Abstract: A ring separator has a pair of members disposed in a facing relationship, the members pivotable about a common axis. Each member has an arcuate channel with the channels aligned in a facing relationship to form a bearing passage. A bearing element is placed within the passage and is movable in an axial direction. Each channel has one or more directing grooves, which receive one or more projections mounted on the bearing. As the bearing element moves axially, the projections direct the members along an arcuate path to open and close the rings mounted thereon. Such a ring separator mechanism has few parts and is easily produced by extrusion or injection molding, thus, providing a ring separator of reduce cost and simple construction.

Abstract: An adaptor for a ring separator is attached to a conventional ring separator mechanism and provides a means for attaching removable covers to form a binder. The adaptor has a plurality of slots on each side requiring a cover, with at least one slot on each side having an upwardly extending projection which is matable with a hole in a removable cover. The removable cover also has a notched edge with extending portions being receivable slots in the adaptor. When pressed into the slots, the projection engages the hole to hold the cover in place. Utilizing such an adaptor provides a simple efficient means of providing removable covers for a ring binder.