Abstract: A binder ring assembly (10) for a ring binder comprises a plurality of spaced binder rings (12-16). A user operable mechanism (18) to which the rings are attached allows the user to open and close the rings to open and close the binder. A shield (22) covers the mechanism. The binder rings protrude through the shield. A recess (26) is formed in the cover adjacent each cover location where a binder ring is located. During shipment of binder ring assemblies, one layer (L1) of assemblies is placed in a container (C) with another, inverted layer (L2) of assemblies placed over them. The outer ends of the binder rings are received in the recesses of the covers, and the depth of each recess is such that the outer end of the binder rings of the mating assembly will not come out of the recesses and rub against the non-recessed portion of the cover which, if scratched, renders the assembly unusable.

Abstract: A modular binder ring unit (16) used in a ring binder (10) comprises a plurality of modules including a binder ring module (18). The modules are spaced along the length of the unit. A plurality of spacer modules (22, 24, 30) attach to the ring modules. The spacer modules are available in different lengths, and a combination of different length modules are usable together with the ring modules to form a binder ring unit of a desired length. The spacer modules space the ring modules an appropriate distance apart for the binder rings to be at locations corresponding to holes (H) in a sheet of paper (S) stored in the binder. End caps (26) are removably attachable at each end of said unit for locking the ring modules and spacer modules in place. Each module element is an elongate module having a recess (R) formed in one end and an extension (E) at the opposite end for securing one module to an adjacent module.

Abstract: A binder locking clip (100) used with a binder metal (10) having a locking member (50) with a slot (62) formed therein. The clip has a first leg (102) and a second leg (104). The legs are spaced apart from each other and one of the legs has a detent (106) formed in it. The detent fits in the slot and engages a post (56) with respect to which the slot is movable when the locking member is moved. The clip engages the post when the frame member is moved in a direction by which the binder metal can be opened to prevent movement of the locking member in that direction.

Abstract: A binder (12) for storing sheets (S) of paper having punched holes (H). First and second end leafs (16, 18) form outer covers of the binder. A center plate (20) is positioned intermediate the end leafs which are flexibly attached (at 16f, 18f) to the center plate to enclose sheets of paper between the end leafs. Binder rings (24, 26, 28) carrier on the center plate hold the sheets and are movable from a closed to an open position. Sheets are inserted into the binder by inserting the holes over an exposed end (24e, 26e, 28e) of the rings when the rings are opened. Locking mechanism (30) locks the rings closed. A mechanism (58) moves the rings from their closed to their open position. One end (24d, 26d, 28d) of the rings attach to a rotatable plate (60). The locking mechanism is located on one side of the center plate adjacent one of the end leafs, and the rotatable plate is located on the opposite side thereof adjacent the other end leaf.

Abstract: A locking assembly (10) is for use in a ringbinder (12) used to hold and store sheets (S) of paper or other material in which at least one hole (H) is punched for capturing the sheet of paper and holding it in place. The assembly includes at least one binder ring (14). Each binder ring has first and second mating segments (14a, 14b). These are movable into and out of contact with each other. A sheet of paper is inserted onto one of the ting segments, when the segments are out of contact with each other, by inserting the hole in the sheet of paper over the ting segment. One end of one of the ring segments is attached to a first elongated plate (48), and a corresponding end of the other ring segment is attached to a second elongated plate (50). The plates are positioned side-by-side and extend generally parallel to each other.