Rivet band connection

Abstract

A rivet tape connecting clip (302) comprising an elongated body provided with a plurality of protrusions (310) extending from one side of the elongated body, wherein the protrusions are provided with a laterally protruding lip. The invention also relates to different devices and methods for connecting rivet tapes.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a method and apparatus for joining two support rivets (e.g., self-piercing rivets) together. Such a band may be referred to as a rivet band. Background Technology

[0002] Self-piercing riveting (SPR) is a point-joining technique in which a self-piercing rivet is driven through a press into a layered workpiece supported by a die. The die is shaped such that the workpiece material undergoes plastic deformation as the rivet is driven into the workpiece. This flow of workpiece material causes the annular tip of the rivet to open outwards and is kept sealed by the upsetting ring of the workpiece material. The open tip of the rivet interlocks with the upsetting ring of the workpiece, preventing movement of the rivet or separation of the workpiece layers.

[0003] Self-piercing riveting is used in factories, such as during vehicle assembly. Rivet insertion tools and dies can be mounted on robotic arms that move between different rivet insertion points on a workpiece, such as a car body. The robotic arm can be one of many in a factory, distributed, for example, along a production line. When the robotic arm is moving, operators are not permitted to enter the environment of the robotic arm (which can be referred to as the controlled environment) for safety reasons. If the supply of self-piercing rivets for the rivet insertion tool on one robotic arm is about to run out, the operation of that rivet insertion tool needs to be paused until the rivet supply is replenished. Replenishing rivets requires all robotic arms and riveting tools in the controlled environment to stop operating to allow an operator to safely access the riveting tool that needs replenishment. This is disadvantageous because it will halt the operation of the production line.

[0004] The rivet supply for a rivet insertion tool can be provided as a spool of rivet strip, along which self-piercing rivets are distributed. The rivet strip spool is wound onto a drum and fed from the drum through the nose of the self-piercing riveting tool. The riveting tool pushes the rivets out of the rivet strip and into the workpiece. In environments such as production lines, where many riveting tools are mounted on robotic arms and fed using rivet strips, rivet strips can be replenished simultaneously for several different tools. This is advantageous because it avoids interrupting production line operations each time rivets are supplied to a riveting tool that has run out of rivets, thus reducing lost production time. However, a drawback of this method is that some rivet strip spools are only partially used when changing, resulting in significant rivet waste.

[0005] It is desirable to provide methods and apparatus related to connecting strips to overcome the drawbacks associated with the prior art. Summary of the Invention

[0006] According to one aspect of the invention, a rivet strap connector is provided, comprising an elongated body having a plurality of protrusions extending from one side of the elongated body, wherein the protrusions are provided with laterally projecting lips.

[0007] Rivet band connectors are used to join rivet bands together, with laterally projecting lips providing a secure engagement between the protrusions and the rivet bands. Rivet band connectors are advantageous because they allow remaining rivet band pieces to be joined together and then used for rivet insertion. Rivet band connectors can also be used for the automatic connection of rivet band reels.

[0008] Laterally protruding lip margins may be located at the distal end of the protrusion.

[0009] The elongated body may be provided with two inner protrusions positioned toward the center of the elongated body and two outer protrusions positioned toward the ends of the elongated body.

[0010] The interval between the outer protrusion and the corresponding inner protrusion can be twice the interval between the inner protrusions.

[0011] The clip may include a pair of protrusions spaced apart by a distance smaller than or a multiple of the distance between other protrusions.

[0012] The difference in spacing corresponds to the stretch that occurs between a pair of protrusions when a clip is used.

[0013] The difference in spacing can be as high as approximately 2 mm.

[0014] The difference in spacing can be approximately 1 millimeter.

[0015] The clip may have four protrusions. The spacing between a pair of inner protrusions may be smaller than the spacing between the other protrusions. The spacing may be approximately 1 mm.

[0016] The clip may have six protrusions. The spacing between a pair of inner protrusions may be less than twice the spacing between the other protrusions. The spacing may be as small as 1 mm.

[0017] The slender body may have four or more protrusions.

[0018] The protrusion can be configured with a raised lower surface.

[0019] The upper edge of each lip can extend inward to meet the interior of the protrusion.

[0020] The elongated body may include an interior and an exterior disposed on either side of the interior. The exterior may be thicker than the interior.

[0021] The clip may have a face at each end of a slender body. Each face tapers outward from the end of the clip.

[0022] The protrusion can be roughly cylindrical.

[0023] According to a second aspect of the invention, a rivet-band connector clip is provided, comprising an elongated body having four or more generally cylindrical protrusions extending from one side of the elongated body.

[0024] According to a third aspect of the invention, a rivet band connecting clip according to a first or second aspect of the invention is provided, the rivet band connecting clip engaging in first and second rivet bands, wherein the protrusion of the rivet band connecting clip passes through through holes in the first and second rivet bands.

[0025] The raised lip can be wider than the hole, thus firmly holding the rivet band on the rivet band connector.

[0026] Adhesive can be provided between the rivet band connecting clip and the first and second rivet bands.

[0027] The spacing between the protrusions of the rivet band connecting clips allows for maintaining a regular spacing between the sprocket holes on the first and second rivet bands.

[0028] Only by stretching the rivet belt clamp during use can the regular spacing between the sprocket holes be maintained.

[0029] The protrusion of the rivet band connecting clip can pass through the hole in the first band but not through the last hole in the first band. The protrusion of the rivet band connecting clip can pass through the hole in the second band, including the first hole in the second band.

[0030] One end of the second band can have a non-square cut. A non-square cut can also be called a non-linear cut.

[0031] One end of the second strip can have three-sided cuts. One end of the second strip can have a semi-circular cut, an arc cut, or some other non-linear cuts.

[0032] One end of the first belt may have a square cut.

[0033] The platform behind the last hole in the first zone can be shorter than the platform in front of the first hole in the second zone.

[0034] According to a fourth aspect of the invention, a rivet band fixing device is provided, comprising: a housing defining an opening for receiving a rivet band during use; resiliently biased fingers mounted on an actuator; and a controller configured to operate the actuator to move the resiliently biased fingers in and out of the opening defined by the housing.

[0035] When it is necessary to secure the rivet band, the fourth aspect of the invention allows the resiliently biased fingers to contact the rivet band. The rivet band can then be pulled past the resiliently biased fingers until the resiliently biased fingers enter a hole in the rivet band.

[0036] The actuator may include a sleeve, and the fingers may be at least partially retracted into the sleeve and elastically biased out of the sleeve.

[0037] The elastic bias can be provided by a spring. The spring can be located inside the sleeve and can engage with a finger.

[0038] The upper end of the sleeve may include sidewalls that are spaced apart from each other in a direction transverse to the direction of travel of the rivet band.

[0039] The device may also include a sensor configured to detect that a resiliently biased finger has passed through a hole in the rivet band.

[0040] The upper end of the elastically biased finger can be rounded.

[0041] The device may also include a rivet sensor configured to detect rivets passing through the sensor's channel.

[0042] The device may also include a control system configured to operate the actuator to move the finger toward the rivet band, such that the finger is biased toward the rivet band when the rivet sensor provides an output indicating that the rivet band without rivets has passed through the sensor.

[0043] The control system can be configured to monitor an output signal from a sensor that indicates that the finger has passed through a hole in the strip.

[0044] The distal end of the housing may include: a first side portion configured to support one edge of the rivet band; a second side portion configured to support the opposite edge of the rivet band; and a channel located between the sides, the channel being configured to receive an unsupported central portion of the rivet band.

[0045] According to a fifth aspect of the invention, a rivet band cutting device is provided, comprising a pair of jaws and a blade connected to an actuator, a gap being provided between the jaws, the gap being open at one end, the actuator being configured to move the blade across the gap to cut the rivet band, wherein a first portion of the gap on a first side of the jaws is wider than a second portion of the gap on the opposite side of the jaws. The first portion of the gap can be sized to accommodate the rivet band, and the second portion of the gap can be sized to receive the distal end of a rivet band securing device.

[0046] The rivet band cutting device advantageously allows the rivet band to be cut along the rivet band in a tightly controlled position.

[0047] The first part of the gap may be wider at the outer end of the gap than at the inner end.

[0048] The first part of the gap can gradually narrow outward from the outer end of the gap.

[0049] The second part of the gap may be wider at the outer end of the gap than at the inner end.

[0050] The second part of the gap may have a distal end with an outwardly tapering side.

[0051] The rivet-cutting device may also include a ridge and groove arrangement configured to guide the blade as it is moved across the gap by the actuator.

[0052] The grippers of the cutting device can be formed as blocks. The blocks can be connected to the support via elastic connectors that allow the blocks to move relative to the support but bias the blocks to a balanced position relative to the support.

[0053] A slot can be provided in the bracket, with one end open to accommodate the rivet band. The outer end of the slot may have an outwardly inclined surface.

[0054] According to a sixth aspect of the invention, a rivet band connecting device is provided, comprising a rivet band and a clamp holding block, a pressure block and an actuator, the actuator being configured to move the rivet band, the clamp holding block and the pressure block together, wherein the lowermost surface of the pressure block is provided with at least two grooves.

[0055] The rivet band connecting device advantageously allows the rivet band to be pressed against the rivet band retainer, the protrusion of which penetrates into a groove in the pressure block.

[0056] The strap and clip retainer block may include two protrusions that define a channel between them.

[0057] One or more fingers can protrude upward from the channel to receive holes in the rivet band.

[0058] The actuator can be connected to the pressure block and can be configured to move the pressure block toward the rivet band and the clamp holding block.

[0059] An additional actuator can be attached to the rivet band and the clamp retainer block, and can be configured to move the rivet band and the clamp retainer block toward the pressure block.

[0060] The rivet band and clamp retainer can be connected to an additional actuator via a resilient connector that allows the rivet band and clamp retainer to move relative to the additional actuator, but biases the rivet band and clamp retainer to a balanced position relative to the additional actuator.

[0061] The rivet band retaining block may include a step configured to engage with the step of the rivet band fixing device.

[0062] The pressure block can be elongated, and at least two grooves can be provided at the ends of the elongated pressure block.

[0063] According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, an apparatus is provided comprising a rivet band fixing device of the fourth aspect of the present invention and a rivet band connecting device of the sixth aspect of the present invention, wherein the rivet band fixing device includes one or more openings or protrusions, and the rivet band connecting device includes one or more protrusions or openings, said one or more openings and protrusions being configured to engage with each other when the rivet band fixing device and the rivet band connecting device are placed together.

[0064] Rivet band fixing devices and rivet band connecting devices are advantageous because they allow rivet bands to be precisely positioned for attachment to another rivet band.

[0065] The distal end of the rivet band fixing device may have first and second sides spaced apart by a channel. The rivet band connecting device may have first and second protruding portions separated by a channel. The channel may be configured to align when the rivet band fixing device and the rivet band connecting device are placed together.

[0066] The channel of the rivet strap fixing device can have a width that is substantially the same as that of the channel of the rivet strap connecting device.

[0067] The pressure block can be configured as a channel for entering the rivet band fixing device and the rivet band connecting device.

[0068] According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, an apparatus is provided comprising a rivet band fixing device of the fourth aspect of the present invention and a rivet band cutting device of the fifth aspect of the present invention, wherein the housing of the rivet band fixing device has a distal end, and wherein the first portion of the gap between the jaws of the rivet band cutting device is sized to receive the distal end of the rivet band fixing device.

[0069] Because the rivet band fixing device can be housed in the jaws of the rivet band cutting device, this allows for precise determination of the position where the rivet band cutting device cuts the rivet band.

[0070] According to a ninth aspect of the invention, a method is provided comprising joining first and second rivet bands together using a rivet band clamp of the first aspect, and then inserting rivets from the first and second bands into a workpiece using a riveting tool. The workpiece may constitute part of a vehicle.

[0071] According to a tenth aspect of the invention, a method for securing a rivet band is provided, comprising using an actuator to move a resiliently biased finger to contact the rivet band, and then passing the rivet band over the resiliently biased finger until the finger encounters a hole in the rivet band and is biased into said hole.

[0072] This method advantageously allows the rivet band to be secured in the desired location in a simple and direct manner.

[0073] The sensor can provide an output signal when the finger enters the hole in the rivet band.

[0074] According to an eleventh aspect of the present invention, a method for cutting rivet strip is provided, the method comprising using a rivet strip fixing device to fix the rivet strip according to the method of the tenth aspect, engaging the distal end of the rivet strip fixing device to the jaws of a rivet strip cutting device such that the rivet strip passes through the jaws of the rivet strip cutting device, and then moving a blade across the gap defined by the jaws.

[0075] According to a twelfth aspect of the present invention, a method for connecting rivet bands is provided, the method comprising holding a first rivet band and a clamp using a rivet band connecting device of a sixth aspect of the present invention, holding a second rivet band using a rivet band fixing device of a second aspect, and pressing the second rivet band onto the clamp using a pressure block of the rivet band connecting device, such that the second rivet band engages with the clamp.

[0076] The method may also include inserting rivets from the first or second band into the workpiece using a riveting tool. The workpiece may form part of a vehicle.

[0077] According to a thirteenth aspect of the invention, a rivet band cutting device is provided, comprising a band support structure, a band fixing device, a blade, and an actuator, wherein the actuator is configured to move the blade and the band support device relative to each other to cut the rivet band, and wherein the band fixing device is configured to fix the hole of the rivet band at a fixed interval from the blade.

[0078] The fixing device may include a stud received in a hole with a support structure.

[0079] The stud can protrude from the block, which is configured to extend over the rivet band.

[0080] The second stud can protrude from different sides of the block, and the second stud and the second stud have different diameters.

[0081] The supporting structure may be provided with a second hole, the diameter of which corresponds to the diameter of the stud and the second stud.

[0082] The blade can be fixed, and the actuator can be configured to move the support structure toward the blade.

[0083] The blade may include three blade portions. The first blade portion is configured to form a square cut in the central portion of the second rivet band. The second and third blade portions are configured to form angled cut portions on either side of the central portion. The blade may be curved. The blade may be semi-circular or arc-shaped.

[0084] The rivet band cutting device may also include a second blade and a second band fixing device, wherein the second band fixing device is configured to fix the hole of the second rivet band at a fixed interval from the additional blade.

[0085] The support structure may include a plate with openings.

[0086] The edge of the opening with the support structure can be aligned with the edges of the first and second blades, so that the relative movement between the blades and the support structure cuts into the rivet band in a guillotine-like motion.

[0087] Features of different aspects of the present invention can be combined together.

[0088] A rivet band secured together using clips according to one aspect of the invention can be used to insert rivets into a workpiece. The workpiece may form part of a vehicle. Attached Figure Description

[0089] Embodiments of the invention will now be described by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying schematic diagrams, wherein: Figure 1A -D describes a clamp used to join two rivet bands together; Figure 2A -C depicts the clip fixed to the first rivet band; Figure 3A -C depicts a clip that is fixed to the first rivet band and fixed to the second rivet band; Figure 4A -D depicts clips and straps according to alternative embodiments of the present invention; Figure 5A -C depicts a clip and strap according to another alternative embodiment of the invention; Figure 6 The document describes a rivet insertion tool, a rivet band, a rivet band fixing device, and a rivet band reel; Figure 7A and 7B The nose of the rivet insertion tool, as well as the rivet band and clamp, are depicted. Figure 7C and 7D This is a perspective view of the nose; Figure 8A -D depicts the rivet band fixing device and the rivet; Figure 9A -C describes the rivet band cutting device; Figure 10 The rivet band fixing device, the rivet band cutting device, and the rivet band are described. Figure 11A -C describes the operation of the rivet band cutting device; Figure 12A -D describes a rivet band connecting device and a rivet band fixing device, a first and second rivet bands and a clip; Figure 13A -C describes the operation of the rivet-band connecting device; Figure 14A-C describes the operation of the rivet-band connecting device; and Figures 15-17 depict a rivet band cutting device according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention.

[0090] Figure 1 depicts a clip 2 used to join two rivet bands together. Clip 2 is in Figure 1A The perspective view shows that, in Figure 1B The middle is shown in the side view, in Figure 1C The first cross-section is shown in the middle and in Figure 1D The second cross-section is shown in the middle.

[0091] The clip 2 is elongated, comprising a central portion 4 and first and second side portions 6, 8 extending on either side of the central portion. The side portions 6, 8 are thicker than the central portion 4. The side portions 6, 8 may, for example, be approximately twice as thick as the central portion. The central portion 4 may, for example, have a thickness of approximately 0.3 mm, and the side portions 6, 8 may, for example, have a thickness of approximately 0.6 mm (measured at the thickest point of the side portion). The central portion 4 may be thin enough that it can pass under a switch in the nose of the rivet insertion tool without triggering the switch (as described further below). The thickness of the central portion 4 may not be sufficient to give the clip adequate tensile strength. The side portions 6, 8 provide additional tensile strength to the clip 2. This allows the clip 2 to be used to pull the rivet band through the rivet insertion tool without significant stretching of the clip (e.g., stretching small enough to maintain the desired spacing between the sprocket holes of the band connected by the clip).

[0092] Four protrusions 10a-d extend from the bottom surface 11 of the clip 2. The term "bottom surface" is used for convenience in describing the clip as shown and does not imply that the clip 2 must always have the orientation depicted in the figure. The protrusions 10a-d are generally cylindrical. Each protrusion 10 includes an inner part 12 and an outer part 14. The inner part 12 of each protrusion 10 is connected to the central portion 4 of the clip 2. The outer part 14 of each protrusion 10 is connected to the inner part 12 and includes a lip 16. Each protrusion includes a blind hole 15 that extends completely through the outer part 14 and partially into the inner part 12. The clip 2 can be formed by injection molding. The blind hole 15 in the protrusion 10 advantageously reduces the distortion of the protrusion that may be caused by the injection molding process. The blind hole 15 also provides a centering feature that can be used to align a hand tool that can be used to press the rivet band onto the protrusion 10 when the clip 2 is engaged in a band. The blind hole in the clip according to other embodiments provides the same advantage.

[0093] The lip 16 extends and laterally projects around the circumference of each protrusion 10, such that the diameter of the outer 14 is larger than the diameter of the inner 12. At the upper end of the lip 16, the diameter of the protrusion 10 forms an inward step. The outer edge of the step has a sharp angle 17 (e.g., an angle excluding a distinctly rounded corner). The sharp angle 17 helps to hold the rivet band on the clip, as further explained below. The bottom end of the outer 14 is convex and curved. The radius of curvature of the bottom end of the outer 14 increases toward the outer edge of the lip 16. The curved shape of the bottom end of the outer 14 helps the protrusion 10 enter the rivet band hole, as further explained below.

[0094] Each protrusion 10 may, for example, have a length of approximately 2.3 mm. The interior 12 of each protrusion may, for example, have a length of approximately 1.4 mm. The exterior 14 of each protrusion may, for example, have a length of approximately 0.7 mm. The blind hole 15 may, for example, have a depth of approximately 1.5 mm. The interior 12 of each protrusion may, for example, have a diameter of approximately 4.9 mm. The exterior 14 of each protrusion may, for example, have a diameter of approximately 5.5 mm. The blind hole 15 may, for example, have a diameter of approximately 2 mm. The bottom end of each exterior 14 may, for example, have a radius of curvature of approximately 4.1 mm. This radius of curvature may decrease to approximately 0.25 mm toward the outer edge of each lip 16.

[0095] The spacing between the first and second protrusions 10a and 10b, and between the third and fourth protrusions 10c and 10d, is twice the spacing between the second and third protrusions 10b and 10c. For example, the first and second protrusions 10a and 10b of the clip may be spaced 18 mm apart (measured between the center points of the protrusions). The second and third protrusions 10b and 10c may be spaced 9 mm apart. The third and fourth protrusions 10c and 10d may be spaced 18 mm apart.

[0096] The example dimensions above are illustrative and not limiting. These example dimensions may be used, for example, as for a clip intended for use with a rivet band that holds a rivet with a 5mm diameter shank. Dimensions may be scaled to accommodate rivets with smaller (e.g., 3mm) or larger diameter shanks.

[0097] Clip 2 is formed of an elastic material. Clip 2 can be formed of plastic, such as nylon 66. The elasticity of clip 2 allows the clip to bend when passing through the rivet insertion tool (described below).

[0098] The clamp has faces 18a, b at either end. Each face 18a, b tapers outward from the endpoints 20a, b of the clamp. This tapering construction reduces the risk of the clamp getting stuck in the rivet insertion tool and allows the switch to move smoothly across the surface of the clamp without being triggered (as further explained below).

[0099] Figure 2 shows the state after the clip 2 is fixed to one end of the rivet band 22. Figure 2A This is a perspective view from above. Figure 2B This is a cross-sectional view taken from one end. Figure 2C This is a cross-sectional view from one side. Protrusions 10a and 10b extend through holes 24a and 24c in the rivet band 22. The dimensions of holes 24a-c are suitable for holding self-piercing rivets. The diameters of the interiors 12a and 12b of protrusions 10a and 10b correspond to or are smaller than the diameters of holes 24a-c in the rivet band 22. The diameters of the lips 16a and 16b of protrusions 10a and 10b are larger than the diameters of holes 24a and 24c in the rivet band.

[0100] The rivet band is typically made of polypropylene and has some elasticity. When the rivet band 22 is pressed against the clamp 2, the holes 24a, c of the rivet band extend outward. The outward stretching of the rivet band 22 is facilitated by the protruding curved shape of the bottom surfaces of the protrusions 10a, b. The rivet band 22 extends over the lips 16a, b, and the protrusions 10a, b enter the holes 24a, c. Once the lips 16a, b pass through the holes 24a, c of the rivet band, the holes contract around the protrusions 10a, b. The lips 16a, b hold the rivet band 22 in place on the clamp 2. Because the upper end of each lip 16a, b is stepped rather than curved, it prevents the rivet band 22 from being easily pulled off the protrusions 10a, b. The sharp angles 17 at the edges of each lip 16a, b also help to prevent the rivet band 22 from being easily pulled off the protrusions 10a, b. Therefore, the lips 14a and 14b securely hold the rivet band 22 onto the clip 2.

[0101] The holes 24a and c of the rivet band are separated by an intermediate hole 24b, and protrusions 10a and b extend through the holes 24a and c. By engaging the first and third holes 24a and c, separated by the intermediate second hole 24b, the clip 2 provides a stronger engagement with the rivet band 22 compared to other cases. For example, the lateral movement of the clip (e.g., rotational movement within the plane of the rivet band) is more effectively restricted than when the clip 2 engages only the first and second holes 24a and b of the rivet band. In another example, when the rivet band and the clip bend inward (i.e., the innermost side of the clip 2 bends and the outermost side of the rivet band 22 bends), the ability of the clip to bend together with the rivet band without detaching from it is improved (compared to the case where the clip engages only the first and second holes 24a and b of the rivet band).

[0102] The clip may be provided with protrusions configured to extend through the first three holes 24a-c of the rivet band 22. However, the disadvantage of doing so is that more force is required to push the protrusions into the holes of the rivet band. By engaging with two spaced-apart holes of the rivet band 22, the clip 2 provides a stable engagement of the rivet band without requiring additional force for clip insertion.

[0103] Figure 3 depicts clip 2 still fixed to the first rivet band 22, but now also fixed to the second rivet band 26. Figure 3A This is a perspective view from above. Figure 3B This is a cross-sectional view taken from one end. Figure 3C This is a cross-sectional view taken from one side. The engagement of the clip 2 with the second rivet band 26 corresponds to the engagement of the clip with the first rivet band 22. That is, the protrusions 10c and d extend through the first and third holes 28a and c in the second rivet band 26. The first and third holes 28a and c, which are engaged by the clip 2, are separated by the intermediate second hole 28b.

[0104] from Figure 3B It can be seen that the spacing between the second and third protrusions 10b and c of the clip 2 corresponds to the spacing between adjacent holes 24a-c and 28a-c of the rivet bands 22 and 26. Therefore, when the rivet bands are joined together, they have a series of holes 24a-c and 28a-c, all spaced equidistant from adjacent holes. This is advantageous because the rivet bands 22 and 26 are provided with sprocket holes 27, and the spacing between adjacent sprocket holes is maintained during transitions between bands. The sprocket holes 27 allow the motor to pull the rivet bands 22 and 26 using a rivet insertion tool via a sprocket (as further explained below). Because the spacing between the sprocket holes 27 is maintained during transitions between rivet bands 22 and 26, the sprocket can pull the rivet bands without disengaging them during transitions between rivet bands.

[0105] In the illustrated embodiment, rivet bands 22 and 26 have been cut such that the ends 22a and 26a of the rivet bands contact each other. Each contacting end of the rivet bands 22a and 26a includes an opposing half-sprocket hole, such that the two ends together form a sprocket hole 27. In some embodiments, there may be a gap between the ends 22a and 26a of the rivet bands. The gap between the ends 22a and 26a of the rivet bands 22 and 26 is determined by the length of the rivet bands extending beyond the last hole 24c and 28c of each rivet band. This length may be long enough that the holes 24c and 28c are not weakened to the point that the rivet bands tear and the holes open. Even if the holes are opened, the tear will not propagate to another engaging hole because the clip 2 includes protrusions that engage with holes 24a and 28a spaced apart from the last holes of the rivet bands 24c and 28a, thus the rivet bands will remain fixed to the clip 2.

[0106] In some cases, it may be difficult to achieve the contact ends of the rivet bands 22a and 26a using opposing half-sprocket holes so that both ends together form the sprocket hole 27. In other embodiments, as further described below, a non-linear cut of the rivet band is used, which removes the sprocket hole at the intersection of the rivet bands.

[0107] Adhesive can be provided between clip 2 and rivet straps 22, 26.

[0108] In use, clip 2 is used to connect the first and second reels of rivet bands 22 and 26 together. Clip 2 can be used to attach rivet band 22 to a new rivet band 26 when all or most of the rivets are held by the already used rivet band 22. Traditionally, the reel of rivet band will include a portion of the rivet band without rivets at its innermost end, allowing all rivets on the rivet band to pass through a rivet insertion tool while the end of the rivet band remains fixed to the reel. When most of the rivets on the rivet band 22 have been used (e.g., detected by a sensor), the rivet band can be cut so that three (or more) empty holes are present at the end of the rivet band. A new reel of rivet band 26 can be provided on the reel. The new reel of rivet band 26 includes at least three holes at its end that do not accommodate rivets. The protrusions 10c and d of the clip 2 are pressed into the holes 28a-c at the end of the new rivet band 26, thereby securing the clip to the rivet band. When the new rivet band is located outside the operating environment of the rivet insertion tool (e.g., in a storage area), the clip 2 can be secured to the new rivet band 26, for example, manually.

[0109] The spool of the new rivet band 26 and the clip 2 fixed at its end are fed to the vicinity of the rivet insertion tool supplied by the rivet band 22, which is nearly empty of rivets (here referred to as the old rivet band 22). The end of the new rivet band 26 is pulled off the spool and extends to engage with the end of the old rivet band 22. The protrusions 10a, b of the clip 2 are pressed into the hollow at the end of the old rivet band 22, thereby securing the clip 2 to the old rivet band. In this way, the new rivet band 26 and the old rivet band 22 are joined together. This process can be performed manually. Alternatively, as further described below, the process can be performed automatically.

[0110] Optional uses of clip 2 include joining partially used lengths of rivet strip together. In a factory environment, it may be desirable to replace rivet strips used for multiple rivet insertion tools simultaneously to minimize production downtime. Doing so removes some partially used rivet strips. The clip according to an embodiment of the invention can be used to hold the partially used lengths of rivet strip together, while the rivet strip still holds the rivet. In this way, a full-length rivet strip can be assembled using two or more partially used lengths of rivet strip. The assembled full-length rivet strip can then be used for rivet insertion. The clip 2 is constructed such that it can pass unimpeded through the front end of the rivet insertion tool and the feed mechanism (described further below) and through a motor-driven sprocket (described below). Therefore, the presence of one or more clips partially along the rivet strip does not affect the availability of the rivet strip to the rivet insertion tool.

[0111] Clips according to other embodiments of the present invention will now be described. The clips can be used in the same manner as described above.

[0112] Figure 4 depicts a clip 302 according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention. Clip 302 in... Figure 4A The perspective view shows that, in Figure 4B The first cross-section is shown in the middle and in Figure 4C The second cross-section is shown in the middle. Figure 4C Also shown are the rivet straps 322 and 326 that have been fastened to the clip 302. Figure 4D This is a perspective view from below the rivet bands 322 and 326 connected to the clip 302.

[0113] Clip 302 is generally similar to clip 2 shown in Figures 1-3 because it includes four protrusions 310a-d extending from the bottom surface of the clip. Clip 302 is elongated and also includes a central portion 304 and first and second side portions 306, 308 that are thicker than the central portion. The central portion 304 may be thin enough to allow it to pass under a switch in the nose of the rivet insertion tool without triggering the switch (as described elsewhere in this document). The central portion 304 itself may not be strong enough to give the clip the required tensile strength. The side portions 306, 308 give the clip 302 additional tensile strength. Clip 302 may be strong enough that when the rivet band is pulled through the rivet insertion tool using the clip, the clip 302 stretches only about 1 mm (or less). The central portion 304 of the clip depicted in Figure 4 is thicker than the central portion 4 of the clip depicted in Figure 1. This increases the tensile strength of the clip 304. The thickness of the central portion 304 of the clip in Figure 4 can be, for example, about 0.5 mm (±0.05 mm). Typically, dimensions mentioned here and elsewhere in this document may have a tolerance of ±0.05 mm. Therefore, for example, the central portion 304 can have a thickness between 0.45 mm and 0.55 mm.

[0114] The four protrusions 310a-d of the clip 302 have the same overall shape as the protrusions of the clip shown in Figures 1-3. However, some dimensions of the protrusions are different. Each protrusion 310 includes an inner part 312 and an outer part 314. The inner part 312 of each protrusion 310 is connected to the central portion 304 of the clip 302. The outer part 314 of each protrusion is connected to the inner part 312 and includes a lip 316. Each protrusion includes a blind hole 315 that extends completely through the outer part 314 and partially enters the inner part 312. The clip 302 can be formed by injection molding. The blind hole 315 in the protrusion advantageously reduces deformation of the protrusion that may be caused by the injection molding process.

[0115] A lip 316 extends around the circumference of each protrusion 310 and projects laterally, such that the diameter of the outer 314 is larger than the diameter of the inner 312. The outer edge of the outer 314 has a pointed corner 317 (e.g., a corner without a distinct rounded corner). The pointed corner 317 helps retain the rivet band on the clip 302, as described elsewhere herein. The bottom end of the outer 314 is convex and curved. The bottom end may have a constant radius of curvature. The curved shape of the bottom end of the outer 314 helps the protrusions 310 enter the rivet band hole, as described elsewhere in this document.

[0116] Each protrusion 310 may, for example, have a length of approximately 1.8 mm. This is shorter than the protrusion 10 of the clip 2 shown in Figures 1-3. As mentioned above, the thickness of the central portion 304 is greater than the thickness of the central portion 4 in the embodiment shown in Figures 1-3. Therefore, the central portion 304 is thicker, but the protrusions 310 are shorter. The combination of the central portion 304 and the protrusions 310 provides the same total thickness as in the embodiment shown in Figures 1-3. In other words, the thickness measured from the middle of the central portion 304 to the bottom of the protrusion 310 is the same as the thickness in other embodiments of the clip. In the illustrated embodiment, this thickness is 2.3 mm. Typically, the thickness can be about 2 mm or greater. The thickness can be large enough to avoid excessive longitudinal stretching during use, but small enough to allow the clip to easily pass through the nose of the rivet insertion tool.

[0117] like Figure 4C As can be seen, the protrusions 310a-d are long enough to pass through the bands 322 and 326. Therefore, shortening the protrusions to allow the central portion 304 to thicken without increasing the overall thickness of the clip advantageously improves the tensile strength of the clip 302, while still allowing the clip to be securely fixed to the rivet bands 322 and 326.

[0118] The interior 312 of each protrusion may, for example, have a length of approximately 1.1 mm. The exterior 314 of each protrusion may, for example, have a length of approximately 0.7 mm. The blind hole 315 may, for example, have a length of approximately 1.0 mm. The interior 312 of each protrusion may, for example, have a diameter of approximately 5.0 mm. The exterior 314 of each protrusion may, for example, have a diameter of approximately 5.5 mm. The blind hole 315 may, for example, have a diameter of approximately 2 mm. The bottom end of each exterior 314 may, for example, have a radius of curvature of approximately 3.4 mm. The radius of curvature may be continuous to the outer edge of each lip 316 (unlike the embodiments depicted in Figures 1-3). The bottom surface may have a single radius of curvature, or may include a composite curve having more than one radius of curvature. Typically, for this and other embodiments, a convex curve is required at the bottom of the protrusion 310 so that when the protrusion is inserted into a hole in the rivet band, it causes the rivet band to slide on the protrusion.

[0119] Typically, each protrusion 310 may have a length of approximately 1.5 mm or more. This may be long enough to securely engage the rivet band. The same applies to other implementations of the clip.

[0120] In the embodiments shown in Figures 1-3, the spacing between the middle pair of protrusions 10b and 10c is half the spacing between these protrusions and the distal protrusions 10a and 10d. This is not the case in the embodiment shown in Figure 4. Instead, the spacing between each protrusion 310a-d is almost equal, although the spacing between the central pair of protrusions 310b, 310c is slightly smaller (e.g., about 5%). This slightly smaller spacing is to accommodate minor stretching of the clip 312, as further explained below.

[0121] As explained elsewhere in this document, ideally, the clamp allows the strip to pass through the rivet insertion tool feed without engaging with the tool's switch or becoming trapped within the tool. In the embodiments shown in Figures 1-3, this is achieved by engaging the outermost hole of the rivet strip. However, in the alternative embodiment of Figure 4, the outermost hole 324d of the connected strip 322 is not engaged by the clamp 302. Figure 4C The arrows indicate the direction of travel of rivet bands 322 and 326 into the rivet insertion tool. It can be seen that the outermost hole 324d, not engaged by clamp 302, is located at the tail end of band 322, which connects to the front end of another band 326. For ease of terminology, these rivet bands are referred to herein as the old rivet band 322 and the new rivet band 326. Because the old rivet band 322 is fed into the rivet insertion tool first, some bending of the band 322 from clamp 302 may occur as the band 322 passes through the nose of the rivet insertion tool (e.g., see...). Figure 6 This prevents the rivet band from getting stuck in the nose of the rivet insertion tool. If the first hole of the new rivet band 326 is not engaged by the clip 302, the rivet band will bend away from the clip as it enters the nose of the rivet insertion tool, causing the leading edge of the rivet band to get stuck in the nose. Recognizing that the final hole 324d of the old rivet band 322 does not need to be engaged by the clip 302 allows for some flexibility in the design of the clip, and this, in turn, is used to improve the performance of the clip, as explained below.

[0122] The interval between the first and second protrusions 310a and b is approximately 18 mm (measured between the centers of the protrusions). This corresponds to the interval between the holes 324 of the rivet bands 322 and 326 (measured between the centers of the holes). Similarly, the interval between the third and fourth protrusions 310c and d of the clip 302 is approximately 18 mm. The interval between the second and third protrusions 310b and c of the clip 302 is approximately 17 mm. During use of the clip 302, the force applied to the clip 310 when the rivet band is pulled through the rivet insertion tool causes some stretching of the clip 302. Due to this force, the middle portion of the clip 302 will stretch by approximately 1 mm. Therefore, in use, the interval between the second and third protrusions 310b and c is approximately 18 mm. This is the same as the interval between the first and second protrusions 310a and b and the third and fourth protrusions 310c and d. Therefore, in use, the sprocket holes 327 of the new and old bands 322 and 326 are accurately aligned with the sprocket of the rivet insertion tool.

[0123] Typically, a clip according to an embodiment of the invention may include a pair of protrusions spaced apart (or less than a multiple of the space between other protrusions). The difference in spacing corresponds to the stretching that occurs between the paired protrusions when the clip is used. The difference in spacing can, for example, be as high as about 2 mm. The difference in spacing may be about 1 mm.

[0124] Now for reference Figure 4D Describe in detail how rivet bands 322 and 326 are cut and engaged with clip 302. The direction of travel of the rivet bands is determined by... Figure 4D The arrows in the diagram indicate this. It can be seen that the old rivet band 322 has a single cut 349 transverse to the band. This can be called a square cut. However, the new rivet band 326 does not have a single cut transverse to the band. The new rivet band 326 has a three-sided cut. The three-sided cut includes a square portion 350, a first angled portion 351, and a second angled portion 352. The square portion 350 of the cut faces the center of the band 326, with angled portions 351 and 352 on both sides. Therefore, the 90° angle of the new rivet band 326 would not otherwise exist. The square portion 350 of the three-sided cut is transverse to the band. The angled portions 351 and 352 of the cut can be subtend at an angle of 20° or greater relative to the central portion 350, and can, for example, be subtend at an angle of 30° or greater relative to the central portion.

[0125] Providing angled portions 351 and 352 is advantageous because it reduces the likelihood that the corners of the rivet band will engage with the nose of the rivet insertion tool and become trapped within it. The larger the angle between the angled portions 351 and 352, the greater the risk of the rivet band becoming trapped in the nose of the rivet insertion tool. However, increasing the angle of the angled portions 351 and 352 reduces the amount of rivet band 326 around the third protrusion 310c of the clip 302. If too much material is to be reduced, the band 326 around the third protrusion 310c may tend to break when force is applied to the band 326 to pull it through the rivet insertion tool. Angles of 20° or greater have been found to advantageously reduce the likelihood of new rivet band 326 becoming trapped while still providing sufficient band strength. Angles of 30° or greater have been found to further reduce the likelihood of new rivet band 326 becoming trapped while still providing sufficient band strength. In the depicted embodiment, the angle is approximately 38°, which advantageously provides a good combination of reducing or eliminating rivet band entrapment while maintaining sufficient band strength.

[0126] The positions of the old belt 322 and the new belt 326 can be selected relative to the positions of the holes 324 in the belt to provide good belt strength and also accommodate the stretching of the clip 302 during use (e.g., stretching of about 1 mm). Referring first to the old belt 322, the old belt is not cut in the middle between the last hole 324d and the next opening. Instead, the cut is set upstream of the next sprocket hole. The area or platform 356 after the last hole 324d is reduced (compared to the case where the cut is equidistant between the holes in the belt). Conversely, the new belt 326 has a square portion 350 cut upstream of the midpoint between the first hole 324e and the previous hole (which does not exist once the cut has been made). This increases the area or platform 354 of the new belt 326 in front of the protrusion 310c. Generally, by cutting the new belt 326 upstream of the equidistant point between the holes 324, the strength of the new belt 326 exceeds and is higher than the strength would have if an equidistant cut were made. The angled portions 351 and 352 of the cut remove the portion of the new belt 326 that carries the sprocket hole 327 at the leading edge of the belt. Therefore, there is space at the location of the sprocket hole.

[0127] The additional platform 354 at the front end of the new belt 326 is provided at the cost of a platform lost from the trailing edge of the old belt 322. The narrow platform 356 at the end of the old belt 322 may be insufficient to prevent stretching when force is applied to the old belt 322 by the clamp 302 to pull it through the rivet insertion tool. Therefore, the protrusions 310a, b do not pass through the hole 324d, but through other holes. This prevents the tensile force from damaging the hole 324d at the distal end of the old belt 322. As mentioned above, because this is the trailing edge of the old belt, it will not get stuck in the nose of the rivet insertion tool.

[0128] The total length of the platform 354 before the new belt and the platform 356 after the old belt 322 can be less than the platform between adjacent holes 324 of either belt. For example, the combined platforms 354, 356 can be about 1 mm shorter (or more). This allows the new and old rivet belts 322, 326 to be joined together, with the spacing between the final hole 324d of the old belt and the first hole 324e of the new belt being about 1 mm smaller than the spacing between the holes of either belt. This advantageously accommodates a stretch of about 1 mm in the clamp 302 during operation. When this stretch occurs, the spacing between the sprocket holes 327 is as desired by the rivet insertion tool (e.g., a spacing of about 18 mm).

[0129] The portion of the clip in Figure 4 not described above, such as the tapered end, may be the same as or similar to the corresponding portion of the clips in Figures 1-3. Clip 302 is formed of an elastic material. Clip 302 may be formed of plastic, such as nylon 66.

[0130] Another embodiment of the clip is shown in Figure 5. Figure 5 depicts a clip 402 according to an alternative embodiment of the invention. Clip 402 in Figure 5A The first cross-section is shown together with rivet bands 422 and 426, and in Figure 5B The second cross-section is shown in the middle. Figure 5C This is a perspective view from below the rivet bands 422 and 426 connected to the clip 402.

[0131] The embodiments depicted in Figures 1-4 are configured as joining rivet bands that hold rivets with a shank diameter of 5 mm (which can be referred to as 5 mm rivets). The diameter of the holes in the rivet band is approximately 5 mm, and the dimensions of the protrusions 10a-d and 310a-d of the clips 2 and 302 shown in Figures 1-4 are correspondingly determined. These clips can be referred to as 5 mm clips. The embodiments depicted in Figure 5 are configured as joining rivet bands that hold rivets with a shank diameter of 3 mm (which can be referred to as 3 mm rivets). Clip 402 has protrusions 410a-f, which are correspondingly determined in size. These can be referred to as 3 mm clips. The rivet band can be referred to as a 3 mm rivet band.

[0132] Clip 402 is elongated, and the central portion 404 and the first and second side portions 406, 408 are identical to those depicted in FIG. 4. Protrusions 410a-f have the same length, the same blind hole length, etc. Protrusion 410 includes a laterally projecting lip 416. However, the interior 412 of each protrusion has a diameter of approximately 3 mm instead of approximately 5 mm, and the exterior 14 of each protrusion has a diameter of approximately 3.5 mm instead of approximately 5.5 mm. The radius of curvature at the bottom of the exterior 414 is increased to approximately 0.85. These changes in size and radius of curvature allow clip 414 to engage with rivet holes 424a-f, which have a diameter of approximately 3 mm.

[0133] Clip 412 has six protrusions 410a-f instead of four. This is to provide more engagement between clip 402 and the band, thereby reducing the risk of poor connection between the clip and the rivet band. If only two protrusions engage in the 3mm rivet band, a poor connection may occur because the protrusions are narrower and the band will tend to stretch around them. If a poor connection occurs and the band stretches in this way, the spacing between the sprocket holes of the band will increase and the band will jam at the sprocket of the rivet insertion tool. Using three protrusions engaged with the rivet band reduces the risk of this happening.

[0134] It was also noted above that for a 5mm clip, joining two protrusions with a rivet band is better than joining three protrusions with a rivet band because more force is required to engage three protrusions with the rivet band. However, in the case of a 3mm clip, the disadvantage of requiring more force to engage the clip and rivet band outweighs the advantage of avoiding poor connections.

[0135] Figure 5C A clip 402 is depicted engaging with both the old rivet band 422 and the new rivet band 426. (The above is a description of the engagement.) Figure 4D As described in the embodiment, the old strip 422 is cut with a single cut 449, while the new strip 426 is cut with three cuts. The three cuts include a square portion 450 and first and second angled portions 451 and 452. The angles of the angled portions 451 and 452 can correspond to the angles described above in conjunction with FIG. 4. Generally, the cuts described above in conjunction with FIG. 4 can also be applied to this embodiment.

[0136] The spacing between each of the first three protrusions 410a-c of clip 402 is approximately 6.75 mm. This corresponds to the spacing between holes 424 in the rivet bands 422 and 426. Similarly, the spacing between each of the last three protrusions 410d-f of clip 402 is approximately 6.75 mm. The spacing between the two middle protrusions 410c and d of clip 402 is approximately 12.5 mm. This is 1 mm shorter than twice the spacing between the other protrusions. As explained above in conjunction with the embodiment in Figure 4, the approximately twice-sized spacing between the holes in the band allows the trailing edge hole 424d of the old rivet band 422 to remain open without engaging with the protrusions. While this allows the band 422 to bend away from clip 402 during use, it does not become trapped in the rivet insertion tool because it is the tail end of the band.

[0137] The clip 402 can be stretched by approximately 1 mm during use, such that the interval between the innermost pair of protrusions 410c and d is approximately 13.5 mm during use. This is twice the interval between the holes of the rivet band 422 and 426, thus allowing the sprocket hole 427 of the band to engage properly by a rivet insertion tool.

[0138] Similar to the embodiment shown in Figure 4, an additional platform 454 is provided at the front end of the new belt 426, at the cost of a platform lost from the trailing edge of the old belt 422. The total length of the platform 454 in front of the new belt 426 and the platform 356 behind the old belt 322 can be less than the platform between adjacent holes 424 of either belt. For example, the combined platforms 454, 456 can be about 1 mm shorter (or more). This allows the new and old rivet belts 422, 426 to be joined together, with the spacing between the final hole 424c of the old belt and the first hole 424d of the new belt being about 1 mm smaller than the spacing between holes of either belt. This advantageously accommodates a stretch of about 1 mm in the clamp 402 during operation. When this stretch occurs, the spacing between the sprocket holes 427 is desired by the rivet insertion tool (e.g., a spacing of about 6.75 mm).

[0139] The portion of the clip in Figure 5 not described above, such as the tapered end, may be the same as or similar to the corresponding portion of the clips in Figures 1-3. Clip 402 is formed of an elastic material. Clip 402 may be formed of plastic, such as nylon 66.

[0140] The same color material can be used for both 3mm and 5mm clips. In this case, providing a 3mm clip with six protrusions and a 5mm clip with four protrusions allows the operator to easily distinguish between the two clips. It may be necessary to use the same color material when manufacturing the 3mm and 5mm clips, as this allows the use of a single mold (the mold includes cavities for forming the 3mm clip and cavities for forming the 5mm clip). Typically, providing different numbers of protrusions on the clips for different sized rivet bands allows the clips to be easily distinguished from each other. 3mm and 5mm clips can be made using different colored materials.

[0141] According to an embodiment of the invention, a clip can be used to attach a rivet band that holds rivets with shank diameters different from 3 mm and 5 mm. The dimensions of the protrusions 10, 310, and 410 can be scaled accordingly. The diameter of the inner portions 12, 312, and 412 of the protrusions can correspond to the shank diameter of the rivet held by the band attached by the clip. If the dimensions of the nose of the rivet insertion tool receiving the rivet band remain unchanged, the dimensions of the central portions 4, 304, and 404 and the side portions 6, 306, 406, 8, 308, and 408 can remain unchanged. If the dimensions of the nose change, the dimensions of the central and side portions can also be changed (selecting dimensions such that the clip will pass through the nose without engaging the switch or being trapped in the nose).

[0142] In the illustrated embodiment of the invention, the clip is provided with a protrusion having a lip configured to engage the opposite side of the rivet band from the center portion of the clip. In an alternative embodiment (not shown), the lip may be omitted from the protrusion. The protrusion may be shorter. In such an embodiment, an adhesive located between the clip and the band can be used to secure the clip to the band.

[0143] Figure 6 The rivet insertion tool 30 (also known as a rivet insertion fixture) and the rivet band 22 are shown in perspective. Figure 7A and 7B The nose 31 of the rivet insertion tool 30 is shown in cross-section, through which rivet bands 22 and 26 and clip 2 pass. Figure 7C and 7D This is a perspective view of the nose section 31, with the rivet band 22 passing through it (the nose section housing is omitted from these views). First refer to... Figure 6 The rivet band 22 is fed into the rivet insertion tool through the tube 36. The rivet band 22 is pulled through the rivet insertion tool 30 by a sprocket (not visible) driven by a motor 38 (e.g., a pneumatic motor). The position of the tube 36 and the motor 38 causes the rivet bands 22 and 26 and the clamp 2 to undergo a considerable degree of bending and twisting as they enter and exit the rivet insertion tool 30. This bending can... Figure 7AAs seen in the image, because the clip 2 is made of an elastic material, it can bend and twist as needed when entering and exiting the nose 31 of the rivet insertion tool 30.

[0144] from Figure 7A and 7B It can be seen that there is a limited space within the nose 31 of the rivet insertion tool. A sensor 80 is disposed within the nose 31, and the sensor includes fingers 81 extending downward toward the rivet band 22. The fingers 81... Figure 7C and 7D The most easily visible part is the finger 81, which is pivotally mounted on the upper end and biased so that it enters the semi-circular opening defined by the rivet receiving member 82, as shown. Figure 7C As shown. During the operation of the rivet insertion tool 30, when the rivet enters the nose 31, the rivet travels to the rivet receiving member, and then is prevented from further travel by the inner semi-circular wall of the rivet receiving member. The rivet pushes the finger 81 out of the semi-circular opening, as shown. Figure 7D As shown (although the rivet is omitted to make the fingers more visible). This movement activates the switch of sensor 80 (not shown), which outputs a signal to control system 72 indicating the presence of a rivet in nose 31. Controller 72 then causes rivet insertion tool 30 to push the rivet out of nose and into the workpiece.

[0145] The rivet receiving member 82 is formed by two parts 82a and 82b. (Refer to...) Figure 7A and 7B Each portion 82a, b of the rivet receiving member 82 has a lowermost surface configured to guide the rivet band downwards, thereby helping to keep the rivet band away from the rivet sensor 80. When viewed from the side, these lowermost surfaces include downwardly tapering protrusions 84a, b. The tapering is located on one side of the protrusions 84a, b, which receive the rivet band 22 as it passes through the nose 31. The tapering thus helps to push the rivet band 22 downwards, flattening it as it passes through the nose 31. When viewed from the front, the downward protrusions 84a, b have flat inner portions 85a, b and flat outer portions 87a, b, with the inner portions 85a, b having surfaces 86a, b that tape outwards and upwards from the flat inner portions. This structure (which may be referred to as lateral tapering) also helps to keep the rivet band 22 away from the sensor 80.

[0146] The nose 31 of the rivet insertion tool 30 includes a housing 32 that holds the sensor 80 and a tube 33 extending downward from the housing. The tube 33 can be pushed into the housing 32, for example, until the flange 34 of the tube contacts the housing 32, and then secured to the housing. The uppermost end 35 of the tube 33 provides a support surface that supports the bottom surface of the rivet band 22 as it passes through the nose 31.

[0147] The uppermost end 35 of tube 33, together with rivet receiving member 82, defines a confined space through which rivet band 22 must pass. Clip 2 must also pass through this confined space. Figure 7A As can be seen, the lateral taper of the lowest surface of the rivet receiving member restricts the central portion of the space more, allowing for more space on either side of the central portion. As mentioned above, the sides 6 and 8 of clip 2 are thicker than the central portion 4 of the clip. The thicker sides 6 and 8 pass through... Figure 7A Available space on either side of the central portion of the space. The central portion 4 of the clip 2 passes through the more restricted central portion of the space. In other words, the central portion 4 of the clip passes beneath the flat inner portions 85a, b of the rivet receiving member 82, and at least a portion of the sides 6, 8 of the clip passes beneath the flat outer portions 87a, b of the rivet receiving member. The central portion 4 of the clip 2 may, for example, have a thickness of less than 0.4 mm (e.g., approximately 0.3 mm). Typically, the clip 2 is configured to pass through the available space within the nose portion 31.

[0148] As the rivet bands 22 and 26 are fed through the nose 31 of the rivet insertion tool 30, the clamp 2 passes beneath the rivet receiving member 82. The clamp 2 does not enter the semi-circular opening defined by the rivet receiving member 82, nor does it push the finger 81 out of the semi-circular opening. Therefore, the finger 81 does not cause the sensor 80 to output a signal indicating the presence of a rivet. The tapered surface 18b of the clamp 2 facilitates smooth passage of the clamp beneath the rivet receiving member 82 and prevents the clamp from getting stuck on the semi-circular wall of the rivet receiving member.

[0149] When the clamp passes through nose 31, sensor 80 does not provide an output signal indicating the presence of a rivet. Therefore, the operation of the riveting tool's punch is paused. Motor 38 (see...) Figure 6 The rivet band 22 is pulled, thereby pulling the clamp 2 through the nose 31. The motor 38 continues to pull the rivet band 22 and the new rivet band 26 through the nose 31 until the rivet enters the rivet receiving member 82 and the rivet is detected by the sensor 80. Then, the motor 38 stops, and the rivet is driven into the workpiece by the actuator of the riveting tool. Then the motor moves again until the next rivet is detected, etc.

[0150] In addition to the rivet insertion tool 30, the tube 36, and the motor 38 Figure 6 Also shown is a rivet band fixing device 40 and a drum 42, which supports the rivet band 22. The rivet insertion tool 30, tube 36, motor 38, rivet band fixing device 40, and drum 42 can all be mounted on a robotic arm (not shown). The rivet band 22 is almost completely used up; it is referred to here as old rivet band. Rivets 23 are present in the rivet band near the rivet insertion tool 30, but no rivets are present near the drum 42. Figure 8A The rivet band fastening device 40, a portion of the tube 36, and the old rivet band 22 are shown in cross-section. For ease of illustration, the old rivet band 22 is depicted as partially terminating in the tube 36, whereas in practice, the rivet band would extend completely through the tube, as shown below. Figure 6 As shown.

[0151] The rivet-fastening device 40 includes first and second sensors 44 and 46 and a movable pin 48. In the illustrated embodiment, both the second sensor 46 and the movable pin 48 are connected to a housing 50. The housing 50 is connected to a support 52. The end piece 54, mounted to the tube 36, is also connected to the support 52. The first sensor 44 is a sensing ring sensor, which is mounted on the tube end piece 54. The tube end piece 54 is formed of plastic (e.g., nylon 66), thus allowing the sensing ring sensor 44 to sense the presence of a rivet passing through the tube end piece.

[0152] Movable pin 48 is actuated by pneumatic actuator 56. Pneumatic actuator 56 includes a rod 58 extending from piston 60 in chamber 62. A coil spring 61 extends between rod 58 and movable pin 48 and engages with collar 63, which is formed partially along the length of movable pin. Movable pin is held in tube 65, which is fixed to rod 58 (e.g., by threads on the inner surface of tube 65 that engage threads on the outer surface of rod). Movable pin 48 moves freely up and down within tube 65. Movable pin 48 is prevented from moving out of tube 65 by a lip that projects radially inward at the top of tube and engages with collar 63. Coil spring 61 biases movable pin 48 toward the top of tube 65.

[0153] A pneumatic source (not shown) is connected to the inlet 64 of the chamber 62 below the piston 60, such that when pressurized air is supplied from the supply source, it pushes the piston 60 into the chamber 62. Figure 8B The image depicts piston 60 after it has moved into chamber 62. Rod 58 and tube 65 can be seen moving upwards toward rivet band 22. Movable pin 48 also moves upwards but is prevented from moving by rivet 23 by the same distance as rod 58 and tube 65. Once pin 48 stops moving upwards, the continuous upward movement of tube 65 compresses coil spring 61. Coil spring 61 thus biases movable pin 48 against rivet 23.

[0154] In use, when the rivet passes through the sensing sensor, the sensing sensor 44 senses the rivet 23 held on the rivet band 22. (See reference...) Figure 6The rivet insertion tool 30 moves up and down as indicated by arrow 31a during rivet insertion. The drum 42 is spring-loaded and biased to rotate counterclockwise (but it can also be spring-loaded and biased to rotate clockwise). When the rivet is inserted into the workpiece, the moving part of the rivet insertion tool 30 moves downward toward the workpiece. This pulls the rivet band 22 through the tube 36 and thus unwinds some of the rivet band from the spool held by the drum 42. After rivet insertion, the rivet insertion tool 30 returns to its previous position (in... Figure 6 (Move upwards). This will loosen the rivet band 22, and the rivet band will be wound back onto the spool by the spring load of the drum 42. This movement of the rivet band is repeated for each rivet insertion. See also Figure 8A The first hole 70 of the rivet band 22 can be seen. During rivet insertion, the rivet band is pulled to the left (in... Figure 8A (In the middle), and after the rivet is inserted, the rivet band moves back to the right. This movement of the rivet band 22 causes the first hole 70 (and subsequent holes) of the rivet band 22 to be pulled through the sensing ring sensor 44 and back again. Therefore, during rivet insertion, a signal indicating the absence of a rivet will be periodically generated from the first sensor 44. The control system 72 receives the output signal from the sensing ring sensor 44. When the control system 72 receives the output signal indicating that the hole at the end of the rivet band has been reached, the control system can trigger the rivet band switching process.

[0155] The rivet band switching process involves securing the rivet band 22 using a movable pin 48. When the control system 72 has determined that the empty hole at the end of the rivet band 22 has been reached, the operation of the rivet insertion tool is paused. Because the rivet insertion tool 30 is in its non-rivet insertion position, it does not pull down the rivet band 22, and a portion of the rivet band has been wound back onto the spool by the spring load of the spool. Therefore, the rivet band 22 can have, for example... Figure 8A The position shown is such that the rivet is located within the sensing sensor 44 and above the movable pin 48.

[0156] Pressurized air is supplied at the inlet 64 of chamber 62, thereby pushing rod 58, tube 65, and movable pin 48 toward rivet band 22. Figure 8B As shown, the movable pin engages the rivet 23 and is pushed into the tube 65. The tube 65 abuts against the rivet band 22. Figure 8B Invisible in the middle, but in Figure 8D (As can be seen in the image) and prevents it from moving further upward. The coil spring 61 is compressed and the movable pin 48 is biased against the rivet 23. The force applied by the movable pin 48 is insufficient to push the rivet 23 out of the rivet band 22.

[0157] Once the movable pin 48 is in place, the actuator of the rivet insertion tool 30 moves downward, thereby pulling the rivet band 22 into the tube 36. This downward movement may be slower than the downward movement that occurs during rivet insertion via the rivet insertion tool 30. The end face of the movable pin 48 rides on the rivet 23, then over the rivet band 22, then over the next rivet, and so on. The movable pin 48 has a rounded end face to facilitate smooth movement of the movable pin on the rivet head. As the first aperture 70 of the rivet band 22 passes the movable pin 48, a bias provided by the coil spring 61 pushes the movable pin into the aperture. This... Figure 8C and 8D As depicted in the diagram, when the movable pin has entered the hole 70 of the rivet band 22, the sensor 46 (e.g., an inductive proximity sensor) senses the presence of the movable pin 48. The sensor 46 provides an output signal indicating that the hole has been reached, and the control system 72 stops the movement of the rivet insertion tool. The movable pin 48 is held in place through the hole 70 in the rivet band 22 by a pneumatic actuator 56. The rivet band 22 is securely held in place by the movable pin 48. Figure 8C The position shown prevents the rivet band from moving. The rivet band 22 is ready to be attached to the new rivet band using the clip 2 described further above.

[0158] The rivet band fixing device 40 and the rivet band cutting device 100 (described further below) together... Figure 10 The perspective view is shown in the figure. The rivet band fixing device 40 has a distal end 41. The distal end includes a first side portion 242a and a second side portion 242b, the first side portion 242a being configured to support one edge of the rivet band 22, and the second side portion 242b being configured to support the opposite edge of the rivet band. A channel 243 located between the sides 242a and b receives the unsupported central portion of the rivet band 22. An L-shaped channel extends along the inner wall of each side portion 242a and b. Each L-shaped channel is configured to receive the edge of the rivet band 22, including receiving a ridge extending along the edge of the rivet band. The distal end 41 of the rivet band fixing device 40 is also provided with two holes 241a and b, which are configured to receive the upwardly projecting profile of the rivet band connecting device 200 (described further below).

[0159] Figure 9 depicts a rivet band cutting device 100 that can be used to cut the rivet band 22. The rivet band cutting device 100... Figure 9A The perspective view shows that, in Figure 9B Shown in cross-section and in Figure 9C Observe from one end. Figure 10 The rivet band cutting device 100, which is combined with the rivet band fixing device 40, is shown in perspective.

[0160] The rivet band cutting device includes a blade 102 operated by a pneumatic actuator 104 configured to drive the blade through the rivet band 22 when needed, thereby cutting the rivet band. Although the actuator in this embodiment is pneumatic, in other embodiments, some other forms of actuators (e.g., electric actuators) may be used.

[0161] The rivet band cutting device 100 is supported by a bracket 106, only a portion of which is shown. The bracket 106 can be fixed, for example, to the floor of a factory or to another location using a rivet installation tool 30. The bracket 106 includes a slot 108 configured to receive the rivet band 22, as described further below. The bracket 106 includes four holes 109 through which bolts 110 extend. The distal ends of the bolts 110 are secured in blocks 112, which form part of the rivet band cutting device. A coil spring 114 is disposed around each bolt 110 and resiliently biases the block 112 away from the bracket 106. The bolts 110 are not secured to the bracket 106 and can therefore be moved into and out of the holes in the bracket. The resilient bias provided by the coil spring 114 pushes the block 112 away from the bracket 106, causing the head 116 of the bolt 114 to press against the bracket 106. In this way, block 112 is offset toward a desired position spaced apart from support 106, but has some degrees of freedom to move as needed if forces are applied to the block.

[0162] Block 112 is typically U-shaped, with an opening 118 at one end. Block 112 can be considered to have a pair of jaws 120a, b, with an opening or gap 118 between the jaws. (As in...) Figure 9B As best seen in cross-sectional view, the grippers 120a and b comprise an inner 124 and an outer 125. The inner 124 is located on the side of block 112 closest to the blade 102, and the outer 125 is located on the side of the block furthest from the blade (the outer part is located on the outside of the block). The inner 124 of block 112 includes inner jaw portions 126a and b. Figure 12B The inner jaws extend toward each other but are spaced apart by a gap 127 (which may be referred to as the inner gap 127). The outer 125 of block 112 includes outer jaw portions 128a, b, which extend toward each other but are spaced apart by a gap 129. This gap, which may be referred to as the outer gap 129, is larger than the inner gap 127. The outer jaw portions 128a, b are connected to the corresponding inner jaw portions 126a, b via steps 130.

[0163] from Figure 9C and Figure 10As can be most clearly seen, the internal gap 127 is widest at its outer end. The inner claw portions 126a, b include surfaces 131a, b, which taper inward to the narrower portion of the internal gap 127. The inwardly tapering surfaces 131a, b at the outer end of the internal gap 127 increase the range of positions from which the rivet band 22 can be captured. Once the rivet band is captured, it is guided by the inwardly tapering surfaces 131a, b to the narrower portion of the internal gap 127 for cutting.

[0164] The inner jaw portions 126a, b also include outwardly tapering sides 132a, b. These sides taper outward toward the outer jaw portions 128a, b. The outwardly tapering sides 132a, b also help guide the distal end of the rivet strap fixing device toward the external gap 129.

[0165] like Figure 9A As shown in the optimal configuration, the outer gap 129 is widest at its outer end. The outer gripper portions 128a, b include surfaces 149a, b that taper inwards to the narrower portion of the outer gap 129. The inwardly tapering surfaces 149a, b are positioned partially along the outer gap 129 such that the outer side of the outer gap is wider than the inner side. This configuration of the outer gap 129 increases the range of positions from which the distal end of the rivet band retainer 40 can be captured. Once captured, the rivet band retainer 40 is guided by the inwardly tapering surfaces 149a, b to the narrower portion of the outer gap 129.

[0166] The blade 102 is secured to the mounting block 133 by bolts 134, which pass through a flange 103 extending from the blade. A washer 135 is located between the bolt 134 and the flange 103. The washer 135 is provided with a leaf spring 136, which extends around and below the head of the bolt 134. The mounting block 133 includes a ridge (not visible) that is received in and guided by a recess 137 in the block 112. The mounting block 133 is secured to a rod 138 that extends from a piston 140 in a chamber 142 of the pneumatic actuator 104. A pressurized air source (not shown) is connected to a first inlet 144 of the chamber 142. A second pressurized air source (not shown) is connected to a second inlet 146 of the chamber 142 on the side of the piston 140 opposite to the first inlet 144.

[0167] A sensor 150 (e.g., an inductive sensor) is attached to the inner end of the internal gap 126. The sensor 150 is configured to provide an output signal when the rivet strap fastener 40 is held in the external gap 129.

[0168] Now refer to Figure 10 Sections 1 and 11 describe the operation of the combination of the rivet band cutting device 100 and the rivet band fixing device 40.

[0169] The rivet band fixing device 40, together with the rivet band 22 and the rivet insertion tool (not shown), moves toward the rivet band cutting device 100 via a robotic arm (also not shown), as... Figure 10 As shown. Although the tube extends from the rivet-fastened device 40, for ease of illustration, the tube is not shown at... Figure 10 As shown in the figure. As described above, the rivet band 22 is secured in the appropriate position in the rivet band fixing device 40 by engaging the movable finger 48 through the hole 70 in the rivet band.

[0170] The robotic arm moves the rivet band fixing device 40 so that the distal end 41 of the rivet band fixing device enters the outer gap 129 of the rivet band cutting device 100. At the same time, the rivet band 22 enters the inner gap 127 of the rivet band cutting device. This is shown in Figure 11. Figure 11A It is a perspective view of the rivet band fixing device 40, the rivet band 22, and the rivet band cutting device 100. Figure 11B This is a cross-sectional view of the rivet band fixing device 40, the rivet band 22, and the rivet band cutting device 100.

[0171] If there is some deviation between the rivet band fixing device 40 and the outer gap 129, the tapered surfaces 123a, b, 149a, b of the outer gap still allow the rivet band fixing device 40 to be captured by the outer gap 129. The degree of freedom of movement of the block 112 of the rivet band cutting device 100 provided by the bolt 110 and the coil spring 114 allows the block 112 to passively adjust its position to accommodate the deviation of the rivet band fixing device. The tapered surfaces 123a, b, 149a, b of the outer gap 129 guide the distal end 41 of the rivet band fixing device 40 to the desired position at the inner end of the outer gap 129.

[0172] Even if the rivet band is uneven (e.g., bent upwards or downwards), the inclined surfaces 131a, b of the inner gap 127 allow the rivet band 22 to be captured and guided into the interior of the inner gap 127. Similarly, even if the rivet band is uneven, the inclined surfaces 151a, b in the groove 108 provided in the bracket 106 allow the rivet band 22 to be captured and guided into the interior of the groove.

[0173] from Figure 11B As can be seen, the distal end 41 of the rivet band fixing device 40 has a height corresponding to the size of the external gap 129, thus the rivet band fixing device fits snugly into the external gap. The rivet band 22 is slightly thinner than the internal gap 127, thus allowing it to easily enter the internal gap 127. The sensor 150 detects the presence of the rivet band fixing device in the external gap 129 and sends a signal to the control system 72 accordingly. The rivet band 22 is in a tightly controlled position in the rivet band cutting device 100 and is ready to be cut.

[0174] Figure 11CA cross-section of the rivet band fixing device 40, the rivet band 22, and the rivet band cutting device 100 is depicted during operation of the rivet band cutting device. The control system 72 sends a signal that causes pressurized air to be supplied through the first inlet 144 of the pneumatic actuator 104. The pressurized air pushes the piston 140 downwards, as indicated by the arrow. From Figure 11C It can be seen that rod 138, mounting block 131, and blade 102 also move downwards. The downward movement of mounting block 131 is guided by groove 136. Blade 102 acts as a guillotine for cutting rivet band 22. The cut rivet band is not... Figure 11C As shown in the diagram. After the rivet band is cut, the rivet band 22 has a free end with a tightly controlled length extending from the movable finger 48. The free end of the rivet band 22 protrudes beyond the distal end 41 of the rivet band fixing device 40.

[0175] Once the rivet band 22 has been cut, the spool (not shown) holding the rest of the rivet band can be removed (e.g., using an automated arm or other automated system).

[0176] After the rivet band 22 is cut, the rivet band fixing device 40, the rivet band, and the rivet insertion tool 30 can be moved to the rivet band connecting device 200 by a robotic arm (not shown). In another method, the robotic arm does not move, but instead moves the rivet band connecting device 200 to the rivet band fixing device.

[0177] Figure 12 depicts the rivet band connecting device 200. Figure 12 is a perspective view ( Figure 12A ), viewed from above ( Figure 12B ), viewed from one side ( Figure 12C ) and viewed from the cross section ( Figure 12D Figure 12 depicts the rivet band connection device 200. Figure 12 also depicts the rivet band fixing device 40, the cut rivet band 22 (hereinafter referred to as the old rivet band 22) and the new rivet band (hereinafter referred to as the new rivet band 26).

[0178] The rivet-band connecting device 200 is mounted on the bracket 202. The bracket 202 can be connected to the bracket 106, and the rivet-band cutting device 100 is held on the bracket 106. The bracket can be fixed to the factory floor or other environment where the rivet insertion tool and robotic arm are located.

[0179] A pneumatic actuator 204 extends upward from a bracket 202. A bracket 206 is connected to the pneumatic actuator 204. A belt and clamp retainer block 208 is secured to the distal end of the bracket 206. A guide rod 203 is located on either side of the pneumatic actuator 204. The uppermost end of the guide rod 203 is secured to the bracket 206, and the lowermost end of the guide rod passes through the bracket 202. The guide rod 203 also passes through an intermediate member 209 located between the bracket 202 and the bracket 206. The intermediate member 209 forms the upper end of the pneumatic chamber of the pneumatic actuator 204. When the pneumatic actuator 204 moves upward, the guide rod 203 helps to maintain the correct positioning of the bracket 206.

[0180] The new rivet band 26 and clip 2 are held by the band and clip retaining block 208, as follows: Figure 12A As is most easily seen. The new rivet band 26 and clip 2 can be manually placed on the band and clip retaining block 208. When the clip 2 is held in the band and clip retaining block 208, the protrusions 10c and d of the clip 2 extend upward.

[0181] The band and clip retainer block 208 includes a body 210, the body 210 having two protrusions 212a, b on its upper surface. The protrusions 212a, b are spaced apart from each other, thereby defining a channel 214 extending between them. The width of the channel 214 corresponds to the width of the new rivet band 26. A finger 216 protrudes upward from the body 210 and passes through a hole in the new rivet band 26. In this embodiment, the hole is a first opening extending beyond the end of the clip 2, but in other embodiments, different holes may be used. The finger 216 ensures that the new rivet band 26 and the clip 2 are held in proper position on the rivet band connecting device 200. The finger 216 fits tightly into the hole in the new rivet band 26, thereby securely retaining the new rivet band.

[0182] The body 210 of the strap and clip retainer 208 is connected to the bracket 206 by four bolts 218. A coil spring 220 is positioned around each bolt 218 and extends between the bracket 206 and the strap and clip retainer 208. The coil spring 220 biases the strap and clip retainer 208 away from the bracket 206. The bolts 218 are free to move within holes in the bracket 206. The strap and clip retainer 208 is capable of some movement relative to the bracket 206, but this movement is limited by the bolts 218.

[0183] The rivet-band connection device 200 also includes a second pneumatic actuator 220 located above the band and clamp holding block 208. The second pneumatic actuator 220 is connected to a pressurized air source (not shown). The second pneumatic actuator 220 is held on a bracket 221 extending from a support post 224. The support post 224 extends upward from the bracket 202. The bracket 221 extends laterally from the support post 224 such that the pneumatic actuator 220 is directly located above the body 210 of the band and clamp holding block 208. A block 230 is connected to a rod 232 extending from the piston 234 of the second pneumatic actuator 220. The block 230, hereinafter referred to as the pressure block 230, has a lowermost surface including first and second recesses 236a, b. The first and second recesses 236a, b have a spacing corresponding to the spacing between the first and second protrusions 10a, b of the clamp 2. In other embodiments, the pressure block may be provided with additional recesses corresponding to the protrusions of other clamps.

[0184] The strap and clip retainer 208 includes upwardly projecting first and second tapered fingers 240a, b. The first and second tapered fingers 240a, b are configured to be received in holes 241a, b provided at the distal end of the rivet strap fixing device 40 (see...). Figure 10 The pressure block 230 is narrow enough that it can enter the gap 242 at the distal end 41 of the rivet strap fixing device 40.

[0185] The operation of the rivet band connecting device 200 will now be described with reference to Figures 12 to 14. Figure 13 shows the operation from one side ( Figure 13A ), above ( Figure 13B ) and cross-section ( Figure 13C Figure 14 depicts a rivet-belt connecting device 200. (Figure 14 shows the device from one side...) Figure 14A ), above ( Figure 14B ) and cross-section ( Figure 14C Figure 12 depicts a rivet band connection device 200. First, referring to Figure 12, a new rivet band 26 and a clip 2 are manually engaged onto a band and clip retaining block 208. The rivet band retaining device 40 and the old rivet band 22 are moved such that the loose end of the old rivet band 22 is positioned between the pressure block 230 and the band and clip retaining block 208. Referring to Figure 13, compressed air is supplied to a first pneumatic actuator 204, pushing a piston 205 upward. This causes a rod 207 and a bracket 206 to move upward, and also causes the band and clip retaining block 208 to move upward. The new rivet band 26 and the clip 2 move upward along with the band and clip retaining block 208. At the end of the piston 205's movement, the body 210 of the band and clip retaining block 208 engages the distal end 41 of the rivet band fixing device 40. The old rivet band 22 is positioned on top of the clip 2, with the first and third holes of the old rivet band aligned with the first and second protrusions 10a, b of the clip. Therefore, the old rivet band 22 is ready to be attached to the clip 2.

[0186] Referring to Figure 14, pressurized air is now supplied to the second pneumatic actuator 220. This drives the piston 234, rod 232, and pressure block 230 downwards. The pressure block 230 enters the gap 242 at the distal end 41 of the rivet band retainer 40 and presses against the old rivet band 22. The pressure block 230 pushes the old rivet band 22 downwards, causing the holes of the old rivet band 22 to expand around the protrusions 10a, b of the clip 2. The protrusions 10a, b themselves are not pushed by the pressure block 230, but rather enter the grooves 236a, b provided in the pressure block. Thus, the pressure block 230 pushes the old rivet band 22 so that it passes over the protrusions 10a, b of the clip 2, whereby the protrusions engage with the old rivet band. The pressure block 230 is then retracted using the second pneumatic actuator 220. The old rivet band 22 and the new rivet band 26 are thus joined together using the clip 2.

[0187] The reel (not shown) holding the new rivet band 26 can be mounted on a robotic arm (e.g., using an automated arm or other automated system).

[0188] A robotic arm (not shown) moves the rivet insertion tool 30 and the rivet band fixing device 40 away from the rivet band connecting device 200. The rivet insertion tool and the rivet band fixing device move toward the position where the rivet is inserted into the workpiece (not shown). The movable pin 48 retracts to allow the motor 38 to pull out the old rivet band 22 again through the nose 32 of the rivet insertion tool 30. The insertion of the rivet into the workpiece is then restarted using the rivet insertion tool 30. When the last rivet of the old rivet band 22 has been inserted into the workpiece, the motor 38 pulls the clamp 2 and the new rivet band 26 through the nose of the rivet insertion tool 30, as described above. The insertion of the rivet into the workpiece is then performed from the new rivet band 26.

[0189] As can be understood from the above, the new rivet band 26 can be attached to the old rivet band 22 in a fully automatic manner. This is advantageous because it allows for the supply of rivets to the rivet insertion tool that needs replenishment without the operator having to move to a position close to the rivet installation tool (thus avoiding the need to deactivate all rivet installation tools in the controlled environment where the rivet installation tools are located).

[0190] Figures 15-17 depict a rivet band cutting device according to an alternative embodiment of the invention. Figure 15A It is a perspective view with the cutting device 500. Figure 15B The image depicts a cutting device as viewed from above. Figure 16A It depicts a cutting device viewed from one side. Figure 16B The cutting device is depicted as seen in the first cross-section. Figure 17A The image depicts the cutting device 500 as viewed from different sides. Figure 17B The cutting device is depicted as seen in the second cross-section.

[0191] The strip cutting device 500 includes a bracket 502. The bracket 502 can be placed in any convenient location, such as being fixed to a workbench or strip handling facility in the factory. The strip cutting device 500 can be located outside the controlled environment where the rivet insertion tool is operated. For example, the strip cutting device can be located away from the production line. This allows technicians to cut sections of rivet strips and then use clamps to join them together without the risk of injury.

[0192] Guide rod 503 extends upward from bracket 502 and supports upper plate 506. Manually operated actuator 504 supports movable plate 509. Movable plate is located between bracket 502 and upper plate 506. Guide rod 503 extends through movable plate 509. In the illustrated embodiment, four guide rods are provided, located near the corners of bracket 502. However, in other embodiments, different numbers of guide rods can be provided, and the guide rods can be arranged differently. Providing four guide rods 503 is advantageous because it allows for a direct arrangement of the guide rods, which provides strong support for upper plate 506 and provides precise guidance for movable plate 509.

[0193] Actuator 504 includes an arm 510 extending from one side of the device and having a handle 512 at its distal end. Arm 510 is connected to a pivot 514 (e.g., a pin), about which it rotates when actuated. The proximal end of arm 510 is connected to a link 516 via a pivot 517 (e.g., a pin). Another pivot 518 (e.g., a pin) connects the upper end of the link to a bracket 520 extending downward from a movable plate 509. Thus, operation of arm 510 translates into upward and downward movement of the movable plate 509 (guided by a guide rod 503).

[0194] The movable plate 509 is provided with two retainers. The first retainer includes a groove 530 that extends along the right-hand portion of the belt cutting device (e.g., Figure 15B (As shown above). See also Figure 16B and 17B An opening 532 is provided in a movable plate 509. A receiving groove 530 extends from the outer edge of the movable plate 509 to the opening 532. A retaining block 534 extends laterally across the groove 530. A stud 536 extends downward from the retaining block 534 into a hole 538 in the movable plate 509. Additional studs on either side of the receiving groove 530 extend from the block 534 into the movable plate 509. In use, the retaining block 534 is removed, and a rivet band (not shown) is received in the groove 530. The rivet band extends partially into the opening 532. The retaining block is then positioned such that the stud 536 of the retaining block 534 passes through the hole in the rivet band and then into the hole 538. This secures the rivet band in place.

[0195] A similar strip receiving block 554 is provided on the opposite side of the movable plate, extending laterally across the strip receiving groove 550. A stud 556 extends into a hole 558 in the movable plate 509. An additional stud 559 extends between the strip retaining block and the movable plate 509. Again, the rivet band is received in the groove 550 and extends into the opening 532. The stud 556 passes through a hole in the rivet band and enters the hole 558. This secures the strip in place within the strip cutting device.

[0196] The upper plate 506 is fixed to the guide rod 503 and does not move. A first blade 560 is held by a mounting element (e.g., a block) extending downwards from the fixed upper plate 506. The blade 560 has a straight cutting edge extending laterally to the direction of the band receiving groove 530 (and thus laterally to the band held by the groove). The first blade 560 is aligned with the first edge 563 of the opening 532 in the movable plate 509. Therefore, when the movable plate 509 moves upwards, the first blade 560 cuts into the rivet band held in the first groove 530 with a guillotine-like action. This provides a straight cut across the rivet band.

[0197] The second mounting member 570 extends downward from the fixed upper plate 506. The second mounting member supports an arrangement of three blade portions configured to provide three-sided cuts on the rivet band, for example... Figure 4D and Figure 5C As shown. In some embodiments, a single composite blade with three sides may be provided. In other embodiments, the three blade portions may comprise three different blades. Typically, the blade portions may be shaped to provide a non-square cut, such that the cutting band does not have a 90° angle. For ease of terminology, the blade portion on this side with the cutting device is referred to as the second blade 572. The second blade 572 is aligned with the edge 573 of the opening 532 in the movable plate 509. Thus, when the movable plate 509 moves upward, the second blade 572 cuts into the rivet band held in the second groove 550 with a guillotine-like action. This provides a three-sided cut (or other non-square cut) across the rivet band.

[0198] In use, the rivet band is secured in the first and second band receiving grooves 530, 550 and protrudes into the opening 532, as further explained above. The actuating handle 512 pushes the movable plate 509 upward. The first and second blades 560, 572 simultaneously cut through the rivet band.

[0199] As described above Figure 4D and 5CAs further explained, the location for cutting the rivet band can be selected relative to the position of the last hole in the band to provide specific properties to the rivet band, such as the required strength. Specifically, the location where the rivet band is cut determines the length of the platform in front of the first hole (or behind the last hole) of the rivet band. For example, the platform in front of the final hole of a rivet band with three-sided cuts can be longer than the platform of a rivet band with straight cuts (which may be referred to as square cuts). The band cutting device of Figures 15-17 allows for precise and consistent cutting through the band because the interval between the stud 536 and the first blade 560 is fixed. The interval between the stud 556 and the second blade 572 is also fixed. This allows the operator to cut the rivet band simply and easily in an optimal manner, enabling the use of clamps described elsewhere in this document to connect the band, and ensuring proper execution of the band when it is fed to the rivet insertion tool.

[0200] Various modifications can be made to the cutting device of Figures 15-17. For example, in other embodiments, the upper plate can be moved while the middle plate is fixed. The actuator does not necessarily have to be a robotic arm and linkage. Any form of actuator can be used. The movable plate can be replaced, for example, with a frame or other supported structure. Preferably, the supported structure is rigid enough that the position of the blade relative to the nail and hole that hold the rivet band in place does not change in an undesirable manner.

[0201] Although the belt is secured using a block with studs in the depicted embodiment, any suitable belt securing device can be used to secure the belt.

[0202] The depicted embodiment cuts two rivet bands simultaneously. However, in other embodiments, two different band-cutting devices can be used to cut the rivet band. The first device can provide a straight cut, and the second device can provide a three-sided cut (or other non-straight cut).

[0203] The retaining blocks 534 and 554 can be inverted to secure the rivet band with 3mm holes instead of 5mm holes. When this is done, the upward-extending studs 580 and 581 in the figure now extend downward and are received in holes 582 and 583. Similarly, the spacing between studs 580 and 581 and holes 582 and 583, and blades 560 and 572, allows for the formation of cuts in the rivet band at the desired distance from the holes in the rivet band.

[0204] In other embodiments, the cutting device can be configured to cut only 5mm or 3mm rivet bands. In this case, the positions of the studs and holes on the fixed block and movable plate 509 can be reversed (the studs are located in the plate, and the holes are located in the block). This is not done in the embodiments of the invention because providing studs on the movable plate 509 for 3mm rivet bands would prevent the device from being used for 5mm rivet bands (and vice versa).

[0205] Using rivet rolls to supply rivets is advantageous compared to supplying loose rivets because it allows for more rigorous monitoring of rivet characteristics. When using loose rivets, they are poured from a sealed bag into a bowl or hopper. A pneumatic blow-feed is then used to transfer the rivets from the bowl or hopper to a rivet insertion tool, which secures the rivets to the workpiece. A disadvantage of this loose rivet feeding method is the presence of a mixture of rivets in the bowl or hopper. Rivets supplied in a rivet bag are traceable through the rivet production process via a batch code on the bag. However, once poured into the bowl or hopper, rivet batches become mixed. Therefore, riveted flanges (e.g., in automobiles) can be riveted using more than one rivet batch. If a rivet quality issue arises, this will result in significant maintenance work, requiring the rivet bowl or hopper to be emptied, the feed pipe and rivet insertion tool magazine to be blown through, before a known batch of rivets can be used to restart production. Rivet rolls are not affected by this disadvantage. Each rivet reel has a batch number. Changing the reel means changing the batch number, and rivets from the old batch are not left in the rivet system. Therefore, operators can track the rivet batch of each car manufactured.

[0206] In one implementation, each rivet reel may include an RFID tag (e.g., a programmable RFID tag, barcode, or other identifier) ​​that identifies the reel, including identifying a batch of rivets held on it. When a new reel is started, the control system 72 can use the RFID tag, barcode, or other identifier to record the reel's identification. Each rivet joint in a vehicle can have a unique number, and each vehicle can also have a unique number. Therefore, the control system 72 can record which rivet batch was used for each rivet joint in each vehicle. This provides full traceability of the batch number of rivets used throughout vehicle assembly (or other production). If a problem with a rivet batch is identified, the control system 72 can identify in real time which tools are using that batch of rivets, allowing production using those tools to be paused until the rivet reel has been changed. Vehicle parts that have been assembled using rivet batches can also be identified. Therefore, the number of parts assembled using defective rivet batches can be reduced, and those already assembled can be quickly identified and reworked. If a batch of defective rivets is identified at some point after vehicle production is complete, vehicles assembled using the defective rivets can be identified, and the defective rivets can be replaced as needed.

[0207] The rivet with connecting clip 2 can be equipped with an RFID tag (e.g., a programmable RFID tag).

[0208] The term "rivet band" as used in this specification can be interpreted as a band of rivets distributed thereal. The rivets can be, for example, self-piercing rivets. Self-piercing rivets may have a shank diameter of 3 mm or 5 mm. The rivets can be tubular rivets. The rivets can be solid rivets. Embodiments of the present invention can be used to insert rivets into workpieces that form part of a vehicle (e.g., part of a vehicle body). Therefore, embodiments of the present invention can be used to manufacture vehicles.

Claims

1. A rivet-band connector clip, comprising an elongated body having a plurality of protrusions extending from one side of the elongated body, wherein the plurality of protrusions have laterally projecting lips located at the distal ends of the plurality of protrusions. The protrusion includes an interior and an exterior, the exterior connecting to the interior and including the lip, the protrusion including a blind hole extending completely through the exterior and partially into the interior, and the rivet with connecting clip being formed by injection molding. The lip extends around the circumference of the protrusion and projects laterally, such that the outer diameter of the protrusion is larger than the inner diameter of the protrusion, the outer edge of the protrusion has a sharp angle, and the bottom end of the outer protrusion is convex and curved. The elongated body includes an interior and an exterior disposed on either side of the interior, wherein the exterior is thicker than the interior; The elongated body is provided with two inner protrusions positioned toward the center of the elongated body and two outer protrusions positioned toward the ends of the elongated body, the spacing between the two inner protrusions being smaller than the spacing between each outer protrusion and its corresponding inner protrusion; and The rivet-band connecting clip is formed of an elastic material.

2. The rivet-band connector according to claim 1, wherein the elongated body is provided with four or more protrusions.

3. The rivet-band connecting clip according to claim 1, wherein the interval between the outer protrusion and the corresponding inner protrusion is twice the interval between the inner protrusions.

4. The rivet band connector according to claim 1, wherein the rivet band connector includes a pair of protrusions, the spacing between the pair of protrusions being less than a multiple of the spacing between other protrusions.

5. The rivet band connector according to claim 4, wherein the difference in spacing corresponds to the stretch that occurs between the pair of protrusions when the rivet band connector is used.

6. The rivet with connecting clip according to claim 4, wherein the difference in spacing is up to about 2 mm.

7. The rivet with connecting clip according to claim 4, wherein the difference in spacing is approximately 1 mm.

8. The rivet band connector according to claim 4, wherein the rivet band connector is provided with six protrusions, and the spacing between a pair of inner protrusions is less than twice the spacing between the other protrusions.

9. The rivet-belt connector according to claim 1, wherein the upper edge of each lip extends inward to engage with the interior of the protrusion.

10. The rivet band connector according to claim 1, wherein the rivet band connector has a face at each end of the elongated body, and wherein each face tapers outward from an end point of the rivet band connector.

11. The rivet-band connector according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of protrusions are generally cylindrical.

12. A rivet-band connector clip comprising an elongated body having four or more generally cylindrical protrusions extending from one side of the elongated body, wherein a plurality of the protrusions are provided with laterally projecting lips located at the distal ends of the plurality of protrusions. The protrusion includes an interior and an exterior, the exterior connecting to the interior and including the lip, and the protrusion including a blind aperture extending completely through the exterior and partially into the interior. The lip extends around the circumference of the protrusion and projects laterally, such that the outer diameter of the protrusion is larger than the inner diameter of the protrusion, the outer edge of the protrusion has a sharp angle, and the bottom end of the outer protrusion is convex and curved. The elongated body includes an interior and an exterior disposed on either side of the interior, wherein the exterior is thicker than the interior; The elongated body is provided with two inner protrusions positioned toward the center of the elongated body and two outer protrusions positioned toward the ends of the elongated body, the spacing between the two inner protrusions being smaller than the spacing between each outer protrusion and its corresponding inner protrusion; and The rivet-band connecting clip is formed of an elastic material.

13. The rivet band connector according to claim 1 or 12, engaged in the first and second rivet bands, wherein the protrusion of the rivet band connector passes through the holes of the first and second rivet bands.

14. The rivet band connector according to claim 13, wherein the lip of the protrusion is wider than the hole, thereby securely holding the rivet band on the rivet band connector.

15. The rivet band connector according to claim 13, wherein an adhesive is provided between the rivet band connector and the first and second rivet bands.

16. The rivet band connector according to claim 14, wherein the spacing between the protrusions of the rivet band connector maintains a regular spacing between the sprocket holes on the first and second rivet bands.

17. The rivet band connector according to claim 16, wherein the regular spacing between the sprocket holes is maintained only during use by stretching the rivet band connector.

18. The rivet band connector according to claim 1 or 12, engaging in a first rivet band and a second rivet band, wherein a protrusion of the rivet band connector passes through a hole in the first rivet band but not through a final hole in the first rivet band, and wherein a protrusion of the rivet band connector passes through a hole in the second rivet band, including a first hole in the second rivet band.

19. The rivet band connector according to claim 18, wherein one end of the second rivet band is provided with a non-square cutout.

20. The rivet band connecting clip according to claim 18, wherein one end of the second rivet band is provided with a three-sided cut or a curved cut.

21. The rivet band connector according to claim 18, wherein one end of the first rivet band is provided with a square cutout.

22. The rivet band connector according to claim 20, wherein the platform after the final hole of the first rivet band is shorter than the platform in front of the first hole of the second rivet band.

23. A method for joining first and second rivet bands together using a rivet band clamp according to claim 1 or 12, and then inserting a rivet from the first and second rivet bands into a workpiece using a riveting tool.

24. The method of claim 23, wherein the workpiece forms part of the vehicle.

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