Patent ID: 8898883
Filing Date: 2014-12-02
Classification: B21J,B23P,Y10T

Abstract:
1. A singulation slide for separating and feeding a connecting element within a joining apparatus, including a feed apparatus, from a first position, wherein the singulation slide separates and embarks a single connecting element from a plurality of connecting elements, to a second position, where the connecting element is removed from the singulation slide prepatory for use in a joining operation, the singulation slide comprising: a base segment; a first leg segment and a second leg segment unitary with the base segment and flexibly joined to the base segment; a through-hole for releasably holding the connecting element, the through-hole running in an axial direction and partially defined by the base segment, the first leg segment, and the second leg segment; an axially extending separating line defined between the base segment and the first leg segment, and the separating line extends lengthwise from a first end at the through hole to a second end at a drilled hole; and the first leg segment is movable in a first radial direction and the second leg segment is movable in a second radial direction from a holding position, wherein the through-hole accepts and holds the connecting element, to a release position, wherein the through hole is expanded to release and permit axial through passage of the connecting element.