Patent Description:
<CIT> discloses a storage main body having a storage space where a plurality of screws are temporarily stored and having an outlet formed to be connected to the storage space to enable the screw to be discharged from the storage space; and a position moving means forcibly moving a position of one screw among the screws fixated to the storage main body to the outlet.

<CIT> discloses a rivet dispenser and method for manually loading a handheld rivet gun. The handheld rivet gun may include an attachment port, and the rivet dispenser may have a unitary, single-piece tool body having channels formed therein, sized and shaped to retain heads of a plurality of rivets. The method may include grasping the rivet dispenser in a first hand, grasping the rivet gun in a second hand, and inserting an end of one rivet, extending outward from the rivet dispenser, into the attachment port, thus attaching the rivet to the handheld rivet gun. The method may then include sliding the one rivet through and out of the channel of the rivet dispenser, via movement of the rivet gun and/or the rivet dispenser. Finally, the method may include actuating the rivet gun to install the one rivet into a hole of a structure or structures to be joined together thereby.

<CIT> discloses, in a screw supply cartridge which supplies screws, a screw storage part is provided with an insertion port for inserting the screws, a front face part of the insertion port is provided with a pair of pawl parts to mutually open and close, the pawl parts are always acted so as to be closed by a spring, upper face parts of the pawl parts form cone-shaped part at a closed state, spring force of the spring is set to a degree that the screw slides down to a slant face of the cone-shaped part to open when the screw sandwiched between the facing pawl parts is pressed from an upper part, the screw is inserted by opening the pawl parts of the insertion port when the screw is inserted into the storage part, the pawl parts are closed to eject the screws to the cone-shaped part formed at the upper face part of the pawl parts when the screw is supplied, the screw is further supplied by spreading out the pawl parts so as not to hinder an operation of a screw tightening tool when the screw is tightened, and the screw supply cartridge is separated from a screw tightening part when screw tightening is completed.

<CIT> discloses a fixing guide attached to the front end of a supply rail that moves stored screws to a screw taking out position. The fixing guide positions the supply rail so that the front end of the supply rail is arranged near the screw fastening position while being inclined at a predetermined angle. A screw fastening guide which is attached to the front end of the supply rail comes in contact with a screwdriver bit holding the screw existing at the screw taking out position, and guides the bit so as to be vertical at the screw fastening position.

The problem to be solved by the current invention is to form a fastener dispensing tool and a fastener dispensing system which meet the previously mentioned need for more effective kitting while alleviating the problems of applying chemicals to fasteners. The invention also relates to a method for making a fastener dispenser tool.

In a first aspect, according to claim <NUM>, the present disclosure provides a fastener dispenser tool, comprising: a retention section; a presentation section extending from the retention section; a retention slot extending along the retention section and the presentation section, the retention slot operable to retain a plurality of fasteners; a presentation slot extending along the retention section and the presentation section and in fluid communication with the retention slot, the presentation slot sized to receive a tool bit engageable with a lead fastener of the plurality of fasteners; a fastener ejection portion that extends outwardly from the presentation section for supporting and ejecting the lead fastener orthogonally, the fastener ejection portion comprising first and second side walls that define an ejection opening in fluid communication with the retention slot, the first and second side walls operable to grip and position the lead fastener while being threadably engaged to a structure; wherein the retention slot and presentation slot are configured, such that the plurality of fasteners are slidable through the retention slot along the presentation section to facilitate dispensing of the lead fastener from the presentation section.

In a second aspect, according to claim <NUM>, the present disclosure provides a fastener dispensing system, comprising: a support handle configured to be held by an individual; a fastener dispenser magazine coupled to the support handle, and comprising a retention slot and a presentation slot; a plurality of fasteners supported by the retention slot; and a fastening tool comprising a tool bit engageable through the presentation slot and with a lead fastener of the plurality of fasteners; wherein the plurality of fasteners are slidable through the retention slot along a presentation section to facilitate dispensing of the lead fastener from the fastener dispenser magazine; wherein the fastener dispenser magazine comprises a retention section and the presentation section that extends from the retention section, the presentation section and the retention section comprising the presentation slot formed on an opposing side from the retention slot; and wherein the presentation section comprises a curved profile section that extends from the retention section, such that the lead fastener is moveable to a dispensing position proximate a tip of the fastener dispenser magazine for engagement with a structure, whereby the curved profile section facilitates clearance of remaining fasteners in the fastener dispenser magazine away from the structure.

In a third aspect, according to claim <NUM>, the present disclosure provides a method for making a fastener dispenser tool, comprising: forming a support handle configured to be held by an individual; and forming a fastener dispenser magazine removably coupleable to the support handle, the fastener dispenser magazine comprising a retention section having a retention slot for retaining a plurality of fasteners, and a presentation section that extends from the retention section, and having a retention slot extending along the retention section and the presentation section for retaining a plurality of fasteners and a presentation slot extending along the retention section and the presentation section, the presentation slot sized to receive a tool bit engageable with a lead fastener of the plurality of fasteners, and the presentation section configured such that the plurality of fasteners are slidable through the retention slot along the presentation section to facilitate dispensing of a lead fastener from the fastener dispenser magazine; wherein the presentation section comprises a curved profile section that extends from the retention section, such that the lead fastener is moveable to a dispensing position proximate a tip of the fastener dispenser magazine for engagement with a structure, whereby the curved profile section facilitates clearance of remaining fasteners in the fastener dispenser magazine away from the structure.

An initial overview of the inventive concepts are provided below and then specific examples are described in further detail later. This initial summary is intended to aid readers in understanding the examples more quickly, but is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the examples, nor is it intended to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter.

The present disclosure sets forth a fastener dispenser tool comprising a retention section; a presentation section extending from the retention section; a retention slot extending along the retention section and the presentation section (the retention slot operable to retain a plurality of fasteners); and a presentation slot extending along the presentation section and in open communication with the retention slot. The presentation slot can be sized to receive a tool bit engageable with a lead fastener of the plurality of fasteners, and the retention slot and presentation slot are sized or configured, such that the plurality of fasteners are slidable through the retention slot along the presentation section to facilitate dispensing of the lead fastener (and subsequently others) from the presentation section.

In some examples, fastener dispenser tool can comprise first and second retention devices supported by the retention section for retaining the plurality of fasteners.

In some examples the retention slot defines a first longitudinal axis, and the presentation slot defines a second longitudinal axis that extends transverse the first longitudinal axis.

In some examples, at least a portion of the presentation section comprises a curved profile.

In some examples, the fastener dispenser tool further comprises a support handle configured to be held by an individual, and the retention section and the presentation can define a fastener dispenser magazine. The fastener dispenser magazine can be removably coupleable to the support handle.

The present disclosure sets forth a fastener dispensing system comprising a support handle configured to be held by an individual, and a fastener dispenser magazine removably coupled to the support handle and comprising a retention slot and a presentation slot. A plurality of fasteners can be supported by the retention slot. A fastening tool comprising a tool bit is engageable through the presentation slot with a lead fastener of the plurality of fasteners. The plurality of fasteners are slidable through the retention slot along the presentation section to facilitate dispensing of the lead fastener from the fastener dispenser magazine.

The present disclosure sets forth a method for making a fastener dispenser tool comprising forming a support handle configured to be held by an individual, and forming a fastener dispenser magazine removably coupleable to the support handle. The fastener dispenser magazine can comprise a retention slot for retaining a plurality of fasteners, and a presentation slot sized or configured, such that the plurality of fasteners are slidable through the retention slot along the presentation section to facilitate dispensing of a lead fastener from the fastener dispenser magazine.

To further describe the present technology, examples are now provided with reference to the figures.

<FIG> show various views and aspects of a fastener dispenser tool <NUM>, and <FIG> illustrate a fastener dispensing system <NUM> and method of using the fastener dispenser tool <NUM> to dispense a fastener into a structure, in accordance with an example of the present disclosure. As an overview, and with reference to these figures, the fastener dispenser tool <NUM> can comprise a support handle <NUM> to be held by an individual (or a robot), and a fastener dispenser magazine <NUM> removably coupled to the support handle <NUM>. The fastener dispenser magazine <NUM> can support and retain a plurality of fasteners <NUM> for dispensing each fastener from the fastener dispenser tool <NUM> during fastening operations.

Notably, the fastener dispenser magazine <NUM> can comprise a dispensing system that comprises a retention device <NUM> and a presentation slot <NUM> for presenting a lead fastener 106a to be engaged by a tool bit <NUM> of a fastening tool <NUM>, as illustrated in <FIG>. Thus, the retention device <NUM> retains the lead fastener 106a (and the other fasteners <NUM>) with a sufficient force to retain the lead fastener 106a. However, the retention device <NUM> is compliant enough to allow an individual (holding the fastening tool <NUM>) to overcome the force of the retention device <NUM> by sliding the lead fastener 106a along the fastener dispenser magazine <NUM>, thus elastically deforming or displacing the retention device <NUM> to facilitate the lead fastener 106a being dispensed and engaged with (i.e., fastened to) a structure <NUM> (and/or for dispensing the lead fastener 106a by hand), as further detailed below. Therefore, the dispensing system provides an individual with the ability to engage and move a lead fastener away from a plurality of still retained fasteners to a dispensing position (<FIG>). This provides one advantage of fastening the lead fastener 106a to the structure <NUM> in a position away from the remaining, still retained fasteners <NUM> held by the fastener dispenser magazine <NUM> for the purpose of providing sufficient clearance of the remaining, still retained fasteners <NUM> away from the structure <NUM> for effective fastening of the lead fastener 106a to the structure <NUM>. In other words, the lead fastener 106a can be spatially separated from the next adjacent fastener and all others that are still retained by the retention device <NUM>, such that these do not interfere with the lead fastener 106a as it is being dispensed.

The support handle <NUM> of the fastener dispenser tool <NUM> can comprise an elongate body <NUM> having a planar surface portion <NUM> and a handle portion <NUM> that define an outer perimeter surface area of the elongate body <NUM>. The elongate body <NUM> can comprise a magazine holder opening <NUM> sized and configured to receive a section or portion of the fastener dispenser magazine <NUM>. As illustrated in <FIG>, the elongate body <NUM> can comprise a stop wall portion <NUM> that assists to stop or hold the fastener dispenser magazine <NUM> about the support handle <NUM>. The elongate body <NUM> can further comprise viewing slots <NUM> formed through the handle portion <NUM> for viewing the plurality of fasteners <NUM> retained by the fastener dispenser magazine <NUM>, which is advantageous for counting and inspection of the fasteners <NUM> without handling them individually.

The handle portion <NUM> can comprise a thread protection portion <NUM> that surrounds or wraps at least partially around (e.g., <NUM> degrees) from side to side and around threaded ends <NUM> of the plurality of fasteners <NUM>. Notably, the thread protection portion <NUM> protects the threaded ends <NUM> from external contact by anyone or anything. This can be advantageous, such as when the threaded ends <NUM> have chemicals (e.g., thread locker) applied thereon, thereby preventing cross contamination of the chemicals from accidental touching by anyone or anything. Therefore, the individual does not need to touch the fasteners to count and inspect the fasteners, because they can be viewed and counted through the viewing slots <NUM>, and the threads are protected from cross contamination of chemicals applied thereon because the thread protection portion <NUM> covers and protects the threads.

The support handle <NUM> can further comprise a magazine retention device <NUM> for removably coupling the fastener dispenser magazine <NUM> to the support handle <NUM>. The magazine retention device <NUM> can be provided on the opposite end of the support handle <NUM> relative the stop wall portion <NUM>, and can comprise a compliant tab release <NUM> operable by an individual's thumb, for example, to release a compression force applied to a lock protrusion <NUM> of the fastener dispenser magazine <NUM> to remove the fastener dispenser magazine <NUM> from the support handle <NUM>. Thus, when being inserted in the support handle <NUM>, the fastener dispenser magazine <NUM> can snap or lock into place via the lock protrusion <NUM> that engages with a lock portion <NUM> of the compliant tab release <NUM> to releasably lock the fastener dispenser magazine <NUM> to the support handle <NUM>.

The fastener dispenser magazine <NUM> can comprise a retention section <NUM> and a presentation section <NUM> extending from the retention section <NUM>. The retention section <NUM> can be an elongate body having a generally square or rectangular cross-sectional shape (other cross-sectional shapes or configurations are contemplated herein). The fastener dispenser magazine <NUM> can comprise a retention track or slot <NUM> formed therethrough along its length for supporting and retaining the plurality of fasteners <NUM>. The retention slot <NUM> can extend along the retention section <NUM> and the presentation section <NUM> of the fastener dispenser magazine <NUM>, and can comprise a head retention portion <NUM> (which is shown as being configured as a channel through the fastener dispenser magazine <NUM>) and a shaft pass-through portion <NUM> (which is shown as being an elongate slot formed through the bottom of the fastener dispenser magazine <NUM> into the head retention portion <NUM>, which defines an opening or pass-through into the head retention portion <NUM>) (see <FIG>). The head retention portion <NUM> comprises wall portions sized and configured to receive and support the heads <NUM> (<FIG>) of the plurality of fasteners <NUM>, and whereby the shaft pass-through portion <NUM>, which is smaller than the head retention portion <NUM>, is sized and configured to receive and pass-through the smaller ends <NUM> of the plurality of fasteners <NUM> (e.g., the at least partially threaded shafts of the fasteners <NUM>). In this manner, the ends <NUM> can extend out and away from the fastener dispenser magazine <NUM> in a linear array. With the ends <NUM> exposed, they are prepared to receive one or more treatments, such as the treatment of chemicals while the user holds the fastener dispenser magazine <NUM> (i.e., and not the fasteners themselves). Therefore, chemicals can be applied to the threaded ends <NUM> of the fasteners <NUM> all at the same time while being held captive in the fastener dispenser magazine <NUM>. This can drastically reduce the time and complexity of applying chemicals to fasteners individually. In this position, they can further be inspected and/or counted.

In one example, the fastener dispenser magazine <NUM> can comprise another retention device <NUM> formed or provided about an end of the retention section <NUM> for retaining the plurality of fasteners <NUM> (i.e., in cooperation with the retention device <NUM>). The retention devices <NUM> and <NUM> can be formed integrally with the fastener dispenser magazine <NUM> in the form of slotted compliant tabs, as shown, that each have a compliant shaft <NUM> and a retention protrusion <NUM> formed inwardly toward the retention slot <NUM> for retaining the heads of end fasteners situated on either end of the array of fasteners <NUM> held in the retention section <NUM>. In some examples, as exemplified only in <FIG>, the fastener dispenser magazine <NUM> can comprise opposing retention devices <NUM> formed at (or proximate) the dispensing tip <NUM>, and supported by the retention slot <NUM> (e.g., formed as part of the fastener dispenser magazine <NUM>). Thus, the opposing retention devices <NUM> can be protrusions (e.g., hemispherical shaped) or other shapes/features formed inwardly that reduce a cross sectional area of the retention slot <NUM>, such that the opposing retention devices <NUM> can stop the lead fastener <NUM> from accidentally falling out of the fastener dispenser magazine <NUM>. In this manner, the user can position the lead fastener 106a in the presentation position (discussed below), and then apply sufficient force to the lead fastener 106a to outwardly flex sides/jaws 159a and 159b of the fastener dispenser magazine <NUM> proximate the dispensing tip <NUM>, thereby passing the lead fastener 106a beyond the opposing retention devices <NUM> and releasing the lead fastener 106a from the fastener dispenser magazine <NUM>, as further detailed below. Thus, the inward height of each opposing retention device <NUM>, as well as the length and thickness of the sides/jaws 159a and 159b of the presentation section <NUM>, are shaped and sized to provide sufficient flexibility and retention of the lead fastener 106a so that it will not fall out, but that can be overcome with sufficient force (e.g., <NUM> pounds) by a user to dispense it therefrom. In another example, the opposing retention devices can instead be another mechanism, such as a ball detent or spring steel tab, each of which reduce the cross sectional area of the end of the retention slot <NUM>, but that are compliant enough to allow a user to pass the lead fastener 106a therefrom. Such concept of the opposing retention devices <NUM> can be applied to other examples discussed herein, such as in <FIG> and <FIG> detailed below.

In the examples of retention devices (i.e., <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>) being formed integral, or as part of, the fastener dispenser magazine <NUM>, this reduces or eliminates the likelihood of FOD, because such integral retention devices are less likely to fall or break off from the fastener dispenser magazine <NUM> because they are not separate components attached to a body of the fastener dispenser magazine <NUM>. Further to this concept, such integral retention devices can be recessed into sides of the fastener dispenser magazine <NUM> (or within a profile/envelope defined by the fastener dispenser magazine <NUM>), such that no portion of such integral retention devices extend outwardly from a side surface of the fastener dispenser magazine <NUM>. This further reduces or eliminates the likelihood that the retention devices would get snagged on an object, and possibly break off from the fastener dispenser magazine <NUM> (thereby generating the undesirable FOD).

In another example, the retention devices <NUM> and <NUM> can be separate parts or mechanisms coupled to the fastener dispenser magazine <NUM>, such as compliant pins, threaded bolts, or other retention means.

The fastener dispenser magazine <NUM> and the support handle <NUM> can be formed by 3D printing, molding, extrusion, casting, or other suitable methods of manufacturing, and can be comprised of a rigid material, such as many plastics, polymers, composites, and metals. The fasteners <NUM> can be any type, size or shape capable of being supported by the retention slot <NUM>, and can be metal, plastic, composite, etc..

As best shown in <FIG>, the presentation slot <NUM> can be formed on another, opposing side of the fastener dispenser magazine <NUM> (e.g., along a top surface), and can extend along the presentation section <NUM>, and in some cases at least part way into the retention section <NUM>. Thus, the presentation slot <NUM> and the retention slot <NUM> can be in open or fluid communication with each other and the head retention portion <NUM> about or through a dispensing tip <NUM> of the fastener dispenser magazine <NUM>. In this manner, each of the plurality of fasteners <NUM> can be freely dispensed out through the dispensing tip <NUM>, as illustrated in <FIG> (of course, after being passed beyond the retention device <NUM>). Thus, the fasteners <NUM> can be loaded into the fastener dispenser magazine <NUM> through the dispensing tip <NUM>, such that their heads are captured by the head retention portion <NUM> and their shafts are caused to be within and extend through the retention slot <NUM>. Once inserted, the fasteners <NUM> can be caused to pass along the presentation section <NUM>, then pressed passed the retention device <NUM>, and then retained in the retention section <NUM> to be ready for use/dispensing. Alternatively, the fasteners <NUM> can be loaded into the fastener dispenser magazine <NUM> in the opposite/back end, and pressed passed the retention device <NUM>, and then retained in the retention section <NUM> to be ready for use/dispensing.

It is noted that those skilled in the art will recognize that the retention slot <NUM> can comprise a nonlinear configuration, or in other words, can define or traverse a nonlinear path. Still further, those skilled in the art will recognize that the fastener dispenser magazine <NUM> can comprise two or more retention slots that extend along the retention section <NUM> and the presentation section <NUM> that each facilitate the retaining and dispensing of fasteners in a similar manner as the retention slot <NUM> discussed above. Alternatively, the fastener dispenser magazine <NUM> can comprise two retention slot portions that merge into a single retention slot portion at or within the presentation section <NUM> just beyond a retention device in each of the two retention slot portions. In these examples, the fastener dispenser magazine <NUM> can be configured to hold a greater number of fasteners.

The presentation section <NUM> can comprise a proximal linear portion <NUM> that extends to or that transitions into a curved profile portion <NUM>, and that extends to a distal linear portion <NUM> (see e.g., <FIG> and <FIG>). Thus, a portion of the presentation section <NUM> extends along a plane transverse relative to a plane of the retention section <NUM>, such that the retention slot <NUM> and the presentation slot <NUM> are curved proximate the curved profile portion <NUM>. Said another way, and as illustrated in <FIG>, the retention slot <NUM> can define a first longitudinal axis X1 that extends centrally through the head retention portion <NUM>, and the presentation slot <NUM> can define a second longitudinal axis X2 that extends through an end linear section <NUM> of the presentation slot <NUM>. Thus, the first longitudinal axis X1 extends transverse at an angle relative to the second longitudinal axis X2. The degree of angle can vary, such as from <NUM> degrees up to <NUM> degrees, depending on the desired amount of clearance required for a particular application. In addition, the radius of curvature of the curved profile portion <NUM> can be any as needed or desired to facilitate a nonbinding transition of a fastener along the retention slot <NUM> from the retention section <NUM> to the presentation section <NUM>.

The curved profile portion <NUM> of the fastener dispenser magazine <NUM> can comprise upper wall sections <NUM> (one labeled on <FIG>) that have a smaller or thinner cross sectional profile than that of adjacent wall sections of the proximal linear portion <NUM> and the distal linear portion <NUM>. These thinner walls of the upper wall sections <NUM> increases the size of the retention slot <NUM> along the curved profile portion <NUM>, which allows the fasteners <NUM> (e.g., box screw heads shown) to make the turn without binding or seizing in the retention slot <NUM>. It will be appreciated that other fastener types, such as flat head screws, may not require such thinner wall sections. This concept of the "thinner" upper wall sections <NUM> can be applied to other examples discussed herein, such as with the fastener dispenser magazines of <FIG> and <FIG> detailed below.

With particular reference to <FIG>, in operation, an individual can grasp the support handle <NUM> with one hand (or just grasp the fastener dispenser magazine <NUM>), and then with the other hand can grasp the fastening tool <NUM>, and extend the tool bit <NUM> through an engagement opening portion <NUM> (an end) of the presentation slot <NUM> to engage the lead fastener 106a in a first or presentation position P1, which is behind the retention device <NUM>, as illustrated in <FIG>. In one example, the tool bit <NUM> can be a hex tool bit that engages a type of fastener having a hex head. The lead fastener 106a can be held in the presentation position P1 by the retention device <NUM> proximate the engagement opening portion <NUM>. Then, using the fastening tool <NUM>, the individual can apply a force (laterally away from the other fasteners <NUM>) to the lead fastener 106a having a tendency to cause the lead fastener 106a to slide within the retention slot <NUM>, to overcome the compression or friction force applied by the retention device <NUM>, thereby displacing the retention device <NUM> (compliantly or elastically) so as to move the lead fastener 106a past, and to release the lead fastener 106a from, the retention device <NUM>. Being free from the retention device <NUM>, the individual can then freely slide the lead fastener 106a further through the retention slot <NUM> and from the retention section <NUM> to and along the presentation section <NUM> to the dispensing position P2 as shown in <FIG>. This may require the individual to manipulate the fastener dispenser tool <NUM> and the fastening tool <NUM> to appropriately traverse the lead fastener 106a through retention slot <NUM> about the presentation section <NUM>. Once in the dispensing position P2 shown in <FIG>, the individual may initiate engagement of the lead fastener 106a with the structure <NUM>. In one example, the lead fastener 106a can comprise threads, and the structure <NUM> can comprise one or more hardware components to be fastened together via threaded holes, as shown. Other engagement interfaces, other than a threaded interface, are contemplated. Once the lead fastener 106a is initially engaged with the structure <NUM>, the individual may then pull the fastening dispenser tool <NUM> away from the lead fastener 106a, such that the lead fastener 106a is released and freed from the fastener dispenser magazine <NUM> via the dispensing tip <NUM>, as illustrated in <FIG>. The individual may then finish threadably coupling the lead fastener 106a to the structure <NUM> via the fastening tool <NUM> to complete the fastening operation. This operation can be repeated as often as necessary for the remaining fasteners retained within the fastener dispenser tool <NUM>. Indeed, the fastener dispenser magazine <NUM> is then ready for another fastener operation, because a new lead fastener can be caused to be proximate the retention device <NUM>. In one aspect, the fasteners can move within the retention slot <NUM> under the influence of gravity feeding down the fasteners <NUM> into the first position P1. In another aspect, a biasing component, such as a spring, can be supported within the fastener dispenser magazine <NUM> and caused to exert a biasing force on the array of retained fasteners, wherein the biasing force acts upon the array of fasteners to move the next successive lead fastener into the positon P1 against the retention device <NUM>. In another example, a fastening tool may not be used with the fastener dispenser magazine <NUM>, because the individual may just pull out one fastener at a time from the fastener dispenser magazine <NUM> by hand, and then later use a fastening tool to attach the fastener to a structure.

As best illustrated in <FIG>, when being installed, the lead fastener 106a is spatially separated away from the other fasteners retained in the retention section <NUM> behind and via the retention device <NUM>. This provides a certain amount of clearance or separation for the lead fastener 106a to engage the structure <NUM> away from the other fasteners <NUM>. This spatial gap can be any length desired or needed. In this way, the curved profile portion <NUM> positions the support handle <NUM>, the retention section <NUM>, and the remaining fasteners <NUM> upwardly and at an angle or position away from the lead fastener 106a when in the dispensing position P2 and being installed. This is advantageous as the other fasteners <NUM> (and the support handle <NUM>) may otherwise contact or interfere with the structure <NUM>, which could prevent or make difficult the fastening of the lead fastener 106a to the structure <NUM>.

Advantageously, the fastening tool <NUM> is unattached to the support handle <NUM> or the fastener dispenser magazine <NUM>, which reduces the complexity of the system. This provides a more portable fastening dispenser tool because it is unattached to a fastening tool, and it can be disposable due to its simplicity and low cost of manufacture. Therefore, a particular fastener dispenser tool of the present disclose can be inexpensively manufactured, and in some cases, pre-loaded with a desired number of fasteners, and then shipped for use at another location. Then, the support handle and/or the fastener dispenser magazine can be disposed of after the fasteners are dispensed and installed on a piece of hardware. The fastener dispenser tool of the present disclosure can be useful for providing fastener dispensing tools that are kitted with a certain type and specific number of fasteners, thus aiding users in maintaining awareness of the number of fasteners used, and the number remaining, as well as to provide an efficient way to package and to keep track of the fasteners.

Further advantageously, the plurality of fasteners <NUM> are unattached to each other (but abutted next to each other) when retained by the fastener dispenser tool. This eliminates the need for plastic/polymer attachment strips used to attach an array of fasteners. Such strips used in prior system attach the fasteners together and then break apart upon dispensing each fastener, leaving plastic/polymer debris (FOD) in the surrounding area. This is quite problematic in certain environments that cannot have such debris/FOD, such as in clean rooms, and other facilities involving aerospace manufacturing, space vehicle assembly, electronics assembly, and many other facilities that have strict FOD processes and kitting requirements.

<FIG> illustrates a fastener dispenser magazine <NUM> in accordance with an example of the present disclosure. The fastener dispenser magazine <NUM> can have many of the same or similar features as described above regarding the fastener dispenser magazine <NUM>, and can be inserted into the handle <NUM> in <FIG>. Notably, one difference is that a retention slot <NUM> of the fastener dispenser magazine <NUM> can be configured to support and retain a plurality of fasteners and associated washers, as illustrated by a lead fastener <NUM> and a washer <NUM> supported about a dispensing tip <NUM> of the fastener dispenser magazine <NUM>. Thus, the retention slot <NUM> can comprise a head retention portion <NUM>, a washer retention portion <NUM>, and a shaft pass-through portion <NUM>, all in fluid communication with each other, and also with a presentation slot (which can be configured to operate similarly as the presentation slot <NUM> of <FIG>). Thus, the head retention portion <NUM> is sized to receive and support heads <NUM> of the fastener <NUM>, and the washer retention portion <NUM> is sized to receive the washer <NUM> (or two or more washers), while the shaft pass-through portion <NUM> is sized to receive and pass-through the threaded ends <NUM> of the fastener <NUM>. Such configuration provides the advantage of kitting a set of fasteners and washers, which reduces or eliminates the likelihood of the fasteners and washers becoming FOD in a particular piece of hardware. This also reduces the amount of handling of the fasteners and washers, particularly after the threads of the fasteners have been chemically treated.

<FIG> shows a fastener dispenser tool <NUM> in accordance with an explanatory example of the present disclosure which does not correspond to the claimed subject-matter. The fastener dispenser tool <NUM> can comprise many of the same or similar features as the fastener dispenser tool <NUM> describe above. One notable difference is that a fastener dispenser magazine <NUM> of the fastener dispenser tool <NUM> comprises a linear dispensing configuration, as opposed to the curved dispensing configuration described regarding <FIG>. Note that the fastener dispenser tool <NUM> can include or comprise the support handle <NUM> as described above regarding <FIG>. Thus, the support handle <NUM> can receive and support the fastener dispenser magazine <NUM> of <FIG>. Accordingly, the support handle <NUM> can be universal for different types of fastener dispenser magazines.

More specifically, the fastener dispenser magazine <NUM> can support and retain a plurality of fasteners <NUM> for dispensing each fastener from the fastener dispenser magazine <NUM>. The fastener dispenser magazine <NUM> can comprise a dispensing system that comprises a retention device <NUM> and a presentation
slot <NUM> for presenting a lead fastener 306a to be engaged by a tool bit (e.g., <NUM>) of a fastening tool (e.g., <NUM>), similarly as shown in <FIG>. Thus, the retention device <NUM> applies a sufficient force to retain the lead fastener 306a, but is compliant enough to allow an individual (holding the fastening tool) to slide the lead fastener 306a along the fastener dispenser magazine <NUM> for engaging with a structure (e.g., <NUM>) (and/or for dispensing the lead fastener 306a), as further detailed below. Therefore, the dispensing system provides an individual with the ability to engage and move a lead fastener away from a plurality of retained fasteners to a dispensing position, which provides the advantage of fastening the lead fastener to a structure away from the remaining and still retained fasteners for purposes of providing sufficient clearance of the remaining, and still retained, fasteners from the structure.

The fastener dispenser magazine <NUM> can comprise a retention section <NUM> and a presentation section <NUM> extending from the retention section <NUM>, and which define a generally rectangular, straight elongate body from end to end of the fastener dispenser magazine <NUM>. The fastener dispenser magazine <NUM> can comprise a retention track or slot <NUM> formed through the length of the fastener dispenser magazine <NUM> along the retention section <NUM> and the presentation section <NUM> for supporting and retaining the plurality of fasteners <NUM> about the retention section <NUM> and for presenting a fastener for dispensing at the presentation section <NUM>. The retention slot <NUM> can be similarly formed and configured as the retention slot <NUM> described above.

The fastener dispenser magazine <NUM> can comprise another retention device <NUM> formed or provided on the end of the retention section <NUM> for retaining the plurality of fasteners <NUM>, and in cooperation with the retention device <NUM> formed or provided adjacent the presentation slot <NUM>. The retention devices <NUM> and <NUM> can be formed and configured similarly as described above regarding retention devices <NUM> and <NUM>.

The presentation slot <NUM> can be formed on the other/opposing side of the fastener dispenser magazine <NUM> in a similar manner as discussed above with respect to the presentation slot <NUM> shown in <FIG>. indeed, the presentation slot <NUM> can extend along the presentation section <NUM>. Thus, the presentation slot <NUM> and the retention slot <NUM> are in open or fluid communication with each other, and extend to and through to a dispensing tip <NUM> of the fastener dispenser magazine <NUM>. In this way, the plurality of fasteners <NUM> can be freely dispensed out through the dispensing tip <NUM> (after being passed beyond the retention device <NUM>).

Notably, the retention slot <NUM> and the presentation slot <NUM> comprise a linear dispensing configuration, such that there is not a curved or transverse transition portion between the retention section <NUM> and the presentation section <NUM>. However, this can still allow the lead fastener 306a to be moved from a presentation position P3, and then slid along the retention slot <NUM> to a dispensing position P4. Thus, similarly as illustrated in <FIG>, an individual can grasp the support handle <NUM> with one hand, and then with the other hand can grasp the fastening tool (e.g., <NUM>) and extend the tool bit (e.g., <NUM>) through an engagement opening portion <NUM> of the presentation slot <NUM> to engage the lead fastener 306a. Then, the individual can apply a force laterally away from the other fasteners <NUM> to slide the lead fastener 306a to overcome the compression or friction force applied by the retention device <NUM>, thereby releasing the lead fastener 306a from the retention device <NUM>. Being free from the retention device <NUM>, the individual can freely (and linearly) slide the lead fastener 306a through the retention slot <NUM> and along the presentation section <NUM> in a straight travel path to the dispensing position P4. Once in the dispensing position P4, the individual may initiate engagement of the lead fastener 306a with a structure, and then the individual may pull the fastening dispenser tool <NUM> away from the lead fastener 306a, such that the lead fastener 306a is freely released from the fastener dispenser magazine <NUM> via the dispensing tip <NUM>. The individual may then finish coupling the lead fastener 306a to the structure via the fastening tool to complete the fastening operation.

Thus, the lead fastener 306a can be spatially separated away from the other fasteners <NUM> retained by the retention section <NUM> via the retention device <NUM> while the user threads the lead fastener 306a to the structure, which provides clearance for the lead fastener 306a to engage the structure. Further to this principle, the linear profile portion <NUM> positions the support handle <NUM>, the retention section <NUM>, and the remaining fasteners away from the lead fastener 306a when in the dispensing position P4. This may be useful in applications where the lead fastener 306a is secured to an edge or corner portion of a structure, or in other applications.

<FIG> show aspects of a fastener dispenser tool <NUM> and a method of using the fastener dispenser tool <NUM>, in accordance with an example of the present disclosure. The fastener dispenser tool <NUM> can comprise many of the same or similar features as the fastener dispenser tool <NUM> describe above. One notable difference is that a fastener dispenser magazine <NUM> of the fastener dispenser tool <NUM> can comprise a fastener ejection portion <NUM> for supporting and ejecting a lead fastener 406a orthogonally from the fastener dispenser magazine <NUM> (i.e., in a different direction than described regarding fastener dispenser magazines <NUM> and <NUM> discussed above).

More specifically, the fastener dispenser tool <NUM> can comprise the support handle <NUM> (<FIG>), such as described above regarding <FIG>. The support handle <NUM> can receive and support the fastener dispenser magazine <NUM>. Thus, the support handle <NUM> can be universal to receive different types of fastener dispenser magazines. However, note that <FIG> shows the fastener dispenser magazine <NUM> removed from the handle <NUM>, and being used in a fastening operation. This illustrates that a support handle may not be necessarily needed or used for a fastening operation, even though such a support handle is still useful for handling and manipulating the fastener dispenser magazines described herein.

The fastener dispenser magazine <NUM> can support and retain a plurality of fasteners <NUM> for dispensing each fastener from the fastener dispenser magazine <NUM>. The fastener dispenser magazine <NUM> can comprise a dispensing system that comprises a retention device <NUM> (<FIG>) and a presentation slot <NUM> for presenting a lead fastener 406a to be engaged by a tool bit <NUM> of a fastening tool <NUM> (<FIG>). Thus, the retention device <NUM> applies a sufficient force to retain the lead fastener 406a, but is compliant enough to allow the lead fastener 406a to be slid along the fastener dispenser magazine <NUM> and to overcome the retention device <NUM> to be positioned for engaging with a structure <NUM>, and for dispensing the lead fastener 406a, as further detailed below. Therefore, the dispensing system provides an individual with the ability to engage and move a lead fastener away from a plurality of fasteners to a dispensing position, which provides the advantage of fastening the lead fastener to a structure away from the remaining, still retained fasteners for purposes of providing sufficient clearance of the remaining, still retained fasteners from the structure (e.g., hardware, chassis, circuit board, frame, etc.).

The presentation slot <NUM> can be formed on the other, opposing side of the fastener dispenser magazine <NUM> from that of the retention slot <NUM>, and can extend along the presentation section <NUM>. Thus, the presentation slot <NUM> and the retention slot <NUM> are in open or fluid communication with each other, and extend to and through to a dispensing tip <NUM> of the fastener dispenser magazine <NUM>.

The presentation section <NUM> can comprise a proximal linear portion <NUM> that extends to a curved profile portion <NUM>, and that extends to a distal linear portion <NUM> (<FIG>). Thus, a portion of the presentation section <NUM> extends transverse relative to the retention section <NUM>, such that the retention slot <NUM> and the presentation slot <NUM> are somewhat curved proximate the curved profile portion <NUM>, similarly as discussed above. This allows the lead fastener 406a to be moved from a presentation position P5, and then slid along the retention slot <NUM> into the fastener ejection portion <NUM> to a dispensing position P6. Similarly as described regarding <FIG>, an individual can grasp the support handle <NUM> with one hand, and then with the other hand can grasp the fastening tool <NUM> and extend the tool bit <NUM> through an engagement opening portion <NUM> of the presentation slot <NUM> to engage the lead fastener 406a. Here, the lead fastener 406a is in the presentation position P5, as retained by the retention device <NUM>. Then, the individual can apply a force laterally away from the other fasteners <NUM> to overcome the compression or friction force applied by the retention device <NUM>, thereby releasing the lead fastener 406a from the retention device <NUM>. Being free from the retention device <NUM>, the user can freely slide the lead fastener 406a through the retention slot <NUM> and along the presentation section <NUM>, down into the fastener ejection portion <NUM>, and to the dispensing position P6 shown in <FIG> and <FIG>. Once in the P6 position shown in <FIG>, the individual may actuate the fastening tool <NUM> to fasten the lead fastener 406a into the structure <NUM>, thereby dispensing the lead fastener 406a from the fastener dispenser magazine <NUM>.

The fastener ejection portion <NUM> can extend outwardly from the presentation section <NUM> proximate the dispensing tip <NUM>. Thus, the fastener ejection portion <NUM> can be supported about the dispensing end <NUM>, and can be configured to hold in-place or retain the lead fastener 406a while being engaged with (i.e., fastened to) the structure <NUM>. This configuration is useful in applications where the structure that receives the fastener 406a may be difficult to reach, such as because of a cavity or counterbore <NUM> (<FIG>), or because of surrounding components that may make it difficult for the individual to fasten the lead fastener to a structure.

With particular reference to <FIG> and <FIG>, the fastener ejection portion <NUM> can comprise an ejection opening <NUM> in communication with the retention slot <NUM>, the ejection opening <NUM> being defined by first and second side walls 409a and 409b that are formed somewhat as flanges from the dispensing tip <NUM>. The first and second side walls 409a and 409b can be operable to position and support the lead fastener 406a while being fastened to the structure <NUM>. The presentation slot <NUM> comprises a distal stop portion <NUM> that terminates above or relative to the ejection opening <NUM>. Thus, the presentation slot <NUM> is not open or exposed at the dispensing end <NUM> (as compared to the presentation slot <NUM> that is open or exposed laterally from the dispensing tip <NUM> in <FIG> and <FIG>). The distal stop portion <NUM> can function to position the lead fastener 406a along the retention slot <NUM> in a position to be inserted into the fastener ejection portion <NUM>. Furthermore, the presentation slot <NUM> can comprise a flared region <NUM> at its end proximate to or about the distal stop portion <NUM> that provides clearance for the tool <NUM>, or a bit attached thereto, to pass through as it remains engaged with the lead fastener 406a while the lead fastener 406a is being moved into and is within the fastener ejection portion <NUM>.

The first and second side walls 409a and 409b can be formed laterally on either side of the retention slot <NUM>, and can be supported about the bottom of the fastener dispenser magazine <NUM> in a cantilevered manner, such that the first and second side walls 409a and 409b can deflect, being made of compliant material. The first and second side walls 409a and 409b can define a distal retention opening <NUM> sized to permit passage of the threaded shaft of the lead fastener 406a. The first and second side walls 409a and 409b can each comprise respective curved or radial surfaces 415a and 415b that cooperate to grip and retain the head of the lead fastener 406a once moved into the dispensing position P6 (<FIG>). In one aspect, the radial surfaces 415a and 415b can each comprise a raised portion 417a and 417b that reduces the diameter or area defined by the ejection opening <NUM> to grip and retain the head of the lead fastener 406a. This can properly align the lead fastener 406a and reduce or eliminate any "slop" of the lead fastener 406a within the fastener ejection portion <NUM> when being prepared for fastening. Detent portions 419a and 419b can be formed at the ends of the raised portions 417a and 417b to further temporarily retain the head of the lead fastener 406a. Therefore, such as in the case with a threaded fastener, upon actuating the fastening tool <NUM> to rotate the lead fastener 406a, the threaded shaft will begin engaging with threads in the structure <NUM>, which causes a downward movement and force about the lead fastener 406a, which causes the first and second side walls 409a and 409b to slightly deflect outwardly so that the head can pass over the detent portions 419a and 419b to be ejected out of the fastener ejection portion <NUM>. Once the fastener 406a releases from the fastener ejection portion <NUM>, the side walls 409a and 409b return to their initial position ready to receive another fastener.

Accordingly, the lead fastener 406a can be ejected or dispensed from the bottom of the fastener dispenser magazine <NUM> (rather than from an end as with the fastener dispenser magazines <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM> discussed above) through the fastener ejection portion <NUM> in a direction orthogonal relative to the path taken by the lead fastener 406a in the retention slot <NUM> as it is caused to move within the presentation section <NUM> to the dispensing tip <NUM>. The fastener ejection portion <NUM> can extend downwardly from a lower or bottom side of the fastener dispenser magazine <NUM>, so that the fastener ejection portion <NUM> can be positioned into the cavity or counterbore <NUM>, such as illustrated in <FIG>, while the lead fastener 406a is being fully fastened to the structure <NUM>. Therefore, the lead fastener 406a remains supported by the fastener dispenser magazine <NUM> during complete fastening of the fastener 406a to the structure <NUM>, which helps with more precise alignment and threading into tight areas. Compare this to the fastener dispenser magazine <NUM> that requires removal of the fastener dispenser magazine <NUM> away from the lead fastener 106a before the lead fastener 106a can be fully threaded into the structure.

Note that a tunnel section <NUM> (<FIG>) can be sized slightly larger in diameter than the head of the lead fastener to be dispensed, and can be relatively short as shown, or relatively long, such as two inches or more. In such configuration where the tunnel section <NUM> is relatively long (e.g., <NUM> inches), the fastener dispenser magazine can be used to install fasteners into difficult to reach areas.

In one example, a fastener ejection portion (e.g., like <NUM>) can be incorporated with the straight or linear fastener dispenser magazine <NUM> in <FIG>. Thus, the fastener ejection portion in such an example can be useful because it may eliminate the need to have a curved or bent fastener dispenser magazine, because the fastener ejection portion can extend outwardly away from the lower surface of the fastener dispenser magazine to provide clearance of the other fasteners from the structure.

As should be appreciated from the various examples described regarding <FIG>, the fastener dispenser tools can each be comprises of only two parts: <NUM>) the handle, and <NUM>) the fastener dispenser magazine. This provides the advantage of dramatically reducing FOD because there are less parts (i.e., only <NUM> parts) that can be lost or broken or dropped in a particular manufacturing facility.

<FIG> illustrates a fastener dispenser tool <NUM> that includes a handle <NUM> and a fastener dispenser magazine <NUM> that are formed integral with each other, which provides one single bodied tool. Thus, the fastener dispenser magazine <NUM> is not removable, because it is formed as part of the handle <NUM> as one unitary product. This further promotes the advantage of reducing possible FOD because the fastener dispenser tool <NUM> is formed of a single piece of material, and is devoid of other parts or components that are attached, coupled, or otherwise secured to the tool. It should be appreciated from the view of <FIG> that the fastener dispenser tool <NUM> can have many of the same or similar features as the fastener dispenser tool <NUM> of <FIG> (or of the other examples of <FIG>), such as retention device <NUM>. The fasteners <NUM> can be loaded into a retention slot <NUM> from the front end of the fastener dispenser magazine <NUM>. In this way, a rear retention device (e.g., <NUM>) may not be needed because the handle <NUM> acts to stop the fasteners inside of the fastener dispenser tool <NUM>.

Various types of fasteners can be retained and dispensed from the fastener dispenser magazines exemplified herein. For instance, fasteners such as pop rivets, plastic push plugs (e.g., used in auto manufacturing), and standard hex nuts could be used with the fastener dispenser magazines discussed herein. It will be appreciated that slight modification of the retention slot (and/or the presentation slot) may be required to properly retain such fasteners. In the case of pop rivets, the heads of the pop rivets can be partially (or wholly) retained in a retention slot (e.g., <NUM>), such that the stems of the pop rivets extend upwardly through a presentation slot (e.g., <NUM>). It should be appreciated that the retention slot may need to be much taller than the retention slot <NUM> shown in <FIG> to accommodate the stems of the pop rivets (where the stems extend upwardly), as well as designing the retention slot to accommodate the flanges that extend around the heads of the pop rivets (e.g., similar to the washer/head configuration described regarding <FIG>). Thus, a single handed rivet gun can be used with this "pop rivet" fastener dispenser magazine example to dispense a lead pop rivet therefrom, similarly as described in the examples discussed herein. That is, a lead pop rivet can be partially inserted into a hole of a structure while retained at the end of the fastener dispenser magazine (e.g., like shown in <FIG>), and then the lead pop rivet can be dispensed from the fastener dispenser magazine for final installation into the structure (e.g., like shown in <FIG>). In a backwards or reverse example, the pop rivets heads can be retained in a retention slot, while the stems extend downwardly through a shaft pass-through portion (e.g., <NUM>). In this way, the fastener dispenser magazine can be held by one hand to load a single rivet at a time into a rivet gun held in the other hand. In this configuration, the fastener dispenser magazine would not be used to align the pop rivet into a hole, but it would be used to retain the pop rivets for purposes of eliminating possible FOD of lost pop rivets, and also for purposes of reducing the amount of time to count, inspect, and dispense the pop rivets from a single tool/magazine.

The fastener dispenser magazines described herein can be mounted (or inserted into a mounted retention sleeve) vertically at a work station so that an operator can quickly load a hand tool (e.g., a rivet gun) without having to handle individual rivets by hand. This orientation can provide a less bulky tool than would otherwise be used.

The fastener dispense magazines described herein can be used to retain and dispense other fasteners or fastener parts, such as nuts (e.g., standard hex nuts, rivnuts, and other types of nuts). In such configuration, the user can pull a nut from a presentation position (e.g., P1) to a dispensing position (e.g., P2) by hand, or with a pick if the nut is too small. The fastener dispense magazine can be used as a kitting device such that the nuts are merely pulled from the fastener dispense magazine and then used in a fastening operation Alternatively, a lead nut can be positioned at the end of the fastener dispense magazine, and then the nut can be initially threadably engaged to a bolt by rotating the fastener dispense magazine to engage threads of the nut to the bolt. Then, the fastener dispense magazine can be pulled away from the nut to dispense the nut, and then the nut can be fully fastened to the bolt by a hand tool.

The fastener dispense magazines described herein can have a lateral curved profile (e.g., in addition to the upward curved profile discussed above). That is, with reference to the top view of <FIG>, the presentation section <NUM> can curve to the right (or left), which can provide additional clearance for particular support structures that receive a lead fastener.

In another example, the retention devices described above (e.g., <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) can instead be a "rocker style" tab that includes an external lever that, when depressed, advances a single lead fastener at a time. In this manner, a hand tool may not be need to advance the lead fastener from the presentation position (e.g.P1) to the dispensing position (e.g., P2). This can be advantageous for fasteners, such as small nuts and "driverless" fasteners such as the automotive push style, because they may not have a feature for which a hand tool may engage. Such rocker style tab can be "dynamic" and have user interface (via lever/ button or other mechanism) that advances a single fastener without the use of an external tool.

As should be appreciated from the above description, the fastener dispenser magazines exemplified herein can reduce or eliminate FOD risk, because the individual can view/count the exact amount of fasteners remaining in the magazine during and after a manufacturing process. Moreover, installation time for a high amount of fasteners is dramatically reduced because all or some of the fasteners needed for installation of a particular assembly operation can be held captive by the fastener dispenser magazine. Thus, the individual does not need to repeatedly retrieve or grab individual fasteners for fastening, because the individual can merely hold and use the fastener, dispenser magazine between various fastening operations.

As should be appreciated from the various examples discussed above, any type of fasteners (and washers) can be installed and used with a particular fastener dispenser magazine. This can be achieved by designing the retention slot to be sized to retain any particular sized heads and threaded shafts of a set of particularly sized and shaped fasteners.

Claim 1:
A fastener dispenser tool (<NUM>, <NUM>), comprising:
a retention section (<NUM>, <NUM>);
a presentation section (<NUM>, <NUM>) extending from the retention section;
a retention slot (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) extending along the retention section and the presentation section, the retention slot operable to retain a plurality of fasteners (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>);
a presentation slot (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) extending along the presentation section and at least part way into the retention section and in fluid communication with the retention slot, the presentation slot sized to receive a tool bit (<NUM>) engageable with a lead fastener (106a, 406a) of the plurality of fasteners;
a fastener ejection portion (<NUM>) that extends outwardly from the presentation section for supporting and ejecting the lead fastener (406a) orthogonally, the fastener ejection portion comprising first and second side walls (409a, 409b) that define an ejection opening (<NUM>) in fluid communication with the retention slot, the first and second side walls operable to grip and position the lead fastener while being threadably engaged to a structure;
wherein the retention slot and presentation slot are configured, such that the plurality of fasteners are slidable through the retention slot along the presentation section to facilitate dispensing of the lead fastener from the presentation section.