Abstract: A ring mechanism for retaining loose-leaf pages includes a housing having a central top portion and an open bottom generally opposed to the central top portion. The central top portion has a longitudinally extending channel therein along the entire length of the housing. Hinge plates supported by the housing may pivot relative to the housing. The hinge plates support ring members that pivot with the hinge plates to open and close rings for adding and removing loose-leaf pages. In one version, the housing can be of a skeletonized construction, with the channel providing additional rigidity for the housing.

Abstract: A ring binder mechanism comprises an elongate housing, at least one ring for mounting loose leaf paper, and at least one mounting structure associated with the housing. The mounting structure has a first end adapted for attachment to the housing and a second end having an aperture therein. A fastener is adapted for reception through the mounting structure aperture at the second end for securing the housing to a substrate.

Abstract: A ring binder mechanism for retaining loose-leaf pages comprises a housing supporting two hinge plates for pivoting motion to open and close ring members. Paired ring members of the mechanism attach to the hinge plates and move therewith between the open and closed positions. Free ends of the paired ring members each have a interlocking formation that is capable of securely joining together when the ring members are in the closed position. The interlocking formations hold the ring members against misalignment in all directions transverse to longitudinal centerlines of the ring members when the ring members are in the closed position. Some formations are additionally capable of positively engaging each other as the ring members come together to actively bias the ring members into accurate alignment.

Abstract: A ring binder mechanism for retaining loose-leaf pages securely holds closed ring members together to prevent inadvertent loss of pages retained by the mechanism. The mechanism comprises a housing supporting two hinge plates for pivoting motion to open and close paired ring members mounted on the plates. Free ends of the paired ring members have interlocking configurations that securely join together when the ring members close. The configurations prevent misalignment of the closed ring members in all directions transverse to longitudinal centerlines of the ring members. The mechanism also includes locking elements that interact with the hinge plates to block their pivoting motion when the ring members are closed. This holds the free ends of the closed paired ring members together so that the interlocking configurations of the ring members remain interengaged.