Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
CA 02557101 2006-08-28
RING BINDER HP.VING A CLIP
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] This invention relates to ring binders for
retaining loose-leaf pages, and in particular to a clip for
attaching a ring binder mechanism to a cover to form the ring
binder.
[0002] Conventional ring binders are made by securing a
ring binder mechanism to a cover using rivets. Commonly, ring
binder mechanisms include a housing and a plurality of ring
members attached to the housing for retaining loose-leaf
pages, such as hole-punched pages. Typically, the ring binder
mechanism is secured to the cover by inserting the rivets
through the cover and openings in the ring binder mechanism.
The tail of each of the rivets is then deformed (e.g., by
punching) to engage and fasten the ring binder mechanism.
Once assembled, the ring binder is packaged and shipped to a
distributor, a retailer, or directly to an end user (i.e.,
consumer).
[0003] One of the drawbacks of traditional ring binders
relates to their shipping and storage after they are
assembled. When assembled, large gaps exist between the ring
binder mechanism and the cover for each ring binder leaving
large amounts of room unused during shipping and storing of
multiple ring binders. Thus, the number of ring binders in
each package is greatly limited. As a result, packaging and
shipping conventional ring binders is inefficient which
results in significant shipping and handling costs. Moreover,
even a limited number of ring binders occupy a substantial
amount of storage space or retail display space.
[0004] In response to this drawback, manufacturers of
ring binders typically pack the mechanisms in alternating
directions. But even this packing technique leaves large
amounts of unused space. Further efforts to overcome some of
the short comings of conventional ring binders have been
1
CA 02557101 2006-08-28
disclosed in co-assigned U.S. Patent Nos. 5,924,811 to To et
al., 5,879,097 to Cheng, and 5,160,209 to Schuessler, all of
which are hereby incorporated by reference in their
entireties.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0005] In one aspect, the present invention is directed
to a ring binder generally comprising a substrate and a ring
binder mechanism including a housing and at least one ring
supported by the housing for mounting loose leaf paper. At
least one clip is adapted to secure the clip to a substrate
and thereby mount the ring binder mechanism on the substrate.
The clip has a first portion, a second portion spaced from
the first portion, and an intermediate portion connecting the
first and second portions. The first portion has an
attachment member for attaching the clip to the housing. At
least one of the portions comprises a wire.
[0006] In another aspect, the present invention is
directed to a ring binder comprising a ring binder mechanism
including a housing having at least one ring for mounting
loose leaf paper. A cover includes a front panel, a back
panel, and a spine. The front and back panels are hingedly
attached to the spine so that the panels are movable to
selectively cover or expose loose leaf pages retained by the
ring binder mechanism. A clip has a first attachment portion
for attaching the clip to the housing and a second attachment
portion for attaching the clip to the cover to thereby mount
the ring binder mechanism on the cover. The second attachment
portion comprises a bent wire.
[0007] Other objects and features will be in part
apparent and in part pointed out hereinafter.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0008] FIG. 1 is a perspective of a ring binder including
a cover and a ring binder mechanism attached to the cover
using a clip of the present invention;
2
CA 02557101 2006-08-28
[0009] FIG. 2 is the perspective of Fig. 1 with the ring
binder mechanism exploded from a back panel of the cover, a
spine and front panel of the cover being removed;
[0010] FIG. 3 is a perspective similar to the one shown
in Fig. 2 except the ring binder mechanism is shown engaging
the back panel of the cover;
[0011] FIG. 4 is a section taken on line 4-4 of Fig. l;
[0012] FIG. 5 is a bottom side perspective of the ring
binder mechanism;
[0013] FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective of the ring
binder mechanism;
[0014] FIG. 7 is the perspective of Fig. 5 but with the
ring members in an open position;
[0015] FIG. 8A is an enlarged fragmentary perspective of
the ring binder mechanism with a housing removed and showing a
lever connected to hinge plates;
[0016] FIG. 8B is a section taken on line 8B-8B of Fig.
8A;
[0017] FIG. 9 is an enlarged, top side perspective of the
clip;
[0018] FIG. 10 is a fragmentary perspective of the ring
binder mechanism engaging the cover with the clip contacting
an edge of the cover;
[0019] FIG. 11 is a fragmentary perspective similar to
Fig. 10 except the clip is received on the cover and secures
the ring binder mechanism to the cover;
[0020] FIG. 12 is a section taken on line 12-12 of Fig.
11;
[0021] FIG. 13 is a perspective of a clip having another
configuration;
[0022] FIG. 14 is a fragmentary perspective similar to
Fig. 11, but showing the clip of the Fig. 13 configuration;
[0023] FIG. 15 is a section taken on line 15-15 of Fig.
14;
[0024] FIG. 16 is a perspective of a clip having yet
another configuration;
3
CA 02557101 2006-08-28
[0025] FIG. 17 is a fragmentary perspective similar to
Fig. 11, but showing the clip of the Fig. 16 configuration;
(0026] FIG. 18 is a section taken on line 18-18 of Fig.
17;
[0027] FIG. 19 is a perspective of a clip having still
another configuration, part of the clip being broken away;
(0028] FIG. 20 is a fragmentary perspective showing the
clip of the Fig. 19 configuration being slid onto a cover;
[0029] FIG. 21 is a section taken on line 21-21 of Fig.
20;
[0030] FIG. 22 is a fragmentary perspective similar to
Fig. 11, but showing the clip of the Fig. 19 configuration;
[0031] FIG. 23 is a section taken on line 23-23 of Fig.
21;
[0032] FIG. 24 is a bottom side perspective of a ring
binder mechanism having another configuration;
[0033] FIG. 25 is a fragmentary perspective similar to
Fig. 11, but showing a ring binder mechanism of Fig. 24;
(0034] FIG. 26 is a section taken on line 26-26 of Fig.
25;
[0035] FIG. 27 is a perspective of a clip having still
yet another configuration;
[0036] FIG. 28 is a bottom side perspective of the clip
of FIG. 27;
[0037] FIG. 29 is an exploded perspective showing two
clips removed from a ring binder mechanism and a spine of a
cover;
[0038] FIG. 30 is an exploded perspective similar to FIG.
29 except the ring binder mechanism is shown engaging the
cover;
[0039] FIG. 31 is an exploded perspective similar to
FIGS. 29 and 30 except the clips are partially engaging the
ring binder mechanism and the cover;
[0040] FIG. 32 is a fragmentary section taken on line 32-
32 of FIG. 31;
4
CA 02557101 2006-08-28
[0041] FIG. 33 is a perspective similar to FIGS. 29-32
except the clips are securing the ring binder mechanism to the
spine of the cover;
[0042] FIG. 34 is an enlarged, fragmentary perspective
showing one of the clips of FIG. 33;
[0043] FIG. 35 is a fragmentary side elevation showing
one of the clips;
[0044] FIG. 36 is a fragmentary top plan showing one of
the clips;
[0045] FIG. 37 is a fragmentary bottom plan showing one
of the clips;
[0046] FIG. 38 is a section taken along line 38-38 of
FIG. 36;
[0047] FIG. 39 is a perspective of a clip having another
configuration;
[0048] FIG. 40 is a bottom side perspective of the clip
of FIG. 39;
[0049] FIG. 41 is an exploded perspective showing two
clips removed from a ring binder mechanism and a spine of a
cover;
[0050] FIG. 42 is a perspective similar to FIG. 41 except
the ring binder mechanism is shown engaging the cover;
[0051] FIG. 43 is a perspective similar to FIGS. 41 and
42 except the clips are securing the ring binder mechanism to
the cover;
[0052] FIG. 44 is a section taken along line 44-44 of
FIG. 43;
[0053] FIG. 45 is a perspective of a clip having yet
another configuration;
[0054] FIG. 46 is a bottom side perspective of the clip
of FIG. 45;
[0055] FIG. 47 is an exploded perspective showing two
clips removed from a ring binder mechanism and a spine of a
cover;
[0056] FIG. 48 is a perspective similar to FIG. 47 except
the clips are securing the ring binder mechanism to the cover;
CA 02557101 2006-08-28
[0057] FIG. 49 is a section taken along line 49-49 of
FIG. 48;
[0058] FIG. 50 is a perspective of a mounting post having
another configuration;
[0059] FIG. 51 is a side elevation of the mounting post;
[0060] FIG. 52 is a top plan view of the mounting post;
[0061] FIG. 53 is an exploded perspective showing two
mounting posts, a spine of a cover, a ring binder mechanism,
and two clips;
[0062] FIG. 54 is a perspective showing the mounting
posts, cover, ring binder mechanism, and clips assembled;
[0063] FIG. 55 is a section taken along line 55-55 of
FIG. 54;
[0064] FIG. 56 is a perspective of a mounting post having
yet another configuration;
[0065] FIG. 57 is a side elevation of the mounting post
of FIG. 56;
[0066] FIG. 58 is a top plan view of the mounting post;
[0067] FIG. 59 is an exploded perspective showing two
mounting posts, a spine of a cover, a ring binder mechanism,
and two clips;
[0068] FIG. 60 is a perspective showing the mounting
posts, cover, ring binder mechanism, and clips assembled;
[0069] FIG. 61 is a section take along line 61-61 of FIG.
60;
[0070] FIG. 62 is a perspective of a clip having another
configuration;
[0071] FIG. 63 is a bottom side perspective of the clip
of FIG. 62;
[0072] FIG. 64 is an exploded perspective showing two
clips, a ring binder mechanism, a spine of a cover, and two
mounting post, the mounting posts having still yet another
configuration;
[0073] FIG. 65 is a perspective similar to FIG. 64 except
the clips are securing the ring binder mechanism to the cover;
6
CA 02557101 2006-08-28
[0074] FIG. 66 is a section taken along line 66-66 of
FIG. 65;
[0075] FIG. 67 is a perspective of a clip having another
configuration;
[0076] FIG. 68 is a bottom side perspective of the clip
of FIG. 67;
[0077] FIG. 69 is an exploded perspective of the clip;
[0078] FIG. 70 is an exploded perspective showing two
clips removed from a ring binder mechanism and a spine of a
cover;
[0079] FIG. 71 is an exploded perspective similar to FIG.
70 except the ring binder mechanism is shown engaging the
cover;
[0080] FIG. 72 is a perspective similar to FIGS. 70 and
71 except the clips are securing the ring binder mechanism to
the cover;
[0081] FIG. 73 is a section taken along line 73-73 of
FIG. 72;
[0082] FIG. 74 is a fragmentary section taken along line
74-74 of FIG. 72;
(0083] FIG. 75 is a perspective of a clip having yet
another configuration;
[0084] FIG. 76 is a bottom side perspective of the clip
of FIG. 75;
[0085] FIG: 77 is an exploded perspective of the clip;
[0086] FIG. 78 is a perspective showing the clips
securing a ring binder mechanism to a spine of a cover;
[0087] FIG. 79 is a section taken along line 79-79 of
FIG. 78;
[0088] FIG. 80 is a fragmentary top plan showing one of
the clips attached to the cover with the ring binder mechanism
removed; and
[0089] FIG. 81 is a fragmentary perspective similar to
Fig. 80 but with a portion of the clip attached to the cover
broken away.
7
CA 02557101 2006-08-28
[0090] Corresponding reference characters indicate
corresponding parts throughout the drawings.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0091] Referring now to the drawings, and particularly to
Figs. 1 and 2, a ring binder according to the present
invention is designated generally by reference numeral 1. The
ring binder 1 comprises a ring binder mechanism 3 affixed on a
cover 5 (broadly, "a substrate") using a clip 6 of the present
invention. The cover, ring binder mechanism, and clip are
indicated generally by their respective reference numbers.
The cover 5 includes a front panel 5a, a back panel 5b, and a
spine 5c. The front and back panels 5a, 5b are hingedly
attached to the spine 5c so that they are movable to
selectively cover or expose loose leaf pages (not shown)
retained by the ring binder mechanism 3. As shown in Fig. 2,
the back panel 5b of the cover 5 includes two apertures 7.
One of the apertures 7 is located generally adjacent one edge
of the back panel 5b and the other aperture is located
generally adjacent an opposite edge of the back panel. The
number of apertures 7 may be other than two and be within the
scope of the present invention. While the ring binder
mechanism 3 is shown affixed on the back panel 5b of the cover
5, it is understood that the ring binder mechanism 3 can be
affixed on the front panel 5a or the spine 5c of the cover 5.
Moreover, the ring binder mechanism 3 can be mounted on
substrates other than the cover 5, such as files, without
departing from the scope of the present invention.
[0092] As shown in Figs. 1-4, the ring binder mechanism 3
includes an elongate housing 12 that supports two
substantially similar actuating levers (each designated
generally by reference numeral 13) and three rings (each
designated generally by reference numeral 15). The housing 12
is symmetrical with a roughly arch-shaped cross section (see
Fig. 4) and includes a longitudinal axis, two transversely
opposite longitudinally extending edges, and two longitudinal
8
CA 02557101 2006-08-28
ends (see Fig. 2). Each lever 13 pivotally mounts on the
housing 12, generally at an opposite longitudinal end, for
controlling movement of the rings 15 between a closed position
(see Fig. 5) and an open position (see Fig. 7).
[0093] As best shown in Figs. 5 and 6, a bent under rim
19 formed along each longitudinal edge of the housing 12
extends the full length of the housing from one longitudinal
end to the other. Each end of the two bent under rims 19 is
pinched together with a portion of an upper surface of the
housing 12 to form four pockets (each pocket being designated
by reference numeral 21). Accordingly, there are two pockets
21 located at each end of the housing 12. Six total slots 23
are positioned along the two bent under rims 19. The slots 23
are arranged in three transversely opposed pairs with each
pair receiving one of the rings 15 therethrough, allowing each
ring to move laterally of the housing 12 for opening and
closing. As shown in Fig. 6, two additional circular openings
25 are provided in the upper surface of the housing 12, near
the longitudinal ends, each receiving and attaching mounting
posts 27 (broadly, "connector members") to the housing 12. It
is envisioned that the housing of the present invention is
made of metal, but it may be made of any other suitable
material that is sufficiently rigid to provide a stable mount
for components of the mechanism. In addition, differently
shaped housings, including asymmetrical ones, do not depart
from the scope of this invention.
[0094] Each of the rings 15 include two ring members 29,
which are supported by the housing 12 for movement relative to
one another between a closed position (see Fig. 5) and an open
position (see Fig. 7). In the closed position, the ring
members 29 form a substantially continuous, closed, ring or
loop for retaining loose-leaf pages and for allowing the pages
to move along the rings 15 from one ring member 29 to the
other. In the open position, the ring members 29 form a
discontinuous, open loop suitable for adding or removing
pages. It is envisioned that the ring members are formed of a
9
CA 02557101 2006-08-28
conventional, cylindrical rod of suitable material, such as
steel. But it is understood that ring members having a
different cross section or ring members made of different
material do not depart from the scope of the present
invention. Although in the illustrated mechanism both ring
members can move, mechanisms having one movable ring member
and one fixed do not depart from the scope of the invention.
In addition, mechanisms with greater or fewer than three rings
or with rings that form other shapes, such as slanted "D"
shapes, when ring members are closed, do not depart from the
scope of this invention.
[0095] As shown in Figs. 5-7, the two ring members 29 of
each ring 15 are mounted opposite each other on one of a pair
of hinge plates (each hinge plate being designated generally
by reference numeral 31). The hinge plates 31 are each thin
and elongate, having an inner and an outer longitudinal edge
margin and two longitudinal ends. Each hinge plate 31
additionally includes two squared notches 33 and two rounded
cutouts 35, each of which are located along the inner
longitudinal edge margin of the hinge plate. The two notches
33 are each located at a respective longitudinal end of the
hinge plate 31, and the two cutouts 35 are each located inward
from a one of the respective notches 33 but still generally
adjacent the hinge plate's ends.
[0096] Referring again to Figs. 5 and 7, the hinge plates
31 attach to one another in parallel arrangement along their
inner longitudinal edge margins, forming a central hinge
having a pivot axis. The housing 12 loosely receives the
outer longitudinal edge margins of the interconnected hinge
plates 31 above its two bent under rims 19. Thus, the hinge
plates 31 are retained on the housing 12 while the outer
longitudinal edge margins are free to move within the rims 19.
Corresponding notches 33 of the adjoining hinge plates align
to form two box-shaped recesses 39 at opposite longitudinal
ends of the plates 31. These recesses 39 are sized and shaped
to interact with the actuating levers 13, as will be described
CA 02557101 2006-08-28
in more detail hereinafter. Similarly, corresponding cutouts
35 align to form two openings 41, each sized and shaped for
receiving one of the mounting posts 27 through the hinge
plates 31. In the illustrated ring binder mechanism the box-
shaped recesses 39 and the oval openings 41 are both
symmetrically positioned about the pivot axis of the
interconnected hinge plates 31. However, mechanisms in which
openings and recesses are positioned differently about a pivot
axis of interconnected hinge plates do not depart from the
scope of the present invention.
[0097] The housing 12 is slightly narrower than the
joined hinge plates 31 when the hinge plates are in a coplanar
position (i.e., an angle between exterior surfaces of the
hinge plates is 180°). So as the hinge plates 31 pivot
through this position, they deform the resilient housing 12
and cause a spring force in the housing that urges the hinge
plates 31 to pivot away from the coplanar position, either
closing the ring members 29 (i.e., moving the pivot axis down
and away from the housing's upper surface (Fig. 5)) or opening
them (i.e., moving the pivot axis up and toward the housing's
upper surface (Fig. 7)). Moreover, when the ring members 29
are closed, this spring force resists hinge plate movement and
clips the ring members together. When the ring members 29 are
open, the spring force holds them apart. Thus, the
illustrated embodiment uses a conventional arrangement to move
the hinge plates 31 and ring members 29. It will be
understood that other ways of moving the rings members 29 and
locking them in a closed position or open position may be used
within the scope of the present invention.
[0098] The two actuating levers 13 are generally shown in
Figs. 1-3, 8A and 8B. Each lever 13 includes a relatively
flat head 43 that extends upward, generally above the housing
12, for grasping to pivot the lever. Each additionally
includes two lateral arms, each designated by reference
numeral 45, and a cam, designated generally by reference
numeral 47. As best shown in Fig. 8A, the lateral arms 45
11
CA 02557101 2006-08-28
extend laterally outward from opposite sides of each lever 13
below the flat head 43. The two arms 45 of each lever loosely
fit within the two pockets 21 located at each longitudinal end
of the housing 12, allowing the levers 13 to pivot within the
pockets 21 relative to the housing about an axis transverse to
the housing (Figs. 5 and 7). Referring again to Figs. 8A and
8B, the cam 47 of each lever is integrally attached to the
lever 13 below the lateral arms 45. It extends downward from
the arms 45 and curves outward from the flat head 43, fitting
into one of the respective box-shaped recesses 39 of the hinge
plates. An enlarged tab 49 of each cam fits loosely over the
interconnected hinge plates 31 while a base 51 of each cam
rests below the plates. Together, the tab 49 and base 51
capture the hinge plates 31 therebetween for operable
engagement to control the pivoting motion of the hinge plates
that close and open the ring members 29. In operation to
close the zing members 29, the levers 13 are pivoted upward
and inward. The tabs 49 engage a top surface of the hinge
plates 31 and pull the pivot axis of the plates downward. To
open the ring members 29, the levers 13 are pivoted outward
and downward. The bases 51 engage a bottom surface of the
hinge plates 31 and push the pivot axis of the plates upward.
Mechanisms (not shown) having levers with different shapes or
levers pivotally attached to a housing differently do not
depart from the scope of the present invention. In addition,
mechanisms having only one lever for driving the hinge plates
do not depart from the scope of the present-invention.
[0099] Referring again to Figs. 5-7, the two mounting
posts 27 are located adjacent the levers 13 and space the ring
binder mechanism 3 off the cover 5 so that the hinge plates 31
can pivot without engaging the back panel 5b of the cover. In
this position, the mounting posts 27 align with the oval
openings 41 of the interconnected hinge plates 31 and pass
through the hinge plates without interfering with their
operation. Each mounting post 27 includes a tubular body
defining an interior space and two open longitudinal ends. A
12
CA 02557101 2006-08-28
first end includes a deformable lip 27a for attaching the
mounting post to one of the circular openings 25 in the upper
surface of the housing 12 (Fig. 10). It will be understood
that other ways of attaching the mounting posts 27 to the
housing 12 may be used without departing from the scope of the
present invention. Referring again to Figs. 5-7, a second end
includes a flange 27b that extends outwardly from the mounting
post 27. The flange can have other shapes and configurations
without departing from the scope of this invention.
[0100] As illustrated in Figs. 1-3, the ring binder
mechanism 3 is securely attached to the back panel 5b of the
cover 5 using two clips 6. The clips 6 are sized and shaped
to slide onto the back panel 5b of the cover 5 and engage
respective mounting posts 27 for securing both the clips and
the mounting posts to the back panel. Since the clips 6 are
substantially identical, only one will be described in detail.
The use of two differently configured clips with the same
ring binder mechanism and cover would not depart from the
scope of the present invention. The clip 6, as shown in Figs.
9-12, comprises a first portion 61, a second portion 63, and
an intermediate portion 65 connecting the upper and second
portions. The first and second portions 61, 63 are
resiliently biased toward one another so that when the clip 6
is received on the back panel 5b of the cover 5 the clip can
secure the mounting post 27 and thereby the ring binder
mechanism 3 to the cover. In other words, the first and
second portion 61, 63 'are adapted to squeeze the mounting post
27 and the cover 5 together. The first and second portions
61, 63 define generally flat opposing surfaces that lie
generally in parallel planes. The spacing between the
surfaces of the upper and second portions 61, 63 is slightly
less than the thickness of the cover 5. The clip 6 of the
illustrated configuration is formed from a single-piece of
generally flat sheet metal. But it is understood that the
clip 6 can be formed from more than one piece without
departing from the scope of this invention.
13
CA 02557101 2006-08-28
[0101] The second portion 63 is formed with a seat for
receiving the flange 27b of one of the mounting posts 27. The
seat comprises a generally conical nub 67 extending upwardly
from the second portion. As best shown in Fig. 12, the nub 67
includes a base portion 67a, a top potion 67b, and a shelf 67c
separating the base and top portions. When engaged with the
mounting post 27, the flange 27b of the mounting post 27 rests
on the shelf 67c and the top portion 67b extends partially
into the interior space of the mounting posts. When the clip
6 is attached to the cover 5, the nub 67 is received in one of
the apertures 7 in the cover and the most of the remainder of
the second portion 63 is in face-to-face relationship with an
exterior surface of the cover.
[0102] The first portion 61 includes a slot 69 having an
open end 71 and a closed bottom end 73. The slot 69 is sized
and shaped for receiving one of the mounting posts 27 and
extends from a free outer edge 75 of the first portion to
slightly past the top 67b of the nub 67 so that the flange 27b
on the mounting post can be engaged with the nub. A
reinforcing ridge 77 is positioned adjacent the closed bottom
end 73 of the slot 69 for engaging the mounting post 27 when
the clip 6 is positioned on the cover 5. The first portion 61
is bent slightly upward away from the second portion 63
adjacent the outer free edge 75 for allowing the clip 6 to
slide more easily onto the cover 5 as described in move detail
below. The first portion 61 also includes two elongate ribs
79 extend generally lengthwise of the first portion on
opposite sides of the slot 69 to strengthen the first portion
against bending about an axis transverse to the first portion
of the clip 6. When the clip 6 is positioned on the cover 5,
the surface of the first portion 61 is in face-to-face
relationship with an interior surface of the cover.
[0103] The intermediate portion 65 yieldably and
resiliently resists movement of the first and second portions
61, 63 with respect to one another to prevent the clip 6 from
inadvertently disengaging the mounting post 27 and/or cover 5.
14
CA 02557101 2006-08-28
In the illustrated configuration, the intermediate portion 65
extends from the second portion 63 past the plane of the first
portion 61 and thence back to the first portion. As a result,
the intermediate portion 65 defines a grip projecting up from
the first portion 61 for gripping the clip. The grip makes it
easier for a user to engage and disengage the clip from the
cover. Moreover, when the clip 6 is positioned on the cover
5, the intermediate portion 65 provides a guard protecting a
user's fingers from the ends of the ring binder, which may
potentially have sharp edges. In addition, the intermediate
portion 65 covers and protects a portion of an edge of the
cover 5. It is understood that in other configurations of the
clip 6, the intermediate portion can connect the first and
second portions 61, 63 without extending beyond the plane of
the first portion.
[0104] The ring binder 1 of the illustrated embodiment
can be assembled by aligning the ring binder mechanism 3 with
respect to the cover 5 so that the flanges 27b of the mounting
posts 27 are received in the apertures 7 in the back panel 5b
of the cover 5 (Figs. 3 and 10). The clips 6 are slid onto
the cover 5 one at a time. Since both clips 6 are attached to
the cover 5 in the same way, only one is described herein.
The free outer edge 75 of the first portion 61 of the clip 6
is placed against an upper edge of the cover and a free outer
edge 81 of the second portion 63 is placed against a lower
edge of the cover. The clip 6 is pushed toward the ring
binder mechanism 3 so that the first portion 61 slides over
the interior surface of the cover 5 and the second portion 63
sides over the exterior surface of the cover. The bent
surface at the outer free edge 75 of the first portion 61 acts
as an inclined surface and facilities sliding the clip 6 onto
the cover 5 by wedging the first and second portions apart.
As the clip 6 slides on the cover 5, the second portion 63
pivots about the intermediate portion 65 and deflects away
from the first portion 61 to allow the nub 67 to slide along
the exterior surface of the cover. The slot 69 receives the
CA 02557101 2006-08-28
mounting post 27 into engagement with the ridge 77 at the
closed bottom end 73 of the slot. The nub 67 eventually moves
into registration with the aperture 7 and the resiliency of
the clip 6 causes the nub to snap into the aperture.
[0105] Referring to Figs. 1, 11, and 12, once in place
the clip 6 secures the ring binder mechanism 3 to the cover 5.
The nub 67 of the second portion 63 is received in the
aperture 7 of the cover 5 to inhibit axial movement of the
clip. The flange 27a of the mounting post 27 is received on
the shelf 67c of the nub 67 and the top portion 67a of the nub
is received in the interior space of the mounting post. The
first portion 61 cooperates with the shelf 67c of the nub 67
to securely hold the flange 27a of the mounting post 27.
Another clip can be secured to the other mounting post in the
same way. Once both clips 6 are in place, the ring binder
mechanism 3 is securely affixed to the cover 5.
[0106] The ring binder mechanism 3 can be separated from
the cover 5 by disengaging both clips 6 from the ring binder
mechanism and the cover. One way to remove one of the clips 6
from the ring binder mechanism 3 and the cover 5 is to deflect
the second portion 63 of the clip 6 a sufficient amount to
allow the nub 67 to clear the aperture 7 in the cover 5. The
second portion 63 can be deflected either manually or with a
tool (not shown). Once the nub 67 is deflected beyond the
aperture 7, the clip 6 can be slid off the cover 5. The clip
6 can also be removed by grasping the intermediate portion 65
of the clip 6 and pulling the clip longitudinally away from
the ring binder mechanism 3 and the cover 5. The sloped sides
of the nub 67 slide along the edge of the respective aperture
7 in the cover 5 causing the first and second portions 61, 63
of the clip 6 to deflect away from each other as the clip is
pulled off the cover and away from the mounting post 27 of the
ring binder mechanism. Once both clips 6 have been removed,
the ring binder mechanism 3 can be easily separated from the
cover 5 by removing the flanges 27b of the mounting posts 27
from the apertures 7 in the cover.
16
CA 02557101 2006-08-28
[0107] Accordingly, ring binders 1 of the present
invention can be packaged, shipped, stored and/or sold without
having the ring binder mechanism 3 attached to the cover 5.
For example, the covers 5 can be packaged such that little
space between adjacent covers is wasted. This can be done by
lying the covers 5 flat such that the front panel 5a, back
panel 5b, and spine 5c are all substantially in the same plane
and stacking others on top. The ring binder mechanisms 3 can
be packaged in the same container as the covers 5 or
separately. Either way, the ring binder mechanism 3 can be
arranged to minimize wasted space, One possible packing
arrangement for the ring binder mechanisms 3 is to pack them
in alternating directions such that the rings 15 of one
mechanism are positioned between the rings of an adjacent
mechanism. The clips 6 can be packaged with the cover 5, the
ring binder mechanisms 3 or in a separate container. The
separated covers 5 and ring binder mechanisms 3 can be
packaged, shipped, and stored more efficiently and cost
effectively than covers having the ring binder mechanisms
attached.
[0108] The ring binder mechanism 3 and covers 5 can be
attached, for example, by the retailer prior to transferring
them to a customer (i.e., after a sale) or before placing them
on display. It is also understood that the customer may wish
to maintain the ring binder mechanism 3 and covers 5
separately to take advantage of the saved storage space.
Thus, the customer may be the one who attaches the ring binder
mechanism 3 to the cover 5. Accordingly, it is understood
that the ring binder mechanism 3 and cover 5 of the present
invention can be joined to form a ring binder 1 at any of
various times. The examples of the ring binder mechanism 3
being attached to the cover 5 by a retailer and an end user
are exemplary only as it is understood that other individuals,
including the ring binder manufacturer, may assemble the ring
binder. It is also understood that the ring binder mechanism
17
CA 02557101 2006-08-28
could be attached to the cover using an automated process as
well as the manual process described herein.
[0109] Figs. 13-15 show a configuration of a clip 106
substantially similar to the previous described clip 6 except
that a recess 190 is located adjacent a slot 169 in a first
portion 161 of the clip, The recess 190 is sized and shaped
for cooperating with a nub 167 to secure a flange 127b of a
mounting post 127 in an aperture 107 in a cover 105. The
recess 190 (as best seen in Fig. 15) extends down into the
aperture 107 to clamp the flange 127b against the nub 167. As
a result, this configuration supports the flange 127b of the
mounting post 127 about midway through the cover aperture 107.
Corresponding parts are indicated by the same reference
numbers used in Figs. 1-12 plus "100". Figs. 16-18 show
another configuration of a clip 206 substantially similar to
the clip of Figs. 1-12. However, the ridge 77 adjacent the
slot 69 of the clip 6 of Figs. 1-12 is not present in this
configuration. In this configuration, as best shown in Fig.
17, a closed bottom end 273 of a slot 269 engages a mounting
post 227 when the clip 206 is positioned on a cover 205.
Parts corresponding to those in Figs. 1-12 are indicated by
the same reference numbers plus "200". Figs. 19-23 show yet
another configuration of a clip 306 substantially similar to
the clip 6 of Figs 16-18. In this configuration, however, a
slit 392 is located along adjacent a nub 67 located on a
second portion 363 of the clip 306 for allowing the nub to
deflect relative to the second portion as it is being slid
over an exterior surface of a cover 305 (Fig. 21). Parts
corresponding to those in Figs. 1-12 are indicated by the same
reference numbers plus "300".
[0110] Figs. 24-26 show another configuration of a ring
binder mechanism 403 that is similar to the ring binder
mechanism 3 shown in Figs. 1-12 except the ring binder
mechanism in this configuration includes a mounting post 427
having a rim 494 extending axially outwardly from a flange
427b and defining a socket 496. As shown in Fig. 26, the rim
18
CA 02557101 2006-08-28
494 is sized and shaped for placement adjacent a wall defining
an aperture 407 in the cover 405 and the socket 496 is sized
and shaped for receiving a portion of a nub 467. The rim 494
may engage the wall of the aperture 407 to help locate the
ring binder mechanism 403.
[0111] Figs. 27-38 show another configuration of a clip
506. The clip in this configuration is sized and shaped to
slide onto a housing 512 of a ring binder mechanism 503 and
adapted to secure the housing to a cover 505. As shown in
Figs. 27 and 28, the clip 506 comprises a first portion 561, a
second portion 563, and an intermediate portion 565 connecting
the first and second portions. The first and second portions
561, 563 define generally flat opposing surfaces that lie
generally in parallel planes. The spacing between the
surfaces of the first and second portions 561, 563 is slightly
less than the thickness of the cover 505. The clip 506 of the
illustrated configuration is formed from a single-piece of
generally flat sheet metal. But it is understood that the
clip 506 can be made from more than one piece of metal (e. g.,
spring steel) and/or other material without departing from the
scope of this invention.
[0112] The first portion 561 includes a base and a pair
of side walls 562 extending upwardly from the base. Extending
further upwardly from the side walls 562 and away from the
base are two arms 564 adapted to engage and slide along the
sides of the housing 512 of the ring binder mechanism 503.
Each of the arms 564 is generally C-shaped in cross-section to
match the shape of the sides of the ring binder mechanism
housing 512. The spacing between the opposed arms 564 is
slightly smaller than the width of the housing 512 of the ring
binder mechanism 503. As the clip 506 is slid onto the
housing 512, the arms 564 are flexed outwardly away from a
longitudinal axis of the ring binder mechanism 503. The
resiliency of the arms 564 causes the arms to tightly grip the
sides of the housing 512 of the ring binder mechanism 503,
which attaches the housing to the clip. The arms 564 of the
19
CA 02557101 2006-08-28
illustrated configuration extend approximately half the length
of the base of the first portion 561 but it is understood that
the arms can be longer or shorter. Each of the arms 564 of
the clips 506 has a generally L-shape cutout 574, which
defines an elongate tab 570. Each of the tabs 570 are bent
slightly downward at its free outer end toward the base of the
first portion 561. The first portion 561 also has a circular
protuberance 566 extending outwardly from the base in a
direction away from the arms 564. The protuberance 566 is
positioned on the base between the arms 564. The protuberance
566 can have other shapes and sized than those illustrated and
can positioned at different locations on the clip 506. When
the clip is positioned on the cover 505, the surface of the
first portion 561 is in face-to-face relationship with an
interior surface of the cover 505 and the circular
protuberance 566 extends into an aperture 507 in the cover to
inhibit axial movement of the clip 506 with respect to the
cover (Fig. 38).
[0113] Referring again to Figs. 27 and 28, the
intermediate portion 565 yieldably and resiliently resists
movement of the first and second portions 561, 563 with
respect to one another to prevent the clip 506 from
inadvertently disengaging the cover 505. The intermediate
portion 565 is arcuate and connects the first portion to the
second portion 561, 563. When the clip 506 is attached to the
cover 505, the intermediate portion 565 covers and protects a
portion of an edge of the cover (Figs. 33 and 34).
[0114] As shown in Figs. 27 and 28, the second portion
563 lies in a plane generally parallel to the plane the first
portion 561. However, the length of the second portion 563 is
significantly shorter than the length of the first portion
561. In the illustrated configuration, the length of the
second portion 563 is approximately a third of the length of
the first portion 561. It is understood, however, that the
second portion 563 can have lengths other than those
illustrated including lengths longer or equal to the length of
CA 02557101 2006-08-28
the first portion 561. A free outer edge 581 of the second
portion 563 is bent slightly downward away from the first
portion 561 for allowing the clip 506 to slide more easily
onto the cover 505 as described in move detail below. When
the clip 506 is attached to the cover 505, the second portion
563 is generally in face-to-face relationship with an exterior
surface of the cover (Fig. 38).
[0115] A ring binder 501 of the illustrated configuration
can be assembled by aligning the housing 512 of the ring
binder mechanism 503 with respect to a spine 505c of the cover
505 (Figs. 29 and 30). The clips 506 are slid onto the cover
505 and ring binder mechanism 503 one at a time, although a
simultaneous connection would not depart from the scope of the
present invention. Since both clips 506 are attached in the
same way, only one is described herein. A free outer edge 575
of the first portion 561 of the clip 506 is placed against an
upper edge of the cover 505. The clip 506 is pushed toward
the ring binder mechanism 503 so that the first portion 561
slides over the interior surface of the cover 505 and the arms
564 engage and slide along the housing 512 (Fig. 31). As the
clip 506 slides on the cover 505, the first portion 561 pivots
about the intermediate portion 565 and deflects away from the
second portion 563 to allow the protuberance 566 to slide
along the interior surface of the cover (Fig. 32). Once the
protuberance 566 moves into registration with the aperture
507, the resiliency of the clip 506 causes the protuberance to
snap into the aperture (Figs. 37 and 38). While the clip 506
is sliding on the cover 505, the arms 564 of the clip engage
and sliding receive the housing 512 of the ring binder
mechanism 503 (Fig. 31). As mentioned, each of the arms 564
are generally C-shaped to match the shape of the sides of the
ring binder mechanism housing 512 and the spacing between the
opposed arms 564 is slightly smaller than the width of the
housing 512 of the ring binder mechanism 503. Therefore, as
the clip 506 is being slid onto the housing 512, the arms 564
flex outwardly away from a longitudinal axis of the ring
21
CA 02557101 2006-08-28
bindei mechanism 503. The resiliency of the arms 564 causes
the arms to tightly grip the sides of the housing 512 of the
ring binder mechanism 503, which attaches the housing to the
clip. The ring binder 501 in the illustrate configuration has
openings 516 for receiving the tabs 570 formed by the L-shaped
cutouts 574 in the arms 564 of the clip 506 (Figs. 35 and 36).
The tabs 570 are bent slightly downward at its free outer end
so that once the tabs are aligned with the openings 516 in the
housing 512, the tabs extend downward into the openings 516 to
prevent the clips 506 from being unattached to the housing.
It is understood that other fasteners can be used to secure
the housing to the clip.
[0116] Once in place, the clip 506 secures the ring
binder mechanism 503 to the cover 505 (Figs. 33-38). The
protuberance 566 of the first portion 561 is received in the
aperture 507 of the cover 505 to inhibit axial movement of the
clip 506. With the arms 564 of the clip 506 engaging the
housing 512 of the ring binder mechanism 503, the bent
portions of the tabs 570 extend into the openings 516 in the
housing to thereby secure the housing with respect to the
clip. The intermediate portion 565 covers and protects the
edge of the cover 505. Another clip 506 can be secured to the
other end of the ring binder mechanism 503 in the same way.
With both clips 506 in place, the ring binder mechanism 503 is
securely mounted on the cover 505.
[0117] The ring binder mechanism 503 can be separated
from the cover 505 by disengaging both clips 506 from the ring
binder mechanism and the cover. One way to remove one of the
clips 506 from the ring binder mechanism 503 and the cover 505
is to deflect the tabs 570 of the arms 564 away from and out
of the openings 516 in the housing 512 of the ring binder
mechanism. The clips 506 and ring binder mechanism 503 need
to be pulled away from the interior surface of the cover 505
so that the protuberance 566 on the first portion 561 is able
to slide free of the aperture 507 in the cover 505 (Fig. 32).
With the tabs 570 removed from the openings 516 and the
22
CA 02557101 2006-08-28
protuberance 566 removed from the aperture 507, the clip 506
can be slid off both the ring binder mechanism 503 and the
cover 505. Once both clips 506 have been removed, the ring
binder mechanism 503 is free to move with respect to the cover
505 (Figs. 29 and 30).
[0118] Figures 39-44 show a configuration of a clip 606
substantially similar to the previous described clip 506
except that a first portion 661 of the clip has a slot 669,
and the second portion 663 includes a protuberance 666. The
slot 669 in the first portion 661 allows the first portion to
receive a mounting post 627 connected to the housing 612 of
the ring binder mechanism 603. A recess 607 is located in the
cover 605 and is sized and shaped for cooperating with the
part of the first portion 661 surrounding the slot 669 to
secure a flange 627b of the mounting post 627 in the recess.
The protuberance 666 of the second portion 663 of the clip 606
extends into an opening 608 in the cover 605 to inhibit
movement of the clip with respect to the cover. In this
configuration, the first portion 661 has a length that is
about twice the length of the second portion 663 but it is
understood that the first and second portions can have
different lengths than those illustrated (Figs. 39 and 40).
Corresponding parts are indicated by the same reference
numbers used in Figs. 27-38 plus "100".
[0119] Figures 45-49 show a ring binder mechanism 703 and
another configuration of a clip 706 similar to the clip 606 of
Figs. 39-44. In this configuration, a second portion 763 of
the clip 706 has a length that is approximately the same as a
length of a first portion 761 of the clip. Both the first and
second portions 761, 763 of the clip 706 include slots 769,
797, respectively. As shown in Fig. 49, a housing 712 of a
ring binder mechanism 703 includes a mounting post 727 having
a flange 727b. The flange 727b includes an annular recess
727c. In use, the slot 769 in the first portion 761 of the
clip 706 receives a portion of the mounting post 727 above the
flange, and the slot 797 in the second portion 763 aligns with
23
CA 02557101 2006-08-28
the recess 727c in the mounting post. A portion of the flange
727b above the recess 727c is disposed in an opening 707 in
the cover 705 and thus, locates the mounting post 727 as well
as the rest of the ring binder mechanism 703 with respect to
the cover. In this configuration, the first portion 761 also
includes a protuberance 766 for extending into a recess 708 in
the cover 705 to inhibit movement of the clip 706 with respect
to the cover. Parts corresponding to those in Figs. 27-38 are
indicated by the same reference numbers plus "200".
[0120] Figures 50-55 shows a ring binder mechanism 803
including a mounting post 827 having a different configuration
than the mounting post 727 shown in Figs. 45-49. A clip 806,
however, is substantially the same as the clip 706 shown in
Figs. 45-49. The mounting post 827 includes a tubular body
822 having a snap connector 827a at one end and a flange 827b
at the end opposite the connector. The snap connector 827a is
adapted for snap connection with an opening 825 in a housing
812 of the ring binder mechanism 803 (Figs. 53-55). The snap
connector 827a comprises four prongs extending outwardly from
the tubular body the mounting post 827 (Figs 50-52). Each of
the prongs'has a stem 824 with a generally triangle shaped
cross-section and a triangular head 826 disposed on the top of
each of the stems. As a result, the heads 826 of the stems
824 cooperate to have an effective diameter greater than the
diameter of the tubular body 822 of the mounting post 827. In
use, the heads 826 of the snap connector prongs are inserted
into the opening 825 in the housing 812. As the prongs are
being inserted through the opening 825, the heads 826 of the
stems 824 deflect toward each other allowing them to pass
through the opening. Once the heads 826 are through, the
heads return to approximately their original shape so that the
heads partially overlie the housing and thereby secure the
mounting post 827 to the housing 812. The flange 827b
includes an annular recess 827c. In use, a slot in the first
portion 861 of the clip 806 receives a portion of the mounting
post 827 above the flange, and a slot in the second portion
24
CA 02557101 2006-08-28
863 aligns with the recess 827c in the mounting post (Fig.
55). A portion of the flange 827b above the recess 827c is
disposed in an opening 807 in the cover 805, and thus locates
the mounting post 827 as well as the rest of the ring binder
mechanism 803 with respect to the cover. Parts corresponding
to those in Figs. 27-38 are indicated by the same reference
numbers plus "300".
(0121] Figures 56-61 show a ring binder mechanism 903
having a mounting post 927 of another configuration. A clip
906, however, is substantially the same as the clip 706 shown
in Figs. 45-49 and the clip 806 shown in Figs 50-55. In this
configuration, the mounting post 927 includes a tubular body
922 having a large head 927a at one end and a small head 927b
(broadly, a snap connector) at the opposite end. Between the
body 922 and the small head 927b is an annular recess 927c.
As illustrated in Fig. 58, the mounting post 927 is inserted
into an opening 925 in a housing 912 of the ring binder
mechanism 903. The large head 927a has a diameter greater
than the opening 925 in the housing 912 and engages the
housing adjacent the opening (Fig. 60). In use, the tubular
body 922 of the mounting post 927 is received in a slot (not
shown) of a first portion 961 of a clip 906. The portion of
the tubular body 922 disposed between the slot and the annular
recess 927c of the mounting post 927 is positioned within an
opening 907 in a spine 905c of a cover 905. A slot (not
shown) in a second portion 963 of the clip 906 receives the
portion of the mounting post 927 within the recess 927c and
the portion of the clip adjacent the slot is engage by the
smaller head 927b of the mounting post. As a result, the
housing 912 of the ring binder mechanism 903 is mounted on the
cover 905. Parts corresponding to those in Figs. 27-37 are
indicated by the same reference numbers plus "400".
[0122] Figures 62-66 show a ring binder mechanism 1003
having a clip 1006 of yet another configuration. The clip
1006 in this configuration is similar to the clip shown in
Figs. 45-49. However, the clip 1006 in this configuration
CA 02557101 2006-08-28
includes a raised part 1018 having a generally U-shape
surrounding a slot 1069 in a first portion 1061 of the clip.
As shown in Fig. 66, a mounting post 1027 includes a tubular
body defining an interior space and two open longitudinal
ends. A first end includes a deformable lip 1027a for
attaching the mounting post to one of the openings in the
housing 1012. A second end of the mounting post 1027 includes
a flange 1027b that extends outwardly from the mounting post.
A spacer 1030 has a generally cylindrical body with a rounded
end 1030b. Adjacent the rounded end 1030b is an annular
recess 1030c for receiving a slot 1097 of a second portion
1063 of the clip 1006. Opposite the rounded end 1030b of the
space 1030 is a cylindrical nub 1030a adapted for insertion
into tubular body of the mounting post 1027. Adjacent the nub
1030a is a flange 1030d adapted for face-to-face engagement
with the flange 1027b of the mounting post 1027.
[0123] In use, the slot 1069 in the first portion 1061 of
the clip 1006 receives a portion of the mounting post 1027
above the flange 1027b. As shown in Fig. 66, the flange 1030d
of the spacer 1030 is sandwiched between the flange 1027b of
the mounting post 1027 and the cover 1005. The raised portion
1018 of the clip 1006 adjacent the slot 1069 is sized and
shaped to accommodate both the flange 1027b of the mounting
post 1027 and the flange 1030d of the spacer 1030. The slot
1097 in the second portion 1063 of the clip 1006 aligns with
the recess 1030c in the spacer 1030. A portion of the spacer
1030 above the recess 1030c and below the flange 1030d is
disposed in an opening 1007 in the cover 1005. In this
configuration, the first portion 1061 also includes a
protuberance 1066 for extending into a recess 1008 in the
cover 1005 to inhibit movement of the clip 1006 with respect
to the cover. As a result, the clip 1006 securely attaches
the housing 1012 of the ring binder mechanism 1003 to the
cover 1005. Parts corresponding to those in Figs. 27-38 are
indicated by the same reference numbers plus "500".
26
CA 02557101 2006-08-28
[0124] Figs. 67-74 show still another configuration of a
clip 1106. The clip in this configuration is sized and shaped
for sliding onto a housing 1112 of a ring binder mechanism
1103 and adapted to secure the housing to a cover 1105 (Figs.
70-72). The cover 1105 is substantially the same as the cover
shown and described with respect to Figs. 1-12. Parts
corresponding to those in Figs. 1-12 are indicated by the same
reference numbers plus "1100".
[0125] As shown in Figs. 70-74, the ring binder mechanism
1103 is similar to the ring binder mechanism shown in Figs. 1-
12. However, the ring binder mechanism 1103 of this
configuration does not have mounting posts or circular
openings in the housing for receiving and attaching the
mounting posts. It is understood, however, that the ring
binder mechanism may include mounting posts and circular
openings without departing from the scope of this invention.
In addition, four ribs 1116 are located on the outer surface
of the housing 1112. More specifically, two of the ribs 1116
are located adjacent one end of the housing 1112 and the other
two ribs are located adjacent the other end of the housing.
The ribs 1116 are described in more detail below.
[0126] As shown in Figs. 67-69, the clip 1106 comprises a
first portion 1161, a second portion 1163, and an intermediate
portion 1165 connecting the first and second portions. The
first portion 1161 of the clip 1106 is formed from a single-
piece of generally flat sheet metal. But it is understood
that first portion 1161 the clip 1106 can be made from more
than one piece of metal and/or other material without
departing from the scope of this invention. The second
portion 1163 and intermediate portions 1165 are formed from a
single-piece of bent wire that is connected to the first
portion 1161. It is also understood that the second portion
1163 and intermediate portions 1165 can be made from more than
one piece of metal and/or materials other than wire.
[0127] The first portion 1161 includes a base 1172 and a
pair of side walls 1162 extending upwardly from the base. Each
27
CA 02557101 2006-08-28
of the side walls 1162 includes an opening 1182 (Fig. 69).
Extending further upwardly from the side walls 1162 and away
from the base 1172 are two arms 1164 (broadly, "attachment
members") adapted to engage the sides of the housing 1112 of
the ring binder mechanism 1103. Each of the arms 1164 is
roughly C-shaped in cross-section to match the shape of the
sides of the ring binder mechanism housing 1112. The spacing
between the opposed arms 1164 is slightly smaller than the
width of the housing 1112 of the ring binder mechanism 1103.
As the clip 1106 is slid onto the housing 1112, the arms 1164
are flexed outwardly away from a longitudinal axis of the ring
binder mechanism 1103. The resiliency of the arms 1164 causes
the arms to tightly grip the sides of the housing 1112 of the
ring binder mechanism 1103, which attaches the housing to the
clip. Each of the arms 1164 of the clips 1106 has a generally
rectangular cutout 1174.
[0128] The first portion 1161 also includes a pair of
knuckles 1180. Each of the knuckles is located between one of
the arms 1164 of the first portion 1161 and the intermediate
portion 1165. The knuckles are sized and shaped for capturing
a connecting portion 1186 of the bent wire that forms the
intermediate 1165 and second portion 1163 of the clip 1106.
The connecting portion 1186 of the bent wire has two turned-
out portions 1184 for extending into respective openings 2182
in the side walls 1162 of the clip 1106. The resiliency of
the wire holds the turned-out portion 1184 in the openings
1182. The engagement of the connecting portion 1186 with the
first portion 1161 via the knuckles 1180 and the openings 1182
secures the intermediate portion 1165 and the second portion
1163 to the first portion 1161. The knuckles 1180 and/or
openings 1182 are broadly referred to as joining members.
[0129] The first portion 1161 also has a generally
rectangular tab 1166 extending outwardly from the base 1172 in
a direction away from the arms 1164. The tab 1166 is
positioned on the first portion 1161 between the arms 1164.
The tab 1166 can have other shapes and sizes than those
28
CA 02557101 2006-08-28
illustrated and can be positioned at different locations on
the clip 1106. When the clip is positioned on the cover 1105,
the lower surface of the first portion 1161 is in face-to-face
relationship with an interior surface of the cover 1105 and
the tab 1166 extends into an aperture 1107 in the cover to
inhibit axial movement of the clip 1106 with respect to the
cover (Figs. 73 and 74).
[0130] Referring again to Figs. 67-69, the intermediate
portion 1165 yieldably and resiliently resists movement of the
first and second portions 1161, 1163 with respect to one
another to prevent the clip 1106 from inadvertently
disengaging the cover 1105. The intermediate portion 1165 is
generally arcuate and connects the first portion to the second
portion 1161, 1163. When the clip 1106 is attached to the
cover 1105, the intermediate portion 1165 extends around a
portion of an edge of the cover (Figs. 72 and 74) so that the
clip 1106 is clipped onto the cover.
[0131] The second portion 1163 of the clip 1106 is
generally opposed to the first portion 1161. However, the
length of the second portion 1163 is significantly less than
the length of the first portion 1161. It is to be understood,
however, that the second portion 1163 can have lengths other
than those illustrated including lengths longer or equal to
the length of the first portion 1161. When the clip 1106 is
attached to the cover 1105, the second portion 1163 is
generally in face-to-face relationship with an exterior
surface of the cover (Fig. 74).
[0132] As illustrated in Figs. 70-72, a ring binder 1101
can be assembled by placing the housing 1112 of the ring
binder mechanism 1103 against a spine 1105c of the cover 1105.
Front and back panels of the cover 1105 are not shown in
Figs. 70-72 but are the same as the front and back covers 5a,
5b shown in Fig. 1. The clips 1106 are slid onto the cover
1105 and ring binder mechanism 1103 one at a time, although a
simultaneous connection would not depart from the scope of the
present invention. Since both clips 1106 are attached in the
29
CA 02557101 2006-08-28
same way, only one is described herein. A free outer edge
1175 of the first portion 1161 of the clip 1106 is placed
against an upper edge margin of the cover 1105. The clip 1106
is pushed toward the ring binder mechanism 1103 so that the
first portion 1161 slides over the interior surface of the
cover 1105 and the arms 1164 engage and slide along the
housing 1112. Once the tab 1166 moves into registration with
the aperture 1107, the resiliency of the tab 1166 causes the
tab to snap into the aperture 1107 in the spine 1105c (Figs.
73 and 74). The tab 1166 inhibits the clip 1106 from being
disengaged from the spine 1105c. Specifically, the tab 1166
is angled so that it is received in the aperture 1107 and
resists forces that would otherwise disengage the clip 1106
from the spine.
[0133] While the clip 1106 is sliding on the cover 1105,
the arms 1164 of the clip engage and slidingly receive the
housing 1112 of the ring binder mechanism 1103. As mentioned,
each of the arms 1164 are roughly C-shaped to match the shape
of the sides of the ring binder mechanism housing 1212 and the
spacing between the opposed arms 1164 is slightly smaller than
the width of the housing 1112 of the ring binder mechanism
1103. Therefore, as the clip 1106 is slid onto the housing
1112, the arms 1164 flex outwardly away from a longitudinal
axis of the ring binder mechanism 1103. The resiliency of the
arms 1164 causes the arms to tightly grip the sides of the
housing 1112 of the ring binder mechanism 1103, which attaches
the housing to the clip. The ring binder 1101 in the
illustrate configuration has ribs 1116 that act as stops for
stopping the clip 1106 from being pushed too far onto the
housing 1112. The ribs 1116 are positioned on the housing so
that they engage a portion of the arms 1164 adjacent the
cutouts 1174 in the arms 1164 (Fig. 72). Once in place, the
clips 1106 secure the ring binder mechanism 1103 to the cover
1105 (Figs. 72-74). With both clips 1106 in place, the ribs
1116 on the clips 1106 limit axial movement of the ring binder
mechanism 1103. In other words, the ribs 1116 help prevent
CA 02557101 2006-08-28
the ring binder mechanism 1103 from sliding free of the clips
1106.
[0134] Figs. 75-81 show a clip 1206 having a
configuration substantially similar to the clip 1106 of Figs.
67-74 except that a tab 1266 has a central portion 1266a with
a tapering, generally V-shaped cross section and two generally
triangular portions 1266b. The clip 1206, as in the
previously described embodiments, is used to mount a ring
binder mechanism 1203 on a cover 1205 (Figs. 78 and 79). The
ring binder mechanism 1203 and cover 1205 are substantially
the same as the ring binder mechanism 1103 and cover 1106
shown in Figs. 70-75.
[0135] The central portion 1266a of the tab 1266 has a
bend at its apex that extends the length of the tab and back
into a base 1272 of the clip 1206. One of the triangular
portions 1266b is located on each side of the central portion
1266a. As shown in Fig. 80, the width of the tab 1266 tapers
toward its fixed end such that it is narrower at its free end
than at its end affixed to the base 1272 of the clip 1206.
Moreover, the free end of the tab 1266 is narrower than an
aperture 1207 in the cover 1205 while the end affixed to the
base 1272 is wider than the aperture. As a result, when the
clip 1206 is engaged with the cover 1205, the free end of the
clip 1206 easily moves down into the aperture 1207 of the
cover. But as the clip 2206 continues to be slid onto the
cover 1205, the side edges of the tab 1266 engage and grip the
edges of the cover 1205 defining the aperture 1207 (Fig. 81).
Thus, the central portion 1266a of the tab 1266 is positioned
to engage the longitudinal outer edge of the aperture 1207 in
the cover 1205 to inhibit withdrawal of the clip 1206 from the
cover. The engagement of the tab 1266 with the cover 1205
also inhibits movement of the ring binder mechanism 1203 with
respect to the cover 1205. Parts. corresponding to those shown
in Figs. 67-74 are indicated by the same reference numbers
plus "100".
31
CA 02557101 2006-08-28
[0136] Additional clip configurations are shown and
described in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 11/316,511,
entitled RING BINDER HAVING CLIP filed December 22, 2005,
which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
[0137] Components of the mechanism of the present
invention are made of a suitable material, such as metal
(e. g., steel). But mechanisms made of a non-metallic
material, specifically including plastic, do not depart from
the scope of this invention.
[0138] When introducing elements of the present invention
or the preferred embodiments) thereof, the articles "a",
"an", "the" and "said" are intended to mean that there are one
or more of the elements. The terms "comprising", "including"
and "having" are intended to be inclusive and mean that there
may be additional elements other than the listed elements.
Moreover, the use of "up" and "down" and other orientational
terms is made for convenience, but does not require any
particular orientation of the components.
[0139] As various changes could be made in the above
without departing from the scope of the invention, it is
intended that all matter contained in the above description
and shown in the accompanying drawings shall be interpreted as
illustrative and not in a limiting sense.
32
