EP1189764B1 - Ring-binder mechanism - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention concerns a ring binder mechanism for receiving loose, holed written materials. The ring binder mechanism includes a housing (10) having spring-elastic housing flanks (28) which can be urged open. Two carrier rails (20) are provided in the housing, which are pivotable along their facing longitudinal edges in the manner of a knee-joint against the spring effect of the housing flanks (28). At least two half-rings (16) are provided longitudinally spaced apart and rigidly connected with each of the carrier rails (20), and which pairwise form a ring (14). Further, at least one blocking element (32) is provided slideable or moveable via operating element (18) essentially parallel to the linkage axis (22) relative to the housing (10) and to the carrier rails (20) which, in the closed position, protrudes into a free space (34) formed between the carrier rails (20) and the housing wall (13) with blockage of the pivot movement of the carrier rails (20) and, in the open position, permits the pivot movement of the carrier rails (20). According to the invention at least one blocking element (32) is pre-tensioned in the direction of the closed position under the influence of a closing spring (36).

Description

The invention relates to a ring binder mechanism with a cross section C or U-shaped housing with elastically bendable bearing legs for two mounting rails, which are on their mutually facing longitudinal edges Forming a hinge axis against each other and with their each other engage opposite longitudinal edges in the troughs of the bearing legs, and rigid with at least two at a defined longitudinal distance from each other connected to the mounting rails, through openings in a housing wall half rings reaching through and complementing each other in pairs to form a ring, the mounting rails around the hinge axis, taking the Half rings between an open position and a closed position below Overcoming a spring force generated by bending the bearing legs are limited pivotable against each other, and at least one via an actuator essentially parallel to the hinge axis relative slidable locking element is provided to the housing and to the mounting rails is in the closed position in a between the mounting rail and a housing wall formed free space blocking the pivoting movement engages and in the open position the swivel path around the hinge axis releases.

In ring binder mechanisms, it is known per se to attach the half-rings Mounting rails to be fastened by a housing made of resilient Material is encompassed. The mounting rails are inserted into the housing that they can take two rest positions, one open and one closed. The housing acts as a spring element, which the half rings in fixed in their open position and in their closed position. In the area of the inner Longitudinal edges of the mounting rails are drivers or locking means, which ensure that the two mounting rails on these Long edges always lie flush against each other. The mounting rails have the function of a spring-loaded on the outer edges Toggle. In the known ring binder mechanisms, the opening and Close the rings directly over the half rings. To ensure sufficient preload or to obtain locking forces, you need a relatively large spring force in the area of the housing. The required are correspondingly large Operating forces. The greater these forces are, the greater they are the risk of injury occurring at closing at the joints between the ring halves. On the other hand, the closing forces are only elastic are introduced, it always happens that the rings with a corresponding load, for example when falling down open the floor by itself so that the writing material inside it slides out can.

In order to avoid this disadvantage, it has already been proposed to use the rings in secure their closed position with a slide (US-A 4,566,817). The Slide points there parallel to the hinge axis relative to the housing and the mounting rails slidable locking elements in the closed position in a formed between the mounting rail and the housing wall Intervene by blocking the pivoting movement of the mounting rails and release the swivel path in the open position. The slider will brought into the open position and the closed position by hand. It intermediate positions without function are also possible. To operate the The folder must be created or held somewhere by pushing it. You need two hands. From the open position, this can The ring binder mechanism cannot be closed or operated via the rings.

Proceeding from this, the object of the invention is a ring binder mechanism to develop the automatically against the closing process unintentional opening is locked and yet simple and with little Force can also be used with one hand.

To solve this problem, the specified in claim 1 Features suggested. Advantageous refinements and developments the invention result from the dependent claims.

The solution according to the invention is based on the idea that the locking element automatically in its closed position during the closing process arrives. To make this possible, the invention proposes that the at least one locking element under the action of a Closing spring is biased towards the closed position.

• in Öffnungsrichtung über das Betätigungsorgan entgegen der Kraft der Schließfeder verschiebbar und dabei entriegelbar ist,
• in der Offenstellung unter der Einwirkung der Schließfeder gegen eine Öffnungsrast anliegt,
• in Schließrichtung über das Betätigungsorgan entgegen der Kraft der Schließfeder aus der Öffnungsrast lösbar ist,
• in Schließrichtung unter der Einwirkung der vorgespannten Schließfeder selbsttätig verriegelbar ist,
• in Schließrichtung durch Betätigen der Halbringe unmittelbar oder mittelbar über die Tragschienen entgegen der Kraft der Schließfeder verschiebbar und dabei aus der Öffnungsrast ausrastbar ist.

It is particularly advantageous if the at least one locking element

• is displaceable in the opening direction against the force of the closing spring and can be unlocked in the process,
• in the open position under the action of the closing spring against an opening catch,
• in the closing direction can be released from the opening catch against the force of the closing spring,
• can be automatically locked in the closing direction under the action of the pre-tensioned closing spring,
• in the closing direction by actuating the half rings directly or indirectly on the mounting rails against the force of the closing spring and can be disengaged from the opening catch.

• als gegenüber dem Gehäuse verschwenkbarer Betätigungshebel ausgebildet ist,
• einen gegen die Tragschienen in Öffnungsrichtung anschlagenden und diese von der Schließ- in die Öffnungsstellung unter Überwindung der durch die Lagerschenkel erzeugten Federkraft durchschwenkenden Öffnungsausleger aufweist,
• einen gegen die Tragschienen in Schließrichtung anschlagenden und diese von der Öffnungs- in die Schließstellung unter Überwindung der durch die Lagerschenkel aufgebrachten Federkraft schwenkenden Schließausleger aufweist,
• in Öffnungs- und/oder Schließrichtung mindestens zwei in verschiedenen Winkelstellungen wirksame Betätigungspositionen für eine Folgebetätigung der Tragschienen und des mindestens einen Riegelelements aufweist.

Another preferred embodiment of the invention provides that the actuator

• is designed as an actuating lever which can be pivoted relative to the housing,
• an opening arm which strikes against the support rails in the opening direction and swings them from the closed to the open position while overcoming the spring force generated by the bearing legs,
• a stop arm which strikes against the support rails in the closing direction and which swivels from the open to the closed position while overcoming the spring force applied by the bearing legs,
• in the opening and / or closing direction has at least two operating positions effective in different angular positions for subsequent actuation of the mounting rails and the at least one locking element.

According to a first embodiment of the invention, which is mainly for Folder mechanics with two rings is suitable, it is proposed that the locking element on a rigidly connected to the operating lever Lever arm is arranged and that the actuating lever relative to the housing and limited to the mounting rails in the direction of displacement of the locking element is movable. The closing spring is useful between one fixed to the housing and an actuating lever fixed abutment and preferably designed as a leg spring. Of special It is advantageous if the actuating lever is on a control edge of the housing has guided control curve over which the actuating lever with its locking element when pivoting against the force of the closing spring is movable from a closed position towards the open position.

The opening process of the rings is facilitated when the operating lever with an opening arm acting in the opening direction against the mounting rails is rigidly connected. The opening arm is useful arranged at such a distance from the locking element that the locking element in the closed position of the operating lever and Support rails under the action of the closing spring in the free space between Carrier rails and housing wall can be inserted and in the open position the action of the closing spring strikes against a housing-fixed catch. The locking element can also be used in the closing direction against the Carrier rails acting on the closing arm.

It is also advantageous if the actuating lever has at least one axle element has that in the open position of the operating lever under the Action of the closing spring against a bearing surface fixed to the housing and an axis of rotation for the locking element when it is disengaged and Closing movement forms. Is in the closed position of the operating lever the axle element is lifted off the bearing surface fixed to the housing.

The control curve can be through a wall opening of the housing and reaching through a passage opening in the joint area between the mounting rails Tax boom can be arranged while the control edge by a preferably bent boundary edge of the wall opening can be formed.

It is particularly advantageous if the locking element on one by Lever opening is arranged in the housing, while the housing-fixed rest by a preferably bent Boundary edge of the wall opening is formed. In the closed position the locking element expediently against the action of the closing spring an end stop fixed to the housing, which is wedge-shaped in the closing direction can run and by a bulge engaging in the free space in a housing wall can be formed.

It is particularly advantageous if the actuating lever in the intermediate area is stored and guided between two rings on the housing and one through the opening of one of the rings engaging arm. If the operating arm is on the opposite side of the Has locking element carrying lever arm, the mechanics by depressing of the operating arm is opened and by lifting the operating arm closed. On the other hand, if the operating arm after the same Side as the lever arm bearing the locking element, the Mechanics closed by pressing the actuating arm and by Lift open. On the closing path of the actuating arm in the last phase, the locking element automatically under the action of the closing spring moved to its closed position. The locking element ensures this that the rings are not opened by pulling the half rings apart can be. This gets on the opening path of the actuating arm Locking element in the last phase under the action of the closing spring a rest. The latching connection is designed so that it is actuated the actuating arm or the half rings in the closing direction can.

According to a further advantageous embodiment variant of the invention the at least one locking element on a preferably as a pull rod trained control rod rigidly arranged, the push rod over the operating lever under the action of the closing spring in the longitudinal direction the mounting rails can be displaced relative to the housing to a limited extent. The Closing spring is expediently designed as a compression spring. Accordingly the operating lever rests on one end of the push rod while the closing spring between the other end of the push rod and a housing-fixed abutment is clamped so that the operating lever pulling in the opening direction against the force of the closing spring the push rod attacks.

If, as with the previous variant, several locking elements are rigidly arranged on a push rod, a tolerance problem occurs on that a high level of care in the manufacture and assembly of the Ring binder mechanics required.

In order to avoid tolerance problems of this kind, according to a preferred one Embodiment variant of the invention proposed that at least a locking element via a tension member and an integrated in the tension member Closing spring is connected to the operating lever. It is advantageous each locking element has its own, preferably a piece of wire, Associated tension member, at least two of the tension members by a connecting bridge can preferably be connected in one piece. This makes it possible for each locking element to have its own closing spring assigned.

The closing spring is advantageously a leg spring integrated in the tension member formed, one leg of the tension member with the actuating lever is connected and the other leg on a housing-fixed or support rail-fixed bearing and at a distance from the Support point is fixed to the associated locking element. Of special It is advantageous if the at least one locking element than in a guide opening Slider guided between the two mounting rails is formed, the one pointing in the closing direction, in the closed position has wedge-shaped closing surface engaging in the free space. The wedge surface primarily serves to compensate for tolerances. The wedge angle is chosen so that self-locking occurs in the closed position. advantageously, the slide has an arrow-shaped end edge in the closing direction, while the guide opening on its boundary edge facing the front edge has an arrow shape complementary to this.

Fig. 1a bis c

eine Draufsicht, einen Längsschnitt und eine Stirnseitenansicht einer Ringordnermechanik mit drei Ringen in geschlossenem Zustand;

Fig. 2a bis c

eine Untenansicht, eine Seitenansicht und eine Draufsicht der mit Tragschienen verbundenen Ringe der Ringordnermechanik nach Fig. 1 a bis c;

Fig. 2d und e

zwei vergrößerte Ausschnitte der Fig. 2a;

Fig. 3a und b

zwei verschiedene Ausschnitte aus der Tragschienen-Ringanordnung nach Fig. 2a bis c in schaubildlicher Darstellung;

Fig. 3c und d

je eine Stirnseitenansicht der Tragschienen-Ringanordnung in Schließstellung und in Offenstellung;

Fig. 4a

eine schaubildliche Darstellung des federelastischen Gehäuses der Ringordnermechanik nach Fig. 1a bis c;

Fig. 4b

eine ausschnittsweise Untenansicht des Gehäuses in schaubildlicher Darstellung;

Fig. 4c und d

eine Draufsicht und eine Stirnseitenansicht des Gehäuses;

Fig. 4e

einen Längsschnitt durch das federelastische Gehäuse in vergrößerter unterbrochener Darstellung;

Fig. 5a

eine schaubildliche Darstellung des Betätigungshebels der Ringordnermechanik nach Fig. 1a bis c;

Fig. 5b bis e

verschiedene Ansichten des Betätigungshebels nach Fig. 5a;

Fig. 6a

eine schaubildliche Darstellung des Zugglieds für die Riegelelemente der Ringordnermechanik nach Fig. 1a bis c;

Fig. 6b

eine Draufsicht des Zugglieds in unterbrochener, vergrößerter Darstellung;

Fig. 6c

eine Draufsicht auf das Zugglied mit integrierter Feder nach Fig. 6a in Offenstellung und in Schließstellung zur Veranschaulichung des Federwegs;

Fig. 7a

eine schaubildliche Darstellung der Riegelelemente;

Fig. 7b bis e

verschiedene Seitenansichten eines Riegelelements nach Fig. 7a;

Fig. 8a bis e

einen Schnitt durch die Ringordnermechanik in Schließstellung, in einer ersten und einer zweiten Öffnungsphase, in Offenstellung und in einer Schließphase;

Fig. 9a und b

einen Querschnitt durch die Ringordnermechanik in Schließstellung und in Offenstellung;

Fig. 10a bis c

eine Seitenansicht, eine Draufsicht und eine Stirnseitenansicht einer hebelbetätigten Ringordnermechanik mit zwei Ringen;

Fig. 11a bis d

die Ringe mit Tragschienen der Ringordnermechanik nach Fig. 10a bis c in schaubildlicher Darstellung, in einer Stirnseitenansicht, einer Seitenansicht und einer Draufsicht;

Fig. 12a bis c

den Betätigungshebel der Ringordnermechanik nach Fig. 10a bis c in schaubildlicher Darstellung, einer Seitenansicht und in Draufsicht;

Fig. 13a bis e

eine teilweise geschnittene Seitenansicht der Ringordnermechanik nach Fig. 10a bis c in verschiedenen Betätigungspositionen;

Fig. 13f

eine Darstellung entsprechend Fig. 13a bis e mit Betätigungshebel in Montagestellung;

Fig. 14a bis e

vergrößerte Ausschnitte aus den Fig. 13a bis e.

The invention is explained in more detail below on the basis of the exemplary embodiments illustrated in the drawing. Show it

1a to c

a plan view, a longitudinal section and an end view of a ring binder mechanism with three rings in the closed state;

2a to c

a bottom view, a side view and a plan view of the rings connected to mounting rails of the ring binder mechanism according to Fig. 1 a to c;

2d and e

two enlarged sections of Fig. 2a;

3a and b

two different sections from the mounting rail ring arrangement according to FIGS. 2a to c in a diagrammatic representation;

3c and d

each an end view of the mounting rail ring arrangement in the closed position and in the open position;

Fig. 4a

a schematic representation of the resilient housing of the ring binder mechanism according to Fig. 1a to c;

Fig. 4b

a fragmentary bottom view of the housing in a diagrammatic representation;

4c and d

a plan view and an end view of the housing;

Fig. 4e

a longitudinal section through the resilient housing in an enlarged broken view;

Fig. 5a

a schematic representation of the operating lever of the ring binder mechanism according to Fig. 1a to c;

5b to e

different views of the operating lever according to Fig. 5a;

Fig. 6a

a schematic representation of the tension member for the locking elements of the ring binder mechanism according to Fig. 1a to c;

Fig. 6b

a plan view of the tension member in an interrupted, enlarged view;

Fig. 6c

a plan view of the tension member with integrated spring according to Figure 6a in the open position and in the closed position to illustrate the spring travel.

Fig. 7a

a graphical representation of the locking elements;

7b to e

different side views of a locking element according to Fig. 7a;

8a to e

a section through the ring binder mechanism in the closed position, in a first and a second opening phase, in the open position and in a closing phase;

9a and b

a cross section through the ring binder mechanism in the closed position and in the open position;

10a to c

a side view, a plan view and an end view of a lever-operated ring binder mechanism with two rings;

11a to d

the rings with mounting rails of the ring binder mechanism according to Fig. 10a to c in a diagrammatic representation, in an end view, a side view and a plan view;

12a to c

the actuating lever of the ring binder mechanism according to Figures 10a to c in a diagrammatic representation, a side view and in plan view;

13a to e

a partially sectioned side view of the ring binder mechanism according to Figures 10a to c in different operating positions.

13f

a representation corresponding to Figures 13a to e with operating lever in the mounting position.

14a to e

enlarged sections from FIGS. 13a to e.

The ring binder mechanisms shown in the drawing are mainly for Intake of loose perforated sheets determined, for example by Documents or printed matter. The ring binder mechanisms exist essentially of a housing 10, at least two in a defined Longitudinally spaced from each other through openings 12 in a housing wall 13 reaching through and in pairs to one Ring 14 complementary half rings 16 and an operating lever 18 for Opening and closing the rings. The pair complementary to the ring 14 Half rings 16 are rigidly attached to two mounting rails 20 which their mutually facing longitudinal edges to form a hinge axis 22 abut each other and with their longitudinal edges facing away from each other 24 engage in mutually facing bearing grooves 26, which in the housing flanks 28 are stamped. The mounting rails 20 are so in the housing 10 inserted that they can take two rest positions, one open and a closed (Fig. 3c and d). The housing acts as a spring element, that the half rings 16 in their open position and in their closed position fixed. In the area of the inner longitudinal edges 22 of the mounting rails 20 there are drivers 30, which ensure that the two mounting rails 20 always lie flush against each other at their longitudinal edges. The mounting rails 20 have the function of a spring on the outer edges 24 held toggle. So that the mounting rails 20 to their Joint axis 22 with the half rings 16 being carried between the open position and the closed position overcoming one by the bend of the housing flanks 28 generated spring force pivoted against each other to a limited extent become.

In addition, at least one is essentially via the actuating lever 18 parallel to the hinge axis 22 relative to the housing 10 and to the mounting rails 20 slidable locking element 32, 32 'provided in the Closed position in a between the mounting rails 20 and the housing wall 13 formed free space 34 blocking the swivel path of the Carrier rails engages and in the open position the swivel path around Joint axis 22 releases. A specialty of the constructions shown is that the at least one locking element 32 under the action at least one closing spring 36, 36 'biased towards the closed position is (Fig. 6a to c and Fig. 14a and e). The at least one locking element 32, 32 'is opposite in the opening direction via the operating lever 18 the force of the closing spring 36, 36 'displaceable and unlockable (Figs. 8b and c; Figs. 14b and c). In the open position, there is at least one Locking element 32, 32 'against the action of the closing spring 36, 36' an opening catch (Fig. 8d; Fig. 14d). From the open position can the at least one locking element 32, 32 'either in the closing direction the operating lever 18 or by compressing the half rings 16 be released from the opening catch 38 against the force of the closing spring (Fig. 8e, Fig. 14e), so that it is under the action on the further closing path the prestressed closing spring 36, 36 'automatically into the free space 34 is inserted and the mounting rails 20 locked in their closed position. The actuating lever 18 also has one against the mounting rails 20 striking in the opening direction and this from the closed to the open position overcoming those generated by the housing flanks 28 Spring force swinging through opening boom 40. Is further the operating lever 18 with one against the mounting rails 20 in the closing direction striking and this from the open to the closed position while overcoming the spring force applied by the housing flanks 28 pivoting closing arm 42 provided. Basically it is possible that the at least one locking element 32, 32 'in the closing direction also by actuating the half rings 16 directly or indirectly via the Support rails 20 can be displaced against the force of the closing spring 36, 36 ' and can be disengaged from the opening catch 38.

As a result, the operating lever 18 points in the opening and closing directions two operating positions effective in different angular positions for a subsequent actuation of the mounting rails 20 and the at least a locking element 32, 32 '.

In the embodiment of a ring binder mechanism shown in FIGS. 1 to 9 are three equally spaced rings 14 as well as two locking elements 32, 32 'are provided, which are connected to one on one arranged front end of the housing 10 outside the annular spaces Actuating lever 18 can be actuated. The one in the area of the two outer rings arranged locking elements 32, 32 'are via a tension member 44, 44 'and a closing spring 36, 36' integrated in the tension member with the actuating lever 18 connected. Each locking element 32, 32 'is its own Tension member 44, 44 'and its own closing spring 36, 36' assigned. The Tension members 44, 44 'are designed as pieces of wire which are connected by a connecting bridge 46 are integrally connected. The in the tension members 44, 44 'integrated closing springs 36, 36' are designed as leg springs, whose one leg 48 with the respective tension member 44, 44 ' the operating lever 18 is connected and the other leg 50 on supported on a mounting rail-fixed bearing 52 and at a distance from the support point is articulated on the associated locking element 32, 32 '. The locking elements 32, 32 'are as in a guide opening 54 between the two mounting rails 20 guided slide formed, one in the closing direction pointing, engaging in the closed position in the free space 34 has wedge-shaped closing surface 56. The locking elements also point an arrow-shaped end edge 58 in the closing direction during the guide opening at its boundary edge facing the front edge 58 38 has an arrow shape complementary thereto.

As in particular from FIGS. 5a to e in connection with FIGS. 1b and 8a is seen, the operating lever 18 has two pairs from the side to the outside protruding bearing pins 70, 72, each against a housing-fixed Bearing and guide surface 74, 76 abut. The two storage and management areas 74, 76 form sections in the areas 74 ', 76' Rest 74 ', 76' for the relevant journal 70, 72. In the course of actuation lift the journals 70, 72 from their bearing and guide surfaces 74, 76 from (cf. Fig. 8c for journal 70 and Fig. 8d and e for journal 72). The actuating lever further contains a hook element 78 into which the Tension members 44, 44 'are hooked in over the connecting bridge 46 (see FIG. 5a and 8a to e).

8a to e and 9a and b, the mode of actuation is described below of the ring binder mechanism concerned:

In Fig. 8a the closed position of the ring binder mechanism is shown, in which the Actuating lever 18 with its lever arm 18 'points obliquely upwards its journal 70, 72 against the associated bearing and guide surfaces 74, 76 abuts and with its closing arm 42 against the mounting rails 20 is present. The mounting rails are with their hinge axis 22 within of the housing 10 pressed down so that the half rings 16 under Formation of a closed ring 14 at the joint 80 against each other apply (Fig. 9a). The locking elements 32, 32 'also engage with their end faces into the free space 34 and lie with their wedge-shaped closing surface 56 against the free-side inner surface of the mounting rails 20. Thereby are the mounting rails 20 and the half rings 16 attached to it in their Locked position locked. The preload in the area of the closing springs 36, 36 'ensures that it is between the locking elements 32, 32', on the one hand and the adjacent stop surfaces in the area of the housing wall 13 and the mounting rails 20 come to a play-free adhesion. The wedge-shaped Closing surface 56 is self-locking, so that a self-opening over the half rings 16 is not possible.

8b and c show the opening phase in which the operating lever 18 is depressed in the direction of the opening arrow 82. there are first counteracted via the hook element 78 and the tension members 44, 44 ' the force of the closing springs 36, 36 'along the locking elements 32, 32' the guide opening 54 from its closed position towards the operating lever 18 pulled out so that the swivel path for the mounting rails 20 about its hinge axis 22 is released (Fig. 8b). In the further The opening arm 40 is pushed down against the mounting rails from below 20 and presses it by overcoming the flanks of the housing 28 generated spring force upwards until the mounting rails 20 against strike the housing wall 13 (Fig. 8c). The half rings 16 pivoted into its open position (Fig. 9b).

After releasing the lever, it will be under the influence of the Closing springs 36, 36 'automatically pivoted back slightly until the bearing pins 70 get into their rest 74 'and the bearing pins 72 out of their rest 76 'are excavated (Fig. 8d).

When closing, the operating lever 18 is in the direction of Closing arrow 84 pushed up. The lever is initially under the action of the closing springs 36, 36 'around that defined by the catch 74' Bearing axis pivoted and with its closing arm 42 from above against the mounting rails 20 moves (Fig. 8e). The mounting rails 20 about its hinge axis 22 while overcoming the flanks of the housing 28 generated spring force past the locking elements 32, 32 ' pivoted down until the free space 34 is released. In the final phase of The locking elements 32, 32 'under the action of the closing movement the closing springs 36, 36 'and with the actuation lever 18 automatically moved to its locked position (Fig. 8a).

In principle, it is possible to use integrated tension members 44, 44 'instead of the tension members Closing springs 36, 36 'to use a pull rod, not shown, which carries at least one locking element 32 in a rigid connection and the one end hooked into the hook element 78 of the actuating lever 18 is and at its other end an abutment for one as a compression spring trained locking spring, which in the same direction as the Closing springs 36, 36 'of the embodiment shown in Fig. 8a to e acts. When using several locking elements occurs in this embodiment a tolerance problem on that shown in Fig. 8a to e Embodiment by the locking elements 32, 32 'assigned Closing springs 36, 36 'is compensated.

10 to 14 is another modified embodiment a ring binder mechanism shown, which is structured as follows:

The ring binder mechanism has two spaced-apart, passing through openings 12 in the housing wall 13 Half-ring pairs 16, which are not mirror-symmetrical and are out of round Complement rings 14. This ring binder mechanism replaces the usual one Lever mechanism of a letter folder. Accordingly, it opens and closing the rings 14 in the intermediate area between the two Rings used actuating lever whose actuating arm 18 ' reaches through the opening of one of the rings 14. A peculiarity of this Embodiment is that the locking element 32 on one Lever arm 100 rigidly connected to the operating lever 18 is and that the operating lever 18 relative to the housing 10 and to the Support rails 20 can be moved together with the locking element 32 to a limited extent is. The lever arm 100 of the locking element extends through a wall opening 116 in the housing, while the housing-fixed latch 110 through a preferably bent boundary edge of the wall opening is formed is. The leg spring in the embodiment shown trained closing spring 36 is with one leg 48 on a lever-fixed Abutment 102 and with its other leg 50 on a housing-fixed Abutment 104 clamped. The operating lever has one control cam 108 guided on a control edge 106 of the housing 10, via which the actuating lever 18 and its locking element 32 when pivoting against the force of the closing spring 36 from a closed position is displaceable in the direction of the open position (cf. FIGS. 14 a and b). The control curve 108 is on a through a wall opening 116 of the housing 10 and a passage opening 118 in the joint area between the mounting rails 20 penetrating control boom 120 arranged while the control edge 106 by a preferably bent boundary edge of the Wall opening 116 is formed. The actuating lever is also in this case 18 with one acting in the opening direction against the mounting rails Opening boom 40 rigidly connected in this case by two pegs projecting on opposite sides is formed. The Opening bracket 40 is at such a distance from the locking element 32 arranged that the locking element in the closed position of the operating lever 18 and the mounting rails 20 under the action of the closing spring 36 in the free space 34 between the mounting rails 20 and the housing wall 13 is insertable and in the open position under the action of the closing spring 36 strikes against a housing-fixed latch 110. The locking element 32 or its lever arm 100 is in this case at the same time as in the closing direction against the support rails 20 acting closing arm 42 is formed. In the closed position, the locking element 32 is against a housing-fixed End stop 122, which runs in a wedge shape in the closing direction and through a bulge engaging in the free space 34 in the housing wall 13 is formed.

Furthermore, the actuating lever has two, designed as bearing journals on opposite sides projecting axle elements 112, which in the Open position of the actuating lever 32 under the action of the closing spring 36 bear against a bearing surface 114 fixed to the housing and an axis of rotation for the locking element 32 during its disengaging and closing movement forms and that in the closed position of the operating lever 32 from the housing Bearing surface 114 is lifted.

As can be seen from FIGS. 12a and b, in the exemplary embodiment shown the operating arm 18 'of the operating lever 18 according to the opposite side of the lever arm carrying the locking element 32 100. In this case, the mechanics by depressing the actuating arm 18 'opened and closed by lifting the actuating arm. Alternatively, it is possible that the operating arm after the same Side as the lever arm bearing the locking element has. In this In this case, the mechanism is closed by depressing the actuating arm and opened by lifting.

The following is the operation of the above Ring binder mechanism explained in more detail with reference to FIGS. 13a to f and 14a to e:

In the closed position of the rings 14, the locking element 32 engages in the free space 34 between the mounting rails 20 and the housing wall 13. The Axle element 112 is raised from the bearing surface 114 and the actuating lever 18 strikes with the lever arm 100 in the region of the locking element 32 against the end stop 122, the actuating arm 18 ' through the opening of a pair of half rings 16 pointing obliquely upwards reaches through (Fig. 13a, 14a).

The mechanics are opened in two phases: First, when pressing down of the lever arm 18 'in the direction of arrow 82 of the actuating lever 18 via the control cam 108 supported on the control edge 106 moved against the force of the closing spring 36 that the locking element 32 out of the free space 34 (Fig. 13b, 14b). When pressing further down the lever arm 100 is formed by the control edge 106 Swivel axis pivoted upwards. The opening arm strikes 40 from below against the mounting rails 20 and takes them overcoming the spring force generated by the housing flanks 28 under simultaneous opening of the half rings 16 upwards (Fig. 13c and 14c). If the lever 18 is now released, the locking element 32 moves with it frontal recess 124 under the action of the closing spring 36 to the housing-fixed latch 110. At the same time, the lever arm 18 'is up pivoted until the axillary element 112 abuts against the bearing surface 114 (Fig. 14d). In this position, the operating lever 18 takes its stable open position.

To close the mechanism, the lever arm 18 'is initially in the direction the arrow 84 pulled up. In doing so, he gets around by the axle element 112 defined axis by disengaging the locking element 32 from the housing-fixed rest 110 pivoted. At the same time, the mounting rails 20 over the closing arm 42 while overcoming the flanks of the housing 28 generated spring forces while closing the half rings 16 after pushed through below. The free space 34 is free, so that the locking element 32 can penetrate into it under the action of the closing spring 36 (FIG. 13e, 14e). At the same time, the actuating lever returns to its in Fig. 13a, 14a shown closed position.

In Fig. 13f is indicated in which position the operating lever 18 in the Assembly can be used in the housing 10.

In summary, the following can be stated: The invention relates to a ring binder mechanism for holding punched documents. The Ring binder mechanism has a housing 10 with resiliently bendable Housing flanks 28 on. Two support rails 20 are arranged in the housing, those in the manner of a toggle lever facing each other Longitudinal edges under the spring action of the housing flanks 28 against each other are pivotable. With the mounting rails 20 are at least two in defined longitudinal distance from each other, in pairs to one Ring 14 additional half rings 16 rigidly connected. Next is at least one via an actuator 18 substantially parallel to the hinge axis 22 displaceable relative to the housing 10 and to the mounting rails 20 Locking element 32 is provided which in the closed position in a between the mounting rails 20 and a housing wall 13 formed space 34 engages blocking the pivoting movement of the mounting rails 20 and in the open position releases the pivot path about the hinge axis 22. According to the invention it is proposed that the at least one locking element 32 under the action of a closing spring 36 in the direction of the closed position is biased.

Claims (45)

1. Ring binder mechanism with a housing (10) having a C- or U-shaped cross-section with spring-elastic bendable flanks (28) for two carrier rails (20), which carrier rails on their facing longitudinal edges lie against each other forming a linkage axis (22) and with their away-facing longitudinal edges (24) engage in mounting grooves (26) in the housing flanks (28), and with at least two half-rings (16) longitudinally spaced apart and rigidly connected with each of the carrier rails (20) and which extend through openings (12) in a housing wall (13) and pairwise form a ring (14), wherein the carrier rails (20) are limitedly pivotable against each other about the linkage axis (22) between an open position and a closed position upon overcoming a spring forced produced by the bending open of the housing flanks (28), while taking along the half-rings (16), and wherein at least one blocking element (32, 32') is provided slideable via operating element (18) essentially parallel to the linkage axis (22), slideable relative to the housing (10) and to the carrier rails (20) which, in the closed position, protrudes into a free space (34) formed between the carrier rails (20) and the housing wall (13) with blockage of the pivot movement of the carrier rails (20) and, in the open position, unblocks the pivot movement of the carrier rails (20) about the linkage axis (22), thereby characterized, that at least one blocking element (32, 32') is pre-tensioned in the direction of the closed position under the influence of a closing spring (36, 36').
2. Ring binder mechanism according to Claim 1, thereby characterized, that the operating element (18) is formed as a operating lever pivotable with respect to the housing (10).
3. Ring binder mechanism according to Claim 1 or 2, thereby characterized, that the at least one blocking element (32, 32') is slideable in the open direction via the operating element (18) against the force of the closing spring (36, 36'), and is thereby unlockable.
4. Ring binder mechanism according to one of Claims 1 through 3, thereby characterized, that the at least one blocking element (32, 32') when in the open position lies against an opening detent (38, 110) under the influence of the closing spring (36, 36').
5. Ring binder mechanism according to Claim 4, thereby characterized, that the at least one blocking element (32, 32') is releaseable in the closing direction via the operating element (18) out of the opening detent (38, 110) against the force of the closing spring (36, 36').
6. Ring binder mechanism according to Claim 5, thereby characterized, that the at least one blocking element (32, 32') is automatically lockable in the closed direction under the influence of the pre-tensioned closing spring (36, 36').
7. Ring binder mechanism according to one of Claims 2 through 6, thereby characterized, that the operating lever (18) includes an opening arm (40) abutting against the carrier rails (20) in the open position and which pivots these from the closed into the open position while overcoming of the spring force produced by the housing flanks (28).
8. Ring binder mechanism according to one of Claims 2 through 7, thereby characterized, that the operating lever (18) includes a closing arm (42) abutting against the carrier rails (20) in the closing direction and which pivots these from the open position into the closed position while overcoming of the spring force produced by the housing flanks (28).
9. Ring binder mechanism according to one of Claims 1 through 8, thereby characterized, that the at least one blocking element (32, 32') is slideable in the closing direction against the force of the closing springs (36, 36'), and thereby releasable out of the opening detent (38, 110), directly by operation of the half-rings (16), or indirectly via the carrier rails (20).
10. Ring binder mechanism according to one of Claims 2 through 9, thereby characterized, that the operating lever (18) in the open and/or closed direction exhibits at least two operating positions effective in different angular positions for a consequential operation of the at least one blocking element (32, 32') and the carrier rails (20).
11. Ring binder mechanism according to one of Claims 2 through 10, thereby characterized, that the blocking element (32) is provided on a lever arm (100) rigidly connected with the operating lever (18), and that the operating lever (18) is limitedly pivotable relative to the housing (10) and to the carrier rails (20) in the sliding direction of the blocking element (32).
12. Ring binder mechanism according to Claim 11, thereby characterized, that the blocking spring (36) is tensioned in between a housing fixed abutment and an operating lever fixed abutment (104, 102).
13. Ring binder mechanism according to Claim 12, thereby characterized, that the blocking spring (36) is a shank spring.
14. Ring binder mechanism according to one of Claims 11 through 13, thereby characterized, that the operating lever (18) includes a control curve (108) guided on one control edge (106) of the housing (10), via which the operating lever (18) and the blocking element (32) during pivoting against the force of the closing spring (36) are slideable from a closing position in the direction of the open position.
15. Ring binder mechanism according to Claim 14, thereby characterized, that the operating lever (18) is rigidly connected with an opening arm (40) acting, in the opening direction, against the carrier rails.
16. Ring binder mechanism according to Claim 15, thereby characterized, that the opening arm (40) is provided in such a separation from the blocking element (32), that the blocking element (32) in the closed position of the operating lever (18) and the carrier rails (20) is insertable in the free space (34) between the carrier rails (20) and the housing wall (13) under the influence of the closing spring (36), and in the open position abuts against a housing-fixed detent (110) under the influence of the closing spring (36).
17. Ring binder mechanism according to Claim 16, thereby characterized, that the blocking element (32) is simultaneously a closing arm (42) acting in the closing direction against the carrier rails (20).
18. Ring binder mechanism according to one of Claims 11 through 17, thereby characterized, that the operating lever (18) includes at least one pivot pin element (112), which lies in the open position of the operating lever (18) against a housing fixed mounting surface (114) under the influence of the closing spring (36) and forms a pivot axis for the blocking element (32) during the disengagement or unblocking and closing movement.
19. Ring binder mechanism according to Claim 18, thereby characterized, that the pivot pin element (112), in the closed position of the operating lever (18), is raised from the housing-fixed mounting surface (114).
20. Ring binder mechanism according to one of Claims 14 through 19, thereby characterized, that the control curve (108) is provided on a control arm (120) extending through a wall opening (116) of the housing (10) and through a through-hole (118) in the linkage axis (22) area between the carrier rails (20).
21. Ring binder mechanism according to Claim 20, thereby characterized, that the control edge (106) is formed by a preferably curved border edge of the wall opening (116).
22. Ring binder mechanism according to one of Claims 11 through 19, thereby characterized, that the blocking element (32) is provided on the lever arm (100) extending through a wall opening (116) in the housing.
23. Ring binder mechanism according to Claim 22, thereby characterized, that the housing fixed detent (110) is formed by a preferably curved border edge of the wall opening (116).
24. Ring binder mechanism according to one of Claims 11 through 23, thereby characterized, that the blocking element (32) abuts in the closed direction, under the influence of the closing spring (36), against a housing-fixed end-stop (122).
25. Ring binder mechanism according to Claim 24, thereby characterized, that the end abutment (122) is wedge-shaped in the closing direction.
26. Ring binder mechanism according to Claim 24 or 25, thereby characterized, that the end abutment (122) is formed by a bowing out of the housing wall (13) protruding into the free space (34).
27. Ring binder mechanism according to one of Claims 11 through 26, thereby characterized, that the operating lever (18) is mounted and guided on the housing (10) in the intermediate area between the rings (14), and includes an operating arm (18') extending through the loop of one of the rings (14).
28. Ring binder mechanism according to Claim 27, thereby characterized, that the operating arm (18') is directed away from the lever arm (100) carrying the blocking element (32).
29. Ring binder mechanism according to Claim 27, thereby characterized, that the operating arm (18') faces the same side as the blocking element (32) carrying lever arm (100).
30. Ring binder mechanism according to one of Claims 2 through 10, thereby characterized, that the at least one blocking element is rigidly provided on a control rod, preferably formed as a pull rod, which via the operating lever (18), under the influence of the closing spring, is limitedly slideable in the longitudinal direction of the carrier rails (20) relative to the housing (10).
31. Ring binder mechanism according to Claim 30, thereby characterized, that the closing spring is a pressure spring.
32. Ring binder mechanism according to Claim 31, thereby characterized, that the operating lever (18) is provided at one end of the control rod and that the closing spring is tensioned in between the other end of the control rod and a housing fixed abutment.
33. Ring binder mechanism according to Claim 32, thereby characterized, that the operating lever (18) pulls against the control rod in the open position against the pressure force of the closing spring.
34. Ring binder mechanism according to one of Claims 30 through 33, thereby characterized, that the operating lever (18) is rigidly connected with an opening arm acting in the opening direction against the carrier rails.
35. Ring binder mechanism according to one of Claims 30 through 34, thereby characterized, that the operating lever (18) is rigidly connected with a closing arm acting in the closing direction against the carrier rails.
36. Ring binder mechanism according to one of Claims 2 through 10, thereby characterized, that at least one blocking element (32, 32') is connected with the operating lever (18) via a tensioning member (44, 44') and a closing spring (36, 36') integrated in the tension member.
37. Ring binder mechanism according to Claim 36, thereby characterized, that each blocking element (32, 32') is associated with a tension member (44, 44').
38. Ring binder mechanism according to Claim 37, thereby characterized, that at least two of the tension members (44, 44') are unitarily connected with each other, preferably via a connecting bridge (46).
39. Ring binder mechanism according to Claims 36 through 38, thereby characterized, that each blocking element (32, 32') is associated with a closing spring (36, 36').
40. Ring binder mechanism according to one of Claims 36 through 39, thereby characterized, that the tension member (44, 44') is a piece of wire.
41. Ring binder mechanism according to one of Claims 36 through 40, thereby characterized, that the closing spring (36, 36') is a shank spring integrated in the tension member (44, 44'), of which one leg (48) is connected with the operating lever (18) and the other leg (50) is supported on a housing-fixed or carrier rail-fixed mount (52) and is fixed spaced apart from the support point on the associated blocking element (32, 32' ) .
42. Ring binder mechanism according to one of Claims 36 through 41, thereby characterized, that the at least one blocking element (32, 32') is formed as a sliding element guided in a guide slot or through-hole (54) between the two carrier rails (20), which exhibits a wedge shaped closing surface (56) facing in the closing direction, which in the closed position engages in the free space (34).
43. Ring binder mechanism according to Claim 42, thereby characterized, that the sliding element exhibits a face (58) which is wedge or arrow-shaped in the closing direction, and that the guide through-hole (54), on its bordering edge (38) facing the end face (58), exhibits a thereto complimentary arrow shape.
44. Ring binder mechanism according to one of Claims 36 through 43, thereby characterized, that the operating lever (18) is rigidly connected with an opening arm (40) which lies, when moved in the opening direction, against the carrier rails (20).
45. Ring binder mechanism according to one of Claims 36 through 44, thereby characterized, that the operating lever (18) is rigidly connected with a closing arm (42) which lies, when moved in the closing direction, against the carrier rails (20).

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