Binding system for retaining bound components

A binding apparatus including a plurality of generally coaxially arranged binding coils. Each binding coil includes a pair of generally parallel wires terminating in a tip. Each binding coil is coupled to an adjacent binding coil by a connection portion extending generally parallel to an axis of the binding apparatus. At least one binding coil is directly circumferentially attached to itself, or to a connection portion.

BACKGROUND

Wire binding mechanisms, including twin-wire binding mechanisms, are often used to bind together a plurality of items to form a notebook, notepad, or other bound components. However, some such wire binding mechanism may have gaps or openings therein which may allow paper or other bound components to escape from the binding mechanism.

SUMMARY

In one embodiment the present invention takes the form of a binding mechanism configured to prevent papers or other bound components from separating from the binding mechanism. In particular, in one embodiment the invention is an apparatus and/or method for locking a wire binding system, for example a twin-wire, spiral, or other binding device or mechanism, such that the bound contents such as paper, folders, covers or pocket dividers do not separate from the binding system.

In a first embodiment, the device is a locking apparatus for a twin-wire binding apparatus. The locking apparatus includes a twin-wire apparatus comprising a continuous length of wire bent in a generally circular manner about a lengthwise axis to form opposing alternating generally u-shaped tip sections and joining sections. The joining sections may be of greater width than the tip sections. The ends of the twin-wire apparatus may be cut at a point in a joining section that leaves a length of wire that extends over the nearest opposing tip section. Each end may be bent inwards into a loop around the nearest opposing tip section and clamped back onto itself to form a closed loop link.

In a second embodiment, the device is a locking apparatus for a twin-wire binding apparatus. The locking apparatus includes a twin-wire apparatus comprising a continuous length of wire bent in a generally circular manner about a lengthwise axis to form opposing alternating generally u-shaped tip sections and joining sections. The joining sections may be of greater width than the tip sections. The ends of the twin-wire apparatus may be cut at a point in a joining section that leaves a length of wire that is threaded through the nearest opposing tip section. The ends may be bent outwards into a loop around the nearest opposing tip section and clamped back onto itself to form a closed loop link.

In a third embodiment, the device is a locking apparatus for a twin-wire binding apparatus. The locking apparatus includes a twin-wire apparatus comprising a continuous length of wire bent in a generally circular manner about a lengthwise axis to form opposing alternating generally u-shaped tip sections and joining sections. The joining sections may be of greater width than the tip sections. The ends of the twin-wire apparatus may be cut at a point in a joining section that leaves a length of wire that is threaded through the nearest opposing tip section. Each end may be bent sideways into a loop around the nearest opposing tip section and clamped back onto itself to form a closed loop link.

In a fourth embodiment, the device is a locking apparatus for a twin-wire binding apparatus. The locking apparatus includes a twin-wire apparatus comprising a continuous length of wire bent in a generally circular manner about a lengthwise axis to form opposing alternating generally u-shaped tip sections and joining sections. The joining sections may be of greater width than the tip sections. The ends of the twin-wire apparatus may be cut at a point in a tip section that leaves a length of wire that is threaded through the nearest opposing joining section. Each end may be bent outwards into a loop around the nearest opposing tip section and clamped back onto itself to form a closed loop link.

In a fifth embodiment, the device is a locking apparatus for a twin-wire binding apparatus. The locking apparatus includes a twin-wire apparatus comprising a continuous length of wire bent in a generally circular manner about a lengthwise axis to form opposing alternating generally u-shaped tip sections and joining sections. The joining sections may be of greater width than the tip sections. The ends of the twin-wire apparatus may be cut at a point in a tip section that leaves a length of wire that is extended over the nearest opposing joining section. Each end may be bent inwards into a loop around the nearest opposing tip section and clamped back onto itself to form a closed loop link.

In a sixth embodiment, the device is a locking apparatus for a twin-wire binding apparatus. The locking apparatus includes a twin-wire apparatus comprising a continuous length of wire bent in a generally circular manner about a lengthwise axis to form opposing alternating generally u-shaped tip sections and joining sections. The joining sections may be of greater width than the tip sections. The locking apparatus further includes a coil spine joint comprised of a pair of joining hook sections opposed by a tip hook section disposed between the pair of joining hook sections all connected along a spine section. The pair of joining hook sections are adapted to cooperatively engage corresponding adjacent joining sections and the tip hook section is adapted to cooperatively engage a corresponding opposing tip section. The coil spine joint may be made from injection molded plastic or stamped metal among other materials.

In a seventh embodiment, the device is a coil spine joint for use with a twin-wire binding apparatus. The coil spine joint is comprised of a pair of joining hook sections opposed by a tip hook section disposed between the pair of joining hook sections all connected along a spine section. The pair of joining hook sections are adapted to cooperatively engage corresponding adjacent joining sections and the tip hook section is adapted to cooperatively engage a corresponding opposing tip section of a twin-wire binding apparatus. The coil spine joint may be made from injection molded plastic or stamped metal among other materials.

In an eighth embodiment, the device is a locking apparatus for a twin-wire binding apparatus. The locking apparatus includes a twin-wire apparatus comprising a continuous length of wire bent in a generally circular manner about a lengthwise axis to form opposing alternating generally u-shaped tip sections and joining sections. The joining sections may be of greater width than the tip sections. The locking apparatus further includes a snap-in comb component comprised of a spine element and a plurality of finger elements each including a catch apparatus protruding substantially 90°, or some other angle, from the spine element. The finger elements may be generally arrow shaped and adapted to fit within the width of the tip sections such that once inserted through a tip section the wide trailing edge of the arrow shape acts as a catch apparatus to keep the finger element from dislodging.

In a ninth embodiment, the device is a snap-in comb component for use with a twin-wire binding apparatus. The snap-in comb component is comprised of a spine element and a plurality of finger elements each including a catch apparatus protruding substantially 90° from the spine element. The finger elements may be generally arrow shaped and adapted to fit within the width of the tip sections such that once inserted through a tip section the wide trailing edge of the arrow shape acts as a catch apparatus to keep the finger element from dislodging.

In a tenth embodiment, the device is a locking apparatus for a twin-wire binding apparatus. The locking apparatus includes a plurality of twin-wire apparatus segments comprising a continuous length of wire bent in a generally circular manner about a lengthwise axis to form opposing alternating generally u-shaped tip sections and joining sections. The joining sections may be of greater width than the tip sections. The segments may be oriented such that each segment is reverse oriented from its adjacent segment so that the tip sections of one segment point in a direction that is substantially 180° reversed from the tip sections in an adjacent segment. There may be any number of segments so long as there are at least two.

In an eleventh embodiment, the device is a locking apparatus for a twin-wire binding apparatus. The locking apparatus includes a twin-wire apparatus comprising a continuous length of wire bent in a generally circular manner about a lengthwise axis to form opposing alternating generally u-shaped tip sections and joining sections. The joining sections may be of greater width than the tip sections. The locking apparatus further includes a solder weld that couples together and closes a gap between a tip section and the space between adjacent opposing joining sections. The solder weld may be a metal solder, a plastic solder, or an adhesive material.

In a twelfth embodiment, the device is a locking apparatus for a spiral wire binding apparatus. The locking apparatus includes a continuous length of wire bent in a generally circular manner about a lengthwise axis to form successive coils. The spiral wire may be cut at a point that leaves a length of wire that extends past an adjacent coil and is bent into a loop around the adjacent coil and clamped back onto itself to form a closed loop link. The locking apparatus further includes a solder weld that couples together and closes a gap between the closed loop link and the adjacent coil. The solder weld may be a metal solder, a plastic solder, or an adhesive material. The adjacent coil may be the nearest coil.

In a thirteenth embodiment, the device is a locking apparatus for a twin-wire binding apparatus comprising. The locking apparatus includes a continuous length of wire bent in a generally circular manner about a lengthwise axis to form opposing alternating generally u-shaped tip sections and joining sections in which the joining sections are of greater width than the tip sections. A staple connects at least one tip section to at least one adjacent tip section or joining section. The staple may be formed from a metal or plastic wire that is formed or bent to shape. The staple may connect two tip sections, a tip section to one joining section, or a tip section to two joining sections.

In a fourteen embodiment the device is a locking apparatus for a twin-wire binding apparatus. The locking apparatus includes a continuous length of wire bent in a generally circular manner about a lengthwise axis to form opposing alternating generally u-shaped tip sections and joining sections in which the joining sections are of greater width than the tip sections, and a guardrail connecting at least a first tip section to at least a second adjacent tip section. The guardrail may have the form of a loop of material having a first longitudinal part and a second longitudinal part extending between the tip sections. At least one of the first and second longitudinal parts may have a finger or deformation extending between the first and second longitudinal parts, the finger or deformation being located proximate to one of said tip sections. The finger or deformation may be located between the two wires forming a single tip section.

In a fifteenth embodiment the device is a locking apparatus for a twin-wire binding apparatus. The locking apparatus may include a continuous length of wire bent in a generally circular manner about a lengthwise axis to form opposing alternating generally u-shaped tip sections and joining sections in which the joining sections are of greater width than the tip sections and a blocking device on at least one tip section, the blocking device having a wing section. The wing section may extend in the direction of the lengthwise axis. The blocking device may be attached to the tip section by a snap-action fit. The blocking device may be molded or cast onto the tip section. The blocking device may be heat-formed or pressure-formed onto the tip section.

In a sixteenth embodiment the device is a locking apparatus for a twin-wire binding apparatus. The locking apparatus may include a continuous length of wire bent in a generally circular manner about a lengthwise axis to form opposing alternating generally u-shaped tip sections and joining sections in which the joining sections are of greater width than the tip sections, and a washer lock attached to at least one of the tip sections. The washer lock may be a circular ring with at least one tooth. The circular ring may be bent upon itself to form an approximately semicircular shape with the tooth between the two wires forming the tip section to which the washer lock is attached. The circular ring may define a plane, and the ring may be compressed generally within said plane to bring the tooth between the two wires forming the tip section to which the washer lock is attached. The washer lock may include two circular sections joined together, and the washer lock may be attached to top adjacent tip sections. The washer lock may include a circular ring with two inward-facing teeth.

In a seventeenth embodiment the device is a locking apparatus for a twin-wire binding apparatus. The locking apparatus may include a continuous length of wire bent in a generally circular manner about a lengthwise axis to form opposing alternating generally u-shaped tip sections and joining sections in which the joining sections are of greater width than the tip sections, and one or more pages having holes to receive the tip sections, and the tip sections may include a content carrying portion sized to fit within the holes, and a terminal portion with a size larger than the holes. The terminal portions have the form of arrows or tees. The terminal portions may be formed after the pages have been placed on the tip sections. The terminal portions may be formed before the pages are placed on the tip sections, with the tip sections being flexible or compressible enough to pass through the holes. The terminal portions may be shaped to resist passing back through the holes once the pages have been placed on the tip sections.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG. 1is a perspective view of a notebook100utilizing a twin-wire binding system, device, mechanism or apparatus110. The twin-wire binding apparatus110can be used to bind or couple together any of a wide variety of bound components, including papers150, a front cover120, back cover130, folders, dividers, pocket divider, worksheets, storage pouches, functional devices, workbook pages or other content pages, combinations thereof, or other content. The front cover120and back cover130may each be thicker and/or more rigid than each sheet of paper150to provide protection and stiffness to the notebook100. Each sheet of paper150and each of the front cover120and back cover130include a row of holes140near an outer edge thereof. The holes140are sized and spaced to receive a turn or coil of the twin-wire binding apparatus110therein to allow the individual pages of the paper150and/or covers120,130to be bound and/or turned as in a book. The twin-wire apparatus110may include or extend along a central longitudinal or lengthwise axis115, and may extend from a top end116to a bottom end117.

FIG. 2provides a more detailed illustration of a section of the twin-wire apparatus110. While termed a twin-wire apparatus, the apparatus110may be comprised of a continuous single wire that is configured to appear as an apparatus in which each loop is made of two parallel, but spaced apart wires. The so-called “twin-wire” binding may be constructed of a single wire shaped or otherwise formed so that two wires extend through most or all of the binding holes140. The single continuous wire may be bent in a generally circular manner about the lengthwise axis115to form the plurality of loops. The binding apparatus110may be constructed from a single unitary piece of material, such as plastic or metal wire (or other materials), and may have a thickness (i.e., diameter) of between about 0.2 mm and about 2 mm.

The twin-wire configuration may be formed by bending the wire into opposing alternating generally u-shaped, tip sections160and joining sections170. Each of the joining sections170extends generally parallel to the axis115and has a width of w1while each of the tip sections160has a width of w2. Width w2may be less than that of width w1and configured such that each tip section160can extend through a binding hole140.

Each joining section170may be substantially c-shaped in side view and curve about 180° about the axis115above the axis115with reference to the drawing ofFIG. 2(to the right of the axis115with reference toFIG. 4). The tip160sections may also be substantially c-shaped in side view and curve about 180° about the lengthwise axis115below the axis115with reference toFIG. 2(to the left of the axis115with reference toFIG. 4). Based on the characterization above, the termination of each tip section160may be the beginning of each joining section170. Similarly, the termination of each joining section170may be located approximately at the beginning of each tip section160.

As shown inFIG. 4, the binding apparatus110may have an end coil at the top116and/or bottom117axial end thereof, the end coil having a tip section159and a joining section169. The wire making up the end-most tip section159may be considered to extend to termination point159′, at which same point the wire begins the adjacent joining section169. Joining section169may be considered to extend to termination point169′, at which same point the wire begins the next tip section160. Tip section160may be considered to extend to termination point160′, at which same point the wire begins the adjacent joining section170. Joining section170may be considered to extend to termination point170′, at which same point the wire begins the next tip section, and so on. The termination points described here, which are approximately half-way around the binding apparatus110, or opposite or about 180 degrees for the “open” gap between the tip sections and joining sections, are only examples and are not meant to be limiting. By bending the wire in the manner described, the overall appearance of the apparatus is that of a twin-wire apparatus110, but accomplished with a single wire.

The tip160and joining170sections can also be defined or considered in other manners. For example, in one case each tip section160can be considered the sections of the binding apparatus110including two parallel wire sections that extend in a generally circular/circumferential manner, nearly 360 degrees about the axis115. Under this construction each tip section160can also be termed a coil, coil section or binding coil, which are coaxially arranged. Each tip section160can terminate in a tip where the two parallel wires meet.

Under this construction each coil section160can be connected to an adjacent coil section by a joining or connecting section170positioned therebetween. In this case each joining section170can constitute only the straight, axially-extending portions of the wire apparatus; for example, the section indicated by the dimension w1inFIG. 2; and all circumferentially extending portions of the twin-wire apparatus110are considered a coil section160.

Since the twin-wire binding systems described herein are of finite length there is necessarily a beginning and an end of the twin-wire apparatus110, for example at top end116and bottom end117. It is at these ends that the twin-wire apparatus110traditionally does not have a defined termination or locking mechanism. In addition, without such a closing or locking mechanism, the bound component, such as the papers150, covers120/130and/or other bound components can be fully or partially separated from the binding apparatus110due to the open gap along the entire length of a traditional twin-wire apparatus110.

Many of the embodiments set forth below describe various embodiments that serve as locking or closure mechanisms for twin-wire binding apparatuses like that shown inFIGS. 1, 2 and 4. Each of the locking mechanisms described below may be capable of ensuring that paper, covers, and/or other contents bound by the binding apparatus cannot fully escape the binding apparatus. While each of the embodiments vary from one another, the reference numbers in the figures remain consistent for consistent elements, such as the twin-wire apparatus110as a whole, the tip sections160, joining sections170, front cover120, back cover130, holes140and paper150.

A first embodiment, which may be termed a coil-lock, is shown inFIGS. 3a-3dandFIG. 4, and is an embodiment in which at least one binding coil is circumferentially attached to itself, or to a connection portion.FIG. 3aillustrates of one end of a coil-lock twin-wire apparatus prior to closure according to this embodiment in which a section of a twin-wire apparatus110has a defined end175. The twin-wire apparatus110has been cut/terminated and is shown with its end175bent outwards before it has been locked around the nearest opposing tip section160. The cut may be made after that last opposing tip section160has been formed and before completion of the next joining section170to yield sufficient free wire to thread through an opposing tip section160, bend and clamp back on itself. It is to be understood that the opposing tip section160may be the nearest opposing tip section160which may reduce the amount of wire material required. However, the end175can be bent about other tip sections160besides the tip section160at the end thereof. Manufacturing preferences will indicated which tip section160will receive wire end175and the length of wire material required to create this locking section.

FIG. 3billustrates a first closure configuration showing one end of a coil-lock twin-wire apparatus. InFIG. 3bthe end or extension portion180is extended over the nearest opposing tip section160, deflected radially inwardly into a loop and clamped back on or toward itself thereby closing or locking the end180with the rest of the twin-wire apparatus110. The end180, or other adjacent portions, may make contact with the twin wire apparatus, or may be sufficiently closed to form a gap smaller than the thickness of the wire, or may form a larger gap.

FIG. 3cillustrates a second closure configuration in which the end185is threaded through the nearest opposing tip section160, bent radially outward and bent back on or toward itself thereby closing or locking the end185with the rest of the twin-wire apparatus110.FIG. 3amay illustrate the embodiment ofFIG. 3cprior to threading and bending the end175/185.FIG. 4illustrates essentially the same configuration asFIG. 3cbut shows the twin-wire apparatus110in conjunction with the front cover120, rear cover130and sheets of paper150.FIG. 3dillustrates a third closure configuration in which the end190is threaded through the nearest opposing tip section160, bent sideways and clamped back on or toward itself thereby closing or locking the end190with the rest of the twin-wire apparatus110. In this configuration and all of the other locking configurations described above, the last, or axial-end, holes140receive a turn of the wire apparatus in a two-wire configuration.

FIGS. 5a-5candFIG. 6illustrate a second embodiment of the coil-lock.FIG. 5aillustrates of one end of a coil-lock twin-wire apparatus110prior to closure according to this particular embodiment. A section of a twin-wire apparatus110is shown with its end210bent generally radially inwardly before it has been looped/locked around the nearest opposing joining section170. The wire of the binding apparatus110may be cut at end210after that last opposing tip section160has been fully formed to yield enough free wire to be threaded through an adjacent opposing joining section, for example the nearest opposing joining section170, then bent and clamped back on itself. As explained in the prior embodiment the length of free wire adjacent to the end210may be adjusted based on manufacturing preferences, as may the location of the opposing joining section that the free wire is bent around to create the locking section. The opposed joining section may be the immediately adjacent joining section, or the next joining section after the immediately adjacent joining section, or a more distant joining section.

FIG. 5billustrates the end220passed under the nearest opposing joining section170, bent radially outwardly and clamped back on or toward itself thereby closing or locking the end220with the rest of the twin-wire apparatus110.FIG. 5cillustrates the end230passed over the nearest opposing joining section170, bent radially inwardly (or sideways) and clamped back on or toward itself thereby closing or locking the end230with the rest of the twin-wire apparatus110.FIG. 6illustrates essentially the same configuration asFIG. 5cbut shows the twin-wire apparatus110in conjunction with the front cover120, rear cover130and sheets of paper150. In this configuration and all of the other above locking configurations ofFIGS. 5a-5candFIG. 6, the last, or axial-end, holes140receive a turn of the wire apparatus in a single-wire configuration.

FIGS. 7-10illustrate another embodiment, termed a spine joint herein, in which a locking device is utilized to generally circumferentially and/or axially couple portions of the binding apparatus.FIG. 7is a perspective view of one embodiment of the locking device/coil spine joint. The coil spine joint310generally may include spine section325and a pair of joining hook sections320,330coupled to the spine section325at either axial end thereof and on the same side thereof. The coil spine joint310may also include a tip hook section340coupled to the spine section325at an opposite side compared to the joining hook sections320,330. Tip hook section340opposes and is disposed between joining hook sections320and330. The coil spine joint310is constructed and adapted to engage adjacent joining sections170and an opposing tip section160of the binding apparatus110. The coil spine joint310may be made or formed from a variety of materials, including injection molded plastic/polymers, blow molded plastic/polymers, or any other formed plastic or polymer. Alternately, the coil spine joint310may be made or formed from stamped or die cut sheet metal or sheet plastic/polymer, cast or diecast metal or plastics/polymers, resins, resin based materials or composites, or the like. Those of ordinary skill in the art can readily conceive of other materials from which the coil spine joint310may be fashioned, or other methods of forming the materials, without departing from the spirit or scope of the disclosure herein.

FIG. 8is an end view of the coil spine joint310ofFIG. 7. In this view, joining hook section320is shown cooperatively engaging (e.g., wrapped around) a cross-sectional view of joining section wire170. Similarly, tip hook section340is shown cooperatively engaging (e.g., wrapped around) a cross-sectional view of tip section wire160. Each hook section320,330,340, possibly in combination with the spine section325, may extend at least about 180 degrees around the associated section160,170.

FIG. 9Ais an illustration of the locking device300ofFIGS. 7 and 8attached to the twin-wire apparatus110in conjunction with paper150and covers120,130. At least one coil spine joint310is cooperatively fitted about twin-wire apparatus110such that joining hook sections320,330are mechanically hooked onto adjacent joining sections170of twin-wire apparatus110while tip hook section340is mechanically hooked onto an opposing tip section160of twin-wire apparatus110. If desired, however, this configuration can be reversed such that hook sections320,330are joined to tip sections160, and hook section340is joined to a joining section170, although the spacing and configuration of the coil spine joint310may need to be adjusted accordingly. Additional coil spine joints310can be similarly hooked onto twin-wire apparatus110in the same manner such that there are a series of coil spine joints310operatively closing, spanning and/or locking the twin-wire apparatus110to keep paper150and/or covers120,130or other contents from coming loose from twin-wire binding apparatus110.

FIG. 9Billustrates a coil spine joint locking embodiment301similar to that ofFIG. 9A, except that coil spine joint311extends axially along multiple sets of joining170and tip160sections and has extra hook sections. The coil spine joint311may extend over two or more sets of joining170and tip160sections, hooking each set together, or hooking only some of the sets together. At least one coil spine joint311is cooperatively fitted about twin-wire apparatus110such that joining hook sections320,330are mechanically hooked onto adjacent joining sections170of twin-wire apparatus110while tip hook section340is mechanically hooked onto an opposing tip section160of twin-wire apparatus110. Additional coil spine joints311can be similarly hooked onto twin-wire apparatus11in the same manner until there are a series of coil spine joints operative to close and lock the twin-wire apparatus11to keep paper150and/or covers120,130or other contents from coming separating from twin-wire binding apparatus301.

FIG. 10illustrates a coil spine joint locking embodiment300coupled to, positioned adjacent to or covering the end section350of the binding apparatus110. The structure and functionality of the spine joint ofFIG. 10is similar to that ofFIGS. 9A and 9B, except that the spine joint ofFIG. 10covers the end section350of the twin-wire apparatus110. The end section350is not a complete joining section but rather a joining section that has been cut since the twin-wire apparatus110must be cut at some point in order to terminate.FIGS. 9A and 9Bshow coil spine joints at several locations other than the end of the coil110, andFIG. 10shows a coil spine joint on the end of the coil110. These are only examples and other combinations of locations may be used for the coil spine joints.

One or more coil spine joints310may be arranged in a pattern along the length of the twin-wire apparatus110to create the closed loop or locked configuration, and coil spine joints310may or may not be used on the end sections of the twin-wire apparatus110. For example, two or more coil spine joints310may be hooked onto twin-wire apparatus110, at least one coil spine joint310may be positioned near or adjacent to one end116of the twin-wire apparatus110and at least one coil spine joint310may be positioned near or adjacent to the other end117of the twin-wire apparatus110.

FIGS. 11-13illustrate another locking device, termed a snap-in comb coil-lock herein, which axially couples portions of the binding apparatus.FIG. 11is a perspective view of a snap-in comb lock embodiment400shown with a traditional twin-wire apparatus110binding a front cover120, back cover130and papers150.FIG. 11also shows an exploded snap-in comb lock component410positioned for insertion into the twin-wire apparatus110.

FIG. 12illustrates top views of various embodiment of the snap-in comb lock component410. Snap-in comb lock component410may generally include a spine element420having one, two, or more finger elements430spaced along a length thereof. The spine element420may be generally flat and planar, and each finger element430may be generally flat and co-planar with the spine element420. Each finger element430may include or comprise a catch mechanism protruding substantially 90°, or some other angle, from the spine element420, and configured such that consecutive finger elements430are spaced apart about the same distance as the distance between associated tip sections160. In this configuration each finger element430is adapted to fit into and cooperatively engage a tip section160. The catch mechanism for the plurality of finger elements430shown inFIGS. 11-13may be generally arrow shaped having a pair of angled leading edges adapted to fit within and spread apart the adjacent wire of a tip section160.

Each finger element430may also include a pair of trailing/retention surfaces configured to engage each wire of the tip section160such that after the finger element430is fully inserted through a tip section160the trailing surfaces act as a catch mechanism to keep the finger element430from being pulled out of the binding apparatus110. Alternately, each finger element430may be shaped to be inserted at an angle, or inserted in a two (or more) step operation such that each finger element430is inserted, and then the entire comb410is moved, for example in the axial direction, to lock the comb410in place.

The length of the spine element420can be varied from that shown inFIG. 12such that the spine element420/component410has a length that is generally equal to, or less than, the binding apparatus110. Also, certain finger elements430may be omitted such the component410does not engage each of the tip sections160, but in this case the finger pieces430that are present should be spaced to engage some of corresponding tip sections160. For example the component410may engage one, two, or more of the tip sections160.

FIG. 13illustrates the snap-in comb lock410in conjunction with papers150and covers120,130bound together by the binding apparatus110. In this illustration, the snap-in comb lock component410is shown engaged with the twin-wire apparatus110via tip sections160. The tips of the finger elements430may be aligned with the loops of tip sections160. The user or inserting device may then apply a radially inward force to push the finger elements430through the loops of the tip sections160. Each tip430may have a width greater than the width between a pair of wires of the tip section160such that the twin wires of the tip sections160may be spread apart by the leading surfaces as each finger element430is inserted therethrough. The twin wires may then converge/snap back together after the associated finger element430is fully inserted.

Based on the angled/arrow shape of the finger elements430, the entire snap-in comb component410may remain lockably engaged with the twin-wire apparatus110, thereby preventing paper150and/or covers120,130or other contents from escaping the twin-wire apparatus110. The finger elements430may be shaped such that each finger element430can configured such that a lower force is required to insert the finger elements430than is required to remove the finger elements.

It should be noted that the specific illustrated locations of the finger elements430in conjunction with the binding apparatus110is provided as an example. The finger elements420may be positioned elsewhere around the circumference of the binding apparatus110desired. It may be easier to insert the finger elements430at a point approximately 180 degrees around the circumference of the binding apparatus110from the point shown inFIG. 13.

This embodiment shows the finger elements430as having an arrow shape in general. However, the arrow shape is but one shape which can be utilized and provides a balance between ease of assembly and efficacy of engagement. Other finger element430shapes may be adapted for use as a catch mechanism with this embodiment without departing from the spirit or scope of the disclosure herein.

FIGS. 14 and 15illustrate another binding apparatus system, termed an alternating coil-lock herein.FIG. 14is a perspective view of a segmented opposite closure embodiment500. This embodiment utilizes segments510of the traditional twin-wire apparatus in which each segment510may be shorter than the length of the bound components120,130,150along axis115. Moreover, each segment510may be circumferentially misaligned and/or reverse oriented from its adjacent segment510so that the tip sections160of one segment510point in a direction that is substantially 180° reversed from the tip sections160in an adjacent segment510(or the tips160are positioned on opposite sides of the axial gap; or the axially-extending gaps of segments510are misaligned, or misaligned by 180°).

Thus, one or more segments510aeach may have their tip sections160pointing in one direction (or the tips160are positioned on the right side of the axial gap, or their gaps are at a top end thereof) while the adjacent reversed one or more segments510bhave their tip sections160pointing in a direction that is 180° in the opposite direction (or the tips are positioned on a left side of the axial gap, or their gaps are at a bottom end thereof). By reversing the orientation of successive/adjacent segments510a,510b, any gaps that may exist in a traditional twin-wire apparatus are offset in each adjacent segment lessening the chance that the pages150and/or covers120,130or other contents can come loose from the binding system.

FIG. 15is a perspective view of three successive segmented opposite closure twin-wire segments510a,510b. The two end segments510aare shown with a larger gap between tip sections160and joining sections170than will be present when the end segment510aare closed about covers120,130and paper150, but are shown in this configuration for illustrative purpose to show the loading position prior to closing. The middle segment510bis shown with the gap between tip sections160and joining sections170much closer together, which is generally the appearance after the covers120,130and paper150and/or other contents have been installed and the coil segment510bclosed.

The desired results for this embodiment can be achieved with a minimum of two reverse oriented segments.FIG. 14illustrates five segments. One of ordinary skill in the art will readily understand that any number of alternating reverse oriented segments510a,510bcan be implemented for this embodiment.

FIGS. 16 and 17illustrate another embodiment of the locking device which generally circumferentially joins portions of the binding apparatus, termed a solder coil-lock herein.FIG. 16illustrates a solder lock embodiment600for a twin-wire binding system according to an embodiment of the invention. In this embodiment600, the traditional twin-wire apparatus110is shown with tip sections160opposing joining sections170and binding together one or more cover(s)120/130and paper150via holes140. This embodiment utilizes a solder weld610that joins and closes/circumferentially extends across the gap between the tip sections160and opposing joining sections170. The solder weld610partially surrounds and adheres to the wires comprising the tip section160and opposing adjacent joining sections170. In this embodiment the solder weld610may extend about 180° about each tip section160, along the outer edge of the tip section610. The solder weld610may have a total length, extending along the axis115, of less than or about equal to about twice the maximum width of each tip section160to provide a materials saving while still providing a sufficient bond/coupling

FIG. 17is an illustration of an alternate solder lock in which the solder weld covers more area around and about the tip sections160and joining sections170as compared to the embodiment ofFIG. 16. In the embodiment ofFIG. 17the solder weld610completely surrounds and adhere to the wires comprising the tip section160and opposing adjacent joining sections170, filling in the center portion of the distal end of the tip section160.

The coupling/closure devices ofFIGS. 16 and 17have been described thus far as using “solder welds” which can imply formation using a hot molten metal that wets and sticks to the wire surfaces of the tip sections160and joining sections170and then cools into a solid. In this case the solder welds610may be achieved by wave soldering, manual soldering, or other soldering methods. However, it should be noted that other materials could be used in including, but not limited to, adhesives and or molten/meltable/thermoplastic plastic or polymer substances that can be melted and cooled to form the solder welds610. Thus, the solder weld610may include or be made of, among other materials, a metal solder, a plastic or polymer solder or an adhesive material, or combinations thereof.

One or more solder welds610may be applied at various positions to the twin-wire binding mechanism110. In one case one solder weld610may be located proximate to one end116/117of the twin-wire binding mechanism110and another solder weld610may be placed proximate to the opposite end116/117of the twin-wire binding mechanism110. This particular placement may be advantageous for maintaining the covers120/130, paper150, and/or other contents within the twin-wire binding mechanism110with relatively little material and manufacturing costs. However, manufacturing preferences will dictate how many solder welds610are used along the twin-wire binding mechanism110, and their location.

FIGS. 18 and 19illustrate a binding apparatus, termed a solder spiral-lock herein. It should be noted thatFIGS. 18 and 19illustrate a spiral wire binding system including a wire710that is formed into helix of successive coils that are threaded through the holes140in paper150, in contrast to the twin-wire binding mechanism110as shown in, for example,FIGS. 1 and 2. The spiral wire710terminates in a loop720that encases or is wrapped around the last coil of wire710.FIG. 18illustrates a spiral wire binding system with the ends of the spiral wire binding system not being permanently secured.

FIG. 19is an illustration of a solder lock embodiment700covering a section of a spiral wire apparatus.FIG. 19is identical toFIG. 18with the addition of a solder weld810about loop720. The solder weld810locks, covers, and secures loop720to coil wire710preventing the loop720from coming loose from coil wire710. The solder weld810may be proximate to one end (top end116or bottom end117; see for exampleFIG. 1) of the spiral wire apparatus. A second solder weld810may be proximate to the opposite end (bottom end117or top end116) of the spiral wire apparatus.FIG. 19has been described as using “solder welds,” but the solder welds810can be made of the various materials and processes outlined above with respect to the solder welds610.

FIG. 20is a flowchart illustrating a first method of coil locking a twin-wire binding apparatus, some of which may be shown inFIGS. 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d,4,5a,5b,5cand6. At block1010, a continuous length of wire may be bent in a generally circular manner about a lengthwise axis to form opposing alternating generally u-shaped tip sections and joining sections in which the joining sections may be of greater width than the tip sections. In a first method embodiment, at block1020, the ends of the wire may be cut at a point in a joining section that leaves a length of wire that extends over the nearest opposing tip section. At block1030, the cut ends may be bent inward into a loop around the nearest opposing tip section, as shown inFIG. 3b.

In a second method embodiment, at block1040, the ends of the wire may be cut at a point in a joining section that leaves a length of wire that is threaded through the nearest opposing tip section. At block1050, the cut ends may be bent outward into a loop around the nearest opposing tip section, as shown inFIG. 3c. In a third method embodiment, at block1060, the ends of the wire may be cut at a point in a joining section that leaves a length of wire that is threaded through the nearest opposing tip section. At block1070, the cut ends may be bent sideways into a loop around the nearest opposing tip section, as shown inFIG. 3d. For each of the above method embodiments, at block1080, the bent wire ends may be clamped back onto themselves to form a closed loop link.

FIG. 21is a flowchart illustrating another method of locking a twin-wire binding apparatus. At block1110, a continuous length of wire may be bent in a generally circular manner about a lengthwise axis to form opposing alternating generally u-shaped tip sections and joining sections in which the joining sections may be of greater width than the tip sections is provided. In a fourth method embodiment, at block1120, the ends of the wire may be cut at a point in a tip section that leaves a length of wire that is extended over the nearest opposing joining section. At block1140, the cut ends may be bent inward into a loop around the nearest opposing joining section. At block1160, the bent wire ends may be clamped back onto themselves to form a closed loop link, as shown inFIG. 5c.

In a fifth method embodiment, at block1130, the ends of the wire may be cut at a point in a tip section that leaves a length of wire that extends to or is threaded through an opposing joining section. At block1130, the cut ends may be threaded under (or bent into proximity with) the opposing joining section. At block1150, the cut ends may be bent outward into a loop around the opposing joining section. At block1160, the bent wire ends may be clamped back onto themselves to form a closed loop link, as shown inFIG. 5b.

FIGS. 22a-22dshow various locking devices and methods for locking adjacent tip sections160of a twin-wire binding apparatus110, using devices termed staples herein. The term “staples” is used for ease of explanation herein, but is not meant to be limiting to any particular size, shape or configuration, except where indicated otherwise. For example, the staples may be formed of a wire or wire-like material that may be formed or bent to shape, but can be made of a variety of materials and formed in a variety of shapes and have varying thickness. Metal staples1210(FIGS. 22aand 22b) or plastic/polymer staples1220(FIGS. 22cand 22d) may be used, or the staples can be made of any of a variety of materials, including the materials listed above for the spine joint310.

As shown in the Figures, the staples may span adjacent tip sections160, with the ends of each staple passing through the loop of the tip section160, and being turned inward (or outward) as shown to be secured to the loop of the tip sections160. The staples1210,1220may be wider or narrow (in the circumferential direction) than shown. Wider staples1210,1220may reduce the capacity of the binding apparatus110or limit the rotation of its contents, but may provide a stronger and/or more secure connection.

The staples1210,1220may have a generally straight back or spine that is oriented along the axis115of the binding mechanism. Each staple1210may have curved tips or hook portions at either end that are curved or turned back on themselves about 180 degrees in one case (as is conventionally done with metal staples that hold together multiple sheets of paper) such that the tips are generally parallel to the spine. Alternately, if desired the ends of the staples1210,1220may be turned outward as is sometimes done with metal staples that hold together multiple sheets of paper.

The staples1210,1220may be preformed and snapped over the wires160, or they may be partially formed (i.e. the tips can be partially bent, such as 90 degrees instead of the full 180 degrees) and then the tips can be turned fully inward (or outward) after passing through loops160. The staples1210,1220may be installed on one or both ends of the binding apparatus110or they may be installed elsewhere along the binding apparatus110including across every pair of loops160. Each staple1210can have an increased length relative to the binding mechanism110shown in the figures herein such that each staple1210spans, for example, more than two loops160.

The staples1210,1220may have a rectangular cross section (as shown inFIGS. 22a-d) or may have a circular cross section or cross sections of other shapes.FIGS. 23a-cshow other forms of staples1230,1240that have a circular cross section, for example a metal or plastic wire. InFIG. 23a, staples1230are used to join each pair of tip sections160, each staple1230being wrapped about 180 degrees around the wire of each tip section. InFIG. 23b, only the end pair of tip sections160are joined by a staple1230.FIG. 23cshows a detail of staple1240whose ends are wrapped more than a full turn around wire of the tip sections160, for example between 360 and 540 degrees or greater, or at least about 360 degrees. The wires/free end of the staples1230,1340may be wrapped “toward” the adjacent associated tip section160as shown inFIG. 23c, but could also instead be wrapped in the opposite “away” direction.

FIGS. 24a-24dshow various structures and methods for locking tip sections160to associated, opposite joining sections170of a twin-wire binding apparatus110, using staples. Again the term “staples” is used for convenience and is not meant to be limiting, and can include the various materials, structures and arrangements described above. As shown inFIG. 24a, in one embodiment a staple1250may extend from each tip section160across the axially-extending gap of the binding mechanism110to one of the adjacent, opposite joining sections170. As shown inFIG. 24b, a staple1250may be used only at one or both axial ends of the twin-wire binding mechanism110, binding the end tip section160to either the last (partial) joining section170(as shown) or last full joining section (not shown inFIG. 24b). Staples1250may be used at every tip section160, or at one or both ends116,117, or be placed anywhere along the binding mechanism110according to manufacturing preference. Each staple1250can be considered to have a spine extending at an angle to the axis115, with a pair of hook portions at either end thereof.

As shown inFIG. 24c, a pair of staples1260, each extending from a separate joining section170, may attached to a single tip section160. In this case a pair of staples1260span across the axial gap of the binding mechanism110from the tip section160to both of the adjacent joining sections170.

FIGS. 25a-25dshow other structures and methods for locking tip sections160to joining sections170of a twin-wire binding apparatus110. These embodiments utilize staples, locking devices or joining elements1270or1280which are more complex than the staples of theFIGS. 22, 23 and 24. The joining elements1270/1280can be made of the same materials outlined above for the staples. The joining elements1270/1280may have a generally triangular shape in top view, but can have other shapes in top view according to manufacturing preference.

As shown inFIGS. 25aand 25b, joining element1270may include a base section1270awhich extends generally parallel to the axis115and connects/extends around adjacent joining sections170. From base section1270a, the joining element1270is bent/extends upward/circumferentially/axially as two side sections1270bsuch that base section1270aforms the base of a triangle and side sections1270bform to sides of the triangle, which can be an isosceles triangle. The side sections1270bpass through the loop of tip section160and then are bent/extend downward/circumferentially to form central sections1270cwhich generally bifurcate the triangle. The central sections1270cmay have curved tips that extend around/wrap around the base section1270ato secure the central sections1270c/joining element1270in place. The joining element1270can be used only at the ends116,117of the binding mechanism110, along the entire length of the binding mechanism110, or in various other arrangements thereof.

FIGS. 25cand 25dillustrate joining elements1280which are similar to joining elements1270ofFIGS. 25aand 25b. In particular, the joining elements1280ofFIGS. 25cand 25dinclude base sections1280aand side sections1280bsimilar to those ofFIGS. 25aand 25b. However, in the embodiment ofFIGS. 25cand 25dthe central section1280cterminates at/adjacent to the tip section160and is wrapped/bent about the section160, instead of terminating at/around the base section1280a. The joining element1280can be used only at the ends116,117of the binding mechanism110, along the entire length of the binding mechanism110, or in various other arrangements thereof. In the embodiment shown inFIGS. 25a-25d, the joining elements/locking devices1270/1280couple two adjacent connection portions170together and to an opposed tip portion160.

FIGS. 26a-dillustrate various steps which can be carried out to attach a staple or other joining element1210,1220,1230,1250,1260,1270,1280,1290around the wire of a joining section170and/or the wire of a tip section160. In this case the staple/joining element1290has ends1292,1294that may initially be aligned with the spine/main body of joining element1290, as shown inFIG. 26a. As shown inFIG. 26b, the ends or tips1292,1294may then be bent slightly downward to begin forming around wires170,160. As shown inFIG. 26c, ends1292,1294may be bent further, and finally as shown inFIG. 26d, ends1292,1294may be bent to approximately 180 degrees relative to the main part of the joining element1290, such that the ends1292,1294are generally parallel to the main part1290, to securely couple the staple/joining element to the wires160,170. Although the steps inFIGS. 26a-dparticularly illustrate steps for forming/attaching the joining elements next shown inFIG. 27, they could also be considered to illustrate steps in making staples for example those shown inFIGS. 22a-dor other embodiments.

FIGS. 27a-dshow structures and methods for locking tip sections160to joining sections170of a twin-wire binding apparatus110using crimp locks1310,1320. The crimp locks shown inFIGS. 27a-dare similar in certain respects to the spine joint310described previously and shown inFIGS. 7-10. The crimp locks1310,1320may be made of any of the materials outlined above for the spine joint310or other devices disclosed herein. The crimp locks1310,1320can in some cases be made from a flat strip of material, stamped out to leave fingers1312,1314,1322,1324, and then folded according to the steps shown inFIGS. 26a-d.

Depending on the resilience of the material of the crimp locks1310,1320, the spacing between joining sections170and tip sections160, and the resilience/springiness of the binding wire used in the binding mechanism110forming the sections160,170, the crimp locks1310,1320may either be completed preformed and then snapped onto/around the twin-wire binding device110, or may be partly preformed and then crimped (e.g., deformed) onto the joining sections170and tip sections160as shown in any one ofFIGS. 26a, 26b, 26cor26d.

The fingers1312,1322along one edge of crimp lock1310,1320may engage the loops of tip sections160while the fingers1314,1324along the opposite edge of crimp lock1310,1320may engage the joining sections170on the opposite side of the binding mechanism110. The fingers may be appropriately spaced and offset from one another to fit into the tip sections160and joining sections170.

As suggested inFIGS. 27aand 27b, crimp lock1310may extend along the entire binding device110, in one case engaging all or nearly all the tip sections160and joining sections170. Alternately, as shown inFIG. 27d, crimp lock1320may be used only at one or both ends116,117of the twin-wire binding mechanism110. Besides being used along the entire binding mechanism110, or at one or both ends116,117, crimp locks1310,1320may similarly extend along any portion of the binding mechanism110according to manufacturing preference.

FIGS. 28a-dshow structures and methods for locking tip sections160to joining sections170of a twin-wire binding apparatus110using crimp locks1330,1340. The crimp locks1330,1340ofFIGS. 28a-dare similar in certain respects to those described above and shown inFIGS. 27a-d. The crimp locks1330,1340may be made of the same material as the crimp locks1310,1320and other components described herein, and may be formed by injection molding or other forming methods. The fingers1332,1334may be appropriately spaced and offset from one another to fit into the tip sections160and joining sections170. The fingers1332along one edge of crimp lock1330may engage the loops of tip sections160while the fingers1334along the opposite edge of crimp lock1330may engage the joining sections170. The joining element or spine of the crimp locks1330,1340ofFIGS. 28a-dmay be thicker and more defined than those ofFIGS. 27a-d.

FIGS. 29a-fshow structures and methods for joining locking tip sections160together using “guardrail” locks1350,1360, and1370. The guardrail locks1350,1360, and1370may be made of the same materials of the various other components described herein, including the spine joint310, and can be formed by injection molding, stamping, or other forming method. As shown inFIG. 29a, guardrail lock1350may have narrow or elongated loop shape in front view having a pair of opposed longitudinal pairs or rails. The lock1350may have a plurality of inwardly-extending fingers1352, positioned along one rail/side thereof, and another plurality of inwardly-extending fingers1353positioned along another rail/side thereof. Each of the fingers1352,1353may extend inwardly about one-half, or less than one-half, the height of the gap in the guardrail lock1350.

The guardrail lock1350is sufficiently long to extend around one or more pairs of tip wires160, with one or more fingers1352fitting into the center of a tip section160. The fingers1353are positioned such that one or more fingers1353fit around the outside of tip section(s)160such that each wire section of a tip section160is trapped between a pair of fingers1353,1352.

The guardrail lock1350can be utilized by placing the guardrail lock1350into the axially-extending gap of the binding mechanism110, and then moving the guardrail lock1350circumferentially until the guardrail lock1350engages the tip sections160, as shown inFIG. 29aandFIG. 30. After the guardrail lock1350is placed over the ends of tip sections160, the guardrail lock1350may be pressed together, squeezing the rails toward each other, to form closed guardrail lock1350′ which sandwiches the tip sections160between the rails of the guardrail lock (seeFIG. 29b). The guardrail lock1350may be compressed until the tips1352,1353engage the opposite rail. The tips1352,1353may be sized and configured to grip the tip sections160by frictional forces, and/or cause the tip sections160to spring apart and grip the tip sections1352therebetween by spring force.

The guardrail lock1350may be configured to be manually movable between its unlocked (FIG. 29a) and locked (FIG. 29b) positions to allow users to mount and/or dismount the guardrail lock1350to various binding mechanisms. Alternately, the guardrail lock1350has sufficient stiffness and/or sufficient locking forces are required that the guardrail lock1350cannot be manually moved between either the locked or unlocked positions.

In one case, the guardrail lock1350′ may extend along the entire binding apparatus110, engaging all or nearly all the tip sections160. Alternately, guardrail lock1350′ may be used only at one or both ends of the twin-wire binding mechanism110, or may extend along any portion of the binding mechanism110according to manufacturing preference.

FIGS. 29cand 29dshows a guardrail lock1360in the form of a narrow loop long enough to extend around one or more pairs of tip wires160, with one or more fingers configured1362,1363to fit into the center of a tip section160. In this embodiment, when the guardrail lock1360is moved to its locked position (FIG. 29d) the guardrail lock1360′ sandwiches the tip sections160between the rails of the guardrail lock1360′. The fingers1362,1363may meet together as shown, or may be spaced apart, when the guardrail lock1360′ is compressed.

FIGS. 29eand 29fshows another guardrail lock1370in the form of a narrow loop long enough to extend around one or more pairs of tip wires160. After placing guardrail lock1370over the ends of tip sections160, the longitudinal sides/rails1372,1373of the guardrail lock may be pressed together to form closed guardrail lock1370′ shown inFIG. 29fwhich sandwiches the tip sections160between the longitudinal sides1372,1373of the guardrail lock1370′. In the embodiment ofFIGS. 29eand 29f, the longitudinal side1372is deformed inwardly in the area between pairs of tip sections160, and the longitudinal side1373is deformed inwardly into the gap of a tip section160. A forming tool (not shown) may be used to deform the closed guardrail lock1370′ to a desired shape.FIG. 30shows a detail illustration of closed guardrail lock1350′ installed on a twin-wire binding apparatus110with the long sides of the guardrail lock1350′ closed about the tip sections160, with fingers1352inside the tip section160and fingers1353just outside the tip section160.

FIGS. 31a-cshow a lock or locking device1380configured to be coupled on the ends of tip section160. The lock1380may be formed (for example by injection molding) with an upper portion1385and lower portion1386pivotally joined together joined by hinge1384. In one case the hinge1384is made of a thinner and/or weaker material than the upper1385and lower1386portions to provide the hinge functionality. The lock1380may have one or more axially-extending wing sections1382extend axially beyond the edges of the holes140serve to ensure that the papers150or other contents are retained in the binding mechanism110. Protrusions1387may be positioned on the lower surface of upper portion1385and/or the upper surface of lower portion1386, which protrusions1387are configured to fit inside or around the wires of tip section160.

In order to mount the lock1380in place the lock1380is positioned as shown inFIG. 31b. The upper portion1385and/or lower portion1386are the folded together about hinge1384onto tip section160as shown inFIG. 31c. The upper1385and lower1386portions may then be coupled together by interlocking parts such as a snap-fit (not shown), by ultrasonic welding or heat welding, or by adhesive, or the molded lock1380may be applied while warm and pliable, and allowed to cool so that the hinge portion1384becomes sufficiently stiff to hold the molded lock1380in place.

The lock1380(and other locks disclosed below, for example, inFIGS. 31 and 32) may be configured to be manually movable between the locked and unlocked positions to allow users to couple and/or decouple the lock1380to various binding mechanisms. Alternate, the lock may not be manually movable to provide greater security. As shown inFIG. 31a, molded lock1380′ (as well as the locks described below, for example, inFIGS. 31 and 32) may be applied to a single tip section160, for example at one or both ends116,117of the twin-wire binding apparatus110, or may be applied elsewhere along the length of the binding apparatus110. The molded lock1380′ (as well as the locks described below, for example, inFIGS. 31 and 32) may cover only a single tip section160, or may extend over multiple tip sections (not shown).

FIGS. 31d-fshow a lock/locking device1390as a snap-on component with grooves1393to receive one or both of the wires of tip section160. Each groove1393may be sized to closely receive a wire of the tip section160therein, and may have a bottom opening that is smaller than the diameter of the wire such that the bottom opening/groove1393/lock1390is deformed to receive the wire of the tip section160, and then returns to its original undeformed shape to retain the tip section160therein. However, in some cases the bottom opening is not smaller than the diameter of the wire of the tip sections160such that the lock1390can be easily placed onto the tip section160. The lock1390may include a center protrusion1397positioned between the grooves1393and configured to fit between the wires of tip section160. The lock1390may also include one or more axially extending wing sections1392, extending axially past the associated openings140to prevent papers150or other components from separating from the binding mechanism110.

In order to use the lock1390it is first snapped or positioned into place on a tip section(s)160, as shown inFIG. 31e. A forming tool1398(FIG. 310may be pressed against/into molded lock1390, for example into protrusion1397. The forming tool1398can be applied either with or without heating of the tool1398and/or protrusion1397. The tool1398is pushed into the protrusion, as shown inFIG. 31f, thereby displacing material sideways under/into the grooves1393and wires of the tip sections160, locking the lock1390in place.

FIGS. 32aand 32bshow a two piece lock1410configured to fit on the ends of tip section160. The two piece molded lock1410may be formed (for example by injection molding) as a snap-on component including two separate parts1416,1417. One part1416/1417is configured to be positioned on a first (upper) side of the associated coil tip160, and the other part1417is configured to be positioned on a second (lower) side of the tip160. Each part1416,1417may include a center protrusion configured to be positioned in the loop of a tip160.

The parts1416/1417may have complementary features such as snap-together features, or other interconnecting features (not shown) to hold the two parts1416,1417together when mounted onto a top160. Alternately, or additionally, adhesive, ultrasonic welding, and/or heat welding may be used to hold the two parts1416,1417together. The lock1410and/or one or both parts1416/1417may include one or more axially-extending wing sections1412that serve to block papers150or other contents from coming off the tip section160.

FIGS. 33a-dillustrate another locking device for retaining components on the binding mechanism110in the form of a crimpable or deformable washer lock1420that can be deformed and fit on the ends of tip section160. The washer lock1420may be formed from metal, polymers or plastic (for example by stamping or injection molding) or materials for the other devices disclosed herein, including the spine joint310. The washer lock1420may be generally annular/circular in front/top view, as shown inFIG. 33a, but could also have or be in other shapes besides circular, with a central opening formed therein. The washer lock1420may include one or more protrusions/teeth1422that extend radially inwardly into the central opening. When initially formed, the washer lock1420may be generally flat and planar, except that the teeth1422may be slightly out of plane as shown in side view inFIG. 33b. If desired, however, the teeth1422may also be flat and planar.

In order to use the washer lock1420it may be placed over the end of tip section160and bent over on itself approximately 180 degrees over the tip section160, forming the washer lock1420into an approximately into a “C” shape in side view (FIG. 33c) or semicircular shape in top view. When the washer lock1420is deformed in this manner, the teeth1422engage each other or are positioned close to each other, thereby locking the teeth1422into the loop of the associated tip section160. The angled nature of the teeth1422helps to ensure that the teeth1422are further defected when the washer lock1420is bent to avoid having the teeth1422directly engage each other and provide undue resistance to the deflection of the washer lock1420. When the washer lock1420is deformed, it may include an upper portion and a lower portion generally aligned with the upper portion (as best shown inFIG. 33c), wherein the upper and lower portions are separated by a fold line or folded area extending generally parallel to the axis of the binding apparatus110.

As shown inFIG. 33d, the portions of the washer lock1420extending parallel to the axis115extend beyond the openings140in the papers150or other components. In this manner the washer lock1420is securely coupled to the tip section160and effectively widens the end of tip section160to prevent contents from coming off tip section160.

As shown inFIG. 33d, bent washer lock1420′ (as well as the other embodiments shown inFIGS. 33, 34 and 35) may be applied to a single tip section160, for example at one or both ends116,117of the twin-wire binding apparatus110, or it may be applied to one or more tip sections160elsewhere along the length of the binding apparatus110, or across multiple tip sections160.

FIG. 33eshows an un-deformed washer lock including two sections1420joined by a relatively short bridge1424. The device shown inFIG. 33emay be used on two adjacent tip sections160and be utilized generally in the manner shown inFIGS. 33a-dand described above. The washer locks may also include more than two sections1420to join more than two adjoining tip sections160as desired.

FIG. 33fshows a washer lock including two sections1420joined by a longer bridge1425compared to that ofFIG. 33e. This configuration may be used in conjunction with a binding mechanism having adjacent tip sections160which are spaced further apart, or used in conjunction with non-adjacent tip sections160. The washer lock ofFIG. 33fcan include more than two sections1420to join more than two tip sections160as desired.

FIGS. 34a-cshow a crimpable washer lock1430configured to fit on the ends of tip section160. The crimpable washer lock1430may be similar in shape, materials and structure to the washer lock1420shown inFIGS. 33a-33d, including one or more teeth1432. The washer lock1430ofFIG. 34may include a relief opening1434positioned at one or more locations on the washer lock1430to enable the washer lock1430to deform more easily or with more control during crimping. The relief openings1434may be 180 degrees opposite each other, and offset about 90 degrees from the teeth1432.

In order to use the crimpable washer lock1430ofFIG. 34a, the washer lock1430may be placed over the end of tip section160and then be compressed or crimped generally within the plane of the washer lock1430of the washer lock1430(for example by applying compressing forces to the washer lock1430in the radial direction). When the washer lock1430is compressed in this manner, the washer lock1430is moved to an elongate shape and the teeth1432approach each other and enter the loop in a tip section160, thereby gripping tip section160and effectively widening the end of tip section160to prevent contents from coming off tip section160.

FIG. 34dshows a crimpable washer lock similar to that ofFIGS. 34a-cbut including two sections1430joined by bridge1436and suitable for use on two tip sections160.FIG. 34eshows the washer lock after crimping. The crimpable washer lock may include more than two sections1430as desired.

FIGS. 35aand 35bshow a lock1440configured to fit on the ends of tip section160. The molded lock1440may be formed from plastic, polymers, metal, or other materials described herein for the other devices disclosed herein (for example by injection molding). The lock1440can have a variety of shapes or forms, including the exemplary form shown inFIG. 35aand may have one or more axially-extending wings1442to ensure contents remain on the binding mechanism110.

As shown in the cross section ofFIG. 35b, molded lock1440may be formed by placing a mold1445over a one or more tip sections160and injecting an injectable material (such as thermoplastic material, polymers, plastic or metal) in a fluid state through one or more sprues1446of the mold1445to form a molded lock1440around the tip section160. The mold1445is then removed, leaving the molded lock1440behind to cool, harden, cure or dry. The molded lock1440may be located at one or both ends of the twin-wire binding apparatus110, or it may positioned on one or more tip sections160elsewhere along the binding apparatus110.

FIGS. 36a-eshow pre-formed terminal or protruding portions1450on the tip sections160of a twin-wire binding apparatus110. The tip sections160may each have content-carrying or storage section161made of two generally parallel wire segments spaced together closely enough to pass through the holes in the papers150or other content, or having a total thickness less than the diameter of the holes140. In contrast, the pre-formed terminal portions1450may be wider, in the axially-extending direction and in an undeformed/natural state, than the holes140in the content, or than content-carrying sections161.

As shown inFIG. 36b, pre-formed terminal portions1450may be formed with a terminal angle or leading edge1452(at the end of the pre-formed tip160) and a transitional angle or trailing edge1454(leading back into the main part of tip160). The terminal angle1452may be more acute than the transitional angle1454. For example terminal angle1452may be relatively acute so that the tip160is relatively easily inserted into the papers150or other content, but resists removal therefrom. In one case the terminal angle1452may be in the range of about 10 to about 45 degrees (relative to a radial plane or circumferential line) and transitional angle1454is in the range of about 30 to about 120 degrees, such as depicted inFIG. 37d. However it should be understood that these angles and ranges of angles provided herein are only meant as examples and not as limiting ranges. A more acute terminal angle1452may make it easier for the pre-formed terminal portion1450to pass through the hole in contents150, while a less acute transitional angle1454may make it more difficult for the contents150to escape from the tip section160. The terminal portion1450may have an axial width greater than an axial width of any other portion of the binding coil.

FIGS. 36c-eillustrate a sequence showing a tip section160being inserted into the contents150.FIG. 36cshows the tip section160with pre-formed terminal portion1450in an undeformed/natural state.FIG. 36dshows the leading edge1450engaging the content items150and being compressed together. The content-carrying section161may also be compressed together. The tip section160may be sufficiently deformable that inserting the tip section160into the aligned openings140causes deflection of the tip sections160during insertion. Alternately, in some cases the tip sections160may be squeezed together by outside forces during insertion.FIG. 36eshows the tip section160and pre-formed terminal portion1450after they have sprung back to their natural/undeformed configuration which now securely holds papers150and other content on the tip section160.

FIGS. 37a-eshow terminal portions1460on the tip sections160of a twin-wire binding apparatus110which operate similar to, and can provide the same benefits as, the embodiments described above and shown inFIG. 36. Alternately, the tip sections shown inFIG. 37(and/orFIG. 36) can be formed into the desired shape after the tip sections160are passed through the holes140of the papers150and other content items. For example the tip sections160may initially have the shape shown inFIG. 37bas the tip sections160are passed through the holes140of the papers150and other content items. After the tip sections160are fully passed through the holes140, the tip sections160can then be formed into the shapes shown inFIGS. 37aand 37c-e,FIG. 36or other shapes. The tip sections can be shaped by mechanical robotic pinching forming fingers, or other forming device that can reach in and form the tip sections160after inserting through the pages150. The post-formed terminal portions1460may be made larger than the content-carrying sections161, and/or longer than the holes140to prevent or limit pages150from coming off the tip sections160.

FIG. 37cshows a post-formed terminal portion1462with a triangular or arrow shape, formed after the tip160has passed through the hole in content150.FIG. 37dshows another “arrow” shaped post-formed terminal portion1464, andFIG. 36eshows a t-shaped post-formed terminal portion1466. Other shapes may also be used provided they extend or widen the end of tip section160sufficiently to prevent or discourage content150from coming off the tip section160.

It should be understood that the method and structures described herein for locking the twin-wire or spiral bindings may be used in combination with each other. For example a solder weld may be used at each end of the binding with a comb-lock attached at one or more locations between the ends. As another example, metal coil spine joints may be used at the ends of the binding, with plastic coil spine joints used at one or more points between the ends. Various other combinations are also possible.

This disclosure should not be read as being limited only to the foregoing examples or only to the designated preferred embodiments.