GB2508644A

GB2508644A - Automated orientation and fastening of screws and nails

Info

Publication number: GB2508644A
Application number: GB201222049A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Perrin Knight
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2012-12-07
Filing date: 2012-12-07
Publication date: 2014-06-11
Also published as: WO2014086870A1

Abstract

Fasteners 12 having a head 14 and a shaft 16 such as nails, screws and bolts are transferred in a head first orientation by a guide from a reservoir 18 where they are loose to an arranged dispenser 20. The guide may be a channel with an opening wider than the heads diameter and an outlet narrower than the heads diameter. The depth of the channel sidewalls can be less than the heads diameter. The reservoir may be shorter than the fasteners length. They are then transferred to the end of a drive shaft 38. This can be done by a housing 44 spring mounted on the drive shaft including a movable arm 42. The housing may reciprocate when actuated but be biased to the extended state.

Description

An apparatus for arranging and feeding fastenings

Field of the Invention

This invention relates to an apparatus for arranging and feeding fastenings. In particular, the present invention relates to an apparatus for arranging and feeding fastenings, such as screws, nails, or bolts. The invention primarily finds utility in the field of portable mechanical fastening tools. Also disclosed are tools comprising the apparatus, uses thereof, and methods for arranging and feeding fastenings.

Background to the Invention

Fastenings, such as "self drilling wafer head screws" or "self tapping wafer head screws", primarily find utility in the dry-lining trade for fixing materials used to construct metal frame ceilings and stud wall partitions. Metal frame ceilings and stud wall partitions are made from lightweight metal, which is constructed into frameworks. Currently, fastenings must be individually placed adjacent a screw drive by a user for driving the fastening into a material for fixing.

Nails, such as "clout nails", are widely used multi-purpose fastenings. Currently, nails must be manually placed where required by a user prior to striking with a hammer.

Devices currently available for arranging and feeding fastenings are stationary machines, which are used on production lines and in manufacturing situations. The mechanics of these devices are too complex and bulky to be applied directly to a portable tool. Also, they are not capable of functioning when faced with the erratic movement of a portable tool. Portable tools, such as power screwdrivers or hammers, must be individually fed fastenings manually by the user each time a fastening is being applied.

Summary of the Invention

According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided an apparatus for arranging fastenings having a head and a shaft; the apparatus comprising: (a) a reservoir for retaining loose fastenings; (b) a repository for retaining arranged fastenings; and (c) a guide for transferring loose fastenings from the reservoir to the repository; wherein the guide is arranged to orientate the or each fastening such that the head of each fastening is transferred to the repository before the shaft of the fastening.

Optionally, the repository is shaped and dimensioned to receive and retain arranged fastenings.

Further optionally, the repository is shaped and dimensioned to receive fastenings oriented such that the head of each fastening is transferred to the repository before the shaft of the fastening. Still further optionally, the repository is shaped and dimensioned to retain fastenings oriented whereby the head of each fastening is transferred to the repository before the shaft of the fastening.

Optionally, the repository comprises a cylindrical body. Further optionally, the repository comprises a hollow cylindrical body. Still further optionally, the repository comprises a hollow cylindrical body having open ends.

Optionally, the repository further comprises a stop to retain the or each arranged fastening.

Optionally, the repository is in communication with the reservoir.

Optionally, the guide comprises at least one channel having opposing sidewalls.

Optionally, the at least one channel is arranged to receive the head of a fastening. Further optionally, the at least one channel is arranged to receive the terminal edge of the head of the fastening.

Optionally or additionally, the opposing sidewalls of the at least one channel are arranged such that the head of the fastening cannot pass along the channel. Further optionally or additionally, the opposing sidewalls of the at least one channel are arranged such that the terminal edge of the head of the fastening can pass along the channel.

Optionally, the opposing sidewalls of the at least one channel are spaced apart to define an inlet at a first end and an outlet at a second end.

Optionally, the opposing sidewalls of the at least one channel are spaced apart to define an inlet having a dimension greater than the diameter of the head of the fastening.

Optionally or additionally, the opposing sidewalls of the at least one channel are spaced apart to define an outlet having a dimension less than the diameter of the head of the fastening.

Optionally, the inlet is located adjacent the reservoir.

Optionally, the outlet is located adjacent the repository. Further optionally, the outlet is located adjacent an open end of the repository.

Optionally, the reservoir is in communication with the inlet. Optionally or additionally, the inlet is in communication with the outlet. Optionally or additionally, the outlet is in communication with the repository, optionally an open end of the repository.

Optionally, the reservoir is in communication with the guide to transfer loose fastenings from the reservoir to the repository. Further optionally, the reservoir is in communication with the guide to transfer the head of each loose fastening from the reservoir to the repository. Still further optionally, the reservoir is in communication with the guide to transfer the head of each loose fastening from the reservoir to the repository, before the shaft of the fastening.

Optionally, the reservoir is in communication with the guide, such that the guide can receive the terminal edge of the head of each loose fastening from the reservoir. Further optionally, the reservoir is in communication with the guide, such that the guide can receive the terminal edge of the head of each loose fastening from the reservoir, and transfer the fastening to the repository. Still further optionally, the reservoir is in communication with the guide to transfer the terminal edge of the head of each loose fastening from the reservoir to the repository, before the shaft of the fastening.

Optionally, the depth of the guide is less than the radius of the head of the fastening. Optionally, the depth of each opposing sidewall of the channel is less than the radius of the head of the fastening.

Optionally, the depth of the reservoir is less than the longitudinal length of the fastening. Optionally, the reservoir has a base and a top, and the space defined between the base and the top is less than the longitudinal length of the fastening.

Optionally, the guide is located adjacent to the top of the reservoir. Further optionally, the guide is integral with the top of the reservoir. Still further optionally, the guide is integral with the top of the reservoir, wherein each opposing sidewall of the channel extends from the top of the reservoir. Still further optionally, the guide is integral with the top of the reservoir, wherein each opposing sidewall of the channel extends substantially perpendicularly from the top of the reservoir. Still further optionally, the guide is integral with the top of the reservoir, wherein each opposing sidewall of the channel extends substantially perpendicularly from the top of the reservoir and is oriented toward the base of the reservoir.

Optionally, the guide is arranged to allow the passage of the shaft of the fastening from the reservoir to the repository. Further optionally, the guide is arranged to allow the passage of the shaft of the fastening from the reservoir to the repository, after the head of the fastening. Further optionally, the guide is spaced apart from the base of the reservoir to allow the passage of the shaft of the fastening from the reservoir to the repository.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a device for feeding arranged fastenings to a drive shaft; the device comprising means for transferring a fastening from a repository to the drive shaft.

Optionally, the transferring means comprises a moveable arm arranged to reversibly retain a fastening. Further optionally, the transferring means comprises a rotatable arm arranged to reversibly retain a fastening.

Optionally, the transferring means comprises a moveable arm arranged to receive a fastening from the repository. Further optionally, the transferring means comprises a rotatable arm arranged to receive a fastening from the repository.

Optionally, the transferring means comprises a moveable arm arranged to transfer the fastening to the drive shaft. Further optionally, the transferring means comprises a rotatable arm arranged to transfer the fastening to the drive shaft.

Optionally, the transferring means comprises a moveable arm arranged to transfer the fastening to the terminal end of the drive shaft. Further optionally, the transferring means comprises a rotatable arm arranged to transfer the fastening to the terminal end of the drive shaft.

Optionally, the transferring means comprises a moveable arm arranged to transfer the fastening from a repository to the terminal end of the drive shaft. Further optionally, the transferring means comprises a rotatable arm arranged to transfer the fastening from a repository to the terminal end of the drive shaft.

Optionally, the device comprises a housing mountable to the drive shaft.

Optionally, the housing is displaceable between a retracted state and an extended state.

Optionally, the housing is biased to the extended state.

Optionally or additionally, the housing comprises at least two components. Further optionally or additionally, the housing comprises two components.

Optionally, the at least two components are arranged for relative reciprocal movement. Further optionally, the at least two components are arranged for relative slidable reciprocal movement.

Optionally, the at least two components are operable between a retracted state and an extended state.

Optionally, the at least two components are biased to the extended state.

Optionally, a first component comprises the means for transferring a fastening from a repository to the drive shaft. Further optionally, the first component comprises a moveable arm arranged to reversibly retain a fastening. Still further optionally, the first component comprises a rotatable arm arranged to reversibly retain a fastening.

Optionally, the first component comprises actuating means to actuate the transferring means.

Further optionally, the first component comprises actuating means to move the arm arranged to reversibly retain a fastening. Still further optionally, the first component comprises actuating means to rotate the arm arranged to reversibly retain a fastening.

Optionally, the first component comprises actuating means to actuate the transferring means in response to a movement of the first component relative to a subsequent component. Further optionally, the first component comprises actuating means to move the arm arranged to reversibly retain a fastening in response to a movement of the first component relative to a subsequent component. Still further optionally, the first component comprises actuating means to rotate the arm arranged to reversibly retain a fastening in response to a movement of the first component relative to a subsequent component. Still further optionally, the first component comprises actuating means to rotate the arm arranged to reversibly retain a fastening in response to a movement of the first component relative to a second component.

Optionally, the actuating means comprise a gear. Further optionally, the actuating means comprise a set of teeth.

Optionally, the transferring means comprise a gear. Further optionally, the moveable arm arranged to reversibly retain a fastening comprises a gear. Still further optionally, the rotatable arm arranged to reversibly retain a fastening comprises a gear.

Optionally, the transferring means comprise a gear arranged to move in response to the actuating means. Further optionally, the moveable arm arranged to reversibly retain a fastening comprises a gear arranged to move in response to the actuating means. Still further optionally, the rotatable arm arranged to reversibly retain a fastening comprises a gear arranged to rotate in response to the actuating means.

Optionally, the actuating means comprise a rack and the transferring means comprise a corresponding pinion.

Optionally, in the retracted state, the transferring means are adjacent the repository.

Optionally, displacement of the housing between the retracted state and the extended state actuates the transferring means.

Optionally, in the extended state, the transferring means are adjacent the drive shaft.

Optionally, the housing is arranged to allow the passage of the drive shaft therethrough.

Optionally, the housing is operable between a first position and a second position relative to the drive shaft. Optionally, in the first position, the housing occludes the driveshaft. Optionally or additionally, in the second position, the driveshaft projects from the housing.

Optionally, the repository comprises a stop to retain the fastenings. Further optionally, the repository comprises a reversible stop to reversibly retain the fastenings. Still further optionally, the repository comprises a reversible stop to sequentially release the fastenings from the repository.

Optionally, the stop, optionally the reversible stop, is actuated in response to a movement of the first component relative to a subsequent component.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a screwdriver comprising an apparatus for arranging fastenings having a head and a shaft according to a first aspect of the present invention.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a screwdriver comprising a device for feeding arranged fastenings to a drive shaft according to a second aspect of the present invention.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a screwdriver comprising an apparatus for arranging fastenings having a head and a shaft according to a first aspect of the present invention; and a device for feeding arranged fastenings to a drive shaft according to a second aspect of the present invention.

Optionally, the screwdriver is a motor-driven screwdriver.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for arranging fastenings having a head and a shaft; the method comprising transferring loose fastenings from a reservoir for retaining loose fastenings to a repository for retaining arranged fastenings; and orientating the fastening such that the head of each fastening is transferred to the repository before the shaft of the fastening.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for feeding arranged fastenings to a drive shaft; the method comprising transferring a fastening from a repository to the drive shaft.

Brief Description of the Drawings

Embodiments of the invention will now be described by way of non-limiting example and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure IA is a plan view of an apparatus according to a first embodiment of a first aspect of the present invention; Figure lB is a side view of the apparatus of Figure 1A; Figure IC is a perspective view of an apparatus according to a second embodiment of a first aspect of the present invention; Figure 2A is a side view of a device according to a second aspect of the present invention; Figure 2B is a sectional schematic diagram of the device of Figure 2A, depicted in the extended state in the first position; Figure 2C is a sectional schematic diagram of the device of Figure 2A, depicted in the retracted state in the second position; Figure 2D is a sectional schematic diagram of the device of Figure 2A, depicted being displaced toward the extended state in the first position; Figure 2E is a sectional schematic diagram of the device of Figure 2A, depicted in the extended state in the first position; Figure 3 is side view of a screwdriver according to a fifth aspect of the present invention; Figure 4A is a section side view of the apparatus of Figure 1A; Figure 4B is a section side view of the apparatus of Figure 1A; and Figure 5 is a perspective view of a screwdriver according to a further aspect of the present invention.

Detailed Description of the Invention

Referring to Figures 1 and 4, there is shown an apparatus 10 for arranging fastenings 12 having a head 14 and a shaft 16 according to a first aspect of the present invention. In this specific embodiment, the apparatus 10 comprises: a reservoir 18 for retaining loose fastenings; a repository for retaining arranged fastenings; and a guide 22 for transferring loose fastenings from the reservoir 18 to the repository 20; wherein the guide 22 is arranged to orientate the or each fastening 12 such that the head 14 of each fastening 12 is transferred to the repository 20 before the shaft 16 of the fastening 12.

The repository 20 can be shaped and dimensioned to receive and retain arranged fastenings. The repository 20 can be shaped and dimensioned to receive fastenings 12 from the reservoir 18 such that the head 14 of each fastening 12 is transferred to the repository 20 before the shaft 16 of the fastening 12. The repository 20 can be shaped and dimensioned to retain the arranged fastenings 12, whereby each of which fastenings 12 is oriented such that the head 14 of each fastening 12 is oriented in the same direction as an adjacent fastening 12. Such an orientation is achieved as a result of the head 14 of the fastening 12 having been transferred to the repository 20 before the shaft 16 of the fastening 12. In a specific embodiment, the repository 20 comprises a cylindrical body, which can be a hollow cylindrical body, for example, a hollow cylindrical body having open ends. In certain embodiments, the repository 20 can further comprise a stop to retain the arranged fastenings 12. The repository 20 is in communication with the reservoir 18.

The guide 22 can comprise at least one channel having opposing sidewalls 24. The at least one channel can be arranged to receive the head 14 of a fastening 12. In a specific embodiment, the at least one channel is arranged to receive the terminal edge 26 of the head 14 of the fastening 12. The opposing sidewalls 24 of the at least one channel are arranged such that the head 14 of the fastening 12 cannot pass along the channel, when the shaft 16 of the fastening 12 is oriented co-axially with the longitudinal axis of the channel. For example, when the longitudinal axis of the shaft 16 of the fastening 12 is coaxial with the longitudinal axis of the channel defined between the opposing sidewalls 24; the head 14 of the fastening 12 is impeded from passing along the channel and is retained in or at the reservoir 18. The opposing sidewalls 24 of the at least one channel can be arranged such that the terminal edge 26 of the head 14 of the fastening 12 can pass along the channel. For example, when the longitudinal axis of the shaft 16 of the fastening 12 is not coaxial with, for example is oriented substantially perpendicular to, the longitudinal axis of the channel defined between the opposing sidewalls 24; the terminal edge 26 of the head 14 of the fastening 12 can pass along the channel from the reservoir 18. The fastening 12 may pass laterally along the channel, whereby the terminal edge 26 of the head 14 of the fastening 12 is received within the channel, between the opposing sidewalls 24, and the fastening passes by rolling or sliding movement along the channel.

The opposing sidewalls 24 of the at least one channel are spaced apart to define an inlet 28 at a first end and an outlet 30 at a second end. The inlet 28 can have a dimension, for example, greater than the diameter of the head 14 of the fastening 12. The outlet 30 can have a dimension, for example, less than the diameter of the head of the fastening. Although it will be appreciated that the inlet 28 and/or the outlet 30 can have any dimension, such that the head 14 of the fastening 12 cannot pass along the channel, when the shaft 16 of the fastening 12 is oriented co-axially with the longitudinal axis of the channel, and such that the terminal edge 26 of the head 14 of the fastening 12 can pass along the channel.

The inlet 28 can be located adjacent the reservoir 18 to receive loose fastenings from the reservoir 18. The outlet 30 can be located adjacent the repository 20, optionally an open end of the repository 20, to deliver fastenings 12 to the repository 20. Accordingly, the reservoir 18 can be in communication with the inlet 28; the inlet 28 can be in communication with the outlet 30; and the outlet 30 can be in communication with the repository 20, optionally an open end of the repository 20. In certain embodiments, the reservoir 18 is in communication with the guide 22 to transfer loose fastenings from the reservoir 18 to the repository 20. The reservoir 18 can be in communication with the guide 22 to transfer the head 14 of each loose fastening 12 from the reservoir 18 to the repository 20, before the shaft l6of the fastening 12. For example, the reservoir 18 is in communication with the guide 22, such that the guide 22 can receive the terminal edge 26 of the head 14 of each loose fastening 12 from the reservoir 18, and transfer the fastening 12 to the repository 20, before the shaft 16 of the fastening 12 is transferred to the repository.

In certain enibodiments, the depth of the guide 22 is less than the radius of the head 14 of the fastening 12. For example, the depth of each opposing sidewall 24 of the channel can be less than the radius of the head 14 of the fastening 12.

The depth of the reservoir 18 can be less than the longitudinal length of the fastening 12. The reservoir can have a base 32 and a top 34, and the space defined between the base 32 and the top 34 can be less than the longitudinal length of the fastening 12.

The guide 22 can be located adjacent the top 34 of the reservoir 18. In some embodiments, the guide 22 is integral with the reservoir 18, optionally the top 34 of the reservoir 18. For example, the guide 22 can be integral with the top 34 of the reservoir, wherein each opposing sidewall 24 of the channel extends, optionally substantially perpendicularly, from the top 34 of the reservoir 18, and toward the base 32 of the reservoir 18.

The guide 22 can be arranged to allow the passage of the shaft 16 of the fastening 12 from the reservoir 18 to the repository 20, optionally to allow the passage of the shaft 16 from the reservoir 18 to the repository 20 after the head 14. For example, the guide 22 can be spaced apart from the base 32 of the reservoir 18, thereby defining a space through which the shaft 16 of the fastening 12 can pass from the reservoir 18 to the repository 20.

The invention can sort fastenings 12 most effectively when the proportions of the fastening 12 are within certain parameters. The diameter of the head 14 of the fastening 12 is, optimally, at least three times as wide as the diameter of the shaft 16 of the fastening 12. The shaft 16 of the fastening 12 is, optimally, longer than the diameter of the head 14 of the fastening 12, optionally, fastenings 12 having a shaft 16 up to three times longer than the diameter of the head 14 of the fastening 12. The longer the shaft 16 of the fastening 12 is in relation to the diameter of the head 14 of the fastening 12, the more movement is required to sort fastenings 12. For example, it is envisaged that the present invention is, optimally, arranged for use in sorting fastenings 12 having a head 14, which is approximately 10mm in diameter, and a shaft 16, which is approximately 13mm long and approximately 3mm in cross-sectional diameter. Generally, the dimension between the guide 22 and the base 32 of the reservoir 18 is greater than the diameter of the head 14 of the fastening 12 but less than the length of shaft 16 of the fastening 12. For example, it is envisaged that the present invention optimally comprises a dimension between the guide 22 and the base 32 of the reservoir 18 of approximately 11 mm. Because this dimension is less than the envisaged length of the fastening 12, the dimension ensures that the fastening 12 is retained on its side when it passes through the guide 22.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the at least one channel is arranged as a plurality of contiguous channels, wherein the sidewalls 24 of the plurality of channels are arranged radially to define an inlet 28 of greater dimension than the outlet 30 with respect to each channel.

The sidewalls 24 of each channel, optimally, project from the reservoir 18 a dimension of approximately 4mm. Accordingly, the dimension between the terminal edge of each sidewall 24 and the base 32 of the reservoir 18 is approximately 7mm. Preferably, this dimension is sufficient to permit passage of the shaft 16 of the fastening 12 under or about the sidewalls 24 of the channel, when the fastening 12 is oriented on its side. The invention thereby ensures that the only way the fastenings 12 can reach the repository 20 is with the head 14 of the fastening 12 entering the repository 20 before the shaft 16 of the fastening 12. The arrangement of the guide 22 and reservoir 18 result in the fastening 12 transferring from the reservoir 18 to the repository 20 oriented on its side, and with the head 14 of the fastening 12 generally perpendicular to the base 32 of the reservoir 18 and being transferred between any two sidewalls 24 of a channel of the guide 22 toward the repository 20. When the fastenings reach the repository 20, the fastening 12 enters the repository 20 headfirst e.g. with the head 14 of the fastening 12 entering before the shaft 16. If a fastening 12 approaches the repository 20 with the shaft 16 first, either the head 14 of the fastening 12 is impeded by the sidewalls 24 of a channel of the guide 22; thereby impeding the head 14 of the fastening 12 entering the repository 20 before the shaft 16; or the guide 22 orients the head 14 of the fastening 12, such that the head 14 is directed to the repository 20.

Figure 2A shows a device 36 for feeding arranged fastenings 12 to a drive shaft 38 according to a second aspect of the present invention. The device 36 comprises means for transferring 40 a fastening 12 from a repository 20 to the drive shaft 38. The transferring means 40 can comprise a moveable arm 42 arranged to reversibly retain a fastening 12, for example, the transferring means can comprise a rotatable arm 42 arranged to reversibly retain a fastening 12. The rotatable arm 42 can be free to rotate about a fixed point, optionally a fixed point located at or adjacent the transferring means 40. The moveable arm 42, for example the rotatable arm 42, can comprise means to reversibly retain a fastening 12. The retaining means can be any means that allow the moveable arm 42, for example the rotatable arm 42, to transiently retain the fastening 12; and may comprise, for example, an adhesive or magnetic means. The transferring means 40 can comprise a moveable arm 42, for example a rotatable arm 42, arranged to receive a fastening 12 from the repository 20. The moveable arm 42, optionally the rotatable arm 42, can be arranged to transfer the fastening 12 to the drive shaft 38, optionally to the terminal end of the drive shaft 38. The drive shaft 38, optionally the terminal end of the driveshaft 38 can comprise means to reversibly retain a fastening 12, which retaining means can be any means that allow the driveshaft 38, for example the terminal end of the driveshaft 38, to transiently retain the fastening 12; and may comprise, for example, an adhesive or magnetic means. In a specific embodiment, the transferring means 40 comprises a moveable arm 42, optionally a rotatable arm 42, arranged to transfer the fastening 12 from a repository 20 to the terminal end of the drive shaft 38.

The device 36 comprises a housing 44 mountable to the drive shaft 38. The housing can be displaceable between a retracted state and an extended state; and is optionally biased to the extended state. In certain embodiments, the housing 44 can comprise at least two components, for example, the housing 44 can comprise two components 46, 48. The at least two components 46, 48 can be arranged for relative reciprocal movement, for example, arranged for relative slidable reciprocal movement. In such an embodiment, the at least two components 46, 48 are operable between a retracted state and an extended state and, in specific embodiments, the at least two components 46, 48 are biased to the extended state. The components 46, 48 can be biased using any known mechanism known to the skilled person, for example, a resilient element, such as a spring.

In a specific embodiment, a first component 46 can comprise the means for transferring 40 a fastening 12 from a repository 20 to the drive shaft 38. For example, the first component 46 comprises a moveable arm 42, such as a rotatable arm 42, arranged to reversibly retain a fastening 12.

The first component 46 may comprise actuating means 50 to actuate the transferring means 40. The first component 46 may comprise actuating means 50 to move, optionally rotate, the arm 42 arranged to reversibly retain a fastening 12. Ina preferred embodiment, the first component 46 comprises actuating means 50 to actuate the transferring means 40 in response to a movement of the first component 46 relative to a subsequent component 48. As an example, the first component 46 can comprise actuating means 50 to move, optionally rotate, the arm 42 arranged to reversibly retain a fastening 12 in response to a movement of the first component 46 relative to a second component 48.

The actuating means 50 can comprise a gear. In an embodiment, the actuating means 50 can comprise a set of teeth.

The transferring means 40 can comprise a gear. In a specific embodiment, the moveable arm 42, optionally the rotatable arm 42, arranged to reversibly retain a fastening 12 comprises a gear. The transferring means 40 can comprise a gear arranged to move in response to the actuating means 50. For example, the moveable arm 42, optionally the rotatable arm 42, can comprise a gear arranged to move in response to the actuating means 50.

In a specific embodiment, the actuating means 50 comprise a rack 52 and the transferring means 40 comprise a corresponding pinion 54. The actuating means 50 comprise a rack 52 and the transferring means 40 comprise a corresponding pinion 54, which together form a gear.

In the mode of operation of the device 36, in the retracted state, the transferring means 40 are adjacent the repository 20; and, in the extended state, the transferring means 40 are adjacent the drive shaft 38.

Displacement of the housing 44 between the retracted state and the extended state actuates the transferring means 40. For example, in an embodiment, wherein the housing 44 can comprise two components 46, 48; the two components 46, 48 can be arranged for relative slidable reciprocal movement, such that the two components 46, 48 are operable between a retracted state and an extended state and, in specific embodiments, the at least two components 46, 48 are biased to the extended state. Displacement of the two components 46, 48 between the retracted state and the extended state actuates the transferring means 40.

Displacement of the housing 44; for example the two components 46, 48; from the extended state to the retracted state; causes movement of the actuating means 50. In a specific embodiment, displacement of the two components 46, 48 from the extended state to the retracted state causes movement of the rack 52 of the actuating means 50 of the second component 48 relative to the pinion 54 of the transferring means 40 of the first component. The relative movement of the pinion 54 to the rack 52, which together form a gear; causes the transferring means 40, for example the moveable/rotatable arm 42, to move or rotate; such that, the transferring means 40 are adjacent the repository 20.

When adjacent the repository 20, the transferring means 40 can reversibly retain a fastening from the repository 20. The repository 20 can comprise a stop 56 to retain the fastenings 12, optionally a reversible stop 56 to reversibly retain the fastenings 12, to allow sequential release of the fastenings 12 from the repository 20. The stop 56, optionally the reversible stop 56, can be actuated in response to a movement of the first component 46 relative to a subsequent component 48.

Displacement of the housing 44; for example the two components 46, 48; from the retracted state to the extended state; causes movement of the actuating means 50. In a specific embodiment, displacement of the two components 46, 48 from the retracted state to the extended state causes movement of the rack 52 of the actuating means 50 of the second component 48 relative to the pinion 54 of the transferring means 40 of the first component. The relative movement of the pinion 54 to the rack 52, which together form a gear; causes the transferring means 40, for example the moveable/rotatable arm 42, to move or rotate; such that, the transferring means 40 are adjacent the driveshaft 38.

The housing 44 can be arranged to allow the passage of the drive shaft 38 there through.

In an embodiment, the housing 44 can be operable between a first position and a second position relative to the drive shaft 38. In the first position, the housing 44 occludes the driveshaft 38. In the second position, the driveshaft 38 projects from the housing 44. The housing 44 can be biased to the first position. Accordingly, the transferring means 40 reversibly retains the fastening 12 adjacent the driveshaft 38 and the driveshaft 38 can pass through the housing 44. Operation of the housing 44 from the first position to the second position, allows the driveshaft 38 to pass through the housing 44, such that the fastening 12 is reversibly retained at the terminal end of the driveshaft 38 to permit the fastening to be driven by the driveshaft 38.

Retaining means, for example a magnet, hold the fastening 12 in the correct position for it to be driven by the driveshaft 38. The retaining means can comprise an aperture to allow the driveshaft 38 to pass through the housing 44 and drive fastenings 12. The retaining means is a component of the housing 44, which can slide independently of the driveshaft 38 when the user presses the driveshaft 38 against the work piece. To drive a fastening 12, the user first presses the trigger on the screwdriver 58 to power the screwdriver 58 and rotate the driveshaft 38. The user can then press the housing 44 against the work piece where the fastening is needed. As the housing 44 moves backward from the first position to the second position, the housing 44 eases the fastening onto the driveshaft 38, which can come through the housing 44. The user can continue to apply pressure and the fastening is driven.

The housing 44 is forced backwards as part of the process of driving in the previous fastening 12.

The housing 44 moves independently of the actuating means 50. As the housing 44 is forced backwards from the extended position to the retracted position, the pinion 54, which is part of the transferring means 40 engage with the rack 52 of the actuating means 50 causing the transferring means 40 to rotate back to adjacent the repository 20. The transferring means 40 then actuates the stop 56 out of the way, thereby releasing the first fastening 12 in line from the repository 20. The first fastening in line is retained at the transferring means 40. At this stage, the previous fastening 12 has been driven and the user pulls the tool 58 away from the work piece. The housing 44 is biased to the extended state, causing the housing 44 to return to the first position and the transferring means to return to adjacent the driveshaft 38. In doing so, the transferring means 40, along with the fastening reversibly retained thereby, return back to the terminal end of the driveshaft 38, where the fastening 12 is retained, for example, by retaining means, such as a magnet This fastening 12 is now loaded and ready to be driven.

In a third aspect of the invention, there is provided a screwdriver 58 comprising an apparatus 10 for arranging fastenings 12 having a head 14 and a shaft 16 according to a first aspect of the present invention.

The present invention also relates to a screwdriver 58 comprising a device 36 for feeding arranged fastenings 12 to a drive shaft 38.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, there is provided a screwdriver 58 comprising an apparatus 10 for arranging fastenings 12 having a head 14 and a shaft 16 according to a first aspect of the present invention; and a device 36 for feeding arranged fastenings 12 to a drive shaft 38 according to a second aspect of the present invention. The screwdriver 58 can optionally be a motor-driven screwdriver.

Also disclosed is a method for arranging fastenings 12 having a head 14 and a shaft 16; the method comprising transferring loose fastenings 12 from a reservoir 18 for retaining loose fastenings to a repository 20 for retaining arranged fastenings; and orientating the fastening 12 such that the head 14 of each fastening 12 is transferred to the repository 20 before the shaft 16 of the fastening 12.

There is also provided a method for feeding arranged fastenings 12 to a drive shaft 38; the method comprising transferring a fastening 12 from a repository 20 to the drive shaft 38.

Accordingly, the present invention finds utility in sorting and arranging fastenings 12 such as wide-head fixings, including, but not limited to, wafer-head screws, wide-head screws, upholstery tacks, carpet tacks, clout nails, rivets, drawing pins, and bolts. The invention can be fitted to a range of mechanical fastening tools 58 that are used to drive fixings, for example, a screw gun for screws, a nail gun for nails, or a hammer for tacks.

The present invention can thereby automatically sort loose fastenings 12 retained in a reservoir 18, and in which the fastenings 12 are unsorted and misaligned. The invention utilises movement of the fastenings 12 and a guide 22 to transfer fastenings 12 to a repository 20 for retaining arranged fastenings 12. The guide 22 ensures that the fastenings 12, which are transferred to the repository 20, are oriented in the same direction and so stack up the same way, with the head 14 of each fastening 12 being transferred to the repository 20 before the shaft 16 of the fastening 12. It is desired that the fastenings 12 are oriented and stacked in the same direction within the repository 20 in order for any later feeding processes to be optimal. The movement of the fastenings 12 can be created using one or more of the following methods: (1) The natural movement of the user who is holding the tool 58, (2) the natural vibration created by the tool 58 during the fixing process and/or, (3) an automated movement, which can be created by an electric motor or mechanically as an auxiliary movement of the fixing process of the tool 58.

The present invention was primarily developed for use on a portable tool 58. The invention automatically sorts fastenings 12 from a mixed up state in a holding container 18, and feeds the fastenings 12 to where they are required to be driven in, at the tip 38 of the tool 58 to which the invention is applied. The arranging and feeding process occurs automatically without any input required from the user. This invention can be used be used to arrange and feed screws, nails, bolts, drawing pins and any other headed fastenings 12.

Claims

Claims 1. An apparatus for arranging fastenings having a head and a shaft; the apparatus comprising: (a) a reservoir for retaining loose fastenings; (b) a repository for retaining arranged fastenings; and (c) a guide for transferring loose fastenings from the reservoir to the repository; wherein the guide is arranged to orientate the or each fastening such that the head of each fastening is transferred to the repository before the shaft of the fastening.
2. An apparatus according to Claim 1, wherein the repository is shaped and dimensioned to retain fastenings oriented whereby the head of each fastening is transferred to the repository before the shaft of the fastening.
3. An apparatus according to Claim 1 or 2, wherein the repository is in communication with the reservoir.
4. An apparatus according to any one of Claims 1-3, wherein the guide comprises at least one channel having opposing sidewalls.
5. An apparatus according to Claim 4, wherein the at least one channel is arranged to receive the terminal edge of the head of a fastening.
6. An apparatus according to Claim 4 or 5, wherein the opposing sidewalls of the at least one channel are arranged such that the head of a fastening cannot pass along the channel.
7. An apparatus according to any one of Claims 4-6, wherein the opposing sidewalls of the at least one channel are arranged such that a terminal edge of a head of a fastening can pass along the or each channel.
8. An apparatus according to any one of Claims 4-7, wherein the opposing sidewalls of the at least one channel are spaced apart to define an inlet at a first end and an outlet at a second end.
9. An apparatus according to Claim 8, wherein the opposing sidewalls of the at least one channel are spaced apart to define an inlet having a dimension greater than a diameter of a head of a fastening.
10. An apparatus according to Claim 8 or 9, wherein the opposing sidewalls of the at least one channel are spaced apart to define an outlet having a dimension less than a diameter of a head of a fastening.
11. An apparatus according to any one of Claims 8-10, wherein the reservoir is in communication with the inlet, the inlet is in communication with the outlet, and the outlet is in communication with the repository.
12. An apparatus according to any one of Claims 4-11, wherein the depth of each opposing sidewall of the or each channel is less than a radius of a head of a fastening.
13. An apparatus according to any one of Claims 4-12, wherein the reservoir has a base and a top, and the space defined between the base and the top is less than the longitudinal length ofafastening.
14. A device for feeding arranged fastenings to a drive shaft; the device comprising means for transferring a fastening from a repository to the drive shaft.
15. A device according to Claim 14, wherein the transferring means comprises a moveable arm arranged to reversibly retain a fastening.
16. A device according to Claim 14 or 15, wherein the device comprises a housing mountable to the drive shaft.
17. A device according to Claim 16, wherein the housing is displaceable between a retracted state and an extended state.
18. A device according to Claim 16 or 17, wherein the housing is biased to the extended state.
19. A device according to any one of Claims 16-18, wherein the housing comprises at least two components.
20. A device according to Claim 19, wherein the at least two components are arranged for relative reciprocal movement.
21. A device according to Claim 19 or 20, wherein the at least two components are operable between a retracted state and an extended state.
22. A device according to Claim 21, wherein the at least two components are biased to the extended state.
23. A device according to any one of Claims 19-22, wherein the first component comprises the means for transferring a fastening from a repository to the drive shaft.
24. A device according to any one of Claims 19-23, wherein the first component comprises actuating means to actuate the transferring means in response to a movement of the first component relative to a subsequent component.
25. A device according to Claim 24, wherein displacement of the housing between the retracted state and the extended state actuates the transferring means.
26. A screwdriver comprising an apparatus according to any one of Claims 1-13.
27. A screwdriver comprising a device according to any one of Claims 14-25.
28. A screwdriver comprising an apparatus according to any one of Claims 1-13 and a device according to any one of Claims 14-25.
29. A method for arranging fastenings having a head and a shaft; the method comprising transferring loose fastenings from a reservoir for retaining loose fastenings to a repository for retaining arranged fastenings; and orientating the fastening such that the head of each fastening is transferred to the repository before the shaft of the fastening.
30. A method for feeding arranged fastenings to a drive shaft; the method comprising transferring a fastening from a repository to the drive shaft.