WO2011141581A2

WO2011141581A2 - Securing apparatus

Info

Publication number: WO2011141581A2
Application number: PCT/EP2011/057907
Authority: WO
Inventors: Finbar O'donovan; Kieran O'donovan; William Dunne; Philip O'donovan
Original assignee: Finbar O'donovan; Kieran O'donovan; William Dunne; Philip O'donovan
Priority date: 2010-05-14
Filing date: 2011-05-16
Publication date: 2011-11-17
Also published as: WO2011141581A3

Abstract

A securing apparatus for securing a tape such as a cable tie has a body having a channel through which a length of tape passes in use, and a recess adapted to receive a first free end of the tape. A first locking mechanism is provided to secure the free end of the tape in the recess, and a second locking mechanism is operable when actuated to secure the tape in the channel of the body, at a position along the length of tape. The second locking mechanism is actuated by the insertion of the first free end of the tape into the recess. This permits the tape to be moved freely within the channel until the free end of the tape, which is typically passed around an object to be secured, is inserted into the recess actuating the second locking mechanism. The second locking mechanism is preferably a ratchet mechanism allowing the resultant loop of tape to be constricted but not enlarged. A dispensing apparatus is also provided for applying the securing apparatus to a length of tape carried in a spool.

Description

Securing Apparatus

Technical Field

This invention relates to a securing apparatus, in particular a securing apparatus for securing a tape e.g. a cable tie, in a loop around an object or a bundle of objects.

Background Art

Conventional cable ties generally comprise an elongate tape or strap, commonly formed from plastic, and a head having a channel extending through the head. The head is usually, but not necessarily, formed integrally with the strap at one end. The head includes a means for engaging the strap which allows the free end of the strap to be inserted through the head to form a loop, and pulled through to reduce the loop size, but prevents the strap from being pulled in a reverse direction to expand the loop size. After a cable tie is secured around an object or a bundle of objects, a "tail" extends from the head of the cable tie. In common practice, this tail is not cut off, which results in an unsightly appearance. Furthermore, since one size of conventional cable tie tends to be used no matter what the application is, the excess tail can be quite substantial, resulting in much waste in plastic. Even if the tail is cut off, the waste is not reduced, as this excess length of cable tie is simply discarded.

It is therefore an object of the present invention to mitigate or avoid the disadvantages associated with conventional cable ties. It is also an object of the invention to provide an apparatus which avoids waste and improves the appearance of cable ties.

It is also an object of the invention to provide an apparatus suitable for securing a tape, e.g. a cable tie, in a loop around an object or a bundle of objects, wherein the length of the cable tie used is adaptable for each particular application.

Disclosure of the Invention

There is provided a securing apparatus for securing a tape, the apparatus comprising: a body having a channel through which a length of tape passes in use and a recess adapted to receive a first free end of the tape;

a first locking mechanism operable to secure the first free end of the tape in the recess of the body; and

a second locking mechanism operable when actuated to secure the tape in the channel of the body, at a position along the length of tape;

wherein the second locking mechanism is actuated by the insertion of the first free end of the tape into the recess. Preferably, said first locking mechanism is automatically engaged and actuated by the insertion of the first free end of the tape.

Preferably, the first locking mechanism engages with the tape in a ratchet mechanism to prevent withdrawal of the first free end from the recess.

Preferably, said second locking mechanism engages with the tape in a racket mechanism when actuated, permitting unidirectional movement of the tape through the channel in a forward direction but preventing movement of the tape through the channel in the reverse direction. Preferably, prior to actuation of said second locking mechanism by the insertion of the first free end of the tape into the recess, the tape is free to move through the channel in both the forward and reverse directions.

Preferably, when the first free end is engaged in the recess a loop of tape is defined extending from the first free end to the channel, and wherein said forward direction of tape is the direction which causes the loop to contract.

Preferably, the first locking mechanism comprises a pawl positioned in said recess to

automatically engage with said tape upon insertion into said recess.

Preferably, the second locking mechanism comprises a pawl positioned adjacent the channel to engage with said tape upon actuation of the second locking mechanism. The pawl may be for instance a resilient toothed member which is mounted such that the teeth engage with the tape in a manner permitting forward movement but opposing reverse movement. The pawl can also be a cam pawl operating by friction to prevent reverse movement of the tape. Preferably, the pawl of the second locking mechanism is positioned in said recess such that insertion of the first free end of the tape into the recess moves the pawl of the second locking mechanism towards the channel to engage with said tape.

Preferably, the recess is a closed passage disposed generally perpendicular to the channel and the second locking mechanism is positioned at the closed end of the recess such that insertion of the first free end fully into the recess causes the first free end to act against the second locking mechanism.

Preferably, the recess and channel are disposed relative to one another to secure the first free end of the tape in an orientation substantially orthogonal to the length of tape in the channel.

Preferably, the first locking mechanism comprises a resilient member which is deformed by the insertion of the free end of tape into the recess. The deformation may be found in the movement of a resiliently mounted member, or in the resilient deformation of a member which does not itself move. The resilience may of course be a combination of both, i.e. a resiliently deformable member which is also moved against a resilient mounting. Preferably, the first locking mechanism, in a relaxed state, is biased towards engagement with a tape inserted in the recess.

Preferably, the second locking mechanism comprises a resilient member which in its relaxed state is not biased towards engagement with a tape inserted in the channel.

Preferably, the resilient member of the second securing apparatus is positioned such that it is biased away from its relaxed state and into engagement with the length of tape by the action of the first free end being inserted into the recess. Preferably, the resilient member of the second securing apparatus is positioned such that it is biased away from its relaxed state and into engagement with the length of tape by the action of the first free end being pushed home within the recess. Preferably, the second locking mechanism has a resilient structure which is adapted to be compressed by the first free end of tape after the first free end of the tape has biased the second locking mechanism into engagement with the length of tape and as the first free end is pushed further home into the recess. Preferably, the first and second locking mechanisms each comprise a resiliently deformable member having a ratchet surface permitting unidirectional travel of said tape across said ratchet surface.

The apparatus may also include a length of tape having corresponding indentations to be engaged by the teeth.

In a preferred embodiment, the tape is provided in a spool and the securing apparatus is provided in a dispensing apparatus on which the spool is mounted. Preferably, the apparatus comprises a length of tape, wherein the tape comprises two side walls and a series of ridges and troughs provided in substantially parallel spaced apart arrangement between the two side walls.

Preferably, the side walls are at a first height, the ridges are at a second height, and the first height is greater than the second height.

Preferably, the series of ridges and troughs are in a crenellated arrangement.

Preferably, the securing apparatus is adapted to secure the tape in a loop around an object or a plurality of objects.

Preferably, the securing apparatus comprises the tape.

Preferably, the tape is substantially elongate. Preferably, the tape is provided in the form of a reel or coil of any suitable length.

Preferably, the tape is substantially square U-shaped in cross-section.

Alternatively, the tape is substantially rectangular in cross-section.

Further alternatively, the tape comprises a plurality of indentations provided on a first side of the tape, and a plurality of indentations provided on the second side of the tape, wherein, preferably, the indentations on the first side and the indentations on the second side are offset from one another.

Preferably, the tape is formed from plastic or the like. Preferably, the tape is a cable tie.

Preferably, the securing mechanism is provided in a combined unit made up of a plurality of said securing mechanisms connected to one another by frangible connections. Further preferably, the plurality of securing mechanisms in the combined unit are disposed in a line with aligned channels whereby the entire unit may be threaded onto a tape.

The invention also provides a dispensing apparatus for a securing mechanism to be secured to a tape, the dispensing apparatus comprising:

a housing adapted to retain a plurality of securing mechanisms threaded on a length of tape, the housing being configured to allow a free end of said tape to be inserted into a recess of one of said securing mechanisms prior to its release from the housing; and

a releasing mechanism which when actuated permits the release of one of said securing mechanisms from the housing while simultaneously (i) retaining others of said securing mechanisms and (ii) engaging the tape to prevent movement thereof relative to the housing, whereby said one of said securing members is released for movement in a threaded fashion along the tape which is held static relative to the housing. Preferably, the releasing mechanism comprises a separating member for separating said one of said securing mechanisms from another of said securing mechanisms when actuated.

Preferably, said releasing mechanism comprises a blocking member to prevent release of said one of said securing mechanisms from the housing until the releasing mechanism is actuated.

Preferably, the releasing mechanism comprises a trigger which may be depressed to actuate said separating member and to move said blocking member to a position permitting release of said one of said securing mechanisms.

Preferably, the housing comprises a channel which receives a unit comprising a plurality of connected securing mechanisms.

Further preferably, the dispensing apparatus comprises a mounting for a supply of tape.

Preferably, this supply of tape is provided as a reel or spool.

There is also provided a method of securing a tape in a loop around an object using the securing apparatus disclosed herein, comprising the steps of:

(a) threading the free end of the tape through said channel of the securing apparatus; (b) passing the free end of the tape around the object in a loop;

(c) inserting the free end into the recess of the securing apparatus to actuate the first and second locking mechanisms;

(d) drawing the tape through the channel of the securing apparatus to constrict the loop to a desired size; and

(e) cutting the tape adjacent the end of the channel opposed to the end from which the loop emerges.

Preferably, the method is carried out using the dispensing apparatus disclosed herein, wherein said step of drawing the tape through the channel of the securing apparatus comprises: actuating the releasing mechanism of the dispensing apparatus to release the securing mechanism from the housing while engaging the tape to prevent movement thereof relative to the housing; and drawing the dispensing apparatus away from the object to thereby cause the loop to constrict as the tape is pulled through the channel. There is also provided a securing apparatus for securing a tape, the apparatus comprising a body; a first locking mechanism operable to secure the tape, at or adjacent a first free end of the tape, to the body; and

a second locking mechanism operable to secure the tape, at a position between the first free end and a second free end of the tape, to the body.

Preferably, the body defines a channel through which the tape may be drawn and within which the second locking mechanism is adapted to engage the tape to secure the tape to the body. Preferably, the body defines a recess for receiving the first free end of the tape, and within which recess the first locking mechanism is adapted to engage the tape to secure the tape to the body.

Preferably, the first and second locking mechanisms are adapted to secure respective portions of the tape in an orientation substantially orthogonal to one another.

Preferably, the second locking mechanism is provided on a cartridge insertable into the body.

Preferably, the cartridge is adapted for irreversible insertion into the body. Preferably, the body comprises a passage extending between the channel and an exterior surface of the body, through which passage the cartridge is insertable in order to locate the second locking mechanism in operative association with the channel.

Preferably, the cartridge and the passage comprise interengageable sets of teeth which cooperate to permit the unidirectional travel of the cartridge through the passage.

Preferably, the first and/or the second locking mechanisms are irreversibly engageable with the tape. Preferably, the first and/or the second locking mechanisms are operable, when engaged with the tape, to permit the unidirectional displacement of the tape relative to the body.

Preferably, the first and/or the second locking mechanisms comprise a resiliently deformable element operable to be biased against the tape to secure the tape to the body. Preferably, the or each resiliently deformable element is formed integrally with the body.

Preferably, the or each element comprises one or more teeth formed on a tape-engaging surface thereof.

Preferably, the tape comprises corresponding indentations to be engaged by the teeth.

Preferably, the or each tooth is adapted to engage a corresponding indentation provided on the tape in a ratchet mechanism such that when the first locking mechanism engages the tape, only unidirectional displacement of the tape relative to the body is permitted.

Alternatively, the first and/or second locking mechanisms comprise a cam which is biased for engagement with the tape such as to permit the unidirectional movement of the tape relative to the locking mechanism.

Preferably, the or each cam comprises a knurled surface for frictionally engaging the tape.

Further alternatively, the first and/or the second locking mechanisms are operable, when engaged with the tape, to permit any displacement of the tape relative to the body.

In this embodiment, the first and/or the second locking mechanisms comprise one or more teeth.

In this embodiment, preferably, the first locking mechanism is provided on a cartridge insertable into the body.

Preferably, the cartridge is adapted for irreversible insertion into the body.

Preferably, the body comprises a passage extending between the recess and an exterior surface of the body, through which passage the cartridge is insertable in order to locate the first locking mechanism in operative association with the recess. Preferably, the cartridge and the passage comprise interengageable sets of teeth which cooperate to permit the unidirectional travel of the cartridge through the passage.

Brief Description of the Drawings

The present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figure 1 illustrates a perspective view of a securing apparatus according to a first embodiment, comprising a body, and a tape to be inserted into the body;

Figure 2 illustrates a reduced-sized view of Figure 1, wherein the tape is shown to be part of a coil of tape;

Figure 3 illustrates a perspective view of the securing apparatus of the first embodiment, in which the tape is shown in a first position within the body;

Figure 4 illustrates a perspective view of the securing apparatus of the first embodiment, in which the tape is shown in a second position within the body; Figure 5 illustrates a perspective view of the securing apparatus of the first embodiment, in which the excess tape has been removed;

Figure 6A illustrates a front sectional view of the body of the first embodiment; Figure 6B illustrates a side sectional view of the body of the first embodiment;

Figure 7A illustrates a front elevation of a cartridge for insertion into the body of the first embodiment; Figure 7B illustrates a side elevation of a cartridge for insertion into the body of the first embodiment;

Figure 8 illustrates a front sectional view of the securing apparatus of the first embodiment illustrating the tape secured within the body; Figure 9 illustrates a perspective view of a securing apparatus according to a second

embodiment, comprising a body, and a tape shown inserted within the body; Figure 10 illustrates a partially cutaway view of the securing apparatus of Figure 9, illustrating a cartridge inserted within the body;

Figure 11 illustrates a perspective view of the cartridge of Figure 10; Figure 12 illustrates a front sectional view of the securing apparatus of the second embodiment illustrating the tape secured within the body;

Figure 13 illustrates a perspective view of a securing apparatus according to a third embodiment, comprising a body which includes top and side cartridges, and a tape to be inserted into the body;

Figure 14 illustrates a partially cutaway perspective view of the securing apparatus of the third embodiment, in which the tape is shown in a first position within the body, and wherein the side cartridge is not shown;

Figure 15 illustrates a partially cutaway perspective view of the securing apparatus of the third embodiment, in which the tape is shown in a second position within the body, and the side cartridge is shown in an extended position; Figure 16 illustrates a perspective view of the securing apparatus of Figure 15, in which the side cartridge has been depressed;

Figure 17 illustrates a perspective view of the securing apparatus of Figure 16, in which the top cartridge has been also depressed and in which the excess tape has been removed;

Figure 18A illustrates a front sectional view of the body of the third embodiment; Figure 18B illustrates a side sectional view of the body of the third embodiment; Figure 19A illustrates a front elevation of the top cartridge of the body of the third embodiment;

Figure 19B illustrates a side elevation of the top cartridge for insertion into the body of the third embodiment;

Figure 20 illustrates a perspective view of the side cartridge for insertion into the body of the third embodiment;

Figure 21 illustrates a front sectional view of the securing apparatus of the third embodiment illustrating the tape secured within the body;

Figure 22A is a front elevation of a coil of tape for use with the securing apparatus of the present invention; Figure 22B is a sectional view of the coil of tape of Figure 22A;

Figure 23 is an enlarged view of three rows of tape of Figure 22B, preferably used with the securing apparatus of the third embodiment; Figure 24 is a perspective view of a dispensing apparatus for use with a fourth embodiment;

Figure 25 is a cutaway detail of the view of Figure 24;

Figure 26 is a sectional side view of the dispensing apparatus of Figure 24 showing the dispensing of a securing apparatus according to the fourth embodiment;

Figure 27 is a front elevation of the dispensing apparatus of Figure 24;

Figure 28 is an enlarged detail of the view shown in Figure 26;

Figure 29 is a sectional elevation of a single securing mechanism according to the fourth embodiment; Figure 30 is a perspective view from above and in front of a securing apparatus according to the fourth embodiment;

Figure 31 is a perspective view from below and in front of a securing apparatus according to the fourth embodiment;

Figure 32 is a perspective view from above and behind a securing apparatus according to the fourth embodiment; Figure 33 is a perspective view from below and behind a securing apparatus according to the fourth embodiment;

Figure 34 shows the perspective view of Figure 32 in a partial cutaway to reveal the first and second locking mechanisms;

Figure 35 shows the perspective view of Figure 33 in a partial cutaway to reveal the first and second locking mechanisms;

Fig. 36 shows, in successive steps (A) to (E) the operation of the fourth embodiment and of the gun for dispensing same;

Fig. 37 is a sectional elevation of a single securing mechanism according to a fifth embodiment, illustrated before a free end of a tape has been pushed home; and Fig. 38 is a sectional elevation of the fifth embodiment, illustrated after the free end of a tape has been pushed home.

Detailed Description of Preferred Embodiments

Referring now to the accompanying drawings, there is illustrated a securing apparatus according to the invention, generally indicated as 10; 110; 210, for securing a tape 12; 112; 212. Preferred embodiments of the securing apparatus 10; 110; 210 will now be described.

Referring to Figures 1 - 8, there is illustrated a securing apparatus according to a first embodiment of the invention, generally indicated as 10 in Figures 1 - 5 and 8. The apparatus 10 comprises a body 14, a first locking mechanism 16 operable to secure a tape, at or adjacent a first free end 18 of the tape 12, to the body 14. The apparatus 10 also comprises a second locking mechanism 20 operable to secure the tape 12, at a position between the first free end 18 and a second free end 22 of the tape 12, to the body 14.

Referring to Figure 1 for example, the body 14 defines a channel 24 through which the tape 12 may be drawn and within which the second locking mechanism 20 is adapted to engage the tape 12 to secure the tape 12 to the body 14. Referring to Figures 1, 7 A, 7B and 8, the second locking mechanism is preferably provided on a cartridge 30 insertable into the body 14. The body 14 comprises a passage 32 extending between the channel 24 and an exterior surface 34 of the body, as shown in Figures 6A and 6B. In use, the cartridge 30 is insertable in order to locate the second locking mechanism 20 in operative association with the channel 24, as will be described in more detail hereinafter.

The cartridge 30 and the passage 32 preferably comprise respective interengageable sets of teeth 36, 38, which cooperate to permit the unidirectional travel of the cartridge 30 through the passage 32. Thus, the cartridge 30 is preferably adapted for irreversible insertion into the body 14. Referring to Figures 3, 6 A, 6B and 8, the body 14 defines a recess 26 for receiving the first free end 18 of the tape 12. The first locking mechanism 16 is adapted to engage the tape 12 within the recess 26, to secure the tape 12 to the body 14.

As shown in Figures 6 A, 6B, 7 A, 7B, and 8, each of the first and the second locking mechanisms 16, 20 comprises a resiliently deformable element 50 operable to be biased against the tape 12 to secure the tape 12 to the body 14 in use. The resiliently deformable element 50 of the first locking mechanism is formed integrally with the body 14, as shown in Figure 6 A, whereas the resiliently deformable element 50 of the second locking mechanism 16 is provided on the cartridge 30. Each element 50 comprises a plurality of teeth 52 formed on a tape-engaging surface thereof.

The tape 12 is substantially elongate. The tape used with the securing apparatus 10 of the first embodiment preferably comprises two side walls 42 and a series of ridges 44 and troughs 46 provided in substantially parallel spaced apart arrangement between the two side walls 42. Preferably, the series of ridges and troughs are in a crenellated arrangement. Thus, the ridges 44 and troughs 46 conveniently provide corresponding indentations to be engaged by the teeth 52 of the first and second locking mechanisms 16, 20, as will be described in more detail hereinafter. In a preferred embodiment, the side walls 42 are at a first height, the ridges are at a second height, and the first height is greater than the second height. _Therefore, the tape is substantially square U-shaped in cross-section. In a preferred embodiment, the securing apparatus 10 also comprises the tape 12. The securing apparatus 10 of the first embodiment will now be described, in use, to secure the tape 12 in a loop around an object or a bundle of objects (not shown). Referring to Figure 2, it will be appreciated that the tape 12 is preferably provided in the form of a reel or coil 40 of any suitable length. The tape 12 is preferably a cable tie, formed from plastic or the like. A suitable coil 40 is shown in Figures 22A and 22B. However, for simplicity, the coil 40 is not shown in Figures 1, 3, 4 or 5. With reference to Figure 1, the first free end 18 of the tape 12 is inserted into the channel 24. At this stage, the cartridge 30 is in an extended position, wherein a top portion 31 of the cartridge 30 is spaced apart from the exterior surface 34 of the body 14, which enables the tape 12 to move freely in any direction within the channel 24. As shown in Figure 3, the first free end 18 of the tape 12 is drawn through the channel 24, and inserted into the recess 26 of the body 14 to form a loop around the object(s). As the tape 12 is inserted into the recess 26, the teeth 52 of the first locking mechanism 16 engage the troughs 46 of the tape 12. The teeth 52 are adapted to engage the troughs 46, preferably in a form of ratchet mechanism, due to the bias of the resiliently deformable element 50 bearing against the teeth 52. Accordingly, when the first locking mechanism 16 engages the tape 12, only unidirectional displacement of the tape 12 relative to the body 14 is permitted, thereby securing the tape 12 in place.

Once the first locking mechanism 16 has secured the tape 12, the cartridge 30 is depressed such that the top portion 31 lies flush against the exterior surface 34 of the body 14, and the second locking mechanism 20 engages the tape 12, as shown in Figure 8. The second locking mechanism 20 operates in a similar manner to the first locking mechanism 16; the teeth 52 engage the troughs 46 of the tape 12, preferably in a form of ratchet mechanism. Thus, the first and second locking mechanisms 16, 20 are adapted to secure respective portions of the tape 12 in an orientation substantially orthogonal to one another. When the second locking mechanism 20 engages the tape 12, only unidirectional displacement of the tape 12 relative to the body 14 is permitted. With reference to Figures 4 and 8, the free end of the tape 12 is then pulled to reduce the loop size until the loop of tape 12 (the loop being formed by the tape 12 and the body 14) has the desired fit around the object(s). As a final step, the excess tape 12 is cut and removed as shown in Figure 5. However, the excess tape is still conveniently attached to the coil 40, for future use, thereby avoiding waste.

Advantageously, the first and the second locking mechanisms 16, 20 are preferably irreversibly engageable with the tape 12 as described above. Since unidirectional displacement only is permitted by the first and second locking mechanisms 16, 20, the loop cannot be expanded once it has been tightened, thereby providing a secure fit around the object(s). Furthermore, since the length of the tape 12 is adapted according to each particular application, the invention

advantageously results in a tape/cable tie having a neat appearance with no waste.

Referring now to Figures 9 - 12 of the accompanying drawings, there is illustrated a securing apparatus according to a second embodiment of the invention, generally indicated as 110 in Figures 9 and 10, again for securing a tape. In this second embodiment, like components have been accorded like reference numerals, and unless otherwise stated, perform a like function.

The main difference between the securing apparatus 110 and the securing apparatus 10 is that each of the first and second locking mechanisms 1 16, 120 comprises a cam 60 which is biased for engagement with the tape 112 such as to permit the unidirectional movement of the tape 112 relative to the locking mechanism 116, 120. Each cam preferably has a knurled surface 62 for frictionally engaging the tape 112 in use. Another difference is that the tape used with the securing apparatus 110 may simply be a tape comprising smooth surfaces and being substantially rectangular in cross-section.

In use, the securing apparatus 110 may be used to secure the tape 112 in a loop around the object(s) as previously described in relation to the securing apparatus 10 of the first embodiment, with the following differences. As the tape 112 is inserted into the recess 126, the cam 60 of the first locking mechanism 116 engages the tape 112 under bias. The bias of the cam 60 prevents the tape 112 from being released from the cam 60, thereby securing the tape 112 in position as shown in Figures 10 and 12. Once the cartridge 130 is depressed, the cam 60 of the second locking mechanism 120 engages the tape 112, again under bias, thereby permitting movement of the tape in one direction only. The free end of the tape 112 is pulled to reduce the loop size until the loop of tape 112 has the desired fit around the object(s), and the excess tape 112 is cut and removed as previously described.

It will be appreciated that variations are possible in the first and second embodiments. For example, in the case where the object(s) has/have been pre-measured, the exact length of tape 12; 112 may be cut for use with the body 14; 114. In this case, it would be possible to dispense with the need for the cartridge 30; 130, and instead the second locking mechanism 20; 120 could simply be integrally formed with the body 14; 114 and be in operative association with the channel 24; 124. In use, the first free end 18; 118 of the tape 12; 112 would be secured within the first locking mechanism 16; 116 without feeding the tape 12; 112 through the channel 24; 124 first. At this stage, the free end of the tape 12; 112 would be inserted into the channel 24; 124 in a direction opposite to that shown in the accompanying drawings; the second locking mechanism 20; 120 would engage the tape 12; 112, and the tape 12; 112 could be pulled to create the desired loop, leaving no or very little excess tape 12; 112 remaining.

Referring now to Figures 13 - 21 and 23 of the accompanying drawings, there is illustrated a securing apparatus according to a third embodiment of the invention, generally indicated as 210 in Figures 13 - 17 and 21, again for securing a tape. In this third embodiment, like components have been accorded like reference numerals, and unless otherwise stated, perform a like function.

One difference between the securing apparatus 210 and the securing apparatuses 10 and 110 is that each of the first and the second locking mechanisms 216, 220 is operable, when engaged with the tape 212, to permit any displacement of the tape 212 relative to the body 214. This is achieved by providing a series of teeth and corresponding indentations, as will be described in more detail hereinafter.

Another difference is that the first locking mechanism 216 is provided on a side cartridge 64 insertable into the body 214, as shown for example in Figures 20 and 21. The body 214 comprises a passage 66 extending between the channel recess 226 and an exterior surface 68 of the body, as shown in Figures 14, 18A and 21 for example. In use, the side cartridge 64 is insertable in order to locate the first locking mechanism 216 in operative association with the recess 226, as will be described in more detail hereinafter. The side cartridge 64 and the passage 66 preferably comprise interengageable sets of teeth 70, 72, which cooperate to permit the unidirectional travel of the side cartridge 64 through the passage 66. Thus, the side cartridge 64 is preferably adapted for irreversible insertion into the body 14.

As shown in Figures 20 and 21, the first locking mechanism 216 comprises a plurality of teeth 82 provided on the side cartridge 64. As shown in Figures 14, 18A, 18B and 21, a plurality of additional teeth 84 are also formed integrally with the body 214. As shown in Figures 19A, 19B and 21, the second locking mechanism 220 comprises a plurality of teeth 86 provided on the (top) cartridge 230. As shown in Figures 18 A, 18B and 21, a plurality of additional teeth 88 are also formed integrally with the body 214.

A further difference is that the tape 212 comprises a plurality of indentations 74 provided on a first side 76 of the tape 212, and a plurality of indentations 78 provided on the second side 80 of the tape 212. The indentations 74 on the first side 76 and the indentations 78 on the second side 80 are preferably offset from one another. A cross-section of the tape 21 is shown in Figure 23. The indentations 74, 78 are conveniently adapted to be engaged by the teeth 82, 84, 86, 88, as will be described in more detail hereinafter.

In use, the securing apparatus 210 may be used to secure the tape 212 in a loop around the object(s) as previously described in relation to the securing apparatuses 10; 110, with the following differences. With reference to Figure 13, Figure 14 (in which the side cartridge 64 is missing for simplicity) and Figure 15, the first free end 218 of the tape 212 is drawn through the channel 224, and inserted into the recess 226. At this stage, the side cartridge 64 is in an extended position, wherein a top portion 65 of the side cartridge 64 is spaced apart from the exterior surface 68 of the body 214, which enables the tape 212 to move freely in any direction within the recess 226. With the teeth 82 lined up with the corresponding indentations 74, the side cartridge 64 is depressed such that the top portion 65 lies flush against the exterior surface 68 of the body 14, and the first locking mechanism 216 engages the tape 212 by means of the interengaging teeth 82 and indentations 74. Conveniently, the additional teeth 84 engage the corresponding indentations 78 provided on the second side 80 of the tape 212.

At this stage, with reference to Figure 16, the free end of the tape 212 is pulled to reduce the loop size until the loop of tape has the desired fit around the object(s). The second locking mechanism 220 operates in a similar manner to the first locking mechanism 216. With the teeth 86 lined up with the corresponding indentations 74, the top cartridge 230 is depressed such that the top portion 231 lies flush against the exterior surface 234 of the body 214, and the second locking mechanism 220 engages the tape 212 by means of the interengaging teeth 86 and indentations 74. Conveniently, the additional teeth 88 engage the corresponding indentations 78 provided on the second side 80 of the tape 212. Finally, as shown in Figure 17, the excess tape 212 is cut and removed as previously described.

Referring now to Fig. 24, there is shown a dispensing apparatus or "gun" for use with a fourth embodiment of securing apparatus. The gun has an elongate handle 240 which supports a tape reel holder 242. A channel 244 through the handle 240 receives a strip of securing apparatuses as will be described below, with tape from a reel passing internally along the strip of securing apparatuses and emerging from the front end 246 of the channel 244.

As shown in Fig. 25, the channel 244 has a trigger mechanism 248 at its front end. The trigger mechanism is shown in its normal, relaxed state, in which it is biased in the anticlockwise direction (in the view shown in Fig. 25) by a spring not shown. This has the result that a stop structure 250 at the front of the trigger mechanism 248 partially occludes the front end 246 of the channel 244. The occlusion is slight, blocking only the top of the channel, as seen best in Fig. 24, but this is enough to prevent a securing mechanism from emerging from the channel if the securing mechanism has dimensions which closely match the internal dimensions of the channel. Accordingly, in normal use, a securing mechanism (or a strip of such mechanisms) is retained in the channel against any forward force.

Also visible on the trigger 248 is a cutting edge 252 which is held just above the top of the channel when the trigger is relaxed as shown in Fig. 25. If the trigger is actuated by pressing on its top surface 254 it rotates about a pivot 256 in a clockwise direction to project the cutting edge 252 downwards into the channel 244 and simultaneously to lift the stop structure 250 clear of the front opening of the channel 244. In use, the cutting edge operates when actuated to cut the securing mechanism free from a strip of securing mechanisms retained in the channel, with the individual mechanisms being connected by breakable tabs. The cutting edge 252 cuts through a first one of these breakable tabs, while at the same time the stop structure lifts to release the securing mechanism. The cutting edge also exerts pressure on the tape running through the strip of securing mechanisms, holding the tape stationery within the gun, so that the freed securing mechanism moves forward along the tape (it can move freely in the forward direction due to the orientation of the ratchet teeth). While the trigger is depressed, therefore, the tape is trapped by the cutting edge. The cutting edge does not move down far enough or exert enough force to damage the tape, which is far more resilient than the breakable tabs connecting the securing mechanisms to one another in the strip. A tooth 258 on the lower surface of the channel assists in the break off of the securing mechanism but is deformable as the strip is advanced forward after release of the front-most securing mechanism, to allow the next securing mechanism to move to the front end of the channel. Fig. 26 shows the gun in sectional elevation with a strip of securing mechanisms 260 in position and showing a tape 262 in broken outline emerging from the reel holder 242 to pass through the strip of securing mechanisms 260 located in the channel and emerging from the front end 246 of the channel 244 as explained below in relation to Fig. 28. Fig. 26 also shows the spring 264 used to bias the trigger 248 into the relaxed position and, in dotted outline, the trigger position when actuated to separate and release the frontmost securing mechanism.

Fig. 27 shows the gun in front elevation with the dotted line XXVI-XXVI denoting the line along which the sectional view of Fig. 26 is taken. Within the handle one can see the channel 244, the trigger 248 and stop structure 250 partially occluding the channel 244. One can also see the tooth 258 projecting upwards into the channel 244. A pair of guide rails 266,268 are provided on the interior of the channel 244 to guide the strip of securing mechanisms, the securing mechanisms having corresponding slots to receive the guide rails. Because the guide rails are disposed at different heights, the securing mechanisms can only be inserted in the correct orientation.

Referring now to Fig. 28, the frontmost part of the handle can be seen in sectional elevation, i.e. an enlarged view of a detail of Fig. 28. It can be seen that the line of securing mechanisms 260, connected to one another by frangible connecting tabs 270,272, allows a tape 262 to pass through the securing mechanisms, emerging at the front end 246. The free end 274 of tape 262 is looped back up into the frontmost securing mechanism.

Fig. 29 shows a single securing mechanism 260 according to a fourth embodiment in sectional elevation with its neighbours 260' in broken outline connected by upper and lower frangible tabs 270,272. Figs. 30-33 show the mechanism in three-dimensional perspective views, respectively from above and in front in Fig. 30 ("front" denoting the side of the mechanism through which the leading edge of tape emerges and the side towards the front end of the gun as described above), from below and in front in Fig. 31 , from above and behind in Fig. 32, and from below and behind in Fig. 33.

The mechanism has a thoroughgoing channel indicated generally at 276 in Figs. 29-33, through which the tape passes and which is aligned with the channels of the neighbouring mechanisms in the strip. The mechanism also has a recess 278 on the underside 280 of the mechanism in which the free end is received in use, as seen in Fig. 28. In Figs. 30-33 the front side is denoted as 282 and the rear side as 284. The slots 286,288 which receive the previously described guide rails 266,268 (see Fig. 27) are also visible in Figs. 30-33.

Referring now to Figs. 34 and 35 in conjunction with Fig. 29, one can see a first locking mechanism in recess 278 which engages with and locks the free end of the tape when the tape is inserted into recess 278. The tape pushes past the locking mechanism which is deformed resiliently towards the front end of the securing mechanism, and which acts as a ratchet to prevent removal of the free end of tape (which is not visible in Figs. 29, 34 or 35 but which can be seen in Fig. 28 as 274). A second locking mechanism 292 is located in the channel 276 below the tape 262 passing through the channel. In its relaxed configuration, before it is locked onto the tape, as seen in Fig. 29 and in all of the securing mechanisms 260 in Fig. 28 other than the frontmost one, the second locking mechanism does not engage with the tape which therefore can be freely pulled both forwards and backwards through the strip of securing mechanisms and through the gun.

However, the second locking mechanism is located directly above the recess 278 and defines an end wall of the recess, so that when the free end of tape 262 is pushed firmly up into the recess 262, as seen in the frontmost securing mechanism in Fig. 28, not only is the first locking mechanism deformed resiliently towards the front of the securing mechanism, but also the second locking mechanism 292 is deformed upwardly into locking engagement with the tape. The direction of the ratchet teeth on the second locking mechanism is such as to allow the tape to be pulled rearwardly but not forwardly once this engagement has taken place. In use, the operation of the gun and the fourth securing mechanism is shown and described in relation to Figs. 36A to 36E.

Fig. 36 A: The gun handle 240 is loaded with a strip of securing mechanisms (not visible). A reel of tape 262 is mounted on the reel support 242. The free end 274 of tape 262 is fed through the strip of mechanisms, passing from the rear 284 to the front 282 of each. At this point, the second locking mechanism is relaxed and does not engage the tape. The strip of securing mechanisms is held against forward movement by the stop structure 250 on the trigger 248. Fig. 36B: The free end of tape is passed around the structure(s) 294,296 to which it is to be locked (for example a cable 294 and a post 296) and the free end 274 of tape is then fed into the recess 278 (Fig. 29) on the underside 280 of the frontmost securing mechanism and pressed firmly home. This both deforms the first locking mechanism 290 out of its relaxed position so that it presses resiliently against the section of tape adjacent the free end 274 (locking it in place due to the ratchet on its surface), and the free end presses the second locking mechanism 292 against the section of tape passing through the channel 276, where the ratchet on the second locking mechanism engages the tape and locks it against further forward movement through the gun. Fig. 36C: The operator presses on the trigger 248, which has the effect of: firstly, separating the frontmost and next-to-frontmost securing apparatuses from one another (the cutting edge and tooth severing the respective upper and lower frangible tabs 270,272 (Fig. 29); secondly, the cutting edge also holding tape 262 in place so that the tape is prevented from pulling forward within the gun; and thirdly, the stop structure 250 is raised allowing the freed frontmost securing apparatus 260 to be ejected from the front of the gun handle 240.

Fig. 36D: Keeping the trigger depressed (in reality as part of the same movement) the gun is pulled away from the structures 294,296. Due to the tension in tape 262, the securing apparatus 260 is drawn to the structures 294,296, as the loop 263 of tape 262 around the structures is drawn in a tight noose. The operator will usually manually tighten the tape to ensure a tight noose, e.g. by pulling the tape 262 while pushing the securing apparatus tight against the structures 294,296.

Fig. 36E: Using any suitable cutting tool 298 (which may be part of or an accessory to the gun) the operator snips the tape 262 as close as possible to the rear face of the securing apparatus 260. Releasing the trigger 248 leaves the gun in exactly the starting configuration of Fig. 36A, except that the strip of securing mechanisms may need to be drawn forward by one position. This is naturally achieved on the next occasion that the tape 262 is pulled forward due to friction, or the strip can be manually advanced by the operator. Although the tooth 258 resists such forward movement, the degree of resistance is very low. This forward movement to place the next securing mechanism in position against the stop structure 250 completes the cycle leaving the gun ready for the next use.

Figs. 37 and 38 show a variation on the device of Figs. 24-36, in which there is a single modification relative to the fourth embodiment and thus the description will not be repeated for the aspects which are common to the fourth and fifth embodiments. In addition it should be noted that the securing apparatus of Figs. 37 and 38 is shown in cross sectional elevation, similar to Fig. 29, but taken from the opposite side, so that it appears reversed on the page. In Fig. 37, the securing apparatus is shown as the tape is in the process of being secured, but before it has been pushed home. It can be seen that the second locking mechanism 292 has been modified to carry a resilient flap 300 which lies in the path of the free end 274 such that when the free end is pushed fully home, as shown in Fig. 38, it bears against and deforms the resilient flap so that the second locking mechanism is both displaced and deformed under the action of the free end 274.

This resilient flap (or indeed any other mechanism allowing the second locking mechanism to resiliently deform) confers the advantage relative to the fourth embodiment that the actuation of the second locking mechanism reliably takes place under a greater range of insertion depths for the free end 274.

If one considers the ratchet mechanism between the crenellated tape (or any other repeating periodic formations) and the pawl of the first locking mechanism 290, it can be seen that the mechanism will engage the tape as it is pushed home to increasing successive degrees of depth where successive steps are separated by a discrete amount, such as 0.2mm which is defined by the periodicity of the tape and the pawl.

Referring back to Fig. 36, it can be seen that the step of cutting the tape after the previous securing mechanism was applied is not exact. Therefore, the amount of tape extending beyond the first locking mechanism will vary depending on exactly where along the repeating period of a crenellation pattern (or other pattern such as a sawtooth) the tape was cut. This can lead to difficulties in reliably engaging the locking mechanism as the amount of tape extending between the last pawl tooth of the first locking mechanism and the free end will be similarly variable. If this length is towards the shorter limit, the second locking mechanism may not fully engage, allowing the tape to slip (and therefore allowing the securing mechanism to lose grip after it is applied), while if it is at the longer limit, then unless very carefully engineered, it may be impossible to push the free end fully home. The solution shown in Figs. 37 and 38 overcomes this issue by using the resilience of flap 300 to allow variable lengths of tape to be accommodated, so that the second securing mechanism is always fully engaged when the free end is pushed home within the recess.

The invention is not limited to the embodiment(s) described herein but can be amended or modified without departing from the scope of the present invention.

Claims

Claims:

1. A securing apparatus for securing a tape, the apparatus comprising:

a body having a channel through which a length of tape passes in use and a recess adapted to receive a first free end of the tape;

wherein the second locking mechanism is actuated by the insertion of the first free end of the tape into the recess.

2. The securing apparatus of claim 1, wherein said first locking mechanism is automatically engaged and actuated by the insertion of the first free end of the tape.

3. The securing apparatus of claim 1 or 2, wherein the first locking mechanism engages with the tape in a ratchet mechanism to prevent withdrawal of the first free end from the recess.

4. The securing apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein said second locking mechanism engages with the tape in a racket mechanism when actuated, permitting

unidirectional movement of the tape through the channel in a forward direction but preventing movement of the tape through the channel in the reverse direction.

5. The securing apparatus of claim 4, wherein prior to actuation of said second locking mechanism by the insertion of the first free end of the tape into the recess, the tape is free to move through the channel in both the forward and reverse directions.

6. The securing apparatus of claim 4 or 5, wherein when the first free end is engaged in the recess a loop of tape is defined extending from the first free end to the channel, and wherein said forward direction of tape is the direction which causes the loop to contract.

7. The securing apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the first locking mechanism comprises a pawl positioned in said recess to automatically engage with said tape upon insertion into said recess.

8. The securing apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the second locking mechanism comprises a pawl positioned adjacent the channel to engage with said tape upon actuation of the second locking mechanism.

9. The securing apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the pawl of the second locking mechanism is positioned in said recess such that insertion of the first free end of the tape into the recess moves the pawl of the second locking mechanism towards the channel to engage with said tape.

10. The securing apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the recess is a closed passage disposed generally perpendicular to the channel and wherein the second locking mechanism is positioned at the closed end of the recess such that insertion of the first free end fully into the recess causes the first free end to act against the second locking mechanism.

11. The securing apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the recess and channel are disposed relative to one another to secure the first free end of the tape in an orientation substantially orthogonal to the length of tape in the channel.

12. The securing apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the first locking mechanism comprises a resilient member is deformed by the insertion of the free end of tape into the recess.

13. The securing apparatus of claim 12, wherein the first locking mechanism, in a relaxed state, is biased towards engagement with a tape inserted in the recess.

14. The securing apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the second locking mechanism comprises a resilient member which in its relaxed state is not biased towards engagement with a tape inserted in the channel.

15. The securing apparatus of claim 14, wherein the resilient member of the second securing apparatus is positioned such that it is biased away from its relaxed state and into engagement with the length of tape by the action of the first free end being inserted into the recess.

16. The securing apparatus of claim 15, wherein the resilient member of the second securing apparatus is positioned such that it is biased away from its relaxed state and into engagement with the length of tape by the action of the first free end being pushed home within the recess.

17. The securing apparatus of claim 16, wherein the second locking mechanism has a resilient structure which is adapted to be compressed by the first free end of tape after the first free end of the tape has biased the second locking mechanism into engagement with the length of tape and as the first free end is pushed further home into the recess.

18. The securing apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the first and second locking mechanisms each comprise a resiliently deformable member having a ratchet surface permitting unidirectional travel of said tape across said ratchet surface.

19. The securing apparatus of claim 18, further comprising a length of tape having corresponding indentations to be engaged by the teeth.

20. The securing apparatus of any preceding claim, further comprising a length of tape, wherein, the tape comprises two side walls and a series of ridges and troughs provided in substantially parallel spaced apart arrangement between the two side walls.

21. The securing apparatus of claim 20, wherein the series of ridges and troughs are in a crenellated arrangement.

22. A dispensing apparatus for a securing mechanism to be secured to a tape, the dispensing apparatus comprising:

a releasing mechanism which when actuated permits the release of one of said securing mechanisms from the housing while simultaneously (i) retaining others of said securing mechanisms and (ii) engaging the tape to prevent movement thereof relative to the housing, whereby said one of said securing members is released for movement in a threaded fashion along the tape which is held static relative to the housing.

23. The dispensing apparatus of claim 22, wherein the releasing mechanism comprises a separating member for separating said one of said securing mechanisms from another of said securing mechanisms when actuated.

24. The dispensing apparatus of claim 22 or 23, wherein said releasing mechanism comprises a blocking member to prevent release of said one of said securing mechanisms from the housing until the releasing mechanism is actuated.

25. The dispensing apparatus of claim 24, when dependent on claim 23, wherein the releasing mechanism comprises a trigger which may be depressed to actuate said separating member and to move said blocking member to a position permitting release of said one of said securing mechanisms.

26. A method of securing a tape in a loop around an object using the securing apparatus of any of claims 1-21, comprising the steps of:

(a) threading the free end of the tape through said channel of the securing apparatus;

(b) passing the free end of the tape around the object in a loop;

27. The method of claim 26, when carried out using the dispensing apparatus of any of claims 22-25, wherein said step of drawing the tape through the channel of the securing apparatus comprises: actuating the releasing mechanism of the dispensing apparatus to release the securing mechanism from the housing while engaging the tape to prevent movement thereof relative to the housing; and drawing the dispensing apparatus away from the object to thereby cause the loop to constrict as the tape is pulled through the channel.