JP2017506173A - Tape applicator assembly and tape assembly - Google Patents

Abstract

A tape applicator assembly for securing tape to a surface includes a body and may include a centering and locking assembly configured to automatically center and lock the tape assembly within the body for delivery. . The tape applicator assembly can be further configured to secure the tape to at least one cable and surface, wherein the body is defined to receive a tape assembly having a tape having a tape central longitudinal axis. including. A tape application assembly configured to adhere the tape to both the at least one cable and the surface may be defined in the body. A cable alignment assembly configured to receive at least one cable positioned relative to the surface and to substantially align the at least one cable with the tape central longitudinal axis may also be defined in the body.

Description

Cross-reference to related applications This application is incorporated by reference in US patent application Ser. No. 14/166656 filed on Jan. 28, 2014 and U.S. Pat. Application No. 14/167557 filed on Jan. 29, 2014. This is a continuation-in-part application, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. This application further claims benefits for US Provisional Application No. 62/057846 filed on September 30, 2014 and US Provisional Application No. 62/084474 filed on November 25, 2014, The disclosure is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

Background Gaffer tape is often used in the entertainment industry to secure cables to the floor or other surface of a stage for safety or to make the cables invisible to the audience or camera. This is a special type of pressure-sensitive adhesive tape. In addition, gaffa tape is widely used by audiovisual departments in hotels and conference halls to hold wires on podiums and stages.

  “Gaffa” or other technicians often lay one or more cables (hereinafter also referred to as “laying cables”) between two or more locations, and then tape the cables to the surface. For example, a laying cable can extend between an outlet and an audio device, and the laying cable is taped to a floor, wall, or other surface. It is often desirable to bundle, lay, straighten, and pull the laying cable before it is taped or when the laying cable is taped to the surface. Aligning and bundling the laying cable as it is taped creates a straighter tape wire, minimizes the strip of tape used, reduces any tripping hazard, and tapes The laid cable is more aesthetically pleasing.

  It can be appreciated that aligning and bundling laying cables in this manner is a laborious and incomplete process. The gaffer must bundle, lay, and lay the laying cable with one hand and tape the laying cable to the surface with the other hand. Accordingly, improvements in devices and methods for securing aligned, bundled and taught cables to surfaces are desired.

  As mentioned above, gaffa tape is a special type of pressure sensitive adhesive tape that is often used to tape laid cables to a surface. This pressure sensitive adhesive is strong enough to secure the laying cable to the surface until the tape is manually peeled off with a predetermined amount of force. Gaffa tape is designed to be removed cleanly from the cable (unlike more sticky tape like duct tape), but the tape still wraps around the cable or folds between cables. It can be stacked and the tape will stick to itself during the removal process. In addition, often when a cable is “gaffed”, residual adhesive accumulates on the cable, making it more difficult to remove the tape from the cable. Accordingly, it can be further appreciated that an improved tape assembly suitable for use in fastening cables with gaffer tape is also desired.

SUMMARY A tape applicator assembly for securing tape to a surface includes a body and may include a centering and locking assembly configured to automatically center and lock the tape assembly within the body for delivery. . The tape applicator assembly can be further configured to secure the tape to at least one cable and surface, wherein the body is defined to receive a tape assembly having a tape having a tape central longitudinal axis. including. A tape application assembly configured to adhere the tape to both the at least one cable and the surface may be defined in the body. A cable alignment assembly configured to receive at least one cable positioned relative to the surface and to substantially align the at least one cable with the tape central longitudinal axis may also be defined in the body. This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the detailed description. This summary is not intended to identify key features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.

  Many of the foregoing aspects and advantages associated with the present invention will be more readily appreciated by reference to the following detailed description when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 2 is an environmental isometric view of a tape applicator assembly and tape assembly, showing the tape applicator assembly and tape assembly being used to tape laying cables to the surface. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the taped laying cable of FIG. 1 substantially across line 2-2. FIG. 2 is a partial top isometric view of the tape applicator assembly and tape assembly of FIG. 1. FIG. 2 is a partial bottom isometric view of the tape applicator assembly and tape assembly of FIG. 1. FIG. 5 is a partial cross-sectional view of the tape applicator assembly and tape assembly of FIG. 3 taken substantially along line 5-5, showing the tape applicator assembly and tape assembly being used to tape the cable to the surface. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the tape applicator assembly and tape assembly of FIG. 3 substantially taken along line 6-6. FIG. 2 is an isometric view of the tape assembly of FIG. FIG. 3 is a bottom isometric view of a first alternative embodiment of a tape applicator assembly, wherein the tape applicator assembly is shown being used to tape a cable to a surface. FIG. 8B is a top isometric view of the tape applicator assembly of FIG. 8A with portions of the tape applicator assembly removed for purposes of illustration. FIG. 6 is a front isometric view of a second alternative embodiment of a tape applicator assembly, wherein the tape applicator assembly is shown being used to tape a cable to a surface. FIG. 10 is a rear isometric view of the tape applicator assembly of FIG. 9. FIG. 10 is a bottom isometric view of the tape applicator assembly of FIG. 9. FIG. 10 is a partially exploded isometric view of a portion of the tape applicator assembly of FIG. FIG. 10 is a bottom view of the tape applicator assembly of FIG. 9, showing the tape applicator assembly tapering the cable to the surface. FIG. 6 is a bottom isometric view of a third alternative embodiment of a tape applicator assembly. FIG. 10 is a front isometric view of a fourth alternative embodiment of a tape applicator assembly, wherein the tape applicator assembly is shown being taped at a corner. FIG. 16 is a side isometric view of the tape applicator assembly of FIG. 15. FIG. 16 is a bottom isometric view of the tape applicator assembly of FIG. 15. FIG. 16 is a bottom view of the tape applicator assembly of FIG. 15. 2 is an isometric view of a first alternative embodiment of the centering and locking assembly of the tape applicator assembly of FIG. FIG. 6 is an isometric view of a second alternative embodiment of the centering and locking assembly of the tape applicator assembly of FIG. 1.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION The tape applicator assembly 10 and tape assembly 12 formed in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure can best be understood with reference to FIG. With further reference to FIG. 2, the tape applicator assembly 10 is configured to bundle, align and tighten one or more cables C in the laying cable R and tape the laying cable R to the surface S. The Although the tape applicator assembly 10 is described as being used to tape a laying cable R to a surface, it will be appreciated that the tape applicator assembly 10 may be used for any suitable purpose. Should. For example, the tape applicator assembly 10 may be used with a tape assembly 12 that includes a gaffer tape suitable for tapering cables to a surface. In an alternative, the tape applicator assembly 10 is used with a tape assembly 12 that includes another tape suitable for temporarily securing or labeling equipment and marking seats, walls, passages, boundaries, etc. Also good. Accordingly, it should be recognized that the description and figures provided herein are not to be considered as limiting the scope of the claimed subject matter.

  The tape applicator assembly 10 includes a body 14 and a handle assembly 18 that is secured to the body 14. The handle assembly 18 is suitable for pushing, maneuvering and manipulating the body 14 against the surface. Although any suitable handle assembly may be used, in the illustrated embodiment, the handle assembly 18 may be pivotally connected to the body 14 through a pivot connection 28 or through any suitable means. An upwardly extending stem 22 is included. The stem 22 can be adjustable in length and can be removable if the user wishes to grasp the body 14 for use. A suitable handle 24 is defined at the distal end of the stem 22 to grasp the handle assembly 18. Additional gripping devices, handles, etc. may be secured to the stem 22 to suitably push, steer and manipulate the body 14 against the surface.

  The body 14 is suitable for removably receiving a portion of the tape assembly 12 and tape the laying cable R to the surface. Before tape laying cable R on the surface, body 14 collects, aligns and bundles one or more cables C to create an aesthetically pleasing, safe and taped laying cable R. Tighten.

  With reference to FIGS. 3-6, aspects of the body 14 for collecting, aligning, bundling, tightening and tapering one or more cables on a surface will now be described in detail. Referring specifically to FIG. 3, the body 14 includes an upper portion 32 having a tape receiving cavity 36 defined between a rear portion 40 and a front portion 44. A handle stem 22 is pivotally secured to the rear 40 for pushing the body 14 forward over the surface and along the desired cable on the surface.

  A cable alignment assembly is defined in the body 14 for receiving and substantially aligning one or more cables positioned relative to the surface as the body moves along the surface. The cable alignment assembly may include an alignment device that is fixed to the front 44 or otherwise defined on the front 44, such as a laser 46 or other optical centering mechanism. Laser 46 may irradiate the beam on the surface to help guide the user in tapering the cable straight line.

  The cable alignment assembly is further defined at the front end of the body 14 below the laser 46 and positioned relative to the surface as the tape applicator assembly 10 is moved along the cable on the surface. It includes a front cable opening 48 that is suitable for receiving a cable. Referring to FIG. 4, front cable opening 48 communicates with funnel 52 that extends rearward along the bottom, interior, and open surface of body 14 and terminates at rear cable opening 54. The funnel 52 tapers in width between the front cable opening 48 and the rear cable opening 54 to collect and bundle cables before being taped.

  The funnel 52 may include a removable and / or adjustable rear funnel piece 56 at the rear end of the funnel 52 to adjust the size of the rear cable opening 54. In the embodiment shown, the rear funnel piece 56 is removably secured within the bottom of the body 14 by suitable snap-fit techniques or other suitable means. The rear funnel piece 56 can be removed and replaced / replaced with another rear funnel piece that defines a larger or smaller rear cable opening 54 to bundle more or fewer cables for tape fastening. In the alternative, the rear funnel piece 56 may include adjusting means for adjusting the size of the rear cable opening 54 without requiring removal of any piece.

  It should be appreciated that the size and shape of the rear funnel piece 56 can be configured to position one or more cables to be taped in a desired manner. For example, the rear funnel piece 56 may include a small central opening to center and tape a single cable on the surface. As another example, the rear funnel piece 56 may include deeper and wider openings to center and bundle several cables for tape fastening. As yet another example, the rear funnel piece 56 may include a wider and shallower opening to position several cables side by side for tape fastening (see FIG. 2). Accordingly, it can be appreciated that the size, shape and configuration of the rear funnel piece 56 can be designed for use in any desired configuration.

  The cable alignment assembly further includes a suitable biasing or tensioning member for funneling to apply pressure and tension to the one or more cables as they are fed through the body 14. Positioned behind 52. In the embodiment shown, the tension member attaches the cable C through the funnel away from the body 14 (ie, toward the surface) as the body 14 moves along the cable C on the surface S. It is embodied as a leaf spring 60 configured to be biased. In that regard, the leaf spring 60 is fixed at its upper end to the inner portion of the main body 14 in its original unbiased state, and passes through the bottom, inner, and open surfaces of the main body 14 and passes through the rear portion of the main body 14. Extends downwards towards When the leaf spring 60 is engaged with the cable C, the leaf spring 60 can move to a position bent and biased upward. In the biased position, the leaf spring 60 continuously engages the cable C and urges the cable C toward the surface S. By continuously applying tension to the cable, the cable is pulled straight and maintained in a centered and bundled position as the tape is applied.

  A tape application assembly is defined within the body 14 and is in communication with the cable alignment assembly for applying tape to the aligned, bundled and tightened cables positioned on the surface. The tape application assembly includes a rear wheel assembly 66 that is positioned behind the leaf spring 60 to apply tape to both the cable C and the surface S.

  With reference to FIGS. 4 and 5, the rear wheel assembly 66 includes an intermediate tape application portion 70 disposed between the lateral rear rolling wheels 74 and 78. Lateral rear rolling wheels 74 and 78 are disposed on each laterally inner side of the body 14, such as pins or pins that extend through the rear wheel assembly 66 and are rotatably received on each laterally inner side of the body 14. A rod (not shown) is journaled for rotation within the body 14 in any suitable manner. The rear wheel assembly 66 is such that the lateral rear rolling wheels 74 and 78 protrude from the bottom, rear and open surfaces of the body 14 to allow the body 14 to roll relative to the desired surface. It is arranged in the main body 14.

  In that regard, the lateral front rolling wheels 82 and 86 on each lateral interior side of the body 14 allow the body 14 to easily roll along the desired surface. Protrudes from the bottom and front of the. A lateral front rolling wheel 82 and 86 may be positioned on each lateral side of the funnel 52, for example, rotatably extending through each front rolling wheel 82 and 86 and each of the body 14. It may be supported for rotation within the body 14 in any suitable manner by a pin or rod (not shown) that is rotatably disposed within the laterally inner side. With the rear and front lateral rolling wheels 74, 78, 82, and 86 disposed within the body 14, the body 14 can easily be sidewalls or other as the body 14 is moved along the surface. It can be positioned with respect to the object.

  An intermediate tape application portion 70 disposed between the lateral rear rolling wheels 74 and 78 is configured to apply tape and pressure to the bundled cable and surface to secure the cable to the surface. In that regard, the intermediate tape application portion 70 is flexible enough to apply pressure to both the cable and the surface as it rolls along both the cable and the surface. More specifically, the intermediate tape application portion 70 is radially deformed and compressed in the intermediate portion in order to apply pressure to the cable. The intermediate tape application portion 70 further applies pressure to the surface on each side of the cable and deforms, compresses, etc. in the radial direction in the lateral portion to accommodate the surface profile. The middle and lateral portions can be deformed as needed to apply continuous and equal pressure to the cable and any uneven surface. In that regard, the tape is adhered to both the cable and the surface as the intermediate tape application portion 70 rolls along the cable with the tape disposed between the intermediate tape application portion 70 and the cable / surface. The

  In order to accommodate compression of the intermediate tape application portion 70, the lateral rear rolling wheels 74 and 78 are sufficiently smaller in diameter than the intermediate tape application portion 70. Thus, as the intermediate tape application portion 70 compresses to apply pressure to the cable / surface, the lateral rear rolling wheels 74 and 78 are applied to the surface to allow the body 14 to roll along the surface. Engage. However, it should be appreciated that instead, the lateral rear rolling wheels 74 and 78 may be removed and the body 14 may simply roll along the surface by the intermediate tape application portion 70.

  The intermediate tape application portion 70 can be formed from any material suitable to apply sufficient pressure to both the cable and the surface. For example, the intermediate tape application portion 70 can be formed from foam, rubber, or another suitable material. Alternatively, the intermediate tape application portion 70 may be substantially rigid to have a central radial groove for receiving the cable and a lateral portion on each side of the groove for engaging the surface. It should be recognized that it is good. The groove is a groove deep enough to apply pressure to the cable, and the lateral portion maintains pressure on the surface. Thus, it should be appreciated that any configuration suitable for simultaneously applying pressure to a bundled cable and surface can be used.

  As indicated above, tape is supplied between the intermediate tape application portion 70 and the cable / surface so that the intermediate tape application portion 70 can simultaneously apply the tape to both the cable and the surface. The tape is supplied from a tape assembly 12 that is secured within the tape applicator assembly 10.

  With reference to FIGS. 5-7, portions of the tape assembly 12 and the structure for securing the tape assembly 12 within the tape applicator assembly 10 will now be described in detail. Tape assembly 12 includes a tape roll 90 that is wound around core 94 or otherwise positioned circumferentially on core 94. The core 94 is substantially cylindrical and defines a core axial length corresponding to the width of the tape roll 90. The core 94 can be any suitable core axial length that accommodates various sizes of tape rolls, such as 2 inches, 3 inches, and the like. The core 94 further defines an internal cylindrical opening that extends along the length of the core axis. The hollow cylindrical opening has a core inner diameter that is sized and configured to receive a hub 98, which hub 98 is configured to secure the tape assembly 12 within the tape applicator 10. Removably secured within the tape receiving cavity 36.

  Like the core 94, the hub 98 is cylindrical in shape, extends between the outer cylindrical body portion 120 and the inner cylindrical body portion 122, and the central axial through-hole 118 is the inner cylindrical body portion. Defined by web assembly 116 extending axially through 122. Web assembly 116 reduces the cost and weight of hub 98, but hub 98 may alternatively be defined by a solid body extending between outer cylindrical body portion 120 and inner cylindrical body portion 122. It should be recognized that it is good.

  The hub 98 defines an outer diameter that is substantially equal to the inner diameter of the core 94. This ensures that the core 94 can be placed on the hub 98 for use within the tape applicator assembly 10 while being removable. 98 defines a hub axial length that is sized to be removably received within the core 94. The hub 98 may have any suitable axial length for receiving various sized cores 94 while being sized and configured to be received within the tape receiving cavity 36 of the body 14.

  A core centering and locking assembly 100 is defined between the core 94 and the hub 98 to secure and center the core 94 on the hub 98. Although any suitable centering and locking assembly may be used, in the illustrated embodiment, the core centering and locking assembly 100 is defined on the outer surface of the hub 98, such as a protrusion or hump 102. The first locking mechanism includes a second locking mechanism defined on an inner surface of the core 94, such as an annular groove 106, to secure the core 94 on the hub 98. Receivable within the locking mechanism. Instead, it should be appreciated that the hump 102 may be defined on the hub 98 and the annular groove 106 may be defined on the core 94.

  Hump 102 and annular groove 106 are positioned on hub 98 and core 94, respectively, such that core 94 is automatically centered axially on hub 98 when hump 102 is received within annular groove 106. The In other words, the hump 102 is substantially centered in the axial direction on the hub 98, and the annular groove 106 is substantially centered in the axial direction on the core 94. Thus, the core 94 is automatically centered axially on the hub 98 when the hump 102 is received in the annular groove 106. The groove 106 is centered in the axial direction on the core 94 so that the core 94 regardless of its axial length (ie, 1 inch axial length, 2 inches axial length, 3 inches axial length, etc.). It should be appreciated that will be automatically centered on the hub 98.

  The tape assembly 12 is further secured on the hub 98 through the hublocking assembly 110. The hablocking assembly 110 is defined by a shaft 130 that is secured within the body 14 and extends into the tape receiving cavity 36. The shaft 130 includes an anchor 134 defined at a first end that is secured within an anchor projection 138 that extends upward from one side of the body 14. The shaft 130 extends into the tape receiving cavity 36 substantially transverse to the anchor protrusion 138 such that the shaft 130 is substantially parallel to the bottom surface of the body 14.

  Because the shaft 130 thus extends into the tape receiving cavity 36, the hub 98 is removably and rotatably secured on the shaft 130 to secure the desired tape roll 90 within the tape applicator assembly 10. obtain. The hub 98 can be removably and rotatably fixed on the shaft 130 as the shaft 130 passes through the central through hole 118. When received on the shaft 130, the hub 98 is rotatable about the central longitudinal axis of the shaft 130 for tape supply.

  A bearing subassembly 114 is defined between the shaft 130 and the hub 98 to accommodate the rotation of the hub 98. Although any suitable bearing subassembly may be used, the bearing subassembly 114 includes a first and a second disposed at each end of the shaft 130 between the shaft 130 and the inner cylindrical body portion 122 of the hub 98. Second flanged bushings 144 and 148 are included. In that regard, a cylindrical gap is defined between the outer surface of the shaft 130 and the inner surface of the inner tubular body portion 122 to receive the first and second flanged bushings 144 and 148. First and second flanged bushings 144 and 148 are secured within the central through hole 118 of hub 98 such that bushings 144 and 148 and hub 98 are assembled units for easier assembly and disassembly. Can be done.

  The hublock assembly 110 further includes a fastening subassembly 152 configured to selectively lock the hub 98 on the shaft 130. The fastening subassembly 152 may be screwably received at a second end of the shaft 130 (opposite the anchor 134) in a threaded opening (not shown). Fasteners 156 such as Near the fastener head, the knob 160 may or may not be integrally formed on the fastener 156 such that the threaded end of the fastener protrudes from the knob 160. For example, it is fixed on the fastener 156. The knob 160 can be suitably grasped by the user to apply torque to the fastener 156 and secure the threaded end of the fastener 156 within the shaft 130. A washer 164 is disposed between the knob 160 and the hub 98 to allow the knob 160 to be selectively engaged and tightened against the hub 98. By tightening the knob 160 relative to the hub 98, the ease with which the hub 98 can rotate on the shaft 130 can be adjusted.

  With reference to FIG. 7, an exemplary embodiment of a tape assembly 12 having a tape roll 90 will now be described in more detail. The tape roll 90 is defined by an elongated piece of tape 164 that is wound around the core 94. Tape 164 includes an outer surface 168 and an opposite inner surface 172. When pressure sensitive adhesive 176 is disposed on inner surface 172 and configured on roll 90, it is removably secured to outer surface 168.

  The pressure sensitive adhesive 176 includes an intermediate adhesive portion 180 that extends along the central longitudinal axis of the tape on the inner surface 172 of the tape 164. The intermediate adhesive portion 180 is between a first lateral adhesive portion 184 and a second lateral adhesive portion 188 that are sufficiently tacky to be removably adhered to a desired surface, such as a floor or wall. Placed in.

  The intermediate adhesive portion 180 is configured to removably adhere to a bundled cable C that is taped to the surface S. In that regard, the intermediate adhesive portion 180 is wide enough to cover and engage the aligned and bundled cables passing through the tape applicator assembly 10. The width of the intermediate adhesive portion 180 can vary on different tape rolls to accommodate different sized cable bundles.

  Further, the intermediate adhesive portion 180 is less tacky than the first and second lateral adhesive portions 184 and 188 to releasably engage the bundled cables. The intermediate adhesive portion 180 can be defined by a less tacky adhesive that covers substantially the entire intermediate adhesive portion 180. In the alternative, the intermediate adhesive portion 180 may be defined by a pattern of adhesive coating (eg, longitudinal or horizontal stripes, dots, etc.) that creates an area that is less tacky overall. Accordingly, it should be appreciated that the intermediate adhesive portion 180 that is less tacky may be defined in any suitable manner.

  As shown above, a typical gaffa tape is a pressure sensitive adhesive that covers the entire inner surface of the tape, strong enough to secure the laying cable to the surface until the tape is manually peeled off with a predetermined amount of force. Contains agents. The adhesive needs to be strong enough to safely adhere to the desired surface without being easily removed by a visitor or the like. However, with this strong adhesive, the tape can wrap around the cable or fold between the cables and the tape can stick to the tape itself during the removal process. In addition, often when a cable is “gaffed”, residual adhesive accumulates on the cable, making it more difficult to remove the tape from the cable.

  The tape 164 can be easily removed from the cable when pulled from the surface by an intermediate adhesive portion 180 that defines a reduced tack channel. If the intermediate adhesive portion 180 is at least somewhat tacky (eg, a semi-dry channel), the tape 164 can stick to the cable and maintain cable alignment and straightness when taped to the surface. To help. For example, the intermediate adhesive portion 180 can be between about 10% and 30% of the tack of the first lateral adhesive portion 184 and the second lateral adhesive portion 188. However, it should be appreciated that the intermediate adhesive portion 180 may instead have no adhesive (eg, a dry channel) or may have a tackiness greater than 30% if desired. . In other words, intermediate adhesive portion 180 includes first lateral adhesive portion 184 and second lateral adhesive portion so as to define intermediate adhesive portion 180 that is less tacky to releasably engage the cable. It can be between 0% and 99% of 188 tack.

  Instead, it should be appreciated that the tape roll 90 may be configured as a separate configuration for use separate from the tape strip, sheet, or tape applicator assembly 10. Further, although the tape applicator assembly 10 is shown and described in use with a tape assembly 12 having an intermediate adhesive portion 180 with reduced tack, the tape applicator assembly 10 may instead be used with any suitable tape. May be used. For example, if the tape applicator assembly 10 is used to mark a boundary line on the floor rather than tape the cable to the floor, a tape having any suitable pressure sensitive adhesive on the inner surface will be used. May be used. Accordingly, the descriptions and figures provided herein should not be construed as limiting the scope of the claimed subject matter.

  Referring again to FIG. 5, the operation of the tape applicator assembly 10 to tape the cable to the surface is now provided. Prior to using the tape applicator assembly 10, the appropriate width of the tape (ie its axial length) can be determined for the intended application. For example, if two to three cables need to be taped to the surface, a tape roll having a middle adhesive portion 180 that is, for example, 2-3 inches wide and sufficiently wide and sticky can be used. In the alternative, if the tape applicator assembly 10 is simply used to mark a border on the surface, a tape roll, for example, having a width of only 1 inch and no intermediate adhesive portion is used instead. May be. Thus, depending on the intended application, a preferred tape roll 90 may be installed in the tape applicator assembly 10 or replaced with a tape roll 90 already installed in the tape applicator assembly 10. .

  Tape roll 90 is installed within tape applicator assembly 10 by centering and locking core 94 on hub 98 by core centering and locking assembly 100. More specifically, the core 94 is slid over the hub 98 until the hump 102 is received in the annular groove 106. It can be appreciated that when the hump 102 is received within the annular groove 106, the user will feel a tactile sensation of "snap fit" indicating that the core 94 is properly positioned on the hub 98. . Markings, instructions, etc. may be provided on the outside of the body 14, core 94 and / or hub 98 to assist in proper assembly.

  Once the core 94 is assembled on the hub 98, the hub 98 can be secured within the body 14 through the hablocking assembly 110. More specifically, the hub 98 is fixed on the shaft 130 by passing the shaft 130 through the central through hole 118 of the hub 98. The fasteners 156 are then secured within the shaft 130 to secure the hub 98 on the shaft 130 for rotation of the tape roll 90 within the tape applicator assembly 10. Fastener 156 can be tightened or loosened to increase or decrease the tension of knob 160 relative to washer 164. As the tension from the knob 160 increases, the tape roll 90 does not unwind very easily and quickly. Thus, it can be appreciated that the tension from the knob 160 can be adjusted as desired.

  Once the core 94 is secured within the tape applicator assembly 10, the tape roll 90 can be partially unwound to position the tape 164 for delivery. In the alternative, the tape roll 90 can be partially unwound before securing the core 94 on the hub 98. The tape 164 is pulled downwardly from the tape roll 90 through the rear wheel assembly 66 from the bottom, interior, open surface of the body 14. The end of the tape 164 may be secured to the surface S and / or cable C to define the first end of the laying cable R.

  A tape puller 194 can be disposed within the body 14 between the tape roll 90 and the rear wheel assembly 66 to maintain tension on the tape 164 as the tape 164 can be fed from the roll 90. The tape puller 194 may be a suitable roller or other device that is supported for rotation within the body 14 in a suitable manner. In order to effectively maintain tension on the tape 164, the tape puller 194 is positioned downward from a tangent line defined between the tape roll 90 and the rear wheel assembly 66. This causes the tape tensioner 194 to exert a downward force on the tape 164 in order to maintain a substantially constant tension while being supplied. The tension in the tape 164 causes the rear wheel assembly 66 to maintain better tape alignment on the surface / cable and reduce any wrinkles, gaps, etc.

  Intermediate tape application portion 70 partially compresses to apply pressure to both cable C and surface S as tape 164 passes over rear wheel assembly 66. More specifically, when the cable C is centered after passing through the funnel 52 (and is held by the leaf spring 60), the central portion of the intermediate tape application portion 70 is brought to the surface S. On the other hand, the cable C is compressed so as to correspond to the height and shape of the cable C. Further, the lateral edges of the intermediate tape application portion 70 compress to apply pressure to the surface S on each side of the cable C to seal the cable (C) under the tape 164.

  The tape applicator assembly 10 and the tape assembly 12 can be used to align, bundle and tighten cables without irreversibly attaching the tape to the cable or leaving any residue on the cable. It can be appreciated from the above that it provides the advantage of securing to a surface.

  With reference to FIGS. 8A and 8B, a first alternative embodiment of a tape applicator assembly 210 is shown. The tape applicator assembly 210 is substantially identical to the tape applicator 10 described above, except for the differences described herein.

  In that regard, the tape applicator assembly 210 includes a cable alignment assembly having a funnel 252 extending from the front of the body 214 along the bottom of the body 214. The funnel 252 includes a front cable opening 248 at the front of the body 214 and a rear cable opening 254 that are configured to receive one or more cables as the body 214 moves along the surface. Stipulate. As can be seen in FIGS. 8A and 8B, the rear cable opening 254 is configured to bundle and align one or more cables C in the laying cable R and tape the laying R of the cable C to the surface. The Further, the rear cable opening 254 can be adjusted in size and shape through the modular funnel / wheel adjustment assembly 256 to accommodate various sizes of cables and cable bundles.

  Modular funnel / wheel adjustment assembly 256 is defined by a first adjustable funnel piece 257 that is removably receivable within the underside of body 214. The first adjustable funnel piece 257 is defined in part by a rear funnel portion 258 disposed behind the funnel 252 and a wheel portion 253 extending rearward from the rear funnel portion 258, and the rear funnel Portion 258 substantially corresponds in size to wheel portion 253 for aligning, bundling and tapering the surface to one or more cables of a predetermined size. In the illustrated embodiment, the rear funnel portion 258 and the wheel portion 253 of the first adjustable funnel piece 257 are correspondingly adapted to align and tape the first predetermined size cable C to the surface S. Sized and shaped.

  The rear funnel portion 258 defines a rear portion of the funnel 252 and a rear cable opening 254 for aligning the cable C. The rear funnel portion 258, when received in the body 214, extends between the front cable opening 248 and the rear cable opening 254 and is in communication with the front cable opening 248 and the rear cable opening 254. An opening 262 is defined. The elongated opening 262 is an opening of suitable cross-sectional shape, width and / or depth for bundling and aligning one or more cables of a predetermined size. In the illustrated embodiment, the elongated opening 262 is an opening having a cross-sectional shape, width, and depth suitable for aligning a first predetermined size cable C. While a second adjustment piece having a second cross-sectional shape and a wider and / or deep elongated opening 262 can be used to accommodate a larger cable or a larger bundle of cables, a third cross-sectional shape And a third adjustment piece having a narrower and / or shallower elongated opening 262 can be used to accommodate smaller cables or smaller bundles of cables. Because the shape and size of the elongated opening 262 substantially corresponds to the shape and size of one or more cables, the cables will be aligned and bundled before being taped by the tape application assembly.

  The tape application assembly is defined in part by the wheel portion 253 of the first adjustable funnel piece 257, which is preferably sized to tape one or more cables of a predetermined size to the surface. Is done. The wheel portion 253 is configured to rotatably secure the rear wheel assembly 266 within the body 214 to apply pressure to the tape 268 and one or more cables, similar to the rear wheel assembly 66. In that regard, the wheel portion 253 includes first and second wheel assembly arms 260 and 261 that extend from the rear funnel portion 258 toward the rear of the body 214. Wheel assembly arms 260 and 261 are configured to rotatably receive rear wheel assembly 266.

  The rear wheel assembly 266 includes an intermediate tape application portion 270 disposed between the lateral rear rolling wheel 274 and the lateral rear rolling wheel 278, wherein the intermediate tape application portion 270 includes a surface and one or more. Flexible enough to apply pressure to the surface and one or more cables to secure the tape 268 to the cable. As can be seen in FIGS. 8A and 8B, the intermediate tape application portion 270 is wide enough to apply pressure to the first predetermined size cable C and the portion of the surface S on each side of the cable C. Further, the width of the intermediate tape application portion 270 can be adjusted by using different adjustable funnel pieces 257.

  More specifically, the first adjustable funnel piece 257 (having a first predetermined size and shape of elongated opening 262 and an intermediate tape application portion 270) is removed and (second predetermined size of elongated). It can be replaced with a second adjustable funnel piece 257 (with an opening 262 and an intermediate tape application portion 270). Accordingly, the adjustable funnel piece 257 can be removed and replaced as needed to accommodate different sizes of cables and / or cable bundles, thereby allowing individual funnel 252 or rear wheel assembly 266 individual Avoid adjustments.

  Funnel / wheel adjustment assembly 256 may be removably secured within body 214 in any suitable manner. In the embodiment shown, a snap-fit technique (not shown) is used. However, it should be appreciated that any suitable technique may be used.

  Referring to FIG. 8B, the tape application assembly is further positioned between the tape assembly 212 and the rear wheel assembly 266 configured to shape and fit the cable for bonding to the cable C and the surface S. Tape guide 280 to be included. Tape guide 262 includes a tape shaper 282 that is supported for rotation on a pin 284 that is received within body 214. The tape shaper 282 is defined by a first frustoconical portion 286 and a second frustoconical portion 288, each having a tapered end disposed opposite to each other.

  The non-bonded side of the tape 268 may pass under the tape guide 262 before engaging the rear wheel assembly 266. The tape guide 262 tensions the tape 268 to reduce any slack in the tape 268 and assists in preventing the tape from bending or twisting. In that regard, the tape shaper 282 may be formed from foam or any suitable material. It can be appreciated that when formed from a compressible or deformable material, such as foam, the tape shaper 282 helps maintain tension in the tape as it is being applied. However, it should be appreciated that the tape shaper 282 may be formed from any suitable material.

  The tape guide 262 further shapes the tape 268 to optimally place the tape 268 on the cable C and bond the tape 268 to the cable C. More specifically, the tape guide 262 reverses the tape 268 so that when the cable C is pulled through the tape applicator assembly 310, the apex of V on the adhesive side is engaged with the top of the cable C. Shape to V shape. This ensures that the tape 268 is securely and smoothly bonded to the cable C without pressure being applied by the rear wheel assembly 266. Further, the tape 268 is adhered to the cable C substantially on the central longitudinal axis of the tape 268 or along the intermediate adhesive portion of the tape (if present). Thereby, a uniform amount of tape 268 is adhered to the surface S on each side of the cable C so as to define a laying cable R that is substantially straight and fixed.

  Referring to FIG. 9, a second alternative embodiment of the tape applicator assembly 310 is shown. The tape applicator assembly 310 is similar to the tape applicator assemblies 10 and 210 described above, but the tape applicator assembly 310 is suitable for receiving a wider tape assembly 312 and the assembly is similarly A larger cable or bundle of cables C is preferably aligned, bundled and taped to the surface S so as to define the laying cable R.

  To accommodate the larger tape assembly 312, the body 314 of the tape applicator assembly 310 includes a tape receiving cavity 332 that is defined in the top portion of the body 314 and extends downwardly to the body 314. Tape assembly 312 is removably inserted into tape receiving cavity 332 by lowering tape assembly 312 into tape receiving cavity 332 within body 314. The first and second side portions of the body 314 are disposed on each side of the tape assembly 312 when received. First and second hublocking assemblies are disposed on each side of body 314 for removably securing tape assembly 312. Since each of the first and second hablocking assemblies is substantially identical, only the first hablocking assembly 346 is described and described.

  The first hablocking assembly 346 includes a U-shaped shaft receiving portion 350 defined at the upper end of the first side portion of the body 314 that is centered through the hub 318. A first end of the extending hub shaft 352 is configured to removably receive. The shaft 352 is rotatably receivable within the shaft receiving portion 350 so that the tape assembly 312 can rotate about an axis defined by the shaft 352. A locking pin 354 may pass through the shaft receiving portion 350 to removably secure the shaft 352 within the shaft receiving portion 350. Any suitable locking pin or other locking mechanism may be used to fix the shaft 352 removably rotatable within the body 314.

  The tape applicator assembly 310 is further defined on the body 314 or otherwise formed on the body 314, a front handle 322 for transporting, holding, and moving the tape applicator assembly 310. And a rear handle 324. The front handle 322 and the rear handle 324 assist the user in moving the tape applicator assembly 310 once the wider and heavier tape assembly 312 is received in the body 314 than the smaller tape assembly. A handle assembly (not shown) may further be secured to the body 314 for moving the tape applicator assembly 310 along the surface S. Any suitable handle assembly, such as the handle assembly 22 described above, may be used. Preferably, the handle assembly extends from the rear portion of the body 314 for advancing the body 314 along the cable C over the surface S.

  10-12, tape applicator assembly 310 is a tape application assembly and cable configured to accommodate various sizes, shapes and bundles of one or more cables to be taped to a surface. Includes an alignment assembly. The tape application assembly includes a first rear wheel set 368 and a second rear wheel set 370 and a first rear wheel adjustment for adjusting the position of the first rear wheel set 368 and the second rear wheel set 370. Partly defined by an adjustable rear wheel assembly 366 having an assembly 378 and a second rear wheel adjustment assembly 380. Since the first and second wheel sets 368 and 370 and the first and second rear wheel adjustment assemblies 378 and 380 are substantially identical, respectively, the first wheel set 368 and the first rear wheel Only the adjustment assembly 378 is discussed in detail below.

  The first rear wheel set 368 includes an inner wheel 374 and an outer wheel 376 that are supported for rotation on the wheel pins 382. The wheel pin 382 extends from a wheel slider bracket 384 that is slidably disposed within the body 314. The wheel slider bracket 384 is slidably attached to a rod 386 extending between the lateral sides of the main body 314. The first rear wheel set 368 may slide laterally within the body 314 through the wheel slider bracket 384 to adjust the position of the first rear wheel set 368 laterally.

  In that regard, the knob 394 can be used to manually move the wheel slider bracket 384 back and forth. The knob 394 is secured on the end of a knob arm 392 that extends through a slot 396 in the rear of the body 314. A plurality of positions 398 identified by numbers or indicators or the like, the body 314 near the slot 396 to assist the user in positioning the first rear wheelset 368 at a desired distance from the lateral side of the body 314. Can be defined above.

  As can be seen in FIG. 13, the first rear wheel set 368 and the second rear wheel set 370 are directed toward each other through the first rear wheel adjustment assembly 378 and the second rear wheel adjustment assembly 380. Or can be moved away from each other, thereby accommodating smaller or larger cables or bundles of cables. More specifically, the first rear wheel adjustment assembly 378 and the second rear wheel adjustment assembly 380 are configured to accommodate the first rear wheel set 368 and the second rear wheel set 368 to accommodate various sizes of cables or cable bundles. It can be used to increase or decrease the gap with the rear wheel set 370. This allows the tape applicator assembly 310 to be sized to accommodate the cable or bundle size.

  In the embodiment shown, the first rear wheel set 368 and the second rear wheel set 370 are moved toward each other to suitably tape the three cables C to the surface. The first rear wheel set 368 and the second rear wheel set 370 are moved toward each other by a suitable amount to engage and apply pressure to the tape 320 on each side of the cable C. This ensures that the tape is securely attached to the surface to define a safe and clean laying cable R. Instead, the inner wheels of each of the first rear wheel set 368 and the second rear wheel set 370 are deformable to apply a suitable pressure to the cable C to attach the tape 320 to the cable C. It should be recognized that Furthermore, it should be appreciated that any suitable rear wheel adjustment assembly may be used. For example, instead, the first rear wheelset adjustment assembly 378 and the second rear wheelset adjustment assembly 380 may be automatically and / or simultaneously adjusted inward or outward.

  The tape application assembly further includes a tape guide 440 for suitably shaping and fitting the tape for application on the cable C. Tape guide 440 is substantially identical to tape guide 262 described above. In that regard, the tape guide 440 causes the tape 320 to be inverted V-shaped so that when pulled through the tape applicator assembly 310, the apex of V on the adhesive side engages the apex of cable C. Determine the shape. Thus, the tape 320 is securely and smoothly adhered to the cable C without the first rear wheelset adjustment assembly 378 and the second rear wheelset adjustment assembly 380 applying pressure to the cable C. Further, the tape 320 is substantially centered on the cable C such that a substantially uniform amount of tape 320 is adhered to the surface S on either side of the cable C.

  Referring to FIGS. 11 and 13, the cable alignment assembly is configured to align and bundle one or more cables of various sizes and shapes to be taped by the tape application assembly. including. Funnel assembly 400 includes a first funnel guide 404 extending along a first inner side of body 314 and a second funnel guide 404 disposed opposite the first funnel guide 404 and extending along a second inner side of body 314. And a funnel 402 defined by a second funnel guide 406.

  A front cable opening 328 is defined at the front ends of the first funnel guide 404 and the second funnel guide 406, and the first funnel guide 404 and the second funnel guide 406 for defining the funnel 402. A rear cable opening 330 is defined at the rear end. Thus, as the tape applicator assembly 310 is moved along the surface toward the cable, one or more cables present on the surface can enter the tape applicator assembly 310 at the front cable opening 328. As can be seen in FIG. 13, as the cable C passes through the rear cable opening 330, it is received, bundled and aligned within the front cable opening 328 of the tape applicator assembly 310.

  The funnel assembly 400 is configured to adjust the size of the rear cable opening 330 to accommodate one or more cables of various sizes and shapes, and a first funnel adjustment assembly 412 and a second funnel adjustment assembly. 414. Since the first funnel adjustment assembly 412 and the second funnel adjustment assembly 414 are substantially identical, only the second funnel adjustment assembly 414 will be described in detail below.

  The second funnel adjustment assembly 414 is fixed between the second funnel guide 406 and the body 314 at the rear end of the second funnel guide 406 or is otherwise formed at the rear end. 410 is included. The adjustment block 410 moves the second adjustment block 410 (and hence the rear end of the second funnel guide 406) toward or away from the first funnel guide 404. Fixed to an adjustment bracket 418 that pivots about a pivot point 420 (defined by fasteners or the like).

  Swirl 420 is such that adjustment block 410 and, therefore, the end of second funnel guide 406 moves along an arcuate path defined by the end of adjustment bracket 418. It is defined substantially in the vicinity of the midpoint. In that regard, the first funnel guide 404 and the second funnel guide 406 are preferably formed from a flexible material such as plastic or metal. To assist in the movement, a portion of the adjustment bracket 418 can be slidably secured within a pivot slot 422 defined in the body 314, such as through a fastener, the pivot slot 422 being substantially relative to the arcuate path. Is mirror-symmetrical. The fastener may slide within the pivot slot 422 to assist in supporting the arcuate movement of the bracket 418.

  The adjustment bracket 418 can be manipulated by the user through a suitable knob assembly. The knob assembly includes a knob 428 defined on the end of a knob arm 426 that extends from the adjustment bracket 418 and projects through a slot 432 in the body 314. Knob 428 may be manipulated by the user to pivot adjustment bracket 418 about pivot 420 to adjust the position of second funnel guide 406.

  A second funnel adjustment assembly 414 operated by the knob 428 moves the rear end of the second funnel guide 406 toward or away from the first funnel guide 404. In that regard, the first funnel adjustment assembly 412 and the second funnel adjustment assembly 414 may be used to increase or decrease the size of the rear cable opening 330 to accommodate smaller or larger cables. . In other words, the funnel 402 can be suitably sized at the rear cable opening 330 to properly bundle and align one or more cables for tape fastening by an adjustable tape application assembly. In the embodiment of FIG. 13, a first funnel adjustment assembly 412 and a second funnel adjustment assembly 414 to reduce the size of the rear cable opening 330 to align and bundle three cables for tape fastening. Is used.

  A plurality of indicators, reference numbers, etc. may be located outside the body 314 in the vicinity of the slot 432 to indicate various positions of the adjustment bracket 418. Thus, both the first funnel adjustment assembly 412 and the second funnel adjustment assembly 414 are similar amounts to assist in centering one or more cables within the tape applicator assembly 310. Can only be adjusted. Instead, it should be appreciated that the first funnel adjustment assembly 414 and the second funnel adjustment assembly 416 can be adjusted simultaneously and / or automatically based on the cable size.

  Referring to FIG. 14, a fourth alternative embodiment of the tape applicator assembly 510 is shown. The tape applicator assembly 510 is substantially the same as the tape applicator assembly 310 described above, except for the differences provided below. The tape applicator assembly 510 includes a first funnel adjustment assembly 512 and a second funnel adjustment assembly 514 that are suitable for adjusting the size of the rear cable opening 530, the rear cable opening 530 being a first cable opening 530. Defined by the first funnel guide 504 and the second funnel guide 506. Since the first funnel adjustment assembly 512 and the second funnel adjustment assembly 514 are substantially identical, only the first funnel adjustment assembly 512 will be described in detail.

  The first funnel adjustment assembly 512 includes an oval shaped portion 518 that is movable about the axis of a pin 519 that extends between the oval shaped portion 518 and the knob 520. The knob 520 is substantially circular in shape and is sized to project through the slot 522 in the body 514 of the tape applicator assembly 510. In this way, the user may move the knob 520 around the axis of the pin 519 to similarly move around the axis of the pin 519 to the oval shaped portion 518.

  The oval-shaped portion 518 is pivoted on the pin 519 to selectively move to engage and disengage the rear end of the first funnel guide 504 to adjust the size of the rear cable opening 530. Move around. More specifically, when the elliptical portion 518 moves about the axis of the pin 519 to the first position, the elongated end of the elliptical portion 518 engages the rear end of the first funnel guide 504. To do. The first funnel guide 504 is inwardly directed toward the second funnel guide 506 with the elongated end of the oval shaped portion 518 engaged with the rear end of the first funnel guide 504 in the first position. And the size of the rear cable opening 530 is reduced.

  As the elliptical portion 518 moves about the axis of the pin 519 to the second position, the elongated end of the elliptical portion 518 disengages from the rear end of the first funnel guide 504. The first funnel guide 504 is separated from the second funnel guide 506 with the elongated end of the oval shaped portion 518 disengaged from the rear end of the first funnel guide 504 in the second position. Moving outward, the size of the rear cable opening 530 increases. Accordingly, the first funnel adjustment assembly 512 and the second funnel adjustment assembly 514 can be used to increase or decrease the size of the rear cable opening 530 to accommodate various cable sizes.

  With reference to FIG. 15, a fourth alternative embodiment of a tape applicator assembly 610 is shown. The tape applicator assembly 610 tapes one or more cables C within a corner X defined by first and second substantially transverse surfaces, such as between a wall W and a floor F, for example. Configured to fasten with. Although tape applicator assembly 610 is described below as tapering laying cable R within corner X defined by walls W and floor F, tape applicator assembly 610 may be disposed within any suitable corner. It may be used to tape the laying cable R.

  The tape applicator assembly 610 is removably secured to the body 614 through the core / ha blocking assembly 646, similar to the core / ha blocking assembly 110 described above with reference to FIGS. An assembly 612 is included. However, the tape assembly 612 is removably attached to the body 614 at an angle to supply the tape 620 to the corner X.

  More specifically, the tape assembly 612 is attached to an angled body portion 638 defined by the body 614 so that when the tape applicator assembly 610 is positioned at corner X, the angled body portion 638 is floor F. Is substantially 135 ° (135 °) with respect to the wall W and 45 ° (45 °) with respect to the wall W. This allows tape 620 to be fed from tape assembly 612 at an angle in the direction of corner X and glued to a cable extending along corner X.

  Tape is fed from the tape assembly 612 toward the front corner of the body 614, and an adjustable wheel assembly 710 is disposed in corner X to apply pressure to the tape 620. Referring to FIGS. 15-18, adjustable wheel assembly 710 is provided by first and second substantially transversely arranged wheels, ie, floor engagement wheel 712 and wall engagement wheel 714. It is prescribed. When positioned in corner X, floor engagement wheel 712 is positioned to engage floor F and wall engagement wheel 714 is positioned to engage wall W.

  Floor engagement wheel 712 and wall engagement wheel 714 may be supported for rotation within body 614 in any suitable manner. Further, one or more of the wheels may be adjustable to the appropriate position to suitably engage and tape various size cables and / or cable bundles. In the illustrated embodiment, the floor engagement wheel 712 of the adjustable wheel assembly 710 slides within the body 614 such that the lateral position of the floor engagement wheel 712 can be adjusted relative to the wall engagement wheel 714. Installed as possible.

  The floor engagement wheel 712 may be slidably secured to a slide rail 718 that extends from a portion of the body 614 through the adjustment bracket 716. The adjustment knob 720 can extend from the bracket 716 to allow the user to manually grasp and slide the floor engagement wheel 712 along the slide rail 718. The floor engagement wheel 712 reduces the corner space for tapering smaller cables (ie, the corner space defined between the floor engagement wheel 712 and the wall engagement wheel 714) to reduce the wall engagement wheel 714. Can be moved laterally toward. Further, the floor engagement wheel 712 can be moved laterally from the wall engagement wheel 714 to increase the corner space to tape larger cables.

  In the embodiment shown in FIG. 15, the floor engagement wheel 712 is moved laterally toward the wall engagement wheel 714 to reduce corner space to tape the four cables within corner X. . Each of the tapes 620 is positioned between the floor engaging wheel 712 and the wall engaging wheel 714 and the floor F and the wall W in the cable C disposed at the corner X. The floor engagement wheel 712 applies pressure to the tape 620 and adheres the tape 620 to the floor F, and the wall engagement wheel 714 applies pressure to the tape 620 and adheres the tape 620 to the wall W.

  Tape guide 730 may be used to assist in shaping and fitting tape 620 for application to cable C, floor F and wall W. Similar to tape guides 280 and 440, tape guide 730 shapes tape 620 into a substantially inverted V shape, with the apex of V defined on the bottom adhesive side of tape 620. The apex of V on the adhesive side of the tape 620 is positioned to lie on the cable C at corner X substantially along the central longitudinal axis of the tape 620.

  With reference to FIGS. 15-18, the tape guide 730 is defined by an angled core 732 that is fixed to or otherwise extends from a portion of the body 614. Angled core 732 extends from angled body portion 638 and is positioned substantially between tape assembly 612 and adjustable wheel assembly 710. Angled core 732 has a first portion of angled core 732 downward and lateral toward wall W when tape applicator assembly 610 is positioned at corner X for tape fastening (see FIG. 15). It is substantially V-shaped so as to extend in the direction. A second portion of the angled core 732 extends upward away from the wall W when the tape applicator assembly 610 is positioned at the corner X for tape fastening.

  During the taping process, a piece of tape 620 may be pulled downwardly from the tape assembly 612 toward the adjustable wheel assembly 710 under the angled core 732. The V-shaped apex defined by the angled core 732 causes the tape 620 to be jagged, and the tape 620 is substantially shaped into an inverted V-shape. Thereby, the vertex of V on the adhesion side of the tape 620 is positioned so as to be positioned on the cable C at the corner X.

  To assist in moving the tape 620 along the tape guide 730, the first roller 734 and the second roller 736 may be disposed on the first and second portions of the angled core 732. The first roller 734 and the second roller 736 can be supported for rotation on the angled core 732 in any suitable manner, or otherwise movably on the angled core 732. Can be arranged. First roller 734 and second roller 736 may be formed from foam or any suitable material. When formed from a compressible or deformable material such as foam, the first roller 734 and the second roller 736 help maintain tension in the tape when tension is applied. Can be recognized. However, it should be appreciated that the tape guide 730 may be formed from any suitable material, or alternatively may be formed from a suitable piece of material.

  The angle defined between the first and second portions of the angled core 732 is any suitable angle for suitably shaping the adhesive side of the tape 620 and engaging the cable C at corner X. It should be recognized that you get. In the embodiment shown, the angle defined between the first and second portions of the angled core 732 is an acute angle. However, it should be appreciated that any suitable angle may be used to properly engage cable C and tape 620.

  Tape guide 730 assists in guiding tape 620 over cable C, and adjustable wheel assembly 710 engages tape 620 against wall W and floor F to secure laying cable R within corner X. To do. Further, adjustable wheel assembly 710 may be used to adjust the position of floor engagement wheel 712 to accommodate various sizes and shapes of cables.

  A cable alignment assembly is defined in front of the adjustable wheel assembly 710 and tape guide 730 to bundle and align one or more incoming cables for tape fastening within corner X. . The cable alignment assembly is defined by a funnel assembly 666 having a funnel 682 that extends from the front of the body 614 to the back of the body 614.

  With reference to FIGS. 16-18, funnel 682 is defined in part by a portion of body 614. More specifically, the body 614 includes a funnel body portion 668 that extends from the angled body portion 638 at an angle substantially parallel to the floor F. As can be seen in FIG. 15, the lateral edges of the funnel body portion 668 can be engaged with the wall W to suitably position the tape application assembly 610 relative to the corner X. Thereby, the wall W substantially defines the first portion of the funnel 682.

  The second opposing portion of the funnel 682 is defined by a funnel guide 672 that is secured below the funnel body portion 668 and extends along the funnel body portion 668. When the lateral edge of the funnel body portion 668 is positioned relative to the wall W, a front cable opening 686 is defined at the front of the funnel body portion 668 between the wall W and the funnel guide 672. A rear cable opening 688 is defined at the rear of the funnel body portion 668 between the funnel guide 672 and the wall W. Thus, as funnel body portion 668 moves along wall W, the funnel is essentially defined between funnel guide 672 and wall W.

  Funnel assembly 666 can be sized to accommodate cables of various sizes and shapes. In that regard, funnel assembly 666 includes funnel adjustment assembly 670 configured to adjust the size of rear cable opening 688. More specifically, the funnel adjustment assembly 670 moves the rear end of the funnel guide 672 toward or away from the wall W to reduce or increase the size of the rear cable opening 688. Configured.

  Funnel adjustment assembly 670 is defined by an adjustment block 674 that is secured to the rear rear portion of funnel guide 672. The adjustment block 674 is slidable laterally (towards the wall W and away from the wall W) along a slide rail 678 disposed on the inner bottom of the funnel body portion 668. An adjustment knob 676 is secured to the adjustment block 674 to move the adjustment block 674 back and forth. The adjustment knob 676 is slidable within a slot 680 defined in the funnel body portion 668 so that it can be accessed by the user. Instead, it should be appreciated that the rear end of the funnel guide 672 can be moved in any suitable manner, for example, by automatic or electronic means.

  As can be seen in FIG. 18, the adjustment block 674 is moved laterally along the slide rail 678 to adjust the size of the rear cable opening 688. More specifically, adjustment block 674 is moved laterally toward wall W to reduce the size of rear cable opening 688 to accommodate smaller cables. To accommodate larger cables, the adjustment block 674 can be moved laterally from the wall W to increase the size of the rear cable opening 688. As the size of the rear cable opening 688 is adjusted, the cables are aligned and bundled in corner X for tapering by the adjustable wheel assembly 710.

  To accommodate rolling of body 614 along floor F or any other suitable surface, tape applicator assembly 610 includes a plurality of rolling wheels, such as a rear rolling wheel assembly 650 and a front rolling wheel assembly 658. including. A rear rolling wheel assembly 650 is positioned along the rear edge of the body and is supported in a suitable manner for rotation within the body 614 and a first rolling wheel 652 and a second rolling wheel 654. The front rolling wheel assembly 658 is disposed along the front edge of the body 614 and is supported for rotation within the body 614 and a second rolling wheel A wheel 662 may be included.

  The tape applicator assembly 610 may further include a handle assembly 622 having a handle 624 secured to the body 614 for pushing, maneuvering and manipulating the body 614 within the corner. In that regard, it can be appreciated that the handle 624 extends from the body 614 at a suitable angle to move the body 614 along the corner. In the illustrated embodiment, the handle 624 extends from the body 614 at an angle of about 45 ° from the floor F and substantially parallel to the wall W. However, it should be appreciated that the handle 624 can instead be directed toward the wall W, at least in part, not substantially parallel to the wall W. This allows the user to apply a force along the length of the handle 624 toward the corner X to help maintain the body 614 against the wall W during tape fastening.

  Referring to FIGS. 19 and 20, first and second alternative embodiments of core centering and locking assemblies 800 and 900 are shown. Core centering and locking assemblies 800 and 900 are defined in terms of core centering and locking assembly 100 in that each is defined between the core and hub to secure, center, and selectively lock to the hub. It is substantially the same. The cores of the core centering and locking assemblies 800 and 900 are configured to mate with a suitable hub having a first centering locking mechanism that is substantially centered, such as a hub 98 having a hump 102 (FIG. 6). Accordingly, the core centering and locking assemblies 800 and 900 are described below with reference to a hub 98 having a hump 102. However, it should be appreciated that the core centering and locking assemblies 800 and 900 may be constructed from any suitable hub. Further, the core centering and locking assemblies 800 and 900 may be used with the tape applicator assembly 10, 210, 510, or 610, or any other suitable tape applicator assembly.

  Referring to FIG. 19, a core centering and locking assembly 800 is defined on the inner surface of the core 816 that is configured to removably receive a first locking mechanism, such as a hump 102 on the hub 98. A second locking mechanism such as a notch 832 is included. The hump 102 is removably receivable within the notch 832 to removably secure the core 816 on the hub 98. Instead, it should be appreciated that the notch 832 may be defined on the hub 98 and the hump 102 may be defined on the core 816.

  Hump 102 and notch 832 are each positioned on hub 98 and core 816 such that core 816 is automatically axially centered on hub 98 when hump 102 is received within notch 832. . In other words, the hump 102 is substantially centered axially on the hub 98 and the notch 832 is substantially centered axially on the core 816. As a result, the core 816 is automatically centered in the axial direction on the hub 98 when the hump 102 is received in the notch 832. When the notch 832 is axially centered on the core 816, the core 816 regardless of its axial length (ie, 1 inch axial length, 2 inches axial length, 3 inches axial length, etc.). It should be appreciated that will be automatically centered on the hub 98.

  Slot 824 may extend axially along the inner surface of core 816 between the outer edge of core 816 and notch 832 to allow easier fitting of hub 98 and core 618. More specifically, the hump 102 can slide within the space defined by the slot 824 until it engages within the notch 832. In that regard, when the hump 102 is received within the notch 832, an inclined portion 828 is defined at the end of the slot 824 to provide the user with a snap fit or tactile sensation. Instead of the ramped portion 828, the slot 824 may gradually decrease in depth as it extends toward the notch 832 (as shown on the core 94 in FIG. 6).

  Referring to FIG. 19, the core centering and locking assembly 900 has a shaft slot 924 that extends along the entire axial length inside the core 916 and intersects the central notch 932. , Substantially the same as the core centering and locking assembly 800 described above. This allows the core 916 to fit with the hub 98 from any open end of the core 916. It will be appreciated that the core 916 may further include an angled portion on either side of the notch 932 to provide the user with a snap fit or tactile sensation when the hump 102 is received within the notch 932. It should be. Further, any other suitable mechanism or combination of mechanisms may be used with any of the core centering and locking assemblies 800 and 900.

  While exemplary embodiments have been illustrated and described, it will be appreciated that various changes can be made in the embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure.

  Embodiments of the invention in which an exclusive property or authority is claimed are defined as follows.

Claims (90)

A tape applicator assembly for securing a tape to a first surface, comprising:
(A) a main body;
(B) a tape applicator assembly including a centering and locking assembly configured to automatically center and lock the tape assembly within the body for delivery.   The tape assembly has an outer surface, an inner surface, and an intermediate adhesive portion extending longitudinally along the inner surface between a first lateral adhesive portion and a second lateral adhesive portion. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the intermediate adhesive portion is less tacky than the first lateral adhesive portion and the second lateral adhesive portion.   The tape assembly includes a tape roll secured on a core having a core axial length, the core being removably axially receivable on a hub having a hub axial length, wherein the hub is The assembly of claim 1, wherein the assembly is rotatably fixable within the body.   The assembly of claim 3, wherein the core axial length is different from the hub axial length.   The centering and locking assembly further includes a first locking mechanism defined on the inner cylindrical surface of the core, the first locking mechanism defined by a second locking mechanism defined on the outer cylindrical surface of the hub. The assembly of claim 3, wherein the assembly is configured to connect with a mechanism.   The assembly of claim 5, wherein the first locking mechanism is substantially centered on the core in the axial direction and the second locking mechanism is substantially centered on the hub in the axial direction.   The first locking mechanism is one of a protrusion and an annular groove, the second locking mechanism is the other of the protrusion and the annular groove, and the protrusion is in the annular groove. 6. The assembly of claim 5, wherein the assembly is removably acceptable.   The centering and locking assembly further includes a protrusion axially centered on one of the core and the hub, and an annular groove axially centered on the other of the core and the hub. 4. An assembly according to claim 3, wherein the protrusion is removably receivable within the annular groove for centering and locking the core on the hub.   9. The assembly of claim 8, further comprising a hablocking assembly configured to removably and rotatably fix the hub within the body. The hablocking assembly is
(A) a shaft fixed in the body;
(B) a central through hole defined in the hub configured to rotatably receive the shaft;
The assembly of claim 9, comprising: (c) a bearing assembly defined between the hub and the shaft.   The hublocking assembly further includes a fastening assembly for removably securing the hub on the shaft, the fastening assembly being removably received within the shaft when the hub is received on the shaft. 11. An assembly according to claim 10 having possible fasteners.   The fastening assembly further includes a knob engageable with a portion of the hub when the fastener is selectively tightened to adjust the ability of the hub to rotate about the shaft. The assembly described.   The tape roll has an outer surface, an inner surface, and an intermediate adhesive portion extending longitudinally along the inner surface between a first lateral adhesive portion and a second lateral adhesive portion. 10. The assembly of claim 9, wherein the intermediate adhesive portion is less tacky than the first lateral adhesive portion and the second lateral adhesive portion. A tape applicator assembly for securing a tape to at least one cable and a first surface, comprising:
(A) a body movable along at least one cable positioned on the first surface;
(B) a tape receiving cavity defined in the body for receiving a tape assembly having a tape, wherein the tape assembly is positioned such that the tape is positioned for delivery from the body. A tape applicator assembly that is receivable within the cavity;
(C) including a tape application assembly defined within the body, wherein the tape application assembly is moved when the body moves along the at least one cable on the first surface and the at least one cable; A tape applicator assembly configured to adhere the tape to both of the first surfaces.   The tape application assembly includes a wheel assembly having a tape application portion that is deformable to apply pressure to both the at least one cable and the surface as the body moves along the at least one cable over the surface. 15. An assembly according to claim 14, comprising.   The tape application assembly further includes a puller positioned between the tape assembly and the wheel assembly, the puller being engageable with the tape to maintain tension on the tape during feeding. 16. The assembly of claim 15, wherein   15. The assembly of claim 14, further comprising a centering and locking assembly configured to automatically center and lock the tape assembly within the body for delivery.   The tape assembly has an outer surface, an inner surface, and an intermediate adhesive portion extending longitudinally along the inner surface between a first lateral adhesive portion and a second lateral adhesive portion. 18. The assembly of claim 17, wherein the intermediate adhesive portion is less tacky than the first lateral adhesive portion and the second lateral adhesive portion.   The tape assembly includes a tape roll secured on a core having a core axial length, the core being removably axially receivable on a hub having a hub axial length, wherein the hub is 18. An assembly according to claim 17, wherein the assembly is rotatably fixable within the body.   The tape roll has an outer surface, an inner surface, and an intermediate adhesive portion extending longitudinally along the inner surface between a first lateral adhesive portion and a second lateral adhesive portion. 20. The assembly of claim 19, wherein the intermediate adhesive portion is less tacky than the first lateral adhesive portion and the second lateral adhesive portion.   The centering and locking assembly further includes a protrusion axially centered on one of the core and the hub, and an annular groove axially centered on the other of the core and the hub. 20. An assembly according to claim 19, wherein the protrusion is removably receivable within the annular groove for centering and locking the core on the hub.   The assembly of claim 21, further comprising a hablocking assembly configured to removably and rotatably fix the hub within the body. The hablocking assembly is
(A) a shaft fixed in the body;
(B) a central through hole defined in the hub configured to rotatably receive the shaft;
23. The assembly of claim 22, comprising (c) a bearing assembly defined between the hub and the shaft.   The hublocking assembly further includes a fastening assembly for removably securing the hub on the shaft, the fastening assembly being removably received within the shaft when the hub is received on the shaft. 24. The assembly of claim 23, having possible fasteners.   The fastening assembly further includes a knob that is engageable with a portion of the hub when the fastener is selectively tightened to adjust the ability of the hub to rotate about the shaft. The assembly described. A tape applicator assembly for securing a tape to at least one cable and a first surface, comprising:
(A) a body movable along at least one cable positioned on the first surface;
(B) including a tape receiving cavity defined in the body for receiving a tape assembly having a tape having a tape central longitudinal axis, the tape assembly positioning the tape for delivery from the body. The tape applicator assembly is further receivable in the tape receiving cavity as
(C) including a cable alignment assembly defined within the body, the cable alignment assembly relative to the first surface when the body moves along the at least one cable on the surface. A tape applicator assembly configured to receive the at least one cable to be positioned and to substantially align the at least one cable with the tape central longitudinal axis.   The tape extends along the tape central longitudinal axis between an outer surface, an inner surface, and a first lateral adhesive portion and a second lateral adhesive portion on the inner surface of the tape. 27. The assembly of claim 26, wherein the assembly has an intermediate adhesive portion that is less tacky than the first lateral adhesive portion and the second lateral adhesive portion.   The cable alignment assembly includes a funnel defined within the bottom of the body for receiving the at least one cable and substantially aligning with the tape central longitudinal axis, the funnel comprising the Defining a front cable opening at the front of the body and a rear cable opening opposite the front cable opening, wherein the funnel tapers in size from the front cable opening to the rear cable opening 27. The assembly of claim 26.   30. The assembly of claim 28, wherein the funnel includes a first adjustable funnel piece configured to adjust at least one of the size and shape of the rear cable opening.   The cable alignment assembly further includes a biasing member for engaging the at least one cable and maintaining alignment of the at least one cable when the at least one cable exits the rear cable opening. 30. The assembly of claim 29.   The tape application assembly further includes a tape application assembly defined within the body, wherein the tape application assembly is moved when the body moves along the at least one cable on the first surface. 27. The assembly of claim 26, wherein the assembly is configured to adhere the tape to both of the surfaces.   The tape application assembly is deformable to apply pressure to both the at least one cable and the first surface as the body moves along the at least one cable over the first surface. 32. The assembly of claim 31, comprising a wheel assembly having a portion.   The tape application assembly further includes a puller positioned between the tape assembly and the wheel assembly, the puller being engageable with the tape to maintain tension on the tape during feeding. 35. The assembly of claim 32, wherein   32. An assembly according to claim 26 or 31, further comprising a centering and locking assembly configured to automatically center and lock the tape assembly within the body for delivery.   The tape assembly includes a tape roll secured on a core having a core axial length, the core being removably axially receivable on a hub having a hub axial length, wherein the hub is 35. The assembly of claim 34, wherein the assembly is rotatably fixable within the body.   The centering and locking assembly further includes a protrusion axially centered on one of the core and the hub, and an annular groove axially centered on the other of the core and the hub. 36. The assembly of claim 35, wherein the protrusion is removably receivable in the annular groove for centering and locking the core on the hub.   38. The assembly of claim 36, further comprising a hablocking assembly configured to removably rotate the hub within the body. The hablocking assembly is
(A) a shaft fixed in the body;
(B) a central through hole defined in the hub configured to rotatably receive the shaft;
38. The assembly of claim 37, comprising (c) a bearing assembly defined between the hub and the shaft.   The hublocking assembly further includes a fastening assembly for removably securing the hub on the shaft, the fastening assembly being removably received within the shaft when the hub is received on the shaft. 40. The assembly of claim 38, having possible fasteners.   40. The fastening assembly further includes a knob that is engageable with a portion of the hub when the fastener is selectively tightened to adjust the ability of the hub to rotate about the shaft. The assembly described.   27. The assembly of claim 1, 14, or 26, further comprising an alignment mechanism configured to guide movement of the body along the first surface.   42. The assembly of claim 41, wherein the alignment mechanism is a laser.   33. The tape application portion according to claim 15 or 32, wherein the tape application portion is disposed between lateral rolling wheels engageable with the first surface, the lateral rolling wheel having a diameter smaller than the tape application portion. The assembly described.   44. The assembly of claim 43, wherein the tape application portion is compressible.   30. The assembly of claim 29, wherein the first adjustable funnel piece is replaceable with at least a second adjustable funnel piece.   The vehicle further includes first and second wheel assembly arms extending rearwardly from the first adjustable funnel piece, the first and second wheel assembly arms being capable of rotating the wheel assembly within the body. 30. The assembly of claim 29, wherein the assembly is configured for placement.   The wheel assembly is sized to apply pressure to both the at least one cable and the first surface as the body moves along the at least one cable over the first surface. Item 49. The assembly according to Item 46.   The wheel assembly includes a tape application portion deformable to apply pressure to both the at least one cable and the first surface as the body moves along the at least one cable on the first surface. 48. The assembly of claim 46, comprising:   32. The assembly of claim 31, wherein the tape application assembly further includes a tape guide that is engageable with a non-adhesive outer surface of the tape.   50. The assembly of claim 49, wherein the tape guide is configured to shape the tape for engagement with the at least one cable.   50. The tape guide is configured to shape the tape such that the adhesive side of the tape engages the at least one cable substantially on the tape central longitudinal axis. Assembly.   The tape guide is defined by first and second substantially frustoconical portions, each frustoconical portion defining a tapered end, and the first and second substantially frustoconical portions. 50. The assembly of claim 49, wherein the tapered ends of the frustoconical portion are disposed opposite one another.   33. The assembly of claim 32, further comprising a tape guide disposed between the tape assembly and the wheel assembly, wherein the tape guide is engageable with a non-adhesive outer surface of the tape.   54. The assembly of claim 53, wherein the tape guide is configured to shape the tape for engagement with the at least one cable.   54. The tape guide is configured to shape the tape such that the adhesive side of the tape engages the at least one cable substantially on the tape central longitudinal axis. Assembly.   The tape guide is defined by first and second substantially frustoconical portions, each frustoconical portion defining a tapered end, and the first and second substantially frustoconical portions. 54. The assembly of claim 53, wherein the tapered ends of the frustoconical portion are disposed opposite one another.   The tape application assembly is configured to apply pressure to the tape on each side of the at least one cable as the body moves along the at least one cable on the first surface. 15. The assembly of claim 14, comprising a wheel assembly having a second wheel set.   The first and second wheelsets are directed toward each other through the first and second wheelset adjustment assemblies to define a wheel gap that substantially corresponds to the width of the at least one cable. 58. The assembly of claim 57, wherein the assembly is movable away from the assembly.   58. The assembly of claim 57, further comprising a tape guide disposed between the tape assembly and the wheel assembly, wherein the tape guide is engageable with a non-adhesive outer surface of the tape.   60. The assembly of claim 59, wherein the tape guide is configured to shape the tape for engagement with the at least one cable.   60. The tape guide is configured to shape the tape such that the adhesive side of the tape engages the at least one cable substantially on the tape central longitudinal axis. Assembly.   The tape guide is defined by first and second substantially frustoconical portions, each frustoconical portion defining a tapered end, and the first and second substantially frustoconical portions. 60. The assembly of claim 59, wherein the tapered ends of the frustoconical portion are disposed opposite one another.   29. The assembly of claim 28, wherein the funnel is defined by first and second funnel guides extending between the front cable opening and the rear cable opening.   64. The assembly of claim 63, wherein the first and second funnel guides are adjustable by first and second funnel adjustment assemblies for increasing or decreasing the size of the rear cable opening.   The first and second funnel adjustment assemblies include first and second brackets coupled to the first and second funnel guides, the first and second brackets facing each other or 68. The assembly of claim 64, wherein the assembly is movable around first and second pivot points to move the first and second funnel guides away from each other.   The first and second funnel adjustment assemblies are selectively engaged with the first and second funnel guides to move the first and second funnel guides toward or away from each other. 65. The assembly of claim 64, comprising first and second elliptical shape adjusters that are compatible.   The tape application assembly includes a wheel assembly disposed in a corner of the body for securing tape to at least one cable positioned in a corner defined by the first surface and the second surface. 15. An assembly according to claim 14, comprising.   68. The assembly of claim 67, wherein the wheel assembly includes a first wheel disposed substantially transverse to a second wheel.   69. The assembly of claim 68, wherein the first wheel is movable toward and away from the second wheel.   68. The tape application assembly further includes a tape guide positioned between the tape assembly and the wheel assembly, wherein the tape guide is engageable with a non-adhesive outer surface of the tape. Assembly.   71. The assembly of claim 70, wherein the tape guide is configured to shape the tape for engagement with the at least one cable positioned within the corner.   The tape guide is configured to shape the tape such that the adhesive side of the tape engages the at least one cable positioned within the corner substantially on the tape central longitudinal axis. 71. The assembly of claim 70, wherein:   71. The assembly of claim 70, wherein the tape guide includes a first portion and a second portion, and an acute angle is defined between the first portion and the second portion.   A cable alignment assembly having a funnel defined within the bottom of the body for receiving the at least one cable and substantially aligning with the tape central longitudinal axis, the funnel comprising: Defining a front cable opening at the front of the body and a rear cable opening opposite the front cable opening, wherein the funnel tapers in size from the front cable opening to the rear cable opening 68. The assembly of claim 67.   75. The assembly of claim 74, wherein the funnel is defined by a funnel guide and the second surface when the tape applicator assembly is positioned to tape a cable within the corner.   The funnel guide of claim 75, wherein the funnel guide is movable toward or away from the second surface to increase or decrease the size of the rear cable opening. assembly.   77. The assembly of claim 76, wherein the funnel is defined by a funnel guide and the second surface when the tape applicator assembly is positioned to tape a cable within the corner.   The funnel guide of claim 77, wherein the funnel guide is movable toward or away from the second surface to increase or decrease the size of the rear cable opening. assembly.   The centering and locking assembly further includes a protrusion that is axially centered on one of the core and the hub, and a notch that is axially centered on the other of the core and the hub. 4. An assembly according to claim 3, wherein the protrusion is removably receivable within the notch for centering and locking the core on the hub.   80. The assembly of claim 79, further comprising a slot extending axially between an edge of one of the core and the hub and the notch.   81. The assembly of claim 80, further comprising a slot extending between a first edge and a second edge of one of the core and the hub and intersecting the notch.   The first locking mechanism is one of a protrusion and a notch, the second locking mechanism is the other of the protrusion and the notch, and the protrusion is within the notch. The assembly of claim 3, wherein the assembly is removably acceptable.   83. The assembly of claim 82, further comprising a slot extending axially between an edge of one of the core and the hub and the notch.   84. The assembly of claim 83, further comprising a slot extending between a first edge and a second edge of one of the core and the hub and intersecting the notch.   The assembly of claim 2, further comprising a tape guide engageable with the outer surface of the tape.   86. The assembly of claim 85, wherein the tape guide is configured to shape the tape such that the intermediate adhesive portion engages the at least one cable.   The tape guide may be configured such that the intermediate adhesive portion engages the at least one cable prior to the first and second lateral adhesive portions engaging the first surface. 96. The assembly of claim 85, configured to shape.   The tape guide is defined by first and second substantially frustoconical portions, each frustoconical portion defining a tapered end, and the first and second substantially frustoconical portions. 86. The assembly of claim 85, wherein the tapered ends of the frustoconical portion are disposed opposite one another.   And a cable alignment assembly defined in the body, the cable alignment assembly relative to the first surface when the body moves along the at least one cable on the first surface. 15. The assembly of claim 14, wherein the assembly is configured to receive the at least one cable positioned in a position and to substantially align the at least one cable with the tape central longitudinal axis.   The tape application assembly further includes a tape application assembly defined within the body, wherein the tape application assembly is moved when the body moves along the at least one cable on the first surface. 27. The assembly of claim 26, wherein the assembly is configured to adhere the tape to both of the surfaces.

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