Binding device, binding band, and process for manufacturing binding band

Abstract

A binding device includes a set part into which an assembly of binding bands is inserted after being bent in a generally U-shaped configuration, a first cutter for cutting a single binding band off the assembly of binding bands through operation of a lever, a pusher device for pushing the single binding band thus cut off forwardly, a curved pivot guide arm for guiding a distal end of the single binding band towards a retainer portion formed on an opposite end of the single binding band, a push-in device for pushing the distal end of the single binding band into the retainer portion, a reducing device for reducing a distal end portion of the single binding band which protrudes from the retainer portion, a second cutter for cutting off the reduced distal end portion of the single binding band which still protrudes from the retainer portion, and a feed device for feeding the assembly of binding bands in a manner so as to match the pitch of the plurality of binding bands. The set part, the first cutter, the pusher device, the curved pivot guide arm, the push-in device, the reducing device, the second cutter, and the feed device are formed on a base plate having window openings through which working portions thereof protrude. A lower end of a link arm is pivotally connected to the lever, and an upper end of the link arm is fixed to a cross piece that is integrally coupled to the base plate in order to mechanically drive operation of the binding device responsive to a single mechanical movement of the lever.