EP4731553A1

EP4731553A1 - An applicator device for applying a composition

Info

Publication number: EP4731553A1
Application number: EP24826590.2A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Gavin HABERLIN; David Condron; Stephen King; James Bourke; Stephen M. RAYNER; Nikhil Balakdas Meshram; Ronan Murphy; Alexander Abraham; Oisin DOLAN; Pierce BOLAND; Michael J. SHANNAHAN
Original assignee: Henkel AG and Co KGaA
Current assignee: Henkel AG and Co KGaA
Priority date: 2023-06-20
Filing date: 2024-06-20
Publication date: 2026-04-29
Also published as: WO2024263681A1; CN121368563A

Abstract

An applicator device for applying a composition carried on a flexible carrier tape to a substrate, the device comprising: (a) a grip for gripping the substrate to which the composition is to be applied; and (b) a mechanism to apply the composition from the flexible carrier tape onto the substrate held in the grip. The device can apply curable composition, for example adhesive, optionally in the form of a film to a substrate such as a bolt.

Description

AN APPLICATOR DEVICE FOR APPLYING A COMPOSITION

Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an applicator device for applying a composition. Of particular interest is an applicator device which can apply a composition to a substrate.

Brief Description of Related Art

[0002] It is well known to use applicator devices for application of a material to a substrate. For example, it is well known to dispense tapes. Examples of the devices which are described as useful for dispensing tapes onto a substrate include the following.

[0003] US Patent No. 3,508,998 describes an apparatus having a rotatable deck carrying (1) a roll of tape; (2) tape feeding means; (3) tape cutting shears and (4) pressure rollers, and fluid pressure cylinders for operating these devices with cam-operated valves controlled by rotation of the deck for determining the sequence of operation. A threaded article is held between rollers until one or more turns of the tape are wrapped around and rolled into threads. Insertion of an article into the apparatus initiates operation and the apparatus shuts itself off upon completion of a cycle. The overall configuration of this device is for applying a tape, such as a PTFE tape, to a substrate.

[0004] US Patent No. 4,012,273 describes a device which applies a strip of PTFE tape to a threaded pipe. The device is rotated about the pipe to apply the tape.

[0005] US Patent No. 4,075,053 describes a device which applies a strip of masking tape to the inside of a pipe surface. The overall configuration of this device is for applying a tape to the inside of a substrate as the device is rotated about the pipe to apply the tape.

[0006] Notwithstanding the devices mentioned above it is desirable to provide alternatives.

Summary

[0007] In one aspect, the present invention provides an applicator device for applying a composition carried on a flexible carrier tape to a substrate, the device comprising:

(i) a grip for gripping the substrate to which the composition is to be applied; and

(ii) a mechanism to apply the composition from the flexible carrier tape onto the substrate held in the grip. [0008] The applicator device of the invention may be in the form of a handheld device. Such devices are often in the form of a handheld device that can be held in and operated by one hand. It may be in the form of a gun - i.e. a handheld device that can be operated by one or more triggers.

[0009] The advantage of the present invention is that it allows a composition, such as a curable composition, for example an adhesive composition, to be applied to a substrate. In particular one advantage of the present invention is that it allows a composition to be applied about the exterior of a substrate. For example, the composition can be applied circumferentially. The device of the present invention works best with substrates having a generally cylindrical cross-sectional profile typically at the region of application. For example, a device of the present invention may be utilised with pipes or fasteners, for example threaded pipes, and threaded fasteners such as bolts or screws.

[0010] An applicator device of the invention may further comprise a collector for collecting flexible carrier tape after the composition has been applied. Optionally the collector is in the form of a collection reel for collecting flexible carrier tape that has been used to apply composition to the substrate.

[0011] This means a device of the invention can be used in a continuous fashion to apply composition, for example to one substrate after another. The tape can be unwound to apply the composition and then collected after application by winding it back up. So the tape can be retained within an applicator device of the invention at all times.

[0012] Suitably, in an applicator device of the invention, the mechanism to apply the composition from the flexible carrier tape onto the substrate comprises: a rotation mechanism for rotating the substrate relative to the flexible carrier tape so that, in use, composition on the flexible carrier tape is applied about the substrate.

[0013] Thus rotation of substrate to which the composition is applied can be utilised to apply the composition. Where the rotation mechanism is for rotating the substrate against the flexible carrier tape this rotation of the substrate can be used to apply tension to pull flexible carrier tape toward the substrate.

[0014] Desirably the grip opens to accommodate the substrate and closes to grip the substrate. The grip may be formed by one or more rollers. One or more of any such rollers, for example two of such rollers, may also be used to press the flexible carrier tape against the substrate. [0015] Suitably the grip is resiliently biased to close, for example by being spring loaded. This means that a device of the invention can automatically grip a substrate to be which a composition is to be applied.

[0016] The grip may be in the form of moveable jaws, for example in the form of a chuck. For example the grip may be in each segments, for example four equal segments. [0017] Desirably the applicator device of the invention comprises a tensioning mechanism for maintaining the flexible carrier tape taut. Desirably the tensioning mechanism includes collector for collecting flexible carrier tape after the composition has been applied. [0018] For example it is desirable to maintain tension in the flexible carrier tape by applying a tensile force to it. This tensile force is desirably imparted by the collector for collecting flexible carrier tape after the composition has been applied. The collector can thus be used to impart a tensile force that draws the flexible carrier tape through the device.

[0019] Suitably the mechanism to apply the composition from the flexible carrier tape onto the substrate comprises a carriage that, in use, can move the flexible carrier tape against or away from the substrate held in the grip.

[0020] The movement of the carriage and the opening of the grip may be correlated so that as the carriage moves away from the grip the grip opens.

[0021] The rotation mechanism optionally includes gears.

[0022] The applicator device of the present invention desirably further comprising a lever that forms part of the rotation mechanism and wherein force applied to the lever imparts rotation to the reel. The lever may be in the form of a trigger lever that is operated manually. For example an end of the lever is provided with gear teeth.

[0023] Desirably the tape comprises any suitable carrier with any suitable adhesive thereon. For example the carrier can be any suitable tape material. The composition can be any suitable curable composition that may be released from the carrier. .

[0024] The invention also relates to an assembly and in particular an applicator device assembly for applying a composition carried on a flexible carrier tape to a substrate, the assembly comprising:

(i) an applicator device according to the invention; and, mounted on the applicator device,

(ii) the flexible carrier tape carrying the composition to be applied to the substrate, optionally wherein the composition to be applied is in the form of a film. Brief Description of the Drawings

[0025] Embodiments of the invention will be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

[0026] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an applicator device of the present invention;

[0027] Figure 2 is a perspective view of the device of Figure 1 which is open in a clamshell type arrangement;

[0028] Figure 3 is an exploded view of a substrate gripping mechanism of the applicator device;

[0029] Figure 4 is a perspective view of part of the substrate gripping mechanism shown in Figure 3;

[0030] Figures 5A to 5D show parts of the substrate gripping mechanism and at least part of an operation sequence thereof;

[0031] Figures 6A to 6D also show parts of the substrate gripping mechanism and at least part of an operation sequence thereof;

[0032] Figures 7A to 7D also show parts of the substrate gripping mechanism and at least part of an operation sequence thereof;

[0033] Figures 8A to 8D also show parts of the substrate gripping mechanism and at least part of an operation sequence thereof;

[0034] Figure 9 also show parts of the substrate gripping mechanism and at least part of an operation sequence thereof;

[0035] Figure 10 also show parts of the substrate gripping mechanism and at least part of an operation sequence thereof;

[0036] Figure 11 also show parts of the substrate gripping mechanism and at least part of an operation sequence thereof;

[0037] Figure 12 also show parts of the substrate gripping mechanism and at least part of an operation sequence thereof;

[0038] Figure 13 shows an exploded view of a tape mechanism and a second housing portion;

[0039] Figure 14 shows parts of the tape mechanism and at least part of an operation sequence thereof;

[0040] Figures 15A to 15C also show parts of the tape mechanism and at least part of an operation sequence thereof; [0041] Figures 16A and 16B also show parts of the tape mechanism and at least part of an operation sequence thereof;

[0042] Figures 17A to 17C also show parts of the tape mechanism and at least part of an operation sequence thereof;

[0043] Figures 18A and 18B also show parts of the tape mechanism and at least part of an operation sequence thereof; and

[0044] Figures 19A to 19F also show parts of the tape mechanism and at least part of an operation sequence thereof.

[0045] It will be appreciated that the Figures show different parts of the device and to different scales to allow for ease of illustration and explanation of function.

Detailed Description

[0046] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an applicator device 100 of the present invention. The applicator device 100 is for applying a composition carried on a flexible carrier tape onto a substrate. The applicator device 100 is in the form of a handheld device. It can be gripped and held in one hand. Its functions can be activated by manual pressure for example using fingers. The applicator device 100 may be considered to be in the form of a gun.

[0047] In the embodiment the composition to be applied is in the form of a film carried on a carrier tape. The composition has been formed as an integral film that is self-supporting and can be removed from the carrier tape and wound about a substrate. The composition retains its integrity even when not on the carrier tape.

[0048] However it will be appreciated that composition that requires support to allow it to be applied could be provided on a support of some kind such as a web of polymer, paper of other material and the composition and the web on which it is on are applied together to the substrate.

[0049] This application will be described in more detail below

[0050] The applicator device 100 has a device body 101. The device body 101 comprises two hollow housing portions, shells or casings 102 and 103 and an intermediate portion 104. A first housing portion 102 accommodates a substrate gripping mechanism 200, which is located on the intermediate portion 104 and which grips a substrate to which the composition is to be applied. A second housing portion 103 accommodates a tape mechanism 300 for carrying the flexible carrier tape and applying the composition. [0051] As seen from Figure 2, the second housing portion 103 and the intermediate portion 104are hingedly attached to each other. This allows the second housing portion 103 to be opened to insert and/or remove flexible carrier tape and/or a carrier reel for the flexible carrier tape when the flexible carrier tape has been expended and a replacement flexible carrier tape is required. The second housing portion 102 can be opened also.

[0052] A series of three hinges 109 attach the first and second housing portions 102,103 to each other. A resilient tab 105 engages with a corresponding keeper 106 to hold the applicator device 100 in a closed position. When it is desired to open the applicator device 100 the resilient tab 105 can be pushed away from the keeper 106.

[0053] The device body 101 includes a handgrip 110. The handgrip 110 is integrally formed with the first housing portion 102 and the intermediate portion 104. A trigger guard 113 comprising a base portion 111 and a front portion 112 which together run from the handgrip 110 and join to the first housing portion 102 and the intermediate portion 104. The trigger guard 113 defines a trigger aperture 114 bounded by the handgrip 110; the base portion 111; and the front portion 112.

[0054] Within the trigger aperture 114 two independently operable triggers are provided. A first sliding trigger 201 is provided to operate the substrate gripping mechanism 200. A second lever trigger 301 is provided to operate the tape mechanism 300. The sliding trigger 201 is spring biased toward the position shown in Figure 1. The lever trigger 301 is spring biased toward the position shown in Figure 1 .

[0055] Reference to the figures and in particular the exploded view of Figure 3 the parts of the substrate gripping mechanism 200 will now be described.

[0056] The intermediate portion 104has an aperture 115 defined therein. This aperture 115 provides a window through which a substrate can be inserted and gripped.

[0057] The sliding trigger 201 is integrally formed with a planar platform part 202. A rack 203 with teeth 206 is provided along one side the platform 202.

[0058] The rack 203 raises and lowers relative to the platform part 202. In particular the rack 203 is mounted on a series of runners 204 in slots 205 (best seen in Figure 5B). The movement of the runners 204 in slots 205 causes the raising and lowering of the rack 203 relative to the platform part 202 as will be described in more detail below.

[0059] A gripping gear 210 is provided and aligns with the aperture 115. The gripping gear 210 has a gripping gear body 211 in which is defined a central aperture 212. About the exterior of the gripping gear 210 are exterior gear teeth 213. A substrate to be gripped passes into the central aperture 212. A series of grips and in particular three grips 214 are arranged about the central aperture 212 to grip and hold an inserted substrate. The grips 214 operate in the manner of a chuck. They can be opened and closed for insertion/gripping/removal of a substrate.

[0060] As best seen from Figure 4 a coaxially aligned grip opening and closing gear 220 is (coaxially) aligned with and mates with gripping gear 210. The grip opening and closing gear 220 has a grip opening and closing gear body 221 in which is defined a central aperture 222. The central aperture 222 is dimensioned and shaped to allow the grips 214 to extend into it and also to allow the grips 214 to open and close. In particular the central aperture 222 has a series of recesses 224 which are shaped to accommodate the respective gripping surfaces 214a.

[0061] About the exterior of the grip opening and closing gear 220 are exterior gear teeth 223.

[0062] As also best seen from Figure 4 the gripping gear 210 has a grip receiving slot 216 for each grip 214 defined in its gripping gear body 211 . Defined in the gripping gear body 211 on each of the opposing sides of each of the grip receiving slots 216 are channels 217. This allows each grip receiving slots 216 to allow sliding engagement of the respective grips 214 by insertion of external ribs 214b of the grips 214 within the grip receiving slots 216 as described below. Furthermore the grips 214/grip receiving slots 216 are dimensioned to allow reciprocal movement of each grip 214 within its respective grip receiving slot 216 as described below.

[0063] In Figure 4, and for ease of illustration, one of the grips 214 is shown separated from the gripping gear 210. As can be seen it has a gripping surface 214a. It has external ribs 214b that engage it within grip receiving slots 216 defined in its gripping gear body 211as described above. It will be appreciated that all three grips 214 are the same.

[0064] The grip opening and closing gear body 221 of grip opening and closing gear 220 has three arcuate slots 225 defined therein. The three arcuate slots 225 are of the same dimensions and are disposed equidistantly from the centre of the grip opening and closing gear 220 (as compared to each other).

[0065] However the three arcuate slots 225 are offset. While a common circle (of constant radius) can be drawn joining the respective centre points of the three arcuate slots 225 the arcuate slots themselves do not from arcs of that circle. Instead the arcs defined by the three arcuate slots 225 are offset relative to that common circle. In particular a respective proximal end 225a of each of the three arcuate slots 225 is located closer to the centre the grip opening and closing gear 220 than the respective distal end 225b of each of the three arcuate slots 225. When the gripping gear 210 and the grip opening and closing gear 220 are mated, each of the bearing pins 215 project into and are received by a respective one of the three arcuate slots 225.

[0066] Opening and closing of the grips 214 can thus be effected by relative movement of bearing pins 215 (one on each grip 214) in the coaxially aligned grip opening and closing gear 220. Opening and closing of the grips 214 is effected by relative movement of bearing pins 215 (one on each grip 214) in the arcuate slots 225 of coaxially aligned grip opening and closing gear 220 by relative rotation of the grip opening and closing gear 220 to the gripping gear 210 (or vice versa).

[0067] A substrate to be gripped can be passed into the central aperture 212. A series of grips and in particular the three grips 214 arranged about the central aperture 212 grip and hold the inserted substrate. The grips 214 thus operate in the manner of a chuck. They can be opened and closed for insertion/gripping/removal of a substrate.

[0068] Tabs 218a and slots 218b are provided on the gripping gear 210. Tabs 218a are provided on the gripping gear 210 and project outwards on the same side as the grips 214.

Slots 218b between each pair of tabs 218a house a respective compression spring (not shown). The tabs 218a hold the compression springs in place and also hold a position of the gripping gear relative to the closing gear 220. This arrangement produces a returning biasing force as will be described below.

[0069] The applicator device 100 further comprises other parts including a curved pawl 230 having a pawl body 231 in which is defined an aperture 232 about which the pawl 230 can pivot when mounted upon a stub axle 116 on the intermediate portion 104. The pawl 230 has a series of teeth 233 on the free end thereof. The pawl 230 functions as a brake for the gripping gear 210 when the pawl teeth 233 engage with the teeth 213 of the gripping gear 210.

[0070] The applicator device 100 further comprises other parts including a pinion mesh gear 235 having gear teeth 236. The pinion mesh gear 235 is mounted for rotation on a stub axe 117 on the intermediate portion 104. The pinion mesh gear 235 can mesh with the teeth 206 of the rack 203. A pinion transmission gear 238 with gear teeth 239 is coaxially mounted with and fixed to pinion mesh gear 235 and rotates with it so that whenever pinion mesh gear 235 is rotated so too is pinion transmission gear 238. The transmission gear 238 is a larger gear than pinion mesh gear 235. (The pinion mesh gear 235 is visible in the views shown in Figures 6C, 7C and 8C.) [0071] With particular reference to Figures 5A to 5D the operation of these parts will now be described. For ease of illustration pinion mesh gear 235 is omitted from Figure 5D. [0072] A resting configuration of a part of the applicator device 100 is shown in Figure 5A. In this configuration the gripping gear 210 is mated with grip opening and closing gear 220. The sliding trigger 201 is a released/resting state. The planar platform part 202 and the rack 203 extends underneath the gripping gear 210 but not the grip opening and closing gear 220.

[0073] As shown in Figures 5B and 5C, as the sliding trigger 201 is pulled, (as indicated by arrow Pi) the rack 203 is raised relative to the platform part 202 as indicated by arrows U. This movement has a first function which is to lift the pawl 230 causing it to pivot about aperture 232 and in turn causing the teeth 233 of the pawl 230 to mesh with teeth 213 of gripping gear 210. The effect of this meshing/engagement is to brake or restrain any rotational movement of the gripping gear 210 as it cannot move when it is meshed with the pawl 230. Figure 5D shows the resultant configuration of the applicator device 100 of the invention.

[0074] As can be seen, for example in Figures 5A to 5D the gear teeth 239 of pinion transmission gear 238 mesh with the gear teeth 223 of the grip opening and closing gear 220. Accordingly rotation of the pinion mesh gear 235 rotates transmission gear 238 which in turn rotates the grip opening and closing gear 220.

[0075] As will be described in more detail below the raising of the rack 203 has a second function and this is to allow the rack teeth 206 of the rack 203 to mesh with gear teeth 236 of pinion gear 235. The rack 203 and the pinion gear 235 only interengage when the rack 203 is raised.

[0076] Figures 6A to 6D show a sequence continuing on from the sequence of Figures 5A to 5D with Figure 6C showing the configuration from the opposite side with pinion mesh gear 235 best seen in Figure 6C.

[0077] As the sliding trigger 201 is pulled (as indicated by arrow P₂) the rack 203 (in its raised position) continues to move and is drawn underneath the pinion gear 235. This causes the rack teeth 206 of the rack 203 to mesh with gear teeth 236 of pinion gear 235 (gear teeth 236 of pinion gear 235 and pinion gear 235 are best seen in Figure 6C).

[0078] The movement in the direction of arrow P₂thus causes both the pinion gear 235 and the transmission gear 238 to rotate in an anticlockwise direction as indicated by arrow Ai. This in turn rotates the grip opening and closing gear 220 in a clockwise direction as indicated by arrow Ci . [0079] However as the teeth 233 of the pawl 230 are meshed with the teeth 213 of gripping gear 210, the gripping gear 210 is held or braked against rotation. Accordingly the grip opening and closing gear 220 rotates in a clockwise direction as indicated by arrow Ci while the gripping gear 210 is held or braked against rotation. This relative rotation/movement is described above. In particular this action causes relative movement of bearing pins 215 (one on each grip 214) in the arcuate slots 225 of the grip opening and closing gear 220. In particular, the movement causes the arcuate slots 225 to move relative to the bearing pins 215, causing them to move from a position where the bearing pins 215 are located in the respective proximal ends 225a, to a position where the bearing pins 215 are located in the respective distal ends 225b, of the slots. As the respective distal ends 225b are located further from the centre of the grip opening and closing gear 220 than the respective proximal ends 225, each of the three arcuate slots 225 thus causes each grip 214 to move within its respective grip receiving slot 216 and open as indicated by the arrows O. In particular the grips 214 are retracted into its respective grip receiving slot 216. This action is that of a chuck which opens to receive a workpiece.

[0080] Overall the difference in configuration is shown by comparing the closed grip configuration of Figure 5D against the open grip configuration of Figure 6D.

[0081] In this open grip configuration of Figure 6D a substrate to be gripped can be inserted between the gripping ends 214a of the grips 214. The substrate may be, for example, a bolt 150 to which a composition carried on a flexible carrier is to be applied.

[0082] Figures 7A to 7D show the insertion of the bolt 150. A sequence then occurs as described below. The force to impart this sequence is provided by spring loading as the applicator device 100 of the invention is biased toward its substrate gripping position.

[0083] In general the configuration of the applicator device 100 continues in sequence from the sequence shown in Figures 6A to 6D.

[0084] In Figure 7A a bolt 150 has been inserted between the grips 214 and in particular gripping surfaces 214a. The bolt 150 is the substrate to which a composition is to be applied.

[0085] Figure 7A also shows a first step where the sliding trigger 201 is released (after insertion of the bolt 150) and experiences a return force as indicated by arrow Ri.

[0086] The rack 203 which was raised relative to the platform part 202 now drops as indicated by arrows D. This downward (return) movement is in effect a reversal of the earlier raising movement. [0087] A first utility of the downward movement of the rack 203 is to allow the pawl 230 to lower/drop causing it to pivot about aperture 232 and in turn causing the teeth 233 of the pawl 230 to move away from teeth 213 of gripping gear 210 so that they no longer mesh. The effect of this unmeshing/disengagement from each other is to remove any brake or restraint on rotational movement of the gripping gear 210. So gripping gear 210 is free to move.

[0088] The lowering of the rack 203 has a second function and this is to allow the rack teeth 206 of the rack 203 to move away from gear teeth 236 of pinion gear 235. The rack 203 and the pinion gear 235 thus unmesh/disengage from each other. Pinion gear 235 becomes free to rotate. As transmission gear 238 is fixed for rotation with pinion gear 235 it too is free to rotate. Both pinion gear 235 and the transmission gear 238 become free to rotate. Furthermore as the transmission gear 238 is meshed with the grip opening and closing gear 220, it too is free to rotate.

[0089] Figure 7D shows the resultant configuration of the applicator device 100 of the invention.

[0090] Figures 8A to 8D show the gripping of the bolt 150. A sequence then occurs as described below. The force to impart this sequence is provided by spring loading as the applicator device 100 of the invention is biased toward its substrate gripping position.

[0091] In general the configuration of the applicator device 100 continues in sequence from the sequence shown in Figures 7A to 7D.

[0092] In Figures 8A to 8D the bolt 150 has been gripped between the grips 214 and in particular gripping surfaces 214a.

[0093] Figures 8A to 8D also shows further progression as the sliding trigger 201 is released and experiences a continued return force as indicated by arrow R₂.

[0094] A returning biasing force causes the grip opening and closing gear 220 to rotate in an anticlockwise direction as indicated by arrow A₂ relative to the gripping gear 210. In particular this action causes relative movement of bearing pins 215 (one on each grip 214) in the arcuate slots 225 of the grip opening and closing gear 220. In particular, the movement causes the arcuate slots 225 to move relative to the bearing pins 215, causing them to move from a position where the bearing pins 215 are located in the respective distal ends 225b, to a position where the bearing pins 215 are located closer to the respective proximal ends 225a, of the slots. As the respective proximal ends 225a are located closer to the centre of the grip opening and closing gear 220 than the respective distal ends 225b, each of the three arcuate slots 225 thus causes each grip 214 to move within its respective grip receiving slot 216 and close and grip the bolt 150 as indicated by the arrows G. In particular the grips 214 are from their respective grip receiving slot 216. This action is that of a chuck which closes to receive a workpiece. The bolt 150 is firmly held.

[0095] It will be appreciated that the presence of the bolt 150 prevents the grips 214 from closing fully. Furthermore it will be appreciated that the applicator device of the invention can accommodate substrates of different cross-sectional area and/or shape, and the degree of closure will depend on the different cross-sectional area and/or shape of the substrate.

[0096] It will be appreciated that as the grip opening and closing gear 220 rotates in an anticlockwise direction as indicated by arrow A₂ the pinion transmission gear 238 will rotate in a clockwise direction as indicated by arrow C₂.

[0097] Desirably the substrate to which the composition is to be applied has a circular cross-sectional shape at least at the position at which the composition is to be applied.

[0098] Figure 8D shows the resultant gripping configuration of the applicator device 100 of the invention which is gripping the bolt 150. In this configuration of the applicator device 100 the substrate/bolt 150 is ready to have composition applied to it.

[0099] The substrate such as bolt 150 is spun by the applicator device of the invention for application of composition thereto and the mechanism for spinning the gripped substrate will now be described.

[00100] Figure 9 and Figures 10A to 10D show (all or part of) the mechanism for spinning the gripped substrate. It will be appreciated that other parts of the applicator device 100 are not shown for ease of illustration of this particular mechanism. The gripping configuration of Figure 9 is the same as described above and will not be described again, though it is noted, that for ease of illustration, part of the gripping mechanism is not shown in Figure 9.

[00101] A first part of a substrate spinning mechanism comprises the lever trigger 301. The lever trigger 301 has a finger pull part 302. Side guards 303 for the lever trigger 301 are also provided.

[00102] The lever trigger 301 extends upwardly and has an aperture 304 defined therein. The lever trigger 301 is mounted to a stub axle 118 (on the intermediate portion 104) so as to allow the lever trigger 301 to move/pivot about a central axis through the aperture 304.

[00103] Extending upwardly from the lever trigger 301 is a gear sector 305 which has gear teeth 306. Also extending upwardly but diverging rearwardly relative to the gear sector 306 is a guide finger 307. A pin 308 extends through the guide finger 307 and engages within arcuate slot 119 defined within the intermediate portion 104. As the lever trigger 301 moves/pivots about a central axis through the aperture 304 the pin 308 runs back and forth in the arcuate slot 119. The guide finger 307 can thus provide additional guiding/stability to the trigger action/movement. A recess 309 in the front of the guide finger 307 provides additional clearance for movement of the lever trigger 301 toward a stub axle 120 on the intermediate portion 104.

[00104] A drive system/rotation mechanism for driving rotation of the bolt 150 for application of composition will now be described.

[00105] This rotation mechanism comprises a trigger drive gear 240 with gear teeth 241. A smaller trigger engaging gear with gear teeth is coaxially mounted with and fixed to trigger drive gear 240 and rotates with it so that whenever trigger engaging gear is rotated so too is trigger drive gear 240. (The trigger engaging gear is not visible in the views shown.)

[00106] The trigger engaging gear engages/meshes with the teeth 306 of the gear sector 305 of the lever trigger 301. This means that as the lever trigger 301 is moved the trigger drive gear 240 is also rotated.

[00107] The next part in the drive mechanism is a ratchet gear assembly 250. The ratchet gear assembly 250 comprises a with gear teeth 252 mounted on a hub 253. The transmission gear 251 is fixed to hub 253 so that they rotate together.

[00108] The ratchet gear assembly 250 also comprises a larger with a gear body 255 and with external gear teeth 256. The open centre is provided a central aperture 257 defined in the gear body 255. On the gear body about the circumference of the central aperture 257 are a series of detents 258 (best seen in Figure 3 and Figures 10C and 10D). The detents 258 have an angled or oblique or sawtooth configuration.

[00109] The hub 253 is inserted into the central aperture 257 defined in the gear body 255 mating the smaller transmission gear 251 to the open centred gear 254. This forms a ratchet gear assembly 250 which is then mounted on stub axle 121 on the intermediate portion 104. The transmission gear 251 is fixed to hub 253 and they can rotate together within the central aperture 257 defined in the gear body 255. This forms part of the ratchet gear assembly 250 other parts of which will be described below.

[00110] Further detail of the ratchet gear assembly 250 now will be described with reference to Figures 10A to 10D which show a view from an opposite side to that of Figures 10A to 10B. [00111] As best seen in Figures 10C and the detail view A of Figure 10C shown in Figure 10D the ratchet hub 253 has defined therein a series of recesses or channels 261 which are shaped to accommodate/house respective ones of a series of spring-loaded ratchet pins 260. (For ease of reference only one ratchet pin 260 is shown. However it will be appreciated that four are provided, one in each channel 261 and each functioning in the same way.) [00112] There are four channels circumferentially spaced at 90 degrees apart. Each channel 261 has in its side walls opposing grooves 261a which accommodate opposing ribs 260b on ratchet pin body 260a of ratchet pin 260. The ratchet pin 260 has an oblique end 260c which is shaped to mate with the detents about the circumference of the central aperture 257 of open centred gear 254. This mating however occurs only in one direction. It will be appreciated that the assembly thus provides the ratchet gear assembly 250.

[00113] In particular, and when viewed from the perspective of Figures 10C to 10D, when hub 253 and transmission gear 251 rotate in an anticlockwise direction, due to the respective oblique surfaces of the detents 258 and the respective oblique ends 260c of ratchet pins 260 the ratchet pins 260 do not engage with the detents 258. Instead they skip over the detents 258. This means that hub 253 and transmission gear 251 can rotate freely relative to the open centred gear 254. Arrows R indicate how the ratchet pins 260 can move up and down to allow the ratchet action.

[00114] Again when viewed from the perspective of Figures 10C to 10D, when hub 253 and transmission gear 251 rotate in a clockwise direction, due to the respective oblique surfaces of the detents 258 and the respective oblique ends 260c of ratchet pins 260 the ratchet pins 260 do engage with the detents 258. This means that hub 253 and transmission gear 251 catch and rotate with the open centred gear 254.

[00115] When viewed from the perspective of Figure 10A, (which is from the opposite side to Figures 10C to 10D) when hub 253 and transmission gear 251 rotate in an anticlockwise direction as indicated by arrow A₃, due to the respective oblique surfaces of the detents 258 and the respective oblique ends 260c of ratchet pins 260 the ratchet pins 260 do engage with the detents 258. This means that hub 253 and transmission gear 251 catch and rotate with the open centred gear 254 as indicated by arrow A4.

[00116] Again when viewed from the perspective of Figure 10B, (which is from the opposite side to Figures 10C to 10D) when hub 253 and transmission gear 251 rotate in a clockwise direction as indicated by arrow C₃, due to the respective oblique surfaces of the detents 258 and the respective oblique ends 260c of ratchet pins 260 the ratchet pins 260 do not engage with the detents 258. This means that the open centred gear 254 can rotate in an opposite (anticlockwise) direction as indicated by arrow A_s.

[00117] Or in summary, in one direction of relative rotation the ratchet catches/locks and the parts rotate together. In an opposite direction of relative rotation the ratchet does not catch/unlocks and the parts can rotate independently of each other.

[00118] In the applicator device 100 of the invention the following operations occur.

[00119] When the lever trigger 301 is pulled as indicated by arrow TPi in Figure 11 the gear sector 305 pivots in the direction indicated by arrow GSi. This in turn rotates trigger engaging gear and trigger drive gear 240 as described above. They rotate in a clockwise direction as indicated by arrows C₄.

[00120] T rigger drive gear 240 meshes with transmission gear 251 of the ratchet assembly and rotates it and hub 253 in the direction of arrow A3. As the device is configured as in Figures 10A to 10D this is the direction in which the ratchet catches/locks. So in in turn the open centred gear 254 also rotates in the same direction as indicated by arrow A₄. So they then rotate together in the directions of arrows A₃ and A₄ (as also indicated in Figure 10A).

[00121] Open centred gear 254 meshes with grip opening and closing gear 220. So the rotation of open centred gear 254 causes a clockwise rotation of the grip opening and closing gear 220 as indicated by arrows C5. This spins the bolt 150 (in a clockwise manner also) for application of composition.

[00122] So in this manner pulling on the lever trigger 301 spins the bolt 150.

[00123] When the lever trigger 301 is released as indicated by arrow TR1 in Figure 12 the gear sector 305 pivots back in the direction indicated by arrow GS₂. This in turn rotates trigger engaging gear and trigger drive gear 240 as described above. They rotate in an anticlockwise direction as indicated by arrow A₆.

[00124] T rigger drive gear 240 meshes with transmission gear 251 of the ratchet assembly and rotates it and hub 253 (clockwise) in the direction of arrow C₃. As the device is configured as in Figures 10A to 10D this is the direction in which the ratchet does not catch/lock. So the open centred gear 254 does not rotate (as also shown in Figure 10B). [00125] Open centred gear 254 meshes with gripping gear 210. So the non-movement of open centred gear 254 does not cause any rotation of the gripping gear 210. There is no spinning of the bolt 150. [00126] In this manner the lever trigger 301 can be returned to its released position and is ready for operation for the next bolt to be coated. As above the lever trigger 301 is spring biased to the release position.

[00127] A tape mechanism 300 of the applicator device 100 of the invention for carrying the flexible carrier tape and applying the composition will now be described.

[00128] Figure 13 shows an exploded view of the tape mechanism 300 and the second housing portion 103. Figure 14 shows the tape mechanism 300 assembled on the carriage 310 and with a roll of flexible carrier tape in place.

[00129] The tape mechanism 300 has a carriage 310 which can move back and forth within the second housing portion 103. The carriage comprising a planar carriage body 311. A series of elongate slots 312a to 312f are defined in the planar carriage body 311 which allow this movement. Figure 14 shows the tape mechanism 300 assembled on the carriage 310 and with a roll of flexible carrier tape in place.

[00130] The mechanism 300 comprises a central hub 321 onto which a roll of flexible carrier tape can be mounted. The central hub 321 is open-centred having an open centre 322 defined therein. A first end 323 of the central hub 321 , about the open centre 322 is a series of teeth 324. The teeth 324 have an angled or oblique or sawtooth configuration. The hub thus has a crown gear type configuration.

[00131] Within the central hub 321 are a series of ribs 325. Fixed to the central hub 321 at a second end 326 thereof is crown gear 327. The crown gear 327 is coaxially aligned with the central hub 321 and the open centre 322 passes through the crown gear 327. On a rear side of the crown gear 327 are its gear teeth 328. These teeth mesh with external gear teeth 342 on tape collection reel gear body 341 (which will be described below).

[00132] A bearing cap or plug 329 fits into the open centre 322 and holds the tape carrier reel 320 to a stub axle 313 on the planar carriage body 311 so that the tape carrier reel 320 can rotate on the stub axle 313. The bearing cap or plug 329 and a series of ribs 325 are arranged to hold a compression spring within the central hub 321 .

[00133] The mechanism 300 comprises a collector for collecting flexible carrier tape after the composition has been applied. The collector comprises a tape collection reel 330 which has a central hub 331 onto which flexible carrier tape is collected (by winding) after the composition has been applied. The central hub 331 is open-centred having an open centre 332 defined therein. A first end 333 of the central hub 331 , about the open centre 332 is a series of three flange portions 334 which are for retaining/directing flexible carrier tape onto the central hub 331.

[00134] A tape collection reel gear 340 is also provided. It has a tape collection reel gear body 341 with external gear teeth 342. A stub axle 343 is provided on the tape collection reel gear body 341 on which the tape collection reel gear 340 is mounted. Relative rotation of the tape collection reel gear 340 to the tape collection reel 330 is allowed to maintain tension as mentioned above.

[00135] A bearing cap or plug 339 fits into the open centre 332 and attaches the tape collection reel 330 to the stub axle 343 on the planar carriage body 311. The bearing cap or plug 339 engages with the series of ribs 335 within the central hub 331.

[00136] The assembly of the tape collection reel 330 and tape collection reel gear 340 is pivotally mounted in an aperture 315 defined in the planar carriage body 311.

[00137] Figure 14 shows the tape mechanism 300 assembled on the carriage 310 and with a flexible carrier tape roll 350 in place. The flexible carrier tape roll 350 comprises a central roll 351 on which is wound flexible carrier tape 352 which carries the composition to be applied. [00138] A pair of applicator rollers 360 are provided on the carriage 310. The applicator rollers 360 each comprise a central fluted sleeve 361 which fits into and engages with a roller cylinder 362. The roller cylinder 362 is also fluted internally and the roller cylinder 362 and central fluted sleeve 361 interengage (by insertion of the central fluted sleeve 361 roller cylinder 362) and are locked for rotation against each other. A central pivot pin 363 fixes the roller cylinder 362 and central fluted sleeve 361 to apertures 316 in the carriage 310. The applicator rollers 360 are thus mounted for rotation on, and move with, the carriage 310.

[00139] Before use of an applicator device 100 of the invention a user places the flexible carrier tape roll 350 in place. The central roll 351 of flexible carrier tape 352 is placed on a central hub 321 of tape carrier reel 320 where it engages for rotation with the tape carrier reel 320. A user then feeds the flexible carrier tape 352 to create a web 353 of flexible carrier tape 352 which passes over the pair of applicator rollers 360 on the carriage 310 and back onto the central hub 331 of tape collection reel 330 so that the flexible carrier tape 352 can be collected. The flexible carrier tape 352 is held in tension.

[00140] A further roller carrying secondary carriage 370 is provided and its function is to open to allow insertion of a bolt 150 and then close to assist with application of the composition to the bolt as will now be described. The roller carrying secondary carriage 370 moves back and forth across a bolt receiving recess 317 defined in the carriage 310. So not only does the secondary carriage 370 move with the carriage 310 it also can move relative to the carriage 310.

[00141] The second housing portion 103 has an aperture 108 defined therein. This aperture 108 provides a window through which a substrate such as bolt 150 can extend when inserted.

[00142] The secondary carriage 370 comprises a secondary carriage body 371 in which is defined an elongate slot 372. The elongate slot 372 fits to and can move back and forth on a stub axle 107 on the second housing portion 103.

[00143] Also provided on the secondary carriage body 371 (respectively above and below, with both facing in opposite directions and arranged parallel to, the elongate slot 372) are a pair of racks 373 with rack teeth 374. The racks form part of a mechanism for providing movement of the secondary carriage 370 as will be described in more detail below.

[00144] Also defined in the secondary carriage body 371 are a pair of apertures 375 which are for mounting a pair of applicator rollers 360.

[00145] Ribs 376 provide guides on the secondary carriage body 371 for the motion of the secondary carriage 370.

[00146] A pair of bolt retaining rollers 380 are provided on the secondary carriage 370. The bolt retaining rollers 380 each comprise a roller cylinder 381 . A central pivot pin 382 fixes the roller cylinder 381 to apertures 375 in the carriage 310. The bolt retaining rollers 380 are thus mounted for rotation on, and move with, the carriage 370. And as mentioned above the carriage 370 can move relative to the carriage 310.

[00147] The tape mechanism 300 also comprises a pair of racks 319 on the carriage body 311. These racks 319 are arranged to be parallel to and work in conjunction with the racks 373 on the secondary carriage body 371 .

[00148] A pair of pinion gears 385 each have a hub 386. The respective hubs 386 are mounted within elongate slots 312a and 312d defined in the planar carriage body 311. The pinion gears 385 are each arranged to engage between and mesh with one rack 319 on the carriage body 311 and one rack 373 on the secondary carriage body 371.

[00149] In the configuration of Figure 14 no substrate such as a bolt has been inserted. The roller carrying secondary carriage 370 is in a retracted or closed position with the bolt retaining rollers 380 abutting the applicator rollers 360 and the web 353 of tape extending across applicator rollers 360. [00150] The operation of the tape mechanism 300 will now be described with reference to Figures 15A to 15C which show the operation of the tape mechanism in conjunction with the sliding trigger 201.

[00151] When a user pulls on the slide trigger 201 as indicated by arrow P₃ this opens the tape mechanism 300 as will be described. It is to be noted that the pulling on the lever trigger 301 is the same action as already described above for rotating the bolt 150. The substrate gripping mechanism 200 and the tape mechanism 300 are both operated by movement of a single trigger in one direction.

[00152] As the user pulls on the slide trigger 201 as indicated by arrow P₃ the carriage 310 moves in the same direction (as indicated by second arrow P₃ in Figure 15A) as the slide trigger 201 as a catch arm 355 provides a mechanical connection to the platform part 202 of slide trigger 201.

[00153] The racks 319 on the rear of the carriage 310 move with the carriage 310 and in turn each rotates one of the pair of pinion gears 385 as the carriage 310 moves past them. [00154] The rotating pinion gears 385 in turn, interact with the rack 373 on the secondary carriage 370. This causes secondary carriage 370 to move in the opposite direction by an equal amount as indicated by arrow Oi. This action moves the secondary carriage 370 across bolt receiving recess 317 moving secondary carriage 370 and the pair of bolt retaining rollers 380 to an open configuration (as shown in each of Figures 15A to 15D, from the closed configuration of Figure 14) where a bolt 150 can be inserted.

[00155] It will be appreciated that as bolt 150 is inserted it can be gripped by the gripping mechanism as described above. As mentioned above the sliding trigger 201 is spring biased toward the position shown in Figure 1. This means that the tape mechanism 300 is biased towards the closed configuration shown in Figure 14.

[00156] Once a bolt 150 is inserted the user releases the sliding trigger 201. The spring bias causes a reversal of the actions above and the sliding trigger 201 and the carriage 310 experiences a return force as indicated by arrow R4, while the secondary carriage 370 moves in the opposite direction as indicated by arrow R₃.

[00157] This means that the tape mechanism 300 is biased towards the closed configuration shown in Figure 14 and this results in the configuration shown schematically in Figures 16A and 16B. Figure 16A shows a part of the mechanism and Figures 16B shows an enlarged view of the applicator rollers 360 and the flexible carrier tape 352. [00158] The spring bias has caused applicator rollers 360 to press against one side of the bolt 150 while bolt retaining rollers 380 are pressed against the other side of the bolt 150. This holds the bolt 150 firmly against the web 353 of flexible carrier tape whilst still allowing rotation of the bolt 150. In particular the forces are such that as the bolt 150 is rotated in an anticlockwise direction as indicated by arrows C₅ the web 353 of flexible carrier tape 352 is drawn off and pressed against the bolt 150. In Figures 16A and 16B the flexible carrier tape 352 comprises a flexible backing tape 356 and a composition 357 to be applied to the bolt 150. As mentioned above the composition 357 forms a film which is sufficiently strong to allow it to be pulled off the backing tape 356 and wrapped around the bolt 150.

[00159] In Figure 16A the bolt 150 has competed more than one revolution and there is a band of composition 357 about the bolt 150. In Figure 16B the bolt has not yet made one revolution and the starting point at which composition 357 has been applied is indicated by arrow S.

[00160] As can be seen when the flexible carrier tape 352 is pressed against the bolt 150 the composition 357 is preferentially released onto the bolt 150. The flexible backing tape 356 continues in the web 353 and is collected on tape collection reel 330.

[00161] In particular the collection reel 330 applies tension to the flexible carrier tape 352 keeping it and the web 353 it forms taut.

[00162] Figure 17A shows a smaller scale view of the carriage 310 but omitting some parts of the tape mechanism 300 such as the applicator rollers 360 and the secondary carriage 370. Figure 17B is a sectional view taken along the line A-A in Figure 17A.

[00163] Figure 17C is an enlarged view of the Detail B of Figure 17B.

[00164] Figure 17C shows the bearing cap or plug 329 within the open centre 322 which attaches the tape carrier reel 320 to a stub axle 313 on the planar carriage body 311 so that the tape carrier reel 320 can rotate on the stub axle 313.

[00165] The tape carrier reel 320 holds the flexible carrier tape roll 350, and is arranged to release/unwind flexible carrier tape 352 according to the rotational speed of the bolt 150, when the bolt 150 is rotated within the applicator device 100 of the invention as described above. However in order to maintain tension in the flexible carrier tape 352 and in the web 353 of flexible carrier tape 352, it is desirable for the tape carrier reel 320 to have some resistance to rotation. This will maintain tension in the web 353 of flexible carrier tape 352 as it is drawn off the tape carrier reel 320. [00166] This is a balance as the tape carrier reel 320 must on one hand allow sufficient rotation to release/unwind the flexible carrier tape 352 to allow a continuous web 353 to be drawn off but must on the other hand provide sufficient resistance to stop the flexible carrier tape 352 from unravelling.

[00167] To achieve this balance an adjustable mechanism is provided.

[00168] In particular with reference to Figure 17C a helical compression spring (not shown) is mounted between a flange 329a on the bearing cap or plug 329 and an inner part 327a about an aperture 327b defined in the crown gear 327. A fixing such as a screw (not shown) can be inserted through an aperture 329b in the bearing cap or plug 329 and into a bore 313a in the stub axle 313. The screw engages with the bore 313a. This means that the compressive force exerted from the bearing cap or plug 329 onto the crown gear 327 pushes the crown gear 327 against the carriage body 311 providing (frictional) resistance to rotation. The screw can be adjusted so as to provide the right amount of resistance as discussed above. [00169] Figure 17C also shows the bearing cap or plug 339 within the open centre 332 which attaches the tape collection reel 330 to a stub axle 343 on the planar carriage body 311 so that the tape collection reel 330 can rotate on the stub axle 343.

[00170] The tape collection reel 330 is for collecting flexible carrier tape 352.

[00171] The tape carrier reel 320 is rotated according to the rotational speed of the bolt

150, as described above.

[00172] As mentioned above relative rotation of the tape collection reel gear 340 to the tape collection reel 330 is allowed to maintain tension as mentioned above. The tape collection reel gear 340 is a smaller diameter and it is therefore rotated at a higher speed than tape carrier reel 320 due to the gearing ratio between the tape carrier reel 320 and the tape collection reel gear 340.

[00173] The higher rotation speed is designed to pull the flexible backing tape 356 in the web 353 onto the tape collection reel 330 at a higher rate than flexible carrier tape 352 is initially released by/unwound from the tape carrier reel 320.

[00174] This applies tension in the web 353 of flexible carrier tape 352. However again a balance is required as continual building of tension would possibly break the flexible carrier tape 352 or otherwise damage other parts of the mechanism.

[00175] So the tape collection reel 330 must on one hand apply sufficient tension to collect the continuous web 353, by rotation, but must on the other hand must not apply excess tension that would cause breakage/damage. [00176] To achieve this balance an adjustable mechanism is provided.

[00177] In particular with reference to Figure 17C a helical compression spring (not shown) is mounted between a flange 339a on the bearing cap or plug 339 and an inner part 326 about an aperture 326a defined in the central hub 331 of tape collection reel 330.

[00178] Stub axle 343 provided on the tape collection reel gear body 341 extends through aperture 326a defined in the central hub 331. As mentioned above stub axle 343 is pivotally mounted in an aperture 315 defined in the planar carriage body 311. This arrangement allows relative rotation of the tape collection reel gear 340 to the tape collection reel 330. [00179] A fixing such as a screw (not shown) can be inserted through an aperture 339b in the bearing cap or plug 339 and into a bore 343a in the stub axle on the tape collection reel gear body 341. The screw engages with the bore 343a. This means that the compressive force exerted from the bearing cap or plug 339 onto the central hub 331 of tape collection reel 330 pushes the tape collection reel 330 against tape collection reel gear body 341 against providing (frictional) resistance to rotation. The screw can be adjusted so as to provide the right amount of resistance.

[00180] The tape collection reel gear 340 is a smaller diameter and it is therefore rotated at a higher speed than tape carrier reel 320 due to the gearing ratio between the tape carrier reel 320 and the tape collection reel gear 340. So this continually builds tension between the tape collection reel 330 and the reminder of the tape mechanism 300.

[00181] However the adjustable mechanism described above allows for relative rotation of the tape collection reel gear 340 to the tape collection reel 330 when a threshold tensile force is reached. This allows for slippage of the tape collection reel gear 340 to the tape collection reel 330 allowing in turn release of tension. The mechanism can be considered a slip clutch mechanism.

[00182] This slip clutch mechanism determines the overall tension transmitted though the applicator device 100 of the invention and in particular through the web 353 of flexible carrier tape 352.

[00183] For consistent application of composition 357 to successive substrates such as bolt 150 there is a finish and start mechanism which finishes one bolt and prepares to start another.

[00184] This finish and start wrapping mechanism will now be described with reference to Figures 18A and 18B. Figure 18A shows a part of the intermediate portion 104 while Figure 18B shows an enlarged view of the Detail A of Figure 18A. [00185] As will be appreciated there must be a finish and start stage to applying composition 357 to a bolt 150 to finish application to a first bolt 150 and allow application to a subsequent bolt 150.

[00186] Finishing of application to a bolt is achieved by using tensile force to break the composition 357. This tensile force is achieved by rotation of the bolt while locking or braking the tape carrier reel 320. Lever trigger 301 also operates this finish and start stage.

[00187] In the sequence of the applicator device 100 of the invention when the lever trigger 301 has finished causing rotation of the bolt 150 the lever trigger 301 engages and activates a brake component 390 which moves in the direction indicated by arrows B. The brake component moves against and engages with the tape carrier reel 320. In particular the brake component 390 engages with teeth 324 of tape carrier reel 320. This locks/brakes the tape carrier reel 320 against rotational movement.

[00188] In this position the brake component 390 is no longer engaged with the lever trigger 301 which can continue its motion. The continued movement of the lever trigger 301 rotates the bolt 150 (as described above) and this continued rotation of the bolt 150 while the tape carrier reel 320 is locked/braked caused sufficient force to break the composition 357. [00189] This results in the composition 357 breaking off at the position marked by the arrow E in Figure 19A. This position is not conducive as a start position for the next bolt. Instead the position indicated by arrow S2 in Figure 19B is a preferred position as this is a position at which the composition 357 will be pressed against the bolt 150 when it is first inserted as described above.

[00190] Figures 19C to 19F show the sequence of movements of the finish and start stage that result in the movement from the position of Figure 19A to that of Figure 19B.

[00191] As described above as a user pulls on slide trigger 201 this retracts the carriage 310. A pawl 395 which pivots on a stub axle 396 engages with the teeth 342 of tape collection reel gear 340. (A second pawl 397 which pivots on a stub axle 398 also performs the same function.) This causes tape collection reel gear 340 to rotate in an anticlockwise direction and pull the web 353 of tape forward from the position of Figure 19A to that of Figure 19B.

[00192] The device has thus been reset for the next bolt 150 and the composition 357 is correctly position to start the process of application to the next bolt 150.

[00193] The words “comprises/comprising” and the words “having/including” when used herein with reference to the present invention are used to specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps or components but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, components or groups thereof.

[00194] It is appreciated that certain features of the invention, which are, for clarity, described in the context of separate embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features of the invention which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any suitable sub-combination.

Claims

1. An applicator device for applying a composition carried on a flexible carrier tape to a substrate, the device comprising:

(a) a grip for gripping the substrate to which the composition is to be applied; and

(b) a mechanism to apply the composition from the flexible carrier tape onto the substrate held in the grip.

2. An applicator device according to Claim 1 wherein the composition is a curable composition, for example, an adhesive composition.

3. An applicator device according to any preceding claim further comprising a collector for collecting flexible carrier tape after the composition has been applied, optionally wherein the collector is in the form of a collection reel for collecting flexible carrier tape that has been used to apply composition to the substrate.

4. An applicator device according to any preceding claim wherein the mechanism to apply the composition from the flexible carrier tape onto the substrate comprises: a rotation mechanism for rotating the substrate relative to the flexible carrier tape so that, in use, composition on the flexible carrier tape is applied about the substrate.

5. An applicator device according to Claim 4 wherein the rotation mechanism is for rotating the substrate against the flexible carrier tape.

6. An applicator device according to Claim 4 or Claim 5 wherein the mechanism to apply the composition from the flexible carrier tape onto the substrate comprises: a rotatable carrier reel, upon which, in use, the flexible carrier tape is wound.

7. An applicator device according to Claim 6 wherein the rotation mechanism is for rotating the substrate against the flexible carrier tape so as to impart rotation to the carrier reel.

8. An applicator device according to any preceding claim wherein the grip opens to accommodate the substrate and closes to grip the substrate.

9. An applicator device according to Claim 8 wherein the grip is resiliently biased to close.

10. An applicator device according to any preceding claim wherein the grip is in the form of moveable jaws, for example in the form of a chuck.

11. An applicator device according to any preceding claim further comprising a tensioning mechanism for maintaining the flexible carrier tape taut.

12. An applicator device according to Claim 11 wherein the tensioning mechanism includes the collector for collecting flexible carrier tape after the composition has been applied.

13. An applicator device according to any preceding claim wherein the mechanism to apply the composition from the flexible carrier tape onto the substrate comprises a carriage that, in use, can move the flexible carrier tape against or away from the substrate held in the grip.

14. An applicator device according to Claim 13 wherein movement of the carriage and opening of the grip are correlated so that as the carriage moves away from the grip the grip opens.

15. An applicator device according to any of Claims 4 to 14 wherein the rotation mechanism includes gears.

16. An applicator device according to any of Claims 4 to 15 further comprising a lever that forms part of the rotation mechanism and wherein force applied to the lever imparts rotation to the reel.

17. An applicator device according to Claim 16 wherein an end of the lever is provided with gear teeth.

18. An applicator device assembly for applying a composition carried on a flexible carrier tape to a substrate, the assembly comprising:

(a) an applicator device according to any preceding claim; and, mounted on the applicator device,

(b) the flexible carrier tape carrying the composition to be applied to the substrate, optionally wherein the composition to be applied is in the form of a film.