Field of Invention

The present invention relates to a fastener supply apparatus for supplying fasteners to a fastener delivery apparatus. The present invention also relates to a method of supplying fasteners to a fastener delivery apparatus using a fastener supply apparatus.

Background

The term “fastener” is used herein to include rivets, screws, and other types of fastening devices.

Bowl feeders are used in assembly lines to sort bulk amounts of components, such as fasteners, into a particular orientation. The base of the bowl is convex and moves the components to the edge of the bowl where the components enter a track that transports the components out of the bowl. The bowl is vibrated to move the components along the track. Bowl feeders can be used to deliver fasteners to a fastener setting apparatus and so can form part of a fastener delivery apparatus. The fasteners pass from a fastener supply apparatus, to the bowl feeder. From the bowl feeder, the fasteners pass to an escapement mechanism that feeds the fasteners to the fastener setting apparatus.

It is undesirable to hold a large number of components in a bowl feeder at any one time. This is because the components being sorted vibrate against one another, which can damage the components.

The present invention seeks to provide a fastener supply apparatus (which may be for supplying fasteners to a fastener delivery apparatus) which at least partially addresses one or more problems associated with existing supply apparatus whether identified herein or otherwise.

Summary

In a first aspect of the invention there is provided a fastener supply apparatus for supplying fasteners to a fastener delivery apparatus. The fastener supply apparatus comprises a container for holding fasteners, the container comprising an outlet opening. The fastener supply apparatus further comprises a fastener dispensing portion that is moveable relative to the container, the fastener dispensing portion comprising a platform, the platform being located at the outlet opening of the container, the platform being configured to receive fasteners from the container via the outlet opening. The fastener supply apparatus further comprises an actuator operable to move the fastener dispensing portion relative to the container such that at least some of the fasteners pass from the platform into a container of the fastener delivery apparatus.

When the actuator operates, the platform moves relative to the container of the fastener supply apparatus. Movement of the platform causes the fasteners to be pass from the platform and into the container of the fastener delivery apparatus. The fasteners in the container of the fastener delivery apparatus are then passed to the fastener setting apparatus and the platform is replenished with fasteners from the fasteners held in the container. Passing of the fasteners from the dispensing portion into the container of the fastener delivery apparatus may be described as the fasteners being thrown off of the dispensing portion and into the container of the fastener delivery apparatus.

Since the platform is moveable relative to the container of the fastener supply apparatus, the container remains stationary while the platform is being moved by the actuator. This advantageously prevents the fasteners in the container from vibrating. Vibration of the fasteners in the container is undesirable because it can cause the fasteners to abrade against one another, which can damage the fasteners. In addition, abrasion of the fasteners against one another can lead to the formation of dust, which can result in blockages (e.g. in a fastener insertion tool).

In addition, since only the platform needs to be moved by the actuator in order to pass fasteners into the container of the fastener delivery apparatus, the space taken up by the fastener supply apparatus, and the cost to make it, is reduced compared with a system that uses an actuator to move a container in which a bulk amount of fasteners are held. Because the actuator only needs to move the platform, the actuator can be of smaller capacity. Actuators of smaller capacity are also smaller in size and are most cost effective.

At least part of the perimeter of the outlet opening may be defined by a resilient member. The resilient member may be made, for example, of a material that is inherently biased, such as rubber. Alternatively, the resilient member may be, for example, a rigid plate that is biased by a biasing member, such as a spring element.

Advantageously, the flexible member reduces the likelihood of stacked fasteners wedging against the perimeter of the outlet, which can cause blockages. Fasteners stack when two or more fasteners engage one another. Blockages can occur if stacked fasteners wedge against a surface or edge. If stacked fastener wedge against the perimeter of the outlet opening, the passage of fasteners through the outlet opening is at least partially blocked, inhibiting the passage of fasteners through the outlet opening. Since the outlet opening can be defined in part by a resilient member, if fasteners wedge against the perimeter of the outlet opening, the resilient member can flex to release the fasteners thereby preventing blocking of the outlet.

The length of the outlet opening may be equal to or greater than the length of the fasteners.

Advantageously, since the length of the outlet is equal to or greater than the length of the fasteners, the likelihood of stacked fasteners causing a blockage is reduced.

The movement of the dispensing portion may be vibrational.

The vibration may be translational only.

The vibration may be a combination of translational and rotational vibration.

The vibration being a combination of linear and rotational vibration may be understood as meaning that the dispensing portion rotates about an axis that is translating.

The fastener supply apparatus may further comprise a controller configured to operate the actuator.

Advantageously, this allows the actuator to be automatically operated by the controller to move the platform under predetermined conditions. The controller may be configured to operate the actuator either in a dispensing mode or in a rest mode. In the rest mode, the actuator exerts a load against the dispensing portion. In the dispensing mode, the actuator moves the dispensing portion relative to the container.

Since the actuator urges against the dispensing portion in the rest mode, movement of the dispensing portion is constrained by the actuator, which advantageously reduces the likelihood of fasteners inadvertently falling off the dispensing portion.

The fastener supply apparatus may further comprise a sensor in communication with the controller. The sensor may be configured to detect the fill level of the container of the fastener delivery apparatus.

Upon detecting that the amount of fasteners has fallen below a threshold amount, the controller may be configured to actuate the actuator.

Actuating the actuator may refer to operating the actuator in the dispensing mode. The dispensing mode being the mode of operation in which the actuator moves the dispensing portion relative to the container.

Advantageously, this allows the controller to actuate the actuator such that the container of the fastener delivery apparatus is automatically replenished with fasteners.

The fastener supply apparatus may further comprise an expansion container. The expansion container may be releasably secured to the container. The expansion portion may increase the volume of the container.

Advantageously, this improves the versatility of the fastener supply apparatus because the volume of the container can be expanded to suit the space that is available for the fastener supply apparatus and/or the requirements for the number of fasteners to be held in the container.

The platform may comprise a proximal portion. The proximal portion may be located adjacent to the outlet opening of the container. The platform may comprise a distal portion. The distal portion may be opposed to the proximal portion. The distal portion of the platform may be provided with a fastener retention portion. The fastener retention portion may be for retaining fasteners on the platform whilst the platform is stationary.

As the fasteners of the platform are passing from the platform to the container of the fastener delivery apparatus by virtue of operation of the actuator, the fasteners in the container pass through the outlet opening and onto the platform. Immediately after operation of the actuator, the fasteners will move on the platform.

Advantageously, since the retention portion acts to retain the fasteners on the platform while the platform is stationary, the likelihood that the fasteners unintentionally pass from the platform to the container of the fastener delivery apparatus is reduced. Therefore, the retention portion provides better control of the passage of the fasteners from the dispensing portion to the container of the fastener delivery apparatus.

The fastener retention portion may comprise a rib.

Advantageously, a rib is a simple and effective feature to retain the fasteners on the platform.

The fastener retention portion may comprise a raised lip. The raised lip may define a distal edge of the platform.

Advantageously, a raised lip is a simple and effective feature to retain the fasteners on the platform.

The actuator may be configured to impart an impulse to the fastener dispensing portion.

The actuator may be a pneumatic cylinder. A rod of the pneumatic cylinder may be configured to impart an impulse to the fastener dispensing portion.

The fastener dispensing portion may be connected to the container by a plurality of flexible connection members. The plurality of flexible connection members may comprise four flexible connection members.

The flexible connection members may be configured to dampen the movement of the fastener dispensing portion.

The damping ratio provided by the flexible connection members may be equal to or greater than 1.

The fastener dispensing portion may be cantilevered from the container.

The container may comprise a sloped base surface.

The sloped base surface may be planar.

The angle of the slope of the base surface may be equal to or greater than 15 degrees from the horizontal. The angle of the slope of the base surface may be equal to or less than 20 degrees from the horizontal.

The term ‘horizontal’ is used herein to refer to a plane that is perpendicular to the direction of gravity.

Advantageously, this optimises the rate at which fasteners pass through the outlet opening. If the angle of the slope is too high then the fasteners can overflow the platform and pass into the container of the fastener delivery apparatus unintentionally. If the angle of the slope is too low then the platform is not sufficiently filled with fasteners between operation of the actuator.

The angle of the slope may be 16 degrees from the horizontal.

In a second aspect of the invention there is provided an apparatus comprising a fastener delivery apparatus and the fastener supply apparatus of the first aspect of the invention.

In a third aspect of the invention there is provided a method of supplying fasteners to a fastener delivery apparatus with a fastener supply apparatus. The method comprises providing a container with a plurality of fasteners, the container comprising an outlet opening. The method further comprises moving a fastener dispensing portion relative to the container with an actuator, the dispensing portion comprising a platform that is located at the outlet opening such that the platform can receive fasteners from the container via the outlet opening. Moving the dispensing platform causes at least some of the fasteners to pass from the fastener dispensing portion into a container of the fastener delivery apparatus.

The advantages discussed in relation to the first aspect of the invention apply to this aspect mutatis mutandis.

It will be appreciated that features disclosed in relation to one aspect of the invention can be applied to other aspects of the invention.

Brief Description of the Drawings

Embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figure 1a is a perspective view of a fastener delivery apparatus and a fastener supply apparatus, the fastener supply apparatus being in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 1b is a different perspective view of the fastener delivery apparatus and the fastener supply apparatus of Figure 1a;

Figure 2 is a side view of the fastener supply apparatus of Figures 1a and 1b; Figure 3 is a perspective view of the fastener supply apparatus of Figures 1a and 1b;

Figure 4 is a cross-sectional side view of the fastener supply apparatus of Figures 1a and 1b;

Figure 5 is a schematic view of a flexible connection member of the fastener supply apparatus of Figures 1a and 1b;

Figure 6 is a schematic view of the fastener delivery apparatus and fastener supply apparatus of Figures 1a and 1b;

Figure 7 is a modified embodiment of the fastener supply apparatus; and Figure 8 is a detail view of region ‘A’ from Figure 4.

Detailed description A fastener delivery apparatus 2 is shown in Figures 1 and 1b. The fastener delivery apparatus 2 is for delivering fasteners (not shown in Figure 1) to a fastener setting apparatus (not shown in Figure 1). The fasteners may be rivets, in particular self-piercing rivets. Rivets are generally cylindrical in shape with a head at one end. The fastener delivery apparatus 2 comprises a bowl feeder 6, which feeds the fasteners to an escapement mechanism 8. From the escapement mechanism 8, the fasteners are fed into the fastener setting apparatus. The escapement mechanism 8 comprises a sensor (not visible in the figures). The sensor determines a fill level of the escapement mechanism. A fastener supply apparatus 4, which supplies fasteners to the bowl feeder 6, is provided.

The bowl feeder 6 comprises a base (not visible in Figure 1) and a track 10. The centre of the base of the bowl feeder 6 is raised with respect to the periphery. The bowl feeder 6 is vibrated by a vibrating drive unit 12 such that the fasteners travel from the base, along the track 10 and into the escapement mechanism 8, as is commonly known in the art. As the fasteners exit the bowl feeder 6, the bowl feeder is replenished with fasteners by the fastener supply apparatus 4. Since the bowl feeder 6 is able to hold fasteners, it can be referred to as a container. In particular, the bowl feeder 6 can be described as a container of the fastener delivery apparatus 2.

Figures 2 and 3 show the fastener supply apparatus 4. The fastener supply apparatus 2 comprises a container 14. In use, the container 14 of the fastener supply apparatus holds the fasteners that are to be supplied to the bowl feeder (not shown in Figures 2 and 3). The fasteners that are held in the container 14 stack against one another such that they are mutually supporting. The fasteners can be considered to be cohesive due to the fasteners forming a body of fasteners (which may be interlocking with one another). The fasteners can be said to form a cohesive body of fasteners. Stacking of fasteners occurs where two of more fasteners engage one another. The term “stacking” is not intended to imply that the fasteners are neatly arranged (e.g. in a neat pile), but rather is intended to mean that the fasteners engage with each other to form a body of fasteners.

The fastener supply apparatus further comprises a dispensing portion 13 and an actuator 17. In use, the fasteners pass from the dispensing portion 13 and into the bowl feeder (not shown in Figures 2 and 3), as will be discussed in more detail below. Since the fasteners pass from the dispensing portion 13, the dispensing portion 13 can be referred to as a fastener dispensing portion.

The container 14 comprises a base surface 16. The base surface 16 of the container 14 comprises a first end 19 and a second end (not visible in Figures 2 and 3). The container further comprises sidewalls 18, 20 that extend from the base surface 16, and an end wall 22 that adjoins the sidewalls. The base surface 16 further comprises a tapered portion 21 that is located between the first end 19 and the second end of the base surface. The base surface 16 is narrower at the second end than it is at the first end 19. This helps to channel the fasteners as they travel along the base surface 16.

The first end 19 of the base surface 16 is raised with respect to the second end. The base surface 16 is therefore sloped. In the depicted embodiment, the angle of the base surface with respect to the horizontal is 16 degrees. Depending on the type and weight of the fasteners being held in the container 14, the angle of the base surface can be equal to or greater than 10 degrees and equal to or less than 25 degrees. The angle of the slope should be equal to or greater than a threshold angle. The threshold angle is the angle at which the fasteners are able to flow along the base surface 16 under the force of gravity. The value of the threshold angle increases with a decrease in fastener weight, and decreases with an increase in fastener weight.

The base surface 16 is planar. Since the base surface 16 is planar, the likelihood of stacked fasteners inhibiting the flow of the fasteners along the base surface, is reduced. Stacking of fasteners occurs where two or more fasteners engage one another. Stacked fasteners that wedge against a surface or edge can cause blockages to the flow of fasteners along the base surface 16. This is because the fasteners that are wedged against a surface or edge act as a physical barrier to the passage of rivets along the base surface 16. The base surface 16 is provided with mounting points (not depicted) for mounting the actuator 17 to the container 14. Dome head screws extend through the mounting points and engage a threaded aperture of the actuator 17 to secure the actuator to the container 14. The use of dome head screws aids the travel of fasteners along the base surface because the surface of the head of the screws is smooth, which reduces the likelihood, as compared to, for example, a hexagonal head screw, that stacked fasteners can wedge against the screw and cause a blockage. Other methods of connecting the actuator to the container, such as the use of an adhesive, can also be used.

The container 14 further comprises flanges 23, 27. The flanges 23, 27 extend from the sidewalls 18, 20 of the container 14. The flanges 23, 27 are used to attach the container 14, and therefore the fastener supply apparatus 4, to the fastener delivery apparatus 2. The flanges 23, 37 are used to bear the weight of the fastener supply apparatus 4 when securing it to the fastener delivery apparatus 2. Fasteners, such as a nut and a bolt, can then be used to secure the flanges 23, 27, and therefore the fastener supply apparatus 4, to the fastener delivery apparatus 2.

Referring to Figure 4, the container 14 further comprises an opening 24. The opening 24 is located at the second end 25 of the base surface 16 of the container 14. In use, the fasteners that are held in the container 14 pass through the opening 24 and so the opening can be referred to as an outlet opening. The perimeter of the opening 24 is defined by the second end 25 of the base surface 16, the sidewalls 18, 20 of the container 14 and by a resilient member 26. The opening 24 defines a width that extends from the sidewall 18 to the sidewall 20. The opening 24 further defines a length that extends from the first end 25 of the base surface 16 of the container 14 to a first edge 29 of the resilient member 26. The length of the opening 24 should be at least equal to the length of the fasteners held in the container 14. The length of the opening 24 being at least equal to the length of the fasteners reduces the likelihood of a blockage due to stacked fasteners wedging against the opening. This is because the stacked fasteners wedged against the perimeter of the opening 24 would be encouraged to disengage (i.e. unstack) and fall out of the opening due to the weight of the fasteners in the container 14 acting on the stacked fasteners.

The resilient member 26 is attached to the end wall 22 by fasteners 28 such as bolts (only one of which is visible in Figure 4). The resilient member 26 is provided with apertures (not visible in Figure 4) through which the fasteners 28 extend. The apertures can be elongate to allow the position of the resilient member 26 to be changed, thereby allowing the length of the opening 24 to be changed. Other attachment methods, such as using an adhesive, are also suitable. The flexibility of the resilient member 26 is such that it flexes to allow stacked fasteners wedged against the resilient member 26 to disengage and pass through the opening 24. The resilient member 26 extends from the end wall 22 to define a part of the periphery of the opening 24. The resilient member 26 extends between the sidewalls (not visible) of the container 14 and defines the edge of the opening that is opposed to the edge defined by the second end 25 of the base surface 16 of the container. The resilient member 26 is made of a rubber, such as neoprene. It will be appreciated that other flexible materials, such as polypropylene, are also suitable.

Referring back to Figures 2 and 3 in combination with Figure 4, the dispensing portion 13 can be seen. The dispensing portion 13 comprises a platform 15. The platform 15 is located at the opening 24 of the container 14. The platform 15 is generally planar. The platform 15 comprises a proximal end 30 and a distal end 32. The proximal end 30 is located adjacent to the second end of the base surface 16 of the container 14. The distal end 32 is opposed to the proximal end 30. The platform 15 further comprises a first side edge 31 and a second side edge (not visible in the Figures) that each extend between the proximal end 30 and the distal end 32.

The dispensing portion 13 further comprises sidewalls 34, 36. The sidewalls 34, 36 extend from a respective one of the first side edge 31 and the second side edge of the platform 15. The sidewalls 34, 36 extend from the proximal end 30 of the platform 15 and along a part of a respective one of the first side edge 31 and the second side edge. The sidewalls 34, 36 are offset from the distal end 32 of the platform 15. The sidewalls 34, 36 are integrally formed with the platform 15. However, the sidewalls 34, 36 can be separately formed from the platform and attached by any suitable means, such as welding or use of an adhesive.

The platform 15 is located at the opening 24 of the container 14. In use, the platform 15 receives fasteners from the container 16 and the fasteners subsequently pass from the platform by virtue of the action of the actuator 17. In particular, the fasteners pass from the distal end 32 of the platform 15. This will be discussed in more detail below.

Figure 8 shows a detail view of region ‘A’ from Figure 4. Referring to Figure 8, the distal end 32 of the platform 15 is provided with a rib 35 and a lip 38 (which may be referred to as a raised lip). The rib 35 and the lip 38 are integrally formed with the platform 15. In the depicted embodiment, the lip 38 defines the absolute distal end of the platform 14. The rib 35 defines an upwardly extending portion 35a and a downwardly extending portion 35b. The upwardly extending portion 35a and the downwardly extending portion 35b are non-vertical. In other words, no point of the upwardly extending portion or the downwardly extending portion is perpendicular to the platform 15. The upwardly extending portion 35a extends upwards from the platform 15. An underside 57 of the rib 35 defines a generally curved profile. The radius of curvature of the underside 57 of the rib 35 is 1mm. However, the radius can be any suitable value up to 3mm. Preferably, the radius is at least 0.5mm. Preferably, the radius is less than 2mm. The rib 35 defines a planar section 55. The planar section 55 is located between the upwardly extending portion 35a and the downwardly extending portion 35b. The planar section can be replaced with a section of any suitable shape. For example, the planar section 55 may be replaced with a curved section. Alternatively, the upwardly extending portion 35a may directly adjoin the downwardly extending portion 35b. The rib 35 is raised with respect to the platform 15. The rib 35 is raised by approximately 1mm with respect to the platform 15. However, the rib 35 may be raised by up to 3mm with respect to the platform 15. Preferably, the rib 35 is raised by at least 0.5mm with respect to the platform 15. Preferably, the rib 35 is raised by less than or equal to 2mm with respect to the platform 15. The amount by which the rib 35 is raised with respect to the platform 15 may be selected based upon the type of fastener held in the container. The lip 38 is separated from the rib 35 by a planar portion 51. The downwardly extending portion 35b extends between the planar section 55 of the rib 35 and the planar portion 51. The lip 38 defines an upwardly extending portion 38a. The upwardly extending portion 38a of the lip is non vertical. In other words, no point of the upwardly extending portion 38a of the lip is perpendicular to the platform 15. The lip 38 is raised with respect to the platform 15. The lip 38 is raised by 1mm with respect to the platform. However, the lip 38 may be raised by up to 3mm with respect to the platform 15. Preferably, the lip 38 is raised by at least 0.5mm with respect to the platform. Preferably, the lip 38 is raised by equal to or less than 2mm with respect to the platform. The amount by which the lip 38 is raised with respect to the platform 15 may be selected based upon the type of fastener held in the container. The rib 35 and the lip 38 help to retain fasteners on the platform 15 while the platform is stationary, as is discussed in more detail below. The rib 35 and lip 38 can therefore be referred to as a fastener retention portion of the platform 15.

Referring back to Figure 4, the container 14 further comprises a lip 33 (which may be referred to as a downwardly projecting lip). The lip 33 is located adjacent to the second end 25 of the base surface 16 of the container. The lip 33 extends into the dispensing portion 13. The lip 33 extends towards the platform 15. The lip 33 extends towards the proximal end 30 of the platform. The lip 33 is spaced apart from the platform 15. The separation between the lip 33 and the platform is smaller than the value of the length of the fasteners. This reduces the likelihood that the fasteners can become jammed between the platform 15 and the container 14.

The proximal end 30 of the platform 15 is generally level with the distal end 32 of the platform. The platform 15 is therefore generally horizontal. The angle between the platform 15 and the horizontal is zero degrees. Alternatively, the distal end can be raised with respect to the proximal end, such that the platform is inclined with respect to the horizontal. Alternatively, the proximal end 30 of the platform 15 can be raised with respect to the distal end such that the platform is declines with respect to the horizontal. The angle between the platform and the horizontal can be for example between -5 degrees (i.e. declined) and 5 degrees (i.e. inclined).

Referring back to Figures 2 and 3, the dispensing portion 13 further comprises a buffer 37. The buffer 37 is attached to an appendage 39 that extends from the proximal end 30 of the platform 15. In use, the buffer 37 is impacted by the actuator 17. The appendage 39 is located at the midpoint between the sidewalls 34, 36 of the dispensing portion 13. The buffer 37 is made of rubber. However, the buffer 37 can be made of any suitable material that is able to buffer an impact. The buffer 37 serves to reduce the noise of the impact of the actuator. The appendage 39 is spaced apart from the sidewalls 34, 36 of the dispensing portion 13. This allows fasteners to fall from the proximal end 30 of the platform 15 in the event that a fastener is able to pass between the platform 15 and the lip 33 of the container 14.

The dispensing portion 13 is secured to the container 14 by four flexible connection members 41 (only one of which is labelled in each of Figures 2 and 3). A different number of flexible connection members 41 can also be used. The flexible connection members 41 allow the dispensing portion 13, and therefore the platform 15, to move relative to the container 14.

A flexible connection member 41 is shown in Figure 5. The flexible connection member 41 comprises a central portion 40. The central portion 40 is generally cylindrical, although the central portion may be any suitable shape. The central portion 40 is made of a resilient material, such as rubber. The central portion 40 comprises a first end 42 and a second end 44. A first threaded portion 46 extends from the first end 42. A second threaded portion 48 extends from the second end 44. The first threaded portion 46 is internally threaded. The second threaded portion 48 is externally threaded. However, either of the threaded portions 46, 48 can be internally or externally threaded.

Referring back to Figures 2 and 3, the first threaded portion (not visible in Figures 2 and 3) of each connection member 41 extends through a respective one of two apertures (not visible in the Figures) in one of the sidewalls 18, 20 of the container 14. The positions of the apertures of a first of the sidewalls 18 correspond with the positions of the apertures of a second of the sidewalls 20. Button head screws 53 (only one of which is labelled in the Figures) are secured to each of the first threaded portions 46 to secure the connection member 41 to the container 14. Since button head screws have a low profile, the likelihood of fasteners becoming jammed against the screws is reduced. However, other types of screws or bolts can be used in place of the button head screws. The second threaded portion 48 of each connection member 41 extends through a respective one of two apertures (not visible in the Figures) of one of the sidewalls 34, 36 of the dispensing portion 13. Nuts 43, only one of which is labelled in the figures, are secured to each of the second threaded portions to secure the flexible connection member 41 to the dispending portion 13. As can be seen from Figure 2, the position of the apertures of the sidewalls 34 are such that the dispensing portion 13 is cantilevered from the container 14.

The actuator 17 is secured to the container 14. The actuator 17 is a pneumatic actuator. The pneumatic actuator is a double action pneumatic actuator. Double action pneumatic actuators comprises a barrel in which a piston that is attached to a piston rod is housed. The piston rod extends out of the barrel. The barrel is provided with two pressurised air supply ports, each located at opposite ends of the barrel. Compressed air is supplied to the barrel such that the piston, and therefore the piston rod, translate along the barrel. The direction of travel is determined by which port the pressurised air is supplied to. In use, pressurised air is supplied to one of the ports, and the other acts as an exhaust. Operation of double action pneumatic actuators is well known in the art and will not be discussed further.

The actuator 17 is positioned such that, upon its actuation, the piston rod 50 of the actuator imparts an impulse to the buffer 37 of the dispensing portion 13. Repeated actuation of the actuator 17 results in the piston rod 50 imparting a plurality of impulses to the buffer 37. This can also be described as the piston rod 50 striking or pecking the buffer 37. Actuation of the actuator 17 can be referred to as the actuator operating in a dispensing mode. When the piston rod 50 imparts an impulse to the buffer 37, the central portion 40 of the flexible connection members 41 flex such that the dispensing portion 13 moves relative to the container 14, as will be discussed further below. When the piston rod 50 imparts an impulse to the buffer 37, the dispensing portion 13, and therefore the platform 15, moves relative to the container 14. Therefore, the actuator 17 is operable to move the dispensing portion 13, and therefore the platform 15, relative to the container 14.

The impulse imparted by the actuator 17 on the buffer 37 causes the dispensing portion 13 to move. In particular, the impulse imparted by the actuator 17 on the buffer 37 causes the dispensing portion 13 to translate. That is to say, the movement of the dispensing portion 13 caused by the impulse imparted by the actuator 17 on the buffer 37 may be translational. The dispensing portion 13 translates in the direction of the impulse imparted on it by the actuator 17. The dispensing portion 13 may undergo rotational movement in addition to or instead of translational movement as a result of the impulse imparted by the actuator 17. The degree of rotation that the dispensing portion 13 undergoes is determined by, among other things, the elasticity of the central portion 40 of the flexible connection members 41, the tightness that the button head screws 53 and/or nuts 43 are secured to their respective threaded portion 46, 48 of the flexible connection members 41 , and the stroke length of the piston rod 50 of the actuator 17. Other factors may also contribute to the degree of rotation that the dispensing portion 13 undergoes. The movement of the dispensing portion 13 may be vibrational. Therefore, the movement of the dispensing portion 13 caused by the impulse imparted by the actuator 17 on the buffer 37 may be translational vibration, rotational vibration or a combination of translational and rotational vibration. In use, the movement of the dispensing portion 13 causes the fasteners on the platform 15 of the dispensing portion to move from the proximal end 30 towards the distal end 32 and off the distal end into the bowl feeder 6.

Since the central portion 40 of the flexible connection members 41 is made of a flexible material, the movement, particularly the vibrational movement, of the dispensing portion 13 is dampened by the central portions. The damping ratio of the system is such that the vibration of the dispensing portion 13 is at least critically damped. That is to say, the damping ratio of the vibration of the dispensing portion 13 is equal to or greater than one. Optionally, the damping ratio of the vibration of the dispensing portion 13 may be equal to or greater than two.

Although the movement of the dispensing portion 13 is dampened by virtue of the flexible connection members 41 , the impulse imparted by the actuator 17 on the buffer 37 also results in vibration of the container 14. The vibration of the container 14 causes at least some of the fasteners in the container to unstack such that the fasteners that unstack are temporarily not a part of the mutually supporting body of fasteners. The fasteners that are upstream of the opening will reunite with the body of fasteners once the container 14 stops vibrating. The unstacked fasteners that are adjacent to the opening 24 pass through the opening by virtue of gravity and onto the platform 15.

Operation of the actuator 17 also includes a rest mode. In the rest mode of the actuator 17, the piston rod 50 remains stationary. In the rest mode, the piston rod 50 exerts a load against the buffer 37 of the dispensing portion 13. This advantageously constrains movement of the dispensing portion 13 when the actuator is in the rest mode. Therefore, while the actuator 17 is in the rest mode, the dispensing portion 13, and therefore the platform 15, remains generally stationary. Since the vibrations of the bowl feeder 6 would otherwise result in vibrations of the dispending portion, the likelihood of fasteners inadvertently falling off the platform due to such vibrations is reduced. Since the piston rod 50 exerts a load against the buffer 37 of the dispensing portion in the rest mode, when switching from the rest mode to the dispensing mode the piston rod first retracts away from the buffer before imparting one or more impulses to the buffer 37 in the dispensing mode.

Figure 6 schematically depicts the fastener delivery apparatus 2 and the fastener supply apparatus 4. The fastener supply apparatus 4 further comprises a controller 58 and a sensor 60. The sensor 60 is an inductive sensor. The controller 58 is in communication with the bowl feeder 6, the sensor of the escapement mechanism 8, the actuator 17 and the sensor 60. The controller 58 controls the operation of the actuator 17. The sensor 60 is configured to detect the fill level of the bowl feeder 6. Operation of the fastener supply apparatus will now be described with reference to Figure 6. The bowl feeder 6 operates to pass fasteners from the base of the bowl feeder to the escapement mechanism (not depicted in Figure 6), as described above. The controller 58 sends a signal to activate the bowl feeder 6, i.e. the vibration unit of the bowl feeder is activated, when the sensor of the escapement mechanism 8 indicates that the fill level of the escapement mechanism is below a predetermined threshold. While the bowl feeder is active, the sensor 60 detects the fill level of the bowl feeder 6 and provides data relating to the fill level to the controller 58. The sensor 60 can also detect the fill level of the bowl feeder 16 when the bowl feeder is not active. When the sensor 60 detects that the fill level of the bowl feeder 6 is below a first threshold value for a first predetermined amount of time, the controller 58 operates the actuator 17 in the dispensing mode. The first predetermined amount of time may be one second. The fill level of the bowl feeder 6 falling below the first threshold value can be referred to as a predetermined condition that determines operation of the actuator 17. Operation of the actuator 17 in the dispensing mode imparts an impulse to the dispensing portion 13 of the fastener supply apparatus 4. As noted above, repeated actuation of the actuator 17 in the dispensing mode results in a plurality of impulses being imparted to the dispensing portion 13. The impulse or impulses imparted causes the fastener dispensing portion 13 to move such that the fasteners pass from the platform 15 to the bowl feeder 6. The primary reason for the passage of the fasteners is due to the translational movement of the dispensing portion 13. Rotational movement, in addition to translational movement, can assist in the passage of the fasteners. Rotational movement alone can also allow the passage of the fasteners. However, it is preferable that the dispensing portion undergoes some degree of translational movement. While the actuator 17 is operating in the dispensing mode, the sensor 60 detects the fill level of the bowl feeder 6. The data relating to the fill level of the bowl feeder 6 is provided to the controller 58. Once the fill level of the bowl feeder 6 has exceeded a second threshold value for a predetermined amount of time, the controller 58 ceases operation of the actuator 17. The second predetermined amount of time may be one second. The second threshold value is greater than the first threshold value.

At the same time that the fasteners are passing from the platform 15 to the bowl feeder 6, the fasteners located at the proximal end of the platform travel towards the distal end by virtue of the movement of the dispensing portion 13, described above. The impulse imparted by the actuator 17 on the dispensing portion 13 also vibrates the container 14. Vibration of the container 14 causes some fasteners held in the container to be released from the cohesive body of fasteners. The released fasteners then flow through the opening 24 and onto the platform 15, which encourages the fasteners already on the platform towards the distal end of the platform. Therefore the fasteners move from the proximal end to the distal end of the platform, and then into the bowl feeder 6 by virtue both of the impulse imparted by the actuator on the dispensing portion 13 and the flow of fasteners through the opening and onto the platform.

Since part of the perimeter of the opening is defined by the resilient member, the likelihood of stacked fasteners becoming wedged against the opening and causing a blockage to the flow of fasteners is reduced. Stacking occurs where two or more fasteners engage one another. Stacked fasteners can cause blockages where they wedge against a surface or edge. Therefore, stack fasteners becoming wedged against the perimeter of the opening is undesirable because it can block the passage of fasteners from the container and onto the platform 15. If two or more fasteners were to engage one another and wedge against the resilient member, the resilient member would flex, allowing the fasteners to pass through the opening. The resilient member would then return to its initial position. The resilient member may be referred to as a resilient flap.

Figure 7 depicts a modified embodiment in which the fastener supply apparatus 4 further comprises an expansion portion 52. The expansion portion 52 is integrally formed with a cover 62 of the fasteners supply apparatus 4. The expansion portion 52 is provided to increase the fastener holding volume of the container 14. The expansion portion 52 is secured to the container 14. The expansion portion 52 comprises sidewalls 54 (only one of which is labelled in Figure 6), which define a fastener holding volume 56. The fastener holding volume 56 is positioned adjacent to the container 14 such that the fasteners held in the fastener holding volume can pass from the fastener holding volume into the container 14. The cover 62 is provided with a lid 64 that closes off the expansion portion 52.

In some, non-depicted, embodiments, the controller controls the actuator to perform a predetermined number of actuations upon detection by the sensor that the fill level of the bowl feeder is below a predetermined level. The sensor detects the fill level of the bowl feeder and sends data relating to the fill level of the bowl feeder to the controller. Once the fill level of the bowl feeder is below the predetermined threshold, the controller actuates the actuator for a predetermined number of cycles or a predetermined amount of time without receiving feedback from the sensor during actuation. Once the predetermined number of actuations have been performed by the actuator or the predetermined amount of time has passed, the controller sends a signal to the actuator to cease operation of the actuator. The predetermined number of actuations may be, for example, six. The predetermined number of actuations may be equal to or greater than three and/or equal to or less than fifteen. The predetermined amount of time may be, for example, five seconds. The predetermined amount of time may be equal to or greater than two seconds and/or equal to or less than ten seconds.

In some, non-depicted, embodiments, the actuator can be fixed to the fastener dispensing portion and the container can comprise an appendage. The appendage and actuator being positioned such that the actuator is able to impart an impulse on the appendage to move the fastener dispensing portion, and therefore the platform, relative to the container of the fastener supply apparatus.

In some, non-depicted, embodiments, the actuator may be a single acting pneumatic actuator and the piston rod of the actuator may be fixed to the fastener dispensing portion. Single action pneumatic actuators comprise a barrel in which a piston that is attached to a piston rod and a spring are housed. The piston rod extends out of the barrel. Compressed air is supplied to the barrel such that the piston, and therefore the piston rod, translate along the barrel. Once the compressed air supply ceases, the piston returns to its initial position by virtue of the action of the spring. Operation of single action pneumatic actuators is well known in the art and will not be discussed further.

In addition, the four flexible connection members can be replaced with two rotational connection members, i.e. one rotational connection per sidewall of the container, that allow the fastener dispensing portion to rotate freely relative to the container. In this embodiment, operation of the actuator rotates the fastener dispensing portion back and forth such that fasteners pass from the platform of the fastener dispensing portion to container of the fastener delivery apparatus (i.e., the bowl feeder).

In some, non-depicted, embodiments, the angle of the platform with respect to the horizontal may be adjustable. One of the apertures of each of the sidewalls of the container and/or an aperture of each of the sidewalls of the dispensing portion can be elongate. The elongate apertures can be angled with respect to the vertical (the vertical being a direction parallel to the direction of gravity). This allows the position of the dispensing platform, and therefore of the platform, to be adjusted. This allows the angle of the dispensing portion, and therefore of the platform, to be adjusted.

In some, non-depicted, embodiments, the distal end of the platform may comprise either one of the rib or the lip. Alternatively, the distal end of the platform may comprise neither the rib nor the lip. However, having both a rib and a lip reduces, as compared with having a rib or a lip, the likelihood of fasteners falling off the platform unintentionally.

In some, non-depicted, embodiments, the upwardly extending portion and the downwardly extending portion of the rib may be formed such that they extend vertically.

In some, non-depicted embodiments, the upwardly extending portion and downwardly extending portion of the rib can be shaped such that the rib is generally semi-circular in cross-section.

In some, non-depicted, embodiments, the rib and/or lip may be separately formed from the platform.

In some, non-depicted embodiments, the underside of the rib can be planar.

In some, non-depicted, embodiments, the lip can be curved.

In some, non-depicted, embodiments, the platform may comprise two or more ribs. Where the platform comprises two or more ribs, each rib can comprise any of the features in any combination as described in relation to the rib above.

In some, non-depicted, embodiments, the resilient member need not be made of a flexible material. Instead, the resilient member may comprise a rigid plate that is biased with a biasing member, such as a torsion spring.

In some, non-depicted, embodiments, the resilient member can be formed of a plurality of bristles. The bristles can extend from a solid portion. The bristles can be formed integrally or separately from the solid portion. In this embodiment, part of the perimeter of the opening is defined by the bristles. The plurality of bristles can be referred to as a brush strip.

In some, non-depicted embodiments, the resilient member need not be affixed to the end wall of the container. Instead, the end wall can extend to define an edge of the opening, and the second end of the container can be provided with a resilient member that defines an edge of the container. In other embodiments, no resilient member is provided.

In some, non-depicted, embodiments, the sensor may not be provided. Instead, the controller may control the actuator based on the passing of a predetermined time interval.

In some, non-depicted embodiments, the actuator need not be a pneumatic actuator. Instead, the actuator can be, for example, an electric linear actuator. Alternatively, the actuator could be a vibratory drive unit that is secured to the platform. Operation of the vibratory drive unit may vibrate the platform such that the fasteners on the platform pass from the platform and into a container of the fastener delivery apparatus (i.e., the bowl feeder) upon vibration of the vibratory drive unit. Any suitable actuator that is operable to move the dispensing portion, and therefore the platform, relative to the container can be used.

In some, non-depicted, embodiments, instead of being provided to the appendage of the dispensing portion, the buffer may be provided to the piston rod of the actuator. In further, non-depicted, embodiments, the appendage can be replaced with a wall, the wall extending between the sidewalls of the dispensing portion. The buffer can be attached to the wall. In further, non-depicted embodiments, the buffer need not be provided at all.

The container of the fastener supply apparatus can be referred to as a first container and the bowl feeder can be referred to as a second container.

While specific embodiments of the invention have been described above, it will be appreciated that the invention may be practiced otherwise than as described. The descriptions above are intended to be illustrative, not limiting. Thus, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that modifications may be made to the invention as described without departing from the scope of the claims set out below.