Tube applicator

摘要

Apparatus to insert a spigot into a flexible tube comprises a support for holding and advancing a spigot, actuated by a motor, and a grip for holding a flexible tube, its opening and closing controlled by a motor. On operation of the apparatus, the support is advanced to urge the spigot into the flexible tube. To prevent catching or snagging of the tube on the spigot preventing insertion, after forward motion of the spigot, the jaws are opened, and the spigot is retreated a short distance, the jaws are closed and the spigot is advanced again. This cycle is then repeated until the spigot is fully within the tube. The jaws have a front section and a separate back section, mounted against a resistance, to hold the tube. The front section will be urged back against the resistance on insertion of the spigot, which will not reach the back section.

主权项

1. A method of inserting a spigot into a flexible tube, using an apparatus comprising:—
a support movably mounted on a base, the support configured to receive a spigot; and a tube grip mounted to the base, and configured to grip a flexible tube for insertion of the spigot; the grip comprising a pair of jaws for gripping and releasing the tube, with sufficient strength to hold to the tube but not crush the tube, at least part of one or both jaws being moveably mounted against a resistance such that under the force of the advancing spigot at least part of one or both jaws can release sufficiently to allow the spigot to pass into the tube, while retaining the tube in the apparatus; the method comprising the steps of:— advancing the support; halting advance of the support; opening the jaws; closing the jaws; repeating this cycle; and wherein the steps of advancing and halting advance of the support are carried out independently of the steps of opening the jaws and closing the jaws such that the support is movable independently of the jaws.