staples

Abstract

The staple of the present disclosure is formed of a wire having flexibility, has a tip portion capable of engaging with an object by being deformed into a spiral shape in a manner of surrounding the object, and in which a deformed promoting portion is formed in an inner peripheral portion of the tip portion, an outer peripheral portion on the opposite side of the tip portion from the inner peripheral portion, or both the inner peripheral portion and the outer peripheral portion in a state after deformation.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a U-shaped nail. Background Technology

[0002] U-shaped nails are known for holding the stems, vines, branches, etc. of plants, trees, etc., in guiding elements such as wires, beams, ropes, rods, pipes, and tree branches.

[0003] Patent documents 1 to 3 disclose such U-shaped nails and strapping machines for using U-shaped nails for binding. The U-shaped nail described in patent document 2 has two legs and a main body (sometimes called a "crown") connecting these legs. The end of one of the legs is deformed in a spiral motion around the periphery of the object, and engages with a guide element (sometimes called the "object").

[0004] Existing technical documents

[0005] Patent documents

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2022-74007

[0007] Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2023-13307

[0008] Patent Document 3: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2023-13317 Summary of the Invention

[0009] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0010] However, when deforming U-shaped nails, there are cases where the end does not deform into a spiral shape, and the load applied to other parts causes buckling.

[0011] Therefore, the purpose of this disclosure is to provide a U-shaped nail that can be easily deformed into a spiral shape.

[0012] Methods for solving problems

[0013] This application discloses a U-shaped nail capable of holding the stem, branch, etc. of a plant in a guiding element. The U-shaped nail is formed of a flexible wire and has an end portion. The end portion is deformed into a spiral shape in a manner that surrounds an extending object, and can engage with the object. In the deformed state, the inner peripheral portion of the end portion that is opposite to the object, the outer peripheral portion of the end portion on the side opposite to the inner peripheral portion, or both the inner peripheral portion and the outer peripheral portion are formed with deformation promoting portions.

[0014] Here, U-shaped staples (sometimes called "wire-like bindings") are formed from flexible wires capable of plastic deformation, including components (including components with plated or coated surfaces such as resin) for engaging with an object through deformation. U-shaped staples are also sometimes referred to as wires, clips, metal wires, or bindings.

[0015] It should be noted that the U-shaped nail can be constructed in any shape, including two legs and a connecting portion (sometimes called a crown) that connects the two legs. The two legs can be formed as parallel line segments, or as non-parallel line segments, curves, or a combination thereof. The crown can be formed in a straight line or in a curved shape.

[0016] For example, as illustrated in this embodiment, the U-shaped nail can also have an asymmetrical shape.

[0017] Additionally, binding involves using U-shaped pins to restrain the relative movement of one object to another. For example, the objects can be bound together by having one object (sometimes called a "second object," such as a plant) surrounded by a U-shaped pin, with the two ends of the U-shaped pin engaging with the other object (sometimes called a "first object," "guide," or "guide element," such as wire, beam, rope, rod, pipe, tree branch, etc.).

[0018] Invention Effects

[0019] According to this disclosure, a U-shaped nail that can be easily deformed into a spiral shape is provided. Attached Figure Description

[0020] Figure 1A This is a top view of the U-shaped nail in its state before deformation according to one embodiment.

[0021] Figure 1B This is an enlarged top view of the U-shaped nail end portion before deformation, according to one embodiment.

[0022] Figure 1C This is an enlarged side view (right side view) of the end portion of the U-shaped nail before deformation, according to one embodiment.

[0023] Figure 1D This is an enlarged side view (left side view) of the end portion of the U-shaped nail before deformation, according to one embodiment.

[0024] Figure 1E yes Figure 1B An enlarged view of the end of the U-shaped nail.

[0025] Figure 2A This is a perspective view of the deformed state of the U-shaped nail according to one embodiment.

[0026] Figure 2B This is an enlarged top view of the deformed end portion of the U-shaped nail according to one embodiment.

[0027] Figure 2C This is an enlarged side view (right side view) of the deformed end portion of the U-shaped nail according to one embodiment.

[0028] Figure 2D This is a perspective view of the deformed end portion of a U-shaped nail according to one embodiment.

[0029] Figure 2E This is a horizontal cross-sectional view (from below) of the deformed end portion of the U-shaped nail according to one embodiment.

[0030] Figure 3 This is a perspective view of a strapping machine according to one embodiment.

[0031] Figure 4 This is a horizontal sectional view of a strapping machine according to one embodiment.

[0032] Figure 5A This is a three-dimensional diagram of the U-shaped nail involved in the variation example.

[0033] Figure 5B This is a three-dimensional diagram of the U-shaped nail involved in the variation example.

[0034] Figure 5C This is a three-dimensional diagram of the U-shaped nail involved in the variation example.

[0035] Figure 5D This is a three-dimensional diagram of the U-shaped nail involved in the variation example. Detailed Implementation

[0036] The structure of the U-shaped nail of this embodiment and the strapping machine used for binding with the U-shaped nail will be described below. However, as those skilled in the art will understand, this disclosure is not limited to the U-shaped nail with the structure shown in this embodiment. This disclosure can be widely applied to U-shaped nails that engage with objects by deforming into a spiral shape.

[0037] [Structure of the U-shaped nail]

[0038] Figure 1A , Figure 1B , Figure 1C and Figure 1D These are, respectively, a top view of the U-shaped nail S before binding (sometimes referred to as "before deformation," and the same applies thereafter), a top view (enlarged view) of the end portion ST, a right side view (enlarged view) of the end portion ST, and a left side view (enlarged view) of the end portion ST. Further, Figure 1E yes Figure 1B An enlarged view of the end portion ST (however, for illustration purposes, the groove portion GP described later is shown in a more detailed manner). Figure 1B big).

[0039] in addition, Figure 2A , Figure 2B and Figure 2C These are, respectively, a perspective view of the U-shaped nail S in its bundled state (sometimes referred to as "after deformation" or "when locked," etc., and the same applies thereafter), a top view (enlarged view) of the end portion, and a right side view (enlarged view) of the end portion.

[0040] First, the structure of the U-shaped nail S before binding will be explained.

[0041] The U-shaped nail S has a first leg S1, a second leg S2, and a main body S3 connecting the first leg S1 and the second leg S2. Before binding, the first leg S1 and the second leg S2 of the U-shaped nail S are separated, thus an opening is provided between them. In this embodiment, sometimes the main body S3, which is a closed portion, is oriented towards the opening (…). Figure 1A The direction to the left of the paper in the diagram is called the opening direction DR1 (of the U-shaped nail S). Additionally, the direction perpendicular to the extension direction of the U-shaped nail S (for example, the opening direction DR1 for the second leg S2 of the U-shaped nail S in this embodiment) and perpendicular to the stacking direction described later is sometimes called the side direction (of that portion of the U-shaped nail S), and the surface of the U-shaped nail S facing the side direction is called the side surface of the U-shaped nail S. Furthermore, the direction perpendicular to the side direction and connecting multiple U-shaped nails S is sometimes called the stacking direction DR2 or the connecting direction DR2, especially... Figure 1C Orientation on the paper ( Figure 1A The direction perpendicular to the paper surface (near the front) is called the stacking direction (DR21 of the U-shaped staple S), and the downward direction ( Figure 1A The depth direction perpendicular to the paper surface in the stacking direction is called DR22 below the stacking direction. Figure 1C It should be noted that, as described later, in this embodiment, the opening direction DR1 of the U-shaped nail S is the same as that of the strapping machine 10. Figure 3 The moving direction of the U-shaped nail S, i.e., the forward direction X1 (described later), is consistent with the direction of movement. In addition, in this embodiment, the stacking direction DR2 of the connected U-shaped nails S supported by the nail magazine 14 of the strapping machine 10 is consistent with the extension direction of the nail magazine 14, i.e., the vertical direction Z (described later).

[0042] The U-shaped nail S comprises: a main body S3 that connects the first leg S1 and the second leg S2 and surrounds a second object P such as a stem; the first leg S1 that is connected to one end of the main body S3 and has a first part S11 that bends and extends outward and a second part S12 that bends further from the first part S11 and extends in the opening direction DR1; and the second leg S2 that is connected to the other end of the main body S3 and has a third part S23 that extends in the opening direction DR1 and a fourth part S24 that bends outward from the end of the third part S23. As shown in the figure, the main body S3 is bent into a C-shape or a semi-circular arc shape. It should be noted that the first part S11 that connects the main body S3 and the second part S12 is sometimes referred to as a crank part, and the second part S12 that connects to the first part S11 and extends straight along the opening direction DR1 is sometimes referred to as a straight part. Moreover, the fourth part S24, which corresponds to the other end of the U-shaped nail S and bends at an acute angle relative to the third part S23, is sometimes referred to as a hook part.

[0043] For example, to represent the state after deformation. Figure 2A As shown, the hook S24, which corresponds to the end of the second leg S2, is engaged by using the strapping machine 10 (described later) to bend the second leg S2 toward the first object G and hook it onto the first object G. At this time, the opening between the two legs in the state before deformation is closed when viewed from above, so the second object P can be surrounded by the U-shaped nail S.

[0044] When the hook S24 engages with the first object G, the third part S23 exerts elastic force in the direction of widening the opening and returning to its original position. Therefore, the hook S24 can apply tension to the first object G in the direction of widening the opening, that is, in the direction of moving away from the first leg S1 and returning to its original position. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the first object G from deflecting and the U-shaped nail S from falling off.

[0045] [Structure of the Deformation Facilitator]

[0046] like Figures 2A to 2C As shown, the end portion ST of the first leg S1 is deformed into a spiral shape by using the strapping machine 10 to surround the outer periphery of the first object G, and thus engages with the first object G. Therefore, the end portion ST is sometimes referred to as the spiral-forming portion ST. Here, the spiral shape of the end portion ST of the first leg S1 means, as... Figure 2B and 2C As shown, the end portion ST of the first leg S1 deforms in a manner that surrounds at least one circumference of the first object G.

[0047] Here, the inventors of this application focus on the situation where the U-shaped nail S does not deform into the desired shape during the process of deforming the end portion ST of the first leg S1 of the U-shaped nail S into a spiral shape.

[0048] That is, if a strong load is applied to deform the end portion ST of the first leg S1 into a spiral shape, the straight portion S12, which extends in a straight line, may be bent. In addition, there may be cases where the spacing of the spirals depicted by the end portion ST of the first leg S1 is too wide, making it impossible to engage with the first object G with sufficient force; conversely, there may be cases where the spacing of the spirals is too narrow, causing the end portion S1P of the first leg S1 (sometimes referred to as the "apex of the end portion ST") to collide with a portion of the subsequent end portion ST.

[0049] Therefore, the inventors of this application conceived of... Figures 1B to 1D The deformation-promoting section FT shown is formed at the end portion ST, which serves as the spiral forming section. By forming such a deformation-promoting section FT at the end portion ST, the aforementioned situation can be suppressed. Here, the deformation-promoting section FT refers to a structure that is relatively easier to deform into a spiral shape when the same force is applied, compared to the case where the deformation-promoting section FT is not provided. Therefore, the deformation-promoting section FT is not limited to the structure shown in the figure, and may also be, for example, [other structures]. Figure 5A The structure shown in the figures (described later) can be implemented by combination of these structures or other structures not shown in these figures. The structure of the deformation facilitator FT in this embodiment will be described below.

[0050] In this embodiment, the deformation promoting portion FT is formed in the inner peripheral portion (sometimes referred to as "inner peripheral portion STI" or "contact portion STI") of the end portion ST of the first leg S1, which comes into contact with the first object G in a relative manner when engaged with it (in its spiral deformed state), and in the outer peripheral portion (sometimes referred to as "outer peripheral portion STO") of the end portion ST of the first leg S1, which is opposite to the inner peripheral portion STI when engaged with the first object G (in its spiral deformed state). Hereinafter, the deformation promoting portion FT formed in the inner peripheral portion of the end portion ST of the first leg S1 is sometimes referred to as the inner peripheral deformation promoting portion FTI, and the deformation promoting portion FT formed in the outer peripheral portion is sometimes referred to as the outer peripheral deformation promoting portion FTO. However, the deformation promoting portion FT does not necessarily have both the inner peripheral deformation promoting portion FTI and the outer peripheral deformation promoting portion FTO; it may only have either one. The deformation promoting portion FT may be formed in at least a part of the end portion ST of the first leg S1, or it may only be formed in the end portion ST of the first leg S1.

[0051] [Internal Deformation Promotion Department]

[0052] For example, as the state after deformation. Figure 2BAs shown, the inner circumferential portion STI corresponds to the inner circumferential side of the helical end portion ST, and is therefore equivalent to the compressed portion. Consequently, a large compressive stress is generated in the inner circumferential portion STI. Therefore, compared to the case where the inner circumferential deformation promoting portion FTI is not deformed, by forming the inner circumferential deformation promoting portion FTI in a manner that reduces compressive stress, it is possible to promote the deformation of the end portion ST into a helical shape.

[0053] In this embodiment, the side view of the U-shaped nail S viewed from the side is as follows: Figure 1C As shown, the inner circumferential deformation promoting section FTI is composed of multiple (e.g., more than 5) recesses formed separately. By forming such recesses, the internal stress that acts in a way that hinders compression is reduced compared to the case without recesses, thus promoting the deformation of the end section ST into a spiral shape.

[0054] It should be noted that, in this embodiment, the inner peripheral portion STI, which has an inner peripheral deformation promoting portion FTI, is in the state before deformation ( Figure 1A The portion ST of the first leg S1 is not the inner side of the straight section S12 facing the inner side opposite to the second leg S2, but rather the outer side of the straight section S12 facing the opposite side. That is, the end portion ST of the first leg S1 is not oriented towards the direction approaching the second leg S2, but is deformed into a spiral shape towards the outer side separating from the second leg S2, thereby engaging with the first object G located outside the first leg S1.

[0055] With this structure, it is possible to prevent the first leg S1 from coming into contact with and being damaged by the second object P inserted into the U-shaped nail S, so that a larger second object P can be inserted into the U-shaped nail S for binding.

[0056] Each recess in this embodiment is composed of a groove GP, which is viewed from the side in the direction of extension DR3 (corresponding to the extension direction of the line connecting the centers in the cross section of the main part of the end part S1, which is parallel to the opening direction DR1 in this embodiment) and perpendicular to the stacking direction DR2. Figure 1C Below, relative to the extending direction DR3 of the end portion ST of the first leg S1, it extends in a non-perpendicular, inclined direction. Here, the inclined extending portion is sometimes referred to as the inclined portion IP. Therefore, as Figure 1C As shown, in a side view taken from a direction opposite to the end portion ST, each inclined portion IP intersects the extension direction DR3 of the end portion ST at an angle rather than perpendicular to it.

[0057] More specifically, the inclined IP is towards Figure 1CThe U-shaped nail S is formed in an inclined manner, with the stacking direction DR22 perpendicular to the extension direction DR3, moving downwards towards the end S1P of the first leg S1 of the U-shaped nail S (in other words, moving upwards towards the stacking direction DR21, moving further away from the end S1P of the first leg S1 of the U-shaped nail S and closer to the main body S3). As will be described later, during deformation, the end portion ST moves along the direction corresponding to the downward direction DR22 as the axis of the spiral, and moves in a manner that surrounds the outer periphery of the first object G extending in the vertical direction, thereby deforming into a spiral shape.

[0058] By providing such an inclined portion IP, as described later, the groove portion GP can effectively promote the deformation of the end portion ST into a spiral shape. However, the groove portion GP may also have portions other than the inclined portion IP; for example, it may have a groove connected to one or both ends of the inclined portion IP and extending in a direction parallel or perpendicular to the upward DR21 in the stacking direction when viewed from the side. It should be noted that the area forming the deformation promoting portion FT and the angle θ1 of the inclined portion IP ( Figure 1C The angle of inclination (θ1), sometimes referred to as the "angle of inclination" (θ1), will be described later.

[0059] [Peripheral Deformation Facilitation Section]

[0060] exist Figure 2B In the deformed state shown, the outer peripheral portion STO corresponds to the outer peripheral side of the helical end portion ST, and thus is equivalent to the portion that has been stretched and elongated. Therefore, a large tensile stress is generated in the outer peripheral portion STO. Therefore, compared with the case where the outer peripheral deformation promoting portion FTO is not deformed, by forming the outer peripheral deformation promoting portion FTO in a manner that reduces tensile stress, it is possible to promote the deformation of the end portion ST into a helical shape.

[0061] In this embodiment, such as Figure 1C and Figure 1D As shown, the peripheral deformation promoting section FTO is composed of multiple recesses formed separately. By forming such recesses, the internal stress hindering stretching is reduced compared to the case without recesses, thus promoting the deformation of the end section ST into a spiral shape. It should be noted that in this embodiment, the peripheral section STO corresponds to the state before deformation ( Figure 1A The portion of the inner side facing the inner side opposite to the second leg S2.

[0062] In this embodiment, the groove and its inclined portion formed in the outer peripheral deformation promoting section FTO are formed symmetrically with the groove GP and its inclined portion IP formed in the inner peripheral deformation promoting section FTI, therefore the same reference numerals are used and the description is omitted. However, the structure of the deformation promoting section formed in the inner peripheral deformation promoting section FTI may be different from the structure of the deformation promoting section formed in the outer peripheral deformation promoting section FTO. For example, the structure of each recess formed in the inner peripheral deformation promoting section FTI and the outer peripheral deformation promoting section FTO (e.g., the length of the groove GP, the number of grooves GP, the width or depth of the groove formed in the groove GP, the inclination angle θ1 of the inclined portion IP, etc.) may also be different.

[0063] [Inclination angle of the inclined part]

[0064] The inventors of this application focus on the following aspects: Figure 2C As shown, the grooves GP formed in the outer circumferential deformation promoting section FTO and the inner circumferential deformation promoting section FTI, respectively, are formed in a manner where their extension directions are approximately parallel to the axial direction of the helix formed at the end section ST. This facilitates deformation towards the desired helical shape. If, in the deformed state, the extension direction of the grooves GP is not approximately parallel to the axial direction of the helix, for example, it is nearly perpendicular, then the stress balance acting on the upper and lower parts of the end section ST section is significantly disrupted, potentially preventing the formation of the desired helical shape.

[0065] Therefore, it is preferable to set the tilt angle θ1 of the tilted portion IP such that, when viewed from the side in the spiral-shaped state, the angle between the extension direction of the tilted portion IP and the axis of the spiral is approximately parallel. Here, the axis of the spiral is approximately the same as the extension direction of the first object G, so it can also be said that it is preferable to set the tilt angle θ1 of the tilted portion IP such that, when viewed from the side in the spiral-shaped state, the extension direction of the tilted portion IP is approximately parallel to the extension direction of the first object G.

[0066] The following, such as Figure 2B and Figure 2C As shown, when the diameter of the circle approximating the cross section of the first object G is set to D1, and the diameter of the circle approximating the cross section of the end portion in the state before deformation is set to D2 (where D2 is 75% or more and 125% or less of D1), it is preferable to set the inclination angle θ1 between the extension direction of the inclined portion IP and the extension direction DR3 of the end portion ST in the side view in the state before deformation to be 55 degrees or more and 85 degrees or less. The case in which the extension direction of the inclined portion IP is nearly parallel to the axis of the spiral (i.e., the extension direction of the first object G) by such a structure will be explained.

[0067] Here, when the first object G is a guide rope or the like, made of a thin resin material such as polypropylene twisted together, its cross-section is not always circular. In such cases, the diameter of the circle that approximates the outer perimeter of the first object G in its cross-section is called the diameter D1 of the circle that approximates the cross-section of the first object G. For example, the circle that approximates the cross-section of the first object G can be calculated using the least squares method based on multiple points constituting the outer perimeter of the cross-section of the first object G.

[0068] In this embodiment, the diameter D1 is, for example, 1.2 mm.

[0069] Therefore, the U-shaped nail S is a U-shaped nail capable of engaging with a first object G having a diameter D1. For example, if the strapping machine using the U-shaped nail S has a specification capable of engaging the two ends of the U-shaped nail S with a guide rope (“an example of the first object G”) encompassing a diameter D1, then the U-shaped nail S is a U-shaped nail capable of engaging with a first object G having a diameter D1. However, the U-shaped nail S may also be capable of engaging with a first object G having a diameter other than D1.

[0070] On the other hand, the end portion ST of the U-shaped nail S may also have a non-circular cross-section. In such cases, the diameter of the circle approximating the outer periphery of the end portion ST in the cross-section is obtained by using the least squares method, becoming the diameter D2 of the circle approximating the cross-section of the end portion ST. In this 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.

[0071] like Figure 2C As shown, in the side view of the deformed state, there is a first object G with a diameter D1 at the center, and end portions ST with a diameter D2 are provided on both sides of it. If the end portions ST wrap around the first object G, the height changes by approximately the amount of diameter D2. Taking this into account, the tilt angle of the end portions ST in the side view is approximately 8 degrees (when diameter D2 = 75% of diameter D1) to approximately 10 degrees (when diameter D2 = 125% of diameter D1), centered at approximately 9 degrees. Therefore, in Figure 1C In the side view of the state before deformation as shown, the inclined part IP is set with an inclination angle θ1 of about 80 degrees and less than 82 degrees relative to the extension direction of the end part ST. Thus, in the state after deformation, the extension direction of the inclined part IP is approximately parallel to the axis of the spiral (i.e. the extension direction of the first object G).

[0072] Here, the inventors of this application have discovered through experiments that a good spiral shape can be formed even when the tilt angle θ1 is about 80 degrees or less. One reason for this is the springback phenomenon that occurs after deformation into a spiral shape. Due to the springback phenomenon, at least a portion of the residual stress inside the end portion ST is released, and therefore the spiral forming portion ST is tightened (contracted) upwards in the stacking direction DR21 (upper Z1). Therefore, it has been confirmed that a particularly preferred spiral shape can be formed when the tilt angle θ1 is about 70 degrees, which is about 10 degrees smaller than the theoretical value. Furthermore, it has been confirmed that even if the extension direction of the tilt portion IP is not completely parallel to the axis of the spiral after deformation, as long as it is approximately parallel or nearly parallel, a certain degree of effect can be achieved.

[0073] On the other hand, experiments have confirmed that if the tilt angle θ1 is less than 55 degrees, then the tilt angle θ1 is too small. Therefore, regardless of the rebound phenomenon, there is a situation where the spiral forming part ST does not engage with the first object G with sufficient force.

[0074] Therefore, the side view in the state before deformation ( Figure 1C and Figure 1D In this case, the tilt angle θ1 of the inclined portion IP relative to the extension direction DR3 of the end portion ST is centered at 70 degrees, and can be 55 degrees or more and 85 degrees or less, preferably 60 degrees or more and 80 degrees or less.

[0075] [Forming area of ​​the deformation-promoting section]

[0076] like Figure 1C and Figure 1D As shown, the inner circumferential deformation promoting section FTI and the outer circumferential deformation promoting section FTO of this embodiment are each composed of 13 separately formed recesses (e.g., grooves GP). Here, the length along the extension direction DR3 from the end point S1P of the first leg S1 to the position where the first groove GP closest to the end point S1P is formed (the position closest to the end point S1P) is defined as L1, and the length along the extension direction DR3 from the position where the first groove GP is formed (the position closest to the end point S1P) to the position where the thirteenth groove GP furthest from the end point S1P is formed (the position furthest from the end point S1P) is defined as L2. L2 corresponds to the length of the region where the 13 grooves GP are formed.

[0077] Hereinafter, we will explain the length of L3, which is equivalent to the length of the region where the multiple recesses are formed along the extension direction DR3, when the diameter of the circle approximating the cross section of the first object G is set as D1 and the diameter of the circle approximating the cross section of the end portion in the state before deformation is set as D2 (where D2 is more than 75% and less than 125% of D1). Figure 1C and Figure 1D The preferred value is 7×D1 or higher (L3≥7×D1).

[0078] For example, the top view of the end part ST in the deformed state. Figure 2B As shown, the inner periphery STI of the end portion ST contacts and faces the first object G. Therefore, the inner periphery of the end portion of the end portion ST in one spiral stroke is approximately the circumference of a circle with diameter D1 that is approximately the same as the cross-section of the first object G, i.e., D1×π. On the other hand, the outer periphery of the end portion ST in one spiral stroke is approximately the circumference of a circle with diameter (D1+2D2), i.e., (D1+2D2)×π. Here, if we consider that the inner periphery STI of the end portion ST is compressed and the outer periphery STO is stretched, then by forming multiple recesses in a region that covers at least the average length of (D1+D2)×π, a deformation-promoting portion can be formed at least throughout the length of one spiral stroke.

[0079] Furthermore, since D2 is less than 125% of D1, (D1+D2)×π≤7.06×D1. Therefore, in the state before deformation of the end portion ST, by forming multiple recesses (e.g., grooves GP) along the extension direction DR3 throughout the region where L2≥7×D1, deformation can be appropriately promoted.

[0080] It should be noted that the distance between the grooved GPs can be appropriately deformed. For example, the distance between the grooved GPs can be increased by increasing the depth and / or width of the grooves of each grooved GP (thus reducing the total number of grooved GPs), and conversely, the distance between the grooved GPs can be decreased by decreasing the depth and / or width of the grooves of each grooved GP (thus increasing the total number of grooved GPs).

[0081] Next, it will be explained that at least a portion of the recess (groove GP) closest to the end S1P of the U-shaped nail S is preferably formed in the extending direction DR3 at a position of 1.4×D1 or more and 3.5×D1 or less from the end S1P.

[0082] The inventors of this application focused on the fact that the shape of the deformed end portion ST varies depending on the position of the recess (groove GP) closest to the end portion S1P. If the recess is formed at a position significantly away from the end portion S1P, the straight portion S12 may sometimes bend; on the other hand, if the recess is formed at a position extremely close to the end portion S1P, deformation may sometimes occur prematurely.

[0083] The inventors of this application conducted repeated experiments and concluded that when the end S1P initially travels forward X1 and abuts against the inner wall of the hole (described later) and travels along the inner wall in a spiral shape while changing direction in an arc, a large bending stress is exerted on the portion that begins to bend (i.e., the arc with a diameter (D1+D2) of 90 degrees or more and 180 degrees or less) from the point when the end S1P is approximately 90 degrees perpendicular to the direction of travel to the point when it is oriented in the opposite direction to forward X1, i.e., backward X2). Therefore, by forming the first deformation promoting part in this portion to provide an opportunity for bending, deformation into a spiral shape can be promoted.

[0084] Here, the length of the arc with a central angle of 90 degrees is approximately (D1+D2)×π / 4. Therefore, it is preferable that, in the state before deformation, at least a portion of the first recess (groove GP) is formed at a position where, from the end S1P along the extension direction DR3, 1.37×D1 (where D2 is 75% of D1) ≤ L1.

[0085] Therefore, with D1 being 1.2 mm and L1 being approximately 1.65 mm, it is preferable to form at least a portion of the first recess (e.g., the groove GP) at a position approximately 1.65 mm or more from the end S1P. This structure helps to prevent the U-shaped nail S from curling earlier than intended.

[0086] On the other hand, the length of the arc with a central angle of 180 degrees is approximately (D1+D2)×π / 2. Therefore, it is preferable that, in the state before deformation, at least a portion of the first recess (groove GP) is formed at a position where, from the end S1P along the extension direction DR3, it becomes 3.53×D1 (in the case where D2 is 125% of D1)≥L1.

[0087] Therefore, with D1 being 1.2 mm and L1 being approximately 4.24 mm, it is preferable to form at least a portion of the first recess (e.g., the groove GP) at a position approximately 4.24 mm or less from the end S1P. This structure helps to prevent the U-shaped nail S from bending due to pressure.

[0088] As described above, in the state before deformation, at least a portion of the recess closest to the end S1P of the U-shaped nail S is preferably formed at a position between 1.4×D1 and 3.5×D1 away from the end S1P.

[0089] However, as explained below, it is also possible to adjust the starting position of curling by using other structures formed besides the recess. In such a case, at least a portion of the recess closest to the end S1P of the U-shaped nail S in the pre-deformation state may not be formed at a position between 1.4 × D1 and 3.5 × D1 from the end S1P. For example, in Figure 1B In the case where the length of the inclined portion (an example of the "second part") in the extension direction DR3 of the end part ST, which is formed at an angle to connect the end part S1P and the portion with the recess (groove GP) (an example of the "first part"), is set to be relatively long (i.e., the angle of the end part S1P is relatively small), this inclined portion, as a deformation example, plays the same role as the thin-walled portion FT40 described later, and thus can promote deformation towards a spiral shape. In such a case, L1 can be larger than 3.5 × D1 from the end part S1P, and the first recess (e.g., the groove GP) closest to the end part S1P can be formed at a position adjacent to this inclined portion. Here, the first part, which is the portion with the recess, can also be a portion equivalent to the main part of the end part ST (e.g., a portion with a diameter approximately fixed to the diameter of a circle that approximates the cross-section in the state before deformation).

[0090] In the U-shaped nail S described above, the inventors of this application also focused on the optimal depth of the recess (groove GP). That is, if the recess is formed too shallow (reducing the depth of the recess), it is difficult to sufficiently reduce the compressive stress generated in the inner peripheral STI and the tensile stress generated in the outer peripheral STO, thus making it difficult to sufficiently promote the deformation of the end ST into a spiral shape. On the other hand, if the recess is formed too deep (increasing the depth of the recess), it will break due to the tensile stress generated in the outer peripheral STO, thus sometimes failing to engage with the first object G with sufficient force.

[0091] Therefore, the inventors of this application discovered the optimal depth GPD of the recess (groove GP) through experiments, etc. Figure 1E Specifically, when the diameter of the circle approximating the cross-section of the end portion ST in the pre-deformation state is set to D2, the depth GPD is preferably 0.03 × D2 or more to promote deformation. Furthermore, to suppress fracture, the depth GPD is preferably 0.22 × D2 or less. More preferably, the depth GPD is 0.15 × D2 or less; within this range, deformation to a stable helical shape can be achieved without fracture.

[0092] like Figure 1E As shown, the inventors of this application also focus on setting the inclined portion in such a way that the end S1P is positioned away from the outer peripheral portion STO and close to the inner peripheral portion STI.

[0093] In this way, by setting the end S1P at a position offset from the center of the cross-section of the main part of the connecting end ST towards the inner periphery STI, the end ST can be guided to move in a spiral direction.

[0094] It should be noted that when the inner peripheral portion STI and the outer peripheral portion STO of the end portion ST each have a side surface that is approximately a plane, the position that is far from the outer peripheral portion STO and close to the inner peripheral portion STI means that the distance between the side surface of the outer peripheral portion STO and the end portion S1P in the normal direction of that side surface (in this embodiment, the left-right direction Y) is greater than the distance between the side surface of the inner peripheral portion STI and the end portion S1P in the same direction.

[0095] As described above, according to the U-shaped nail S of this embodiment, in the portion that deforms into a spiral shape and engages with the first object G, both the inner peripheral portion STI and the outer peripheral portion STO of the end portion ST that becomes opposite to the first object G are provided with deformation promoting portions FT. Figure 2B As shown, in the deformed state, the inner circumferential portion STI is compressed, and the groove in the groove portion GP, ​​which is formed as the inner circumferential deformation promoting portion FTI, becomes so small that it is not visually discernible. Assuming that this portion would hinder compression without the deformation promoting portion FT, it can be understood that the deformation (coiling) towards a spiral shape is relatively promoted by the deformation promoting portion FT.

[0096] Similarly, in the deformed state, the outer peripheral portion STO elongates, and the groove of the groove portion GP, ​​formed as the outer peripheral deformation promoting portion FTO, expands significantly. Assuming that the deformation promoting portion FT is not provided, this portion would hinder elongation (stretching), thus it can be understood that the deformation promoting portion FT relatively promotes spiral deformation (coiling). However, as described above, this disclosure may only form either the inner peripheral deformation promoting portion FTI or the outer peripheral deformation promoting portion FTO, and the two may also have deformation promoting portions with different structures.

[0097] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the U-shaped nail S has a deformation-promoting portion FT only formed at the end ST of the first leg S1, and not formed on the second leg S2 and the main body S3, which do not deform into a spiral shape. Therefore, the strength of the straight portion S12, except for the end ST, can be maintained, and buckling of the straight portion S12 can also be suppressed. However, this does not prevent the formation of grooves or the like to promote deformation in the parts of these other portions that want to bend (e.g., the parts that become the fulcrum for bending the second leg S2).

[0098] [Structure of the strapping machine]

[0099] The following is an explanation of how to use... Figure 1A The U-shaped nail S shown is as follows Figures 2A to 2CThis is one example of the structure of the strapping machine 10, which is bent as shown. However, other known structures may also be used as the mechanism for deforming the end of the U-shaped nail into a spiral shape.

[0100] It should be noted that, apart from the fact that some parts of the structure are reversed left and right (i.e., the first displacement part and the second displacement part of the strapping machine disclosed in Patent Document 3 are reversed left and right), the basic structure of the strapping machine disclosed in Patent Document 3 is the same as that of the strapping machine 10 in this embodiment. Therefore, those skilled in the art can describe the various structures of the strapping machine 10 in a way that is appropriately omitted or simplified to the extent that it can be implemented based on the description in the above-mentioned patent documents and the technical level at the time of this application.

[0101] It should be noted that, for the sake of illustrating relative directional relationships and for convenience, sometimes... Figure 4 The direction to the right of the paper is called the front X1, and the opposite direction to the left of the paper is called the rear X2. The two directions are collectively referred to as the front-rear direction X. As mentioned above, the front X1 corresponds to the direction in which the upper U-shaped pin S supported by the pin cartridge 14 moves after separating from the other U-shaped pins S, and it is also consistent with the opening direction DR1.

[0102] Additionally, the forward direction perpendicular to the paper in this diagram is sometimes referred to as upper Z1, and the opposite depth direction perpendicular to the paper is referred to as lower Z2; both directions are collectively referred to as the vertical direction Z. In this embodiment, the vertical direction Z corresponds to the extension direction of the staple cartridge 14 and is also consistent with the connection direction DR2 (stack direction) of the connected U-shaped staples S supported by the staple cartridge 14. Furthermore, the direction upward on the paper in this diagram is sometimes referred to as left Y1, and the opposite downward direction is referred to as right Y2; both directions are collectively referred to as the left-right direction Y. Furthermore, "looking down" (or "looking up") refers to the viewpoint when observing the strapping machine 10 from the position above Z1 (below Z2) towards the position below Z2 (above Z1), "looking forward" (or "looking back") refers to the viewpoint when observing the strapping machine 10 from the position in front X1 (behind X2) towards the position in back X2 (front X1), and "looking to the left" (or "looking to the right") refers to the viewpoint when observing the strapping machine 10 from the position in left Y1 towards the position in right Y2 (or from the position in right Y2 towards the position in left Y1).

[0103] Figure 3 This is a 3D view of the strapping machine 10. Figure 4 This is a top view of the strapping machine 10 (however, for illustration purposes, the frame, housing, etc. of the strapping machine 10 are sometimes removed). The strapping machine 10 uses U-shaped nails S with openings to strap the first object G and the second object P.

[0104] The strapping machine 10 includes: a first displacement section 20 for displacing the first leg S1 of the U-shaped nail S in a manner capable of engaging with a first object G; and a second displacement section 30 for displacing the second leg S2 of the U-shaped nail S in a manner capable of engaging with the first object G. The first displacement section 20 is provided in front of the first leg S1 and has a hole having an inner wall surface including a cylindrical surface. As described later, when the first object G is inserted into the central axis of the cylindrical surface, the end S1P of the first leg S1 of the U-shaped nail S, which is advanced by the drive member 42, abuts (collides) with the inner wall surface, deforming the end ST into a spiral shape in a manner surrounding the first object G, thereby engaging the end ST with the first object G. On the other hand, the second displacement section 30 has a wall portion provided in front of the second leg S2.

[0105] As described below, with the first leg S1, second leg S2, and main body S3 of the U-shaped nail S surrounding the second object P, the strapping machine 10 causes the second leg S2 of the U-shaped nail S, which is advanced by the drive member 42, to abut (collide) against the wall. The hook S24 of the second leg S2 bends in a manner that engages with the first object G, thereby engaging the hook S24 with the first object G. The strapping machine 10 is configured such that, with the U-shaped nail S surrounding the second object P, both ends of the U-shaped nail S engage with the first object G, thereby enabling the strapping of the first object G and the second object P.

[0106] Specifically, the strapping machine 10 includes: a handle 12 that extends vertically for a user to hold and is equipped with a switch for driving the strapping machine 10; a staple cartridge 14 configured to support (hold) a plurality of U-shaped staples S stacked vertically; a push rod (not shown) that applies upward Z1 force to the plurality of U-shaped staples S housed in the staple cartridge 14; a drive member 42 that separates the upper U-shaped staple S from other U-shaped staples S and moves it forward X1 by pressing the upper U-shaped staple S in a forward X1 direction aligned with the opening direction DR1; a moving mechanism for moving the drive member 42; a first displacement portion 20 (sometimes called a "clamping portion") for bending and deforming the first leg S1 of the U-shaped staple S into a spiral shape; and a second displacement portion 30 for bending or folding and deforming the second leg S2 of the U-shaped staple S.

[0107] [Driver components and their moving mechanisms]

[0108] As described in the aforementioned patent documents, the strapping machine 10 is configured such that a ball screw 50, which extends approximately from the center of the strapping machine 10 in a front-to-back direction, is rotated clockwise or counterclockwise by a built-in electric motor 54, thereby enabling the nut component 52 and the drive member 42 fixed to the nut component 52 to move forward or backward. The nut component 52 and the drive member 42 are configured to move forward X1 and backward X2, and are therefore sometimes referred to as moving parts. It should be noted that the strapping machine 10 also includes a reducer connected to the output shaft of the electric motor 54 and a printed circuit board equipped with a CPU that corresponds to the control device of the electric motor 54.

[0109] The drive member 42 is configured such that, by moving forward X1, it can separate the uppermost U-shaped nail S among the plurality of U-shaped nails S held in the nail magazine 14 and stacked in the vertical direction, while maintaining the front-to-back relationship of the opening of the U-shaped nail S being in front and the main body S3 being behind, and move it forward X1. The drive member 42 is configured such that, by moving the separated U-shaped nail S further forward X1, the first leg S1 abuts against the first displacement part 20 (described later), thereby plastically deforming the first leg S1, and by abutting the second leg S2 against the guide wall included in the second displacement part 30 (described later), thereby plastically deforming the second leg S2.

[0110] [First displacement section]

[0111] The first displacement part 20 (an example of a "displacement part") functions to deform the first leg S1 of the U-shaped nail S, which moves forward X1 via the drive member 42, into a spiral shape to surround the first object G, thereby displacing it to engage with the first object G. However, the structure for deforming the U-shaped nail S, which moves forward X1 via the drive member 42, into a spiral shape can also be implemented by other known structures.

[0112] Based on the level of technology at the time of this application, including the aforementioned patent documents, those skilled in the art could easily implement it, therefore detailed descriptions are omitted. However, the first displacement portion 20 of this embodiment includes a hole and a groove (e.g., equivalent to the hole 210 and groove 211 in the aforementioned patent document 3). The hole has a cylindrical inner wall surface. The cylindrical inner wall surface is penetrated by the end S1P of the straight portion S12 of the first leg S1 of the U-shaped nail S, which is inserted as the drive member 42 advances. This causes the end ST of the first leg S1 to bend into an arc or spiral shape and move downward Z2 (downward DR22 in the stacking direction). The groove guides the end ST of the first leg S1 towards the hole. The hole is positioned in front X1 of the first leg S1 with the axial direction of the cylindrical surface parallel to the vertical direction Z. Therefore, by advancing the U-shaped nail S, the end S1P of the straight portion S12 abuts against the inner wall surface of the hole, allowing the end ST to move in a spiral shape according to the shape of the inner wall surface. It should be noted that, in order to facilitate the downward movement of the end portion ST to Z2, the strapping machine 10 may be provided with a cover portion that closes the upper part of the hole (top surface of the cylinder), and, in order to facilitate the downward movement of the end portion S1P to Z2, a conical surface that is inclined downward to Z2 along the circumferential direction may also be formed on the cover portion.

[0113] According to such a structure, for example, when the first object G, which serves as a guide rope, is arranged to extend in the vertical direction along the central axis of the hole, the end S1P of the first leg S1 is inserted into the hole. Thus, the end S1P travels in a spiral manner along the cylindrical inner wall surface of the hole. Therefore, the end ST can be deformed into a spiral shape with the first object G as the center, so that the end ST engages with the first object G.

[0114] Here, at the end portion ST, an inner circumferential deformation promoting portion FTI and an outer circumferential deformation promoting portion FTO are formed in a region extending from a position L1 away from the end portion S1P along the extension direction DR3 to a length L2, thereby promoting spiral deformation.

[0115] It should be noted that, in order to enhance the engagement between the first object G and the end portion ST of the first leg S1, the inner diameter of the inner wall surface of the hole is preferably less than the sum of twice the diameter D2 of the circle approximating the cross-section of the 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, a portion of the first object G or the U-shaped nail S is flattened, thereby enhancing the engagement between the U-shaped nail S and the first object G.

[0116] Figure 2D This is a perspective view showing the deformed state of the end part ST engaging with the first object G (the illustrations of the second leg S2 and the second object P are omitted). Figure 2EThis is a cross-sectional view (looking down) of the deformed end portion ST cut off by an imaginary plane parallel to the side direction.

[0117] like Figure 2E As shown, the recess (groove GP) formed as the inner circumferential deformation promoting part FTI deforms in a compressed and closed manner, so at least a portion of the first object G enters the interior of the recess (groove GP) and is held by the recess (groove GP). Therefore, the engagement between the U-shaped nail S and the first object G can be further enhanced by the inner circumferential deformation promoting part FTI.

[0118] [Second displacement section]

[0119] The second displacement portion 30 (an example of a "displacement portion") has the function of displacing the second leg S2 of the U-shaped nail S, which moves forward X1 via the drive member 42, in a manner that allows it to engage with the first object G. Based on the level of technology at the time of this application, including the aforementioned patent documents, those skilled in the art could easily implement this, therefore detailed descriptions are omitted. However, the second displacement portion 30 of this embodiment is configured such that, as the drive member 42 moves forward X1, the second leg S2 can be displaced inward toward the U-shaped nail S. Specifically, the second displacement portion 30 has a first guide wall, which is provided on the outside of the second leg S2 in an initial state before the displacement of the U-shaped nail S begins, for bending the second leg S2 by abutting against the second leg S2 of the U-shaped nail S moving in the opening direction DR1 (forward X1). The first guide wall has a recessed portion that is recessed toward the outside of the U-shaped nail S.

[0120] Furthermore, the second displacement portion 30 includes a second guide wall, which is initially positioned in front of the second leg S2 at X1 before the displacement of the U-shaped pin S begins. This guide wall bends the second leg S2 by abutting against the second leg S2 of the U-shaped pin S as it moves in the opening direction DR1. The second guide wall has a wall surface facing rearward at X2 and a protrusion protruding rearward at X2. In the initial state, this protrusion is positioned in front of the second leg S2 in the front-rear direction and inward on the inner side of the second leg S2 in the left-right direction, with its rearward protrusion increasing towards the inner end of the second guide wall.

[0121] According to this structure, the second leg S2 of the U-shaped nail S that moves forward through the drive member 42 can abut (collide) with the inner wall surfaces of the first guide wall and the second guide wall, thereby causing the third part S23 of the second leg S2 to bend in a large bending manner, so that the hook part S24 can be displaced in a direction closer to the first object G and hooked onto the first object G.

[0122] Thus, in the U-shaped nail S that moves forward via the drive member 42, the first leg S1 is deformed into a spiral shape by the first displacement part 20 and engages with the first object G, and the second leg S2 is hooked onto the first object G by the second displacement part 30 and engages with the first object G, thereby enabling the binding of the first object G and the second object P.

[0123] Here, according to this embodiment, by having a deformation promoting part FT, a U-shaped nail S that can be easily deformed into a spiral shape can be provided.

[0124] [First Variation]

[0125] Hereinafter, variations of the U-shaped nail S according to this embodiment will be described. However, the same reference numerals will be used to label structures identical to the U-shaped nail S, and detailed descriptions will be simplified or omitted, with the focus on the different parts (the same applies to other variations).

[0126] Figure 5A This is a perspective view of a first variation of the U-shaped nail S10. As shown in the figure, as an example of a deformation-promoting portion, i.e., a recess, the end portion ST10 of the U-shaped nail S10 has one or more recesses FT10 that are generally circular (including circular, oblong, elliptical, etc.) or rectangular (including rectangular, square, etc.) in side view and are recessed inward (towards the center of the cross-section of the end portion). When the end portion ST10 is deformed into a spiral shape, either the region that becomes the inner peripheral side or the region that becomes the outer peripheral side has a recess FT10.

[0127] Based on this structure, a U-shaped nail can also be provided, the end ST10 of which is easy to curl and deform into a spiral shape, thus suppressing the buckling of other parts relative to the load.

[0128] [Second variation]

[0129] Figure 5B This is a perspective view of a second variation of the U-shaped nail S20. As shown in the figure, a side surface is formed at the end portion ST20 of the U-shaped nail S20. This side surface is alternately formed with inclined surfaces facing forward and to the side, and inclined surfaces facing backward and to the side, in a triangular waveform when viewed from above. Therefore, the end portion ST20 of this variation of the U-shaped nail S20, as an example of a deformation-promoting portion, i.e., a recess, has one or more valley portions FT20 that are recessed inward by being connected by two inclined surfaces. When the end portion ST20 is deformed into a spiral shape, it has a valley portion FT20 that is recessed inward (to the center of the cross-section of the end portion) in either the region that is the inner peripheral side or the region that is the outer peripheral side. It should be noted that, instead of the triangular waveform, the side surface of the end portion ST20 can also be formed in the form of a curved surface or a serrated surface.

[0130] Based on this structure, a U-shaped nail can also be provided, the end ST20 of which is easy to curl and deform into a spiral shape, thus suppressing the buckling of other parts relative to the load.

[0131] [Third variation]

[0132] Figure 5C This is a perspective view of a third variation of the U-shaped pin S30. As shown in the figure, as an example of a deformation-promoting portion, i.e., a recess, the end portion ST30 of the U-shaped pin S30 has one or more constricted necks FT30 formed around the end portion ST30, or formed separately from each other. Each constricted neck FT30 has an inner side facing the inner side opposite to the second leg S2, and an upper side DR21 facing the stacking direction. Figure 2C The upper surface side, the outer side side facing the opposite side to the inner side side, and the DR22 (below the stacking direction) Figure 2C The lower surface of each part is formed as a recessed section towards the end ST.

[0133] Based on this structure, a U-shaped nail can also be provided, the end ST30 of which is easy to curl and deform into a spiral shape, thus suppressing the buckling of other parts relative to the load.

[0134] [Fourth variation]

[0135] Figure 5D This is a perspective view of the U-shaped nail S40, a fourth variation of the U-shaped nail S. As shown in the figure, as an example of a deformation-promoting part, i.e. a recess, the end portion ST40 of the U-shaped nail S40 has a thin-walled portion FT40, which is formed relatively thin in the lateral direction from the end to the outside side facing inward in a manner that makes the outside side recessed from the inside side.

[0136] Based on this structure, the rigidity of the end ST40 can also be reduced, so it is easy to curl and deform into a spiral shape, especially in the area containing the end S1P where bending begins. Therefore, it is possible to provide a U-shaped nail that can suppress the buckling of other parts.

[0137] Furthermore, this disclosure can be modified in various ways without departing from its spirit. For example, within the scope of ordinary inventiveness of those skilled in the art, some of the constituent elements of one embodiment can be added to other embodiments. In addition, some of the constituent elements of one embodiment can be replaced with corresponding constituent elements of other embodiments.

[0138] Various embodiments have been described above with reference to the accompanying drawings, but this disclosure is not limited to such examples. It is obvious to those skilled in the art that various modifications or alterations will arise within the scope of the claims, and these modifications or alterations naturally fall within the technical scope of this disclosure. Furthermore, the constituent elements of the above embodiments can be combined arbitrarily without departing from the spirit of the invention.

[0139] It should be noted that this application is based on Japanese patent application filed on March 18, 2024 (Japanese Patent Application No. 2024-042474), the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0140] Industrial utilization potential

[0141] According to this disclosure, a U-shaped nail that can be easily deformed into a spiral shape is provided.

[0142] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0143] 10 strapping machines

[0144] 12 hands

[0145] 14 staples

[0146] 20 First displacement section

[0147] 30 Second displacement section

[0148] 42 drive components

[0149] 52 Nut Components

[0150] 54 electric motors

[0151] D1 diameter

[0152] D2 diameter

[0153] DR1 opening direction

[0154] DR2 stacking direction, connection direction

[0155] DR3 extension direction

[0156] DR21 stacking direction above

[0157] DR22 stacking direction below

[0158] FT Deformation Promotion Department

[0159] FT10 recess

[0160] FT20 Tanibe

[0161] FT30 neck shrink

[0162] FT40 thin-walled section

[0163] FTI Inner Peripheral Deformation Promotion Department

[0164] FTO peripheral deformation promotion section

[0165] G is the first object.

[0166] GP groove

[0167] IP tilt section

[0168] P is the second object.

[0169] S, S10, S20, S30, S40 U-shaped nails

[0170] S1 First Leg

[0171] S11 Part 1

[0172] S12 Part 2 (Straight Line Section)

[0173] S1P terminal

[0174] ST end (spiral forming part)

[0175] STI inner peripheral area (contact area)

[0176] STO peripheral part

[0177] S2 Second Leg

[0178] S23 Part 3

[0179] S24 Part 4 (Hook)

[0180] S3 main body.

Claims

1. A U-shaped nail formed of a flexible wire, The U-shaped nail has an end portion that deforms into a spiral shape to surround an extending object, enabling it to engage with the object. in, In the deformed state, a deformation-promoting portion is formed in the inner periphery of the end portion that is opposite to the object, the outer periphery of the end portion on the side opposite to the inner periphery, or both the inner periphery and the outer periphery.

2. The U-shaped nail according to claim 1, wherein, The deformation-promoting part has a recess.

3. The U-shaped nail according to claim 2, wherein, The recess has a groove. In the state before the deformation, the groove has an inclined portion extending in a direction inclined relative to the extension direction of the end portion.

4. The U-shaped nail according to claim 3, wherein, In the state before deformation, the inclined portion is formed at an angle such that the closer it gets to the end of the U-shaped nail, the more it travels in a direction perpendicular to the extending direction of the end portion. The end portion is deformed into a spiral shape while moving in the vertical direction and surrounding the extended object.

5. The U-shaped nail according to claim 3, wherein, When viewed from the side in the state before deformation, the angle between the extending direction of the inclined portion and the extending direction of the end portion is 55 degrees or more and 85 degrees or less.

6. The U-shaped nail according to claim 5, wherein, When the diameter of a circle approximating the cross-section of the object is set as D1, and the diameter of a circle approximating the cross-section of the end portion in the state before deformation is set as D2, D2 is more than 75% and less than 125% of D1.

7. The U-shaped nail according to claim 2, wherein, The U-shaped nail has a plurality of recesses formed in a manner that are spaced apart from each other along the extension direction of the end portion.

8. The U-shaped nail according to claim 7, wherein, When the diameter of a circle approximating the cross-section of the object is set as D1, and the diameter of a circle approximating the cross-section of the end portion in the state before deformation is set as D2, D2 is more than 75% and less than 125% of D1. In the state before the deformation, a plurality of the recesses are formed throughout a region of 7×D1 or more along the extension direction of the end portion.

9. The U-shaped nail according to claim 2, wherein, When the diameter of a circle that approximates the cross-section of the object is set as D1, In the state before deformation, at least a portion of the recess closest to the end of the U-shaped nail is formed at a position between 1.4×D1 and 3.5×D1 from the end of the U-shaped nail.

10. The U-shaped nail according to claim 2, wherein, The end portion has a first part and a second part. The first part has the recessed portion. The second part is continuous with the first part and slopes towards the end. The recess is formed at a position adjacent to the second part.

11. The U-shaped nail according to claim 2, wherein, In the deformed state, at least a portion of the object is held by at least one of the recesses.

12. The U-shaped nail according to claim 2, wherein, The end of the end portion is offset towards the inner periphery from the axial center of the end portion.

13. The U-shaped nail according to claim 2, wherein, In the state before the deformation, when the diameter of a circle that approximates the cross-section of the end portion is set to D2, The depth of the recess is greater than 0.03×D2 and less than 0.22×D2.

14. The U-shaped nail according to claim 1, wherein, The U-shaped nail also has the following features: First leg; Second leg; and The main body connects the first leg and the second leg. The first leg has an end portion capable of engaging with the object.

15. The U-shaped nail according to claim 1, wherein, The deformation-promoting portion is formed only at the end portion.

16. The U-shaped nail according to claim 1, wherein, The end portion can engage with the object by deforming in a manner that surrounds at least one circumference of the object.

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