staple

Abstract

A staple according to the present disclosure is formed from a flexible wire material, and has a tip part engageable with an object to be drawn through deformation into a spiral shape so as to surround the object. A deformation promoting part is formed on: an inner peripheral part of the tip part to be opposed to the object in a post-deformation state; an outer peripheral part of the tip part on the opposite side of the inner peripheral part; or both of the inner peripheral part and the outer peripheral part.

Description

TITLE OF INVENTION: STAPLE TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a staple. BACKGROUND ART

[0002] A staple for holding a stem, a vine, a branch, or the like of a plant, a tree, or the like on a guide element such as a wire, a beam, a string, a rod, a pipe, or a branch of a tree is known.

[0003] Patent Literatures 1 to 3 disclose such a staple and a binding machine that performs binding using the staple. The staple described in Patent Literature 2 includes two leg portions and a main body portion (which may also be referred to as a "crown") connecting the leg portions, and is engaged with a guide element (which may also be referred to as an "object") by deforming a tip end portion of one of the leg portions such that the tip end portion advances in a spiral shape along an outer circumference of the object. CITATION LIST PATENT LITERATURE

[0004] Patent Literature 1: JP2022-74007A Patent Literature 2: JP2023-13307A Patent Literature 3: JP2023-13317A SUMMARY OF INVENTION TECHNICAL PROBLEM

[0005] However, when deforming a staple, the tip end portion may not deform into a spiral shape, or another portion may be subjected to a load and buckled.

[0006] Therefore, an object of the present disclosure is to provide a staple that is easily deformable into a spiral shape. SOLUTION TO PROBLEM

[0007] The present application discloses a staple capable of holding a stem, a branch, or the like of a plant on a guide element, the staple being formed of a flexible wire material and including: a tip end portion engageable with an extending object by being deformed into a spiral shape so as to surround the object, in which a deformation promoting portion is formed on an inner peripheral portion of the tip end portion facing the object in a post-deformation state, on an outer peripheral portion of the tip end portion on an opposite side to the inner peripheral portion, or on both the inner peripheral portion and the outer peripheral portion.

[0008] Here, the staple (which may be referred to as a "linear binding member") includes a member (including one whose surface is plated or coated with resin or the like) formed of a flexible wire material capable of plastic deformation and configured to engage with the object by being deformed. The staple may also be referred to as a wire, a clip, a metal wire, a fastener, or the like.

[0009] Note that the staple may also be configured in any shape including two leg portions and a connecting portion (which may be referred to as a crown portion) connecting the two leg portions. Here, the two leg portions may be formed as parallel line segments, non-parallel line segments, curves, or a combination thereof. The crown portion may be formed linearly or curved. For example, the staple may have an asymmetrical shape, as exemplified in the present embodiment.

[0010] In addition, binding involves using the staple to restrain relative movement between one object and another object. For example, binding of objects may be achieved by surrounding one object (which may be referred to as a "second object," such as a plant) with a staple and engaging, for example, both end portions (two tip end portions) of the staple with another object (which may be referred to as a "first object," "guide," or "guide element", such as a wire, a beam, a string, a rod, a pipe, or a tree branch). ADVANTAGEOUS EFFECTS OF INVENTION

[0011] According to the present disclosure, a staple that is easily deformable into a spiral shape is provided. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0012] [FIG. 1A] FIG. 1A is a plan view of a staple in a pre-deformation state according to an embodiment. [FIG. 1B] FIG. 1B is an enlarged plan view of a tip end portion of the staple in the pre-deformation state according to an embodiment. [FIG. 1C] FIG. 1C is an enlarged side view (right side view) of the tip end portion of the staple in the pre-deformation state according to an embodiment. [FIG. 1D] FIG. 1D is an enlarged side view (left side view) of the tip end portion of the staple in the pre-deformation state according to an embodiment. [FIG. 1E] FIG. 1E is an enlarged view of the tip end portion of the staple of FIG. 1B. [FIG. 2A] FIG. 2A is a perspective view of the staple in a post-deformation state according to an embodiment. [FIG. 2B] FIG. 2B is an enlarged plan view of the tip end portion of the staple in the post-deformation state according to an embodiment. [FIG. 2C] FIG. 2C is an enlarged side view (right side view) of the tip end portion of the staple in the post-deformation state according to an embodiment. [FIG. 2D] FIG. 2D is a perspective view of the tip end portion of the staple in the post-deformation state according to an embodiment. [FIG. 2E] FIG. 2E is a horizontal cross-sectional view (bottom view) of the tip end portion of the staple in the post-deformation state according to an embodiment. [FIG. 3] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a binding machine according to an embodiment. [FIG. 4] FIG. 4 is a horizontal cross-sectional view of the binding machine according to an embodiment. [FIG. 5A]FIG. 5A is a perspective view of a staple according to a modification. [FIG. 5B] FIG. 5B is a perspective view of a staple according to a modification. [FIG. 5C] FIG. 5C is a perspective view of a staple according to a modification. [FIG. 5D] FIG. 5D is a perspective view of a staple according to a modification. DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0013] Hereinafter, configurations of a staple and a binding machine for performing binding using the staple according to the present embodiment will be described. As will be understood by one skilled in the art, the present disclosure is not limited to the staple having the configuration shown in the present embodiment. The present disclosure can be widely applied to staples that engage with an object by being deformed into a spiral shape.

[0014] [Configuration of Staple S] FIGS. 1A, 1B, 1C, and 1D are a plan view of a staple S in a pre-binding state (which may be referred to as a "pre-deformation" state; the same applies hereinafter) as seen from above, a plan view (enlarged view) of a tip end portion ST as seen from above, a right side view (enlarged view) of the tip end portion ST, and a left side view (enlarged view) of the tip end portion ST, respectively, according to the present embodiment. Additionally, FIG. 1E is an enlarged view of the tip end portion ST of FIG. 1B (for description, a groove portion GP described below is shown larger than that in FIG. 1B).

[0015] Additionally, FIGS. 2A, 2B, and 2C are a perspective view of the staple S in a postbinding state (which may be referred to as a "post-deformation" state or "engaged" state; the same applies hereinafter), a plan view (enlarged view) of the tip end portion as seen from above, and a right side view (enlarged view) of the tip end portion, respectively, according to the present embodiment.

[0016] First, the configuration of the staple S in the pre-binding state will be described.

[0017] The staple S has a first leg portion S1, a second leg portion S2, and a main body portion S3 connecting the first leg portion S1 and the second leg portion S2. In the prebinding state, the first leg portion S1 and the second leg portion S2 of the staple S are provided to be spaced apart from each other, so an opening is provided between the first leg portion S1 and the second leg portion S2. In the present embodiment, a direction from the main body portion S3, which is a closed portion, toward the opening (the left direction on the paper surface in FIG. 1A) may be referred to as an opening direction DR1 (of the staple S). In addition, a direction perpendicular to an extension direction of the staple S (for example, in the case of the second leg portion S2 of the staple S of the present embodiment, the opening direction DR1) and also perpendicular to a stacking direction described below may be referred to as a side surface direction (of the corresponding portion of the staple S), and a surface of the staple S facing toward the side surface direction may be referred to as a side surface of the staple S. Additionally, a direction perpendicular to the side surface direction and serving as a direction in which a plurality of staples S are connected may be referred to as a stacking direction DR2 or a connection direction DR2, and in particular, an upward direction on the paper surface in FIG. 1C (a frontward direction perpendicular to the paper surface in FIG. 1A) may be referred to as an upward stacking direction DR21 (of the staple S), and the same downward direction (a backward direction perpendicular to the paper surface in FIG. 1A) may be referred to as a downward stacking direction DR22 (FIG. 1C). Note that, as described below, in the present embodiment, the opening direction DR1 of the staple S coincides with a forward direction X1 (described below), which is a moving direction of the staple S set in a binding machine 10 (FIG. 3). In addition, in the present embodiment, the stacking direction DR2 of the connected staples S supported by a magazine 14 of the binding machine 10 coincides with an up-down direction Z (described below), which is an extension direction of the magazine 14.

[0018] The staple S has a main body portion S3 connecting a first leg portion S1 and a second leg portion S2 and configured to surround a second object P such as a stem, a first leg portion S1 having a first portion S11 connected to one end portion of the main body portion S3, bent and extending outward and a second portion S12 further bent from the first portion S11 and extending in the opening direction DR1, and a second leg portion S2 having a third portion S23 connected to the other end portion of the main body portion S3 and extending in the opening direction DR1 and a fourth portion S24 bent outward from a tip end portion of the third portion S23. As shown in the same drawing, the main body portion S3 is formed by being curved in a C shape or a semicircular arc shape. Note that the first portion S11 connecting the main body portion S3 and the second portion S12 may be referred to as a crank portion, and the second portion S12 connected to the first portion S11 and extending linearly in the opening direction DR1 may be referred to as a straight portion. In addition, the fourth portion S24, which corresponds to the other tip end portion of the staple S and is bent at an acute angle with respect to the third portion S23, may be referred to as a hook portion.

[0019] As shown in FIG. 2A and the like showing a post-deformation state, the hook portion S24 corresponding to the tip end portion of the second leg portion S2 is engaged by the second leg portion S2 being bent in a direction approaching a first object G and being hooked on the first object G by a binding machine 10 described below. In this case, the opening provided between the two leg portions in a pre-deformation state is closed when viewed from above, so it becomes possible to surround a second object P using the staple S.

[0020] When the hook portion S24 is engaged with the first object G, the third portion S23 exerts elastic force in a direction of widening the opening and returning to an original position. For this reason, the hook portion S24 can apply tension to the first object G in the direction of widening the opening, that is, in the direction of returning to the original position away from the first leg portion S1. As a result, it is possible to prevent occurrences such as the first object G bending and the staple S coming off.

[0021] [Configuration of Deformation Promoting Portion] As shown in FIGS. 2A to 2C, the tip end portion ST of the first leg portion S1 is a portion that is engaged with the first object G by being deformed into a spiral shape so as to surround an outer circumference of the first object G by the binding machine 10. Therefore, the tip end portion ST may be referred to as a spiral forming portion ST. Here, the phrase “the tip end portion ST of the first leg portion S1 is deformed into the spiral shape” means that the tip end portion ST of the first leg portion S1 is deformed so as to surround an outer circumference of the first object G at least once, as shown in FIGS. 2B and 2C, and the like.

[0022] Here, the inventors of the present application have focused on the fact that, during a process of deforming the tip end portion ST of the first leg portion S1 of the staple S into a spiral shape, the staple S may not deform into a desired shape. That is, when a strong load is applied to the tip end portion ST of the first leg portion S1 so as to deform it into a spiral shape, the straight portion S12 formed to linearly extend may be buckled. In addition, the pitch of the spiral drawn by the tip end portion ST of the first leg portion S1 may be widened too much, resulting in insufficient engagement with the first object G, or conversely, the pitch of the spiral may be narrowed too much, resulting in a tip end S1P (which may be referred to as an "apex of the tip end portion ST") of the first leg portion S1 colliding with part of the subsequent tip end portion ST.

[0023] Therefore, the inventors of the present application have conceived of forming a deformation promoting portion FT as shown in FIGS. 1B to 1D at the tip end portion ST, which is a spiral forming portion. By forming the deformation promoting portion FT at the tip end portion ST, it becomes possible to suppress the aforementioned situations. Here, the deformation promoting portion FT refers to a configuration that allows relatively easy deformation into a spiral shape when the same force is applied, compared to a case where the deformation promoting portion FT is not provided. Therefore, the deformation promoting portion FT is not limited to the configuration shown in the same drawings, and may have a configuration (described below) as shown in FIG. 5A or the like, or may be realized by a combination of these, or another configuration not shown in these drawings. Below, the configuration of the deformation promoting portion FT of the present embodiment will be described.

[0024] In the present embodiment, the deformation promoting portion FT is formed on a portion on an inner periphery side (which may be referred to as an "inner peripheral portion STI" or "contact portion STI") of the tip end portion ST of the first leg portion S1, which faces and comes into contact with the first object G when engaged with the first object G (in a post-deformation state into a spiral shape), and on a portion on an outer periphery side (which may be referred to as an "outer peripheral portion STO") of the tip end portion ST of the first leg portion S1, which is on an opposite side to the inner peripheral portion STI when engaged with the first object G (in the post-deformation state into a spiral shape). Hereinafter, the deformation promoting portion FT formed at the inner peripheral portion of the tip end portion ST of the first leg portion S1 may be referred to as an inner periphery deformation promoting portion FTI, and the deformation promoting portion FT formed at the outer peripheral portion thereof may be referred to as an outer periphery deformation promoting portion FTO. However, the deformation promoting portion FT does not need to have both the inner periphery deformation promoting portion FTI and the outer periphery deformation promoting portion FTO, and may have only one of them. It is sufficient that the deformation promoting portion FT is formed on at least a part of the tip end portion ST of the first leg portion S1, and the deformation promoting portion FT may be formed only on the tip end portion ST of the first leg portion S1.

[0025] [Inner Periphery Deformation Promoting Portion] As shown in FIG. 2B showing a post-deformation state, the inner peripheral portion STI corresponds to a portion on an inner periphery side of the tip end portion ST deformed into a spiral shape, and therefore corresponds to a compressed portion. For this reason, a large compressive stress occurs in the inner peripheral portion STI. Therefore, by forming the inner periphery deformation promoting portion FTI so that the compressive stress is reduced compared to a case where the inner periphery deformation promoting portion FTI is not deformed, it becomes possible to promote the deformation of the tip end portion ST into a spiral shape.

[0026] In the present embodiment, the inner periphery deformation promoting portion FTI is composed of a plurality of (e.g., five or more) recesses formed spaced apart from each other, as shown in FIG. 1C, which is a side view of the staple S as seen from a side surface direction. By forming such recesses, the internal stress that acts to hinder compression is reduced compared to a case where no recesses are provided, making it possible to promote the deformation of the tip end portion ST into a spiral shape.

[0027] Note that, in the present embodiment, the inner peripheral portion STI where the inner periphery deformation promoting portion FTI is formed corresponds to a portion on an opposite outer side surface side facing outward, rather than an inner side surface side facing inward toward the second leg portion S2, among side surfaces of the straight portion S12 in the pre-deformation state (FIG. 1A). That is, the tip end portion ST of the first leg portion S1 is engaged with the first object G, which is located on an outer side of the first leg portion S1, by being deformed into a spiral shape not in the direction approaching the second leg portion S2, but rather in the direction away from the second leg portion S2.

[0028] With such a configuration, it is possible to suppress a situation in which the first leg portion S1 comes into contact with the second object P inserted in the staple S and thus damages the same, thereby making it possible to insert and bind a larger second object P into the staple S.

[0029] In the present embodiment, each recess is composed of a groove portion GP extending in a direction, which is not perpendicular but inclined with respect to the extension direction DR3 of the tip end portion ST of the first leg portion S1, in a side view (FIG. 1C) seen from a direction perpendicular to both the extension direction DR3 of the tip end portion ST of the first leg portion S1 (which corresponds to an extension direction of a line connecting centers of cross-sections of main portions of the tip end portion ST and, in the present embodiment, is parallel to the opening direction DR1) and the stacking direction DR2. Here, the portion extending while being inclined may be referred to as an inclined portion IP. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 1C, in a side view seen from the direction facing the tip end portion ST, each inclined portion IP intersects the extension direction DR3 of the tip end portion ST obliquely rather than perpendicularly.

[0030] More specifically, the inclined portion IP is formed while being inclined so as to approach the tip end S1P of the first leg portion S1 of the staple S as going toward the downward stacking direction DR22, which is a direction perpendicular to the extension direction DR3 in FIG. 1C (in other words, so as to be farther spaced from the tip end S1P of the first leg portion S1 of the staple S and to approach the main body portion S3 as it directed toward the upward stacking direction DR21). As described below, during deformation, the tip end portion ST is deformed into a spiral shape by advancing to surround the outer circumference of the first object G extending in the up-down direction while advancing in a direction corresponding to the downward stacking direction DR22 as an axial direction of the spiral.

[0031] By providing such an inclined portion IP, the groove portion GP can effectively promote the deformation of the tip end portion ST into a spiral shape, as described below. However, the groove portion GP may have a portion in addition to the inclined portion IP, and may have, for example, a groove portion that is connected to one end or both ends of the inclined portion IP and extends in a direction parallel or perpendicular to the upward stacking direction when seen from a side. Note that a region where the deformation promoting portion FT is formed and an angle 01 of the inclined portion IP (FIG. 1C; which may be referred to as an "inclination angle 01") will be described below.

[0032] [Outer Periphery Deformation Promoting Portion] In the post-deformation state shown in FIG. 2B, the outer peripheral portion STO corresponds to the portion on the outer periphery side of the tip end portion ST deformed into a spiral shape, and therefore corresponds to a portion that is stretched due to tension. For this reason, a large tensile stress occurs in the outer peripheral portion STO. Therefore, by forming the outer periphery deformation promoting portion FTO so that the tensile stress is reduced compared to a case where the outer periphery deformation promoting portion FTO is not deformed, it becomes possible to promote the deformation of the tip end portion ST into a spiral shape.

[0033] In the present embodiment, the outer periphery deformation promoting portion FTO is composed of a plurality of recesses formed spaced apart from each other, as shown in FIG. 1C and FIG. 1D. By forming such recesses, the internal stress that hinders tension is reduced compared to a case where no recesses are provided, making it possible to promote the deformation of the tip end portion ST into a spiral shape. Note that, in the present embodiment, the outer peripheral portion STO is a portion corresponding to an inner side surface side facing inward toward the second leg portion S2 in the pre-deformation state (FIG. 1A).

[0034] In the present embodiment, the groove portion and its inclined portion formed in the outer periphery deformation promoting portion FTO are formed symmetrically with the groove portion GP and its inclined portion IP formed in the inner periphery deformation promoting portion FTI, and therefore, the same reference signs are used and the description thereof is omitted. However, the configuration of the deformation promoting portion formed in the inner periphery deformation promoting portion FTI and the configuration of the deformation promoting portion formed in the outer periphery deformation promoting portion FTO may be different. For example, the configurations of the respective recesses formed in the inner periphery deformation promoting portion FTI and the outer periphery deformation promoting portion FTO (e.g., the length of the groove portion GP, the number of groove portions GP, the width or depth of the groove formed in the groove portion GP, the inclination angle 01 of the inclined portion IP, and the like) may be different from each other.

[0035] [Inclination Angle of Inclined Portion] The inventors of the present application have focused on the fact that it becomes possible to promote deformation into a desired spiral shape by forming the groove portions GP such that the extension direction of the groove portions GP each formed in the outer periphery deformation promoting portion FTO and the inner periphery deformation promoting portion FTI is approximately parallel to the axial direction of the spiral formed by the tip end portion ST in the post-deformation state, as shown in FIG. 2C. If, in the post-deformation state, the extension direction of the groove portion GP and the axial direction of the spiral are not approximately parallel but, for example, become nearly perpendicular, the balance of stresses acting on the upper and lower portions of the cross-section of the tip end portion ST may be significantly disrupted, making it impossible to form a desired spiral shape.

[0036] Therefore, it is desirable to set the inclination angle 91 of the inclined portion IP such that an angle is formed between the extension direction of the inclined portion IP and the axial direction of the spiral in a side view in the state after deformation into a spiral shape so as to make the extension direction of the inclined portion IP and the axial direction of the spiral substantially parallel to each other. Here, since the axial direction of the spiral approximately coincides with the extension direction of the first object G, it can also be said that it is desirable to set the inclination angle 91 of the inclined portion IP such that the extension direction of the inclined portion IP and the extension direction of the first object G become approximately parallel in a side view in the state after deformation into a spiral shape.

[0037] Below, as shown in FIGS. 2B and 2C and the like, when a diameter of a circle approximating a cross-section of the first object G is set to D1, and a diameter of a circle approximating a cross-section of the tip end portion in the pre-deformation state is set to D2 (D2 is 75% or more and 125% or less of D1), it is preferable to set the inclination angle 91 between the extension direction of the inclined portion IP and the extension direction DR3 of the tip end portion ST in a side view in the pre-deformation state to 55 degrees or more and 85 degrees or less, and it is described that such a configuration enables the extension direction of the inclined portion IP and the axial direction of the spiral (i.e., the extension direction of the first object G) to become substantially parallel.

[0038] Here, when the first object G is a guide string or the like formed by twisting a linear thin resin material such as polypropylene, its cross-section may not necessarily be circular. In such a case, a diameter of a circle approximating the outer circumference of the first object G in the cross-section becomes the diameter D1 of the circle approximating the cross-section of the first object G. For example, it is possible to calculate a circle approximating the crosssection of the first object G using the least squares method based on a plurality of points constituting the outer circumference in the cross-section of the first object G. In the present embodiment, the diameter D1 is, for example, 1.2 mm. Therefore, the staple S is a staple that can be engaged with the first object G having the diameter D1. For example, if a binding machine that performs binding using the staple S has a specification that allows both tip end portions of the staple S to be engaged with a guide string ("an example of the first object G") within a range including the diameter D1, the staple S is a staple that can be engaged with the first object G having the diameter D1. However, the staple S may also be capable of engaging with the first object G having a diameter other than the diameter D1.

[0039] On the other hand, the cross-section of the tip end portion ST of the staple S is also not always circular. In such a case, a diameter of a circle approximating the outer circumference of the tip end portion ST in the cross-section using the least squares method is the diameter D2 of the circle approximating the cross-section of the tip end portion ST. In the present embodiment, the diameter D2 is, for example, 0.9 mm (75% of the diameter D1) or more and 1.5 mm (125% of the diameter D1) or less.

[0040] As shown in FIG. 2C, in a side view in the post-deformation state, the first object G with a diameter D1 is at the center, and the tip end portions ST with a diameter D2 are provided on both sides thereof. Considering that when the tip end portion ST makes a full revolution around the first object G, the height varies approximately by the diameter D2, the inclination angle of the tip end portion ST in the side view is approximately 8 degrees (when the diameter D2 = 75% of the diameter D1) to approximately 10 degrees (when the diameter D2 = 125% of the diameter D1), with a center of approximately 9 degrees. Accordingly, in a side view in the pre-deformation state as shown in FIG. 1C, by providing the inclined portion IP such that the inclination angle 01 is about 80 degrees or more and 82 degrees or less with respect to the extension direction of the tip end portion ST, the extension direction of the inclined portion IP and the axial direction of the spiral (i.e., the extension direction of the first object G) become approximately parallel in the post-deformation state.

[0041] Here, the inventors of the present application have found through experiments and the like that a good spiral shape can be formed even when the inclination angle 01 is about 80 degrees or less. One of the reasons is a spring-back phenomenon that occurs after deformation into a spiral shape. Since at least part of the residual stress inside the tip end portion ST is released by the spring-back phenomenon, the spiral forming portion ST is tightened (contracted) in the upward stacking direction DR21 (upward direction Z1). For this reason, it has been confirmed that a particularly suitable spiral shape can be formed when the inclination angle 01 is approximately 70 degrees, which is about 10 degrees smaller than the theoretical value. Additionally, it has also been confirmed that even if the extension direction of the inclined portion IP and the axial direction of the spiral are not completely parallel in the post-deformation state, a certain degree of effect is exhibited as long as they are approximately parallel or close to being parallel. On the other hand, it has also been confirmed through experiments and the like that when the inclination angle 01 is less than 55 degrees, the spiral forming portion ST may not engage with the first object G with sufficient force due to the excessively small inclination angle 01, regardless of the spring-back phenomenon. Therefore, as described above, in the side view (FIG. 1C and FIG. 1D) in the predeformation state, the inclination angle 01 of the inclined portion IP with respect to the extension direction DR3 of the tip end portion ST may be 55 degrees or more and 85 degrees or less, and preferably may be 60 degrees or more and 80 degrees or less, with 70 degrees as a center.

[0042] [Formation Region of Deformation Promoting Portion] As shown in FIG. 1C and FIG. 1D, respectively, the inner periphery deformation promoting portion FTI and the outer periphery deformation promoting portion FTO of the present embodiment are each composed of 13 recesses (e.g., groove portions GP) formed spaced apart from each other. Here, a length along the extension direction DR3 between the tip end S1P of the first leg portion S1 and a position where the first groove portion GP closest to the tip end S1P is formed (a position closest to the tip end S1P) is denoted as L1, and a length along the extension direction DR3 between the position where the first groove portion GP is formed (the position closest to the tip end S1P) and a position where the 13th groove portion GP farthest from the tip end S1P is formed (a position farthest from the tip end S1P) is denoted as L2. L2 corresponds to a length of the region where 13 groove portions GP are formed.

[0043] Below, it is described that, when the diameter of the circle approximating the crosssection of the first object G is set to D1, and the diameter of the circle approximating the cross-section of the tip end portion in the pre-deformation state is set to D2 (D2 is 75% or more and 125% or less of D1), L3 (FIG. 1C and FIG. 1D), which corresponds to a length along the extension direction DR3 of the region where a plurality of recesses are formed, is preferably 7 x D1 or more (L3 > 7 x D1).

[0044] As shown in FIG. 2B, which is a plan view of the tip end portion ST in the postdeformation state, the inner peripheral portion STI of the tip end portion ST is in contact with and faces the first object G, so an inner circumference length of a tip end portion equivalent to one full spiral revolution of the tip end portion ST is approximated by D1 x n, which is a circumference of the circle with the diameter D1 approximating the cross-section of the first object G. On the other hand, an outer circumference length of a tip end portion equivalent to one full spiral revolution of the tip end portion ST is approximated by (D1 + 2D2) x n, which is a circumference of a circle with a diameter of (D1 + 2D2). Here, considering that the inner peripheral portion STI of the tip end portion ST is compressed and the outer peripheral portion STO is stretched, it becomes possible to form the deformation promoting portion over at least a length of one full spiral revolution by forming a plurality of recesses over at least a region with a length of (D1 + D2) x n, which is an average length.

[0045] Since D2 is equal to or less than 125% of D1, (D1 + D2) x n < 7.06 x D1. Therefore, in the pre-deformation state of the tip end portion ST, it becomes possible to favorably promote deformation by forming a plurality of recesses (e.g., groove portions GP) over a region of L2 > 7 x D1 along the extension direction DR3.

[0046] Note that the distance between the groove portions GP can be appropriately modified. For example, the groove depth and / or groove width of each groove portion GP may be increased to increase the distance between the groove portions GP (and thus to decrease the total number of groove portions GP), or conversely, the groove depth and / or groove width of each groove portion GP may be decreased to decrease the distance between the groove portions GP (and thus to increase the total number of groove portions GP).

[0047] Subsequently, it is described that at least a part of the recess (groove portion GP) closest to the tip end S1P of the staple S is preferably formed at a position spaced apart by 1.4 x D1 or more and 3.5 x D1 or less from the tip end S1P in the extension direction DR3.

[0048] The inventors of the present application have focused on the fact that the shape of the tip end portion ST after deformation varies depending on the position of the recess (groove portion GP) closest to the tip end S1P. If a recess was formed at a position significantly spaced from the tip end S1P, the straight portion S12 buckled. On the other hand, if a recess was formed at a position extremely close to the tip end S1P, deformation occurred too early.

[0049] As a result of trial and error, the inventors of the present application have conceived the idea based on the fact that, when the tip end S1P, which initially advanced in a forward direction X1, comes into contact with an inner wall surface of a hole portion described below and then advances while changing its orientation in an arc-like manner in order to deform into a spiral shape along the inner wall surface, a large bending stress acts on a portion (which corresponds to an arc with a diameter of (D1 + D2) and a central angle of 90 degrees or more and 180 degrees or less) that starts to bend from a point in time when the tip end S1P is directed toward a direction approximately perpendicular to the advancing direction to a point in time when the tip end is directed toward a rearward direction X2, which is opposite to the forward direction X1, so that by forming a first deformation promoting portion at the portion to provide a trigger for bending, the deformation into a spiral shape can be promoted.

[0050] Here, a length of an arc with a central angle of 90 degrees is approximately approximated by (D1 + D2) x n / 4. Therefore, it is desirable to form at least a part of the first recess (groove portion GP) at a position where 1.37 x D1 (when D2 is 75% of D1) < L1 along the extension direction DR3 from the tip end S1P in the pre-deformation state. Therefore, when D1 is 1.2 mm, L1 is about 1.65 mm, so it is desirable to form at least a part of the first recess (e.g., groove portion GP) at a position about 1.65 mm or more from the tip end S1P. With this configuration, it is possible to suppress a situation in which the staple S is curled earlier than expected.

[0051] On the other hand, a length of an arc with a central angle of 180 degrees is approximately approximated by (D1 + D2) x n / 2. Therefore, it is desirable to form at least a part of the first recess (groove portion GP) at a position where 3.53 x D1 (when D2 is 125% of D1) > L1 along the extension direction DR3 from the tip end S1P in the pre-deformation state.

[0052] Therefore, when D1 is 1.2 mm, L1 is about 4.24 mm, so it is desirable to form at least a part of the first recess (e.g., groove portion GP) at a position about 4.24 mm or less from the tip end S1P. With this configuration, it is possible to suppress a situation in which the staple S buckles rather than bends.

[0053] As described above, at least a part of the recess closest to the tip end S1P of the staple S in the pre-deformation state is preferably formed at a position spaced apart by 1.4 x D1 or more and 3.5 x D1 or less from the tip end S1P.

[0054] However, as described below, it is also possible to adjust a position where curling starts, or the like by using another configuration formed in addition to the recess. In such a case, at least a part of the recess closest to the tip end S1P of the staple S in the predeformation state need not be formed at a position spaced apart by 1.4 x D1 or more and 3.5 x D1 or less from the tip end S1P. For example, in FIG. 1B, when a length in the extension direction DR3 of an inclined portion (an example of the "second portion") formed so as to connect the tip end S1P of the tip end portion ST and a portion (an example of the "first portion") where the recess (groove portion GP) is formed is made relatively long (i.e., when an angle of the tip end S1P is made relatively small), the inclined portion exhibits a similar effect to a thinned portion FT40 described below as a modification, and therefore it becomes possible to promote deformation into a spiral shape. In this case, L1 may be larger than 3.5 x D1 from the tip end S1P, and the first recess (e.g., groove portion GP) closest to the tip end S1P may be formed at a position adjacent to this inclined portion. Here, the first portion, which is a portion where a recess is formed, may be expressed as a portion corresponding to a main portion of the tip end portion ST (for example, a portion where a diameter of a circle approximating a cross-section in the pre-deformation state is approximately constant).

[0055] In the staple S described above, the inventors of the present application have further focused on the optimal depth of the recess (groove portion GP). That is, it was found that if the recess is formed too shallow (the depth of the recess is small), it becomes difficult to sufficiently reduce the compressive stress occurring in the inner peripheral portion STI and the tensile stress occurring in the outer peripheral portion STO, making it difficult to sufficiently promote the deformation of the tip end portion ST into a spiral shape. On the other hand, if the recess is formed too deep (the depth of the recess is large), a fracture occurs due to the tensile stress occurring in the outer peripheral portion STO, potentially resulting in a failure to ensure engagement with the first object G with sufficient force. Therefore, the inventors of the present application have found the optimal depth GPD (FIG. 1E) of the recess (groove portion GP) through experiments and the like. Specifically, when a diameter of a circle approximating the cross-section of the tip end portion ST in the pre-deformation state is set to D2, the depth GPD is preferably 0.03 x D2 or more in order to promote deformation. Additionally, the depth GPD is preferably 0.22 x D2 or less in order to suppress a fracture. The depth GPD is more preferably 0.15 x D2 or less, and within this range, stable deformation into a spiral shape without a fracture becomes possible.

[0056] The inventors of the present application have additionally focused on providing an inclined portion such that the tip end S1P is provided at a position away from the outer peripheral portion STO and close to the inner peripheral portion STI, as shown in FIG. 1E. By providing the tip end S1P at a position offset toward the inner peripheral portion STI side from the line connecting the centers of the cross-sections of the main portions of the tip end portion ST in this way, it becomes possible to guide displacement of the tip end portion ST in a spiral direction. Note that, when the inner peripheral portion STI and outer peripheral portion STO of the tip end portion ST each have a substantially flat side surface, the position away from the outer peripheral portion STO and close to the inner peripheral portion STI means that a distance between a side surface of the outer peripheral portion STO and the tip end S1P in a normal direction of this side surface (left-right direction Y in the present embodiment) is greater than a distance between a side surface of the inner portion STI and the tip end S1P in the normal direction.

[0057] According to the staple S of the present embodiment as described above, of the portions that are deformed into a spiral shape and engage with the first object G, both the inner peripheral portion STI and the outer peripheral portion STO of the tip end portion ST, which faces the first object G, are provided with the deformation promoting portions FT, respectively. As shown in FIG. 2B, in the post-deformation state, the inner peripheral portion STI is compressed, and the grooves of the groove portions GP formed as the inner periphery deformation promoting portion FTI become so small that they are no longer visually discernible. It is understood that the deformation (curling) into a spiral shape is relatively promoted by the deformation promoting portion FT because, if the deformation promoting portion FT was not provided, this portion hindered compression.

[0058] Similarly, in the post-deformation state, the outer peripheral portion STO is stretched, and the grooves of the groove portions GP formed as the outer periphery deformation promoting portion FTO are greatly widened. It is understood that the deformation (curling) into a spiral shape is relatively promoted by the deformation promoting portion FT because, if the deformation promoting portion FT was not provided, this portion hindered the stretching (tension). However, as described above, in the present disclosure, only one of the inner periphery deformation promoting portion FTI and the outer periphery deformation promoting portion FTO may be formed, and both may have deformation promoting portions of different configurations.

[0059] In addition, in the staple S of the present embodiment, the deformation promoting portion FT is formed only at the tip end portion ST of the first leg portion S1, and the deformation promoting portion FT is not formed at the second leg portion S2 and the main body portion S3, which are not deformed into a spiral shape. For this reason, it becomes possible to maintain the strength of portions of the straight portion S12 excluding the tip end portion ST, thereby also making it possible to suppress buckling of the straight portion S12. However, this does not preclude formation of a groove or the like to promote deformation at a portion among these other portions, which is intended to be bent (e.g., a portion that serves as a support point for bending of the second leg portion S2).

[0060] [Configuration of Binding Machine] Below, an example of the configuration of the binding machine 10 for bending the staple S shown in FIG. 1A, as shown in FIGS. 2A to 2C and the like, will be described. However, as a means for deforming the tip end portion of the staple into a spiral shape, other known configurations may be employed.

[0061] Note that, for example, except that some configurations are reversed in left-right orientations (i.e., the first displacement portion and the second displacement portion of the binding machine disclosed in Patent Literature 3 are reversed in left-right orientations), the basic configurations of the binding machine disclosed in Patent Literature 3 and the binding machine 10 of the present embodiment are common, and therefore, each configuration of the binding machine 10 will be described with appropriate omissions or simplifications to the extent feasible by one skilled in the art based on the descriptions in the Patent Literatures as described above and the specification of the present application, and the level of technology at the time of filing of the present application.

[0062] Note that, for convenience in describing the relative directional relationship, the right direction on the paper surface in FIG. 4 may be referred to as the forward direction X1, the opposite left direction on the paper surface may be referred to as the rearward direction X2, and both the directions may be collectively referred to as the front-rear direction X. As described above, the forward direction X1 corresponds to the direction in which the connected uppermost staple S supported by the magazine 14 is separated from the other staples S and moves, and also coincides with the opening direction DR1.

[0063] Additionally, in the same drawing, the frontward direction perpendicular to the paper surface may be referred to as the upward direction Z1, the opposite backward direction perpendicular to the paper surface may be referred to as the downward direction Z2, and both the directions may be collectively referred to as the up-down direction Z. In the present embodiment, the up-down direction Z corresponds to the extension direction of the magazine 14 and also coincides with the connection direction DR2 (stacking direction) of the connected staples S supported by the magazine 14. Additionally, in the same drawing, the upward direction on the paper surface may be referred to as the leftward direction Y1, the opposite downward direction on the paper surface may be referred to as the rightward direction Y2, and both the directions may be collectively referred to as the left-right direction Y. In addition, the top view (bottom view) refers to a viewpoint when seeing the binding machine 10 or the like from a position in the upward direction Z1 (downward direction Z2) toward the downward direction Z2 (upward direction Z1), the front view (rear view) refers to a viewpoint when seeing the binding machine 10 or the like from a position in the forward direction X1 (rearward direction X2) toward the rearward direction X2 (forward direction X1), and the left side view (right side view) refers to a viewpoint when seeing the binding machine 10 or the like from the leftward direction Y1 toward the rightward direction Y2 (from the rightward direction Y2 toward the leftward direction Y1).

[0064] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the binding machine 10, and FIG. 4 is a top view of the binding machine 10 (note that a housing and the like of the binding machine 10 may be removed for description). The binding machine 10 binds the first object G and the second object P using the staple S having an opening formed therein.

[0065] The binding machine 10 includes a first displacement portion 20 that displaces the first leg portion S1 of the staple S so as to be engageable with the first object G, and a second displacement portion 30 that displaces the second leg portion S2 of the staple S so as to be engageable with the first object G. The first displacement portion 20 has a hole portion provided in front of the first leg portion S1 and having an inner wall surface including a cylindrical surface. As described below, the binding machine 10 engages the tip end portion ST with the first object G by causing the tip end S1P of the first leg portion S1 of the staple S, which is advanced by a driver 42, to contact (collide with) the inner wall surface in a state in which the first object G is inserted on a central axis of the cylindrical surface, thereby deforming the tip end portion ST into a spiral shape so as to surround the first object G. On the other hand, the second displacement portion 30 has a wall portion provided in front of the second leg portion S2. As described below, the binding machine 10 engages the hook portion S24 with the first object G by causing the second leg portion S2 of the staple S, which is advanced by the driver 42, to contact (collide with) a wall surface in a state in which the second object P is surrounded by the first leg portion S1, second leg portion S2, and main body portion S3 of the staple S, thereby bending the hook portion S24 of the second leg portion S2 so as to engage with the first object G. The binding machine 10 is configured to be capable of binding the first object G and the second object P by engaging both end portions of the staple S with the first object G in a state in which the staple S surrounds the second object P.

[0066] Specifically, the binding machine 10 includes: a grip 12 extending in the up-down direction to be gripped by a user and provided with a switch for driving the binding machine 10; the magazine 14 configured to support (hold) a plurality of staples S stacked in the up-down direction; a pusher (not shown) configured to urge the plurality of staples S accommodated in the magazine 14 in the upward direction Z1; the driver 42 for separating the uppermost staple S from other staples S and moving the staple in the forward direction X1 by pushing the uppermost staple S toward the forward direction X1, which coincides with the opening direction DR1; a moving mechanism for moving the driver 42; the first displacement portion 20 (which may be referred to as a "clincher portion") for bending and deforming the first leg portion S1 of the staple S into a spiral shape; and the second displacement portion 30 for bending or flexing and deforming the second leg portion S2 of the staple S.

[0067] [Driver and Moving Mechanism for Driver] As described in the Patent Literatures as described above and the like, the binding machine 10 is configured to be able to move a nut component 52 and the driver 42 fixed thereto forward or rearward by rotating a ball screw 50, which is installed to extend in the front-rear direction along an approximate center of the binding machine 10, in a forward or reverse direction using a built-in motor 54. Each of the nut component 52 and the driver 42 may be referred to as a moving portion because they are configured to be movable in the forward direction X1 and the rearward direction X2. Note that the binding machine 10 further includes a reduction gear connected to an output shaft of the motor 54 and a printed wiring board equipped with a CPU that corresponds to a control device of the motor 54.

[0068] The driver 42 is configured to move in the forward direction X1, thereby separating the uppermost staple S among the plurality of staples S held by the magazine 14 and stacked in the up-down direction from the other staples S and moving it in the forward direction X1 while maintaining the front-rear relationship in which the opening of the staple S is at the front and the main body portion S3 is at the rear. The driver 42 is configured to plastically deform the first leg portion S1 by further moving the separated staple S in the forward direction X1 to bring the first leg portion S1 into contact with the first displacement portion 20 (described below), and to plastically deform the second leg portion S2 by bringing the second leg portion S2 into contact with the guide wall included in the second displacement portion 30 (described below).

[0069] [First Displacement Portion] The first displacement portion 20 (an example of the "displacement portion") has a function of displacing the first leg portion S1 of the staple S, which moves in the forward direction X1 by the driver 42, so as to be engageable with the first object G by deforming the first leg portion into a spiral shape so as to surround the first object G. However, the configuration for deforming the staple S into a spiral shape, which moves in the forward direction X1 by the driver 42, may be realized by other known configurations.

[0070] Although a detailed description is omitted because it can be easily implemented by one skilled in the art based on the level of technology at the time of filing of the present application, including the Patent Literatures as described above, the first displacement portion 20 according to the present embodiment includes a hole portion having a cylindrical inner wall surface, which enables the tip end portion ST of the first leg portion S1 to advance in the downward direction Z2 (downward stacking direction DR22) while bending it into an arc or spiral shape by inserting therein the tip end S1P of the straight portion S12 of the first leg portion S1 of the staple S as the staple is advanced by the driver 42, and a groove portion that guides the tip end portion of the first leg portion S1 to the hole portion (for example, these correspond to a hole portion 210 and a groove portion 211 of the Patent Literature 3 as described above). Since the hole portion is provided in the forward direction X1 of the first leg portion S1 such that the axial direction of the cylindrical surface is parallel to the up-down direction Z, it becomes possible to bring the tip end S1P of the straight portion S12 into contact with the inner wall surface of the hole portion by the advancement of the staple S, and to displace the tip end portion ST so that the tip end portion ST advances in a spiral shape in accordance with the shape of the inner wall surface. Note that the binding machine 10 may be provided with a lid portion that closes the upper part of the hole portion (the top surface of the cylinder) in order to promote the advancement of the tip end portion ST in the downward direction Z2, and additionally, the lid portion may be formed with a tapered surface inclined in the downward direction Z2 along the circumferential direction in order to promote the advancement of the tip end S1P in the downward direction Z2.

[0071] According to such a configuration, when the tip end S1P of the first leg portion S1 is inserted into the hole portion in a state in which the first object G, which is, for example, a guide string, is arranged to extend in the up-down direction along the central axis of the hole portion, the tip end S1P advances to draw a spiral along the cylindrical inner wall surface of the hole portion, so that it becomes possible to deform the tip end portion ST into a spiral shape around the first object G and to engage the tip end portion ST with the first object G.

[0072] Here, since the tip end portion ST is formed with the inner periphery deformation promoting portion FTI and the outer periphery deformation promoting portion FTO over a region of the length L2 along the extension direction DR3 from the position at the length L1 from the tip end S1P, it becomes possible to promote deformation into a spiral shape.

[0073] Note that in order to strengthen the engagement between the first object G and the tip end portion ST of the first leg portion S1, it is preferable that an inner diameter of the inner wall surface of the hole portion be less than a sum of twice the diameter D2 of the circle approximating the cross-section of the tip end portion ST and the diameter D1 of the circle approximating the cross-section of the first object G. By setting the inner diameter in this way, it becomes possible to strengthen the engagement between the staple S and the first object G because a part of the first object G or the staple S is crushed.

[0074] FIG. 2D is a perspective view showing the post-deformation state in which the tip end portion ST is engaged with the first object G (however, the second leg portion S2, the second object P, and the like are not shown). FIG. 2E is a cross-sectional view (bottom view) of the tip end portion ST in the post-deformation state, taken along a virtual plane parallel to the side surface direction.

[0075] As shown in FIG. 2E, since the recess (groove portion GP) formed as the inner periphery deformation promoting portion FTI is compressed and deformed to be closed, at least a part of the first object G enters the inside of the recess (groove portion GP) and is pinched by the recess (groove portion GP). For this reason, it becomes possible to further strengthen the engagement between the staple S and the first object G by the inner periphery deformation promoting portion FTI.

[0076] [Second Displacement Portion] The second displacement portion 30 (an example of the "displacement portion") has a function of displacing the second leg portion S2 of the staple S, which moves in the forward direction X1 by the driver 42, so as to be engageable with the first object G. Although a detailed description is omitted because it can be easily implemented by one skilled in the art based on the level of technology at the time of filing of the present application, including the Patent Literatures as described above, the second displacement portion 30 according to the present embodiment is configured to be capable of displacing the second leg portion S2 inward of the staple S as the driver 42 moves in the forward direction X1. Specifically, the second displacement portion 30 has a first guide wall, which is provided on an outer side of the second leg portion S2 in the initial state before the displacement of the staple S starts and bends the second leg portion S2 when the second leg portion S2 of the staple S moving in the opening direction DR1 (forward direction X1) comes into contact with it. The first guide wall has a recess that is recessed outward of the staple S.

[0077] In addition, the second displacement portion 30 includes a second guide wall, which is provided in the forward direction X1 of the second leg portion S2 in the initial state before the displacement of the staple S starts and bends the second leg portion S2 when the second leg portion S2 of the staple S moving in the opening direction DR1 comes into contact with it. The second guide wall has a wall surface facing in the rearward direction X2, and additionally has a protrusion protruding in the rearward direction X2. In the initial state, the protrusion is provided in front of the second leg portion S2 in the front-rear direction, inward of the second leg portion S2 in the left-right direction, and at an inner end portion of the second guide wall such that an amount of protrusion in the rearward direction X2 increases as it extends inward.

[0078] According to such a configuration, it becomes possible to bend the third portion S23 of the second leg portion S2 so as to be greatly curved by causing the second leg portion S2 of the staple S, which is advanced by the driver 42, to contact (collide with) the inner wall surfaces of the first guide wall and the second guide wall. Therefore, the hook portion S24 can be displaced in the direction approaching the first object G and hooked onto the first object G.

[0079] As described above, of the staple S advanced by the driver 42, the first leg portion S1 is deformed into a spiral shape by the first displacement portion 20 and engaged with the first object G, while the second leg portion S2 is engaged as the hook portion S24 is hooked on the first object G by the second displacement portion 30, thereby enabling the first object G and the second object P to be bound.

[0080] According to the present embodiment, by providing the deformation promoting portion FT, it becomes possible to provide the staple S that is easily deformable into a spiral shape.

[0081] [First Modification] Below, modifications of the staple S of the present embodiment will be described. However, for configurations that are the same as those of the staple S, the same reference signs are used, and the detailed description is simplified or omitted, with a focus on describing the different parts (the same applies to other modifications).

[0082] FIG. 5A is a perspective view of a staple S10 according to a first modification of the staple S. As shown in the same drawing, a tip end portion ST10 of the staple S10, which is an example of a recess that serves as the deformation promoting portion, includes one or multiple dimple portions FT10 having an approximately circular (including circular, oval, elliptical, and the like) or rectangular (including oblong, square, and the like) shape in a side view and formed to be recessed toward an inner side (a center of the cross-section of the tip end portion). The tip end portion ST10 includes the dimple portions FT10 on one or both of regions that become an inner periphery side and an outer periphery side when deformed into a spiral shape.

[0083] Even with such a configuration, the tip end portion ST10 is likely to be curled and deformed into a spiral shape, so that it becomes possible to provide a staple that can suppress buckling of other portions against loads.

[0084] [Second Modification] FIG. 5B is a perspective view of a staple S20 according to a second modification of the staple S. As shown in the same drawing, a tip end portion ST20 of the staple S20 has a side surface where inclined surfaces facing forward and sideward and inclined surfaces facing rearward and sideward are alternately formed so as to exhibit a triangular waveform in a top view. Therefore, the tip end portion ST20 of the staple S20 of the present modification is provided with one or multiple valley portions FT20 that are recessed inward by connection of two inclined surfaces, as an example of a recess that serves as the deformation promoting portion. The tip end portion ST20 has the valley portions FT20 recessed inward (toward a center of the cross-section of the tip end portion) on one or both of regions that become an inner periphery side and an outer periphery side when deformed into a spiral shape. Note that, instead of the triangular waveform, the side surface of the tip end portion ST20 may be formed to exhibit a curved surface, a saw tooth, or the like.

[0085] Even with such a configuration, the tip end portion ST20 is likely to be curled and deformed into a spiral shape, so that it becomes possible to provide a staple that can suppress buckling of other portions against loads.

[0086] [Third Modification] FIG. 5C is a perspective view of a staple S30 according to a third modification of the staple S. As shown in the same drawing, as an example of a recess that serves as the deformation promoting portion, a tip end portion ST30 of the staple S30 has one narrowed portion FT30 formed to extend around the entire circumference of the tip end portion ST30 or multiple narrowed portions FT30 formed to be separated from each other. The narrowed portion FT30 is formed to be recessed toward the center of the cross-section of the tip end portion ST on the inner side facing inward toward the second leg portion S2, on the upper side facing upward toward the upward stacking direction DR21 (FIG. 2C), on the outer side facing outward toward the opposite side to the inner side, and on the lower side facing downward toward the downward stacking direction DR22 (FIG. 2C).

[0087] Even with such a configuration, the tip end portion ST30 is likely to be curled and deformed into a spiral shape, so that it becomes possible to provide a staple that can suppress buckling of other portions against loads.

[0088] [Fourth Modification] FIG. 5D is a perspective view of a staple S40 according to a fourth modification of the staple S. As shown in the same drawing, as an example of a recess that serves as the deformation promoting portion, a tip end portion ST40 of the staple S40 has a thinned portion FT40 that is formed to be thin in the side surface direction over a predetermined distance from the tip end so as to recess the outer side surface inward.

[0089] Even with such a configuration, the rigidity of the tip end portion ST40 can be reduced. Therefore, the tip end portion ST40 is likely to be curled and deformed into a spiral shape in a region including a tip end S1P where bending starts, so that it becomes possible to provide a staple that can suppress buckling of other portions.

[0090] In addition, the present disclosure can be modified in various ways without departing from the gist thereof. For example, some components of an embodiment may be added to another embodiment within the scope of the ordinary creativity of one skilled in the art. Additionally, some components in an embodiment may be replaced with corresponding components in another embodiment.

[0091] Although various embodiments have been described above with reference to the drawings, it goes without saying that the present disclosure is not limited to such examples. It is apparent that a person skilled in the art could conceive of various alterations or modifications within the scope described in the claims, and it is understood that such alterations or modifications naturally fall within the technical scope of the present disclosure. In addition, the respective constituent elements of the above-described embodiments may be arbitrarily combined without departing from the gist of the invention.

[0092] This application is based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2024-042474 filed on March 18, 2024, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

[0093] According to the present disclosure, a staple that is easily deformable into a spiral shape is provided. REFERENCE SIGNS LIST

[0094] 10: binding machine 5 12: grip 14: magazine 20: first displacement portion 30: second displacement portion 42: driver 10 52: nut component 54: motor D1: diameter D2: diameter DR1: opening direction 15 DR2: stacking direction, connection direction DR3: extension direction DR21: upward stacking direction DR22: downward stacking direction FT: deformation promoting portion 20 FT10: dimple portion FT20: valley portion FT30: narrowed portion FT40: thinned portion FTI: inner periphery deformation promoting portion 25 FTO: outer periphery deformation promoting portion G: first object GP: groove portion IP: inclined portion P: second object 30 S, S10, S20, S30, S40: staple S1: first leg portion S11: first portion S12: second portion (straight portion) S1P: tip end ST: tip end portion (spiral forming portion) STI: inner peripheral portion (contact portion) STO: outer peripheral portion 5             S2: second leg portion S23: third portion S24: fourth portion (hook portion) S3: main body portion

Claims

1. A staple formed of a flexible wire material, comprising:a tip end portion engageable with an extending object by being deformed into a spiral shape to surround the object, whereina deformation promoting portion is formed on an inner peripheral portion of the tip end portion facing the object in a post-deformation state, on an outer peripheral portion of the tip end portion on an opposite side to the inner peripheral portion, or on both the inner peripheral portion and the outer peripheral portion.

2. The staple according to claim 1, wherein the deformation promotingportion has a recess.

3. The staple according to claim 2, whereinthe recess has a groove portion, andthe groove portion has an inclined portion extending in a direction inclined with respect to an extension direction of the tip end portion in a pre-deformation state.

4. The staple according to claim 3, whereinin the pre-deformation state, the inclined portion is formed so as to be inclined to approach a tip end of the staple as going to a perpendicular direction to the extension direction of the tip end portion, andthe tip end portion is configured to deform into a spiral shape to surround the extending object while extending in the perpendicular direction.

5. The staple according to claim 3, wherein in a side view in the predeformation state, an angle formed between an extension direction of the inclined portion and the extension direction of the tip end portion is 55 degrees or more and 85 degrees or less.

6. The staple according to claim 5, wherein when a diameter of a circleapproximating a cross-section of the object is set to D1, and a diameter of a circle approximating a cross-section of the tip end portion in the pre-deformation state is set to D2, D2 is 75% or more and 125% or less of D1.

7. The staple according to claim 2, comprising a plurality of the recessesformed spaced apart from each other along an extension direction of the tip end portion.

8. The staple according to claim 7, wherein when a diameter of a circleapproximating a cross-section of the object is set to D1, and a diameter of a circle approximating a cross-section of the tip end portion in a pre-deformation state is set to D2, D2 is 75% or more and 125% or less of D1, andthe plurality of recesses are formed over a region of a length of 7 x D1 or more along the extension direction of the tip end portion in the pre-deformation state.

9. The staple according to claim 2, wherein when a diameter of a circleapproximating a cross-section of the object is set to D1, at least a part of the recess closest to a tip end of the staple in a pre-deformation state is formed at a position spaced apart by 1.4 x D1 or more and 3.5 x D1 or less from the tip end of the staple.

10. The staple according to claim 2, whereinthe tip end portion comprisesa first portion where the recess is formed, anda second portion continuous with the first portion and inclined toward a tip end thereof, andthe recess is formed at a position adjacent to the second portion.

11. The staple according to claim 2, wherein at least a part of the object ispinched by the at least one recess in the post-deformation state.

12. The staple according to claim 2, wherein the tip end portion comprises atip end offset toward a side of the inner peripheral portion from an axial center of the tip end portion.

13. The staple according to claim 2, wherein when a diameter of a circleapproximating a cross-section of the tip end portion in a pre-deformation state is set to D2, a depth of the recess is 0.03 x D2 or more and 0.22 x D2 or less.

14. The staple according to claim 1, further comprising:a first leg portion;a second leg portion; and5             a main body portion connecting the first leg portion and the second leg portion,whereinthe first leg portion includes the tip end portion engageable with the object.

15. The staple according to claim 1, wherein the deformation promoting10 portion is formed only on the tip end portion.

16. The staple according to claim 1, wherein the tip end portion is engageablewith the object by being deformed so as to surround an outer circumference of the object at least once.15

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