Abstract: A feed mechanism for a tape applying machine in the semiconductor lead frame arts, especially suitable for discrete pieces of lead frame, in which pins are inserted into holes in the lead frame and advanced periodically. The pins are deliberately made smaller than the holes and moved in such a way as to always return to the center of the holes, well clear of the edges, before entering or withdrawing from the holes.

Abstract: The improvements relate to devices for applying terminals and the like to the ends of filiform bodies such as conductors, lengths of elastic material and other articles. For feeding the metal strip, formed from an interconnected succession of terminals or the like, and for rhythmically moving it into the position in which a terminal is applied to the filiform body and detached from the rest of the strip, the invention provides a pawl, which for this purpose engages the terminal, and is hinged to one end of a lever and subjected to the moment produced by a spring. The lever can rotate about an adjustable point between its ends. At its other end, the lever is hinged to a straight pin adjustably mounted in a guide member. This member is slidably mounted in the frame of the device and carries a roller.

Abstract: The strip is positioned by a positioner hanging from a pivot lever which is turned by a pinion driven follower shaft being journalled in an adjustment lever. That lever is journalled on a shaft with a meshing pinion and turning over particular angles. The adjustment lever is held for adjusting the angular orientation of the shafts to each other, either through spring bias engaging an adjustable stop, by a detent member, or by a rotating cam.

Abstract: There is disclosed a film pull-down mechanism comprising a four-pivot linkage with two additional links attached thereto. The two additional links are mounted between a plane containing the film and a plane intersecting the drive means of the mechanism.