Folder-carried Indicia Patents (Class 40/359)
  • Patent number: 10807404
    Abstract: A tab system for a folder (10a), and a method of making same is disclosed. The tab is enlarged to carry more information/indicia. The visual indicia space (16a), i.e. the viewable space on the front (32a, 36a) of the folder which allows viewing of the enlarged tab is achieve without violating the overall size restrictions (40a) of the file folder. Instead, the front of the folder adjacent to the tab on the back panel, is cut away (32a,34a) to expose a greater portion of the back panel (14a) and allow an increase in visual indicia space. The remaining portion of the front panel, not adjacent to the tab may also be cut away (34a) to allow other enlarged tab files, with offset tabs,(22, 21a) to be viewable behind the present file.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2020
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2020
    Assignee: Smead Manufacturing Company
    Inventor: Darryll Dodson
  • Patent number: 10395564
    Abstract: Disclosed is a generally planar automotive service tag, and method of using the same, having a first portion and a second portion. The first portion includes multiple foldable tags for describing service information, wherein each of multiple foldable tags fold and unfold along a foldable edge of the first end to indicate a status of a corresponding vehicle service. Each of the foldable tags has a male portion at a second end. The second portion of the automotive service tag includes an identifier for identifying the automotive service tag, and a plurality of female portions for each corresponding male portion of the plurality of foldable tags. The second portion further includes a protrusion that extends along an edge of a top end and a hanger portion that extends from the top end, the hanger portion being used to hang the automotive service tag on the rear-view mirror of a vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Assignee: Auto Service Tags, LLC
    Inventors: Sameh Komeha, Sayed Saied Hussein, Paul Berman
  • Patent number: 10286721
    Abstract: A tab system for a folder (10a), and a method of making same is disclosed. The tab is enlarged to carry more information/indicia. The visual indicia space (16a), i.e. the viewable space on the front (32a, 36a) of the folder which allows viewing of the enlarged tab is achieve without violating the overall size restrictions (40a) of the file folder. Instead, the front of the folder adjacent to the tab on the back panel, is cut away (32a,34a) to expose a greater portion of the back panel (14a) and allow an increase in visual indicia space. The remaining portion of the front panel, not adjacent to the tab may also be cut away (34a) to allow other enlarged tab files, with offset tabs, (22d, 21a) to be viewable behind the present file.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2018
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2019
    Assignee: Smead Manufacturing Company
    Inventor: Darryll Dodson
  • Patent number: 9855787
    Abstract: A lift tab hanging structure is disclosed. An example apparatus includes a hanging member to hang from a support structure and a tab mechanism. The tab mechanism includes a support portion extending over the hanging member to be supported by the hanging member and an indexing portion extending from the support portion. The example apparatus further includes a cover panel having an edge hanging from the support portion of the tab mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2018
    Assignee: LSC Communications US, LLC
    Inventor: Paul F. Dobson
  • Patent number: 9694619
    Abstract: A tab system for a folder (10a), and a method of making same is disclosed. The tab is enlarged to carry more information/indicia. The visual indicia space (16a), i.e. the viewable space on the front (32a, 36a) of the folder which allows viewing of the enlarged tab is achieve without violating the overall size restrictions (40a) of the file folder. Instead, the front of the folder adjacent to the tab on the back panel, is cut away (32a,34a) to expose a greater portion of the back panel (14a) and allow an increase in visual indicia space. The remaining portion of the front panel, not adjacent to the tab may also be cut away (34a) to allow other enlarged tab files, with offset tabs, (22d, 21a) to be viewable behind the present file.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2016
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2017
    Assignee: Smead Manufacturing Company
    Inventor: Darryll Dodson
  • Publication number: 20140182175
    Abstract: A folder with multiple dividers is provided. The folder may include a first cover and a second cover, each having a top end, a bottom end, an open side and a closed side. The first cover and the second cover may meet at the closed side. At least one cutout portion may run from the top end to the closed side of at least one of the first cover and second cover. The cutout portion may create a plurality of dividers so that a user may organize paperwork within them.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 27, 2013
    Publication date: July 3, 2014
    Inventor: Peter Rigas
  • Patent number: 8745908
    Abstract: Index tab holders are movably mounted on top portions of file folders or data separation sheets to locate the tab holders in selected lateral locations without removing the tab holders from the file folders. Linear rails associated with the top portions of the file folders cooperate with ribs on the tab holders to mount and laterally guide the tab holders on the file folders.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2014
    Inventor: Merrill Hansen
  • Publication number: 20140151441
    Abstract: An integral tab system for a 2-D or 3-D tab for a folder, and a method of making same is disclosed. The integral 2-D (flat) tab (20) is provided in the hanging folder itself without the need for additional tabs being affixed. The 3-D tab version (120) is created by an extension which is folded onto itself so that one edge surface is at an angle relative to the panels of the file folder allowing it to be read from the side. These tabs may also be supplied in a detachable form.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 7, 2013
    Publication date: June 5, 2014
    Inventors: Steven Charles Black, Duane Christensen, David Fasbender
  • Patent number: 8733003
    Abstract: A file folder assembly or divider with a tab capable of being slid in two non-collinear directions. According to one embodiment, the file folder assembly includes a file folder and a sliding tab assembly. The sliding tab assembly includes a rail secured to the file folder proximate to a top edge of the file folder. The sliding tab assembly also includes a tab and a coupling member. The coupling member couples the tab to the rail in such a way as to permit the tab to be slid horizontally back and forth along the rail and/or to permit the tab to be slid vertically up and down relative to the rail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2014
    Assignee: Avery Products Corporation
    Inventors: Vincent H. Bowman, Jeffrey Herz, Jay K. Sato, Weiye Wu
  • Publication number: 20140123525
    Abstract: A multiple indicia file flagging device provides a flag base having a side portion carrying an adhesive, and an opposing side portion carrying a flag pivot axle and locking pegs. A flag having a “T” configuration with a first vertical leg and a second leg pivotally engages with the flag pivot axle to pivot thereon between an inconspicuous position and a conspicuous position. Locking peg notches defined in the flag releasably engage with the locking pegs to secure the flag in the desired position. A transparent sleeve carried on the file flag opposite the pivot axle carries a removable and customizable second indicia tab such for communicating information to users.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 5, 2013
    Publication date: May 8, 2014
    Inventor: Edward A. Payne
  • Patent number: 8550330
    Abstract: An integral tab system for a 2-D or 3-D tab for a folder, and a method of making same is disclosed. The integral 2-D (flat) tab (20) is provided in the hanging folder itself without the need for additional tabs being affixed. The 3-D tab version (120) is created by an extension which is folded onto itself so that one edge surface is at an angle relative to the panels of the file folder allowing it to be read from the side. These tabs may also be supplied in a detachable form.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Assignee: Smead Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: Steven Charles Black, Duane Christensen, David Fasbender
  • Patent number: 8534534
    Abstract: An integral tab 2-D or 3-D tab for a folder, and a method of making same is disclosed. The integral 2-D (flat) tab 300 is provided near the apex of the folder by cutting free/lose a portion of the existing flap material 14 of the hanging folder itself without the need for additional tabs or material being affixed. The cut creates the tab without additional material required. The 3-D tab 300 version is created adding a triangular portion 301 which is folded onto itself so that one edge surface is at an angle relative to the panels of the file folder allowing it to be read from the side and top. A perforated version allows for user selectable tab and a plurality of placements across the common edge allows the user to select the tab position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Assignee: Smead Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: Duane Christensen, Michael B. Lasky
  • Patent number: 8454055
    Abstract: A booklet with removable cards, together with a variety of systems, methods, and applications associated therewith. Embodiments can be incorporated into books, booklets, maps, catalogs, travel guides, schedules, and other printed information and materials. In one embodiment, the booklet comprises a travel guide having a plurality of information cards as pages. Each information card can provide information about a travel destination, language translation, cultural pointers, or other information. The cards are bound using a first ring fastener that can be opened by the reader so that one or more cards can be removed from the booklet, and carried in a wallet, on a second ring fastener, or as a second booklet, distinct from the main booklet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Inventors: Hui Ting Cheng, Marusia Musacchio
  • Patent number: 8443534
    Abstract: A tabbing apparatus is provided that includes a pocket and a tab element disposed within the pocket in a retracted position. The tab element includes an indexing segment configured for protruding from the pocket in an extended position as a tab and for being received within the pocket in the retracted position, an anchor portion attached to the pocket, and an intermediate portion connecting the anchor portion and indexing segment and configured for folding to allow the indexing segment to move between the retracted position and the extended position. The indexing segment is configured for displaying writing thereon for indexing a file.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2013
    Assignee: Esselte Corporation
    Inventors: Andrew Goodfellow, Braden Jones, Brian Causse
  • Publication number: 20130074381
    Abstract: A file folder assembly or divider with a tab capable of being slid in two non-collinear directions. According to one embodiment, the file folder assembly includes a file folder and a sliding tab assembly. The sliding tab assembly includes a rail secured to the file folder proximate to a top edge of the file folder. The sliding tab assembly also includes a tab and a coupling member. The coupling member couples the tab to the rail in such a way as to permit the tab to be slid horizontally back and forth along the rail and/or to permit the tab to be slid vertically up and down relative to the rail.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2011
    Publication date: March 28, 2013
    Inventors: Vincent H. Bowman, Jeffrey Herz, Jay K. Sato, Weiye Wu
  • Publication number: 20130036637
    Abstract: Certain embodiments of the present invention provide for an indicator integrated into an item. The indicator integrated into the item may include at least two separation edges. The first separation edge may include a first termination point and a second termination point. The second separation edge may include a third termination point and a fourth termination point. The indicator integrated into the item may also include an aperture adjacent to the first and third termination points. Further, the indicator integrated into the item may include a score adjacent to the second and fourth termination points. In certain embodiments, the indicator is separated from the item along the first and second separation edges using the aperture and folded over the score to an open position such that at least a portion of the indicator extends beyond a perimeter of the item. Additionally, a void, contiguous with the aperture, exists between the first and second separation edges.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 8, 2011
    Publication date: February 14, 2013
    Applicant: PDQ MAZOO, LLC
    Inventor: Richard B. Mazursky
  • Patent number: 8308054
    Abstract: A customizable folder is disclosed. The folder has an edge portion missing from a cover thereof, and is adapted to receive thereto a complementary piece to complete the space formed by the missing edge portion. Also disclosed is a kit for a customizable folder comprising a customizable folder and a plurality of complementary pieces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2012
    Assignee: Esselte Corporation
    Inventors: Braden Jones, Juliet Kenney, Lauren Grassia
  • Publication number: 20120079751
    Abstract: The picture display and storage device or frame of the present invention has a displaying surface for displaying a picture and a storage section for storing additional pictures. The storage section is not visible when viewing the displaying surface. The picture display and storage device can be exhibited by hanging on a wall or through the use of an easel frame or a wide base to allow the frame to stand on its own. Additionally, the picture display and storage device can utilize organizer tabs to separate and identify pictures being stored.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2011
    Publication date: April 5, 2012
    Inventor: Charles Howard Singer
  • Publication number: 20120047780
    Abstract: Index tab holders are movably mounted on top portions of file folders or data separation sheets to locate the tab holders in selected lateral locations without removing the tab holders from the file folders. Linear rails associated with the top portions of the file folders cooperate with ribs on the tab holders to mount and laterally guide the tab holders on the file folders.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 8, 2011
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Inventor: Merrill J. Hansen
  • Patent number: 8117774
    Abstract: A hanging file folder having fold-up label features can be comprised of a sheet of flat, foldable material having two doubled over ends. A first hanger member can be disposed within one of the doubled over ends and configured to couple to a hanging file drawer rail. A second hanger member can be disposed within the other of the doubled over ends and configured to couple to the hanging file drawer rail. A plurality of tab members formed of the flat, foldable material can be attached to at least one of the doubled-over ends and have pairs of ears extending to the sides of the tab members. The tab members can be positioned to be extended beyond an edge of the doubled over end to which they are attached by folding the tab members and inserting the ears into pairs of slots formed in the doubled over ends.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2012
    Assignee: American Pad & Paper LLC
    Inventor: Donald Meltzer
  • Patent number: 8112919
    Abstract: A method of removing and returning a file folder or folders to the original location or locations is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Inventor: Steven R. Borlik
  • Patent number: 8046940
    Abstract: A file with a card-receiving recess is disclosed. The file comprises a first panel comprising a first layer and a backing layer, that contains an opening extending from the first layer to the backing layer, and a second panel hingedly associated with the first panel. The backing layer is configured to support a displayed sheet element in a position such that it is visible through the opening of the first layer, and the displayed sheet element is at least partially received within the thickness of the first surface and the backing layer. The backing layer contains an adhesive disposed thereon within the opening for securing the displayed sheet element to the backing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2011
    Assignee: Esselte Corporation
    Inventors: Braden Jones, Juliet Kenney, Lauren Grassia
  • Patent number: 8042837
    Abstract: A bound component including a cover having an outer perimeter, a plurality of pages, and a binding mechanism binding the cover and the plurality of pages together, wherein the binding mechanism includes a plurality of coils. The bound component further includes a sell tag including at least one opening, the at least one opening receiving at least one coil of the binding mechanism therethrough, wherein the sell tag includes a flap which is folded about part of the outer perimeter of the cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2011
    Assignee: MeadWestvaco Corporation
    Inventors: Edward P. Busam, Lisa K. Brooks
  • Publication number: 20110215135
    Abstract: A tabbing apparatus is provided that includes a pocket and a tab element disposed within the pocket in a retracted position. The tab element includes an indexing segment configured for protruding from the pocket in an extended position as a tab and for being received within the pocket in the retracted position, an anchor portion attached to the pocket, and an intermediate portion connecting the anchor portion and indexing segment and configured for folding to allow the indexing segment to move between the retracted position and the extended position. The indexing segment is configured for displaying writing thereon for indexing a file.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 20, 2010
    Publication date: September 8, 2011
    Inventors: Andrew Goodfellow, Braden Jones, Brian Causse
  • Patent number: 7980014
    Abstract: A system for a 3-D tab for a folder, a retrofit for existing folders to have a 3-D tab and a method of making same is disclosed. The 3-D tab is created by an extension or attachable element which can be folded onto itself so that one edge surface is at an angle relative to the panels of the file folder allowing it to be read from the side. This also aids in allowing the tab to be fed through a printer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2011
    Assignee: Smead Manufacturing Company
    Inventor: David Fasbender
  • Patent number: 7966758
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for improved file folder identification is described. The apparatus includes a file tab having a tab portion rotatably coupled to a base. In one embodiment, a file folder identification apparatus is described. The apparatus includes a base comprising a first coupling portion and a second coupling portion adapted to couple to a file folder, the second coupling portion opposing the first coupling portion, and a tab portion comprising a temporary fastener detachably and rotatably coupled to the second coupling portion and a face configured to retain identification information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2011
    Inventor: Susan Scott Watts
  • Patent number: 7950175
    Abstract: A folded folder track with sliding tab either writable and/or channel tab which travels along the folded track area of the folder whereby the user can position the tab wherever it is needed along the top horizontal edge of the folder. This allows every tab in the filing system to be moved into a convenient, viewable position. Also, the user will be able to maintain the files in alpha numeric order without the tabs being hidden behind other tabs or without hiding other tabs which provides for quick and efficient retrieval of folders and the filing of folders. This folded folder track and writable tab will be of various lengths and colors to be of greater value for the user with multiple identification needs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2011
    Inventor: Kitty Kay Kubusheski
  • Patent number: 7937862
    Abstract: A sliding accessory may be mounted on a rail of a file folder, binder, sheet protector, divider, or other device. The accessory may be initially provided on a printable sheet, and may be provided with one or more fold lines that enable the accessory to be folded into a desired configuration. The fold lines may also be used to form a male portion that may be inserted into the rail of the file folder for attaching the accessory to the file folder. The male portion may be provided on one or two sides of the accessory depending on a rail configuration of the file folder. The male portion may have securing portions that interconnect with securing edges of the rail of the file folder. The securing portions and securing edges interconnect in such a manner that enables the accessory to be slidably moved along the rail. The accessory may be produced from a printable sheet having one or more die-cut accessories formed therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2011
    Assignee: Avery Dennison Corporation
    Inventors: Jay K. Sato, Mary Beth L. Chin
  • Patent number: 7841114
    Abstract: Systems and tabs are provided for labeling a hanging folder having substantially vertical slots. The tab includes three walls. The first wall has a top edge and a flange located below the top edge that is adapted for engagement of the vertical slot on the hanging file folder such that the first wall projects above the file folder. The second wall has a top edge and a flange located below the top edge that is adapted for engagement of the vertical slot on the hanging file folder such that the second wall projects above the file folder. The third wall is located between the first and second walls, and located along a plane that forms an angle with either the first or second walls that is not 90 degrees.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2010
    Assignee: Avery Dennison Corporation
    Inventors: Brian R. McCarthy, Jerry G. Hodsdon
  • Publication number: 20090282714
    Abstract: A file with a card-receiving recess is disclosed. The file comprises a first panel comprising a first layer and a backing layer, that contains an opening extending from the first layer to the backing layer, and a second panel hingedly associated with the first panel. The backing layer is configured to support a displayed sheet element in a position such that it is visible through the opening of the first layer, and the displayed sheet element is at least partially received within the thickness of the first surface and the backing layer. The backing layer contains an adhesive disposed thereon within the opening for securing the displayed sheet element to the backing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 15, 2008
    Publication date: November 19, 2009
    Inventors: Braden Jones, Juliet Kenney, Lauren Grassia
  • Patent number: 7610707
    Abstract: File flagging apparatuses for hanging and traditional files are shown. The devices have a flag assembly that may be moved between extended and retracted positions. The flagging assemblies may also have a file label holder integrated thereinto. A locking mechanism may be included to keep the flag in position relative to the supporting base or label.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2009
    Inventor: Edward A. Payne
  • Publication number: 20090205231
    Abstract: A system for a 3-D tab for a folder, a retrofit for existing folders to have a 3-D tab and a method of making same is disclosed. The 3-D tab is created by an extension or attachable element which can be folded onto itself so that one edge surface is at an angle relative to the panels of the file folder allowing it to be read from the side. This also aids in allowing the tab to be fed through a printer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2009
    Publication date: August 20, 2009
    Inventor: David Fasbender
  • Patent number: 7575174
    Abstract: A label includes a protruding part that may display information from both sides when attached to an article. Information can be added to the front surface of the label before attaching to an article without rotating the information on one portion of the label or the label 180 degrees or otherwise changing the orientation of the information. The label may include two sections, each section including one of a top portion and a bottom portion. The top portions may be connected to each other at a fold line. The bottom portions may be separated by a separation. The first section and/or the second section may include identification information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2009
    Inventor: Michael A. Gordon
  • Patent number: 7536812
    Abstract: A system for a 3-D tab for a folder, a retrofit for existing folders to have a 3-D tab and a method of making same is disclosed. The 3-D tab is created by an extension or attachable element which can be folded onto itself so that one edge surface is at an angle relative to the panels of the file folder allowing it to be read from the side. This also aids in allowing the tab to be fed through a printer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2009
    Assignee: Smead Manufacturing Company
    Inventor: David Fasbender
  • Patent number: 7467487
    Abstract: Index tabs having a mechanism for alignment with an edge of a mounting sheet, and methods for making and using the same. Embodiments exemplary of the alignment mechanism include various stopper constructions, pocket constructions, and the like. For example, a pocket can be formed within an index tab, such that the pocket contains an opening at the bottom for receiving an edge of a mounting sheet. The edge of the mounting sheet becomes aligned with the index tab when it fully engages the top of the pocket, which acts as a stopper. After alignment is achieved, the index tab is adhered to the mounting sheet. Various shapes and materials that are beneficial in the new tab constructions are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2008
    Assignee: Avery Dennison Corporation
    Inventors: Jay K. Sato, Norman Yamamoto
  • Publication number: 20080184604
    Abstract: A multi-layer file folder is disclosed, in which a laminate is bonded to the exterior of a thick, supporting manila interior element. By means of lamination, combinations of materials can be used which would otherwise be impossible or impractical. The index tab, as viewed from the front of the folder, is the color of the interior element, typically manila, and provides for a high-contrast writing surface on the index tab.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 10, 2008
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Inventor: Duane Christensen
  • Patent number: 7389598
    Abstract: An identification system for file folders having a front panel and a rear panel with a fold therebetween forming a pocket into which paper may be placed includes a rail disposed in the vicinity of a top edge of the rear panel of the file folder and extending across a width thereof, and a tab, including a pocket for inserting a file identifier, supported in frictional engagement with the rail for sliding motion on the rail across the width of the file folder. This permits easy adjustment of tabs as file folders are inserted and removed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2008
    Inventors: Kevin Joseph Bunger, Dennen John Bunger
  • Patent number: 7383652
    Abstract: A stationery accessory system comprises a slidable tab including indicia of contents contained in or demarcated by the stationery accessory system and a sheet-like member including a rail; one of the slidable tab and the rail having a channel defined along a longitudinal aspect thereof, the channel defined by a wall of the rail, and the channel having a longitudinal opening narrower than a width interior to the channel measured parallel to the longitudinal opening; and the other of the slidable tab and the rail having an expanded edge, the expanded edge having a width greater than the longitudinal opening such that the channel and the expanded edge are slidably engageable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2008
    Assignee: Fastrack LLC
    Inventor: Evan Glasberg
  • Patent number: 7360329
    Abstract: The reinforced file folder has a paper substrate which is reinforced with a breathable film having desirable properties with respect to wear. Preferably, the film is a cellulous based material adhered to the paper substrate in a manner that renders the product easily recycled. The cellulose film with a matte finished upper surface provides strong adhesion with file folder labels. The film preferably covers most of the outer surface of the front and back panels with the film applied either side of the labeling tab.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2008
    Assignee: Tab Products of Canada Ltd.
    Inventors: Arman Gilbert Bourgoin, Tyrone Michael Chin, Ross Murray Nepean
  • Patent number: 7305784
    Abstract: An index tab adapter, suitable for retrofitting an existing file folder for use with a particular index tab style. The adapter has adhesive portions, located on either side of a non-adhesive portion. The non-adhesive portion is slotted and is spaced apart from the file folder. The slots are shaped to engage a particular style of index tab, so that when a given index tab is inserted into the slots in the adapter, the given index tab becomes attached to the file folder, and the file folder may be identified by the given index tab as if it were originally configured to accept the style of the given index tab. Put another way, an index tab removably engages slots in the adapter, rather than slots in the file folder itself.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2007
    Assignee: Smead Manufacturing Company
    Inventor: Steven Charles Black
  • Patent number: 7232537
    Abstract: Methods for producing easily and securely gripped slip-resistant file folders, including file pockets and hanging folders. The methods include providing folder paper stock; conveying the folder paper stock in the process of folder manufacture; providing a curable slip-resistant material in a melt state; applying the slip-resistant material at predetermined areas of the folder paper stock; and curing the slip-resistant material; such that the slip-resistant portion comprises cured slip-resistant material. Another method includes providing folder paper stock; providing embossing dies in spaced, operable, mating relationship; positioning the folder paper stock appropriately in the embossing dies; applying force to at least one of the embossing dies so as to decrease the spaced relationship; and deforming the folder paper stock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2007
    Assignee: Smead Manufacturing Company
    Inventor: Roddy McKee Bullock
  • Patent number: 7225570
    Abstract: A tab for attaching to sheet material comprises a substrate including a front side, a back side opposite the front side, an upper portion, a middle portion, and a lower portion. The tab includes a cut through the middle portion of the substrate to form a flap, an adhesive along the upper portion of the back side and along the lower portion of the back side of the substrate, and a fold-line through the middle portion which allows the substrate to be folded. When the substrate is folded along the fold-line, the flap extends beyond the fold-line and the back side of the upper portion faces the back side of the middle portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2007
    Inventor: David C. Windorski
  • Patent number: 7128957
    Abstract: A pad of index tabs includes a plurality of sheets, each sheet comprising a front and a back, and an area of removable adhesive along a top edge of the back. The sheets are applied to one another at respective areas of removable adhesive to form a pad. Each sheet has a plurality of index tabs removably adhered thereto. The tabs are partially coated with removable adhesive and have an edge portion that is not coated with adhesive. Each of the tabs has on an edge thereof a writing surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2006
    Assignee: Avery Dennison Corporation
    Inventor: Adam Bratter
  • Patent number: 7025382
    Abstract: An index tab labeling system for use with suspended file folder of the type having vertical slots along an upper margin, the labeling system comprising a flexible index tab having a single layer of flexible material with lugs for insertion into the vertical slots in the file folder. A pad of labels is affixed to the index tab by a releasable adhesive. The pad of labels has multiple labels which are held to each other by releasable adhesive. The user may write index information on the uppermost label and when the index information requires changing, the uppermost label may be peeled off and the next label is made available for index information to be entered thereon. A pad of three labels is considered to be optimum. When all the labels in one pad are used, a new pad of labels may be releasably adhered to the index tab. In an alternative embodiment, each of the labels may be supplied with a portion that does not have a releasable adhesive applied to it.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2006
    Inventor: Joey Martin Wiggins
  • Patent number: 6986219
    Abstract: A rotatable indicator tab assembly for file systems and the like consisting of a rotatable tab formed of a thin sheet of material such as card stock and a tab support, also formed of a thin sheet of material, having a port for receiving the tab arranged such that the edges of the port and the tab cooperate to provide guide and bearing surfaces and stop positions for rotation of the tab.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2006
    Inventor: Christopher Raia
  • Patent number: 6969092
    Abstract: A file folder blank can be folded to form a file folder. The file folder blank is designed for single side printing. The file folder blank can be folded to reveal printed indicia to two directions of a single panel. The printed indicia can be printed by a standard desktop type of printer. The printed indicia can include graphics, location indicator, content indicators, pictures, graphs or the like. In addition, top taps or side tabs are integrally formed with the file folder blank that can be printed with identifying indicia. In some applications, the identifying indicia comprises a repeating set of color bars that can be individualized during printing of the folder blank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2005
    Assignee: Smead Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: Steve C. MacWilliams, John A. Calkins
  • Patent number: 6938931
    Abstract: An organizer for take-out menus comprises a plastic folder of a size conveniently held in one hand and stored in a kitchen drawer or like area. The folder is made of multiple layers that provide pockets for permanent insert cards that stiffen the folder and, optionally, provide decorative and/or informational data, and pockets for receiving take-out menus of various sizes and configurations in a manner that displays such menus for quick identification, retrieval, reference and return.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2005
    Assignee: Tablecraft Products Company
    Inventor: Glenn Davis
  • Patent number: 6851718
    Abstract: In addition to a set of dividers having staggered tabs and binder holes, the retail packaging includes a sheet protector pocket having a front sheet and a back sheet and binder holes. The user removes the dividers and pocket from the packaging and custom designs and prints sheet indicia on a paper sheet. He/she then inserts the printed sheet into the pocket whereby the front sheet allows the sheet indicia to be viewed therethrough. The front sheet has pre-printed indicia thereon. With the printed sheet in the pocket and the pocket and dividers assembled in a ringed notebook or other binding system, the sheet indicia and the pre-printed indicia line up with respective ones of the tabs. The indicia thereby form an attractive custom-designed table of contents, which can be easily corrected or changed by the user by simply printing and inserting into the pocket a new sheet. The front sheet can either be transparent or have a window to allow the sheet indicia to be viewed therethrough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2005
    Assignee: Avery Dennison Corporation
    Inventors: MaryBeth Liener Chin, Galen C. Wong
  • Publication number: 20040255495
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an arrangement for storing at least photographic prints. The arrangement of the present invention is in the form of an envelope or wallet-type member and includes a tab arrangement which permits a user to customize the location of the tabs on the wallet-type member. The tab arrangement comprises removable tabs on the wallet-type member which provides a customer with the opportunity to chose which tab is to be used for providing identifying information on the envelope. Further, the wallet-type member includes a planar member which is adapted to have an opening to reveal an index print or a photographic print representative of the prints stored in the wallet-type member. The opening and the tab or tabs are provided on the same side or the same planar member of the wallet-type member so as to enable the viewing of both the tab or tabs and the displayed index or photographic print at the same time.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 20, 2003
    Publication date: December 23, 2004
    Inventors: Rachel Watkins, Susan A. Clark, Renee L. Schlosberg, Jeffrey M. Fishel, John K. Hollingsworth, Joseph C. Whitman, Gene A. Kraft, John D. Woodlief
  • Patent number: 6808104
    Abstract: A subfolder insert, or otherwise short-termed a “subfolder” for depicting its sub-file contents, for holding related papers of its conventional file folder, and as such, the subfolder is inserted within the file folder, for separation of designated papers from other papers within the file folder. To avoid the subfolder causing the file folder from being bulky and obscuring the “sub-held” papers, its surface area is effectively less than the surface area of the sub-held papers of a respectively standard size, such as a U.S. letter size and legal size; this, too, allows visual, physical exposure of the sub-held papers for easy reference and manual retrieval from within the subfolder. The front and back panels of the subfolder are integrated along multiple adjacent edges, as ideally a vertical edge and the bottom horizontal edge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2004
    Inventor: Daniel L. Cobble