Patent ID: 7891074
Filing Date: 2011-02-22
Classification: E04C,E04G,Y10T

Abstract:
1. A method of connecting bars comprising: (a) providing an apparatus for applying clips to connect bars, the apparatus including a barrel having an open distal end; (b) engaging a clip string with a clip track of the bar connecting apparatus, the clip string including a plurality of connected clips, each clip including a downwardly open lower seat, a downwardly open upper seat oriented transversely to the lower seat, and an upwardly open upper seat oriented parallel to the lower seat; (c) sliding the clip string along the clip track such that at least one clip is received in a clip receiving cavity of the bar connecting apparatus, with the downwardly open lower seat and the downwardly open upper seat open toward the open distal end of the barrel; (d) aligning the bar connecting apparatus on two transverse bars; and (e) reciprocating a hammer distally then proximally in the barrel of the bar connecting apparatus such that the distal stroke of the hammer contacts and expels the clip received in the clip receiving cavity to seat the two transverse bars in the downwardly open lower seat and the downwardly open upper seat and thereby connect the bars with the clip.