Method and apparatus for binding by means of metal wires

Abstract

The method for binding by means of metal wires (2, 2a, 2b) one or more element (3, 4), for example reinforcing rods, comprises the step of feeding in a feeding direction at least one metal wire (2, 2a, 2b) through a binding assembly (6) comprising a first clamping member (61), a second clamping member (62, 62a), a third clamping member (63, 63a) and a fixed shearing member (64), arranged according to a longitudinal axis (A). The wire (2, 2a, 2b) is then wound around the one or more elements (3, 4) by means of a forming assembly (5) connected to the binding assembly (6), the forming assembly (6) being configured to guide in a loop arrangement the wire (2, 2a, 2b) around the one or more elements (3, 4). The method then provides for operating a motor member (10), connected to the binding assembly (6) by interposing transmission means (11), to move the second clamping member (62, 62a) in a first translation stroke along the longitudinal axis (A), thereby locking a leading end (21 ) of the wire (2, 2a, 2b) wound into a loop, between facing surfaces, oriented in an inclined manner, in particular substantially orthogonal, to the longitudinal axis (A), respectively carried by the first clamping member (61) and by the second clamping member (62, 62a).

Description

DescriptionMETHOD AND APPARATUS FOR BINDING BY MEANS OF METAL WIRESTechnical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a method, an apparatus for binding by means of metal wires, as well as a binding resulting, in particular, from the method that is the subjectmatter of the invention.Prior art

[0002] Equipment is known that operates the binding, i.e. the joining, of one or more elements with metal wires, for example to make cages or metal reinforcing nets for reinforced cement, or protection nets, fences suitable for use in different technical sectors.

[0003] In the building sector, in particular, automatic or semi-automatic apparatuses are now widespread, which comprise a binding head and a forming assembly. The apparatus is brought close to the elements to be bound and the wire is fed through the binding head and along the forming assembly, to be wound around the elements to be bound. The wire is then cut and clamped, at opposing ends, by the binding head. Subsequently, the binding head is operated in rotation about a binding axis, while retaining the wire at its respective ends, in such a way as to twist respective trailing end portions in a braid protruding from the elements themselves.

[0004] International applications W02022059043 and W02022059044 on behalf of the Applicant illustrate some examples of automatic binding apparatuses. According to one of these examples, the apparatus comprises a binding head capable of clamping the ends of a piece of wire specially cut, through the folding of the same ends towards the element or elements to be bound. In particular, the head end and trailing ends are clamped by corresponding portions of a first member and a second member of the binding head, by a relative motion of translation, and twisted around a longitudinal axis of binding, following an integral rotation motion of the aforementioned first member and the second member. Furthermore, said apparatus comprises a forming and guiding assembly that can receive a pair of wires through respective winding paths, in particular crossed around the elements to be bound. This known apparatus is in fact capable of feeding two wires simultaneously, so as to achieve a single double crossed binding by means of the aforementioned binding head.

[0005] The binding obtained with these known solutions is adequately clamped, very robust and effective. It has a portion of wire or wires wound around the elements and a twisted portion, protruding from the elements themselves.

[0006] In certain sectors, in particular in the construction sector, there is a need to obtain ever more compact bindings. More precisely, the extension of the twisted portion guarantees strength and stability to the binding, but at the same time represents a problem, as it mustnot protrude at all from the layer of cement that is normally cast on the reinforcing elements joined by the binding, in fact it must be as much as possible below the surface of the cast. In practice, the cement layer must also completely protect the binding, to prevent it from deteriorating due to exposure to the external environment. Therefore, the twisted portion, called "braid", must have the minimum height adapted to guarantee the strength required by the specific application, and at the same time it must remain immersed in the cement cast as much as possible, to correspondingly increase the height of the so-called "iron cover", which is the layer of cast that remains above the top of the binding.

[0007] For the same purpose, the need is felt to use in a versatile way, with the same apparatus, wires of different diameters, in order to make bindings with the characteristics of strength and compactness required from time to time. In fact, the apparatuses of known type do not currently allow wires of any diameter to be used except within a narrow range.Presentation of the invention

[0008] The task of the present invention is that of solving the aforementioned problems, devising a method, an apparatus for binding by means of metal wires and a binding, which allow bindings to be made which are strong and at the same time compact.

[0009] Within the scope of this task, it is a further object of the present invention to provide an apparatus for binding by means of metal wires of simple constructional and functional design, provided with safe and reliable use, as well as a relatively economical cost.

[0010] A further object of the present invention is to provide an apparatus for binding by means of metal wires, which is versatile in use, in particular which is easily adaptable to the different applications required, in particular to materials of different cross-section.

[0011] It is a further object of the present invention to provide apparatus for making a binding that is robust, compact, and reliably repeatable.

[0012] The cited objects are achieved, according to the present invention, by the method for binding by means of metal wires according to claim 1 , by the apparatus for binding by means of metal wires according to claim 10 as well as by the binding according to c laim 25.

[0013] The method according to the invention for binding by means of metal wires one or more elements, for example reinforcing rods, comprises the step of feeding in a feeding direction at least one metal wire through a binding assembly comprising a first clamping member, a second clamping member, a third clamping member and a fixed shearing member, arranged according to a longitudinal axis.

[0014] The method then provides for wrapping the wire around said one or more elements by means of a forming assembly, connected to the binding assembly, configured to guide in a loop arrangement the wire around said one or more elements.

[0015] A motor member, connected to the binding assembly by interposing transmission means,is then operated to move the second clamping member in a first translation stroke along the longitudinal axis, thereby locking one leading end of the wire wound into a loop, between facing surfaces, oriented transversely, in particular substantially orthogonally, to the longitudinal axis, respectively carried by the first clamping member and by the second clamping member.

[0016] The motor member is then further operated to move the third clamping member relative to the second clamping member, in a second translation stroke along the longitudinal axis, thereby shearing the wire at a trailing end, interposed between a shearing portion carried by the third clamping member in motion and the fixed shearing member.

[0017] The motor member is then operated to further move the third clamping member relative to the second clamping member, in a third translation stroke along the longitudinal axis, thereby locking the trailing end between further facing surfaces, oriented transversely, in particular substantially orthogonal, to the longitudinal axis, respectively carried by the first clamping member and by the third clamping member.

[0018] The motor member is then operated to move the first clamping member, the second clamping member and the third clamping member in an integral motion of rotation, thereby twisting the wire around the longitudinal axis and thus obtaining a clamped binding around said one or more elements.

[0019] Preferably, the step of moving the second clamping member in the first translation stroke provides for integrally moving the second clamping member and the third clamping member.

[0020] Preferably, the step of moving the third clamping member in the aforementioned second translation stroke and / or in the third translation stroke takes place while the second clamping member is locked to the translation, along the longitudinal axis.

[0021] Preferably, the step of integrally moving the second clamping member and the third clamping member in the first translation stroke provides for locking the leading end of the wire wound into a loop between a first foot protruding from the first clamping member and a clamping portion carried by the second clamping member. The first foot and the clamping portion respectively carry the aforementioned facing surfaces.

[0022] Preferably, the step of further moving the third clamping member relative to the second clamping member, in the aforementioned third translation stroke, provides for locking the trailing end between a second foot protruding from the first clamping member and the shearing portion carried by the third clamping member. The second foot and the shearing portion carry the aforementioned further facing surfaces, respectively. In this step, advantageously and preferably, the second clamping member is stopped, adapted to lock the leading end of the wire, in cooperation with the first clamping member, as indicated above.

[0023] Preferably, before the step of shearing the wire, there is the further step of retracting the wire fed in a direction opposite to the feeding direction, to stretch it around said one or more elements. This is possible, thanks to the clamping of the leading end of the wire, operated by the first clamping member and the second locking member.

[0024] Preferably, the method comprises the further step, subsequent to the step of retracting the wire, of feeding again a controlled section of wire in the feeding direction, to stretch the wire in a controlled manner around said one or more elements. This step aims at preventing the trailing end of the wire from escaping from the locking of the first clamping member and the third clamping member, in particular in the subsequent binding steps, due to the elastic pullback that could result from the tension to which the wire is subjected.

[0025] According to a particular aspect, the first translation stroke, the second translation stroke, and the third translation stroke are operated at least in part sequentially.

[0026] The apparatus according to the invention, for binding by means of metal wires one or more elements, for example reinforcing rods, comprises a forming assembly configured to guide at least one metal wire in a loop arrangement around said one or more elements, a binding assembly comprising a passage for the wire towards said forming assembly and therefrom, a motor member arranged to operate the binding assembly in motion, transmission means placed between the motor member and the binding assembly to transmit and / or transform the aforementioned motion.

[0027] The binding assembly comprises a first clamping member arranged along a longitudinal axis, a second clamping member, a third clamping member bearing a shearing portion and a fixed shearing member, arranged around the longitudinal axis.

[0028] The second clamping member is movable in a first translation stroke along the longitudinal axis, to bring a pair of facing surfaces closer, oriented transversely, in particular substantially orthogonal, to the longitudinal axis, respectively carried by the first clamping member and by the second clamping member, and thus lock therebetween a leading end of the wire.

[0029] Preferably in the aforementioned first translation stroke, the second clamping member and the third clamping member are integrally movable. Alternatively, they move completely sequentially along the longitudinal axis.

[0030] The third clamping member is movable in a second translation stroke along the longitudinal axis, relative to the second clamping member, to bring the shearing portion closer to the fixed shearing member and thus shearing the wire at one trailing end.

[0031] The third clamping member is preferably further movable in a third translation stroke along the longitudinal axis, relative to the second clamping member, to bring further facing surfaces closer, oriented inclined, in particular substantially orthogonal, to the longitudinal axis, respectively carried by the first clamping member and the third clamping member,and thus lock therebetween the aforementioned trailing end.

[0032] In practice, since the aforementioned facing surfaces that block the leading end and trailing end of each wire are oriented transversely, in particular orthogonal, to the longitudinal axis, they block the free ends of the wire in a corresponding configuration, therefore transverse to the longitudinal axis. In other words, the free ends of the binding obtained are not folded along the longitudinal axis, therefore towards the elements to be bound.

[0033] The first clamping member is movable by a rotational motion, integrally with the second clamping member and with the third clamping member, to twist the wire around the longitudinal axis.

[0034] The first clamping member preferably carries protrudingly a first foot configured to have one said surface facing the second clamping member for locking the leading end of the wire.

[0035] The first clamping member preferably carries protrudingly a second foot configured to have a said further surface facing the third clamping member to lock the said trailing end of the wire.

[0036] The aforementioned transmission means preferably include a helical pair, comprising a first element, adapted to receive the motion from the motor member, and a second element, coupled to the first element, for transforming a rotational motion received from said motor member in the aforementioned translation strokes.

[0037] Said first element is preferably made up of a crown provided with internal thread, while the second element is preferably made up of a rim provided with an external thread and inserted coaxially inside the first element, in such a way that said threads are coupled. The second element is integral with the third clamping member.

[0038] The aforementioned first element is preferably made up of a screw member, externally provided with a first wire thread and a second thread, staggered. The second element is then made up of a pair of pins fixed transversely to a portion, respectively, of the second clamping member and of the third clamping member, each pin being coupled to one of the first thread and the second thread.

[0039] Said transmission means may also comprise a guide body fixedly arranged around the third clamping member and comprising at least one longitudinal channel, at least one guide pin, carried by the third clamping member and at least one groove carried externally by the first clamping member. In this case, the guide pin engages the channel and the groove by opposing portions, to guide the motion of the third clamping member.

[0040] The aforementioned groove preferably has at least one straight section that develops parallel to the longitudinal axis.

[0041] The aforementioned groove preferably comprises an end section with an oblique coursewith respect to the aforementioned longitudinal axis, to make a binding with curved free ends. More precisely, the aforementioned free ends have a curved course, even if lying on a transverse plane, in particular orthogonal to the longitudinal axis, due to the locking effect operated by the aforementioned facing surfaces.

[0042] Preferably the second clamping member is connected to the third clamping member by the interposition of elastic means, arranged so as to exert an elastic compressive force, parallel to the longitudinal axis. In particular, the action of the elastic means ensures that the second clamping member keeps the locking of the leading ends of the wire or wires firmly effective, remaining stationary at the same axial height, in which the leading ends remain oriented according to the abutting facing surfaces of the first clamping member. At the same time, the third clamping member can move further along the axial direction, independently operating the further steps involving the trailing ends of the wires.

[0043] The second clamping member and the third clamping member preferably cooperate to form a tubular cylindrical shape member.

[0044] The first clamping member is preferably inserted coaxially inside the second clamping member and the third clamping member.

[0045] Preferably the apparatus comprises guide means interposed between the second clamping member, the third clamping member and the fixed shearing member, to ensure a correct succession of the operating steps of shearing and locking of each wire trailing end.

[0046] The first clamping member preferably carries protrudingly a pair of first feet and a pair of second feet, for locking, in cooperation with the second clamping member and the third clamping member, one leading end and one trailing end of at least one pair of wires.

[0047] In fact, the apparatus according to the invention is also configured to receive separately, along a pair of distinct, preferably crossed, forming paths, at least one pair of distinct wires.

[0048] Each forming path can be traversed by one or more distinct wires, fed together, that is, cast as if they were a single wire, adjacent to each other, along the aforementioned forming path.

[0049] Within said pair of forming paths, wires of different transverse dimensions can be fed, for example a wire having a first diameter on a forming path and a wire having a second diameter, different from the first, on a second forming path, in such a way as to make double crossed bindings with at least one pair of wires of different transverse dimensions.

[0050] The apparatus can also be used to make simple bindings, with one or more wires wound along a single forming path, selected from the aforementioned pair of forming paths.

[0051] This allows a very versatile use of the apparatus and consumable materials, such as binding wires.

[0052] According to a prerogative of the invention, a single motor member carried by the apparatus actuates the different components of the binding assembly according to at least partially sequential motions, in particular translation.

[0053] In summary, the binding assembly comprises the first clamping member movable according to a rotation motion.

[0054] In addition, it comprises the aforementioned second and third clamping members, inserted axially around the first clamping member and movable in sequence according to respective translation motions, for sequentially clamping, respectively, the leading end and trailing end of each fed wire.

[0055] Furthermore, according to a particular and advantageous aspect of the invention, during the execution of said sequence and before clamping on one or more trailing ends, the third clamping member, independently of the other clamping members, operates the shearing of each wire.

[0056] In particular, as previously stated, the tightening of the leading ends and trailing ends of the fed wires, necessary to allow the subsequent twisting, takes place by clamping the ends themselves. More precisely, the aforementioned locking can take place without having to operate on a bending of the wire ends, in particular towards the elements to be bound, as is the case in the prior art. The locking of the free ends of the wires by means of clamping can therefore have the advantageous result of containing the height of the binding.

[0057] Furthermore, the bending of the trailing ends of the wires, particularly towards the elements to be bound, requires spaces, particularly along the longitudinal axis of the binding, to move the relative bending members. Therefore, locking by stapling alone can help to contain the manoeuvring spaces of the clamping members, also for this reason reducing the height of the binding.

[0058] More precisely, the absence of a locking by bending the wire ends, in particular towards the elements to be bound, is extremely advantageous, as it reduces wire consumption and achieves a binding that is extremely compact in height.

[0059] The binding obtained can thus have a particular "cross" shape, very advantageous in that it has a minimum height, which, in the binding sector for reinforcements used in construction, remains more protected by the layer of concrete constituting the iron cover.

[0060] The iron cover, in fact, creates a protective layer for the reinforcement by sealing the steel which, in the absence of oxygen, remains protected from atmospheric agents. In this way, any corrosive phenomenon already in progress is blocked or delayed. The strength characteristics for which the reinforcing was designed are thus preserved intact. Over time, the inevitable environmental agents, such as pollution, settlements, impacts, earth movements, thermal expansions, will open microcracks creating a passage for oxygenand moisture, generating phenomena such as corrosion and / or carbonation of the concrete. In particular, the increase in volume due to the freezing of the infiltrated water and the oxidation of the iron represent unstoppable degenerative phenomena. In this regard, the binding wires also represent a great danger, constituting an easy passage to corrosion. As the bindings are generally very numerous in the reinforcements and are facing outwards with respect to the reinforcements themselves, therefore less protected by the concrete, they can constitute multiple triggers for cracking, favouring the corrosion of the wire and the reinforcement connected to it.

[0061] For this reason, the binding according to the invention represents an advantage, as it has a reduced height, compared to known bindings which, having the trailing ends of the wires bent, in particular towards the reinforcement, protrude more in height than the reinforcement. Consequently, with the binding according to the invention, the part of it that surmounts and, therefore, insulates the binding itself is greater, with the same thickness of the iron cover that covers the reinforcement.

[0062] Likewise, as stated above, it is observed that the free ends of the binding according to the invention can be arranged in the shape of a substantially flat "cross", orthogonal to the axis of the braid, i.e. the longitudinal axis of the binding, with a substantially radial or curved orientation.

[0063] Within the aforementioned geometry, characterized by the trailing ends of the binding substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the binding, there is a slightly conical geometry, "with an arrowhead", both towards the elements to be bound and in the opposite direction.

[0064] More precisely, the binding according to the invention is obtained by means of at least one piece of metal wire arranged, in particular clamped, around one or more elements to be bound, for example reinforcement bars for reinforcements, having a free terminal leading end and trailing end.

[0065] The binding comprises a portion wound into a loop, a portion twisted around a longitudinal axis, to which opposing branches of the wound portion converge, the leading end and trailing end protruding radially from the twisted portion and being oriented on a substantially orthogonal or conical plane with respect to the longitudinal axis.

[0066] Preferably, the leading end and trailing end of the wires are arranged on an ideal conical surface, within 5° of the aforementioned plane orthogonal to the longitudinal axis.

[0067] Preferably, the leading end and trailing end protrude from the twisted portion following an at least partially radial course with respect to the longitudinal axis.

[0068] The leading end and trailing end may protrude from the portion twisted in a curved manner, remaining oriented substantially orthogonally or conically relative to the longitudinal axis.

[0069] Alternatively, the aforesaid leading end and trailing end may lie on a substantially conical surface deviating from a plane orthogonal to the aforesaid longitudinal axis by an angle of up to 5°.Description of the drawings

[0070] The details of the invention will become more apparent from the detailed description of a preferred embodiment of the apparatus for binding by means of metal wires according to the invention, illustrated by way of example in the accompanying drawings, in which: figures 1 and 2 show a perspective view and a side view of the apparatus according to the invention, wherein at least in part a protective enclosure is removed; figures 3 and 4, 5 and 6, show respectively a front and perspective view of an axial portion of an operating assembly of the apparatus according to the invention, in different operating steps; figures 7 to 16, 18 and 19 respectively show perspective views, from different angles, of components or assemblies of components of the operating assembly illustrated in figures 3 to 6; figure 17 shows a perspective view of a component illustrated in figures 15 and 16; figures 20 to 27 show an axial portion of the operating assembly illustrated in figures 3 to 6, in different binding operating steps; figure 28 shows a perspective view of a binding for joining a pair of overlapping and crossed elements, made with the use of the apparatus according to the invention; figures 29, 30 and 31 respectively show a front view of an axial portion of the binding assembly, in certain operating steps; figures 32 to 35 respectively show a front view of a portion of the binding assembly, in different operating steps, by means of a pair of incident axial planes; figure 36 shows in a sectional view according to a plane comprising a longitudinal binding axis, oblique with respect to the longitudinal axes of the elements to be bound, a wire wound around a first and a second element, in a binding made according to a type of known art and in a binding made by means of the method and the apparatus according to the invention; figure 37 shows a perspective view of a component of said binding assembly according to a further embodiment; figures 38 and 39 respectively show a perspective view, from different angles, of further components of the binding assembly according to the same further embodiment; figures 40, 41 , 42 show respectively an axial sectional view of the aforementioned binding assembly according to the same further embodiment, in subsequent operating steps; figure 43 shows a perspective view of a component of the binding assembly in a third embodiment of the apparatus according to the invention, in a step of binding a first and asecond element; figure 44 shows a perspective view of a pair of components of the same binding assembly according to the third embodiment of the apparatus according to the invention; figures 45 and 46 respectively show the binding obtained by using the apparatus according to the third embodiment, in the absence and presence of a pair of elements thus bound; figure 47 shows a sectional view according to a plane containing the binding axis, oblique with respect to the longitudinal axes of the elements to be bound, the elements themselves with a wire wound in a different binding obtained according to the method and by means of the apparatus according to the invention.Description of embodiments of the invention

[0071] With particular reference to the figures, the apparatus for binding a first element 3 and, preferably, a second element 4 by means of metal wires 2 is indicated with 1. The elements to be bound are preferably of elongated shape, such as for example crossed or parallel overlapping reinforcement elements (see figure 28).

[0072] The apparatus can also be used in other fields, for example to make the closure of a single element, of rigid or deformable material, such as for example the trailing end of a sack.

[0073] The apparatus 1 comprises a forming assembly 5, for guiding wires 2 around the elements 3, 4 to be bound, and a binding assembly 6. In particular, the forming assembly 5 serves to guide each wire 2 through a substantially curvilinear path, for winding around the elements to be bound (see figures 1 , 20 and 21 ).

[0074] More precisely, the forming assembly 5 guides each wire 2, allowing it to be wound in an annular shape around the elements 3, 4 to be bound.

[0075] For this purpose, the forming assembly 5 preferably comprises a first fork 51 and a second guide fork 52 for forming the winding of a first wire 2a and a second wire 2b, separately. For both the first wire 2a and the second wire 2b, respectively, a respective assembly of wires 2 is meant, that are fed together along a same path, in an adjacent and parallel manner, defined by a same fork 51 , 52.

[0076] Each fork 51 , 52 comprises a pair of prongs, traversed by the wires 2a, 2b for winding them around the elements 3, 4.

[0077] The aforementioned prongs can be fixed or movable, for example hinged to the body of the apparatus, to tilt between an open condition and a closed condition.

[0078] More precisely, in the case where the prongs are fixed, as illustrated in the figures, they have a space between their respective free ends, wherein each wire 2 is therefore "thrown" to pass from one free end to the other. Conversely, in the case of movable prongs, the wire 2 is fully guided from one prong to the other placed in the closedcondition.

[0079] The binding assembly 6 is contained inside a casing 7, adapted to also house, preferably, the operating member of the binding assembly 6, as described in detail below.

[0080] The apparatus 1 can be shaped like a portable tool, for example in the shape of a gun (see figure 1), to be transported by an operator, or carried by a preferably articulated arm, controlled by a special control assembly, to automatically reach a plurality of areas where binding activities are required. If the apparatus is in the form of a portable tool, it preferably comprises a handle 8 and a control member 9, preferably an activation lever or trigger, to activate the binding cycle or a step thereof, as described in detail below.

[0081] The apparatus 1 can advantageously be associated with a wire feeding assembly 2, preferably integrated in an assembly external to the casing 7. More precisely, it is possible to provide that the feeding assembly receives one or more wires 2 from one or more coils, also housed externally to the casing 7, to lead them through the forming assembly 5 and the binding assembly 6.

[0082] Preferably, the apparatus 1 can simultaneously receive the first wire 2a and the second wire 2b, each having a respective end, fed separately through a first winding path and a second winding path, defined by the forming assembly 5 through the first fork 51 and the second fork 52, as described below.

[0083] More precisely, the first winding path and the second winding path are preferably incident, i.e. crossed, not parallel.

[0084] Preferably the first winding path and the second winding path are defined through the first fork 51 and the second fork 52 in the forming assembly 5 on a pair of incident planes, preferably substantially orthogonal, so as to guide the first wire 2a and the second wire 2b along correspondingly crossed windings, around the element or elements to be bound (see figure 1 ).

[0085] More precisely, the first winding path and the second winding path are staggered, or one is slightly wider than the other, so as to avoid collisions when opposing branches of wire cross in the winding.

[0086] The pair of incident planes, mentioned above, have in common an axis that, during the binding step, coincides with a longitudinal axis A of the apparatus around which the binding is made (see figure 20).

[0087] In addition, the projections of the axes of the first element 3 and the second element 4 divide each plane orthogonal to the aforementioned longitudinal axis A into four quadrants that can be crossed two by two in opposite directions, by the first wire 2a and the second wire 2b, to achieve a cross-binding around the elements 3, 4.

[0088] In the following, however, reference will be made, for simplicity of illustration, to the interaction of the operating members of the apparatus 1 with a generic wire 2, it beingunderstood, as anticipated, that the apparatus 1 can be shaped for the feeding of a single wire or of several wires fed together.

[0089] Furthermore, it is understood that the apparatus 1 is also configured to feed a pair given by the first wire 2a or by an assembly of wires 2a and by the second wire 2b or by an assembly of wires 2b, fed along respectively distinct paths, crossed, through the first fork51 and the second fork 52. In particular, it is understood that the same structural and functional provisions described for the generic wire 2 apply in the interactions with each first wire 2a and each second wire 2b interchangeably, fed along the separate winding paths present on the apparatus 1 .

[0090] It should also be noted that the apparatus 1 , while being structured to receive and bind by means of wires 2a and wires 2b together, can also function to bind with a single wire, indistinctly the first wire 2a or the second wire 2b or respective assemblies of wires 2 fed and then formed together along a single fork 51 , 52.

[0091] The apparatus 1 is therefore adapted to bind the first element 3 and, preferably, the second element 4. In the case of a first element 3 and a second element 4 to be bound, the binding is preferably carried out at a zone of mutual overlap or intersection.

[0092] The elements to be bound can have transverse dimensions, in particular diameters, varying within a wide range, for example between 4 and 60 mm.

[0093] "Binding" means the product of twisting around a binding axis coinciding with the longitudinal axis A of the apparatus, of opposing branches of at least one piece of wire 2 that is wound around the first element 3 and / or the second element 4, until clamping, according to the needs of use, the winding area or, in the case of several elements, the area of mutual overlap of the elements to be bound.

[0094] Figure 28 illustrates for example the case of a binding 200 made by the method and the apparatus according to the invention, starting from the first wire 2a and the second wire 2b crossed and wound around the first element 3 and the second element 4, overlapping crossed-over. The binding 200 comprises, in particular, a twisted portion 23 or braid, from which the free ends of the wire protrude, a leading end 21 and a trailing end 22. The aforementioned opposing branches of each wound portion 24 converge at the twisted portion 23.

[0095] The forming assembly 5 is preferably connected to a trailing end portion of the apparatus, which can be protected by the casing 7, by means of coupling means of known type, preferably of the quick coupling type (see figures 1 and 2), to allow a rapid replacement and manage the widest range of transverse dimensions, in particular diameters, of the elements to be bound.

[0096] As previously stated, the forming assembly 5 comprises a first fork 51 and a second fork52 for forming and guiding, respectively for bending the first wire 2a and the second wire2b (see figure 1 ).

[0097] Each fork 51 , 52 may usefully comprise a specially curved entry track 53 and an exit track 54. The forming assembly 5 can also comprise a guide roller 55, arranged at an initial section of the entry track 53, so as to meet the wire 2 and facilitate its bending and winding (see for example figures 20 and 21 ).

[0098] The binding assembly 6 comprises a first clamping member 61 , a second clamping member 62 and a third clamping member 63, cooperating for clamping the wire 2. The binding assembly 6 also includes a fixed shearing member 64, cooperating with the third clamping member 63 for shearing each wire 2 at a respective trailing end (see in particular figure 21).

[0099] The first clamping member 61 is inserted axially inside the second clamping member 62 and the third clamping member 63 which, in turn, are arranged around the same longitudinal axis A.

[0100] The first clamping member 61 preferably forms a shaft, while the second clamping member 62 and the third clamping member 63 preferably cooperate to form a tubular member of cylindrical shape (see figures 11 and 12).

[0101] The fixed shearing member 64 is in turn inserted around the second clamping member 62 and the third clamping member 63. It preferably forms an annular body made integral with the casing of the apparatus 1 .

[0102] The fixed shearing member 64 also forms an outlet duct 640 for the access of the wire 2 towards the respective winding path defined by the respective fork 51 , 52 (see in particular figures 10 and 20).

[0103] In essence, thanks to the four indicated components, the binding assembly 6 can operate the cutting of the wire 2, thus defining a piece delimited by the leading end 21 and trailing end 22, as well as the clamping of the aforementioned trailing ends and the twisting of opposing branches of the wire 2, adjacent to the clamped ends, around the longitudinal axis A of the apparatus, to form the binding 200.

[0104] More precisely, the first clamping member 61 cooperates with the second clamping member 62 to clamp the wire leading end or leading ends 21 .

[0105] The third clamping member 63 cooperates with the fixed shearing member 64 to shear each wire 2 and define the trailing end or trailing ends 22 thereof.

[0106] Furthermore, the third clamping member 63 cooperates with the first clamping member 61 to clamp the sheared trailing end or trailing ends 22.

[0107] To perform these functions, of clamping, shearing and binding, the apparatus 1 comprises a motor member 10, in particular a motor or a gearmotor, adapted to operate in motion the first clamping member 61 , the second clamping member 62 and the third clamping member 63.

[0108] The motor member 10 is preferably arranged along the longitudinal axis A, for example inside the casing 7, if provided (see figure 2).

[0109] The motor member 10 is connected to the three operating members of the binding assembly 6, the first clamping member 61 , the second clamping member 62 and the third clamping member 63, by means of transmission means 11 , to transmit and / or transform the generated rotational motion, as described in detail below.

[0110] In particular, the transmission means 11 have the task of transmitting the rotational motion operated by the motor member 10 in the binding step, and of transforming it into a translational motion in the clamping and cutting steps of each wire 2.

[0111] The transmission means 11 preferably include a helical pair, comprising a first element 12, adapted to receive the motion from the motor member 10, and a second element 13, coupled to the first element 12, to transfer the received rotational motion or to transform it into translational motion, as described below (see for example figures 3 to 6).

[0112] In the case illustrated for example, the first element 12 is made up of a crown provided with internal thread, supported by the body of the apparatus 1 by interposition of revolving support means 14 (see figure 21).

[0113] The second element 13 is for example made up of a rim with external thread, inserted coaxially inside the first element 12, so that the respective threads are coupled.

[0114] The transmission means 11 also preferably include a guide body 15 and a guide pin 16, which perform the function of guiding the aforementioned translational motion, in particular the descent along the longitudinal axis A of the third clamping member 63 with respect to the first clamping member 61 , as well as allowing the integral rotation of the clamping members 61 , 62, 63 in the twisting step (see figures 3 to 6 in particular).

[0115] More precisely, the guide body 15, which is preferably shaped like a collar, is fixedly arranged around the third clamping member 63, being longitudinally interposed between the first element 12 and the fixed shearing member 64.

[0116] The guide body 15 internally includes at least one longitudinal channel 17, preferably a pair of longitudinal, angularly spaced, e.g. diametrically opposite, channels 17.

[0117] The third clamping member 63 in turn carries the pin 16, preferably a pair of pins 16, protruding externally to slidably engage each channel 17. The coupling between each pin 16 and each channel 17 allows the longitudinal descent of the third clamping member 63 to be guided, operated by the motor member 10 by means of the first element 12 and the second element 13 of the transmission means 11.

[0118] The channel 17, which therefore at the same time acts as a rotation locking member for the third clamping member 63, is open on the peripheral edges of the collar 15. Therefore, the pin 16 is free to come out of it, at the end of the downward translational motion of the third clamping member 63 itself (see figure 5).

[0119] Furthermore, it should be noted that between the guide body 15 and the fixed shearing member 64 there is longitudinally interposed a free space at least equal to the transverse dimension of the pin 16, useful to allow the free rotation of the third clamping member 63 about the longitudinal axis A.

[0120] Each pin 16 also engages a corresponding groove 18 obtained on the outer surface of the first clamping member 61. Preferably, the first clamping member 61 comprises a pair of grooves 18, angularly spaced around the longitudinal axis A of the member itself (see figure 3).

[0121] Each groove 18 has a profile open on an inlet side, and a profile closed on an opposing side. More precisely, each groove 18 preferably forms, starting from the aforementioned open side, a first straight section 180, a second curved section 181 and a third straight section 182, the straight sections being substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis A (see figure 8).

[0122] Preferably, the first section 180 serves to allow the assembly of the aforementioned components, in particular the engagement of the pin 16 between the first clamping member 61 and the third clamping member 63. The second inclined section 181 allows an angular rotation between the two mentioned components, to release the binding. The third section 182 instead allows a translational stroke of the third clamping member 63 with respect to the first clamping member 61 and, finally, the integral rotation of the two components, (see, e.g., figures 7 and 8).

[0123] The first clamping member 61 is coaxially inserted within the second transmission element 13. In particular, the first clamping member 61 is preferably fixedly inserted along the longitudinal axis A.

[0124] The first clamping member 61 carries a plurality of end feet, adapted to perform the function of abutment jaws for clamping the leading end 21 and trailing end 22 of each fed wire 2. More precisely, the first clamping member 61 preferably comprises a first foot 611 and a second foot 612, diametrically opposed with respect to the longitudinal axis A, for interacting respectively with the leading end 21 and with the trailing end 22 of the fed wire 2. Preferably, the first clamping member 61 comprises, angularly distributed around the longitudinal axis A, a pair of first feet 611 and a pair of second feet 612, for feeding and clamping at least one pair of pieces of wire 2, fed along distinct winding paths on the forks 51 , 52, for example angularly spaced from each other by about 90°, suitably sheared, as described in detail below.

[0125] It is important to note that the feet 611 , 612 conform to respective preferably flat abutment surfaces 610, oriented transversely, in particular substantially orthogonal, with respect to the longitudinal axis A (see figures 22 and 23).

[0126] The feet 611 , 612 cooperate respectively with the second clamping member 62 and withthe third clamping member 63 to clamp the leading end 21 and trailing end 22 of the wire 2, as described below.

[0127] In particular, the edge of the second clamping member 62 faces the first feet 611 of the first clamping member 61 , to clamp with them the leading end 21 of the respective wires 2.

[0128] The aforementioned edge forms respective clamping portions 620, preferably shaped with an arched notch, as a lead-in, to ensure an easy and safe interposition of the leading end 21 (see for example figures 12, 18 and 19).

[0129] The clamping portions 620 are advantageously oriented so as to guide each wire 2 on an inclined plane, in particular substantially orthogonal, to the longitudinal axis A, for example radially, and engage the leading end 21 of each wire in cooperation with said abutment surface 610 of the first clamping member 61 (see figure 23).

[0130] Preferably, the second clamping member 62 comprises a pair of clamping portions 620, each adapted to individually engage each leading end 21 of each piece of wire 2, for example 2a and 2b, separately fed, individually or in assemblies, as previously described.

[0131] The second clamping member 62 is movably mounted around the first clamping member 61. In particular, the second clamping member 62 is movable by a relative translation motion with respect to the first clamping member 61 , as well as movable by a rotation motion, operated by the motor member 10 and transmitted through the transmission means 11 , integrally with the first clamping member 61 and the third clamping member 63.

[0132] The second clamping member 62 has a sector shape, preferably semi-circular.

[0133] The second clamping member 62 is connected to the third clamping member 63 by interposition of elastic means 65, for example one or more coil springs. The elastic means 65 are arranged to exert a compressive elastic force, parallel to the longitudinal axis A, in the clamping operated by the respective clamping portions 620.

[0134] The third clamping member 63 is preferably tubular in shape and is carried integrally by the second transmission element 13. It internally carries the first clamping member 61.

[0135] More precisely, the third clamping member 63 is kinematically connected to the second transmission element 13, preferably as a continuation along the longitudinal axis A.

[0136] The third clamping member 63 forms a first portion 630, for example annular, applied integrally to the second transmission element 13, and a second portion 631 extending longitudinally from the first portion 630, for a part, preferably substantially a half, of the respective perimeter (see figures 11 and 12). In particular, the second portion 631 preferably has a semi-cylindrical shape.

[0137] Preferably, said elastic means 65 are interposed between a free perimeter edge of the first portion 630 and a facing edge of the second clamping member 62, to facilitate the return of the clamping components to the initial position at the end of each binding cycle.

[0138] The third clamping member 63 also forms at least one, preferably a pair of shearing portions 632 (see figure 16), each for shearing a wire 2, in cooperation with the fixed shearing member 64, as described below. Each shearing portion 632 is preferably shaped as an arcuate groove, useful to distribute the shear stresses in a corresponding manner and to reduce the risk of local phenomena of wear or breakage, as well as to accommodate and staple the wire trailing end 22.

[0139] Preferably, the third clamping member 63 has a pair of shearing portions 632, angularly spaced along the peripheral margin of the third clamping member 63 itself, so as to intercept each respective winding path guided by the forks 51 , 52 of each wire 2 (see figures 15 and 16).

[0140] Each shearing portion 632 develops according to an inclined course, in particular substantially orthogonal, to the longitudinal axis A, in particular for example radial in the thickness of the third clamping member 63, so as to correspondingly orient the trailing end 22 of the wire 2, after shearing.

[0141] As anticipated above, the second clamping member 62 can usefully conform to an insert, preferably of semi-cylindrical shape, slidably coupled to the third clamping member 63, preferably so as to complete the cylindrical shape around the longitudinal axis A (see for example figures 11 and 12).

[0142] The second clamping member 62 and the third clamping member 63 are advantageously distinct members which, by virtue of said transmission means 11 , can be operated by the same motor member 10 in respective distinct and, at least partially, sequential advancement motions. This allows, as described below, an axial motion of the second clamping member 62 to be stopped, when the leading ends 21 of the wires 2 are locked against the feet 611 of the first clamping member 61 . This locking action can be effectively maintained, keeping the second clamping member 62 stationary, while the third clamping member 63 is instead operated movably by a further axial advancement stroke, which produces the cutting and, subsequently, the locking of the wire trailing ends 22. In particular, the action of the elastic means 65 guarantees the second clamping member 62 to keep the locking of the leading ends 21 of the wires 2 firmly effective, remaining stationary at the same longitudinal height, wherein the leading ends 21 remain oriented according to the abutting facing surfaces of the first clamping member 61. At the same time, the third clamping member 63 can move further along the axial direction, independently operating the further steps involving the trailing ends 22 of the wires 2.

[0143] The binding assembly 6 further comprises limiting means 66 and guiding means 67 for limiting and guiding the longitudinally movable clamping members 62, 63, in the mentioned axial motions, in a downward stroke along the longitudinal axis A, from a retracted initial position with respect to the first clamping member 61 , to an advanced finalposition, limited by the abutment with the clamping member 61 to clamp the leading end 21 and trailing end 22 of each wire 2.

[0144] Between these two positions, initial and final, a relative motion of translation is also carried out, as previously anticipated, always according to the longitudinal axis A, between the second clamping member 62 and the third clamping member 63, in such a way that the respective axial strokes are at least partly sequential.

[0145] More precisely, at the initial position, the second clamping member 62 is in an extracted configuration, being misaligned with respect to the third clamping member 63 and the elastic means 65 are in an extended condition. At the final position, on the other hand, the second clamping member 62 is in a retracted configuration, being aligned with respect to the third clamping member 63, while the elastic means 65 are in a compressed condition. In particular, in the aforementioned final position, the third clamping member 63 is pushed into contact against the second clamping member 62, thus exerting a corresponding thrust, for clamping the leading ends 21 of each wire.

[0146] The limiting means 66 are placed between the second clamping member 62 and the third clamping member 63, cooperating with the guiding means 67 in the function of limiting and guiding the stroke of the aforementioned relative translation motion, parallel to the longitudinal axis A, which takes place therebetween in the different operating steps of clamping the leading end 21 , cutting the trailing end 22, clamping the trailing end 22 and twisting the branches of wire 2 (see figure 32).

[0147] The guide means 67 are interposed between the second clamping member 62, the third clamping member 63 and the fixed shearing member 64, to ensure a correct succession of the aforementioned operating steps, as well as of the twisting step of the branches of each piece of clamped wire, around the longitudinal axis A.

[0148] Preferably, the aforementioned limiting means 66 and guide means 67 are provided at an overlapping area along respective longitudinal edges of the second clamping member 62 and the third clamping member 63, as well as, in the case of the guide means 67, a corresponding area facing an internal wall of the fixed shearing member 64.

[0149] The limiting means 66 comprise a limiting element 660, preferably a pin, and a sliding profile 661 , within which the limiting element 660 is slidably and / or rotatably movable. Preferably the limiting element 660 is mounted in a corresponding seat 662 so as to protrude externally from the second movable clamping member 62, while the sliding profile 661 is obtained, for example in the form of a slot, on the third clamping member 63, always at the same overlapping area between the two members (see figures 11 and from 32 to 35).

[0150] The sliding profile 661 advantageously has an elongated profile according to a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis A, preferably with a longitudinal extension corresponding tothe compressive stroke of the elastic means 65. In practice, the limiting means 66 have the function of limiting the relative motion of translation in particular in the inactive configuration, in which the second clamping member 62 is in the configuration extracted and protruding from the third clamping member 63 and the elastic means 65 are in the extended condition (see figures 29 and 32).

[0151] It is noted that at the opposite trailing end of the stroke of the aforesaid relative translation motion, the perimeter margin of the second clamping member 62 is aligned with that of the third clamping member 63 and the elastic means 65 are in the compressed condition. In this circumstance, the feet 611 , 612 of the clamping member 61 act as limiters of the aforementioned relative motion (see figure 26).

[0152] The guide means 67 instead include a guide element 670, retained in an annular seat 671 obtained in the third clamping member 63 (see figure 32). The guide element 670 may be formed for example by a sphere.

[0153] As anticipated above, the guide element 670 performs in particular the function of guiding the third clamping member 63 in the operating steps of shearing and compression of the trailing end 22 of the wire 2.

[0154] The guiding means 67 also comprise a containment seat 672 obtained externally to the second clamping member 62, a first downward section 673, which develops in the longitudinal direction along the fixed shearing member 64, and a second downward section 674, which develops in the longitudinal direction along the second clamping member 62, so as to allow first the clamping of each leading end 21 of wire 2, then the cutting and clamping of each trailing end 22 (see figures 33 to 34).

[0155] More precisely, the first downward section 673 and the second downward section 674 are preferably made by respective longitudinal furrows, adapted to guide the guide element 670 for a respective downward section along a longitudinal direction parallel to the longitudinal axis A.

[0156] In particular, the annular seat 671 and the containment seat 672 are shaped in such a way as to stably contain the guide element 670, so as to integrally drag the second clamping member 62 and the third clamping member 63, in a downward motion operated by the motor member 10 through the transmission means 11.

[0157] During the aforementioned integral, downward motion, the second clamping member 62 and the third clamping member 63 are lowered together, maintaining a constant relative misalignment, until the clamping portions 620 engage the leading ends 21 of wire 2 against the feet 611 of the first clamping member 61 .

[0158] It should be noted that the containment seat 672 has a radial depth such as to accommodate the guide element 670 so that it does not interact with the fixed shearing member 64, remaining inside it, until following the downward motion the guide element670 reaches the height of the first downward section 673 made on the fixed shearing member 64.

[0159] The first downward section 673 in turn has a radial depth such as to be able to accommodate the guide element 670 retained by the annular seat 671 , disengaging it from the second clamping member 62. More precisely, the first downward section 673 represents a deviation of the downward path of the guide element 670, which disconnects the third clamping member 63 from the motion integral with the second clamping member 62.

[0160] Therefore, by means of the first downward section 673, the relative sliding of the second clamping member 62 with respect to the third clamping member 63 takes place. In fact, the second clamping member 62 remains at the same axial height, as it is blocked by the presence of the feet 611 of the first clamping member 61 , while the third clamping member 63 is operated in the downward motion. In this step, the elastic means 65, therefore, are compressed and cooperate to clamp the intercepted leading ends 21 of the wire 2. Furthermore, in the same step of relative translation motion, each shearing portion 632 provided on the edge of the third clamping member 63 intercepts the respective wire 2 exiting the outlet duct 640, in such a way as to shear it at the trailing end 22.

[0161] To facilitate the passage of the guide element 670, the first downward section 673 preferably forms an inlet ramp 675 and an outlet ramp 676.

[0162] Likewise, the second downward section 674 is also shaped so as to contain the guide element 670 in cooperation with the third clamping member 63. It also preferably forms an inlet chute 677 and an outlet chute 678.

[0163] The engagement of the second guide element 670, retained by the annular seat 671 , along the second downward section 674, allows the further compression of the elastic means 65 until the alignment of the second clamping member 62 to the third clamping member 63, then to the stable locking of each leading end 21 and of each wire trailing end 22. In such a circumstance, the guide element 670 is released from the fixed shearing member 64.

[0164] Further driving of the motor member 10 freely rotates the clamping members 61 , 62, 63, according to an integral motion, to twist the branches of each clamped wire 2, around the longitudinal axis A. As described above, such an integral rotation motion is ensured by the locking operated by the pin 16 engaging the third clamping member 63 and the first clamping member 61.

[0165] The operation of the apparatus according to the invention implementing the method according to the invention can be deduced from the above description.

[0166] More precisely, the operation of the apparatus for performing a double binding, in particular crossed binding, is described below, meaning that it is possible to provide, withthe same apparatus and / or with a variant thereof that is also the subject-matter of the invention, a binding with a different number of wires 2, for example to perform a simple binding, that is, with a single wire or with a single assembly of wires formed along the same forming path.

[0167] In an initial preparation step, at least one wire 2, preferably a first wire 2a and a second wire 2b are fed by means of special towing means to the apparatus 1 through distinct paths, angularly spaced with respect to the longitudinal axis A. In this step the first clamping member 61 is close to the elements 3, 4 to be bound, while the second clamping member 62 and the third clamping member 63 are in the initial retracted position, with the respective margins, in particular the clamping portions 620 and the shearing channels 632, arranged according to different dimensions, therefore misaligned (see figure 20).

[0168] Following the feeding operated by the towing means, the leading end 21 of each wire exits the outlet duct 640, made on the fixed shearing member 64, and is launched along the respective winding path defined by the forks 51 , 52, being guided by the forming assembly 5. In particular, each leading end 21 runs along the respective entry track 53 and returns through the exit track 54, dragging the rest of the wire into winding. At the end of this winding step, the terminal feet 611 , 612 of the first clamping member 61 are inside the winding path, substantially closed in a circular way, made by the wire (see figure 21 ).

[0169] In the next step, the motor member 10 is operated in a rotational motion and, thanks to the transmission means 11 , said rotational motion is transformed into the downward translational motion of the third clamping member 63 connected thereto.

[0170] More precisely, in an initial step of the aforementioned translational motion, the third clamping member 63 moves integrally with the second clamping member 62, thanks to the engagement of the guide element 670 between the annular seat 671 and the containment seat 672. Following the approach of the second clamping member 62 to the winding path, each leading end 21 is intercepted by the respective clamping portion 620 (see figure 22).

[0171] In the continuation of the aforementioned translational motion, each leading end 21 is locked between the second clamping member 62 and the respective foot 611 of the first clamping member 61 , stopped at the respective height, thus allowing the towing means, operated in the reverse direction, to withdraw the excess wire being wound (see figure 23).

[0172] Subsequently, the towing means are preferably operated again in the feeding direction, to stretch the wire and avoid that, due to tension or insufficient wire length, the leading end 21 and trailing end 22 escape from the clamping in the subsequent winding steps around the longitudinal axis A (see figure 24).

[0173] In the next step, the translational motion of the third clamping member 63 continues, toshear the wire at the trailing end 22. In particular, the motion is guided by the guide element 670 through the first downward section 673, releasing the motion of the third clamping member 63 from the second clamping member 62, which is limited axially by the presence of the clamping member 61. This involves the compression of the elastic means 65, which therefore contribute to the clamping of the respective wire leading ends 21 (see figure 25).

[0174] Subsequently, the guide element 670 passes into the second downward section 674, disengaging from the fixed shearing member 64. The actuation of the motor member 10 produces the maximum compression of the elastic means 65 (see figure 26) and, therefore, the complete locking of the trailing ends 22 engaged between the shearing channels 632 and the feet 612 of the first clamping member 61 .

[0175] Subsequently, the integral rotational motion of the first clamping member 61 , the second clamping member 62 and the third clamping member 63 produces the twisting of the clamped wire around the longitudinal axis A (see figure 27).

[0176] Finally, the binding 200 made, which clamps the elements 3, 4, is released, driving the motor member 10 in the reverse direction. In this way, the second clamping member 62 and the third clamping member 63 disengage from the leading ends 21 , 22 of each wire, freeing the binding 200 (see figure 28).

[0177] The apparatus according to the invention therefore allows compact bindings to be operated in an efficient and reliable manner.

[0178] In fact, it can be observed that, by virtue of the shape of the members of the binding assembly 6 that clamp the leading ends 21 and the trailing ends 22 of wire, the binding 200 obtained has respective free ends oriented substantially orthogonal to the twisted portion 23 or braid of wires (see figure 28).

[0179] In addition, the twisted portion 23 or braid of the binding 200 is also compact in longitudinal extension, or in any case reduced to the minimum height necessary to ensure the required strength. This result is obtained in particular thanks to the fact that the clamping of the leading ends 21 and the trailing ends 22 does not substantially produce any bending in the wire in the longitudinal direction and therefore does not require a corresponding elongation of the twisted portion 23, to take into account the encumbrance required by the handling of the binding members involved.

[0180] More precisely, the apparatus according to the invention allows the height of the twisted portion 23 to be reduced, in that the translational stroke of the second clamping member 62 and of the third clamping member 63 is limited so as to keep said members within the longitudinal extension of the first clamping element 61 , without making them protrude therefrom. Therefore, it is possible to keep the elements 3, 4 to be bound closer to the binding assembly 6 and as a result the binding 200 is lower.

[0181] The longitudinal stroke of the aforementioned clamping members to lock the trailing ends of the wires 2 is therefore minimal and such as to optimally contain the overall dimensions required for handling and, consequently, the height of the resulting binding.

[0182] As a result, the apparatus according to the invention makes it possible to minimize the number of revolutions, the consumption of material and energy, and the time required to carry out binding.

[0183] In particular, in the building sector, the compactness of the binding made according to the invention is very advantageous as it remains completely protected by the thickness B of the iron cover.

[0184] With reference to figure 36, it is observed that the thickness of the iron cover B above the binding, with the use of the binding 200, is greater than the thickness of the iron cover A using a binding 100 of known type, having leading ends 21 ’ and trailing ends 22’ folded towards the elements 3, 4 to be bound. The binding 200 according to the invention therefore has an iron cover thickness B starting from the outer surface S, overlying the binding itself, increased by a distance D with respect to the iron cover thickness A of a known binding 100.

[0185] The shape of the clamping and shearing members makes it possible to expand the range of diameters of the wires that can be used to bond with the same apparatus. For example, it is possible to process wires with a diameter of between 1 .2 mm and 1 .8 mm, preferably between 1.5 mm and 1.8 mm, without changing any detail, between 1.0 mm and 2.5 mm, adapting some components.

[0186] According to a further embodiment, shown in figures from 37 to 42, the first element 120 of the transmission means 11 of the binding assembly, otherwise completely similar as described above, is made up of a screw member, to operate the independent translational motions of the second clamping member 62a and of the third clamping member 63a.

[0187] More precisely, said screw member has a first thread 12a and a second thread 12b, staggered.

[0188] The transmission means 11 also comprise, as a second element 130, a pair of pins 13a, 13b fixed transversely to a portion, respectively, of the second clamping member 62a and the third clamping member 63a.

[0189] Each pin 13a, 13b engages a respective thread 12a, 12b, sliding therein to guide in sequence a respective downward motion of the second clamping member 62a and of the third clamping member 63a.

[0190] The wires 12a, 12b comprise helical, active, sections for the descent of the respective element, and neutral, i.e. circumferential, sections, adapted to produce a stop in the descent of the respective element guided by them.

[0191] Therefore, thanks to them and their shape, it is possible to sequentially operate downwardmovements of the respective clamping elements.

[0192] In other words, the second clamping member 62a is adapted to be operated in its downward motion before the third clamping member 63a which, initially, stops at the same height. Subsequently, it is also operated downwards, to operate the shearing of the trailing end 22 and the clamping of the same.

[0193] Advantageously, an elastic member 65a, for example a spring, can be provided to ensure the correct engagement of the pins 13a.

[0194] We note that by using this embodiment, which differs from the first one, substantially due to the shape of the transmission means 11 , it is possible to obtain the same type of binding 200 already illustrated.

[0195] According to a third embodiment, illustrated in figures 43 to 46, otherwise completely similar to the first and / or second embodiment, the first clamping member 61 comprises a groove 18a shaped in such a way as to allow a relative rotation between the first clamping member 61 on the one hand and, on the other, the second clamping member 62 and the third clamping member 63 in the final configuration in which they are integrally rotatable.

[0196] For this purpose, the channel 18a in which the pin 16 is engaged, not shown in figure 43 for simplicity, conforms, in addition to the first section 180, the second section 181 and the third section 182, already mentioned, to a trailing end section 183 with an oblique course, for example according to an intermediate direction between that of the third section 182 and a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A. In this way it is possible to produce the aforementioned relative rotation between the first clamping member 61 and the external rim given by the association of the second and third clamping members 62, 63.

[0197] This relative rotation allows a binding 200a to be obtained in which the leading ends 21a and the trailing ends 22a of the wires 2a, 2b are curved in a plane substantially orthogonal to the binding axis A, i.e. curved in the same plane (see figures 45 and 46).

[0198] According to a further embodiment, illustrated in figure 47, it is possible to obtain a binding 200b, wherein each leading end 21 b and each trailing end 22b of wire 2 has a shape inclined at an angle awith respect to a plane orthogonal to the longitudinal axis A of the binding. Thus, the binding 200b in turn assumes a substantially conical, "arrowhead" shape.

[0199] In practice, the leading end 21 b and trailing end 22b lie on a substantially conical surface deviating from a plane orthogonal to the longitudinal axis A by an angle apreferably less than 5°, being facing the elements 3, 4 to be bound.

[0200] As can be understood from the foregoing description, such a binding 200b is obtained by arranging the engagement-facing surfaces 610, 632, 620 of the clamping members 61 , 62, 63 in a correspondingly inclined manner, so as to incline the leading ends and trailingends of the wires locked therebetween.

[0201] Also in this case, the binding 200b is very compact with respect to the known bindings, in particular being devoid of bent trailing end sections that, for their realization, would require manoeuvring spaces of respective bending members, such as to lengthen the twisted part.

[0202] In the practical implementation of the invention, the materials employed, as well as the shape and dimensions, may be any according to requirements.

[0203] Where technical features mentioned in each claim are followed by reference signs, such reference signs have been included for the sole purpose of increasing the understanding of the claims and accordingly they do not have any limiting value on the scope of each element identified by way of example by such reference signs.

Claims

Claims1. A method for binding by means of metal wires (2, 2a, 2b) one or more elements (3, 4), for example reinforcing rods, comprising the steps of: a. feeding in a feeding direction at least one metal wire (2, 2a, 2b) through a binding assembly (6) comprising a first clamping member (61 ), a second clamping member (62, 62a), a third clamping member (63, 63a) and a fixed shearing member (64), arranged according to a longitudinal axis (A); b. wrapping said wire (2, 2a, 2b) around said one or more elements (3, 4) by means of a forming assembly (5) connected to said binding assembly (6), configured to guide in a loop arrangement said wire (2, 2a, 2b), around said one or more elements (3, 4); c. operating a motor (10), connected to said binding assembly (6) by interposing transmission means (11 ), to move said second clamping member (62, 62a) in a first translation stroke along said longitudinal axis (A), thereby locking one leading end (21 , 21 a, 21 b) of said wire (2, 2a, 2b) wound into a loop, between facing surfaces, oriented transversely, in particular mainly orthogonal, to said longitudinal axis (A), respectively carried by said first clamping member (61 ) and by said second clamping member (62, 62a); d. operating further said motor member (10) to move said third clamping member (63, 63a) relative to said second clamping member (62, 62a), in a second translation stroke along said longitudinal axis (A), thereby cutting said wire (2, 2a, 2b) at a trailing end (22, 22a, 22b), interposed between a cutting portion (632) carried by said third clamping member (63) in motion and said fixed cutting member (64); e. operating said motor (10) to further move said third clamping member (63, 63a) relative to said second clamping member (62, 62a), in a third translation stroke along said longitudinal axis (A), thereby locking said trailing end (22, 22a, 22b) between further facing surfaces, oriented in an inclined manner, in particular substantially orthogonal, to said longitudinal axis (A), respectively carried by said first clamping member (61 ) and by said third clamping member (63, 63a); f. operating said motor (10) to move said first clamping member (61 ), said second clamping member (62, 62a) and said third clamping member (63, 63a) in an integral rotation motion, thereby twisting said wire (2, 2a, 2b) around said longitudinal axis (A) and thus obtaining a binding (200, 200a, 200b) tightened around said one or more elements (3, 4).

2. The method of claim 1 , wherein said facing surfaces are oriented such that they are faced, in use, from said longitudinal axis (A) towards said at least one bound element.

3. The method of claim 1 or 2, wherein the step c. of moving said second clamping member (62) in said first translation stroke provides for integrally moving said second clamping member (62) and said third clamping member (63).

4. The method of claim 1 , 2 or 3, wherein said step of d. and / or e. moving said third clamping member (63, 63a) in said second translation stroke and / or in said third translation stroke takes place while said second clamping member (62, 62a) is locked to a translation along said longitudinal axis (A).

5. The method of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the step c. of moving said second clamping member (62, 62a) in said first translation stroke provides for locking said leading end (21 , 21a, 21 b) of said wire (2, 2a, 2b) wound into a loop between a first foot (611 ) protruding from said first clamping member (61) and a clamping portion (620) carried by said second clamping member (62, 62a), said first foot (611) and said clamping portion (620) respectively carrying said facing surfaces.

6. The method of claim 5, wherein the step e. of further moving said third clamping member (63, 63a) relative to said second clamping member (62, 62a), in said third translation stroke, provides for locking said trailing end (22, 22a, 22b) between a second foot (612) protruding from said first clamping member (61) and said shearing portion (632) carried by said third clamping member (63, 63a), said second foot (612) and said shearing portion (632) respectively carrying said further facing surfaces.

7. The method for binding of any one of the preceding claims, comprising, before the step d. of cutting said wire (2, 2a, 2b), the further step of: retracting said fed wire in a direction opposite to said feeding direction, to stretch it around said one or more elements (3, 4).

8. The method for binding of claim 7, comprising the further step, subsequent to the step of retracting said wire, of: feeding again a controlled portion of said wire (2, 2a, 2b) in said feeding direction, to stretch said wire in a controlled manner around said one or more elements (3, 4).

9. The method of any one of the preceding claims, wherein said first translation stroke, said second translation stroke and said third translation stroke are operated sequentially.

10. An apparatus for binding by means of metal wires (2, 2a, 2b) one or more elements (3, 4), for example reinforcing bars, comprising a forming assembly (5) configured to guide at least one metal wire (2, 2a, 2b) in a loop arrangement around said one ormore elements (3, 4), a binding assembly (6) including a passage for said wire (2, 2a, 2b) towards said forming assembly (5) and therefrom, a motor (10) arranged to operate said binding assembly (6) in motion, transmission means (11) placed between said motor (10) and said binding assembly (6) to transmit and / or transform said motion, said binding assembly (6) comprising a first clamping member (61) arranged along a longitudinal axis (A), a second clamping member (62, 62a), a third clamping member (63, 63a) bearing a shearing portion (632) and a fixed shearing member (64), arranged around said longitudinal axis (A), said second clamping member (62, 62a) being movable in a first translation stroke along said longitudinal axis (A), to bring a pair of facing surfaces, oriented transversely, in particular substantially orthogonal, closer to said longitudinal axis (A), respectively carried by said first clamping member (61) and by said second clamping member (62, 62a), and thus lock therebetween one leading end (21 , 21a, 21b) of said wire (2, 2a, 2b), said third clamping member (63, 63a) being movable in a second translation stroke along said longitudinal axis (A), in relation to said second clamping member (62, 62a), to bring said shearing portion (632) closer to said fixed shearing member (64) and thereby shear said wire (2, 2a, 2b) at a trailing end (22, 22a , 22b), said third clamping member (63, 63a) being further movable in a third translation stroke along said longitudinal axis (A), relative to said second clamping member (62, 62a), to bring further facing surfaces closer, oriented transversely, in particular substantially orthogonal, to said longitudinal axis (A), respectively carried by said first clamping member (61 ) and by said third clamping member (63, 63a), and thereby locking said trailing end (22, 22a, 22b) therebetween, said first clamping member (61 ) being movable with a rotational motion, integrally with said second clamping member (61 ) and with said third clamping member (62, 63, 62a, 63a), to twist said wire (2, 2a, 2b) around said longitudinal axis (A).11 . The apparatus of claim 10, wherein said facing surfaces are oriented transversally, in particular orthogonally, with respect to longitudinal axis (A), or are faced, in use, from said longitudinal axis (A) towards said at least one element to be bound (3, 4).

12. The apparatus of claim 10 or 11 , wherein first clamping member (61 ) carries protrudingly a first foot (611 ) configured to have one said surface facing said second clamping member (62, 62a) to lock said leading end (21 , 21a, 21b) of said wire (2, 2a, 2b).

13. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein said first clamping member (61) carries protrudingly a second foot (612) configured to have a further said surface facing said third clamping member (63, 63a) to lock said trailing end (22, 22a, 22b) of said wire (2, 2a, 2b).

14. The apparatus of any one of claims 10 - 13, wherein said transmission means (11 ) include a helical pair, comprising a first element (12, 120), adapted to receive the motion from said motor (10), and a second element (13, 13a, 13b), coupled to said first element (12, 120), for transforming a rotational motion received from said motor (10) in said translation strokes.

15. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein said first element (12) is made up of a crown provided with internal thread and wherein said second element (13) is made up of a rim provided with an external thread and inserted coaxially inside said first element (12), in such a way that said threads are coupled, said second element (13) being integral with said third clamping member (63).

16. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein said first element (120) is made up of a screw member, externally equipped with a first thread (12a) and a second thread (12b), both staggered, and wherein said second element (130) is made up of a pair of pins (13a, 13b) fixed transversely to a portion, respectively, of said second clamping member (62a) and of said third clamping member (63a), each pin (13a, 13b ) being coupled to one of said first thread (12a) and said second thread (12b).

17. The apparatus of any one of claims 10 - 16, wherein said transmission means (11 ) comprises a guide body (15) fixedly arranged around said third clamping member (63) and comprising at least one longitudinal channel (17), at least one guide pin (16) carried by said third clamping member (63) and at least one groove (18, 18a) carried externally by said first clamping member (61 ), said guide pin (16) engaging by opposing portions said channel (17) and said groove (18, 18a), to guide the motion of said third clamping member (63).

18. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein said groove (18, 18a) has at least one straight section (180, 182) that develops parallel to said longitudinal axis (A).

19. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein said groove (18a) comprises an end section (183) with an oblique course with respect to said longitudinal axis (A).

20. The apparatus of any one of claims 10 - 19, wherein said second clamping member (62, 62a) is connected to said third clamping member (63, 63a) by the interposition of elastic means (65, 65a), arranged so as to exert an elastic compressive force, parallel to said longitudinal axis (A).

21. The apparatus of any one of claims 10 - 20, wherein said second clamping member (62, 62a) and said third clamping member (63, 63a) cooperate to form a tubular cylindrical shape member.

22. The apparatus of any one of claims 10 - 21 , wherein said first clamping member (61 ) is inserted coaxially inside said second clamping member (62, 62a) and said third clamping member (63, 63a).

23. The apparatus of any one of claims 10 - 22, wherein it comprises guide means (67) interposed between said second clamping member (62), said third clamping member (63) and said fixed shearing member (64), to ensure a correct succession of the operating steps of shearing and locking of said trailing end (22, 22a, 22b) of said wire (2).

24. The apparatus of any one of claims 10 - 23 wherein said first clamping member (61 ) carries protrudingly a pair of first feet (611 ) and a pair of second feet (612), for locking, in cooperation with said second clamping member (62, 62a) and said third clamping member (63, 63a), one said leading end (21 , 21a, 21b) and one said trailing end (22, 22a, 22b) of at least one pair of wires (2, 2a, 2b).

25. A binding obtained by at least one piece of wire (2, 2a, 2b) made around one or more element (3, 4), for example reinforcing rods, said binding having a leading free end (21 , 21a, 21b) and a trailing free end (22, 22a, 22b), said binding (200, 200a) including a portion (24) wrapped into a loop, a portion (23) twisted around a longitudinal axis (A), to which opposite branches of said wrapped portion (24) converge, said leading end (21 , 21a, 21 b) and said trailing end (22, 22a , 22b) being protruding from said twisted portion (23) and oriented following a radial trend with respect to said longitudinal axis (A) and lying in a substantially orthogonal plane with respect to said longitudinal axis (A) or on a substantially conical surface deviating from a plane orthogonal to said longitudinal axis (A) by an angle of up to 5°.

Images