Abstract: A novel system is provided for attaching tape to a spool. The method employs a one piece molded or diecast part which comprises both the spool and the means of attachment. The spool has a cavity within the circular core. A pin is molded as a part of the spool and is positioned directly before the mouth of the cavity. Tape attachment is achieved by threading.

Abstract: There is provided a tape spool retention system having a spool and tape retainer molded of a single plastic part. Assembly of the end of a piece of flat tape is accomplished by inserting the tape into under a pin, molded between the flanges of the spool, and then forcing the pin into an underlying cavity in the core of the spool, thereby wrapping the tape about the pin. The slight interference fit between the pin and the opening of the cavity keeps the assembly together, and when one or two wraps of tape are wound onto the spool, the tape retention is very good. The present invention provides a machine configured to make this assembly operation easy for an unskilled worker to perform reliably. The machine provides a nest for holding the spool. After tape is inserted into the spool, partial operation of the machine's operating lever captures the tape so that is does not move during assembly. Further operation of the operating lever breaks free the pin and forces it into the cavity.