Abstract: A ring mechanism includes a housing, a plurality of rings for holding loose-leaf pages, and a plurality of locking elements. Each ring is supported by the housing and includes a first ring member and a second ring member. The first ring member is moveable relative to the second ring member between a closed position and an opened position. Each ring is moveable relative to the housing between an upright configuration in which the ring stands generally upright from the housing and a fold-down configuration in which the ring generally lies against the housing. Each locking element is associated with one of the rings and moveable relative to the housing between a locked position wherein each of the rings is locked in the upright configuration and an unlocked position wherein each of the rings is moveable between the upright configuration and the fold-down configuration.

Abstract: A journaling system including a binder, journaling sheets, and template sheet. The template sheet includes a plurality of spaced holes spatially arranged to correspond to at least some of the rings in the binder. Typically, each of the holes includes a slit that allows the template sheet to be inserted and removed from the binder without opening the rings. One or more windows are defined in the template sheet which allows a user to write therethrough onto a journaling sheet. A preprinted instruction is disposed adjacent to the window which instructs the user to write a message within the window.

Abstract: An apparatus including a pocket that is at least partially defined by an elastomeric film, and a related method. The elastomeric film comprising a material that includes a styrene block copolymer, a polyolefin, a polyurethane, a polystyrene, an ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer, a processing oil, or mixtures thereof.

Abstract: A ring binder mechanism includes a housing having longitudinal ends and a top surface, hinge plates supported by the housing for pivoting motion about a pivot axis relative to the housing, and rings for holding loose-leaf pages. Each ring includes first and second ring members. The first ring member is movable relative to the second ring member between closed and opened positions of the rings. A control structure is supported by the housing and movable relative to the housing. The control structure produces the pivoting motion of the hinge plates in at least one direction. The control structure has an actuating lever pivotally connected to the housing and disposed generally above the top surface of the housing. The actuating lever is formed for receiving a fastener therethrough for connecting the housing to a cover.

Abstract: A bound system including a plurality of pages and a cover/divider including a bound outer edge and a plurality of free outer edges. The cover/divider is bound to the plurality of pages along the bound edge. The cover/divider includes one or more discreet tabs extending generally outwardly relative to one of the free edges. Each tab is integrally formed from a single piece of material with the rest of the cover/divider. Each tab further has an opening formed therethrough and is configured to receive at least part of a binding device therethrough to thereby couple the cover/divider to the binding device.

Abstract: A method of storing a medical file carrier in a healthcare facility includes disposing a first portion of the medical file carrier in a first pocket of a removable carrier cover, substantially covering an outer surface of the medical file carrier with a surface of the carrier cover, and defining a non-covered region exposing a second portion of the medical file carrier for review in the healthcare facility.

Abstract: Disclosed is a binder assembly and an improved method for binding paper documents, particularly short run and full dress documents (SRFDD) that are widely used in numerous contexts, including competitive bidding and investment solicitation. The binder assembly comprises a slide for supporting the bound document, a cover for enclosing the document, and a binder for binding the document. The cover is flexible and printable with a width-adjustable spine portion for titling and identifying the bound document with indicia. The binding method provides for relatively rapid, yet flexible and inexpensive production of bound documents with professional appearance.

Abstract: A ring binder mechanism that retains loose-leaf pages and has ring members that readily lock together, preventing accidental loss of pages. The mechanism comprises a housing that supports two hinge plates for loose pivoting motion, bringing the ring members to either an open position or a closed position. The mechanism further comprises a control structure, which includes an actuating lever pivotally mounted on the housing. The actuating lever moves a travel bar and its locking elements for controlling the pivoting motion of the hinge plates. When the ring members are closed, the locking elements block the hinge plates from pivoting to open the ring members. In addition, a spring is attached to the travel bar for automatically biasing the travel bar and locking elements to the locked position when the ring members close.

Abstract: A binder for holding documents is disclosed. The binder has a spine with a pair of cover flaps attached to each side of the spine. Attached to the spine is a latching device, also referred to as a locking device, that includes a first retaining member, a latching member, and a second retaining member. The first and second retaining members are parallel to each other and extend perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the spine. The binder is configured to hold a plurality of document modules, each of which hold a set of documents, which are flexible sheets of material, such as paper or plastic. Each module has first and second ends. The first end is contoured to mate with a portion of an external profile of the first retaining member. The second end attaches to the second retaining member. The latching member moves between a latched position where it engages the first end of the module and an unlatched position where it is not engaged to the first end of said module.

Abstract: A ring binder mechanism has a resilient polymeric housing. The housing has a central portion and lateral sides extending downwardly along either side of the central portion. A metal ring support is supported between the lateral sides for movement relative to the housing. Each of a plurality of rings includes a first ring member mounted on the ring support for movement therewith to open and close the rings. The housing applies a spring force biasing the ring support toward the open position when the first ring member is proximate its open position and biasing the ring support to the closed position when the first ring member is proximate its closed position. The housing spring force is the only spring force applied to the ring support that moves the ring support.

Abstract: A ring binder mechanism has an elongate housing constructed of a polymeric material. The housing has a central portion and lateral sides extending downwardly along either side thereof. A ring support is disposed between the lateral sides and is supported thereby for movement relative to the housing. Each of a plurality of rings includes first and second ring members. The first ring member is mounted on the ring support for movement between a closed position and an open position. The mechanism includes a control structure movable relative to the housing. The control structure is adapted to releasably lock the first member in the closed position by blocking movement of the ring support. The control structure comprises a travel bar moveable in translation relative to the housing. The travel bar includes a locking element for engagement with the ring support to block movement of the ring support.

Abstract: A portable carrier for papers, including two generally rectangular panels connected along one side and defining an interior there between. A closure is secured along three edges to the exterior of one of the panels to define a pouch between the one panel and the closure, with the pouch having an opening along a fourth edge. Two straps extend substantially parallel to two of the secured edges of the closure, with the straps each being secured in the pouch with one end at the pouch opening and the other end in the pouch adjacent the secured closure edge opposite the pouch opening. A pad is slidably connected along one side to the straps and has a storage position substantially within the pouch and a writing position outside the pouch on the closure. A mount is adapted to secure writing paper to the pad.

Abstract: A file (100), provided with a front cover (2), a back cover (3) and a spine (4) connecting the covers, wherein a binding element is provided for detachably fixing sheets, between the front (2) and back cover (3), wherein at least the front cover (2) and the back cover (3) are provide with a longitudinal edge and wherein a closure element is provided, which can be coupled to at least one longitudinal edge, such that the space enclosed by the front cover (2), back cover (3) and the spine (4) is covered by the closure element and the file (100) with the closure element has a substantially closed box shape.

Abstract: A binder for releasably retaining loose-leaves. The binder has a front cover that lies flatly beneath its back cover when the binder is open 360 degrees. The rings of the binder can rotate around an edge of the flatly-folded cover to enable loose-leaves to lie flat above and below the cover. The binder also has a skeleton with a minimal cross-section spine which may be partially or completely embedded in a cover and rotates in relation to parallel front and back covers when the binder is open 360 degrees. The front cover, middle cover and back cover are connected in a way so that they do not interfere with the rotation of the rings. Mechanisms to open and close the rings of the skeleton to allow addition or removal of loose-leafs, and ring shapes to optimize or stabilize the capacity of the binder during operation are also disclosed.

Abstract: A binder has a device for opening and closing a binder for storing sheets with at least one mechanism arranged in the area of the back of the binder. The mechanism comprises at least two spaced-apart strips which are movably interconnected by at least one common hinge, which strips are adapted for connection to the binder and are movably connected to a link means in such manner that the opening and closing motion of the binder produces a simultaneous positively guided motion of the hinge means. The link means comprises a pivot means which is pivotally connected to a centre strip of the hinge means via a centre axis which is a first pivot centre and which extends substantially transversely to the longitudinal direction of the back of the binder.

Abstract: An album (10) for photographs and similar collectible items comprising a cover (1) in which at least one window (2) is formed for display of a photograph or other flat object. The window is formed by a window frame mounting base (102) having an L-shaped cross sectional profile and a window frame cover (101) having an L-shaped cross-sectional profile.

Abstract: A portfolio including a panel and a removable and reversible article carrying board. The panel and board have a fastening arrangement, preferably a hook and loop fastener, for releasable engagement therebetween. The board preferably has at least one fastening arrangement located on each side. At least one fastening arrangement preferably extends outwardly beyond the board or panel to engage a fastening arrangement located on an away facing board or panel side. In a preferred embodiment, each board side has a fastener strip disposed along side edges and the panel has a pair of spaced apart outwardly extending fastener strips that each engages a fastener strip on the away facing board side and that also each engages a fastener strip on the toward facing board side. The board can include an expandable elastic pocket of bonded and preferably heat sealed construction.

Abstract: An organizer product comprising front and rear covers each having inwardly and outwardly facing surfaces and being joined to define an open space therebetween; a recess formed in the outwardly facing surface of the front cover; and a recess cover mounted to the front cover for movement between covering and non-covering relation relative to the recess.

Abstract: Binders and binder spines are disclosed that provide for easy insertion of labels into binder slots and also easy removal and replacement of labels in the binder slots. One printed material binder according to the present invention comprises a hardcover binder having front and back binder panels that are joined at a binder spine. The spine has a transparent cover and the spine comprises a spine support that is longitudinally foldable to open a space between binder spine and transparent cover. This open space allows for insertion of labels between the binder spine and transparent cover. When the spine support is returned flat, the label is held between the binder spine and transparent cover.

Abstract: A notebook system, including a plurality of notebooks each having a front cover and a back cover connected along one edge by a binding, and a pocket provided on an outer side of the front cover and/or the back cover of each of the notebooks. The front cover or back cover of one of the notebooks is insertable into the pocket of another of the notebooks.

Abstract: A ring binder mechanism that retains loose-leaf pages and has ring members that gently close and readily lock together. The mechanism comprises a housing that supports two hinge plates for loose pivoting motion, moving the ring members between an open position and a closed position. A control structure is movable by an actuating lever, which is pivotally mounted on the housing, between a first and second position. In the first position, pivoting motion of the hinge plates is blocked, and in the second position, the hinge plates can freely pivot. A spring is engageable with the lever for urging the lever to move the control structure toward the first position.

Abstract: A document binder includes an intermediate connecting board mounted between a bottom board and a faceplate. Thus, the intermediate connecting board has a type and a specification that can be changed to make a document binder having different specifications and types, thereby enhancing the versatility of the document binder. In addition, both of the bottom board and the faceplate have a determined specification, so that the manufacturer only needs to change the specification of the intermediate connecting board to make a document binder having different specifications. Further, the document binder consists of the bottom board, the faceplate and the intermediate connecting board which have different colors, types and patterns, thereby enhancing the aesthetic quality of the document binder.

Abstract: A binder having molding thereon is provided. The binder may have two panels connected to one another by a hinge and a binding mechanism connected to one of the panels and designed to receive an article, such as one or more sheets of loose-leaf paper and other such articles. Molding may be located on the hinges to reinforce the hinge and may be less hard than the panel material. Molding may be located along the entire length of the hinge or in discrete sections spaced from one another along the hinge. Molding may also be located on edges of the cover panels, such as along the entire edge or at the corners between the edges. The material of the molding may be a different material than the material of the panels. To form the molding on or with the panels, techniques such as comolding or overmolding may be employed.

Abstract: The invention provides an organizational system that comprises a form of workflow based upon a binder metaphor. The invention provides a binder that is organized internally along the line of most binders, e.g. with sleeves or dividers and a retention system, such as a three ring system for keeping track of information. Unique to the invention is the provision of a slotted front cover which leads to an internally accessible compartment. Uniquely, the invention allows an individual to stuff their bills and other information that requires timely attention through the slot in the binder. These items are retained securely therein in a closed compartment. The individual may on a timely basis, i.e. monthly, open the compartment within the binder and go through the various letters, bills, and like, and respond thereto in a coordinated way.

Abstract: The disaster-safe binding apparatus of the present invention comprises a rigid, fire, and water-resistant binder beneficially sized to accommodate documents, plats, and/or other materials to be maintained therein. The binder comprises a rigid book frame constructed of stainless steel. All or substantially all of the outer surfaces of the rigid frame are covered with non-flammable and self-extinguishing material. A gasket assembly extends around the opening of the binder apparatus. When the binder apparatus is closed, the gasket assembly acts to form a water-resistant seal to protect the internal contents of the binder from moisture, water, and/or other harmful external elements.

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 binder for holding papers or other objects is described. The binder comprises a window which enables a user to identify the contents of the binder. The outer surface of the window may be substantially flush with the outer surface of the binder. At least one tab may be located behind the window which enables a user to load a label and holds the label such that it is viewable through the window.

Abstract: A binder for releasably retaining loose-leaves. The binder has a front cover that lies flatly beneath its back cover when the binder is open 360 degrees. The rings of the binder can rotate around an edge of the flatly-folded cover to enable loose-leaves to lie flat above and below the cover. The binder also has a skeleton with a minimal cross-section spine which may be partially or completely embedded in a cover and rotates in relation to parallel front and back covers when the binder is open 360 degrees. The front cover, middle cover and back cover are connected in a way so that they do not interfere with the rotation of the rings. Mechanisms to open and close the rings of the skeleton to allow addition or removal of loose-leafs, and ring shapes to optimize or stabilize the capacity of the binder during operation are also disclosed.

Abstract: A cover set includes a ring mounted on a bin, a cover pivotally connected to the ring, a lifting device for lifting the cover from the ring and at least one buffer for buffering the cover near the end of the lifting so that the lifting is steady and quiet from the start to the end.

Abstract: The present invention is directed toward folder embodiments with base plates and ring assemblies capable of being removably attached to the spine portion of the folder. The present invention is also directed toward folder embodiments with a magnetized surface and various recreational and educational representations on that magnetized surface.

Abstract: A document storage device configured to receive a title sheet. The document storage device including a cover having a cover lip and a cover sheet coupled to the cover. The cover sheet is movable between an open position and a closed position such that when the cover sheet is in the closed position, at least a portion of a first edge engages the cover lip and defines a title sheet space between the cover and the cover sheet that is configured to receive the title sheet.

Abstract: A breast augmentation or reconstruction surgery diary/planner and method includes a binder including a information section, disposed in said binder, regarding what a patient needs to know regarding surgical risks a self assessment form, disposed in said binder, for completion by said patient in order to facilitate discussion between a surgeon and said patient; and a surgery consent section, disposed in said binder, with signature blocks for both said surgeon and said patient.

Abstract: There is provided a spine assembly for a book cover or loose-leaf folder. The cover or folder comprises a channel shaped spine member (4) connected by way of a hinge portion to cover boards and an associated device, perhaps incorporating a compass (36), having securing means for securing the associated device (30) and the spine member (4). The spine member (4) has a base (10), side wall portions (11, 12) and a pin (20) by which the associated device (30) is secured to the spine member (4).

Abstract: A ring binder mechanism for retaining loose leaf pages. The mechanism includes a rigid, elongate plate having a longitudinal axis. Hinge plates are supported by the plate for pivoting relative to the elongate plate. Rings for holding loose leaf pages include ring members mounted on the hinge plates and moveable between a closed position and an open position. A control structure is supported by the elongate plate and controllably pivots the hinge plates to move the ring members between the closed and open positions. The control structure has a travel bar connected to the hinge plates for moving the hinge plates between the closed and open positions. A spring biases the travel bar to a position toward the closed position of the hinge plates.

Abstract: A divider element formed of a sheet member adapted to be removably coupled to a binding element of a coil bound notebook. The divider element includes a plurality of preferably T-shaped connector elements defining a narrow cut region and coil receiving aperture therebetween. Coil portions of a binding element may pass through the cut region into and out of the coil receiving aperture. The divider element is formed of a deformable material such the connector elements are adapted to be flexed out of the plane of the sheet member without substantial bending or breakage of the connector elements. The divider element may engage the coil portions of a binding element without significant manipulation of the connector elements by way of selectively urging the coil portions of a bound notebook in a direction parallel to the binding element axis.

Abstract: This invention provides a padfolio, portfolio or other foldable business accessory that is organized with three hinged leaves (including two main leaves and one overriding leaf that folds over the main leaves when closed together) that may be unfolded and laid flat to expose various internal elements within an overall interior. The elements are organized so that a notepad is provided in a center leaf, while one of the opposing side leaves include a raised clock base having a well or recess for securing a clock having a folding stand that can be raised into an angled, standing position from a flat position. One main leaf also includes a support base that removably supports a personal digital assistant (PDA), that is normally secured flat against the leaf, but that can be hinged upwardly into at least one adjustable angled position whereby the PDA is tilted for easier viewing whilst working in another area of the padfolio, such as the notepad. In this manner, it is more accessible and easier to use.

Abstract: A ring binder mechanism for retaining loose-leaf pages. The mechanism has ring members that positively lock together to prevent unintentional openings. The mechanism includes a housing that supports pivoting motion of hinge plates for bringing the ring members to either an open position and a closed position. The mechanism also includes a control structure that can pivot relative to the housing to controllably move the hinge plates to bring the ring members together. In a closed and locked position of the mechanism, the control structure is releasably held behind protrusions of the hinge plates, thereby blocking the hinge plates pivoting motion and positively locking the ring members together.

Abstract: A binder including a binder body including a front cover and a rear cover directly or indirectly pivotally coupled together, and a panel located on an outer surface of the binder body to thereby form a pocket between the panel and the binder body. The panel has a free edge located adjacent to a mouth of the pocket. The mouth faces an outer edge of the binder body, and the free edge of the panel is located a variable distance from the outer edge of the binder body along the length of the free edge such that the pocket has a variable width.

Abstract: A display apparatus for use by a worker in a workplace environment to visually communicate to coworkers, among other things, the current location or whereabouts of the worker and the worker's expected time of return to an office or other workspace. Cards carried by a spiral member of the apparatus include alphanumeric and/or pictorial information to quickly indicate a location within the workplace. A clock face having manually adjustable hands indicates an expected return time. One embodiment incorporates a triangular geometry geared for support on a desktop. Additional embodiments are configured for positioning over an office partition wall, as well as against an office door panel, window and the like.

Abstract: Two first binding members supported rotatably by a base, which will be fixed to a back cover, and two second binding members, which engage with the front ends of the first binding members to form closed loops, are provided. Spaces between the base sections of the first and second binding members are connected via a first and second connecting plate, respectively. A releasing element is disposed between the respective connecting members, and a force is given by the releasing element in the direction that the closed loops via binding members are released. It is such adapted that, when the first binding members are nipped by fingertips and given an operation force in the direction that the same come closer to each other, the engagement with the second members are released and the front ends can rotate in the direction that the same are opened.

Abstract: A notebook cover assembly with ergonomic support for providing ergonomic support to the wrist of a user. The notebook cover assembly with ergonomic support includes a cover member having a first portion pivotally coupled to a second portion, and designed for receiving a notebook; and a wrist support member operationally coupled to the cover member for providing support for a wrist of a user writing on the notebook.

Abstract: A binding wrapper including a first generally stiff end component, a second generally stiff end component spaced apart from the first end component, and a connecting component extending between the first and second end components. The connecting component includes at least a portion of elastic material, and the first and second end components are releasably attachable together such that the wrapper is formable into a closed loop.

Abstract: A tabbed index divider assembly comprising a folded divider sheet having length and width dimensions where the sheet is folded along a line that bisects the length dimension, forming a folded outside edge and dual binding edges and having at least one slit in the folded outside edge, and an insert sheet having a tab edge with an index tab extending therefrom, said insert sheet sized and adapted to be secured between the folded halves of the divider sheet with the index tab inserted through the at least one slit in the folded outside edge of the divider sheet. The invention includes a method for making the index divider assembly and a kit having the components for assembling a plurality of index dividers.

Abstract: A learning tool includes a book binder and a plurality of removable pages. Each of the pages has a mounting surface and/or mounting locations for releasably attaching a plurality of symbol devices formed as letters, numbers and the like.

Abstract: An organizer cover, comprising first and second cover panels and a spine, an external surface, at least one organizer element, and at least one concealment flap. The spine is operatively coupled between the first and second cover panels. The first and second cover panels and the spine each have an exterior. The external surface includes the exteriors of the first and second cover panels and of the spine. The organizer element is located on the external surface of the cover. The concealment flap is connected to the external surface and manually positionable between a closed position against the external surface and an open position. The concealment flap is located and configured to conceal, at least in part, the organizer element when the flap is in the closed position. Neither the external surface nor the organizer element includes thereon any means for securing the concealment flap in the closed position.

Abstract: The invention provides a ring binder assembly device to insure the perfected closure of loose leaf binder rings. Enclosure of binder rings with the device of the invention will repair and prevent ring misalignment.

Abstract: A folder with a clamping device for receiving material in sheet form includes a jacket made of a flat, flexible material. By means of a first indentation configuration, this is divided up into a rear leaf and a backbone part and by means of a second indentation configuration into the backbone part and front leaf. The clamping device is provided in a corner region of the rear leaf, adjacent to the backbone part, so that the material in sheet form, insertable into the folder, is held clamped in the respective corner region by the clamping device. The corner region of the rear leaf wherein the clamping device is provided is delimited with respect to the rear leaf by a first crease and the corner region of the front leaf is delimited with respect to the front leaf by a second crease.

Abstract: A two-way pocket assembly for use with a notebook (100). The pocket assembly is constructed over a window (208) formed in a subsurface material of the notebook (100). The pocket assembly includes exterior and interior pockets (104), each covering at least a portion of the window (208). The exterior and interior pockets (104) provide access to the pocket assembly from either the exterior (102) or interior (204) of the notebook (100). The pocket may be configured to receive and hold a personal electronic assistant, a cellular telephone (302), or another personal electronic device. The interior pocket includes a window material that allows visual access to the interior (204) of the pocket assembly through the material of the interior pocket (104). The pocket may be constructed so that a personal electronic assistant held inside the pocket assembly is usable through the window without removing the device from the pocket assembly.

Abstract: A variable capacity binder including an outer cover and a binding mechanism including a plurality of spaced rings, each ring being shaped to be received through a hole of a piece of paper to couple the paper to the binding mechanism. Each ring is non-symmetrical with respect to at least one axis and has a longitudinal axis. The binding mechanism is pivotally coupled to the cover such that the longitudinal axis of each ring can be pivoted relative to the spine.

Abstract: A host organizer includes a casing, a pocket, and an organizer flap. The pocket is located on the exterior surface of the casing. The pocket contains a first attachment element. The organizer flap extends from the casing and over the pocket. The flap has a second attachment element. The second attachment element is complementary to and alignable with the first attachment element, such that the flap is releasably attachable to the pocket. An ancillary article includes a body and an article flap. The article flap contains third and fourth attachment elements. The third attachment element is complementary to the first element, and the fourth attachment element is complementary to the second element. The body is configured to fit in the organizer pocket. The article flap is adapted to overlap the organizer pocket such that the third and first attachment elements are aligned and the article flap is releasably attachable to the organizer pocket.