|
|
|
|
|
11/11/2005
 Email to a friend
 Comment on this article
|
Tom Shelley reports on a simple innovation that greatly eases the use of adhesive tape on both large and small reels
Tom Shelley reports on a simple innovation that greatly eases the use of adhesive tape on both large and small reels
A small gadget that attaches to a reel of adhesive tape always ensures that a fresh tape end is readily available, and avoids the need for fingernails to gain access.
Unlike devices in which the tape reel has to be inserted, the 'Tape Toppa' invented by Roger Hill in Petersfield is a small gadget that sits on top of the reel, with grips on each side so that it remains attached.
It consists of a small fixed roller equipped with a cutter in front of a shallow depression. The tape and dispenser are held in one hand, with the fingers inside the reel and the thumb resting on the tape just above the depression, to provide a slight resistance. No pressure is required from the fingers inside the reel until the desired length has been drawn out, after which a light grip acts as a brake.
The tape is pulled over the cutter to separate it after which the cut end flicks back into position ready for the next pick up. The points on each side of the depression allow the tape to form a bridge when acting as a strap to anchor the dispenser to the reel when not in use. The depression prevents tape from becoming adhered to the surface of the thumb and makes it easier to release the tape for cutting. A semi circular cut-out on the sides allows the forefinger to remain engaged on the inner face of the reel as the reel thickness reduces.
The device exists in the form of a working prototype which anyone trying it will at once discover to be completely intuitive. Mr Hill is looking for licensees.
Tape Toppa
Email Tape Toppa
|
|
| |
Author
Tom Shelley
|
| |
| |
This material is protected by Findlay Media copyright 2012.
See Terms and Conditions.
One-off usage is permitted but bulk copying is not.
For multiple copies contact the sales team.
|
| |
|
|
| |
To comment on news stories or blogs you need to complete our 60 second registration
process. Once completed this then allows you to download any and all white papers,
register for e-zines and access our detailed supplier directory for FREE.
If you are all ready a registered user then enter your e-mail address and login.
You will need to have logged in prior to entering your comments in the boxes provided.
|