Carrier Strip System for Multi-Diameter Fastener Magazine Compatibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fastener setting tools require multiple magazines or tools for different diameter fasteners, leading to inefficiency and increased time due to the need for distinct arrangements for proper feed, which is undesirable.
Innovation Solution
A carrier strip system with discrete strips having complementary internal features for different diameters but identical external dimensions, allowing different diameter fasteners to be used in a single setting tool magazine by matching the smaller diameter strip's dimensions to the larger diameter fastener's register, enabling secure engagement and alignment within the magazine.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple magazines or setting tools are used for different diameter fasteners, then proper feed and alignment are ensured, but device complexity and time for replacement increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal magazine system where a single magazine can accommodate multiple fastener diameters through interchangeable carrier strips. The carrier strips have external dimensions that match the magazine's carrier strip register, allowing them to be used in the same magazine position while having internal features tailored to different fastener diameters. This eliminates the need for multiple dedicated magazines for different fastener sizes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the fastener holding function into separate carrier strips that can be independently selected and exchanged. Each carrier strip is a discrete component with specific internal dimensions for a particular fastener diameter, but standardized external dimensions for magazine compatibility. This segmentation allows the system to handle multiple fastener types through modular carrier strip selection rather than requiring entirely separate magazines.
2Reliability
If multiple magazines are used for different diameter fasteners, then proper feed is ensured, but time for magazine replacement increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables operators to pre-select the appropriate carrier strip for the required fastener diameter and have it ready for quick exchange. The standardized external dimensions and register interface allow for rapid insertion and removal of carrier strips without requiring magazine replacement, significantly reducing the time penalty associated with changing fastener types.
3Reliability
If distinct arrangements are used for different diameter fasteners, then proper feed is ensured, but operational efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The unified magazine system with interchangeable carrier strips allows a single magazine to perform multiple functions - accommodating different fastener diameters without requiring physical replacement of the magazine itself. This increases operational efficiency by eliminating the need to switch between multiple dedicated magazines while maintaining reliable feed and alignment for each fastener type.
Data Source
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AI summary
Disclosed herein is a carrier strip system which includes a plurality of discrete carrier strips (1,10) respectively receptive of fasteners (2,22) of substantially different dimensions said strips having internal features and configured to complementarily engage said fasteners (2,22) , said strips further (1,10) having substantially identical external dimensions such that said plurality of discrete carrier strips are receivable into a single setting tool magazine. Further disclosed herein is a method enabling receipt of different dimension fasteners in a single setting tool magazine constructing discrete carrier strips having substantially identical external dimensions and distinct internal dimensions complementary to respective fasteners having different dimensions; loading said fasteners having said substantially different dimensions into said respective carrier strips having said substantially identical external dimensions and distinct internal dimensions complimentary to said respective fasteners, said external dimensions facilitating receipt of said respective strips in a single setting tool magazine .