Protected prong file fastener and method of manufacture

US8746314B1 · kind B1 · utility

Assignee

• The Smead Manufacturing Company · US

Inventors

• Harold Peter Lindelof · Eden Prairie, US
• Marvin J. Halfen · Hastings, US
• David J. Gilbertson · Hastings, US
• Robert Scudder · Rancho Cucamonga, US
• Michael C. Goodson · Belton, US
• Michael Hacker · Sinsheim, DE

Key dates

• Filing date: Nov 10, 2011
• Grant date: Jun 10, 2014
• Expiry date: Jan 23, 2032

Classification

• Technology area (CPC Y): Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
• CPC primary: Y10T156/1744
• WIPO field: Surface technology, coating
• WIPO sector: Chemistry

Abstract

A prong style file fastener and the method of manufacture is disclosed which has a protective element to prevent damage to paper documents and personal injury. In one embodiment, the prongs of the fastener are covered with a heat shrinkable sheath. In another, the prongs are overcoated with a powder coating which is melted thereon. A method of applying the sheath to the prongs uses a pair of jaws or V-shaped surface to drive the sheath onto the prongs.