TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to a portable device for deforming or crimping wire, and to methods of using the device.

BACKGROUND ART

[0002] It will be clearly understood that, if a prior art publication is referred to herein, this reference does not constitute an admission that the publication forms part of the common general knowledge in the art in Australia or in any other country.

[0003] Wire fences are typically constructed by feeding a length of wire (either plain or barbed) along a fence line, and securing the end of the wire at one end of the fence line. A small amount of wire is then secured at the opposite end of the fence line, and the two wires are next tensioned (for example using a wire strainer), and then secured together.

[0004] Over time, the wires in wire fences typically become less taut. This can occur, for example, due to a force which has impacted the fence, such as an animal which has run into the fence, or plant matter (such as a tree or branch) which has fallen onto the fence. However, wires typically lose tension over time on a fence, even if no such force has been applied.

[0005] When wires become less taut the fence ceases to be as effective a barrier, and maintenance is needed to re-tension the wires. The typical procedure to re-tension a fence wire is to cut the wire, then tension the wire (for example using a wire strainer) and then secure the wire back together. This can be a time-consuming process, especially given that a typical fence includes many lengths of wire.

[0006] Another option is to apply a deformation, crimp or wave-shape to the wire on the fence to re-tension it. This way, the wire would not need to be cut. Application of such a deformation means that the same overall length of wire travels over a shorter distance, which thereby re-tensions the fence wire. It may be necessary to apply many deformations or crimps to re-tension a wire.

[0007] Various tools have been developed to apply a deformation to fence wires and many of these are discussed below. However, all of these tools are adapted for use with low tensile wire. Today, when fencing low, medium or high tensile wires can be used. High tensile wire was first developed in the 1970s, but it has taken decades for high tensile wire to be in common use in Australia and the USA. In the 1970s and 1980s wire fences were almost always made from low tensile wire. In recent years high tensile fence wire has become more common, and today most wire fences in Australia are constructed using high tensile wire.

[0008] For example, US689,449 (patented in 1901) describes a tool for crimping wires. The tool has a frame upon which there are two crimper-wheels which turn one above the other on parallel axes and are geared together. As a result, each crimper-wheel tooth is carried between two adjacent teeth of the opposite wheel. When a wire is positioned between the crimper-wheels and the crimper-wheels are turned, bends are formed in the wire.

[0009] US2,087,125 (patented in 1937) describes a wire tightener. The tightener includes a cross head formed of a flat piece of steel, to which two handle members are secured at either end. The cross head includes three studs and each handle member includes two studs. The handles are opened and a wire is placed between the studs. As the handles are pivoted together, the seven studs impact on the wire, causing the wire to crimp.

[0010] US3,831,642 (filed in 1973) relates to a pliers-like hand operated tool for tightening sagging post- supported fence wires. The tool includes two U-shaped lever or handle units coordinated together. A rod connects the ends of the U of each handle unit. One handle unit includes five finger-like prongs and the other includes six bending and crimping fingers. In use, actuation of the handles will crimp wire between the prongs and fingers.

[0011] US4,635,687 (filed in 1985) describes a hand tool for cutting and crimping fence wire. The tool includes two handle levers which are used to actuate a mechanism for crimping wire between one row of three teeth and one row of four teeth. The handle levers are also used to actuate a mechanism for cutting wire between a pair of cutting elements.

[0012] As discussed above, the tools above were all developed for use with low tensile wire. High tensile wire has a higher carbon content than low tensile wire. High tensile wire is also typically lighter and of smaller diameter than low tensile wire. For high and low tensile wires of the same diameter, the high tensile wire would be stronger and elongate to a smaller degree than low tensile wire. Typically, it would be expected that a wire fence constructed from high tensile wire would be effective for longer than a fence made from low tensile wire. However, high tensile wire is typically more difficult to work with than low tensile wire.

[0013] Wires are also typically coated (for example galvanised) to extend their life, and this is particularly important for high tensile wires given their longer lifespan and smaller diameter than low tensile wires. When a crimp or deformation is applied to a low tensile wire, the wire can elongate and will stretch which in turn can minimise scoring on the wire (which would remove the surface coating). In contrast, it is significantly more difficult to apply a crimp or deformation to a high tensile wire than a low tensile wire, and scoring can be an issue. When a score occurs on high tensile wire it creates a weakness point which can significantly increase the risk of the wire fracturing and decrease the performance and capacity of the wire to withstand shock loading, strain and bending or deformation. It is critical in handling high tensile wire that the integrity of the surface is kept intact as much as possible in the handling, straining, tying off and maintaining of the fence wires.

[0014] For example, in US4,635,687 discussed above, there are four equally spaced wire crimping teeth on frame members 28 and 30, and opposed to these teeth are three teeth on the opposite side. While this hand tool may deform low tensile wires, the tool would be ineffective for high tensile wires. To begin with, the teeth would clamp or hold a high tensile wire between them, which would then mean that the wire itself would need to elongate or stretch in order to deform the wire. However, high tensile wire elongates to a much smaller degree than low tensile wire, and this in addition to the fact that high tensile wire is inherently more difficult to deform than low tensile wire, means that it would not be possible for an operator to apply sufficient force using the tool to crimp high tensile wire. If sufficient force could be applied, scoring and removal of the surface coating of the wire would be a significant problem. Similar considerations would also apply to the tools disclosed in US689,449, US2,087,125, and US3, 831,642.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

[0015] There is therefore a need for a device which is capable of applying a deformation or crimp to high tensile wire.

[0016] The present invention is directed towards a portable device, which may at least partially overcome at least one of the abovementioned disadvantages or provide the consumer with a useful or commercial choice.

[0017] With the foregoing in view, in a first aspect the present invention provides a portable device for deforming a wire on a wire fence, the device including at least one wire deformer, each said wire deformer including first member, a second member, and a third member, wherein at least one of the first, second and third members is a roller; wherein the at least one wire deformer is operable between: an open position in which a wire is positionable between (i) the third member; and (ii) the first and second members; and a closed position for deforming the wire between (i) the third member; and (ii) the first and second members; wherein in the closed position the third member is positioned substantially between the first and second members; and wherein the device is configured to deform wire with a tensile strength of at least 600 MPa.

[0018] In one embodiment, the first member may be a roller, or may be non-rotatable, such as a fixed disc, post, block or bolt. The first member may have a cylindrical cross section. The first member may especially be a roller. In another embodiment, the second member may be a roller, or may be non-rotatable, such as a fixed disc, post, block or bolt. The second member may have a cylindrical cross section. The second member may be an elongated block. The second member may be a roller. In a further embodiment, the third member may be a roller, or may be non-rotatable, such as a fixed disc, post, block or bolt. The third member may have a cylindrical cross section. The third member may be a roller, a fixed disc having a cylindrical cross section, or an elongated block. Each member may be of any suitable size. For example, each member may have a width of from 6 to 40 mm, especially from 6 to 20 mm, more especially from 6 to 10 mm.

[0019] The first, second and third members may be made of any suitable material, including steel, a steel alloy and aluminium. Advantageously, steel or steel alloy may be used for the rollers. However, a softer material such as aluminium may be advantageously used for the first, second or third member when they are non-rotatable, such as when the first second or third member is a block.

[0020] At least one (or one) of the first, second and third members may be a roller. In another embodiment, at least two (or two) of the first, second and third members are a roller. In a further embodiment, all of the first, second and third members are a roller.

[0021] Advantageously, in one embodiment the device of the first aspect includes a first and a second roller. The rollers have multiple functions. First, when a wire is deformed between the first and second rollers and the third member, the rollers allow wire on either side of the rollers to be drawn into the deformation as it is formed. This advantageously facilitates a reduction in the effective length of the wire, and minimises the force needed to achieve this result. The rollers therefore also prevent elongation of the wire as it is being deformed. Furthermore, the rollers minimise friction between the wires and the first and second rollers, which in turn means that scoring of the wire (and consequent removal of surface coatings or damage to the wire) is minimised or does not occur.

[0022] The device may be configured to deform high tensile wire. As used herein, a“high tensile wire” is a wire with a tensile strength (or ultimate tensile strength) of at least 600 megapascals (MPa). In some embodiments, the device is configured to deform a wire with a tensile strength (or ultimate tensile strength) of at least 650 MPa, especially at least 700 MPa or at least 800 MPa or at least 850 MPa, more especially at least 900 MPa or at least 950 MPa, or at least 1000 MPa, most especially at least 1050 MPa or at least 1100 MPa or at least 1150 MPa. In a further embodiment the device is configured to deform a wire with a tensile strength (or ultimate tensile strength) of at least 1200 MPa or at least 1250 MPa or at least 1300 MPa, especially at least 1350 MPa or at least 1400 MPa, more especially at least 1450 MPa or at least 1500 MPa. In one embodiment, the wire has a tensile strength (or ultimate tensile strength) from 950 MPa to 1600 MPa. The tensile strength is a function of the type of material the wire is made from, irrespective of the diameter of the wire. The wire may be made from metal, especially steel or steel alloy.

[0023] The at least one wire deformer advantageously is for deforming the wire. In one embodiment the at least one wire deformer is for decreasing the effective length of the wire. As used herein the term“effective length” means the distance that the wire travels in a straight line. This is distinct from the true length of the wire. Therefore, the more deformations in the wire, the shorter the effective length of the wire becomes.

[0024] In one embodiment, the at least one wire deformer is for (or is configured to) crimp the wire. The at least one wire deformer may be for (or be configured to) deform the wire into substantially a U-shape or substantially a V-shape. Advantageously, such a crimp, U-shape or V-shape configuration effectively creates a spring or biasing mechanism within the wire. In turn, this makes the wire more resilient to shocks and impacts. By comparison, similar crimps in a low tensile wire would be unable to hold much tension (and would be incapable of providing much resilience to shocks and impacts), as if too much tension is applied to a low tensile wire having a crimp, the crimp will simply pull out.

[0025] The device of the first aspect is portable. The device may be used by an operator walking along an erected fence. In one embodiment, the device maybe carried and used by a single operator. The device may be a hand-held device. The device may be a hand-carried device. [0026] In one embodiment, the device may be supported by a frame or backpack worn by the operator. The frame or backpack may include a vertically extending member (or vertical member) and a cantilevered member connected to the vertically extending member. The device may be connectable to the cantilevered member. In another embodiment, the device may be mounted to or mountable to a vehicle (such as a tractor, automobile, or utility) or vehicular trailer. In this embodiment, the vehicle or vehicular trailer may include at least one arm (especially a pivotable arm) and the device may be connected to the end of the at least one arm.

[0027] The device may be configured to deform the wire in any suitable shape. In one embodiment, the wire entering and exiting the device (when in the closed position) is along the same wire extending axis (i.e. the wire may extend along a straight line to the deformation, and after the deformation the wire may continue to extend along the same straight line). However, a substantially U-shaped configuration is preferred, as this way the longitudinal path of the wire is not overly affected by the deformation.

[0028] The deformation may be of any suitable depth/amplitude. In one embodiment, the at least one wire deformer is for (or is configured to) bend or deform the wire to a depth of less than 20 cm, especially less than 15, 14, 13, 12, 11, 10, 9, 8, 7 or 6 cm. The inventors have found that smaller deformations are more effective than larger deformations, as larger deformations are more likely to straighten out of the wire as more tension is applied.

[0029] The deformation may be of any suitable width. In one embodiment, the distance between the first and second rollers is less than 10 cm, especially less than 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3 or 2 cm. The distance between the first and second rollers may set the width of the deformation.

[0030] The at least one wire deformer may include at least three members or wire contact points. However, the at least one wire deformer may include four or five members or wire contact points. In a preferred embodiment, the at least one wire deformer has from three to five members or wire contact points, especially three or five members or wire contact points. As the number of members or wire contact points increase, the more deformations would be formed in the wire for each operation of the wire deformer. However, as the number of members or wire contact points increase, the more wire needs to be drawn into the wire deformer during operation and this can increase friction and slippage of the wire between the members or wire contact points. The inventors have found that for high tensile wire three or five members or wire contact points are optimal. A wire deformer with three members may produce a deformation with a single U-shaped or V-shaped deformation. If the at least one wire deformer had five members, then it would include a first member, a second member, a third member, a fourth member and a fifth member, wherein at least one (especially at least two) of the first, second, third, fourth and fifth members are rollers; and the at least one wire deformer would be operable between: an open position in which a wire is positionable between (i) the third and fifth member; and (ii) the first, second and fourth members; and a closed position for deforming the wire between (i) the third and fifth member; and (ii) the first, second and fourth members; wherein in the closed position the third member is positioned substantially between the first and second members, and the fifth member is positioned substantially between the second and fourth members.

A wire deformer having five members may deform a wire into substantially a W-shape. In one embodiment, the at least one wire deformer includes only three wire contact points, being the first member, the second member and the third member. In another embodiment, the at least one wire deformer further includes a fourth member and a fifth member, and wherein the at least one wire deformer includes only five wire contact points, being the first member, the second member, the third member, the fourth member, and the fifth member, wherein at least one (especially at least two) of the first, second, third, fourth and fifth members are rollers, wherein the at least one wire deformer is operable between: an open position in which a wire is positionable between (i) the third and fifth member; and (ii) the first, second and fourth members; and a closed position for deforming the wire between (i) the third and fifth member; and (ii) the first, second and fourth members; wherein in the closed position the third member is positioned substantially between the first and second members, and the fifth member is positioned substantially between the second and fourth members.

[0031] The fourth and fifth members may be as described for the first, second and third members. In one embodiment, the fourth member may be a roller, or may be non-rotatable, such as a fixed disc, post, block or bolt. The fourth member may be a fixed disc, post, block or bolt. The fourth member may be a roller. In another embodiment, the fifth member may be a roller, or may be non-rotatable, such as a fixed disc, post, block or bolt. The fifth member may be a fixed disc, block or bolt. The fifth member may be a roller. The fourth and/or the fifth member may have a cylindrical cross section.

[0032] The or each roller may be of any suitable type. In one embodiment, the rollers minimise friction or may be substantially frictionless. The rollers may be on ball bearings. The rollers may have a substantially circular cross section. The rollers may be cylindrical. The rollers may be rotatable about a central axis. The rollers may be mounted to the remainder of the device (such as to a support) by a fastener extending along the central axis. The rollers may be substantially fixed in position. The rollers may be located along a substantially straight line.

[0033] The or each member may be of any suitable type. In one embodiment, the or each member is non-rotatable. However, in an embodiment the or each member are rotatable and/or may be a roller (and may be as described in the preceding paragraph). However, the or each member may simply be a bolt or projection. The or each member (for example the third member, the third and fifth members, or the first and second members) may be moveable in position. In one embodiment, the or each member (for example the third member, the third and fifth members, or the first and second members) are mounted on or connected to a ramming member. In one embodiment, the or each member (for example the third member, the third and fifth members, or the first and second members) may be integrally formed with a ramming member.

[0034] In a closed position the third member is positioned substantially between the first and second members. In another embodiment, in a closed position the third member is positioned substantially intermediate the first and second members. However, in a closed position the centre of the first and second members and the centre of the third member may be offset. Similarly, in a closed position the fifth member is positioned substantially between the second and fourth members. In another embodiment, in a closed position the fifth member is positioned substantially intermediate the second and fourth members. However, in a closed position the centre of the second and fourth members and the centre of the fifth member may be offset.

[0035] In one embodiment, the device further includes an actuator for operating the at least one wire deformer between an open position and a closed position. The actuator may be mounted to a support. In one embodiment, the first and second members (or the first, second and fourth members) may be mounted to the support. The actuator may move the third member (or the third and fifth member). The actuator may be configured to move the third member towards the first and second members in a straight line. The actuator may be configured to move the fifth member towards the second and fourth members in a straight line. The actuator may be configured to move the third member towards the first and second members along a line that is substantially perpendicular (or perpendicular) to a line connecting the centre of the first and second members. The actuator may be configured to move the fifth member towards the second and fourth members along a line that is substantially perpendicular (or perpendicular) to a line connecting the centre of the second and fourth members. If the device includes more than one ramming member, the said ramming members may be connected to the same actuator.

[0036] The first and second members and the third member may all be positioned in a common plane. Alternatively the first, second and fourth members and the third and fifth members may all be positioned in a common plane.

[0037] The actuator may be a hydraulic actuator, a pneumatic actuator or an electric actuator. In one embodiment, the actuator is a pneumatic actuator. The hydraulic actuator may be a hydraulic cylinder. The pneumatic actuator may be a pneumatic cylinder. The pneumatic actuator may be connectable to, for example, a source of compressed gas (such as an air compressor). A hydraulic actuator may be advantageous, as such an actuator is typically smaller and able to exert a greater force than a pneumatic actuator. If the device includes more than one wire deformer, said wire deformers may be connected to the same actuator. The actuator may be a pressurised return cylinder (and may be, for example, hydraulic or pneumatic) or a spring return cylinder.

[0038] The force applied by the actuator may be adjustable. For example, an operator may be able to set the pneumatic or hydraulic pressure in a pneumatic or hydraulic actuator. As the pressure in the pneumatic or hydraulic actuator would affect the force applied by the actuator to deform the wire, setting a lower pressure may result in the actuator applying less force. This means that the pressure in a pneumatic or hydraulic actuator may be inadequate to deform a wire that has reached a certain tension. An operator may therefore use the pressure in the hydraulic or pneumatic actuator to set the desired tension of the fence wire to be deformed. In this way, an operator may configure the device to avoid over- tightening a wire.

[0039] The actuator may include a moveable portion, and the moveable portion may move along the same axis as the third member, or along an axis that is parallel to the axis on which the third member moves. The actuator may include a moveable portion, and the moveable portion may move along the same axis as the fifth member, or along an axis that is parallel to the axis on which the third member moves. The actuator may not employ leverage. The actuator may transmit a 1: 1 direct push force to each ramming member. The actuator may be directly connected to the ramming member. The position of the ramming member may be adjusted relative to the position of the actuator.

[0040] The device may include a sleeve. The sleeve may form a guard for minimising access to the at least one wire deformer. The sleeve may include a slot into which a wire may be positioned to be deformed.

[0041] The device may include one wire deformer. The device may include more than one wire deformer. In one embodiment, the device includes at least two wire deformers. When the device includes more than one wire deformer, the wire deformers may be in series or in parallel, or in any combination thereof. For example, the device may include at least two wire deformers for simultaneously deforming the same wire on a wire fence (i.e. the two wire deformers are in series). The device may include two, three, four, five or six wire deformers in series; especially two wire deformers. It may be advantageous to employ two wire deformers each having a first and second members and a third member to form two wire deformations on a single wire, rather than a single wire deformer having a first, second and fourth roller and a third and fifth member, as in the former arrangement the deformations may be further apart. The inventors have found that the closer together deformations are on a single wire the more likely the wire is to be stretched or damaged when the deformations are formed.

[0042] If the device includes two or more wire deformers in series, then the device may include a transverse member connected to each ramming member, and connected to an actuator.

[0043] However, the device may include a plurality of wire deformers in parallel. Such a device may be suitable for deforming multiple wires of a fence simultaneously. The device may include two, three, four, five or six wire deformers in parallel. The ramming members of each of the plurality of wire deformers may be connected to a single actuator, and this may be in any suitable way. For example, the device may include a connecting member, and the connecting member may be connected to each ramming member or to each transverse member. The connecting member may move along the same axis as the moveable portion of the actuator. In another embodiment, the connecting member may be connected to a plurality of deformation preventers, and each deformation preventer may be connected to a ramming member or to a transverse member. Each deformation preventer may include a force absorber. The force absorber may be for absorbing force to prevent a wire from being over tensioned. A suitable force absorber may be a biasing member, such as a spring. As a wire becomes increasingly taut, more and more force is required to deform it. The force absorber may act to limit the amount of force that can be applied to a wire. For example, the force absorber may be a spring that will compress once a certain force has been reached, which thereby prevents movement of the ramming member or third or fifth member. Each deformation preventer may also include a coupler. The force absorber may be connected to a ramming member or to a transverse member. The coupler may be connected to the force absorber. The coupler may be connected to the connecting member. In one embodiment, the at least one wire deformer includes at least one force absorber for absorbing wire deforming force to prevent a wire from being over-tensioned.

[0044] The device may include one or more connectors (such as pins). The connectors may be for connecting or disconnecting one or more wire deformers or ramming members from the actuator. For example, the device may include a connector to connect the connecting member and a coupler, or to connect the connecting member to a deformation preventer, or to connect the connecting member to a transverse member or ramming member.

[0045] The distance between each wire deformer in parallel may be adjustable. This may be in any suitable way. In one embodiment, the position of the first and second members (or the first, second and fourth members) may be adjustable, for example on the support. The position of the members may be adjustable to any number of positions, for example to two, three, four, five or six positions. In another embodiment, the position of the third and/or fifth members may be adjustable on a ramming member. The position of the members may be adjustable to any number of positions, for example to two, three or four positions. In a further embodiment, the position of the transverse member or the deformation preventer may be adjustable on the connecting member. The positions of the transverse member or the deformation preventer may be adjustable to any number of positions, for example to two, three, four, five or six positions. Each of the components of the device discussed in this paragraph may be adjustable along an axis that is the same as, or parallel to, the axis upon which the moveable portion of the actuator moves.

[0046] Examples of mesh wire that may be deformed by the device according to the first embodiment may include 16/180/15 mesh and 7/82/30 mesh, and intermediate mesh wire variants. For example, 16/180/15 mesh means 16 line wires (which typically run horizontally) / 180 cm high fence / 15 cm between stay wires (which typically run vertically).

[0047] In an embodiment of the first aspect, the device includes a first and a second arm which are pivotally connected. A first end of the first arm may be connected to a first end of the second arm. The first roller and the third member may be located at the first end of the first arm. The second roller may be located at the first end of the second arm. The second end of the first arm may include a handle. The second end of the second arm may include a handle. The device of this embodiment may be manually operated. The device may be operable from an open position to a closed position by bringing the arms towards each other. The first member may be located on a pivotable member located at the first end of the first arm. Pivoting of the pivotable member on the first arm may increase or decrease the distance between the first member and the third member. Use of the pivotable member may allow the operator to vary the relative position of the first member and the third member. The pivotable member may be locked in position once the first member is in the desired location. In one embodiment, the device further includes a first arm and a second arm, wherein a first end of the first arm is pivotally connected to a first end of the second arm; wherein the first member and the third member are located on the first arm, and the second member is located on the second arm; wherein the device is operable from an open position to a closed position by bringing the ar towards each other.

[0048] In a further embodiment of the first aspect, the device includes a first, second, third, fourth and fifth member. The first and fourth members are rollers, and the second, third and fifth members are non-rotatable. The second member may be a block, especially an elongated block, which may especially be made from aluminium. The third and fifth members may be mounted or be integrally formed with a ramming member. Advantageously, the inventors have found that use of a soft aluminium block at the second member may prevent or ameliorate scoring of the wire, and may also preserve any“factory crimping” that may be apparent in the wire. The aluminium block may also create some frictional resistance on the wire during crimping, which may assist the wire to be drawn into the device from either side.

[0049] In a second aspect, the present invention provides a device for deforming a wire on a wire fence, the device including at least one wire deformer, each said wire deformer including first member, a second member, and a third member; wherein the at least one wire deformer is operable between: an open position in which a wire is positionable between (i) the third member; and (ii) the first and second members; and a closed position for deforming the wire between (i) the third member; and (ii) the first and second members; wherein in the closed position the third member is positioned substantially between the first and second members.

[0050] In one embodiment, the device is portable. In another embodiment, the first member is a first roller. The second member may be a second roller. The device may be configured to deform or bend wire with a tensile strength of at least 600 MPa. The device may be configured to deform a high tensile wire.

[0051] The device may include three, four or five members. The at least one wire deformer may be operable between: an open position in which a wire is positionable between (i) the third and fifth member; and (ii) the first, second and fourth members; and a closed position for deforming the wire between (i) the third and fifth member; and (ii) the first, second and fourth members; wherein in the closed position the third member is positioned substantially between the first and second members, and the fifth member is positioned substantially between the second and fourth members.

[0052] The fourth member may be a roller.

[0053] Features of the second aspect of the present invention may be as described for the first aspect.

[0054] In a third aspect, the present invention relates to a method of deforming a wire on a wire fence, the method including the steps of:

Positioning a wire between (i) the third member; and (ii) the first and second rollers (or first and second members) in at least one wire deformer of the device of the first or second aspects of the present invention; and

Operating the device of the first or second aspects of the present invention to deform the wire between (i) the third member; and (ii) the first and second rollers (or first and second members).

[0055] In one embodiment, the method of the third aspect may be a method of deforming multiple wires simultaneously. The multiple wires may be wires of a mesh fence. The method may include the step of operating a plurality of wire deformers simultaneously. The method may include the step of removing a connector to thereby disconnect at least one wire deformer from the actuator. The method may include the step of adjusting the position of at least one wire deformer relative to another wire deformer.

[0056] Features of the third aspect of the present invention may be as described for the first or second aspects of the present invention.

[0057] Any of the features described herein can be combined in any combination with any one or more of the other features described herein within the scope of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0058] Various embodiments of the invention will be described with reference to the following drawings, in which:

[0059] Figure 1 is a side view of a first exemplary portable device according to the present invention in an open position;

[0060] Figure 2 is a top view of the device according to Figure 1 in an open position, in which a wire is positioned in the device;

[0061] Figure 3 is a top view of the device according to Figure 1 in a closed position, in which a wire is deformed using the device;

[0062] Figure 4 is a top view of the device according to Figure 3 in which the outer sleeve has been removed;

[0063] Figure 5 is a perspective view of the device illustrated in Figure 2;

[0064] Figure 6 is a perspective view of the device illustrated in Figure 3 ;

[0065] Figure 7 is a front view of a second exemplary portable device according to the present invention in an open position, in which three wires are positioned in the device;

[0066] Figure 8 is a front view of the device according to Figure 7 in a closed position, in which three wires are deformed using the device;

[0067] Figure 9 is a side view of the device illustrated in Figure 7;

[0068] Figure 10 is a side view of the device illustrated in Figure 8;

[0069] Figure 11 is a rear view of the device illustrated in Figure 7;

[0070] Figure 12 is a rear view of the device illustrated in Figure 8;

[0071] Figure 13 is a front perspective view of the device illustrated in Figure 7;

[0072] Figure 14 is a front perspective view of the device illustrated in Figure 8;

[0073] Figure 15 is a rear perspective view of the device illustrated in Figure 7;

[0074] Figure 16 is a rear perspective view of the device illustrated in Figure 8;

[0075] Figure 17 is a side view of a third exemplary portable device according to the present invention in an open position; [0076] Figure 18 is a top view of the device illustrated in Figure 17;

[0077] Figure 19 is a front perspective view of the device illustrated in Figure 17;

[0078] Figure 20 is a rear perspective view of the device illustrated in Figure 17;

[0079] Figure 21 is a side view of the device according to Figure 17 in a closed position;

[0080] Figure 22 is a top view of the device illustrated in Figure 21 ;

[0081] Figure 23 is a front perspective view of the device illustrated in Figure 21;

[0082] Figure 24 is a rear perspective view of the device illustrated in Figure 21;

[0083] Figure 25 is a photograph of a fourth exemplary device according to the present invention in an open position, in which a wire is positioned in the device; and

[0084] Figure 26 is a further photograph of the device according to Figure 25.

[0085] Preferred features, embodiments and variations of the invention may be discerned from the following Description which provides sufficient information for those skilled in the art to perform the invention. The following Description is not to be regarded as limiting the scope of the preceding Summary of the Invention in any way.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0086] Exemplary devices of the invention will now be discussed with reference to Figures 1 to 28. In the figures, like reference numerals refer to like features.

[0087] A first exemplary portable device 1 of the invention is illustrated in Figures 1 to 6. The portable device 1 is for deforming (especially crimping) a wire 2 on a wire fence. The device 1 includes one wire deformer 10, which includes a first roller 12, a second roller 14 and a third member 16. The device 1 therefore includes three wire contact points 12, 14, 16. The wire deformer 10 is operable between an open position and a closed position. In the open position (as shown in Figures 2 and 5) a wire 2 is positionable between (i) the third member 16; and (ii) the first and second rollers 12, 14. In the closed position (as shown in Figures 3, 4 and 6) the wire 2 is deformed between (i) the third member 16; and (ii) the first and second rollers 12, 14. In the closed position the third member 16 is positioned substantially between or intermediate the first and second rollers 12, 14. The device 1 is configured to deform high-tensile steel wire, especially wire with a tensile strength of at least 600 MPa. [0088] The device 1 of Figures 1 to 6 is configured to deform the wire 2 into substantially a U-shape (see Figure 4, for example). The wire 2 entering and exiting the device 1 in the closed position (see Figures 3, 4 and 6) is along the same wire extending axis. In other words, the wire 2 extends along a straight line to the deformation, and after the deformation the wire 2 continues to extend along the same straight line. The deformation is less than 6 cm wide and less than 6 cm in depth.

[0089] The first and second rollers 12, 14 are configured to minimise friction and are substantially cylindrical, rotating about a central axis. The rollers 12, 14 are on ball bearings. The third member 16 is non-rotatable, and is a projection.

[0090] The device 1 further includes an actuator 20 for operating the wire deformer 10 between an open and closed position. The first and second rollers 12, 14 are in a fixed position and the actuator 20 is configured to move the third member 16 towards the first and second rollers 12, 14 in a straight line, and along a line that is substantially perpendicular to a line connecting the centre of the first and second rollers.

[0091] The actuator 20 in Figures 1 to 6 is a pneumatic actuator that is connectable to an air compressor. An operator can set a pressure on the air compressor so that the device 1 may be incapable of deforming a taut wire 2.

[0092] The actuator 20 includes a moveable portion 22, and the moveable portion 22 moves along the same axis as the third member, and along the same axis as the ramming member 24. The third member 16 is located on (or integrally formed with) the ramming member 24. The actuator 20 transmits a 1:1 direct push force to the ramming member 24 (see Figure 4).

[0093] The device 1 further includes a sleeve 30 for minimising access to the wire deformer. The sleeve 30 includes a slot 32 into which a wire may be positioned to be deformed.

[0094] The device 1 is a hand-carried device. However, it may be advantageous for the device 1 to be supported by a frame or backpack worn by the operator. The frame or backpack includes a vertical member connected to a cantilevered member which extends over the user’s head. The device 1 may be connected to the end of the cantilevered member.

[0095] A second exemplary portable device 100 of the invention is illustrated in Figures 7 to 16. The portable device 100 is for deforming (especially crimping) a wire 102 on a wire fence. The device 100 includes six wire deformers 110. The device 100 includes two sets of three wire deformers 110 in parallel, and each set is in series. Each wire deformer 110 includes a first roller 112, a second roller 114 and a third member 116. The third member 116 is a third roller. Each wire deformer 110 therefore includes three wire contact points 112, 114, 116. Each wire deformer 110 is operable between an open position and a closed position. In the open position (as shown in Figures 7, 9, 11, 13 and 15) a wire 102 is positionable between (i) the third roller 116; and (ii) the first and second rollers 12, 14. In the closed position (as shown in Figures 8, 10, 12, 14 and 16) the wire 102 is deformed between (i) the third roller 116; and (ii) the first and second rollers 112, 114. In the closed position the third roller 116 is positioned substantially between or intermediate the first and second rollers 112, 114 (but the third roller 116 is offset). The device 100 is configured to deform three lines of high -tensile steel wire, especially wire with a tensile strength of at least 600 MPa.

[0096] The device 100 of Figures 7 to 16 is configured to deform the wires 102 into substantially a U-shape (see Figure 8, for example). The wires 102 entering and exiting the device 100 in the closed position (see Figures 8, 10, 12, 14 and 16) is along the same wire extending axis. In other words, each wire 102 extends along a straight line to the deformation, and after the deformation each wire 102 continues to extend along the same straight line. Each deformation is less than 6 cm wide and less than 6 cm in depth.

[0097] The first, second and third rollers 112, 114, 116 are configured to minimise friction and are substantially cylindrical, rotating about a central axis. The rollers 112, 114, 116 are on ball bearings.

[0098] The device 100 further includes a single actuator 120 for operating the six wire deformers 110 between an open and closed position. The first and second rollers 112, 114 are in a fixed position, mounted to support 104, and the actuator 120 is configured to move the third member 116 towards the first and second rollers 112, 114 in a straight line, and along a line that is substantially perpendicular to a line connecting the centre of the first and second rollers 112, 114.

[0099] The actuator 120 in Figures 7 to 16 is a pneumatic actuator that is connectable to an air compressor. An operator can set a pressure on the air compressor so that the device 1 may be incapable of deforming a taut wire 102.

[00100] The actuator 120 includes a moveable portion 122 (see Figure 9, for example), which is connected to a connecting member 140 which moves along the same axis as the moveable portion 122 of the actuator 120. The connecting member 140 is in turn connected to three deformation preventer 142. Each deformation preventer 142 includes a force absorber 144, in the form of a spring, which absorbs force to prevent a wire 102 from being over tensioned. If the wire 102 becomes sufficiently taut, the device will compress the force absorber 144 rather than attempt to deform the wire 102. Each deformation preventer 142 also includes a coupler 146 (see Figures 9 and 10, for example). The coupler 146 is connected to the force absorber 144 and to the connecting member 140. The force absorber 144 is in turn connected to a transverse member 148. Each transverse member 148 is in turn connected to two ramming members 124, and the third roller 116 is in turn mounted on the ramming member 124.

[00101] Each wire deformer 110 in parallel can be adjusted in position. The position of each of the first and second rollers 112, 114 can be adjusted on the support in any of four positions. The position of each third roller 116 is adjustable to any of two positions on the ramming member 124. The position of each coupler 146 is connected to the connecting member 140 in any of four positions. Each of these components of the device 100 are adjustable along an axis that is the same as, or parallel to, the axis upon which the moveable portion 122 of the actuator 120 moves. Each of these components are connected via a fastener 150, in the form of a pin. Removal of, for example, the pin 150 connecting the connecting member 140 and the coupler 146 would deactivate the wire deformer 110 at that position.

[00102] The device 100 is a hand-carried device, but it may be, for example, mounted on an arm extending from the tray of a utility or vehicular trailer.

[00103] A third exemplary portable device 300 is illustrated in Figures 17 to 24. The portable device 300 is for deforming (especially crimping) a wire 302 on a wire fence. The device 300 includes one wire deformer 310. The wire deformer 310 includes a first member 312, a second member 314, a third member 316, a fourth member 318 and a fifth member 319. The first member 312 and fourth member 318 are rollers. The third member 316 and fifth member 319 are posts. The second member 314 is an aluminium block. The wire deformer 310 therefore includes five wire contact points 312, 314, 316, 318 and 319. The wire deformer 310 is operable between an open position and a closed position. In the open position (as shown in Figures 17 to 20) a wire 302 is positionable between (i) the third member 316 and the fifth member 319; and (ii) the first, second and fourth members 312, 314, 318. In the closed position (as shown in Figures 21 to 24) the wire 302 is deformed between (i) the third member 316 and the fifth member 319; and (ii) the first, second and fourth members 312, 314, 318. In the closed position the third member 316 is positioned substantially between or intermediate the first member 312 and the second member 314 (but the third member 316 is offset). In the closed position the fifth member 319 is positioned substantially between or intermediate the second member 314 and the fourth member 318 (but the fifth member 319 is offset). The device 300 is configured to deform one line of high-tensile steel wire at a time, especially wire with a tensile strength of at least 600 MPa. In the device 300 of Figures 17 to 24, the first and fourth rollers 312, 318 are each about 7 mm high.

[00104] The device 300 of Figures 17 to 24 is configured to deform the wire 302 into substantially a U-shape (see Figure 22 for example). The wire 302 entering and exiting the device 300 in the closed position is along the same wire extending axis. That is, the wire 302 extends along a straight line to the deformation, and after the deformation each wire 302 continues to extend along the same straight line.

[00105] The first and fourth members 312, 318 are rollers and are configured to minimise friction and are substantially cylindrical, rotating about a central axis. The first and fourth members 312, 318 are on ball bearings. The third and fifth members 316, 319 are non-rotatable and are substantially cylindrical.

[00106] The device further includes an actuator 320 for operating the wire deformer 310 between an open and closed position. The first, second and fourth members 312, 314, 318 are in a fixed position, mounted to support 304, and the actuator 320 is configured to move the third and fifth members 316, 319 towards the first, second and fourth members 312, 314, 318 in a straight line, and along a line that is substantially perpendicular to the centre of the second member 314.

[00107] The actuator 320 in Figures 17 to 24 is a pneumatic or hydraulic actuator 320. An operator can set a pressure on an air compressor, for example, so that the device 300 may be incapable of deforming a taut wire 302.

[00108] The actuator 320 in Figures 17 to 24 is a pressurised return cylinder. The actuator 320 includes a fluid inlet and fluid outlet 328. Alternatively, the actuator 320 may be a spring return cylinder.

[00109] The actuator 320 includes a moveable portion 322 which is connected to a ramming member 324. The position of the ramming member 324 relative to the moveable portion 322 may be adjusted via nut 326. The third member 316 and the fifth member 319 are mounted on the ramming member 324.

[00110] The device 300 is a hand-carried device, and can be carried via handle 340. The device 300 may also include a guide for the fence wire 350, located adjacent the second member 314.

[00111] A fourth exemplary portable device 200 is illustrated in Figures 25 and 26. The portable device 200 includes a first arm 260 and a second arm 270. A first end 262 of the first arm is pivotally connected to a first end 272 of the second arm 270. The first and second arms 260, 270 are pivotable at a third member 216. A first roller 212 is located on the first arm 260, and a second roller 214 is located on the second arm 270. When the device 200 is in an open position, the wire 202 may be positioned between: (i) the third member 216; and (ii) the first and second rollers 212, 214. The second ends 264, 274 of the first and second arms 260, 270 include a handle. The device 200 may be operated to deform a wire 202 by bringing the handles together.

[00112] In the present specification and claims (if any), the word ‘comprising’ and its derivatives including‘comprises’ and‘comprise’ include each of the stated integers but does not exclude the inclusion of one or more further integers.

[00113] Reference throughout this specification to‘one embodiment’ or‘an embodiment’ means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, the appearance of the phrases ‘in one embodiment’ or ‘in an embodiment’ in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more combinations.

[00114] In compliance with the statute, the invention has been described in language more or less specific to structural or methodical features. It is to be understood that the invention is not limited to specific features shown or described since the means herein described comprises preferred forms of putting the invention into effect. The invention is, therefore, claimed in any of its forms or modifications within the proper scope of the appended claims (if any) appropriately interpreted by those skilled in the art.