Binding elements and plurality of binding elements particularly suited for automated processes
US7708513B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 4, 2006 |
| Grant date | May 4, 2010 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 24, 2027 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T24/207
- WIPO fieldOther consumer goods
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
A plurality of binding elements, each of a substantially uniform thickness, the fingers being looped over and coupled to the spine such that the inner surface of the fingers is disposed against the inner surface of the spine by an adhesive when assembled. In an embodiment, at least a portion of the outer surface of the binding element is resistant to a more permanent attachment to the adhesive such that the plurality may be stacked together, and successively decoupled or removed for insertion into a stack. The binding elements may include score lines or bends in the fingers to provide a rounded closed loop structure; optional gussets in the bends inhibit straightening of the fingers. The fingers optionally include variations in cross-section along the length to relieve certain stresses to inhibit the looped finger. The binding elements optionally include structure for facilitating interaction with an automating binding process.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.