Patent ID: 7296720
Filing Date: 2007-11-20
Classification: B25C

Abstract:
1. A method of indicating a supply of staples within a stapler having a staple storage chamber and a staple pusher assembly biasing staples within the staple storage chamber, the method comprising: providing a low staple indicator distinct from the staple pusher assembly; engaging a portion of the low staple indicator with at least one of a staple and the staple pusher assembly in the staple storage chamber to maintain the low staple indicator in a first position indicating a sufficient supply of staples in the staple storage chamber; performing stapling operations with the stapler until the supply of staples in the staple storage chamber diminishes and the portion of the low staple indicator no longer engages at least one of a staple and the staple pusher assembly in the staple storage chamber; and after disengagement of the portion of the low staple indicator from at least one of a staple and the staple pusher assembly within the staple storage chamber, automatically moving the low staple indicator to a second position indicating a diminished supply of staples in the staple storage chamber.