diameter of the shaft 16 of the fastener 12. The shaft 16 of the fastener 12 is, optimally, longer than the diameter of the head 14 of the fastener 12, optionally, fasteners 12 having a shaft 16 up to three times longer than the diameter of the head 14 of the fastener 12. The longer the shaft 16 of the fastener 12 is in relation to the diameter of the head 14 of the fastener 12, the more movement is required to sort fasteners 12. For example, it is envisaged that the present invention is, optimally, arranged for use in sorting fasteners 12 having a head 14, which is approximately 10mm in diameter, and a shaft 16, which is approximately 13mm long and approximately 3mm in cross-sectional diameter. Generally, the dimension between the guide 22 and the base 32 of the reservoir 18 is greater than the diameter of the head 14 of the fastener 12 but less than the length of shaft 16 of the fastener 12. For example, it is envisaged that the present invention optimally comprises a dimension between the guide 22 and the base 32 of the reservoir 18 of approximately 1 1 mm. Because this dimension is less than the envisaged length of the fastener 12, the dimension ensures that the fastener 12 is retained on its side when it passes through the guide 22.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the at least one channel is arranged as a plurality of contiguous channels, wherein the sidewalls 24 of the plurality of channels are arranged radially to define an inlet 28 of greater dimension than the outlet 30 with respect to each channel. The sidewalls 24 of each channel, optimally, project from the reservoir 18 a dimension of approximately 4mm. Accordingly, the dimension between the terminal edge of each sidewall 24 and the base 32 of the reservoir 18 is approximately 7mm. Preferably, this dimension is sufficient to permit passage of the shaft 16 of the fastener 12 under or about the sidewalls 24 of the channel, when the fastener 12 is oriented on its side. The invention thereby ensures that the only way the fasteners 12 can reach the repository 20 is with the head 14 of the fastener 12 entering the repository 20 before the shaft 16 of the fastener 12. The arrangement of the guide 22 and reservoir 18 result in the fastener 12 transferring from the reservoir 18 to the repository 20 oriented on its side, and with the head 14 of the fastener 12 generally perpendicular to the base 32 of the reservoir 18 and being transferred between any two sidewalls 24 of a channel of the guide 22 toward the repository 20. When the fasteners reach the repository 20, the fastener 12 enters the repository 20 headfirst e.g. with the head 14 of the fastener 12 entering before the shaft 16. If a fastener 12 approaches the repository 20 with the shaft 16 first, either the head 14 of the fastener 12 is impeded by the sidewalls 24 of a channel of the guide 22; thereby impeding the head 14 of the fastener 12 entering the repository 20 before the shaft 16; or the guide 22 orients the head 14 of the fastener 12, such that the head 14 is directed to the repository 20.

In certain embodiments of the invention, the guide 22 comprises at least one channel, each channel having opposing sidewalls 24 and a bottom wall. Each sidewall 24 can be spaced apart by the bottom wall, such that the opposing sidewalls 24 and a bottom wall together define the at least one channel. In particular embodiments, the bottom wall of the channel is integral with the top 34 of the reservoir 18. In such embodiments, the top 34 of the reservoir 18 may form the bottom wall of the channel. Thus, it will be appreciated that the channel can comprise three sides corresponding to the two sidewalls 24 and the bottom wall, and an open mouth for receiving the the head 14 of the fastener 12, optionally the terminal edge 26 of the head 14 of the fastener 12, between the sidewalls 24 of the channel. Each opposing sidewall 24 of the channel may extend, optionally substantially perpendicularly, from the bottom wall of the channel, and toward the base 32 of the reservoir 18. The dimension between the base 32 of the reservoir 18 and the bottom wall of the channel can be less than the longitudinal length of the shaft 16, optionally the ligitudinal length, of the fastener 12, and greater than the diameter of the head 14 of the fastener 12. Preferably, this dimension is sufficient to permit passage of the head 14 of the fastener 12 along the channel. Furthermore, the dimension between the base 32 of the reservoir 18 and the terminal edge of at least one of the opposing sidewalls 24 of the channel defined by said opposing sidewalls 24 and the bottom wall is sufficient to permit passage of the shaft 16 of the fastener 12 under or alongside the at least one sidewall 24, when the fastener 12 is oriented on its side relative to the at least one channel. The opposing sidewalls 24 and bottom wall of the at least one channel may be arranged such that the head 14 of the fastener 12 cannot pass along the channel, when the shaft 16 of the fastener 12 is oriented co- axially with the longitudinal axis of the at least one channel. Conversely, when the longitudinal axis of the shaft 16 of the fastener 12 is not coaxial with, for example is oriented substantially perpendicular to, the longitudinal axis of the channel defined between the opposing sidewalls 24 and the bottom wall, the terminal edge 26 of the head 14 of the fastener 12 can pass along the channel from the reservoir 18 toward the repository 20. In this embodiment, the fastener 12 can pass along the channel by rolling or sliding along the base 32 of the reservoir 18. The terminal edge 26 of the head 14 of the fastener 12 may be received between the opposing walls 24 of the guide 22 and the head 14 of the fastener 12 may roll or slide on its circumferential edge. The shaft 16 of the fastener 12 may roll or slide laterally along the base 32 of the reservoir 18 in the gap defined by the terminal edge of at least one sidewall 24 and the base 32 of the reservoir 18. The shaft 16 may be oriented substantially perpendicular to the sidewalls 24 of the channel and substantially parallel to the base 32 of the reservoir 18. In this way, the head 14 of the fastener 12 reaches and enters the repository 20 before the shaft 16. The opposing sidewalls 24 of the channel, the bottom wall of the channel, and the base 32 of the reservoir 18 can together form the guide 22, wherein the distance between the bottom wall of the channel and the base 32 of the reservoir 18 corresponds substantially to the diameter of the head 14 of the fastener 12. The distance between the bottom wall of the channel and the base 32 of the reservoir 18 is generally less than the length of the shaft 16, optionally the longitudinal length, of the fastener 12. Accordingly, the shaft 16 of the fastener is impeded from being received within the guide 22. The shaft 16 of the fastener 12 is oriented substantially perpendicular relative to the guide 22, optionally the channel. The distance between the opposing sidewalls 24 of the channel generally correpsonds to the thickness of the head 14 of the fastener 22. The head 14 of, optionally the terminal edge of the head 14 of, the fastener 12 can be received within the guide 22 and can circumferentially roll along at least part, optionally along, the guide 22, optionally along the bottom wall of the guide 22, between the opposing sidewalls 24.

Figure 2A shows a device 36 for feeding arranged fasteners 12 to a drive shaft 38 according to a second aspect of the present invention. The device 36 comprises means for transferring 40 a fastener 12 from a repository 20 to the drive shaft 38. The transferring means 40 can comprise a moveable arm 42 arranged to reversibly retain a fastener 12, for example, the transferring means 40 can comprise a rotatable arm 42 arranged to reversibly retain a fastener 12. The rotatable arm 42 can be free to rotate about a fixed point, optionally a fixed point located at or adjacent the transferring means 40. The moveable arm 42, for example the rotatable arm 42, can comprise means to reversibly retain a fastener 12. The retaining means can be any means that allow the moveable arm 42, for example the rotatable arm 42, to transiently retain the fastener 12; and may comprise, for example, an adhesive or magnetic means. The transferring means 40 can comprise a moveable arm 42, for example a rotatable arm 42, arranged to receive a fastener 12 from the repository 20. The moveable arm 42, optionally the rotatable arm 42, can be arranged to transfer the fastener 12 to the drive shaft 38, optionally to the terminal end of the drive shaft 38. The drive shaft 38, optionally the terminal end of the driveshaft 38 can comprise means to reversibly retain a fastener 12, which retaining means can be any means that allow the driveshaft 38, for example the terminal end of the driveshaft 38, to transiently retain the fastener 12; and may comprise, for example, an adhesive or magnetic means. In a specific embodiment, the transferring means 40 comprises a moveable arm 42, optionally a rotatable arm 42, arranged to transfer the fastener 12 from a repository 20 to the terminal end of the drive shaft 38.

The device 36 comprises a housing 44 mountable to the drive shaft 38. The housing can be displaceable between a retracted state and an extended state; and is optionally biased to the extended state. In certain embodiments, the housing 44 can comprise at least two components, for example, the housing 44 can comprise two components 46, 48. The at least two components 46, 48 can be arranged for relative reciprocal movement, for example, arranged for relative slidable reciprocal movement. In such an embodiment, the at least two components 46, 48 are operable between a retracted state and an extended state and, in specific embodiments, the at least two components 46, 48 are biased to the extended state. The components 46, 48 can be biased using any known mechanism known to the skilled person, for example, a resilient element, such as a spring. In a specific embodiment, a first component 46 can comprise the means for transferring 40 a fastener 12 from a repository 20 to the drive shaft 38. For example, the first component 46 comprises a moveable arm 42, such as a rotatable arm 42, arranged to reversibly retain a fastener 12.

The first component 46 may comprise actuating means 50 to actuate the transferring means 40. The first component 46 may comprise actuating means 50 to move, optionally rotate, the arm 42 arranged to reversibly retain a fastener 12. In a preferred embodiment, the first component 46 comprises actuating means 50 to actuate the transferring means 40 in response to a movement of the first component 46 relative to a subsequent component 48. As an example, the first component 46 can comprise actuating means 50 to move, optionally rotate, the arm 42 arranged to reversibly retain a fastener 12 in response to a movement of the first component 46 relative to a second component 48. The actuating means 50 can comprise a gear. In an embodiment, the actuating means 50 can comprise a set of teeth.

The transferring means 40 can comprise a gear. In a specific embodiment, the moveable arm 42, optionally the rotatable arm 42, arranged to reversibly retain a fastener 12 comprises a gear. The transferring means 40 can comprise a gear arranged to move in response to the actuating means 50. For example, the moveable arm 42, optionally the rotatable arm 42, can comprise a gear arranged to move in response to the actuating means 50.

In a specific embodiment, the actuating means 50 comprise a rack 52 and the transferring means 40 comprise a corresponding pinion 54. The actuating means 50 comprise a rack 52 and the transferring means 40 comprise a corresponding pinion 54, which together form a gear.

In the mode of operation of the device 36, in the retracted state, the transferring means 40 are adjacent the repository 20; and, in the extended state, the transferring means 40 are adjacent the drive shaft 38.

Displacement of the housing 44 between the retracted state and the extended state actuates the transferring means 40. For example, in an embodiment, wherein the housing 44 can comprise two components 46, 48; the two components 46, 48 can be arranged for relative slidable reciprocal movement, such that the two components 46, 48 are operable between a retracted state and an extended state and, in specific embodiments, the at least two components 46, 48 are biased to the extended state. Displacement of the two components 46, 48 between the retracted state and the extended state actuates the transferring means 40.

Displacement of the housing 44; for example the two components 46, 48; from the extended state to the retracted state; causes movement of the actuating means 50. In a specific embodiment, displacement of the two components 46, 48 from the extended state to the retracted state causes movement of the rack 52 of the actuating means 50 of the second component 48 relative to the pinion 54 of the transferring means 40 of the first component. The relative movement of the pinion 54 to the rack 52, which together form a gear; causes the transferring means 40, for example the moveable/rotatable arm 42, to move or rotate; such that, the transferring means 40 are adjacent the repository 20.

When adjacent the repository 20, the transferring means 40 can reversibly retain a fastener from the repository 20. The repository 20 can comprise a stop 56 to retain the fasteners 12, optionally a reversible stop 56 to reversibly retain the fasteners 12, to allow sequential release of the fasteners 12 from the repository 20. The stop 56, optionally the reversible stop 56, can be actuated in response to a movement of the first component 46 relative to a subsequent component 48.

Displacement of the housing 44; for example the two components 46, 48; from the retracted state to the extended state; causes movement of the actuating means 50. In a specific embodiment, displacement of the two components 46, 48 from the retracted state to the extended state causes movement of the rack 52 of the actuating means 50 of the second component 48 relative to the pinion 54 of the transferring means 40 of the first component. The relative movement of the pinion 54 to the rack 52, which together form a gear; causes the transferring means 40, for example the moveable/rotatable arm 42, to move or rotate; such that, the transferring means 40 are adjacent the driveshaft 38.

The housing 44 can be arranged to allow the passage of the drive shaft 38 there through. In an embodiment, the housing 44 can be operable between a first position and a second position relative to the drive shaft 38. In the first position, the housing 44 occludes the driveshaft 38. In the second position, the driveshaft 38 projects from the housing 44. The housing 44 can be biased to the first position. Accordingly, the transferring means 40 reversibly retains the fastener 12 adjacent the driveshaft 38 and the driveshaft 38 can pass through the housing 44. Operation of the housing 44 from the first position to the second position, allows the driveshaft 38 to pass through the housing 44, such that the fastener 12 is reversibly retained at the terminal end of the driveshaft 38 to permit the fastener to be driven by the driveshaft 38.

Retaining means, for example a magnet, hold the fastener 12 in the correct position for it to be driven by the driveshaft 38. The retaining means can comprise an aperture to allow the driveshaft 38 to pass through the housing 44 and drive fasteners 12. The retaining means is a component of the housing 44, which can slide independently of the driveshaft 38 when the user presses the driveshaft 38 against the work piece. To drive a fastener 12, the user first presses the trigger on the screwdriver 58 to power the screwdriver 58 and rotate the driveshaft 38. The user can then press the housing 44 against the work piece where the fastener is needed. As the housing 44 moves backward from the first position to the second position, the housing 44 eases the fastener onto the driveshaft 38, which can come through the housing 44. The user can continue to apply pressure and the fastener is driven.

The housing 44 is forced backwards as part of the process of driving in the previous fastener 12. The housing 44 moves independently of the actuating means 50. As the housing 44 is forced backwards from the extended position to the retracted position, the pinion 54, which is part of the transferring means 40 engage with the rack 52 of the actuating means 50 causing the transferring means 40 to rotate back to adjacent the repository 20. The transferring means 40 then actuates the stop 56 out of the way, thereby releasing the first fastener 12 in line from the repository 20. The first fastener in line is retained at the transferring means 40. At this stage, the previous fastener 12 has been driven and the user pulls the tool 58 away from the work piece. The housing 44 is biased to the extended state, causing the housing 44 to return to the first position and the transferring means to return to adjacent the driveshaft 38. In doing so, the transferring means 40, along with the fastener reversibly retained thereby, return back to the terminal end of the driveshaft 38, where the fastener 12 is retained, for example, by retaining means, such as a magnet This fastener 12 is now loaded and ready to be driven.

In a third aspect of the invention, there is provided a screwdriver 58 comprising an apparatus 10 for arranging fasteners 12 having a head 14 and a shaft 16 according to a first aspect of the present invention.

The present invention also relates to a screwdriver 58 comprising a device 36 for feeding arranged fasteners 12 to a drive shaft 38. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, there is provided a screwdriver 58 comprising an apparatus 10 for arranging fasteners 12 having a head 14 and a shaft 16 according to a first aspect of the present invention; and a device 36 for feeding arranged fasteners 12 to a drive shaft 38 according to a second aspect of the present invention. The screwdriver 58 can optionally be a motor- driven screwdriver.

Also disclosed is a method for arranging fasteners 12 having a head 14 and a shaft 16; the method comprising transferring loose fasteners 12 from a reservoir 18 for retaining loose fasteners to a repository 20 for retaining arranged fasteners; and orientating the fastener 12 such that the head 14 of each fastener 12 is transferred to the repository 20 before the shaft 16 of the fastener 12.

There is also provided a method for feeding arranged fasteners 12 to a drive shaft 38; the method comprising transferring a fastener 12 from a repository 20 to the drive shaft 38.

Accordingly, the present invention finds utility in sorting and arranging fasteners 12 such as wide- head fixings, including, but not limited to, wafer-head screws, wide-head screws, upholstery tacks, carpet tacks, clout nails, rivets, drawing pins, and bolts. The invention can be fitted to a range of mechanical fastener tools 58 that are used to drive fixings, for example, a screw gun for screws, a nail gun for nails, or a hammer for tacks.

The present invention can thereby automatically sort loose fasteners 12 retained in a reservoir 18, and in which the fasteners 12 are unsorted and misaligned. The invention utilises movement of the fasteners 12 and a guide 22 to transfer fasteners 12 to a repository 20 for retaining arranged fasteners 12. The guide 22 ensures that the fasteners 12, which are transferred to the repository 20, are oriented in the same direction and so stack up the same way, with the head 14 of each fastener 12 being transferred to the repository 20 before the shaft 16 of the fastener 12. It is desired that the fasteners 12 are oriented and stacked in the same direction within the repository 20 in order for any later feeding processes to be optimal. The movement of the fasteners 12 can be created using one or more of the following methods: (1 ) The natural movement of the user who is holding the tool 58, (2) the natural vibration created by the tool 58 during the fixing process and/or, (3) an automated movement, which can be created by an electric motor or mechanically as an auxiliary movement of the fixing process of the tool 58.

The present invention was primarily developed for use on a portable tool 58. The invention automatically sorts fasteners 12 from a mixed up state in a holding container 18, and feeds the fasteners 12 to where they are required to be driven in, at the tip 38 of the tool 58 to which the invention is applied. The arranging and feeding process occurs automatically without any input required from the user. This invention can be used be used to arrange and feed screws, nails, bolts, drawing pins and any other headed fasteners 12.