| CPC F16B 37/062 (2013.01) [B23P 19/005 (2013.01); B23P 19/006 (2013.01)] | 15 Claims |
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1. A method of feeding a fastener in a machine for installation onto a workpiece, the method comprising:
a) feeding a fastener into a block having channel with a stop against which the fastener abuts in a fastener loading position, the channel at least partially covered by a flexible retainer plate that captures the fastener within the channel;
b) moving the block relative to a pin to engage the fastener with the pin, the pin having a longitudinal pin axis;
c) forcing the fastener into the retainer plate in a direction of the longitudinal pin axis to deflect the retainer plate away from the channel and disengage the fastener from the stop;
d) retracting the block relative to the pin to support the fastener on the pin clear of the block; and
e) securing the fastener to the workpiece.
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