Abstract: A ring binder for holding punched paper is configured using two or more curved rotational ring elements (CREs) and corresponding post elements. A linkage mechanism couples the CREs together so that the rotate in unison. When a CRE engages a corresponding post element a ring element is formed for holding punched paper. The interface between the CRE and the post element has features that ensure that the interfaces have minimum gapping and they resist separation in a direction perpendicular to the tangent to the arc of rotation when the rings are closed. The linkage may be latched against rotation. Likewise the interfaces between the CREs and the post elements may be detented to ensure minimum gapping. The mechanism may have features that break the detent before rotation commences. Ring binders with two or more rings may be formed in a variety of sizes.

Abstract: A file system for paper sheets is formed using separable (or separable and expandable) linked according pockets. The file system has two sets of bilateral pockets. The file system is substantially rectangular in cross section but is configured to match the characteristics of the paper sheets for which it is intended. The file system is adaptable as a stand-alone unit with stiffened end pieces such that its pockets can be linearly separated (or separated and expanded) for access to the pockets. The file system is adaptable to fit into a desk drawer or to have lockable side pieces for holding the file linearly open or fanned open. The file system is adaptable to use hanging members such that the file may be optionally used as a group of hanging files.

Abstract: A planar material piece has a substantially rectangular area wherein one or two pocket units with separable accordion pockets are attached to make wallets for storing and accessing planar media elements including credit cards, business cards, paper money, receipts, ID cards, etc. One, two, or four flaps are configured to extend from the rectangular area and fold back over and couple to an attachment feature on the pocket units. Portions of one opposing coupled flap act as a hinging element when the other flap is decoupled and the pockets are fanned open to allow access to the pockets for storing and retrieving planar media elements.

Abstract: A storage system comprises multiple units with combined features for storing, transporting and accessing planar media. The system comprises a container (library unit), modules, and a transport case. The module has expandable linked pockets for separating and protecting planar media elements. The modules allow a library of the planar media to be partitioned and stored into identifiable units. The container has particular features for guiding modules into parallel locations and retaining the modules in a substantially upright and closed position. Each container is configured to accept a plurality of the modules for storage. Removed modules may be fanned open in an accordian fashion exposing stored media for access. The modules are adapted to operate stand alone and adapted for inserting into and coupling to the covers of the transport case such that opening the transport case in-turn fans open the module allowing access for media retrieval or storage.

Abstract: A controllable electrical switch having a power system and switching device for connecting a source voltage to a load. The power system includes a switching regulator to extract energy directly off the non filtered full wave rectified input voltage to minimize the average magnitude of the current when the switching device is in the off-state. For on-state power the controllable electrical switch may include a transformer connected in series with the switching device. The controllable electrical switch and power system may be used to replace a standard two- wire or three-wire wall switch, and may be used over a wide voltage and load power range in a low cost, small package with low power dissipation.