Patent Description:
Self-piercing riveting (SPR) is a spot-joining technique in which a self-piercing rivet is driven, by a punch, into a layered workpiece supported by a die. The die is shaped so that as the rivet is driven into the workpiece towards the die the material of the workpiece plastically deforms. This flow of workpiece material causes the annular tip of the rivet to flare outwards and remain encapsulated by an upset annulus of the workpiece material. The flared tip of the rivet interlocking with the upset annulus of the workpiece prevents removal of the rivet or a separation of the layers of the workpiece. Self-piercing riveting is used in factories, for example during assembly of vehicles. A rivet insertion tool and die may be mounted on a robotic arm which moves between different rivet insertion points on a workpiece (e.g. a vehicle body). The robotic arm may be one of many robotic arms in a factory, with the robotic arms for example being distributed along a production line. When the robotic arms are in motion, for safety reasons operators are not permitted to enter the environment of the robotic arms (which may be referred to as a controlled environment). If a supply of self-piercing rivets for a rivet insertion tool on one robotic arm were to run out then operation of that rivet setting tool would need to be suspended until the supply of rivets was replenished. Replenishing the rivets requires all of the robotic arms and riveting tools in the controlled environment to stop operation in order to allow an operator to safely access the riveting tool which requires replenishing. This is disadvantageous because it will suspend operation of the production line.

A supply of rivets to a rivet insertion tool may be provided as a spool of rivet tape along which self-piercing rivets are distributed. The spool of rivet tape is wound onto a reel, and is fed from the reel through a nose of the self-piercing riveting tool. The riveting tool pushes rivets out of the rivet tape and into the workpiece. In an environment such as a production line in which many riveting tools are provided on robotic arms and are fed using rivet tapes of rivets, rivet tapes for several different tools may be replenished at the same time. This is advantageous because it avoids having to interrupt operation of the production line each time the supply of rivets to a riveting tool runs out, and thereby reduces lost production time. However, a disadvantage of this approach is that some spools of rivet tape will only be partially used when they are replaced, leading to a considerable wastage of rivets.

<CIT> discloses methods and apparatuses for continuous fastener feeding for sequentially delivering single fasteners to a fastener installation device. In one embodiment the apparatus includes a first fastener reel for supporting a first fastener tape securing a plurality of fasteners and a second fastener reel for supporting a second fastener tape for securing a plurality of fasteners. A fastener tape joining device positioned downstream of the first and second fastener reels receives the respective first and the second fastener tapes and selectively engage the first and second fastener tapes when one of the fastener tapes becomes depleted of fasteners.

<CIT> discloses a fastener strip and a tape feeder connection device. The fastener strip comprises multiple fasteners, arranged in the same form in a width direction; and multiple fastener connection parts, used to connect to the neighbouring fasteners. Each fastener connection part is connected to one side of the neighbouring fastener in the width direction. The tape feeder connection device is used to connect the fastener strip to tape feeders, and comprises: a lower main body, comprising a tape feeder fixing part, which makes the tape feeders to be connected aligned with each other linearly; a fastener strip feeding part, used to feed the fastener strip in a direction perpendicular to the tape feeders; and a tape feeder connection part, arranged between a front end of the tape feeder fixing part and the fastener strip feeding part; and an upper main body, connected to an upper side of the lower main body in a rotatable way, and comprising a handle, connected through a rotatable connector to the fastener strip feeding part; and an upper press block, connected to the handle and the fastener strip feeding part in a rotatable way.

<CIT> discloses a method of connecting respective one end portions of two carrier tapes, to each other, each of the two tapes having pockets at a first pitch and tape-feed holes at a second pitch. Each of the pockets accommodates an electric component. The method includes the steps of aligning a tape connecting member which includes a flat main portion having tape-feed holes at a third pitch equal to the second pitch, and caulking projections projecting perpendicularly from the main portion, with the respective one end portions of the two tapes, such that tape-feed holes of the connecting member are aligned with respective tape-feed holes of the two tapes, causing at least two caulking projections of the connecting member to penetrate through respective thickness of the two tapes, so that the main portion of the connecting member contacts respective one major surfaces of the two tapes, and caulking respective portions of the two caulking projections that penetrate out of the respective other surfaces of the two tapes, so that the respective one end portions of the two tapes are connected to each other.

It may be desirable to overcome a disadvantage associated with the prior art.

According to an aspect of the invention there is provided a rivet tape joining clip comprising an elongate body provided with a plurality of projections which extend from one side of the elongate body, wherein the projections are provided with laterally projecting lips.

The rivet tape joining clip may be used to join pieces of rivet tape together, with the laterally projecting lips providing secure engagement between the projections and the rivet tape. The rivet tape joining clip is advantageous because it allows leftover pieces of rivet tape to be joined together and then used for rivet insertion. The rivet tape joining clip may also be used for automated connection of spools of rivet tape.

The laterally projecting lips may be located at distal ends of the projections.

The elongate body may be provided with two inner projections located towards a centre of the elongate body and two outer projections located towards ends of the elongate body.

A separation between the outer projections and a respective inner projection may be double a separation between the inner projections.

The clip includes a pair of projections with a separation that is smaller than the separation between other projections. The clip may include a pair of projections with a separation that is smaller than a multiple of the separation between other projections. The difference in separations may correspond with stretching that occurs between the pair of projections when the clip is used.

The difference in separations may be up to around <NUM>.

The difference in separations may be around <NUM>.

According to the invention the clip is provided with four projections. An inner pair of projections has a separation which is smaller than the separation between other projections. The separation may be smaller by around <NUM>.

The elongate body may be provided with more than four projections.

The projections may be provided with a convex lowermost surface.

An upper edge of each lip may step inwardly to meet an inner portion of the projection.

The elongate body may comprise an inner portion, and outer portions provided on either side of the inner portion. The outer portions may be thicker than the inner portion.

The clip may have a face at each end of the elongate body. Each face may taper outwardly from an end point of the clip.

Also described is a rivet tape joining clip comprising an elongate body provided with four or more generally cylindrical projections which extend from one side of the elongate body.

According to a second aspect of the invention there is provided an assembly comprising a rivet tape joining clip according to the first aspect of the invention, the rivet tape joining clip being engaged in first and second rivet tapes, wherein projections of the rivet tape joining clip pass through holes of the first and second rivet tapes.

Lips of the projections may be wider than the holes and thereby hold the rivet tape securely on the rivet tape joining clip.

Adhesive may be provided between the rivet tape joining clip and the first and second rivet tapes.

The separation between projections of the rivet tape joining clip may be such that a regular separation between sprocket holes is maintained across the first and second rivet tapes.

The regular separation between sprocket holes may be maintained only during use, via stretching of the rivet tape joining clip.

Projections of the rivet tape joining clip may pass through holes of the first tape but not through a final hole of the first tape. Projections of the rivet tape joining clip may pass through holes of the second tape including a first hole of the second tape.

An end of the second tape may be provided with a non-square cut. The non-square cut may also be referred to as a non-straight cut.

An end of the second tape may be provided with a three-sided cut. An end of the second tape may be provided with a semi-circular cut, an arced cut, or some other non-straight cut.

An end of the first tape may be provided with a square cut.

A land behind a final hole of the first tape may be shorter than a land in front of a first hole of the second tape.

According to a third aspect of the invention there is provided an assembly comprising a rivet tape joining clip according to the first aspect of the invention engaged in first and second rivet tapes. The projections of the rivet tape joining clip pass through holes of the first tape but not through a final hole of the first tape, and wherein projections of the rivet tape joining clip pass through holes of the second tape including a first hole of the second tape.

An end of the second tape may be provided with a non-square cut.

An end of the second tape may be provided with a three-sided cut or a curved cut.

Also described is a rivet tape securing apparatus comprising a housing which defines an opening configured to receive rivet tape during use, a resiliently biased finger mounted on an actuator, and a controller configured to operate the actuator to move the resiliently biased finger into and out of the opening defined by the housing.

The above allows the resiliently biased finger to be brought into contact with the rivet tape when it is desired to secure the rivet tape. The rivet tape may then be pulled over the resiliently biased finger until the resiliently biased finger enters a hole in the rivet tape.

The actuator may comprise a sleeve, the finger being retractable at least partially into the sleeve and being resiliently biased out of the sleeve.

The resilient bias may be provided by a spring. The spring may be located inside the sleeve and may which engage with the finger.

An upper end of the sleeve may comprise side walls which are spaced apart from each other in a direction which is transverse to a direction of travel of the rivet tape.

The apparatus may further comprise a sensor configured to detect that the resiliently biased finger has passed through a hole in the rivet tape.

An upper end of the resiliently biased finger may be rounded.

The apparatus may further comprise a rivet sensor configured to detect the passage of rivets past the sensor.

The apparatus may further comprise a control system configured to operate the actuator to move the finger towards a rivet tape such that the finger is biased against the tape when the rivet sensor provides an output indicating that rivet tape without rivets is passing the sensor.

The control system may be configured to monitor for an output signal from the sensor which indicates that the finger has passed through a hole in the tape.

The distal end of the housing may include a first side portion configured to support one edge of a rivet tape and a second side portion configured to support an opposite edge of the rivet tape, and a channel located between the side portions configured to accommodate an unsupported central portion of the rivet tape.

Also described is a rivet tape cutting apparatus comprising a pair of jaws between which a gap is provided, the gap being open at one end, and a blade connected to an actuator, the actuator being configured to move the blade across the gap to cut a rivet tape, wherein a first part of the gap on a first side of the jaws is wider than a second part of the gap on an opposite side of the jaws. The first part of the gap may be dimensioned to receive a rivet tape and the second part of the gap may be dimensioned to receive a distal end of a rivet tape securing apparatus.

The rivet tape cutting apparatus advantageously allows the rivet tape to be cut at a closely controlled position along the rivet tape.

The first part of the gap may be wider at an outer end of the gap than at an inner end of the gap.

The first part of the gap may taper outwardly at an outer end of the gap.

The second part of the gap may be wider at an outer end of the gap than at an inner end of the gap.

The second part of the gap may have a distal end provided with outwardly tapering side faces.

The rivet tape cutting apparatus may further comprise a ridge and groove arrangement configured to guide the blade when the blade is moved across the gap by the actuator.

The jaws of the cutting apparatus may be formed in a block. The block may be connected to a stand by resilient connections which allow the block to move relative to the stand but which bias the block to an equilibrium position relative to the stand.

A slot may be provided in the stand, the slot being open at one end to receive rivet tape. An outer end of the slot may be provided with outwardly sloping faces.

Also described is a rivet tape joining apparatus comprising a rivet tape and clip holding block, a pressing block and an actuator configured to move the rivet tape and clip holding block and the pressing block together, wherein a lowermost surface of the pressing block is provided with at least two recesses.

The rivet tape joining apparatus advantageously allows rivet tape to be pressed onto a rivet tape holding clip, with projections of the rivet tape holding clip passing into the recesses in the pressing block.

The tape and clip holding block may comprise two raised portions which define a channel between them.

One or more fingers may project upwardly from the channel to receive a hole of a rivet tape.

The actuator may be connected to the pressing block and may be configured to move the pressing block towards the rivet tape and clip holding block.

An additional actuator may be connected to the rivet tape and clip holding block, and may be configured to move the rivet tape and clip holding block towards the pressing block.

The rivet tape and clip holding block may be connected to the additional actuator by resilient connections which allow the rivet tape and clip holding block to move relative to the additional actuator but which bias the rivet tape and clip holding block to an equilibrium position relative to the additional actuator.

The rivet tape holding block may include a step configured to engage with a step of the rivet tape securing apparatus.

The pressing block may be elongate and the at least two recesses may be provided at ends of the elongate pressing block.

Also disclosed is an apparatus comprising the rivet tape securing apparatus described above the rivet tape joining apparatus described above, wherein the rivet tape securing apparatus includes one or more openings or projections and the rivet tape joining apparatus includes one or more projections or openings, the one or more openings and projections being configured to engage with each other when the rivet tape securing apparatus and the rivet tape joining apparatus are brought together.

The rivet tape securing apparatus and rivet tape joining apparatus are advantageous because they allow the rivet tape to be positioned accurately for joining to another rivet tape.

A distal end of the rivet tape securing apparatus may have first and second side portions separated by a channel. The rivet tape joining apparatus may have first and second raised portions separated by a channel. The channels may be configured to align when the rivet tape securing apparatus and the rivet tape joining apparatus are brought together.

The channel of the rivet tape securing apparatus may have substantially the same width as the channel of the rivet tape joining apparatus.

The pressing block may be configured to pass into the channel of the rivet tape securing apparatus and into the channel of the rivet tape joining apparatus.

Also described is an apparatus comprising the rivet tape securing apparatus described above and the rivet tape cutting apparatus described above, wherein the housing of the rivet tape securing apparatus has a distal end, and wherein the first part of the gap between the jaws of the rivet tape cutting apparatus is dimensioned to receive the distal end of the rivet tape securing apparatus.

Because the rivet tape securing apparatus can be received in the jaws of the rivet tape cutting apparatus, this allows accurate determination of the positon at which the rivet tape is cut by the rivet tape cutting apparatus.

Also disclosed is a method comprising joining first and second rivet tapes together using the rivet tape joining clip of the first aspect, and then using a riveting tool to insert rivets from the first and second tapes into workpieces. The workpieces may form part of a vehicle.

Also disclosed is a method of securing a rivet tape comprising using an actuator to move a resiliently biased finger into contact with the rivet tape, then passing the rivet tape over the resiliently biased finger until the finger meets a hole in the rivet tape and is biased into the hole.

The method advantageously allows the rivet tape to be secured in a desired position in a simple and straightforward manner.

A sensor may provide an output signal when the finger passes into the hole in the rivet tape.

Also described is a method of cutting rivet tape which comprises using a rivet tape securing apparatus to secure the rivet tape according to the above-described method, engaging a distal end of a rivet tape securing apparatus into jaws of a rivet tape cutting apparatus such that the rivet tape passes through the jaws of the rivet tape cutting apparatus, then moving a blade across a gap defined by the jaws.

Also disclosed is a method of joining rivet tapes, the method comprising holding a first rivet tape and clip using the rivet tape joining apparatus described above, holding a second rivet tape using the rivet tape securing apparatus described above, and using the pressing block of the rivet tape joining apparatus to press the second rivet tape onto the clip such that the second rivet tape engages with the clip.

The method may further comprise using a riveting tool to insert rivets from the first tape or the second tape into workpieces. The workpieces may form part of a vehicle.

Also disclosed is a rivet tape cutting apparatus comprising a tape supporting structure, a tape securing apparatus, a blade and an actuator, wherein the actuator is configured to move the blade and the tape supporting apparatus relative to each other to cut the rivet tape, and wherein the tape securing apparatus is configured to secure a hole of the rivet tape at a fixed separation from the blade.

The tape securing apparatus may comprise a peg received in a bore of the tape supporting structure.

The peg may project from a block which is configured to extend across the rivet tape.

A second peg may project from a different side of the block, the peg and the second peg having different diameters.

The tape supporting structure may be provided with a second bore, the bore and the second bores having diameters which correspond with the diameters of the peg and the second peg.

The blade may be fixed and the actuator may be configured to move the tape supporting structure towards the blade.

The blade may comprise three blade portions, a first blade portion configured to form a square cut of a central portion of the second rivet tape, the second and third blade portions configured to form angled cut portions either side of the central portion. The blade may be curved. The blade may be semi-circular or arced.

The rivet tape cutting apparatus may further comprise a second blade and a second tape securing apparatus configured to secure a hole of a second rivet tape at a fixed separation from the additional blade.

The tape supporting structure may comprise a plate provided with an opening.

Edges of the opening of the tape supporting structure may be aligned with edges of the first and second blades, such that relative movement between the blades and the tape supporting structure cuts into the rivet tapes with a guillotine-like action.

Features of different aspects of the invention may be combined together.

Rivet tapes secured together using a clip according to an aspect of the invention may be used to insert rivets into workpieces. The workpieces may form part of a vehicle.

<FIG> depicts a clip <NUM> for joining together two rivet tapes. The clip <NUM> is depicted in perspective view in <FIG>, in side view in <FIG>, in a first cross-section in <FIG> and in a second cross-section in <FIG>.

The clip <NUM> is elongate, comprises a central portion <NUM> and first and second side portions <NUM>,<NUM> which extend either side of the central portion. The side portions <NUM>,<NUM> are thicker than the central portion <NUM>. The side portions <NUM>,<NUM> may for example be around twice as thick as the central portion. The central portion <NUM> may for example have a thickness of around <NUM> and the side portions <NUM>,<NUM> may for example have a thickness of around <NUM> (measured across the thickest point of the side portions). The central portion <NUM> maybe sufficiently thin that it can pass beneath a switch in a nose of a rivet insertion tool without triggering that switch (as described further below). The central portion <NUM> may not be thick enough to give the clip sufficient tensile strength. The side portions <NUM>,<NUM> give the clip <NUM> additional tensile strength. This allows the clip <NUM> to be used to pull a rivet tape through a rivet insertion tool without significant stretching of the clip (e.g. the stretching being sufficiently small that a desired separation remains between sprocket wheel holes of tapes joined by the clip).

Four projections 10a-d extend from a bottom surface <NUM> of the clip <NUM>. The term "bottom surface" is used for convenience to describe the clip as shown in the figures, and is not intended to imply that the clip <NUM> must always have the orientation depicted in the figures. The projections 10a-d are generally cylindrical. Each projection <NUM> comprises an inner portion <NUM> and an outer portion <NUM>. The inner portion <NUM> of each projection <NUM> is connected to the central portion <NUM> of the clip <NUM>. The outer portion <NUM> of each projection <NUM> is connected to the inner portion <NUM> and includes a lip <NUM>. Each projection includes a blind bore <NUM> which extends fully through the outer portion <NUM> and partway into the inner portion <NUM>. The clip <NUM> may be formed using injection moulding. The blind bores <NUM> in the projections <NUM> advantageously reduce distortion of the projections which may be caused by the injection moulding process. The blind bores <NUM> also provide a central locating feature which may be used to align a hand tool that can be used to press rivet tape over the projections <NUM> when engaging the clip <NUM> into the tape. Blind bores of clips according to other embodiments provide the same advantages.

The lip <NUM> extends around the circumference of each projection <NUM>, and projects laterally such that the diameter of the outer portion <NUM> is greater than the diameter of the inner portion <NUM>. At an upper end of the lip <NUM> the diameter of the projection <NUM> steps inwards. An outer edge of the step has a sharp corner <NUM> (e.g. a corner which does not include significant rounding). The sharp corner <NUM> may help to retain rivet tape on the clip as explained further below. A bottom end of the outer portion <NUM> is convex and is curved. The radius of curvature of the bottom end of the outer portion <NUM> increases towards an outer edge of the lip <NUM>. The curved form of the bottom end of the outer portion <NUM> may help the projection <NUM> to pass into a rivet tape hole as explained further below.

Each projection <NUM> may for example have a length of around <NUM>. The inner portion <NUM> of each projection may for example have a length of around <NUM>. The outer portion <NUM> of each projection may for example have a length of around <NUM>. The blind bore <NUM> may for example have a depth of around <NUM>. The inner portion <NUM> of each projection may for example have a diameter of around <NUM>. The outer portion <NUM> of each projection may for example have a diameter of around <NUM>. The blind bore <NUM> may for example have a diameter of around <NUM>. The bottom end of each outer portion <NUM> may for example have a radius of curvature of around <NUM>. The radius of curvature may decrease to around <NUM> towards an outer edge of each lip <NUM>.

The separation between first and second projections 10a,b and between third and fourth projections 10c,d is double the separation between second and third projections 10b,c. For example, first and second projections 10a,b of the clip may be separated by <NUM> (the separation being measured between centre points of the projections). Second and third projections 10b,c may be separated by <NUM>. Third and fourth projections 10c,d may be separated by <NUM>.

The above example dimensions are merely illustrative and are not intended to be limiting. The example dimensions may for example be for a clip intended to be used for rivet tape which holds rivets with <NUM> diameter shanks. The dimensions may be scaled as desired for rivet tape which holds rivets with smaller diameter shanks (e.g. <NUM>) or larger diameter shanks.

The clip <NUM> is formed from resilient material. The clip <NUM> may be formed from plastic, for example nylon <NUM>. The resilience of the clip <NUM> allows the clip to bend when it passes through a rivet insertion tool (as described below).

The clip has faces 18a,b at either end. Each face 18a,b tapers outwardly from an end point 20a,b of the clip. This tapered configuration may reduce the risk of the clip becoming caught in a rivet insertion tool, and allows a switch to move smoothly over the surface of the clip without being triggered (as is explained further below).

<FIG> depicts the clip <NUM> after it has been fastened to an end of a rivet tape <NUM>, <FIG> is a perspective view from above, <FIG> is a cross-sectional view from one end and <FIG> is a cross- sectional view from one side. The projections 10a,b extend through holes 24a,c in the rivet tape <NUM>. The holes 24a-c are dimensioned to hold self-piercing rivets. The inner portions 12a,b of the projections 10a,b have a diameter which corresponds with or is smaller than the diameter of the holes 24a-c in the rivet tape <NUM>. The lips 16a,b of the projections 10a,b have a diameter which is greater than the diameter of the holes 24a,c in the rivet tape.

The rivet tape is typically made from polypropylene and includes some resilience. When the rivet tape <NUM> is pressed onto the clip <NUM>, holes 24a,c of the rivet tape stretch outwardly. This outward stretching of the rivet tape <NUM> is encouraged by the convex curved shape of the bottom surfaces of the projections 10a,b. The rivet tape <NUM> stretches over the lips 16a,b and the projections 10a,b pass into the holes 24a,c. Once the lips 16a,b have passed through the holes 24a,c of the rivet tape, the holes then contract around the projections 10a,b. The lips 16a,b hold the rivet tape <NUM> in place on the clip <NUM>. Because the upper end of each lip 16a,b is stepped rather than curved, the rivet tape <NUM> is prevented from easily being pulled off the projections 10a,b. The sharp corner <NUM> at the edge of each lip 16a,b may also help to prevent the rivet tape <NUM> from being easily pulled off the projections 10a,b. Thus, the lips 14a,b hold the rivet tape <NUM> securely in place on the clip <NUM>.

The holes 24a,c of the rivet tape through which the projections 10a,b extend are separated by an intermediate hole 24b. By engaging first and third holes 24a,c which are separated by an intermediate second hole 24b, the clip <NUM> provides stronger engagement with the rivet tape <NUM> than would otherwise be the case. For example, lateral movement of the clip (e.g. rotational movement in the plane of the rivet tape) is more effectively restricted than would be case if the clip <NUM> only engaged the first and second holes 24a,b of the rivet tape. In another example, when the rivet tape and clip are bent inwardly (i.e. bent about a curve with the clip <NUM> innermost and the rivet tape <NUM> outermost) the ability of the clip to bend with the rivet tape without becoming disengaged from the rivet tape is improved (compared with the case if the clip only engaged first and second holes 24a,b of the rivet tape).

The clip may be provided with projections configured to extend through the first three holes 24a-c of the rivet tape <NUM>. However, a disadvantage of this is that more force is required to push the projections into the holes in the rivet tape. By engaging with two spaced apart holes of the rivet tape <NUM>, the clip <NUM> provides stable engagement of the rivet tape without requiring additional force for clip insertion.

<FIG> depicts the clip <NUM> still fastened to the first rivet tape <NUM>, but now also fastened to a second rivet tape <NUM>. <FIG> is a perspective view from above, <FIG> is a cross-sectional view from one end and <FIG> is a cross-sectional view from one side. The engagement of the clip <NUM> with the second rivet tape <NUM> corresponds with the engagement of the clip with the first rivet tape <NUM>. That is, projections 10c,d extend through first and third holes 28a,c in the second rivet tape <NUM>. The first and third holes 28a,c which are engaged by the clip <NUM> are separated by an intermediate second hole 28b.

As will be appreciated from <FIG>, the separation between the second and third projections 10b,c of the clip <NUM> corresponds with the separation between adjacent holes 24a-c, 28a-c of the rivet tapes <NUM>, <NUM>. Thus, the rivet tapes <NUM>, <NUM> when joined together have a series of holes 24a-c, 28a-c which are all separated by the same distance from adjacent holes. This is advantageous because the rivet tapes <NUM>, <NUM> are provided with sprocket holes <NUM>, and the separation between adjacent sprocket holes is maintained when transitioning between tapes. The sprocket holes <NUM> allow a motor to pull the rivet tapes <NUM>, <NUM> through a rivet insertion tool using a sprocket wheel (as explained further below). Because the separation between sprocket holes <NUM> is maintained when transitioning between rivet tapes <NUM>, <NUM>, the sprocket wheel is able to pull the rivet tapes without becoming disengaged when the transition between rivet tapes passes over the sprocket wheel.

The rivet tapes <NUM>, <NUM> have been cut such that ends 22a, 26a of the rivet tape are touching in the depicted embodiment. Each touching end of the rivet tape 22a, 26a includes opposite halves of sprocket holes, such that the two ends together form sprocket holes <NUM>. In some embodiments there may be a separation between the ends 22a, 26a of the rivet tape. The separation between the ends of 22a, 26a of the rivet tapes <NUM>, <NUM> is determined by the length of rivet tape which extends beyond the last hole 24c, 28c of each rivet tape. This length may be sufficiently long that the hole 24c, 28c is not weakened to such an extent that the rivet tape rips and the hole is opened. Even if a rip were to open a hole, because the clip <NUM> includes a projection which engages with a hole 24a, 28a that is separated from the endmost hole of the rivet tape 24c, 28a, such a rip won't propagate to the other engaged hole and thus the rivet tape will remain secured to the clip <NUM>.

In some instances it may be difficult to achieve touching ends of the rivet tape 22a, 26a with opposite halves of sprocket holes such that the two ends together form sprocket holes <NUM>. In other embodiments, depicted further below, a non-straight cut of the tape is used which removes sprocket holes at the point where the rivet tapes meet.

Adhesive may be provided between the clip <NUM> and the rivet tapes <NUM>, <NUM>.

In use, the clip <NUM> is used to join together first and second spools of rivet tape <NUM>, <NUM>. When all or most of the rivets held by a rivet tape <NUM> have been used, the clip <NUM> may be used to join that rivet tape <NUM> to a new rivet tape <NUM>. Conventionally, a spool of rivet tape will include a portion of rivet tape without rivets at its innermost end, in order to allow all of the rivets on the rivet tape to pass through a rivet insertion tool whilst the end of the rivet tape remains fixed to a reel. When most of the rivets on a rivet tape <NUM> have been used (e.g. as detected by a sensor), the rivet tape may be cut such that three (or more than three) empty holes are present at the end of the rivet tape. A new spool of rivet tape <NUM> may be provided on a reel. The new spool of rivet tape <NUM> includes at least three holes at its end which do not hold rivets. Projections 10c,d of the clip <NUM> are pressed into the holes 28a-c at the end of the new rivet tape <NUM>, thereby fastening the clip to the rivet tape. Fastening the clip <NUM> to the new rivet tape <NUM> may, for example, be performed manually when the new rivet tape is in a location which is outside of the operating environment of the rivet insertion tool (e.g. in a storage area).

The new spool of rivet tape <NUM> with the clip <NUM> fastened to its end is transported to the vicinity of a rivet insertion tool being fed by rivet tape <NUM> which has almost run out of rivets (referred to here as the old rivet tape <NUM>). The end of the new rivet tape <NUM> is drawn off the reel and is extended to meet the end of the old rivet tape <NUM>. The projections 10a,b of the clip <NUM> are pressed into empty holes at the end of the old rivet tape <NUM>, thereby fastening the clip <NUM> to the old rivet tape. In this way the new rivet tape <NUM> and the old rivet tape <NUM> are joined together. This process may be performed manually. Alternatively, as described further below, the process may be performed in an automated manner.

An alternative use of the clip <NUM> comprises joining together partially used lengths of rivet tape. In a factory environment it may be desirable to replace rivet tapes for a plurality of rivet insertion tools at the same time, in order to minimise production downtime. Where this is done, some partially used rivet tapes will be removed. Clips according to an embodiment of the invention may be used to fasten together lengths of partially used rivet tape which still hold rivets. In this way, a full length of rivet tape may be assembled using two or more partially used lengths of rivet tape. The assembled full length of rivet tape can then be used for rivet insertion. The configuration of the clip <NUM> is such that it can pass unhindered through a nose and feed mechanism of a rivet insertion tool (as described further below) and through a motor-driven sprocket wheel (described below). Thus, the presence of one or more clips partway along the rivet tape does not affect the usability of the rivet tape by a rivet insertion tool.

Clips according to other embodiments of the invention are now described. The clips may be used in the same way as described above.

<FIG> depicts a clip <NUM> according to an alternative embodiment of the invention. The clip <NUM> is depicted in perspective view in <FIG>, in a first cross section in <FIG> and in a second cross section <FIG> also depicts rivet tapes <NUM>, <NUM> which have been fastened to the clip <NUM>. <FIG> is a perspective view from underneath of the rivet tapes <NUM>, <NUM> attached to the clip <NUM>.

The clip <NUM> is broadly similar to the clip <NUM> depicted in <FIG>, in that it consists of four projections 310a-d which extend from a bottom surface of the clip. The clip <NUM> is elongate and again comprises a central portion <NUM> and first and second side portions <NUM>, <NUM> which are thicker than the central portion. The central portion <NUM> may be sufficiently thin to allow it to pass beneath a switch in a nose of a rivet insertion tool without triggering that switch (as described elsewhere in this document). The central portion <NUM> may not, on its own, be sufficiently strong to give the clip a desired tensile strength. The side portions <NUM>, <NUM> give the clip additional tensile strength <NUM>. The clip <NUM> may be sufficiently strong that it stretches by only around <NUM> (or less) when rivet tape is being pulled through a rivet insertion tool using the clip. The central portion <NUM> of the clip depicted in <FIG> is thicker than the central portion <NUM> of the clip depicted in <FIG>. This may increase the tensile strength of the clip <NUM>. The thickness of the central portion <NUM> of the clip in <FIG> may for example be around <NUM> (±<NUM>). In general, dimensions mentioned here and elsewhere in this document may have a tolerance of ±<NUM>. Thus, for example, the central portion <NUM> may have a thickness of between <NUM> and <NUM>.

The four projections 310a-d of the clip <NUM> have the same overall shape as the projections of the clip depicted in <FIG>. However, some dimensions of the projections are different. Each projection <NUM> comprises an inner portion <NUM> and an outer portion <NUM>. The inner portion <NUM> of each projection <NUM> is connected to the central portion <NUM> of the clip <NUM>. The outer portion <NUM> of each projection is connected to the inner portion <NUM> and includes a lip <NUM>. Each projection includes a blind bore <NUM> which extends fully through the outer portion <NUM> and part way into the inner portion <NUM>. The clip <NUM> may be formed using injection moulding. The blind bores <NUM> in the projections advantageously reduce distortion of the projections which may be caused by the injection moulding process.

The lip <NUM> extends around the circumference of each projection <NUM>, and projects laterally such that the diameter of the outer portion <NUM> is greater than a diameter of the inner portion <NUM>. An outer edge of the outer portion <NUM> has a sharp corner <NUM> (e.g. a corner which does not include significant rounding). The sharp corner <NUM> may help to retain rivet tape on the clip <NUM> as explained elsewhere in this document. A bottom end of the outer portion <NUM> is convex and is curved. The bottom end may have a constant radius of curvature. The curved form of the bottom end of the outer portion <NUM> may help the projection <NUM> to pass into a rivet tape hole as explained elsewhere in this document.

Each projection <NUM> may for example have a length of around <NUM>. This is shorter than the projections <NUM> of the clip <NUM> depicted in <FIG>. As noted further above, the thickness of the central portion <NUM> is greater than the thickness of the central portion <NUM> of the embodiment depicted in <FIG>. Thus, the central portion <NUM> is thicker but the projection <NUM> is shorter. The combination of the central portion <NUM> and the projection <NUM> taken together provides the same total thickness as the embodiment depicted in <FIG>. In other words, the thickness as measured from the middle of the central portion <NUM> to the bottom of the projection <NUM> is the same as for other embodiments of the clip. This thickness is <NUM> in the depicted embodiments. In general, the thickness may be around <NUM> or more. The thickness may be sufficiently big to avoid excessive longitudinal stretching during use, but sufficiently small to allow the clip to pass easily through a nose of a rivet insertion tool.

As may be seen in <FIG>, the projections 310a-d are sufficiently long to pass through the tape <NUM>, <NUM>. Thus, shortening the projections in order to allow the central portion <NUM> to be thickened without increasing the overall thickness of the clip advantageously improves the tensile strength of the clip <NUM> whilst still allowing the clip to be securely fastened to the rivet tapes <NUM>, <NUM>.

The inner portion <NUM> of each projection may for example have a length of around <NUM>. The outer portion <NUM> of each projection may for example have a length of around <NUM>. The blind bore <NUM> may for example have a length of around <NUM>. The inner portion <NUM> of each projection may for example have a diameter of around <NUM>. The outer portion <NUM> of each projection may for example have a diameter of around <NUM>. The blind bore <NUM> may for example have a diameter of around <NUM>. The bottom end of each outer portion <NUM> may for example have a radius of curvature of around <NUM>. The radius of curvature may be continuous to an outer edge of each lip <NUM> (unlike the embodiment depicted in <FIG>). The bottom surface may have a single radius of curvature or may comprise a compound curve with more than one radius of curvature. In general, a convex curve is desirable at the bottom of the projection <NUM>, for this and other embodiments, in order to encourage rivet tape to slide over the projection when the projection is inserted into a hole in the rivet tape.

In general, each projection <NUM> may have a length of around <NUM> or more. This may be sufficiently long to securely engage a rivet tape. The same may apply for other embodiments of the clip.

In the embodiment depicted in <FIG>, the separation between a middle pair of projections 10b and 10c was half of the separation between those projections and distal projections 10a and 10d. In the embodiment depicted in <FIG> this is not the case. Instead, separation between each of the projection 310a-d is almost equal, although with a slightly smaller separation between a central pair of projections 310b, 310c (e.g. smaller by around <NUM>%). This slightly smaller separation is to accommodate a small degree of stretching of the clip <NUM> as explained further below.

As is explained elsewhere in this document, it is desirable that the clip allows tape to be fed through a rivet insertion tool without engaging a switch of the tool or becoming trapped in the tool, etc. In the embodiment depicted in <FIG>, this was achieved by engaging the outermost holes of the rivet tapes. However, in the alternative embodiment of <FIG>, the outermost hole 324d of one of the tapes <NUM> being joined is not engaged by the clip <NUM>. An arrow in <FIG> depicts the direction of travel of the rivet tapes <NUM>, <NUM> into the rivet insertion tool. It can be seen that the outermost hole 324d which is not engaged by the clip <NUM> is at the tail end of a tape <NUM> which is being joined to the leading end of another tape <NUM>. For ease of terminology these rivet tapes are referred to herein as the old rivet tape <NUM> and the new rivet tape <NUM>. Because the old rivet tape <NUM> is fed first into the rivet insertion tool, some flexing of the tape <NUM> away from the clip <NUM> as it passes through a nose of a rivet insertion tool (see for example Figure 6A) may occur without the rivet tape becoming trapped in the nose of the rivet insertion tool. If the first hole of the new tape <NUM> was not engaged by the clip <NUM>, then flexing of the tape away from the clip as it passed into the nose of the rivet insertion tool would result in a leading edge of the tape becoming trapped in the nose. Realising that the final hole 324d of the old rivet tape <NUM> does not need to be engaged by the clip <NUM> allows some flexibility in the design of the clip, and this in turn has been used to improve the performance of the clip, as is explained below.

The separation between first and second projections 310a,b is around <NUM> (measured between the centres of the projections). This corresponds with the separation between holes <NUM> of the rivet tapes <NUM>, <NUM> (measured between the centres of the holes). Similarly, the separation between the third and fourth projections 310c,d of the clip <NUM> is around <NUM>. The separation between the second and third projections 310b,c of the clip <NUM> is around <NUM>. During use of the clip <NUM>, force applied to the clip <NUM> when rivet tape is being drawn through a rivet insertion tool causes some stretching of the clip <NUM>. As a result of this force a middle portion of the clip <NUM> will stretch by around <NUM>. Consequently, in use, the separation between the second and third projections 310b,c is around <NUM>. This is the same as the separation between the first and second projections 310a,b and the third and fourth projections 310c,d. Consequently, in use, the sprocket holes <NUM> of the old and new tapes <NUM>, <NUM> align correctly with sprocket wheels of the rivet insertion tool.

In general, a clip according to an embodiment of the invention may include a pair of projections with a separation that is smaller than the separation between other projections (or smaller than a multiple of the separation between other projections). The difference in separations may correspond with stretching that occurs between the pair of projections when the clip is used. The difference in separations may for example be up to around <NUM>. The difference in separations may be around <NUM>.

The manner in which the rivet tapes <NUM>, <NUM> are cut and engaged with the clip <NUM> is now described in detail with reference to <FIG>. The direction of travel of the rivet tape is indicated by an arrow in <FIG>. It can be seen that the old rivet tape <NUM> has a single cut <NUM> which is transverse to the tape. This may be referred to as a square cut. However, the new rivet tape <NUM> does not have a single cut transverse to the tape. The new rivet tape <NUM> instead has a three-sided cut. The three-sided cut comprises a square portion <NUM>, a first angled portion <NUM> and a second angled portion <NUM>. The square portion <NUM> of the cut is towards the centre of the tape <NUM> with the angled portions <NUM>, <NUM> on either side. Thus, <NUM>° corners of the new rivet tape <NUM> which would otherwise be present are not present. The square portion <NUM> of the three-sided cut is transverse to the tape. The angled portions of the cut <NUM>, <NUM> may subtend an angle of <NUM>° or more relative to the central portion <NUM>, and may for example subtend an angle of <NUM>° or more relative to the central portion.

Providing angled portions <NUM>, <NUM> is advantageous because this reduces the likelihood of corners of the rivet tape engaging with the nose of the rivet insertion tool and becoming trapped in the rivet insertion tool. The greater the angle subtended by the angled portion <NUM>, <NUM> the more the risk of the tape becoming trapped in the nose of the rivet insertion tool is reduced. However, increasing the angle of the angled portion <NUM>, <NUM> reduces the amount of rivet tape <NUM> around the third projection 310c of the clip <NUM>. If the material were to be reduced too much then there would be a tendency for the tape <NUM> around the third projection 310c to break when force is applied to the tape <NUM> to pull it through a rivet insertion tool. It has been found that an angle of <NUM>° or more advantageously reduces the likelihood of the new tape <NUM> becoming trapped whilst still providing sufficient tape strength. It has been found that an angle of <NUM>° or more further reduces the likelihood of the new tape <NUM> become trapped whilst still providing sufficient tape strength. In the depicted embodiment the angle is around <NUM>°, and this advantageously provides a good combination of reduced or eliminated trapping of the tape whilst at the same time retaining sufficient tape strength.

The positions at which the old tape <NUM> and the new tape <NUM> are cut, with respect to the positions of the holes <NUM> in the tapes may be selected to provide good tape strength and also to accommodate for stretching of the clip <NUM> during use (e.g. stretching of around <NUM>). Referring first to the old tape <NUM>, the old tape is not cut midway between the last hole 324d and the next opening. Instead, the cut is provided upstream of the next sprocket holes. The area or land <NUM> behind the last hole 324d is reduced (compared with the case if the cut was equidistant between holes in the tape). In contrast, the new tape <NUM> has a square portion <NUM> cut which is upstream of a midpoint between the first hole 324e and the preceding hole (not present once the cut has been made). This increases the area or land <NUM> of the new tape <NUM> in front of the projection 310c. In general, by cutting the new tape <NUM> upstream of a point equidistant between holes <NUM>, the new tape <NUM> is given strength over and above the strength that it would have if an equidistant cut were made. The angled portions <NUM>, <NUM> of the cut remove the portion of the new tape <NUM> which bears the sprocket holes <NUM> at the leading edge of the tape. Thus, a space is present where sprocket holes would otherwise be located.

The additional land <NUM> at the leading end of the new tape <NUM> is provided at the expense of land which is lost from the trailing edge of the old tape <NUM>. The narrow land <NUM> at the end of the old tape <NUM> is such that it may not be strong enough to avoid stretching when force is applied via the clip <NUM> to the old tape <NUM> to pull it through the rivet insertion tool. For this reason, the projections 310a,b do not pass through this hole 324d, and instead pass through other holes. This avoids tensile force breaking the hole 324d at the distal end of the old tape <NUM>. As explained further above, because this is a trailing edge of the old tape it does not become trapped in the nose of the rivet insertion tool.

The combined length of the land <NUM> at the front of a new tape and land <NUM> at the back of the old tape <NUM> may be less than the land between adjacent holes <NUM> of either of the tapes. For example, the combined lands <NUM>, <NUM> may be around <NUM> shorter (or more than <NUM> shorter). This allows the old and new rivet tapes <NUM>, <NUM> to be connected together with a separation between the final hole 324d of the old tape and the first hole 324e of the new tape being around <NUM> less than the separation between holes of either tape. This advantageously accommodates a stretching of around <NUM> of the clip <NUM> during operation. When this stretching occurs, the separation between the sprocket holes <NUM> is as desired by the rivet insertion tool (e.g. a separation of around <NUM>).

Parts of the clip of <FIG> which are not described above, such as the tapered ends, may be the same or similar to the corresponding parts of the clip of <FIG>. The clip <NUM> is formed from resilient material. The clip <NUM> may be formed from plastic, for example nylon <NUM>.

A further clip is depicted in <FIG> depicts a clip <NUM> not falling under the invention. The clip <NUM> is depicted in a first cross section in <FIG> together with rivet tapes <NUM>, <NUM>, and in a second cross section <FIG>. <FIG> is a perspective view from underneath of the rivet tapes <NUM>, <NUM> attached to the clip <NUM>.

The embodiments depicted in <FIG> are configured to engage rivet tape which holds rivets having a <NUM> shank diameter (which may be referred to as <NUM> rivets). The holes in the rivet tape are around <NUM> in diameter and the projections 10a-d, 310a-d of the clip <NUM>, <NUM> depicted in <FIG> are dimensioned accordingly. These clips may be referred to as <NUM> clips. The embodiment depicted in <FIG> is configured to engage rivet tape which holds rivets with <NUM> shank diameters (which may be referred to as <NUM> rivets). The clip <NUM> has projections 410a-f which are dimensioned accordingly. These may be referred to as <NUM> clips. The rivet tapes may be referred to as <NUM> rivet tapes.

The clip <NUM> is elongate, and the central portion <NUM> and first and second side portions <NUM>, <NUM> are the same as for the embodiment depicted in <FIG>. The projections 410a-f have the same length, the same length of blind bore, etc. The projections <NUM> include laterally projecting lips <NUM>. However, the inner portion <NUM> of each projection has a diameter of around <NUM> instead of a diameter of around <NUM>, and the outer portion <NUM> of each projection has a diameter of around <NUM> instead of a diameter of around <NUM>. The radius of curvature of the bottom of the outer portion <NUM> is increased to around <NUM>. These changes of dimension and radius of curvature allow the clip <NUM> to engage with rivet tape holes 424a-f which have a diameter of around <NUM>.

The clip <NUM> is provided with six projections 410a-f instead of four projections. This is to provide more engagement between the clip <NUM> and the tape in order to reduce the risk of a poor connection between the clip and a rivet tape. A poor connection might occur if only two projections were engaged in a <NUM> rivet tape because the projections are narrower and the tape will tend to stretch around the projections. If a poor connection were to occur and the tape were to stretch in this manner, then the separation between sprocket holes of the tape would increase and the tape would become jammed at a sprocket wheel of the rivet insertion tool. Engaging three projections with the rivet tape reduces the risk of this occurring.

It is noted further above in connection with <NUM> clips that engaging two projections with the rivet tape is preferred over engaging three projections with the rivet tape, because more force is required in order to engage three projections with the rivet tape. However, in the case of <NUM> clips, the disadvantage of needing to apply more force to engage the clip and tape is outweighed by the advantage of avoiding a poor connection.

<FIG> depicts the clip <NUM> engaged with old rivet tape <NUM> and new rivet tape <NUM>. In common with the embodiment described above in connection with <FIG>, the old tape <NUM> is cut with a single cut <NUM>, whereas the new tape <NUM> is cut with a three sided cut. The three-sided cut consists of a square portion <NUM>, and first and second angled portions <NUM>, <NUM>. The angles of the angled portions <NUM>, <NUM> may correspond with those described above in connection with <FIG>. In general, the description of the cuts described above in connection with <FIG> may also apply for the present embodiment.

The separation between each of the first three projections 410a-c of the clip <NUM> is around <NUM>. This corresponds with the separation between holes <NUM> in the rivet tapes <NUM>, <NUM>. Similarly, the separation between each of the last three projections 410d-f of the clip <NUM> is around <NUM>. The separation between the two projections 410c,d at the middle of the clip <NUM> is around <NUM>. This is <NUM> shorter than twice the separation between other projections. As has been explained above in connection with the embodiment of <FIG>, a separation which is around twice the separation between holes in the tape allows the trailing edge hole 424d of the old rivet tape <NUM> to remain open and not engaged by a projection. Although this allows the tape <NUM> to flex away from the clip <NUM> during use, because it is a trailing end of the tape it does not become trapped in the rivet insertion tool.

The clip <NUM> may stretch by around <NUM> during use, such that during use the separation between the innermost pair of projections 410c,d is around <NUM>. This is double the separation between holes of the rivet tape <NUM>, <NUM> and thus allows sprocket holes <NUM> of the tape to be engaged correctly by the rivet insertion tool.

In common with the embodiment depicted in <FIG>, additional land <NUM> is provided at the leading end of the new tape <NUM> at the expense of land which is lost from the trailing edge of the old tape <NUM>. The combined length of the land <NUM> at the front of the new tape <NUM> and land <NUM> at the back of the old tape <NUM> may be less than the land between adjacent holes <NUM> of either of the tapes. For example, the combined lands <NUM>, <NUM> may be around <NUM> shorter (or more than <NUM> shorter). This allows the old and new rivet tapes <NUM>, <NUM> to be connected together with a separation between the final hole 424c of the old tape and the first hole 424d of the new tape being around <NUM> less than the separation between holes of either tape. This advantageously accommodates a stretching of around <NUM> of the clip <NUM> during operation. When this stretching occurs, the separation between the sprocket holes <NUM> is as desired by the rivet insertion tool (e.g. a separation of around <NUM>).

The same colour material may be used for the <NUM> clip and the <NUM> clip. Where this is the case, providing the <NUM> clip with six projections and the <NUM> clip with four projections allows operators to easily distinguish between the two clips. It may be desirable to use the same colour material when making the <NUM> and <NUM> clips because this allows a single mould to be used (the mould comprising a cavity which forms <NUM> clips and a cavity which forms <NUM> clips). In general, providing different numbers of projections on clips for different sizes of rivet tapes allows the clips to be easily distinguished from each other. The <NUM> clip and the <NUM> clip may be made using different colour materials.

Clips according to embodiments of the invention may be used to join rivet tape which holds rivets having shank diameters other than <NUM> and <NUM>. The dimensions of the projections <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> may be scaled accordingly. The inner portion <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> of the projections may have a diameter which corresponds with the shank diameter of rivets held by the tape which is joined using the clip. The dimensions of the central portion <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and the side portions <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> may be unchanged if the dimensions of the nose of the rivet insertion tool which receives the rivet tape are unchanged. If the dimensions of the nose are changed then the dimensions of the central portion and side portions may also be changed (the dimensions being selected such that the clip will pass through the nose without engaging a switch or becoming trapped in the nose).

In illustrated embodiments of the invention the clip is provided with projections which have a lip that is configured to engage an opposite side of the rivet tape from the central portion of the clip. The projections may be shorter. In such embodiments the clip may be secured to the tape using adhesive located between the clip and the tape.

<FIG> depicts in perspective view a rivet insertion tool <NUM> (which may also be referred to as rivet insertion tooling) together with a rivet tape <NUM>. <FIG> depict in cross-section a nose <NUM> of the rivet insertion tool <NUM>, with rivet tape <NUM>, <NUM> and the clip <NUM> passing through the nose. <FIG> are perspective views of the nose <NUM> with rivet tape <NUM> passing through the nose (a housing of the nose is omitted from these views). Referring first to <FIG>, the rivet tape <NUM> is fed to the rivet insertion tool through a tube <NUM>. The rivet tape <NUM> is drawn through the rivet insertion tool <NUM> by a sprocket wheel (not visible) driven by a motor <NUM> (e.g. a pneumatic motor). The positions of the tube <NUM> and the motor <NUM> are such that the rivet tapes <NUM>, <NUM> and the clip <NUM> undergo a substantial degree of bending and twisting as they pass into and then pass out of the rivet insertion tool <NUM>. This bending can be seen in <FIG>. Because the clip <NUM> is formed from resilient material it is able to bend and twist as needed when travelling into and out of the nose <NUM> of the rivet insertion tool <NUM>.

As can be seen from <FIG>, there is a limited amount of space within the nose <NUM> of the rivet insertion tool. A sensor <NUM> is provided in the nose <NUM>, the sensor comprising a finger <NUM> which extends downwards towards the rivet tape <NUM>. The finger <NUM> is most easily seen in <FIG>. The finger <NUM> is pivotally mounted at an upper end and is biased such that it enters a semi-circular opening defined by a rivet receiving member <NUM>, as depicted in <FIG>. During operation of the rivet insertion tool <NUM>, when a rivet enters the nose <NUM> it travels as far as the rivet receiving member <NUM> and is then prevented from travelling any further by an inner semi-circular wall of the rivet receiving member. The rivet pushes the finger <NUM> out of the semi-circular opening, as depicted in <FIG> (although the rivet is omitted in order to allow the finger to be seen more clearly). This movement actuates a switch (not depicted) of the sensor <NUM> which outputs a signal to a control system <NUM> indicating that a rivet is present in the nose <NUM>. The controller <NUM> then causes the rivet insertion tool <NUM> to punch the rivet out of the nose and into a workpiece.

The rivet receiving member <NUM> is formed from two portions 82a,b. Referring to <FIG>, each portion 82a,b of the rivet receiving member <NUM> has a lowermost surface which is configured to guide rivet tape downwards, thereby helping to keep the rivet tape away from the rivet sensor <NUM>. These lowermost surfaces when viewed from the side include tapering downwardly projecting portions 84a,b. The taper is on a side of the projecting portions 84a,b which receives rivet tape <NUM> as it passes through the nose <NUM>. The taper thus helps to push the rivet tape <NUM> downwards, flattening the rivet tape, as it passes through the nose <NUM>. When viewed from the front, the downwardly projecting portions 84a,b have flat inner sections 85a,b, have faces 86a,b which taper outwardly and upwards from the flat inner sections, and have flat outer sections 87a,b. This configuration, which may be referred to as lateral tapering, also helps to keep the rivet tape <NUM> away from the sensor <NUM>.

The nose <NUM> of the rivet insertion tool <NUM> comprises a housing <NUM> which holds the sensor <NUM>, and a tube <NUM> which extends downwardly from the housing. The tube <NUM> may for example be pushed into the housing <NUM> until a flange <NUM> of the tube contacts the housing <NUM>, and then secured to the housing. Uppermost ends <NUM> of the tube <NUM> provide support surfaces which support a bottom surface of the rivet tape <NUM> as it passes through the nose <NUM>.

The uppermost ends <NUM> of the tube <NUM> together with the rivet receiving member <NUM> define a restricted space through which the rivet tape <NUM> must pass. The clip <NUM> must also pass through this restricted space. As may be seen from <FIG>, the lateral tapering of the lowermost surface of the rivet receiving member is such that a central part of the space is more restricted, with more space being available either side of the central part of the space. As noted further above, the side portions <NUM>,<NUM> of the clip <NUM> are thicker than the central portion <NUM> of the clip. The thicker side portions <NUM>,<NUM> pass through the available space either side of the central part of the space in <FIG>. The central portion <NUM> of the clip <NUM> passes through the more restricted central part of the space. In other words, the central portion <NUM> of the clip passes beneath the flat inner sections 85a,b, of the rivet receiving member <NUM>, and at least part of the side portions <NUM>,<NUM> of the clip passes beneath the flat outer sections 87a,b of the rivet receiving member. The central portion <NUM> of the clip <NUM> may for example have a thickness of less than <NUM> (e.g. a thickness of around <NUM>). In general, the clip <NUM> is configured to pass through the space available within the nose <NUM>.

When rivet tape <NUM>, <NUM> is fed through the nose <NUM> of the rivet insertion tool <NUM>, the clip <NUM> passes under rivet receiving member <NUM>. The clip <NUM> does not enter the semi-circular opening defined by the rivet receiving member <NUM> and does not push the finger <NUM> out of the semi-circular opening. The finger <NUM> therefore does not cause the sensor <NUM> to output a signal indicating that a rivet is present. The tapered face 18b of the clip <NUM> helps the clip to pass smoothly under the rivet receiving member <NUM>, and avoids the clip becoming caught against the semi-circular wall of the rivet receiving member.

When the clip is passing through the nose <NUM>, the sensor <NUM> does not provide an output signal indicating that a rivet is present. Operation of the punch of the rivet tool is therefore suspended. The motor <NUM> (see <FIG>) pulls the rivet tape <NUM> and thus pulls the clip <NUM> through the nose <NUM>. The motor <NUM> continues to pull the rivet tape <NUM> and new rivet tape <NUM> through the nose <NUM> until a rivet enters the rivet receiving member <NUM> and the rivet is detected by the sensor <NUM>. The motor <NUM> then stops and the rivet is driven into a workpiece by the actuator of the riveting tool. The motor then moves again until the next rivet is detected, etc..

In addition to the rivet insertion tool <NUM>, tube <NUM> and motor <NUM>, <FIG> also depicts a rivet tape securing apparatus <NUM> and a reel <NUM> which supports a spool of rivet tape <NUM>. The rivet insertion tool <NUM>, tube <NUM>, motor <NUM>, rivet tape securing apparatus <NUM> and reel <NUM> may all be mounted on a robot arm (not depicted). The rivet tape <NUM> has been almost completely used up, and is referred to here as old rivet tape. Rivets <NUM> are present in the rivet tape in the vicinity of the rivet insertion tool <NUM> but no rivets are present in the vicinity of the reel <NUM>. <FIG> depicts in cross-section the rivet tape securing apparatus <NUM> together with part of the tube <NUM> and the old rivet tape <NUM>. For ease of illustration the old rivet tape <NUM> is depicted as terminating part way into the tube <NUM>, whereas in practice the rivet tape will extend fully through the tube as depicted in <FIG>.

The rivet tape securing apparatus <NUM> comprises first and second sensors <NUM>, <NUM> and a movable pin <NUM>. In the depicted embodiment the second sensor <NUM> and the movable pin <NUM> are both connected to a housing <NUM>. The housing <NUM> is connected to a support <NUM>. An end piece <NUM> fitted to the tube <NUM> is also connected to the support <NUM>. The first sensor <NUM> is an inductive ring sensor which is fitted over the tube end piece <NUM>. The tube end piece <NUM> is formed from plastic (e.g. Nylon <NUM>) and thus allows the inductive ring sensor <NUM> to sense the presence of rivets through the tube end piece.

The movable pin <NUM> is actuated by a pneumatic actuator <NUM>. The pneumatic actuator <NUM> comprises a rod <NUM> which extends from a piston <NUM> in a chamber <NUM>. A helical spring <NUM> extends between the rod <NUM> and the moveable pin <NUM>, and engages against a collar <NUM> formed partway along the length of the moveable pin. The moveable pin is held in a tube <NUM> which is fixed to the rod <NUM> (e.g. via a screw-thread on an inner surface of the tube <NUM> which engages with a screw thread on an outer surface of the rod). The moveable pin <NUM> is free to move up and down within the tube <NUM>. The moveable pin <NUM> is prevented from moving out of the tube <NUM> by a lip which projects radially inwards at the top of the tube and engages against the collar <NUM>. The helical spring <NUM> biases the moveable pin <NUM> towards the top of the tube <NUM>.

A source of air pressure (not depicted) is connected to an inlet <NUM> of the chamber <NUM> below the piston <NUM>, such that when pressurised air is provided from the supply it pushes the piston <NUM> into the chamber <NUM>. <FIG> depicts the piston <NUM> after it has moved into the chamber <NUM>. As may be seen, the rod <NUM> and the tube <NUM> move upwards towards the rive tape <NUM>. The moveable pin <NUM> also moves upwards but is prevented by a rivet <NUM> from moving through the same distance as the rod <NUM> and tube <NUM>. Once the pin <NUM> has stopped moving upwards, the continued upward movement of the tube <NUM> compresses the helical spring <NUM>. The helical spring <NUM> thereby biases the moveable pin <NUM> against the rivet <NUM>.

In use, the inductive sensor <NUM> senses rivets <NUM> held on the rivet tape <NUM> as the rivets pass through the inductive sensor. Referring to <FIG>, the rivet insertion tool <NUM> moves upwards and downwards as indicated by the arrow 31a during rivet insertion. The reel <NUM> is spring-loaded with a bias to rotate in the anti-clockwise direction (although it may be spring-loaded with a bias to rotate in the clockwise direction). When a rivet is inserted into a workpiece, the moving parts of the rivet insertion tool <NUM> move downwards towards the workpiece. This draws the rivet tape <NUM> through the tube <NUM> and thus unwinds some rivet tape from the spool held by the reel <NUM>. After a rivet has been inserted the rivet insertion tool <NUM> returns to its previous position (moving upwards in <FIG>). This introduces slack into the rivet tape <NUM>, and the rivet tape is wound back onto the spool via the spring-loading of the reel <NUM>. This movement of the rivet tape is repeated for each rivet insertion. Referring to <FIG>, the first empty hole <NUM> of the rivet tape <NUM> may be seen. During rivet insertion the rivet tape is pulled to the left (in <FIG>), and following rivet insertion the rivet tape moves back to the right. This movement of the rivet tape <NUM> causes the first empty hole <NUM> (and subsequent empty holes) of the rivet tape <NUM> to be drawn through the inductive ring sensor <NUM> and to travel back again. Consequently, a signal indicative that no rivet is present will be periodically generated from the first sensor <NUM> during rivet insertion. A control system <NUM> receives an output signal from the inductive ring sensor <NUM>. When the control system <NUM> receives an output signal which indicates that empty holes at the end of the rivet tape have been reached, the control system may trigger a rivet tape switching process.

The rivet tape switching process involves securing the rivet tape <NUM> using the moveable pin <NUM>. When the control system <NUM> has determined that empty holes at the end of the rivet tape <NUM> have been reached, operation of the rivet insertion tool is suspended. Because the rivet insertion tool <NUM> is at its non-rivet insertion position it has not pulled the rivet tape <NUM> downwards, and a portion of the rivet tape has been wound back onto the spool via the spring-loading of the reel. The rivet tape <NUM> may therefore have a position such as that depicted in <FIG> in which rivets are present within the inductive sensor <NUM> and are present above the moveable pin <NUM>.

Pressurised air is provided at the inlet <NUM> of the chamber <NUM>, thereby pushing the rod <NUM>, tube <NUM> and moveable pin <NUM> towards the rivet tape <NUM>. As depicted in <FIG>, the moveable pin engages against a rivet <NUM> and is pushed into the tube <NUM>. The tube <NUM> bears against a the rivet tape <NUM> (not visible in <FIG> but visible in <FIG>) and is prevented from moving upwards any further. The helical spring <NUM> is compressed and biases the moveable pin <NUM> against the rivet <NUM>. The force exerted by the movable pin <NUM> is not sufficient to push the rivet <NUM> out of the rivet tape <NUM>.

Once moveable pin <NUM> has been moved into position, the actuator of the rivet insertion tool <NUM> is moved downwards, thereby drawing the rivet tape <NUM> into the tube <NUM>. This downward movement may be slower than the downward movement which occurs during rivet insertion by the rivet insertion tool <NUM>. An end surface of the moveable pin <NUM> rides over the rivet <NUM>, then over the rivet tape <NUM>, then over the next rivet, etc. The movable pin <NUM> has a rounded end surface to promote smooth movement of the movable pin across heads of the rivets. When the first empty hole <NUM> of the rivet tape <NUM> passes over the moveable pin <NUM>, the bias provided by the helical spring <NUM> pushes the moveable pin into the empty hole. This is depicted in <FIG> and <FIG>. A sensor <NUM>, which may for example be an inductive proximity sensor, senses the presence of the moveable pin <NUM> when the moveable pin has passed into the empty hole <NUM> of the rivet tape <NUM>. The sensor <NUM> provides an output signal indicating that an empty hole has been reached, whereupon the control system <NUM> stops movement of the rivet insertion tool. The movable pin <NUM> is held in position through the hole <NUM> in the rivet tape <NUM> by the pneumatic actuator <NUM>. The rivet tape <NUM> is held securely by the moveable pin <NUM> in the position depicted in <FIG> such that the rivet tape cannot move. The rivet tape <NUM> is ready to be connected to a new rivet tape using the clip <NUM> described further above.

The rivet tape securing apparatus <NUM> is depicted in perspective view in <FIG> together with a rivet tape cutting apparatus <NUM> (described further below). The rivet tape securing apparatus <NUM> has a distal end <NUM>. The distal end includes a first side portion 242a configured to support one edge of the rivet tape <NUM> and a second side portion 242b configured to support an opposite edge of the rivet tape. A channel <NUM> located between the side portions 242a,b accommodates an unsupported central portion of the rivet tape <NUM>. An L-shaped channel runs along an inner wall of each side portion 242a,b. Each L-shaped channel is configured to receive an edge of the rivet tape <NUM>, including receiving a ridge which runs along the edge of the rivet tape. The distal end <NUM> of the rivet tape securing apparatus <NUM> is also provided with two holes 241a,b which are configured to receive upwardly projecting figures of a rivet tape joining apparatus <NUM> (described further below).

<FIG> depicts a rivet tape cutting apparatus <NUM> which may be used to cut the rivet tape <NUM>. The rivet tape cutting apparatus <NUM> is depicted in perspective view in <FIG>, in cross-section in <FIG> and viewed from one end in <FIG>. <FIG> depicts the rivet tape cutting apparatus <NUM> in perspective view and the rivet tape securing apparatus <NUM> in combination.

The rivet tape cutting apparatus comprises a blade <NUM> which is operated by a pneumatic actuator <NUM>, the pneumatic actuator being arranged to drive the blade through rivet tape <NUM> when desired and thereby cut the rivet tape. Although the actuator in this embodiment is pneumatic, in other embodiments some other form of actuator may be used (e.g. an electric actuator).

The rivet tape cutting apparatus <NUM> is supported by a stand <NUM>, only part of which is shown. The stand <NUM> may for example be fixed to a floor of a factory or other location in which the rivet setting tool <NUM> is used. The stand <NUM> includes a slot <NUM> which is configured to receive the rivet tape <NUM> as described further below. The stand <NUM> includes four holes <NUM> through which bolts <NUM> extend. Distal ends of the bolts <NUM> are secured in a block <NUM> which forms part of the rivet tape cutting apparatus. Helical springs <NUM> are provided around each bolt <NUM> and resiliently bias the block <NUM> away from the stand <NUM>. The bolts <NUM> are not fixed to the stand <NUM> and can thus move into and out of the holes in the stand. The resilient bias provided by the helical springs <NUM> pushes the block <NUM> away from the stand <NUM> such that heads <NUM> of the bolts <NUM> press against the stand <NUM>. In this way, the block <NUM> is biased towards a desired position which is spaced away from the stand <NUM>, but has some freedom to move as needed if a force acts against the block.

The block <NUM> is generally U-shaped with an opening <NUM> at one end. The block <NUM> may be considered to have the form of a pair of jaws 120a,b with an opening or gap <NUM> between the jaws. As best seen when viewed in cross-section in <FIG>, the jaws 120a,b comprise an inner portion <NUM> and an outer portion <NUM>. The inner portion <NUM> is on a side of the block <NUM> which is closest to the blade <NUM>, and the outer portion <NUM> is on a side of the block which is furthest from the blade (the outer portion is on an outer side of the block). The inner portion <NUM> of the block <NUM> comprises inner jaw portions 126a,b which <FIG> extend towards each other but are separated by a gap <NUM> (which may be referred to as the inner gap <NUM>). The outer portion <NUM> of the block <NUM> comprises outer jaw portions 128a,b which extend towards each other but are separated by a gap <NUM>. This gap, which may be referred to as the outer gap <NUM> is larger than the inner gap <NUM>. Each outer jaw portion 128a,b is connected to a respective inner jaw portion 126a,b by a step <NUM>.

As may be best seen in <FIG> and <FIG>, the inner gap <NUM> is widest at an outer end. The inner jaw portions 126a,b include faces 131a,b which taper inwardly to a narrower portion of the inner gap <NUM>. The inwardly tapering faces 131a,b at the outer end of the inner gap <NUM> increase a range of positions over which the rivet tape <NUM> can be captured. The rivet tape, once captured, is guided by the inwardly tapering faces 131a,b to the narrower portion of the inner gap <NUM> for cutting.

The inner jaw portions 126a,b also include outwardly tapering side faces 132a,b. These faces taper outwardly towards the outer jaw portions 128a,b. The outwardly tapering side faces 132a,b may also assist in guiding a distal end of the rivet tape securing apparatus towards the outer gap <NUM>.

As may be best seen in <FIG>, the outer gap <NUM> is widest at an outer end. The outer jaw portions 128a,b include faces 149a,b which taper inwardly to a narrower portion of the outer gap <NUM>. The inwardly tapering faces 149a,b are located part way along the outer gap <NUM>, such that an outer portion of the outer gap <NUM> is wider than an inner portion of the outer gap <NUM>. This configuration of the outer gap <NUM> increases a range of positions over which a distal end of the rivet tape securing apparatus <NUM> can be captured. The rivet tape securing apparatus <NUM>, once captured, is guided by the inwardly tapering faces 149a,b to the narrower portion of the outer gap <NUM>.

The blade <NUM> is secured to a mounting block <NUM> by a bolt <NUM> which passes through a flange <NUM> which extends from the blade. A washer <NUM> is positioned between the bolt <NUM> and the flange <NUM>. The washer <NUM> is provided with a leaf spring <NUM> which extends around and beneath a head of the bolt <NUM>. The mounting block <NUM> includes a ridge (not visible) which is received in and guided by a groove <NUM> in the block <NUM>. The mounting block <NUM> is fixed to a rod <NUM> which extends from a piston <NUM> in a chamber <NUM> of a pneumatic actuator <NUM>. A source of pressurised air (not depicted) is connected to a first inlet <NUM> of the chamber <NUM>. A second source of pressurised air (not depicted) is connected to a second inlet <NUM> of the chamber <NUM> on an opposite side of the piston <NUM> from the first inlet <NUM>.

A sensor <NUM> (e.g. an inductive sensor) is connected at an inward end of the inner gap <NUM>. The sensor <NUM> is configured to provide an output signal when rivet tape securing apparatus <NUM> is held in the outer gap <NUM>.

Operation of the rivet tape cutting apparatus <NUM> in combination with the rivet tape securing apparatus <NUM> will now be described with reference to <FIG> and <FIG>.

The rivet tape securing apparatus <NUM> together with the rivet tape <NUM> and the rivet insertion tool (not depicted) are moved by the robot arm (also not depicted) towards the rivet tape cutting apparatus <NUM>, as depicted in <FIG>. Although a tube extends from the rivet tape securing apparatus <NUM>, for ease of illustration this tube is not depicted in <FIG>. As described further above, the rivet tape <NUM> is held in place in the rivet tape securing apparatus <NUM> by engagement of the movable finger <NUM> through a hole <NUM> in the rivet tape.

The robot arm moves the rivet tape securing apparatus <NUM> such that a distal end <NUM> of the rivet tape securing apparatus passes into the outer gap <NUM> of the rivet tape cutting apparatus <NUM>. At the same time, the rivet tape <NUM> passes into the inner gap <NUM> of the rivet tape cutting apparatus. This is depicted in <FIG>. <FIG> is a perspective view of the rivet tape securing apparatus <NUM>, the rivet tape <NUM> and the rivet tape cutting apparatus <NUM>. <FIG> is a cross-sectional view of the rivet tape securing apparatus <NUM>, the rivet tape <NUM> and the rivet tape cutting apparatus <NUM>.

If there is some misalignment between the rivet tape securing apparatus <NUM> and the outer gap <NUM>, then the tapering faces 123a,b, 149a,b of the outer gap still allow the rivet tape securing apparatus <NUM> to be captured by the outer gap <NUM>. The freedom of movement of the block <NUM> of the rivet tape cutting apparatus <NUM>, which is provided by the bolts <NUM> and the helical springs <NUM>, allows the block <NUM> to passively adjust its position to accommodate misalignment of the rivet tape securing apparatus <NUM>. The tapering faces 123a,b, 149a,b of the outer gap <NUM> guide the distal end <NUM> of the rivet tape securing apparatus <NUM> to a desired position at an inner end of the outer gap <NUM>.

The sloping faces 131a,b of the inner gap <NUM> allow the rivet tape <NUM> to be captured even if the rivet tape is not flat (e.g. bending upwards or downwards), and guided into an inner portion of the inner gap <NUM>. Similarly, sloping faces 151a,b provided in the slot <NUM> in the stand <NUM> allow the rivet tape <NUM> to be captured and guided into an inner portion of the slot even if the rivet tape is not flat.

As may be seen from <FIG>, the distal end <NUM> of the rivet tape securing apparatus <NUM> has a height which corresponds with the size of the outer gap <NUM>, and thus the rivet tape securing apparatus fits snugly into the outer gap. The rivet tape <NUM> is slightly thinner than the size of the inner gap <NUM> and thus is able to enter the inner gap <NUM> easily. The sensor <NUM> senses the presence of the rivet tape securing apparatus in the outer gap <NUM> and sends a signal to the control system <NUM> accordingly. The rivet tape <NUM> is in a closely controlled position in the rivet tape cutting apparatus <NUM> and is ready to be cut.

<FIG> depicts in cross section the rivet tape securing apparatus <NUM>, the rivet tape <NUM> and the rivet tape cutting apparatus <NUM> during operation of the rivet tape cutting apparatus. The control system <NUM> sends a signal which causes pressurized air to be provided through the first inlet <NUM> of the pneumatic actuator <NUM>. The pressurized air pushes the piston <NUM> downwards, as indicated by the arrow. As may be seen from <FIG>, the rod <NUM>, mounting block <NUM> and blade <NUM> also move downwards. The downward movement of the mounting block <NUM> is guided by the groove <NUM>. The blade <NUM> acts as a guillotine which cuts through the rivet tape <NUM>. The rivet tape which has been cut away is not depicted in <FIG>. Following cutting of the rivet tape, the rivet tape <NUM> has a free end with a closely controlled length that extends from the movable finger <NUM>. The free end of the rivet tape <NUM> projects beyond the distal end <NUM> of the rivet tape securing apparatus <NUM>.

Once the rivet tape <NUM> has been cut, the reel (not depicted) which holds a remainder of the rivet tape can be removed (e.g. using an automated arm or other automated system).

After the rivet tape <NUM> has been cut, the rivet tape securing apparatus <NUM>, rivet tape, and rivet insertion tool <NUM> may be moved by the robot arm (not depicted) to a rivet tape joining apparatus <NUM>. In an alternative approach the robot arm does not move, and instead a rivet tape joining apparatus <NUM> is moved to the rivet tape securing apparatus.

The rivet tape joining apparatus <NUM> is depicted in <FIG> depicts the rivet tape joining apparatus <NUM> in perspective view (<FIG>), viewed from above (<FIG>), viewed from one side (<FIG>) and viewed in cross-section (<FIG>). <FIG> also depicts the rivet tape securing apparatus <NUM>, the cut rivet tape <NUM> (hereafter referred to as the old rivet tape <NUM>) and a new rivet tape (hereafter referred to as the new rivet tape <NUM>).

The rivet tape joining apparatus <NUM> is provided on a stand <NUM>. The stand <NUM> may be connected to the stand <NUM> upon which the rivet tape cutting apparatus <NUM> is held. The stand may be secured to a floor of a factory or other environment in which the rivet insertion tool and robot arm are located.

A pneumatic actuator <NUM> extends upwardly from the stand <NUM>. A bracket <NUM> is connected to the pneumatic actuator <NUM>. A tape and clip holding block <NUM> is fixed to a distal end of the bracket <NUM>. Guide rods <NUM> are located either side of the pneumatic actuator <NUM>. Uppermost ends of the guide rods <NUM> are fixed to the bracket <NUM> and lowermost ends of the guide rods pass through the stand <NUM>. The guide rods <NUM> also pass through an intermediate member <NUM> which is located between the stand <NUM> and the bracket <NUM>. The intermediate member <NUM> forms an upper end of a pneumatic chamber of the pneumatic actuator <NUM>. The guide rods <NUM> help to keep the bracket <NUM> correctly positioned when it is moved upwards by the pneumatic actuator <NUM>.

The new rivet tape <NUM> and the clip <NUM> are held by the tape and clip holding block <NUM>, as may be most easily seen in <FIG>. The new rivet tape <NUM> and the clip <NUM> may be manually placed onto the tape and clip holding block <NUM>. Projections 10c,d of the clip <NUM> extend upwardly when the clip <NUM> is held in the tape and clip holding block <NUM>.

The tape and clip holding block <NUM> comprises a body <NUM> which includes upon its upper surface two raised portions 212a,b. The raised portions 212a,b are separated from each other such that they define a channel <NUM> which extends between them. The channel <NUM> has a width which corresponds with the width of the new rivet tape <NUM>. A finger <NUM> projects upwardly from the body <NUM> and passes through a hole in the new rivet tape <NUM>. In this embodiment the hole is the first empty hole beyond the end of the clip <NUM>, but in other embodiments a different hole may be used. The finger <NUM> ensures that the new rivet tape <NUM> and the clip <NUM> remain in place on the rivet tape joining apparatus <NUM>. The finger <NUM> fits snugly into the hole in the new rivet tape <NUM> and thereby holds the new rivet tape securely.

The body <NUM> of the tape and clip holding block <NUM> is connected to the bracket <NUM> by four bolts <NUM>. Helical springs <NUM> are provided around each bolt <NUM> and extend between the bracket <NUM> and the tape and clip holding block <NUM>. The helical springs <NUM> bias the tape and clip holding block <NUM> away from the bracket <NUM>. The bolts <NUM> are free to move within holes in the bracket <NUM>. The tape and clip holding block <NUM> is capable of some movement relative to the bracket <NUM>, but this movement is limited by the bolts <NUM>.

The rivet tape joining apparatus <NUM> further comprises a second pneumatic actuator <NUM> which is located above the tape and clip holding block <NUM>. The second pneumatic actuator <NUM> is connected to a source of pressurized air (not depicted). The second pneumatic actuator <NUM> is held on a bracket <NUM> which extends from a post <NUM>. The post <NUM> extends upwardly from the stand <NUM>. The bracket <NUM> extends laterally from the post <NUM> such that the pneumatic actuator <NUM> is located directly above the body <NUM> of the tape and clip holding block <NUM>. A block <NUM> is connected to a rod <NUM> which extends from a piston <NUM> of the second pneumatic actuator <NUM>. The block <NUM>, which is referred to hereafter as the pressing block <NUM>, has a lowermost surface which includes first and second recesses 236a,b. The first and second recesses 236a,b have a separation which corresponds with the separation between the first and second projections 10a,b of the clip <NUM>. In other embodiments the pressing block may be provided with other recesses which correspond with projections of other clips.

The tape and clip holding block <NUM> includes upwardly projecting first and second tapered fingers 240a,b. The first and second tapered fingers 240a,b are configured to be received in holes 241a,b provided at the distal end of the rivet tape securing apparatus <NUM> (see <FIG>). The pressing block <NUM> is sufficiently narrow that it can enter a gap <NUM> at the distal end <NUM> of the rivet tape securing apparatus <NUM>.

Operation of the rivet tape joining apparatus <NUM> will now be described with reference to <FIG>. <FIG> depicts the rivet tape joining apparatus <NUM> from one side (<FIG>), from above (<FIG>), and in cross-section (<FIG>). <FIG> depicts the rivet tape joining apparatus <NUM> from one side (<FIG>), from above (<FIG>), and in cross-section (<FIG>). Referring first to <FIG>, the new rivet tape <NUM> and clip <NUM> are manually engaged onto the tape and clip holding block <NUM>. The rivet tape holding apparatus <NUM> and old rivet tape <NUM> are moved such that the loose end of the old rivet tape <NUM> is between the pressing block <NUM> and the tape and clip holding block <NUM>. Referring to <FIG>, pressurized air is supplied to the first pneumatic actuator <NUM>, pushing the piston <NUM> upwards. This moves the rod <NUM> and bracket <NUM> upwards and also moves the tape and clip holding block <NUM> upwards. The new rivet tape <NUM> and clip <NUM> move upwards with the tape and clip holding block <NUM>. At the end of the movement of the piston <NUM>, the body <NUM> of the tape and clip holding block <NUM> engages against the distal end <NUM> of the rivet tape securing apparatus <NUM>. The old rivet tape <NUM> sits on top of the clip <NUM> with first and third holes of the old rivet tape being aligned with first and second projections 10a,b of the clip. The old rivet tape <NUM> is thus ready to be engaged onto the clip <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, pressurized air is now supplied to the second pneumatic actuator <NUM>. This drives the piston <NUM>, rod <NUM> and pressing block <NUM> downwards. The pressing block <NUM> passes into the gap <NUM> at the distal end <NUM> of the rivet tape securing apparatus <NUM> and presses against the old rivet tape <NUM>. The pressing block <NUM> pushes the old rivet tape <NUM> downwards such that the holes of the old rivet tape <NUM> expand around the projections 10a,b of the clip <NUM>. The projections 10a,b themselves are not pressed by the pressing block <NUM> but instead enter the recesses 236a,b provided in the pressing block. Thus, the pressing block <NUM> pushes against the old rivet tape <NUM> such that it passes over the projections 10a,b of the clip <NUM>, and the projections thereby engage into the old rivet tape. The pressing block <NUM> is then retracted using the second pneumatic actuator <NUM>. The old rivet tape <NUM> and the new rivet tape <NUM> have thus been joined together using the clip <NUM>.

A reel (not depicted) which holds the new rivet tape <NUM> may be mounted onto the robot arm (e.g. using an automated arm or other automated system).

The rivet insertion tool <NUM> and rivet tape securing apparatus <NUM> are moved away from the rivet tape joining apparatus <NUM> using a robot arm (not depicted). The rivet insertion tool and rivet tape securing apparatus are moved towards a location at which rivets are to be inserted into a workpiece (not depicted). The movable pin <NUM> is retracted to allow the motor <NUM> to once again draw the old rivet tape <NUM> through the nose <NUM> of the rivet insertion tool <NUM>. Insertion of rivets into workpieces using the rivet insertion tool <NUM> is then recommenced. When the last rivet of the old rivet tape <NUM> has been inserted into the workpiece, the motor <NUM> draws the clip <NUM> and the new rivet tape <NUM> through the nose of the rivet insertion tool <NUM> as described further above. Insertion of rivets into the workpiece from the new rivet tape <NUM> then takes place.

As will be appreciated from the above, a new rivet tape <NUM> may be joined to an old rivet tape <NUM> in an entirely automated manner. This is advantageous because it allows a supply of rivets to a rivet insertion tool to be replenished without an operator having to move into the immediate vicinity of the rivet setting tool (thereby avoiding the need to deactivate all of the rivet setting tools in the controlled environment in which that rivet setting tool is located).

A rivet tape cutting apparatus according to an alternative embodiment of the invention is depicted in <FIG>. <FIG> is a perspective view of the tape cutting apparatus <NUM>, and <FIG> depicts the tape cutting apparatus viewed from above. <FIG> depicts the tape cutting apparatus viewed from one side and <FIG> depicts the tape cutting apparatus viewed in a first cross-section. <FIG> depicts the tape cutting apparatus <NUM> viewed from a different side and <FIG> depicts the tape cutting apparatus viewed in a second cross section.

The tape cutting apparatus <NUM> comprises a stand <NUM>. The stand <NUM> may be placed any convenient location, for example secured on a work bench of a factory or tape processing facility. The location in which the tape cutting apparatus <NUM> is provided may be outside of a controlled environment in which rivet insertion tools are operated. For example, the tape cutting apparatus may be located away from a production line. This allows a technician to cut partially used rivet tapes, and then connect them together using a clip, without risk of injury.

Guide rods <NUM> extend upwardly from the stand <NUM> and support an upper plate <NUM>. A manually operated actuator <NUM> supports a moveable plate <NUM>. The moveable plate is positioned between the stand <NUM> and the upper plate <NUM>. The guide rods <NUM> extend through the moveable plate <NUM>. In the depicted embodiment four guide rods are provided, and these are located adjacent to corners of the stand <NUM>. However in other embodiments a different number of guide rods may be provided, and the guide rods may have a different arrangement. Providing four guide rods <NUM> is advantageous because this allows for a straightforward arrangement of guide rods which provide strong support to the upper plate <NUM> and which provide accurate guiding of the moveable plate <NUM>.

The actuator <NUM> comprises an arm <NUM> which extends from one side of the apparatus and is provided with a grip <NUM> at a distal end. The arm <NUM> is connected to a pivot <NUM> (e.g. a pin) about which the arm <NUM> rotates when actuated. A proximal end of the arm <NUM> is connected to a linkage <NUM> by a pivot <NUM> (e.g. a pin). A further pivot <NUM> (e.g. a pin) connects an upper end of the linkage to a bracket <NUM> which extends downwardly from the movable plate <NUM>. Operation of the arm <NUM> is thus converted to upwards and downwards movement of the movable plate <NUM> (guided by the guide rods <NUM>).

The movable plate <NUM> is provided with two tape holders. The first tape holder comprises a recess <NUM> which extends along a right hand portion of the tape cutting apparatus (as viewed from above in <FIG>). Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, an opening <NUM> is provided in the movable plate <NUM>. The tape receiving recess <NUM> extends from an outer edge of the movable plate <NUM> to the opening <NUM>. A tape securing block <NUM> extends transversely across the recess <NUM>. A peg <NUM> extends downwardly from the tape securing block <NUM> into a bore <NUM> in the movable plate <NUM>. Additional pegs either side of the tape receiving recess <NUM> extend from the block <NUM> into the movable plate <NUM>. In use, the tape securing block <NUM> is removed and a rivet tape (not depicted) is received in the recess <NUM>. The rivet tape extends partway into the opening <NUM>. The tape securing block is then positioned such that the peg <NUM> of the tape securing block <NUM> passes through a hole in the rivet tape and then passes into the bore <NUM>. This secures the rivet tape in place.

An opposite side of the movable plate is similarly provided with a tape receiving block <NUM> which extends transversely across a tape receiving recess <NUM>. A peg <NUM> extends into a bore <NUM> in the movable plate <NUM>. Additional pegs <NUM> extend between the tape securing block and the movable plate <NUM>. Again, rivet tape is received in the recess <NUM> and projects into the opening <NUM>. The peg <NUM> passes through a hole in the rivet tape and into the bore <NUM>. This secures the tape in place in the tape cutting apparatus <NUM>.

The upper plate <NUM> is fixed to the guide rods <NUM> and does not move. A first blade <NUM> is held by a mount (e.g. a block) which extends downwardly from the fixed upper plate <NUM>. The blade <NUM> has a straight cutting edge which extends transverse to the direction of the tape receiving recess <NUM> (and thus transverse to tape held by the recess). The first blade <NUM> is aligned with a first edge <NUM> of the opening <NUM> in the movable plate <NUM>. Consequently, when the movable plate <NUM> moves upwards the first blade <NUM> cuts into the rivet tape held in the first recess <NUM> with a guillotine-like action. This provides a straight cut across the rivet tape.

A second mount <NUM> extends downwardly from the fixed upper plate <NUM>. The second mount supports an arrangement of three blade portions which is configured to provide a three-sided cut on the rivet tape, for example as depicted in <FIG> and <FIG>. In some embodiments a single compound blade with three sides may be provided. In other embodiments the three blade portions may comprise three different blades. In general, the blade portions may be shaped to provide a non-square cut such that the cut tape does not have <NUM>° corners. For ease of terminology herein, the blade portions on this side of the tape cutting apparatus are referred to as the second blade <NUM>. The second blade <NUM> is aligned with edges <NUM> of the opening <NUM> in the movable plate <NUM>. Consequently, when the movable plate <NUM> moves upwards the second blade <NUM> cuts into the rivet tape held in the second recess <NUM> with a guillotine-like action. This provides a three-sided cut across the rivet tape (or other non-square cut).

In use, rivet tapes are secured in the first and second tape receiving recesses <NUM>, <NUM> and project into the opening <NUM> as explained further above. The handle <NUM> is actuated, thereby pushing the movable plate <NUM> upwards. The first and second blades <NUM>, <NUM> simultaneously cut through the rivet tapes.

As explained further above in connection with <FIG> and <FIG>, the location at which a rivet tape is cut, determined relative to the position of the last hole in the tape, may be selected to provide the rivet tape with particular properties such as desired strength. In particular, the position at which a rivet tape is cut determines the length of the land in front of the first hole (or behind the final hole) of the rivet tape. For example, the land in front of the final hole of a rivet tape which is provided with a three-sided cut may be longer than the land of a rivet tape which is provided with a straight cut (which may be referred to as a square cut). The tape cutting apparatus of <FIG> allows the positions of cuts through the tape to be made accurately and consistently because the separation between the peg <NUM> and the first blade <NUM> is fixed. The separation between the peg <NUM> and the second blade <NUM> is also fixed. This makes it simple and easy for an operator to cut rivet tapes in an optimal manner such that the tapes may be joined using clips described elsewhere herein and such that the tapes will perform correctly when they are fed into a rivet insertion tool.

Various modifications may be made to the tape cutting apparatus of <FIG>. For example, in other embodiments the upper plate may be movable with the middle plate being fixed. The form of actuator is not necessarily a mechanical arm and linkage. Any form of actuator may be used. The moveable plate may be replaced for example with a frame or other tape supporting structure. Preferably the tape supporting structure is sufficiently rigid that the positions of the blades with respect to the pegs and bores which hold the rivet tapes in place will not vary in an undesirable manner.

Although in the depicted embodiment the tapes are securing using blocks with pegs, any suitable tape securing apparatus may be used to secure the tapes.

The depicted embodiment cuts two rivet tapes at the same time. However, in other embodiments, two different tape cutting apparatuses may be used to cut rivet tapes. A first apparatus may provide the straight cut and the second apparatus may provide the three sided cut (or other non-straight cut).

The tape securing blocks <NUM>, <NUM> may be inverted in order to secure rivet tape with <NUM> holes instead of rivet tape with <NUM> holes. When this is done, pegs <NUM>, <NUM> which extend upwardly in the Figures now extend downwardly and are received in bores <NUM>, <NUM>. Again, the separation between the pegs <NUM>, <NUM> with bores <NUM>, <NUM> and the blades <NUM>, <NUM> is such that cuts are formed in the rivet tapes at desired distances from holes in the rivet tapes.

In other embodiments the tape cutting apparatus may be configured to cut only <NUM> rivet tape or <NUM> rivet tape. Where this is the case, the positions of the pegs and holes of the tape securing blocks and the moveable plate <NUM> may be reversed (pegs provided in the plate and bores provided in the blocks). This is not done in the embodiment of the invention because providing pegs for the <NUM> rivet tape on the moveable plate <NUM> would prevent the apparatus being used for <NUM> rivet tape (and vice versa).

Supplying rivets using a spool of rivet tape is advantageous compared with supplying rivets loose because it allows stricter monitoring of the identity of rivets. When loose rivets are used, the loose rivets are poured out of a sealed bag into a bowl or hopper. A pneumatic blow feed is then used to transfer rivets from the bowl or hopper to a rivet insertion tool which sets the rivets into workpieces. A disadvantage of this loose rivet feed method is that there will be a mixture of rivets in the bowl or hopper. Rivets supplied in rivet bags are traceable back through rivet production steps via a batch code on the rivet bag. Once emptied into the bowl or hopper however, the rivet batches get mixed. Consequently, a riveted flange e.g. in a car could be riveted using more than one rivet batch. If there is a quality problem with the rivets, then this will result in a substantial maintenance exercise in which a rivet bowl or hopper, blow feed tube and rivet insertion tool magazine have to be emptied, before a known good batch of rivets can be used to restart production. Rivet tape does not suffer from this disadvantage. Every spool of rivet tape carries a batch number. An exchange of a spool means an exchange of batch numbers, with no rivets of an old batch number being left in the rivet system. Therefore, an operator can trace rivet batches to every car which is built.

In an embodiment, each spool of rivet tape may include an RFID tag (e.g. a programmable RFID tag, barcode or other identifier) which identifies that spool, including identifying the batch of rivets held on the spool. When a new spool is started, the identity of the spool may be logged by the control system <NUM> using the RFID tag, barcode or other identifier. Every riveted joint in the vehicle may have a unique number and every vehicle may also have a unique number. Therefore the control system <NUM> can record which rivet batch was used for each riveted joint of each vehicle. This provides full traceability of batch numbers being used for riveted joints throughout vehicle assembly (or other production). If a problem with a rivet batch is identified, the control system <NUM> can identify in real time which tools are using that rivet batch, thereby allowing production using those tools to be suspended until the rivet spools have been changed. Vehicle parts which have already been assembled using the rivet batch can also be identified. Thus, the number of parts which are assembled using a defective rivet batch can be reduced, and those parts which have already been assembled can be quickly identified and reworked. If a defective batch of rivets is identified some time after production of vehicles has been completed then the vehicles which have been assembled using the defective rivets can be identified and the defective rivets replaced as needed.

Rivet tape joining clips <NUM> may be provided with RFID tags (e.g. programmable RFID tags).

The term "rivet tape" as used in this description may be interpreted as meaning a tape along which a plurality of rivets is distributed. The rivets may for example be self-piercing rivets. The self-piercing rivets may have a shank diameter of <NUM> or <NUM>. The rivets may be tubular rivets. The rivets may be solid rivets.

Claim 1:
A rivet tape joining clip (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) comprising an elongate body provided with a plurality of projections (10a-d, 310a-d, 410a-f) which extend from one side of the elongate body,
wherein the projections are provided with laterally projecting lips (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>); and
wherein the clip is provided with four projections, an inner pair of projections having a separation which is smaller than the separation between other projections.