KR20170047191A - Tape applicator Assembly and tape assembly - Google Patents

Abstract

The tape applicator assembly that attaches the tape to a surface may include a body and may include a centering and locking assembly that locks and locks the tape assembly center within the body automatically during dispensing. The tape applicator assembly may include at least one cable and a surface, and the body may include a tape receiving cavity defined to receive a tape assembly having a tape having a longitudinal center axis of the tape. The tape application assembly may be defined within the body to attach the tape to at least one cable and surface. The cable alignment assembly may be defined within the body to receive at least one cable positioned on the surface and to substantially align at least one cable with the tape center longitudinal axis.

Description

≪ Desc / Clms Page number 1 > Tape applicator assembly and tape assembly &

Tape applicator assembly.

Gaffer tape is a specialized type of pressure sensitive adhesive tape that is often used in the entertainment industry for the purpose of securing cables to the stage floor or other surface for safety or to hide cables from the audience or camera. It is also widely used by audio-visual departments to maintain single-phase and stage lines at hotels and conference centers.

 "Person in charge" or other descriptor often links one or more cables between two or more locations (hereinafter often referred to as "cable splicing ") and tape the cable to the floor. For example, the cable connection extends between the electrical outlet and the audio equipment with the tape adhered to the floor, wall, or other surface. It is often required that the cable joint be clumped, stretched, and pulled before the cable joint is taped or after the cable joint is tape bonded to the other surface. Aligning and jamming the cable joints to be tape bonded will straighten the tape lines, minimize the strips used, reduce any risk of hanging, and make the cable connections aesthetically better.

It can be seen that aligning and bundling cable joints in this way is labor intensive and incomplete. The person in charge should tie the cable joints with one hand while taping the cable joints with the other hand while aligning and pulling. Therefore, there is a need for an improved apparatus and method for securing aligned, crowded and positioned cables to a surface.

As noted above, gap tape is a specialized type of pressure sensitive adhesive tape used to tape bond cable joints to the surface. The pressure sensitive adhesive material is strong enough to secure the cable joint to the surface until the tape is manually removed with a predetermined force. The tape can wrap around the cables and be folded between the cables, so that the tape adheres to itself during the removal process (unlike rough tapes like duct tape), although the gap tape is required to be cleanly removed from the cable. In addition, when the cables are gaffed to the surface with tape, the adhesive residues accumulate on the cable and it becomes more difficult to remove the tape from the cable. Therefore, there is a need for an improved tape assembly that is suitable for use in gaffing cables.

The tape applicator assembly that attaches the tape to a surface may include a body and may include a centering and locking assembly that locks and locks the tape assembly center within the body automatically during dispensing. The tape applicator assembly may include at least one cable and a surface, and the body may include a tape receiving cavity defined to receive a tape assembly having a tape having a longitudinal center axis of the tape. The tape application assembly may be defined within the body to attach the tape to at least one cable and surface. The cable alignment assembly may be defined within the body to receive at least one cable positioned on the surface and to substantially align at least one cable with the tape center longitudinal axis. The summary is provided to introduce selectable concepts in a simplified form and is described further in the detailed description below. The summary does not 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.

1 is a perspective view of a tape applicator assembly and a tape assembly, and a tape applicator assembly and a tape assembly illustrate use when taping a cable joint to a surface.
2 is a cross-sectional view of the taped cable joint of FIG. 1 taken substantially across line 2-2.
Figure 3 is a partially upper perspective view of the tape applicator assembly and tape assembly of Figure 1;
Figure 4 is a partially downward perspective view of the tape applicator assembly and tape assembly of Figure 1;
FIG. 5 is a partial cross-sectional view of the tape applicator assembly and tape assembly of FIG. 3, and the tape applicator assembly and tape assembly illustrate a use condition taping the cable to a surface.
Figure 6 is a partial cross-sectional view of the tape applicator assembly and tape assembly of Figure 3, obtained substantially across 6-6 lines.
Figure 7 is a perspective view of the tape assembly of Figure 1;
8A is a bottom perspective view of a first alternative embodiment of a tape applicator assembly, wherein the tape applicator assembly illustrates the use of taping a cable to a surface.
Figure 8B is an upper perspective view of the tape applicator assembly of Figure 8A, and a portion of the tape applicator assembly is removed for illustration.
Figure 9 is a front perspective view of a second alternative embodiment of a tape applicator assembly, wherein the tape applicator assembly illustrates the use of taping a cable to a surface.
Figure 10 is a rear perspective view of the tape applicator assembly of Figure 9;
Figure 11 is a bottom perspective view of the tape applicator assembly of Figure 9;
Figure 12 is a partially removed perspective view of a portion of the tape applicator assembly of Figure 9;
Figure 13 is a bottom perspective view of the tape applicator assembly of Figure 9, and the tape applicator assembly illustrates taping the cable to the surface.
Figure 14 is a bottom perspective view of a third alternative embodiment of the tape applicator assembly.
Figure 15 is a front perspective view of a fourth alternative embodiment of a tape applicator assembly, wherein the tape applicator assembly illustrates use when taping a cable to an edge.
Figure 16 is a side perspective view of the tape applicator assembly of Figure 15;
Figure 17 is a bottom perspective view of the tape applicator assembly of Figure 15;
Figure 18 is a bottom view of the tape applicator assembly of Figure 15;
Figure 19 is a perspective view of a first alternative embodiment of the centering and locking assembly of the tape applicator assembly of Figure 1;
Figure 20 is a perspective view of a second alternative embodiment of the centering and locking assembly of the tape applicator assembly of Figure 1;

The tape applicator assembly 10 and tape assembly 12 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure are best illustrated by reference to FIG. Referring additionally to Figure 2, the tape applicator assembly 10 may be configured to bundle, align, and strain one or more cables C to provide one cable joint R, To the surface. Although the tape applicator assembly 10 will be described as being used to tape the cable gusset R to the surface, the tape applicator assembly 10 may be used for other suitable purposes. For example, the tape applicator assembly 10 may be used with a tape assembly 12 that includes a gap tape suitable for taping cables C onto a surface. Alternatively, the applicator assembly may be used with a tape assembly 12 that fixes or labels a temporary device and includes other tapes suitable for indicating seats, walls, sidewalks, borders, and the like. Accordingly, the description and the teachings provided herein should not be viewed as limiting the scope of the claimed subject matter.

The tape applicator assembly 10 includes a body 14 and a handle assembly 18 secured thereto. The handle assembly 18 is suitable for pushing, manipulating and handling the body 14 of the surface. The handle assembly 18 includes a stem 22 extending upwardly from the body 14 and a pivot connection 28 and / And may be pivotally connected to the body 14 through other suitable means. The stand 22 can be adjustable in length and can be removed if the user tries to hold the body 14 for use. A suitable handle is defined to be able to grip the handle assembly 18 at the end of the stand 22. Additional gripping tools, handles, etc. can be fixed to the stand to push, manipulate and manipulate the body 14 of the surface.

The body 14 is adapted to removably receive a portion of the tape assembly 12 and tap the cable joint R to the surface. Prior to taping the cable gusset R to the surface, the body 14 for gathering, aligning, tamping, and strapping one or more cables C for aesthetically pleasing and secure taping- .

3-6, a body 14 that collects, aligns, straps, straps, and tapes the surface of one or more cables will be described in detail. 3, it includes an upper portion 32 having a tape receiving cavity 36 defined between the rear portion 40 and the front portion 32. In the embodiment shown in FIG. The handle base 22 is pivotally secured to the rear portion 40 to push the body 14 forward along the desired cable C on the surface.

The cable alignment assembly is defined within the body to receive and substantially align one or more cables positioned on the surface as the body moves along the surface along the surface. The cable alignment assembly may include an alignment tool, such as a laser 46 or other light centering system, fixed to the front portion or otherwise defined on the front portion 44. The laser can illuminate the beam on the surface so that the user can tap the cable straight.

The cable alignment assembly may further include a front cable opening 48 wherein the front cable opening 48 is defined at the front end of the body 14 below the laser 46, Lt; RTI ID = 0.0 > cables < / RTI > 4, the front cable opening 48 communicates with a funnel 52 that extends rearward along the open side of the bottom, interior, body 14 and terminates at the rear cable opening 54. As shown in FIG. The funnel 52 is tapered in the width direction between the front and rear cable openings 54 to collect and tie the cables before taping.

The funnel 52 may include a removable and / or adjustable rear funnel component 56 at the rear end of the funnel 52 to adjust the size of the rear cable opening 54. In the depicted embodiment, the rear funnel part 56 is secured within the bottom of the body 14 such that it is removable with a suitable snap-fit technique or other suitable means. The rear funnel part 56 may be removed and replaced / replaced with another rear funnel part 56 which defines the rear cable opening 54 to be larger or smaller to clasp the cable C more or less for taping have. Alternatively, the rear funnel part 56 may include adjustment means for adjusting the size of the rear cable opening 54 without requiring any part of the removal.

It should be appreciated that the size and shape of the rear funnel 52 can be configured to accommodate one or more cables C to be taped in a desired manner. For example, the rear funnel part 56 may include a small central opening, for centering one cable C in the center and taping the surface with tape. According to another example, the rear funnel part 56 may include a deeper and wider opening to center and tie several cables C together. In another example, the rear funnel part 56 may include a wider and shallow opening to arrange several cables C side by side for taping (see FIG. 2). Thus, it can be seen that the size, shape, and configuration of the rear funnel 52 can be designed for use in a desired fashion.

The cable alignment assembly may further include suitable biasing or tensioning members and may apply pressure and tension to the cable C when one or more cables C are supplied through the body 14. [ And is disposed at the rear of the funnel 52. [ In the depicted embodiment, when the body 14 moves along the cables C on the surface, the tension members are urged by the leaf spring 14, which biases the gathered cables C away from the body 14, (60). The leaf spring 60 is secured to the inner portion of the body 14 and extends downwardly in its original, unaligned state, passing through the bottom, inside, open face of the body 14, (14). When the cable (C) is engaged, the leaf spring (60) is moved to a position where it is flexed upwards. In the biased position, the leaf spring 60 continuously engages the cable C and drives the cable C to face the surface S. By applying a continuous tension to the cables C, the cables C are pulled and unfolded and remain centered and clumped when the tape is attached.

The tape application assembly is defined within the body 14 and communicates with the cable alignment assembly to apply tape to the cables C that are aligned and stacked and laid on the surface. The tape application assembly includes a cable C and a rear wheel assembly 66 positioned behind the leaf spring 60 for attaching the tape together on the surface.

Referring to Figures 4 and 5, the rear wheel assembly 66 includes an intermediate tape application portion 70 positioned between lateral rear rolling wheels 74 and 78. The side rear rolling wheels 74 and 78 are disposed on each side of the interior surface of the body 14 and can be moved in any suitable manner, such as by pins or rods (not categorized) extending through the rear wheel assembly 66 Journaled for rotation within the body 14, and rotatably received on each side surface of the body 14. The rear wheel assembly 66 is disposed within the body 14 such that the side rear rolling wheels 74 and 78 project from the bottom, rear, and open faces of the body 14 to allow the body 14 to roll against the desired surface. do.

In that regard, lateral front rolling wheels 82 and 86 are positioned on the floor, frontward of the body 14 on each interior side of the body 14, so that the body 14 can easily roll against the desired surface Protruding from the surface. The side front rolling wheels 82 and 86 may be disposed on each side of the funnel 52 and may be disposed within the body 14 in any suitable manner such as a pin or rod that rotatably extends through the forward rolling wheels 82 and 86, And can be rotatably disposed within the inner side surface of each body 14. [0034] With the rear and front side rolling wheels 74, 78, 82 and 86 disposed within the body 14, when the body 14 is moved along the surface, the body 14 can be easily moved relative to the side wall or other object .

The intermediate tape application portion 70 disposed between the side rear rolling wheels 74 and 78 is configured to tape and pressurize the surfaces with the tangled cables C to secure the cables C to the surface. In this regard, the intermediate tape application portion 70 is flexible enough to apply pressure to the cables C and to the surface as it rolls. More specifically, in order to press the cables C, the intermediate tape application portion 70 is deformed, compressed, and the like in the radial direction at the intermediate portion. In order to pressurize the surfaces of both sides of the cables C and to conform to the shape of the surface, the intermediate tape application portion 70 is deformed, compressed, etc. in the radial direction at the side portions. The intermediate and side portions can be deformed as needed to apply continuous and uniform pressure to the cables C and any uneven surface. With that in mind, the intermediate tape application portion 70 and the tape disposed between the cable C / surface such that when the intermediate tape application portion 70 is rolled along the cable C, (C) and to the surface.

To match the compression of the intermediate tape application portion 70, the lateral rear rolling wheels 74 and 78 have a diameter sufficiently smaller than the intermediate tape application portion 70. In this manner, when the intermediate tape application portion 70 is compressed to press the cables C / surface, the side rear rolling wheels 74 and 78 are engaged with the surface so that the body 14 can roll along the surface. All. However, it is also conceivable that when the body 14 rolls over the surface only through the intermediate tape application portion 70, the lateral rear rolling wheels 74 and 78 are removed instead.

The intermediate tape application portion 70 may be made of any suitable material that sufficiently applies pressure to the cables C and the surface. For example, the intermediate tape application portion 70 may be made of foam, rubber or other suitable material. In order to accommodate the cables C and the side portions on both sides of the groove engaging the surface, the intermediate tape application portion 70 may instead be substantially rigid with a center radial groove It can be thought. When the side portion is kept pressure on the surface, the groove may be deep enough to apply pressure to the cable (C). It is conceivable, therefore, that any suitable arrangement for simultaneously applying pressure to the surplus cables C and the surface can be used.

The tape is fed between the intermediate tape application portion 70 and the cable C / surface so that the intermediate tape application portion 70 simultaneously attaches the tape to the cables C and the surface. The tape is ejected from the tape assembly 12 fixed within the tape applicator assembly.

5-7, the portion and structure of the tape assembly 12 that secures the tape assembly 12 within the tape applicator assembly 10 is described in detail. The tape assembly 12 includes a tape roll that is wound around the core or disposed on the core 94 in a surrounding manner. The core 94 is substantially cylindrical in shape and defines the length of the core 94 axis to match the width of the tape roll 90. The core 94 may be any suitable core 94 axial length to accommodate various sizes of tape rolls 90, 2 inches, 3 inches, and the like. The core 94 also defines an inner cylinder opening extending along the length of the core 94 axis. The hollow cylindrical shaped opening has an inner core 94 diameter sized and sized to receive the hub 98. The hub 98 is removably secured within the tape receiving cavity 36 of the body 14 to secure the tape assembly 12 within the tape applicator.

Like the core 94, the hub 98 is cylindrical and defined by a web assembly. The web assembly 116 has a central axial through hole 118 extending between the outer cylindrical body portion 120 and the inner cylindrical body portion 122 and extending axially through the inner cylindrical body portion 122 . It can be appreciated that the web assembly reduces the cost and weight of the hub 98. However, the hub 98 may instead be defined as a hollow body extending between the outer and inner cylindrical body portions 120, 122.

The hub 98 exhibits an outer diameter substantially equal to the inner diameter of the core 94. In this manner, the core 94 is removably but stably positioned on the hub 98 that can be used within the tape applicator assembly 10. [ 98 defines a hub axis length dimensioned to be removably received within the core 94. The hub 98 may have any suitable axial length to accommodate cores 94 of varying sizes and may be sized and configured to be received within the tape receiving cavity 36 of the body 14 at the same time.

The core centering and locking assembly 100 is defined between the core 94 and a hub 98 that locks and centers the core 94 on the hub 98. Although any suitable centering and locking assembly may be used, in the depicted embodiment, the core centering and locking assembly 100 may include a first locking configuration such as a projection or nub (102). The first locking configuration is defined on the outer surface of the hub 98 such that it can be received within a second locking configuration such as an annular groove 106 and the second locking configuration is defined on the hub 98, Is defined on the inner surface of the core (94) to secure the core (94) on the core (94). It will be appreciated that the nub 102 is instead defined on the hub 98 and the annular groove 106 is defined on the core 94.

The nubs 102 and the annular grooves 106 are positioned on the hub 98 and the core 94 such that the nubs 102 and the annular grooves 106 are located on the hub 98 when the nubs 102 are received in the annular groove 106 The core 94 is automatically centered in the direction of the axis. In other words, the nub 102 is generally axially centered on the hub 98, and the annular groove is generally axially centered on the core 94. In this manner, when the nub 102 is received in the annular groove 106, the core 94 is automatically axially centered on the hub 98. When the grooves are axially centered on the core 94, the core 94 is automatically positioned on the hub 98 (e.g., with axial lengths of 1 inch, 2 inches, 3 inches, etc.) ≪ / RTI > may be centered on the substrate.

The tape assembly 12 is further secured on the hub 98 through the hub lock assembly 110. The hub lock assembly 110 is defined by a shaft 130 secured within the body 14 and extending into the tape receiving hollow 36. The shaft 130 includes an anchor defined in a first end fixed within the anchor projection and extending upwardly from one side of the body 14. [ The shaft 130 extends substantially across the anchor projection 138 into the tape receiving hollow 36 such that the shaft 130 is substantially parallel to the bottom surface of the body 14. [

When the shaft 130 is extended into the tape receiving cavity 36 in this manner, the hub 98 is removably and rotatably secured to the shaft 130 (not shown) to secure the desired tape roll 90 within the tape applicator assembly 10. [ ). ≪ / RTI > By passing the shaft 130 through the central through-hole, the hub 98 can be removably and rotatably fixed on the shaft 130. When received on the shaft 130, the hub 98 is rotatable about the central longitudinal axis of the shaft 130 for tape dispensing.

In order to accommodate rotation of the hub 98, a bearing subassembly 114 is defined between the shaft 130 and the hub 98. The bearing subassembly 114 is disposed between the shaft 130 and the inner cylindrical body portion 122 of the hub 98. The bearing subassembly 114 may be any suitable bearing subassembly 114, 1 and a second flanged bushing 144, 148. A cylindrical gap is defined to receive the first and second flanged bushings 144 and 148 between the outer surface of the shaft 130 and the inner surface of the inner cylindrical body portion 122. [ The first and second flanged bushings 144 and 148 are secured within the central through hole 118 of the hub 98 so that the bushings and hub 98 can be assembled units for easy assembly and disassembly have.

The hub lock assembly 110 may further include a locking subassembly 152 configured to selectively lock the hub 98 on the shaft 130. The locking subassembly 152 may include a locking device 156 such as a bolt that is threadably received within an opening in which a thread is formed at the second end of the shaft 130 (as opposed to the anchor) . The knob 160 is integrally formed or secured on the lock 156 around the head of the lock so that the threaded end of the lock protrudes from the knob 160. The knob 160 may be properly gripped by the user to torque the lock 156 or secure the threaded end of the lock 156 within the shaft 130. [ The washer 164 may be disposed between the knob 160 and the hub 98 to selectively engage and tighten the knob 160 with respect to the hub 98. By tightening the knob 160 against the hub 98, the ease with which the hub 98 rotates on the shaft 130 is adjusted.

Referring to Fig. 7, an exemplary embodiment of a tape assembly 12 having a tape roll 90 is described in more detail. The tape roll 90 is defined by an elongated portion 164 of the tape wound around the core 94. The tape 164 includes an inner surface 172 that is opposite the outer surface 168. The pressure sensitive adhesive 176 is disposed on the inner surface 172 and removably secured to the outer surface 168 when on a roll.

The pressure sensitive adhesive 176 includes an intermediate adhesive portion 180 that extends along the center longitudinal axis of the tape on the inner surface 172 of the tape. The intermediate adhesive portion 180 is disposed on the first and second side adhesive portions 184, 188 sufficiently tacky to be removably attachable to a desired surface such as a floor or a wall.

The intermediate adhesive portion 180 is removably attached to the tangled cable C taped to the surface S. In this regard, the intermediate adhesive portion 180 is sufficiently wide to cover and engage the cables C aligned and tangled past the tape applicator assembly. The width of the intermediate adhesive portion 180 may vary depending on the various tape rolls 90 to accommodate different sized cable (C) assemblies.

The intermediate adhesive portion 180 is also less tacky than the first and second side adhesive portions 184, 188 to releasably engage the stranded cables C. [ The intermediate adhesive portion 180 can be defined by a less sticky adhesive covering the entirety of the intermediate adhesive portion 180. Alternatively, the intermediate adhesive portion 180 may be defined by an adhesive coating pattern that creates a generally less tacky area, such as longitudinal or transverse stripes, dots, or the like. It is conceivable, therefore, that the less sticky intermediate adhesive region can be defined in any suitable manner.

As noted above, a conventional gap tape includes a pressure sensitive adhesive covering the entire inner surface of the tape, and is secured sufficiently firmly to the surface until it is manually removed by a predetermined force. The adhesive needs to be strong enough to stably adhere to the desired surface without being easily removed due to stepping and the like. However, these strong adhesives result in the tape wrapping or intertwining the cable, resulting in the tape sticking to itself during the removal process. In addition, when the cable is often "gaffed ", adhesive residue builds up on the cable and makes it difficult to remove the tape from the cable.

The tape 164 can be easily removed from the cables C when the tape 164 is pulled up from the surface, as the intermediate adhesive portion 180 defines a path of reduced tack. The tape 164 may be attached to the cables C and the cable (s) may be attached to the cable (s) when the cable C is tapped to the surface, if the intermediate adhesive portion 180 is at least somewhat sticky C to align and align. For example, the intermediate adhesive portion 180 may be about 10-30% of the stickiness of the first and second side adhesive portions. However, it is conceivable that the intermediate adhesive portion 180 may instead have no adhesive (e.g., a dried path) or may be larger than 30% tackiness if desired. In other words, to define a less sticky intermediate adhesive portion that provides releasable engagement with the cables C, the intermediate adhesive portion 180 is positioned between the first and second side adhesive portions 184 and 188, 99%.

May be of other shapes for use other than tape strip, plate or tape applicator assembly 10 instead of tape roll 90. In addition, while the tape applicator assembly 10 has been shown and described as a tape assembly 12 with a reduced tacky intermediate adhesive portion 180, the tape applicator assembly 10 may be replaced with any suitable tape, Can be used. For example, if the tape applicator assembly 10 is used to mark a boundary line on the floor rather than taping the cable C on the floor, a tape with any suitable pressure sensitive adhesive on the inner surface may be used have. Accordingly, the description and the teachings provided herein should not be construed as limiting the scope of the claimed subject matter.

5, there is provided an operation of a tape applicator assembly 10 for taping cables C onto a surface. Prior to using the tape applicator assembly 10, the proper width of the tape (i. E., The length of the shaft) is determined for its intended use. For example, if 2-3 cables C are tapered to the surface, a tape roll 90 having an intermediate adhesive area of, for example, 2-3 inches wide and sufficiently wide and sticky may be used. Alternatively, if the tape applicator assembly 10 is used to simply mark a border on a surface, a tape roll 90 that is illustratively only one inch wide and does not have an intermediate adhesive portion 180 may be used instead . Thus, depending on the desired use, the preferred tape roll 90 may be installed within the tape applicator assembly 10, or may be replaced with a tape roll 90 already installed in the tape applicator assembly 10.

The tape roll 90 is installed in the tape applicator assembly 10 by centering and locking the core 94 on the hub 98 with the core centering and locking assembly 100. More specifically, the core 94 slides on the hub 98 until the nub 102 is received in the annular groove 106. The nub 102 can be felt by the user to have a snap-fit tactile feel to indicate that the core 94 is properly positioned on the hub 98 when received in the annular groove 106 It can be thought that there is. A cover, description, etc., may be provided on the exterior of the body 14, the core 94, and / or the hub 98 to aid in proper assembly.

The hub 98 may be secured within the body 14 with the core 94 assembled on the hub 98 and the hub 98 through the hub lock 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 locking device 156 is 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. In order to increase or decrease the tension of the knob 160 relative to the washer 164, the locking device 156 may be tightened or loosened. If tension is increased from the knob 160, the tape roll 90 is less easily and loosely released. Therefore, it can be considered that the tension of the knob 160 is adjusted as desired.

Once the core 94 is secured within the tape applicator assembly 10, the tape roll 90 may be partially unwound to position the tape 164 for dispensing. Alternatively, the tape roll 90 may be partially unwound before securing the core 94 on the hub 98. The tape 164 is pulled past the rear wheel assembly 66 from the bottom, inside, open side of the body 14 at the tape roll 90. The end of the tape may be secured to the surface S and / or the cables C to define a first end of the cable joint R. [

A tape tensioner 194 is mounted between the tape roll 90 and the rear wheel assembly 66 to maintain the tension on the tape 164 when the tape is dispensed at the tape roll 90. The tape 14, As shown in FIG. The tape tensioner 194 may be a suitable roller or other mechanism that is pivotally supported for rotation within the interior surface of the body 14. [ The tape tensioner 194 is positioned downward from the tangent defined between the tape roll 90 and the rear wheel assembly 66 to maintain tension effectively on the tape. In this manner, the tape tensioner 194 applies a downward force to the tape to maintain a substantially constant tension when the tape is presented. If the tape is tensioned, the rear wheel assembly 66 maintains better tape alignment for the surface / cables and reduces creases, crevices, and the like.

The intermediate tape application portion 70 partially compresses to apply pressure to the cables C and the surface S as the tape passes over the rear wheel assembly 66. [ More specifically, in order to accommodate the height and shape of the cable C relative to the surface, after the cable C has been centered (and retained by the leaf spring 60) after passing through the funnel 52 The center of the intermediate tape application portion 70 is compressed. In addition, to seal the cables C under the tape, the side edges of the middle tape application portion 70 compress the surface S on both sides of the cables C.

It will be appreciated from the foregoing that the tape applicator assembly 10 and the tape assembly 12 have the advantage of securing the cables aligned and tangled and positioned to the surface without the tape being irreversibly attached or leaving residues on the cable Can be provided.

Referring to Figures 8A and 8B, a first alternative embodiment of the tape applicator assembly 210 is depicted. The tape applicator assembly 210 is substantially the same as the tape applicator 10 described above except for the differences indicated herein.

In that regard, the tape applicator assembly 210 includes a cable alignment assembly having a funnel 252 extending along the bottom from the front of the body 214. The funnel 252 defines a forward cable opening 248 and a rear cable opening 254 that allow one or more cables to be received in front of the body 214 as the body 214 moves along the surface. As shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B, the rear cable opening 254 coalesces and aligns one or more cables C into one cable joint R and taps the cable joint R to the surface. In addition, the rear cable opening 254 can be sized and shaped through a modular funnel / wheel steering assembly 256 to accommodate bundles of cables and cables of varying sizes.

The modular funnel / wheel adjustment assembly 256 may be defined by a first adjustment funnel component 257 that is removably received within the lower portion of the body 214. The first conditioning funnel part 257 is defined in part by a rear funnel portion 258 disposed rearwardly of the funnel 252 and a wheel portion 253 extending rearwardly from the rear funnel portion 258. The rear funnel portion 258 corresponds substantially to the wheel portion 253 in size, so that one or more cables of a predetermined size are aligned and clashed and attached to the surface. The rear funnel portion 258 and the wheel portion 253 of the first conditioning funnel part 257 are sized and dimensioned to correspond to a corresponding size And shape.

The rear funnel portion 258 defines a rear cable opening 254 for alignment of the cable C with the rear portion of the funnel 252. The rear funnel portion 258 defines an elongated opening 262 that is communicated between the front cable opening 248 and the number of rear cables C when received within the body 214. The elongated opening 262 is a suitable cross-sectional shape, width, and / or depth for crowding and aligning one or more cables of a predetermined size. In the depicted embodiment, the elongated opening 262 is of a suitable cross-sectional shape, width and / or depth for cable alignment of a first predetermined size. A second adjustment component having a second cross-sectional shape and a wider and / or deeper elongated opening 262 can be used to accommodate a larger cable or larger cable bundle. On the other hand, a third adjustment component having a third cross-sectional shape and narrower and / or thinner elongated openings 262 can be used to accommodate smaller cables or smaller cable bundles. When the shape and size of the elongated openings 262 substantially correspond to the shape and size of one or more cables, the cables are aligned and crowded before being attached by the tape application assembly.

The tape application assembly is defined in part by the wheel portion 253 of the first adjustment funnel part 257 if the wheel part 253 is of a suitable size for taping one or more cables of a predetermined size on the surface. The wheel portion, such as the rear wheel assembly 266, rotatably secures the rear wheel assembly 266 within the body 214 to apply pressure to the tape 268 and one or more cables. In this regard, the wheel portion 253 includes first and second wheel assembly arms extending rearwardly of the body 214 at the rear funnel portion 258. The wheel assembly arms 260 and 261 receive the rear wheel assembly 266 rotatably therein.

The rear wheel assembly 266 includes an intermediate tape application portion 270 disposed between lateral rear rolling wheels 274 and 278. The intermediate tape application portion 270 is flexible enough to press the surface and one or more cables C to secure the tape 268 to the surface and to one or more cables. 8A and 8B, the intermediate tape application portion 270 is wide enough to press the surface portion on both sides of the cable C and the cable C of the first predetermined size. In addition, the width of the intermediate tape application portion 270 can be adjusted by using another adjustment funnel component 257. [

More specifically, the first conditioning funnel part 257 (having elongated opening 262 and intermediate tape application portion 270 of a first predetermined size and shape) is removed or the second conditioning funnel part 257, elongated opening 262) and a second predetermined sized intermediate tape application portion 270). As such, the adjustment funnel part 257 can be removed or replaced as needed to accommodate various sizes of cables and / or bundles or cables. By doing so, individual adjustment of the funnel 252 or the rear wheel assembly 266 can be avoided.

The funnel / wheel adjustment assembly 256 may be removably secured within the body 214 in any suitable manner. In the depicted embodiment, a snap-fit technique is used. However, it is conceivable that any suitable technique may be employed.

Referring to FIG. 8B, the tape application assembly may further include a tape guide 280 positioned between the tape assembly 212 and the rear wheel assembly 266. The tape guide 280 is shaped into a cable C to conform to the cable C and surface S and conforms to the cable C. The tape guide 280 includes a tape shaper 282 that is pivotally supported for rotation on a pin 284 received within the body 214. The tape shaper 282 is defined by first and second frustoconical portions 286 and 288, each having a tapered end disposed opposite each other.

The non-adhesive side of the tape 268 can run under the tape guide 280 before engaging the rear wheel assembly 266. [ In order to reduce any sagging on the tape 268 and prevent the tape from folding, the tape guide 280 applies tension on the tape. If the tape shaper 282 is made of a material that can be compressed and deformed, such as foam, it is conceivable that the tape shaper 282 will help maintain tension in the tape when applied. However, the tape shaper 282 may be made of any suitable material.

The tape guide 280 makes the tape shape so as to place the tape optimally on the cable C and attach the tape to the cable C. More specifically, the tape guide 280 makes the tape 168 into an inverted V-shape so that when the cable C is pulled through the tape applicator assembly 210, Engage the normal. In this way, the tape 268 is stably and smoothly attached to the cable C without any pressure by the rear wheel assembly 266. [ In addition, the tape 268 is attached to the cable C substantially along the center longitudinal axis of the tape 268 or along the intermediate bonded portion of the tape. In this way, the same amount of tape is attached to the surface S on both sides of the cable C, so as to define a substantially straight and stable cable joint R.

Referring to FIG. 9, a second alternative embodiment of the tape applicator assembly 310 is depicted. The tape applicator assembly 310 is similar to the tape applicator assembly 10, 210 described above. However, the present tape applicator assembly 310 is suitable for accommodating a wide tape assembly 312 and the assembly also includes a large cable (C) or cable (C) bundle to define the cable joint (R) S), and is suitable for tapping.

The body 314 of the tape applicator assembly 310 is defined within the upper portion of the body 314 and extends downwardly into the interior of the body 314 to receive the larger tape assembly 312 cavity 332, respectively. By lowering the tape assembly 312 into the tape receiving cavity in the body 314, the tape assembly 312 is removably inserted into the tape receiving hollow 332. The first and second side portions of the body 314 are disposed on both sides of the tape assembly 312 when the tape assembly 312 is received. Each of the first and second hub lock assemblies is substantially identical. Thus, only the first hub lock assembly 346 is described and depicted.

The first hub lock assembly 346 includes a U-shaped shaft receiving portion 350. The U-shaped shaft receiving portion 350 is defined at the upper end of the first side portion of the body 314 to removably receive the first end of the hub shaft 352 passing centrally through the hub. The shaft 352 is rotatably received within the shaft receiving portion 350 so that the tape assembly 312 can rotate relative to the shaft defined by the shaft 352. The locking pin 354 may extend through the shaft receiving portion 350 to removably secure the shaft within the shaft receiving portion 350. Any suitable locking pin or other locking actuation may be used to removably secure the rotatable shaft 352 within the body 314.

The tape applicator assembly 310 may further include front and rear handles 322 and 324 defined or formed on the body 314 to transport, maintain and move the tape applicator assembly 310. [ The front and rear handles 322 and 324 assist the user in moving the tape applicator assembly 310 when the tape assembly 312, which is wider and heavier than the small tape assembly 312 is received in the body 314. A handle assembly (not shown) is also secured to the body 314 to move the tape application assembly along the surface. Any suitable handle assembly, such as the handle assembly 22 described above, may be used. The handle assembly may extend from the rear portion of the body 314 to move the body 314 forward along the cables on the surface S,

Referring to Figures 10-12, the tape applicator assembly 310 includes a tape application assembly and a cable alignment assembly to accommodate one or more cables of various sizes, shapes, and bundles to be taped to a surface. The tape application assembly is defined in part by an adjustable rear wheel assembly (366). The adjustable rear wheel assembly includes first and second rear wheel sets 368 and 370 and first and second rear wheel adjusting assemblies 378 and 380 for position adjustment of the first and second rear wheel sets . Each of the first and second rear wheel sets 368, 370 and each of the first and second rear wheel steering assemblies 378, 380 are substantially identical. Thus, only the first set of wheels 368 and the first rear wheel steering assembly 378 will be discussed in detail below.

The first rear wheel set 368 includes inner and outer wheels 374 and 376 that are pivotally supported for rotation on the wheel pin. The wheel pin 382 extends from a wheel slider bracket 384 slidably disposed within the body 314. The wheel slider bracket 384 is slidably mounted on a rod 386 that extends between the sides of the body 314. The first rear wheel set 368 can slide laterally in the body 314 through the wheel slider bracket 384 to adjust the portion of the first rear wheel 368 laterally.

In this regard, in order to manually move the wheel slider bracket 384 back and forth, a knob 394 may be used. The knob 428 is fixed to the end of the knob arm 392 extending through a slot 396 at the rear of the body 314. A plurality of locations 398 identified by numbers, indications, etc., are provided on the body 394 adjacent the slot 396 to assist the user in locating the first rear wheel set at a desired distance from the side of the body 314. [ 0.0 > 314 < / RTI >

13, the first and second rear wheel sets 368, 380 are configured to receive bundles of smaller or larger cables or cables through the first and second rear wheel steering assemblies 378, 370 can be moved toward or away from each other. More specifically, to accommodate bundles of cables or cables of varying sizes, the first and second rear wheel steering assemblies 378, 380 may be used to widen the gap between the first and second rear wheel sets 368, 370 Can be used to narrow down. In this manner, the tape applicator assembly 310 is resized to accommodate cable C or bundle size.

In the depicted embodiment, the first and second rear wheel sets 368, 370 are moved toward one another to properly tap three cables to the surface. The first and second rear wheel sets 368 and 370 are moved toward each other by an appropriate amount to engage and press against the tape 320 on both sides of the cable C. [ In this way, the tape stably attaches to the surface to define a safe and clean cable joint (R). It is conceivable that the inner wheels of each of the first and second rear wheel sets 368 and 370 can be deformed so that appropriate pressure can be applied to the cables to attach the tape 320 to the cables. In addition, it is conceivable that any suitable rear wheel steering assembly can be used. For example, the first and second rear wheel set assemblies may be automatically and / or simultaneously adjusted inward or outward instead.

In order to properly shape and match the tape so that it is adaptable on the cables C, the tape application assembly further includes a tape guide 440. The tape guide 440 is substantially the same as the tape guide 262 described above. In this regard, in order to engage the V-shaped vertex on the adhesive surface with the top of the cables when the cable C is pulled through the tape applicator assembly 310, the tape guide 440 moves the tape 320 to the inverted V Shapes are made in shape. In this way, the tape 320 is stably and smoothly attached to the cables C, even if the first and second rear wheel set steering assemblies 378 and 380 do not press the cables C. [ In addition, the tape is substantially centered on the cables so that a substantially equal amount of tape 320 is attached to the surface S on both sides of the cables C.

Referring to Figures 11 and 13, the cable alignment assembly includes a funnel assembly 400 that aligns and cools one or more cables of various sizes and shapes taped by a tape application assembly. The funnel assembly 400 includes a funnel 402 defined by a first funnel guide 404 and a second funnel guide 406. The first funnel guide 404 extends along the first inner surface and the second funnel guide 406 is disposed opposite the first funnel guide 404 and extends along the second inner surface of the body 314.

The front cable opening 328 is defined at the front end of the first and second funnel guides 404 and 406 and the rear cable opening 330 is defined at the front end of the first and second funnel guides 404, and 406, respectively. Once the tape applicator assembly 310 is moved along the surface toward the cables, one or more cables lying on the surface may enter the tape applicator assembly 310 at the front cable opening 328. [ 13, the cables are received within the front cable opening 328 of the tape applicator assembly 310 and are crowded and aligned as they pass through the rear cable opening 330. As shown in FIG.

To accommodate one or more cables of various sizes and shapes, the funnel assembly 400 includes first and second funnel adjustment assemblies 412, 414 that resize the rear cable opening 330. The first and second funnel alignment assemblies 412 and 414 are substantially identical. Accordingly, only the second funnel adjustment assembly 414 will be described in detail below.

The second funnel adjustment assembly 414 includes a tuning block 410 that is fixed or formed at the rear end of the second funnel guide 406 between the second funnel guide 406 and the body 314. The adjustment block 410 (locking device or otherwise defined) may be configured to move the second adjustment block 410 (and thus the rear end of the second funnel guide 406) toward or away from the first funnel guide 404 To the pivot point (420) which is pivotable relative to the pivot point (420).

The pivot 420 is defined near a substantial midpoint of the second funnel guide 406 such that the adjustment block 410 and thus the second funnel guide 406 are positioned in a circular arc defined by the end of the adjustment bracket 418 It travels along a path of arc-shaped. For that matter, the first and second funnel guides 404, 406 are made of a suitably flexible material such as plastic or metal. To facilitate movement, a portion of the adjustment bracket 418 may be slidably secured within the pivot slot 422. [ The pivot slot 422 mirrors a substantially circular path so that the pivot slot 422 is defined within the body 314 through a lock or the like. To assist in supporting the arcuate movement of the bracket 418, the locking device may slide within the pivot slot 422.

The adjustment bracket 418 may be steered by the user through the appropriate knob 428 assembly. The knob 428 assembly includes a knob 428 defined on an end of a knob arm 426 extending from the adjustment bracket 418 and projecting through a slot 432 of the body 314. In order to pivot the adjustment bracket 418 relative to the pivot 420 for the adjustment portion of the second funnel guide 406, the knob 428 may be steered by the user.

The second funnel adjustment assembly 414, which is controlled by the knob 428, moves the rear end of the second funnel guide 406 toward or away from the first funnel guide 404. In this regard, the first and second funnel alignment assemblies 412, 414 may be used to expand or contract the size of the rear cable opening 330 to accommodate smaller or larger cables. In the embodiment of FIG. 13, the first and second funnel alignment assemblies 412, 414 are used to reduce the size of the rear cable opening 330 for aligning and crowding the three cables (C) taping.

Numerals, indications, etc., may be placed on the exterior of the body 314 near the slot 432 to indicate various positions of the adjustment bracket 418. [ In this manner, the first and second funnel alignment assemblies 412, 414 can be adjusted by a similar amount to help align the one or more cables within the tape applicator assembly 310. It can be considered, instead, that the first and second funnel adjustment assemblies 412, 414 can be simultaneously and / or automatically adjusted based on the cable C size.

Referring to FIG. 14, a fourth alternative embodiment of a tape applicator assembly 510 is depicted. 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 first and second funnel assemblies 512, 514 suitable for sizing the rear cable opening 530. The first and second funnel assemblies 512, The rear cable opening 530 is defined by the first and second funnel guides 504, 506. The first and second funnel assemblies 512, 514 are substantially identical. Thus, only the first funnel assembly 512 is described in detail.

The first funnel adjustment assembly 512 includes an oval-shaped portion that is movable relative to the axis of the pin 519. The pin extends between the elliptical portion 518 and the knob 520. The knob 520 is substantially circular in shape and is sized to protrude through a slot in the body 514 of the tape applicator assembly 510. In this manner, in order to move the elliptical portion 518 equally with respect to the axis of the pin 519, the user can move the knob 520 about the axis of the pin.

To adjust the size of the rear cable opening 530 the elliptical portion 518 is moved relative to the axis of the pin 519 to selectively engage or disengage with the rear end of the first funnel guide 504 . More specifically, when the elliptical portion 518 moves to the first position relative to the axis of the pin, the elongated end of the elliptical portion 518 engages the rear end of the first funnel guide 504. The first funnel guide 504 moves inward toward the second funnel guide 506 to engage the rear cable opening 506 with the elongated end of the elliptical portion 518 engaging the rear end of the first funnel guide 504 in the first position, 530).

When the elliptical portion 518 is moved to the second position relative to the axis of the pin 519, the elliptical elongated end is released with the rear end of the first funnel guide 504. When the elongated end of the elliptical portion 518 is released from the rear end of the first funnel guide 504 in the second position, the first funnel guide 504 moves outwardly away from the second funnel guide to the rear cable opening 530 ). Accordingly, the first and third funnel alignment assemblies 512, 514 can be used to expand or reduce the size of the rear cable opening 530 to accommodate cables C of various sizes.

Referring to FIG. 15, a fourth alternative embodiment of a tape applicator assembly 610 is depicted. The tape applicator assembly 610 may tap one or more cables C onto a corner X defined by first and second substantially transverse surfaces such as between the wall and the bottom. Although the tape applicator assembly 610 is described hereinafter as taping tape joints within the corners X defined by the walls W and bottom F, the tape applicator assembly 610 can be positioned within any suitable corner, Can be used to tap the joint R.

The tape applicator assembly 610 includes a tape assembly 612 that is removably secured to the body 614 via a core / hub lock assembly 646. The core / hub lock assembly 646 is similar to the core / hub lock assembly 646 described above with reference to FIGS. 1-7. The tape assembly 612 is removably mounted to the body 614 at a certain angle to feed the tape 620 into the corner X. [

More specifically, the tape assembly 612 is mounted on an inclined body portion 638 defined by the body 614. When the tape applicator assembly 610 is positioned at the corner X, the sloping body portion 638 is tilted substantially at 135 degrees with respect to the floor F and at 45 degrees with respect to the wall W. [ The tape 620 may be attached to the cables C that are provided at a certain angle in the direction of the corner X in the tape assembly 612 and that extend along the corner X. In this way,

A tape is provided downward from the tape assembly 612 toward the front corner X of the body 614 and the adjustment wheel assemblies 710 and 710 are disposed thereon for pressing the tape into the corner X. Referring to Figures 15-18, the adjustment wheel assemblies 710, 710 are defined by first and second wheels or bottom engagement wheels 712 and wall engagement wheels 714 disposed substantially transversely do. The bottom engaging wheel 712 is positioned to engage with the bottom F and the wall engaging wheel 714 is positioned to engage with the wall W. [

The bottom engaging wheel 712 and wall engaging wheel 714 can be axially supported for rotation in any suitable manner within body 614. In addition, the one or more wheels can be adjusted to a position for properly tapping and tapping cables C and / or bundles of various sizes. The bottom engaging wheel 712 of the adjusting wheel assembly 710 is slidably mounted within the body 614 such that the lateral position of the bottom engaging wheel 712 is relative to the wall engaging wheel 714 Lt; / RTI >

The bottom engaging wheel 712 can be slidably secured to a slide rail 678 extending from a portion of the body 614 through an adjustment bracket 716. [ The adjustment knob 720 can extend from the bracket 716 so that the user can manually grasp the bottom engaging wheel 712 and slide along the slide rail 678. [ The bottom engaging wheel 712 is engaged with the wall engaging wheel 714 to reduce corner space (i.e., the corner space defined between the bottom engaging wheel 712 and the wall engaging wheel 714) for smaller cables or cables. As shown in Fig. In addition, the bottom engaging wheel 712 can be moved laterally away from the wall engaging wheel 714 to increase the corner space to tap larger cables or cables.

15, the bottom engaging wheel 712 is moved sideways towards the wall engaging wheel 714, in order to reduce the corner X space for taping the four cables C in the corner X. In this embodiment, . The tape 620 is positioned within the cables C disposed at the corner X, between the floor engaging and wall engaging wheel 714 and the floor and wall, respectively. The bottom engaging wheel 712 presses the tape 620 and attaches the tape 620 to the floor and the wall engaging wheel 714 presses the tape 620 and attaches the tape to the wall.

The tape guide 730 is used to help shape the tape shape and align the tape 620 with the floor F and the wall W for application on the cable C. [ Similar to the tape guides 280 described above, the present tape guide 730 substantially turns the tape 620 into an inverted V-shape, the vertex of the V-character being defined on the floor and the adhesive side of the tape. The vertex of the V character on the adhesive side of the tape is positioned at the corner X substantially along the longitudinal center axis of the tape so as to be laid on the cables C

Referring to Figures 15-18, the tape guide 730 is defined by a tapered core 732 that is fixed or extended to a portion of the body 614. The tapered core 732 extends from the sloping body portion 638 and is substantially located between the tape assembly 612 and the adjustment wheel assembly 710. [ The tapered core 732 is substantially V-shaped so that when the tape applicator assembly 610 is placed in corner X for taping (see Figure 15) (W). When the tape applicator assembly 610 is positioned at the corner X for taping, the second portion of the beveled core 732 extends upwardly away from the wall.

During the taping process, a piece of tape 620 can be pulled downward from the tape assembly 612 underneath the inclined core 732 and towards the adjustment wheel assembly 710. [ The vertex of the V character defined by the inclined core 732 brings the tape 620 inward and makes the tape 620 an inverted V shape. In this manner, a V-shaped apex point is placed over the cables C at the corner X on the adhesive side of the tape 620.

The first and second rollers 734 and 736 may be disposed on the first and second portions of the sloped core 732 to assist in moving the tape 620 along the tape guide 730. [ The first and second rollers 734 and 736 may be axially supported for rotation on an inclined core 732 or otherwise removably disposed on the inclined core 732 in any suitable manner. The first and second rollers 734 and 736 may be made of foamed rubber or any other suitable material. It is conceivable that when applied to a compressible and deformable material, such as foam rubber, first and second rollers 734 and 736, when applied, help maintain tension on the tape. However, the tape guide 730 may be formed of any suitable material, or alternatively one suitable piece of material.

The angle defined between the first and second portions of the sloped core 732 may be any suitable angle for matching the shape of the adhesive surface of the tape 620 with the cables C of the corner X . In the depicted embodiment, the angle defined between the first and second portions of the inclined core 732 is acute. However, any suitable angle may be used to properly fit the tape 620 to the cable C. [

The tape guide 730 assists in guiding the tape 620 onto the cables C and the adjustment wheel assembly 710 guides the tape to the wall and floor It engages. In addition, the adjustment wheel assembly 710 can be used to adjust a portion of the bottom engagement wheel 712 to accommodate cables C of various sizes and shapes.

The cable alignment assembly is defined in front of the adjustment wheel assembly 710 and the tape guide 730 to unite and align one or more cables C that enter into the corner X for taping. The cable alignment assembly is defined by a funnel assembly 666 having a funnel 682 extending rearwardly from the front of the body 614.

16-18, the funnel 682 is partially defined by a portion of the body 614. More specifically, the body 614 includes a funnel body portion 668 that extends at an angle substantially parallel to the bottom, at an inclined body portion 638. [ The side edges of the funnel body portion 668 can be engaged with the wall W to properly position the tape applicator assembly 610 relative to the corner X as shown in Fig. In this manner, the wall effectively defines the first portion of the funnel 682.

The opposite second portion of the funnel 682 is defined by a funnel guide 672 that is fixed and extends below the funnel body portion 668. The forward cable opening 686 is defined in the forward portion of the funnel body portion 668 between the wall W and the funnel guide 672 when the side edges of the funnel body portion 668 are disposed against the wall. The rear cable opening 688 is defined in the rear portion of the funnel body portion 668 between the funnel guide 672 and the wall. Thus, since the funnel body portion 668 moves along the wall W, the funnel 682 is essentially defined between the funnel guide 672 and the wall.

The funnel assembly 666 is sized to accommodate cables C of various sizes and shapes. In that regard, the funnel assembly 666 includes a funnel adjustment assembly 670 that resizes the 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 to widen or narrow the size of the rear cable opening 688.

The funnel adjustment assembly 670 is defined by an adjustment block 674 fixed to the rear, back portion of the funnel guide 672. The adjustment block 674 is slidable sideways (toward or away from the wall) along slide rails 678 disposed within the bottom of the funnel body portion 668. In order to move the adjustment block 674 back and forth, the adjustment knob 676 is fixed to the adjustment block 674. Adjustment knob 676 is slidable within slot 680 defined within funnel body portion 668 to be accessible by the user. It is conceivable that the rear end of the funnel guide 672 can be moved in an appropriate manner instead by automatic or electrical means.

18, the adjustment block 674 can be moved laterally along the slide rail 678 to adjust the size of the rear cable opening 688. As shown in FIG. The adjustment block 674 is moved laterally toward the wall W so as to narrow the size of the rear cable opening 688 to accommodate the smaller cable C or cables C. [ The adjustment block 674 can be moved laterally away from the wall to widen the size of the rear cable opening 688 to accommodate the larger cable C or cables C. [ Once the rear cable opening 688 has been resized, the cable C or cables C are aligned and crowded within the corner X for taping by the adjustment wheel assembly 710.

The tape applicator assembly 610 may include a plurality of rollers such as a rear rolling wheel assembly 650 and a forward rolling wheel assembly 658 to accommodate the rolling of the body 614 along the floor or any other suitable surface. And includes a plurality of rolling wheels. The rear rolling wheel assembly 650 may include first and second rolling wheels 652 and 654 that are positioned along the rear edge of the body 614 and are pivotally supported for rotation within the body 614 in a suitable manner have. The front rolling wheel assembly 658 may include first and second rolling wheels 660 and 662 disposed along the front edge of the body 614 and axially supported for rotation within the body 614.

The tape applicator assembly 610 further includes a handle assembly 622 having a handle 624 secured to the body 614 for pushing and deflecting the body 614 within the corner X and for manipulating . The handle 624 may be considered to extend from the body 614 at a suitable angle to move the body 614 along the corner X. In this regard, In the depicted embodiment, the handle 624 extends approximately 45 degrees from the bottom in the body 614 and is substantially parallel to the wall. However, it is conceivable that the handle may face the wall at least partially rather than substantially parallel to the wall. In this manner, the user may apply a force along the length of the handle 624 towards the corner X to help hold the body 614 against the wall during taping.

19 and 20, first and second alternative embodiments of core-centering and locking assemblies 800, 900 are depicted. Core centering and locking assemblies 800 and 900 are substantially similar to core centering and locking assemblies 100 defined between a core and a hub, respectively, that secure, center and selectively lock the core on the hub. The core of the core centering and locking assembly 800 is mated with a suitable hub having a first locking configuration that is substantially centered, such as a hub 98 with a nub 102 . Thus, the core centering and locking assemblies 800, 900 will be described below with reference to a hub 98 having a nub 102. However, it is contemplated that the core centering and locking assemblies 800, 900 may include any suitable hub. In addition, core centering and locking assemblies 800, 900 may be used with the tape applicator assemblies 10, 210, 510, 610 or any other suitable tape applicator assembly.

19, the core-centering and locking assembly 800 includes a second locking configuration, such as a notch 832, defined on the inner surface of the core 816. As shown in FIG. The notch 832 removably accommodates a first locking configuration, such as the nub 102 on the hub 98. The nubs 102 are removably received within the notches 832 to removably secure the core 816 on the hub 98. Notch 832 may instead be defined on hub 98 and nub 102 may be defined on core 816. [

The nub 102 and the notch 832 are positioned on the hub 98 and the core 816 respectively so that when the nub 102 is received within the notch 832 the core 816 is positioned on the hub 98 The center is automatically aligned in the axial direction. In other words, the nut 102 is substantially centered axially on the hub 98 and the notch 832 is substantially centered axially on the core 816. In this manner, when the nub 102 is received in the notch 832, the core 816 is automatically centered axially on the hub 98. If the notch 832 is axially centered on the core 816, the core 816 can be positioned on the hub 816 independently of the axial length (e.g., 1 inch, 2 inches, 3 inches in the axial direction) Lt; RTI ID = 0.0 > 98 < / RTI >

A slot 824 extends axially along the inner surface of the core 816 between the outer edge of the core 816 and the notch 832 to permit easy mating of the hub 98 and core 816 . More specifically, the nubs 102 can slide in the space defined by the slots 824 until they engage within the notches 832. A ramp portion is defined at the end of the slot 824 to provide a snap fit or a tactile sensation to the user when the nub 102 is received within the notch 832. [ Instead of a ramp, the depth of the slot 824 may gradually decrease as it extends toward the notch 832 (shown in the core 94 of FIG. 6).

19, the present core-centering and locking assembly 900 is similar to the core-centering and locking assembly 900 described above except that the axial slot 924 extends along the entire axial longitudinal direction within the core 916 800). ≪ / RTI > In this manner, the core 916 can be mated with the hub 98 from both open ends of the core 916. It is contemplated that the core 916 may further include ramp portions on both sides of the notch 932 to provide a tactile sense to the snap fit or user when the nub 102 is received within the notch 932 . In addition, any other suitable configuration and combination of configurations for core centering and locking assemblies 800, 900 may be utilized.

Although illustrative embodiments have been shown and described, it is contemplated that various changes may be made without departing from the scope and spirit of this disclosure.

Claims (90)

To secure the tape to the first surface,
Body and
And a centering and locking assembly for automatically centering and locking the tape assembly within the body for providing the tape.
The method according to claim 1,
The tape assembly includes:
Outer surface, inner surface, and
And a tape having an intermediate adhesive portion extending longitudinally along the inner surface between the first and second side adhesive portions,
Wherein the intermediate adhesive portion is less tacky than the first and second side adhesive portions.
The method according to claim 1,
Wherein the tape assembly includes a tape roll fixed on a core having a core axial length,
The core being axially removably received in a hub having a length in the axial direction,
Wherein the hub is rotatably secured within the body.
The method of claim 3,
Wherein the core axial length is different from the axial length.
The method of claim 3,
The centering and locking assembly comprises:
A first locking configuration defined on the inner cylindrical surface of the core,
And a second locking configuration defined on the outer cylindrical surface of the hub.
6. The method of claim 5,
Wherein the first locking configuration is substantially centered axially on the core,
Wherein the second locking configuration is substantially axially centered on the hub.
6. The method of claim 5,
Wherein the first locking structure is one of a projection and an annular groove,
Wherein the second locking structure is another one of the projection and the annular groove,
And wherein said projection is removably received within said annular groove.
The method of claim 3,
The centering and locking assembly comprises:
A projection axially centered on either the core or the hub; and
Further comprising an annular groove axially centered on the other of the core and the hub,
Wherein the protrusions are removably received within the annular groove for centering and locking the core to the hub.
9. The method of claim 8,
And a hub lock assembly for removably and rotatably securing the hub within the body.
10. The method of claim 9,
The hub lock assembly includes:
A shaft fixed within the body;
A center through hole defined in said hub for rotatably receiving said shaft,
And a bearing assembly defined between the hub and the shaft.
11. The method of claim 10,
The hub lock assembly further includes a securing assembly for removably securing the hub on the shaft,
Wherein the locking assembly includes a locking device removably received within the shaft when the hub is received in the shaft.
12. The method of claim 11,
To adjust the ability of the hub to rotate relative to the shaft,
Wherein the locking assembly further comprises a knob that engages a portion of the hub when the locking assembly is selectively tightened.
10. The method of claim 9,
Wherein the tape roll comprises:
Outer surface, inner surface, and
And a tape having an intermediate adhesive portion extending longitudinally along the inner surface between the first and second side adhesive portions,
Wherein the intermediate adhesive portion is less tacky than the first and second side adhesive portions.
In order to tap the at least one cable and the first surface,
A body movable along at least one cable located on a first surface;
A tape receiving hollow defined within the body for receiving a tape assembly with the tape,
And a tape application assembly defined within the body for attaching the tape to the at least one cable and the first surface when the body moves along the at least one cable at the first surface,
Wherein the tape assembly is received within the tape receiving cavity so that the tape is positioned to be provided from the body.
15. The method of claim 14,
The tape application assembly comprising:
A wheel assembly having a tape application portion that can be deformed to press the at least one cable and the surface when the body moves along at least one cable on the surface.
16. The method of claim 15,
The tape application assembly comprising:
Further comprising a tensioner positioned between the tape assembly and the wheel assembly,
Wherein the tensioner engages the tape to maintain tension of the tape while the tape is being provided.
15. The method of claim 14,
Further comprising a centering and locking assembly for automatically centering and locking the tape assembly within the body for providing the tape.
18. The method of claim 17,
The tape assembly includes:
Outer surface, inner surface, and
And a tape having an intermediate adhesive portion extending longitudinally along the inner surface between the first and second side adhesive portions,
Wherein the intermediate adhesive portion is less tacky than the first and second side adhesive portions.
18. The method of claim 17,
Wherein the tape assembly includes a tape roll fixed on a core having a core axial length,
The core being axially removably received in a hub having a length in the axial direction,
Wherein the hub is rotatably secured within the body.
20. The method of claim 19,
Wherein the tape roll comprises:
Outer surface, inner surface, and
And a tape having an intermediate adhesive portion extending longitudinally along the inner surface between the first and second side adhesive portions,
Wherein the intermediate adhesive portion is less tacky than the first and second side adhesive portions.
20. The method of claim 19,
The centering and locking assembly comprises:
A projection axially centered on either the core or the hub; and
Further comprising an annular groove axially centered on the other of the core and the hub,
Wherein the protrusions are removably received within the annular groove for centering and locking the core to the hub.
22. The method of claim 21,
And a hub lock assembly for removably and rotatably securing the hub within the body.
23. The method of claim 22,
The hub lock assembly includes:
A shaft fixed within the body;
A center through hole defined in said hub for rotatably receiving said shaft,
And a bearing assembly defined between the hub and the shaft.
24. The method of claim 23,
The hub lock assembly further includes a securing assembly for removably securing the hub on the shaft,
Wherein the locking assembly includes a locking device removably received within the shaft when the hub is received in the shaft.
25. The method of claim 24,
To adjust the ability of the hub to rotate relative to the shaft,
Wherein the locking assembly further comprises a knob that engages a portion of the hub when the locking assembly is selectively tightened.
In order to tap the at least one cable and the first surface,
A body movable along at least one cable located on a first surface;
A tape receiving hollow defined within the body for receiving a tape assembly with the tape,
Said cable receiving said at least one cable positioned relative to said first surface when said body moves along said at least one cable on said surface and wherein said at least one cable is connected to said tape center longitudinal axis, And a cable alignment assembly defined within the body,
Wherein the tape assembly is received within the tape receiving cavity so that the tape is positioned to be provided from the body.
27. The method of claim 26,
Outer surface, inner surface, and
And a tape having an intermediate adhesive portion extending longitudinally along the inner surface between the first and second side adhesive portions,
Wherein the intermediate adhesive portion is less tacky than the first and second side adhesive portions.
27. The method of claim 26,
The cable alignment assembly includes:
A funnel defined within the bottom of the body to receive the at least one cable and substantially align with the longitudinal center axis of the tape,
The funnel defining a front cable opening in the front portion of the body and a rear cable opening in the opposite side of the front cable opening,
Wherein the funnel is tapered from the front cable opening to the rear cable opening.
29. The method of claim 28,
Wherein the funnel comprises a first adjustable funnel part for adjusting at least one of the size and shape of the rear cable opening.
30. The method of claim 29,
The cable alignment assembly includes:
Further comprising a biasing member to maintain engagement and alignment of the at least one cable as the at least one cable exits the rear cable opening.
27. The method of claim 26,
Further comprising a tape applying assembly defined within the body for attaching the tape to the at least one cable and the first surface when the body moves along the at least one cable at the first surface. assembly.
32. The method of claim 31,
The tape application assembly comprising:
A wheel assembly having a tape application portion that can be deformed to press the at least one cable and the surface when the body moves along at least one cable on the surface.
33. The method of claim 32,
The tape application assembly comprising:
Further comprising a tensioner positioned between the tape assembly and the wheel assembly,
Wherein the tensioner engages the tape to maintain tension of the tape while the tape is being provided.
32. The method according to claim 26 or 31,
Further comprising a centering and locking assembly for automatically centering and locking the tape assembly within the body for providing the tape.
35. The method of claim 34,
Wherein the tape assembly includes a tape roll fixed on a core having a core axial length,
The core being axially removably received in a hub having a length in the axial direction,
Wherein the hub is rotatably secured within the body.
36. The method of claim 35,
The centering and locking assembly comprises:
A projection axially centered on either the core or the hub; and
Further comprising an annular groove axially centered on the other of the core and the hub,
Wherein the protrusions are removably received within the annular groove for centering and locking the core to the hub.
37. The method of claim 36,
And a hub lock assembly for removably and rotatably securing the hub within the body.
39. The method of claim 37,
The hub lock assembly includes:
A shaft fixed within the body;
A center through hole defined in said hub for rotatably receiving said shaft,
And a bearing assembly defined between the hub and the shaft.
39. The method of claim 38,
The hub lock assembly further includes a securing assembly for removably securing the hub on the shaft,
Wherein the locking assembly includes a locking device removably received within the shaft when the hub is received in the shaft.
40. The method of claim 39,
To adjust the ability of the hub to rotate relative to the shaft,
Wherein the locking assembly further comprises a knob that engages a portion of the hub when the locking assembly is selectively tightened.
27. The method according to any one of claims 1, 14 and 26,
And an alignment device for guiding movement of the body along the first surface.
42. The method of claim 41,
Wherein the alignment device is a laser.
33. The method according to claim 15 or 32,
Wherein the tape application portion is disposed between the first surface-engaging side rolling wheels,
Wherein the side rolling wheels are smaller in diameter than the tape application portion.
44. The method of claim 43,
Wherein the tape application portion is a compressible tape applicator assembly.
30. The method of claim 29,
The first adjustable funnel part is replaceable with at least a second adjustable funnel part.
30. The method of claim 29,
Further comprising first and second wheel assembly arms extending rearward from the first adjustable funnel part,
Wherein the first and second wheel assembly arms rotatably dispose the wheel assembly within the body.
47. The method of claim 46,
Wherein the wheel assembly is dimensioned to urge the at least one cable and the first surface together as the body moves along the at least one cable on the first surface.
47. The method of claim 46,
Wherein the wheel assembly includes a tape application portion that is deformed to press the first surface together with the at least one cable when the body moves along the at least one cable.
32. The method of claim 31,
Wherein the tape application assembly further comprises a tape guide engaging an outer surface of the tape, a non-adhesive surface.
50. The method of claim 49,
The tape guide forming a shape of the tape to engage the at least one cable.
50. The method of claim 49,
The tape guide forming a shape of the tape such that the adhesive surface of the tape engages the at least one cable substantially along the tape center longitudinal axis.
50. The method of claim 49,
Wherein the first tape guide is defined by first and second substantially frustoconical portions, each cutting conical portion having a tapered end,
Said tapered ends of said first and second substantially cutting conical portions being disposed opposite one another.
33. The method of claim 32,
Further comprising a tape guide disposed between the tape assembly and the wheel assembly,
Wherein the tape guide engages the outer surface of the tape, the non-adhesive surface.
54. The method of claim 53,
The tape guide forming a shape of the tape to engage the at least one cable.
54. The method of claim 53,
The tape guide forming a shape of the tape such that the adhesive surface of the tape engages the at least one cable substantially along the tape center longitudinal axis.
54. The method of claim 53,
Wherein the first tape guide is defined by first and second substantially frustoconical portions, each cutting conical portion having a tapered end,
Said tapered ends of said first and second substantially cutting conical portions being disposed opposite one another.
15. The method of claim 14,
The tape application assembly comprising:
And a wheel assembly having first and second sets of wheels that press the tape on both sides of the at least one cable as the body moves along at least one cable on the first surface.
58. The method of claim 57,
Through the first and second wheel set adjustment assemblies, the first and second sets of wheels are moved toward or away from each other to define a gap in the wheel substantially corresponding to the width of the at least one cable Assembly.
58. The method of claim 57,
Further comprising a tape guide disposed between the tape assembly and the wheel assembly,
Wherein the tape guide engages the outer surface of the tape, the non-adhesive surface.
60. The method of claim 59,
The tape guide forming a shape of the tape to engage the at least one cable.
60. The method of claim 59,
The tape guide forming a shape of the tape such that the adhesive surface of the tape engages the at least one cable substantially along the tape center longitudinal axis.
60. The method of claim 59,
Wherein the first tape guide is defined by first and second substantially frustoconical portions, each cutting conical portion having a tapered end,
Said tapered ends of said first and second substantially cutting conical portions being disposed opposite one another.
29. The method 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 method of claim 63,
Wherein the first and second funnel guides are adjustable by first and second funnel adjustment assemblies to widen or reduce the size of the rear cable opening.
65. The method of claim 64,
Wherein the first and second funnel alignment assemblies include first and second brackets connected to the first and second funnel guides,
Wherein the first and second brackets are movable relative to first and second pivot points to move the first and second funnel guides toward or away from each other.
65. The method of claim 64,
The first and second funnel adjustment assemblies may include first and second elliptical guiding members selectively engaging the first and second funnel guides to move the first and second funnel guides toward and away from each other, and an oval-shaped regulator.
15. The method of claim 14,
The tape application assembly comprising a wheel assembly disposed within a corner of the body for securing the tape to at least one cable disposed within a corner defined by the first surface and the second surface.
68. The method of claim 67,
Wherein the wheel assembly includes a first wheel disposed substantially transverse to the second wheel.
69. The method of claim 68,
Wherein the first wheel is movable toward or away from the second wheel.
68. The method of claim 67,
Wherein the tape application assembly further comprises a tape guide disposed between the tape assembly and the wheel assembly,
Wherein the tape guide engages the outer surface of the tape, the non-adhesive surface.
71. The method of claim 70,
The tape guide forming a shape of the tape to engage the at least one cable located within the corner.
71. The method of claim 70,
Wherein the tape guide creates a shape of the tape such that an adhesive surface of the tape substantially engages the at least one cable located within the corner on a longitudinal axis of the tape center.
71. The method of claim 70,
Wherein the tape guide includes a first portion and a second portion,
The first and second portions defining an acute angle.
68. The method of claim 67,
Further comprising a cable alignment assembly having a funnel defined within the bottom of the body to receive the at least one cable and substantially align with the longitudinal center axis of the tape,
The funnel defining a front cable opening in the front portion of the body and a rear cable opening in the opposite side of the front cable opening,
Wherein the funnel is tapered from the front cable opening to the rear cable opening.
75. The method of claim 74,
Wherein the funnel is defined by a funnel guide and a second surface when the tape applicator assembly is positioned to tap a cable within the corner.
78. The method of claim 75,
Wherein the funnel guide is movable toward or away from the second surface so as to increase or decrease the size of the rear cable opening.
80. The method of claim 76,
Wherein the funnel is defined by a funnel guide and a second surface when the tape applicator assembly is positioned to tap a cable within the corner.
78. The method of claim 77,
Wherein the funnel guide is movable toward or away from the second surface so as to increase or decrease the size of the rear cable opening.
The method of claim 3,
The centering and locking assembly comprises:
A projection axially centered on either the core or the hub; and
Further comprising an axially centered notch on the other of the core and the hub,
Wherein the protrusion is removably received within the notch for centering and locking the core to the hub.
80. The method of claim 79,
And a slot extending axially between an edge of either the core and the hub and the notch.
79. The method of claim 80,
And a slot extending between the notches that intersect the first and second edges of either the core and the hub.
The method of claim 3,
Wherein the first locking configuration is one of a projection and a notch,
Wherein the second locking configuration is another one of the projection and the notch,
Wherein the protrusion is removably received within the notch.
83. The method of claim 82,
And a slot extending axially between an edge of either the core and the hub and the notch.
85. The method of claim 83,
And a slot extending between the notches that intersect the first and second edges of either the core and the hub.
3. The method of claim 2,
And a tape guide engaged with the outer surface of the tape.
92. The method of claim 85,
Wherein the tape guide creates a shape of the tape such that the intermediate adhesive portion engages the at least one cable.
92. The method of claim 85,
The tape guide making the tape shape such that the intermediate adhesive portion engages the at least one cable before the first and second side adhesive portions engage the first surface.
92. The method of claim 85,
Wherein the first tape guide is defined by first and second substantially frustoconical portions, each cutting conical portion having a tapered end,
Said tapered ends of said first and second substantially cutting conical portions being disposed opposite one another.
15. The method of claim 14,
Said cable receiving said at least one cable positioned relative to said first surface when said body moves along said at least one cable on said surface and wherein said at least one cable is connected to said tape center longitudinal axis, And a cable alignment assembly defined within the body for substantially aligning the cable alignment assembly with the cable alignment assembly.
27. The method of claim 26,
Further comprising a tape applying assembly defined within the body for attaching the tape to the at least one cable and the first surface when the body moves along the at least one cable at the first surface. assembly.

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